Datasets:

Newvel

/

cnn_dailymail_sanitized

like 0

- up. 'And I have some news for certain 'news' outlets. No matter how much you thump your keyboards with your meat hands we will not stop talking.' This is not the only controversy to come from Dunham's tome. The New York native cancelled several appearances on her book tour after being accused of molesting her younger sister as a child. In one chapter of the book she describes how, as a seven-year-old, she experimented with her sister Grace, who was one at the time. 'One day, as I sat in our driveway in Long Island playing blocks and buckets, my curiosity got the better of me,' Dunham wrote. 'Grace was sitting up, babbling smiling, and I leaned down between her legs and carefully spread open her vagina.' The accusations were mostly spearheaded by Williamson, who said her behavior was child abuse. Dunham came back swinging, writing on Twitter: 'The right wing news story that I molested my little sister isn’t just LOL- it’s really f---ing upsetting and disgusting. Family: Dunham was accused of molesting her younger sister Grace (pictured) by two media outlets following a controversial chapter in her book, where she admits to experiment with her sibling as a child . 'And by the way, if you were a little kid and never looked at another little kid’s vagina, well, congrats to you. 'Usually this is stuff I can ignore but don’t demean sufferers, don’t twist my words, . 'I told a story about being a weird 7 year old. I bet you have some too, old men, that I’d rather not hear. 'And yes, this is a rage spiral.'

Actor, 28, alleges that she was raped at Oberlin College in her memoir Not That Kind Of Girl . Media investigation at the Ohio campus found no proof of the man she describes in the book as her alleged attacker . Named as 'Barry', one man who somewhat fits the description says he has never met Dunham . Dunham has been accused of being 'grossly irresponsible' in publishing the claim . She did not report the incident to authorities .

4445ce9b451fc8a1a9b4ba7e6d94d73192e860bd

‘He's the best scaffolder we’ve got’, declares the company boss as his star employee lifts the FA Cup. ‘Big and strong, good pair of hands, reliable,’ the gaffer continues. ‘Don’t drop it,’ hollers one colleague. Not a chance. Peter Jeffries is stood on top of the scaffolding he has just assembled in double-quick time. In his grasp is the iconic cup, glistening amid the gloom of a murky morning on Teesside. Blyth Spartans goalkeeper and scaffolder Peter Jeffries holds the FA Cup at work . Jeffries is clad in a navy boilersuit, luminous jacket and safety harness complete with the tools of his trade. On Friday night, however, he will be wearing nothing more than a goalkeeper’s kit and a pair of gloves. He will be at Hartlepool United’s Victoria Park, just a few miles from his place of work and a goal-kick away from where he grew up and now lives. But Jeffries – a former season-ticket holder at The Vic – will not be turning out for his hometown club. Instead, in front of live television cameras and playing at a ‘proper’ ground for the first time, he will be representing the green and white of one of the competition’s most celebrated minnows. Blyth Spartans, the Northern League club, made it to the fifth round in 1978 – losing 2-1 in a replay to Wrexham in front of 42,000 at St James’ Park - and were beaten 1-0 by Blackburn Rovers in the third round in 2009. The 28-year-old will be in goal for Blyth against his hometown team, Hartlepool United, in the FA Cup . That same year, Jeffries was part of the Travellers Rest pub team which triumphed in the Hartlepool Sunday Morning Cup against Throston Wanderers - victory in the second round of the FA Cup on Friday evening and the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea lie in wait. ‘It’s mad,’ the 28-year-old tells Sportsmail as we sit in the boardroom of his firm’s headquarters and he stares at the FA Cup resting next to us. ‘It’s magic. I know that gets said a lot, but the early rounds is where the magic of the cup is now. This is what it’s all about. ‘I was playing on a Sunday morning not so long ago. Now I’m on telly at a proper ground, at the place I went with my dad and two brothers as a kid and with all my family and friends from Hartlepool in the Blyth end - although I had to convince my dad to go in! ‘We really think we’ve got a chance to win as well. Hartlepool are struggling, they’re bottom of League Two. We’ve been flying in the cup, we love it. From that very first match this is what you dream about. Jeffries (centre) holding the famous old trophy at work with his brother Richard (right) and Michael Sweet . ‘The FA Cup history of the club is the first thing they tell you about when you sign. It’s massive, they get about £70,000 with this being on TV and that could help us with promotion in the long run’. Blyth, like the majority of the other 232 non-League sides who took part in first round qualifying in September, would have been watching this weekend’s ties on the TV had it not been for Jeffries. They were goalless away at Darlington 1883 FC when the hosts and strong favourites were awarded a second-half penalty. Jeffries recalls: ‘Myself and the goalkeeping coach, John Bottensien, had looked the night before at where their lad put his penalties. ‘It was a one-off special game so we did the research. He either goes top left or top right. I decided to dive as far as I could to my left and somehow saved it. I have no idea how I did. I just threw everything I could that way and ended up saving it with my right hand, tipping it on to the post - we might not have been here without that save.’ Jeffries (left) with his brother Richard, holding a trophy he won with the Travellers Rest pub team in 2009 . That same year, Blyth played Premier League side Blackburn in the FA Cup third round . FA Cup second round . Kick-off: 7.55pm, Victoria Park. TV: LIVE on BBC2 from 7.30. Referee: Andrew Madley. Blyth won 3-0 in the replay before negotiating away ties at Skelmersdale United (4-1), Mickleover Sports (2-1) and Leek Town (4-3). They then hammered Conference side Altrincham 4-1 in the first round proper. Jeffries was in the living-room with his wife, Toni, and children Amy, six, and Harry, three, when Hartlepool emerged from the hat in the second round draw. ‘When Hartlepool came out there were still 20-odd balls left in,’ he says. ‘Then it was number 39. I just thought, “Wow, that’s us”. I started jumping all over the living-room, my family didn’t know what was going on. My daughter was a bit scared I think.’ He adds: ‘To go back to The Vic will be special. I was going during their best-ever period – the League One play-off final in 2005 and Sunderland away in the FA Cup when we took nearly 10,000. I went all over the country with them. The play-off final in Cardiff was probably my best day as a fan, even though we got beat.’ All the while, football-mad Jeffries was a striker. Jeffries talks to Sportsmail's Craig Hope in the boardroom of the scaffolding company . ‘I wasn’t a goalkeeper until I was 19, I was a centre forward, or at least I told myself that,’ he reveals. ‘One Sunday morning I got put in goal when we were short. Everyone started telling me that I wasn’t bad. People started to come to watch me. ‘I actually wanted to play in goal when I was about eight, but my dad said no. I often tell him that if I’d started earlier as a keeper I might have made it much higher in the game.’ A move to Hartlepool FC and then Bishop Auckland followed before Blyth paid Spennymoor Town £3,000 for Jeffries in the summer. He is already a crowd favourite at Croft Park. Juggling a young family, work and his football, however, can prove even more difficult than keeping out penalties. Hope and Jeffries pose with the FA Cup ahead of the Hartlepool clash on Friday night . ‘We train twice a week and it’s an hour and 10 minutes up to Blyth,’ he explains. ‘I work from 8am to half four, so it’s quite a gruelling schedule. I get in, get my stuff and head straight out. ‘Scaffolding is hard graft as well, very hard. I’m not a desk, I’m constantly climbing and lifting. I have broken my fingers quite a times. You do feel it and it takes your back and arms a while to adjust. But it keeps me fit and strong and it helps with my goalkeeping I suppose – I’m using my hands all the time anyway!’ On Friday, at least, Jeffries has been afforded some time off. The star scaffolder has a bigger job on his hands across town.

Peter Jeffries will line up for Blyth Spartans against Hartlepool . Jeffries used to be a season ticket holder at Hartlepool . He was born near their Victoria Park ground and still lives close by . Blyth are one of the FA Cup's most celebrated minnows . Jeffries is a scaffolder who five years ago was playing for the Travellers Rest pub team .

166a44ad37f328743cff4196d9086ae42b73191b

Entertainment reporter Michael Ausiello has revealed in a moving online post that he is taking time off as his husband reaches the end of his cancer battle. Ausiello, a former TV Guide and Entertainment Weekly reporter, made the announcement on his television website, TVLine.com, on Thursday. He revealed that his husband, photographer Kit Cowan, 41, has been battling against 'a rare and aggressive Neuroendocrine cancer' for the past nine months. 'As that fight approaches its end, I'll be taking a little time off,' he wrote. Tragic: TV reporter and founder of TVLine.com Michael Ausiello, pictured right, has revealed that he will be taking time off as his husband, Kit Cowan, pictured left, battles Neuroendocrine cancer . The couple met in 2001 - when TV-loving Ausiello was shocked to learn Cowan didn't own a television set - and they married earlier this year. In his post, Ausiello praised Cowan for helping him to create his media empire, explaining that if any reader has admired any work on his website, Cowan likely had a hand in it. 'A key driving force behind the "Ausiello brand" has been someone who has largely remained behind the scenes,' he wrote. 'He's one of the most talented designers/photographers/purveyors of good taste on the planet. He's also, as luck would have it, my husband.' He credited him with helping him make 'every major design decision' at TVLine, as well as giving him advice during his time at Entertainment Weekly and TVGuide. Together: The couple, who live in New York City, met in 2001 and got married earlier this year . Battle: Cowan, pictured in October, was diagnosed with the aggressive form of cancer nine months ago . 'If I looked halfway decent while talking about TV on a morning show or Entertainment Tonight-type news magazine, you better believe Kit chose my outfit,' he wrote. He said that his team at TVLine would keep the stories coming during his absence. Ausiello, 42, shared few details about Cowan's illness. Neuroendocrine cancer occurs in cells in the hormonal and nervous systems, and are often found in the intestines or lungs. Cowan, who is from Millersburg, Pennsylvania, is a photographer and designer, and owner of a stationery company. He and Ausiello live in New York City. For more videos, please go to GMA . Famous friends: Ausiello is pictured with David Boreanaz and Emily Deschanel of TV show Bones. As Ausiello announced his husband's illness, he said Cowan had been instrumental in his success . All in a day's work: He is pictured left with Andy Cohen and right with Lauren Graham of Gilmore Girls . The New Jersey-born reporter got his start writing for Soap Opera Update and Soaps in Depth, then landed at TV Guide where he launched a spoiler column, 'Ask Ausiello'. After his time at Entertainment Weekly, he launched TVLine in 2010. He has also had small parts on some of his favorite shows, including Scrubs, Veronica Mars and Gilmore Girls.

Michael Ausiello, a former Entertainment Weekly reporter who founded website TVLine, revealed his husband's cancer battle online on Thursday . He said his husband, photographer Kit Cowan, was diagnosed with 'a rare and aggressive Neuroendocrine cancer' nine months ago . The couple have been together since 2001 and married earlier this year .

20e211c8a7facda926e25436358f347b819b49eb

Angelina Jolie today appeared visibly moved and close to tears at the 'End Sexual Violence in Conflict' summit in London, which she is co-hosting with Foreign Secretary William Hague. The summit is the largest ever held on subject of sexual violence in war. The actress' eyes welled up as she listened to victims of sexual assault speak about their experiences and spent time with them afterwards, discussing the issues they face and embracing delegates. Clutching fellow activist and peacemaker Neema Namadamu on this, the second day of the summit, the actress struggled to contain her emotions. Scroll down for video . Angelina embraced fellow activist Neema Namadamu of the Democratic Republic of Congo, whose own daughter was attacked . Angelina held Neema who runs a campaign in the Congo which aims to empower women through technology as well as fight for their human rights . Jolie, centre, who is a Special Envoy of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, listens attentively to a speech of a delegate at the summit . The actress appeared deeply moved listening to victims of sexual assault speak about their experience . The actress spoke on BBC Radio 4's Women's Hour this morning about how affected she had been by meeting victims of sexual attack . Neema is an advocate for change in Congo, and founder of the Maman Shujaa, the 'Hero Women of the Congo’ who fight for the rights of women. She who was struck down with polio at age two, and became the first disabled woman to graduate from Congo’s national university. She began campaigning when her 25-year-old daughter was attacked by a group of men metres from her own home in the Congo. Angelina, Special Envoy of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, also embraced other delegates who spoke at the event. After the formal talks, the actress took time to look at products made by women and sold by the International Campaign to Stop Rape and Gender Violence to support victim of violence. The summit has seen diplomats, officials and non-profit representatives from more than 100 countries gather to press for the rights of victims of sexual violence — women, men and children alike. Angelina reached over the podium to embrace a delegate after she spoke to the group of diplomats and officials from around the world . Angelina talked affectionately to Neema Namadamu of the Democratic Republic of Congo . Angelina draws the outline of her hand, joining the the hand prints of others who have pledged to support the campaign . With the cameras of the world focused on her, Jolie said she wanted to dedicated the conference to a rape victim she and Hague recently met in Bosnia . William Hague (L) and Angelina (R), pictured here with Congolese women's rights campaigners Carine Safari (centre left ) and Nyota Babunga (centre right) have worked together for years on the issues of women's rights and sexual abuse . With the cameras of the world focused on her, Jolie said she wanted to dedicated the conference to a rape victim she and Hague recently met in Bosnia. ‘She felt that having had no justice for her particular crime, in her particular situation, and having seen the actual man who raped her on the streets free, she really felt abandoned by the world,’ Jolie said. ‘This day is for her.’ Angelina was also interviewed on BBC Radio 4’s Women’s Hour this morning, talking about how she came to be involved in working to end sexual violence. ‘I’ve met survivors and spent time with them. I’d heard their stories and became very emotionally involved and I thought – what can I possibly do to help,’ she said. Angelina embraces delegate Esther Ruth Atim of Uganda during the emotional second day of the 'End Sexual Violence in Conflict' summit . Angelina pauses to look at a photo exhibition by photographer Pete Muller . Angelina also talked of losing her mother to breast cancer, and her decision to have a preventative double mastectomy: 'The thought of telling my children I had cancer because I didn't have the surgery was more frightening to me.' 'I am very happy that I made a decision that will enable me to be around for my children. For me it was in fact an easy choice.' Of her mother Marcheline, she said: 'Had she had the surgery she might have been around for years longer to have met my other children.' The programme also shared the harrowing accounts of two women who suffered sexual violence during conflict. One un-named women described her attack during genocide in Rwanda in these words: ‘I didn’t see their faces, I don’t know them, how can you see someone who is hitting you in the eyes? How will you know someone who is inserting a gun barrel into your mouth, and then between your legs? Then he leaves, and another one enters.’ Another woman spoke of her attack in Minova in the Democratic Republic of Congo: ‘The man said that he wanted to rape me, that if I refused he is going to kill me. Then another five men came. They all raped me. My daughter keeps asking me about her dad. When I try to reveal who her father is, it is really hard for me. Angelina, here greeting Neema Namadamu, has been key in organising the summit which is being attended by governments from over 100 countries, over 900 experts, NGOs, Faith leaders, and representatives from international organisations across the world . Neema, who is disabled after having polio as a child, sat as her and Angelina talked for some time following the speeches . ‘I fear also telling her because a lot of men raped me… it is really hard for me to tell my daughter. ‘I just feel really depressed, when I think of it I burst into tears.  I feel like I am nothing. Sometimes  I even feel like dying .’ A rape survivor who attended the conference today, Wangu Kanja, from Kenya, who has set up her own organization to help others, said she hoped the summit will send a message that governments cannot continue to ignore the issue. 'I'm really hoping that from this the Kenyan government will be forced to do something,' she said hours after the summit began. After the formal talks, the actress took time to look at products made by women and sold by the International Campaign to Stop Rape and Gender Violence to support victim of violence . Angelina chatted with activists from NGOs, who are selling products to support victim of violence, in the market area of the 'End Sexual Violence in Conflict' summit . Jolie, here looking at a bag made by a women in a conflict area, is set to help launch a guidance document on best practices on Wednesday to help strengthen prosecutions for rape in conflicts . British Foreign Secretary William Hague, left, and Angelina arrived together for the second day of the landmark summit . Write caption here . William Hague compared sexual violence in war zones to slavery as an injustice that demands action. 'As was said with slavery in the 18th century, now we know the facts, we cannot turn aside,' he said. Others far afield also offered support. Pope Francis, who has made combatting sex trafficking and human slavery one of his priorities, sent a tweet on Tuesday in support of the summit's work, saying 'Let us pray for all victims of sexual violence in conflict, and those working to end this crime.' Hague and Jolie are set to launch a guidance document on best practices today to help strengthen prosecutions for rape in conflicts. Hague will also host a meeting Thursday on tackling Boko Haram, the Islamic terror group that abducted more than 300 schoolgirls and young women in Nigeria in April. As well as speaking at the conference, Angelina was interviewed on BBC Radio 4's Women's Hour this morning, talking about how she came to be involved in working to end sexual violence . Angelina and Hague have been campaigning on the issue of sexual violence for two years . The pair have campaigned hard on the issue of sexual violence for two years, and on Tuesday they were welcomed with cheers from others fighting for the cause as they toured a lively fringe program featuring photo exhibitions, poetry readings, and artists performing skits. Nigerian rap and soul singers sang about rape and other problems facing young Africans, while volunteers taught Swahili folk songs in workshops similar to those performed in conflict zones to help reduce trauma. An eclectic group of charity workers and computer experts brainstormed on ways to use technology to improve reporting on sexual violence.

The summit is the largest ever held on subject of sexual violence in war . Actress welled up as she heard victims talk about their experiences . Embraced campaigner Neema Namadamu . Namadamu began campaigning when her 25-year-old daughter was attacked by a group of men metres from her own home in the Congo .

a92ce626b4a5dffa7ae72f88c7a87774b1bf918d

Click here to read Rio Ferdinand's latest blog from Brazil . Rio Ferdinand has agreed a deal to sign for newly promoted Queens Park Rangers. The 35-year-old has been persuaded to take a massive drop in wages after hearing Harry Redknapp’s plans for how he can help the London club on their return to the Premier League. It is believed his salary is less than a third of his £200,000-a-week salary at Manchester United. Ferdinand has also turned down a lucrative media career, with both BT and the BBC keen to land him. 'He just wants to play,' said a friend. Ferdinand is expected to return to London from the |World Cup in Brazil to complete the transfer soon. The deal is expected to be confirmed by the club in the next 24 hours and comes as a huge boost for QPR after winning promotion through the play-offs. VIDEO: Scroll down to see Rio Ferdinand swap football for martial arts in a UFC bout . New challenge: Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has agreed to sign for QPR . Reunited: Ferdinand was given his professional debut by Harry Redknapp at West Ham in 1996 . Making a name for himself: Ferdinand in action for West Ham with fellow BBC pundit Alan Shearer . Ferdinand, currently working for the BBC in Brazil, is a free agent after being released by Manchester United following 12 years at Old Trafford. He recently confirmed he had offers from clubs both in England and abroad, but it is the chance to be reunited with Redknapp that has come out on top. The 67-year-old was the manager who gave him his debut at West Ham in 1996, helping him develop into the world’s most expensive defender when he left to join Leeds in an £18million transfer five years later. Expert analysis: Ferdinand has been working as a BBC pundit in Brazil during the World Cup . Where it all started: Ferdinand (centre) during pre-season training with West Ham . Ferdinand, who has been writing a weekly column for the Mail on Sunday and MailOnline, won six Premier League titles and the Champions League at Old Trafford. He has proven his determination to be fit for the new season by taking his his own personal trainer with him to Brazil. He has been convinced he can enjoy a new challenge after speaking to Dutch legend Ruud Gullit. He revealed: ‘He told me the couple of years he had at Chelsea were some of the most enjoyable of his career because there wasn’t at that time the pressure of trying to win trophies.’ Rising star: A youthful Ferdinand tussles with Arsenal's Emmanuel Petit in his early years . Fresh start: Ferdinand has been weighing up his options after leaving Manchester United .

Redknapp handed Ferdinand his professional debut at West Ham in 1996 . Ferdinand will take a massive pay cut to sign for the newly-promoted side . Deal is expected to be confirmed in the next 24 hours .

8b2b152efb4da9d5f05497d2149bbf4d4f077aba

The girlfriend of a man who shot and killed a German exchange student in his garage broke down in tears as her 911 call was re-played to a court. Janelle Pflager's distraught voice was heard by the court during the 911 call she made after her boyfriend, Markus Kaarma, allegedly shot and killed Diren Dede, 17. She described how the teenager was lying face down 'barely breathing' and bleeding from 'everywhere' in their Missoula, Montana home. Scroll down for video . Family: Marcus Kaarma, right, is followed into Missoula District Court by his girlfriend Janelle Pflager with their child, the court heard a 911 call made by Pflager about the events that unfolded . Fear: Kaarma allegedly felt targeted and increasingly anxious for the safety of Pflager and their infant son . She told dispatchers that Kaarma didn't help her as she tried to aid the wounded high school student, who died a short time later at a Missoula hospital. Kaarma is charged with baiting the teenager into sneaking into his Missoula garage early on April 27 and killing him with four shotgun blasts after being alerted by a motion detector. Defense attorney Paul Ryan says Montana's 'stand your ground' law allows homeowners to protect their residences with deadly force when they believe they are going to be harmed. But Kaarma didn't know whether the person inside the garage was armed, Ryan said. However he had allegedly felt targeted and increasingly anxious for the safety of Pflager and their infant son after the couple had been burglarized twice in the days leading up to the shooting. On the first day of testimony, two teenagers, Mykle Martin, 17, and Trisitan Staber, 18, described how they went 'garage hopping,' or burglarizing garages, in search of alcohol and other things after dark and hit Markus Kaarma's house. 'I was the previous break-in,' Martin said, his voice at times barely audible. 'I'm the reason he (Kaarma) was waiting for another person.' The court also heard audio tapes of Pflager's police interview after the shooting. She told officers that Dede had pleaded for his life, saying, 'No, no, no, no, no, please!' However, she later testified that Dede had not said anything and that she was 'rambling' to officers because she was traumatized. 'I did not hear those words,' she said. 'I wish I said those words.' Pflager's testimony came during the second day of Kaarma's deliberate homicide trial. Victim: Diren Dede (left), 17, was shot dead on April 27 after allegedly breaking into Kaarma's garage . Trial: Kaarma sits with his legal team during witness testimony in Missoula County Court in Missoula, Montana on December 5, 2014 . Pflager said Thursday that she kept a baseball bat nearby while Kaarma moved a shotgun to the first floor of their home after the previous burglaries. Testimony indicated Kaarma was upset and on edge at the time. Michael McMillan, who works for a local lawn care company told how he came to the Kaarma house on April 23 to spray for insects. While he was setting up, he said an angry Kaarma come out the front door naked, pointed a shotgun at him and asked what McMillan was doing there. 'I was scared, frozen,' McMillan said. He said Pflager started screaming at Kaarma to stop and he went back inside the house. McMillan said Pflager later apologized and told him they were on edge due to burglaries. McMillan said he did not call police. That same day, Kaarma went for a haircut, and three women from the shop testified Thursday that they heard him say he had been waiting up nights to shoot an intruder. The dead teenager's father, Celal Dede, grimaced while listening to the 911 recording and then whispered to his attorneys that accompanied him and his wife.

Janelle Pflager's distraught voice could be heard on the 911 call . Pflager said Diren Dede,17, was lying face down and 'barely breathing' Homeowner Markus Kaarma allegedly shot and killed the 17-year-old . He had been burglarized twice in the days leading up to the shooting . He is charged with baiting the teenager into sneaking into his garage . Montana's 'stand your ground' law allows homeowners to use deadly force .

a9a6babc072768c473c6d51e0249fad6c79e0794

Wasteful spending by the public sector on useless projects costs every British household £4,500 a year - enough to 'buy a luxury holiday for every family', a pressure group has claimed. The TaxPayers’ Alliance has identified cuts that it says could save about £120billion – effectively wiping out the UK’s budget deficit – without ‘closing a single hospital, firing a single teacher or disbanding a single regiment’. The organisation has collated a list of ‘ludicrous examples of wasteful spending’ – including the Ministry of Defence paying £22 for a light bulb and the Arts Council squandering £95,000 on an installation comprising a skip covered in yellow lights. Waste: Despite Chancellor George Osborne's austerity drive, the TaxPayers' Alliance has identified a long list of 'ludicrous examples of wasteful spending' Some £19,000 was spent by Cotswold District Council on hiring a ‘motivational magician’ to boost staff morale, while Labour-run Durham Council gave chiefs a £12,000 clothing allowance, which Prime Minister David Cameron derided as ‘Geordie Armani’. In other examples: . The alleged wasteful spending - a sixth of the total government expenditure - is more than the whole of the NHS budget and five times the amount spent by the Ministry of Defence. A spokesman for alliance said: ' This equates to a massive £4,500 for every household inn the UK - enough to give every family in the land a luxury holiday or pay their household energy bills three times over.' In its annual Big Bumper Book of Government Waste, the TaxPayers’ Alliance recommends a number of major reforms to claw back cash, including shaving £53billion off the pay and pensions packages of public sector workers. This is the amount it claims these workers are being overpaid compared with the private sector average. ‘Nearly £120billion of taxpayers’ money was wasted or spent on useless projects by the Government in 2011-12,’ the report states. ‘We have identified and listed hundreds of examples of spending by politicians and bureaucrats that can be cut without closing a single hospital, firing a single teacher or disbanding a single regiment.’ According to the research – which the pressure group said is based on official statistics, independent reports and media coverage – £25billion was wasted that year through inefficient public sector procurement and poor use of outsourcing, while £20.3billion was lost through public sector fraud. About £5billion was paid out in benefits to claimants with an income in excess of £100,000, while £1.2billion was paid out in an annual subsidy to foreign farmers through the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy. Frontline services: The TaxPayers' Alliance says it can identify cuts in government spending that would not affect any hospital, education or army expenses . Cheshire East Council spent £30,000 building two ponds for 18 newts which had been displaced by the construction of a bypass. Arts Council paid £2.5 million to decorate the side of inter-continental trucks to promote Lincolnshire Fenlands in Europe. The Government biscuit bill in 2011-2012 was £3 million. Ministry of Justice spent £4.5 million to taxi firms for moving prisoners and staff around the country. Bury Council bought £9,000 iPads for bin collectors to monitor homes that were not recycling. Home Office paid £427,000 on rubber bullets police are not even allowed to use. Cotswold Council hired a 'motivational magician'  to boost staff morale at a cost of £19,000 . The TaxPayers’ Alliance suggests . £2.9billion could be saved by scrapping the Department for Business, . Innovation and Skills and Department for Culture, Media and Sport and . hiving off their essential functions to other departments. It . also questions the need for high spending on locum doctors, suggesting . there could be far fewer now that GPs work out-of hours far less . frequently than they used to. Matthew . Sinclair, chief executive of the TaxPayers’ Alliance, said: ‘George . Osborne must take the golden opportunity offered by the spending review . to get the nation’s finances under control and ease the burden on . taxpayers.’ According . to the report, tens of billions of pounds are still wasted each year and . there is an enormous amount of fat left in the public sector. 'If ministers do something about it, . they can give taxpayers a better deal and still provide the frontline . services which people depend on. ‘More . money must be left in the pockets of struggling households who need it . to support their own families and their own causes.’ The Cabinet Office insisted work was well under way to make government ‘leaner’. A spokesman added: ‘This Government has accelerated its work tackling waste and the Cabinet Office recently announced achieved savings of £10billion over 2012-13. ‘We are taking radical decisions to make Whitehall leaner and more efficient so Britain can compete in the global race, and we are pleased to see the TaxPayers’ Alliance recognises this – but we agree there is more to do.’

Costs include £19,000 spent by council on hiring ‘motivational magician’ Arts Council splashed out £95,000 on a skip covered in yellow lights . Ministers and officials ate £3 million of biscuits . More than £20 billion lost through fraud in the public sector . Ministers and officials ate £3 million worth of biscuits in 2011-2012 and spent £45 million on taxis to move prisoners and staff around the country. More than £20 billion is lost through public sector fraud and £15 billion on duplicated procurement across Whitehall departments and councils. The Home Office spent £427,000 on rubber bullets police are not even allowed tom use. Crawley Council Spent £5,070 on 12,200 hot drinks from vending machines for employees, when the equivalent number of tea bags would have cost just £200.

4626b8b27b7bc929846997b11e82825a45430fbb

It is often said that the greatest leaders are those who can delegate responsibility. Prime Ministers, Presidents and world leaders have all spoken through history of the effectiveness of spreading the burden of power amongst the right people. This is an approach which Roy Hodgson is adopting as England manager by handing extra responsibility to Daniel Sturridge, Jordan Henderson and Gary Cahill to act as 'unit leaders' among his squad. England boss Roy Hodgson has created 'unit leaders' within his squad to improve performances . The England manager is trying something different in the wake of a diabolical World Cup in Brazil and the need to reignite the national mood around the team. Hodgson has set up 'unit meetings' – split into attack, midfield and defence – in an attempt to get his team animated. Striker Sturridge, midfielder Henderson and defender Cahill have been handed the responsibility of galvanising their respective groups. In these meetings England coaches play videos of matches and training to talk players through how they can improve, but it is no longer a one-way process. Hodgson (left) has appointed striker Daniel Sturridge (right) as his attack 'unit leader' in the England squad . 'There are three units,' Hodgson explained ahead of Euro 2016 qualifiers against San Marino and Estonia next week. 'We're trying to encourage players to take responsibility, to take ownership of their performances and to speak out. 'So the meetings aren't just the coaches with their videos and their principles telling the players this is it, this is what we expect you to do. 'We're asking them to stand up themselves and make certain, so when we leave the meeting we know the players have understood everything completely, that there's no chance they've sat there quietly listening to us, nodding their heads wisely but not fully certain of what's required.' This is a far cry from the scene set by Rio Ferdinand when he claimed that England players were 'treated like complete babies' in the launch of his new book last week. Jordan Henderson (left) and Gary Cahill (right) have been named midfield and defence 'unit leaders' Hodgson pointed out that the Queens Park Rangers defender had never been a part of any of his squads since he took charge two-and-a-half years ago. And this is very much Hodgson empowering his players to stand up and be counted. 'In each of the groups I've asked people like Daniel Sturridge, Gary Cahill and Jordan Henderson to make certain they animate the group, that they prod people,' Hodgson added. 'We'll prod, the coaches, but I've always prodded in every team meeting I've done. I've always asked for questions, but often you don't get a response. 'I'm asking for the prodding to come from the players themselves where one of them will turn round to the group and say, 'Look, what do you think? Do you understand? Is the message clear to you? Do you really now understand what's required?' 'Get people to speak, that's what it's all about.' Hodgson (right) has been quick to defend questions about England captain Wayne Rooney's (left) At the head of them all is captain Wayne Rooney. His temperament and ability to lead the national team has been questioned since he was sent off for kicking Stewart Downing in Manchester United's match against West Ham last weekend. But Hodgson insisted: 'If someone wants to write that Rooney hasn't got the temperament I can't stop them doing it. All I can tell you is: they are wrong. 'I am happy with Rooney, I am happy with the role he is playing, I am happy with the responsibility he is taking, and I think the other players are too. 'He is filling big boots. Not just of Steven Gerrard, he has played in teams with different captains before him and many of them were top men.' Rooney (centre) was sent off in Manchester United's 2-1 win against West Ham last weekend . Rooney (right) was sent off for kicking out at Stewart Downing in their Premier League encounter last week . Hodgson added: 'The great thing with Wayne as it was with Steve, is the passion they have for football, for their country, and for their clubs – both were basically one-club men if you take Rooney leaving Everton at a young age. 'They can transmit that passion to a lot of the younger players. They can get their points across.'

Roy Hodgson has named Daniel Sturridge, Gary Cahill and Jordan Henderson as his 'unit leaders' among his England squad . Hodgson has named the trio as 'leaders' to galvanise their national team-mates in their respective positions of defence, midfield and attack . The 'unit leaders' is a new initiative setup by Hodgson after England's shoddy World Cup performance in Brazil .

788bf15ff97b08b84fce9a9142f45922d770a731

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to reel in the honours due to his prolific goalscoring form. His latest accolade comes from the International Federation of Football History and Statistics after he fired 69 goals in all competitions for Real Madrid and Portugal to be the highest goalscorer of 2013. The 29-year-old received his latest award on Thursday, and swiftly shared his delight with his Instagram followers. Cristiano Ronaldo uploaded the above picture via Instagram with his award for top goalscorer of 2013 . Ronaldo (centre) celebrates scoring against Liverpool at Anfield in the Champions League in October . Ronaldo (left) converts a penalty in El Clasico against Barcelona in October at the Santiago Bernabeu . Ronaldo posted the picture alongside the caption 'I feel honored to win the World’s Top Goalscorer 2013 award by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics. Thank you all.' The attacker is currently spearheading Real's record breaking winning streak. They reset a club record of 15 straight wins with a 2-1 victory over Malaga last weekend and could extend their run to 18 with a home victory over Celta Vigo on Saturday.

Cristiano Ronaldo earns yet another honour for his sensational form . He scored 69 times last year, including 10 strikes for Portugal . Ronaldo uploaded a picture to his Instagram after receiving the honour .

62f5fc372de8fdb50d67bde3fc7ec3c6eef54cb8

Sheffield United fans chanted their support for convicted rapist Ched Evans on Saturday night, in the club’s first game since their former player was released from jail. Almost half the travelling fans at Bradford City’s Valley Parade voiced their support for the 25-year-old, who left Wymott Prison on Friday morning, as co-Chairmen Kevin McCabe and Jim Phipps continue to suggest he might by re-employed by the club. At Bradford’s Forster Square station, 20 fans chanted: ‘He does what he wants, he does what he wants, Chedwyn Evans, he does what he wants.’ Police took no action. Sheffield United fans show their support for Ched Evans away at Bradford on Saturday . Sheffield United's co-chairmen have continued to suggest Ched Evans might be resigned by the club . As United played out a 2-0 win supporters could be heard singing, ‘Super, super Ched, super Chedwyn Evans’. The club’s fan base is divided by Evans, who served half of a five-year sentence for raping a 19-year-old waitress. A petition against his re-signing has more than 150,000 signatures, but the overwhelming attitude of United fans at Bradford was one of support. Sheffield United patron and women’s rights campaigner Charlie Webster said she would cease her involvement with the club if he is re-signed. ‘I don’t believe it’s sending the right message to the next generation to employ a convicted rapist,’ she said. The Welsh footballer was pictured leaving Wymott Prison in the early hours of Friday morning . Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Sheffield United fans were chanting as they played Bradford on Saturday . Ched Evans was released from Wymott Prison on Friday morning . Striker served half of a five-year sentence for raping a 19-year-old waitress .

49e074efe32488cf24458b2534fe7cbb3fe4683d

The mother of a diplomat killed during a terrorist raid on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi has blamed President Barack Obama for her son’s death. Sean Smith was killed along with ambassador Chris Stevens and security men - both former U.S. Navy SEALS - Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods by terrorists in Libya on the 11th anniversary of 9/11 this year. The families of three of the victims are divided in their reactions to reports that American personnel were refused help, despite several requests. 'Murdered': Pat Smith (right), the mother of diplomat Sean Smith (left) who was killed during a terrorist raid on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi blames President Barack Obama for her son's death . While Sean’s mother Patricia Smith has said that the president ‘murdered her son’ and Mr Woods’ father has echoed her sentiment, Mr Doherty’s brother has said that civilians could not comment on military tactics with any credibility. Mrs Smith, 72 told the U-T San Diego: ‘I believe that Obama murdered my son.’ She said that her son was a strong supporter of Obama. In an interview with Jon Stewart on Comedy Central last month Obama responded to a question about his administration's confused communication after the assault by saying: 'If four Americans get killed, it’s not optimal.' 'Not optimal': President Barack Obama, left, discussed the killing of four men in Benghazi while speaking to Jon Stewart, right, on The Daily Show said: 'If four Americans get killed, it's not optimal' 'Guilty of murder': Charles Woods (right), the father of Tyrone Woods (left), the former U.S. Navy SEAL who died in the attack, condemned U.S. officials' decisions during the incident . In response, speaking exclusively to . MailOnline last month, Mrs Smith from San Diego said: 'It was a disrespectful thing . to say and I don't think it's right. 'How . can you say somebody being killed is not very optimal? I don't think . the President has the right idea of the English language.' Charles Woods, the father of 41-year-old Mr Woods condemned U.S. officials’ decisions during the attack on Fox News. Rage: A protester hols his rifle during the assault on the Benghazi consulate . Wrong to blame Obama: Barbara Doherty (right), the mother of Greg Doherty (left) who also died during the attack while working as a security contractor said it was 'wrong to use these brave men, who wanted freedom for all, to degrade Obama' He said:  ‘I’m a retired attorney, and I know that these actions legally do not constitute murder but in my mind the people in the White House, all of them who have authority to send in reinforcements to prevent what they knew was going to be the death of my son, are guilty of murdering my son.’ He later told the U-T San Diego: ‘I don’t want this to become political and become dishonouring to Ty.’ Greg Doherty, the older brother of former Navy SEAL Mr Doherty, who was working as an American security contractor, said that the pair responded to the attack and that they rescued people during the assault. He said: ‘They had enough people to fight off that battle. ‘I don’t think it is civilians’ job to pick apart an actual battle and talk strategy unless you are a general.' Attack: The men were killed in the September 11 assault on the U.S. embassy in Benghazi, pictured . Killed: Ambassador Chris Stevens died along with three others in the embassy attack . Mr Doherty said people were just looking for ways to point the blame at President Obama. His mother, Barbara Doherty told Fox News: ‘It’s wrong to use these brave men, who wanted freedom for all, to degrade Obama.’ In the interview Stewart asked Obama: 'Is part of the investigation helping the communication between these divisions? Not just what happened in Benghazi, but what happened within. 'Because I would say, even you would admit, it was not the optimal response, at least to the American people, as far as all of us being on the same page.' Obama responded: 'Here's what I’ll say. If four Americans get killed, it’s not optimal.' He said: 'We’re going to fix it. All . of it. And what happens, during the course of a presidency, is that the . government is a big operation and any given time something screws up and . you make sure that you find out what’s broken and you fix it. 'Whatever . else I have done throughout the course of my presidency the one thing . that I’ve been absolutely clear about is that America’s security comes, . and the American people need to know exactly how I make decisions when . it comes to war, peace, security, and protecting Americans. 'And they will continue to get that over the next four years of my presidency.' Inferno: Armed attackers dumped cans of diesel fuel and set ablaze the consulate's exterior . Flames, grenades and gunfire: A burnt-out car in front of the U.S. consulate . Anniversary of 9/11: The embassy in Benghazi was left gutted after the attack done by terrorists in Libya on the 11th anniversary of 9/11 this year . The word 'optimal' was first used by Stewart in the question but Obama's use of it, in a sound bite that could be used to portray him as somewhat casual about the deaths, lit up conservatives on the internet after it was first reported in a White House pool report by Mike Memoli of the Los Angeles Times. It recently emerged that the U.S. government was told that the attack had been carried out by militants, not a spontaneous mob, within just 24 hours of its taking place. A diplomatic cable sent the day after the raid suggested that militants had previously planned to attack the consulate, and used the excuse of protests against the anti-Muslim video as cover for their assault. It is unclear who, if anyone, saw the cable outside the CIA at that point and how high up in the agency the information went. But the statement directly contradicts the explanation of the attack given by the administration over the following two weeks. The debate comes as the presidential election campaign heats up as Election Day, on November 6, draws closer.

Four men were killed in the terrorist raid on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi . Families of the victims are divided in their reactions to the way U.S. officials dealt with the attack .

52bd9be3ac53c85a87e173118449b57beb52834b

The Royal Air Force has spent £14,000 of taxpayers' cash on a golf simulator - despite losing 10,000 staff in just four years as part of Ministry of Defence cuts. The indoor device, which enables members of the RAF's golf team to train in the winter, has been installed at RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire. But with the salary of a new airman said to be just under £14,500 during basic training, the decision has already sparked anger. The Royal Air Force has spent £14,000 of taxpayers' cash on a golf simulator, it has been revealed (file picture) The Sunday Times reports that the simulator cost a total of £23,000 with £13,960 coming from a grant funded by the taxpayer. It is for the use of both the men's and ladies' golf teams at the RAF - but all armed forces personnel can use it for a £20 annual subscription. The newspaper quotes Flight Sergeant Jai Henderson as telling RAF News: 'It is an excellent coaching tool which will be utilised by the RAF golf team throughout the winter season to develop their players.' But the purchase of the simulator, which is of a standard used by golf professionals, has already attracted criticism. The indoor device, designed to allow members of the RAF's golf team to train in the winter, has been installed at RAF Cranwell (pictured) in Lincolnshire . The Sunday Times reports that the RAF has lost more than 9,500 personnel since 2010 amid deep cuts by the MoD. The newspaper quotes Andy Silverster from the campaign group the Taxpayers' Alliance, as saying the machine 'simply isn't the priority' when it comes to defence spending. But an MoD spokesman told The Sunday Times: 'The golf facility at RAF Cranwell is open to all HM forces serving personnel and, in addition to generating interest and participation in golf, provides an excellent recreational outlet to the balance and wellbeing of our personnel.'

The RAF has installed the £14,000 device at RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire . Devise is for the RAF men's and ladies' golf teams to use during winter . But it is available to all armed forces personnel for annual £20 subscription . Campaigners criticise the move saying machine 'simply isn't the priority' when it comes to defence spending .

68941bf3b6c1a7644e3a2f0774a8240ab62e3fa6

Success: The way to a woman's heart is simple - wear a t-shirt . Forget expensive designer clothes, a simple T-shirt could be the best way to capture a woman’s heart. Wearing a plain white short-sleeved top with a large black letter T printed on the front can make a man up to 12 per cent more attractive, scientists claim. Researchers suggest it creates an illusion that broadens the shoulders and slims the waist, producing a more V-shaped body – a sign of masculinity. The best results were observed in participants who were most out of shape, with already toned individuals only gaining a slight increase in perceived attractiveness. In contrast, all those wearing a top with an inverted ‘T’ - with the bar running around their waist - were deemed up to 12 per cent less attractive. It suggests shifting the focus to a man’s gut reduces his desirability. The team said a waist-to-chest ratio (WCR) of between 0.7 and 0.8 - where the shoulders are around 20 per cent broader than the hips - was seen as the ideal. Nottingham Trent University psychologist Dr Andrew Dunn said: ‘The wider barred ‘T’ seems to emphasise the upper chest when upright, which accentuates men’s ‘optimum’ shape. The opposite happens when inverted. ‘WCR is one of just a number of body measures that humans use to judge attractiveness and health. 'Our ability to detect, process and use this information appears to be implicit. 'The brain and sensory mechanism . underpinning this are probably evolved and are almost certainly managing . what we look for and how we respond. Improving chances: Women who were shown images of men wearing the white t-shirt with a large black T were 12 per cent more likely to be attracted to them . ‘The effect was most notable for normal men with a waist as wide as their shoulders. Whereas with those who are already in . good shape, the T was simply amplifying the body shape they already . had, so the benefit was less marked.’ The study involved showing 30 female undergraduates, aged 18 to 25, images of five different male body shapes and asked them to mark their perceived attractiveness and health. Each male model wore a plain white t-shirt with no T, and with an upright and inverted T-illusions of varying shapes and sizes. The results showed that upright T-illusions increased attractiveness and health perceptions. Dr Dunn said the horizontal bar on the T-shirt had to be as equal or longer than the vertical bar for optimum effectiveness. He said: ‘Clearly there are individual tastes and preferences, but we can see here how fashion could have an implicit positive or negative effect on perceived attractiveness and health. ‘It suggests that you can use this kind of optical illusion that artists and fashion designers use all the time to tap into our basic sensory psychology.’

Wearing a white t-shirt with the letter T makes men more attractive . The top creates an illusion of a V-shaped, masculine body . Research found men who wore the top were 12 per cent more attractive .

dbb73304696c6a652cfeabf05c17ca08bd24a824

A Chinese man has spent six years building his dream mountaintop villa - on top of a Beijing apartment block. Eccentric Professor Zhang Lin shifted tons of rubble and . rock onto the roof of the building to construct the outrageous home which looks like it has been carved from a mountainside. The property even has a rocky mountain garden, complete with rubble and shrubbery. Scroll down for video . Room with a view: Professor Zhang Lin has spent six years shifting rocks and rubble to the roof of this apartment block to build his dream 'mountaintop' penthouse . Crazy: The home was built by Professor Zhang Lin but it has emerged he never had planning permission . Precarious: The mountaintop villa appears to be supported by steel struts added to the side of the building . But his distraught neighbours are less than impressed with the project and fear the building is about to collapse. The rooftop home, which never . received planning approval, has . caused cracks to appear in his neighbours' ceilings and walls while some have had to put up with leaks from broken pipes and drains. They have also been forced to live with the noise and disturbance caused from the building work. One resident said their apartment is constantly flooded while another described the academic as a 'menace'. 'This was originally a small attic when he bought it. But he tore that down and built this mountain on top of us,' said one. 'He's . broken drains so we're always being flooded when it rains and there are . huge structural cracks in our ceiling and walls,' they added. Grand design: Neighbours have complained the house which has been built on top of an apartment could collapse . Penthouse living: Mr Lin could be ordered to tear down penthouse if it is deemed as unsafe . Hitting the slopes: Professor Zhang Lin wanted to bring a touch of the mountainside to Beijing but his neighbours below and living in the block next door have not been impressed . 'He is a menace as a neighbour and he didn't get any permission to build this monstrosity,' said another. Mr Lin could now be ordered to tear down his mountain penthouse if it is deemed unsafe. 'It . has come to our attention that Professor Zhang did not apply for . permission for this structure. So unless he can prove it is safe, it . will have to come down,' explained an city official. The eccentric professor appears to have incorporated ornaments and plants into his enormous rooftop extension . The mountaintop home even has walkways and a wooden trellis for climbing plants for the owner to enjoy . Distraught residents living beneath the man-made mountain have complained of structural cracks appearing in their ceilings and walls . Some neighbours say water and drainage pipes have broken because of the enormous rocky structure above them and their apartments are regularly flooded . China is known for its crazy design and architecture. The Tianducheng development in . Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, is filled with grand European buildings and . wide walkways. Ornate fountains and statues also line the streets of . the town. During its construction in 2007, a replica of the Eiffel Tower standing at 108 metres was even built. There is also a replica of a fountain from the Luxemburg Gardens in a main square called Champs Elysées. This is a view of the Tianducheng development in Hangzhou, China. Despite being built as a replica of Paris, the town has not proved popular and is virtually empty . Plush: This resident stands on the balcony of his apartment at the development, admiring the empty streets below . Last year developers began building 39 Palladian mansions in a Beijing suburb at a cost of £10m to create the country's most expensive housing estate. The Western-style mansions with tall columns and impressive entrances wont look out of place on a sprawling English estate. Last month China unveiled a gigantic glowing doughnut-shaped hotel in Huzhou, near Shanghai. In a suburb of Beijing developers are building 39 Western inspired Palladian mansions costing a minimum of £10m to create the country's most expensive housing estate . China's newest tallest building, the 2,073ft Shanghai Tower, has just been completed in the city's financial district . The 27-storey . Sheraton Huzhou Hot Spring Resort, looms over the skyline offering 321 . spacious guest rooms, including 44 suites and 39 villas. It also unveiled plans to . build sky-high farms - towers in Tai Po, Hong Kong, that would grow . rice, fruit and vegetables on each of the levels. The . country has also laid claim to the title of the world's largest . building - the The New Century Global Center in Chengdu, Sichuan . province, which could 20 Sydney Opera Houses inside. The country's new tallest building - the 2,073ft Shanghai . Tower, has also just been completed in the city's financial district.

Professor Zhang Lin has spent six years shifting rocks and rubble to the roof to create this mountaintop penthouse . The property has a rocky mountain garden, complete with rubble and shrubbery . But residents have described him as a 'menace' after cracks and leaks appeared throughout the apartment block . Mr Lin did not have planning permission for the 'extension' and it will be demolished if deemed unsafe .

3353952c9376b1e7749c7373d9e028f68ff218a0

Poverty levels in the UK have fallen to levels last seen more than two decades ago, new figures showed today. The number of people in relative poverty has fallen by 100,000 over the past year to 9.7 million. Overall, 15 per cent of people were in relative poverty last year, the lowest level since the 1980s. The official figures were released by the Department for Work and Pensions. They show how relative poverty - measured as living on 60 per cent of median average incomes - has been falling gradually since 2008-09 in the wake of the financial crash. Before housing costs are taken into account, the number of people living below the threshold has fallen by 100,000 over the past year to 9.7 million. In 2007-08 the figure hit 11million. Median incomes remained broadly unchanged between 2011/12 and 2012/13, up £2 to £440 a week for a couple with no children. Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith said: 'Despite the deepest debt-fuelled recession in living memory when £112 billion was wiped off the economy, we have protected the most vulnerable families from falling behind with 300,000 fewer children in poverty since 2010. 'Today's figures underline the need to stick to the Government's long-term economic plan of restoring a strong economy that creates jobs, and a tax and welfare system that helps people into work and makes work pay.' However, the percentage of people in absolute low income after housing costs has increased slightly to 23 per cent, the highest it has been since 2001-02. Among children, 17 per cent are in relative low income before housing costs, the lowest level since the 1980s, although it has not fallen in the last year. Labour's Rachel Reeves, shadow work and pensions secretary, said: 'These figures show the Government's child poverty strategy is failing abysmally with no progress for the millions of children still living in poverty. 'They also include extremely worrying signs that rising housing costs are set to push more children into poverty and that severe poverty is on the rise.' The Gingerbread campaign group said the statistics also showed a steep rise in child poverty for single parent households where the parent works full-time, climbing from 17 per cent of households where the single parent works full-time in poverty in 2011-12 to 22 per cent in 2012-13. Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith said the figures showed that the government had protected the most vulnerable families from falling behind . Almost one in four children whose single mother or father works full-time is now growing up poor, while nearly one in three with a single parent working part-time is in poverty, said the group. Gingerbread chief executive Fiona Weir said: 'It is deeply concerning that while the economy is on the up, hundreds of thousands of families remain trapped into poverty. 'For far too many single parent families, work offers no real promise of escape from hardship, as today's figures show a rise in working poverty where a single mum or dad is working full-time.' TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: 'Today's figures clearly show why living standards are falling. While wages have stagnated, and benefits and tax credits have been cut, prices have been rising - especially the cost of housing. 'Since the last election a million more adults and half a million more children fell into absolute poverty when housing costs are taken into account. 'Without a major affordable home building programme and action to secure fair wages, this type of poverty will continue to grow.' Julia Unwin, chief executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, said: 'Today's figures show that we are not making sufficient progress into tackling high levels of poverty, despite rising employment and economic recovery. 'The return to lasting economic growth and long-term prosperity will be hampered if we fail to address the levels of poverty in the UK. We know that individual policies which tinker around the edges do not reduce poverty. 'We need a comprehensive strategy that gets to grips with low pay, the high cost of essentials and reform to the tax and benefits system to ensure work is a route out of poverty.' Prime Minister David Cameron's official spokesman said: 'Child poverty remains at its lowest level since the 1980s. It has fallen by 300,000 since 2009/10. 'Does the Government want to continue to do more in this area? Of course. 'Absolutely at the heart of improving prosperity across the country and for all is the importance of sticking to the long-term economic plan, because at the heart of dealing with poverty is work.' The spokesman added: 'In terms of wider poverty, the target established under the previous government is one of relative income, and that stands at its lowest level since 1982.'

Number of people in relative poverty fell by 100,000 last year to 9.7 million . 15% of people were in relative poverty, the lowest level since the 1980s . Iain Duncan Smith says poorest have been protected from impact of cuts .

4e6159e08fd46cf3c4e951cd847c5c4e72ce8ca9

Miracles at work: Producers Mark Burnett and his wife Roma Downey pictured on the set of miniseries The Bible, where they say incredible events took place . Blockbuster miniseries The Bible has fast become one of the biggest hits on American TV, landing more than 13million viewers for its first episode. But while its runaway success has taken the entertainment world by surprise, it has not come as a shock to its creators. The producers have revealed that during its production, the show seemed to be marked by mysterious omens which they claim are evidence of 'the hand of God'. These apparent miracles included a a sudden swarm of snakes around the base of the cross where Jesus was to be crucified, and a boy who emerged from the desert with part of Christ's costume which had been lost for four days. British-born producer Mark Burnett told Entertainment Weekly that the series' success seemed almost preordained while it was being made. 'The . hand of God was on this,' he said in an interview before the show's . premiere last Sunday. 'The edit came together perfectly, the actors came . together perfectly, it just comes to life.' However, he claimed that it was not . just the fact that filming in North Africa went smoothly that convinced . him his production was blessed. Mr . Burnett, who is most famous for creating reality shows such as Survivor . and produced The Bible along with his actress wife Roma Downey, . described a number of 'weird things' which drew the attention of cast . and crew during filming. Scroll down for video . Not again: Producers Mark Burnett and his wife Roma Downey said they cut the scenes featuring the devil to avoid further controversy . 'Weird things happened': Bible producer Mark Burnett said the way the shooting came together 'perfectly' suggested the filming process was being overseen by God . In one scene, filmed during a still . night on the edge of the desert, Jesus tells the priest Nicodemus, 'The . Holy Spirit is like the wind.' According . to Mr Burnett: 'At that moment, a wind, like as if a 747 was taking . off, blew his hair, almost blew the set over and sustained for 20 . seconds across the desert. 'Everyone just looked at everyone like, "What just happened?"' Another . notable occasion came during the filming of Jesus' crucifixion - one of . the most risky scenes, due to the dangers involved in the mock . execution. Doing God's work: Producer Mark Burnett filming The Bible during a strange series of events including an gust of wind as strong as a 747 . Snakes: During the filming of Jesus' crucifixion an unprecedented 48 venomous snakes crawling around the mountain where Mark Burnett, pictured right in a white tee-shirt, was filming . Tales: British-born producer Mark Burnett, left, who created the series along with his wife Ms Downey, right, revealed the extraordinary experiences of the crew during filming . The . production had hired a 'snake wrangler' to keep the set free of . dangerous reptiles, and he usually found one of two snakes per day. But . on the day the crucifixion was filmed, according to Mr Burnett, the . handler found an unprecedented 48 venomous snakes crawling around the . mountain. Perhaps the most inexplicable happening came while they were filming the baptism of Jesus in a reservoir. The . producers were terrified when part of the actor's irreplaceable costume . came off and floated away - but help came from an unlikely source. Bizarre: After Jesus lost part of his costume during the baptism scene, a boy returned it four days later . How did that happen? The baptism scene led to perhaps the most inexplicable 'miracle' 'Miracles': Events such as a sudden plague of snakes convinced the crew their production was special . Diogo Morgado, who played Jesus, left, and director Mark Burnett, right, were moved by the experience . 'Four days later, a kid showed up . from many, many, many miles away, who had been seeking us through the . desert to return this to us,' Mr Burnett told EW. 'He didn't know what it was why he should seek us, but he felt he had to return it.' The . Bible is airing on the History Channel in two-hour chunks on Sunday . nights, and has been the surprise winner in its timeslot. The series will air its finale on March 31, Easter Sunday. Colourful: The show brings modern production values to the millennia-old story of the Bible .

Blockbuster series drew in 13million viewers for premiere last Sunday . Producer Mark Burnett claims filming was blessed with 'the hand of God' Describes how gust of wind 'like a 747' blew up at crucial moment . 48 snakes were crawling around base of cross during crucifixion scene . Boy travelled across the desert after finding lost scrap of Jesus' cloak .

49fe9f3c739e9c889c5faf5175bf028a700f771e

A Washington state man is accused of swapping furniture with his neighbors while they were away. The News Tribune reports the Lakewood man and a friend who is accused of helping him pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges of residential burglary. Court papers say a couple who returned to their apartment at the 5700 block of 95th Street Southwest on Monday found their love seat, matching chair and other belongings gone. Unwelcome surprise: A couple who returned to their apartment at the 5700 block of 95th Street Southwest on Monday found their love seat, matching chair and other belongings gone . A recliner and TV stand were left in their place. Information on a traffic ticket and pizza receipt left by the alleged thief pointed to the neighbor. The suspect told police he thought the couple had moved and abandoned their furniture. Police say he told them he was drunk when he decided to switch furniture, calling his buddy for help. The alleged thief showed police where the property was and led them to find the living room set which consisted of four pillows, two floor lamps, two end tables, a TV stand and an inflatable couch with an air pump. In addition to the set were three blankets, an iron, a picture with an ornamental frame, a floor fan, the military equipment, a black stand with four shelves and a plastic container with three drawers and various items inside. Police also found a chair, a wall mirror, an ironing board and a box of ladies footwear. Police believe that the thief broke into the apartment via a crawl space and this isn’t the first time someone broke into the property that way. Police say that the suspect’s brother broke into the house when the tenants prior to these ones lived there. Crawl space: The alleged thief is said to have broken in via a crawl space (file photo) not unlike this one .

A Washington state man is accused of swapping furniture with his neighbors while they were away . The man and a friend who is accused of helping him pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges of residential burglary . A couple who returned to their apartment Monday found their love seat, matching chair and other belongings gone .

b34bd60b629463d6fa9ed6893117120c61967ac0

Chelsea ace Eden Hazard admits he was upset at Juan Mata's move to Manchester United, but confesses it was inevitable after he was frozen out by Blues boss Jose Mourinho. Mata made the move to United for a fee of £37.1 million in January 2014, and will face his old club for the first time on Sunday afternoon. One of the opponents lining up against him is old friend Hazard, who has spoken of his sadness at the Spain midfielder's exit. VIDEOS Scroll down to watch . Juan Mata (left) and Eden Hazard (right) celebrate with Fernando Torres when the pair played for Chelsea . Mata celebrates a goal for Manchester United - he was warming the bench at Chelsea, but not for the Reds . 'I was sad when Juan left because he was such a good player,' Hazard told the Sunday Mirror. 'But at the end of his time at Chelsea, he was on the bench and he didn't play a lot.' 'When you're a great player, it's normal that you want to play, so I respect his choice, but I wanted him to stay here because it was a pleasure to play with him.' Chelsea sit top of the Premier League and, after Manchester City's slip-up yesterday, the Blues can go six points clear after just nine matches if they beat United at Old Trafford. Mata celebrates after scoring a goal for Chelsea against current club United - the tables turn on Sunday . Old team-mates and current friends Mata (left) and Hazard (right)... the pair face each other on Sunday . Hazard and Mata share a hug while celebrating after the former scored at Stamford Bridge in October 2012 . This raises the importance of an already feisty derby; one which Hazard reveals he is fully focused on. Despite his friendship with Mata, he has not made contact in the lead-up to Sunday's match. 'Juan is my friend, but on Sunday he plays for Man United, I play for Chelsea and I want to win. I've not been in touch with him this season. Last season, yes, but not this one.'

Juan Mata left Chelsea for Manchester United in January 2014 . The Spain midfielder had been frozen out by Blues boss Jose Mourinho . Eden Hazard was saddened, but admits the move was inevitable . Mata faces his old club for the first time since his £37.1 million move .

fa29fb4f6f9b7c1154a78d5c8f391346612da23d

Eden Hazard may be the best player in the Premier League ‘by a mile’, according to one full-back tasked with shackling the 23-year-old — but Wales would not swap Gareth Bale for even the most gifted of Belgium’s golden generation. Swansea’s Neil Taylor will face Hazard in an important game on the path to Euro 2016 qualification at the King Baudouin Stadium on Sunday night, aware the Chelsea forward can go past defenders ‘like a ghost’. Belgium forward Eden Hazard attempts an acrobatic volley during training on Saturday . But Taylor says Hazard cannot compare to Bale, who thrives under the Welsh spotlight after dealing with the pressure at Real Madrid. ‘Hazard has developed under Jose Mourinho,’ said Taylor. ‘He’s the best player in the Premier League by a mile, I’d say. Mourinho has done that — he’s on a player if they don’t perform. Hazard is doing it week in, week out. He’s a ball carrier, he can take Chelsea from the edge of their box to the opposition area and go past you like a ghost. He can go outside or inside, shoot, or make you foul him. ‘He’s a great player. But we have one of our own. Of course, I’d always have Gareth in my team before Hazard. No question. I played against him when he was at Spurs, but played with him throughout the Welsh age groups. He is one of those freaks of nature who come along every now and then, technically and athletically. He’s world class like the Messis and Ronaldos. They were born to play football. Hazard will line up for Belgium against Wales in Euro 2016 qualifier on Sunday night . ‘The pressure is on him at Real just to train properly, let alone win every game. He’s matured, and physically grown into a proper man. It seems as if he’s learning off Ronaldo and others at Real, how they work day to day. I’m sure England and other nations wish he was their player. But he’s so proud to be Welsh and he wants to be a part of this squad. He has grown in confidence in the last year. He knows the onus is on him now and that he’s our biggest player.’ Bale did not score in the last two qualifiers against Bosnia and Cyprus, which yielded four points to send Wales top of Group B, but he performed superbly in the absence of Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen. And it is not just his Welsh team-mates who value Bale — so too do his former colleagues at Tottenham, who Bale left behind when he joined Real for a world-record £86 million fee. Nacer Chadli, who should appear alongside Hazard for Belgium, is having a fine season for Spurs and has scored six Premier League goals but his club have struggled and lie 12th in the table. Premier League stars Romelu Lukaku, Eden Hazard and Marouane Fellaini training on Saturday . ‘I feel like the ghost of Bale is still present at Tottenham,’ he said. ‘That’s not strange when you look at how much he meant to the club and the fans. It’s not easy to replace him.’ Belgium’s Jan Vertonghen, another of Bale’s former club mates, will not be man-marking the Real star. ‘It’s very difficult to mark him,’ he said. ‘You mark him as a team. Space is the most important thing for him so communication is important between our defenders and central midfield. He’s an unbelievable player.’ Bale is under no illusions of the task but he remains confident. He said: ‘They’re fourth in the world so they’re a very good side. We know what qualities they have, but we also know what weaknesses they have. We’ll be giving it our best go and hopefully we’ll get the three points.’ Gareth Bale thrives under the Welsh spotlight after dealing with the pressure at Real Madrid .

Eden Hazard may be the best player in the Premier League ‘by a mile’, says Neil Taylor . Wales defender will face Hazard in an important game on the path to Euro 2016 qualification on Sunday night . Gareth Bale Bale performed superbly in the last two qualifiers against Bosnia and Cyprus .

310a623b44ed7166b082cc204a675a050943179f

As a blue and red 16-seater plane accelerated along a runway last month in northern England, there was nothing to suggest its voyage was anything out of the ordinary. But minutes later, as the plane turned north and began a 500-mile round trip from Lancashire to Inverness, history was made. Once the craft was safely at cruising altitude, the pilot flicked a switch and handed over to a trained controller sitting at a computer screen many miles away on the ground. Ambitious: For the first time in aviation history, a 'pilotless' passenger plane was flying over mainland Britain recently. This is a file picture . For the first time in aviation history, a ‘pilotless’ passenger plane was flying over mainland Britain. That concept might make many people uneasy. But, according to the air industry, it is the future of flight. Some predict that within five, ten or 20 years, commercial jets will be flown routinely by remote control over our towns and cities. So will we ever get used to climbing aboard our holiday flight to Cyprus or Greece and, instead of being greeted with a welcome from an upbeat and commanding captain, be met only with an automated message? And those soothing words of reassurance in mid-air as the plane is buffeted through a nasty patch of turbulence? They, too, could soon be a thing of the past. Supporters of so-called ‘autonomous  aircraft’ justify their developments on safety grounds. If most accidents are caused by human error, they argue, then surely it makes sense to remove people from the equation? But the arrival of such craft in our skies raises disturbing questions. Some fear it could make passengers more vulnerable to computer failure and put planes at greater risk of being hijacked by cyber-terrorists hacking into control systems. Bold: Some predict that within five, ten or 20 years, commercial jets will be flown routinely by remote control over our towns and cities . And however much the industry might insist on their absolute safety, how many of us would actually dare to go up in such  an aircraft? Britain and the U.S. have been using unmanned military drone aircraft for years. However, the next generation of pilotless planes are not designed for warfare, but to fly passengers and cargo around the globe. Last month’s test flight over the UK was part of the Astraea project — the £62 million Autonomous Systems Technology Related Airborne Evaluation and Assessment programme funded by industry and the Government. The Astraea team took a standard Jetstream aircraft and added banks of computers, sensors and high definition cameras to turn it into an experimental ‘uninhabited  air vehicle’. The craft — nicknamed the Flying Test Bed — is able to cruise in British airspace with no human involvement, though not yet without any humans on board. The high-definition cameras in the cockpit and underneath the craft scan the skies for weather systems and feed the information back to the computerised navigation system, allowing the craft to change course automatically to avoid storms and turbulence. Meanwhile, cameras are on the look out for mid-air hazards such as other aircraft, weather balloons and even parachutes. Worrying: Criticis say there have been 100 drone crashes since 2007 - including nine since the start of the year. This is a file picture of a drone plane . Again, the computer’s ‘sense and avoid’ technology will adjust the navigation if something is on collision course. Manufacturer BAE Systems boasts it can track up to 20,000 objects simultaneously. The aircraft’s progress is  monitored on the ground by an operator who is sent, via radio and satellite, the images taken by the cameras, and the data from the plane’s sensors. The operator can override the plane’s computers and fly or land the craft by remote control if needed. But if contact is lost — say the signals fail — the plane is programmed to land safely  by itself. It is given potential landing strips — such as playing fields or other flat areas — and uses heat sensors and optical cameras to check if they are free from obstacles or people before landing. Under existing UK aviation rules, the Jetstream is unable to take off and land autonomously. So during the most recent test flight, two pilots sat in the cockpit to control both operations. In between, they sipped cups of coffee. On the outbound flight from Warton Aerodrome in Lancashire the pilots passed control to a ground-based operator once take-off was complete. On the return flight, control was given to the onboard navigation and robotics system. BAE Systems says the technology has been tested on 11 aircraft and on 80 flights over the past year, including a simulated search-and-rescue mission using two unmanned craft. In tests, it was shown to be as effective and safe as a human pilot. The firm believes the pilotless craft could be used within five to ten years for scientific experiments — examining weather or volcanic ash clouds — or search-and-rescue missions. After that, they could be used as cargo planes. The industry believes automated planes will be safer — and will do away with pilot error, a major cause of accidents. Lambert Dopping-Hepenstal, Astraea Programme Director at BAE Systems, says: ‘Unmanned civil aircraft are an exciting new opportunity. We see these aircraft undertaking dangerous roles in poor conditions . . . such as search-and-rescue missions.’ There is no talk yet of introducing it for passenger flights, but that could soon change, especially when you consider that another advantage of abolishing cockpit pilots is that it saves money. One ground-based operator could, in theory, keep an eye on several planes at once. Way forward: Pilots could soon be a thing of the past . And, unlike humans, computers don’t get tired, don’t need lavatory breaks, don’t have unions and don’t need regular rest periods (or get drunk at parties with stewardesses the night before they fly). BAE Systems also points out that aircraft have been controlled by computers for years. On a typical long-distance flight, autopilots fly the plane for between 80 and 90 per cent of the trip. And that’s not just the dull bits in the middle either. Many commercial pilots routinely land at Heathrow with the help of automated systems. Before unmanned craft routinely take to the skies, the flight rules would need to be overhauled. To do that, the industry will need to convince regulators that their automated systems are foolproof. Yet computer software, as we are reminded almost daily, has a nasty habit of going wrong. Last year, a fault in the banking software of NatWest and the Royal Bank of Scotland left many of its 17 million customers unable to check accounts or access money. The bank suffered another, unrelated failure in March. Naturally, the aviation industry insists robotic planes will be packed with safety features. But while automation has — statistically speaking — made flying safer than ever, accidents still happen. On February 25, 2009, a Turkish Airlines Boeing 373 dropped out of the sky short of Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, killing nine people, including all three of the cabin crew. The crash was caused by a faulty radio altimeter — a device that monitors a plane’s altitude using radio waves — which also controlled the aircraft’s automatic thrust systems. The auto-thrust wrongly believed the plane was just above the runway and cut power to the engines. The crew tried to regain control, but the automatic systems wouldn’t let them and the plane fell into a field. In the same year, Air France flight 447 crashed into the Atlantic, killing 228 people, after the autopilot switched itself off and the plane stalled at 38,000ft. Chris Cole, who runs the website Drone Wars UK, believes remote-controlled planes are unreliable. He has collated details of around 100 drone crashes since 2007 — including nine since the start of the year. ‘There are huge safety concerns, but the industry likes to play them down,’ he says. ‘The technology they use is akin to wireless technology, and we know how hard it is to stay connected when you  are moving.’ On top of all this is the threat from cyber-jackers. In 2011, Iranians took control of a remotely operated  U.S. Predator spy plane. The Iranian government claimed it was brought down by its ‘cyber warfare unit’, which took over the controls and safely landed it. The idea of terrorists doing  the same to a civilian or cargo jet  is terrifying. And there’s a broader concern to the development of this kind of technology. We don’t just face a future of pilotless planes. Scientists are, for example, developing computer-driven buses, lorries, cars and trains — all on ‘safety grounds’. You don’t have to be a fan of science fiction movies such as The Terminator — in which robots try to take over the world — to feel uneasy about taking away the human element from transport. There are times when the operator of any vehicle has to make a split-second moral decision. A lorry driver may have to choose whether to veer away from a car coming in the opposite direction and plough into a group of pedestrians. Do we really want computers making those choices over life and death? ‘There is this view among engineers that humans are the weakest part of any system and should be removed,’ says Mr Cole. ‘But that’s not the case. Human ethics and morality shouldn’t just be programmed away.’

A ‘pilotless’ passenger plane flew over mainland Britain recently . The air industry believes it is the future of flight .

eeb2d38781e76418cc931df802b515c3446cd560

Lee Middleton escaped and committed an armed robbery after stuffing his bed with pillows so it appeared he was fast asleep . An escaped prisoner terrorised a couple in an armed raid at their home – after stuffing his cell bed with pillows to sneak out of an open jail. Lee Middleton, 32, was serving time for a string of armed robberies when he slipped out of HMP Hewell, leaving officers believing he was still asleep. With an unknown accomplice, he travelled to an address in Coventry, 30 miles from the multi-category 1,261-inmate prison near Redditch, Worcestershire. A court head how the masked men, armed with a knuckle duster and a knife, forced their way inside before Middleton threatened to smash terrified resident Matty Grove’s head in with a brick. They made off with cash, mobile phones and Mr Grove’s £10,000 Audi S3 Quattro following the raid in June but Middleton was caught after a police chase. Jail guards had no idea the violent criminal – classed as ‘dangerous’ by his original trial judge – was missing until police rang to say he was in custody. Lal Amarasinghe, prosecuting, said: ‘The prison did not realise he had left until the police contacted them. He had left his bed with two pillows in it.’ Yesterday Mr Grove, 28, and girlfriend Danielle Ismay told of their shock that Middleton was able to sneak out of prison to commit the crime. Miss Ismay, 23, a receptionist, said: ‘It’s disgusting that he was able to get out of a prison to do this to us, particularly as he had been jailed for other burglaries and violent raids in the first place. ‘We have suffered a horrendous ordeal and were left so fearful of our safety that we had to move house.’ She said they could not believe it when police told them Middleton was a serving prisoner. The couple plan to sue the jail for negligence. Scroll down for video . Pictured is HMP Hewell, from where prisoner Lee Middleton was able to escape by stuffing his bed with pillows . Victims: Matthew Grove and Danielle Ismay (pictured) were at home watching TV when Middleton and his unidentified accomplice broke into their home and threatened them with a knife and knuckle duster . 'It was a horrendous ordeal': Matty Grove, left, and his receptionist girlfriend Danielle Ismay, right . ‘If the prison had done its job and kept Middleton locked up, he would never have been able to burgle us,’ Miss Ismay added. On Tuesday Middleton was jailed at Warwick Crown Court for a total of 11 years and six months after earlier pleading guilty to the aggravated burglary, dangerous driving and driving while disqualified. Judge Sylvia De Bertodano said it was ‘not quite clear’ how he had escaped, but added that it was ‘quite clear’ how dangerous he was. She also told the court: ‘There must have been planning to the extent that someone must have met him (outside the prison) to take him there (to Coventry).’ Middleton had been seen by jail staff at 9.30pm, but at 11.40pm he was outside Mr Grove and Miss Ismay’s house in Coventry. They used the brick to smash a pane on the front door to force their way inside, screaming ‘It’s the police!’ before Middleton began rifling through Miss Ismay’s bag. Mr Grove, who works in logistics at a factory, told the Daily Mail: ‘I stood up to try to stop him emptying the bag, but he had picked up the brick and told me, “Sit down now or I will smash your head in”. It was a really nasty incident.’ Middleton, of Wyken, Coventry, had been given an indeterminate sentence, with a minimum of ten years, in 2007 for armed robberies committed with two accomplices. In one they terrorised a pregnant woman and her children before stealing £40,000 in possessions. Pictured left is prisoner Frank Morris, and right, a dummy found in the bed of his accomplice . Lee Middleton's method of escape from HMP Hewell - by stuffing his bed with pillows to make it appear he was fast asleep - is actually tactic devised in one of the most notorious prison escapes of all time. In 1962 Frank Lee Morris, along with fellow prisoners Clarence and John Anglin, escaped from Alcatraz prison by leaving hand built dummies with human-like heads in their beds to fool the patrolling guards. They then crept out of their cells through tunnels they had spent years digging, before boarding a life raft when they reached the water. Although it's been claimed the three men have been spotted in the years since the prison break, there have been no confirmed sightings of the three and it is likely they all died attempting to make it across San Francisco Bay. In the decades since, the stunt has become one of the most infamous prison tales of all time, due to the fact it was remained the only successful escape from Alcatraz, and its portrayal in Hollywood films including 'Escape from Alcatraz' starring Clint Eastwood. The dummy heads used by the Alcatraz trio to fool prison guards into thinking they were asleep in bed . The prison break was the inspiration for Hollywood film 'Escape from Alcatraz' starring Clint Eastwood, pictured .

Prisoner stuffed his bed with pillows to fool guards he was in bed fast asleep . Method was also used in only successful escape from Alcatraz, which was made into a film starring Clint Eastwood . He then escaped and committed an aggravated burglary with an accomplice . The two smashed into a couple's home and stole their £10,000 Audi vehicle . A judge yesterday sentenced him to another 11 years and six months in jail .

493aa586f2ac0040d870abd393af29c43393e47b

These brown bears are keen to play with discarded barrels - because they have developed a nose for aviation fuel. The creatures sniff kerosene and gasoline from containers left in the Kronotsky Nature Reserve in the far east of Russia. They take deep breaths for minutes at a time before digging a shallow hole and lying in a 'nirvana' position. A bear lies back in the 'nirvana' position in the snow after sniffing aviation fuel . Dozens of brown bears sniff air fuel from barrels left on the plains of South Kamchatka Sanctuary in Russia's Far East . A brown bear named Suzemka explores a discarded barrel in the sanctuary, which is a Unesco-protected World Heritage site . The fuel is used to power generators and helicopters used by nature reserve workers. Photographer Igor Shpilenok, 52, spent seven months with the community of bears. He said some of the addicted predators even stalked helicopters, waiting for take off and drops of fuel to leak onto the hard soil for them to hoover up. He added: 'In another case a helicopter brought a few barrels of gasoline. 'Workers of the nature reserve didn't take them in time and a female bear named Suzemka - who is apparently fasciated by the smell of fuel - used the opportunity. 'She seems to be one of the addicts.' The Kronotsky Nature Reserve, in South Kamchatka, is home to more than 700 brown bears. Suzemka rolls the barrel along the ground in the sanctuary to claim it as her own . Suzemka takes a deep breath of kerosene through a crack in the fuel container . They are thought to be the largest brown bears in the world, weighing up to 1,200lb. The sanctuary covers 225,000 hectares of land and is listed as a Unesco World Heritage site. The climate ranges between extremely hot and cold - earning it the label 'land of fire and ice'. A bear approaches a helicopter, perhaps hoping some drops of fuel will fall from the aircraft .

Photographer Igor Shpilenok spent seven months observing the bears . The brown bears live at the Kronotsky Nature Reserve in Russia's far east .

7be4487ef0940ac00ea90630cc4f4d15280bba25

This cat had two faces - but only nine lives. A feline named Frank and Louie after he was born with two faces, two mouths, two noses and three blue eyes has died at the age of 15. The Telegram of Worcester reports that 'Frankenlouie' died Thursday at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in North Grafton. The cat's owner, Marty Stevens, said veterinarians believe the cause of death was cancer. Scroll down for video . R.I.P: 'Frankenlouie', the world's oldest Janus cat - a feline with two faces - died at the age of 15 on Thursday December 4, 2014, after suffering what was believed to be cancer . Rare: The Guinness World Record holder passed away at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tuft's University in Grafton, Massachusetts, according to owner Martha 'Marty'Stevens . Precious: Marty Stevens is seen here at home with her beloved cat. She called the face on the left Frank, while the face on the right is identified as Louie . The cat's owner, Marty Stevens, said veterinarians believe the cause of death was cancer. Frank and Louie made it into the 2012 edition of Guinness World Records as the longest-surviving member of a group known as Janus cats, named for a Roman god with two faces. Janus cats almost never survive, and most have congenital defects. They usually only live a few days. A breeder brought the rare feline to Stevens, a vet nurse, to be euthanized in September of 1999. However Stevens, not believing the cat would survive, decided to take him home with her and care for him. She fed Frankenlouie using tubes in both mouths, soon realizing that only the 'Frank' side was connected to his esophagus. He did, however, eat enough for two. Stevens said her cat quickly developed a strong personality and loved to walk around her neighborhood in North Grafton. 'He’s just so affectionate and sweet he usually wins people over,' she told The Telegram-Gazette in 2011. Beloved: The Janus cat was set to be euthanized by a breeder in 1999, but Stevens, a vet nurse, decided to bring him home with her . Fascinating: Frankenlouie was blind in his center eye, but his outer eyes function as per usual . He functioned as a regular cat. While blind in his center eye, both his outer eyes worked fine, and while he had two noses and mouths, he had only one brain. Stevens is now understandably devastated to lose her pet of 15 years. She said her fell quite ill around Thanksgiving and she she took him to the Tuffs University clinic. The vet told her it was best to euthanize him, because he was in quite a lot of pain. Stevens says once her sadness passes she wouldn't mind looking for another Janus to bring home with her, just like she did with Frankenlouie in 1999. 'I would love to do it again,' she said.

Frank and Louie - 'Frankenlouie' - was brought to Tuffs University in North Grafton by a breeder in September 1999 to be euthanized . Known as a Janus cat, named for a Roman god with two faces. Vet nurse Marty Stevens decided to take him home . Expected to die, he went on to live for 15 years . He was euthanized at Tuffs University on Thursday from cancer . Broke a Guiness World Record in 2012 as the oldest surviving Janus cat .

f0f8616d65c42710db426d766d55360158bda74e

It's the towering Afro which changed the course of New York City's mayoral race. Dante de Blasio's impressive hairstyle has featured heavily in his father Bill de Blasio's campaign, even catching the eye of an envious Barack Obama. But it seems 16-year-old Dante has followed in the footsteps of his famous dad. Like father, like son: Bill de Blasio sports a cool Afro as a student in 1980 (left) which his son Dante (right) is emulating . Fromance: Bill de Blasio surrounded by his family - son Dante (left), daughter Chiara (center) and wife Chirlane McCray (right) - at his primary night party in September . Pictures from the 1980s show de Blasio as a college student sporting a full head of curls to rival his son's do. As a New York University student, De Blasio - then known as Bill Wilhelm - was a wild-haired activist who regularly confronted school administrators about the cost of tuition. His once manly mane can been seen in black and white photos of him protesting at a rally and standing in NYU's Loeb Student Center more than 30 years ago. While the mayoral hopeful has never taken credit for his biracial son's 'fro, he has used it to help boost his public standing among voters, according to New York Post. De Blasio, 52, has two children - Dante and Chiara - with his African-American wife, Chirlane McCray. Rough around the edges: Bill de Blasio - a wild-haired activist known as Bill Wilhelm - protesting against rising college fees at a rally in April 1981 . Wild-haired: Bill de Blasio, pictured in NYU's Loeb Student Center in September 1980, was active in student politics . When Dante starred in a campaign ad in August touting his father's skills, left-leaning de Blasio vaulted from . fourth place to first in the Democratic primary. A Quinnipiac poll released shortly after the debut of the 'Dante' ad found 30 per cent of Democratic primary voters preferred de Blasio, compared with Christine Quinn’s 24 per cent and Bill Thompson’s 22 per cent. Americans were talking about the candidate’s qualifications, his multiracial family and how Dante was 'rocking the best Afro ever'. Dante's Afro, which he started growing in the third grade, has spawned legions of fans, a nickname for the campaign’s surge in the polls ('fromentum'), hundreds of mentions on Twitter and a campaign hashtag, #gowiththefro. 'I didn’t know everyone would like it so much,' Dante told New York Post. 'People are constantly stopping me now. Some want photos. Some are just like, ‘Hey, were you in a commercial?' ' Official: Bill de Blasio takes the oath of office administered by US Congressman Jerrold Nadler (left) accompanied by his daughter Chiara (second left), son Dante (center) and wife Chirlane in 2010 . Fro on display: Dante DeBlasio and Chiara DeBlasio at the 46th annual West Indian Day Parade in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, this year . But Dante's celebrity-status went through the roof after his locks got a shout-out from the U.S. President in August. Obama singled out Dante's hair as he introduced de Blasio at a Democratic National Committee . fundraiser, noting the presence of 'Dante, who has the same hairdo I . had in 1978. Although I have to confess my Afro was never that good.' Earlier this month, Dante's proud dad told Reddit users during an Ask Me Anything session his son's hair is something to be reckoned with. 'Dante works conscientiously on his hair. Very conscientiously,' he said, according to the Wall Street Journal. 'He . does not leave the house in the morning without carefully using his . pick to strike a perfect geometric balance. I witnessed with my own eyes . the President of the United States evaluating Dante’s Afro up close, . and even the president admitted that the Afro of his youth was not as . full and perfectly proportioned. So Dante has achieved something spectacular.' Time to party: Dante's Afro is out at proud at his dad Bill de Blasio's primary night party in September .

New York City mayoral candidate Bill de Blasio sported a quasi-Afro as a young man . 1980s photos show him with a full head of curly hair . The mayoral hopeful's 16-year-old son, Dante, is famous for his perfectly coiffed Afro . Dante has been described as de Blasio's 'secret weapon' in boosting his popularity .

600d3b3ab5a84049598439c41984111f19fd3113

Bebe Stores Inc said it detected a hacking attack on its payment processing system that could have compromised data from cards swiped in its stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. The exposed data may have included cardholder names, account numbers, expiration dates and verification codes, the women's apparel retailer said on Friday. Bebe, which also operates stores in Canada, said the affected transactions were made between November 8 and November 26, the day before Thanksgiving. Hacked: Bebe Stores Inc said it detected a hacking attack on its payment processing system that could have compromised data from cards swiped in its stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands . Security blog KrebsOnSecurity said on Thursday that hackers may have stolen credit and debit card data from bebe during Thanksgiving and Black Friday. Bebe, which was founded in 1976 and headquartered in Brisbane, California, is the latest retailer to fall prey to hackers. Previous victims included Home Depot Inc, Target Corp , Sears Holdings Corp and Michaels Stores Inc. Bebe said online transactions were not affected. 'We moved quickly to block this attack and have taken steps to further enhance our security measures,' Chief Executive Jim Wiggett said in a statement on Friday. The retailer advised customers who used a payment card at a U.S., Puerto Rico or U.S. Virgin Islands store during the time frame to review their account statements for any unauthorized activity. If they see any unauthorized charges, they should contact the bank that issued the card. In addition, Bebe said that it is offering free credit monitoring services to customers who made a purchase using a payment card at the affected stores during the specified time frame. Bebe operates 175 retail stores and 35 outlet stores in the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Canada. Company shares, which have fallen by more than half in the past nine months, closed at $2.73 on the Nasdaq on Thursday.

Bebe Stores Inc said it detected a data breach concerning cards swiped in its stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands . The exposed data may have included cardholder names, account numbers, expiration dates and verification codes . The affected transactions were made from November 8 - 26 . Customers who used a payment card during this time frame are advised to review their account statements for any unauthorized activity .

f54e823fbefb7dfd92f83bacbb8dc8a9014130b8

These are the 'Ghost' killer thugs pumped up on steroids who are proving key to keeping Syria's brutal President Bashar Assad in power. Covered in tattoos of images of their leader, they are blamed for roaming the nation massacring children and women by slitting their throats or shooting them at point-blank range. Wielding AK-47s and machetes, they are said to carry out the government's dirty work so officials can claim the rampages are not being sponsored by the state. Pumped up: Areen Al Assad, with a tattoo of Bashar Assad on his bicep, is said to be one of the 'Ghost' killers roaming Syria . Meat-head: Known as the 'Shabiha', they wear combat trousers and black t-shirts and are paid the massive sum of £130 per day . Known as the 'Shabiha', translating to 'Ghosts', they wear combat trousers and black t-shirts and are paid the massive sum of £130 per day. Their modus operandi sees them swarm in to towns after the army has stopped shelling. A source said: 'Their mission is to terrorise the civilian population and conduct ethnic cleansing.' A massacre of 108 civilians in Houla two weeks ago, including 49 children, has been blamed on the group who fanatically follow the Muslim Alawite sect. They are also reported to have shot dead 12 workers in Qusayr and 78 villagers in Qubair last week. Messing about: The 'Ghosts' modus operandi sees them swarm in to towns after the army has stopped shelling . Muscle man: Emergence of the death squad pictures comes after William Hague said yesterday he may have to send troops to Syria if the country spirals into a Bosnian-style civil war . Dr Mousab Azzawi, who runs the Syrian . Network for Human Rights from London but had treated some of the Shabiha . in Latakia, said recently: 'They were like monsters. 'They . had huge muscles, and big bellies and beards. They took steroids to . pump up their bodies. I had to talk to them like children as they like . people with low intelligence. Syria's large chemical weapons stocks could be trained on Israel, the latter's deputy military chief has warned. According to Maj. Gen. Yair Naveh, Syria has the largest arsenal of chemical weapons in the world. If the Syrians had the chance, he said, they would 'treat us the same way they treat their own people'. Syria has not declared its chemical weapons stocks so their exact size is not known. Among other things, Israel is worried that such weapons could fall into the hands of anti-Israel militants should the Syrian regime crumble. Israeli radio stations and newspapers carried Naveh's remarks today. He delivered them Sunday night at a ceremony in Jerusalem commemorating fallen soldiers. Syrian activists estimate more than 13,000 people have died since an uprising against the Syrian regime erupted 15 months ago, drawing a bloody crackdown. Israel has been watching the carnage in neighboring Syria with increasing concern. The two countries have fought major wars and multiple attempts to reach a peace deal failed. Syria has strong ties to Iran, Israel's most fearsome enemy, and to Palestinian and Lebanese militants that have warred with Israel. 'That is what makes them so terrifying — the combination of strength and blind allegiance to the regime.' Emergence of the death squad pictures . comes after William Hague said yesterday he may have to send troops to . Syria if the country spirals into a  Bosnian-style civil war. The . Foreign Secretary said Britain would have to 'greatly increase our . support for the opposition' if the current United Nations plan for a . ceasefire fails, as his office now fears. Mr Hague repeatedly refused to rule out military action yesterday if Syria descends into 'terrible' sectarian violence. And he twice compared the violence raging in the Arab state to the conflict in Bosnia, where 12,000 British soldiers were eventually sent, rather than Libya, where the Government resisted sending in ground troops. Mr Hague told the BBC: 'The reason I don’t rule things out is because we really don't know now how this situation is going to develop or how terrible it is going to become. 'Increasingly the analogy is not with Libya last year but with Bosnia in the 1990s. 'We are on the edge of that kind of sectarian murder on a large scale. So who knows what may be required from the international community to try to deal with that, if it gets going in that way.' As violence continued to rage yesterday, claiming at least 38 lives, Mr Hague reiterated his message on Sky News. He said Syria is now 'on the edge of a sectarian conflict in which neighbouring villages are attacking and killing each other so I don’t think we can rule anything out'. The Foreign Secretary's words will fuel concerns that Britain risks being sucked into another Middle East war with potentially devastating political and humanitarian consequences. Enforcers: Film footage shows the 'Ghosts' walking out and about . Action man: Pictured with guns, the Ghost poses for this photograph . But some diplomats believe the West will be compelled to act if the situation deteriorates and risks dragging in neighbouring countries such as Lebanon and Turkey. Security sources said one scenario under discussion would see troops deploy to protect aid convoys entering Syria, a task Western soldiers also carried out in the early years of the Bosnian war. Mr Hague gave credence to that theory by stressing the problems of providing aid to Syria yesterday. 'One of the great difficulties here is getting aid to them where fighting is going on and where the regime doesn’t provide access,' he said. The UK has already provided £8.5million of medical supplies and emergency aid via international agencies. Battered: The Ghosts filmed beating activists . Violence: A massacre of 108 civilians in Houla two weeks ago, including 49 children, has been blamed on the group who fanatically follow the Muslim Alawite sect . Mr Hague said he 'welcomed in principle' a Russian proposal for an international conference on Syria, but warned it must 'lead to a change and not just buy time for the regime to kill more people'. He said it would be hard to see how Iran could attend the conference - one of Russia's demands - as it had already given Syria technical support and advised the regime on how to suppress protests. Instead, he said the way forward was to adopt the peace plan of former United Nations secretary-general Kofi Annan. Most diplomats, however, believe that plan is dead in the water, and the Foreign Secretary conceded: ‘Every other solution to the Syrian crisis involves a lot more death.’ Today Syrian troops attacked a rebel-held town in the centre of the country with helicopter gunships and shelled other restive areas across the country, activists said. The aerial assault targeted the strategic river crossing town of Rastan that has resisted repeated government offensives for months, they added. It is part of an escalation of violence in recent weeks that comes despite an internationally-brokered cease-fire that was supposed to go into effect on April 12 but never took hold. Destruction: Syrians sit next to a damaged house at the northern town of Ariha, on the outskirts of Idlib, yesterday . Patrol: Syrian troops deployed in Duma, in a suburb of Damascus . 'The regime is now using helicopters more after its ground troops suffered major losses,' said Rami Abdul-Rahman of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. 'Dozens of vehicles have been destroyed or damaged since the end of May.' Syria's Foreign Ministry spokesman Jihad Makdissi recently said rebels are now using sophisticated anti-tank missiles. Videos posted by activists over the past week have shown many destroyed tanks and armored personnel carriers. The Observatory and the Local Coordination Committees also reported government shelling in the central provinces of Homs and Hama, the southern region of Daraa, the northern province of Aleppo, and suburbs of the capital Damascus and Deir el-Zour in the east. The Observatory reported the deaths of four civilians and an army defector in shelling in the area of Ashara in Deir el-Zour, and said another eight unidentified bodies had been discovered nearby. It reported three dead in the Hama shelling. In Moscow, the Foreign Ministry said Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will visit Iran on Wednesday. Russia and Iran are Syrian President Bashar Assad's strongest allies. Moscow and China have vetoed two Security Council resolutions that threatened possible sanctions against Syria. The ministry said in a statement that Russia is not playing the role of advocate for certain Middle East regimes. 'We are speaking for the strict observance of the norms and principles of international law in the interest of supporting regional stability and security in the Near and Middle East and North Africa,' it said. Syrian activists say the violence has claimed the lives of more than 13,000 people.  UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake said on the killings of children in Syria: 'How many more children need to die? 'Repeated calls for the protection of children by all parties in Syria have not yielded positive action. But we must voice again our outrage when seeing the murder of innocents, especially children and women, as reportedly the case in Al-Qubair village in Hama. 'UNICEF appeals once more: spare and protect the children who are in no way responsible for the violence and must not be its victims.'

They wield AK-47s and machetes to carry out the government's dirty work . Massacre of 108 in Houla blamed on deadly death squad . Syrian troops today attacking rebel strongholds with helicopter gunships . Activists say violence has claimed lives of more than 13,000 people .

1eae734490d1fc0937b9041350aa0aae92143c42

Masked gunmen dragged Syria's best-known political cartoonist from his car before dawn, broke both his hands and left him bleeding along the side of a road days after he compared Syria's president to Moammar Gaddafi. Ali Ferzat, 60, who had made stinging drawings of Bashar al-Assad, 45, was grabbed yesterday when he left his artist's studio in Damascus, the second-largest city in the Middle East country. Hospitalised with serious injuries, Mr Ferzat appears to have become the most famous victim of the repression of Syria's five-month uprising - a stark reminder that no Syrian is immune to the government crackdown. The artist, who has earned international acclaim for his caricatures of leaders in the Arab world, such as Saddam Hussein and Colonel Gaddafi,  was dumped on a road outside the city. Scroll down to see video of the cartoonist in hosptial . Beaten: The 60-year-old cartoonist was attacked by masked gunmen when he left his studio on Thursday . Bloodied: The 60-year-old cartoonist remained in hospital overnight after four masked gunmen attacked him . The attack came as forces . loyal to president Assad, who has been in charge of the country since 2000, killed eight people across Syria . overnight, in a sustained campaign to re-establish his authority. The protests against his power, which he inherited from his disliked father, have been ongoing for five months, and after seeing the demise of Colonel Gaddafi's reign in Libya he critics believe he is re-asserting his power by attacking those who are against him. In an interview with state television . broadcast on Sunday, Assad said he was responding to armed unrest and . that he would not bow to Western pressure because 'reform for . colonialist states among the West means to offer them all what they want . and sell out all rights'. This cartoon, published earlier in the week, shows Assad attempting to hitch a lift from Colonel Gaddafi, the tyrannical Libyan leader . One of the cartoonist's pictures shows president Assad offering a man being beaten by his troops a cup of tea . A masked gunman is shown here crossing out the word 'democracy' and replacing it with the word 'bloodocracy' The cartoonist pictured earlier in August posing in front of some of his pictures . And Today Assad's troups fired at protesters after Friday prayers in the Damascus suburb of Douma . 'Protesters phoned in to say that two people have been killed, but this is an initial report still to be confirmed,' an activist in Damascus said. Other activists and residents reported protests in cities and towns, many of which have been stormed by tanks, stretching from Deir al-Zor province in the east to Deraa in the south to the northwest province of Idlib. Meanwhile, Mr Ferzat lay badly bruised in a hospital bed last night with his hands swathed in bandages. He recalled the gunmen telling him that 'this is just a warning' as they beat him, according to a relative. 'We will break your hands so that you'll stop drawing,' the masked men said, according to the relative. Mr Ferzat, who usually works late . into the night, left his studio at 4am in the early hours of Thursday, . but a jeep with tinted windows quickly cut him off, according to the . relative. Four masked gunmen then dragged him . out of his car, bundled him into the jeep and drove him to the airport . road just outside Damascus, beating him and making threats all the . while. The men then singed the artist's beard, put a bag over his head and dumped him on the side of the road. One of the cartoonist's pictures shows president Assad offering a man being beaten by his troops a cup of tea. Another shows a gunman scribbling out the word 'democracy' and replacing it with 'bloodocracy'. A third - which was published earlier this week - depicts the president with his thumb out, trying to hitch a lift from Colonel Gaddafi, who is seen to be fleeing Libya. 'They broke his hands in the most . disgusting and deplorable way to send a message,' said U.S. State . Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland of the attack. 'It's not only Ali Ferzat that we're . worried about. The regime has also locked up a number of other prominent . dissidents to send a message.' President Assad, who inherited the Syrian leadership in 2000 and is pictured speaking on Thursday in Damascus, used to encourage the cartoonist . Before inheriting Syria's presidency from his father in 2000, Bashar Assad, a British-trained eye doctor, used to visit Mr Ferzat's exhibitions and offer encouraging words, the artist has said. When the new president opened Syria to reforms, Mr Ferzat was allowed to publish the country's first private newspaper in decades, a satirical weekly called The Lamplighter. The paper was an instant hit, with copies of each issue selling out a few hours after hitting the stands. Anti-Assad supporters pictured on Thursday in Casablanca . It was soon shut down, however, as Assad began cracking down on dissent and jailing critics after the brief, heady period known as the Damascus Spring quickly lost steam. Mr Ferzat became a vehement critic of the regime, particularly after the military launched a brutal crackdown on the country's protest movement. His illustrations grew bolder in . recent months, with some of his cartoons directly criticizing Assad, . even through caricatures of the president are forbidden in Syria. Human rights groups said Assad's forces have killed more than 2,000 people since the uprising against his autocratic rule erupted in mid-March, touched off by the wave of revolutions sweeping the Arab world. Assad's crackdown has not spared other Syrian intellectuals and artists who dared to voice criticism. A group of intellectuals and artists, including Syrian actress May Skaff, were rounded up and jailed for a week last month after holding a protest in Damascus. And Damascus-based activist and film producer Shadi Abu Fakher went missing on July 23 and has not been heard of since. Mr Ferzat, however, is the most famous victim of the repression to date. He had been encouraging other Syrian artists to side with the protesters, even publishing on his website a 'List of Shame' that included names of those who were on the side of the regime. 'We were a group of reformers in the country, and suddenly, the doors of hell opened on us. It was a huge disappointment,' Mr Ferzat said earlier this month. 'There are two things in this life that cannot be crushed - the will of God and the will of the people.'

'We will break your hands so that you'll stop drawing' President used to encourage the cartoonist . Eight killed overnight in systematic killings . Assad's troops have killed 2,000 people since March . 'At least two killed' during Friday prayers by Assad's troups .

dcd5206a750568c668116611223c1887d45aac8d

The European Space Agency's orbiting telescope has captured striking new images of the huge 'Doomsday' asteroid Apophis that could smash into Earth in 2036 - revealing it is larger than previously thought. Long billed as a potential cause of an Extinction Level Event (ELE) for humanity, today ESA officials announced that its Herschel Space Observatory discovered that the asteroid is 1,066 feet wide, 20 percent larger than the previous estimate of 885 feet. Whizzing past Earth at the relatively close distance of nine million miles tonight, Apophis is being closely tracked because of a 2004 study that predicted the rock has a 2.7 percent chance of hitting Earth in April 2029, which was later revised to 2036. ESAs Herschel Space Observatory captured asteroid Apophis in its field of view during the approach to Earth on January, 5-6, 2013. This image shows the asteroid in Herschels three PACS wavelengths: 70, 100 and 160 microns . 'The 20 percent increase in diameter … translates into a 75 percent increase in our estimates of the asteroid's volume or mass,' study leader Thomas Müller of the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics in Garching, Germany, said in a statement. In addition to the latest findings two free webcasts will stream live views of the asteroid as it passes, filmed from telescopes in Italy and the Canary Islands. The video streams from Slooh Space Telescope and Virtual Telescope Project will show Apophis as a moving light streaking across the sky - although scientists have said that sadly the large space rock is too small to be seen through home telescopes. 'Alone among all these near-Earth asteroids that have passed our way in recent years, Apophis has generated the most concern worldwide because of its extremely close approach in 2029 and [chances of a] potential impact, albeit small, in 2036,' said Slooh president Patrick Paolucci. Indeed, while scientists have ruled out any possibility of a cataclysmic collision - there remains a very real chance of the asteroid Apophis smashing into Earth in 2036. 'Apophis has been one of those celestial bodies that has captured the public's interest since it was discovered in 2004,' said Steve Chesley at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. Jan. 8, 2013: At about 36 hours from the minimum distance (9.3 million miles from Earth), potentially hazardous asteroid Apophis was imaged again with the Virtual Telescope . 'Updated computational techniques and newly available data indicate the probability of an Earth encounter on April 13, 2036, for Apophis has dropped from one-in-45,000 to about four-in-a million.' The science of predicting asteroid orbits is based on a physical model of the solar system which includes the gravitational influence of the sun, moon, other planets and the three largest asteroids. NASA detects and tracks asteroids and comets passing close to Earth using both ground and space-based telescopes. The Near Earth-Object Observations Program, commonly called 'Spaceguard,' discovers these objects, characterizes a subset of them and plots their orbits to determine if any could be potentially hazardous to our planet. This year Apophis, named after an Egyptian mythological demon, will not get closer than around nine million miles. Doomsday Asteroid? An artist's rendering of the asteroid Apophis as created by the European Space Agency . Experts say the impact if Apophis struck the Earth would generate a blast equivalent to more than 500 megatons of TNT . Scientists will use the encounter to improve their estimate of just how dangerous the space rock really is to life on Earth. In 2029, Apophis is expected to come uncomfortably close, brushing past the Earth at a distance of just 30,000 kilometres. That will put the asteroid inside the orbit of communication satellites. Current models predict a tiny but real likelihood of Apophis colliding with the Earth in 2036. When the asteroid was discovered in 2004 scientists calculated a one-in-45 chance of an impact in 2029. Improved predictions later lifted the threat. The asteroid's latest near approach will occur at midnight UK time tomorrow. Members of the public can view the event online via the Slooh web-based sky-watching service, which collects images from observatories around the world. 'We are excited to cover this asteroid live for the general public.' Scientists at the American space agency Nasa have calculated that if Apophis struck the Earth it would generate a blast equivalent to more than 500 megatons of TNT. In comparison, the most powerful hydrogen bomb ever detonated, the Soviet Tsar Bomba, released 57 megatons.

1000 foot wide asteroid will brush past the Earth at a distance of 30,000km . Scientists claim little chance of it hitting us - but scientists warn of 'tiny but real' likelihood it may in 2036 . Name inspired by two of the asteroid's co-discoverers favorite science fiction villain .

72ae001c2cc62ab486b25f3af46f6aefde49c7f4

The future looks bright for Facebook, or at least brighter now that Mark Zuckerberg has released a new map with all the friends connected through the site across the world represented by shining points of light. Countries worldwide are bathed in blue on the striking map, and far more users are represented than were on a similar map released in 2010. The map shows the rising popularity of the social media site in Africa, South America, and India. But it has one undeniably black hole: it sits directly over the nation of China. September 2013: Mark Zuckerberg has proudly made this map his Facebook page's new cover photo. It shows how all the world is connected through the social media behemoth . December 2010: An older map, while impressive, proves just how much Facebook's reach has spread. Notice a darker Africa, South America, and India. China, where Facebook is blocked, is a black hole on the new and old maps . Blue planet: According to Facebook, over a billion users logged on to the social media site each month in 2013, up 23 percent from 2012 . As noted by Slate, the People’s Republic is no big fan of Facebook. The communist government has blocked Facebook for years—blaming it, at least in part, on the riots in Urumqi that left 140 dead in 2009—along with Twitter, Youtube, and other sites. Instead of Facebook, Chinese internet users interested in social media log onto the sites Weibo, Weixin, and Renren. Also a dark spot, on both the new and old Facebook connection maps, is the Dark Continent. Africa’s more populous coastal and southern regions are alight, but no connections are leaping out of the continent’s center. Telecom infrastructure here is far less developed, though tech giants like Facebook and Google are working to change that. Russia is another dark area on the map, though that’s owed less to a restrictive government and more to its citizen’s preferences. Facebook is only the second most used social network in Mother Russia after the more popular Vkontakte. While the darker areas of Facebook’s maps have remained relatively unchanged, many of the brighter spots have become even more so. The booming economy of India has no doubt fueled its increased connections on Facebook. Brazil, another rapidly industrializing country, has also increased its Facebook use, despite the longstanding popularity of Google’s Orkut in the South American nation. While Facebook may not be breaking into the Chinese market, just a glance at these maps makes it clear that the site’s popularity is on the rise worldwide and won’t be going away any time soon.

A map using points of blue light to show how Facebook connections across the globe shows a jump in users in India, Africa, and South America . But China, where Facebook has been banned for years, remains in the dark .

ae5297ac4570b69ce1bf4bc54acd85ca3476bf2e

Criticism: Headteacher Lyn Corderoy has flown off to Ghana to teach literacy skills to children during term time . A headteacher has been criticised for taking the 'appalling' decision to go to Africa for almost a month during term-time. Lyn Corderoy, headteacher at Grange Primary School in Wickford, Essex, has flown off to Ghana despite parents facing a £60 fine for unauthorised absence during term-time. Her school, which is rated good by Ofsted but its pupils are below average for English, is taking part in a project to help children in Africa with literacy. Last year only 65 per cent of her pupils attained the desired national standard for grammar, punctuation and spelling. Parents have turned on Miss Corderoy, who is taking the time as unpaid leave and accused of 'double standards'. In Essex, where the school is, more than 500 people a year are fined in this way. But the school have said her trip is 'vitally important'. Susan Godfrey, 46, from Wickford, said: 'I think it's absolutely appalling. 'How is the headteacher allowed to go away for such a long time during term-time? There are parents waiting on decisions she has made and she is not even there.' Charlotte Worton, 26, from Pitsea, Essex, added: 'I think it's absolutely unfair headteachers can go in term-time. 'It's unfair on the children. Their job is to look after the children during the term time. If they take time off, they're neglecting the children.' Alan Ball, local UKIP councillor, said he also had concerns about the decision. He said: 'I have not been made aware of it but it seems to be double standards. 'If you are not allowed to take children out of school and the headteacher disappears for a month, it seems to be double standards to me. 'If the head goes away for a month someone has to cover for the headteacher and it will have a knock-on effect on the pupils eventually. 'It must have, unless they are bringing in someone else at the taxpayers' cost. 'I don't know the situation, but on the face of it, I would have concerns.' Anger: Parents of children at Grange Primary School in Wickford, Essex, said the decision to let the headteacher go is 'appalling' Announcement: Miss Corderoy's time away was announced in the school newsletter last month . Wickford Ukip councillor Nigel Le Gresley said: 'It does to a certain extent smack of double standards, not least because it could perhaps have been done in term time'. Parents have accused Miss Corderoy of double standards because they can be fined for taking their children on a term-time holiday. Previously, head teachers had the discretion to allow pupils up to 10 days of leave from school each year. However, under new measures brought in by former Education Secretary Michael Gove, children can only be taken out of school in 'exceptional circumstances'. Parents who take their children out of school without authorisation, they can face a fine of £60 for every child. Those who refuse to pay can be prosecuted, fined £2,500 and even face jail. In Essex, where Miss Corderoy's school is, more than 500 people a year are fined in this way. News of the headteacher's absence was announced in last month's school newsletter under the headline 'Being a Learning School'. The short explanation stated: 'I'm sure you will agree with the governors and staff that sharing our good learning and teaching practice with other schools and students is vitally important. 'We support learning in many different ways and after half term the school governors have given Miss Corderoy an unpaid secondment to work on the Let's Read phonic project. 'This is an exciting opportunity to share our school's phonic learning skills. 'Mr Hazelgrove will be acting head for the three weeks she is away.' A spokesman for Essex County Council defended the decision saying: 'The headteacher is not on leave and this is not a personal project. 'She is on an unpaid professional secondment that will benefit the children's learning. 'Ghanaian teachers have previously visited Grange to help the children learn about other cultures.' A spokesman for the school governors added: 'The preparation cover arrangements put in place have meant that the good-quality of education and service at the school has been maintained.' Last month a headteacher was branded a 'hypocrite' after she booked a Caribbean holiday for during term time only to cave in to pressure from parents and cancel it. Jenny Winder, 53, head of Elstow Primary School near Bedford, had wanted a week off after the Christmas holidays ended for an exotic beach break. This was despite it being after the start of school term and parents being told in no uncertain terms that they cannot take their children out of lessons. After days of pressure Bedford Borough Council confirmed Mrs Winder has 'cancelled the proposed leave and will be in work from the start of the new spring term on the January 5, 2015'. Earlier  parent governor Reverend Jeremy Crocker called on Mrs Winder to cancel her holiday and apologise because her proposed holiday was blatant 'double standards'. He also said she sent a letter to parents falsely claiming her holiday was 'unanimously' backed by governors like him. Her school, which she has run for 14 years, warns had parents who take their children out of school during term time facing fines of £60 per child for unauthorised absences. Mrs Winder had refused to give an explanation or apologise for trying to take the time off. She said: 'My private life is exactly what it says - private.'

Lyn Corderoy's trip to Africa has upset parents at Grange Primary in Essex . Headteacher is taking unpaid leave to help Ghanaian children with literacy . 65 per cent of her pupils hit national standard for grammar and spelling . Critics accused school of 'double standards' because parents face fines . Anyone who removes school child without permission will pay £60 . Essex school in county where 500 people a year are fined in this way .

3d7db1e18535e2f8b48a44e19a7e8c027c1efaba

CLICK HERE to read the full match report with all the pictures from Wembley . Danny Welbeck cannot wait to play in the 'unbelievable' Celtic Park atmosphere as England look to continue their fine recent run against Scotland. The Three Lions travel north of the border for the first time since 1999 on Tuesday, when international football's oldest rivals meet for the 112th time. The occasion may only be a friendly but the atmosphere inside Celtic Park will be anything but. Danny Welbeck is looking forward to playing at Celtic Park after starring in England's victory over Slovenia . The Arsenal forward watches the ball into the net for his second goal in England's 3-1 victory at Wembley . The Glasgow roar is something Welbeck is looking forward to, with the Arsenal forward confident England will flourish rather than wilt in the hothouse. 'Obviously it is only a friendly but we want to win every single game,' he said. 'We can't go in thinking we are going to do anything else than that. 'It is going to be a great atmosphere. I watched the game against the Republic of Ireland the other night and the atmosphere sounded unbelievable. I just can't wait to get out there and taste it.' Welbeck's opening goal was a scuffed shot, but gave his side the lead for the first time in the game . Welbeck is congratulated by teammate Kieran Gibbs as his hot scoring streak for England continues . As well as bragging rights, Tuesday's match offers England the opportunity to maintain momentum. Emotions remain raw following the World Cup embarrassment, yet Roy Hodgson's men have responded impressively to that disappointment. Saturday's 3-1 win against Slovenia made it five wins on the bounce since Brazil, keeping their 100 per cent start to Euro 2016 qualifying intact. Welbeck's brace complemented a penalty from centurion Wayne Rooney in that win at Wembley, where England recovered impressively from falling behind to a second-half Jordan Henderson own goal. 'It was a good night all round,' Welbeck said. 'It is obviously pleasing to get the win in the end. 'The most important thing was the way the team responded to going a goal down. 'I think what we can do now obviously is play our game and make sure we are prepared for the next match. 'I can't really go back too much to the summer. We can't change anything from there now, so the most important thing is to prepare well for the next game and obviously try to get the win.' Wayne Rooney is presented with a commemorative gold cap to mark his 100th appearance for England . Rooney celebrates after scoring England's equaliser from the penalty spot to mark his landmark . Welbeck may have scored twice but he is all too aware that he was never going to outshine Rooney on such a momentous occasion. The 29-year-old became the youngest-ever English centurion on Saturday, leading the comeback against Slovenia by earning the penalty from which he then levelled. 'Obviously everyone is very pleased for Wayne,' his former Manchester United team-mate Welbeck said. England have moved six points clear in Euro 2016 qualifying Group E . 'In a way it was kind of inevitable he was going to score that goal. 'Once the penalty came around, you just knew he was going to stick it in the back of the net. 'It was great for him to get the goal on his 100th cap, captaining the team.' The win against Slovenia continues England's seemingly unstoppable march towards Euro 2016. Despite only being four games into Group E, their 12-point haul is twice as much as Slovenia, Switzerland and Lithuania in joint-second place. England are virtually guaranteed of reaching the Euro finals after going six points clear in their group . Roy Hodgson applauds after seeing his side continue their impressive response to failure at the World Cup . The top two automatically qualify for the finals and the third-placed side can also progress, yet Welbeck insists qualification is not a formality. 'No, I think we've got to obviously prepare for each and every single game,' he said. 'Every team is going to come to Wembley and try to make it difficult for us. 'Slovenia did that in the first half and we had to kind of change up the tactics a little bit. 'We worked on that throughout the week and in the second half we created some decent chances and put them away.'

England travel to Scotland for an international friendly on Tuesday . Three Lions are six points clear in their Euro 2016 qualifying group after defeating Slovenia 3-1 at Wembley on Saturday . Danny Welbeck scored twice while Wayne Rooney netted on his 100th cap .

51c4838abb4809cb6badc56b5da4cf31c218b771

A great white shark heading for British waters could be bringing some smaller ferocious fish with her, scientists have revealed. The deadly predator – named Lydia – became the first tagged great white shark to cross the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and scientists charting her progress have now revealed that the 15ft shark might be swimming towards Europe to give birth to pups. She is just 800 miles (1,255km) off the coast of Cornwall and Ireland in the Atlantic Ocean and has now turned away from the UK. Scroll down for video . The great white sharked named Lydia has travelled 313 miles in the past 72 hours. She is currently headed west (pictured) But experts believe the shark is pregnant and in search of a nursery for her pups and could be en route to the Mediterranean . Very little is known about the reproduction of great white sharks. Great white sharks are thought to reach sexual maturity aged around 15. The oldest female ever recorded was 40 years old. The predators are ovoviviparous which means that eggs develop and hatch in the uterus and continue to develop until birth. The great white shark has an 11 month gestation period and the pups' jaws start to form at one month. Unborn sharks feed on ova produced by the mother and are born in spring and summer. Mother sharks typically give birth to between two and 12 pups. But experts think she may be aiming for Turkey in search of a nursery in the long-run. Lydia, who weighs 2,000lb (907kg) has covered more than 19,400 miles in the past year since being fitted with a tracking device. She is being tracked as part of a ground-breaking marine life study by Osearch that aims to learn more about sharks' movements. Scientists have been following the ferocious fish for over a year and her progress can be followed on the project’s website. ‘Lydia pinged in this morning headed NW!’ researchers tweeted this morning. Experts say they are shocked by Lydia’s recent dash towards Europe and she has travelled 313 miles in the past 72 hours. Chris Fischer, expedition leader and founding chairman of the Ocearch shark tagging project, said Lydia may be looking for somewhere to rear young. He said: ‘I would guess that Lydia is pregnant and that she has been out in the open ocean gestating her babies and that this spring she will lead us to where those baby white sharks are born - the nursery.’ He thinks her chosen location may end up being off the coast of Turkey. Record breaker: The deadly predator has become the first tagged shark of its species to cross the Mid Atlantic Ridge, an enormous underwater mountain range under the ocean. She is currently swimming to the west (pictured) Deadly cargo: Tagging the shark (pictured) was a feat in itself, with heavy machinery used to hoist Lydia from the water in order to fit the tracking device . The Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) is a ridge found along the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. This rift marks the actual boundary between adjacent tectonic plates, where magma from the mantle reaches the seafloor, erupting as lava and producing new crustal material for the plates. It forms part of the longest mountain range in the world and separates the Eurasian Plate and North American Plate in the North Atlantic, and the African Plate from the South American Plate in the South Atlantic. Great White Sharks normally give birth to between two and 12 pups at a time after a gestation period of 11 months. Blood samples didn't show Lydia was pregnant when researchers used a 34,000kg hydraulic platform to hoist her from the water to fit her tracking device. But Mr Fischer, who has led numerous ocean expeditions, said there is uncertainty over how exactly Great Whites reproduce. ‘The sperm from the male comes in a packet with a shell on it. They [the female sharks] can carry it around for a while until a special organ inside them breaks down the shell and they get pregnant. ‘We know its 18 months from when we discover the breeding aggregation to when they lead us to the nursery. ‘What we don't know is how long they carry that sperm packet and how long is it until their body breaks down the shell.’ Lydia had been heading north but made a sharp turn back towards the U.S. Ladbrokes bookkeepers revealed odds of 2-1 for Lydia visiting Cornwall as her first port of call. Lydia has become the first tagged great white to cross the Mid Atlantic Ridge (pictured) - an underwater mountain range which separates the Eurasian and North American Plates - at around 10am on March 9 . Her GPS tag only gives off a signal when she's near the water's surface so scientists sometimes have to wait days between new readings. Mr Fischer said it was impossible to predict where she'll head next. He said: ‘If you forced me to guess where that was, I'd say it was over in the Mediterranean, near Turkey - but that's long-ball I'm playing. ‘She could turn around right now and head back to Florida.’ She became the first tagged great white to cross the Mid-Atlantic Ridge - an underwater mountain range which separates the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates - on the morning of March 9. Great whites are traditionally tracked off the coasts of South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the west coast of America from California up to Alaska, the Gulf coast and Hawaii. Shark biologist Ian Fergusson tweeted: ‘WhiteShark Lydia pinged in on the other side of MidAtlanticRidge! Welcome to the history books, #Lydia,’ while Chris Fischer, who is involved in the project, tweeted: '#Lydia turns E toward #UK continuing first doc Trans/Atl migration n hist!’ Lydia was tagged by the Ocearch project, which aims to monitor sharks to learn more about their movements . Dr Gregory Skomal, 52, senior fisheries biologist with Massachusetts Marine Fisheries, said: ‘I have no idea what to expect from her . next. I've been working with sharks for a very long time now and I have . never seen anything like this.' ‘It's anyone's guess where she is going to go next but she has been heading east so she might continue to do so.’ ‘She's just short of 800 miles away from your coast now but in the grand scheme of things that really isn't far for her. It's all very exciting. ‘It's hard to say how long it might take her to get there. If she decides she wants to get to England she could get there in days. ‘Having said that, she is quite likely to meander. It could take her days, it could take her months, or it might not happen at all. ‘I think it would be great to see her turn up in the UK though.’ Though Lydia's journey is impressive, great whites are known for their marathon migrations. In 2003 a great white nicknamed Nicole travelled from South Africa to Australia and back - some 12,400 miles. In recent years there have been several sightings of Great whites off the coast of Britain. In September last year, fisherman David Bond said he had spotted a 14ft beast swimming close to his boat off the coast of Looe in southern Cornwall. The suspected sighting came just a day after a fisherman on board a lobster boat said he spotted a 'giant shark' get close to his vessel. All those who witnessed the shark dismissed the idea it could be a basking shark, saying the creature was much larger, prompting experts to consider the possibility it was a great white. Great white sharks are the largest predatory fish in the world, reaching up to 20ft in length and more than 4,400lb in weight. Satellite tracking of the giant species has afforded researchers and scientists more accurate information about their habits and long-distance journeys. The OCEARCH Global Shark Tracker Project has tagged around 100 sharks since 2009. The study has shown that Great whites can travel up to 3,000 miles in three months. They . are traditionally tracked off the coasts of South Africa, Australia, . New Zealand, the west coast of America from California up to Alaska, the . Gulf coast and Hawaii. The . creatures have a ferocious reputation but are responsible for between a . third and a half of the average 100 shark attacks across the world each . year. They are highly adapted predators, detecting a single drop of blood in 100 litres of water up to three miles away. Their mouths are lined with around 300 serrated teeth, arranged across several rows. Gathering . speed and approaching their prey from beneath, Great whites can leap . clear of the water, breaching like whales to attack. They commonly feed on sea lions, seals, small toothed whales, and sea turtles. The predators live for up to 25 years and eat around 11 tonnes of food each year. If food is scarce, the sharks will try to avoid fighting, instead engaging in a tail-slapping contest along the surface of the water. The winner delivers the most slaps. Scientists . do not have a reliable idea of the species' population across the . world, but agree their number are decreasing due to overfishing and . sharks being caught accidentally in nets. They are listed as an endangered species.

On Friday, Lydia was spotted 1,000 miles from Cornwall and Ireland . The satellite-tagged 15ft, 2,000lb great white is around 800 miles away after she crossed the Mid-Atlantic ridge found in the middle of the ocean . Today GPS tag showed she is heading west, but experts think the shark is looking for a nursery in the Mediterranean where she can raise some pups . Great white sharks typically give birth to between two and 12 pups . Lydia became the first tagged great white to cross the Mid-Atlantic Ridge . No one understands why she is taking such a strange route as great whites are usually found in warmer waters .

4f22d94151d10b7441d7b47131c796601ae1373e

With property markets heating up across the country, Generation Y are increasingly opting to live with their parents, while squalid properties are selling for millions. Amid the ongoing property boom gripping the Australian real estate market, these properties give prospective home buyers a bid to find some bang for their buck. But Property Observer have risen to the occasion and tracked down the 10 biggest property discounts across Australia. Here are the 10 biggest price slashes, ranging from as low as $170,000 to a staggering million dollar cut. 10. 21 Cotton Court, Strathalbyn, South Australia - Discount of $173,000 . The Circa 1990's character property features three bedrooms, an open fire, spacious kitchen with modern appliances and lounge room with slow combustion, beautiful timber floors and double car accommodation . After three years and three months on the market, the three bedroom property has fallen from $498,000 to $325,000 - that's a saving of $173,000. Set in a cul-de-sac location, the Circa 1900's character home features three good size bedrooms - two with built in robes, open fire places and plenty of linen space and a beautifully renovated bathroom and large laundry. Sprawled across 1229 square-metre block of land, the enclosed garden offers shedding, shade homes, rainwater and a double car accommodation, with plenty of open space play areas. 9. 219 Bernard Road North, Carabooda, Western Australia - Discount of $773,000 . Sitting on a sizeable 15 hectares, the three bedroom home offers a perfect rural lifestyle with current 36,000Kl water licence, farm sheds and just kilometres from the imminent Alkimos CBD, freeway and railway line . The rural abode was previously listed on the market, with an asking price of $3.5 million. But after being on the market for 467 days, the price has dropped a staggering $773,000 off its original price tag - it's now on the market for $2,727,000. Sitting on a sizeable 15 hectares or 37.9 acres of land, the property offers three bedrooms, three garage spaces and is situated in the proposed landscape enhancement zone with the discretionary use for many tourist attractions. Located just four kilometres from the imminent Alkimos CBD, freeway and railway line, the beautiful farm offers a rural lifestyle and a perfect opportunity for new home owners or developers to upgrade for a tremendous scope to capitalise from the block of land. 8. 2 Wellington Street, Richmond, Tasmania - Discount of $1,000,000 . The heritage-listed property features four bedrooms, four bathrooms, additional rooms - perfect to turn into a studio, media and entertainment areas, double garage and a self contained cottage . The heritage-listed property has been on the market for 428 days, with an asking price of $2.8 million . But after failing to attract home buyers, it's now listed for $1.8 million - that's a full million dollar drop . With a picturesque backdrop of the old Richmond Bridge, the property offers exceptional accommodation and amenities and a double garage - perfect for the family and their guests . The heritage-listed property has been on the market for 428 days, with an asking price of $2.8 million. But after failing to attract home buyers, it's now listed for $1.8 million - that's a full million dollar drop. Known as the Mill House, it features four bedrooms, four bathrooms in the main house and a self contained cottage, sprawled across a beautifully landscaped garden, which features existing dwellings, orchard, raised garden beds and recreational facilities. With a picturesque backdrop of the old Richmond Bridge, the property offers exceptional accommodation and amenities and a double garage - perfect for the family and their guests. Featuring a very spacious attic - perfect for a studio or gaming room, which has been plumbed for an additional bathroom and bedroom if required. 7. 1/23 Albuera Street, Battery Point, Tasmania - Discount of $800,000 . The stunning apartment offers three double bedrooms with walk-in and build robes, formal living and dining rooms, polished timber floors and window shutters and a large lock-up garage . The lavish apartment has been on the market for the past three years. But after failing to attract buyers, the original price at $2.2 million has slashed $800,000 off - it's now listed for $1.4 million . The lavish apartment has been on the market for the past three years. But after failing to attract buyers, the original price at $2.2 million has slashed $800,000 off - it's now listed for $1.4 million. Protected by security gates and high fences at the front of the property, level entry leads to a capacious front foyer and out to a central terraced area with water feature, citrus fruit trees and a variety of mature plantings. With plenty of visitor parking, the stunning apartment offers three double bedrooms with walk-in and build robes, formal living and dining rooms, polished timber floors and window shutters and a large lock-up garage. 6. 28a Malsbury Street, Bicton, Western Australia - Discount of $550,000 . The two bedroom unit was previously on the market for over a year, with an asking price of $1.5 million. But vendors are not asking for $950,000 - which is $550,000 off the original price . The two bedroom unit was previously on the market for over a year, with an asking price of $1.5 million. But vendors are not asking for $950,000 - which is $550,000 off the original price. Situated just off the Swan River, the flat is listed for rent at $480 per week. 5. 292 Carabooda Road, Carabooda, Western Australia - Discount of $618,000 . The farm offers a three bedroom cottage, double garage, shed and bore, and just driving distance to the imminent Alkimos CBD, freeway and railway line . Set within close proximity of the state forest with miles & miles of bridle trails, the new home owners will get the opportunity to grow fruit trees and vegetable gardens as well as a build a tennis court . The 7.2 hectare farm is believed to be the most discounted home in Western Australia. At an initial tag of $1.65 million, the property can now be snatched up for $$1,032,000 - that's a price slash of $618,000. The farm offers a three bedroom cottage, double garage, shed and bore, and just driving distance to the imminent Alkimos CBD, freeway and railway line. Set within close proximity of the state forest with miles & miles of bridle trails, the new home owners will get the opportunity to grow fruit trees and vegetable gardens as well as a build a tennis court. 4. 61 Woolgen Park Road, Leppington, New South Wales - Discount of $600,000 . Sprawled across 5 acre block of land, the cottage-style home features two bedrooms and is presently rented for a measly $300 a week - perfect for a good investment with future capital growth . Sprawled across 5 acre block of land, the cottage-style home features two bedrooms and is presently rented for a measly $300 a week - perfect for a good investment with future capital growth. The property is a steal at $950,000, particularly in light of its $1.55 million price tag a mere five months ago - That's a saving of $600,000. 3. 78 Walters Road, Wattle Grove, Tasmania - Discount of $815,000 . Sitting on a sizeable 10 acres of land, the beautiful modern home features three bedrooms with built in robes, two bathrooms - both with spa baths and walk-in shower and four carport spaces . The Riverfront property was most recently the most discounted home in the country, with a staggering drop from $1.5 million to $685,000 in just over a year on the market - that's a saving of $815,000. Sitting on a sizeable 10 acres of land, the beautiful modern home features three bedrooms with built in robes, two bathrooms - both with spa baths and walk-in shower and four carport spaces. The kitchen is finished in a crisp white look, with ample bench space and an island bench, stainless steel appliances and stunning designs with modern architecture. With waterfront views and rural outlooks, the home offers a luxurious country lifestyle in a light filled open plan style, which allows the views to be enjoyed regardless of whether inside or outside. 2. 948 Priestdale Street, Rochedale, Queensland - Discount of $1,150,000 . The home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, huge rumpus with a pool table, with multiple sheds and barns - perfect for a family wanting to live the 'rural' lifestyle . The 20 paddock property was previously listed on the market for $2.8 million for 412 days. But after failing to attract buyers, the price has slashed $1,150,000 off the initial price tag - it's now a bargain at $1.65 million . The 20 paddock property was previously listed on the market for $2.8 million for 412 days. But after failing to attract buyers, the price has slashed $1,150,000 off the initial price tag - it's now a bargain at $1.65 million. With just walking distance from the new shopping centres, public and private schools as well as job opportunities with earnings between $700 to $1000 per week. The home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, huge rumpus with a pool table, with multiple sheds and barns - perfect for a family wanting to live the 'rural' lifestyle. 1. 2 Louisa Street, Ranelagh, Tasmania - Discount of $1,005,000 . The luxurious home boasts a 25 bed main residence and two cottage rooms, eight bathrooms and was once used as a boutique bed and breakfast for around ten years . The property has halved during the near two years it has been on the market. It was previously listed on the market at an initial asking price of $2 million but vendors are now seeking offers at $995,000 - that's a saving of $1,005,000. The luxurious home boasts a 25 bed main residence and two cottage rooms for guests or staff accommodation, which was once used as a farming enterprise and a boutique bed and breakfast for around ten years. The charm and beauty of Clifton was passed through a single family for over a century before hitting the market around 2000. Sprawled across four-and-a-half acres of garden, parkland and paddock, the historic property of Clifton dates back to the 1850s. Steeped in history and surrounded by old gardens and trees, the property features eight bathrooms, ducted air conditioning, open fireplace with the built in bookshelves and cabinets.

Australia is gripped by a property boom, causing houses to be overvalued . The price of these houses has plunged after prolonged time on the market . Some of them have dropped over 40%, meaning savings of $1 million .

e87ed372f9b1cc422ea54c0478fa75ddf82cb14d

The suspected gunman involved in a brazen New York City diamond heist has been apprehended by authorities. Leon Fenner was captured in Maryland on Wednesday night, almost one month after he and another man are believed to have robbed Watch Standard Jewelry of $2million in jewels. The November 11 heist also left the elderly father of the store owner injured after he was reportedly pistol whipped by Fenner. Scroll down for videos . Captured: Leon Fenner (above) the suspected gunman in a $2million heist was apprehended in Maryland on Wednesday . Shut it down: The robbery on November 11 cause authorities to shut down a Manhattan city block . Fenner will appear Thursday before a magistrate judge in federal court in Maryland according to the New York Post. The other man in the heist, Rondu Frisby, was a friend of store owner Daniel Mikhaylov, and picked up just a week after the incident. The robbery, which happened on the same day as the city's Veteran's Day Parade that had shut down traffic just a block away, forced police to close down an entire city block as they searched for the armed gunman. Lots of loot: Fenner and his accomplice made of with numerous jewels and 20 luxury watches . They were able to make a quick escape however, with Frisby buzzing Fenner into the store and the two men getting out before any alarms were sounded. Boris, the store owner's father, emptied the safe for the criminals. The men were captured however on surveillance cameras along the block as they entered and exited the building. Among the items looted by the men were 20 luxury watches and countless jewels.

Leon Fenner, the suspected gunman in a $2million diamond heist was apprehended in Maryland on Wednesday . Fenner and his accomplice, Rondu Frisby, reportedly stole countless jewels and 20 luxury watches from Watch Standard Jewelry last month . It has also been reported that Fenner pistol whipped the store owner's father during the robbery .

f84cb320ab796bb400fb70dc4e5faf1cba023520

Steven Gerrard is haunted by that momentary slip three matches from the end of last season which pulled the Anfield turf out from under Liverpool as Premier League champions-elect. Given time to reflect plus the priceless gift of hindsight, his most vital loss of footing can now be seen as his stumbling failure nine years earlier to drive through a transfer to Liverpool’s opponents on that fateful April afternoon. Chelsea, who capitalised on that rare Gerrard error to both defeat Liverpool and deflate their title challenge, had made a £32million bid for him in the summer of 2005. Steven Gerrard checks his studs after slipping against Chelsea at Anfield last season . Gerrard lifts the European Cup in 2005 after the greatest night of his professional career . That came just six weeks after he captained Liverpool to the greatest comeback in Champions League final history, that epic victory over AC Milan from 3-0 down in Istanbul. Liverpool instantly rejected Chelsea’s offer. But Gerrard, although still only 25, was already suspecting that if he was ever to win a Premier League title it would have to be with a different team. Sadly, he has been proved right. In fact the drama and emotion of that astonishing night on the banks of the Bosphorous had brought him only temporary relief from that sense of foreboding, which had been nagging at him since Liverpool finished 30 points off the pace the preceding season. So he asked for a transfer. Coming from a very local hero, that request was perceived as heresy by the Liverpool faithful and they took to burning replicas of his shirt in the streets. As the protests reached a crescendo their Stevie G relented. Instead of insisting on his right to join the then-reigning League champions at Stamford Bridge, he signed a new £100,000 a week contract. The rest, as we always say, is history. Except that for Gerrard it is not historic. Since 2005 he and Liverpool have won just one FA Cup and one League Cup – and still no Premier League medal for this valiant war-horse for whom the championship of England has been the Holy Grail since he signed for the club round the corner from his house at the age of eight. Nor is he likely to get one now. Chelsea, in that time, have won their first Champions League, four FA Cups, one League Cup, the Europa League once… and that Premier League title which Gerrard so covets, not once but twice. John Terry lifts the Premier League trophy in 2010 - it is an honour that has eluded Gerrard . Right now they lead the championship race by more points than Liverpool can remotely hope to retrieve and Gerrard is in his Last Chance Saloon, with the light fading. Ah, what might have been. Perhaps a life in English football would have been impossible for him, given how threatening the passions on Merseyside would have remained had he left the club for which he was born to play. But for whatever reason he let his heart over-rule his head, these subsequent nine years have been overflowing from midfield with his commitment to a great club striving to recapture the glory days, and last season so close to doing so. This has become a story of uplifting self-sacrifice in this age when footballers change clubs as often as their socks. Loyalty, however, is oft rewarded by a kick in the head. Gerrard (left), Glen Johnson (centre) and Jordan Henderson on the bench at the Bernabeu . The 34-year-old was also among the subs against Stoke on the 16th anniversary of his Liverpool debut . Gerrard was left out of what might well have been his last huge night in that hallowed red shirt – last month’s Champions League match at Real Madrid. Then he was dropped on his 16th anniversary of becoming a Liverpool player . At 34, this one-club servant finds himself embroiled in turmoil as to whether Liverpool want to contract him to end his career with them – or if even he would prefer now to cash in on his last legs with a move to somewhere like the booming US soccer market. Again, emotions are coming to the boil on Merseyside. The Liverpool skipper celebrates scoring his side's second goal against Leicester on Tuesday . Players past and present are urging him to stay. The fans are petitioning the board to extend his contract. And one of the outstanding players of his generation - the dyed-red Liverpool man who told true-blue Chelsea that he couldn’t quite bring himself to ‘jump off the cliff’ - finds himself back on the precipice. This time with the ground crumbling beneath his feet. Let us hope he makes a happy landing. If the Premier League title is not to be, that is the least Steven Gerrard deserves. Gerrard (third right) poses with fellow Liverpool greats (from left) Ron Yeats, Roger Hunt, Ian Callaghan, Phil Thompson, Phil Neal, Alan Kennedy, Alan Hansen, Kenny Dalglish, Ian Rush, Robbie Fowler, Jamie Carragher and youngsters Raheem Sterling and Jordan Rossiter, with Ian Ayre and Brendan Rodgers at the front . Pele and Ali are The Greatest - long may they last . Muhammad Ali posts a smiling selfie and declares himself fit and well to keep up the good fight against Parkinson’s. Pele reports himself back in the game after a spell in hospital. The Greatest Of All Time and the Greatest Footballer Ever… long may they last. The selfie posted by Muhammad Ali to demonstrate that he is getting better . Back to the Future - it's 1-0 to the Arsenal . To the Arsenal, one-nil. What is going on with the team that couldn’t hold on to a dog lead this season, until now. Is it back to the future? Back to the days when one goal was invariably enough for the Gunners? Perhaps not. The answer now seems to be scoring so late – as Alexis Sanchez did to beat Southampton on Wednesday night – that they only have to defend their lead for a minute or two. Alexis Sanchez (left) smiles after scoring Arsenal's only goal against Southampton .

Steven Gerrard asked Liverpool for a transfer in 2005 . However, he opted out of a move to Chelsea at the last minute . Since then Liverpool have won one FA Cup and one League Cup, while Chelsea have won the Premier League twice (among others) Muhammad Ali and Pele are on the mend . Like the old days, it's a case of 1-0 to the Arsenal .

113d8c1baa51ed5944510d93fa518f15970ea1c3

Allison Williams won over critics as she transformed into Peter Pan on Thursday but her live TV performance was not without the odd high-wire hitch. The 26-year-old actress, better known for playing character Marnie in hit show Girls, had a wobbly take-off at the start of the NBC show. Williams almost crashed into a wall in an opening scene where Peter demonstrates his magical flying powers to Wendy. Scroll down for videos . Flying high: Allison Williams takes off on Thursday during her live musical performance as Peter Pan on NBC . Williams had a near-miss with the wall while on the high-wire but quickly recovered to give a performance which won over viewers . The 26-year-old Girls star received high praise from viewers on social media for her role as the 'boy who wouldn't grow up' The actress recovered quickly, cushioning herself against the wall with her hand and shook off the minor mishap. The three-hour production of Peter Pan Live! also starred Christopher Walken as a charismatic Captain Hook - complete with tap-dancing. However the veteran actor also came under fire for apparent lip-syncing. One critic tweeted: 'Is Christopher Walken playing Hook, or is Capt. Hook playing a caricature of Christopher Walken?' But the performance appeared to be a hit with some viewers as Today anchor Savannah Guthrie quipped on Friday: 'It was not Peter Pan-ned.' On Twitter, one viewer, @joey_aulisio, wrote: 'Allison Williams killed it. Walken killed it. That wooden gator killed it. Tiger Lily - call me. THAT DOG! Great job everyone.' Another, @ryansatin, wrote: 'If you're not watching Walken as Hook, you are missing out on a truly special moment in TV history.' Williams got a boost of support before tackling the three-hour live performance from her co-star Lena Dunham, Katy Perry and her dad, news anchor Brian Williams . We're Hooked: Veteran star Christopher Walken showed off tap-dancing skills with his band of pirates as Peter Pan's arch nemesis Captain Hook . Peter Pan's nemesis Captain Hook, played by Christopher Walken was a hit with viewers, with Mia Farrow tweeting: 'Christopher Walken = Gold, no matter what' Surprise cameo: The voice of the narrator throughout, Minnie Driver came out at the very end to play Wendy Darling after she was all grown up - and still hoping for Peter Pan's return . The blue-and-purple crocodile which torments Captain Hook and his pirates was a big hit with viewers . Girls co-star Lena Dunham tweeted: 'Allison is about to undertake one of the greatest drag roles in history and we are so proud we could burst. She will slay.' Celebrity fans also offered their support. Katy Perry tweeted: 'I believe in you Allison Williams!' Zach Braff joked: 'Brian Williams is crushing this.' The NBC Nightly News host took the night off anchoring duties to watch his daughter's performance from the wings. Mr Williams told TVNewser: 'We will be watching the broadcast - immediate family only - sequestered in an undisclosed location... close enough to the production as to burst through the stage door the moment the credits roll.' Alanna Saunders, a 22-year-old woman of Cherokee descent, was plucked from obscurity to play the starring role of Native American princess character Tiger Lily . Peter Pan, played by Allison Williams, meets Wendy, played by Broadway star Taylor Louderman (left) However there were grumbles from viewers, as one Twitter user, @KittyKateMD, wrote: 'Although Allison Williams is singing beautiful, but her English accent is horrible! #PeterPanLive'. Another fired back: 'Chill with the hate people. Just be thankful its not as awful as Carrie Underwood in The Sound Of Music #PeterPanLive'. Christopher Walken delighted viewers with his drawling, sashaying Captain Hook. His tap dancing, alongside an accomplished band of pirates, drew high praise. One viewer, rather unbelievably, compared him to Fred Astaire. But as Mia Farrow tweeted: 'Christopher Walken = Gold, no matter what.' The Darling children take flight under Peter Pan's instructions with the NBC telecast making much use of the high-wire during the three-hour production . Peter Pan leads the Darling children off to Neverland in the live adaptation of the 1954 Disney-animated film . Peter Pan with Wendy Darling and her brothers fly off to Neverland in the live telecast of the children's classic . Williams looked a world away from her Girls character Marnie with her hair in a pixie crop to play Peter Pan . Peter Pan Live! came a year after NBC's three-hour live telecast of The Sound of Music starring Carrie Underwood revived the idea of a broadcast network mounting a full-scale musical for live TV. That attracted nearly 19 million viewers but came in for criticism with Carrie Underwood, who played Maria, panned for her 'amateur' acting and Stephen Moyer, as Captain Georg Von Trapp, written off for 'clenched' singing. This time, there was much more dancing, the addition of complicated flying routines, some mermaids, sword fights, digital overlays like Tinkerbell and shadows, and a live dog. Director and choreographer Rob Ashford had his work cut out for him. Like The Sound Of Music, Peter Pan Live! wisely leaned on Broadway performers, including five-time Tony Award-nominee Kelli O'Hara, who was sadly underused, as Mrs Darling. The show also starred Jake Lucas (who was in Broadway show Newsies) as John Darling and a very good Taylor Louderman (Bring It On: The Musical) as Wendy. The beefy-armed Christian Borle, a Tony winner and veteran of last year's The Sound of Music Live!, played Mr Darling. (In a twist, Borle won his Tony playing Captain Hook in the Peter Pan play Peter and the Starcatcher.) Borle, who also stars in NBC’s Smash, actually played two characters - the children’s strict dad Mr Darling as well as Hook’s right-hand pirate, Smee, a character he was far more successful at playing. But one of the stand-out performances came from the show’s second biggest star, Minnie Driver, despite only being seen onscreen for the last five minutes. Despite being the first voice we heard as the narrator throughout, Minnie came out at the very end to play Wendy Darling after she was all grown up - a mother who was still longing for Peter Pan’s return. Captain Hook's pirates were also big hits with viewers during the spirited three-hour special performance . The tea party: The Lost Boys perform a routine with Allison Williams as Peter Pan (center) The merry band of Peter Pan's Lost Boys during a scene from Thursday's performance. Peter Pan Live! wisely leaned on Broadway performers . Wendy's emotional moment at the end as Peter Pan finally returns - and she allows her daughter to follow him to Neverland - was one which moved many fans to tears. It was also a more culturally sensitive Peter Pan, with Alanna Saunders, a 22-year-old woman of Cherokee descent, portraying the Native American princess character Tiger Lily, and the offensive song Ugg-a-Wugg transformed into True Blood Brothers. However the biggest reaction went to a rather unexpected cast member - a crazy bright purple-and-blue crocodile, who tormenting Captain Hook and his pirates throughout. 'And the blue crocodile just broke Twitter,’ viewer Zach Brooks tweeted. Wendy Darling sings a romantic song expressing her unrequited love for Peter Pan in a performance which stayed true to JM Barrie's classic novel . Wendy Darling (pictured right) was played by Taylor Louderman who has also appeared in Broadway musical Bring It On . Showdown: Captain Hook and Peter Pan come face-to-face in the musical performance on Thursday . Christopher Walken's Captain Hook character delighted viewers with his drawling dialogue and dancing . Allison Williams' Girls co-star Lena Dunham tweeted: 'Allison is about to undertake one of the greatest drag roles in history and we are so proud we could burst. She will slay.' Katy Perry: 'I believe in you Allison Williams!' Zach Braff joked: 'Brian Williams is crushing this.' Mia Farrow tweeted: 'Christopher Walken = Gold, no matter what.' Anna Kendrick went on stream of tweets as she watched. She posted: 'Dog is already the only character I care about #PeterPanLive. 'Tinkerbell sounds just like the iPhone alarm and these kids are still asleep? I don't buy it. #PeterPanLive' 'OH s***!!! Neverland is an acid trip and I never want get sober. #PeterPanLive' Sarah Silverman: 'There are only two women in #PeterPanLive and they're both Christopher Walken' Sarah Michelle Gellar: 'I wonder what next years live musical will be?? I'm hoping for @MariahCarey in #HelloDolly. Anyone else have any ideas? Aubrey Plaza: 'CHRISTOPHER WALKEN IS EVERYTHING' Judd Apatow: '@billyeichner: .@BillCosby u watchin Peter Pan?” He is more of a Sleeping Beauty guy. Isn't it odd to think he is sitting with someone now'

The 26-year-old Girls star won over critics in her three-hour live NBC adaptation on Thursday - but the show had its fair share of problems . Captain Hook star Christopher Walken accused of lip-syncing and bizarre performance . One critic tweeted: 'Is Christopher Walken playing Hook, or is Capt. Hook playing a caricature of Christopher Walken?' Peter Pan Live! reached 9.1 million viewers - less than half what The Sound of Music did for NBC last year . Lena Dunham tweeted: 'Allison is about to undertake one of the greatest drag roles in history and we are so proud we could burst' NBC Nightly News host Brian WIlliams took the night off anchoring duties to watch his daughter's performance from the wings .

2d88d15e4c3d4c9e42eaff32fc3db6bf54518281

Jessica Wynter gave birth to her baby son Kye in a onesie after he was born suddenly as she struggled across a hospital car park . A young mother who gave birth in a onesie as she struggled across a hospital car park has described the moment she found her baby son ‘curled up in the right leg, safe and sound’. Jessica Wynter was taken to hospital by her parents after she went into labour one-week early. But she ran out of time when she got to the car park of King's College Hospital, in Lambeth, south London, and little Kye was born in the onesie. Ms Wynter, 21, described how at the time she thought her waters had broken, saying it 'felt like a rubber duck slapped across my leg'. She said it was lucky she had been wearing the garment as it prevented baby Kye from hitting the floor. She said: 'I got up because I wasn't in pain any more. My mum came over and we could both hear crying coming from inside. 'I unzipped the onesie and Kye was curled up in the right leg, safe and sound. 'He looked really happy just sitting there.' Ms Wynter said she woke up at three in the morning on December 27 suffering from serious back pain. The Coventry University design student, from Streatham, was in pain throughout the day and decided to get into a hot bath at 5.30pm in a bid to soothe her backache. She then realised however that she was going into labour. She put on the polka dot adult-sized babygro as her mother Christine and father Davonne helped her into the car to race to hospital. She was undergoing contractions in the car and ran out of time straight after arriving at the hospital car park. Following the birth, the pair were stretchered into the maternity ward where medics checked little Kye to make sure he was healthy . Kye was suddenly born as his mother struggled across the car park to the hospital. He was caught safely in the leg of his mother's polka dot onesie, given to her at Christmas by her grandmother Enid. Ms Wynter said: 'My contractions were nearly five minutes apart and my back was in agony - I realised I was in labour. 'It . was really scary. I went in the bath a couple of times for the pain. By . the time dad got home I knew that we had to go to the hospital. Ms Wynter gave birth as she made her way across the car park at King's College Hospital, in Lambeth, south London . 'We left around half five in the afternoon. I was yelling "He's here he's here". 'I was in the back seat of the car screaming my heart out. Ms Wynter said it was 'so lucky' she put the onesie on before going to the hospital . 'I was really frightened and in pain and I kept worrying we would be stopped because I had no seatbelt.' Her . father parked up in the drop off area but after she got out of the car . Ms Wynter struggled as she tried to make her way to the hospital . She . said: 'And I knew something had come out. I thought it was the water . sack. It felt like a rubber duck slapped across my leg.' Ms Wynter said eight doctors turned up following the birth, with one throwing a blanket over the new mother to keep her warm. She was then stretchered into the maternity ward where medics checked little Kye to make sure he was healthy. Ms Wynter said: 'His temperature was a little bit low because he was born outside but apart from that he seemed fine. 'He was born at 39 weeks, a week early. 'I just threw on the onesie as I came out of the bath. It could have been anything else, it's so lucky. 'If it had been something like a nightie I don't think he would have survived. 'I was in so much shock when I saw him on my leg. I couldn't believe it. Lots of babies don't stick to a time schedule so every day surprise deliveries can regularly be a cause of havoc for parents as well as medical staff. Last summer, MailOnline reported how on Tuesday, June 18, a father delivered his daughter's baby in the front seat of his car, while three days later a baby said hello to the world in a police station. Two weeks previously an eager tot arrived a month early while his blindsided mother was on the toilet. Father-of-three, Tony Hall, described how he delivered his daughter's baby in the front seat of his car on a busy road after he had been driving her to hospital when he was caught up in heavy school traffic in Welling in Bexley, London. And Kayleigh Thompson and Dan Hunt, who worked together to deliver their baby boy in their bathroom on May 31, have a lasting reminder of the big day after they named him Lou. 'I've got to keep the onesie in my keepsake box- it's just so surreal. 'I'm sure I'll tell him all about it when he's older, probably as soon as he can talk.' Doctors said Kye, who was born at 6lb 5oz, was healthy and well enough for the pair to be allowed to return home the same day. The onesie has been washed and will be kept in a keepsake box as a reminder of Kaye's dramatic arrival. Ms Wynter's father Davonne, 48, said: 'It's a real shock to the system. 'When I was coming home from work I had no idea what was about to happen. 'I parked in the drop off area in the hospital and went to call the labour unit to let them know Jessica had arrived. 'I got back and she was on all fours in pain screaming. The next thing I knew, about eight medical staff appeared and it was all over. 'She thought she had given birth to the water sac, not the actual baby. 'We were all in a state of complete shock. If it had been a night dress who knows what could have happened, it's such a blessing really. 'I'm just thankful that she had the onesie on - it's so lucky he's safe. 'I'm sure lot's of young mums are going to want them now.'

Jessica Wynter, 21, was rushed to hospital after going into labour early . But she gave birth suddenly while in the car park of King's College Hospital . She said she opened the garment to find her son curled up in the right leg . The student was given the onesie by her grandmother for Christmas . She said it was lucky she was wearing garment as it stopped Kye hitting the floor .

0bc55b35efa10e940c8bc6c5bb0dd582dc9b8a57

Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea is set to hand manager Louis van Gaal an almighty boost by declaring himself fit for Saturday evening’s visit to Arsenal. De Gea dislocated his little finger during a Spain training session last week but the injury is understood to have improved to such an extent that he now believes he has a high chance of starting at the Emirates Stadium. Sources close to the Spanish team told Sportsmail on Tuesday evening that the United No 1 has ‘an 80 per cent’ chance of making the starting line-up when his club return to Barclays Premier League action this weekend. Manchester United could be handed a boost with the news David de Gea might play against Arsenal . The Spain stopper injured a finger while away with the national team last week . De Gea will be assessed by United’s medical staff and goalkeeping coach Frans Hoek upon his return to Carrington and providing the swelling continues to go down, he should be passed fit. It is telling that De Gea has been allowed to remain with Spain despite suffering the injury. He was also named on the bench for the 3-0 victory over Belarus on Saturday and the clash against Germany in Vigo on Tuesday night. He has started every United game this season and has often been the stand-out performer during the opening months of Van Gaal’s reign. De Gea will be assessed by United’s medical staff and goalkeeping coach Frans Hoek upon his return . VIDEO Man Utd still facing injury problems .

David De Gea dislocated his finger while away with Spain last week . It was believed De Gea would miss four weeks due to the injury . Manchester United goalkeeper could now be fit for Saturday however . Louis van Gaal's side travel to Arsenal in the Premier League .

760a506d3773d3cd695c4481cf80d9ccf1d45c5f

When the final FIFA FIFPro World XI is announced at the Ballon d'Or award ceremony at the Kongresshaus in Zurich on January 12, it could end up reading a lot like one of Carlo Ancelotti's team-sheets. Real Madrid have one goalkeeper, five defenders, three midfielders and three strikers in the 55-player shortlist. Coach Ancelotti could also pick up the manger's gong and Cristiano Ronaldo, with a record breaking 17 goals in last season's Champions League campaign, is favourite to win the main prize – the Ballon d'Or. Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo is favourite to retain his Ballon d'Or crown in Zurich next month . Carlo Ancelotti could claim FIFA's coach of the year award after leading Real to Champions League glory . Manuel Neuer, Dani Carvajal, Diego Godin, Sergio Ramos, Philipp Lahm; James Rodriguez, Toni Kroos, Angel di Maria; Gareth Bale, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi . *Real Madrid players in bold . The current European champions are on a run of 17 straight wins that should extend to 20 with home games against Celta Vigo, Ludogorets and Almeria to come before they travel to Morocco where they will play the Club World Cup. By the time the awards ceremony comes around they could be sat on top of the world, as well as favourites to become the first side ever to retain the Champions League. The manner in which they have won their last five Champions League games has seen to that. Their La Liga form – brushing aside Barcelona when the two teams in met in October - has them on top and expected to take that crown, too. When FIFA finally announce their team of teams Madrid will have to cede some territory to other clubs. After a poor World Cup, Iker Casillas maybe be back to his best in La Liga but it will surely be too late to prevent Manuel Neuer from being voted best goalkeeper. Atletico Madrid's Diego Godin should be picked in the defence and that will mean that Sergio Ramos and Pepe – both worthy of spots in the XI – will have to contest the other centre-back position. As one of the Ballon d'Or finalists Lionel Messi will make the team so Real Madrid's BBC forward line of Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Ronaldo will not be able to make a clean sweep of the front three. Welshman Gareth Bale has been nominated for FIFA's World XI after a fine first season in Madrid . Summer signing James Rodriguez, pictured scoring against Cornella, is one FIFA's nominated midfielders . Ballon d'Or: Cristiano Ronaldo . Best goalkeeper: Iker Casillas . Best defenders: Dani Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo, Raphael Varane . Best midfielders: Toni Kroos, James Rodriguez, Luka Modric . Best forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema . The midfield could well be made up of current Real stars and players who were integral to Madrid's success last season - Luka Modric, James Rodriguez and Toni Kroos are in competition with Angel di Maria and Xabi Alonso. Whatever shape the final team takes it could comfortably have five Madrid players in it, plus those sold in the summer. And the powers that be at the Bernabeu won't even mind if players let go in August make the cut. Such has been the success of new faces Kroos and Rodriguez that the sales of Alonso and Di Maria, that stung so much at the start of the season, now no longer trouble supporters. Rodriguez already has nine goals – just two short of Di Maria's total of 11 for the last campaign. It now looks a masterstroke especially as the Colombia star is on £1.5million-a-year less than the Argentine would have cost under the terms of the new deal he felt – with some justification after his brilliant season – that he deserved. Scooping the individual prizes in Zurich in January will be no guarantee that come the end of the season Real will have another cupboard full of trophies but there does seem to be a drive about the squad that is missing both from Barcelona and some of the teams they are likely to come up against in the Champions League knockout stages. A clean sweep in the FIFA FIFPro team is unlikely but they look on course to go on dominating football for some time. VIDEO Real Madrid in cruise control .

Real Madrid have 12 players nominated for FIFA's World XI . Cristiano Ronaldo is favourite to retain his Ballon d'Or title . Los Blancos are top of La Liga and flying in the Champions League . Carlo Ancelotti could also win FIFA's coach of the year award .

b95d61e0f27b77fe2bad9249b2dd799469a4bac3

Thousands of Holocaust victims transported to Nazi concentration camps by a French railway company will be entitled to compensation. France and the US have agreed a £40 million ($60 million) settlement fund, that will be financed by the French Government. Survivors who were deported by France's state rail company SNCF during World War II will be able to make a claim. Scroll down for video . Hundreds of holocaust victims transported to Nazi concentration camps by the French state railway company will be entitled to compensation, it has been announced. French President Francois Hollande pictured at a train car that represents the Drancy concentration camp, in Drancy, a Paris suburb, France (file picture) As part of the deal, the US Government will work to end lawsuits and and compensation claims against SNCF. The rail company is currently bidding for a lucrative high-speed rail contract in the US and some State Legislators had been trying to punish it SNCF for its Holocaust actions. 'This is another measure of justice for the harms of one of history's darkest eras,' said the U.S. Special Adviser on Holocaust Issues, Stuart Eizenstat, who spent three years working with French officials on the agreement. SNCF transported about 76,000 French Jews to Nazi concentration camps, though experts disagree on its degree of guilt. It is believed only an estimated 3,000 French Jews survived the horrendous concentration camps. SNCF has expressed regret for what happened, but argues it had no effective control over operations during the Nazi occupation from 1940 to 1944. The French Foreign Ministry and U.S. State Department announced an accord Friday on the compensation fund, which will be financed by the French government and managed by the United States. The agreement will be signed Monday in Washington, but it still must get approval from the French Parliament, which could take months. The French government has already paid more than $6 billion in reparations — but only to French citizens and certain deportees. Victims could be entitled to up to £62,000 as part of the agreement between France and the US. Pictured French Holocaust survivors gathering at the site of the former Drancy detention camp, north of Paris, France (file picture) The French Government are paying for the compensation fund. French President Francois Hollande standing at attention in front of a train car that represents the Drancy camp (file picture) The new deal will allow compensation for Americans, Israelis and some others who were not eligible for other French reparations programs. There are around 250 people in the U.S. who are eligible under the new fund as direct survivors or spouses, according to an advocacy group, but several thousand may be eligible as heirs to survivors or spouses. The money should break down to about $100,000 each for survivors, and tens of thousands of dollars for spouses, Eizenstat said. Although SNCF is not a party to the agreement, the company will contribute $4 million over the next five years to fund Holocaust memorials and museums in the U.S., Israel and France, according to Eizenstat. The French government has pledged to encourage French lawmakers to approve the deal, Eizenstat said. 'The objective today was to be able to provide reparations — even 70 years later — that they could claim, given the trauma, the barbarity and the horror that the deportation represented for them,' said Patrizianna Sparacino-Thiellay, a French ambassador for human rights who was a key architect of the deal. The French government is holding several events marking 70 years since the Allies liberated France from Nazi control in 1944. U.S. Rep. Carolyn B. Maloney of New York, who had pushed the U.S. government to pressure France to agree to compensation, hailed the deal as a 'breakthrough in a decades-long struggle for justice.' The Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish civil rights organization, also welcomed the accord. 'There is no amount of money that could ever make up for the horrific injustice done to these victims and their families,' said Abraham Foxman, ADL's national director and a Holocaust survivor. 'But agreements like this provide some modest redress, an important recognition of their pain, and acknowledge the responsibility of governments and institutions to leave no stone unturned in seeking every possible measure of justice for Holocaust victims.' The deal comes as France, home to western Europe's largest Jewish community, is battling new concerns about anti-Semitism. French authorities and Jewish leaders denounced a rape and robbery attack with anti-Semitic overtones this week against a French couple. The number of anti-Semitic incidents in France has grown 91 percent this year compared to last year, according to CRIF, France's leading Jewish organization. Jewish groups in France are also concerned about rising Islamic extremism and the resurgent far right.

France and US announce £40 million fund for Holocaust survivors . Victims transported by France's state rail company will be eligible . Spouses or descendants of victims may also be entitled to compensation . SNCF transported about 76,000 French Jews to concentration camps . Survivors should get around £62,000 ($100,000) in compensation . Move described as 'an important recognition of their (survivors) pain'

e1c8bb959b7f9ab267b7887e4ba1e489afb53592

It's becoming increasingly common for people in our ultra-connected society to sleep with their smartphones next to them or even under their pillows so nary an email or instant message will escape our attention. Texan Ariel Tolfree recently learned the consequences of doing just that. The 13-year-old girl was recently awoken by her Samsung Galaxy S4 smartphone smoldering silently but pungently under her pillow. Ariel Tolfree recently awoke from her slumber to find her Samsung Galaxy S4 smoldering underneath her pillow. The battery apparently ignited, creating a small fire that scorched her pillow and bed sheets . Tolfree's father believes the phone's battery ignited during the night, creating a small fire that caused it to begin to melt . This image shows close up the effect of the fire. Samsung blames the use of a battery that wasn't manufactured by the company, which it warns not to do in its 'common warning' This image shows the battery, which appears almost molten. It apparently was the cause of the smoldering phone after it overheated . The company's 'common phone' warranty warns against using third-party batteries: . 'Do . not use incompatible cell phone batteries and chargers. Some websites . and second-hand dealers not associated with reputable manufacturers and . carriers, might be selling incompatible or even counterfeit batteries . and chargers. Consumers should purchase manufacturer or . carrier-recommended products and accessories. If unsure about whether a . replacement battery or charger is compatible, contact the manufacturer . of the battery or charger.' The phone's manual warns against covering the device with bedding or clothes: . “Covering . the device with bedding, your body, thick clothing or any other . materials that significantly affect air flow may affect the performance . of the phone and poses a possible risk of fire or explosion, which could . lead to serious bodily injuries or damage to property.” She told KDFW she placed the phone under the pillow before she fell asleep. Later that night, she smelled something burning. 'I didn’t think much of it, so I went back to sleep and then I woke up again and it was more prominent,' Tolfree said. Under her pillow, she discovered her phone charted and partially melted. Her sheets, mattress and pillow were also scorched. Her father said the phone must have overheated, causing the battery to swell and start a small fire. A spokesperson for Samsung told the Fox affiliate that the battery inside the phone was a replacement unit and not an original Samsung battery. Samsung cautions in its 'Common Phone' warranty guide on its website that third-party batteries shouldn't be used and also specifically warns in the phone's manual against covering the device with bedding or anything. It could cause a fire, it states. 'If anything, they should put a big warning on it, like a cigarette label, if that’s the case,' Thomas Tolfree, the girl's father, said. Samsung said they take any instance of a battery fire 'very seriously' and requested that the phone be mailed to the company for a full investigation. The company has offered to replace the phone, the bedding, the mattress and pillow. Samsung said it takes battery fires 'very seriously' and offered to replace the phone, bedding, mattress and pillow .

Ariel Tolfree, 13, says she placed the phone under her pillow before going to sleep and later awoke to discover it severely charred her pillow and sheets . Her father says the battery must have overheated, igniting a small fire . Samsung blames the use of a third-party battery, which it warns against in its 'common phone' warranty . The phone maker said it offered to replace the device as well as the pillow and the mattress .

312bd87139fcdf76201db09f974983f402efefa1

Those headed out to Denver are willing to shell out for more than just eggs on Easter weekend which also falls on April 20, the nation's unofficial holiday for the celebration of marijuana. Ever since Colorado made recreational marijuana use legal, the state has felt a boom in tourist revenue and this weekend, the numbers are expected to smoke out old records. CBS reports that Denver hotel searches on Hotels.com have increased by 73 per cent nationwide when compared to the same time frame in 2013. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Joe Rey, a grower at 3D Cannabis Center, waters marijuana plants at the company facility in Denver where recreational marijuana use is legal . Hotels.com shows a graph exhibiting the increase in searches for Denver hotels ever since the legalization of marijuana in Colorado . Denver was previously listed as one of the top 20 U.S. destinations and is a popular location for skiing and other snow sports. Ever since marijuana has made Denver an even more popular tourist spot more and more people are expected to visit the city from all over the globe. 'People are coming nationally from all over the U.S. but I’m also seeing a lot of international guests as well,' said Christine Lunsford, operations director at the Denver weed shop 3D Cannabis Center. 'They’re all coming here because cannabis is legal in Colorado and they’re all excited to be here,' CBS spoke with a few of Denver's Easter weekend visitors to see what made them decide to visit Colorado for the special holiday. Jourdan Yelvington came all the way from Daytona Beach, Florida to attend the 4/20 celebrations . 'People are coming nationally from all over the U.S. but I¿m also seeing a lot of international guests as well,' said Christine Lunsford, operations director at the Denver weed shop 3D Cannabis Center . 'I just think it’s an awesome opportunity that I’m actually here to experience it,' said Jourdan Yelvington who came all the way from Daytona Beach, Florida to attend the 4/20 celebrations. Yelvington was unable to check in early at her hotel because it was so busy. The marijuana enthusiast decided to kill some time at a pot shop which she describes as a surreal experience. 'I would say that the 4/20 weekend is a destination weekend here in Denver because we have people coming from all over and for tourism there’s been a huge spike,' Lunsford said. This year Denver will host the fourth annual High Times cannabis Cup. Last year had the highest attendance yet after the recreational legalization of marijuana use. Even though smoking pot is legal in Colorado doesn't  mean that there aren't laws surrounding its use. Residents and visitors are not permitted to travel with marijuna, smoke in public areas or on federal land. Nor are they permitted to drive while under the influence of drugs.

Ever since Colorado made recreational marijuana use legal, the state has felt a boom in tourist revenue . Denver hotel searches on Hotels.com have increased by 73 per cent nationwide when compared to the same time frame in 2013 . More and more tourists are visiting Denver from outside the U.S. than ever before .

27b86c6b20aab60195fd83af2ddd22b309bd09ad

Said research house prices will be 13 per cent higher over next 20 years than if migration were at zero . House prices will rise by more than 10 per cent unless mass immigration is controlled, Theresa May warned yesterday. The increases in the years to come would go beyond other pressures on the housing market – dealing a blow to young Britons already struggling to get on the property ladder. In a speech in London, the Home Secretary delivered a blunt analysis of the impact of Labour’s ‘open door’ immigration policy. Home Secretary Theresa May announced plans for a simplified visa applications for overseas students . She said the influx had driven down wages for the working classes and placed huge pressure on schools and social cohesion. Mrs May cited house prices as an . example of how demand created by migrants was having an impact on the . wider public. Her officials pointed to research by Professor Stephen . Nickell which predicted that, if net immigration runs at 190,000 a year, . house prices will end up 13 per cent higher over the next two decades . than they would if migration were at zero. Currently, net migration – the . difference between the number of people arriving in the UK and those . leaving – is 183,000, though Mrs May has vowed to reduce it to the ‘tens . of thousands’. Busy: The need for housing is growing . She said: ‘More than one third of all new housing demand . in Britain is caused by immigration. ‘And there is evidence that without . the demand caused by mass immigration, house prices could be 10 per cent . lower over a 20 year period.’ Mrs May delivered her speech to the . Policy Exchange think-tank only 24 hours after publication of the 2011 . census. The survey showed how, under ten years of Labour, nearly four . million immigrants joined the population of England and Wales. In total, 7.5million people who were . born abroad were living here last year – and more than half of these . have arrived since 2001. In a blistering attack on the Labour . years, Mrs May criticised the last government for failing to measure the . impact of immigration on public services and housing, and for assuming . it had no impact on the jobs and wages of the settled population. She warned that mass immigration . undermines social cohesion by making it ‘impossible’ to establish the . relationships, family ties and social bonds that create a community. Mrs May said the Migration Advisory . Committee, which is a panel of government advisers, had found ‘a clear . association between non-European immigration and employment in the UK’ – . with 160,000 British workers ‘displaced’ between 1995 and 2010. Some 23 British workers were  kept out . of employment for every additional 100 immigrants employed, she said, . adding: ‘For those on lower wages, more immigration means more workers . competing for a limited number of low-skilled jobs. ‘The result is lower wages – and the . people who lose out are working-class families, as well as ethnic . minority communities and recent immigrants themselves.’ In future, government impact . assessments will no longer assume that migrants make a positive . contribution to the economy by paying taxes and spending their wages. The burden they place on public services will also be considered, she said. Mrs May also denounced the student visa policy inherited from Labour as a ‘mess’ which was ‘abused on an industrial scale’. Last night Sir Andrew Green, chairman . of Migration Watch, said: ‘At last we have a Home Secretary who is . honest about the consequences of mass immigration and ready to take on . the bogus arguments for it.’

Home Secretary: ‘More than one third of all new housing demand caused by immigration' Said research house prices will be 13 per cent higher over next 20 years than if migration were at zero . Fewer than one in every 150 . last-ditch immigration appeals is successful, ministers will reveal today as they launch plans to combat ‘spurious’ court actions. Critics say the appeals are often a ploy to let illegal immigrants and failed asylum seekers prolong their time in Britain.

9c9cd4fe74ea65736a247e3fb1388743f16e6b4f

In October 2004 skeletal remains found on the island of Flores in Indonesia hinted at a previously unknown species of human that existed 15,000 years ago. Called Homo floresiensis, the species was dubbed a ‘hobbit’ as it was smaller than any other known species of human. But reanalysis has revealed that it may not be a new species at all, but rather a human that has features consistent with someone with Down's syndrome. Reanalysis of bones found in Indonesia suggests they are not from a 'hobbit'. Scientists say the finding on Flores Island can be attributed to Down's syndrome. This image compares the skull of the 'hobbit' LB1 (left) to that of Liang Momer E, another skull from Flores, dated in the range of 3,000 to 5,000 years ago . The latest findings, reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, was conducted by an international team of researchers. They suggest that the single specimen on which the new designation depends, known as LB1 after the cave it was discovered in - Liang Bua - does not represent a new species. Indeed, aside from LB1, no substantial new bone discoveries have been made in the cave since this finding. ‘The skeletal sample from Liang Bua cave contains fragmentary remains of several individuals,’ said Dr Robert Eckhardt, professor of developmental genetics and evolution at Penn State University. ‘LB1 has the only skull and thigh bones in the entire sample.’ The first indicator that the finding could be explained by Down's syndrome was craniofacial asymmetry, a left-right mismatch of the skull that is characteristic of the disorder. The 15,000-year-old skeleton, officially known as Homo floresiensis, got its nickname from its squat stature. The 3-foot (1-metre) tall, 30-year-old female was based on remains that were uncovered in the Liang Bua cave on the remote Indonesian island of Flores in 2003. Since the discovery, scientists debated whether the specimen actually represents an extinct species in the human family tree, perhaps a diminutive offshoot of Homo erectus, a 1.8-million-year-old hominid and the first to have body proportions comparable to those of modern Homo sapiens. The researchers noted this asymmetry in LB1 as early as 2006, but it had not been reported by the excavating team and was later dismissed as a result of the skull's being long buried, he said. Initial descriptions of Homo floresiensis focused on LB1's unusual anatomical characteristics: a cranial volume reported as only 380 milliliters (23.2 cubic inches), suggesting a brain less than one third the size of an average modern human. The skeleton also had short thigh bones, which were used to reconstruct a creature standing only 3.5 feet (1.06 metres) tall. Although LB1 lived only 15,000 years ago, comparisons were made to earlier hominins, including Homo erectus and Australopithecus. Other traits were characterised as unique and therefore indicative of a new species. But a thorough re-examination of the available evidence in the context of clinical studies, the researchers said, suggests a different explanation. In the first place, they write, the original figures for cranial volume and stature are underestimates, ‘markedly lower than any later attempts to confirm them.’ The researchers have consistently found a cranial volume of about 430 milliliters (26.2 cubic inches). 'The difference is significant, and the revised figure falls in the range predicted for a modern human with Down's syndrome from the same geographic region,' Dr Eckhardt said. The latest findings, reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, was conducted by an international team of researchers. They suggest that the single specimen on which the new designation depends, known as LB1 after the cave it was discovered in - Liang Buaon Flores Island - is not a new species . LB1 is shown in three different views to illustrate facial asymmetry. A is the actual specimen, B is the right side doubled at the midline and mirrored, and C is the left side doubled and mirrored. Differences in left and right side facial architectures are apparent, and illustrate growth abnormalities of LB1 . The original estimate of 3.5 feet (1.06 metres) for the creature's height was based on extrapolation combining the short thigh bone with a formula derived from an African pygmy population. But humans with Down's syndrome also have diagnostically short thigh bones, Dr Eckhardt said. Though these and other features are unusual, he acknowledged, 'unusual does not equal unique. 'The originally reported traits are not so rare as to have required the invention of a new hominin species.' Instead, the researchers build the case for an alternative diagnosis: that of Down's syndrome, one of the most commonly occurring developmental disorders in modern humans. 'When we first saw these bones, several of us immediately spotted a developmental disturbance,' said Eckhardt, 'but we did not assign a specific diagnosis because the bones were so fragmentary. 'Over the years, several lines of evidence have converged on Down's syndrome.' This reconstruction of what LB1 was once thought to look like was created by researchers in Australia at the University of Woollongong in 2012. Using the skill fragments found in Flores, they added muscle and skin to reveal her face, but the assumption she was a new species of human may now not be true . Here Dr Susan Hayes (right) looks at a replica of Homo floresienses with Penny Williamson from the University of Woollongong's Earth and Environmental Sciences back in 2012. The new research, however, claims the bones have all the markings of an ancient human that suffered from Down's syndrome . A previously unpublished measurement of LB1's occipital-frontal circumference - the circumference of the skull taken roughly above the tops of the ears - allowed the researchers to compare LB1 to clinical data routinely collected on patients with developmental disorders. Here too, the brain size they estimate is within the range expected for an Australomelanesian human with Down's syndrome. LB1's short thigh bones not only match the height reduction seen in Down's syndrome, Dr Eckhardt said, but when corrected statistically for normal growth, they would yield a stature of about 1.26 meters, or just over four feet, a figure matched by some humans now living on Flores and in surrounding regions. These and other Down-like characteristics, the researchers state, are present only in LB1, and not in the other Liang Bua skeletal remains, further evidence of LB1's abnormality. 'This work is not presented in the form of a fanciful story, but to test a hypothesis: Are the skeletons from Liang Bua cave sufficiently unusual to require invention of a new human species?' Dr Eckhardt said. 'Our reanalysis shows that they are not. The less strained explanation is a developmental disorder. 'Here the signs point rather clearly to Down's syndrome, which occurs in more than one per thousand human births around the world.'

Reanalysis of bones found in Indonesia suggests they are not from a 'hobbit' Scientists say finding on Flores Island can be attributed to Down's syndrome . This counteracts previous claims that the bones belonged to a previously unknown species of human 15,000 years ago . Researchers say the initial findings were flawed in their analysis of 'LB1' Instead they claim the bones have all the markings of an ancient human that suffered from the disorder and is not a new species .

29a0f329764c426b4497ceaf65f648628c57a00b

Ukip has been revealed as the laziest party in the whole of Europe, missing more than one in three votes in Brussels. Nigel Farage’s MEPs turned up for just 61.1 per cent of votes, putting them at the bottom of a league table of 76 parties from across the EU. David Cameron has urged voters to back the Tories in next week’s European elections, because his MEPs will ‘turn up and vote for Britain’. An analysis of voting records in the European Parliament reveals Ukip MEPs turn up for fewer votes than any other party . An analysis of voting records of the last five years in the European Parliament reveals Ukip members are the worst attendees. The study by VoteWatch Europe for The Times looked at all parties with more than three MEPs from across the 26 nations in the EU bloc. Ukip was ranked 76th out of 76 parties, attending on average 61.1 per cent of votes over the five-year Parliament. Among the six worst MEPs out of 764, three were from Ukip. It includes controversial figure Godfrey Bloom, who resigned as a Ukip MEP after calling a room of women at a party event ‘sluts’ last year. Mr Bloom attended just 23.11 per cent of votes, the lowest of any politician in the EU, although in 2012 he was treated for cancer and spent time away from Brussels and Strasbourg. By contrast, the 12 Lib Dems in Brussels turned up for 86.9 per cent of votes, putting them at 29th in the league table, Labour ranked 41st on 85 per cent and the Conservatives 60th on 80.4 per cent. Mr Cameron yesterday insisted it was vital that British MEPs take part in votes in the European Parliament to influence new laws. ‘These elections do matter,’ the Prime Minister told LBC 97.3. ‘The European Parliament makes rules that apply to our businesses, it spends money that comes out of our taxpayers’ pockets. ‘We should send people there who are going to turn up and vote for Britain. ‘One of the things about my budget cut in Europe, that saved Britain £8bn, is actually the Ukip MEPs, including Nigel Farage, voted against it in the European Parliament. ‘So, you know, it’s like that expression, a dog is for life not just for Christmas, you’re sending men and women to the European Parliament, send those that have got a plan for sorting our Britain’s relationship and defending our interest.’ David Cameron has insisted voting in the European Parliament elections does matter . Ukip leader Mr Farage was ranked 759th after taking part in 43 per cent of votes. He has previously defended his party’s voting record, , insisting Ukip's policy of engaging ‘sufficiently’ with the EU to provoke debate had proved successful. ‘Our objective as MEPs is not to keep voting endlessly for more EU legislation and to take power away from Westminster,’ he said in March. ‘Our view in 15 years has been that we engage sufficiently here and we use that information to get a debate going back in the United Kingdom. ‘It seems to me, given the debate we are now having on the European Union, that the Ukip policy has been pretty successful.’ However Doru Frantescu, policy director of Vote-Watch, told The Times: ‘The fact that a political group or a national party delegation is less participative than others when voting clearly diminishes its power to influence the outcome of EU legislation.’ "Many people don’t realise that a vote for UKIP is a vote for the laziest party in the European Parliament" Richard Howitt, a Labour MEP, said: ‘Ukip has vacated its duties in the European Parliament just as it would leave Britain with an empty seat at the EU table. 'Voters need to understand quite how lazy Ukip MEPs are. They are not only among the fringe parties in Europe but are also the laziest.’ Liberal Democrat MEP Fiona Hall: 'There is no doubt about it, UKIP MEPs offer the worst possible value for money for their constituents. Time and again they fail to turn up for crucial votes that benefit British citizens, whether it's research funding for our leading universities, slashing roaming charges for holidaymakers or ending wasteful overfishing in our seas. 'As the hardest-working delegation in Brussels, Lib Dem MEPs strive day in and day out to stand up for British interests and build a stronger, fairer and greener economy.' The Green Party has two MEPs, so was not included in the study. However, the party said its MEPs turned up to more than 90 per cent of votes. Green MEP Keith Taylor said: 'This new research makes it clear that UKIP simply can’t be trusted to represent their constituents. Their MEPs happily claim the parliamentary salary and expenses, but they don’t even show up to four in ten of the key votes. 'Many people don’t realise that a vote for UKIP is a vote for the laziest party in the European Parliament.'

Ukip ranked bottom in league table of 76 parties from across the EU . On average its MEPs turned up for just 61.1% of votes over five years . Lib Dems best UK party with more than 3 MEPs, attending 87% of votes . David Cameron says European Parliament elections 'do matter'

430867fc6e04dba74d7b5940e391871ddcc9c73b

Many doubted how successful a large screen iPhone would be, claiming it was simply too big. However, if the latest sales survey is to be believed, Apple's iPhone 6 plus has already been a monster hit in the US- and is outselling every other 'phablet' by a huge amount. It has also sparked a huge rise in the sales of the large screen handsets with a display 5.5inches or larger. Scroll down for interactive graphic . Despite being on the market for just over a month of the three months ending with October 2014, the iPhone 6 Plus captured 41% of 'phablet' sales—sales of smartphones with a screen size of 5.5 inches and larger. The figures also revealed the top selling Android handsets. Samsung's Galaxy S5 remained the best-selling model with 22% of sales while the Galaxy S4 continued to show its longevity, maintaining second place with a share of 12%. Phablet sales represented 10% of overall smartphone sales, up from 2% for the same period in 2013. Despite being on the market for just over a month of the three months ending with October 2014, the iPhone 6 Plus captured 41% of 'phablet' sales—sales of smartphones with a screen size of 5.5 inches and larger. Phablet sales represented 10% of overall smartphone sales, up from 2% for the same period in 2013. At the point of sale, when asked what drove their choice of smartphones, the study by Kantar Worldpanel found 58% of those surveyed who bought an iPhone 6 Plus said screen size was the primary reason for choosing their device. The ability to connect to a 4G/LTE network was the second most important reason cited by both buyer groups. Although selling for just over a month, the iPhone 6, with 33% market share, became the best-selling model among iOS devices for the three months ending in October 2014. The study by Kantar Worldpanel found 58% of those surveyed who bought an iPhone 6 Plus said screen size was the primary reason for choosing their device. The iPhone 5s was the second best-selling iPhone model with 26%, and the iPhone 5c was third with 18%. The iPhone 6 Plus captured 10% of iOS sales. In the Android camp, the Galaxy S5 remained the best-selling model with 22% of sales while the Galaxy S4 continued to show its longevity, maintaining second place with a share of 12%. Of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus buyers, 85% were repeat iOS buyers and 9% churned from Android. Also in the three months ending in October, smartphones sales reached 81% of overall phone sales and 59% of all phones in use in the US.

iPhone 6 Plus captured 41% of sales for three months upto October . Phablet sales now represent 10% of overall smartphone sales . Galaxy S5 remained the best-selling android handset .

045338ea8f14920a97e84d1c47a24ddb8f6bced1

Zinedine Zidane's eldest son, Enzo, made his debut for Real Madrid's B side during their 2-1 victory at home to Conquense on Sunday - with his father helping lead the team from the touchline. Real Castilla assistant boss Zidane sent his progeny on with just two minutes left of the match on Sunday. The 19-year-old midfielder failed to score in his extremely short cameo appearance but is expected to become more involved with first-team affairs at the Segunda B - or Spanish third division - side in the coming weeks. Enzo Zidane (right, pictured in March), son of Zinedine, made his debut for Real Madrid Castilla on Sunday . Zinedine Zidane is the assistant coach of Real Madrid's Castilla side and sent his son on as a substitute . Zinedine Zidane (left), playing for Real Madrid back in 2006, and his son Enzo, for their youth side in March . Despite only being on the pitch for a matter of minutes, Enzo managed to pull off an impressive 'roulette' trick. Unsurprisingly, Enzo has been courted by both France and Spain as they look to secure him for their national set-ups. Having already played for the Spanish Under 15 side, the young midfielder was called to France to undertake medical tests with their Under 19 team and has since decided to represent the country of his birth. He was named after Enzo Francescoli, who made 73 appearances for Uruguay and scored 17 goals, as well as playing for French side Marseille. The youngster, who has elected to play for the France Under-19 side, came on in the 88th minute . Enzo Zidane (centre) had represented Spain at Under-15 level but has now switched allegiance to France . Zidane's two younger sons, Theo and Eliza, are also being groomed by Real Madrid's academy and their father hopes they will make it into the squad in the future too. Enzo is renowned for his trickery and below is a Vine showing him performing outrageous skills during the Real youth side's match with Sevilla in June. Zidane Snr has been reported by the Spanish National Football Coach Education Centre for his lack of coaching badges - but he is now registered as the assistant coach to Santiago Sanchez having first been named as the manager. However, Miguel Galan, who reported him, claims Zidane is very much the man in charge.

Real Madrid Castilla beat Conquense 2-1 at home on Sunday . Enzo Zidane came on as a substitute to make his debut for the side . His father, Zinedine Zidane, is assistant manager of Castilla team . Zidane's other two sons, Theo and Eliza, also in Real youth set-up .

3825bcd252816d87f63a58f5ba3db9c753c5d1f2

South Korea has displayed for the first time all three DIY drones that have landed on its soil in recent weeks, adding that tests suggest they are highly likely to have been built and sent by North Korea. Wreckage from each of the crude and decidedly low-tech drones was displayed during a press conference by South Korea's Agency for Defense Development in the city of Daejeon this morning. Last week South Korean experts said that although the drones were fitted with simple Nikon and Canon cameras that are available to purchase on the internet for just a few hundred dollars, they underscore a new threat from North Korea that must be taken seriously. Crude: Wreckage of the decidedly low-tech drones was displayed during a press conference by South Korea's state-run Agency for Defense Development in Daejeon this morning . Evidence: The South Korean Defence Ministry said the distinctive sky blue colour of the drones was similar to those displayed to the North's communist leader Kim Jong-un during a recent military parade . Basic: The drones were fitted with simple Nikon and Canon cameras that can be purchased cheaply online . During today's press conference, South Korea's defense ministry spokesman Kim Min-seok was quoted as saying: 'A joint investigation result found several pieces of circumstantial evidence that strongly show the small UAVs were sent by North Korea'. He said the technical specifications of the drones and the photos found on their cameras suggest they had not travelled to the country from China or Japan, according to the Yonhap News Agency. The spokesman reportedly also said the distinctive sky blue colour of the drones was similar to those displayed to the North's communist leader Kim Jong-un during a recent military parade. Kim Min-seok is said to have added that the drones would be show to several other countries - including the United States - before South Korea could formally conclude they were sent from the North. Threat: If, as expected, the drones turn out to have come from North Korea, the South has already warned it will consider a military response, branding the drones a serious provocation . Distance: South Korea's defense ministry reportedly said the technical specifications of the drones and the photos found on their cameras suggest they had not travelled to the country from China or Japan . Viewing: South Korea's Agency for Defense Development put the three drones on display together for the first time during a press conference this morning . If, as expected, that turns out to be . the case, South Korea has already warned it will consider a military response, . branding the drones a serious provocation. Earlier this week South Korea released pictures of one of the small rudimentary drones shortly after it landed on its soil. The wreckage - which looks more like a remote-controlled toy aeroplane than a piece of military hardware - was reported on April 3 after it was found by a 53-year-old wild ginseng digger. The drones have sparked fears that Kim Jong-Un's dictatorship could adapt the technology for terror attacks. Simplistic: A parachute and a large bundle of orange wires were found alongside this simple drone, which crashed in South Korea in recent weeks . Earlier this week South Korea released pictures of one of the small rudimentary drones found on a mountain in Samcheok, South Korea . North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (second from the right) looks at small drones in an image captured from a documentary that aired on Korean Central Television on June 16, 2013 . The most recent unmanned aircraft was found in mountains near Samcheok, in South Korea's Gangwon Province. One had crashed in Paju, a city near the border with North Korea, on March 24. The other crashed on the island of Baengnyeong. The captured drones were basic, at best, South Korean experts told Hani.co.kr, but they if improved they could be used for terrorist attacks. The most recent to crash was equipped with Japanese-made Canon cameras available on the internet for just a few hundred pounds. The Paju drone was also equipped with a Canon camera and the other one carried a Nikon camera. All three were painted sky blue and probably cost only a few thousand dollars to build. The two earlier drones were smaller, 55in wide by 71in long. The drone was 4ft long with a 6ft wingspan and weighed 15kg . The drone was equipped with Japanese-made cameras available on the internet for just a few hundred pounds . Officials said lettering on the . battery of the drone found at Paju and other forensic evidence suggest . it was of North Korean origin and it had enough fuel to return to North . Korea. In June last year, North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un was filmed looking at small . drones in an image captured from a documentary that aired on Korean . Central Television. According to the military, the third . drone was 4ft long with a 6ft wingspan and weighed 15kg. The site was . approximately 130km from the Military Demarcation Line, making this the . farthest south of the armistice line of any suspected North Korean . drones found to date. Ministry . of National Defense spokesman Kim Min-seok said the military was sent to the site where the . small drone was found after a report was received from a local resident. 'The location was 940 meters above sea level in the area of Cheongok Mountain in Samcheok's Hajang Township,' Kim said. 'The UAV was confirmed to be the same type as the triangular, sky-blue miniature UAV found in Paju,' he added. The camera's memory chip contained photographs, but these were no longer available after the man, called Lee, erased the device for personal use, the military reported. This reconnaissance picture shows an aerial view of Seoul's Jichuk Station: The discovery has prompted fears that South Korea's air defences are not up to the job of in the new era of drone warfare . Spying: This undated handout picture provided by the South Korean Defence Ministry shows an aerial image of Eunpyung New Town, Seoul, from a camera on the unmanned North Korean drone which crashed in Paju . Rudimentary: A suspected North Korean reconnaissance drone found near Paju . A military official quoted Lee as recalling that images of Donggwang Lake (near Samcheok) and coastal regions were present before the data was erased. However hundreds of images were found on the drone found at Paju, including the South Korean president's compound in Seoul. Security has been stepped up at the Blue . House in Seoul, the official residence of current President Park . Guen-hye and location of a 1968 assassination attempt by Pyongyang . against the then South Korean leader, since the discovery. The discovery has sparked fears that Kim Jong-Un's dictatorship could adapt the technology for terror attacks . The Ministry of National Defense said it plans to hold a meeting of major general commanders today to assess the security situation and present detailed guidelines for a firm response. The Joint Chiefs of Staff also plans to hold simultaneous reconnaissance patrols for all its units this week in case additional North Korean drones were deployed. 'If North Korea is determined to be responsible, we plan to respond sternly and in various ways, including possible legal action for the violation of our airspace,' said Kwon Oh-han, an Army major general and director of the JCS operational bureau. Meanwhile, North Korea made its first public mention of the drone controversy on April 5, twelve days after the discovery of the Paju drone was reported in the press on Mar. 25. But the statement neither confirmed nor denied South Korean authorities' claims of North Korea's responsibility for the drones. While criticising a recent missile test launch by South Korea, the statement from a North Korean strategic forces spokesman said Seoul had 'further damaged its already rock-bottom dignity with an out-of-nowhere drone situation.' It went on to say that 'unidentified drones were flying freely around downtown Seoul, including the Blue House and Gyeongbok Palace areas, and blithely traveling the skies over where Baengnyeong Island was being pummeled.'

Three small and basic drones were found in South Korea in recent weeks . South Korea says they are highly likely to have been sent by North Korea . Although drones are rudimentary, South says they must be taken seriously . The most-recent aircraft to crash was found in mountains near Samcheok . It was equipped with a cheap and simple Japanese-made Canon camera .

4b15324a8bcddf6b9f7c5d4bf5c06263f7e672f0

CLICK HERE to read who Sportsmail Columnists Jamie Redknapp and Martin Keown think will win the two-horse title race between City and Chelsea . For once, the sound of team-mates lavishing praise on a colleague was not laden with toe- curling cliches. It is the norm for players, when pressed on the merits of a comrade, to trot out well-worn words which, ultimately, hold no substance whatsoever. But as Pablo Zabaleta and Stevan Jovetic stood outside the dressing-rooms at the Stadium of Light, there was relief and appreciation that the subject of their post-match reflection was in their team. Sergio Aguero had been awesome and Zabaleta made it plain how much the striker is valued. Sergio Aguero's opening strike at Sunderland was among the best of his goals so far this season . The reigning champions have closed the gap on Chelsea at the top of the table to six points . The Argentinian forward is almost single-handedly responsible for City's recent resurgence . ‘Everything he does right now looks so quick, sharp and clinical,’ said the defender. ‘He is working really hard for the team off the ball and that is also something you have to appreciate from Sergio, because the strikers normally want to play only with the ball. ‘He is probably the best striker in the world at the moment. We are very lucky to have Sergio in the team.’ A hundred yards along the corridor, Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini was echoing their salute, likewise Sunderland boss Gus Poyet. Aguero won warm applause on a cold night from the home fans when, after two goals and an assist during Wednesday’s 4-1 victory, he was substituted late on. Four days earlier, those same supporters had jeered Chelsea’s Diego Costa after he was shackled by Sunderland’s backline during a goalless draw. Aguero's brace this season has taken his league tally to 14 goals - top of the Premier League scoring charts . Argentina team-mate Pablo Zabaleta's only regret is that Aguero was not fit and fully firing at the World Cup . But they, like their striker Jozy Altidore who mouthed ‘Oh my God!’ following Aguero’s stunning equaliser, were in awe of the City marksman. Zabaleta is already a two-time Premier League champion, in large part thanks to Aguero. But he could have been a World Cup winner had his Argentine compatriot not been troubled by a loss of form and fitness in Brazil. ‘Of course you think what might have been in the World Cup if he’d been fit,’ said Zabaleta, who was part of the team beaten in the final by Germany. ‘But I have known him for a long time and this is probably the best moment of his whole career.’ It is little wonder Jovetic was queuing up to join the appreciation society, for he had profited from Aguero’s brilliance to net his fourth goal of the season. Stevan Jovetic points to Aguero after the free-scoring Argentine set up his goal against Sunderland . Jovetic believes Aguero is behind only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo (right) as the world's best players . Given their proximity on the pitch, the Montenegrin is well placed to offer assessment of his 26-year-old strike partner. ‘He is the best player I have played with — he and David Silva,’ said Jovetic, referencing the Spanish playmaker who could return from a knee injury against Everton tomorrow. ‘But Sergio can score some goals! He is great. He does it every game, and for me it is Messi and Ronaldo and then him — one of the best players in the world. ‘I liked the first goal because when he stopped the ball it was going away from him, and in the last second he did a nutmeg, and scored. ‘Then his assist for me was great as well. He is on fire, and if he is like this we can do big things.’ Manuel Pellegrini will be hoping his side can take advantage of a friendly set of festive fixtures . This, though, is not simply the Sergio Aguero show. Zabaleta, Fernandinho and Jesus Navas were all outstanding in midweek. And that is why — especially given the kindness of their fixtures amid the festive frenzy — it is they who could be top of the tree when the time arrives to take down the decorations; Leicester, Crystal Palace, West Bromwich and Burnley — four of the bottom six — could well represent the 12 points of Christmas for Pellegrini’s men. With Silva and Edin Dzeko set to return and the positive prognosis on Vincent Kompany’s hamstring meaning he could be back at Leicester next weekend, it is looking like a winter of content for a team who have now won four on the spin. Aguero is on the scoresheet and his pals are giving praise from the same songsheet. Suddenly, everything is in tune at the Etihad.

Sergio Aguero leads the Premier League scoring charts with 14 goals . Pablo Zabaleta believes his team-mate is the 'best striker in the world now' Stevan Jovetic insists only Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo compare . Manchester City are looking to close the gap on Chelsea during festive run . READ: Man City could find themselves level with Chelsea by New Year .

6d2cbd95341af7c9cce7af39b59d7e0e72f089dd

Shame: Mostafa Ahmed Awwad, 35, of Yorktown, covers his face as he leaves the federal courthouse in Norfolk . A U.S. Navy civilian engineer has been indicted on charges after he tried to steal schematics of an aircraft carrier under construction and have them sent to Egypt. Mostafa Ahmed Awwad, 35, of Yorktown, Virginia, was arrested on two counts of attempted exportation of defense articles and technical data on Friday. He provided computer drawings downloaded from the Navy to an undercover FBI agent posing as an Egyptian intelligence officer. Prosecutors said Awwad intended to steal technical data about the designs of the USS Gerald R. Ford in late October. He was contacted by an undercover FBI agent speaking in Arabic in September and the pair met the next day at a park in Hampton. At the meeting, Awwad said he intended to use his position of trust with the Navy to obtain military technology for use by the Egyptian government. He met the agent for a second time in October at a hotel where Awwad described his plan to circumvent Navy computer security by installing software enabling him to copy documents without tripping a security alert. Later, the undercover agent was given aircraft carrier drawings marked with warnings that foreign distribution could result in criminal prosecution. The designs were for the 'Ford' the lead ship in a new class of carriers which is scheduled for delivery to the Navy in 2016. Thief: Awwad, 35, was arrested on charges he tried to steal schematics for the under construction Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier for Egypt . Awwad began working for the Navy last February in the Norfolk Naval Shipyard's nuclear engineering and planning department. He indicated that he understood the computer drawings would be used in Egypt. He also agreed to provide the agent with passport photos to produce a fake Egyptian passport so he could travel without alerting U.S. government officials. The engineer also asked for $1,500 to buy a tiny camera to enable him to photograph restricted material around the shipyard, according to an affidavit. On October 23, Awwad retrieved $3,000 in cash from a pre-arranged drop site along a secluded hiking trail and left behind a container with an external hard drive and two passport photos. The FBI later collected the container. Handcuffs: Prosecutors said Awwad provided computer drawings downloaded from the Navy to an undercover FBI agent posing as an Egyptian intelligence officer in October . Ship: Awwad tried to steal technical data in the designs of the USS Gerald R. Ford in late October . Awwad was observed at his Navy office on November 28 holding what appeared to be aircraft carrier design schematics, which he placed on the floor and photographed. He is scheduled for a detention hearing on December 10, in federal court in Norfolk. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count upon conviction.

Mostafa Ahmed Awwad, 35, was arrested on two counts of stealing . He tried to steal the designs of the USS Gerald R. Ford in late October . He begun working for the Navy last February and abused his position . He told an FBI agent he intended to obtain military technology for Egypt .

6e4c2d25a3872f0fc1db04b6d9b3f752e9624618

David Moyes’ Real Sociedad made it three games without conceding but could only draw the first leg of their last-16 Spanish Cup tie against third tier Oviedo. A third clean sheet will please Moyes but his side will now have to finish the job when they meet again in San Sebastian in two weeks, time just three days after the Basque derby against Athletic Bilbao. Moyes had no luck in the cup at Old Trafford with Manchester United knocked out in the third round against Swansea last season and he watched his side contest a hard-fought goal-less draw at the Carlos Tartiere stadium. Real Oviedo demanded a penalty when Franck Omgba (left) tumbled over Real Sociedad's Alex Callens tackle . The Copa del Rey clash was David Moyes' first since he became Real Sociedad boss in November . Real Oviedo: Esteban, Johannesson, Oscar, J.Vila, David Fdez, Erice, B.Valle (Sergio Garcia 78), Omgba, Cervero (c) (David Gonzalez 60), Sene, Eneko. Subs: Magunazelaia, Nacho Lopez, Generelo. Booked: Cervero, B.Valle, Oscar . Real Sociedad: Rulli, Elustondo (Callens 46), Finnbogason, Pardo, Ansotegi (c), Zurutuza (Oyarzun 66), Castro, Yuri, Zaldua, Gaztanaga, Hervías. Subs not used: Zubikarai, Estrada, Iker Hernandez, Descarte, Aritz Elustondo. Booked: Pardo, Ansotegi . He rested five first team players ahead of this weekend’s visit to Villarreal and a second string side fail to penetrate the second division B team’s defence. Real Sociedad had a penalty shout in the first half when Diego Johannesson looked to have brought down Pablo Hervias inside the area on the half hour but the referee waved away the young winger’s appeals. Hervias was a constant threat for Moyes’ team as Real Sociedad tried to break the deadlock. Midfielder Ruben Pardo, starting the game in place of the rested Markel Bergara and Esteban Granero, also had a deflected shot go just wide before the break but Oviedo defended well and deserved to go in at half-time on level terms. David Zurutuza had the first chance of the second half but the Real Sociedad midfielder headed straight at Oviedo keeper Esteban Suarez after connecting with Chory Castro’s free-kick. Sociedad goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli (right) had to be quick to stop Borja Valle in the second half . Zurutuza went close again with a shot from distance as Real Sociedad pushed for the away goal. They were playing without top scorer Carlos Vela whose hat-trick helped Moyes to his first win at the club last Friday. Leading the line in place of the rested Mexican and the injured Imanol Agirretxe was the Iceland international Alfred Finnbogason and his best chance came on the hour when Castro crossed from the left but from six yards out he failed to beat Esteban. Ion Ansotegi (left) hugs Oviedo goalkeeper Esteban after the pair are involved in an incident late in the match . Ansotegi (left) was promptly booked by the referee after his involvement with Esteban . The Oviedo keeper was in fine form blocking a Castro shot moments later. But the home side were also forcing chances and Josep Sené volleyed over from six yards out. The chance seem to invigorate the minnows and when Franck Omgba tumbled over Alex Callens’ outstretched leg there were calls for a penalty from Oviedo’s players. The referee waved away the appeals and sent coach Sergio Egea off for protesting. The teams take the 0-0 first-leg scoreline into the return game in San Sebastian in two week’s time. The match comes just after three days after the Basque derby with Athletic Bilbao. Moyes may be tempted to play a more first-choice side to ensure progression in the Spanish Cup.

Copa del Rey match was David Moyes' first taste as Real Sociedad boss . Clean sheet was Sociedad's third-successive since Moyes took over . Return leg takes place on December 17 in San Sebastian . Oviedo coach Sergio Egea was sent off after they were denied a penalty .

5b13162ef955989fe7997264bceaea337662d249

It was introduced last Christmas as a special party food treat under the banner of Michelin star chef, Heston Blumenthal. However, the ham hock and piccalilli terrine sold by Waitrose has since proved remarkably elusive. One shopper has revealed that she has tried to order the terrine 13 times in recent months via the supermarket’s website without once seeing it arrive in her kitchen. Scroll down for video . The ham hock and piccalilli terrine sold by Waitrose under the banner of Michelin star chef, Heston Blumenthal, has proved remarkably ellusive . Heston offered a glowing description when the terrine was launched, saying: ‘This is a chunk ham hock and smoked ham mixed with zingy piccalilli – a pork and pickly combo to really get your teeth into.’ The absence of the terrine is something of a mystery and suggests either Waitrose has been unable to keep up with demand or, more worrying for Heston, that production has been restricted because of poor demand. The reviews on the Waitrose website and food blogs offers a distinctly mixed verdict, with some suggesting it has left a nasty taste in the mouth. The single review on the Waitrose website from a woman who lives near Devizes in Wiltshire, appears under the heading ‘Underwhelming’. It adds: ‘Absolutely nothing special about this, nowhere near as good as my own fromage de tête (J Grigson recipe), will not buy again.’ Blumenthal pictured outside his Fat Duck restaurant in, Bray, Berkshire, offered a glowing description when the terrine was launched . A blog on a food lovers website offers an even grimmer description, suggesting the two slices in the pack, ‘do look alarmingly like dog food with a bit of colour added’. It adds: ‘I peeled back the cellophane and it was like someone had just farted in my face.’ The blog concluded: ‘The texture was really good, it wasn’t over processed and had chunks of ham alongside the broken down pulled apart pork, it was a satisfying meaty mouthful. ‘Unfortunately that is where the positives end, because it didn’t taste too good. In fact it tasted just like cheap hot dog sausages.’ However, there were other positive reviews on the web, particularly the Ocado website. One five star rating described it as the ‘nicest pate we’ve had in a long time’. Another reviewer wrote: ‘A rather coarse terrine but tasty all the same. Comes in two slices individually packaged which is extremely handy for picnics or packed lunch. Has a nice mix of flavour with a kick from the pickle.’ A Waitrose spokesman said: 'This is a speciality product and branches don't hold a great deal of stock - so we are sorry this has caused availability problems for this online customer. We are very sorry for any inconvenience caused.'

Heston Blumenthal's ham hock terrine was introduced last Christmas . But since then, the terrine has proved remarkably difficult to buy . One shopper revealed she has tried to order it 13 times in recent months . Reviews on Waitrose website offer a distinctly mixed verdict .

30eca0b42ebed4069ea4098689da0840dfa97d16

Archaeologists have unearthed hundreds of Roman graves in southwest France, some of which contain skeletons still bound by shackles on their necks and ankles. The incredible excavation is located at a building site about 250m west of the Saintes amphitheatre once used for battles between gladiators and wild animals. Among the hundreds of graves found, five skeletons - four adults and one child - were found shackled or chained. A skeleton uncovered at the Roman burial site pictured exactly as the individual was buried - with an iron shackle attached to his neck . A wider photo shows the same skeleton - thought to be a man - with a shackle on his ankle as well as his neck . This group of four people were buried head-to-toe in a small, trench-style grave . Dating back to the first and second centuries AD, the grave site is thought to have been an important necropolis used for those massacred at the nearby stadium. Three skeletons were found with iron chains attached to their legs, another was buried in a crude shackle around his neck and a child was found with a device on its wrist. Several of the graves were found to be mass burials - pictures show individuals buried side-by-side, head to toe in trench-style graves. The site was first identified as a possible necropolis last year and scientists are now hoping they can establish the individuals' cause of death. Roman necropoleis were usually constructed in the country as a site for burials and cremations to take place away from tombs built within a city. In this photo, another skeleton can be seen buried with a shackle still attached to its ankle . Unfortunately, the graves at Saintes have yielded almost no artefacts or possessions. Only a few vases were found with the remains of one man, and a child was found with coins resting on his eyes. Roman custom was to place coins on the eyes of the deceased so the person's spirit could pay the ferryman to take them across the river Romans believed divided the world of the living and that of the dead. The period of Roman rule across what is now France is commonly referred to as Gallo-Roman, and the graves discovered in Saintes this week fall within this category. The period in which the graves were used - the first and second centuries AD - corresponds to a time in history when Saintes' was a thriving Roman town. It was established as a regional capital during this period because of its location where the major road between Lyon and Acquitaine met with the Charente River. It is famed for its Roman Colosseum-style arena, which when completed, held up to 18,000 people. Construction on the area started during the reign of Tiberius (14 - 37AD) and finished under Claudius (41 - 54AD). It is the largest and oldest remaining Roman amphitheatre in France.

Archaeologists have discovered hundreds of graves at ancient Roman site . Individuals believed to have been buried during first or second century AD . Several bodies were buried with iron shackles on their necks and ankles . Site may have been used to dispose of the dead from nearby arena . Scientists now hope to identify how and why the individuals died .

86a4be2fcf35395bd57cf5263e2bf71715527082

A hit man who authorities said was hired by a woman whose three husbands have all died under unusual circumstances has been convicted of second-degree murder in her second spouse's shooting. Alfred 'Terry' Everette, of Mississippi, was convicted on Thursday of gunning down Ernest Smith, 38, in 2006, at the behest of Smith's wife, 50-year-old Emma Raine. Raine has pleaded not guilty in the case and is awaiting trial in March on a second-degree murder charge. Hit man Alfred 'Terry' Everette (pictured right), of Mississippi, was convicted of killing Ernest Smith, 38, in 2006, at the behest of Smith's wife, 50-year-old Emma Raine (left) Mr Smith, a New Orleans preacher, was the second of Raine's three husbands. She has been charged only in Smith's death, but a prosecutor made it clear that the other two deaths were suspicious. 'Her main source of income was killing husbands,' said Assistant District Attorney Laura Rodrigue, who prosecuted the case with her father, District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro. Emma Raine's third husband, James Raine, 37, was shot in their Pearl River, Mississippi, home in 2011. News reports at the time said police were investigating the shooting as a homicide, and that Emma Raine had been out of town at the time. Her first husband, Leroy Evans, was run over by a car in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and then choked to death in his sleep about a year later, in 1994, after his feeding tube was removed. Complicating the case - James Raine has been implicated posthumously in Ernest Smith's death. Prosecutors said James Raine was Emma's boyfriend while she was married to Smith. He also was the foster brother of hit man Everette. Authorities says James Raine had promised Everette up to $100,000 from an $800,000 expected life insurance payment to kill Smith, who was shot outside his New Orleans home. During the trial, a foster brother, Enoch Raine, and two uncles, William and Henry Fowler, all testified that Everette admitted killing Smith when they confronted him two days after James Raine was fatally shot. Everette's defense attorneys, Michael Kennedy and Tanzanika Ruffin, attacked the credibility of Raine's relatives, saying they hoped to benefit from his life insurance policy. 'If James' policy isn't paid to Emma, who gets the money? Ruffin asked the jurors. 'The family does, don't they? Of course they do.' Outside the courtroom, the relatives denied Ruffin's allegations. 'It was never about money,' said Enoch Raine, a Mississippi firefighter. 'Emma and Terry need to be brought to justice for this,' said William Fowler. 'It has messed with our family. We wanted justice for this. We also wanted justice for James.'

Alfred 'Terry' Everette was convicted of killing Ernest Smith, 38, in 2006 at the behest of Smith's wife, 50-year-old Emma Raine . She has pleaded not guilty in the case and is awaiting trial in March on a second-degree murder charge . Mr Smith, a New Orleans preacher, was the second of Raine's three husbands . She has been charged only in Smith's death, but a prosecutor made it clear that the other two deaths were suspicious .

a8eea4bb94d58368a6c96bf0d09a0761b0de4027

‘Good luck finding a Scot,’ smirked one of the bosses in the office when they asked me to choose the all-time greatest combined team from north and south of the border, even as the Auld Enemies gird their loins for this week’s revival of the most ancient fixture in football’s international calendar. Easier than he thinks. The assembling of a mighty composite XI ended up balancing six Englishmen with five Scots. To squeeze in the highest feasible quota of superlative skills requires the selection of a majestic back three in a 3-3-1-3 formation. The starting point, beyond argument, is the Englishman who just happens to be the world's greatest ever goalkeeper: . GORDON BANKS - World Cup winner in 1966, immortalised by that flying save from Pele’s leaping header, stands imposingly at the base of this awe-inspiring team. ALAN HANSEN - one of football’s most cultured centre backs, in his golden years at Liverpool the most decorated of all Scots in the old First Division/Premier League. Gordon Banks won the World Cup for England and makes the No 1 spot and Alan Hansen earns his spot . BILLY McNEILL – the colossus at centre half for Celtic, who he captained to Britain’s first winning of the European Cup. BOBBY MOORE – one of the two greatest defenders of all time, in company with Franz Beckenbauer. The only England captain to raise the World Cup aloft, his statue still guards the gates to Wembley . Scotland's Billy McNeill (left) and England's soon-to-be World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore lead their sides out for a friendly at Wembley in 1965 . GRAEME SOUNESS – tackled like a vice, passed like a laser, scored when it mattered, one of the great all-time, all-round, most-feared midfield men . BRYAN ROBSON – as Captain Marvel for Manchester United and England, embodied all the Souness attributes and was the bravest of never-say-die competitors . Graeme Souness was a tough tackling midfielder for Scotland and here stands over Mark Hateley in 1985 . Bryan Robson was England's Captain Marvel, winning 90 caps for his country . BOBBY CHARLTON – not only the most creative of all English midfield players but also the scorer of stupendous goals, 49 of which still keep him in possession of the England record – after 44 years . PAUL GASCOIGNE – self-destructed before completely fulfilling his phenomenal potential but this maverick remains one of England’s most naturally gifted prodigies . Bobby Charlton (right), shooting against the Scots in 1965, still holds the England goalscoring record with 49 . Paul Gascoigne broke Scottish hearts with this stupendous volley for England at Euro 96 . TOM FINNEY – still the greatest of all English footballers, as deadly at centre forward as he was unplayable on the wing, quite simply a genius . DENIS LAW – scorer of 237 goals for Manchester United and 30 in 55 games for Scotland, the archetypal poacher-striker, widely held to be his country’s second best player ever and their only winner of the Ballon d'Or. Tom Finney heads the ball towards goal in a game against Scotland at Wembley in 1953 . Denis Law celebrates scoring for Scotland against England in 1968 . KENNY DALGLISH – The Greatest Scot, maker and taker of wondrous goals, both conductor and virtuoso of the team, football’s Albert Einstein. Subs: John Greig, Jim Baxter, Kevin Keegan, Stanley Matthews, Jimmy Greaves . Apologies – to countless others who have made our game so beautiful. Kenny Dalglish, beating Colin Bell in the air in 1973, is the best player to have pulled on a Scotland shirt .

England's World Cup winners Gordon Banks, Bobby Moore and Bobby Charlton make the team . Celtic's European Cup winning captain Billy McNeill plays at the back . Denis Law, Kenny Dalglish and Tom Finney lead the attack .

f38d277332a585815bcfe7166777661303fffe80

For most parents a set of Lego, a solid climbing frame and well-stocked bookcase would be considered a satisfactory selection of facilities at their child's nursery, but for parents in London's Clapham, it's more than their child's developmental needs that are being met. At the newly opened Clapham Village Nursery, you can drop off your laundry alongside your child in the morning and pick it up ready folded when you come to fetch an expertly-stimulated and (presumably perfectly laundered) child at the end of the day. And there's no stressing about what to make for supper. The nursery will also provide a freshly-cooked meal for the whole family, complete with starter and pudding. A new nursery in Clapham aims to take the stress out of the day for working mums by offering gym classes, laundry services and take-away family suppers . What more could you ask for? How about a choice of yoga, Pilates or boxercise classes so you don't have to rush off to the gym, a selection of tea, coffee and pastries to send you off on your morning commute and IT facilities including computers, ipads and printers at your fingertips? It's all provided at The Village - for a little extra cost, of course. On top of the £80 day rate for children, the adult supplement costs £100 a month, which buys you as many pastries as you can eat, free use of the IT facilities in the 'parent hubb' and four vouchers for the laundry, meal or exercise services. Of course, your children won't do badly either. The nursery has an outdoor beach and tree-house, a fully-equipped mini kitchen and art studio. 'We had a number of meetings with local parents before opening to find out how we could make their life easier and these were some of the aspects that were mentioned,' explains the nursery's manager Malcolm Vickery to the MailOnline. 'Parents feel they're constantly going backwards and forwards so we're trying to reduce their need to rush about,' he adds. The 'parent hub' at Clapham Village Nursery (above) includes a kitchen, stocked with tea, coffee and pastries as well as an IT suite with computers, iPads and printing facilities . The outdoor space at the five-star Clapham Village Nursery allows children to explore their surroundings . Considering that a recent study found that the school or nursery drop-off and cooking dinner for the family were the two most stressful parts of the day, perhaps The Village is onto something. The survey, which was commissioned to mark October's Walk to School Month also found that 83 per cent of parents 'can't cope' juggling drop-offs with getting to work on time. So a little help with the chores, which are often squeezed in before and after drop-off, would no doubt de-stress the day for many a working working mother. But it's not always that simple its it? What about the parents who can't afford to spend £25 a pop on laundering their dirty underpants? Anand . Shukla, Chief Executive of Family and Childcare Trust says more needs to be done for families who aren't on a posh budget. Children at the Clapham Village Nursery can experience real cooking in the mini kitchen . Not just a pot of paint for these lucky tots: the fully-equipped art studio (above) 'Far too . many parents are unable to access childcare that meets their needs,' Shukla tells the MailOnline. 'Where childcare is available, it . is often at a high cost to parents, with parents in Britain paying a . higher proportion of their salary on childcare than all other European . countries except Switzerland. 'Bold . reforms are needed if we are going to achieve high quality childcare that is . affordable and truly meets the needs of modern families,' he adds. Pilates for stressed parents may not be top of the government's proprieties but nurseries that provide auxiliary services for working mothers and reforms that provide more flexibility in the work place could be. But downward dogs and puff pastries aside could ideas like The . Village's 'parent hub' concept also tackle what has been dubbed the 'ghost children' phenomena. Earlier this year the . Association of Teachers and Lecturers Earlier warned that a generation of . children as young as four are stuck in a nursery or school environment for up to ten hours a day without parental touch. Vickery hopes the nursery can go someway . to help parents spend more time with their children. 'The idea is that . parents can tap in and tap out of work all on our premises. Freelancers . use the IT suite as their office and quite often parents who work in an . office use it for conference calls that have to be scheduled at times . that coincide with pick up or drop off, which means they can leave the . office earlier,' he explains. However the nursery does not encourage . parents to make their presence known once they've kissed their little . ones goodbye as it can be 'unsettling for the child'. But Vickery says . the extra facilities mean parents who freelance or work from home can . use the nursery as their office, cutting out journey times and . shortening the hours away from their child. Educational psychologist Hannah Abrahams believes parental presence in the nursery could be beneficial for the children in many ways. 'Anything that encourages parents and carers to work in collaboration and helps communication between the two is good for the children,' she says. The nursery is hoping to cater to parents' needs as well as children's . The slick entrance to Clapham Village Nursery: By creating more facilities for parents on site, they hope parents will be able to spend more time with their children . 'Creating that link between home and nursery can be very useful in managing any difficulties a child might be facing and sharing experiences between parents and carers can have positive affects on their development,' she adds. 'I can also see the appeal for parents. It could feel quite comforting knowing your child is just downstairs - especially if they are young.' But Abrahams agrees that knowing parents are working upstairs could be unsettling for the children. 'It depends on the child, but it could make it harder for children to settle knowing their parents are right there. Part of the experience for children is learning to separate from a parent and understanding that when they say goodbye to you in the morning, you will still come back to collect them at the end of the day.' For £100 a month parents have four vouchers to use on the following: . Also included iare as many pastries as you can eat and use of the IT facilities in the 'parent hub'

Clapham Village Nursery in London offers services to help working parents . Extras include a laundry service and family meal take-away . The nursery's 'parent hub', has IT suite and a kitchen stocked with pastries . Yoga, Pilates and boxercise classes also on offer . The adult supplement costs £100 a month for use of 'parent hub' and four extra services .

9e21d68918944ab6eb0f3233bf3cda3b5babff28

The authors of a study calling for GM crops to be fast-tracked into Britain’s farms and kitchens all have links to the industry, it can be revealed. The report was presented as the work of ‘independent’ scientists and was published on Thursday by a government advisory body. It was used to support a bid to speed up the development of the controversial crops in the UK, but it has emerged that all five authors have a vested interest in promoting GM crops and food – and some are part-funded by the industry. Opposition: Critics of GM described the 'independent' report as 'biased and downright dangerous'. Pictured is an anti-GM protest in 2002 . Critics of GM last night described the report as ‘biased and downright dangerous’, and accused the biotech giants and the Government of mounting a crude propaganda campaign to overturn public opposition. The academics behind the study were chosen by the Council for Science and Technology, the body that advises the Prime Minister on science policy issues. In the report presented at a press conference on Thursday, no information was given about the five scientists beyond their names and the institutions they work for. They include Professor Sir David Baulcombe, from Cambridge University, who works as a consultant for GM firm Syngenta, which gives his department research funding. Syngenta is behind a genetically modified maize or corn, called GA21, which could go into UK farms as early as next spring, making it Britain’s first commercially grown GM crop. Also on the list is Professor Jonathan Jones, of the Sainsbury Laboratory, which is at the centre of Britain’s GM research.  It is part-funded by former Labour science minister, Lord Sainsbury, who is one of the country’s biggest supporters of  the technology. Another co-author was Professor Jim Dunwell, of the University of Reading. He was a founder member of CropGen, which describes its mission as ‘to make the case for GM crops and foods’. The study suggested GM crops could save the hungry in the Third World from starvation and create new plants resistant to disease and pests. 'Sales pitch': Opponents have questioned whether the scientists' conclusions are to be believed . The authors argued that current EU regulation should be re-drawn to allow the UK to go it alone and plant the crops, even if the rest of Europe objects. By contrast, the study pulled a veil over evidence of harm to the countryside, insects and wildlife associated with industrial GM farming practices. The US has seen the emergence of superweeds that are immune to some chemical sprays and are now choking fields. Separately, there has been an absence of research into the health effects of eating GM. A spokesman for GM Watch, Claire Robinson, said: ‘By no stretch of the imagination can these people be described as independent scientists. ‘Their views should be treated with the same scepticism we would apply to any sales pitch.’ Critics say the timing of the release of the study and a supporting letter from the Government’s chief scientist, Sir Mark Walport, are highly suspicious. The details were sent to David Cameron in November – but Sir Mark and ministers delayed going public until now. Food and Farming Secretary Owen Paterson, who is a passionate supporter of GM farming, is trying to convince the EU to allow Britain to plant GM crops even if other states want a ban. The publication of the supposedly independent study calling for exactly this policy is expected to prove useful in those negotiations. The director of GM Freeze, Liz O’Neill, said: ‘A group of scientists with financial interests in the success of GM wrote a letter to the Prime Minister in November but waited four months to tell the Press about it – just in time for EU discussions about regulation. Something certainly smells a bit fishy.’ The administrations in Scotland and Wales have previously made it clear they want nothing to do with GM crops. 'Suspicious': The report is being used to speed up the development of GM crops in the UK . Dr Brian John, of the group GM Free Wales, said: ‘This extraordinary report, published very conveniently to coincide with Owen Paterson’s attempts within the EU to dismantle GM regulations and to repatriate powers to the UK, is in turns naive, biased, disingenuous, cynical and downright dangerous. ‘We find it incredible that five senior scientists can have been  so dismissive of the work of  scores of independent scientists who have discovered that GM organisms are directly and indirectly harmful to mammals and to  the environment. ‘In the world of science there should be respect for those whose findings are “inconvenient”.’ Sir David yesterday confirmed his connection to Syngenta, but said: ‘I am independent in that I am not paid a salary by any corporate organisation. I do receive funding for research in my lab from Syngenta and consult for them – although I do not receive the fee as it goes to a departmental fund.’ Prof Jones said that while  some might question his independence, he was simply ‘very well informed about GM science and technology’. Prof Dunwell said he was a founder of CropGen, but no longer had any ties to the GM lobby group. He added: ‘I am an independent scientist.’ The two other authors were Professor John Pickett, of Rothamsted Research, and Professor Pere Puigdomenech, of the universities of Cambridge and Barcelona. Rothamsted is heavily involved in GM research. Prof Pickett said: ‘I greatly value links with industry, particularly at the technology transfer level, and these are completely transparent interactions.’ Prof Puigdomenech was co-chairman of the seventh International Plant Molecular Biotechnology Congress, sponsored by Monsanto, Bayer and DuPont. He could not be contacted for a comment. Last night, the Science Media Centre, which released the report, insisted the authors were independent. A spokesman said: ‘They are not employed by government or industry and each works for different publicly funded universities and research institutes. For better or worse, it’s not unusual any more for universities and institutions to get bits and pieces of funding from government, charities and industry – indeed many can only access public money on condition that they raise a proportion of their funds from commercial or private sources. ‘This does not automatically undermine their independence.’ But Soil Association chief executive Helen Browning said: ‘It’s really just not good enough for a group of scientists who have a strong interest, it seems, through their funding sources, in persuading a reluctant public to accept the growing of GM crops in the UK, to be the ones who attempt to write the rule book on how that should happen.’ PROFESSOR JONATHAN JONES - Sainsbury Laboratory . Professor Jones proudly wears a T-shirt in his Twitter page image with the slogan: ‘GM food? Am I bovvered? I am not bovvered.’ He is group director at the Sainsbury Laboratory, and is also the founder of and adviser to biotech company Mendel Biotechnology, which counts Monsanto – a GM giant – as a major client. Mendel has been granted more than 20 biotechnology and GM patents. Mendel’s 2009 annual report noted two collaborative partnerships: one with Monsanto and the other with Bayer CropScience. Professor Jones co-founded the UK’s ‘first GM crop company’, Norfolk Plant Sciences, to find ways of commercialising Sainsbury Laboratory’s GM research into a new type of tomato. PROFESSOR SIR DAVID BAULCOMBE - University of Cambridge . Sir David  is a consultant for the GM crop company Syngenta. The fees he receives, which are likely to be many thousands of pounds a year, go into a department fund to support his work. He was previously the head of the Sainsbury Laboratory, which is part of the John Innes Centre (JIC) in Norwich. The Sainsbury Laboratory is at the heart of Britain’s GM research. It has received millions of pounds in donations from Lord Sainsbury, a former Labour science minister and champion of GM. Professor Baulcombe is also Regius Professor of Botany at Cambridge University. PROFESSOR JIM DUNWELL - University of Reading . A founding member of the pro-GM lobby group CropGen in 2000. The group’s stated  mission is to ‘make the case for GM crops and foods by helping to achieve a greater measure of realism and better balance in the UK’s public discussions on agriculture and food’. Professor Dunwell says that he  has not been in contact with CropGen since 2002. However, he remains an advocate for GM. Recently, he wrote an opinion piece in which he accused the EU of slowing down the commercial exploitation of GM crops as a result of ‘unnecessarily tight’ regulation. PROFESSOR JOHN PICKETT - Rothamsted Research Station . He works at Rothamsted Research, which lists biotech firms Aventis, DuPont, Novartis and Syngenta as ‘partners’. Rothamsted, in Hertfordshire, is hosting a trial to grow GM wheat, which contains genes from the mint plant and gives off a scent that deters pests. Professor Pickett suggested the technology could be commercialised to generate money for its developers. In 1998, he was heavily involved  in rubbishing research published by Professor Arpad Pusztai, of Aberdeen’s Rowett Research Institute, which appeared to show that feeding GM potatoes to rats had negative effects on the animals’ stomach lining and immune system. PROFESSOR PERE PUIGDOMENECH - Institute of Molecular Biology at Barceolna CSIC and visiting research fellow at Cambridge . HE has worked closely with Sir David and has links with The Sainsbury Laboratory, the John Innes Centre, and Rothamsted Research Station. Spain is the only country in Europe in which substantial areas are planted with GM maize. Prof Puigdomenech was also co-chairman of the seventh International Plant Molecular Biotechnology Congress, sponsored by Monsanto, Bayer and DuPont.

Government advisory body presented an 'independent' report on Thursday . It was used to support a bid to speed up the use of GM food in the UK . But in fact all five authors have a vested interest in promoting GM crops .

8f54151778a859c4a1ae49fab1a30a0990487c4d

Sunderland defender Wes Brown has warned Manchester City not to take anything for granted as they attempt to succeed where Barclays Premier League leaders Chelsea failed. Jose Mourinho's men left the Stadium of Light with a 0-0 draw - the first time they have failed to score this season - on Saturday evening as the Black Cats turned in a stubborn defensive display and might even have snatched victory in a late flurry of activity. City will follow in their footsteps on Wednesday night when they head for Wearside desperate to end a run of four successive 1-0 league defeats on Wearside, although Brown is looking for more of the same. Sunderland defender managed to keep Chelsea striker Diego Costa quiet at the Stadium of Light . Costa of Chelsea (right) catches Sunderland's Wes Brown with an arm while battling for a header . Asked if Sunderland could extend their remarkable run, the former Manchester United defender said: 'After this result, there's always a possibility. 'Every game, we go into the game looking to win it and if we show the same commitment again, I'm sure we'll have chances. 'If you ask any player which teams they want to play, they'd say the top four or five. I suppose you would be up for it a little bit more and wanting to do really well. 'Everyone is watching and why not play well against the best teams?' Diego Costa's arm connects with the face of Sunderland defender Brown during a challenge in the air . Chelsea arrived in the north east six points clear at the top of the league after a 19-game unbeaten start to the campaign and determined not to allow their hosts a third win on the trot over them inside 12 months. They enjoyed the greater share of the possession, but were rarely able to break through a red and white wall, and although Willian struck a post with a 17th-minute shot, Black Cats defender Santiago Vergini was later denied by the crossbar. Mourinho, who saw striker Diego Costa pick up just a single yellow card - his fifth of the season, which means he will miss Wednesday game against Tottenham - after clashes with central defenders John O'Shea and Brown, was complimentary about Sunderland's defensive resilience and insisted he had nothing for which to reproach his players. Chelsea defender Gary Cahill (left) challenges Sunderland defender O'Shea in the air on Saturday evening . Brown said: 'We made it very difficult. I thought Catts [midfielder Lee Cattermole] was tremendous, like most of the lads, and that gave us a good balance and we showed them they were not going to have it all their own way. 'It helped us. We went in at half-time 0-0 and in the second half, anything can happen. There were a few tired legs, and they had some good chances as well - not perfect chances, but they had a couple of half-chances and then at the end, we probably could have nicked it as well. 'At the beginning of the game, you would have said it would have been a great point earned, but we battled all the way through and then we had a couple of half-chances at the end. Frank Lampard celebrates Manchester City's second at Southampton during the 3-0 win on the south coast . Lee Cattermole robs Eden Hazard of possession during the 0-0 draw against Chelsea on Saturday . 'We are happy with the result. We maybe could have nicked it, but it was a good Chelsea team and we put everything in and managed to stop them scoring and get the draw.' That draw means Sunderland are now unbeaten in four games since their season took an alarming dip with an 8-0 defeat at Southampton and Arsenal's 2-0 victory on Wearside, although Brown insists engineering the transformation has not been complicated. He said: 'If anything, it's just back to basics, doing everything right, not necessarily making it difficult for ourselves, playing simple football, but in a quick way and defending how we know we can defend, where we make it very difficult for teams to score.'

Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw by a determined Sunderland on Saturday . The Black Cats host Manchester City on Wednesday evening in the league . Sunderland have four consecutive 1-0 league wins against City at home . Ten-man Manchester City defeated Southampton 3-0 on Sunday .

8ca8eccaad250da4aa2613ef5888c56fc08c4013

John McEnroe fanned suggestions that a late-night rumpus with Stan Wawrinka may have contributed to Roger Federer’s late withdrawal from the Barclays ATP World Finals on Sunday night. The world No 2 disappointed more than 17,000 fans at the O2 Arena by pulling out of the final against Novak Djokovic, citing a back injury sustained in his evening semi-final against Wawrinka. But McEnroe also said a post-match spat between the two players, stemming from something Wawrinka said to his opponent’s support bench, would not have helped matters. According to courtside photographers his words were directed either at Federer’s wife Mirka, his father Robbie, or perhaps both. Roger Federer and Stan Wawrinka (right) argued during and after their semi-final match on Saturday . A weary Federer is congratulated by compatriot Wawrinka on Saturday but they argued later on . French TV reported that it had picked up Wawrinka saying: ‘She did the same thing at Wimbledon.’ McEnroe told viewers on ESPN: ‘Afterwards something went on in the locker room, there was a long talk between the players that went on well into the night and the stress of that - I can’t confirm all of this - I don’t think that helped the situation.’ When asked about what happened during the apparent altercation in an unusually feisty third set, Wawrinka replied: ‘Not much, nothing special. Tense match, it’s never easy.’ Roger Federer takes to the court to explain why he couldn't take on Novak Djokovic in the O2 final . ATP executive chairman and president Chris Kermode (right) with Federer as the bad news was delivered . Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was part of the crowd at the )2 Arena on Sunday . Federer declined to speak to the media on Sunday night after his withdrawal, but apologised to the crowd in person. On Monday Federer and Wawrinka are due to travel to Lille where, starting on Friday, they will make up the Switzerland team that tackles France in the Davis Cup. That is the only major prize in tennis that the Swiss master has not won, and that will incentivise him to quickly smooth things over with his compatriot. Wawrinka’s team were eager to write the tiff off as just one of those things that happen in the heat of battle, while sources in the Federer camp were emphasising that he pulled out of Sunday’s final purely due to the parlous state of his back. Federer looks at his shoes as Wawrinka (right) walks past and off the court on Saturday night . It can only be speculation how much the stress of Saturday’s unexpectedly fractious semi-final contributed to the situation. He and the famously genial Wawrinka have always got on well, although the dynamic in their relationship has changed somewhat this year through the latter’s surge into the elite. He even rated at Swiss No 1 for a time this year before Federer’s excellent run of results. The 17-time Grand Slam winner told the O2 crowd that something pulled in his back during the decisive tiebreak. ‘I have tried treatment on it, medication, tried to turn it round as quickly as possible but I didn’t really feel that much of an improvement,’ said Federer, who does not know how it will affect his chances next weekend. ‘I can’t compete at this level with Novak, it would be too risky at my age to do this right now.’ It was typical Federer class to front up before the disappointed crowd, and in his whole career it is only the third time he has pulled out of a match. Novak Djokovic holds his Tour Finals trophy after a presentation before his exhibition match . VIDEO Djokovic surprised by Federer withdrawal to hand him title . He only gave up the struggle an hour before the final, and by then Chris Kermode, the ATP’s executive chairman, had gone into crisis management mode. He called Andy Murray at his Surrey home at 2pm to ask him to play a replacement exhibition singles against Djokovic, and a lighthearted doubles with Tim Henman, John McEnroe and Pat Cash. ‘He instantly offered to help, he didn’t ask for a fee and wasn’t offered one,’ revealed Kermode, adding that the others had also volunteered to entertain the crowd, which included the likes of Jose Mourinho and Hugh Grant, for free. Given that the doubles final (won by the Bryan brothers) took place along with the exhibitions, Kermode said there would be a partial refund and priority booking next year for ticket holders, who had paid up to £110 for their seats. As this event makes around £10million profit, it is only right. Federer won a taxing semi-final against Stan Wawrinka in a tie-break after two hours and 48 minutes . Overall a good job was done in managing Federer’s non-appearance, although Murray, who lost 6-0, 6-1 to the Swiss earlier in the week, could see the funny side. ‘I have to apologise because clearly I pushed Roger so hard on Thursday,’ the Scot quipped. However, questions might again be asked about how fair it is for one semi-final to be played on Saturday afternoon and another on Saturday night, which happens at many ATP events. It all capped what has been an unfortunate week, which saw so many one-sided matches - not a vintage year. At the end of it all Djokovic was left champion for the third year running, and is very much the man to beat next season. US duo Bob and Mike Bryan celebrate a point on their way to victory in the doubles final at the O2 .

Roger Federer pulled out of Barclays ATP World Finals on Sunday night . Swiss star said his back injury had been inflamed by long semi-final . But Federer and Stan Wawrinka argued during and after match . John McEnroe believes the spat may have contributed to withdrawal . Federer and Wawrinka are due to play in Davis Cup final next weekend .

29507883782e331772d3161a9e1dffe68d8cc8a2

While many believed that this season's title race was turning in to a procession for Jose Mourinho's unbeaten Chelsea, Manchester City's recent resurgence has set up an enthralling fight to the finish. Chelsea's 3-0 victory over Tottenham meant the Blues maintained a six-point lead at the top of the table but free-scoring performances against Southampton and Sunderland have seen Manuel Pellegrini's City stake their intentions. Sportsmail columnists Jamie Redknapp and Martin Keown assess the merits of both sides battling to be crowned champions... Chelsea stars celebrate during the 3-0 win against Spurs, which saw their unbeaten run stretch to 21 games . Manuel Pellegrini (left) and Jose Mourinho are involved in a two-way Premier League title fight . Manchester City's recent resurgence has seen the reigning champions close the gap to six points . KEOWN ON THE DEFENSIVE UNITS . Thibaut Courtois’ mistakes are minimal and it never seems to be his fault when Chelsea concede — I’m not sure you can say the same about Joe Hart. Terry and Cahill are formidable and Ivanovic and Azpilicueta solid. Kompany is terrific but, Zabaleta apart, the rest are inconsistent. But the key is the work done in front of them. Chelsea’s pressing and the screen Matic provides means it’s almost impossible to isolate their defenders. City on the other hand are too often left exposed. CHELSEA 8/10 MAN CITY 7/10 . Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois (above) is rarely at fault if Chelsea concede a goal, unlike Joe Hart . Manchester City concede an early goal by Connor Wickham during their 4-1 defeat of Sunderland . Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic (left) provides a defensive shield in front of Chelsea's back four . REDKNAPP ON THE MIDFIELD BATTLE . When everybody is fit, there is very little to choose between these two midfields. Signing Fabregas was a statement of intent and he has given Chelsea subtlety and class. They have lost Lampard’s goals but Fabregas’ assists make up for it. Hazard could get into any team in the world and Matic is a perfect shield. City have struggled to find that balance but injuries have disrupted them. People called Yaya Toure useless and unfit, but he scores a few and all of a sudden he’s purring and David Silva, when he’s fit, is a genius. CHELSEA 9/10 CITY 9/10 . City midfielder Yaya Toure is starting to find his form from last season at precisely the right time . Cesc Fabregas has been an inspired signing and leads the way with 10 Premier League assists this season . Manchester City have missed the mercurial talents of David Silva (second right) while he has been out injured . REDKNAPP ON THE ATTACKING POWER . I said a few weeks ago the title race could be a shootout between Sergio Aguero and Diego Costa. Nothing has changed! Costa has adapted so quickly and he plays on the edge, but I like that. Didier Drogba is useful as Jose’s eyes in the dressing room and Loic Remy provides good back-up. Aguero is on fire and now he’s staying fit his scoring rate is incredible. Edin Dzeko is hit-and-miss and Stevan Jovetic has chipped in, but Aguero has carried City at times. A front two of Costa and Aguero would be the perfect partnership, but Aguero’s goals give City the slightest edge. CHELSEA 9/10 CITY 9.5/10 . TOTAL: CHELSEA 26 CITY 25.5 . Diego Costa has given Chelsea the potent striker they have been searching for with 11 goals from 11 games . A partnership between Costa (left) and Aguero would be one of the most feared in world football . Aguero (left) has been making the difference for City and tops the scoring charts with 14 goals so far . Veteran striker Didier Drogba turned back the clock to score against Tottenham in midweek .

Premier League leaders Chelsea have gone 21 games unbeaten this term . Reigning champions Manchester City are six points behind in title race . Nemanja Matic gives the Blues the edge in terms of their defensive unit . Cesc Fabregas has 10 league assists while Yaya Toure is returning to form . Sergio Aguero (14) and Diego Costa (11) lead the way in the scoring charts .

3b12baaf6ed47cf3a70f3c5fc29f52dbea4d1ec9

A young athlete who dreamed of playing college basketball will get her chance to start in her first game - even though she has an inoperable brain tumor and just weeks to live. Lauren Hill, 19, of Lawrenceburg, Indiana, was a standout high school player who committed to playing at Mount St. Joseph’s University, also in Indiana, in October of last year. Then, last November, she found out she had an inoperable brain tumor. Scroll down for video . Hoop dreams: Lauren Hill (center in uniform) has an inoperable brain tumor and just weeks to live, but will get to play her first college basketball game at Mount St. Joseph's on November 1 . Inspiration: The teenager, who was a high school standout (left) and prom queen (right) has stayed positive despite her diagnosis . While doctors at first gave the teenager two years to live, a recent MRI showed that her tumor had grown, and she now just has weeks left. Not that even that was enough to stop Hill, who has Diffused Intrinsic Pentene Gleoma, a cancer with roots at the base of her brain stem with growing tentacles weaving through her nerves. 'I never gave up for a second even when I got a terminal diagnosis; never thought about sitting back and not living life anymore,' she told Local 12. And now she will be getting to fulfill her dream of playing college ball, thanks to some help from her school and the NCAA. During her surprise birthday party on October 1, exactly one year from the date she signed to play at Mt. Saint Joseph's, Hill learned that the school contacted the NCAA who agreed to move up their opening game against Hiram College from November 15 to November 1 so she can take the court. It will be her first, and last, time playing college basketball. Hope: Instead of being scared of death, Hill (above with mother Lisa) says she is just excited about getting to play basketball for her team just once . Mount Saint Joe's basketball coach, Dan Benjamin, said, 'She's a special person. This girl is so strong, she's dealing with death and all she's thinking about is everyone else. Her team first her family first, and just to give her that one last wish would be incredible for our program and our players.' As for Hill, those few weeks she has left won't be filled with fear or tears it seems, but rather excitement and hope. Said the teenager, 'I love the roar of the crowd, the squeaking of the shoes. I can't wait to be on this court and wearing #22.'

Lauren Hill, a college freshman at Mount St. Joseph's, will get to play her first college basketball game on November 1 . Hill, 19, has just weeks to live as the result of an inoperable brain tumor she learned about last November . The Lawrenceburg, Indiana, native is getting a chance to take the court after the NCAA agreed to allow her school to move up their home opener .

a56f22f3aebcc02975d52a99b10488b11445a7c1

To the cheers of her family and the ka-thunk of her 77-year-old car, a 91-year-old Northern California woman recently made good on a bucket-list wish to once again steer the 1937 Ford coupe she learned to drive in. Clara Mae Blasingame, a long-retired schoolteacher, had repeatedly expressed nostalgia for the black Ford she had inherited from her father, Blasingame's two sons, Ron and Ken Blasingame, told the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. 'She wanted to drive it once again before she went home,' Ken Blasingame told the newspaper. Scroll down for video . Bucket list wish: Clara Mae Blasingame, a 91-year-old Northern California woman, recently drove the 1937 Ford coupe she learned to drive in . All smiles: Ms Blasingame couldn't hide her delight as she climbed in to get behind the wheel . Getting into gear: The 91-year-old drove it for two loops in the parking lot, then stepped out of the car to the shouts of her family . Clara Mae Blasingame had learned to drive in the car in Knoxville, Tennessee, when it was brand new and she was 13. She drove it much of her life before the engine gave out around 25 years ago. Earlier this year, her sons took the old car out of storage and fixed it up for one last ride. Co-pilot: Malik Blasingame, 15, got in the front passenger seat, riding shotgun as his grandmother took the steering wheel . Blasingame's sons tweaked the engine - a replacement transplanted decades ago from a Ford Mustang - enough to get the car running again, barely. Late last month, Blasingame's family told her they were taking her out for a family trip, and instead pulled into a large public parking lot in Santa Rosa. The '37 coupe was waiting there. Vroom vroom: A stock image of a 1937 Ford coupe similar to the one Blasingame inherited from her father . 'Oh, that's the Ford! That's the Ford!' she cried out. Her grandson, Malik Blasingame, 15, got in the front passenger seat, riding shotgun as his grandmother took the steering wheel. 'I don't know if I can drive or not,' she said. After a couple of tries at the ignition, the engine started. The 91-year-old drove it for two loops in the parking lot, then stepped out of the car to the shouts of her family.

Clara Mae Blasingame learned to drive the 1937 Ford coupe when it was brand new and she was 13 . She had repeatedly expressed nostalgia for the black Ford . Last month the 91-year-old fulfilled her bucket list wish of driving it again . Her family got the vehicle back in working order and surprised her .

c451c2328b9ee7b41625ab1fff21244649165d85

Click here for more stats and heat maps from Sportsmail's fantastic Match Zone service . Well, the atmosphere was certainly better, although the performance took a while to warm-up. And this time Jose Mourinho took out his frustration on his players rather than the Chelsea supporters as he fumed on the touchline. Mourinho criticised his players after hauling off Andre Schurrle and Willian at half-time and Filipe Luis once Maribor, a team thumped 6-0 at Stamford Bridge last month, had taken the lead with a brilliant goal. Diego Costa, Oscar and Ramires - who he had hoped to keep fresh for Saturday's game at Liverpool - were scrambled as was an unusual three-at-the-back system in a bid to rescue pride. Eden Hazard missed the chance to win the match for Chelsea against Maribor late on when his penalty was saved . Hazard (right) saw his low penalty saved by Maribor goalkeeper Jasmin Handanovic in the closing stages of the match . The diminutive Belgium international (centre) puts his hands to his head while the Maribor players around him celebrate his miss . Hazard looks crestfallen as he fails to be Chelsea's matchwinner in Slovenia on Wednesday night . Cesc Fabregas (top) is challenged by Ales Mertelj during their Champions League encounter on Wednesday night . Maribor (4-4-2): Handanovic 7; Stojanovic 5, Rajcevic 6, Arghus 6, Viler 7; Ibraimi 7 (Bohar 90), Mertelj 6.5, Filipovic 6, Sallalich 7.5 (Ndiaye 90+2); Zahovic 6 (Mendy 73), Tavares 6. Subs not used: Cotman, Suler, Vrsic, Trajkovski. Booked: Filipovic, Stojanovic, Viler . Goal: Ibraimi 50 . Manager: Ante Simundza 7 . Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Cech 6; Ivanovic 6, Zouma 6.5, Terry 7, Luis 6 (Ramires 56, 6); Fabregas 6, Matic 7; Schurrle 5 (Oscar HT), Willian 5 (Costa HT), Hazard 7; Drogba 5.5. Subs not used: Courtois, Azpilicueta, Cahill, Salah. Booked: Luis . Goal: Matic 73 . Manager: Jose Mourinho 6.5 . MOM: Sintayehu Sallalich . Referee: Daniele Orsato (ITA) 5 . They emerged with a point after an equaliser by Nemanja Matic and they would have taken all three had Eden Hazard not missed a penalty, five minutes from time. Mourinho praised Maribor and grumbled about the Italian officials who ruled a late goal by Costa to be offside and only added two minutes of stoppage time at the end, when he clearly thought he should have been be more. Generally, the he cut a disgruntled figure and his mood was not enhanced when the travelling fans, offended by his remarks that the Bridge had been like an 'empty stadium' during last Saturday's win against QPR, started to tease him. 'Cheer up Mourinho,' they sang, in the first half, and then: 'Jose Give us a Song'. They left him alone once it was clear the manager was not amused. When asked to comment on the songs, he shook his head and said: 'Forget it'. At the end of the game, he congratulated Maribor boss Ante Sumundza and then stalked straight down the tunnel as John Terry led the players to salute the 600 Chelsea supporters who made the trip. At half-time, Mourinho had made the same purposeful march across the pitch and into the dressing rooms, staring at the floor with clipboard tucked under his arm like a man about to deliver a few home truths. One of his backroom staff emerged moments later, sent to retrieve the electronic board used by the fourth officials to indicate substitutions. 'In the first half we were not good,' said Mourinho. 'Very slow; no intensity, no creativity. It was easy for Maribor to control the game and reach what they wanted to reach, a 0-0. 'I tried to improve my team. When you try to improve your team, sometimes it's for tactical reasons. Other times it's for individual performances. I think I was successful with the changes I did. 'In the second half the team were much better than in the first half. I thought we played magnificently: creative, fast, good dynamic, a lot of chances to score. Only when Maribor scored did the players realise the game was in danger. After that, a fantastic reaction. 'We deserved to win, clearly.We didn't reach the number of goals that we should have in the second half, but the team played well. And we scored a great second goal.' Nemanja Matic (right) goes up for a header against Marco Morales Tavares (centre) during Wednesday's clash . Didier Drogba (left) squandered a chance for the Blues in the first half against their Slovenian opponents . The Ivory Coast international falls in a heap during the first half but is able to carry on for Jose Mourinho's side . Belgian midfielder Hazard (left) winces after he is tackled by Maribor defender Petar Stojanovic at the Stadion Ljudski . No English side won a single group match this week, the first time that happened since November 5, 2008. The 'second goal' was a reference to the disallowed goal prodded in by Costa moments before Hazard's 85th-minute penalty miss. It looked very tight, perhaps marginally onside, and he did not miss the chance to take a swipe at referee Daniele Orsato. They have history stretching back to Mourinho's time with Inter Milan. 'We scored two goals, two very good goals,' said the Chelsea boss. 'The second goal, the referee decided to disallow but it's a clear goal. Normally we should win because we scored two goals. But we have to accept it and to praise a fantastic stadium with lots of enthusiasm. 'For the people, it was a fantastic night, and Maribor gave everything. They fought. They had a fantastic goalkeeper. And the referee's team didn't have a good night.' Jose Mourinho's frustration grows as his Chelsea side fail to break down their Slovenian opponents in the first half . Travelling Chelsea fans rally behind their team in Slovenia as they try to strengthen their grip on Group G on Wednesday night . Maribor's Agim Ibraimi (right) broke the deadlock with a beautiful left-footed shot that curled into top corner . Ibraimi (centre) celebrates his strike to give Maribor a shock second half lead against Group G leaders Chelsea . Perhaps it had all felt a little too comfortable because, after scoring six against the Slovenians in London. The Barclays Premier League leaders started well, creating chances and missing them until Kurt Zouma was forced to clear off the goal-line from Sintayehu Sallalich. Confidence washed through the home team and they passed the ball with more assurance. Sallalich caused problems with his pace and trickery and Agim Ibraimi's goal was a delicious piece of skill, curled into the top corner with his left foot from wide on the Maribor right past Petr Cech. It was the first time Chelsea had been behind since September 13 against Swansea. Mourinho made his third substitution and switched to a three-man defence, with Hazard at wing-back. Maribor ought to have doubled the lead when Mitja Viler's cross from the left found Luka Zahovic at the far post. The teenager only had to tap it in, but somehow lifted it over the goal. Here was an escape for Chelsea, and they took advantage by summoning a strong finish. The leveller came from Matic with 17 minutes left after Terry had headed a corner from Cesc Fabregas towards goal. Hazard came to life but could not find a finish and Costa was denied, and that goal that never was. Oscar thought he might have won a penalty and yet Maribor could have won it when Tavares fired wide after a break by Sallalich. Matic (right) tapped home from close range in the 73rd minute to cancel out Maribor's opener . Matic (left) celebrates his equaliser for Chelsea against Maribor in Wednesday's Champions League tie . Hazard (right) missed a glorious chance before his penalty miss to put Chelsea ahead but saw his shot saved when through on goal . Amid the chaotic closing spell, Hazard was tripped by Viler, climbed to his feet and saw his spot-kick saved by Jasmin Handanovic. It summed the night up. Maribor clung on and the home crowd could barely contain their joy, chanting, jumping, burning flares and waving their giant flags. At the end they did not want to leave. They have never seen anything like it. For Chelsea, as the dust settled, it did not seem quite so bad. They remain top of Group G, in a good position to qualify and remain unbeaten in 16 games this season in all competitions. Next in Europe, they meet Roberto di Matteo's Schalke, but first to Anfield where the atmosphere will surely be right up Mourinho's street. EDEN HAZARD WAS ONE OF CHELSEA'S BRIGHTEST PLAYERS ON THE NIGHT - CLICK HERE FOR MORE FROM THE MATCH ZONE SERVICE . Mourinho will be frustrated with his side's efforts in Slovenia after being held to a 1-1 draw at Maribor .

Agim Ibraimi put Maribor ahead in the second half with a majestic left-footed curled shot into the top corner . Nemanja Matic equalised for Chelsea with tapping home from a John Terry header in the 73rd minute . Eden Hazard had a penalty saved late on for the visitors as they were held to a draw in Slovenia . Chelsea still sit top of the group with eight points from four, with Schalke away and Sporting Lisbon at home to come .

4d55541a2548a226c90b6a06fc1d58bbffd58d09

Sir John Armitt argued power blackouts are the 'best possible' thing for the country . One of Ed Miliband’s most senior advisers sparked fury yesterday by saying that power blackouts would be good for the country. Sir John Armitt argued that the blackouts would be the ‘best possible thing’ because they would bring home the scale of the energy crisis facing the country. Sir John’s inflammatory remarks – which coincided with forecasts of the first Arctic blast of the winter – revived the fierce debate over energy prices and supplies which was triggered by Mr Miliband’s party conference pledge in October to freeze gas and electricity bills. The Conservatives immediately lept on Sir John’s comments, claiming that blackouts would be an indictment of Mr Miliband’s failure to plan for the future when he was Energy Secretary. Sir John, who is advising Labour on the future of the country’s long-term infrastructure needs, said: ‘In harsh political terms [blackouts] would be the best possible thing because this country is extremely good in a crisis.’ In the interview with construction industry magazine Building, he added that the UK was nearing the crisis because too little was being done to replace ageing coal-fired and nuclear power stations. He said: ‘We are down to (just a) 4 per cent (surplus of energy capacity) because we’ve gone slower than we should have done on nuclear.’ His remarks are particularly  controversial because of the continuing fury within the energy industry over Mr Miliband’s plans for an energy price freeze. Energy bosses said that his move would threaten the security of supply and mean ‘the lights would go out’. The comments have revived the debate surrounding Labour party leader Ed Miliband's promise to freeze gas and electricity bills . Tory MP Charlie Elphicke said: ‘Labour had 13 years to take the long-term decisions to meet Britain’s energy needs, including when Ed Miliband was Energy Secretary, but failed to do so. 'Instead they took short-term decisions. And now Labour’s key economic adviser thinks it would be a good thing for families, vulnerable older people, and even hospitals treating patients to suffer power cuts.’ Last night, Energy Minister Greg Barker said: ‘This is utter madness, but if Sir John thinks power cuts will be a good thing for Britain then he is certainly working for the right man – because Ed Miliband would deliver them.’

Senior adviser said blackouts would bring home scale of energy crisis . Sir John Armitt argued power cuts would be 'best possible thing' Comments come as first Arctic blast of winter is predicted .

1e127b65db55b66ccc8d290d3157e17abe9c81a2

This is the moment a pensioner had to be rescued after 'deliberately' driving into the sea in front of tourists at millionaires' resort Sandbanks. The woman sat motionlessly as the water poured into her Volkswagen Golf off the Dorset coast today. Witnesses described how she wound down both front windows of her car before speeding down a ferry slipway and into the water at around midday. The silver car was swept 100 yards out to sea by the fast tide the unnamed woman refused to move despite cries from the quayside to get out as it went down. Scroll down for video . Rescue: This is the moment a woman had to be rescued after apparently driving deliberately into the sea off Sandbanks . Submerged: The VW sank yards from the home of Premier League football manager Harry Redknapp on the Sandbanks peninsula . Rescue: The woman is led away to safety by RNLI and emergency workers after she was freed from the sinking car . Drama: The woman's car had to be dragged from the water shortly after she herself was pulled from the car . Lucky to be alive: The unnamed woman was rescued by fishermen who jumped into the sea and dragged her out . But the crew of a passing fishing boat then dived into the water and pulled the woman free just moments before her vehicle sank. The soaked casualty was lifted on board next to the Sandbanks to Studland chain ferry - which sits yards from the home of Premier League football manager Harry Redknapp. After being pulled to safety her rescuers went back to the sinking vehicle to retrieve the woman's handbag. Witness Steve Chater-Lea, 45, said the woman drove past a queue of cars waiting for the ferry before heading down the slope at speed. He said: 'She drove past the ferry queue and accelerated down the ramp. It was definitely deliberate, you could tell from the way she revved the engine and the force with which she hit she the water. 'Both her windows were down and you could see her just sat there oblivious to people shouting out to her to get out. She made no movement or attempt to leave the car. 'There were 20 or 30 people stood on the quay about 15 feet away shouting for her to get out. 'There was a strong outgoing tide and the car went about 100 yards towards the sea, getting lower and lower in the water. 'A fishing boat came alongside the car but she still wouldn't get out and one of the crew dived in and pulled her out of the passenger side. 'She was alive and taken to the jetty for the Brownsea Island ferry and into an ambulance.' Shock: Witnesses described how the motorists sped down this ferry ramp and crashed into the water . Fear: This picture was taken shortly after the car went into the sea and quickly it was swept 100 yards out . Witnesses: People on the busy ferry crossing the estuary also captured the moment the boat began to sink . Brave: Workers on a passing fishing vessel saw the woman and dived in to save her from the deep water . This barge with a lifting crane on arrived on the scene about an hour later and hoisted the sunken vehicle out of the water . Damage: The car's bumper and windscreen were both smashed in the impact with the water . Holidaymaker Bob Smallman said: 'I saw the car in the water and we were all screaming for her to get out but she was just holding on to the steering wheel. 'A fishing boat went round to get her out but she didn't want to go, she looked frightened. They were dragging her in the water for a bit. 'They managed to get her out before the car went completely underwater. 'An inflatable boat that took her to safety then went back to the car and rescued her handbag before it sunk. She must have told them about her bag and been adamant they needed to get it.' Witness Ash Naik said 'I was on the phone talking to my friend ad just said 'I have to go'. 'I saw her flying down the ferry jetty really fast. She jumped the queue of traffic and just shot off the end. She was going so fast one of her wipers came off. 'The car windows were open and the car started to sink when it hit the water but she just sat there and didn't move. 'Someone threw a life-ring in the water but she didn't try to get it. One guy jumped in but she was clung onto the door. They pulled her into the boat.' The woman was taken to hospital where she was treated for shock and the effects of hyperthermia. The woman was taken to hospital where she was treated for shock and the effects of hyperthermia . Busy: Numerous families with children on school half-term and other tourists were on the quayside and surrounding area when the woman drove in . Solent coastguard said they were called in and the woman and the car were both recovered safely . The roof of the submerged car could be seen a few inches beneath the surface of the water. A barge with a lifting crane on arrived on the scene about an hour later and hoisted the sunken vehicle out of the water. Numerous families with children on school half-term were on the quayside and witnessed the incident at 11.58am today. A spokesman for Solent coastguard said: 'A lady driving a Volkswagen car managed to go into the water off the slipway. 'She has been recovered safely. The car was located 30 metres offshore and collected by a local fishing vessel. A spokesman for the Bournemouth-Swanage Motor Road and Ferry Company, which operates the chain ferry, confirmed the ferry had left the Sandbanks slipway and was halfway across the entrance to Poole Harbour at the time. In 2005, a 30-year-old woman deliberately drowned herself by driving off the same slipway into the sea. Helen Hogan lit a cigarette while she waited for her Rover 416 car to sink with her inside it.

Witnesses describe how woman drove into the water off Dorset at speed . Pensioner 'wound down windows' and refused to move as water came in . Crew from fishing vessel dived in to pull her out shortly before car sank . VW Golf dropped below the water line and had to be pulled out by crane . For confidential . support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local . Samaritans branch or click here .

976238afa9a7dd1423e63e697de65bafb15cb5eb

taking home everything from a Peabody and Emmys to an Edward R. Murrow award. She is a television news icon.' Crowley will celebrate her 66th birthday the day after Christmas. Career: Before joining CNN, she worked as an anchor for the Mutual Broadcasting System radio network, AP, and NBC .

The 65-year-old chief political correspondent will exit this month . Her final appearance hosting State of the Union will be on December 21 . Crowley said she wants the 'chance to do something new' She joined CNN in 1987 and has covered developments on Capitol Hill . CNN President Jeff Zucker praised her calling her an 'impactful journalist'

1144654006affa4182bf8ce68ce5d397468ceb16

An Illinois auction house says it is selling the revolver that almost killed former Alabama Governor George Wallace. Rock Island Auction Company specializes in rare firearms. It listed the revolver for sale on Friday. Company vice president Judy Voss says it's the same gun used to shoot Wallace during a 1972 assassination attempt. Voss says the serial number on the gun matches that listed on police reports. Voss says a date etched in to the gun also matches law enforcement records. Governor George Wallace blocks the entrance to the University of Alabama as he turned back a federal officer attempting to enroll two black students at the university campus in Tuscaloosa, Alabama in 1963 . The gun that almost killed former Alabama Gov. George Wallace in an assassination attempt in 1972, is being sold by an Illinois auction house . In this June 11, 1963 photo, Vivian Malone and James Hood stand in the doorway of Foster Auditorium where they hold what they called their 'first and final news conference' after the two African-American students registered at the University of Alabama . Arthur Bremer shot Wallace during a Maryland stop as the governor campaigned for president. It left Wallace paralyzed from the waist down. The auction company gave a presale estimated value of between $15,000 and $30,000. Voss did not say who was selling the gun. Nine years before his assassination, one of the most iconic moments in the history of America's civil rights movement took place with the infamous 'stand in the schoolhouse door'. It was on June 11, 1963, when then governor George Wallace tried to stop two black students from registering for classes at the University of Alabama. Governor George Wallace, right, attempted to prevent James Hood and Vivian Malone from registering for classes at the university in 1963 . President John F Kennedy, who ordered Wallace to stand aside, delivers a speech at a rally in Fort Worth, Texas, several hours before his assassination in 1963 . Alabama Governor George C. Wallace and his wife Cornelia. The Governor was paralyzed from the waist down by one one of four gunshot wounds he suffered while campaigning at a shopping center in Maryland . He stood in the door at the university's Foster Auditorium and, in defiance of federal law, refused Vivian Malone and James Hood entry. When federal marshals intervened, he stood firm and delivered an impassioned speech against desegregation. Wallace eventually relented when a U.S. general acting under orders issued by President John F Kennedy demanded he make way. Malone and Hood then entered. The incident brought Wallace into the national spotlight and led to the desegregation of the university as Malone and Hood made history by becoming the first black students to enroll. James Hood pictured going to class and outside his dormitory at the University of Alabama in 1963 . Historic site: The Foster Auditorium on the campus of the University of Alabama . Wallace, shown here at the age of 67 in 1987 served four terms as Governor. The wheelchair bound Wallace who ran for president four times and stood in the schoolhouse door to block integration said he was concerned with how history will treat him . Former four-term Alabama Governor George Wallace in an emotional moment in 1994 as he hugged friend Connie Harper at a celebration of Wallace's 75th birthday. Wallace's daughter, Peggy Wallace Kennedy, said her family has lived in the shadow of the schoolhouse door ever since . George Wallace's symbolic attempt to stop black students enrolling followed his inaugural promise of 'segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever' and stop the desegregation of schools. Eleven years earlier, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its landmark decision in Brown Vs Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas, in which it was argued the education of black children separate from white children was unconstitutional. The Brown case meant the University of Alabama had to be desegregated. But in the years that followed hundreds of African-Americans applied for admission, but all were denied. The university worked with police to find any disqualify them, or when this failed, intimidated the applicants. But in 1963, three African-Americans with perfect qualifications - Vivian Malone Jones, Dave McGlathery and James Hood - applied, and refused to be intimidated. In early June a federal district judge ordered that they be admitted, and forbade Governor Wallace from interfering. Then on June 11, Malone and Hood arrived to register, with Wallace attempting to uphold his promise. Federal marshals told Wallace to step aside but Wallace cut Katzenbach off and refused, giving a speech on States' rights. It took General Henry Graham to command Wallace to step aside, saying: 'Sir, it is my sad duty to ask you to step aside under the orders of the President of the United States.' Wallace, who survived an assassination attempt that left him in a wheelchair, died in 1998 having renounced segregationism.

Gun’s serial number was checked with the police records and it was confirmed to be the same weapon used in the attempted killing of Wallace . Wallace was running for president at the time of the shooting in 1972 . Arthur Bremer shot Wallace during a campaign stop for the Democratic nomination for president in Maryland, which Wallace later lost to George McGovern . Wallace remained paralyzed from the waist down and it led to the jailing of Bremer, who was released in 2007, after serving 35 years . Wallace was known for his Southern populist and segregationist attitudes during the African-American civil rights movement . He eventually renounced segregationism .

c080d22ed75e962c3724995fcc17f6b002a16b82

Manchester United are ready to spend another £150million next summer to complete the Gaal-actico revolution at Old Trafford. United are convinced they are heading in the right direction under Louis van Gaal and want to copy the Real Madrid blueprint by having an elite player in every position. After backing the Dutchman by making six signings last summer — including smashing the British transfer record to sign Angel di Maria for £59.7m — the club are preparing for another massive investment, with senior sources insisting that the rebuilding has only just begun. Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal, waving to the crowd, looks set to continue an overhaul of his squad . Bayern Munich and Holland star Arjen Robben is a potential target of Van Gaal's at Old Trafford . United have spent £215m on players since September 2013 in a bid to reverse the alarming decline of the past 18 months, and another spree on the scale of last summer would take their investment beyond £350m. Van Gaal has made centre back, right back and winger his main target areas. United have not ruled out making signings in the January transfer window — as was the case with Juan Mata’s £37.1m arrival from Chelsea at the start of this year — but suspect they will have to wait until the summer to find the right players. The list includes Barcelona right back Dani Alves, Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben, central defenders Mats Hummels of Borussia Dortmund and Diego Godin of Atletico Madrid, and Roma defensive midfielder Kevin Strootman. Roma's Kevin Strootman (left) and Barcelona's Dani Alves could be set for moves to Man United . Kevin Strootman (Roma) - Likely fee: £30m . The Roma midfielder, 24, might have been a United player already had he not suffered a knee injury in March and the club have retained a strong interest. Diego Godin (Atletico Madrid) - Likely fee: £28.5m . The experienced Atletico Madrid centre back, 28, is on United’s list of targets but they would have to trigger the £28.5m release clause in his contract. Dani Alves (Barcelona) - Likely fee: Free . United want elite players and signing the 31-year-old Brazil right back, out of contract at Barca next summer, would be a coup. Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund) - Likely fee: £32m . United’s inquiry for the Germany centre-back, 25, was rebuffed last summer but the Old Trafford paymasters are ready to try again. Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich) - Likely fee: £20m . Van Gaal has made little secret of his desire to be reunited with the Bayern Munich winger, 30, a key member of his Holland squad at the World Cup. As Borussia Dortmund struggle at the bottom of Bundesliga, Mats Hummels could seek a transfer . Atletico Madrid centre back Diego Godin has been highlighted as a transfer target at OId Trafford . United also have a big decision to make over striker Radamel Falcao, who will cost a further £46m on top of his £6m loan fee if his move from Monaco is made permanent. The Colombia striker has struggled with injury so far, scoring just once. A fresh influx of signings will be followed by another major clear-out after 20 players were cut from the first-team squad last summer. Reserve goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard could be the first to go in January, paving the way for United to offer a contract to former Barcelona No 1 Victor Valdes who has been training at Carrington as he recuperates from a serious knee-ligament injury. United have decided to keep Anderson until the end of his contract in the summer rather than give him a £1.4m pay-off next month, but a number of Brazilian clubs are interested in taking the midfielder back to his homeland and Old Trafford sources are optimistic a buyer can be found. Striker Radamel Falcao needs to prove his fitness in order to force a permanent move to Manchester United . Mexican Javier Hernandez celebrates scoring for Real Madrid, where he is on loan this season . Robin van Persie, who has one year left on his contract, has only scored four goals for United this season . Nani has been in impressive form on loan at Sporting Lisbon but United are unlikely to recall the Portugal winger and will look to sell to any club prepared to take on his wages of £120,000 a week. Javier Hernandez, Tom Cleverley, Wilfried Zaha and Nick Powell are also out on loan and unlikely to return. Darren Fletcher is out of contract at the end of the season, while Robin van Persie, Ashley Young, Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Rafael will have one year left on their deals. It means that up to 10 players could leave Old Trafford in addition to last summer’s exodus. That represents a massive turnover for a club that grew accustomed to stability under Sir Alex Ferguson. Chris Smalling (top) could be one of 10 Manchester United players to leave the club in January or the summer . Juan Mata , who has recently regained his top form, was a January window signing from Chelsea this year . However, United are satisfied with the way Van Gaal has overhauled the squad and remain confident they can return to the European elite with the right investment and approach. Despite a poor start, the new manager has taken his team into fourth place in the Premier League table after signing Di Maria, Falcao, Ander Herrera, Daley Blind, Marcos Rojo and Luke Shaw in the summer. Two players United do want to keep are goalkeeper David de Gea and Michael Carrick. De Gea has matured into one of the best goalkeepers in Europe since joining United in the summer of 2011 but the Spaniard will be out of contract in 18 months time. Goalkeeper David de Gea has been in inspirational form Manchester United so far this season . That has alerted Real Madrid but a United source insisted they are ‘completely relaxed’ over De Gea’s situation, even though negotiations with his representatives have yet to begin in earnest. The club also have an option to extend Carrick’s contract by a further 12 months and seem likely to do so following the veteran midfielder’s return from ankle surgery. Meanwhile, United have yet to decide whether to arrange a prestige friendly abroad or a warm-weather training trip to the Middle East in January and will leave the final decision to Van Gaal.

Louis van Gaal set to add key players to his Manchester United side . Arjen Robben, Dani Alves and Kevin Strootman on the wishlist . Diego Godin and Mats Hummels are also linked with a move to Old Trafford . Manchester United have spent £215m on players since September 2013 . Up to 10 first-team players could leave in January or in the summer .

b4f426f28df8f9269c6737f57daf71e6ea868d26

President Barack Obama and the first family have lit the national Christmas tree. And this time, his daughters Sasha and Malia remembered to smile. Flanking their father, their mother Michelle, and their maternal grandmother Marian Robinson, the teenagers beamed as they clustered around the light switch just feet away from the White House. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Joyful joyful! The entire first family looked full of Christmas spirit at the annual tree-lighting ceremony . The big moment: Malia, 16, beamed out at the crowds and Sasha, 13, stared excitedly at the light-switch as their father told citizens to remember those on military service when they look at the tree, a symbol of hope . Not so spritely: The first daughters' sullen expressions on Thanksgiving prompted a wave of reaction . It was a welcome change after the pair appeared less than festive at the annual turkey pardon for Thanksgiving, which prompted former Republican communications officer Elizabeth Lauten to call them 'classless'. Her controversial comments sparked outrage and Lauten's subsequent resignation. There was no sign of sullenness on Thursday night's event though - both girls, wrapped up warm in J Crew coats, were seen smiling and giggling. Michelle read from The Night Before Christmas at the event hosted by Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson, while the major musical performances came from singers Patti LaBelle and Steve Miller . In his address, Obama said the national tree is a 'symbol of hope and holiday spirit.' He urged Americans to remember members of the U.S. military serving overseas, as well as their families. Glittering: The ceremony was the 92nd to be held outside the White House, with crowds gathered to watch . Joking around: The scene was a change in tone from Malia and Sasha's somber attitude on Thanksgiving . The moment: The girls, both wrapped up warm in J Crew coats, pushed the button together to turn on the glittering red, white and green light display . Hundreds gathered to watch the 47-foot tree light up before speeches and festive story-telling . Support: The Obama girls were accused of failing to show their father support on Thanksgiving but their jovial attitude on Thursday night, walking arm-in-arm with their father, sent a clear message to their critics . 'As we hold our loved ones tight, let's remember the military families whose loved ones are far from home,' Obama said. 'They are our heroes.' There followed performances from artists including singer NE-YO, pop performers Nico & Vinz, singing group The Tenors, and country singer Chely Wright. This year's ceremony marks the 92nd annual lighting of the Christmas tree just steps from the White House. The tradition was started by President Calvin Coolidge in 1923, according to the National Parks Service. A festive kiss: Tom Hanks planted a kiss on Michelle Obama's cheek as they celebrated the annual event . Nativity fun: Michelle and Mo'ne Davis looked animated as they read from The Night Before Christmas . Success! She high-fived her fellow performer, the famed 13-year-old baseball player, when they finished .

President Barack Obama lit the tree outside White House with First Daughters, Michelle and Michelle's mother Marian Robinson . Malia, 16, and Sasha, 13, looked cheerier than they did on Thanksgiving . Obama said the tree is 'symbol of hope', urged people to think of soldiers . Tom Hanks hosted the event, kissed Michelle on the cheek to celebrate .

542f83d99d7336f71f933ba6bba2ee52120366c5

Lewis Hamilton — forlorn, curt and quiet-voiced — had rarely looked more vulnerable than as he left the paddock to spend a night alone with his hopes and thoughts. The world championship is still his to lose. He is 17 points ahead of his Mercedes colleague Nico Rosberg — who took pole — and will start only one place behind him on the grid at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. If he finishes where he starts — second — he will be enshrined in Formula One history as only the fourth Briton to win two championships. Graham Hill is one, the others are Jim Clark and Sir Jackie Stewart, the last to accomplish the feat 43 years ago. Lewis Hamilton appeared vulnerable ahead of the final race of the season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix . Hamilton will battle Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg for the drivers' championship on Sunday . Hamilton qualified in second place and will win the title if he can finish in the same position . But to observe Hamilton here after Rosberg’s virtuoso lap was not to see a man happily embracing his destiny. Damon Hill, the 1996 champion and son of Graham, summed it up perfectly: ‘Nico is doing everything — and I mean everything — to get the high ground over Lewis. Lewis looks sometimes as if Nico is getting to him. I am concerned about that for Lewis’s sake.’ Rosberg was 0.386sec faster in qualifying, giving him an 11th pole to his rival’s seven this season. Hamilton, a venerated one-lap specialist, must find that perturbing and inexplicable. Both men made a few mistakes over the three sessions. Hamilton locked up and ran far on to the kerbs; Rosberg ran dramatically wide in the second session. When he set the fastest lap, Rosberg’s wife Vivian and the Mercedes’ hierarchy celebrated. The man himself put up a thumb and thrust a forearm out as he drove back into the pit lane. It was a gesture of intent. Rosberg celebrates after wining his 11th pole position of the season with the fastest qualifying lap . Rosberg is still in contention for the championship as double points are on offer in the season finale . The German driver appeared more confident as the season reaches its nail biting conclusion . This title fight is now going to be won as much in the six inches between the ears as the 3.47 miles of hot track. And Rosberg seems to be winning the psychological battle. ‘Pressure,’ said the German, ‘is one of the hopes that I have, a bit like today and in the last race in Brazil. ‘They are the kind of opportunities I am looking for. I am pushing to keep the [pressure] level extremely high. Lewis has everything to lose; I have everything to gain, so the pressure is on him.’ Hamilton has made a virtue of having no friends or family with him in the paddock here. There is just him and his Finnish trainer Ville Vihola. But is his singular approach really a help? Or did he miss the companionship of more familiar faces when the going got tough under the night’s sky? By contrast, Rosberg’s little throng of friends tucked into beer and pasta on a table outside the Mercedes hospitality area. They clapped when their man walked over with his plate of rice and chicken. Hamilton had to suffice with the brief company of rapper Pharrell Williams, their meeting making the British driver so late for his 7pm engineering debrief that technical director Paddy Lowe had to fetch him. Rosberg walked briskly there, sipping his water bottle. The up-and-at-‘im attitude was obvious. There are several permutations but Hamilton will be assured victory if he finishes second . Hamilton speaks with international artist Pharrell Williams (left) behind the scenes in Abu Dhabi . Hamilton takes time out to pose for a picture with Williams and Tyrese Gibson (right) How the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix course is set up . So was Hamilton’s dejection. ‘I don’t know whether he puts on looking sad,’ said Hill. ‘His body language in the post-qualifying interview told me he could hardly bare to sit next to Nico. ‘It’s not dislike; it’s just very difficult emotionally to cope with this type of situation. It’s a total psychological game. That’s all it is.’ We should not lose sight of the fact that Hamilton remains favourite for the title. The maths favours him: if he finishes first or second there is nothing Rosberg can do about it, even with the absurdity of the points counting double. And coming in the top two should be straightforward enough so quick are their cars. Yet the Williamses of Valtteri Bottas and Felipe Massa will start third and fourth and cannot be discounted. If Hamilton should not get cleanly through the first corner in at least second place, he is liable to be caught in the scramble behind. Hill knows the dangers of this better than most. For he admits he was ‘not on full attack’ when he led the standings going into his title decider in 1996 and was hit by Gerhard Berger’s Benetton. Former world champion has questioned whether Hamilton has got his tactics clear ahead of the race . Hamilton races as night falls in Abu Dhabi in his quest to be crowned drivers' champion for a second time . Hamilton's racing style does not lend itself to driving for second place . ‘It’s like golf,’ said Hill. ‘The hard bit comes when you get nearer the hole. It’s the 50-yard chip with a half swing. I am not sure Lewis is so good at that.’ Hamilton is supreme as an all-out attacker but that is not his task here. He seems confused about what tactic to employ. Asked how he would conduct the race, he offered a brief response: ‘Same as always.’ Fine, but later, when asked whether he would race for second, he said: ‘You are right it’s not my style. But we will decide tomorrow.’ A couple of hours later, he was a touch more relaxed. ‘I don’t really pay much attention to Nico,’ he said. ‘Of course Nico, for sure, is trying everything possible in his head to come up with some kind of way of dealing with things I guess. That’s just how he deals with it. I just keep things to myself and do my talking on the track.’ Hamilton gives a thumbs up after qualifying, although having Valtteri Bottas behind him could be a concern . Hamilton and Rosberg share the stage together - but who will be standing on the winner's podium? Hamilton takes his Mercedes around the track for the final time before judgement time . By late evening, the Red Bulls were under investigation after the technical delegate Jo Bauer spotted the front wings of the cars driven by Daniel Ricciardo and Sebastian Vettel, due to be fifth and sixth on the grid, were flexing illegally. They were relegated down the grid, so Jenson Button of McLaren moved up to sixth and now could have a say among the fray in what may be his last ever F1 race. His qualifying session was eventful: he had to go back to the pits because McLaren had forgotten to fuel him. ‘Are you joking?’ he said. He still beat his rival for a seat at the team next year, Kevin Magnussen, who will start 11th. The slowest cars on the grid were the Caterhams of Kamui Kobayashi and British rookie Will Stevens. But just making it here was a triumph of sorts for the team, whose affairs are being overseen by an Irishman called Finbarr O’Connell, the administrator and a ballroom dance devotee, who now finds himself on the pit wall.

The F1 drivers' championship will be decided at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix . Lewis Hamilton leads his Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg by 17 points . Rosberg starts on pole while double points mean that Hamilton must finish at least second to win the title .

709524a72c1d41449bf67572eff85de944a55b8e

A newborn boy blinded by a hunter's stray bullet that shot through his living room window has returned home. Shayne Iverson from Clarksburg, Pennsylvania, spent more than two months at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and underwent numerous surgeries following the near-fatal incident. But on Wednesday, his mother Stefanie's 31st birthday, doctors gave him the all-clear. Recovery: Shayne Iverson, who was blinded by a hunter's stray bullet that shot through his living room window at six days old, has returned home in time for his first Christmas . His father, 42-year-old Jeremie Iverson, told the The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review that the infant is doing well. He and his wife haven't been able to work since the accident happened on September 25. They have also been fitting in hospital visits around caring for their other two children, nine-year-old son Caden and Gabi, aged two. Shayne was six days old when he was accidentally shot in the head by a deer hunter in late September. Around the clock care: The infant spent more than two months at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and underwent numerous surgeries following the near-fatal incident . Touch and go: Doctors removed a blood clot to prevent his brain from swelling and battled to save his vision . At the time his father was cuddling him on the couch at home. It was around 7pm. After he was helicoptered to hospital, doctors removed a blood clot to prevent his brain from swelling and battled to save his vision with no joy. They said Shayne likely survived the shooting because the bullet that hit his head exited through his eye socket rather than hitting his brain. Although the two-month-old no longer requires around the clock care he will need to return to hospital for future surgeries. His father, who works as a carpenter, said their home is filled with medical equipment, medications and 'boxes and boxes of medical supplies.' The Iverson family have set up a GoFundMe page where they released a picture of baby Shayne with his big brother Caden, nine, and two-year-old sister Gabi when he was a day old . Mother Stefanie Iverson (pictured with her newborn son) said that her son Shayne's life was spared when the bullet exited through his eye socket . Jeremie Iverson and his wife Stefanie haven't been able to work since their son was accidentally shot . Indiana County District Attorney Pat Dougherty has said the hunter had an agricultural deer control permit. No charges have been filed, though investigators have continued to review whether game regulations or other laws were violated. The hunter was reportedly 300 yards from the home and using a 308 hunting rifle on private farm opposite the Iversons' home. Almost $18,000 dollars has been donated by well-wishers towards the baby's medical costs after his aunt set up a GoFundMe page. In a heartfelt note to The Ellen DeGeneres Show announcing Shayne's return home this week, his great uncle, Jim Coughlin, thanked people for their generosity. He concluded: 'Although Shayne is no longer able to see with his eyes, he has reminded us that real sight comes from the heart.'

Shayne Iverson was just six days old when he was hit by a stray bullet while in his father's arms at his Pennsylvania home . The hunter had an agricultural deer control permit when he fired the shot that wounded the boy about 7pm on September 25 . No charges have been filed .

f72dd291076cc233a1de5f6eeb4559b8d35ffa93

Diego Costa is a major doubt for Chelsea's trip to Manchester United on Sunday after being taken to hospital with a mystery illness. The £32m striker has not trained since returning from international duty with Spain and missed the win at Crystal Palace but his condition is improving following treatment in hospital. The absence of Costa, who has scored 10 goals for club and country this season, is a big blow for Jose Mourinho ahead of the Old Trafford visit. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Mourinho suggests Costa will miss United game . Diego Costa is a major doubt for Chelsea's trip to Manchester United on Sunday after picking up a bug . Hot-shot Costa returned from Spain duty with the illness and hasn't trained since . Jose Mourinho (left) faces a selection dilemma up front after Loic Remy suffered a groin injury . Costa also returned from Spain's Euro 2016 qualifiers against Slovakia and Luxembourg with a groin strain which could keep him out even if he recovers from the bug. Mourinho is also without Loic Remy, who faces a fortnight on the sidelines after sustaining a groin injury in Chelsea's Champions League rout of Maribor on Tuesday. It means the 36-year-old Didier Drogba could lead the Blues line against Louis van Gaal's team on Sunday. Chelsea remain unbeaten this season and currently have a five-point lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League. Didier Drogba could lead the line for Chelsea at Old Trafford if Costa and Remy don't recover in time . VIDEO Mourinho suggests Costa will United game .

Diego Costa returned from Spain duty with an illness . He required hospital treatment and his condition has improved . But the prolific frontman is still a doubt for Sunday's Man United clash . Costa also sustained a groin injury playing for Spain in Euro qualifiers . With Loic Remy also a doubt, Didier Drogba could spearhead attack .

53453ef9d8f3143f19f7497c5cb29f75576c1f46

A French cyclist has broken the land speed record on a bicycle by attaching a hydrogen-peroxide rocket to the frame. Francois Gissy from Alsace recorded a top speed of 163mph (263kph) on his self-built vehicle on an old runway in Munchhouse in North Eastern France. This record beat his previous mark of 150 mph (242.6kph), set in 2002, and just missed out on the powered bike speed record set in 1995 by the Slipstream bike by 3mph (5kph). Scroll down for video . French cyclist Francois Gissy from Alsace has broken the land speed record on a bicycle by attaching a hydrogen-peroxide rocket to the frame. Gissy recorded a top speed of 163mph which beat his previous mark of 150 mph, set in 2002. He just missed out on the powered bike speed record set in 1995 by the Slipstream bike by 3mph . Cyclist Francois Gissy recorded a top speed of 163mph on his self-built vehicle with help from Exotic Thermo Engineering. He broke the record on an old runway in Munchhouse in Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region of France . Concentrated liquid hydrogen peroxide flows into a storage tank that contains a catalyst. This catalyst is usually a material such as silver. The decomposition catalyst causes the hydrogen peroxide to decompose into water steam and oxygen. This reaction heats the gas mixture to around 650 degrees. The hot steam is then pushed through a nozzle attached to the end of . the rock and this provides the thrust need to push the bicycle forward. The velocity of the gas flow after the nozzle becomes well over 1000 m/s and gives the rocket a considerable reaction force thrust. The gas mixture after the decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide contains oxygen. The thrust force is increased if this oxygen is used to burn an organic fuel, before it is released through the nozzle.The . fuel can be a liquid, such as pure alcohol called ethanol that is sprayed in after the . catalyst chamber. Or it can be a solid, such as a rod of polyethylene placed after the catalyst chamber. Source: Peroxide Propulsion . Gissy designed the bike himself while Swiss company Exotic Thermo Engineering (ETE) and engineer Arnold Neracher designed the rocket that propelled it . ETE's rocket used hydrogen peroxide and is called an 'ecological monopropellant motor.' The rocket works by putting concentrated liquid hydrogen peroxide into a storage tank that contains a catalyst. The . fuel can be a liquid, such as pure alcohol called ethanol that is sprayed in after the . catalyst chamber. These kind of rockets are called bipropellant liquid fuel . rockets. Or the fuel can be solid, such as a rod of polyethylene . placed after the catalyst chamber. Such a rocket is called a hybrid . rocket. The decomposition catalyst causes the hydrogen peroxide to decompose into water steam and oxygen. This reaction heats the gas mixture to around 650 degrees. The hot steam is then pushed through a nozzle attached to the end of the rock and this provides the thrust need to push the bicycle forward. The velocity of the gas flow after . the nozzle becomes well over 1000 m/s and gives the rocket a . considerable reaction force thrust. The gas mixture after the decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide contains oxygen. The thrust force is increased if this oxygen is used to burn an organic fuel, before it is released through the nozzle. The record was set at the Munchhouse aerodrome in Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region of France. The speed was officially recorded using a GPS tracker fitted to the bike's handlebars. In the video posted on LiveLeak, Gissy is shown zooming passed a speeding car during his record-breaking ride. ETE's rocket used hydrogen peroxide. It works by putting concentrated liquid hydrogen peroxide into a storage tank that contains a catalyst. The catalyst causes a decomposition that releases hot gases which are pushed through the rocket's nozzle to give it thrust .

Cyclist Francois Gissy topped speeds of 163mph (263kph) on this rocket-powered bicycle . This land speed bike record beat the previous mark set in 2002 by 13mph .

467ecb336ef343a46046e77c293bd3c31180500e

Southampton are considering Lorient centre-back Bruno Ecuele Manga, 25, as they consider their next move with wantaway defender Dejan Lovren. The club are drawing up contingency plans in case they are forced into a climb down over Dejan Lovren. Southampton are making plans to rebuild their squad and don't intend to sell Lovren even if he goes on strike. VIDEO Lovren criticises Saints over Liverpool bid . Show of strength: Bruno Ecuele Manga (left) vies with Mbaye Niang during a French game this year . Head gone: Dejan Lovren is ready to join Liverpool after criticising Southampton . However, ultimately that may not prove healthy for the club. Liverpool are threatening to move on to other targets if there is no change on Lovren soon. Manga ironically was a player watched by Liverpool last year. The 25-year-old Gabon international was also a target for Everton. This time round, Borussia Monchengladbach and Lazio are also monitoring Manga who was Laurent Koscielny's replacement.

Southampton target Lorient defender Bruno Ecuele Manga . Considered a potential replacement for wantaway defender Dejan Lovren . The Croatian is eyeing up a move to Liverpool .

c4c9ea633e05dc32b70ab3d466227c15e8f861d8

An SUV driver who was accused of deliberately running down a Muslim teenager in a 'hate crime' has been charged with first-degree murder. Ahmed H. Aden, 34, of Kansas City, was charged in Jackson County in the crash that killed Abdisamad Sheikh-Hussein, 15, outside a Somali community center. The convenience store manager was seen driving the sport utility vehicle toward the teen as the boy got into a car Thursday evening. Fatal: Ahmed H. Aden, 34, left, was charged in the crash that killed Abdisamad Sheikh-Hussein, 15, right, . A witness saw Hussein 'fly through the air' as the SUV hit him then ran over him. His legs were nearly severed, and he later died in hospital from his wounds. According to the witness, Aden crashed the SUV then got out of the vehicle with a knife. Occupants of the car told officers they followed him and pointed him out to police. One witness said the suspect swung what appeared to be a baseball bat at people, and another witness reported that Aden pulled out a handgun and said to 'Stay there' as he walked away. However, Aden initially told authorities that he had lost control of his vehicle and struck the teen because he thought he looked like a man who'd threatened him several days earlier. FBI spokeswoman Bridget Patton said: 'Federal agents are assisting in the investigation and have opened this matter as a federal civil rights investigation as a potential hate crimes violation.' Patton said she could not release any information on why the case could be considered a hate crime, but Muslim leaders had called for such an investigation early Friday. Scene: The crash unfolded outside the Somali Center, pictured, which the boy's father heads. Community members said that the driver had previously pulled a gun on people there for being Muslim . Death: Teenager Abdisamad Sheikh-Hussein, who also called himself 'Adam' is seen here in Facebook photos . In the weeks before the crash, worshipers said they saw a black SUV painted with threatening messages at the center and cruising around a nearby shopping area. Mohamed Ahmed, 13, of Kansas City said: 'One of the messages was 'Islam Is Worse Than Ebola.' 'I would have thought the police would have taken care of it, but they didn't,' he said. But there was no mention of those incidents in court records and police didn't immediately comment on whether they're connected to the teen's death. Prayer: Men gather to pray the day after 15-year-old Abdisamad Sheikh-Hussein was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver in front of the Somali Center of Kansas City, Mo., Friday, Dec. 5, 2014 . Mohamed Farah, 50, a friend of the boy's family, said he called police more than once in October about a suspicious man who was coming around the center. 'I feel like I lost a part of my body,' he said after the teen's death. Bakar Abdalla, 31, of Kansas City, said the boy's father was a teacher at the center. He said the man who had been frequenting the area with hateful messages was like a bullet in a gun waiting to be triggered. Khadra Dirir, the victim's aunt, said her nephew regularly studied the Quran and had delivered a group prayer the night he died. 'If you asked him a verse, he could tell the chapter,' she said. 'I feel like I woke up in a bad dream.'

Ahmed H. Aden, 34, of Kansas City, was charged Friday in Jackson County . He allegedly killed Abdisamad Sheikh-Hussein, 15, in the crash . A witness reported seeing the teen 'fly through the air' However, Aden initially told authorities that he had lost control of his SUV . Members of the Somalian community prayed for the boy after his death .

4f4119220a07de01790faa38eb1b0bd5d172ce2c

The official portrait of former California Govenor Arnold Schwarzenegger was hung Friday alongside past governors at the state Capitol after getting a touch-up on the spot where his wife's image was removed. Austrian artist Gottfried Helnwein smoothed out a smudge that once featured a lapel button showing the face of wife Maria Shriver, Capitol curator Koren Benoit said. That part had been noticeably painted over when the portrait was unveiled in September. Capitol Curator Koren Benoit, center, helps Greg Scarlato, left, and Blake Robison of the Department of General Services, straighten the portrait of former Govenor  Arnold Schwarzenegger . The two separated after revelations emerged about an affair Schwarzenegger had with his maid that produced a son. It's not clear who removed the Shriver image in the first place. 'The original artist fixed it,' Benoit said. The painting of the two-term Republican governor was hung on the third floor of the Capitol next to his predecessor, Democratic Gov. Gray Davis. Schwarzenegger was elected governor in the same special election in 2003 in which Davis was recalled. Austrian artist Gottfried Helnwein smoothed out a smudge that once featured a lapel button showing the face of wife Maria Shriver,  which had been noticeably painted over when the portrait was unveiled in September . Ex: Months after Schwarzenegger left office, embarrassing revelations emerged about an affair he had with his maid that resulted in a son born out of wedlock - The disclosure devastated his marriage to Maria Shriver . New addition: The picture now hangs on the third floor of the Capitol in Sacramento, California . The realist-style portrait features a steel frame and captures a youthful Schwarzenegger standing in front of the state seal. Benoit said there's some concern about people touching the portrait because of its photograph-like feel. Portraits are deliberately raised high on the wall because some have been damaged in the past with squirted ketchup or key scratches. Alison Parks, a tour guide with the state Department of Parks and Recreation, stopped with a group of children in front of the portrait minutes after it went up. On show: The realist-style portrait features a steel frame and captures a youthful Schwarzenegger standing in front of the state seal . Hands off: There's some concern about people touching the portrait because of its photograph-like feel . 'The cool thing about this painting is that we've been waiting for it for a long time, and it's finally up on the wall,' Parks said. 'And it doesn't have a name yet, a plaque, but can anyone raise their hands and tell me who this is?' Several hands shot up, and the children said, 'Arnold Schwarzenegger." 'Of course a lot of them recognize him not because he was the governor but because of the movies,' said Katie Hagen, a parent who was accompanying another group of fifth-grade students on a Capitol tour. 'I think it's fitting for his personality.'

The official portrait of former California Govenor Arnold Schwarzenegger was hung Friday on the third floor of the Capitol in Sacramento, California . Austrian artist Gottfried Helnwein smoothed out a smudge that once featured a lapel button showing the face of wife Maria Shriver .

629ca7025ae00518e806878876c7806c0d0677e5

Chelsea have announced Ron Gourlay is to leave his role as chief executive. The Scot, who joined the club in 2004 and worked as chief operating officer before succeeding Peter Kenyon as chief exec in 2009, departs on amicable terms to seek new opportunities. Marina Granovskaia, one of Roman Abramovich's advisers, is set for a bigger role behind the scenes at Chelsea. Here, Sportsmail tells you everything you need to know about the situation at Stamford Bridge. Marina Granovskia with Didier Drogba in 2010 and the Premier League trophy, FA Cup and Community Shield . Granovskaia (left) with Drogba (and his son Isaac), Salomon Kalou (second right) and Michael Emenalo . A smiling Granovskaia, Roman Abramovich's former PA who is set to hold much more power at Chelsea . GOURLAY’S GONE, WHAT’S NEXT? 'Chelsea Football Club announces that Ron Gourlay, after 10 successful years at the club including five as chief executive, is leaving Chelsea in order to pursue new business opportunities. 'The club, and in particular the owner (Roman Abramovich) and directors, wish to thank Ron for his many years of service to Chelsea and support his desire to seek new challenges. 'Ron's efforts have helped the club to achieve its position as one of the leading football clubs in the world. 'Pending additional appointments, chairman Bruce Buck and director Marina Granovskaia will assume additional executive responsibilities.' Marina Granovskaia. Keep hold of her coat-tails, she is the next big thing at Chelsea Football Club and is clearly going places after the announcement that Gourlay is on his way out. Gourlay was responsible for the day-to-day running of the club from Stamford Bridge. He was initially commercial director at Chelsea and filled Kenyon's shoes in 2009. Thankfully, we have never had to endure the type of press conference Kenyon squirmed through when Avram Grant was appointed Mourinho’s successor in September 2007. ‘He’s the right man for the job, we are absolutely convinced.’ Gourlay - or ‘Galloping’ as he was affectionately nicknamed by the media - negotiated Chelsea’s massive kit deal with Adidas, although as one industry insider said: ‘They pay, we wear, not difficult’. Gourlay was in the boardroom suite at Crystal Palace on Saturday and there was no hint the chief executive was about to quit Chelsea. Director of football Michael Emenalo was there, along with affable secretary Dave Barnard, chairman Bruce Buck and the up-and-coming figure of Granovskaia. She runs the show now. Ron Gourlay has worked at Chelsea for 10 years, including five as chief executive . HOW POWERFUL IS A CHELSEA CHIEF EXECUTIVE? The most powerful man at Chelsea is Roman Abramovich, period. Beyond that Eugene Tenenbaum, chairman Bruce Buck and the highly-influential Granovskaia jostle for position within Abramovich’s inner circle. To be fair to Gourlay he has overseen a period when Chelsea have become an acceptable face in European football and they are now respected by some of the biggest clubs on the continent. He is a decent, all-round nice guy. Gourlay was famously at the club's training ground on the day Jacob Mellis set off a smoke bomb. Mellis was later fired. Public speaking was never his thing and he gave an awkward interview with Buck to talkSPORT when John Terry had been banned for insulting Anton Ferdinand. Owner Abramovich, pictured celebrating against Arsenal, wields the most power at Chelsea . WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR CHELSEA IN THE SHORT-TERM? The accounts department at Chelsea might notice fewer receipts coming in from Lucio Italian restaurant on Fulham Road. It’s a regular haunt for the power-brokers at Stamford Bridge and takings won’t be down for long. Beyond that, Jose Mourinho will give a gushing tribute to Gourlay at his press conference on Friday and his departure will be recorded in the matchday programme for the fixture with QPR at Stamford Bridge on November 1. AND FURTHER DOWN THE LINE? The next chief executive will come under pressure to find a solution to Chelsea’s long-running problem over a new stadium. Rebuilding Stamford Bridge appears to be impossible and they have lost out on the regeneration project of Battersea Power Station. Gourlay (left) pictured with Chelsea chairman Bruce Buc, who will assume additional responsibilities . 'It has been a privilege to have played a role in the club's considerable achievements both on and off the pitch over the last 10 years, but I feel the time is right to move on to other challenges. 'I would like to thank Mr Abramovich, the directors, the manager and players and all the staff for their support during my time at the club, and wish them much continued success in the future.' They floated the idea of ground-sharing with the RFU at Twickenham for a season while they remodelled Stamford Bridge, but it was met with fierce opposition from local MP Vince Cable. Finding somewhere in the borough to build a new super-stadium - to compete with the biggest clubs in Europe in terms of attendances and matchday revenue - will become more acute over the next few years. WILL THIS AFFECT JOSE MOURINHO’S ROLE? Mourinho was used to being the main man in his first period in charge at Chelsea, but he accepted a different set of conditions and criteria when he returned to the club at the start of last season. He reports to the football club board now and they make the big decisions in terms of policy. Mourinho has his say, but his job is to coach the team and make transfer recommendations. The Chelsea chief executive pictured with former England manager Fabio Capello at Stamford Bridge . MARINA GRANOVSKIA WILL ASSUME 'ADDITIONAL EXECUTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES' - WHO IS SHE? Abramovich’s former PA. She has been close to a number of players in the past and has been on texting terms with them, which is not unusual for a modern-day executive. ANY WORD ON A LONG-TERM SUCCESSOR? Marina Granovskaia. Her time is now.

Ron Gourlay has been chief executive at Chelsea for the past five years . Gourlay is leaving the club to 'pursue new business opportunities' He said it has been a 'privilege' to play a role in club's achievements . Club thank Gourlay for his many years of service and support his decision .

a6dc1eb59538a56c9f6015952cc669a76186f757

Environmentalists have hit out at a giant new solar farm in the Mojave Desert as mounting evidence reveals birds flying through the extremely hot 'thermal flux' surrounding the towers are being scorched. After years of regulatory . tangles around the impact on desert wildlife, the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating . System opened on Thursday but environmental groups say the nearly 350,000 gigantic mirrors are generating 1000 degree Fahrenheit temperatures which are killing and singeing birds. According to compliance documents released by developer BrightSource Energy last year, dozens of birds were found injured at the site during the building stage. State and federal regulators are currently conducting a two-year study of the Ivanpah plant's effects on birds, with environmental groups questioning the the value of cleaner power when native wildlife is being killed or injured. Scroll down for video . 'Tower-power': Heat emanating from the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System, the world's largest solar farm of its kind, has allegedly killed and injured dozens of birds and other wildlife in the Mojave desert . Injured wildlife: Environmentalists say there is growing evidence the technology is scorching birds that fly through the intense heat surrounding the towers, which can reach 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit . Big changes: The Mojave Desert has been transformed from a wilderness which homes tortoises and coyotes to a $2.2billion green energy complex with the power to produce nearly 400 megawatts . Bright future: Jeff Holland walks near some of 300,000 computer-controlled mirrors that reflect sunlight to boilers that sit on 459-foot towers at the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System . Shine on: The computer-controlled mirrors, all 300,000 of them, are used to heat water in the boilers' tubes and make steam, which in turn drives turbines to create electricity . Looking for some hot stuff: A boiler at The Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System on the California-Nevada border vents steam as the field is set to finally open today after years of regulatory and legal tangles . Ivanpah, a joint project uniting NRG Energy Inc., Google Inc. and BrightSource Energy, can produce enough electricity to power 140,000 homes. Larger projects are on the way, but for now, Ivanpah is being described as a marker for the United States' emerging solar industry. While solar power accounts for less than one per cent of the nation's power output, thousands of projects from large, utility-scale plants to small production sites are under construction or being planned, particularly across the sun-drenched Southwest. 'The opening of Ivanpah is a dawn of a new era in power generation in the United States,' said Rhone Resch, president of the Solar Energy Industries Association, a trade group. 'We are going to be a global leader in solar generation.' The plant's dedication comes as government continues to push for development of greener, cleaner power. President Barack Obama has mounted a second-term drive to combat climate change, proposing first-ever limits on carbon pollution from new and existing power plants. His plan aims to help move the U.S. from a coal-dependent past into a future fired by wind and solar power, nuclear energy and natural gas. According to U.S. Energy Information Administration data, the cost of building and operating a new solar thermal power plant over its lifetime is greater than generating natural gas, coal or nuclear power. It costs a conventional coal plant $100, on average, to produce a megawatt-hour of power, but that figure is $261 for solar thermal power, according to 2011 estimates. The figures do not account for incentives such as state or federal tax credits that can impact the cost. Ken Johnson, a spokesman for the solar association, said in a statement that solar systems have seen 'dramatic price declines' in the last few years. That's good for utilities in California, which must obtain a third of their electricity from solar and other renewable sources by 2020. Supervising power: Jeff Holland, left, talks with Noel Hanson as they look out over a part of the five-square-mile field of gigantic mirrors set to produce enough electricity to power 140,000 homes . Shining beacon: While solar power accounts for less than one per cent of the nation's power output, thousands of projects from large, utility-scale plants to small production sites are under construction or being planned, particularly across the sun-drenched Southwest . Nice view: One of the three boiler towers with uses the reflections from the mirrors to heat water and create steam which powers the turbines to create electricity . The Ivanpah site, about 45 miles southwest of Las Vegas, has virtually unbroken sunshine most of the year and is near transmission lines that carry power to consumers. Using technology known as solar-thermal, more than 300,000 computer-controlled mirrors roughly the size of a garage door reflect sunlight to boilers atop 459-foot towers. The sun's power is used to heat water in the boilers' tubes and make steam, which drives turbines to create electricity. While many people are familiar with rooftop solar, or photovoltaic panels, 'these are a little bit different. This takes the sun's rays and reflects them onto towers,' said NRG spokesman Jeff Holland. The plant can be a startling sight for drivers heading toward Las Vegas along busy Interstate 15. Amid miles of rock and scrub, its vast array of 7-by-10-foot mirrors creates the image of an ethereal lake shimmering atop the desert floor. In fact, it's built on a dry lakebed. Google announced in 2011 that it would invest $168million in the project. As part of its financing, BrightSource also lined up $1.6billion in loans guaranteed by the U.S. Energy Department. Ivanpah can be seen as a success story and a cautionary tale, highlighting the inevitable trade-offs between the need for cleaner power and the loss of fragile, open land. The California Energy Commission concluded that while the solar plant would impose 'significant impacts on the environment ... the benefits the project would provide override those impacts.' Uniting powers: The gigantic green energy project is a joint mission between NRG Energy Inc., Google Inc. and BrightSource Energy . Looking at the man in the mirror: Noel Hanson stands near some of 300,000 computer-controlled mirrors on The Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System . All under control: Workers monitor more than 300,000 mirrors from The Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System's high tech control room . Field of (green) dreams: The field of mirrors sprawls over five square miles of the Mojave Desert on the border of Nevada and California, about 45miles southwest of Las Vegas . Such disputes are likely to continue for years as more companies seek to develop solar, wind and geothermal plants on land treasured by environmentalists who also support the growth of renewable energy. At issue is what is worth preserving and at what cost, as California pushes to generate more electricity from renewable sources. In 2012, the federal government established 17 'solar energy zones' in an attempt to direct development to land it has identified as having fewer wildlife and natural-resource obstacles. The zones comprise about 450 square miles in six states — California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico. The Western Watershed Project is continuing to push a lawsuit against federal agencies that reviewed the Ivanpah project. Its California director, Michael J. Connor, said alternatives to the site were not considered and serious environmental impacts, including fragmenting the tortoise population, were ignored. 'Do we really need to have these giant plants first, or is it better to generate solar power on people's roofs, the place it's going to be used?' Connor asked. NRG did not respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit. Resch said a key issue for the industry will be maintaining government policies that encourage development, including tax credits for solar projects that are set to expire in 2016 and government loan guarantees. 'The direct result of these policies is projects like Ivanpah,' he said. According to statistics compiled by the Energy Department, the solar industry employs more than 140,000 Americans at about 6,100 companies, with employment increasing nearly 20 percent since the fall of 2012.

The Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System, the world's largest solar plant of its kind, recently switched on . The plants is located on five square miles of the Mojave Desert, near the California / Nevada border . State energy officials have released photos of bird with singed feathers from flying into the hot 'thermal flux' around the towers, which can reach 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit . The plant is made up of three generating units surrounded by more than 300,000 reflecting mirrors . At full power it produces enough electricity for 140,000 homes but is still attracting controversy over environment .

aaefa8417c672f0c37f1a11751f1c429add7eccd

It is one of the key bonding experiences for a mother and child: breastfeeding. So lesbian partners Heidi and Maryellen Olson wanted to share that with their first-born Sequoia. They both nurse their one-month-old daughter. Phenomenon: Maryellen Olson, 25, nurses her daughter Sequoia despite not giving birth . Both breastfeeding: Her wife Heidi, 26, naturally lactates meaning they can both nurse their first-born . Dubbed 'co-nursing', the little-known practice requires Maryellen, who didn't give birth, to induce lactation and take a natural drug to boost breastmilk. According to the new parents, it has changed everything. 'It is so worth it for the closeness I feel with Sequoia, and also for the sanity-saving it provides both of us,' graduate student Maryellen, 25, told MailOnline from the family's home in Santa Cruz, California. 'We both feel pretty amazed. 'It's amazing to see what our bodies can do, and we felt lucky to have this additional bonding experience available for both of us.' The couple, who married in 2012, discovered the treatment - more common among adoptive families - in a group for lesbians trying to conceive and immediately agreed to pursue it. Maryellen followed a program named the Newman-Goldfarb protocol, which made her body simulate pregnancy. Starting four months before the birth, she took birth control pills and a breastmilk-enhancing drug called Domperidone. The drug does not yet have FDA approval but is prevalent in Europe, some US states, and Canada, where Heidi and Maryellen eventually bought their dosage. Experience: The couple from Santa Cruz, California, said it has made them stronger as a family . Journey: Maryellen (right) started taking birth control pills and a drug called Domperidone four months before Heidi (left) gave birth to Sequoia on November 7. They conceived using artificially inseminated donor sperm . Maryellen stopped the birth control pills six weeks before Heidi's due date, to make her body believe she had given birth, and started 'pumping' up to six times a day. The pump is designed to make a woman's body produce more milk. By the time Sequoia was born on November 7, Maryellen was ready to nurse. She will continue with Domperidone and herbal tablets called 'More Milk Special Blend' until Sequioa is no longer breastfeeding. 'Our friends are fascinated by the fact that my wife and I both breastfeed our daughter,' Heidi, a 26-year-old nurse, said. 'We get a lot of: "Wow, that's amazing!" and "I didn't know that was possible!"' It came after a long battle to conceive. Heidi endured a year-long battle with endometriosis and ovarian cysts that threatened to affect her fertility. In spring this year, she was finally able to undergo an intrauterine insemination (IUI) to implant a donor's sperm in her uterus. But it took ten cycles before the pregnancy test flashed pink. 'It was a heart wrenching time and very hard on us both,' Heidi said. 'Every cycle and negative test was harder than the last, and the doctors were less and less hopeful. Birth: Having followed the meticulous program, Maryellen was able to nurse Sequoia as soon as she was born . Joy: They celebrated the birth at their family home and say they are already easing into their nursing routine . 'Our positive pregnancy test came just in the nick of time, and we were so glad.' Now, four weeks after their home birth, photographed by Santa Cruz Birth Photography, Heidi, Maryellen and Sequoia are easing into their unconventional routine. For Sequoia, it means she doesn't have to wait around - even though she is sometimes stubborn ('she really makes us work for it!'). 'We don't really have a set schedule or rotation,' Maryellen said. 'Whoever is near the baby or holding her will feed her, and the other will try to pump then or shortly after.' 'We are able to sleep in longer chunks due to this, since it's not all on one mama to have to feed her and stay awake. We switch whenever the awake mama feels like she needs help or sleep.' Makes everything easier! Both nursing, it means either can respond to Sequoia's cries if the other is busy . But the crucial benefit is their connection. Maryellen said: 'For me, I am able to feel even closer to her. 'I am absolutely in love with her and feel incredibly connected to her ever since she was in utero, but since she's been out of the womb and I'm breastfeeding, I feel even more connected. 'I know other non-carrying lesbian mothers who feel like they are not as close to their child as the mom who carried the baby, and I know that breastfeeding has helped me feel incredibly bonded to her. 'When she is breastfeeding and falls asleep on me or lays her hand on me, I feel an overwhelming amount of love for her that I wouldn't have were I not breastfeeding.'

Heidi and Maryellen Olson conceived first daughter using donor sperm . Heidi gave birth to Sequoia on Nov 7, Maryellen wanted to breastfeed too . Maryellen followed a program of birth control pills and a milk-enhancing drug for three months before the birth at home in Santa Cruz, California . Now, both mothers nurse their daughter, claim it enhances their closeness .

6dccdea900efd1cb592b19982e0eec8797b387b9

The England bid team for the 2018 World Cup should come clean if they attempted any vote swaps, a former chairman of the Football Association has said. Lord Triesman, who was also chairman of the 2018 bid until 2010, said England should not advocate greater transparency from other countries than it was prepared to apply to itself. His comments came as he launched a renewed attack on the world governing body FIFA during a House of Lords debate on sports governance. Lord Triesman (left) pictured alongside Prince William at the FA Cup final between Chelsea and Portsmouth . In the latest in a string of allegations about the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, won by Russia and Qatar respectively, both countries, along with England have been accused of breaking FIFA rules. A dossier compiled by the Sunday Times and published at the weekend by the Culture, Media and Sport select committee accused Russia and Qatar of engaging in vote-trading and vote-buying while England's 2018 bid are alleged to have engineered a failed vote-swap with their counterparts in the South Korea 2022 bid. All three organisations have always denied any wrongdoing in their bids to host the tournaments, and a report recently by Hans-Joachim Eckert, the chairman of the adjudicatory chamber of FIFA's ethics committee, cleared Russia and Qatar to stage the tournaments. The Sunday Times claims the allegations it submitted to Parliament were contained within a database which it says was compiled by England's 2018 bidding team. The chairman of the Culture, Media and Sport select committee, John Whittingdale, admitted none of the allegations in the Sunday Times dossier had been proven but said they gave the impression of FIFA being a 'deeply corrupt organisation'. After setting out the recent attempts by FIFA to investigate corruption claims, Lord Triesman said: 'It would all beggar belief, but not quite enough disbelief in a way. Triesman (left) pictured alongside FIFA president Sepp Blatter (right) in Zurich, Switzerland . 'The England 2018 bid team apparently also have a secret dossier with potential evidence of corruption. 'When asked by Mr Justice Dingemans and also I think by the select committee, they said they had no further information. 'I would love to have seen it. It would have gone immediately to Mr John Whittingdale and his committee and they would have been the people to judge whether it was appropriate to move further and not those who really didn't want it to be seen. 'FIFA needs root and branch reform. Its culture will not be changed by tweaking the processes. Culture is always stronger than process. Mr (Sepp) Blatter (FIFA president) and the old school must go. His intention to run again is bad for sport. 'The Swiss government should be involved, the major sponsors should be involved and I believe the bids for the World Cup in 2018 and 2022 should be re-run. 'If England has anything to say about vote swapping that is not to its credit then let's come clean as well and not advocate for others what we are not prepared to do for ourselves.' Triesman (right) seen alongside former England manager Fabio Capello (right) at Wembley Stadium . Setting out the recent situation at FIFA, Lord Triesman, a Labour peer, said: 'Systematic corruption over decades overseen by a group who have been there for decades; World Cups awarded by committee nearly half of whom have been compelled to go and some of whom jumped before that point. 'Whistle blowers and investigative journalists disregarded; no embarrassment quite enough to prompt any action. 'A senior United States lawyer appointed to investigate but not to see the people who had already been exposed as corrupt, nor to view the huge Sunday Times documentation. 'Mr (Michael) Garcia writes a long report that isn't to be published. A German lawyer employed by FIFA writes a summary. Mr Garcia denounces it four hours later as inaccurate and defective. Still no one wants to publish the actual document. 'Candidly, I was surprised to be criticised for not helping Mr Garcia although I was subject to a sub judice restriction because I was being sued by a member of the FIFA executive for suggesting there might be corruption in that organisation.' Triesman added his voice to calls for Michael Garcia's (left) report into FIFA ethics to be fully published . Garcia's report has only been published as a summary by FIFA, something Garcia himself quickly denounced . Opening the debate, Lord Moynihan, a former chairman of the British Olympic Association and sports minister, called for a wide-ranging overhaul of British sports governance. The Tory peer has put forward a backbench Bill on the issue that would bring in a string of measures aimed at improving the situation. 'The need for good governance in sport is no less or more than the requirement for FTSE companies and is essential if we are to protect the interests of athletes in the future,' he said. 'Only by demonstrating good governance in sport, can governance and British sports administrators use their influence internationally to good effect.'

Lord Triesman chaired England's bid to host the 2018 World Cup until 2010 . He wants England to 'come clean' if they attempted to secure vote swaps . Triesman also said FIFA needs 'root and branch' reform .

8023bb490f3c890a4dd1c50e5aa0282eb6ad847d

Luis Suarez's first appearance for Uruguay since sinking his teeth into the shoulder of Italy's Giorgio Chiellini saw the Barcelona forward produce a beautifully-controlled volley that created the opening goal - and leave the pitch to visit the toilet during the game. The 27-year-old was named in the starting XI for the friendly fixture after his ban for four months and nine international matches was restricted to 'official matches only' by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on appeal. And Uruguay's No 9 set about proving why he should be given another chance by striking a right-footed volley that hit the post and forced an own goal from Hassan Muath Fallatah, before Saudi Arabia substitute Naif Hazazi equalised in the dying minutes. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Luis Suarez training ahead of the Saudi Arabia friendly . Luis Suarez is fouled by Omar Hawsawi near the halfway line as Uruguay look to open the scoring . The cross is lofted in as Suarez (far right) peels away from Saudi Arabia defenders to get himself primed . Suarez meets the cross and unleashes a shot towards goal, only to find he hits the left post . The ball makes its way towards goal as eight Saudi Arabia defenders look to see if it hits the back of the net . The ball hits the post and heads for Muath Fallatah, who scores an own goal to break the deadlock . The ball goes into the back of the net via Saudi Arabia defender Fallatah and Suarez runs away to celebrate . Suarez, Barcelona's new forward, celebrates the goal with his Uruguay team-mates on Friday night . Saudi Arabia: Abdullah, Omar Hawsawi, Al-Harbi, Osama Hawsawi, Al-Zori, Hassan Fallatah, Bakhshwain, Al-Shehri, Al-Dossari, Al-Bassas, Al-Shamrani . Subs: Al-Qarni, Hazazi, Al-Faraj, Al-Sharahill, Assiri, Khariri, Al-JassIm, Al-Muwallad, Mukhtar Fallatah, Al-Shahrani, Motaz Hawsawi, Ghani, Al-Maiouf, Al-Enazi . Bookings: Al-Bassas, Bakshwin . Goal: Hazazi (90) Uruguay: Muslera, Maxi Pereira, Gimenez, Velazquez, Corujo, Pereira, Arevalo Rios, Lodeiro, Cristian Rodriguez, Jonathan Rodriguez, Suarez . Subs: Martin Silva, Godin, Mayada, Hernandez, De Arrascaeta, Stuani, Gaston Silva, Ramirez, Arismendi, Rolan . Booking: Corujo . Goal: Fallatah (OG, 47) Suarez, who midway through the match asked for permission from the referee to run down the tunnel and visit the toilet, was clearly delighted to be back. After the match, he said: 'Happy to wear this shirt again which gives me so much joy. You never lose your love for the shirt. Uruguay!' It took until the second half for Suarez to muster the chance for Uruguay in Jeddah, but it was single-handedly created by the controversial £75million striker. Suarez won the initial free-kick after a rash challenge by Omar Hawsawi near the half-way line before peeling away from defenders to meet the resulting cross. He hit the left post as goalkeeper Abdullah Faisal Alarraf remained rooted, and defender Fallatah could do little to prevent the ball ricocheting off him into the back of his own net. Suarez could and should have doubled Uruguay's lead in the 66th minute, too. Latching on to a poor back pass, he found himself one-on-one with Abdullah, but the Saudi Arabia goalkeeper did well to get a palm to the ball as Suarez sluggishly tried to go around. Suarez, looking disgusted with himself for squandering the opportunity, was substituted for Hull City's Abel Hernandez shortly afterwards by manager Oscar Tabarez with 20 minutes remaining. Suarez could and should have doubled Uruguay's lead in the 66th minute but got plenty of game time . Suarez is getting closer to making his competitive Barcelona debut with Real Madrid on October 25 looming . Suarez was unable to double Uruguay's lead in the second half and get his own name on the scoresheet . Suarez left the pitch midway through the match after asking for the referee's permission to visit the toilet . Suarez's heat map in Sportsmail's Match Zone shows he got himself about in certain areas on Friday night . Uruguay had Fernando Muslera to thank for keeping their lead intact. The goalkeeper repeatedly denied Saudi Arabia but it did little good in the dying moments when a glancing header from Hazazi brought the teams level in the 90th minute. Tabarez, previously asked to justify selecting Suarez for the friendly, told reporters last Friday: 'I will only speak with Luis Suarez about my thoughts. 'You must be humble and not judge. I know people have an opinion about it, but judging doesn't amuse me.' But Suarez's efforts will please his new owners at the Nou Camp with his potential return to competitive football looming when Real Madrid verse Barcelona on October 25. In a bizarre twist of fate, Chiellini scored both goals for Italy as they beat Azerbaijan 2-1 in their Euro 2016 qualifier on Friday. The defender also found the wrong net to complete his hat-trick. Suarez asks the referee's permission before heading for the tunnel during the Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay game . Barcelona's new forward Suarez leaves the pitch as play continues between Saudi Arabia and Uruguay . Suarez heads down the tunnel to pop to the toilet during the match after asking the referee if he could leave . Suarez trains with his Uruguay team-mates ahead of the match against Saudi Arabia . It was Suarez's first international match since biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini during the 2014 World Cup .

Luis Suarez starts for Uruguay against Saudi Arabia in friendly after Court of Arbitration for Sport restricted striker's ban to 'official matches only' The Barcelona forward forces a Hassan Muath Fallatah own goal to break deadlock with a right-footed volley that hits post and ricochets off defender . Suarez runs down tunnel and leaves pitch during the game after asking the referee if he can go to the toilet before being substituted on 70 minutes . Naif Hazazi equalises in the final minute as Saudi Arabia secure 1-1 draw .

f74ea1907862edb4900e15b9e6c6dc95c6a09774

A £15 million British military base will be established in Bahrain marking Britain's clear commitment to a 'sustained presence east of Suez', the Foreign Secretary has said. Philip Hammond told a security summit that bolstering the Royal Navy's presence in the Gulf would allow the UK and its allies in the region to 'tackle the threats we face together'. Britain already has four minehunters permanently based at the Mina Salman Port, but the plans will allow for an increase in the number and size of warships sent to the area. Scroll down for video . £15million development: Britain is to establish a new military base in Bahrain in a Gulf security deal . Under the deal – described by Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nicholas Houghton as 'symbolic and strategically important' – the port will be expanded and a forward operating base established, with Bahrain paying most of the costs. Although military chiefs are understood to have been working towards the move for around two years, the threat from Islamic State has heightened the focus on Britain's presence in the region. 'To our partners in the Gulf my message is this: Your security concerns are our security concerns,' Mr Hammond said in a speech in Manama, Bahrain. 'So our strategic priority for the Gulf and for the wider region is to build partnerships. Partnerships for security; partnerships for prosperity; partnerships for stability.' He added: 'The expansion of our footprint that this arrangement will now allow means we will have the capability to send more and bigger ships, and to sustain them and their crews in permanent facilities. Philip Hammond said the new base would accommodate ships including Type 45 destroyers, such as the HMS Dauntless, above . 'A clear statement of our commitment to our sustained presence east of Suez. 'A reminder of our historic and close relationship with Bahrain and one example of our growing partnership with Gulf allies to tackle the threats we face together. 'And those threats have taken on a new and insidious form: in Benghazi and in Mosul, in Yemen and in Northern Nigeria, we face a common but shadowy enemy: extremists who seek to hijack Islam to impose their own perverted agenda by fear and by the sword; who reject all norms of civilised behaviour; who challenge all structures of established order.' The move was described as 'symbolic' by Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir Nicholas Houghton and reverses a 1960s' decision to withdraw British forces stationed 'east of Suez'. Under the deal, existing facilities at the port will be expanded and a forward operating base established, with Bahrain paying most of the £15 million infrastructure costs. Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: 'This will enable Britain to send more and larger ships to reinforce stability in the Gulf.' Britain already has four minehunters naval ships permanently based at the Mina Salman Port, above . Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond (left) said the plans would help 'tackle the threats we face together' while Defence Secretary Michael Fallon (right) said more ships will be sent to the Gulf . 'This new base is a permanent expansion of the Royal Navy's footprint and will enable Britain to send more and larger ships to reinforce stability. We will now be based again in the Gulf for the long term.' Mr Hammond signed the deal with Bahrain's foreign minister Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Khalifa. Sheikh Khalid said: 'It reaffirms our joint determination to maintain regional security and stability in the face of challenging circumstances, and gives further strength to our multifaceted partnership. 'Bahrain looks forward to the early implementation of today's arrangement and to continuing to work with the UK and other partners to address threats to regional security.' A string of human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, have criticised the state's human rights record, and anti-arms campaigners protested outside a This is Bahrain conference in Westminster earlier this year, demanding the Government and royal family sever all ties with the regime. General Houghton told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'It's the strategic importance of this. Rather than just being seen as a temporary deployment to an area for a specific operational purpose, this is more symbolic of the fact that Britain does enjoy interests in the stability of this region. The £15million expansion of Mina Salman Port means more ships and larger ships will be sent to the Gulf. Above, the HMS Duncan arriving in Cardiff earlier this year . 'And the fact that the Bahraini authorities and government agreed to fund infrastructure within the country to base our maritime capability forward, both is a recognition from their perspective of the quality of the relationship with the United Kingdom, but also of our interest over time in maintaining the stability of this very important area.' Shadow Defence Secretary Vernon Coaker said: 'Labour supports the Royal Navy having a strong international footprint with the ability to respond quickly to events in a uncertain global environment. 'British defence policy must be strategically-led. The Strategic Defence and Security Review and a National Security Strategy are due to take place next year, and it was expected long term issues like this would be assessed and decided then. 'The Government should therefore clearly set out its reasons for making this particular decision at this time.'

Philip Hammond told security summit of plans to bolster presence in Gulf . Says it will allow UK and allies in region to 'tackle threats we face together' UK already has four minehunter ships stationed at the Mina Salman Port . Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said more and larger ships will be sent .

2fc38317c250f8ca7070713c44368690efc81e53

Click here to read Adel Taarabt's response to Harry Redknapp's 'overweight' claims . QPR owner Tony Fernandes has backed Harry Redknapp following his scathing attack on Adel Taarabt at the weekend. The Loftus Road boss accused the mercurial Moroccan of being ‘three stone overweight’ after he was left out of the squad for Sunday’s 3-2 defeat against Liverpool. Redknapp fumed: ‘He played in a reserve match the other day, and I could have run around more than he did. Adel Taarabt has been criticised by his manager Harry Redknapp for being overweight . QPR owner Fernandes echoed Redknapp's comments on Taarabt, but later deleted his tweet . Fernandes cannot bear to watch as his team concede a late goal to Liverpool after fighting back from behind . QPR midfielder Adel Taarabt has hit back at manager Harry Redknapp's claim that he is  overweight . ‘I am a professional — this is not about retaliation'... Taarabt spoke his mind in full about the situation . ‘I want players who want to try and work every day at a good club like QPR, and show a good attitude - and that’s what I got from the players against Liverpool. ‘When he starts doing that, whether he ever can even do it, maybe he’ll get a game. I can’t keep protecting them, when he’s three stone overweight and on 60, 70 grand a week and don’t train. What’s the world coming to?’ Struggling to recover from a string of ankle injuries, Redknapp said Taarabt is 'about three stone overweight' Taarabt's work ethic was challenged by Redknapp, who alluded to the Moroccan having a bad attitude . Redknapp questioned the QPR midfielder's willingness to show he deserves his '60 to 70 grand-a-week' wages . Taarabt has featured just twice since his loan spell at AC Milan last season, and Fernandes has lent his support to Redknapp after his verbal volley at the midfielder. He tweeted: ‘Professional players must be fit . if I do a Job. I’m ready to do he job. Full stop. The bucks stops at you . its your body and your career’ The QPR owner has since deleted the tweet. Former Tottenham midfielder Taarabt insists he can only get fitness playing Premier League football . Taarabt made his only start of the season against Burton, but has come off the bench twice in the league .

Harry Redknapp had criticised Moroccan for being overweight . Owner Tony Fernandes tweets criticism of the QPR midfielder . But Fernandes deletes his comments soon after .

6425fc57fe964ad80239cc39cb4d1494bd827933

A retired investment banker who took his own life at his Kensington mansion had become ‘very anxious’ about authorities investigating his former employer, an inquest has heard. William ‘Bill’ Broeksmit, 58, who was a former executive at Deutsche Bank, killed himself in January after leaving several suicide notes for family and friends. The inquest at London's High Court heard how Mr Broeksmit retired from his position at the bank in February last year. William 'Bill' Broeksmit, 58, was found hanged at his home in South Kensington, central London, left, on January 26, by his wife Alla, far right, who is pictured with Stella Hayes at a book launch party in 2008 . Written medical evidence said he was ‘very anxious’ last summer about authorities investigating areas of banking where he had worked, but did not give any further details. The former senior manager, who had close ties to the bank's co-Chief Executive Anshu Jain, was found dead at his South Kensington home by his wife, Alla, on January 26. None of his family was present for the inquest but his lawyer handed a note from his wife to reporters afterwards which said: ‘Bill was a loving husband and devoted father. The children and I are heartbroken by our loss.’ The inquest was told how he had not appeared anxious or depressed when he last saw a doctor in December 2013. Psychologist William Mitchell said Mr Broeksmit recognised his concerns were due to a state of anxiety rather than reality. Coroner Fiona Wilcox said there was ‘clear suicidal intent’ in the notes he left but did not give details of their content. Mr Broeksmit worked in investment banking and lived on exclusive Evelyn Gardens in South Kensington, pictured, which has an average property value of £1.9million . She said: ‘These notes do provide evidence of intention. I am therefore satisfied … that William Broeksmit did take his own life.’ Mr Broeksmit worked in investment banking - specifically risk and securities - and lived on exclusive Evelyn Gardens in South Kensington, which has an average property value of £1.9million. He was also registered to a high-value property a stone's throw from New York's Central Park. Mr Broeksmit's name appears on US government records for the Broeksmit Family Foundation, which is based in the palatial 1185 Park Avenue building. Mr Broeksmit is linked by US documents to a three-bedroom apartment in this building, yards from Central Park in New York . The three-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment to which he is linked was worth around £2million when it was last sold in June 2000. Mr Broeksmit, who was born in the United States, was a key founder of Deutsche's investment bank and one of many bankers, including Mr Jain, who joined Germany's flagship lender from Merrill Lynch in the 1990s when Deutsche launched plans to compete on Wall Street. He was involved in the process of rescuing the bank in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, when many investment banks found their debts were 'toxic', and unlikely ever to be repaid. Co-chairmen of Deutsche Bank, Juergen Fitschen (left) and Anshu Jain (right) called Mr Broeksmit 'a dear friend and colleague to many of us who benefited from his intellect and wisdom' William Broeksmit worked at Deutsche Bank from 1996 to 2001, then from 2008 until he retired (file picture) Mr Broeksmit, a renowned risk expert, assisted the bank's efforts to shift the worst of the debt, and reduce its total amount of lending. Chiefs at Deutsche Bank had planned to promote Mr Broeksmit to its management board in 2012, but stopped when the German financial regulator expressed doubts about his experience as a leader. Deutsche Bank said in a statement after yesterday’s inquest: ‘Bill was not under suspicion of wrongdoing in any matter.’ Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

William Broeksmit was found dead at South Kensington home in January . The 58-year-old senior manager retired from the bank in February last year . Medical evidence said he was 'very anxious' about investigation into bank . Inquest ruled there was 'clear suicidal intent' in notes he left for his family . His wife Alla described him as a 'loving husband and devoted father' Deutsche Bank chiefs said he was 'not under suspicion of wrongdoing' For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or click here.

1b0e199c8f459f2daa7704b96db354af8954f279

Japan has given the Scotch whisky industry a ‘wake up call’ - after a single malt from the Far East was named the best in the world. Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 has been given the title by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible - which describes the drink as a work of ‘near incredible genius’. For the first time, the 2015 edition of the renowned publication features no Scottish distillery in its top five. Scroll down for video . Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 has been given the title by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible - which describes the drink as a work of ‘near incredible genius’ And to rub salt in Scotland’s wounds, the auld enemy has won European Whisky of the Year - the honour going to Chapter 14 Not Peated, from the English Whisky Company. The Yamazaki Single Malt, from Japan’s oldest distillery which dates back to 1923, was given 97.5 marks out of 100 by Murray - who hailed its ‘nose of exquisite boldness’ and finish of ‘light, teasing spice’. Varieties of Scotch whisky has been named best in the world by Murray in two of the last three years - Old Pulteney’s 21 year-old single malt in 2012 and Glenmorangie Ealanta in 2014. Varieties of Scotch whisky has been named best in the world by Murray in two of the last three years - Old Pulteney’s 21 year-old single malt in 2012 and Glenmorangie Ealanta in 2014. But the expert says that the emergence of such high quality overseas tipples should be a ‘wake up call’ for the Scottish industry. He accused producers of taking their ‘eye off the ball’ adding that the Yamazaki drink is ‘a single malt which no Scotch can at the moment get anywhere near’. Robert Burns (left) loved his whisky and even has a single malt named after him (right) Murray said he had sampled hundreds of Scotch whiskies while tasting 4,700 varieties from around the world for his 2015 bible. In a savage critique of the Scottish industry - whose quality was written into folklore by the likes of Robbie Burns, he complains: ‘Where were the complex whiskies in the prime of their lives?’ Scottish bard Burns’s 1785 poem Scotch Drink celebrates whisky as ‘thy strong heart’s blood’ and ‘guid auld’ drink. But Murray bemoans the lack of innovation in the present-day industry. He writes: ‘Where were the blends which offered bewildering layers of depth? ‘Where were the malts which took you on hair-standing journeys through dank and dingy warehouses? ‘Some have taken their eye off the ball and not brought into account the changes which have altered the face of whisky. ‘They began to believe their own PR hype and standard brands started standing still or going backwards.’ The winning Yamazaki whisky - of which only 18,000 bottles were made - is only sold in a few hundred specialist shops in the UK and retails for £100.

Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 given title by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible . For first time, the 2015 edition features no Scottish distillery in its top five . European Whisky of the Year went to Chapter 14 Not Peated, from English Whisky Company . Yamazaki Single Malt from Japan’s oldest distillery, which dates to 1923 .

e495c55586c045e2cc951a9c36a1016fca3c3723

Ronald Koeman wants to bring Graziano Pelle and Terence Kongolo to Southampton from his former club Feyenoord. The striker and centre back could follow their former manager to St Mary's with Pelle the subject of an £8million bid. Kongolo is on international duty with Louis van Gaal's Holland side but has only played one minute so far - as a late substitute against Chile. International class: Kongolo is playing for Louis van Gaal's Holland at the World Cup in Brazil . Meanwhile, Sammy Lee will become Koeman's assistant after plumping for a move to Southampton over Championship side Brighton. Wanted: Leicester City are set to make a move for Feyernoord striker Graziano Pelle . VIDEO Koeman handed Saints job .

Koeman has money to spend following the sale of Luke Shaw . Pelle and Kongolo could follow the Dutchman from Feyenoord .

cf3e2902d9e3a25b9dd87f1a3a59c0551bf23555

A suicide bomber has killed at least 55 people and wounded more than 120 during a 'flag-lowering' ceremony at the main Pakistan-India border crossing. The explosion happened at the Wagah border gate near the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore after the display of military pageantry that attracts thousands of spectators every day. Crowds gather at Wagah each sunset to watch the ceremony that accompanies the formal closing of the border post. Scroll down for video . At least 55 people have been killed and dozens injured in a suicide bombing at a border crossing between India and Pakistan . A woman mourns for her relative next to the bodies of the blast victims at a hospital in Lahore, Pakistan . The Punjab police chief said the blast happened when a suicide attacker approached a restaurant after the Wagah ceremony and detonated his explosives . Pakistan has been wracked by a homegrown Taliban insurgency, the Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) movement that has killed thousands of people in recent years . The attack is a rare strike in Punjab, Pakistan's richest and most populous province. The area, which is also the power-base of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, has been spared the worst of the bloody wave of Islamist violence that has assailed the country in recent years. Mushtaq Sukhera, the Punjab provincial police chief, said: 'It appears to have been a suicide attack. At least 55 people have been killed and more than 120 wounded. Women and children were also killed.' Lahore police chief Amin Wains confirmed it was a suicide attack. It appears the blast took place some distance from the famous crossing point itself. 'People were returning after watching the parade at Wagah border when the blast took place. Ball bearings were found at the scene,' he said. A Pakistani woman next to paramedics who tend to a body of the blast victim at the Wagah border crossing . A woman comforts a man mourning for their relative in the wake of the deadly explosion near Lahore . The attack is a rare strike in Punjab, which is Pakistan's richest and most populous province . Mushtaq Sukhera, the Punjab police chief, said the blast happened when a suicide attacker approached a restaurant after the Wagah ceremony and detonated his explosives. He said the attacker had struck when security had been 'a bit relaxed'. There are several security checkpoints on the road leading to the border post, which is equipped with a ceremonial gate and banked seating. Before entering, spectators are security checked, though searches are not always particularly rigorous. Dozens of people use the Wagah crossing to enter India and Pakistan every day as it is the only road crossing between the two countries. It is also a crucial trade facility, where truck-loads of goods coming from and going to India are loaded and unloaded. A child is injured and receives initial treatment at a hospital in Lahore following the explosion in the Punjab area . Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack as a 'dastardly act of terrorism' Rescue workers and police tend to the bodies of the victims of the suicide bomb attack in Pakistan . Pakistani authorities transport the body of the suicide attack, which has been condemned as an 'act of terror' Tahir Javed, a senior security official in Punjab province said that the dead included three members of the border force. He said: 'The suicide bomber failed to cross the security barrier and blew himself up outside when people were coming out.' Tonight, Pakistani opposition politician Imran Khan condemned the blast as an 'act of terror'. 'Shocked and saddened by suicide attack near Wagah border,' the former international cricketer tweeted. Meanwhile Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack as a 'dastardly act of terrorism'. India has in the past accused Pakistan of sponsoring jihadi groups in the region. The two countries, which have fought three wars against each other, have been engaged in a long-running conflict over the region of Kashmir, which both sides claim. An Indian security official said the Indian side of the border was not affected by the explosion. Devastated relatives stand beside the victims of the attack, which various umbrella groups of the Tehreek-e-Taliban group have claimed credit for . In recent weeks, the homegrown Pakistani Taliban group has become fragmented and the differing factions have all laid claim to the suicide bomb attack which has killed at least 55 people . Pakistan has been wracked by a homegrown Taliban insurgency, the Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) movement that has killed thousands of people in recent years. In recent weeks the movement has become fragmented, which has meant several conflicting claims of responsibility for the attack. Abdullah Bahar, a spokesman for a TTP faction loyal to its dead chief Hakimullah Mehsud, said they carried it out to avenge Mehsud's killing in a US drone strike last year. But the Jamat-ul-Ahrar faction, which broke away from the main TTP leadership in September, rubbished the claim and said they were behind the blast. Group spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan said in an email statement the attack was revenge for those killed in the ongoing military operation in North Waziristan tribal area, on the Afghan border. Ehsan said they would soon release video footage of the attack. TV channels also ran claims from a third militant faction, called Jundullah. Pakistani paramilitary soldiers stand guard at the road leading to the scene of the attack in Lahore . Attacks by the homegrown Taliban insurgency were once a near-daily occurrence but have tailed off since the army launched its anti-militant offensive in the north-west. In June the army began the long-awaited operation against militant hideouts in North Waziristan after a bloody raid on Karachi Airport ended faltering peace talks between the government and the Taliban. More than 1,100 militants and 100 soldiers have been killed since the start of the operation, and more than 100 militants have surrendered, according to the military.

At least 55 people killed and 120 wounded during ceremony at sunset . Explosion happened at the main Pakistan-India border crossing . Pakistani politician Imran Khan described the blast as an 'act of terror' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it was a 'dastardly act of terrorism' Pakistan has been wracked by a homegrown Taliban group in recent years .

96724fdb15944bf57e1436074f55884e90c2f8d6

A popular restaurant has made the controversial decision to add a section to its credit card receipts that gives diners the option to leave a second tip for kitchen staff. Zach Pollack, owner/chef at Alimento, a popular Italian eatery in Los Angeles, said he added the second gratuity after two of his cooks left for higher paying jobs. 'They couldn't make it work on their end, and I couldn't make it work on mine - this is a small restaurant,' he told Los Angeles Magazine. 'But at the same time, the servers are walking away with a lot of money. That's great, but it put an issue in the spotlight that I've been aware of for a while.' Would you leave a second tip? Alimento, an Italian restaurant in Los Angeles, has added a second line on its credit card receipts in hopes of retaining its kitchen staff . The kitchen gratuity will be divided evenly between Alimento's line cooks, prep cooks and dishwashers. The sous chefs and Pollack himself will not get a cut. Traditionally, kitchen staff make a higher hourly wage than front-of-house staff - like bartenders and waitresses - to compensate for the fact they aren't making tips. Still, the take-home pay doesn't even out: According to a study cited by Grubstreet, back-of-house workers make an average of $18,720 per year while the people in front make $24,123. Mr Pollack says he hopes other eateries adopt his policy so that ultimately 'the best restaurants would be able to sustain better cooks, rather than losing them to hotels, country clubs, or lounge restaurants that are able to subsidize kitchen labor with extra income.' Ready for dinner! Alimento is located in Los Angeles's trendy Silver Lake neighborhood . Restaurant employees are divided about Pollack's plan. Oliver Levius, a chef at Italian restaurant Pastai in Manhattan, told MailOnline he thinks the kitchen gratuity is 'a little tacky' and 'overly forward.' 'It also pits the servers against the kitchen team, and restaurants tend to work better if the whole joint is pulling together,' he said. Pastai's manager Charles Fenwick Elliott, who is a former waiter, offered another scenario: 'I've had bad tips before as a direct result of the kitchen screwing up. Conversely, great food can go unrewarded if the service is bad. So in my utopic restaurant scenario, I'd like to see tips split down the middle between servers and kitchen staff.' Bob Wilkerson, who worked as a cook in high-end restaurants in Roanoke, Virginia, for more than 15 years, said Pollack's plan is something he always wished for. 'There was nothing worse than working a 500 plate service and then hearing the servers brag about the money that they had made,' Mr Wilkerson said. 'Working a Friday night dinner rush is probably one of the most stressful things I have ever done. Having a few bucks tossed my way at the end of a shift like that would certainly make my day. 'Kitchen workers are the unsung heroes of the food industry, and they can make or break a restaurant's reputation. I don't think there needs to be an industry standard for what to tip the kitchen, but what is it to throw an extra dollar to the cooks? Those dollars would add up.' Although the industry may be divided, none of the potential patrons the Mail interviewed seemed perturbed by the suggestion to leave a second tip for kitchen staff. 'When a meal is really great, why would I not want to reward the kitchen?' said Amelia Mattix, a resident of Brooklyn, New York.. 'I'm in law school, so it's not like I'm exactly rolling in dough at the moment, but a few extra dollars for an awesome meal isn't going to keep me from paying rent.' Chicago resident Jourdan Crouch agrees: 'If the restaurant is tiny - which it sounds like this place is - the owner probably can't afford to raise the hourly wage by much. If this is what I can do to support small businesses that I love, I'm happy to do it. Plus, having a second tip section gives you the option to distinguish great food from great service. I won't punish the server for bad food, and I won't punish the kitchen for bad service.' Mr Pollack insists that the kitchen tip is completely optional - and he's reminding Alimento's diners of this by sending a tiny card out with the bill. 'At Alimento, we believe a great meal comes together not from the effort of any single person, but from the successful cooperation of a team of people, from servers and hosts, to cooks and bussers. Nevertheless, traditional tipping has created a very sizeable gap between the earnings of cooks and servers, and current State law prohibits restaurants from sharing servers' tips with kitchen staff. Rather than imposing a mandatory 'service fee' or 'kitchen surcharge' as many are doing, we'd like to leave the choice in your, the diner's, hands. If you're perfectly happy with tipping as usual, there's no need for you to do anything differently. But, if you'd like to send a little love to the lads and ladies hustling in the back, we'd be honored to provide you the means to do so. All such tips will go to line cooks and other kitchen staff; no one in management will participate.L.A. has many great restaurants, and we're thrilled you've chosen to dine with us today. We will continue to work hard to bring you the best dining experience we possibly can.Thanks for your ongoing support!' This is not the first restaurant that has experimented with a different model for paying its employees. Los Angeles restaurants Republique, Animal, Hungry Cat and others have added a 3per cent surcharge to bills to pay for employees' health insurance, according to the LA Times. And Michelin-star chef Daniel Patterson, who owns Coi in San Francisco, recently announced plans to do away with tips and service charges altogether at his new restaurant Aster. Instead, he will raise menu prices by 15per cent and pay all employees hourly. 'This way, price is all inclusive,' he told Eater. 'There's no healthy San Francisco surcharge. There's no tip, there's no service charge. There's just one price. 'I really do think in five years that's how every restaurant will run.'

L.A restaurant Alimento implemented the idea in an effort to keep talent from leaving for higher paying jobs . The industry is divided on the plan, saying it could pit servers against kitchen staff .

45079fb7007b1792e8ee6332c2d21b224f263b35

Newcastle are preparing a new contract for midfielder Moussa Sissoko amid tentative interest from Arsenal. The 25-year-old France international has been a pivotal figure in the renaissance of Alan Pardew’s side this season although he was sent off against West Ham on Saturday after frustration got the better of him in their defeat. Arsenal want a defensive midfielder who can link defence with attack and provide energy to their side. Sissoko (right) celebrates scoring Newcastle's winner against QPR at St James' Park last month . The midfielder was sent off by referee Mike Dean against West Ham at the weekend . Newcastle manager Alan Pardew (centre) wants to tie down Sissoko to a long-term deal . Everton’s James McCarthy is also a confirmed target of Arsene Wenger but both Everton and Newcastle have little wish to sell in January even if faced with substantial bids. Sissoko still has four years left on his contract but Newcastle are happy to reward his form with improved terms. They are also keen to tie him down as Cheick Tiote continues to attract interest from clubs in Russia and a bid is expected for January. Newcastle, meanwhile, are keen on Danny Ings of Burnley but expect him to see out his contract and are maintaining an interest in MK Dons midfield prospect Dele Alli who has been the subject of enquiries from Liverpool and Brentford also. Newcastle have maintained an interest in Burnley and England Under 21 striker Danny Ings .

Moussa Sissoko has been in fine form for Newcastle United this season . Arsenal want to bring in a midfielder in January and are keen on Sissoko . Newcastle want to offer Sissoko new contract to ensure he stays . Arsenal also hold interest with Everton holding midfielder James McCarthy .

5d16eb821ee4b5579cb5e8f90d10c940f777ded4

A film about homosexual wartime codebreaker and father of modern computing Alan Turing has been attacked by his biographer. Enigma hero Turing played a key role in breaking the German Enigma code during the Second World War while working at Bletchley Park. He is credited with saving thousands of lives during the conflict. But a new American funded film about his life has been lambasted for exaggerating a love affair with a woman, played by Keira Knightley, and making a fictional connection to a notorious spy. Turing was a well known homosexual. Enigma hero Turing (left) played a key role in breaking the German Enigma code during the Second World War while working at Bletchley Park. Benedict Cumberbatch (right) is set to play him in an American funded film . The Imitation Game is based on a biography by Andrew Hodges, an Oxford maths academic. It is set to star Benedict Cumberbatch as Turing and fellow Bletchley codebreaker Joan Clarke will be played by Keira Knightley as Turing's girlfriend - despite the fact that he was gay. The Sunday Times reports that Mr Hodges has been sent a script of the film and is 'alarmed by the inaccuracies it'. He said: 'They have built up the relationship with Joan much more than it actually was.' He said while the couple had been 'briefly engaged', it was said that he liked her because he could talk to her as if she were really another man' and there had never been much physical contact. He said the casting of Keira Knightley in the role, did not 'strike him as right.' Fellow Bletchley codebreaker Joan Clarke (left) is set to be played by Keira Knightley (right) as Turing's girlfriend - despite . the fact that he was gay . He said: 'I'm not being rude about her, but Joan Clarke was no glamourpuss.' The film follows the break-up of their relationship, which happened because Turing was unable to live a lie by marrying her. But Hodges is said to be more concerned about the main story line, which invents a fictional relationship between Turing and John Cairncross, who was later identified as the fifth man in the British spy ring that included Kim Philby and Guy Burgess. People who worked on separate projects at Bletchley were kept apart and Hodges labeled the scenario 'ludicrous'  adding that Turing and Cairncross would never have met. He said: 'Their relationship is invented.' The paper reports that a line in the script, which sees Turing confronted by a colleague who tells him 'No wonder they think you are a spy', has now been removed. The film was written by Graham Moore and is to be directed by the Norwegian Morten Tyldum whose last production was the violent thriller Headhunters, and produced by Teddy Schwarzmann. Enigma hero Turing played a key role in breaking the German Enigma code during the Second World War while working at Bletchley Park (pictured). He is credited with saving thousands of lives during the conflict . Turing led the team at Bletchley Park that cracked the World War II Nazi Enigma code, allowing the Allies to anticipate every move the Germans made . Hodges is said to have written to Mr Moore about his concerns about the script, including criticisms that it showed nothing of . Turing's 'extraordinary skills as a scientist and computer designer'. He said he was told they were going to make more of his marathon running and see him having more interaction with colleagues to make him look less wimpish. Turing led the team at Bletchley Park . that cracked the World War II Nazi Enigma code, allowing the Allies to . anticipate every move the Germans made. He is now widely recognised as a . computing pioneer. They . were tasked with breaking the German codes, transmitted on complex . devices called Enigma machines, which encrypted words into as many as 15 . million million possible combinations. He . also deciphered the codes that ensured the D-Day invasion could go . ahead as planned. But his work was ill-rewarded after the war. Forbidden . to talk about his secret activities, he took a teaching post at . Manchester University, where he became involved with a 19-year-old youth . called Arnold Murray. Turing . turned a blind eye to Murray pilfering petty cash from him, but when a . sentimentally valuable watch went missing, he unwisely reported the . crime to the police. The . police investigating the robbery turned their attentions to Turing’s . private life and he was convicted of gross indecency and given the . choice by the court of going to jail or accepting ‘chemical castration’ – . a course of the female hormone oestrogen to lower his libido. The . persecution and police surveillance Turing found himself under (there . were fears that, at the height of the Cold War, his homosexuality would . make him a target for blackmail by Soviet spies) wore him down. In . June 1954, he decided to imitate his favourite film, Walt Disney’s Snow . White - which he had watched seven times - and fatally bit into an . apple coated with cyanide. Mr Schwarzmann said the film was a drama, not a piece of entertainment and added while they do not want to invent events, there are some 'creative . liberties'. He added: 'When . we come over, we are also going to get in touch with some other experts . on that period. We know how very important Turing is to you over . there.' Turing led the team at Bletchley Park that cracked the World War II Nazi Enigma code, allowing the Allies to anticipate every move the Germans made.He is now widely recognised as a computing pioneer. His outstanding talents were recognised at the outbreak of war, when he was plucked from academic life at Cambridge to head the team at Bletchley Park, codenamed Station X. They were tasked with breaking the German codes, transmitted on complex devices called Enigma machines, which encrypted words into as many as 15 million million possible combinations. He also deciphered the codes that ensured the D-Day invasion could go ahead as planned. But his work was ill-rewarded after the war. Forbidden to talk about his secret activities, he took a teaching post at Manchester University, where he became involved with a 19-year-old youth called Arnold Murray. Turing turned a blind eye to Murray pilfering petty cash from him, but when a sentimentally valuable watch went missing, he unwisely reported the crime to the police. The police investigating the robbery turned their attentions to Turing’s private life and he was convicted of gross indecency and given the choice by the court of going to jail or accepting ‘chemical castration’ – a course of the female hormone oestrogen to lower his libido. The persecution and police surveillance Turing found himself under (there were fears that, at the height of the Cold War, his homosexuality would make him a target for blackmail by Soviet spies) wore him down. In June 1954, he decided to imitate his favourite film, Walt Disney’s Snow White - which he had watched seven times - and fatally bit into an apple coated with cyanide. Apple founders Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak were said to have based their famous logo on Turing’s deadly apple - a proud legacy that will continue regardless of how the establishment views him.

Turing played a key role in breaking the German Enigma code during WWII . He is credited with saving thousands of lives during the conflict . An American funded film is soon to be filmed about the gay codebreaker . Will star Benedict Cumberbatch as Turing and Keira Knightley as girlfriend . But it has been slated by his autobiographer, who has called it ludicrous .

cd965dbe544b6a87ed9e3e42995816e214ccd345

Dangerous: 19-year-old Breona Synclair Watkins was arrested early Tuesday after officers found her driving with her 5-month-old baby in the trunk of the car . A young mother was arrested early Tuesday after she put her 5-month-old baby into the trunk of her car, to avoid getting a ticket for not driving with a car seat. Broward County, Florida sheriff's deputies first spotted 19-year-old Breona Synclair Watkins driving a car with a headlight out around 1am, when she pulled out 15 feet into an intersection at a red light, and then backed up. They then attempted to pull her over, but she continued through the green light and another quarter-mile before coming to a stop. The 14-year-old sitting in the passenger seat said the 2005 Dodge Stratis belong to her mother. When another deputy showed up and heard crying from the trunk, so they opened it up and found Watkins' 5-month-old laying on a pair of large hedge-cutting shears. The temperature in the trunk was noticeably warmer than outside, and was littered with other hazardous materials like a rusty metal hanger and tire iron, a plastic CD case and a used gas can. Watkins told police officers that the 14-year-old was holding the baby in her lap when she noticed the cops. Not wanting to get ticketed for driving without a car seat, Watkins had the passenger put the baby in the truck through an opening in the back seat. She then had the passenger close the opening and continued to drive before being pulled over. Watkins was arrested on seven charges including child abuse, resisting an officer, driving without a license and failure to have a child restraint. She was held overnight at Broward County Jail on $7,000 bond.

Breona Synclair Watkins, 19, was pulled over around 1am Tuesday morning . Officers heard crying from her cars trunk and found the 5-month-old baby inside, lying on a pair of large hedge-cutters . Watkins was arrested on seven charges including child abuse and driving without a license .

fda5cfb9f753069ef08e3f60abd6ad75818d2291

Gordon Strachan compared Scotland's bruising, euphoric victory over the Republic of Ireland to a heavyweight title fight. Shaun Maloney's sublime goal 15 minutes from the end of a tight, nip-and-tuck qualifier with the Irish completed a memorable and crucial Euro 2016 victory. Drawing level with the Republic on seven points after Poland's emphatic 4-0 win in Georgia, the Scots secured all three points in a frenetic clash. VIDEOS Scroll down to watch . Shaun Maloney (left) celebrates as Steven Naismith (centre) gives chase after Scotland open the scoring . Strachan will now ring the changes for Tuesday's friendly with England after admitting the game wrung every ounce of effort from his men. 'I think so,' confirmed the Scots boss. 'They put so much into that game tonight. That was like one of those big heavyweight boxing matches. 'I absolutely wouldn't second-guess the outcome of this group now.' The Scots had some sterling individual displays in goalscorer Maloney and man-of-the-match Charlie Mulgrew, called into midfield after an illness to James Morrison before the game. 'Charlie was immense, absolutely immense,' said Strachan. 'Normally we would come in here and say: 'What a game Scott Brown has had'. But Charlie has actually taken the mantle tonight and ably backed up by the people round about him. Scotland manager Gordon Strachan celebrates on the touchline at full-time as his side win 1-0 . 'I am really pleased with Shaun as well, as I am with Steven Naismith, Ikechi Anya and others but Charlie was the best man on the pitch I think — ably backed by the others. 'But the smaller ones like Andrew Robertson, Maloney, Naismith and Anya showed brave play when the ball was flying about and there were tackles everywhere. 'They showed bravery on the ball.' Poland's triumph in Tblisi ramped up the pressure on the Scots before kick-off. Strachan had dismissed talk of a 'must-win' beforehand, but the joyous celebrations of the Tartan Army afterwards told another tale. 'People have been telling me since the Georgia game it is must-win,' the Scotland boss said. 'They said it before Poland and this one. Every game seems to be a must-win. 'I said before the game that one goal had decided all of the previous games in the group, apart from the one involving Gibraltar. It has happened again. 'We did say set plays were going to be vital and it happened. 'As for a pure footballing spectacle, it wasn't that great. Maloney curls a low strike into the far corner as Scotland take the lead in Glasgow on Friday . 'But as a spectacle of two groups of players not wanting to give an inch, it was mesmerising. They all wanted to jump higher than each other, run quicker and battle harder.' The Scots blew a raft of chances in both halves and survived a moment of anxiety in injury time when Grant Hanley's defensive header almost spun into his own net, crashing off the bar. Insisting his team now believe in themselves after one defeat in four matches — to world champions Germany in the opener — Strachan added: 'When we've played we've believed we can play football. Tonight it was a more physical duel. Charlie Mulgrew (centre) celebrates the victory as Scotland move up to third in Group D . 'We dealt with that as well because the players trust each other. 'They know fine well if they're not having a great night the guy next to him will help them out. 'And I think that's what happened tonight.' Asked what his over-riding emotions were ahead of an England friendly at the same venue, Strachan said: 'There are lot of emotions chucked in there, every emotion possible. But the good thing is I can go home, get to my bed and chill. That's what I'll do, go home and watch a bit of telly and fall asleep. I'm looking forward to that.' Steven Fletcher will miss the England game after limping off in the second half with an ankle injury.

Scotland beat the Republic of Ireland 1-0 at Celtic Park on Friday night . Manager Gordon Strachan compared it to a heavyweight title fight . Scotland now sit third in Euro 2016 qualifying Group D .

ee31cc6b8dd2c859d482c96d70e9e20ae6964693

Researchers claim an age bias in the NHS is denying the elderly of life-saving cancer treatment. Stock picture used . The elderly are being denied life-saving cancer surgery due to an age bias in the NHS, researchers warn. They found that patients’ chances of undergoing vital operations decline sharply with age for all of the most common types of tumour. For prostate cancer, almost nobody has surgery once they reach 75 whereas it is offered to more than a quarter of men under 55. And women with ovarian cancer over the age of 75 are half as likely to have surgery as those under 55, according to a major study by Cancer Research UK. Britain has among the worst cancer survival rates in Western Europe and the gap is even wider for the elderly who are more likely to die from the disease than those in France, Germany and Scandinavia. One explanation is that they are being written off before the first consultation by doctors who only look at their date of birth. Nick Ormiston-Smith, Cancer Research UK’s head of statistics, said: ‘These figures provide further detail about the age bias that older cancer patients face. If older patients are not being offered a surgical option, that is wrong. ‘We do have lower treatment rates than other countries and this is more pronounced in older people. We have lower survival rates in older people, that could be explained by lower access to treatment.’ The research – overseen by the National Cancer Intelligence Network, the government agency which analyses data – looked at 367,000 patients who underwent surgery in England between 2006 and 2010. This covered 21 types of cancer and for each one, academics worked out the percentage of patients having surgery in five age groups. They found that while 29 per cent of men with prostate cancer aged 15 to 54 had surgery, it fell to 0.1 per cent for those aged 75 to 84 – and nobody had it over 85. This means that just 48 potentially life-saving operations to remove prostate cancer are carried out in men over 75 in England every year. For women with ovarian cancer, just 37 per cent aged 75 to 84 had operations to remove tumours compared to 89 per cent in the 15 to 54 age group. Duleep Allirajah, head of policy at the charity Macmillan Cancer Support, said: ‘This is yet more upsetting evidence that older cancer patients in England are getting a raw deal, despite the fact that half of people diagnosed with cancer are in this age bracket.’ The table above shows the likelihood of cancer surgery for each age group as a percentage . Surgery is considered the most effective treatment for cancer and is responsible for half of the cases where the illness is cured. Not all elderly patients will be suitable for treatment and those with other health problems such as dementia or heart disease may just be too frail. Others may not want to undergo a potentially risky procedure particularly if they would also need gruelling chemotherapy. In October 2012 new laws came into force banning all NHS staff from denying any treatment to the elderly based on their age alone. Although this research took place two years before this came into force, there is ample evidence the age discrimination is still widespread. Sean Duffy, national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, said: ‘A person’s age should not be a barrier to getting the most effective treatments. It’s clear that more needs to be done to ensure older patients have equal access to treatment.’ Hundreds of thousands of cancer patients are going through the distressing ordeal of hospital treatment on their own, figures show. The charity Macmillan Cancer Support estimates that 89 per cent of those with the illness went to at least one appointment alone – the equivalent of 270,000 sufferers in the UK a year. Nearly a third said it was because they didn’t want to be a burden or that a relative or close friend wasn’t available. One in 20 patients said they had no choice as there wasn’t anyone to ask. Many patients say they feel incredibly lonely having to sit around for hours waiting for chemotherapy, radiotherapy or an appointment where they might be given bad news. Jacqui Graves, head of health and social care for Macmillan Cancer Support which surveyed 2,000 cancer patients, said: ‘It is deeply saddening that cancer patients are facing one of the most frightening moments of their lives without having anyone with them to offer support.’

Researches claim elderly have lower chance of undergoing cancer surgery . Prostate cancer surgery is offered to more than a quarter of men under 55 . But almost no-one has surgery for it once they reach age of 75 . Britain has the worst cancer survival rates in Western Europe .

c8d9523f2972f54e2cf31cf67132d218cf18f03c

Mark Wahlberg is seeking a pardon from the state of Massachusetts for a vicious racially-charged attack he committed as a teenager that left a man blind in one eye. Court documents reveal just how horrifying the 1988 attack was - including startling racial slurs he shouted at the victim and others - but the actor insists he is now 'a better person and citizen'. Wahlberg, who served 45 days in jail after the assault, says his record continues to impact him and could prevent businesses, such as restaurants, that work with him from getting licenses. He insists he has come a long way since April 1988, when he attacked Thanh Lam with a five-foot stick while yelling slurs at him in order to steal the two cases of beer he was carrying. Scroll down for video . Troubled past: Mark Wahlberg served 45 days in prison after he blinded a man in a 1988 assault . Documents included in his pardon request show he called the Vietnamese immigrant a 'Vietnam f***ing s***' before striking him so hard that the stick broke in two and knocked Lam unconscious, according to the documents shared by The Smoking Gun. He then fled the scene and approached a second man, Hoa Trinh, put his arm around his shoulder and asked him to help him hide. But once police passed, Wahlberg hit him, leaving him blind in one eye. When Boston cops tracked Wahlberg down and took him back back to the scene of the assault outside a convenience store in Dorchester, he told officers: 'You don't have to let him identify me, I'll tell you now that's the motherf***** whose head I split open', the documents show. Authorities wrote that he also made 'numerous unsolicited racial statements about 'gooks' and "slant-eyed gooks".' In his plea, Wahlberg said that he was under the influence of alcohol and drugs at the time. 'From later accounts of the incident, it is my understanding that I may have caused serious injuries'  to the men, he wrote. Other documents show that, in an earlier attack in Dorchester, he and two friends saw a group of black siblings and chased them. Changed man: Now, Wahlberg is hoping to get a pardon for his past actions . Scene of the crime: The liquor store where Wahlberg attacked a man with a stick and then ran away . 'We don't like black n****** in the area so get the f*** away from the area,' the boys shouted at the group, according to the documents. They then chased the boys, shouting: 'Kill the n*****, kill the n*****'. The following day, the group encountered one of the boys again and threw rocks at him. One of the rocks thrown by Wahlberg and one of his friends hit a nearby girl. The trio caused 'a high level of anxiety, fear and intimidation', the documents said. Though he was then only 16 at the time of the 1988 attack, he was charged as an adult and convicted of assault. According to NECN the initial charge was attempted murder. After emerging from prison, Wahlberg went on to find success in music with Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch and as a Calvin Klein model. Family guy: Wahlberg (above with wife Rhea Durham and three of his children and Kevin Hart) is now committed to multiple charities and attends church every day . But it was his appearance in the 1996 film Boogie Nights that really changed things, catapulting Wahlberg into the critically-acclaimed box office juggernaut that he is today. 'I am deeply sorry for the actions that I took on the night of April 8, 1988, as well as for any lasting damage that I may have caused the victims,' Wahlberg wrote in the pardon application. 'Since that time, I have dedicated myself to becoming a better person and citizen so that I can be a role model to my children and others.' He devotes much of his time and a large amount of his money to various charities, including the Mark Wahlberg Youth Foundation and the Dorchester Boys and Girls Club. He is also a family man now, married to former model Rhea Durham and the father of four children, and attends church daily. The Board of Pardons will investigate the petition to decide if it warrants a hearing before it is recommended to the governor who by that time will be the recently elected Charlie Baker. Pardon? It will ultimately be up to newly elected Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker (above) to decide whether or not Wahlberg should be pardoned . And while erasing the past is important, Wahlberg points out that he still talks about what he did to show how much a person can change. But he said that, as a convicted criminal, there are still some things he cannot do and for that he needs a pardon, including working with law enforcement to help at-risk youth. In the end, however, it is about showing his growth. 'The more complex answer is that receiving a pardon would be a formal recognition that I am not the same person that I was on the night of April 8, 1988,' Wahlberg explains. 'It would be formal recognition that someone like me can receive official public redemption if he devotes himself to personal improvement and a life of good works.'

Mark Wahlberg is seeking a pardon from the state of Massachusetts for an assault he committed in 1988 that left a man blind in one eye . Wahlberg, now 43, served 45 days in prison and was tried as an adult even though he was just 16 years old at the time . Documents show he called one of his victims a 'Vietnam f***ing s***' and that he later chased a group of black children, shouting: 'Kill the n*****!' The actor, who has always been vocal about his troubled past, is now a married father who attends church every day .

a898a59b33de5e5656eb1fed3a3fc3eeeeea978d

Five officials with connections to FIFA and who were all involved in the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups are at the centre of a Swiss criminal investigation, according to the man who wants to be FIFA’s next president. And Jerome Champagne, a former long-standing FIFA insider who is the only currently declared rival to Sepp Blatter for next year’s presidential race, has told the Mail on Sunday that if any of the five are found guilty of wrong-doing, the entire bidding process should be invalidated. Russia was awarded the 2018 tournament and Qatar the 2022 event in a vote that happened four years ago next month. But corruption allegations have persistently swirled around those decisions and FIFA announced last week they had lodged a criminal complaint with the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland into ‘the possible misconduct of individual persons in connection with the awarding of the hosting rights of the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.’ Jerome Champagne told the Mail on Sunday that five FIFA officials are to face a Swiss criminal investigation . No information has been confirmed by FIFA about the number of individuals or their identities although it is believed more than one are FIFA ExCo voters who influenced the destination of the 2018 and 2022 events. This development came amid the ongoing controversy of the FIFA ethics judge Hans-Joachim Eckert’s summary of FIFA investigator Michael Garcia’s investigation into the process. ‘I am a strong defender of the principle of innocent until proven guilty but it is clear that what is at stake is enormous,’ Champagne told The Mail on Sunday. ‘We need to know how the voting unfolded and how it was influenced. Even if one vote was improperly influenced that is too many. ‘Was it one or none? Or five? If it was five then is that enough to change outcome? Yes. Qatar won 14-8. The problem is we need to know and we don’t know.’ Corruption allegations have swirled around the decision to award Russia and Qatar World Cups . Champagne added that it is his belief that FIFA’s probe into corruption allegations is effectively ongoing. ‘It is an unfinished FIFA ethics investigation … the request [to the Swiss Attorney General] is about five officials of FIFA.’ Champagne called for the full findings of Garcia’s report to be made public, even though Eckert has insisted that will never happen. ‘I’ve consistently and repeatedly called for transparency,’ Champagne said. ‘What has happened over the past week only reinforces the need for that, more than ever. ‘It has been almost four since that vote on 2 December 2010 and it continues to make me sad that the World Cup, the pinnacle of our game, remains tainted. We need to know what happened.’ This Brazilian fan holds up a sign towards the end of the 2014 World Cup, saying 'See you Russia 2018' Eckert’s 42-page summary caused huge controversy in identifying - and then traducing - two whistleblowers who gave extensive assistance to Garcia. Bonita Mersiades, a former Australian bid insider, and Phaedra Almajid, who worked for Qatar 2022, spoke out in these pages last week about their disgust at their treatment. They both subsequently made formal complaints to FIFA about Eckert allegedly breaching article 16.1 of FIFA’s own ethics code in making them clearly identifiable in his summary. They have not even received any acknowledgement of their complaint, let alone any explanation. ‘I was stunned that the whistleblowers were described in the way they were so that they could be identified,’ Champagne says. ‘They are courageous people and they were failed by this report.’ Eckert effectively dismissed both Mersiades and Almajid as inaccurate and unreliable. But the Mail on Sunday can exclusively reveal that Garcia found them so valuable to his intelligence-gathering that he used tens of thousands of dollars of FIFA money to facilitate meeting them. Meanwhile, campaigning MP Damian Collins, who has a track record of pushing for FIFA reform, has secured a parliamentary debate on December 1 in the House of Commons on the subject of the Serious Fraud Office and FIFA. It is expected that various allegations of corruption surrounding the world governing body and the 2018 and 2022 process will be aired under parliamentary privilege.

Jerome Champagne wants to take Sepp Blatter's job as FIFA president . He has told the Mail on Sunday that five officials are being investigated . The officials, who were involved in the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, are at the centre of a Swiss criminal investigation . Corruption allegations have swirled around the bid decision .

2f08b56b065ef2e9098f5abab9d5f932bcae657f

CLICK HERE to read who Sportsmail Columnists Jamie Redknapp and Martin Keown think will win the two-horse title race . It's the ‘U’ word Jose Mourinho doesn’t want to hear, but can’t avoid at present. Unbeaten. After 21 games this season, Chelsea’s record reads: won 16, drawn 5, lost 0. In fact, the last time Chelsea lost was against Atletico Madrid in their Champions League semi-final second-leg on April 30 — 23 matches ago. The last time they lost a Premier League game was against Sunderland on April 19 — a run of 17 matches. Chelsea celebrate a 3-0 victory over Tottenham that takes their unbeaten run to 21 games this season . Brazilian midfielder Oscar (top) insists that Jose Mourinho will keep Chelsea from getting complacent . The Portuguese has said that Chelsea going an entire season unbeaten is 'impossible' Burnley 1-3 Chelsea . Chelsea 2-0 Leicester . Everton 3-6 Chelsea . Chelsea 4-2 Swansea . Chelsea 1-1 Schalke . Man City 1-1 Chelsea . Chelsea 2-1 Bolton . Chelsea 3-0 Aston Villa . Sporting Lisbon 0-1 Chelsea . Chelsea 2-0 Arsenal . Crystal Palace 1-1 Chelsea . Chelsea 6-0 Maribor . Man United 1-1 Chelsea . Shrewsbury 1-2 Chelsea . Chelsea 2-1 QPR . Maribor 1-1 Chelsea . Liverpool 1-2 Chelsea . Chelsea 2-0 West Brom . Schalke 0-5 Chelsea . Sunder 0-0 Chelsea . Chelsea 3-0 Tottenham . As much as the Special One wants to escape it, he can’t ignore the ‘U’ word. And nor, it seems, can his players. ‘The unbeaten run is on our minds,’ admitted Oscar. ‘But the team just starts again every time and plays for a win, and if we win or if we draw it is OK. What is important is that we don’t lose. ‘Of course, we feel confident because we are not losing games. So you start confidently, but we need to continue like this.’ With Mourinho around, though, any bouts of over-confidence will be nipped in the bud. The Portuguese, despite his own self-confidence, isn’t one to tolerate arrogance in his players. Before Wednesday’s win over Tottenham, Mourinho was adamant an undefeated season in all competitions was ‘impossible’. As quickly as the subject is broached, the Chelsea manager does his best to leave the issue behind. He views it as unnecessary pressure on his players when he wants them focused on winning matches — not producing an undefeated season. With Manchester City building up a head of steam behind them, Mourinho’s men do not need any other distractions. ‘The manager speaks before every game and he tells us not to be too confident,’ revealed Oscar. ‘Mourinho speaks before the games and makes sure our feet stay on the floor. We have so many games to play and we need to continue to win them. Of course he wants us to stay confident, but not too much because that can be dangerous. ‘He tells the attacking players to go for goals, to play our football, but when you don’t have the ball you have to defend. That is the way we have been winning games.’ Belgium forward Eden Hazard (centre) celebrates after scoring the opening goal against Spurs . Hazard insists the whole team has bought into Mourinho's philosophy of defending without the ball . Chelsea have a six point lead over City at the top . That was backed up by Eden Hazard, who said: ‘Defensively we are very strong. All the players want to defend for the team, even the attacking players, even me. We are very strong and it’s important.’ You could, though, forgive Mourinho for briefly turning his mind to an undefeated campaign. He isn’t new to success but such an achievement would cement his place — if it isn’t already — as one of the greatest managers in history. His squad is certainly strong enough to make a decent fist of it, too. Question marks over how the Blues would deal without the suspended Diego Costa against Spurs were emphatically answered by Didier Drogba who scored one and made another goal in the 3-0 win. It prompted Mourinho to reveal he is keen for the striker to continue playing for the club past his current deal that expires in the summer. Didier Drogba wheels away after turning back the clock with an inspirational performance against Tottenham . Mourinho has hinted that Drogba could stay at Stamford Bridge beyond this season . Sources close to the Blues legend insisted no decision would be made until after talks with Mourinho towards the end of the season. But Oscar made his opinion on Drogba crystal clear, saying: ‘Ah, Didier — he is fantastic. Fantastic player, fantastic person and I am so happy he is a part of the team. ‘I learn from him. He speaks before the game to the attacking players. He wants to score every game. I watched him on TV when I was young, and we now play together.’ They’ll be lifting trophies together soon enough, too. Redknapp and Keown compare Jose Mourinho's 2005-06 title winners and this season's side .

Premier League leaders Chelsea are unbeaten after 21 games this season . Jose Mourinho says going an entire season without losing is 'impossible' Brazil midfielder Oscar insists the Portuguese will keep his side grounded . Eden Hazard says team have bought into Mourinho's defensive philosophy . Didier Drogba could remain at Stamford Bridge beyond this season .

12c3f8f56e5d9d1526777957a3dcbe0ab7f72dd4

New genetic research has revealed that a small group of hunter-gatherers now living in Southern Africa once was so large that it comprised the majority of living humans. Only during the last 22,000 years have the other African ethnicities, including the ones giving rise to Europeans and Asians, have become the bigger populations, researchers say. However, their fall has been quick - the Khoisan (who sometimes call themselves Bushmen) now number about 100,000 individuals, while the rest of humanity numbers 7 billion. Scroll down for video . The Khoisan (who sometimes call themselves Bushmen) now number about 100,000 individuals, while the rest of humanity numbers 7 billion. however, they once comprised the biggest group on Earth, new analysis has found. The Khoisan speak in 'click' languages, and have also maintained the greatest genetic diversity known among human populations. The distinct clicks of their language have been incorporated into Zulu and Xhosa speech. They have also contributed to the richness of Afrikaans and South African English with words such as 'eina' (ouch) and 'aikhona' (absolutely not). Khoisan traditions include snuff and makaranga tobacco. This is a very strong tobacco that is mixed with wild honey and made into a paste before being allowed to dry. Their lives and ways have remained unaltered for hundreds of generations, with only recent events endangering their hunter-gatherer lifestyles, according to the study set to be published in Nature Communications. By comparing nearly all the genes of these individuals with the genomes of 1,462 people from around the world, the researchers discovered that the inflow of new genes into the Khoisan peoples has been quite restricted the past 150,000 years, indicating that this large hunter-gatherer culture was physically isolated for most of its history and that its men typically did not take wives from outside the group. 'Khoisan hunter-gatherers in Southern Africa always have perceived themselves as the oldest people' said Stephan Schuster, a former Penn State University professor now at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. Researchers on the project included scientists at Penn State and other research universities in the United States, Brazil, and Singapore. The Nature Communication paper analyses five study participants from different tribes in Namibia. The study investigated 420,000 genetic variants across 1,462 genomes from 48 ethnic groups in populations worldwide. These analyses reveal that Southern African Khoisans are genetically distinct not only from Europeans and Asians, but also from all other Africans. Video kind courtesy of FOP Films. The Khoisan speak in 'click' languages, and have also maintained the greatest genetic diversity known among human populations. The paper's first author Hie Lim Kim, formerly at Penn State and now at Nanyang Technological University, said 'It is fascinating to unravel the population history of humankind over the last 150,000 years.' By conducting extensive computational analyses, the team demonstrated that two of the sequenced individuals showed no signs of having inherited any genetic material from members of other ethnic groups. Interestingly, these individuals are the oldest members of the Ju/'hoansi tribe, which still live in protected areas of Northwest Namibia. 'This and previous studies show that the Khoisan peoples and the rest of modern humanity shared their most recent common ancestor approximately 150,000 years ago, so it was entirely unexpected to find that this group apparently did not intermarry with non-Khoisan neighbors for many thousand years,' said Webb Miller, professor of Bioinformatics at Penn State and a member of the research team. 'The current Khoisan culture and tradition, where marriage occurs either among Khoisan groups or results in female members leaving their tribes after marrying non-Khoisan men, appears to be long-standing.' The Khoisan tribes, found in southern Africa, lived in near-isolation from the rest of humanity for thousands of years. The distribution of the three language families spoken by Khoisan people is shown on this map in green . The cultural and genetic persistence of the Ju/'hoansi tribe is intriguing, the researchers say, because genetic and genomic analysis of ancient hominid lineages such as the Neanderthals, as well as non-African humans, have shown that intermarrying does occur frequently in these groups and is traceable over the entire time span of 150,000 history during which anatomically modern humans have lived. 'We also observed gene flow for some of the other Khoisan groups, as defined by their largely varying language, but a key finding of this study is that, even today, individuals without genes from other communities can be identified within the Ju/'hoansi population and possibly others,' Schuster said. 'Having identified non-admixed Khoisan individuals, we could compare the effective population size of the Khoisan with that of other humans over more than 100,000 years,' said research-team memberAakrosh Ratan, an assistant professor at the University of Virginia. 'In a twist of fate, the major ethnic groups today in Africa, Asia, and Europe increased in size only after overcoming a population decline about 20,000 years ago.' The researchers also investigated the hypothesis that climatic changes resulted in less-favorable living conditions, first in Western Africa and later in all of central sub-Saharan Africa. 'Using a paleoclimate model and data, we were able to show that glaciation in the northern hemisphere resulted in drier conditions in Western/Central Africa, while wetter conditions prevailed in Southern Africa,' said Alvaro Montenegro, an assistant professor at Ohio State University and the Sao Paulo State University in Brazil. 'A hypothesis suggested by our new study is that the wetter climate conditions in the Khoisan-inhabited parts of Southern Africa may have resulted in more-favorable living conditions.' Researchers previously identified two migrations: One about 3,000 years ago, of non-Africans entering east Africa, and a second one 900–1,800 years ago.

Khoisan, or Bushmen, now number about 100,000 individuals . For much of last 150,000 years tribe comprised majority of living humans . Only during the last 22,000 years have other African ethnicities, including the ones giving rise to Europeans and Asians, become bigger .

b34881e4e02d6189c1722962efefb74cf568632e

a joke about what has become the call to arms for recent protests, 'Hands up, don't shoot' In video taken as the group passed through the tiny town, marchers appeared to keep their heads high as the hostile protesters--one of them wearing something akin to a KKK hood--yelled obscenities and told them to get back to work. I've been brought up to know how to deal with people like that,' marcher Cheyenne Willis told the Missourian. 'I ignore them and keep moving forward...The comments that we saw are pure ignorance.' The Missourian reports that at least one person displayed a Confederate flag, and the back window of a bus traveling with the marchers was broken by a bullet. The protest march began after a grand jury decided last week not to indict Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson, who was white, for the Aug. 9 shooting of Brown, who was black and unarmed. Activists gathered in Ferguson, Missouri, on Saturday to begin a 120-mile march to the state capital Jefferson City to protest the killing of an unarmed black teen by a white police officer, a case that has rekindled a national debate over U.S. race relations. Unwelcome: The group stood along the marchers' route and angrily yelled as they passed by . Many of the counter-protesters said they were out to support the police, specifically Officer Wilson . About 100 people were expected to take part in the seven-day march organized by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), with more joining segments of the long walk, NAACP staff member Jamiah Adams told Reuters. The march, which is reminiscent of the civil rights marches of the 1960's, was set to begin at midday on Saturday at the Canfield Green Apartments, the residential complex near where 18-year-old Michael Brown was shot and killed on Aug. 9 by Ferguson police Officer Darren Wilson. A grand jury's decision not to charge Wilson ignited protests in Ferguson and a riot that left buildings torched and stores looted. The NAACP expects about 1,000 people to be part of the final leg of the "Journey for Justice" march. The civil rights group is asking participants to protect themselves against icy conditions expected along the route by wearing hand warmers and wool socks. The NAACP is also calling for a new police chief in Ferguson and a national law to prevent racial profiling by police.

The 7-day Journey for Justice march to Jefferson was met by some 200 angry protesters in the town of Rosebud on Wednesday . The 50 activists marching in the name of justice for Michael Brown were told to 'go home' and 'get a job' and heard racial epithets . The group organized by the NAACP continued through the hostile town of 400 and are expected to reach their goal of the state's capital .

c9f306d0b6132e1c93a1b1f8860e20ad08bc4495

After Arsenal qualified for the second round of the Champions League for the 15th successive season, Arsene Wenger joked that he would send someone different to the draw. When they have played their final group game against Galatasaray in Istanbul next month, where Wenger is ‘90 per cent’ sure they will finish second in the group, the last 16 will hold all the usual pitfalls. It is an achievement to reach the second round, but nothing more than that. Arsenal beat Borussia Dortmund at the Emirates on Wednesday to qualify for the last 16 . Yaya Sanogo celebrates scoring his first Arsenal goal with supporters at the Emirates Stadium . 1. Real Madrid (£411.5m) 2. Barcelona (£382.39m) 3. Bayern Munich (£341.66m) 4. Manchester United (£335.80) 5. Paris St Germain (£316m) 6. Manchester City (£250.54m) 7. Chelsea (£240.4m) 8. Arsenal (£225.26) Based on Arsenal’s status within the game, progressing to the last 16 of the Champions League is standard for a club of this size. They are up there now with the biggest teams in the world and expectations at a club with the commercial clout of Arsenal are high. This club charges more than any other to watch their football and yet they consistently sell their supporters short in the Champions League. They are much, much bigger than the club will allow you to believe because it gets them off the hook when they are beaten by Bayern Munich or Barcelona when the competition gets serious. The minimum acceptable target for one of the biggest teams in world football is to reach the quarter-finals as a matter of course. Arsenal's victory over Dortmund meant they have now qualified for the second round 15 years in a row . Alexis Sanchez celebrates after scoring in Arsenal's 2-0 victory on Wednesday . Arsene Wenger's side are yet to win the competition despite making the second round 15 years in a row . 1. Manchester City (£102,653 per week) 2. Real Madrid (£96,027) 3. Barcelona (£94,256) 4. Bayern Munich (£84,671) 5. Manchester United (£83,120) 6. Chelsea (£76,626) 7. Arsenal (£75,037) (average wage per player) At least Wenger, who developed an obsession with the competition, accepts that it is not enough to reach the second phase. He wants more, just as he did when his team came close to beating Barcelona in the 2006 Champions League final in the Stade de France. ‘When you work at the football club we realise it’s not a waste to have that continuity and consistency and I’m very proud of that,’ he admitted. ‘The club deserves a lot of credit for that. But it’s not enough. We want more than that.’ His ambition is admirable, but this club is geared up for far more than the occasional appearance in the quarter-final of the competition. Arsenal's team may not be as expensively assembled as their rivals, but their wage bill is right up there . Arsenal were beaten 2-1 by Barcelona in the 2006 final at the Stade de France in Paris . Steven Gerrard scores a penalty in Liverpool's 5-3 quarter-final victory in 2008 . 1. Borussia Dortmund (80,295) 2. Manchester United (75,205) 3. Barcelona (72,115) 4. Real Madrid (71,565) 5. Bayern (71,000) 6. Schalke 04 (61,570) 7. Arsenal (60,015) (average attendances per game) Since reaching the final in 2006, they have lost in the second round to PSV Eindhoven, Barcelona, Milan and Bayern Munich (twice). They were beaten by Liverpool in 2008, cuffed by Manchester United in the second leg of the semi-final in 2009 and taken apart by Barcelona in 2010, when they lost 6-3 on aggregate. Winning it takes a special team and a good slice of luck, but we still laud the achievements of 10-time winners Real Madrid, Milan (7), Bayern (5), Liverpool (5), Barcelona (4) and Ajax (4). Every which way you look at the set-up around the Emirates, from matchday revenue to salaries to stadium and training ground facilities to transfers, Arsenal should be doing better in Europe. According to Deloitte’s Money League, published last January, Arsenal are the eighth biggest club in European football by revenue. Last year, Arsenal were beaten 3-1 on aggregate by Bayern Munich in the first knockout round . David Villa scores for Barcelona as they beat Arsenal 4-3 on aggregate in the last 16 in 2011 . Here they are: Real Madrid (£411.5m), Barcelona (£382.39m), Bayern Munich (£341.66m), Manchester United (£335.80), Paris St Germain (£316m), Manchester City (£250.54m), Chelsea (£240.4m) and Arsenal (£225.26). In terms of wages, sportingintelligence.com’s salary survey, which was published in April claims the Arsenal squad have the seventh biggest wage packets in world football. Here is the list: Manchester City (£102,653 per week), Real Madrid (£96,027), Barcelona (£94,256), Bayern Munich (£84,671), Manchester United (£83,120), Chelsea (£76,626) and Arsenal (£75,037). This team, which qualified for the next phase of the competition after beating Borussia Dortmund 2-0 last night, also has the seventh biggest attendances in European football. Borussia Dortmund (80,295), Manchester United (75,205), Barcelona (72,115), Real Madrid (71,565), Bayern (71,000), Schalke 04 (61,570) and Arsenal (60,015). With a state-of-the-art stadium, always packed with fans, Arsenal need to start acting like a club of their size . Manchester United got the better of Arsenal in 2009 in the Champions League semi-finals . Where Arsenal really are streets ahead of the competition is, of course, their season ticket prices. That is where their fans are forced to pay through the nose. According to a BBC study last month, the cheapest season ticket at the Emirates is £1014, although this does include seven cup credits on top of 19 games in the Barclays Premier League. Remember, you can buy a season ticket to watch Cristiano Ronaldo play every other week at Real Madrid, who won the Champions League last season, for £174.65. You can watch the other best player in the world Lionel Messi, who has already won the Champions League three times, at the Nou Camp for £103.38. The seats will be up in the gods, but Barcelona fans can still get to watch a genuine great setting records. A season ticket to watch Real Madrid play costs as little as £174.65 . A season ticket to watch Lionel Messi's Barcelona in action starts at £103.38 . At Arsenal, where ticket prices can fetch £97 for a seat, they get to admire the brilliance of Alexis Sanchez now that he is wearing their famous red and white shirt. It is something of a shame that Arsenal continue to announce their official attendance because it is actually the number of seats sold. Last night, for example, there were perhaps 5,000 more empty seats dotted around the stadium. Still, the cash has already been counted from the fans who pay through the nose to watch this team and that means they can pay the bills. When the draw for the second round of the Champions League on December 15, it is time for Arsenal to pay them back.

Arsenal beat Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday to seal place in last 16 . Victory means Arsenal have reached second round 15 years in a row . Arsenal have eighth highest revenue and seventh highest wage bill . North London club have seventh highest attendance in Europe . Ticket prices at the Emirates are some of the highest around . Gunners should be aiming higher than just a place in the last 16 . Arsenal have yet to win the Champions League .

24f65d47d9339b6d07b091aad7420fa7abe0a81e

A Hawaiian man has claimed the Guinness World Record for the largest non-surgically made stretch earlobes - which are so big you can fit a hand through them. Kala Kaiwi, who unsurprisingly works as a tattoo and body modification artist, has earlobe stretches or 'flesh tunnels' measuring 109mm (4.3 inches) in diameter, to go with his hundreds of other wacky body adaptations. He has just returned from Milan, Italy where he picked up his award, almost certainly setting off airport security scanners on his way. Kala Kaiwi is the new Guinness World Record holder for the largest non-surgically made stretch earlobes in the world. They measure 109mm in diameter and can fit a hand through . Kala has hundreds of other body modifications, including nostril piercings, face tattoos and horns on his head . Along with his flesh tunnels, he has had silicon horns implanted on his head, stretches in his nostrils, tattooed eyebrows and studs all over his face. He even split his own tongue using dental floss, and has bolt holes on his forehead with spikes screwed in. Kala trained in Las Vegas in 1999 before moving back to Hawaii to open Sin City Body Modification and Tattoo shop. To find out more about Kala Kaiwi and body modification click here . Ear stretches have become increasingly popular in recent years. The practice originated from indigenous people but has now become mainstream in the western world. Ancient Egyptian Pharaoh King Tutankhamen is known to have had them, although these days, you are far more likely to see them on a regular person than you are royalty. The trendsetter was Otzi the Ice Man, who dates all the way back to 3300BC and is the oldest human mummy in the world. He was discovered by German tourists in the Italian Alps in 1991 and as well as having 7-11mm ear stretches, he is covered in tattoos. When they first filtered into western cultures they were adopted by subcultures such as punks and rockers, but nowadays, you can find stretches on celebrities such as McBusted's Dougie Poynter or rapper Lil Wayne, as well as all over the streets of any town or city. However, extra large flesh tunnels are still associated with counter culture. Professor Victoria Pitts-Taylor, from the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, says they are 'a slightly more committed body art than temporary practices or ear piercing. The more you stretch the skin, the more commitment you are expressing to a counter cultural look.'

Kala Kaiwi now holds record for largest 'non-surgically made' flesh tunnels . The tattoo and body modification artist travelled to Milan to collect his award . He has hundreds of other body adaptations, including horn implants and face tattoos .

1e5280a52f0bfbc745afd30ce33fc99d76f5e23c