World Cup winner Toni Kroos says he joined Real Madrid to play under manager Carlo Ancelotti and has revealed how the Italian told him he would make the team better. Former Bayern Munich midfielder Kroos joined the Spanish giants last summer for £24million after becoming a world champion with Germany at the World Cup in Brazil. And Kroos has spoken about how a chat with former Chelsea boss Ancelotti convinced him to leave the club he had been at for eight years and move to a new league. Toni Kroos protects the ball from team-mate Sami Khedira during Real Madrid training on Wednesday . The World Cup winning midfielder puts pressure on Javier Hernandez during training . 'Ancelotti's also one of the reasons I came here – I think it's normal to talk with the coach before taking that step,' Kroos told the official Uefa website. 'He gave me a positive impression and told me Madrid would be even stronger with me in their ranks. It was obviously a good conversation. Kroos claims he has a very good relationship with the Italian and is grateful that Anceoltti put his faith in him, even to play in a position that he was unfamiliar with. Kroos throws his arm out in frustration during Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Villarreal last weekend . Kroos, playing a more defensive position than he did for Bayern Munich, slides into a challenge . 'He trusted me from the beginning in a position where I hadn't played that much, which was nonetheless in midfield. I enjoy playing in this position. 'Our relationship is good. We communicate a lot before each game. We discuss how I have to approach each game according to the opponent we're facing. I still don't know every team that well, which is normal. But he tries to fill in the gaps.'

Summary: Toni Kroos joined Real Madrid from Bayern Munich for £24m last summer . World Cup winner said he signed after being convinced by Carlo Ancleotti . Kroos claims the Real boss told him he would improve the team . CLICK HERE for all the latest Real Madrid news .


Louis van Gaal has endured a difficult start to life in the Premier League, but that hasn't stopped the Manchester United boss from steering his side to crucial victories against the club's closest rivals. The 2-1 victory against Liverpool on Sunday saw United leap to first spot in the head-to-head mini-table of the Premier League's current top five. Van Gaal's side have now earned 10 points from fives games against the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea with three games against the top five remaining. Juan Mata scored twice as Manchester United earned a 2-1 victory against Liverpool on Sunday . Louis van Gaal (centre) has an impressive record against the Premier League's current top five . The mini-league will come as a small crumb of comfort for United fans as their side battle it out for a Champions League spot while the Old Trafford club's transition under Van Gaal continues. The Dutch boss has certainly had his critics this season, but a Premier League double against Liverpool will do Van Gaal no harm in the eyes of the Red Devils faithful and a 2-1 victory against Arsenal at the Emirates in November is not to be sniffed at. United still have to play City (H), Chelsea (A) and Arsenal (H), but they look a different team to the one that struggled through the winter months. United players celebrate during the club's 3-0 victory against Liverpool in December, 2014 . Van Gaal even hailed his team's latest victory against top five opposition as one of the most important of his career. He said: 'Now the gap is five points ahead of Liverpool and six ahead of Tottenham and Southampton so the moment to win is one of the most important in my career.' Liverpool sit rock of our mini-league having won just one of their six Premier League fixtures against the current top five. Brendan Rodgers looks on as Liverpool suffered a 2-1 defeat against rivals United . Liverpool have won just one of their six Premier League matches against the current top five . Rodgers' side have also conceded a worrying 13 goals in those games following defeats against City, Chelsea and United. Liverpool had put themselves within touching distance of United after going on an unbeaten 13-match run that started after their 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford. The Reds still have time to improve their form against their nearest rivals, but face two tough away trip against Arsenal and Chelsea before the season is out.

Summary: Man United have won 10 points from five games against the top five . Louis van Gaal has impressive record against club's nearest rivals . Liverpool are bottom of the head-to-head table with one win from six . Brendan Rodgers' side face away trip to Arsenal and Chelsea .


A Tory MP is refusing to repay hundreds of pounds in expenses for over-claiming his mileage - after the Commons watchdog checked his journeys on Google Maps. Backbencher Bob Blackman was found to have filed more than 700 claims for travel around his constituency that were either ‘inaccurate’ or not allowed under the rules. Some were said to be for up to five times the real distance after they were checked. But the Harrow East MP has refused to accept the conclusions, insisting he will hand back only £237 - despite being asked to repay more than £1,000. Backbencher Bob Blackman was found to have filed more than 700 claims for travel around his constituency that were either ‘inaccurate’ or not allowed under the rules . An appeal from the MP has now been rejected by Ipsa compliance officer Peter Davis on the basis that it ‘largely reiterated the points made by him in his original representations’. If Mr Blackman refuses to repay the £1,006.20 by next week, he could be hit with a £1,000 fine and legal action to retrieve the money from his salary. Mr Davis is also understood to be considering new evidence and has already warned he could extend his inquiry back further than January 2013 - potentially opening Mr Blackman up to a fresh bill. In his appeal, Mr Blackman condemned the findings as ‘arbitrary and draconian’ and designed to generate a ‘good headline for Ipsa’. He stressed he had apologised for £82.80 of travel to party political events, and was ‘extremely reluctantly’ ready to repay £97.65 for party political journeys even though Mr Davis had not ‘properly evaluated’ the situation. He said he would return another £56.70 for home to office travel because he could not produce ‘detailed evidence’ to support it. Parliament's reputation is till being dragged through the mud by controversial expense claims made by MPs . But Mr Blackman made clear he did not accept criticism of the distances he had claimed for. ‘I absolutely maintain that these routes are the most cost effective possible based on local traffic conditions and the need to ensure that journeys are of a predictable duration to arrive at the appointed time,’ he said. ‘My claims are provably compliant with the scheme so therefore you should withdraw your damaging and entirely unwarranted allegations at this juncture. ‘I understand that, having embarked on and publicly announced this investigation, it is in your personal interest to back up this decision with findings of wrongdoing that will generate a good headline for Ipsa. ‘Therefore I am sorry to report that I will absolutely be maintaining my innocence in this matter to my constituents, to the (Commons) Commission and on the floor of the House if necessary.’ Last month's provisional report from Mr Davis revealed that Ipsa officials wrote to Mr Blackman in October 2011 voicing concern that he was putting in for ‘around twice the average for constituency mileage across the UK and some six times higher than other suburban London area constituencies where mileage is claimed’. Commons officials checked

Summary: Bob Blackman made 700 travel claims that were 'inaccurate' or not allowed . Some were up to five times the real distance after they were checked online . The Harrow East MP has refused to accept the expense watchdog findings . Says he will hand back only £237 despite being asked to repay over £1,000 .


Lionel Messi usually waits until after the match to exchange shirts but American sport stars are not taking any chances amid concerns he could miss Saturday's game in Washington. The Argentina forward, who sat out training on Friday due to a foot problem, has already picked up three jerseys in the US capital, where Argentina are due to play a friendly against El Salvador in front of 50,000 fans at FedEx Field. Lionel Messi was forced to watch from the sidelines as Argentina held a training session on Friday . The Argentina star cut a lonely figure as his team-mates took part in training session at FedEx Field . Messi picked up the foot injury during Barcelona's 2-1 win over Real Madrid on Sunday . Messi had been expected to feature in Saturday's friendly after a scan cleared him to play . First up fittingly was a Wizards shirt after the four-time World Player of the Year joined his team-mates to watch Wednesday's NBA clash against Indiana Pacers. Then Messi was presented with No 10 jerseys on Friday by Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III and Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin. 'I'm a big fan, and my wife loves soccer - or football,' Griffin told CSNwashington.com . 'We follow [soccer] all the time and follow the World Cup. I do keep track on these guys, from Messi to Ronaldinho to [Cristiano] Ronaldo. It really is great fun to watch them excel at a sport that I never got to play organised.' The pair watched the Argentina players take part in a training session before meeting Messi the locker room. 'My friend taught me a phrase [in Spanish],' Griffin added. 'I was able to say that to him when I met him. He giggled and said thank you.'

Summary: Barcelona forward Lionel Messi was injured during El Clasico on Sunday . Argentina star is in Washington for Saturday's friendly against El Salvador . Messi sat out training on Friday despite an earlier scan clearing him to play .


Pay: Dr Angela Bhan is one of around 70 executives earning more than the recommended £125,000. She takes home £175,000 . NHS bosses are awarding themselves six-figure salaries far in excess of the pay they are entitled to, it emerged last night. Some 70 executives of new regional bodies earn more than the £125,000 maximum recommended by the NHS. Twenty of the bosses, including nine specialist doctors and GPs, earn more than the £142,000 paid to the Prime Minister. One took home £280,000 last year, although this included the fees of the recruitment agency that headhunted him. MPs said the huge salaries were ‘shocking and obscene’ given the increasingly tight constraints on the NHS budget. Many of the trusts these executives run are trying to save money by rationing routine procedures such as cataract surgery, hip and knee replacements and IVF. The salaries were uncovered by e-reward, an online pay research service, which analysed the pay of more than 2,500 managers at the 211 clinical commissioning groups in England. These regional health bodies replaced primary care trusts in 2013 to control local NHS budgets. E-reward said 56 per cent of the 225 top executives – chief officers and chief finance officers – were paying themselves more than that recommended by NHS England, which runs the Health Service. The approved salary range is £95,000 to £125,000 a year, depending on the size of the clinical commissioning group. The biggest was paid to Martin Sheldon, chief financial officer for Redbridge CCG in Essex, at £280,000, including the cost of his recruitment. Dr Angela Bhan, chief executive of Bromley CCG in Kent and a doctor specialising in public health, earns £175,000. To make matters worse, some of the executives received generous redundancy payoffs when primary care trusts were abolished – before walking straight into almost identical roles at CCGs weeks later. MPs said the huge salaries were ‘shocking and obscene’ given the increasingly tight constraints on the NHS budget (file image) Figures published at the weekend showed the NHS has spent £225million on the so-called revolving-door payoffs on 5,200 staff since 2013. The average was £43,000, although some received more than £500,000. Tory MP Charlotte Leslie, who sits on the Commons Health Select Committee, said: ‘It is incredible that senior managers are getting paid this kind of money when the NHS is struggling for funds to meet soaring demand. ‘Not only are they raking in obscene salaries, they are also unaccountable, with no regulatory body like doctors and nurses have. Tory MP Charlotte Leslie said the salaries were 'obscene' ‘If executives think it is okay to accept this kind of pay, it suggests they either don’t understand the financial pressures on NHS finances, or they don’t care. Either way, most people will find this utterly shocking.’ Dr Peter Carter, chief executive of the Royal College of Nursing, said: ‘The NHS needs good managers, especially in an environment of perpetual change. ‘However, it is galling and disheartening for many frontline nursing staff, who have been dealing with the realities of austerity year on year, to see

Summary: One executive took home £280,000 last year - double the Prime Minister . Some 70 other executives earn more than the £125,000 recommended cap . MPs said the salaries were 'shocking and obscene' given tight NHS cuts .


Red Bull’s design guru Adrian Newey has been accused of lying by the boss of the team’s engine suppliers, Renault. The relationship between the two sides of the partnership that took Sebastian Vettel to his four world titles has disintegrated in recent weeks with Newey and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner both expressing their frustration at Renault’s slow development rate. Newey, 56, told the Mail on Sunday that there was ‘no light at the end of the tunnel’ for the team and accused Renault of failing to engage with them to find a solution. Adrian Newey, pictured with Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz, has been accused of lying by Renault . Renault managing director Cyril Abiteboul mischievously posted a picture of boxing gloves on Wednesday . Those comments have angered Renault managing director Cyril Abiteboul, who told French motorsport magazine Auto Hebdo: ‘It’s difficult to have a partner who lies. Adrian is a charming man and an engineer without parallel, but he’s spent his life criticising engine partners. He’s too old to change his ways.’ Abiteboul later tweeted a picture of a pair of boxing gloves and boots. 'Packing up to Malaysia. Race (round?) 2', he mischievously posted. Horner claimed after the opening race in Melbourne, when his cars were considerably off the pace all weekend, that the Renault engine was 100bhp short of Mercedes. He also ruled out a victory this season. Cyril Abiteboul, seen here with team principal Christian Horner at the Jerez test earlier this year . Daniel Ricciardo finished a lowly sixth at the season opener, one lap behind race winner Lewis Hamilton . But in a statement from Renault ahead of this weekend’s Malaysian Grand Prix, Abiteboul shared the blame around, saying: ‘We need to work together to understand our issues, both within the power unit and the chassis. Our figures have shown that the lap time deficit between Red Bull and Mercedes in Melbourne was equally split between driveability issues, engine performance and chassis performance. ‘It’s therefore the overall package that needs some help and we have been working with the team to move forward. ‘We’ve been particularly aggressive in development and we should see the results a lot more clearly in Malaysia. Work is still ongoing but even now we are in a completely different place from where we finished Melbourne.’ Mischievously, the FIA have called Horner and Abiteboul to appear together at the official press conference in the Kuala Lumpur paddock on Friday.

Summary: Cyril Abiteboul called Adrian Newey a 'liar' after post-Melbourne comments . Newey accused Red Bull's engine supplier Renault of failing to engage with the team to find a solution to their difficult start to the campaign . Christian Horner said the Renault engine was 100bhp short of Mercedes . Abiteboul will appear alongside Horner at FIA press conference on Friday . He also mischievously posted a pair of boxing gloves and boots .


No one forgets their first job, and for one woman that will always be especially true. Cathy Calhoun's first job was as a bank teller at The National Bank of Spring City in Spring City, Pennsylvania, and when she learned in 1989 that the bank was closing and up for sale, she decided she would purchase the property. What's more, she decided to turn the bank into her new home. Scroll down for video . Cathy Calhoun (above) bought The National Bank of Spring City in Spring City, Pennsylvania in 1989 . Calhoun paid $52,000 for the bank, which was built in 1872 and which she worked at as bank teller when she was a teenager . She turned the downstairs vault into a steam room (above) The bank has about 5,200 square feet of living space . Calhoun paid $52,000 for about 5,200 square-feet of living space when she bought the bank, which was built in 1872, and soon after went about deciding how to make the interior like a home. According to CNN Money, the clipping room of the bank, where individuals would clip coupons from their bonds, became a powder room, the upstairs vault became a bar, and the downstairs vault, which had no ventilation, became a steam room. Calhoun also restored the clock that used to be in front of the bank, and emptied many of the safety deposit boxes, finding money that had been printed at the bank, old ledgers and books, and even spectacles. Calhoun had the ceilings painted with pink and blue clouds . The upstairs vault was turned into a bar . She made the boardroom into her master bedroom . The bank is on the National Register of Historic Places . She also put new lettering outside, labeling the building Calhoun Federal. The boardroom meanwhile became her master bedroom, one of three bedrooms in the building, and there is still one area left to explore in the basement. It seems that when the bank stopped printing money, the machine was concreted in rather than being carried out, and for her next project, Calhoun just might see what's back there in that basement. Calhoun also put new lettering outside, labeling the building Calhoun Federal . Calhoun also restored the clock that used to be in front of the bank . A closer look at the steam room in the old vault . And it seems she may not be alone in the home either, and after a 1921 robbery left one man dead after he suffocated in the vault, some have claimed to see his ghost wandering the stairs. Not to worry though, Calhoun says if he is there, he is very friendly.

Summary: Cathy Calhoun bought The National Bank of Spring City in Spring City, Pennsylvania in 1989 . Calhoun paid $52,000 for the bank, which was built in 1872 and which she worked at as bank teller when she was a teenager . She turned one of the vaults into a bar, and the other vault into a steam room .


The gangster who supplied the murder weapon which killed Rhys Jones has attempted to return to the area where the late boy’s family live, it was claimed today. James Yates, who provided the First World War Smith & Wesson revolver used to kill the 11-year-old child, cannot enter the Croxteth Park neighbourhood of Liverpool where the murder took place. But the 27-year-old applied for his exclusion zone to be temporarily lifted so he could visit a relative - meaning he could have been in the area where Rhys’s parents Steve and Melanie Jones still live. Gangster: James Yates (left), who provided the First World War Smith & Wesson revolver used to kill Rhys Jones (right), cannot enter the Croxteth Park neighbourhood of Liverpool where the murder took place . Mrs Jones, 49, said it was ‘awful’ to learn of his application in a letter last Saturday - the day before Mother’s Day, which she described as an ‘emotional occasion’. ‘I’m so upset,’ she said. ‘I’ve barely got words to describe how angry I am. I had to come home from work as it was so emotional. ‘How can they be allowed to apply for dropping the exclusion zone? This is the third time this has happened now. The whole system is a farce.’ The Probation Service said Yates would be dropped off by his father Francis - who was jailed for more than four years for trying to cover up the murder - and later picked up on an agreed route. However, the Ministry of Justice was said to have revealed yesterday that Yates's request had been denied. Reacting to this decision, Mrs Jones said: ‘At last, common sense prevails.’ But she added the continual and brazen appeals by the gang members to enter their neighbourhood were emotionally draining and unfair. Yates was released last April - leaving just one of the seven-strong gang in prison. Rhys was shot by Sean Mercer, 16, aided by six others, on his way home from football practice in 2007. Shooting location: Rhys died on August 22, 2007, outside The Fir Tree pub in Croxteth Park. Yates applied for his exclusion zone to be temporarily lifted so he could visit a relative . After Yates walked free it meant only Mercer, who was jailed for life with a minimum of 22 years, was left behind bars after seven people were convicted over their involvement in the horrific crime. Following his release, Mrs Jones called Yates the ‘most evil of them all’. Nathan Quinn, Dean Kelly, Gary Kays, Melvin Coy and a 16-year-old who cannot be named have all served sentences. Grief: If Yates had been successful in his bid, he could have been in the area where Rhys’s parents Steve and Melanie Jones (pictured) still live . Yates was 21 when he was jailed for just seven years for supplying the gun used to kill Rhys and helping Mercer cover his tracks. He and two other members of the Croxteth Crew - Quinn, 18, and Kelly, 17 - winked, smiled, smirked and cheered in the dock

Summary: James Yates provided Smith & Wesson revolver used to kill boy in 2007 . Banned from entering Croxteth Park, Liverpool, where murder took place . But he applied for exclusion zone to be temporarily lifted to visit a relative . This is the area where Rhys's parents Steve and Melanie Jones still live . Mrs Jones said she was 'so upset' and cannot 'describe how angry I am' But MoJ revealed yesterday request from 27-year-old Yates was denied .


Death Row: Kelly Gissendaner (pictured) is set to die by lethal injection in Georgia at 7pm tonight . The only woman in Georgia on death row is due to be executed tonight at 7pm - after an astonishing last meal of cheeseburgers, fries, ice cream and a fatty salad - unless lawyers can convince officials to spare her life. Kelly Renee Gissendaner, 46, is due to be given a lethal injection at a state prison in Jackson in retribution for plotting the murder of her husband in 1997. She was sentenced to die after her boyfriend, Gregory Owen, stabbed Douglas Gissendaner to death at her urging. Gissendaner, who will be the first female executed in Georgia in 70 years, has also made headlines with her request from prison authorities for a no-holds-barred last meal. The feast includes two Burger King Whoppers, two large orders of fries, cornbread, a salad drenched in buttermilk dressing, popcorn and cherry-vanilla ice cream. However, there is a chance she receive a last-minute stay of execution - if her lawyers convince Georgia's justice system to cancel the killing. Attorneys are mounting a last-ditch attempt to persuade the State Board of Pardons and Paroles to commute her sentence to life without parole. She was denied clemency at a hearing last week, but lawyers argue that extra witnesses from within the prison system could help persuade them. Previous attempts have rested on her remorse and new-found faith. In a statement ten years ago, Gissendaner herself said: 'I deserve to be here, but I don't deserve to die'. Murder: Gissendaner, shown left in her arrest mugshot from 1997, is facing death for plotting the murder of her husband. However, her boyfriend Gregory Owen, right, who actually did the deed, is not on death row and could be paroled within a decade . Monster meal: Gissendaner, pictured above with a regular prison meal, requested an enormous spread including two cheeseburger meals, cornbread, ice cream, and popcorn for her last meal . She has also drawn attention to the fact that, while she did not kill her husband, the man who struck the fatal blows is not facing death - and will be eligible for parole in 2023. If the bid fails, her lawyers are expected to ask the Supreme Court to intervene. It has already denied one appeal. Her execution had been due to take place last week, but was canceled after a winter storm caused disruption in the area. Gissendaner would be the first woman executed in Georgia since 1945 and only the 16th woman put to death nationwide since the Supreme Court allowed the death penalty to resume in 1976. Gissendaner's lawyers note that the parole board already heard from many people testifying about her faith and remorse at a hearing last week before denying her clemency. But, her lawyers argue, the board did not hear from many Department of Corrections employees whose perspective 'would have left no doubt that a grant of clemency is supported in this case.' The most important witness the board did not hear from is

Summary: Kelly Renee Gissendaner, 46, to receive lethal injection in Jackson at 7pm . She plotted the 1997 murder of her husband with her boyfriend . Chose cheeseburgers, fries, cornbread, ice cream, buttermilk-dressed salad, lemonade and popcorn for last meal . Gissendaner's lawyers are begging Georgia authorities for stop her death . Have claimed that she has found God in prison and is reformed . Georgia has not executed a woman since 1946 .


David Villa has graced the grandest stages of them all. World Cup and Champions League triumphs sit proudly on a superb CV. His spell at New York City FC may not be on the same level, yet the unbridled joy displayed at creating history with the new Major League Soccer side’s first ever goal on the hallowed turf of Yankee Stadium was there for all to see. It was his presence which attracted a healthy and encouraging 43,507 here. And it was his typically busy display which ultimately was the difference. David Villa fires past Bobby Shuttleworth to score the first goal for New York City FC at Yankee Stadium . The Spaniard finished off a neatly-worked move with Ned Grabavoy to put the hosts on the way to a well-deserved victory . Yankee Stadium played host to a whole new ball game as the MLS expansion franchise won its first game in the Big Apple . A packed Yankee Stadium watches as the two teams battle it out in the second game of the MLS season . New York City: Saunders; Williams (Facey 79), Hernandez, Wingert, Brovsky; Velasquez (Shelton 66), Diskerud, Jacobsen, Grabavoy; Villa, Nemec (Mullins 84). Booked: Wingert, Williams . Goals: Villa 19, Mullins 84 . New England Revolution: Shuttleworth; Alston (Barnes 59), Farrell, Goncalves, Tierney; Kobayashi, Dorman; Rowe, Nguyen (Caldwell 71), Fagundez; Agueldo (Davies 65). Booked: Agueldo, Dorman . Sent off: Goncalves . Attendance: 43,507 . His first goal since moving to the US this summer was a clinically taken strike on 20 minutes and, on another day and without the seemingly impenetrable Bobby Shuttleworth standing in his way, the 33 year-old would have bagged a hatful. Yet he still managed to retain his composure and cross for Patrick Mullins on 84 minutes to nab the killer second and prove the former Barcelona and Atletico Madrid striker brings much more to the table than just lightning quick reactions in front of goal. Of course, it's not all about one man and, in truth, Manchester City’s newest fledgling entity were decent value after securing their first win against a New England Revolution side who were harshly forced to play with 10 for the last 23 minutes following Jose Goncalves’ straight red card. City have aggressively marketed their brand new adventure in Manhattan, hammering home the fact that they – and not the New Jersey based Red Bulls – are the true team of New York. The numbers swilling around outside before kick-off suggested it had done the trick. Yankee stadium, no matter how resplendent an arena it is, will never be a perfect fit for the beautiful game. Yet NYCFC and their freshly conceived, enthusiastic fanbase did their best to make it feel like home. The makeshift pitch which has already got the baseball players fretting ahead of their season opener in three weeks time, was certainly passable. There was a decent atmosphere though here in the Bronx. The rarest of sightings in this vast country - away fans - played their part too. It was hard to gauge exactly

Summary: Villa finished a lovely move in the 19th minute, slotting past keeper Bobby Shuttleworth . The Spaniard played a neat one-two with Ned Grabavoy to score the franchise's first goal in Yankee Stadium . Revolution skipper Jose Goncalves was sent off midway through the second half . Villa turned creator in the 84th minute, crossing for former New England man Mullins to convert from close range .


A restaurant worker was left for dead after he was battered by three masked men wielding a baseball bat. Jamil Ahmed was left with a bleed on the brain and needed hospital treatment for two weeks after the brutal assault in Sparkbrook, Birmingham, on December 15 last year . Detectives believe the 27-year-old was deliberately targeted as a result of a 'grudge' because the masked gang didn't steal anything. Mr Ahmed was so badly injured he has been unable to return to his restaurant job. Jamil Ahmed was left with a bleed on the brain and needed hospital treatment for two weeks after he was battered by three masked men wielding a baseball bat . Police have now released a shocking picture of Mr Ahmed taken in hospital after the vicious assault in a bid to track down his assailants. It shows him sitting in a hospital bed with a white bandage over his head and blood covering his face. Detective Constable Michelle Akers, from West Midlands Police, said the investigation had so far been unable to identify those responsible or confirm a motive for the beating. She added: 'This was a targeted attack, nothing was stolen and it appears Mr Ahmed has been assaulted by someone with a grudge against him, but precisely what's prompted it remains unclear. Detectives believe the 27-year-old was deliberately targeted as a result of a 'grudge' because the masked gang didn't steal anything during the brutal assault in Sparkbrook, Birmingham, on December 15 last year (file picture) 'There can be no justification for an assault of this nature. 'It was a cowardly attack by three people, armed with baseball bats and with their faces covered. Mr Ahmed stood no chance of protecting himself and has been left with lasting physical, emotional and psychological scarring. 'This has happened during a busy time of day on Ladypool Road in full view of members of the public. 'Somebody must have seen something, or suspects who is involved, and I would appeal to their consciences to come forward with information.' A police trawl of local CCTV cameras reveals one offender was wearing a black face covering, gloves, a long-sleeved grey top, and grey Adidas tracksuit bottoms with light blue stripes on the side of the legs. Anyone with information is urged to call DC Michelle Akers at West Midlands Police on the 101 number or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Summary: Jamil Ahmed left with a bleed on the brain and is unable to return to work . Detectives believe he was deliberately targeted as a result of a 'grudge' Police have released a shocking picture of Mr Ahmed taken in hospital .


A 20 stone woman who worked as a cleaner in a gym has transformed her body after seeking the help of her colleagues - and is now set to start a fitness career of her own. Jade Delaney, 21 from Dublin, Ireland, shed an impressive eight stone after finding another reason to go to the gym other than work. After constantly being surrounded by healthy people, Jade started quizzing the trainers at the gym who agreed to help her with her weight loss. Scroll down for video . Jade Delaney was inspired to drop 8st when she worked as a cleaner in a gym and began quizzing the personal trainers who worked there. Pictured: Jade before weight loss . Before her weight loss Jade was known to locals as the 'chickenball' but she has since adopted a new nickname with people dubbing her the 'shredded chicken'. Pictured after losing eight stone . At her heaviest Jade was dubbed 'chickenball' by people in her local area for her 20st frame - but since losing the weight she has adopted a new nickname - 'shredded chicken'. Jade said that it was working so closely with fitness experts that inspired her to drop to the pounds. 'Being around trainers all the time at work I started asking little questions about food. Then one day one of the trainers gave me a food plan with some basic diet changes,' she said. Jade now heads to the gym at 6:30 am every morning before her cleaning shift . 'Sticking to the plan, I noticed results within a couple of months. After I had my diet sorted the next step for me was getting involved in exercise classes.' Her old lifestyle of snacking throughout the day and lie-ins everyday made Jade pile on the pounds. Sick of being surrounded by fit people Jade began her weight loss in December 2013 and less than a year later had slimmed down to 11st. But Jade has now cut down on high carbohydrate foods such as bread and potatoes and done away with junk food helping her shed the weight. Jade is enrolling in a college in September to study fitness hopes to become a personal trainer herself . As well as swapping her eating regime , she's up at 6:30am every morning in the gym before she starts her cleaning job there later in the day. Jade said she made a conscious effort to surround herself with people who would inspire her to get fit. 'I had to separate myself from certain people who would demotivate me and stick with friends and family who supported me 100% and were positive about fitness. 'Now, I never want to go back to that lifestyle. I want to help people and inspire them to do what I've done.' Rather than rely on scales throughout her weight loss Jade studied her physical appearance and mental state to judge her progress. Pictured: Jade before her weight loss (left) and Jade now (right) Jade, who is enrolling in college in September to study fitness and leisure

Summary: Jade Delaney decided to get fit after speaking to personal trainers who worked at the gym where she had a job as a cleaner . She lost 8st in less than a year after ditching her bad habits . She didn't use scales and instead judged her progress by her appearance .


A police officer was charged Tuesday with criminal homicide after investigators concluded she shot an unarmed motorist in the back as he lay facedown after a traffic stop over an expired inspection sticker. Authorities accused Hummelstown police Officer Lisa J. Mearkle of shooting David Kassick, 59, twice February 2 without legal justification. She was jailed without bail. They said Mearkle had attempted to pull over Kassick for expired inspection and emissions stickers before he sped away. She caught up to Kassick near his sister's home, where he got out and ran. She had incapacitated him with a stun gun and he was on the ground when she shot him twice in the back, police said. Scroll down for video . An officer in handcuffs: Hummelstown police Officer Lisa J Mearkle was charged Tuesday with criminal homicide in the February 2 shooting death of David Kassick, 59. Mearkle pictured above (center) before her court hearing on Tuesday . Necessary? Prosecutors say Mearkle shot dead Kassick when he was lying facedown on the ground and didn't present any danger. She has contested that she saw him reach into his jacket - possibly for a weapon. However, he was unarmed. Pictured above leaving court on Tuesday in handcuffs . Mearkle was later released on $250,000 bond and will have to wear an ankle monitoring device . Victim: Last month, one of Kassick's (pictured) brothers said he had struggled with drug addition but was not the type to get into a fight - especially with a police officer. He was working as a construction worker at the time of his death last month . Before the shooting: Mearkle above pictured in her Hummelstown, Pennsylvania police uniform . Mearkle, 36, told investigators she shot because he would not show her his hands and she thought he was reaching into his jacket for a gun. The stun gun recorded portions of the encounter, and District Attorney Ed Marsico called it the strongest evidence in the case. He said it appeared Kassick had been trying to remove stun-gun probes from his back. 'At the time Officer Mearkle fires both rounds from her pistol, the video clearly depicts Kassick lying on the snow covered lawn with his face toward the ground,' according to the arrest affidavit. 'Furthermore, at the time the rounds are fired nothing can be seen in either of Kassick's hands, nor does he point or direct anything toward Officer Mearkle.' Marsico said Mearkle performed CPR after the shooting. He called the shooting 'a tragedy for all involved.' In the wake of Tuesday's announcement, Kassick's younger brother Dale Kassick spoke out, saying: 'Nothing is going to bring my brother back. He should have never lost his life over a traffic stop.' However, Dale said he and the rest of his family were thankful for the community's support in the past month and the prompt filing of charges. 'It's not being swept under the rug, it's not being forgotten about,' Dale said. Last month, Kassick's older brother Dan said his brother had struggled with drug addition in his life.

Summary: Hummelstown, Pennsylvania police Officer Lisa J Mearkle charged with criminal homicide on Tuesday . Prosecutors say she shot dead 59-year-old David Kassick in the back while he was laying facedown on the ground and did not present a threat . Mearkle tried pulling Kassick over for an expired inspection sticker on February 2 but he took off . He eventually exited his car and ran before being ordered onto the ground by Mearkle - who she shot with a stun gun . While she was trying to remove the taser stickers, Mearkle says she thought she saw Kassick reach into his jacket for a gun and she shot . Kassick was unarmed; his family say he struggled with addiction but was non-violent .


Arsenal star Theo Walcott appeared to contradict his manager Arsene Wenger on Thursday by denying he had started talks over a new contract at the club. Wenger earlier this month said that Arsenal had 'started early' in trying to persuade the forward to sign a new deal. But, moving to deny reports of a bust-up between himself and Wenger, Walcott only served to further muddy the waters by contradicting his boss. Theo Walcott (left) has denied Arsene Wenger's (right) claims that he has started contract talks . He tweeted: 'I don't normally comment on false stories about myself but reports about contract demands & bust-ups with the boss are complete nonsense. 'There have been no contract talks as yet and my current focus is not on contracts but on doing my best for Arsenal FC.' Yet, on March 14, Wenger said: 'The first contacts have been established with the embassy. We will see how that (negotiations) progresses politically. 'Walcott was difficult to convince (in 2013) and that is why it took us much time. 'We have started very early with him, but it was slow progress - he is very quick on the pitch, but off the pitch not always.' Wenger continued: 'I always wanted to keep him and I still want to keep him now. Walcott has only recently returned from injury and is struggling to hold down a regular first-team place . 'I want him to stay and be a regular player and fight for his place, but no matter where you go if it is a big club you have to compete for your place.' Walcott has recently returned from a lengthy absence caused by a knee ligament injury sustained in January 2014. The 26-year-old England international's current deal expires in 2017.

Summary: Arsene Wenger earlier this month claimed Arsenal had started talks with Theo Walcott over a contract extension . But Walcott took to Twitter to deny talks had started . The England forward's current deal expires in summer of 2017 . READ: Wenger warns Walcott will have to fight for a first team place . CLICK HERE for all the latest Arsenal news .


Officials at a central Georgia Air Force base have backed down from banning guards from telling visitors to 'have a blessed day.' A man who identified himself as an active duty military member posted on the Military Religious Freedom Foundation website that Robins personnel have told him to have a blessed day more than a dozen times in the past two weeks. The man wrote 'I am an active-duty Air Force member/employee currently assigned to Robins Air Force Base, Georgia for the purpose of training. Changes: Officials at a central Georgia Air Force base have backed down from banning guards from telling visitors to 'have a blessed day' (file photo) 'I have been entering through what is known as the "Russell Gate" since the 23rd of February. 'On no less than 15 occasions over the last two weeks, I have been greeted by the military personnel at the gate with the phrase "Have a blessed day." 'This greeting has been expressed by at least 10 different Airmen ranging in rank from A1C to SSgt. 'I found the greeting to be a notion that I, as a non-religious member of the military community should believe a higher power has an influence on how my day should go.' The organization's president, Mikey Weinstein, said on the group's website that he spoke with base officials and was told that staff would no longer use the greeting. Weinstein said base officials told him that gate guards will now say 'have a nice day' instead. After initially banning the greeting, base officials said Thursday evening that further review showed it doesn't violate Air Force standards. Spokesman Roland Leach says Guards may say 'welcome to team Robins,' and add courteous and professional greetings if they wish. Military Religious Freedom Foundation president Mikey Weinstein, left, had said on the group's website that he spoke with base officials and was told that staff would no longer say 'have a blessed day' (file). After initially banning the greeting, base officials said Thursday evening that further review showed it doesn't violate Air Force standards .

Summary: A man who identified himself as an active duty military member posted on the Military Religious Freedom Foundation website . He said that Robins Air Force Base personnel have told him to have a blessed day more than a dozen times in the past two weeks . After initially banning the greeting, base officials said Thursday evening that further review showed it doesn't violate Air Force standards .


Sex workers are sharing photos of themselves on social media as they fight back against claims that most escorts are forced into the industry and lead lives of abuse. The hashtag #FacesOfProstitution started trending on Twitter with sex workers from Australia and across the world using social media to share positive stories from their industry. It comes after Mamamia published a blog post from Christian group Exodus Cry last week that claimed the 1990 film Pretty Woman lured women into the sex industry by 'leading them to believe that prostitution was glamorous and romantic'. Scroll down for video . Sydney sex worker Tilly Lawless started the hashtag #FacesOfProstitution on social media at the weekend by posting this photo to share positive stories from the industry . The blog post suggested 75 per cent of female sex workers had been raped, 95 per cent were physically abused and 68 per cent suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder. It also questioned how many sex workers had been deceived by Pretty Woman, the iconic movie that starred Julia Roberts as a warm-hearted prostitute and Richard Gere as a lonely millionaire businessman who fall in love. The post said the movie, which has regained prominence around the 25th anniversary of its release last week, deceived women into leading lives of 'abuse, trauma and slavery'. Sydney sex worker Tilly Lawless took to social media at the weekend to hit back at the article and #FacesOfProstitution quickly gained momentum. Carmen Sandiego, a touring escort, was among those to hit back at a blog post that claimed the 1990 film Pretty Woman lured women into the sex industry . Christian Vega, a sex worker from Tasmania, shared support for the hashtag saying he looked nothing like Julia Roberts - referencing the character she played in Pretty Woman . Lucie Bee, who has been in the industry for five years, says she wasn't forced into the industry, but admitted some were . 'Mamamia published an article that says that Julia Roberts' 'toothy smile is not the true face of prostitution' because all sex workers are drug addled victims,' she wrote alongside a photo of herself. 'There is no singular story or person to represent the varied and complex experiences of all sex workers, but here is one face of prostitution amongst a myriad.' Jackie Parker, a sex worker from Griffith in NSW, posted a photo of herself with a volunteer badge on Twitter saying: 'They make me prostitute and volunteer for aged care! This madness has to stop! Save me! She told news.com.au she had worked as an escort for 14 years and hadn't met anyone who was forced into the industry. 'The peple who are doing it tough make up a small percentage — that is not the norm for sex work in Australia,' she said. 'If you look at the faces of the women on the Twitter hashtag, we're all smiling. Implying we are victims is condescending and makes us feel like we don't have a voice. It makes me feel like I'm not living the right stereotype and

Summary: Sex workers posting photos on social media under #FacesOfProstitution . They are hitting back at blog post that claims Pretty Woman film glorified prostitution and lured women into sex industry . It was written by Christian group Exodus Cry and republished on Mamamia . Male and female sex workers are posting photos of themselves to share positive stories from the industry .


Just when you thought echidna puggles couldn't get any cuter one shown being cared for at Taronga Zoo in Sydney has upped the charm factor. A Taronga Zoo Wildlife Hospital Supervisor said it was only around 30 days old when it was brought in. Tiny, bald and has no spines, the puggle was found on a walking track at Anna Bay in the Hunter Region of New South Wales and taken to Taronga Zoo. ‘It’s quite possible it fell out of it’s Mum’s pouch. It still would have been in Mum’s pouch at that time. When they get a bit older – 10 to 15 days older – they are left in a burrow,' the Taronga Zoo Wildlife Hospital Supervisor explained in a zoo video. Scroll down for video . Eating out of the palm of your hand: The little echidna puggle tucks into some milk for its lunch . A Taronga Zoo Wildlife Hospital Supervisor takes the puggle out of an esky where it can be kept at the right temperature . Snack time: A few drops of milk from a syringe is all the puggle needs to fill its stomach . Bath time: The Wildlife Hospital Supervisor at Toronga Zoo cleans the tiny puggle . ‘Mum only comes back then every few days to feed the puggle. At the moment I only have to feed this one every two days.’ The puggle just sucked milk out of the palm of the Wildlife Hospital Supervisor’s hand as the mother echida does not have any teats only milk patches which the baby puggle drinks from. ‘At the moment I’m keeping it in a small esky just to keep it at the right temperature. They actually have a very low temperature of 25-27 degrees. The esky is really good at keeping that constant temperature,’ the Wildlife Hospital Supervisor said. The puggle is bathed and cleaned daily. At this age it is tiny, bald and has no spines . At the moment the small puggle only has to be fed every two days at the most . It’ll take a few months before it will look like an echidna. They normally don’t come out of the burrow for six to sevens months. ‘It still needs a lot of tender loving care for the next few months yet,’ she said. Being monotremes, echidnas produce young from eggs which are hatched outside their body, in the same way as birds and most reptiles. Young echidnas are often not fully weaned until they are at least several months old . Although they begin to eat termites and ants soon after leaving the pouch, young echidnas are often not fully weaned until they are several months old. Echidnas evolved between 20 and 50 million years ago, descending from a platypus-like creatures. This ancestor was aquatic, but echidnas adapted to life on land. It will take a few months yet before the puggle will start looking like an echidna .

Summary: A puggle found on a walking track at Anna Bay in the Hunter Region of New South Wales was taken to Taronga Zoo . It was only around 30 days old so it needed to be cared for by zoo staff on a daily basis . The puggle sucked up milk out of the palm of a Wildlife Hospital Supervisor’s hand at the zoo . An esky was used as its new home so it could be kept at the right body temperature all the time .


Attractive: Motorists will be given cut price parking on rainy days in summer . Parking charges at a popular British seaside resort could soon be weather dependent after a council pledged to halve them when it rains. Councillors in Brighton and Hove say they want to end 'rip-off' charges and are suggesting motorists pay 'significantly less' for street parking on rainy summer days. The scheme, which would be the first of its kind in the UK, is modeled on flexible parking charges schemes in San Francisco and Madrid. It forms part of the Conservative Party manifesto for the May 7 council elections promising, 'A common sense council for Brighton and Hove'. It says: 'We will examine flexible parking charges and the innovative use of technology e.g. introduce significantly cheaper charges in winter, on rainy summer days etc. 'It is bizarre that summer parking rates begin on 1 March.Under the Conservatives summer parking charges will only apply in summer.' But critics have hailed it as an early April Fools' Day joke, given the fickle British summertime weather. Conservative transport spokesman Graham Cox, told The Telegraph the economy relied on the weather and they had to look at ways of attracting people when it was bad. 'If it's a lovely, hot, summer day in June, July or August, the queues in Brighton will stretch up the A23 and every space in town is taken. If it's wet, it's a very different situation,' he said. Every cloud: Conservative councillors in Brighton and Hove are promising to halve the cost of parking on rainy days in summer in a bid to boost tourist numbers . In 2013, business leaders blamed parking charges and poor weather for the plummeting number of visitors to the region during a particularly wet summer. Figures from the Brighton Business Improvement District (BID) showed footfall in the city had dropped by 14 per cent year-on-year. Costly sunshine: Visitors would be charged twice as much to park on sunny days under new proposals by councillors in Brighton . The parking proposal would be based on weather forecasts so if heavy downpours were predicted for a particular weekend, the parking tariffs would be reduced. Motoring organisations said it would confuse drivers and said both tariffs and clear instructions would need putting on street parking signs.

Summary: 'Significantly cheaper' charges promised during rainy summer days . The cut rate aims to boost falling visitor numbers to resort when its wet . Critics call it an early April Fools' Day prank that will confuse motorists .


A North Carolina father was acquitted of strangling to death his 4-year-old son and trying to kill his other two children after the defense successfully argued that the man's 'violent sleepwalking' was to blame for the tragedy. A jury on Wednesday decided unanimously that Joseph Anthony Mitchell is not guilty of murder and attempted murder after an expert witness said he was effectively unconscious at the time of his attacks four years ago. Jurors had asked Superior Court Judge James Roberson if they could consider a lesser verdict of manslaughter, but the judge said it was all or nothing: murder, or not guilty. Scroll down for video . Breakdown: Christine Perolini, second from left, is comforted by friends and family on Wednesday after her ex-husband, Joseph Anthony Mitchell, is found not guilty of killing their four-year-old son . Sleepwalking defense: Mitchell's attorney argued that his client (left) was not conscious of the night of September 22, 2010, when he strangled to death his 4-year-old son, Blake (right) Desperate cry: Reacting to the verdict, the grieving mother exclaimed in court: 'I failed. I couldn't save him' Devastated: Christine Perolini was so stunned by the ruling that she hyperventilated and had to be wheeled out on a stretcher . Mitchell, 50, sobbed after the shocking verdict, but made no comment as he walked out of court a free man. His ex-wife, Christine Perolini, was so stunned by the ruling that she hyperventilated and had to be wheeled out on a stretcher surrounded by her family. Reacting to the verdict, the grieving mother exclaimed in court: 'I failed. I couldn't save him [Blake].' Mitchell testified that he was in financial distress and had not been sleeping well around the time of 4-year-old Blake Mitchell's death in September 2010. Prosecutors said those financial difficulties drove Mitchell to strangle the toddler and try to kill the others. Mitchell's 13-year-old and 10-year-old children testified in court that they fought him off. But a defense expert said Mitchell's stress and lack of sleep likely resulted in 'non-REM parasomnia,' a sleep disorder whose sufferers can perform random acts unconsciously. Because of this disorder, he was incapable of exercising criminal intent, the expert said. A psychologist who testified for the prosecution after repeatedly interviewing Mitchell said he had no mental condition that would have left him unconscious during the attacks, and that he must have consciously planned them. Mitchell's trial lasted a month but it took the jury less than four hours to return a not guilty verdict. Following Mitchell's acquittal, some members of the jury panel spoke out saying that they did not believe the sleepwalking defense, but their hands were tied. Prosecutors said extreme financial difficulties drove Mitchell to strangle the toddler and try to kill his two older children . Emotional: Mitchell, 50, sobbed after the shocking verdict . He left the courtroom a free man . Daddy's boy: A defense expert said Mitchell's stress and lack of sleep likely resulted in a sleep disorder whose sufferers can perform random acts unconsciously- including killing his son . Speaking

Summary: North Carolina jury decided unanimously that Joseph Mitchell, 50, is not guilty of murder and attempted murder . Mitchell strangled to death his 4-year-old son, Blake, and tried to kill his two older siblings while wearing a mask in September 2010 . Expert witness said Mitchell had a sleep disorder and was unconscious at the time of his attacks . Prosecutors argued Mitchell's financial troubles drove him to kill . Jurors later said their hands were tied under the law because they were not allowed by the judge to convict Mitchell of manslaughter .


It’s a mother’s day experience that will bring tears to her eyes… and with its £7,500 price tag, it might bring some to yours as well. Personalised bouquets, bespoke cocktails, a luxury breakfast banquet cooked by a professional chef and a day of shopping with a personal shopper, this is a once-in-a-life-time luxury-laden day tailored for your mother on Sunday, 15 March. The Ultimate Mother’s Day Experience from Fortnum & Mason will also treat your entire family to personal consultations from the department store's experts. Fortnum & Mason's Ultimate Mother's Day experience starts at £7,500 . The day begins when a chauffeur arrives at your designated address with a team of Fortnum’s experts. Your mother will be presented with a bouquet of her favourite flowers before a butler then prepares a range of tempting breakfast cocktails. While all this is happening, Fortnum’s chef will cook up a breakfast banquet for the whole family – using the world’s finest ingredients and served with personalised Champagne to commemorate the occasion. After breakfast the whole family will be chauffeured to Fortnum’s flagship store at Piccadilly for an afternoon of pure luxury. Mum will be treated to personal consultations with Fortnum’s in-house experts, including a perfumer and Fortnum’s own in-house milliner, while the family joins a personal shopper to select the finest Mother’s Day gifts from across the store’s five fabulous floors. The day begins when a chauffeur arrives at your designated address with a team of Fortnum’s experts . With Mum feeling suitable spoiled, and all gifts secured, you’ll then make your way to the private tea tasting room for a consultation with a Tearista to find your perfect blend, accompanied by a show-stopping personalised cake. To round off the day you’ll be chauffeured home complete with your gifts and a luxury hamper packed full of Mum’s favourite Fortnum’s delights. ‘You will liaise with Fortnum’s team to tailor the day’s activities to your Mum’s tastes, ensuring every element is sure to surprise, delight and spoil her on her special day. And nothing is out of the realms of possibility,’ said a spokesperson for Fortnum & Mason. The Ultimate Mother’s Day Experience is limited to addresses within Greater London and the Home Counties. Prices start from £7,500.

Summary: Fortnum & Mason's once-in-a-lifetime luxury experience for mothers . The whole family will be cooked breakfast by a professional chef . Every aspect of the day will be tailored to your mother's taste .


ARCA driver Will Kimmel was uninjured after flying over a concrete retaining wall, flipping into a parking lot and striking at least one parked car at Mobile International Speedway. The 26-year-old nephew of ARCA veteran Frank Kimmel posted on his Facebook page that he was 'doing good' following the bizarre crash early in the Mobile 200 on Saturday. According to witnesses, it appeared the throttle stuck on Kimmel's No. 69 Ford on the ninth lap. Scroll down for videos . Accident: ARCA driver Will Kimmel's car (seen on the far right) can be seen veering off the road on Saturday . Death-defying: Kimmel was uninjured after flying over a concrete retaining wall, flipping into a parking lot and striking at least one parked car at Mobile International Speedway . Close encounter: The 26-year-old nephew posted on his Facebook page that he was 'doing good' following the bizarre crash. His vehicle is seen slamming into dirt . Survival: Will Kimmel (right) is seen posing with the man whose trailer hitch he struck, Jonny Charles Jr. Because there are no outside walls around the slightly banked track, there was nothing to stop Kimmel's car as it drove off the half-mile track. Kimmel's car rolled at least once before finding the parking lot. The car struck the trailer hitch of a pickup truck before coming to a stop. Kimmel posted a photograph he took with the truck driver to Facebook. Kimmel said in an post-crash interview with Popular Speed's Matt Weaver 'Unfortunately for us the throttle hung, something we always check for, so it was just a freak accident.' Kimmel told Weaver 'I wish they would have [outside] walls here. Personally, just so I would have had to put a clip on it instead of junking a race car that I only had 12 laps on. I don't know. I'm frustrated.' Because there are no outside walls around the slightly banked track, there was nothing to stop Kimmel's car as it drove off the half-mile track . Peril: Kimmel's car rolled at least once before finding the parking lot . On the edge: Kimmel's car teetered on its side during the crash, as evidenced in this close-up still taken from footage of the accident . Health: Kimmel has said he was sore from the accident but otherwise alright. A close-up still taken from footage shows his car slamming over the wall . Kimmel has said he wished Mobile International Speedway featured outside walls . Mechanical problems: According to witnesses, it appeared the throttle stuck on Kimmel's No. 69 Ford on the ninth lap. This photo shows the trailer hitch Kimmel struck . Asked if he was alright, Kimmel said in the interview 'Yeah. I'm sore. I mean, I don't know who's not gonna be after that, but I don't have a headache or anything like that.' Ron Drager, the president of ARCA Racing Series, told Popular Speed 'One of the things we do on a regular basis is understand the characteristics of a particular race track because you can’t apply what works at the Illinois

Summary: ARCA driver Will Kimmel was uninjured by a car crash at Mobile International Speedway on Saturday . He flew over a concrete retaining wall, flipped into a parking lot and struck at least one parked car . Kimmel, 26, posted on his Facebook page that he was 'doing good' following the bizarre crash early in the Mobile 200 . Because there are no outside walls around the slightly banked track, there was nothing to stop Kimmel's car as it drove off the half-mile track .


A group of friends and their children who are living together in a nine-bedroom home in Connecticut could be forced out because they aren't all related. The three couples, their three children and two single friends face being separated because the city of Hartford says the living arrangement violates its historic district's zoning code, which says that no more than two unrelated people can live in one of its homes, CBS reported. But the group, who moved into the spacious home in the West End neighborhood last August, said they believe they are promoting great values. Scroll down for video . 'Family': Three couples, three of their children and two single friends bought a home together in Hartford, Connecticut last year but now face having to sell because the arrangement violates zoning laws . Spacious: They moved into this nine-bedroom home together last August and they said the arrangment is allowing them to live within their means while also making them cooperate like a family should . 'I think there's a real extension of our values as people,' one of the group's members, English teacher Kevin Lamkins, told CBS. 'The values I'm speaking of are sustainability, cooperation, living more, living well but within your means. Being connected to other people and not being in a silo, so to speak.' The group, which contains three teachers and a mental health therapist, laughed as they explained there are no religious undertones to the arrangement or 'intermingling' of couples. Instead, they share duties in the home and they share a bank account to pay expenses. But last year, a neighbor complained to the city, which determined they were violating the zoning code, which was historically set up to avoid people turning their homes in the beautiful district into boarding houses. All together: The residents, who laughed as they said they were not a cult, share responsibility for chores . Working as one: The group members showed CBS This Morning how they list projects needed to be carried out at the house; everyone chips into the cost of repairs on the home, they said . The group appealed but lost and now have to decide on if they should go to court or go their different ways. They said the thought of having to separate is financially and emotionally stressful. 'It's preposterous. Whomever is in your home, who you love, is who your family is,' Josh Blanchfield told CBS. 'And the notion that the city is going to discount that is unacceptable to us.' City officials would not comment, citing possible litigation. The beautiful, historic neighborhood is home to high-profile residents including Mayor Pedro Segarra and his husband and Connecticut Governor Daniel Malloy. Online listings show the home sold last summer for around $450,000 while other property prices in the area reach into the millions. See below for video .

Summary: Three couples, three children and two single friends bought a spacious home in Hartford, Connecticut last year and share expenses . A neighbor complained to the city, which found the arrangement violated a zoning code that no more than two unrelated people can live in a home . The group, who say they believe they promote great values such as cooperation and living within their means, appealed but lost . They now face having to go to court or going their separate ways .


New role? Home Secretary Theresa May, pictured leaving 10 Downing Street last week after attending the final cabinet meeting of this parliament . Theresa May is being lined up to become Foreign Secretary, tasked with clawing back powers from Brussels, it emerged today. David Cameron is said to be considering promoting the Home Secretary to lead the fight to overhaul Britain’s membership of the European Union. The Prime Minister has made clear that if he is returned to Downing Street after the election he wants talks on EU reform to begin immediately. The Tories are going into the election campaign as the only party promising to renegotiate EU membership before holding an in-out referendum by the end of 2017. Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond has visited almost every European capital in a bid to build support for his call for reform. Now it has emerged that the Prime Minister is considering handing the plumb job to Mrs May, according to the Independent on Sunday. She would be seen as 'Britain’s answer to Angela Merkel', government sources say. Mr Cameron yesterday hailed Mrs May as a 'brilliant' Home Secretary who had cut crime and 'told Abu Hamza to sling his hook'. Foreign Office insiders insist there is growing support for the reforms called for by Mr Cameron. It includes curbing access to benefits for migrants, ending child benefit being exported to families overseas and tighter controls on families coming to Britain. Close ties with Mrs Merkel are seen as vital. 'Five years ago you could get a senior official to go to Paris or Washington but not Berlin,' a senior source told MailOnline. 'But now the relationship with Germany is on a more formal footing, and Merkel had made clear she wants us to stay.' However, securing agreement on a referendum after the election could prove difficult. Colleagues: PM David Cameron (left) hailed Mrs May (right) as a 'brilliant' Home Secretary who had cut crime . Lib Dems leader Nick Clegg accused the Tories of dancing a 'hokey cokey where one day they want to leave, the next day they don't want to leave'. Speaking at his campaign launch in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, he said: 'We are unambiguous as a party that says "yes, Europe needs to be reformed, yes there needs to be a referendum when a decision needs to be made about the transfer of powers to the European Union, we guaranteed that in law". Many trips: Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond has visited almost every European capital in a bid to build support for his call for EU reform . 'We are not like the Conservative Party, half of whom are straining at the leash to leave. We think that would be a terrible thing for the British economy.' He added: 'Of course it would be an economic act of self harm to leave the European Union. 'Large parts of the Conservative Party and Ukip appear to want Britain to cut itself off from what is the world's largest marketplace with hundreds of millions of customers for British goods and services. 'For me

Summary: Prime Minister wants to send one of his toughest negotiators into battle . Tories promise to renegotiate EU membership before in-out vote by 2017 . Foreign Office insiders say renewed relationship with Angela Merkel is key . Deputy PM Nick Clegg warns that leaving EU is 'economic act of self harm'


Education minister Christopher Pyne has posted an image of a fortune cookie on Twitter, prompting a slew of comments from social media users speculating about the move. The picture, uploaded to Twitter on Wednesday night, showed a fortune cookie with the message: 'Insist on what you are doing. Your goal will be reached soon.' The postcomes after Pyne failed to convince the Senate on Tuesday to pass his university reform laws this week for the second time, prompting requests from Labor for Pyne to be sacked, reported Sky News. Christopher Pyne uploaded the image Twitter on Wednesday, sparking a torrent of ridicules from people accusing him of taking advice from a cookie . The post has seen Pyne taken to task on social media, with dozens of users lambasting him for seemingly taking advice from a cookie. Rose Steele wrote : 'You should be basing your #highered on public support not a fortune cookie' 'I prefer Ministers to not take their advice from cookies', wrote Lady of Polly Tricks. Pyne has been attempting to overhaul the education system, introducing laws that would allow universities to set their own fees and financially penalise graduates who do not repay their student debts, reports Sydney Morning Herald. Despite the second time failing to convince the Senate, Pyne has vowed he will never give up on his higher education campaign. Speaking to Nine news, Pyne said: 'I never give up, no, I will not give up. It's too important to allow the Labor Party who are political opportunists and the Greens who are the same, to wreck this reform.' Opposition higher education spokesman Kim Carr has claimed Pynne's relationship with the Senate is now 'poisonous'. 'This minister's bluff, his bluster, his bravado simply leaves people cold,' Senator Carr told ABC on Wednesday. 'It is time for him to consider his future and if he doesn't then he should be sacked.' Speculation has now emerged that the government is considering launching a double dissolution over the education bill.

Summary: Christopher Pyne posted image on Twitter on Wednesday evening . Dozens of users lambasted him for seemingly 'taking advice from a cookie' Pyne failed to convince the Senate to pass his university reform laws . He has vowed to never give up on his higher education reform bid . The opposition has requested Pyne is fired over the Senate defeat .


She's been keeping a pretty low profile since the end of the X Factor in December. But yesterday, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini took to Instagram to make a special announcement: she'd had a hair cut. Debuting a new bob Cheryl said: '#newdo colour is @lorealparisuk Casting Creme Gloss Berry Red 565. @percyhair thanks for the chop.' Scroll down for video . Loving her look: Cheryl posted a picture of her new hair this morning telling her Instagram fans that she is still getting used to her new look . Cheryl said her new style was inspired by a bygone era with the star saying: 'I love the 70s,' she also remarked that the cut was, 'long overdue.' This morning a natural and fresh faced looking Cheryl posted a second picture of her new look with the caption: 'Morning people .. Getting to grips with my new "do". The chop comes after Cheryl spent months with long hair extensions. Whilst on the X Factor she had them highlighted before swapping for a darker look once the show ended. Her hairdresser, Percy Reed, who created the new look for the singer, and whose products are available on QVC said: 'Creating a new look has been talked about for a while but this cut was just done on the spur of the moment. 'We were backstage in Cheryl's dressing room and we both knew the look we wanted to create, and so, an hour and a half later Cheryl had a completely new look. 'I wanted to give Cheryl a cut that was feminine and sexy and almost an easy, 'ready to go' cut, that daily can just fall into place. Cheryl showed off her new look on Instagram telling her followers that she was 'long overdue' a hair cut . Percy, who says his Wonderbalm is great for using on wet hair before styling, continued: 'The cut is subtly graduated with a shaggier texture. It's got a slight 70's, Joan Jett texture that keeps it cool. 'What I really like about this style is that it's so wearable and easy to maintain - it looks amazing after it's just been styled but then it also looks great the following day when it's slightly lived in and undone. Cheryl has great hair, so it's always a pleasure to cut' This isn't the first time the L'Oreal model has gone for a drastic hair-over. In the 13 years since she first shot to fame on the ITV show Pop Idol, she's tried out many different styles. She started out with glossy short black hair, has had bright highlights, long extensions and after famously being ditched from the US X Factor she came back with a brand new blonde bob. Cheryl, who is married to French entrepreneur Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini, has previously described why she likes changing her hair so much. She once said: 'A different hair colour gives you a boost. It makes you feel new and different.' Here we look back over her hair-volution... Heading to a court appearance in 2003 Cheryl looks barely recognisable as the glamour

Summary: Cheryl Fernandez-Versini debuted her new red bob on Instagram . The singer and TV judge said the chop was 'long overdue' Has previously had a number of different hair styles both long and short .


It's the perfect home for those who never want to grow up. The ultimate wooden treehouse has now been unveiled in Turin, Italy, in the style of a 'living forest'. Architect Luciano Pia said he wanted his '25 Shades of Green' project to combine the childhood dreams of owning a treehouse with the modern practicalities of living in a city. Scroll down for video . Magical: Italian architect Luciano Pia has designed the apartment block in the style of a treehouse . 'A living forest': The trees inside the property were picked to have the right mix of foliage and blossom throughout the year . The steel structure, with 63 flats inside, has a rooftop garden and trees growing out of the walls. Mr Pia said he wanted to create an outdoor feel for the building, which has been three years in the making. 'I wanted to give people the chance to escape having to look all the time at Turin's urban sprawl and to create a multi-storey natural alternative', he said. The seasonal progression of the 150 trees planted around the property create a 'microclimate' within the building, steadying extreme temperatures during the winter and summer months. Each species of plants was chosen carefully to make sure there was a rich variety of colour and blossom depending on the time of year, and in total the trees are capable of absorbing close to 200,000 litres of carbon dioxide an hour. Stand out: The striking development has its own 'microclimate' inside, thanks to the trees planted around . The project is also very environmentally friendly, making use of the latest developments in technology with heating and cooling systems that utilise geothermal energy with heat pumps, and rainwater is collected and 'recycled' to water the green. Mr Pia added: 'This natural absorption brings pollution protection only to residents, but in the city is also helping to eliminate harmful gasses caused by cars. Bright: The metal structures are designed to look like trees, which 'grow' from the groundfloor to the roof . 'I also placed the trees so that they can to a certain extent absorb some of the harsh sounds from the bustling streets outside.' 'The plants' full foliage blocks rays of sun during the summer while letting in warm light during the winter. 'The building has 63 flats each benefiting from the terraces and vegetation just beyond their windows and walls.' Outside: Architect Luciano Pia said while the wood filters the light in summer, in winter they allow light to filter into the house . Grand: Natural wood is used throughout the property, creating a rustic feel .

Summary: Architect Luciano Pia has unveiled the structure in his hometown of Turin . The '25 Shades of Green' project combines eco living with stylish city living . Beautiful apartment block has 63 flats and 150 trees planted throughout .


England's hopes of landing their first Grand Slam of Stuart Lancaster’s reign have been dashed again as Ireland deservedly earned a victory that leaves them red-hot favourites to retain their Six Nations title. Lancaster’s men rarely threatened reproduce the form that saw them open the Championship with wins over Wales and Italy as Robbie Henshaw’s second-half try, allied to 14 points from the boot of Jonny Sexton, inflicted a demoralising defeat on the visitors. England travelled across the Irish Sea with high hopes of making it three wins from three but were persistently penalised at the breakdown by referee Craig Joubert as they struggled to gain a foothold in the match. VIDEO - Scroll down to see clips from the game . Robbie Henshaw (left) goes over the line to score a try for Ireland and take the game away from England in the Six Nations . Henshaw (left) had to collect a high ball to go over for the opening try, which was scored in the 52nd minute of the game . Henshaw's (right) try brought the Aviva Stadium to life as Ireland beat England in style in the Six Nations . England's players look dejected after they conceded the opening try of the match against Ireland and Henshaw . Henshaw (centre) is congratulated by his Ireland team-mate Jared Payne after scoring the try against England . While not as comprehensive as the 2013 defeat to Wales at the Millennium Stadium, or indeed their loss to Ireland on the same Aviva Stadium turf in 2011, in some ways this was just as demoralising in a home World Cup year. There were some fine individual performances from England, with Billy Vunipola outstanding at No8, but collectively the visitors were no match for Joe Schmidt’s unbeaten Irish. England, desperate for some silverware three years into Lancaster’s tenure, must now regroup to face Scotland and France at Twickenham but they will do in the knowledge their Grand Slam hopes have been shattered again. They retain a small chance of winning the Championship, but that will prove of little comfort in the light of this comprehensive defeat. Dublin was lashed by wind, rain and sleet in the hours before kick off but mercifully the weather relented to leave the Aviva Stadium pitch slippery but not treacherous. England had made two changes to their starting line-up from the side that beat Italy a fortnight ago with Jack Nowell preferred to Jonny May on the left wing and Alex Goode replacing Mike Brown after the Harlequins full back failed to recover from concussion he suffered against the Azzurri. Johnny Sexton was clinical with his kicking and the points he scored provided the backbone for Ireland's victory . Richard Wrigglesworth (left), George Kruis and Chris Robhaw react to England's defeat against Ireland . Conor Murray (centre) passes the ball out from the ruck in Ireland's game against England on Sunday . Ben Youngs (centre) of England is tackled by Sexton (second left) and Rory Best (right) of Ireland . Luther Burrell (centre) of England is hauled down by

Summary: Jonny Sexton led the way for Ireland with four penalties and Robbie Henshaw scored a try . The victory for Ireland leaves them in the strongest position to win the Six Nations with two games remaining . England hopes of winning the competition are now out of their hands .


In October 2012, Elisa Lopez was sexually assaulted while napping on a subway train in New York City, and the entire incident was caught on video and spread online like wildfire. Late last week, more than two years after the shocking attack, Ms Lopez was finally vindicated when police apprehended her alleged molester, identified as 43-year-old Carlos Chuva. The Queens resident was arrested last Thursday and charged with first-degree felony aggravated sexual assault. Scroll down for video . Vile attack: On October 20, 2012, Elisa Lopez (right) was sleeping aboard a downtown 4 train when a middle-aged man sat next to her and stuck his hand up her skirt (left). The entire incident was caught on video . Groper: The denim-clad stranger got off the train and vanished after Lopez punched him in the face and fled . According to a criminal complaint cited by Gothamist, the suspect admitted that he was the attacker when officers showed a screen grab from the infamous subway video. The vile attack took place at around 4am October 20, 2012, aboard a downtown 4 train near Lexington Avenue and 42nd Street in Manhattan. Elisa Lopez, then a 21-year-old member of the Air National Guard, was on her way downtown to meet her boyfriend after attending a party in The Bronx when she briefly dozed off on the train, instinctively clutching her purse. She woke up moments later to discover a stranger caressing her thigh and face and trying to kiss her. The terrified straphanger punched the pervert in the face and fled the subway. She did not realize the extent of the sexual assault she had endured until a work friend sent her the graphic video shot by a fellow passenger aboard the 4 train. Justice for Elisa: more than two years later, police arrested 43-year-old Carlos Chuvo (left), charging him with aggravated sexual assault of Elisa Lopez . The grainy cell phone footage recorded by Brooklyn man Jasheem Smiley depicts a middle-aged man dressed in a faded denim jacket and jeans shoving his hand under the sleeping woman's skirt and groping her. The 18-second clip of the attack quickly went viral, earning Smiley public censure for capturing the assault on his iPhone instead of trying to stop it. Smiley released another video on his YouTube channel just days later defending his actions that night. Bystander: Jasheem Smiley faced backlash for capturing the video on his cell phone instead of trying to help Lopez . ‘There were 10 other people on the train that didn't do anything,’ he explained. ‘I was the one that did the most.’ Smiley pointed out that after the groper got off the train, he notified the conductor about what happened and went to the police with the video. But according to the man, officers became interested in the case only after he uploaded the footage online and it attracted media attention. The assault witness explained that had he physically intervened, the suspect could have accused him of attacking him without any provocation. Smiley also claimed he was concerned for his own

Summary: Carlos Chuva, 43, of Queens, charged with first-degree felony aggravated sexual assault . Chuva is accused of groping Elisa Lopez aboard downtown 4 train October 20, 2012 . Attack on Lopez was videotaped by fellow passenger Jasheem Smiley and then shared online . Smiley faced backlash for failing to help Lopez but claimed he was concerned for his own safety . Lopez, an Air National Guardsman and college student, went public about attack in December 2014 .


For identical twins, their lives could hardly be more different. Jalila Henry, 21, is described as a ‘party girl’ who drinks and smokes, wears revealing outfits and enjoys watching The Only Way is Essex. In stark contrast, her Muslim convert sister, Jamila, is teetotal, wears a traditional headscarf and spends her spare time studying the Koran. Jamila Henry, left, who has been detained in Turkey on suspicion of trying to join ISIS. Her twin sister Jalila in stark contrast is described as a party girl who smokes and drinks . But this week they were involved in an extraordinary case of mistaken identity after Jamila was seized by Turkish security services allegedly en route to join jihadi group Islamic State – travelling on her twin’s passport. Confusion arose in Britain after Turkish authorities named the arrested woman as Jalila – prompting one relative to joke that she was more likely to have ended up in the country after getting carried away after a night of partying. Jamila remained in Turkey last night awaiting deportation hearings to get her back to the UK, where she could face arrest on suspicion of preparing acts of terrorism. British authorities are not believed to have played any part in her arrest and the decision to arrest her was made by Turkish agents. Daughters of a painter and decorator father and council housing officer mother, the Henry twins were described as ‘popular and polite’ in their youth. It has been claimed that Jamila tried to travel to Syria using her sister's passport, pictured . A fellow pupil at Sellincourt Primary School in Wandsworth, South London, said: ‘They were very nice, friendly, hard-working girls. I can’t imagine one of them ever wanting to join Islamic State.’ But as the twins grew up, they began to head in very different directions. Pictures on Jalila’s Facebook page show her smoking – with joking comments from friends about being a ‘weed head’. Other photos show her in a bar clutching two bottles of drink and going out wearing short skirts and a bikini tops. Her ‘likes’ include reality TV shows and modern musicians and rap stars, including Eminem. In contrast, the only pictures of Jamila show her dressed in a head scarf. Relatives said she converted to Islam a few years ago and they have had little contact with her since. One said: ‘They are identical twins. If it is the Muslim one, it is Jamila. The one who is not Muslim is Jalila. ‘She is definitely not religious and drinks and smokes. Frankly, she’s a bit of a party girl. She’s the kind of person who would get drunk and end up in Turkey.’ Jamila was arrested by Turkish security services as she prepared to board a bus in the capital Ankara. Agents suspect she was trying to travel to the border with Syria. Turkish officials said authorities apprehended the woman based on local intelligence and were not tipped off by British authorities. Messages and images on her mobile phone suggested she was planning to head to Islamic State territory,

Summary: Jamila and Jalila Henry, 21, are identical twin sisters from south London . Convert Jamila has been caught travelling to Syria on her twin's passport . Jalila is described as a party girl who drinks and wears revealing clothes . Jamila is a Muslim, who is teetotal, reads the Koran and wears a headscarf . She was seized by Turkish security services allegedly en route to join ISIS . 21-year-old remains in Turkey and is awaiting deportation back to the UK .


It took Benjamin Shine 11 years to pop the question and he knew he had to make up for it. So the Canberra-based sculptor took his usual artwork to the next level, this time creating a portrait of himself and his new wife Danielle Stone with 4km of mesh for their big day. The impressive sculpture and installation of the artwork, which took Mr Shine just a month to construct, takes the form of two ribbons which float from the air as they loop and meander around trees and entwine into the silhouette of the couple. Scroll down for video . Benjamin Shine and Danielle Stone exchanged their vows on Valentine's Day the Southern Highlands of NSW . The Canberra-based sculptor created a portrait of the couple with 4km of white mesh . The artist says he was inspired by the wedding ribbon concept as the artwork led wedding guests to the seating area . 'We've been together for 11 years so yeah it was about time that we got married,' Mr Shine told Daily Mail Australia. 'And the pressure was on because I knew I had to make up for it so I guess I came up with this idea of the portraits.' The newlyweds tied the knot on Valentines Day at the Southern Highlands of NSW as guests were greeted by the artwork - titled 'Entwined'- when they arrived at the venue. 'Entwined' paid tribute to the couple's journey together from the moment they fell in love through to every twist and turn along the way. 'I wanted to play on the idea of the wedding ribbon, so Danielle and I asked our guests to follow the mesh which wound around trees into the forest and led them to the seating area where we exchanged our vows,' Mr Shine said. The impressive sculpture and installation of the artwork, which took Mr Shine just a month to construct . 'Entwined' paid tribute to the couple's journey together from the moment they fell in love through to every twist and turn along the way . The 37-year-old admits that he had some extra hands to help him make the ribbon by hand-pounding the mesh . The 37-year-old admits that he had some extra hands to help him make the ribbon by hand-pounding the mesh, but he created his five-metre high masterpiece on his very own. 'No one - not even my wife - knew what I was sculpting until the wedding day,' Mr Shine said. But the bride had arranged a surprise of her own for her new husband. 'The DeLorean is the car of my dreams but Danielle had fooled me into thinking that a blue Mustang was going to pull up and take me and my best man to the wedding venue,' Mr Shine said. 'Instead, this DeLorean emerged and it wasn't just any old DeLorean - it was a Back To The Future Delorean. It seriously was the best ever surprise.' The London-born artist is known for his jaw-dropping creations with 10 to 50 metres of tulle pleated, folded

Summary: Benjamin Shine and Danielle Stone exchanged their vows on Valentine's Day . They married at the Southern Highlands of NSW where Mr Shine presented his gift to his new wife . The Canberra-based sculptor created a portrait of the couple with 4km of white mesh . He was inspired by the wedding ribbon concept as the artwork led wedding guests to the seating area .


Two kittens have been saved after they were covered in yellow paint and abandoned in a cardboard box at the side of the road in China. The animals were only discovered when a nearby resident heard them crying and went to investigate. Animal rights campaigners today blasted whoever left them there, labelling the act 'terribly cruel'. Yue You Meng, from Guangzhou, said she was walking down the road when she realised the noise was coming from a battered cardboard box. Two kittens have been saved (right) after they were covered in yellow paint (left) and abandoned in a cardboard box at the side of the road in China . She said: 'When I opened it up I saw the two kittens inside covered in sticky yellow paint. 'It had almost dried and their legs were stuck together, they were stuck together, and even their eyes had been closed by the paint. 'They were really in a pitiful state so I picked the box up and took them home where I tried to clean off some of the paint.' But the 27-year-old was unable to remove the paint and took the animals to a vet who had to cut off their fur. The sticky paint had dried and stuck the kittens' legs together, as well as matting their fur and covering their eyes . A vet painstakingly cut the paint-covered fur off both the kittens, which took several hours. They were then wrapped in tiny blankets . A spokesman for the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said: 'Slapping paint on animals is terribly cruel and could cause allergic reactions, blood poisoning and other life-threatening complications, including suffocation. 'Unfortunately, this type of abuse is legal in China, where there are no penalties for abusing animals. 'PETA Asia regularly communicates with municipal governments in China in an effort to implement better animal welfare legislation, including dispelling myths about rabies and assisting with other animal control issues.' Miss Yue added: 'The kittens are better now and can walk around and do not seem to have suffered any permanent damage to their eyes or ears. 'But they still look really poorly because they had so much fur cut-off. Yue You Meng, from Guangzhou, took the kittens back to her home in a cardboard box and they are now recovering . The 27-year-old said: 'They are better now and can walk around and do not seem to have suffered any permanent damage to their eyes or ears. But they still look really poorly because they had so much fur cut-off' 'They are very resilient and despite the bad start in life they are already starting to play around with each other like ordinary kittens.' It is unclear whether the kittens were accidentally covered in paint and abandoned or deliberately targeted before being dumped. Police are not investigating.

Summary: Discovered in a box by Yue You Meng near her house in Guangzhou . Both cats are recovering after being cleaned and having their fur cut off . Animal rights campaigners slammed whoever left them on the road .


Martin O'Neill has demanded that his players put aside their club woes and don’ t allow themselves be distracted as they prepare for Sunday’s vital Euro 2016 qualifier with Poland. The Republic of Ireland manager said it would be understandable for some of his squad to be lacking in confidence but stressed the importance of being fully focused when the Group D leaders arrive in Dublin. O’Neill has had to contend with a couple of injuries to personnel already this week — Darron Gibson sat out training again with a groin complaint while James McClean will go for a scan on an ankle problem — while also attempting to boost the morale of players currently feeling the heat at their clubs. The Republic of Ireland squad train ahead of Sunday's Euro 2016 qualifier with Poland at home . Manager Martin O'Neill hopes his players can put aside club woes to focus on the game at hand . John O'Shea has suffered a dismal season and is involved in a relegation fight with Sunderland . James McClean (right) is an injury doubt and will have a scan on his ankle before making a decision . ‘That’s the nature of it, I wouldn’t get too concerned,’ said O’Neill. ‘Someone asked me quite rightly about whether I’d be concerned about three or four players going into the side and of course you would, it would stand to reason. It is what it is. ‘I wouldn’t be too concerned, though. The players are up, ready to go, there’s a good enthusiasm around them. ‘A month or six weeks ago you start to formulate a few plans but you know those disappear when you pick up a few injuries along the way or maybe some people have a bit of club form. ‘Some players are coming in absolutely fine form, others have had trials and tribulations at club level which is a bit of a concern but I think put that to the side, just think of us. ‘Just think of the game ahead. If you are coming in great form, then fantastic. If it’s not, then don’t worry.’ Sunderland’s John O’Shea and Aston Villa’s Ciaran Clark are in a Premier League relegation fight and even though Everton trio Seamus Coleman, James McCarthy and Gibson won last week, the Toffees remain close to the drop zone. Assistant manager Roy Keane appeared in good spirits during the training session on Monday . Keane watches on as Ireland players, including keeper Shay Given (left), take part in practice . Stephen Quinn and Kevin Doyle (right) share a laugh while jogging during the session . David Forde, meanwhile, has a battle of his own with Millwall second from bottom in the Championship. O’Neill, though, says it will be business as usual as he sets about putting his plans in place to ensure Ireland bounce back from the defeat to Scotland in November and take all three points against Poland. ‘I think the most important thing for us is we do need to be a bit flexible and in so doing

Summary: Ireland face Poland in a vital Euro 2016 qualifier on Sunday . Players including John O’Shea, Ciaran Clark, Seamus Coleman and James McCarthy have suffered struggling Premier League seasons . Martin O'Neill wants his side to bounce back from defeat to Scotland .


Jordan Henderson has given the biggest indication yet that he will stay at Liverpool even though his contract runs out in 2016. The England midfielder, tipped to succeed Steven Gerrard as Liverpool captain, has been a revelation for club and country in the past 18 months and will face Italy on Tuesday as the mainstay of Roy Hodgson’s England midfield. But Henderson insists that the ongoing talks with the club over a renewal to his contract will not distract him and has made it clear that he wants to sign a new deal to stay at Anfield. Jordan Henderson (right) has said his contract talks with Liverpool will be sorted . Henderson appears set to replace Steven Gerrard (right) as Liverpool captain next season . Henderson is also in line to play for England against Italy in a friendly in Turin on Tuesday . ‘Everybody else will make a big deal about it, but for me, I just let my agent and the club deal with it and whenever it gets sorted, it gets sorted,’ said Henderson. ‘All I want to do is do my best for club or country. I don't want to get involved, really. Let the agents and the club deal with it, and we just focus on our football and I think that's the best way.’ Asked whether he was in the right place to win trophies and move forward with his career, Henderson said: ‘I definitely think so. I think obviously at Liverpool we've got fantastic players, real quality players and a lot of potential. 'We're a young team and I think there is great potential and a big part of that is us wanting to be winners and winning trophies. I really feel we can do that. It is the same with England, I really feel we are going in the right direction and hopefully in the next Euros we can do something special.’ And Henderson insists he is not banking on replacing Gerrard as captain next season. ‘That's up to the manager in the summer,’ he said. ‘I'm not going to be captain as of yet. It could be anybody else in the team because we've got a lot of leaders and a lot of good characters in the team. Henderson (right) pictured in action in England's 4-0 win over Lithuania at Wembley on Friday . Henderson (centre) has emerged as a leading player at Liverpool over the past 18 months . Henderson (left) insists he will step up once Gerrard departs the club for Los Angeles Galaxy . ‘Of course it'd be an honour for me to do that, but when a big player like Stevie leaves, obviously it's disappointing, but everybody else has got to step up. 'We've got a lot of young players in the team and next season, when he isn't there, it's time for everybody to show what they're capable of and show that little bit of extra responsibility. 'And I wouldn't put that down to whoever is the next captain or one person in his position because for me

Summary: Jordan Henderson has made it clear he wants to stay at Liverpool . He says talks between the club and his agent will get sorted . Henderson could replace Steven Gerrard as Liverpool captain next season .