The soaring value of the pound has provided a major boost for British holidaymakers. Breaks in Europe have become more affordable as sterling has risen strongly against the euro and other currencies. It means trippers get nearly 15 per cent more for their money than a year ago, according to the Post Office Travel Money City Costs Barometer. Last month the pound hit a seven-year high against the euro at 1.35 euros, knocking about £70 off the cost of a £500 trip compared with 2014. Lithuania's capital, Vilnius, offers bargain hunters the best value as a city break destination, says a study . Budapest, Hungary, also offers British travellers a great deal, with a weekend getaway tallying £119.77 . However, a trip to the US has become significantly more expensive, with £500 buying only $722.45, down from $797 a year ago. City breaks have overtaken beach holidays as the most popular getaway choice for British tourists, according to a new study. With the pound strengthening against the euro and other currencies, prices have dropped by as much as 22 per cent over last year in three quarters of the cities included in Post Office Travel Money's annual report on city costs. Eastern European cities offer bargain hunters the best value with Vilnius, Lithuania, topping the list. The newest eurozone member has seen a fall of over 15 per cent year-on-year with a three-course evening meal for two including drinks and two nights' accommodation coming in at just £100.04. The cost of a weekend break in Vilnius is half of what visitors would pay in perennial favourites Paris, Rome and Amsterdam. Budapest is another great money-saving destination, where a two night getaway comes in at just £119.77. And in Riga, travellers will not only benefit from cheap transport options, but also the cheapest rate (£36) for a two-night stay in a three-star city centre hotel during the month of April. In Riga, Estonia, not only is transport extremely affordable, but three-star city centre hotels are cheapest . And when it comes to Western Europe, Post Office Travel Money recommends heading to Athens for a deal . 1. Vilnius, Lithuania - £100.04 . 2. Budapest, Hungary - £119.77 . 3. Riga, Latvia - £120.39 . 4. Tallinn, Estonia - £131.28 . 5. Athens, Greece - £131.35 . 6. Dubrovnik, Croatia - £139.83 . 7. Prague, Czech Republic - £141.24 . 8. Lisbon, Portugal - £141.37 . 9. Krakow, Poland - £144.96 . 10. Strasbourg, France - £169.60 . *Cost of two nights' accommodation and a three-course meal for two with drinks . But it's not only Eastern Europe that offers UK tourists some serious value. Athens, which is a new entry in the report, comes in fifth with a weekend city break coming in at just £131.35, which puts it as the cheapest in Western Europe. Last year's cheapest Western break, Lisbon, dropped to eighth place this year. The Czech city of Prague also offers great bang for a British traveller's buck, boasting cheap meals and drinks. Dining out costs as little as £23.94

Summary: Weekend breaks have overtaken beach holidays as most popular getaway . Post Office Travel Money have compiled best value European cities . For a break on a budget, head to Eastern Europe, Athens or Strasbourg .


Crystal Palace co-chairman Steve Parish insists the club are in no rush to sell but they need a financial investment if they want to expand. American businessman Josh Harris, who owns NBA side Philadelphia 76ers and NHL's New Jersey Devils, had been in talks to buy the Premier League club. But Parish believes there is no need for the south London club to sell up but is wary of the financial implications of commissioning new projects. Crystal Palace co-chairman Steve Parish said that the club are in no rush to sell up . 'Taking on commitments and building things is risky,' he said. 'You could lose a lot of money really quickly. People have lost hundreds of millions in this game in a year or two. 'I could probably stay 20 years and I could get a new main stand and a new training ground and find a way of financing it every year. 'But if you finance it, it puts the club at risk. If you get relegated, you've got a project you're committed to and suddenly your wage bill is bigger than your income. Palace are 11th in the Premier League table and look set to avoid relegation to the Championship again . 'We need a sizeable chunk of investment to do things quickly.' Palace are currently 11th in the Premier League table and look set to avoid relegation to the Championship for the second season in a row.

Summary: Crystal Palace co-chairman says club are in no rush to sell . American Josh Harris had been in talks to buy the club . Parish wary of committing to new building projects .


It's one of the things we whine about most – but it’s actually good to be bored. Studies show that allowing the mind to wander fuels creativity. Researcher Sandi Mann said that far from being a waste of time, being a little bit bored can actually be good for us. And she warned that our modern-day obsession with smartphones and other gadgets could be stifling this creativity because time we would now have spent daydreaming is now taken up with emailing, texting or surfing the internet. Similarly, children could benefit from having some time to themselves, rather than being constantly entertained. Creativity: Children could benefit from getting a bit bored, rather than being constantly entertained . To prove her theory, Dr Mann gave 80 adults two polystyrene cups and asked them to come up with as many uses for them as possible. Half of the men and women got straight to work. The other half spent 15 minutes writing out phone numbers first. As a result, they came up more ideas about how to use the cups, the British Psychological Society magazine, the Psychologist reports. A second experiment showed a repetitive reading task to be even more effective at sparking the imagination. Dr Mann, of the University of Central Lancashire, said this may be because reading requires less concentration than writing, allowing more scope for daydreaming. She said: ‘I am acutely aware that being bored is not as bad as everyone makes it out to be. ‘It is good to be bored sometimes. ‘I think up so many ideas when I am commuting to and from work. Daydreaming: Our obsession with gadgets has left little time for getting bored and daydreaming, Dr Sandi Mann (pictured) has warned . ‘This would be dead time, but thanks to the boredom it induces, I come up with all sorts of projects.’ However, she warned that our love phones and other gadgets means we are in danger of forgetting how to be bored. She said: ‘No one ever stands waiting for a bus or train without playing on their phone. Whenever we have got a moment to fill, we get our phone out.’ Dr Mann also believes it is important for children to be bored. She said: ‘We seem to be afraid of our kids being bored but boredom can lead to creativity and if you stifle the boredom, you stifle the creativity. ‘I am quite happy when my kids whine that they are bored. ‘Finding ways to amuse themselves is an important skill.’ However, it is important not to be too bored. Dr Mann has also showed that bored office workers seek solace in chocolate and alcohol. She said: ‘It’s about finding the right balance. ‘Too much boredom can be destructive but too many people just don’t allow a little bit of boredom into their life.’

Summary: Dr Sandi Mann found those given boring tasks to do were more creative . Says being bored gives people time to daydream and come up with ideas . Dr Mann has also warned obsession with gadgets could stifle creativity . Says people are forgetting how to be bored due to modern-day technology .


When Sunderland manager Gus Poyet lost his temper and took out his anger on a cooler box before picking a fight with Hull City boss Steve Bruce, it brought back memories of many a touchline scrap. The technical area of the KC Stadium seems to have a way of bringing out the worst in managers - only last year Alan Pardew attempted a headbutt on Hull's David Meyler. So, with Tuesday night's flare-up in mind, Sportsmail looks back at our top 10 technical area spats. Hull boss Steve Bruce and Sunderland's Gus Poyet played down their spat and have now shaken hands . Bruce is held back by the assistant referee during his clash with Poyet on the touchline . Things turned sour when Bruce and Poyet began a slanging match and had to be pulled apart . As the pair locked horns Bruce makes sure he gets his point across by bellowing in Poyet's direction . Alan Pardew swears at Manuel Pellegrini, January 11, 2014 . The sight of a 52-year-old man calling a 60-year-old a 'f***ing old c***' seemed to shock many - and Pardew later apologised for his 'heat-of-the-moment' outburst. A Newcastle goal disallowed for offside while Pellegrini's Manchester City were 1-0 up prompted the row between the two bosses and as the fourth official looked to separate them Pardew had a pop at his opposite number. The FA 'reminded him of his responsibilites' - a bit of a let-off for the man now in charge of Crystal Palace. Alan Pardew (centre) and Manuel Pellegrini clashed over a disallowed goal back in 2014 . Martin Jol and Arsene Wenger let off steam, April 22, 2006 . For such a usually mild-mannered man, Wenger does seem to get into his fair share of rows with other managers - and on this occasion it was Tottenham's Martin Jol. Jol's side refused to put the ball out in the build-up to Robbie Keane scoring an opening goal at Highbury while Arsenal had a man down. This infuriated Wenger, who was challenged on his views by Jol. They were separated by the fourth official but Wenger still had to go back for one last pop at Jol - and he perhaps had the last laugh with Arsenal equalising and eventually pipping Spurs to fourth place in the Premier League by two points. Arsene Wenger (left) and Martin Jol had a disagreement over putting the ball out of play for an injury . Jose Mourinho vs Arsene Wenger, October 5, 2014 . These two have history dating back 11 years, and they still don't seem to get on to this day. Mourinho's arrival in the Premier League back in 2004, when Wenger's Arsenal were champions, heralded the end of the north London club's annual title hopes - and Mourinho certainly has a way of getting under his opposite number's skin. Just over 12 months after his return to the Premier League in 2013 and he was winding up Wenger again. The Frenchman took exception to Gary Cahill's challenge on Alexis Sanchez in a 2-0

Summary: Gus Poyet refused to apologise for touchline spat with Steve Bruce . The pair squared up during Hull and Sunderland's 0-0 draw at KC Stadium . Sportsmail picks out some famous flashpoints on the touchline . Jose Mourinho, Arsene Wenger and Alan Pardew have all been involved .


While Harry Kane was celebrating his first senior England call-up on Thursday, Burnley’s Danny Ings had to be content with a place in the Under 21 squad to face Germany and the Czech Republic. Ings has emerged as one of the most exciting strikers in the country alongside Kane this season, and is attracting interest from both Manchester clubs, Liverpool and Real Sociedad as his contract at Turf Moor runs down. Burnley manager Sean Dyche says he will be ‘amazed’ if Ings is not rewarded by Roy Hodgson soon. Burnley striker Danny Ings was left out of Roy Hodgson's England squad despite his recent good form . Ings' manager at club level, Sean Dyche, has said the England senior rejection won't get him down . Ings (centre) in action for England U21 in a friendly match against France in Brest last November . ‘I don’t think it will affect him not being included,’ said Dyche. ‘He’s said to me, “I think I’ve got a big chance”. He’ll just get on with it. I’d be amazed if he doesn’t get recognised enough to get in the main squad as long as he has the will and desire to train and continue learning, because that’s where careers are built.’ Meanwhile, Queens Park Rangers manager Chris Ramsey feels Charlie Austin was more deserving than Kane of a place in Hodgson’s squad. ‘He is doing it in a team that is struggling at the foot of the table and he has still scored quite a few goals this season,’ said Ramsey. ‘It goes to show that he is a quality player and he will shine wherever he plays.’ Queens Park Rangers striker Charlie Austin was not selected in Roy Hodgson's England squad . Harry Kane celebrates after scoring for Tottenham Hotspur against Arsenal at White Hart Lane last month . Goalkeepers . Marcus Bettinelli (Fulham) Jonathan Bond (Watford) Jack Butland (Stoke City) Defenders . Calum Chambers (Arsenal) Eric Dier (Tottenham Hotspur) Luke Garbutt (Everton) Ben Gibson (Middlesbrough) Carl Jenkinson (West Ham, on loan from Arsenal) Michael Keane (Burnley) Liam Moore (Brentford, on loan from Leicester City) John Stones (Everton) Matt Targett (Southampton) Midfielders . Tom Carroll (Swansea City, on loan from Tottenham Hotspur) Nathaniel Chalobah (Reading, on loan from Chelsea) Jake Forster-Caskey (Brighton and Hove Albion) Will Hughes (Derby County) Jesse Lingard (Derby County, on loan from Manchester United) Alex Pritchard (Brentford, on loan from Tottenham Hotspur) Nathan Redmond (Norwich City) James Ward-Prowse (Southampton) Forwards . Patrick Bamford (Middlesbrough, on loan from Chelsea) Saido Berahino (West Bromwich Albion) Danny Ings (Burnley) Callum Wilson (Bournemouth)

Summary: Burnley striker Danny Ings was not selected for the England senior squad . Ings was called up to the U21 squad to face Germany and Czech Republic . Burnley manger Sean Dyche insists the rejection won't affect Ings .


Nedum Onuoha admits he has no idea how life at Queens Park Rangers has not turned him grey. Onuoha, who arrived at Loftus Road from Manchester City in 2012, has already had numerous highs and lows during his time with the club. Since arriving in west London the 28-year-old has narrowly avoided relegation, been relegated, and gained promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs. Nedum Onuoha admits he has no idea how life at Queens Park Rangers has not turned him grey . Onuoha battles for the ball with Arsenal superstar Mesut Ozil at Loftus Road as the Hoops battle relegation . Onuoha is now once again fighting for top-flight survival, but the defender is confident that added experience will help them avoid relegation this time round. He told the Daily Star: 'I'm surprised my hair is not grey yet. In some ways it's a good thing because everyone wants to play in pressure situations. 'Obviously this is a different pressure than when you are pushing for the Championship title but you want it going into a game. I am confident we can stay up.' QPR duo Onuoha and Steven Caulker argue with the referee during the match against Crystal Palace .

Summary: Defender Nedum Onuoha has endured a career of highs and lows at QPR . Onuoha has avoided relegation, been relegated and gained promotion . Now the former Manchester City is facing the relegation battle yet again . But, Onuoha is confident that the extra experience will see them to safety .


A member of the royal family was involved in a suspected paedophile ring, an ex-policeman has claimed. But investigations into the allegations were 'shut down for national security reasons', the former Metropolitan police officer said. The officer said he was told by fellow officers that both a royal and an MP had both been identified as part of a major child abuse inquiry in the late 1980s. A member of the royal family was involved in a suspected paedophile ring, an ex-policeman has claimed. But investigations into the allegations were 'shut down for national security reasons', the former Metropolitan police officer said (stock picture) He told the Sunday Mirror how a detective sergeant from Marylebone police station in London - who also named actor Oliver Reed in separate claims - revealed the investigation had been pulled for national security reasons. The source said: 'I was in a car with two other vice squad officers. They were discussing a madam who had provided a girl of about 15 to Oliver Reed. 'The detective sergeant said he had just had a major child abuse investigation shut down by the CPS regarding a royal and an MP. 'He did not mention names, but he said the CPS had said it was not in the public's interest because it "could destabilise national security".' The former Metropolitan Police officer said he was told by fellow officers that both a royal and an MP had both been identified as part of a major child abuse inquiry in the late 1980s . Sir Allan Green, Director of Public Prosecutions, told the Sunday Mirror he he was not aware of any paedophile investigations shut down for national security reasons. He added that he'd been asked if he knew anything about an MP being involved in child abuse but he hadn't. The information has since been passed on to police. The news comes after it was revealed that Scotland Yard has been accused of facilitating 14 cover-ups of VIP child sex abuse. Dossier: Labour MP John Mann (pictured) last year submitted an explosive dossier to police naming 22 politicians linked to historical child abuse . Over 35 years, officers are said to have protected ‘untouchable’ figures by shutting down inquiries that reached the heart of government. The 14 alleged cover-ups were referred to watchdogs by the Metropolitan Police Service itself yesterday. It threatens to be the biggest investigation into police corruption since the 1970s. The allegations were uncovered by detectives probing claims of historical sex abuse first raised by Labour MP Tom Watson in October 2012. Those on the inquiry, known as Operation Fairbank, are understood to have raised concerns after studying files kept in storage. The claims include one that police deliberately stalled their inquiries into the Elm Guest House, in Barnes, south-west London, leaving dozens of boys to be abused. Victims claim that high-profile politicians, diplomats and civil servants visited the property to abuse boys in the 1970s and 1980s. Officers are also accused of releasing paedophile MP Cyril Smith without charge after he was caught in an undercover

Summary: Officer said royal and MP both identified in child abuse inquiry in late 1980s . Investigations into allegations 'shut down for national security reasons' Scotland Yard accused of engineering 14 cover-ups of VIP child sex abuse .


A Colorado boy, six, was given a one-day suspension after aiming his fingers at a classmate in the shape of a gun while saying 'you're dead'. Elijah Thurston, a first grade student, was given the punishment from Stratton Meadows Elementary School for threats against peers following the incident on Monday. His father, Austin Thurston, said the disciplinary action was 'a little extreme' for the young child who was 'playing', and that no recess might have been more suitable. Scroll down for video . Six-year-old Elijah Thurston (above), a first grade student, was given the punishment from Stratton Meadows Elementary School in Colorado for threats against peers following the incident on Monday . His father, Austin Thurston (above), said the disciplinary action was 'a little extreme' for the young child who was 'playing', and that no recess might have been more suitable . 'Of course I think he was playing. What six-year-old doesn't play cops and robbers, or cowboys and Indians?' Mr Thurston told KRDO. A school administrator spoke to Elijah, who has been attending the school since January, about the meaning of the word 'dead' and how he should not confuse games or make-believe things with reality, according to the behavior report. The school takes into consideration previous and current behaviors and also speaks to both the student and parents before issuing a suspension, said a spokesperson for Harrison School District Two. They feel they gave the appropriate punishment following the incident. Specific details of the case cannot be released because it is a part of the student's personal record. Elijah is writing a letter to the school apologizing for his actions, even though it is not required of him. His parents have since spoken to him about the severity of what he said and that school is not the place for those actions . Mr Thurston said that while this is Elijah's first time in trouble at the school, he previously had minor behavioral incidents at the school he attended before Stratton Meadows. His parents were concerned that this incident would be included on his personal behavior record, but it appears that it will not, according to Fox31. Elijah is writing a letter to the school apologizing for his actions and expressing that he understands what he did, even though it was not required of him by staff. A school administrator spoke to Elijah, who has been attending the school since January, about the meaning of the word 'dead' and how he should not confuse games or make-believe things with reality, according to the behavior report (above) The school takes into consideration previous and current behaviors and also speaks to both the student and parents before issuing a suspension, said a spokesperson for Harrison School District Two. They feel they issued the appropriate punishment following the incident (above file photo of Stratton Meadows Elementary School) His parents have since spoken to him about the severity of what he said and that school is not the place for those actions. 'We let him know that the guns in the wrong hands will

Summary: Elijah Thurston, a first grade student from Colorado, was given one-day suspension from Stratton Meadows Elementary School . School gave him punishment for 'threats against peers' His father, Austin Thurston, said his child was playing and disciplinary action was 'a little extreme' Child has written letter to school saying sorry and stating he understands severity of his actions .


He is prone to misfiring and, according to football fans, has rarely been out of first gear in recent months. But that has not stopped Premier League striker Steven Fletcher looking very pleased with himself as he took delivery of a £260,000 supercar. For long-suffering Sunderland supporters the photograph of the £40,000-a-week Scottish international and his 217mph Lamborghini Aventador was a blatant own goal – and they were not slow to put the boot in. Scroll down for video . Aventador: Steven Fletcher, who has scored just seven times in two years for Sunderland, suffered a Twitter backlash after the photograph of him with the supercar on the driveway of his home went viral . Couple: Fletcher (right) moved to a £670,000 five-bedroom home in County Durham with his beauty queen partner Rachel Monaghan (left), 24, in October 2013, and they live there with their daughter Darcy-Mae, one . Seven goals in two seasons: Fletcher (left) vies for the ball with Aston Villa's Jores Okore (right) during his Sunderland side's 4-0 Premier League defeat at the Stadium of Light on March 14 . They said the car was undeserved given Fletcher’s poor performances, especially as the picture was taken days before Sunderland suffered a 4-0 thrashing. The club is 17th in the Premier League after winning just four of 30 league games this season, scoring only 23 goals in the process – the league’s second lowest. And Fletcher – who cost £12million – has rarely troubled the scoreboard. Dozens of fans shared a mock message on Twitter reading: ‘Steven Fletcher: two seasons, seven goals, one new Lamborghini Aventador.’ Janet Rowan, from the Sunderland Supporters’ Association, said: ‘We know footballers have these big flash cars. I just think the timing was really appalling and I can really understand the way that people have felt about this. Showing his moves: Fletcher (centre) was among Sunderland players who took to the catwalk for the Foundation of Light's annual charity fashion show at the Stadium of Light in November 2013 . Comparisons: Birmingham fan Michael Jabbari quoted a message from parody account BBC Sporf in a tweet, which said: 'Steven Fletcher: two seasons, seven goals, one new Lamborghini Aventador' Unimpressed: In response to the photo, Sunderland fan JamesTheMackem posted on Twitter that it was 'the most undeserved Lambo for a football player, ever' ‘To see someone taking possession of a car of that value, when most of the fans who go to the game are on a pittance, it was probably the straw that broke the camel’s back.’ The footballer’s agent said it was the firm that sold the car that had posted the picture online. Scott Fisher said: ‘It wasn’t Steven that put the picture up. The company who were doing advertising on it done it. I don’t know what the problem is and what people are getting excited about.’ The background of the picture shows another luxury car – a Bentley – in the drive of the 27-year-old’s £670,000 home in Durham. Another online critic, Jamesthemackem, wrote: Steven Fletcher has a Lamborghini, the most

Summary: Steven Fletcher has scored just seven times in two years for Sunderland . Suffered Twitter backlash after photo of him with supercar went viral . Fans say car is 'undeserved' and timing of photo was 'really appalling' Began circulating three days before his struggling team lost 4-0 at home . But agent says company who sold Aventador posted the image online .


Australian kids suffering the effects of autism are getting a helping paw from assistance dogs. Asperger's syndrome and other disorders on the autism spectrum often make it hard for sufferers to recognise mainstream social cues and form friendships. But new research shows dogs can provide love, empathy and companionship that is hard for autism sufferers to recognise, and help kids like Jason Freeman, 11, make connections with the world. 'He is like a therapist, a very furry therapist,' said Jason's mum, Tanya Freeman. Scroll down for video . Best friends: Brock is a Golden Retriever who was specially trained by Assistance Dogs Australia to give kids like Jason the love, empathy and companionship that they wouldn't normally get from their peers. Brock is a Golden Retriever who was specially trained by Assistance Dogs Australia to give kids like Jason the love, empathy and companionship that they wouldn't normally get from their peers. New research has revealed children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can benefit from animal-assisted activities. This means having a dog like Brock around can help improve the social skills of autistic children.. Assistance dogs have been proven to increase independence, reduce reliance on human caregivers and act as a great ice-breaker helping overcome social isolation. Around 230,000 Australians are estimated to have disorders on the autism spectrum like Asperger's, and as a result will struggle to understand normal social cues and body language, making it far more difficult to form friendships. Assistance Dogs Australia currently support 55 families with autistic children across Australia and while you might instantly think of assistance dogs performing physical tasks, Ms Freeman said Brock's role is far more related to emotional support. 'If Jason comes home from school and he is a bit anxious or everything feels a bit too much for him, Brock will be right there with him.' 'Jason doesn't have the ability to read others or really have a real grasp on what people are thinking from body language which is something people really take for granted,' she said. Assistance Dogs Australia paired Brock and Jason in 2012 and since then they have formed a special bond . Ms Freeman said Jason's first few years of school were really tough on him. He didn't have the chance to make many real friends and would sometimes come home in tears. 'Having a connection with others is hard for him but it's harder to see him not having the friendships that a lot of other kids do.' This was until Jason met Brock. She said once Brock came into their lives 'everything changed'. Brock and Jason had an' immediate connection' and it didn't take long for Brock to become 'part of the family'. 'If Jason comes home from school and he is a bit anxious or everything feels a bit too much for him, Brock will be right there with him. 'He puts his paw up on his legs and just makes him feel like everything is alright,' she added. Ms Freeman said Brock is 'very intuitive' to Jason's needs and that even if

Summary: Jason Freeman was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome at a young age . Asperger syndrome is a disorder on the autism spectrum . Children on the autism spectrum often find it difficult to make friends . Research shows autistic kids benefit from animal-assisted activities . Research has found animal therapy can improve social functioning . World Autism Awareness Day is Wed April 2 .


When the US President visits the Queen, you’d expect only the finest wines to be served. But President Obama had to endure a vin very ordinaire at Buckingham Palace, as guests at the occasion of his state banquet were given a wine civil servants had secretly judged to be ‘soapy’ and ‘harshly acidic’. Officials in charge of the Government’s wine cellar, which is managed by the Foreign Office, provided bottles of 2004 Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos, despite the batch having been found wanting according to the Government hospitality stock report. Royal toast: The Queen and President Barack Obama during a state banquet at Buckingham Palace in May 2011 . Listing the drinks to be served to visiting dignitaries, the 60-page document has been obtained by this newspaper under Freedom Of Information laws. The Queen’s banquet for Mr Obama at Buckingham Palace on May 24, 2011, was the culmination of his first state visit to Britain. The 170 guests included Prince Charles, David Cameron and film stars Kevin Spacey and Tom Hanks. On the menu were dishes of sole, Windsor lamb and charlotte a la vanille mousse for dessert. The guests were given a selection of wines and ports, including the Chablis. Robert Alexander OBE, head of Government Hospitality, inspects a bottle inside the Government's Wine Cellar . The stock report grades wines with a rating of A1, A, B, or C and records what officials think of them after tastings. Bottles of 2004 Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos were served to President Obama despite the batch having been found wanting . The Burgundy is rated B and in October 2008 was described as being ‘slightly soapy’. A tasting in February 2011 noted the wine, which can sell for up to £100 a bottle, had a ‘harsh acidity’. But despite these concerns, it was served up at the banquet three months later. Shortly after the meal, the following note was added to the file: ‘Used on US State Visit. Feedback from the Palace.’ There is no explanation of what that feedback might have been, although a comment added a month later suggests it might not have been positive. An official wrote: ‘Bottle variation, drink by 2013.’ MoS Event magazine wine expert Olly Smith said: ‘The notes seem to suggest there might have been issues with “bottle variation” which occurs as a wine ages. 'Individual bottles can be affected in different ways, depending on the amount of oxygen which has interacted with the wine.’ The Foreign Office said: ‘All wines for use on state visits are carefully selected… the Palace regularly offers informal feedback on wines supplied for state visits.’ Bottles of Chassagne Montrachet Cru Virondot 2002 lined up in the Government's wine cellar .

Summary: Barack Obama was served Chablis at a Buckingham Palace state banquet . Civil servants had already found 2004 Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos wanting . It was rated B and described as being ‘slightly soapy with a ‘harsh acidity’


Graeme McDowell has been forced to withdraw from the Valero Texas Open in San Antonio with an ankle injury. The Northern Irishman suffered the problem during practice on Wednesday and, although he managed to play his opening nine holes on Thursday. After pulling out of the tournament he has set his sights on getting fit for the Masters at Augusta National from April 9. Graeme McDowell withdrew after his opening nine holes of the Valero Texas Open due to an ankle injury . The Northern Irishman picked up the injury in practice before deciding he couldn't go on at five over par . McDowell, tweeted: 'Apologies to everyone at @valerotxopen for my withdrawal. Strained my lower left leg/ankle area practicing y/day and played with heavy strapping on it in the pro am and this morning. 'With The Masters upcoming I decided that getting fit is imperative. Don't like WDs. 'The week here at @valerotxopen had everything I wanted. Great people and great course. Disappointed this has happened. Thanks to everyone.' McDowell, who won the US Open in 2010, was five over at the Valero Texas Open when he withdrew, having started on the back nine. McDowell has now turned his focus to being in the best condition possible for The Masters on April 9 . After completing only the back nine, he said: 'With The Masters upcoming I decided getting fit is imperative' American Matt Kuchar ground out a level-par 72 that he described as 'amazing' to share the early first-round lead in San Antonio, where the players struggled in gusting winds on Thursday. World No 14 Kuchar, a seven-times winner on the PGA Tour, needed 'a lot of luck' as he mixed four birdies with four bogeys on the challenging layout at the TPC San Antonio to end the round level with compatriot Cameron Percy. Former world No 2 Jim Furyk battled to a 76 while US Open champion Martin Kaymer of Germany ballooned to an 82 in sustained winds of 30 miles per hour (48 km per hour) that gusted up to 40mph. 'I was giving it all I could on the last hole,' Kuchar, 36, told Golf Channel after bogeying his final hole, the par-four ninth. 'I was one under with one to go and hoping that I could bring it in under par. Matt Kuchar battled swirling winds to grind out a level-par 72 for the lead early in the first round . Kuchar said he needed 'a lot of luck' as he mixed four birdies with four bogeys on day one . 'But even par is still an amazing day. This was about as challenging of conditions as I can remember facing. This course is hard without wind and you've really got to drive it well. Then you throw in 30mph winds and what can happen. 'It took a lot of luck for me. I had a number of things kind of go my way. I was able to hit some great shots and make a few birdies out there as well.' Long-hitting American Dustin Johnson, the

Summary: Graeme McDowell pulled out of the Valero Texas Open after nine holes . McDowell hurt his left ankle in practice and played heavily strapped . He said that 'getting fit is imperative' coming into The Masters at Augusta . McDowell was five over par when he withdrew in San Antonio on Thursday .


Jose Mourinho has given his players permission to let their hair down following Wednesday night's clash against West Ham. Off the back of Sunday's euphoric Capital One Cup Final win over Tottenham, the Blues are straight back into action against the Hammers on Wednesday. Mourinho says his players' celebrations after the Wembley win were subdued due to the prospect of facing West Ham. The Chelsea players looked in high spirits during training on Tuesday after being promised two days off . Diego Costa evades a tackle from Ramires as the Blues squad took to their Cobham training ground . Capital One Cup final opening goal scorer John Terry slides in against Chelsea team-mate Cesc Fabregas . Boss Jose Mourinho was certain that the 34-year-old would extend his contract before the end of the season . Spaniard Fabregas pleads for a decision under pressure from Ruben Loftus-Cheek during a training match . But the Blues boss will give his squad two days off after the West Ham clash and has given them permission to enjoy themselves. Mourinho said: 'Maybe they went out with some family for dinner [after Wembley], but I don't think they did any crazy things because, the next day, I saw them in very good condition. 'They will have Thursday and Friday off, and I told them those are the best moments if they want to do something that people at their age sometimes like to do. 'But they enjoyed it so much after the game on the pitch and in the dressing room, but even on the bus going back to Stamford Bridge was a normal journey.' Eden Hazard twists and turns in an attempt to shake off Oscar as the Brazilian tracks down the Belgian . Hazard has been one of Chelsea's main threats this season with his speed and agility down the flanks . Kurt Zouma was deployed as a midfielder against Spurs but Mourinho said he'd return to a defensive role . Hazard (second right) puts a foot in to intercept a pass by Spanish midfield playmaker Fabregas (centre) Gary Cahill has been in and out of the Chelsea squad lately, but managed a clean sheet against Spurs . Ramires (centre) is put under pressure by Spanish striker Diego Costa (left) as Branislav Ivanovic watches on . Looking ahead to Wednesday's clash at Upton Park, the Blues boss remained focused on the job at hand as they look to hold onto their Premier League and Champions League title hopes. 'Big, difficult game on Wednesday. Big, difficult game next week in the Champions League [against Paris Saint Germain]. We are just happy. Everybody likes to win competitions.' Asked if captain John Terry will sort out new contract terms before the end of the season, Mourinho was certain in his response but admitted he is thinking ahead to life after the 34-year-old. 'Yes, it will be [extended] before the end of the season for sure. What I can guarantee is he will be a Chelsea player next season. I can guarantee that. 'Every one of these big guys

Summary: Chelsea beat Tottenham 2-0 to win the Capital One Cup on Sunday . The Blues faces West Ham at Upton Park on Wednesday night . Mourinho said celebrations were muted with West Ham on the horizon . But his squad will have Thursday and Friday off to celebrate their success . The Chelsea boss was certain John Terry would extend his Blues contract . He also admitted Kurt Zouma would be returning to his defensive duties . CLICK HERE for all the latest Chelsea news .


Barcelona's players feature in a dramatic new advert where they each receive special edition luxury watches after a race against time from the makers to hand them out to Luis Enrique's team. Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar arrive alongside the rest of the Barca side to accept the watches but with four minutes to go until they are presented, they are nowhere to be seen. Meanwhile, in Switzerland, the makers realise the squad are about to go without their timepieces and orders a glamorous assistant to rush them over to Barcelona. VIDEO - Scroll down to see Barcelona's squad receive their watches in dramatic style . Luis Suarez (centre) looks restless alongside his Barcelona team-mates as they wait for their watches . Panic ensues after it is realised that the watches are to be rushed over to Spain from Switzerland . With less than three minutes to go until the presentation, the watches are not on hand for the Barca players . But the glamarous Maurice Lacroix assistant parachutes to a location near to the presentation . She arrives to the presentation to present the luxury watches in time, complete with purple and blue straps . Gerard Pique (right) steps out of the line to smile at his team-mates once the watches arrive . Brazil international Neymar immediately puts his on, showing off the colourful strap . Barcelona striker Lionel Messi shows how impressed he is upon eventually receiving the watch . The assistant, using journeys on a motorbike, plane, and car as well as a parachute jump, arrives with seconds remaining. The Barcelona players, who were looking bored and restless as they waited to be given their watches, spark into life after seeing them. Neymar is shown trying on his luxury Maurice Lacroix piece, with the purple and blue strap matching the famous colours of the Catalan club. Neymar (second right) scored two goals in Barcelona's 3-1 win at Villarreal on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey . Suarez (right) sealed the victory and Barcelona's place in the final of the competition with the third goal . Barcelona are currently second in La and trail Real Madrid by two points. Luis Enrique's side sealed a place in the final of the Copa del Rey against Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday with a 3-1 victory away to Villarreal.

Summary: The Barcelona squad star in an advert where their watches go missing . The watch maker races from Switzerland to Spain to get the watches over . Barcelona qualified for the final of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday .


Chelsea left back Filipe Luis insists he wants to stay at the club despite the lack of first team opportunities and the lure of Atletico Madrid and former boss Diego Simeone. The Brazilian defender enjoyed four years at the Vicente Calderon working under 'El Cholo' and has been linked with a return having found it tough to break in to Jose Mourinho's starting line-up. But Luis wishes to see out his three-year contract with the Blues, and is intent on winning more silverware after the Capital One Cup success. Filipe Luis, pictured playing against Hull, says he wants to see out his three-year contract with Chelsea . The Brazilian left back admits he is still very fond of Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone . He told Marca: 'I'm just focused on Chelsea, on working hard and giving my best in order to end the season with another important and beautiful trophy. 'Of course, everything can change in football, but I'm happy and have a three-year contract at Chelsea that I'd like to see out. 'I've had some of the best years of my career at Atlético and remember the supporters, my teammates and the coaching staff fondly . 'I'm really fond of 'El Cholo' (Simeone), he's a coach that taught me so much'. Luis is currently away on international duty with Brazil, preparing for friendlies against France (Thursday) and Chile (Sunday). Filipe Luis has been linked with a return to former club Atletico, who he left to join Chelsea last summer . Luis takes part in Brazil training with with (l-r) Neymar, Philippe Coutinho and Willian in France on Wednesday .

Summary: Filipe Luis has struggled for first team opportunities at Chelsea this year . Defender signed on three-year deal from Atletico Madrid last summer . Left back admits he is still fond of club and manager Diego Simeone . CLICK HERE for all the latest Chelsea news .


German international Sami Khedira admits it will be hard to leave Real Madrid when his contract expires at the end of the season. The central midfielder, 27, has not agreed a new deal with the club and has been linked with a return to the Bundesliga, with Bayern Munich and Schalke possible destinations. A switch to the Premier League has also been mooted but Khedira says he will fight for the club until the day he leaves, which he will do with a heavy heart. Sami Khedira admits he will find it hard to leave Real Madrid when his contract expires later this year . Khedira has struggled with injuries this season and has lost his place in midfield at the Bernabeu . 'I love Real Madrid, it will be hard to leave this club,' Khedira said according to Marca. 'I will give everything for this shirt until the last day of my contract, there should be no doubt about that.' Khedira has come in for heavy criticism this season and has lost his place in midfield to Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, while young Brazilian Lucas Silva was signed in January. The former Stuttgart man hasn't featured since the disappointing Champions League defeat by Schalke, when he was the subject of abuse from fans after the game. Khedira takes part in a drill in a Germany training session with team-mate Mesut Ozil .

Summary: Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira's contract expires this summer . German international has struggled with injuries in Spain this season . Khedira has been linked with return to Bundesliga . Bayern Munich and Schalke thought to be interested . CLICK HERE for all the latest Real Madrid news .


Mel Greig, the Australian DJ who became notorious following a prank call during the Duchess of Cambridge's first pregnancy, has appeared on TV to complain that she still can't find work. The 33-year-old, who has previously revealed that she was sent bullets in the post following the 2013 hoax, says people are still unwilling to give her a chance. 'The reaction in Australia has not been good,' she said. 'People aren't willing to give me a chance and a lot of people forget that I have worked in the media for 15 years. Scroll down for video . Work: Australian DJ Mel Greig has revealed that she wants to return to the radio . 'I have grown and learnt so much from the prank call that I am going to be a wiser announcer. I think it‘s important to put me back on air because I have so much wisdom now from such a tragedy.' The DJ shot to global notoriety after making a prank call to the hospital where the Duchess of Cambridge was being treated for severe morning sickness - an incident that later led to the suicide of nurse Jacinta Saldanha. Ms Greig, who was stricken with guilt following Mrs Saldanha's death, revealed that she suffered severe depression as a result. Speaking to guest presenter, Fiona Phillips on ITV's Lorraine this morning, Greig said: 'I have made it through the depression. 'It was a really hard time for about a year and a half but I did find the strength to get through that. In just one moment, it’s incredible how you can just go down there and experience feelings, emotions that you’ve never experienced before. 'When you go through depression, the numbness, those things you feel, you don't understand what’s going on.' Wiser: Ms Greig says the notorious 2013 prank call has left her a wiser person . Appearance: Ms Greig was appearing on ITV's Lorraine where she spoke to presenter Fiona Phillips . Tough times: Ms Greig, seen here leaving the ITV studio, has struggled with depression since the incident . So depressed did Ms Greig become, she admitted that she even blamed her childlessness on the 'karma' from the incident. 'I won’t be able to have children naturally which at one point I thought was my karma from the prank call,' she revealed. 'That was quite hard to come to terms with but I am at peace with that and I know that’s not how it works… I want to be a mother so I will do whatever I can to try and be a mother.' Greig also spoke of the moment she came face to face with the Saldanha family during last year's inquest into the mother-of-two's death, describing the encounter as 'intense'. 'I said to the Saldanha family from the start if there is anything I could answer, anything I can do to try and help with this situation [I would.] . Scare: Greig made the call to a hospital where the Duchess of Cambridge, seen on Friday, was being treated . Tragedy: Nurse

Summary: Mel Greig, 33, shot to global notoriety in 2013 following a prank call . The call, in which she pretended to be the Queen, led to a nurse's suicide . Ms Greig spoke about apologising to the Saldanha family during inquest . Says she hopes to return to radio but is finding it difficult . Appeared on ITV's Lorraine and spoke to Fiona Phillips this morning . Lorraine is on ITV, weekdays from 8.30am to 9.25am .


Gareth Bale should be given a free role for Wales in their huge Euro 2016 qualifying match in Israel as Sam Vokes has been called up by Chris Coleman for the first time since his serious knee injury. The Burnley striker ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in March 2014 and did not play again until Boxing Day – but has emerged unscathed in recent months and played a significant role in the victory over Manchester City. Vokes last appeared for Wales in the friendly with Iceland 12 months ago – scoring in the 3-1 win – and Bale has been utilised as a striker in his absence. Gareth Bale, pictured after scoring against Andorra, has led Wales' forward line in the absence of Sam Vokes . Burnley striker Vokes has earned a call up to the Wales squad after impressing in the Premier League . The Real Madrid star is likely to be afforded an opportunity to roam though, should Coleman select Vokes as his centre-forward for the clash in Haifa between Group B’s top two sides. Liverpool’s Joe Allen and Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsey are in the squad, alongside captain Ashley Williams. Hull defender James Chester misses out through his shoulder injury with Blackburn’s uncapped Adam Henley called up. Bale is congratulated by Luka Modric after the first of his two goals in Real Madrid's win over Levante . Vokes (right) scored on his second appearance back from injury during his side's 1-1 draw with Tottenham . Wales boss Chris Coleman is hoping Vokes' return will allow Bale to return to a more natural role for him .

Summary: Sam Vokes has been called into Chris Coleman's latest Wales squad . Burnley striker ruptured a ligament but is back after 12 months out . His presence will allow Bale to be given room to roam across the attack . Real Madrid star had previously been forced to play in a striking role . READ: Bale ends his goal drought with double .


He is 12 weeks old, 7cm tall and weighs just 300g. Meet tiny Toudi who is believed to be the world's smallest Chihuahua. The adorable pooch is smaller than a can of coke, a little bigger than a pear and can fit in the palm of your hand. Scroll down for video . Tiny Toudi: This little pup from Poland is shorter than a can of coke and can easily fit in the palm of your hand . Similar size: Toudi is so small he could be mistaken for a cuddly toy. His owner says they have to be careful because he is the same size as the floor . Some mock the little Chihuahua, claiming he looks more like a hamster, while others are mesmerised by him . No comparison: Toudi's sister may be much bigger than he is, but he is arguably far more adorable . The three-month-old, from Wroclaw, Poland is considerably smaller than his sister and eats very little food each day. Toudi's owner says he provides a lot of fun for the family but that they have to be careful where they stand because he is the same colour as the floor. Some mock the little Chihuahua, claiming he looks more like a hamster, while others are mesmerised by him. It is hoped Toudi will soon appear in the Guinness World Records book. Toudi's owner says he provides a lot of fun for the family. These sunglasses are maybe a little too big for this pup . Perfect pear: Toudi is a only slightly bigger than a pear, but he can't even be described as 'pint-sized' because he's smaller than a can of coke . Fun and games: It is hoped little Toudi, from Poland, will soon appear in the Guinness World Records book . Toudi's owner doesn't have to spend too much on him because he only eats a very small amount of food each day .

Summary: Toudi from Wroclaw, Poland is 12 weeks old, 7cm tall and weighs just 300g . The adorable pooch is believed to be the smallest Chihuahua in the world . Tiny pup is smaller than a can of coke and can fit in the palm of your hand . It is hoped Toudi will soon appear in the Guinness World Records book .


Ditching green energy targets would save every household in Britain around £214 a year, a report reveals today. The Centre for Policy Studies paper concludes that the rush for renewable energy has been the ‘most expensive policy disaster in modern British history’. Shifting to wind and solar power have hugely increased costs to consumers, while creating an energy supply that is ‘intermittent’. As a result, huge additional investment has been required in backup capacity to cover for when the wind isn’t blowing and the sun isn’t shining. Shifting to wind and solar power have hugely increased costs to consumers, while creating an energy supply that is ‘intermittent’ (file picture) And billions more have been spent to connect remote wind farms to the national grid. Author Rupert Darwall concludes that, astonishingly, no British government has conducted a rigorous analysis of the costs and benefits of the renewables target which was first negotiated by Tony Blair at the European Council in 2007. The Government is committed to providing 15 per cent of its energy from renewable power by 2020. Mr Darwall, the author of The Age of Global Warming, concludes that the annual costs of the renewables target is a staggering £9billion. Switching back to a free market in power would save households around £214 a year, assuming that gas replaces renewables, he says. The report says: ‘Energy policy represents the biggest expansion of state power since the nationalisations of the 1940s and 1950s. It is on course to be the most expensive domestic policy disaster in modern British history. ‘By committing the nation to high, cost, unreliable renewable energy, its consequences will be felt for decades.’ ‘In addition to their higher plant-level costs, renewables require massive amounts of extra generating capacity to provide cover for intermittent generation when the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine.’ The report concludes that the costs of ‘intermittent renewables’ have been ‘massively understated’. As a result, ‘massively subsidiesed wind and solar capacity floods the market with near random amounts of zero marginal cost electricity.’ ‘To keep the lights on, everything ends up requiring subsidies, turning what was once a profitable sector into the energy equivalent of the Common Agricultural Policy.’ The cost of the national grid has nearly trebled as a result of connecting to remote wind farms, he says. More solar and wind means Britain is having to more than double its overall capacity, because additional sources are needed when wind isn’t working. Without renewable energy, the UK would need 22GW of new capacity to replace old coal and nuclear stations, but as a result of renewable energy, an additional 50GW is required, the report says. the annual costs of the renewables target is a staggering £9billion, according to the report . Abandoning renewables and going back to a market system would save around £6billion a year, or around £214 for every household, he says. But Professor Catherine Mitchell, Professor of Energy Policy at the University of Exeter said the report ‘downplays climate change as a problem’. She said: ‘What is needed is an electricity

Summary: Shifting to wind and solar power has increased costs to consumers . Ditching green energy targets would save households £214 a year . Report into renewable energy carried out by The Centre for Policy Studies . Found the rush to go green has been the 'most expensive policy disaster' Say no British Government has carried out analysis of costs vs benefits . Annual cost of renewable target is said to be a staggering £9 billion .


A suspected iPhone thief in Colorado accidentally outed herself when she posted selfies on the Facebook account of her alleged victim. Rawley Bingham claims the suspect, who has been pictured but not identified, took her iPhone while she was at a bar in Denver last week. The 23-year-old didn't expect to see the phone again - until she logged on to her Facebook account three days after the theft. Scroll down for video . The suspected thief (pictured) accidentally posted selfies on the Facebook account of her 23-year-old victim . The alleged thief (pictured) posted the selfies three days after she took the iPhone at a Denver, Colorado bar . After alleged victim Rawley Bingham logged on to her account, she recognized the woman from the bar . When Bingham checked her account, she found 13 selfies of the alleged thief. Bingham thinks the suspect goes by Lil Momma . The settings on Bingham's cellphone send her photographs to a private Facebook folder, 9NEWS reported. She recognized the woman from the bar and it is believed she goes by 'Lil Momma', Fox 31 reported. Bingham said: 'It actually becomes a lot more plausible for me to get it back when she starts posting selfies. 'There were just a lot of selfies of her around downtown Denver. ''She had a great Sunday.' Denver police have gotten involved and Bingham is hopeful that Lil Momma will just return the phone. The suspect has been using the phone to respond to texts from Bingham's friends. Metro Denver Crime Stoppers is offering a $2,000 reward for any information leading to Lil Momma. Anyone with information is asked to call (720) 913-7867.

Summary: Rawley Bingham, 23, had her phone stolen when she was at a Denver bar . Colorado girl thought phone was gone forever until she went on Facebook . Logged on three days after theft and found 13 selfies of the suspect . The photos of the alleged thief automatically got sent to a private folder . Suspected thief goes by 'Lil Momma' and reward is offered for information .


She watched from the crowd as her brother made history during the Cricket World Cup semi-finals between South Africa and New Zealand. But now, Kate Elliott will have an empty seat at her wedding day this weekend when her brother Grant Elliott take on either Australia or India at the World Cup final in Melbourne on Sunday. The bride-to-be and her fiance Daniel Plews had pencilled in their big day at the Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand on March 28 almost a year ago. Bride-to-be Kate Elliott (left) and her fiance Daniel Plews (right) will have an empty seat at their wedding . Grant had not played international cricket for 14 months so he thought he could attend his sister's big day . Grant, who was born in South Africa, had not played international cricket for 14 months before he was picked to play one of the great one-day innings for his adopted country. He told his sister he didn't think he would be selected for the squad so Kate went ahead and locked in her wedding date. But on Tuesday, the 36-year-old cricketer slammed a six off the penultimate ball from the world's greatest fast bowler Dale Steyn, giving his team a four-wicket win over the Proteas at Auckland's Eden Park and taking his team into their first ever final. 'From the beginning I said if you can reach your dream that would be incredible,' Kate told NZ Herald. 'He just looked so incredibly happy. I saw it in his eyes and you just knew - he is going to do it. He is not coming to the wedding so let's just enjoy this moment.' Elliott of New Zealand swings and hit a six to win the Cricket World Cup Semi Final match against South Africa . Despite missing the opportunity to see his sister walk down the aisle, Grant has promised if his team wins the title, he will cover all costs for Kate and her fiance's honeymoon. 'We will hold him to that,' Kate told Sydney Morning Herald. 'I told him before he left, 'Go and win it now, not because of the honeymoon, but just go smash it.' The Black Caps have flown out of the country for Melbourne ahead of the final on Sunday. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Kate Elliott for comment.

Summary: International cricketer Grant Elliott will miss his sister's wedding day . Black Caps reached first World Cup final with Elliott's penultimate ball six . Kate Elliott and her fiance will now have an empty seat at the weekend . While Grant will compete at the World Cup final in Melbourne on Sunday . But Grant has promised if his team wins, he will cover Kate's honeymoon .


Getting a job lifts more people out of poverty in Britain than anywhere in Europe, a new study reveals. More than seven in 10 people in the UK were no longer in poverty after finding work, compared to the EU average of just half. Ministers said the figures showed Britain was leading the way in proving that work is the best route out of being poor. Seven in 10 people in the UK were no longer classed as poor after finding work, compared to the EU average of just half . In work poverty rates have been lower in the UK than the EU average every year since 2006, the figures show . The Office for National Statistics examined figures for every European country to analyse the impact getting a job can have on people classed as poor. It found gaining employment helped far more people out of poverty than the rest of the continent. Someone is classed as living in poverty if their disposable income is less than 60 per cent of the national average. People living in 'in-work poverty' are both below the poverty threshold and in employment themselves. For the EU as a whole, only half of people (49 per cent) left poverty when they got a job in 2009, according to analysis carried out by the European Commission. Detailed figures by country suggest the UK has a higher poverty exit rate for people getting a job than almost any other country examined. The ONS said: 'The percentage of people who moved out of poverty when entering employment in the UK was relatively stable and well above the EU average throughout the period 2007 to 2012, with an exit rate of 68 per cent in 2007 to 2009, compared with 73 per cent in 2010 to 2012.' By contrast, the poverty exit rate was lowest in Romania just 23 per cent of people left poverty after getting a job. In Bulgaria just 36 per cent were lifted out of poverty and Spain 37 per cent. In Sweden the figure was 70 per cent, followed by Portugal (66 per cent), Lithuania (64 per cent) and Luxembourg and Estonia, both 62 per cent. The Tories have argued that the introduction of Universal Credit, which combines six benefits into one, will ensure that work always pays and is guaranteed to lift people out of poverty if they get a job. Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith said the research showed work is the best route out of poverty . Increasing hours and getting a pay rise were key routes to moving out of in work poverty, the ONS said . Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith said: 'Our welfare reforms are designed to support people to move off benefits and into a job - to move from dependence to independence. 'We've always known that work is the best route out of poverty - and we now see that this is more pronounced in the UK compared to rest of Europe. 'We have more people in work than ever before, and

Summary: Seven in 10 Britons moved out of poverty after entering employment . Average across the European Union was less than half, figures show . Poverty exit rate was lowest in Romania where just 23% were helped . Iain Duncan Smith says work is always 'the best route out of poverty'


Harry Kane is closing in on the record for scoring in the most consecutive away matches in Premier League history after his match-winning brace at Queens Park Rangers. In all competitions, the Tottenham striker has scored more goals (26) this season than any player in England's top four tiers, and his away form has been particularly impressive. Kane has scored eight goals in his last six away Premier League games. Only Robin van Persie has surpassed that achievement in the competition's 23 seasons. Tottenham striker Harry Kane celebrates at Loftus Road after scoring in his side's 2-1 win against QPR . Kane netted a brace in front of the watching Roy Hodgson to help his side claim a crucial win in west London . Robin van Persie - Nine (Arsenal 2010-11) Harry Kane - Six (Tottenham 2014-15) Daniel Sturridge - Six (Liverpool 2013-14) Didier Drogba - Six (Chelsea 2009-10) Kane scored at Swansea, Leicester City, Crystal Palace, West Brom (two), Liverpool, and QPR (two) to put him second on the list overall. The 21-year-old is tied in second place with Didier Drogba, who achieved the feat at Chelsea in 2009-10, and Daniel Sturrridge, who did the same at Liverpool last season. Van Persie's remarkable run came in his penultimate season at Arsenal where he scored in every single league away game from January 1 to May 22. This is just the latest statistic a spectacular season for Tottenham academy graduate Kane. He is currently the top English scorer in the Premier League and the third highest scoring player from Europe's top five leagues (behind Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo) and could become the first Tottenham player in the Premier League era to break the 30-goal barrier. Jurgen Klinsmann managed 29 in all competitions during the 199-95 season for Spurs, Kane needs just four more from the remaining 10 games to beat that. Robin van Persie scored in every single Premier League away game between January 1 to May 22 . Didier Drogba scored in six consecutive away matches for Chelsea during the 2009-10 season . Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge scored in six consecutive league matches away from Anfield last season .

Summary: Harry Kane has scored in his last six Premier League away matches . Scored at Swansea, Leicester, Crystal Palace, West Brom, Liverpool, QPR . Only Robin van Persie has scored in more (nine) consecutive away games . Didier Drogba (2009-10) and Daniel Sturridge (2013-14) are also on six .


CCTV footage of a 'brutal' arrest that shows one officer repeatedly kneeing a man in the back and punching his upper body has been uploaded to social media and viewed almost 30,000 times. The footage, from 2013, captures the dramatic arrest of the couple after a night out in Stockton-on-Tees. The incident allegedly left music fan Darran Dunford unconscious and urinating blood for a week while his former partner, Leigh Leach, was left traumatised by her rough treatment at the hands of officers. Scroll down for video . Darran Dunford, pictured, has successfully campaigned to have three police officers investigated over his 'brutal' arrest where one repeatedly kneed him in the back and punched his body in August 2013 . Mr Dunford, was held down by police officers and was knocked unconscious in the course of the arrest . He said he was urinating blood for a week following the incident in Stockton-on-Tees in August 2013 . Three officers at the centre of an investigation into the arrest should face a misconduct hearing, an Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has now revealed. While Cleveland Police insisted its officers acted in accordance with protocol during the arrest, the couple involved have now had their complaints upheld by the IPCC. The report says there is a case for disciplinary proceedings against the three officers involved and recommends they face a misconduct hearing over the arrest. It comes despite an initial investigation by the IPCC and North Yorkshire Police which found Cleveland Police had no case to answer over the incident in August, 2013 - a decision Mr Dunford appealed. The incident, captured on CCTV, shows one officer attending to the injured policeman while other officers restrain Mr Dunford and one repeatedly knees him in the back . The 45-year-old contractor from Thornaby said: 'I tried to shrug it off but it really affects me - if I see a police van I think something's going to happen and Leigh was a nervous wreck afterwards. 'It's destroyed my life as it was and the whole violent affair has changed me hugely.' He said the incident had placed a great strain on his relationship with Ms Leach and that the couple have since split. One of the officers admitted punched Mr Dunford in the face and kneeing him nine times during the incident . Mr Dunford called for the officers responsible to be removed from the force, adding: 'The police are not judges or punishers, that's what the courts do and the police can't go around acting like this.' Cleveland Police have already responded to the latest report - which will now be considered by the IPCC before a final decision is made. The couple had been making their way home from a folk festival in Stockton when Mr Dunford was stopped by officers on Stockton High Street responding to reports of a man being drunk and disorderly in a nearby pub. He was arrested after assaulting police officers as they tried to place him in a police car. However, Cleveland Police said Mr Dunford headbutted

Summary: Darran Dunford claimed he was urinating blood for a week after his arrest . One officer said he punched Mr Dunford in the side of the face with his fist . He then said that he kneed Mr Dunford nine times in the back . Mr Dunford complained about the police's behaviour on the night in 2013 . The Independent Police Complaints Commission upheld a complaint . Three officers involved in the arrest now face disciplinary proceedings . Mr Dunford said the stress of the night has cost him his relationship .


Peter Moores faces an uncertain future following England's humiliating exit from the 2015 Cricket World Cup as the coach remarkably said he would have to 'look at the data' to work out why. England were beaten by 15 runs against Bangladesh at the Adelaide Oval to make it four defeats against Test-playing nations with their win over Scotland scant consolation. Moores, speaking after the loss on Monday, said: 'We thought 275 was chaseable. We'll have to look at the data. Peter Moores faces an uncertain future following England's humiliating exit from the 2015 Cricket World Cup . England were beaten by 15 runs at the Adelaide Oval to make it four defeats against Test-playing nations . England captain Eoin Morgan looks dejected as he leaves the field after their World Cup match . Morgan's fifth ODI duck in 12 innings summed up their poor performance at the World Cup . 90 - the amount of runs captain Eoin Morgan scored in five innings at the World Cup . 12.2 - the overs it took for New Zealand to beat England's total of 123 in their second group game. 111 - Australia's margin of victory in the opening game of the tournament . 654 - total of runs scored by Australia and Sri Lanka against England . 1 - number of centuries scored by an England batsman against Test playing nations . 72 - number of runs scored by Sri Lanka off the bowling of Chris Woakes . 0 - number of wins registered by England over Test playing nations in the tournament . 0 - the number of centuries scored by a Bangladesh batsman in a World Cup before playing England on Monday. 37.4-1-234-5 - Chris Woakes's tournament bowling figures. 49 - the amount of runs Steven Finn went for in two overs against New Zealand. 'You just feel hollow if I'm being honest. Very, very disappointed. We haven't played well enough, we've got to accept that. 'You just feel like you've let people down, that would be the main emotion. 'I want to carry on desperately. It's certainly not my decision. I hope [to stay]. I'm here to try and make a difference. Certainly on a day like today you look at it and you know we have a lot of work to do in one-day cricket - there's no doubt about that. 'We haven't played well enough in this tournament all the way through. That's something we have to look at. 'It's a game we felt we should have won. We should have chased 275 and we didn't do it - we have to take that on the chin.' England must now play out a dead rubber against Afghanistan on Friday in a tournament that was summed up against Bangladesh by Eoin Morgan's fifth ODI duck in 12 innings. Morgan replaced Alastair Cook as captain shortly before England left for their warm-ups in Australia, with the relatively untested Gary Ballance also drafted in at number three. Moores continued: 'We haven't got a settled team. We've lost two key players at

Summary: Peter Moores faces uncertain future as England coach following defeat . Bangladesh beat England by 15 runs at the Adelaide Oval on Monday . Moores: 'We thought 275 was chaseable. We'll have to look at the data'


West Brom striker Brown Ideye is hopeful of being fit in time for the Barclays Premier League home clash with QPR a week on Saturday. Ideye missed the weekend's 3-0 loss at Manchester City due to a knee problem that has subsequently forced him to pull out of the Nigeria squad. The 26-year-old, Albion's record signing, told West Brom's website on Wednesday: 'I am in rehab now so hopefully I will be better before the QPR game. West Brom striker Brown Ideye missed the Baggies' game against Manchester City through injury . Ideye hopes to be back in contention for West Brom's important game against Queens Park Rangers . 'Somebody kicked me from behind in the Stoke game (on March 14) and since then I've been getting pain. 'I thought I could be fit for Nigeria. I thought I could even be fit for the game at Manchester City. But I couldn't run and I have had to stay back instead of risking it by going to internationals. 'I just have to rest. The pain is still there but the doctors and physios have been doing their best to make sure I'm fit for the (QPR) game.' The Nigeria international picked up the injury during West Brom's match against Stoke on March 14 . Ideye has had to pull out of international duty with Nigeria because of the injury to his knee .

Summary: West Brom striker Brown Ideye missed the weekend's loss at Man City . He has a knee injury that he sustained against Stoke City on March 14 . Ideye has had to pull out of the Nigeria squad for upcoming matches . He hopes to be fit in time for an important game against QPR on April 4 .


England may be pondering a recall for Jonathan Trott but Yorkshire openers Adam Lyth and Alex Lees are ready and waiting to answer the call should selectors opt for new blood in the West Indies. England play three Tests in the Caribbean next month, where they will hope to shake off the ignominy of their woeful World Cup campaign. The identity of captain Alastair Cook's batting partner is likely to be one of the most vexed questions during selection meetings this week, with incumbent Sam Robson on shaky ground and Trott reportedly being considered for the first time since departing the 2013/14 Ashes with a stress-related condition. Jonathan Trott is reportedly being considered for an England recall ahead of West Indies tour . Yorkshire batsmen Adam Lyth (left) and Alex Lees are ready and willing to provide top order cover . He made his name as a No 3 but with another Yorkshire batsman, Gary Ballance, having made that slot his own, Trott is being considered for a promotion. Even if the 33-year-old travels, England may be tempted to take top-order cover and the title-winning pairing are first in line. Lyth was the top scorer in Division One of the LV= County Championship last summer, making 1489 runs and scoring six centuries, while 21-year-old Lees made 971 runs is rated as one of the country's brightest prospects. 'I feel like I've had a good winter with England Lions and hopefully I get the telephone call which I think I thoroughly deserve,' Lyth told Sportsmail. 'I'm looking forward to what might come for me. You can see how many people in recent years have gone on from playing Lions cricket to representing England and hopefully I can be the next one. Lees and Lyth were instrumental in winning the LV County Championship with Yorkshire last year . Trott has not been selected by England since departing the 2013/14 Ashes with a stress related condition . 'If that's not the case all I can do is keep scoring runs for Yorkshire.' Lyth and Lees are an unusual study in partners as rivals - as well as batting together throughout the county season they also played for the Lions in South Africa over the winter. Even now they are leading rival Yorkshire teams in an inter-club friendly in Abu Dhabi, but their relationship remains strong. 'Of course I get on really well with Alex and if he gets the nod I'll give him a pat on the back and say well done, but I obviously hope it's me,' added Lyth. Captain Eoin Morgan faces the press after England's disastrous exit from the Cricket World Cup . England vice captain Jos Buttler looks dejected as he leaves the field following defeat by Bangladesh . Lees is aware of the interest he has attracted as a stylish young opener, but is attempting to remain on an even keel as speculation over a Test call builds. 'I know I've had a good 18 months or so but I've got to keep knocking on the door and getting those

Summary: Yorkshire batsmen Adam Lyth and Alex Lees may be selected for England's three Test tour of West Indies . Jonathan Trott could be recalled to top order for the first time since departing 2013/14 Ashes with a stress-related condition . Lyth was the top scorer in winning the LV= County Championship last summer .


A failure in LAPD handwriting analysis 14 years ago meant that Robert Durst was free to kill again, according to a search warrant. Durst, a member of a wealthy New York real estate family, was arrested in New Orleans over the weekend and charged with murder for the shooting of Susan Berman in December 2000. Police focused on Durst's handwriting 14 years ago, after a note in an envelope tipped them off to Berman's death. But a document examiner wrongly concluded that the handwriting did not match Durst's. Scroll down for video . Accused: Robert Durst was arrested after he seemed to give himself away during a taped interview for an HBO documentary investigating his possible links to three killings . Evidence: The handwriting on this notorious note that tipped off police was eventually matched to Durst . Missed: The handwriting was initially thought to belong to somebody else after LAPD analysts made errors in their assessment . Match: Eventually, the writing was compared against samples of Durst's writing and the similarities were found to be striking . Sinister: Robert Durst is escorted into Orleans Parish Prison after his arrest. He escaped police attention for years, partially due to a failed handwriting analysis 14 years ago . Writing on the note and envelope, which was written in block lettering, misspelled 'Beverley Hills Police' and included the word 'cadaver' along with Berman's Beverly Hills address. In 2001, Los Angeles Police Department document examiner William Leaver concluded it was 'highly probable' that it was written by Nyle Brenner, Berman's manager and friend. The assessment was 'rubber stamped' by Leaver's supervisor, who told detectives in September that she had not backed the findings up with an independent technical review. Investigators had initially failed to analyze examples of Durst's handwriting, and it wasn't until eight months later that a comparison was made. Leaver said 'similarities' were enough to request more writing samples, which police eventually obtained. In June 2003, Leaver revised his assessment to conclude that the handwriting was likely Durst's. The conflicting analyses meant that valuable time lost. By then, Durst had been charged in Texas with the murder and dismemberment of Morris Black. Investigation: Law enforcement officers stand outside the Robert Durst's Houston home . Forensic: Durst himself may have implicated the property in a recording made while talking to himself after a tense interview for the HBO series . Eventually, the envelope, letter and writing samples were sent to the California Department of Justice and an investigator concluded that Durst was 'probably the author of the cadaver letter and note'. The Los Angeles case went dormant, and wasn't revived until 2012, when law enforcement learned of a six-part HBO series about his links to three killings entitled The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst. He is suspected of killing his first wife, who disappeared in New York in 1982; Berman, the daughter of a mobster, who acted as his spokeswoman after his wife disappeared; and a 71-year-old neighbor in Texas, whose dismembered body was found floating in Galveston Bay in 2001.

Summary: In 2001, police analysed the handwriting on a note alerting them to the death of Susan Berman . They wrongly concluded that it didn't match Durst's writing . This meant that valuable time was lost . Millionaire Durst is suspected of three brutal murders .


A 21-year-old man has undergone the world's first successful penis transplant. The 'ground-breaking' operation took South African surgeons nine hours to perform, and allowed the patient to urinate normally and become sexually active again. Three years ago the man, who remains unidentified, was forced to have his penis amputated after a botched circumcision. Each year thousands of young men, mainly from the Xhosa tribe in South Africa, have their foreskins removed in traditional rituals, with experts estimating around 250 losing their penises each year to medical complications. Scroll down for video . A 21-year-old man has become the first person in the world to undergo a successful penis transplant, in a nine hour operation at Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa . The operation was carried out by surgeons from Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa, using a penis donated from a deceased person. They said the procedure allowed the man to regain all function in the newly transplanted organ. Nine more patients will now receive penile transplants. Professor André van der Merwe, head of the University's Division of Urology, said they were surprised by the patient's rapid recovery. He said: 'Our goal was that he would be fully functional at two years and we are very surprised by his rapid recovery. Professor Frank Graewe, another of the hospital's surgeons who assisted on the operation, said: 'It's a massive breakthrough. We've proved that it can be done – we can give someone an organ that is just as good as the one that he had.' 'It was a privilege to be part of this first successful penis transplant in the world.' Professor van der Merwe said having a penis amputated is known to have a seriously adverse psychological effect on men. 'This is a very serious situation,' he said. 'For a young man of 18 or 19 years the loss of his penis can be deeply traumatic. As part of the procedure, doctors transplanted a new penis, donated by a deceased man. The pictures, left and right, show the veins and blood vessels they connected . After the nine hour operation, the man recovered rapidly. The procedure has allowed him to become sexually active again. The picture shows how the nerves of the donated penis were joined to the man's genital region . He doesn't necessarily have the psychological capability to process this. There are even reports of suicide among these young men.' He added that finding a donor organ was one of the main challenges to the procedures, and called the man who donated his penis, and his family, 'heroes'. The procedure was performed as part of a pilot study to develop a penile transplant procedure that could be performed in a typical South African hospital. The planning and preparation for the study started in 2010. After extensive research Professor Van der Merwe and his surgical team decided to use techniques developed for the first facial transplant. The operation was the second time that this type of procedure was attempted, but the first time in history

Summary: Man underwent 9 hour operation at Tygerberg Hospital South Africa . Transplant was carried out in December but announced today . The penis was donated to the hospital by a deceased organ donor . Nerves and blood vessels were connected by a team of surgeons . Patient made ‘rapid’ recovery and has regained all functions in the organ . Experts: 250 men a year in South Africa lose their penises in circumcisions .


NFL star Tom Brady worried Patriots Nation and probably caused Bill Belichick to spit out his morning coffee on Saturday after he posted a video of himself jumping off a giant cliff. The 37-year-old, who was with Gisele Bundchen when he made the leap, shared the video on Facebook along with the message: 'Never doing that again! #AirBrady'. After the 15-year veteran shared the video on Facebook in the morning, video of him playing basketball with NBA legend Michael Jordan began to emerge on social media during the afternoon. Scroll down for video . Tom Brady posted a video of himself going cliff diving while he was vacationing during the NFL offseason . Brady was with supermodel wife Gisele Bundchen and their children when he made the leap in Costa Rica . The New England Patriots quarterback launched himself off the edge of a cliff and didn't look back . The 37-year-old star, who has won four Super Bowls during the course of his career, landed safely below . Brady posted the video on Facebook on Saturday and then was seen playing basketball with Michael Jordan . After Brady posted the video of the dive onto his Facebook page, he indicated it might be his last big jump . Brady and his family were recently in Costa Rica on a family holiday, NESN reported. The pickup basketball game, which also featured golfer Keegan Bradley, took place in the Bahamas, according to FanSided. Jordan, who won six NBA titles over the course of his career and is now the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets, can be heard talking trash during the video clip of the pickup game. Tom Brady (left) golfed with NBA legend Michael Jordan (right) and PGA pro Keegan Bradley (next to him) Before he was seen on the cliff or in the Bahamas, Brady hit the beach with Bundchen and their kids . The three professionals also played golf together at some point, as shown in a photo Bradley posted on Instagram. Brady is taking a well-earned break after guiding New England to a thrilling Super Bowl victory over the Seattle Seahawks in Glendale, Arizona last month. The 28-24 victory over Seattle at the University of Phoenix Stadium on February 1 clinched an elusive fourth Super Bowl ring for Brady, a decade after he won his third. The four-time Super Bowl winning quarterback has earned nearly $150million in salary alone over the course of his career, according to Spotrac. If Brady wins another title, he will be the only quarterback in history with five Super Bowl wins. He would have to win the big game two more times to equal Jordan's six. Jordan, 52, earned about $94million in salary during his 16 seasons in the National Basketball Association . Bundchen and daughter Vivian rocked their two-piece bikinis for the beach trip on the clear and sunny day . The tight-knit family took a walk down the beach shoreline just before sunset to end their day at the beach . The win in Glendale, Arizona, was Brady's fourth Super Bowl

Summary: Tom Brady was with wife Gisele Bundchen when he took the daring dive . The New England Patriots star is enjoying a break during NFL offseason . Brady, 37, guided the Pats to their fourth Super Bowl victory in February . He was seen playing basketball with Jordan in the Bahamas on Saturday .


A video purporting to show the executions of two alleged spies has been released by Nigerian Islamist group Boko Haram. One of the men is made to make a full confession, explaining his 'crimes' to the camera, before they pair are beheaded and their bodies shown to the camera. The gruesome execution video echoes those posted by Islamic State and is the second released by Boko Haram. Scroll down for video . Brutal: A gruesome video allegedly showing the executions of two men accused of working as police spies has been released by Nigerian Islamist group Boko Haram . The video, called 'Harvest of Spies', was posted Monday on Twitter by Boko Haram, the SITE intelligence group said today. It starts by showing a man kneeling in the foreground with a group of Boko Haram fighters approaching him holding a flag used by militant Islamist groups. In a theatrical display previously seen in the execution videos released by ISIS, the men line up behind the victim. The video then cuts to show two men, identified as Dawoud Muhammad and Muhammad Awlu, led by Boko Haram fighters before being made to kneel. One Boko Haram fighter, whose face has been blurred by the militant group, stands behind Dawoud Muhammad, holding a large knife. Spy: One of the victims is made to confess his 'crimes' to the camera before the two are beheaded . Horror: After one of the men has spoken of how they have spied on Boko Haram on behalf of the local police force, the pair are beheaded by militant fighters . Mr Muhammad tells the camera that he is a farmer from Baga, northern Nigeria, and is then made to answer a series of questions at knifepoint. Mr Muhammad reveals that hat he had been approached by a police officer who offered him money in exchange for infiltrating Boko Haram. 'We went to see a man from Mijka and a police officer that was with him. The officer gave me 5,000 Naira (£16.20),' Mr Muhammad tells the camera. Mr Muhammad is made to confess that their mission has been to spy on the 'residents who live here' i.e. Boko Haram, and in exchange for spying, the police officers had promised him that he would 'become rich and will never go back to be a farmer again'. Promoting terror: The video emerged on a Boko Haram Twitter account on Monday . The camera pans from left to right in slow motion, showing Mr Muhammad and Mr Awlu on their knees as they are executed by Boko Haram fighters. The video fades before the actual beheadings take place, and then shows the two men's bodies with their heads placed upon their chests. The video does not reveal how the spies were caught by the militants and MailOnline has yet to confirm its authenticity. Boko Haram previously published only one beheading, of a Nigerian fighter pilot whose plane went missing in September. Mr Muhammad's home town of Baga, was the site of a series of mass killings carried out by Boko Haram in

Summary: Beheading video released by Nigerian terrorists Boko Haram . Video allegedly shows execution of two men accused of spying . One of the men confesses to spying on behalf of the Nigerian police .


George Coetzee and Marcel Siem kept their hopes of qualifying for the Masters very much alive on the opening day of the Hassan Trophy at Golf du Palais Royal. Both men had the daunting task of knowing only a victory in Morocco would be enough to book a trip to Augusta next month for the first major championship of the year. But they got off to excellent starts on Thursday, with South Africa's Coetzee carding a 67 and Siem a 68 to finish two and three shots respectively behind France's Adrien Saddier. German Marcel Siem watches on during the opening day of the Hassan Trophy at Golf du Palais Royal . Siem, chasing a spot at next month's Masters, shot a round of 68 to stay in contention for the title in Morocco . Saddier, who was one shot off the lead before the final round of the Madeira Islands Open was cancelled due to bad weather on Sunday, made the most of his sponsor's invite to card a flawless 65. The 22-year-old chipped in on the first for an eagle and repeated the trick on the sixth for the first of his five birdies to finish one shot ahead of England's Daniel Gaunt, who carded seven birdies and a solitary bogey on the 18th. Coetzee shared third place with Scotland's David Drysdale and England's Chris Wood, with Siem a shot further back after five birdies, an eagle and three bogeys in his round. Starting from the 10th, Coetzee - who won the Tshwane Open on his home course in Pretoria a fortnight ago - birdied his first two holes and also picked up shots on the 16th and 17th to reach the turn in 32. George Coetzee carded 67 on Thursday to remain near the top of the leaderboard in Morocco . Further birdies on the first and seventh took Coetzee to six under, but the 28-year-old ran up a double bogey on the next after his tee shot rolled back off the green and his first chip caught the same slope and came back to his feet. However, the world number 69 made amends with a birdie from 20 feet on the ninth, just minutes after Siem had holed from an almost identical position. 'Augusta is on my mind, obviously,' Coetzee said. 'I'm here to try to qualify, but I'm just trying to play golf and hopefully on Sunday I will be in contention. Coetzee prepares to take a tee shot on the opening day of the Hassan Trophy at Golf du Palais Royal . 'There is still a lot of work to be done. If it all doesn't work out then I've got a nice five-week holiday. I'm just playing and enjoying my golf. I'm in a good space mentally.' Siem led from start to finish here in 2013 and looked to have done enough to climb into the world's top 50 and secure his Masters debut. However, after the results of the Houston Open were taken into consideration a few hours later, the 34-year-old discovered he was ranked

Summary: The first major of the year, the Masters, begins on April 9 in Augusta . George Coetzee and Marcel Siem must win in Morocco to qualify . Coetzee carded 67 and Siem 68 to stay in touch with leader Adrien Saddier .


A fare dodger who was caught forging his own first class train tickets has been ordered to pay back £17,000. Mark Mason, 44, parked in executive car parks and enjoyed luxury travel across the country for free using the fake first class rail and parking tickets. A search of the fraudster's home revealed a sophisticated forgery set-up which included fake and genuine tickets, glossy photographic paper, computers and printers, as well as craft knives, scissors and a cutting board. Fare dodger Mark Mason parked in executive car parks and enjoyed first class travel using tickets he forged at home. Pictured: Four of Mason's fake seasons tickets, which allowed him to travel from Doncaster . Now Mason has been ordered to pay back £17,884 over six months after he was convicted of fraud charges relating to 85 tickets used over a period of 21 months. At a proceeds of crime hearing Mason, a contract worker, was told failure to pay will result in a default sentence of 12 months in prison. Detective Constable David Williams, a financial investigator said: 'This sentence sends a clear message to anyone thinking of trying to evade payment of train fares and parking that it really isn't worth it.' A search of the fraudster's home revealed a sophisticated set-up to make the fake train travel and parking tickets, including a software package which allowed him to design the counterfeit tickets (pictured) After raiding Mason's home, police found fake and genuine tickets, glossy photographic paper, printers, as well as craft knives, scissors and a cutting board, which were all used in the ticket-making process . Mason, of Hatfield, Doncaster, in South Yorkshire, was sentenced to six months in prison suspended for two years. He has also been ordered to carry out 240 hours unpaid work and a 12-day restorative justice course at Sheffield Crown Court. The British Transport Police investigation began in autumn 2013 when East Coast Trains station support staff saw Mason's black Vauxhall Meriva car on several occasions in the Executive Car Park at Doncaster train station. Various ticket discrepancies were noted including an expired ticket and tickets with wrong colours, no date and time printed, incorrect emblems and incorrect value paid. Replicating the real tickets, Mason used software to change the details on the ticket in order to get free travel. He included the type of ticket, the date, the price, the journey and the printing date (pictured) But inspectors noticed various ticket discrepancies, including an expired ticket and tickets with wrong colours, no date and time printed, incorrect emblems and incorrect value paid . Mason used the software to forge the back of the train ticket in meticulous detail (pictured). He has been ordered to pay back £17,884 over six months after he was convicted of fraud charges . BTP was informed and in December an officer spotted the car and approached Mason when he returned to his vehicle later that day. He was arrested on suspicion of fraud offences and a search of the car revealed 10 further tickets believed to have been forged.

Summary: Mark Mason travelled first class across the country using his forged tickets . Police had become suspicious after noticing various ticket discrepancies . A search of his home revealed computer software used to create forgeries . Mason was ordered to pay £17,884 over six months or face a year in jail .


A pampering few hours spent at the hair salon can you make you feel like a million dollars. Unfortunately, the bill at the end for a cut, colour and blow dry can feel like it is making a million dollar dent in your bank account. Now, a hair salon is offering clients the option of investing in a hair 'savings account' with weekly direct debit payments that can be used to pay for their hair appointments. Scroll down for video . Image investment: TONI&GUY hair salons have launched a new service allowing clients to contribute from $20 per week by direct debit to a personal hair fund . 'Lay-by for hair': Clients withdraw from their fund to pay for hair appointments, avoiding being hit with one large bill . TONI&GUY are launching the Future Hair Fund, encouraging their clients to treat the service as they would a gym membership. Starting from $20 per week, clients contribute regular payments to their fund, which they make a withdrawal from to pay for their salon service. Rather than saving up for months to afford their hair appointment, clients opt in to invest as much as they want over the $20 minimum per week, depending on how 'high maintenance' their hairstyle is. A platinum blonde requiring regular touch ups would contribute more per week than someone with a low-maintenance colour. Weekly investment: The brand likens the regular contributions to a gym membership . Promotion: The Future Hair Fund is currently available in 36 salons across Australia . Editor of cult beauty website Gritty Pretty Eleanor Pendleton is the face of the new promotion, and likens the service to 'lay-by for your hair'. She says: 'The TONI&GUY Future Hair Fund will make large service bills a thing of the past by providing the opportunity for flexible payment options. 'Australian women (and men) continue to seek financial efficiency within their lifestyle choices without wanting to compromise on service quality.' New or existing clients activate the service with an initial consultation to determine the type of services they require, and book in for regular appointments in advance. If the client wants additional services (for example, stopping in for a blow dry, or extra highlights) and they don't have enough in their fund to cover the service, they can simply top it up with a one-off payment. Accessible: Manly salon owner Katy Reeve (pictured) says the fund allows more customers to access premium hair fashion . The promotion launched on March 6 in 36 TONI&GUY salons across Australia, with 90 clients already signed up. Louise White, owner of White Social on Sydney's Northern Beaches, is a client at the TONI&GUY group's Manly salon and has activated her Future Hair Fund. 'It means I don't get hit with a $200 plus bill in one hit,' she tells Daily Mail Australia. 'With budgeting $20 a week it makes my splurge at TONI&GUY a little easier with budgeting for a family of four.' Katy Reeve, TONI&GUY National Creative Director and Manly salon owner, adds: 'Via the Future Hair Fund TONI&GUY are providing the

Summary: TONI&GUY offering direct debit payment service at 36 Australian salons . Weekly contributions start from $20 depending on maintenance required . Promotion ambassador Eleanor Pendleton calls service 'lay-by for hair'