The Supreme Court of Alabama has ordered the state's probate judges to stop issuing marriage licenses to gay couples in the latest development in a fierce battle over the power of federal law. In its ruling on Tuesday evening, the all-Republican court said a previous federal ruling stating that banning same-sex marriage violates the US Constitution does not prevent it from following state law. In Alabama, marriage has been legally defined as the union of only one man and one woman for two centuries, it said, siding with an argument recently offered by a pair of conservative organizations. 'Alabama probate judges have a ministerial duty not to issue any marriage license contrary to this law. Nothing in the United States Constitution alters or overrides this duty', the court added. Ruling: The Supreme Court of Alabama (pictured) has ordered the state's probate judges to stop issuing marriage licenses to gay couples in the latest development in a fierce battle over the power of federal law . The state's probate judges now have five days to file a letter stating why they should not have to adhere to the court's decision, according to ABC. Six justices concurred in Tuesday's 134-page opinion, which was not signed. However, the court's most outspoken opponent of gay marriage, Chief Justice Roy Moore, recused himself. Last month, two conservative groups appealed a decision by District Judge Callie Granade of Mobile, who ruled that Alabama's constitutional and statutory bans on gay marriage were unconstitutional. Immediately after Granade's ruling, Moore told probate judges across the state they were not obliged to issue same-sex marriage licenses. His stance created widespread confusion among judges. Awaiting a license: In its ruling on Tuesday evening, the court said a previous federal ruling stating that banning gay marriage violates the US Constitution does not prevent it from following state law. Above, Shante Wolfe, left, and Tori Sisson, right, wait for their marriage license to be processed in Montgomery, Ala., last month . Protesters: In Alabama, marriage has been legally defined as the union of only one man and one woman for two centuries, the court said. Above, people rally against same-sex marriage in Montgomery on February 21 . Some refused to issue the licenses to engaged same-sex couples, while others shut down their operations for all couples, gay and straight, until they could get a clear answer. Justice Jim Main agreed with the result but said he has concerns about procedural aspects 'of this highly unusual case'. In a dissent, Justice Greg Shaw said it was 'unfortunate' that federal courts refused to delay gay marriage in the state until the US Supreme Court could settle the issue nationally. But, Shaw said, the state Supreme Court does not have the power to consider the issue. The court released the decision while Gov. Robert Bentley and most state leaders were assembled in Montgomery for the state of the state address. Differing opinions: Six justices concurred in Tuesday's opinion, which was not signed. However, the court's most outspoken opponent of gay marriage, Chief Justice Roy Moore (left), recused himself.

Summary: Court has told probate judges to stop issuing same-sex marriage licenses . Claims previous federal ruling does not prevent it from following state law . Federal justices ruled that banning gay marriage violates US Constitution . But court argues under Alabama law, marriage involves a man and woman . Six justices agreed in 134-page opinion on Tuesday, which was not signed . National Center for Lesbian Rights director described court's position as 'unfortunate', adding 'it is determined to be on the wrong side of history'


More than 1,000 women and men were marching for gender equality in New York City today - as millions of people across the world rallied to demand change on International Women's Day 2015. Demonstrators gathered at the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan this morning to speak up for the gender that traditionally is paid less for work and often has a smaller voice in policy decisions. They then marched to Times Square as women and men in France, Turkey, Peru, India, Morocco, Brazil, China, and elsewhere also took to the streets of their respective nations to fight for equality. Scroll down for video . Demanding change: More than 1,000 women and men were marching for gender equality in New York City today (pictured) - as millions of people globally rallied to demand change on International Women's Day 2015 . United: Demonstrators (pictured) gathered at the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan this morning to speak up for the gender that traditionally is paid less for work and often has a smaller voice in policy decisions . Fighting for equality: They then marched to Times Square as women and men in France, Turkey, Peru, India, Morocco, Brazil, China, and elsewhere also took to the streets of their respective nations to fight for equality . Trying to make a difference: Phumzile Mlambo, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon (second right) and New York City first lady, Chirlane McCray (far right) were among those marking International Women's Day today . Addressing the New York marchers, the city's first lady, Chirlane McCray, 60, a self-proclaimed feminist, declared: 'Today, you are marching in the footsteps of generations of feminists.' She noted that International Women's Day commemorates the day in 1908 when thousands of women marched through the city demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights. 'This march started more than a century ago, but we still have a long way to go before we get to equality,' added Ms McCray, who is married to New York Mayor Bill de Blasio. UN officials today said much has been achieved under the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, signed by 189 governments in 1995 as a pledge for realizing women's rights. Speaking on behalf of women: Addressing the New York marchers, Ms McCray, 60, a self-proclaimed feminist, declared: 'Today, you are marching in the footsteps of generations of feminists.' Above, more demonstrators . Looking for banners: She noted that International Women's Day commemorates the day in 1908 when thousands of women marched through the city demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights. Elsewhere: An activist, left, holds portrait of Wafae Charaf as protesters from the Moroccan Association of Human Rights shout slogans during a march through the streets of the Moroccan capital of Rabat today . Chanting: Women chant during an anti-government rally on International Women's Day in Caracas, Venezuela . Getting their point across: Activists are pictured shouting slogans during a march towards the Malacanang Presidential palace as they mark International Women's Day in Manila, Philippines, this afternoon . However, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the gains have been

Summary: Over 1,000 people were marching for gender equality in New York today . They gathered at the UN headquarters, before marching to Times Square . Among millions across world marking International Women's Day 2015 . City's first lady Chirlane McCray said: 'This march started more than a century ago, but we still have a long way to go before we get to equality'


An MI5 agent was allegedly recruited by a terrorist mastermind in Syria and sent back to Britain in a plot to launch a devastating attack against his handlers. The agent was recruited by MI5 as an undercover informant within the radical Islamic community and he then travelled to Syria where he became part of a jihadist group. But he apparently double-crossed his British handlers and returned to London with plans to launch an 'insider attack' in the capital. The Mail on Sunday has been aware of the alleged plot for more than a year but agreed to previous requests from the security services not to publish the story for 'national security' reasons. Parts of the plot were reported in a story in The Mail on Sunday last year, in which we revealed that the jihadist, who has a British passport, had plans to attack Central London and that David Cameron had been briefed about the details. This newspaper is aware of the man's identity and further details of the investigation but are not printing them for legal reasons. A long undercover operation was run by MI5 to try to identify linked individuals who might be travelling back from Syria to launch similar attacks but this investigation has now concluded, meaning we can now report the fact that he was a potential 'double agent'. The revelations come as the terror threat in the UK continues to be 'severe' but as MI5 faces difficult questions about its tactic of recruiting agents who are known Islamic extremists. Supporters of Mohammed Emwazi, the Islamic State executioner known as Jihadi John, have claimed that MI5 harassed him and similar allegations have been made by the family of Michael Adebolajo, one of the killers of Fusilier Lee Rigby. The security services refuse to answer such questions because they stick by a strict policy to 'neither confirm nor deny' whether individuals have been approached or recruited – a policy they stick to even after suspects have been accused of serious crimes. However, The Mail on Sunday can disclose that the man worked for MI5 for a period before he decided to travel abroad in 2012. MI5 faces difficult questions about its tactic of recruiting agents who are known terrorists, while supporters of Mohammed Emwazi (pictured) have claimed that MI5 harassed him . Investigators believe he met a terrorist mastermind with designs on attacking the West who encouraged him to plan an attack. Back in Britain, information suggested he began plotting to attack the MI5 handlers who had recruited him and set about trying to buy automatic weapons in this country or abroad. The alleged 'double agent' was apparently planning to use the firearms to stage a murderous attack on the public in an echo of the Kenyan shopping mall massacre last year, sources said. He remained in contact with his jihadi controller, a terrorist mastermind who is thought to have established links to Britain. The agent also joined up with another extremist and they approached two other men for help in obtaining the equipment, but these other men did

Summary: An MI5 agent was allegedly recruited by a terrorist mastermind in Syria . He was then sent back to Britain in a plot to launch an attack against MI5 . An undercover operation was launched to try and track any similar plots . Scotland Yard has arrested the man and he remains in police custody .


A Minnesota mother claims a faulty background check which labels her a murderer has ruined her reputation. Lorie Wosmek is suing The McDowell Agency and her local district after she was let go as a school's volunteer and made to feel a social pariah. The mother-of-two said that her life changed for the worse in the fall of 2012 when she agreed to a background check after years helping out at Remer School District, even coaching one of their football teams. Fired: Lorie Wosmek was not allowed to volunteer at Remer School District because a wrong background check identified her as a murderer . 'Parents acted strange,' said Wosmek to CBS. 'People who said 'hi' to me before wouldn't say 'hi' anymore. Wosmek was suddenly told she could no longer work around children and the district said that they would let her know why she was being dumped in a letter. It arrived with a copy of her background check which showed up a woman with the same name, but wildly different past. 'All I saw on there was homicide,' said Wosmek. I burst into tears. False: This is the background check returned on Lorie Wosmek that ruined her life as a volunteer . Help: Wosmek once worked as a coach in the Remer School District and enjoyed her time as a volunteer . According to the wrong background check, Wosmek was supposed to have committed vehicular homicide. However, Wosmek had never committed or been convicted of this crime and tried to tell the district and the background check company,. She alleges the false check was passed around other school district's in the area for five months - which stopped her getting more work. The district denies this allegation. Denials: The Remer School District has said that it does not recognize any of Lorie Wosmek's claims . Wosmek says despite the error being recognized she has not been welcomed back. Again, the district denies not offering her more work as a volunteer. 'When people hear good news like 'she didn't commit the crime,' they don't tend to spread that around,' said Wosmek to CBS. The McDowell Agency, which is in St. Paul has admitted in court filings that their check was a mistake. A spokesperson told CBS, 'We believe the evidence will support our position that Ms. Wosmek's reputation was not impacted or harmed by anything we did.'

Summary: Lorie Wosmek is suing the Remer School District in Minnesota . Claims she was fired from volunteering in 2012 after the check . Alleges that afterwards she became a social pariah and could not work .


Goals from David Luiz and Edinson Cavani helped Paris St Germain reach the semi-finals of the French Cup with a 2-0 win over Ligue 1 rivals Monaco at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday. Three days after the two teams played out a dull 0-0 league draw, they put on a much more entertaining spectacle. PSG, however, never looked under threat and recorded a morale-boosting victory ahead of next week's Champions League last-16 return leg against Chelsea. David Luiz (right) celebrates with his team-mate Edinson Cavani (right) after scoring in the third minute . PSG midfielder Adrien Rabiot (left) tussles for the ball with Monaco forward Nabil Dirar (right) David Luiz lost his marker to head home from close-range early in the first-half and give PSG a 1-0 lead . PSG winger Ezequiel Lavezzi (left) controls the ball at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday night . Centre back Luiz headed home from Ezequiel Lavezzi's free kick in the third minute as PSG made the perfect start against Monaco, whose coach Leonardo Jardim had made seven changes from the team who played on Sunday. They doubled the lead seven minutes into the second half, with Marco Verratti setting up Cavani in the penalty area to beat Maarten Stekelenburg with a low shot. PSG continued to dominate and Javier Pastore and Cavani both hit the woodwork. Uruguayan forward Edinson Cavani (right) rounds Monaco goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg to score . Monaco's Geoffrey Kondogbia (left) comes in with a challenge on PSG's Lavezzi during the French Cup . Monaco, who beat Arsenal 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium in their Champions League last 16 first leg last week, were never in contention and seemed short on ideas as they struggled for a foothold in the final 10 minutes. St Etienne reached the last four on Tuesday by beating third division Boulogne on penalties. Stade Brest take on Auxerre in an all Ligue 2 clash and amateurs Concarneau, who play in the fourth division, host Guingamp on Thursday. Monaco's Nigerian defender Elderson Echiejile (left) dribbles away from PSG defender Marquinhos (right) Following their 2-0 home win on Wednesday night, PSG are through to the semi-finals of the French Cup .

Summary: PSG defeated Monaco to reach the semi-finals of the French Cup . David Luiz gave PSG the lead in the third minute with a close-range header . Edinson Cavani slotted home a composed low finish in the second half . PSG travel to Chelsea in the Champions League's last 16 next week .


The Tony Award-winning director who brought to life many of Neil Simon's works onstage and on screen has died. Gene Saks' son, Daniel Saks, says his father died from pneumonia Saturday at his East Hampton home in New York. He was 93. A former actor who turned to directing with 'Enter Laughing' on Broadway in 1963, Saks won Tonys for the Cy Coleman-Michael Stewart musical 'I Love My Wife' and Simon's 'Biloxi Blues.' Tony Award-winning director Gene Sak died Saturday at his home in East Hampton, New York from pneumonia. Pictured above in April 1977 . He directed the film versions of Simon adaptations 'The Odd Couple,' 'Barefoot in the Park,' 'Last of the Red Hot Lovers' and 'Brighton Beach Memoirs.' He also directed the stage and film version of 'Mame,' which starred his then-wife Bea Arthur. Saks directed Goldie Hawn to an Oscar for supporting actress in 'Cactus Flower.' 'He could direct actors to be funny, but he wasn’t funny himself,' Emanuel Azenberg, who produced nine Broadway shows directed by Saks, told the New York Times. 'He would say, "This is funny," in a very serious way. And you’d laugh, because that was funny. 'All of those fundamentals - pacing, timing, line readings - that had to do with: If you said it this way it would be funny, but if you said it another way it wouldn’t be funny. That’s what he was good at,' Azenberg added. Saks is survived by his wife Keren, their daughter, and his two adopted sons from his first marriage to Golden Girls star Bea Arthur. Saks and Arthur. Saks and Arthur were married for thirty years before divorcing in 1980. She passed away in 2009.

Summary: The Tony Award-winning director passed away from pneumonia Saturday at his home in East Hampton, New York . In addition to directing The Odd Couple, Saks was an actor and also directed several Neil Simon plays such as Biloxi Blues . Saks is survived by wife Keren, with whom he had one daughter . Saks was also married to former Golden Girls star Bea Arthur (who died in 2009) for thirty years, and they shared two adopted sons .


Starbucks baristas will no longer be encouraged to write 'Race Together' on customers' cups, the coffee chain's CEO Howard Schultz has said today. The last day workers will write the messages is on March 22 as the initiative, which was accused of using racial tensions to boost its bottom line, will continue more broadly without the handwritten notes. Starbucks spokesman Jim Olson said the phase out is not a reaction to the push back the chain has received over its campaign. 'Nothing is changing,' he said. 'It's all part of the cadence of the timeline we originally planned.' The campaign, announced on Tuesday, received much criticism including that it was opportunistic and inappropriate, as it came in the wake of racially charged events such as national protests over police killings of black males. Others questioned whether Starbucks workers could spark productive conversations about race while serving drinks. Scroll down for video . Standing firm: Schultz addressed the massive social media backlash during the company's annual shareholder's meeting in Seattle on Wednesday (pictured), saying: 'Our intentions are pure' In his statement on Sunday, Schultz acknowledged the naysayers and skeptics as an anticipated part of the outreach. 'While there has been criticism of the initiative - and I know this hasn't been easy for any of you - let me assure you that we didn't expect universal praise,' his statement said. 'The heart of Race Together has always been about humanity: the promise of the American Dream should be available to every person in this country, not just a select few. The six-time NBA champion wrote that Starbucks' 'Race Together' campaign left him in 'shock and awe' 'We leaned in because we believed that starting this dialogue is what matters most. We are learning a lot. And will always aim high in our efforts to make a difference on the issues that matter most.' The initiative previously encouraged workers to write 'Race Together' on cups and to also strike up conversations with customers about race. Schultz said that the phase of the campaign that involved the messages on drink cups was 'just the catalyst' for a larger conversation. He also said this part of the campaign was always scheduled to end on Sunday. Starbucks will still hold forum discussions, co-produce special sections in USA TODAY and put more stores in minority communities as part of the Race Together initiative, wrote Schultz. Six-time NBA champion Kareem Abdul-Jabbar spoke out in defence of Schultz and the company's campaign, saying the concept left him in 'shock and awe.' 'Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz's bold decision to encourage his baristas to discuss race relations with willing customers has filled me with shock and awe,' he wrote in his TIME magazine column. 'I'm in awe of his courageous and good-hearted attempt to do something to bring about better awareness of racism. 'I'm in awe that he's willing to put morality above profits. I'm in awe that he's willing to endure the snarky ridicule and lame coffee jokes from pundits as well as the inevitable death threats from clueless trolls. All

Summary: On Sunday, Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz sent out letter saying that baristas will not write the messages on cups after March 22 . Coffee chain's 'Race Together' campaign, was slammed on social media and was accused of using racial tensions to boost its bottom line . Starbucks spokesman Jim Olson said 'nothing is changing' and phase out is part of cadence of timeline the company originally planned . Schultz wrote that while there has been criticism of initiative, the company 'did not expect universal praise' Six-time NBA champion has spoken out in defense of Schultz and the company's 'Race Together' campaign .


Jack Straw has said 'a lot of white politicians' prefer to keep silent about the segregation of our communities for fear of being dubbed racist. The former Labour home secretary said it was the responsibility of politicians to get such issues out in the open, but said there was a 'polite society' which meant that such issues are not talked about. And Ann Cryer, the former Labour MP for Keighley, said it had been difficult for her to raise the issue of grooming by Asian men in her West Yorkshire constituency 'without being called a racist'. Jack Straw, Labour MP for Blackburn has said 'a lot of white politicians' prefer to keep silent about the segregation of our communities for fear of being dubbed racist . She said friends of hers in the Labour Party had known about the abuse for years, but said nothing about it. The two politicians made their comments on a documentary to be screened on Thursday and presented by Trevor Phillips, the former chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission. It comes days after Mr Philllips said in an article that Britain is silencing debate on race issues by 'intimidating' those who dare to ask questions. He said far too many people felt unable to speak their minds out of a fear they would be branded racist, and that people would have to become 'more ready to offend each other' as the price of free speech. The comments come 10 years after he warned that Britain was 'sleepwalking to segregation' – comments which attracted a welter of criticism. But one politician who did not condemn the comments at the time was Mr Straw, home secretary from 1997 and 2001 and foreign secretary until 2006. The MP for Blackburn, one of Britain's most segregated constituencies, said: 'It is a fact of life that people tend to want to live where people like them live. 'If you got a map I could say the people in that area some from this part of India, the people in that area come from another Indian area but not very far away by the way, and this is a Pakistani area and these people come from here and these people come from there,' he said. Asked Mr Phillips why it is that the UK is not comfortable talking about segregation, Mr Straw said: 'There is a sort of polite society in which people aren't comfortable about talking about this. 'But I think that in politics you have a responsibility to get things out in the open. I am concerned about the effects of people living wholly separate lives of course, but you can't direct where people live.' Ann Cryer, the former Labour MP for Keighley, said it had been difficult for her to raise the issue of grooming by Asian men in her West Yorkshire constituency 'without being called a racist' Mr Phillips then asked him why he thinks there is 'essentially such a silence on these questions'. Mr Straw said: 'I think that a lot of white politicians are nervous

Summary: Ex Labour home secretary said politicians had duty to raise such issues . But said there was a 'polite society' meaning they were not talked about . Former Labour MP Ann Cryer raised similar concerns in the interview . Said hard to raise issue of grooming by Asians without being called racist .


Nazakat Ali, 30 (above), has been jailed for 14 years for attempted murder after stabbing his 27-year-old wife Shahzana Kausar 15 times during an argument . A domineering husband tried to murder his wife by stabbing her 15 times after she said she wanted to take up English lessons. Nazakat Ali, 30, stabbed his 27-year old partner Shahzana Kausar during a row at their home in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, after she made it clear she wanted to enrol at college to study English. Manchester Crown Court heard how he grabbed a knife and, in front of his own mother, stabbed his wife more than a dozen times as he refused to accept that she wanted to gain a 'degree of independence'. Following the attack on September 29 last year, Ali fled the scene and Ms Kausar was left lying in a pool of the blood on the floor. She was later flown to hospital where doctors carried out two emergency operations to heal stab wounds to her neck, collarbone, abdomen, ribs and a severed artery which caused her to lose one third of her body's blood. Ali has now pleaded guilty to attempted murder and has been jailed for 14 years by the judge who called him a 'dangerous man'. The court heard how the incident unfolded after Ms Kausar returned home from the Jobcentre and told her husband that she had been advised to enrol at college to improve her English. He told his mother, who was living with the couple at the property, that he was not going to allow his wife to join the course, and an argument ensued. The couple had known each other for 16 years and married in Pakistan in 2005 before moving to the UK together in 2008. Mark Kellet, prosecuting, said: 'When the defendant and Shahzana were upstairs in their bedroom, he became angry and started shouting and slapped her across the head. She asked for her mobile phone so she could contact her sister or the police, but he refused to return it. 'She left the house to walk to her sister's address but was followed by the defendant. She asked for help from a bystander but the defendant apologised and they returned home. Once they had returned home they sat in the kitchen with the defendant's mother. 'Shahzana told the defendant if he were to behave in a similar manner again, she would leave him. 'He became angry and punched her, knocking her to the floor. He picked up a knife from a kitchen drawer and repeatedly stabbed her. 'She described it as "the way he stabbed me, it was like dying". She begged him to stop, which he did, before running from the house.' Ali's mother provided a statement to the court which said the pair had been abusive towards each other and Ali had stabbed his wife when she ran at him. When Ms Kausar was taken to hospital, X-rays revealed she had blood within her chest, which had to be drained, and that she was bleeding from an artery.

Summary: Nazakat Ali stabbed his wife Shahzana Kausar 15 times during argument . 30-year-old lashed out after becoming angry she wanted to learn English . Ms Kausar suffered severed artery and wounds to her liver, colon and neck . 'Dangerous man' Ali admitted attempted murder and was jailed for 14 years .


Ryanair is poised to become the first airline to use a so-called ‘ghost airport’ on Spain’s eastern coast which has been ignored by other carriers. Spanish media said Europe’s largest budget airline will operate flights between Castellon-Costa Azahar Airport and destinations in Britain, Germany and Sweden. A Ryanair spokesperson told MailOnline Travel that an announcement will take place tomorrow. Castellon-Costa Azahar Airport has become a symbol of wasteful public spending and Spain's debt . The spokesperson said: 'Ryanair does not comment upon or engage in rumour or speculation. However, I can confirm we are holding a press conference in Castellon tomorrow, 11th March.' Castellon-Costa Azahar Airport has barely been used since it opened four years ago, and has become a symbol of reckless government spending and Spain’s debt. It was built at a cost of £130million and declared open in March 2011, even though no airlines were signed on as tenants and it had not received government approval to operate. It received that approval late last year and since December it has been used for charter flights operated by Spanish football clubs Barcelona and Villarreal, but it has not welcomed any commercial flights. Citing unnamed sources, ABC said Ryanair will begin operating from the airport at the start of the Easter holiday season, and local officials are hoping the deal will bring more tourists to the region. The airport was heavily criticised for a 79-ft tall statue built next to the only runway at a cost of £200,000 . The airport’s operator, Canadian multinational SNC-Lavalin, has set a goal of 250 flights and 35,000 passengers in its first year, the newspaper said. Castellon-Costa Azahar Airport has been plagued with problems and the subject of fierce criticism since the day it was inaugurated in March 2011. Officials were lambasted for a 79-ft tall statue built next to the terminal’s only runway at a cost of £200,000, and for spending £25million on publicity even though the airport had failed to secure necessary permits required for air traffic. The airport was developed by provincial politician Carlos Fabra, who was jailed for tax fraud last year . Its airstrip was found to be too narrow for aeroplanes to turn around, meaning it had to be torn up and widened to meet industry regulations. While it was deserted and facing an uncertain future, there were suggestions that it be transformed into a race track for cars or a shopping mall. Located 60 miles north of Valencia, the airport was developed by Carlos Fabra, the former head of Castellon’s provincial government, who was jailed for tax fraud last year. The airport's operators are have set a target of 250 flights and 35,000 passengers in its first year . The airport's statue is said to be a representation of Fabra. It is found in a region already served by busy international airports in Valencia and Alicante, but SNC-Lavalin, which signed a 20-year, £20million deal to run the facility, predicts that it will host 450,000 passengers in 2019. SNC-Lavalin said Castellon’s government will not make any money on the airport

Summary: Castellon-Costa Azahar Airport has been empty since it opened in 2011 . Spanish media said Ryanair will operate flights starting this Easter . It will fly to Castellon from destinations in Britain, Germany and Sweden . Airport was built at a cost of £130million without government approval .


In addition to the human remains uncovered along an Alaska trail near the home of a family of four who vanished a year ago, police revealed Monday that a handgun and a dog were uncovered at the site as well. Police in the town of Kenai, population 7,100, say the dog's description matches that of the missing family's springer spaniel. They also say the recovered gun likely came from their home less than two miles from the shallow mass grave. Brandon Jividen, 38, his girlfriend Rebecca Adams, 23, her two children Michelle, 6, and three-year-old Jarraca and their dog Sparks had not been seen for 10 months, prompting massive police searches with help from the FBI. Police said they believe the gun came from the family home based on a serial number match. Found: Rebecca Adams, 23, her two children Michelle, 6, and three-year-old Jarraca and their dog Sparks had not been seen for 10 months. Their bodies were discovered along with the family dog's in a pit a few miles from their Alaska home . Family dog: The family was found dead after nearly a year with the remains of their springer spaniel Sparks . So who did it? Along with the family and the dog, police found a handgun registered to the family. They said there was no indication they were moved to the mass grave where they were found and that no outside party was suspected in the slayings . Kenai police Lt. Dave Ross said Monday the bodies haven't been identified by a coroner, but police have every indication it's the missing family. 'The clothes, the remains, the handgun all appear to match the missing family,' Ross told KTUU. Ross provided few other details, saying the investigation remains open, however he hinted that the gruesome fates met by the family members may have been at the hand of one of their own. He said there's no reason to believe another person was involved in the deaths or that the bodies were moved. 'We don't have any reason to believe from what we've collected that they were transported there,' Ross said. Died at the site? Responding officers found remains and items reported missing from the home of Brandon Jividen, 38, and girlfriend Rebecca Adams, 23. Adams two daughters were found as well. Police say their is no indication the family was moved to the pit where they were found . Clothes and human remains were found on the trail near their home, pictured, that may finally reveal what happened after the family vanished from their home . A map showing exactly where he remains and items of clothing were found on a trail near to the family home . The grim discovery came after a person driving down a west Kenai trail on Saturday spotted items, which were reported missing from Miss Adams and Mr Jividen's home. FBI officials are travelling to the area to help with the investigation. Police added that it would take time to positively identify the remains and to complete the investigation. The family, along

Summary: Brandon Jividen, 38, Rebecca Adams, 23, her children Michelle and Jarraca and their dog Sparks had not been seen for 10 months . Remains that matched the family were found of a family of four, a dog and a handgun registered to the family in a pit two miles from their Kenai home . Police on Monday said evidence suggests the family died at the site and that no outside party was involved . Their Kenai home showed no signs it was broken into .


A doctor who made a stand against sexism in medicine has received hundreds of messages of support from disgruntled women physicians across the world. Dr Ashleigh Witt, who works as a medical registrar, posted a lengthy post on her blog discussing how she is frequently belittled because of her sex, with people regularly referring to her as a 'lady doctor' instead of just 'doctor'. She pointed out that she has also been judged by members of the profession in the higher ranks of her hospital who claimed she got into her position because she was pretty. Dr Ashleigh Witt, who works as a medical registrar in Melbourne . Writing on blogspot.com, Dr Witt, from Melbourne, Australia, said: 'Sexual harassment is every time you call me "blondie" or "Barbie", every time you make a joke about my choice to wear a skirt not pants, every time you comment on my appearance rather than my skillset, every time you call me a "lady doctor" instead of a "doctor". 'Sexual harassment is two weeks ago when I lead a code blue which saved a woman on the labour ward and my male colleague arrived after the fact and said, "they shouldn’t send you up here, you’re too clucky". She continued: 'It’s also the consultant who commented that I’d "obviously gotten to where I was at a young age because I was pretty" (Um, maybe I’m actually good at my job?). 'It’s the surgical registrar who told me if I wanted to be taken seriously I needed to dye my hair dark.' Dr Witt wrote the essay in response to recent comments by a respected Australian vascular surgeon called Dr Gabrielle McMullin, who suggested women should accept sexual advances by their male colleagues instead of making a complaint that could damage their career. Dr Witt, who says she has faced sexual harassment at work . Dr Witt believes that sexual comments of the kind she has experienced are causing serious damage to the medical profession. She said: 'These seemingly harmless comments, coupled with the line that we 'need to take a joke', teach women in medicine that they need to just accept everyday sexual harassment. 'And worse still, they encourage those deeds further along the spectrum of sexual harassment. 'Where do we draw the line between commenting on someone's appearance to commenting on her body to making an unwanted sexual advance? 'Clearly we're having a great deal of trouble with the grey zone, so why don't we stop subtle sexual harassment where it starts.' Dr Witt ended her blog post with a call to arms for female medical workers, suggesting that they point out sexual harassment when it happened to the person in question. She said: 'I’m going to ask you,that this week you look out for subtle sexual harassment and call it out. 'Whether you’re the med student, the consultant, the nurse, the dietician or the plaster tech, that when you hear a comment towards a woman that would not be made if she was a man say "hey! Let’s not make jokes based on

Summary: Dr Ashleigh Witt, from Melbourne, wrote essay against sexism in medicine . She revealed she had been told to dye her hair dark to be taken seriously . One consultant told her she had got her job because she was pretty .


A Colorado man who was found living illegally in the rafters of a Denver restaurant after he tumbled through the ceiling and caused tens of thousands of dollars in damage was sentenced yesterday. Stephen Graves, 36, was discovered living above the Yard House restaurant in Denver on December 10 when he fell through the ceiling and broke a sprinkler head. He pleaded guilty to first-degree criminal trespass, a felony, and was sentenced to two years mental health probation. Scroll down for video . Stephen Graves pleaded guilty to criminal trespass and was sentenced to two years mental health probation . View of the Yard House restaurant (front) and Sheraton Hotel (background) in Denver, Colorado . A search of the area Graves was occupying revealed numerous bottle caps from alcoholic beverages . Graves was originally charged with burglary and two counts of criminal mischief, the Denver Post reported. The probation sentence will run concurrent with two other cases, according to the Denver District Attorney's office. When Graves fell through the ceiling and broke the sprinkler, it caused the restaurant and the Sheraton Hotel next door to flood. It is believed Graves, who was only wearing jeans at the time, fell about 20 feet. It is believed Graves (above), who was only wearing jeans, fell about 20 feet when he tumbled from the ceiling . When Graves fell from the ceiling, he broke a sprinkler head and caused flooding in the restaurant and hotel . Graves was charged with burglary and two counts of criminal mischief after the incident on December 10 . He became trapped in a wall in the restaurant and had to be cut out with a chainsaw, 7NEWS reported. James Ballinger with the Denver Police Department said: 'There was moaning coming from one of the walls to the right of the front doors.' A search of the area Graves was occupying revealed numerous bottle caps from alcoholic beverages. It is unclear how long he was living in the restaurant before his ill-fated fall.

Summary: Steven Graves, 36, fell through ceiling of Yard House restaurant in Denver . He pleaded guilty to first-degree criminal trespass which is a felony . DA's office said he was sentenced to two years mental health probation . Sheraton Hotel next door was also damaged during December 10 incident .


Kevin Pietersen has backed incoming England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Colin Graves to make the changes needed to revitalise the national team. Graves will take up his new post in May and high on his list of priorities will be to reinvigorate England's one-day side, who were knocked out of the World Cup in the group stages after an embarrassing loss to Bangladesh on Monday. The defeat gave ammunition to those who believe it was a mistake to axe Pietersen from the international set-up 14 months ago, while Graves appeared to leave the door open for the star batsman earlier this month when he suggested he would have a better chance of an England return if he played county cricket in this country. Kevin Pietersen has backed incoming ECB chairman Colin Graves to revitalise the national team . Graves will tstart in May and high on his list of priorities will be to reinvigorate England's one-day side . Pietersen tweeted on Tuesday: 'Quick note - ECB doesn't decide who gets to play in IPL/Big Bash. The franchises have to want them! Plenty have tried & failed to get a go! 'But, the encouraging news is that the new boss has the vision to look to open up a window to hopefully give players a better chance! 'I really do think changes are going to be made & positive things are going to start to happen for the good of English cricket...' ECB managing director Paul Downton insisted after Monday's defeat that they needed to look at giving England's players more experience in the Twenty20 format. Pietersen was sacked by England in January 2014 and has since played domestic T20 cricket for Delhi Daredevils, Surrey, St Lucia Zouks and Melbourne Stars. The 34-year-old is currently without a county contract, having left Surrey in October. England were knocked out of the World Cup in the group stages after defeat by Bangladesh . Pietersen has not given up hope of playing for England again and Graves has suggested it could be possible . Pietersen checks his phone while at Loftus Road with Queens Park Rangers shareholder Amit Bhatia (right)

Summary: Kevin Pietersen has backed Colin Graves to revitalise the national team . Graves is the incoming England and Wales Cricket Board chairman . Pietersen said he felt 'positive' that things would change .


A bowling alley faces $45,000 in fines after an employee died when his hooded sweatshirt became tangled in a pin-setting machine during repair work. Northwest Lanes in Fairfield, Ohio was cited for eight violations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration following the death of 53-year-old maintenance worker David Geiger in November. Mr Geiger, who was married with children and a grandchild, worked at the bowling alley for 30 years. David Geiger, 53 (pictured with his wife) was killed in a freak accident while at work at Northwest Lanes in Fairfield, Ohio last November . Mr Geiger's hoodie became trapped in the pin-setting machine at the Ohio bowling alley. Federal investigators called it a 'preventable workplace tragedy' The Butler County Coroner's Office said in November that Geiger's death was accidental traumatic asphyxia. The Dayton Daily News reported that the federal agency said the machinery's parts were improperly exposed and lacked proper guards. OSHA called it a 'preventable workplace tragedy'. The bowling alley also did not ensure workers were protected from dangerous parts of its 1970s-era equipment, according to OSHA. Northwest Lanes has requested a conference with the agency after it was slapped with $45,500 in fines. Daily Mail Online was awaiting comment from Northwest Lanes on Tuesday. The bowling alley had no history of workplace violations before Mr Geiger's death. Mr Geiger was pulled into the machine on November 7 around 2pm. Dozens of bowlers were inside the alley at the time but no one saw the accident take place. The 53-year-old was found by fellow employees after they went looking for him when he stopped responding to his pager. The owners of Northwest Lanes previously declined to comment other than to say they were 'very sad and upset'. The bowling alley (pictured) had no history of workplace violations before Mr Geiger's death but will now face $45,000 fines .

Summary: Northwest Lanes in Fairfield, Ohio was cited for eight violations following the death of 53-year-old maintenance worker David Geiger in November . Mr Geiger, who was married with children, lived in Southwest Ohio and worked at the bowling alley for 30 years . The Butler County Coroner's Office said in November that Geiger's death was accidental traumatic asphyxia .


A mother-of-three in New Mexico has been arrested after she was caught on camera allegedly cheering on her middle-school-aged daughter during a violent fight with another girl. In a video filmed by another student, Nicole Morlan, of Albuquerque, can be seen encouraging her daughter to violently fight the other girl. At one point in the video, filmed on Tuesday, a teacher tries to break up the girls but is instead punched and dragged to the ground. Scroll down for video . Nicole Morlan, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, after cheering on her middle-school-aged daughter as she violently fought another girl . In a video filmed by another student, the girls can be seen hitting one another violently as Morlan stands by cheering. A teacher stepped in to break up the fight but is punched and pushed to the ground . And while the teacher is dragged down with the girls, Morlan stands a few feet away cheering on her daughter. People in the video can be heard shouting things like 'beat the s**** of her' and 'drop her'. Her daughter, known on Facebook as Obey Faith Chavez, said in a comment on KOAT's Facebook page that her mother was teaching her to stand up for herself. She said that her mom taught her 'a lesson that I'll never forget', which was 'to stand up for myself' and have a voice. Morlan is seen in the video wearing a striped sweater and following the girls around as they pummel one another . The girls involved in the fight were disciplined and Morlan was banned from school property for a year . Police said the two girls in the video had fought earlier in the day before things turned violent, according to WPTV. Morlan was arrested shortly after the fight and face two felony charges and a count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. If the mom is convicted she could face thousands of dollars in fines and jail time. The girls were also disciplined and Morlan was banned from school property for the rest of the year. Moreland was later arrested and faces two felony charges and a count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor. If convicted, she could face thousands of dollars in fines and jail time .

Summary: Nicole Morlan can be seen encouraging daughter to fight other girl, authorities believe . When a teacher tried to break fight up, she's punched and pulled to ground . Morlan's daughter says she was teaching her to stand up for herself . She was arrested shortly after the fight and faces two felony charges and a count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor . The middle-school-aged girls were disciplined for their actions .


David Gibson, 28, fractured his skull, nose and both eye sockets after he fell face first into a barrier at the side of the pitch after a horror tackle . A footballer fractured his skull, nose and both eye sockets after he fell face first into a barrier at the side of a pitch during a horror tackle. David Gibson, 28, was playing for Felixstowe Harpers against Ipswich Valley Rangers in the Bob Coleman Cup quarter final when he careered off the pitch on Saturday. He was left completely unrecognisable following the incident, and was kept in hospital for two days as medics tended to his horrific injuries at Colchester General Hospital, Essex. The match was immediately abandoned when the forward was injured in the 24th minute while his helpless team-mates looked on. Former Ipswich Town right-back Kevin Steggles, the father of David's girlfriend, was at the match. Mr Steggles, 53, said: 'It's the worst thing I have ever seen. 'But at the end of the day it was an accident and it's obviously a difficult time for all the family.' Mr Gibson, of Ipswich, is in his second season at Felixstowe Harpers. Harpers manager Ian Watson branded the horrifying incident 'traumatic' but said the barrier surrounding the football pitch did conform to FA guidelines. Mr Watson said: 'It was traumatic. 'David stumbled into it at quite a pace although it was a normal challenge.' But he stressed: 'If you can have a freak accident like this one just how dangerous are those posts?' Mr Gibson was playing for Felixstowe Harpers against Ipswich Valley Rangers in the Bob Coleman Cup quarter final when he careered off the pitch and into a barrier on Saturday . Ipswich Borough Council, which runs Gainsborough Sports Centre, has launched an urgent investigation. A council spokesman said: 'We have completed a report into the incident and it will now be investigated. 'We are just very pleased that Mr Gibson appears to be making a good recovery - and we send him and his family all the best.' The match at Gainsborough Sports Centre, Ipswich, was immediatelyabandoned when the forward was injured in the 24th minute as his horrified team-mates looked on . Mr Watson added: 'The people who dealt with it at the scene were absolutely fantastic, including the managers and physios. 'The reaction from other clubs and players has been really overwhelming - that's the good thing about local football.' The game will be replayed on Saturday, March 28.

Summary: David Gibson, 28, left completely unrecognisable following the incident . He fractured his skull, nose and both eye sockets in the fall into barrier . Was kept in hospital for two days as medics tended to his horrific injuries .


Former German leader Helmut Schmidt today stunned his countrymen by revealing he cheated on his wife during their 68-year marriage. The disclosure came when extracts of his new autobiography were printed in a German magazine. 'I had a relationship with another woman,' said Schmidt, who lost his wife Loki five years ago. Schmidt, 96, revealed his deepest personal secret in his book What I Still Want To Say, which is being serialised by the magazine Stern. He would not reveal the identity of his mistress nor how long the affair lasted. Former German Chancellor Helmut Schimdt has admitted to having an affair during his 68-year marriage to Loki (pictured, above, with her husband in 2009) sometime in the late 60s or early 70s . 'It was at the end of the 60s or the beginning of the 70s,' he said, adding that his wife found out about it. He said she realised how 'close' it was and offered to leave him. 'I told her that was a totally fallacious idea,' he added. According to Stern, the woman was a colleague in the social democrat party which he led. He remained in contact with her 'for a long while' after the break up and attended her funeral two years ago. Back in the day: Schmidt (left) is pictured with then-British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher on St Giorgio's Island for a summit of leaders of the European Economic Community in 1980 . Following the death of his wife, he began a relationship with Ruth Loah, 81, his long-time secretary and they are still together. 'Ruth saved my life,' said Schmidt, who was chancellor of Germany from 1974 until 1982. During his time as West Germany's chancellor he lead the country through Cold War tensions and a bloody wave of terror by far-left radicals, the Red Army Faction. He won the Iron Cross for his services in WWII which included action on both the eastern and western fronts. Last year, he revealed he had stashed 38,000 menthol cigarettes in his home because of fears the EU would try to ban them. He is well known for being excused for smoking in places where it is banned. Der Spiegel reported that the 40-a-day smoker has in the past managed to get away with it both in television studios and congress halls.

Summary: Schmidt, 96, reveals affair 'at the end of the 60s or beginning of the 70s' Would not disclose identity of other woman or how long romance lasted . Wife found out and offered to leave, but he said it was a fallacious idea'


From sparkly costumes and glitter face paints to rainbow flags and party horns, it’s that time of year again for revellers to glamour up to celebrate a fun-filled night of colourful festivities. As a rainbow of colours continue to hit the country, revellers are making their way through the city ahead of Sydney’s world famous Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade. Tens and thousands of party-goers and tourists from across the globe will line the streets to celebrate a night full of festivities as they soak up the spectacular atmosphere on Saturday. Scroll down for video . Fire & Rescue NSW have showed their support with hilarious signs as tens and thousands of party-goers will line the streets to celebrate . Fire & Rescue in Ashfield, Inner West of Sydney was spotted with a hilarious sign and in full swing for Mardi Gras . Kicking off the 37th annual parade, Sydney will be afire with passionate people from all walks of life as they march, dance, skate, ride and even boogie their way along Oxford Street to celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQI community. With countless hours of non-stop tunes and jam-packed entertainment, the night will offer colourful animals, floats, flowers and dancers decked out in beautiful rainbow costumes such as flannies, sequin cocktail dresses and cultural attires. Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith said: 'The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade is a highlight of Sydney's events calendar, attracting tens of thousands of locals and visitors who line the streets to enjoy the night's festivities. A Sydney cafe showed their full support for Mardi Gras as they remind their patrons coffee will be served all day on Saturday . The popular Mary's Burger is in full swing of the celebrations - glamouring up their menu with the 'Fairy's burger' ahead of Mardi Gras . Happy Mardi Gras from East Maitland in NSW as they show their full support ahead of the gay and lesbian celebration . 'The NSW Government is proud to support the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade through our tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. 'This year's Parade promises to be one of the most spectacular yet, encouraging people from all walks of life to share their 'Passion' in celebration of inclusion and diversity.' Meanwhile, local phone booths and ATM machines have all received a funky makeover to get into the spirit as a symbol of pride and support to the gay community. Fire & Rescue NSW and local cafes have also showed their support with hilarious signs as they raise the rainbow flag. The gay pride event is an annual event promoting awareness of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues and themes. Telstra phone booths were spotted in Newtown in Sydney's inner west with a complete makeover - including disco balls and funky designs . The popular Mary's Burger is in full swing of the celebrations - glamouring up their menu with the 'Fairy's burger' ahead of Mardi Gras . A giant 'Happy Mardi Gras' banner was seen attached to a giant cruise . ANZ

Summary: The annual 37th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade will take place this weekend . Tens and thousands from across the globe are expected to attend the colourful festivities . With Mardi Gras in full swing, the city has received a funky makeover as a symbol of pride and support . The gay pride event is an annual event promoting awareness of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues .


Cuts of 20 per cent to the police budget by the Conservatives will leave the public unprotected against crime and terror, a retiring senior officer has warned. Sir Hugh Orde, the retiring president of the Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo), claims the 'tipping point' between cutting resources and staff and increasing the risk to the public is close. Since 2011 the Home Office reduced the amount spent on police by 20 per cent and the Home Secretary Theresa May has said there will be further cuts if the Tories win the forthcoming election. Sir Hugh Orde, the retiring president of the Association of Chief Police Officers, warns that cuts to the police budget of 20 per cent, proposed by the Tories, will leave the public unprotected against crime and terror . One way some forces are reportedly going to try to operate on smaller budgets is by reducing the number of officers. Sir Hugh, who is due to stand down ahead of the creation of the National Police Chiefs' Council, told the Observer that taking police off the streets is a clear risk in the fight against extremism. He said: 'The critical element, it seems to me, with dealing with people who will start to behave differently in their communities is the confidence in that community to speak to the local cops. 'If the cops aren't there and that relationship has not been built we won't get the intelligence.' Asked directly whether police would have adequate resources to protect the public in the context of cuts, he said: 'In my professional judgement, the answer is no.' He added that cuts to other public services had put an increased pressure on the police, with officers having to fill in for ambulance crews and those let down by depleted mental health care. Sir Hugh, who left Acpo two weeks ago, said while it is accepted police cannot be exempt from cuts, he questioned how much more the forces can take. He added that 44 police forces is too many and collaboration is important and cited the work of Sir Stephen House, chief constable in Scotland, who has brought together eight forces, where crime is at an all-time low. Yvette Cooper MP, Labour's Shadow Home Secretary, said cuts would take spending back to 1930s levels and would sign the end of neighbourhood policing . Labour has claimed another 30,000 police officers could be lost if the Conservatives are returned to power in May. Almost 7,000 police community support officers could also be cut by 2020, Labour said, after commissioning figures from the House of Commons Library based on trends during the current Parliament. Yvette Cooper MP, Labour's Shadow Home Secretary, said: 'Conservative plans to cut spending back to 1930s levels would mean the end of neighbourhood policing. 'These figure show that under these extreme and risky Tory plans a further 30,000 police officers could be lost - the equivalent of almost the entire Metropolitan police force. 'This is on top of the 17,000 cut since 2010 and would mean police numbers falling by a

Summary: Sir Hugh Orde is retiring president of Association of Chief Police Officers . He claims 'tipping point' between resource cuts and risk to public is close . Home Office has reduced spending on police by 20 per cent since 2011 . Theresa May, Home Secretary, said further cuts due if Tory's win election . Former Chief Constable said police are already burdened by wider cuts .


Raheem Sterling is expected to be fit for Liverpool's crunch Champions League qualifying clash against Arsenal next Saturday after having an injection in his toe on Friday night. England manager Roy Hodgson confirmed the forward, who impressed against Lithuania, would miss the friendly against Italy to have the procedure in order to cure a long-standing toe complaint. And Sportsmail can confirm Sterling had the injection at Wembley following the comprehensive 4-0 win in order to have maximum recovery time ahead of the visit to the Emirates Stadium. Raheem Sterling posted this picture on Instagram on Saturday afternoon with the caption 'Waay up!!!!' Sterling is expected to be fit for Liverpool's crunch clash against Arsenal next Saturday . Sterling had the injection at Wembley following the comprehensive 4-0 win against Lithuania . Sterling has returned to Liverpool where the club's medical team will monitor his progress following the jab. The 20-year-old has been playing through the pain barrier in recent weeks but the Anfield club are confident Sterling will be available, and fully fit, to face Arsene Wenger's side next Saturday. Manager Brendan Rodgers will be desperate for his prized-asset to prove his fitness for the encounter, particularly with Daniel Sturridge out for a month due to injury. Sterling could be used as a central striker at the Emirates Stadium next week, a role he has excelled in for Liverpool this season, given Sturridge's absence. The 20-year-old Liverpool midfielder scored his first England goal in the second half . Sterling in action for Liverpool during their 2-1 defeat at home to Manchester United last Sunday .

Summary: Liverpool midfielder Raheem Sterling to be fit for match with Arsenal . 20-year-old had an injection in his toe after England game on Friday night . Scored first international goal as England beat Lithuania 4-0 at Wembley .


Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao remains determined to break back into Louis van Gaal's starting XI despite talk of a permanent move to Juventus this summer. The Colombian, who is currently on loan at Old Trafford from Monaco, has failed to impress this season and has not started a game since the 2-0 win against Sunderland on February 28. Juventus are keen on the former Atletico Madrid man, with the Serie A side having opened talks with Monaco about a deal earlier this month. Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao insists he is 'focused 100 per cent' on Manchester United . Colombia striker Falcao scores his first of two goals in a friendly against Bahrain earlier this week . However, Falcao is refusing to discuss a move to Italy and insists he is concentrating on helping United finish the season strongly by grabbing a Champions League place. 'Juventus looking for me? They talk a lot, but now I'm focused 100 per cent on Manchester United,' he told Radio Caracol. The 29-year-old has just four Premier League goals in 19 games but he remains hopeful of breaking back into Van Gaal's plans for the last eight games. Falcao added: 'Before the end of the season there are some crucial matches and I hope that this situation will change.' Falcao has struggled for form since joining Manchester United and looks unlikely to stay beyond this season . Falcao celebrates after scoring his second goal against Bahrain in their 6-0 victory .

Summary: Juventus have opened talks with Monaco about a deal for Radamel Falcao . But the striker is concentrating on playing for Manchester United . Falcao has not started for the Red Devils since February 28 . He hopes to play a big part in United's final eight games of the season .


As the author of the modern classic A Clockwork Orange and a famously outspoken cultural pundit, he is one of the greatest names of post-war British literature. Yet Anthony Burgess has been refused a commemorative blue plaque by English Heritage because, it claims, his significance and profile are 'not strong enough' for recognition. Now the snub has been criticised by leading figures in the literary world, who insist that the author is one of the greatest writers of the 20th Century. Leading literary figures described Anthony Burgess (pictured) being snubbed for a blue plaque as 'pathetic' Malcolm McDowell starred at the lead character Alex (pictured) in Stanley Kubrick's controversial adaptation of A Clockwork Orange . Last night Burgess's biographer Roger Lewis called the decision 'pretty pathetic'. And bestselling author David Lodge, who was a friend of Burgess, said: 'Anthony was a remarkable man. He was a polymath who was extraordinarily gifted in many areas.' Burgess was nominated for a blue plaque – which are erected on buildings to recognise where famous people lived and worked – by staff at the International Anthony Burgess Foundation in Manchester. They wanted it placed on a property in Glebe Street, Chiswick, West London, where the author lived between 1963 and 1968. They were confident of success as Burgess met all the criteria for the scheme – which is funded by public donations – including the stipulation that candidates must be well known and must have been dead for at least 20 years. Burgess wrote 33 novels but is best known for his 1962 dystopian work A Clockwork Orange . But on December 2 last year, English Heritage wrote to confirm the author had not been shortlisted, adding: 'The [blue plaques] panel noted his many achievements but… they felt his overall significance and profile were not yet strong enough to make a case for a blue plaque.' Documents obtained by this newspaper under freedom of information laws show the panel made its decision at a meeting on October 29. The minutes state: 'The panel agreed that Anthony Burgess was a prolific and energetic writer, but that it was too soon after his death to evaluate the merits of shortlisting.' However, members did agree that his name could be submitted for consideration again in five years rather than the usual ten. Burgess, who died in 1993, wrote 33 novels but is best known for his 1962 dystopian work A Clockwork Orange, which was turned into a controversial film by director Stanley Kubrick, with Malcolm McDowell in the leading role. Professor Andrew Biswell, who is based at the Anthony Burgess Foundation, said he hoped the panel would reconsider in light of activities planned for 2017 to mark the centenary of Burgess's birth. English Heritage confirmed a proposal to commemorate the author had been considered last October. 'The panel agreed that it was too soon after his death to arrive at a definitive assessment of his lasting reputation,' a spokesman added.

Summary: English Heritage blasted for refusal to grant Anthony Burgess blue plaque . Leading literary figures described the organisation's decision as 'pathetic' Burgess wrote the modern classic A Clockwork Orange and 32 other books . The novel was made into a controversial film by director Stanley Kubrick .


Illinois Republican Rep. Aaron Schock, facing new pressure over lavish travel and redecorating expenses he charged to his official congressional budget, now says he's not sure if he broke any federal laws in the process. 'I ceratinly nope not,' he told an inside-the-beltway newspaper on Wednesday. 'I’m not an attorney.' The interview with Politico turnedconfrontational when a testy Schock insisted outside advisers would review his office accounts and determine what went wrong. 'That’s what we can all do, is our best effort,' Schock said. TROUBLE BREWING: Illinois Republican Rep. Aaron Schock is under fire for lavish office spending and potential accepting improper gifts, and now says 'I certainly hope' what he did was legal . DOWNTON OFFICE: Schock spent $40,000 in taxpayer funds redecorating his Capitol Hill office, but had to pay the money back . The litany of Schock's troubles seems to grow every week. First came the $40,000 in office expenses – later reimbursed after much public embarrassment – that Schock spent redecorating his office in over-the-top 'Downton Abbey' style. GEN Y: The buff, globe-trotting politician stated that he travels frequently throughout his district 'to stay connected with my constituents' and also travels to raise money for his campaign committee . 'Haters are gonna hate,' the 33-year-old Schock told ABC News as the scandals swirled, invoking Taylor Swift lyrics. Then news emerged that he had billed taxpayers for $10,000 in private jet travel including a November 2014 jaunt with staffers to see a Chicago Bears NFL game. The Associated Press identified another $40,000 worth of free air travel that Schock logged on aircraft belonging to his donors. Most recently he spent another $10,000 taking 10 staff members on a New York City trip when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in town. The congressional aides reportedly did hardly any official work, but they did attend a Global Citizen Festival concert featuring Jay-Z and Carrie Underwood. A political action committee associated with Schock, the GOP Generation Y Fund, spent $3,000 for the tickets. The same campaign fund paid a $1,440 invoice from a massage parlor it engaged for a fundraising event. Separately, Schock took his interns to a sold-out Katy Perry concert in Washington last June. He has also been accused of improperly accepting gifts without reporting them, another potential legal violation. Records show that those perks included dinners and presents during a 2011 London trip. He also hosted a 2014 fundraiser on a golf course without paying to use the facility. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL? Schock and his entourage flew in an Eclipse 500 aircraft like this one to attend a November 2014 NFL game . The 33-year-old congressman later reimbursed the government $1,200 for the football trip . BEST BOSS EVER: Schock took his interns to a sold-out Katy Perry concert in Washington last June (pictured) Politico reported on Wednesday that Schock has hired two attorneys from the white-shoe law firm Jones Day – and a professional crisis communications firm – to help him wade through the legal and PR quicksand that now threatens to end his

Summary: Interview with inside-the-beltway newspaper puts more pressure on Illinois Rep. Aaron Schock . The pol has hired an outside firm to review his office books . He billed taxpayers for $10,000 in private jet travel including a side-trip to an NFL game in 2014 . Famously had to pay back $40,000 to his official account after he spent the money redecorating his Capitol Hill office in lavish 'Downton Abbey' style . Now defends his $10,000 expense taking staffers with him to New York City, where they say Jay-Z and Carrie Underwood in a charity concert .


Slobs are people who are 'lazy and dirty or messy' or just simply 'ordinary', according to the dictionary. They are also the offensive lineman for the reigning NCAA football champion Ohio State Buckeyes. Being a slob requires a player to be 'mean' and 'nasty', be able to work hard' and 'know how to eat'' like a 'human garbage disposal'. Scroll down for video . Members of the Ohio State Buckeyes offensive line (some pictured) affectionately call themselves 'slobs' Former Buckeye Andrew Norwell, who now plays guard in the NFL for the Panthers, created the name in 2013 . Junior Chase Farris said: 'When we slob, we slob together. There's no single slobs. It's just a group of slobs' Former Buckeye Andrew Norwell, who now plays guard for the Carolina Panthers in the NFL, created the name in 2013, according to The Zone. Norwell came up with nickname while he was drawing pictures in the team's meeting room. Right guard Pat Elflein explained: 'He'd just draw a bunch of goofy pictures and just mash a bunch of animals together. 'He'd just make them look real funny together, and one of them, he made one of them and he called it a slob. 'It was a big, ugly, thing and it just kind of caught on that we're the slobs.' The name caught on and the guys on the team kept using it when Norwell moved on. They will continue to use the affectionate term in the coming season as four out of five of the team's starting offensive lineman will be returning, the Columbus Dispatch reported. Junior linemen Chase Farris said: 'A slob isn't what you look like, a slob is how you act, it's what you are, it's what you do.' 'We go eat, we slob. When we're together in the meeting room, we slob. 'When we're on the field, we slob. 'When we slob, we slob together. 'There's no single slobs. It's just a group of slobs.' Despite the funny nickname, left guard Billy Price (wearing No. 54) said a lineman has to be good to be a slob . Right guard Pat Elflein (No. 65) explained Norwell drew a goofy, ugly picture and then called it a slob . The Ohio State Buckeyes beat the Oregon Ducks by a final score of 42 to 20 in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium on January 12, 2015 in Arlington, Texas . Despite the funny nickname, left guard Billy Price said a lineman has to be good to be a slob. Offensive coordinator Ed Warinner will be in charge of finding a slob to fill the vacant spot. He said: 'I mean, they are human garbage disposals. 'They eat 8,000 calories a day, and they look pretty good doing it, so if I tried to keep up with them you'd have to get 4XL for me.' The slobs protected third-string quarterback Cardale Jones during the first College Football Playoff national championship game and Ohio State trounced the Oregon Ducks 42-20. The team's defense was able to contain Heisman

Summary: To earn the nickname a player must be mean, nasty and 'know how to eat' Guard for NFL's Carolina Panthers, Andrew Norwell, created name in 2013 . Buckeyes beat Oregon Ducks 42-20 in NCAA national championship game . Offensive line was able to protect third-string quarterback Cardale Jones . Play of 'slobs' on offensive line was big reason Ohio State had 14-1 record .


John Moore has been awarded £400 after being put up in a Club 18-30 hotel by Thomas Cook . A Parish councillor has won a £400 payout from Thomas Cook after booking what he thought was a 'relaxing holiday' to a Greek party island where he was housed with 'boozed up' youngsters at a Club 18-30 hotel. John Moore, 56, from Herne in Kent, planned to spend a week on the island of Zante with his partner Angela, 51, in September. Rather than the peaceful break they were hoping for, the couple, who run a sweet shop in Herne Bay, Kent, were booked into Christina Studios in the resort of Laganas in Zante, advertised as an 18-30 clubbing destination. After spending two nights in the hotel where youngsters were 'banging on the walls and screaming and shouting', the couple abandoned the package holiday for something more quiet. They have since been awarded £400 in compensation by the holiday company. While being advertised by Club 18-30, Christina Studios is described on the Thomas Cook website as 'one of the best chill-out zones' in Zante. Upon their arrival however Mr Moore found 'boozed up' youngsters who 'didn't seem to sleep'. 'When we got there I asked the rep if he really thought I would book an 18-30 holiday,' the Parish councillor said. 'When I go on holiday I don't care really where it is, I want to just have a good time but it wasn't made obvious to me that it was a holiday for young people. 'It was an official 18-30 resort. It was packed with youngsters banging on the walls and screaming and shouting, so we decided to find somewhere else more to our liking.' After complaining to the Thomas Cook rep at the resort, the couple were told in order to be relocated they would have to pay extra on top of the £600 they had already spent. They would also have no other choice but to go to another Club 18-30, said Mr Moore. 'We were just speechless really, it wasn't what we wanted or what we were expecting and Angela was horrified.' While the couple were dismayed at having to share their accommodation with 'rowdy' youngsters, they were least impressed with the owner of the hotel's treatment towards them. 'The apartments didn't have hot water but when I complained the owner used very, very rude language.' At that Mr Moore and his partner packed their things immediately and, they say, waited outside the hotel for their rep to find them new accommodation. Eventually they decided to find themselves somewhere else to stay and filed a complaint with the company upon their return to the UK. Mr Moore decided to launch legal action when they failed to act, and was recently offered £400 after requesting a summons from a judge. The hotel where Mr Moore and his partner stayed was advertised as being 600m from the Laganas strip (above), hailed as one of Zante's biggest nightlife spots . The 56-year-old Parish councillor said Christina Studios (above) where he was placed

Summary: John Moore, 56, booked himself and his partner a week-long holiday . The couple planned to spend the trip relaxing in resort of Laganas in Zante . Instead they were housed with 'boozed up youngsters' at 'loud' party hotel . Thomas Cook placed them in Christina Studios which is run by Club 18-30 . Since complaining they have been awarded £400 by the holiday company .


Sometimes I think the Premier League clubs have to remember in which country their fantastic product is played. You can already sense there is reluctance to FA chairman Greg Dyke’s suggestion that we increase the number of home-grown players in a squad from eight to 12. We will never know if our players our good enough unless they get the chance and there are still people at Premier League clubs reluctant to take that risk. Talent isn’t always as obvious as Raheem Sterling or Wayne Rooney. Harry Kane has been phenomenal in attack at Tottenham Hotspur since being given his chance to shine . Kane Wheels away after taking just 79 seconds to score his first international goal at Wembley . Sometimes, as with Harry Kane, it takes time to develop and that only comes with games. It’s only a year ago that some at Tottenham would have questioned whether he was Champions League quality. They’re not now, but only because he was lucky to have managers willing to play him. Germany have German owners and, by and large, German coaches and they’re world champions. Their clubs and football association co-operate. We don’t have such unity so it is no surprise that our international record is what it is. Kane has had several spells out on loan before breaking into the Tottenham first-team this season . FA chairman Greg Dyke’s is looking to increase the number of home-grown players in a squad from eight to 12 .

Summary: Glenn Hoddle believes Harry Kane is proof that clubs should take risks . He feels talent isn't always as clear as Raheem Sterling or Wayne Rooney . Kane has spent many spells on loan away from Tottenham Hotspur . But, the England striker has now fully cemented his place in their first team .


Streaming has topped CD sales in revenue for the first time in the United States as music listeners flock to on-demand services and Internet radio, industry figures showed. Data for 2014 showed a major shift to streaming as opposed to physical sales and permanent downloads, with rapid growth both for on-demand services such as Spotify and Rhapsody and Internet radio providers such as Pandora. Streaming revenue totaled $1.87 billion, edging out the $1.85 billion earned by CD sales, according to data of the Recording Industry Association of America. Scroll down for video . Data for 2014 showed a major shift to streaming as opposed to physical sales and permanent downloads, with rapid growth both for on-demand services such as Spotify, app seen here, and Rhapsody and Internet radio providers such as Pandora ©Jonathan Nackstrand (AFP/File) Pop superstar Taylor Swift is the most vocal critic of streaming and last year pulled her catalog off Spotify, which offers free access. Bjork has also refused to stream her latest album 'Vulnicura,' saying she felt uneasy giving out the emotionally intense work for free. Streaming helped stabilize the bottom line for the long-troubled industry, with overall revenue from recorded music going up two percent to $4.86 billion to mark the fourth year of growth. 'The industry continues to rapidly grow the share of revenues coming outside of traditional unit-based sales,' the association said in a report Wednesday. Whatever the bottom line, the growth of streaming has been controversial with numerous stars complaining that the revenue sent back to artists is paltry. Pop superstar Taylor Swift is the most vocal critic of streaming and last year pulled her catalog off Spotify, which offers free access. Bjork has also refused to stream her latest album 'Vulnicura,' saying she felt uneasy giving out the emotionally intense work for free. Spotify has hit back by describing itself as a rare source of growth in the music industry and has said it has distributed $2 billion back to artists over the past seven years. The US association said that CD sales fell by 12.7 percent last year. But some of the strongest growth in the industry was in vinyl, which has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years among collectors. A timeline of Spotify accomplishments on a wall at the entrance to the company headquarters in Stockholm. The Swedish startup that revolutionised digital music is a major player in the streaming world - which has now overtaken CD sales. Revenue from vinyl albums and EPs jumped by 50 percent, although the total of $315 million was still a fraction of the market for CDs or digital formats. Despite the sharp growth of streaming, permanent digital downloads on services such as iTunes remained the largest overall category for revenue. The United States is the world's largest music market. Format tastes have significant differences around the world, with CDs still dominating Japan but streaming taking off in Scandinavia.

Summary: Streaming revenue totaled $1.87 billion, CD sales earned $1.85 billion . On-demand services such as Spotify and Rhapsody and Internet radio providers such as Pandora biggest beneficiaries of explosion . Comes as Apple believed to be preparing to launch streaming service .


An Australian photographer has put this sprawling Hawaiian getaway he bought two years ago for less than US$10 million dollars back on the market for more than double what he paid. Peter Lik, who famously sold an x-ray image of an Arizona canyon for $8 million last year, has listed the exotic holiday home for $US19.8 million (A$25.5 million). The 55-year-old Melbourne-born artist bought the three-bedroom, three-pavilion property in Maui from tech-industry entrepreneur Bill Nguyen in 2013. Peter Lik, who famously sold an x-ray image of an Arizona canyon for $8 million last year, has listed this exotic holiday home for $US19.8 million (A$25.5 million) Lik, 55, made headlines last year when he sold this black and white photo of Arizona's Antelope Canyon for $7.87 million to an unnamed buyer . Lik has spent $3 million updating the 370 square metre home, which is located within the island's Kapalua Resort. He bought the island property, which overlooks Mokuleia Bay and Honolua Bay, as a getaway but now has to sell due to frequent travel commitments. It is listed for sale through Sotheby’s International Realty. The Olson Kundig Architects-designed home features rammed earth walls, cement floors and 80 feet of steel-framed glass doors controlled by hydraulics. The 55-year-old Melbourne-born artist bought the three-bedroom, three-pavilion property in Maui from tech-industry entrepreneur Bill Nguyen in 2013 . Lik has spent $3 million updating the 370 square metre home, which is located within the island's Kapalua Resort. The home features eight of his photographic artworks . He bought the island property, which overlooks Mokuleia Bay and Honolua Bay, as a getaway but now has to sell due to frequent travel commitments . The sprawling property features an outdoor heated saline pool complete with a tanning ledge . The home features 80 feet of steel-framed glass doors controlled by hydraulics to let the sea breeze through . The property is separated into three different pavilions, including the central living area complete with a chef's kitchen and media room. The guest hut and master bedroom are perfectly positioned to take in the ocean views. There's an outdoor heated saline pool, a tanning ledge and outdoor shower, as well as various Zen gardens gracing the entry and frame of each hut. Lik made headlines in December when he sold the world's most expensive photograph to an unnamed buyer for $7.87 million. The Olson Kundig Architects-designed home features rammed earth walls and cement floors . The property is separated into three different pavilions, including a guest and main bedroom suite . The property, which is part of the Kapalua Resort, overlooks both Mokuleia Bay and Honolua Bay . The central living pavilion of the idyllic property includes a chef's kitchen and media room . The master ensuite in one pavilion has been reimagined with a chiseled anthracite shower wall . The black and white photo 'Phantom', which shows a ghostlike shape in a light beam within Arizona's Antelope Canyon, was sold along with two other images for a total of $US10 million ($A12.1 million). He took his first photo when

Summary: Peter Lik is selling Hawaiian getaway he bought two years ago for more than double what he paid . The 55-year-old artist bought three bedroom holiday home in 2013 . Lik spent $3 million updating the home that's separated into three pavilions . He made headlines selling world's most expensive photograph last year . X-ray image of an Arizona canyon sold to unnamed buyer for $7.87 million .


A diplomat has been freed more than 18 months after he was snatched by terrorists on his way to work at the Iranian embassy in Yemen. Nour-Ahmad Nikbakht's return was broadcast today on Iran's state media as he thanked the country's secret services and foreign ministry for getting him home. Mr Nikbakht was working at Iran's embassy in the Yemeni capital Sanaa in July 2013 when he was kidnapped by suspected Al Qaeda gunmen. Increasing danger: Iranian diplomat Nour-Ahmad Nikbakht was working at Iran's embassy in the Yemeni capital Sanaa (pictured) in July 2013 when he was kidnapped by terrorists and held for more than 18 months . The militants held him in a remote area between the southern provinces of Shabwa and Baida, tribal and Yemeni security sources said. As he returned today to Tehran's Mehrabad Airport, he told state media: 'I was kidnapped by unknown gunmen and terrorists as I left my home to go to work.' He added that 'many efforts were made by soldiers from (Iran's secret services), the intelligence ministry and the foreign ministry' to secure his release. The state news agency quoted deputy foreign minister Hossein AmirAbdollahian as saying: 'A special team from the Intelligence Ministry was able to . free Nikbakht from the clutches of terrorists in a series of . complex and difficult operations in a very particular part of . Yemen'. Mr Nikbakht was the second high-profile hostage to be freed in . Yemen this week after a Saudi diplomat kidnapped in 2012 and held by Al Qaeda was . released on Monday. With oil giant Saudi Arabia on its northern border and Al-Shabaab base Somalia a short way across the sea, Yemen is in a crucial position in the fight against terror. But the United Nations has warned Yemen is 'on the brink of civil war' after Iranian-backed Shia Muslim militants known as Houthis seized the capital in September. The move prompted a violent backlash by Sunni Muslim militants - including Al Qaeda, many of whose terrorist operations are run from Yemen. 'On the brink of civil war': Yemeni gunmen loyal to the Houthi movement which has swept to power in Sanaa . Last month Al Qaeda-linked fighters seized an army base in the southern province of Shabwa which had held up to 2,000 government soldiers. The Ansar al-Sharia group said on Twitter that it had set off a suicide bomb at the gate, took control of three guard towers and a tank and imprisoned some of the troops. The Houthis, meanwhile are continuing their spread across the country too prompting violent clashes with Sunni tribesmen. Jamal Benomar, the UN Special Envoy to Yemen, said last month: 'We believe the situation is very dangerous. Yemen is on the brink of civil war'. He accused all sides of contributing to the political and economic turmoil and called for more talks. Yemen has been gripped by unrest since president Ali Abdullah Saleh stepped down in early 2012 after a bloody year-long popular uprising. In January last year, another Iranian diplomat, Ali Asghar Assadi, was

Summary: Nour-Ahmad Nikbakht's return to Tehran was broadcast on state media . He was kidnapped in July 2013 by 'unknown gunmen' in capital Sanaa . Suspected Al Qaeda militants held him in a remote area in the south . He was freed with help of Iranian secret agents and foreign ministry .


Paul Davies was jailed for 20 months after he admitted causing grievous bodily harm to the infant . A former soldier who battered a seven-month-old baby so badly that its eyes rolled to the back of its head has been jailed. Paul Davies, 28, left the infant with life-changing injuries and then falsely claimed to the child's mother that it had suffered a seizure. The woman said she had trusted Davies to look after the seven-month-old and when she returned he claimed the baby had 'gone rigid' after having some milk and vomiting. Prosecuting, Tara Wolfe said: 'He said he started to become panicky. He said he tried to call 999 but his phone wasn't working.' The baby was 'pale and stiff' when paramedics arrived and rushed it to hospital where scans found bruising around the neck, a brain bleed and bleeding to both retinas. Experts told the court the brain injuries were most probably due to shaking, and that the full effects of the trauma may not be known for years. The victim's mother, who is also not being identified, told the court she had 'trusted' Davis with the baby. Davis, of Clevedon, Somerset, initially denied injuring the tot and implied it could have been forcefully treated by its mother or paramedics. But he pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm to the infant and was jailed for a 20 months at Bristol Crown Court. Judge Michael Roach told him: 'We will never know precisely how the baby came by its injuries. 'Whether through temper or loss of control, you caused devastating injuries to that small child.' Defending, Fiona Elder said: 'It was a one-off incident and a momentary loss of control.' She said Davis had been using his former partner's phone and the day before the incident she had cancelled her contract and left him unable to call 999. The court heard Davis was medically discharged from the Army and was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. At Bristol Crown Court, pictured, Judge Michael Roach said Davies had caused 'devastating' injuries to the child .

Summary: Ex solider Paul Davies admitted causing grievous bodily harm to the infant . 28-year-old was jailed for 20 months by judge at Bristol Crown Court . Davies initially said the seven-month-old baby had suffered a seizure . Experts said the infants brain injury was probably due to shaking . Court heard the full extent of injuries will not be known for years . Judge said Davies had caused 'devastating' injuries to the small child .


A new ad starring a 'realistic' fashion doll with curves, stretch marks and a 'normal' sized body is trying to change women's perceptions of their bodies. Plastic doll Lammily - who was created as an antidote to Barbie's super-slim frame - is being used to teach us about our bikini body obsession. The brown-haired figure confronts her fears on a trip to the beach and sees other women there with flaws and scars, making her realise that no one's perfect. Scroll down for video . In the new Lammily advert the 'average barbie' is shown with stretch marks, the ad is meant to highlight the pressures women are under to be bikini ready . Highlighting the pressures on women to look 'swimwear ready,' at all times the magazine reads, 'Are you bikini ready?' She then starts looking at her friend's Facebook page where they have posted a bikini picture with the mocking hashtags, #plasticperfection, #donthate, #thighgapclub, #bikinibody, #youknowit. In what seems to be a parody of the Victoria's Secret show - famous for its underwear clad models - two barbies then start twerking on a stage as average Barbie looks on. She is then confronted by adverts for a 'dolly tuck,' and one which says you can lose half an inch in two weeks - a reference to the dolls small waists. In the advert Lammily is constantly faced with adverts which tell her she can lose weight quickly - the same images women see in real life . The doll is initially seen with red cheeks when she gets to the beach because she is embarrassed by her bikini body . However when she finally heads to the beach average Lammily realises that everyone there has their own issues. Some have stretch marks, others have spots and one has a scar across her stomach. The dolls creator Nickolay Lamm, a digital artist who majored in marketing at the University of Pittsburgh, said of making the ad: 'I was thinking about how Lammily, in the fashion doll world, would feel very out of place. I think one of the hardest things to do in life is to be yourself.' Lammily also looks at magazines which ask her 'Are you beach ready?' When Lammily sees the other dolls on the beach she soon realises that they all have their issues with their bodies . Lammily was first created in 2014 as the result of a crowd-funding project. Nickolay felt that there was no doll on the market that represented real women. More than 13,000 people signed up to the project with 19,000 of the dolls being pre-ordered. You can buy clothes to fit on the doll as well as stickers which show scars, stretch marks and acne just like normal women have. Nickolay, speaking in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, said: 'I’m an artist, plus event planner, email checker, data entry person, graphic designer and pizza delivery driver. My goal isn’t to make a ton of money. I just want to create the most awesome content on the Internet.' If you buy a Lammily

Summary: Lammily takes a trip to the beach in the new advert . It is designed to highlight the pressures on women to look good . In the advert Lammily realises everyone has their flaws . The doll was designed last year as antidote to super skinny Barbie . It was created by digital artist Nickolay Lamm, from Pittsburgh .


It all started as an innocent attempt to find clams, but left a small fox in a tense standoff with a 500lb brown bear. As the two animals faced one another on the tidal flats of the Katmai National Park in southern Alaska, it seemed there would only be one inevitable ending. But miraculously after running round in circles chased by the bear, the red fox was left to return to its search in peace as it appeared the Alaskan brown bear just wanted someone to play with. A red fox appeared to be facing an inevitable ending when it was locked in a stand off with an approaching bear . But it appeared the grizzly brown bear just wanted a playmate, and the fox and bear played a game of chase . American photographer Nate Zeman was photographing the fox when he saw the large bear approach from nearby woods and head straight for the animal - a fraction of its size. The 32-year-old, of Breckenridge, Colorado, said: 'The bear appeared from the forest, located about a mile away, and began to make a beeline straight towards us. 'The bear walked straight past me at a very close distance and kept going towards the fox, and began to chase it. 'The fox, however, easily outmanoeuvred the bear as it was chased in circles a couple of times, and when they stopped they both squared off about thirty feet apart.' The agile fox managed to dodge the bear and neither animal seemed aggressive, not running at full speed . And despite the tense stand-off it soon became clear that the bear just wanted to play. The pair were seen running in circles, neither at full speed, with the agile fox deftly managing to stay out of harm's way. 'Most likely the bear just wanted to chase the fox, and it's as simple as that,' added Mr Zeman. 'It wasn't aggressive enough in its behaviour to be meaning to actually kill, it just really seemed to want a chase! The fox had been calmly searching for clams on the tidal flats of the Katmai National Park in Alaska . But the red fox's relative calm was soon disrupted when a grizzly brown bear made a direct beeline for it . The 500lb bear was seen to approach from a nearby forest and head straight for the fox that was clamming . Both animals faced eachother, and at first it appeared there would only be one outcome for the small fox . 'Soon after I took the photographs the fox walked off in the other direction and continued clamming, the bear lay there for a few moments before slowly getting up and sauntering away.' The Alaskan brown bear is the name of any member of the grizzly bear family that lives in the coastal regions of southern Alaska. They are the second largest type of brown bear in the world, only after the giant bears of Kodiak Island. As the bear approached the fox began running and the game of chase between the pair

Summary: Nate Zeman was photographing a red fox searching for claims in Alaska . A large brown bear emerged from a forest and made a beeline for the fox . The two appeared to be locked in a stand-off but played a game of chase . Neither animal was at full speed and fox ran in circles to evade the bear . After a short time fox went back to its search and 500lb bear slunk off .