A horrified father has spoken out after he saw a video of his ex-girlfriend hitting his two-year-old daughter in footage shared online last week. Charlie Foster III of Ballston Spa, New York said he burst into tears as he watched the upsetting video posted onto Facebook involving his daughter Shelby Foster. 'I immediately started crying,' he told WFLA. 'I felt like I needed to do something.' The footage that was shared on Monday shows his former girlfriend Darci Ives and her boyfriend Louis Yager, who live together in Tampa, chastising and hitting Yager's two children and Shelby. Scroll down for video . A horrified father spoke of the moment he watched the video of his ex-girlfriend hitting his two-year-old daughter in footage that surfaced last week (above Charlie Foster III with his daughter Shelby Foster) Foster said he immediately burst into tears when he saw the scene of his two-year-old daughter being hit . The footage posted onto Facebook shows Darci Ives and her boyfriend Louis Yager, who live together in Tampa, Florida, chastising and hitting his two children and Shelby . From slapping the three preschool-aged children to shoving a dirty broom in one of their faces, Foster found it all hard to watch. After seeing the scene of his daughter being slapped in the face by Ives, he contacted Florida's child abuse hotline and finally got through after three attempts, according to WFLA. He also contacted Tampa police. Ives and Yager are currently under investigation by police for possible child abuse. Ives' sister reportedly shot the disturbing footage and a friend made one compilation of the several videos that show the children with Ives and Yager. During the video, Ives is seen shouting 'no, I don't want to fight with you, I gotta get Crystal to bed' before smacking and telling a child 'here's something to cry about'. In another scene she is seen cleaning the kitchen floor before shoving a broom in the face of a crying child seated in a highchair. It appears her sister who is allegedly filming is heard saying 'you shouldn't put that in her face'. Yager is seen shouting 'be quiet right now' to one of the children before it appears he is hitting the baby seated in the highchair on the head while saying 'hello, be quiet'. In a scene from the footage, Ives is seen cleaning the kitchen floor before shoving a broom in the face of a crying child seated in a highchair . In another scene, Ives is seen scolding one of the children who is crying and lying on the floor before smacking the baby . Yager is seen shouting 'be quiet right now' to one of the children before it appears he is hitting the baby seated in the highchair on the head while saying 'hello, be quiet' Earlier reports said on Monday the children were taken into custody by child protective services and were placed into shelter care. 'There is probable cause to shelter the children at this time,' said Hillsborough Circuit Judge Jack Espinosa Jr. at

Summary: Charlie Foster III of Ballston Spa, New York said he burst into tears when he watched the disturbing video that was shared on Monday . His daughter, Shelby Foster, is one of three children seen in footage being chastised and hit by Darci Ives and her boyfriend Louis Yager of Tampa, FL . The three children have since been taken into custody by CPS and have been placed into shelter care . Foster is working to bring Shelby back to live with him in New York . Ives and Yager are currently under investigation for possible child abuse .


News that Uber is acquiring a mapping service has heightened speculation the cab firm is developing its own driverless cars, including the components and software inside. Uber is set to close the deal for San Jose-based firm deCarta 'later this week,' and it would lessen Uber's reliance on Google Maps. The cab service said the acquisition is designed to ‘fine tune’ Uber’s services that rely on maps - but it could also help with the development of an autonomous vehicle. Uber is set to close the deal for San Jose-based firm deCarta 'later this week,' and it would lessen Uber's reliance on Google Maps. The cab service said the acquisition is designed to ‘fine tune’ Uber’s services that rely on maps - but it could also help with the development of an autonomous vehicle . The accurate navigation technology, for example, could be used to train and test autonomous taxis. Uber lets consumers use an app to locate a driver and instantly book a ride. Google Maps software is already integrated into Uber to let users check progress of drivers on their way to pick them up. DeCarta was founded in 1996 and provides services including in-map searching, turn-by-turn navigation, location APIs and more. While it may not be as well-known as Google Maps, its technology is extensively used by consumers. The OnStar system built into cars made by General Motors, for example, relies on deCarta, as do smartphone makers Samsung and BlackBerry. In its early years, Google Maps even tapped into deCarta's technology according to the company. Rumours of the acquisition have been circulating for the past week and Uber has now confirmed its move, although it is not sharing purchase price or financial terms. The acquisition bolsters rumours that Uber is planning to build a rival driverless car to Google's vehicle (pictured). Uber said it will be partnering with roboticists at Carnegie Mellon University to create a centre devoted to research and development of mapping, car safety, and 'autonomous technology' 'A lot of the functionality that makes the Uber app so reliable, affordable and seamless is based on mapping technologies,' the company said in a statement. 'With the acquisition of deCarta, we will continue to fine-tune our products and services that rely on maps - for example UberPOOL, the way we compute ETAs, and others - and make the Uber experience even better for our users.' Uber is said to have opened a robotics research facility in Pittsburgh with the intention of creating a self-driving car, going head-to-head with Google's efforts. Google was an early backer of the San Francisco-based firm, investing $258 million (£170 million) in the controversial ride-sharing service through its venture capital arm in August 2013. David Drummond, Google’s chief legal officer and senior vice president of corporate development, then joined the Uber board of directors. Last month Bloomberg Business tweeted that Google and Uber are 'going to war over taxis', to which Google's official handle replied: 'We think you'll find Uber and Lyft work quite well. We use them all the time.' This fuelled speculation because

Summary: Uber told MailOnline it expects to close the deCarta deal 'later this week' Mapping service will be used to boost the cab service's current offerings . May give it independence from Google, on whose maps it service relies . Deal bolsters rumours Uber is serious about building an autonomous car . Californian firm is said to have built a research centre in Pittsburgh with the intention of creating a self-driving car .


Bryan Robson has pinpointed Ander Herrera as one of the key figures in Manchester United's revival. United are fourth in the table just two points behind second-placed Manchester City. They face their neighbours and defending champions on April 12 during a crucial four game spell that sees them take on Aston Villa, Chelsea and Everton. However, the manner of their victories against Tottenham and Liverpool in recent weeks has been ominous. Bryan Robson has hailed Ander Herrera as one of the key figures in Manchester United's revival this year . Herrera celebrates after scoring the opening goal during their FA Cup third round match with Yeovil Town . Former United captain Robson recognises that Juan Mata has been winning the bulk of the plaudits but admires the qualities Herrera is showing. 'Ander started off the season well and he’s got a lot of energy,' Robson told ManUtd.com. 'He is always on the move, trying to close people down really quickly. He has got a lot of qualities really, it’s just getting them out of him on a consistent basis. But he has got that in his locker, maybe it’s just taken him and a few of the new signings time to adapt to the Premier League.' Herrera set up Mata's first goal against Liverpool with an inch-perfect pass and the 25-year-old acquisition from Athletic Bilbao has shown signs of being able to provide a greater tempo to United's play. 'He is quite good defensively and, when I watch him, I can see he has a lot of energy and he does like to get involved' added Robson. 'What I like about him is that, when people are on the ball, he is always on the move to try and receive the pass.' Herrera was outstanding against Liverpool at Anfield last week and has been in fine form for United . Robson (left) pictured shooting for United against Barcelona at Old Trafford in 1984 .

Summary: Bryan Robson has hailed Ander Herrera as a key figure for the club . Manchester United are just two points behind neighbours and rivals City . Ex-United captain Robson recognises Herrera's qualities and hard work . READ: Why has it taken Louis van Gaal so long to play Herrera? CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester United news .


Spanish paella, pulled pork burger, red velvet cupcakes - These all sound like delicacies from an upscale restaurant not meals for our pooches. But Asia Upward wanted to be quirky and combine her love for food photography with her love for her dogs, and thus the book 'A Dog's World' was born. She told Daily Mail Australia that she wanted to raise the stakes and come up with something quirky that would humour people and wasn't the everyday image. So she substituted humans for dogs. Scroll down for video . Asia Upward has released a book that combines recipes for dogs and photography titles 'A Dog's World' She said she wanted to raise the stakes and come up with something quirky that wasn't the everyday image. Asia has tested out most of her recipes on her 10-year-old Ridgeback cross cattle dog, Bear . 'I am based in Melbourne and what I have noticed is that there is always a new trend, like the pulled-pork fad,' she said. Mash the banana thoroughly. Add all of the ingredients into a food processor or blender and mix until smooth. Place mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen they are ready to serve. 'I thought to myself, wouldn't it be great to do this for my dog - so I did and then started brainstorming more and more ideas for dog recipes.' Recipes that you will come across in the book range from icy pole bones to winter warming vegetable soup and her personal favourite - red velvet pupcakes. The healthiness of the meal for the dog is paramount to Asia, so with the cupcakes, she uses beetroot to get the deep red colour and sugar-free yogurt for the icing. So as delicious as these meals appear in the images to anyone's eye, they are aimed purely at dogs. 'I actually ate the pulled-pork burger once,' Asia said. 'There is obviously no seasoning in any of the meals, its really simple plain food, so I had to add some relish.' Recipes in the book range from icy pole bones to winter warming vegetable soup and red velvet pupcakes. Asia used Gumtree to source the dogs as she was new to Melbourne and did not know many dog owners . Her inspiration for the book has stemmed from her deep, childhood love for dogs . Asia tested out most of the recipes on her 10-year-old half ridgeback and half cattle dog, Bear. Her mum rescued Bear from the blue mountains when he was 4-weeks-old. He was the runt of a litter of puppies whose mother could not adequately care for them so he has been with Asia ever since. Her inspiration for the book has stemmed from her deep, childhood love for dogs. 'I found a picture of myself when I was three-years-old at my parents house absolutely surrounded by dogs,' she said. 'I didn't have many kids to play with, so I had pets my entire life instead.' Further motivation came when the Melbourne-based photographer was travelling in Sumatra and experienced the strewn mange,

Summary: Asia Upward released a photography and recipe book titled 'A Dog's World' It contains healthy recipes for pooches with some added photo humour . Asia's motivation came when she saw the desolate street dogs in Sri Lanka . The dogs were all sourced on Gumtree as she was new to Melbourne . Icy pole bones, winter warming soup and red velvet pup cakes are included .


The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race started on Saturday with a ceremonial run through Anchorage despite the lack of snow which has forced the organizers to move the competitive start of the race to Monday in Fairbanks. A stalled jet stream has pushed Arctic air and snow into the Midwest and the East Coast, but kept Alaska fairly warm and dry this winter. But the ceremonial start, a chance for fans and mushers to meet in a casual atmosphere, went on as planned in Alaska's largest city. The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race started on Saturday with a ceremonial run through Anchorage despite the lack of snow that has forced organizers to move the start of the race to Monday . A stalled jet stream has pushed Arctic air and snow into the Midwest and the East Coast, but kept Alaska fairly warm and dry this winter . Despite the city receiving only about a third of its normal winter snowfall, Anchorage was still able to stage the traditional ceremonial start to the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. City crews overnight delivered up to 350 dump truck loads of snow and spread it out over city blocks so the show could go on. The festivities started on Saturday morning in very un-Iditarod like conditions, almost 40 degrees with a light rain falling before the start. City maintenance workers stockpiled snow from neighborhoods the past few months and kept it for winter events, culminating with the Iditarod, said Paul VanLandingham with the public works department. This event is designed for fans who can't be on the rugged thousand-mile trail stretching from Fairbanks to Nome. Mushers took off from the start line along Anchorage's Fourth Avenue every two minutes. Fans lined the streets and cheered on the mushers and their Iditariders, who are people who have won auctions to be in the sled. The route covered 19 city blocks before it met up with the city's trail system and ends in East Anchorage. It's a very relaxed atmosphere before the start. Fans arrive early on Saturday morning to mingle with the mushers and pet one of the estimated thousand dogs that will be in the race. The ceremonial start to the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race on Saturday was a chance for fans and mushers to meet in a casual atmosphere . City crews overnight delivered up to 350 dump truck loads of snow and spread it out over city blocks so the show could go on Saturday . Dan and Kathie Taylor of Akron, Ohio, made their second trip to Alaska after falling in love with the state during an earlier summertime visit. They were surprised how the city prepared. 'I didn't know that they would bring in snow for this,' Kathie said. 'We were wondering what would happen today.' Kathie said she was struck by the 'mushers and just their knowledge, and how they love their dogs unconditionally,' she said. 'And how open they are to talk to everybody,' Dan added. DeeDee Jonrowe, a musher who is a fan favorite, is in

Summary: Race started on Saturday with a ceremonial run through Anchorage despite the lack of snow . Organizers have been forced to move the competitive start of the race further north to Fairbanks, where it will start on Monday . City crews overnight delivered up to 350 dump truck loads of snow and spread it out over city blocks so the show could go on Saturday . Fans lined the streets and cheered on the mushers and their Iditariders, who are people who have won auctions to be in the sled .


A stingray weighing nearly 800lb has become the largest freshwater fish ever caught by rod and line. The gigantic flat fish, which was 8ft wide and 14ft long, took nearly two hours to reel in. It was caught by American TV nature conservationist Jeff Corwin on the Mae Klong river in Thailand earlier this week. Scroll down for video . A stingray weighing nearly 800lb is thought to be the largest freshwater fish ever caught by rod and line . It was so big that several men on board a small fishing boat had to take it in turns to help on the rod. After getting the ray alongside the boat it was pulled into a specially-prepared pen where seven people lifted it out of the water so it could be properly measured. Specialists measured its width, length and girth to calculate its weight. The epic catch will be featured on 'Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin', which will be broadcast on ABC in the US later this year. After the catch Mr Corwin tweeted: 'Potential world record freshwater fish, giant stingray, 14ft X 8ft! in Thailand filming for ABC's Ocean Mysteries.' He added: 'According to National Geographic, Fishsiam and Dr Nantarika Chansue, a leading stingray expert, this is likely to be the largest freshwater fish ever caught with a rod and reel. The gigantic flat fish, which was 8ft wide and 14ft long, had to be reeled in by several fishermen for nearly two hours . It could not be placed on scales so specialists measured its width, length and girth to calculate its weight . 'The battle to bring this giant fish to the boat was epic and it took many hours and multiple guys rotating off and on the reel. 'The experience was a true highlight of the series, not only connecting with a record-sized ray but being a part of cutting edge science.' Rick Humphries, of UK company Fishsiam, whose fishing guides helped reel in the ray, said: 'We have caught over 450 different stingrays and our estimations have been proved highly accurate on the rare occasions we have weighed this species. A specially-prepared pen was used to contain the ray while Mr Corwin, fishermen and specialists examined it . It is thought the previous record was held by British angler Ian Welch, who landed a giant stingray weighing between 590lbs and 770lbs in the same river in 2009 . 'The larger specimens are always female and quite often pregnant, as was the case with this capture. 'The latest capture indicates that these stingrays are growing at a fast and healthy rate.' It is thought the previous record was held by British angler Ian Welch, who landed a giant stingray weighing between 590lbs and 770lbs in the same river in 2009. The Guinness Book of World Records lists the Mekong giant catfish, weighing up to 660lbs, as the 'world's largest freshwater fish'.

Summary: Caught by American Jeff Corwin on the Mae Klong river earlier this week . Several fishermen spent nearly two hours reeling in the massive ray . Guinness Book of World Records lists Mekong giant catfish, weighing up to 660lbs, as 'world's largest freshwater fish'


North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is set to make his first foreign trip since taking power three years ago, after accepting an invitation from Russia. He is among 26 world leaders who have agreed to attend celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany. North Korea has not officially commented, but its leader's planned visit was today confirmed by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Scroll down for video . First trip: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has accepted an invitation from Russia to attend celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany . Event planning: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting of the Victory Day celebrations organising committee in the Kremlin today . The announcement comes just a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin reappeared in public after an unusually long 10-day absence that unleashed frenzied speculation about his whereabouts. The highlight of the May 9 celebrations will be a military parade in the Red Square overseen by President Putin. It is an annual event that will be expanded this year to include 15,000 troops, cadets and Cossacks, according to Russia's defense minister. Several Western leaders have snubbed invitations to the military parade because of Russia's role in the Ukraine conflict. German Chancellor Angela Merkel is among those staying away from the parade, but she softened the snub by deciding to visit Moscow the next day for a separate ceremony with Putin. Victory Day: Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting to plan the May celebrations marking the end of World War Two . The foreign minister said Merkel's decision to come to Moscow has helped to wreck the 'anti-Russian campaign'. He said some European leaders were still expected to come, including those from Slovakia, Norway, Greece and several Balkan nations. In addition to Kim, the leaders of China, Cuba, India, Mongolia, South Africa and Vietnam have confirmed their attendance. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday reappeared in public after an unusually long 10-day absence that unleashed frenzied speculation about the whereabouts and health of the Russian strongman. Looking pale, Putin met with Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev at the sumptuous Konstantinov's Palace just outside Saint Petersburg, an AFP correspondent reported. Putin, commenting on suggestions that he had been forced to lie low because of ill health, said that life without gossip would be 'boring'. Vlad's back: President Vladimir Putin on Monday reappeared in public in a meeting with Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev (left) after a 10-day absence . He refused to explain his absence since March 5. The Bishkek leader claimed Putin was fit - and in macho mode. 'The president of Russia isn't just walking, he's hot-rodding around, driving his guests around behind the wheel,' said Atambayev. 'Vladimir Vladimirovich (Putin) just drove me around the territory. That's just so there's no rumours.' Putin's absence occurred amid rumours of illness, a coup, or his Olympic gymnast 'lover' Alina Kabayeva giving birth to a child in Switzerland. He vanished soon after aides to one of his key allies were blamed

Summary: Kim Jong Un to make first foreign trip since taking power three years ago . He is among 26 world leaders who have accepted an invitation from Russia . Celebrations will mark anniversary of Soviet Union's victory over the Nazis . Several Western leaders have snubbed invitations to the military parade . Announcement comes just a day after President Putin reappeared in public .


Events in Dublin on Sunday served as a jolting indication that England remain a work in progress and are running out of opportunities to establish momentum going into the World Cup. The RBS 6 Nations title is now Ireland’s to lose and it is Joe Schmidt’s team — on the back of 10 successive victories — who are emerging as Europe’s primary challengers at the global showpiece on these shores later this year. On Monday, 200 days before the tournament begins at Twickenham when the hosts confront Fiji, England dropped a place to fourth in the World Rugby rankings, behind their Irish conquerors. Stuart Lancaster and his assistant coaches are running out of time to prepare for the World Cup . Stuart Lancaster and his assistant coaches have some key issues to address this week as they seek to orchestrate a prompt revival. First up, major Tests are running out . Arguably, the really momentous occasions England need to sharpen preparations for the World Cup have already passed. Facing Ireland on Sunday was the last such encounter. The national team now have home games against Scotland and France, who are in a state of near-disarray, which will not challenge them to the extent they were challenged in Cardiff and, especially, in Dublin. England's players look dejected after they conceded the opening try of the match against Ireland . Chris Robshaw couldn’t set the same authoritative tone as captain that he had in wins over Australia . There are home-and-away clashes with the French in August but by the time England take on Ireland the following month, both countries will be keeping their powder dry. There are also no short-cuts. Lancaster is attempting to fast-forward the evolution of a squad largely made up of young players. But what the defeat on Sunday proved is the importance of nous and experience, which the Irish had in abundance. England have a glaring caps deficit against most of the leading nations and it is too late to rectify that. The coaches must hope their rookies learn fast. Lancaster struggled for nous and experience in the defeat to Ireland as he fastracks a young Lions squad . Slow starts are another problem, with England falling behind in all three of their Six Nations matches this season. They were under siege early on in Dublin and Cardiff. Fundamental errors keep occurring in the opening minutes which leave them playing catch-up. Against Wales, they managed to do just that — impressively so — but Ireland never let them back into it. Lancaster and his team will review the tone of their match build-ups to see if they can find a way of ensuring the players start at the right pitch of emotional intensity. Decision-making under pressure has become a major issue. The men charged with steering the English ship struggled in Dublin. Minds were scrambled and execution levels dipped. Robshaw takes on Tommy O'Donnell during the RBS Six Nations match between Ireland and England . The England players leave the field defeated following their loss to Ireland at the

Summary: Defeat to Ireland reminded many that England are a work in progress . On Monday England dropped a place to fourth in the World Rugby rankings . Sunday's loss means the RBS 6 Nations title is now Ireland’s to lose . England's young squad showed numerous signs of inexperience .


Tomas Rosicky has revealed he considered leaving Arsenal in January following a lack of first-team football, but hopes to play a full part in the Gunners' end-of-season run-in. After not starting in the Barclays Premier League until the Boxing Day win over QPR, the Czech playmaker has now chalked up some 23 appearances overall as Arsenal moved back into the top four and also booked a place in the FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley. Rosicky, 34, has not ruled out extending his stay at the Emirates Stadium club, which has been hampered by an unfortunate series of injuries. Tomas Rosicky has revealed he considered leaving Arsenal in January following a lack of first-team football . 'Since the start of the year things have improved, the team has started to play better football and what's more I'm playing. Compared to the first six months, it's much better. We'll see how it goes from here,' Rosicky said to Czech press, quoted by www.isport.blesk.cz. 'I don't really know [why I didn't play]. It's a good question, I would also like to know. 'The coach gave me a chance towards the end the year and then began to give me more playing time. I don't know, maybe it was a watershed moment.' Rosicky, seen with Olivier Giroud, hopes to play a full part in the Gunners' end-of-season run-in . Rosicky added: 'We had talked about [me leaving in January] in previous meetings back in September and October, but then the market closed and I couldn't do anything. 'When you don't play a single game in December and the market opens, [the prospect of leaving] is obviously on the agenda. Then you start to have second thoughts. 'It was an exception for me though, I really thought about it. Then Arsenal said stay and that was that. Rosicky, 34, has not ruled out extending his stay at the Emirates Stadium come the end of the season . 'The rest of the season will go quickly, then we'll look for a solution. 'Arsenal is still an option for me next season, the ball is in their court. When I get back from international duty we will start to talk about it. 'There are two options open to me [stay at Arsenal or go elsewhere]. At the moment I am in a situation where I make the decision.' Rosicky fights for the ball with Bayern Munich ace David Alaba in the Champions League . Captain Mikel Arteta is another player whose future has to be resolved, the Spaniard out of contract in the summer, but expected to be offered a one-year extension. Arsenal have most of their first-team squad away on international duty. German midfielder Mesut Ozil missed the win at Newcastle on Saturday through a minor illness, but was subsequently spotted in a Berlin nightclub. While Ozil was set to leave for Germany on Saturday night anyway, Arsenal are expected to seek the player's version of events when he reports back for training ahead of the crucial Premier League match with Liverpool on April 4. Captain Mikel Arteta

Summary: Tomas Rosicky wants to play big part in the remainder of Arsenal's season . Midfielder reveals he considered leaving north London last January . Czech playmaker has now chalked up some 23 appearances overall . The 34-year-old has not ruled out extending his Emirates Stadium stay . CLICK HERE for all the latest Arsenal news .


An Illinois man has been found guilty of beating to death his girlfriend’s 3-year-old son after the toddler uttered a swear word while playing video game Mortal Kombat. A judge Tuesday convicted Thomas Albea, of Waukegan, of first-degree murder in the 2011 killing of X’Zavion Charleston. During Albea's two-day bench trial, the prosecution presented in court the defendant’s videotaped confession, in which the 22-year-old admitted to striking the little boy 'four of five times,’ although a coroner has concluded that the child likely suffered no fewer than seven blows. Justice for X'Zavion: Thomas Albea (left), 22, of Illinois, has been convicted of first-degree murder in the 2011 beating death of 3-year-old X’Zavion Charleston (right) Cruel punishment: Prosecutors said Albea repeatedly struck the toddler in the abdomen after X'Zavion uttered a swear word while playing the video game Mortal Kombat . The incident took place at around 11pm on September 14, 2011, while Albea, then 18 years old, was looking after his girlfriend’s son in the 1700 block of McAree Road. Prosecutors said little X'Zavion was playing the violent fighting game Mortal Kombat while waiting for his dinner when he used an unspecified expletive, followed by the words, 'he got me,' reported Chicago Tribune. Albea responded to the child's outburst by striking him in the abdomen. The teen suspect initially told police that he hit X'Zavion only once, but he later admitted that he struck the toddler multiple times. The boy was rushed to Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago, where he died the next day from what the Cook County Medical Examiner described in the autopsy report as 'catastrophic' injuries to his internal organs and abdomen. Albea's then-girlfriend, Qa’Chelle Charleston, was upstairs at the time of her son's killing. Cover-up: Albea initially told his then-girlfriend, Qa’Chelle Charleston (left), that her son had fallen. A medical examiner later determined that X'Zavion (right) suffered 'catastrophic' injuries to his internal organs . When she came down to feed her son and noticed that something was wrong with him, Albea lied to her that X'Zavion had fallen. Albea's attorney, Gillian Gosch, argued during the trial that her client did not intend to kill or seriously hurt X'Zavion. But Judge Mark Levitt rejected Gosch's argument and subsequent plea for a not guilty verdict, stating that the extent of the 3-year-old's injuries shows that the brutal attack was more than an act of recklessness, or an attempt to discipline the boy for his transgression. Albea could face 20 to 60 years in prison when he is sentenced April 22.

Summary: Thomas Albea, 22, convicted of first-degree murder in 2011 beating death of 3-year-old X’Zavion Charleston . Prosecutors said Albea repeatedly struck the toddler in the abdomen after X'Zavion used bad language while playing a video game . Albea initially told his then-girlfriend, Qa’Chelle Charleston, that her son had fallen; he late admitted to striking him at least 4-5 times . A medical examiner determined that X'Zavion suffered 'catastrophic' injuries to his internal organs .


A fashion label that used a bare-breasted nun as part of an advertising campaign is at the centre of a row over blasphemy in Naples, as Pope Francis prepares to visit the port city. The giant billboard shows an image of a woman dressed in a nun's habit and jeans, with naked breasts. The campaign by fashion label Rosso di Sera has caused controversy in the southern Italian city, ahead of a scheduled papal visit next weekend. 'Obscene': Locals have expressed horror at fashion label Rosso di Sera's new billboard erected in Naples just one week ahead of the Pope's visit to the city . Locals have denounced the image as 'obscene' and 'ugly' . One Franciscan Facebook user said: 'I am an atheist but I find it offensive to intelligence, to women, to good taste and to faith.' Other saw the 20 x30ft image in the city centre as a cynical marketing move. But the company Rosso di Sera denied the billboard had been deliberately timed to cause a fuss. Apology: The clothing firm has insisted 'there was no intent to blaspheme' adding that the company 'strongly regrets being accused of things extremely far from our values and our culture' 'We recognise that we have made a strong marketing choice but there was no intent to blaspheme,' the company said in a statement. 'Trivialising the act of prayer was not the intention in any way,' Rosso di Sera said, adding that the company 'strongly regrets being accused of things extremely far from our values and our culture.' The Pope is set to visit Naples on March 21 and will also be visiting Pompeii on his trip. Pope Francis, pictured leading a mass in Rome this week, is set to visit Naples on March 21 .

Summary: Rosso di Sera erected billboard as part of their new advertising campaign . Provocative image of nun has been denounced as 'obscene' and 'ugly' Fashion company apologised, insisting 'there was no intent to blaspheme' It added: 'Trivialising the act of prayer was not the intention in any way'


Monaco coach Leonardo Jardim warned his players not to rest on their laurels, telling them that they face the most difficult night of their careers when they defend their 3-1 lead at Stade Louis II against Arsenal on Tuesday night. Portuguese coach Jardim emphasised the threat of Mesut Ozil and Santi Cazorla and is trying to prepare his players for an expected attacking onslaught from Arsenal, with the Barclays Premier League side needing to at least three goals to go through in the Champions League tie. Jardim said: 'At this stage we're now at half-time and we're two goals ahead but it's true that our opponents have so many quality players in their squad. So it will be very difficult for us and everyone knows if it will be the most difficult game we've had in years. Monaco coach Leonardo Jardim speaks during his Champions League press conference on Monday . Jardim feels Arsenal still pose a threat even if Monaco carry a 3-1 lead from their first leg win at the Emirates . Monaco train at their base in La Turbie, France as they prepare for the second leg . Monaco striker Dimitar Berbatov stretches as he joins the rest of his team-mates for a training session . 'I don't think Arsenal underestimated - it's just that we played a dream game at the Emirates. When facing such a team as Arsenal with players like Santi Cazorla, Mesut Ozil and Danny Welbeck, it's true we can't take it easy and have to focus on the game we played at Emirates. 'In comparison to pervious years French teams are playing at a better level in the Champions League. Paris Saint-Germain knocked out Chelsea and they showed the quality of the work done here in France. It was the same case for Monaco. What we're trying to do is to show the quality of the work. Maybe it's the year of France to beat the English.' Monaco midfielder Nabil Dirar said: 'No-one expected us to win at Arsenal and we enjoyed the moment but then we forgot it straightaway. Because we know they have quality players so we know we might have a little advantage but tomorrow it'll be a very difficult game. I think we'll see the real face of Arsenal tomorrow. But we have our strengths and we can play counter attack.' Monaco bring a 3-1 first leg lead back home with them after their victory at the Emirates . Former Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho takes part in Monaco's training session . Monaco's Portuguese duo Joao Moutinho (centre) and Silva Bernardo (left) battle for the ball . Premier League side Arsenal need to win 3-0 or do even better to go through in the Champions League tie . Monaco are preparing to defend their 3-1 lead at Stade Louis II stadium against Arsenal on Tuesday night .

Summary: Monaco beat Arsenal 3-1 at the Emirates in February in the first leg . Arsenal will aim to win 3-0 to make it through the Champions League tie . Monaco's Leonardo Jardim warns his players not to rest on their laurels .


Harry Kane scored 79 seconds in to his England debut and received the full viral treatment on Twitter. Tributes flooded in for the Tottenham striker, who notched up his 30th goal of the campaign, from various Premier League stars. Charlie Austin was a contender for a place in the England squad but he was happy to praise the 21-year-old. Kane's older brother also revealed his celebratory plans. Harry Kane is dubbed up as Superman by BBC Sporf as the Tottenham striker scored on his England debut . Soccer Memes posted a picture of Barack Obama after the Spurs striker made an immediate impact . Talking THFC mocked up a picture of England's 1966 win and has Kane lifting the World Cup . Twitter user Sonny posted a picture of Cristiano Ronaldo revealing a Kane shirt . QPR striker Charlie Austin praised Kane after he scored an early debut goal after just three touches . Newcastle forward Rolando Aarons lauded Kane's goalscoring abilities after he delivered for England .

Summary: Harry Kane made his England debut in a 4-0 win against Lithuania . Kane was substituted on 72 minutes into the European Qualifier . The Tottenham striker was praised by a number of Premier League stars .


Sean O'Brien believes blowing a Grand Slam in Wales 'might not have been the worst thing in the world' as Ireland eye the World Cup after retaining their RBS 6 Nations title. Leinster flanker O'Brien grabbed two tries as Ireland thumped Scotland 40-10 at Murrayfield to claim back-to-back Six Nations titles for the first time since 1949. The 28-year-old backed up scores from captain Paul O'Connell and centre Jared Payne as Ireland denied England the title by virtue of points-difference. Sean O'Brien of Ireland celebrates with the Six Nations trophy after the 40-10 win over Scotland on Saturday . England saw off France 55-35 in a madcap Twickenham encounter, but fell foul of the triple-bill Super Saturday set-up for the second year running, six points short on the target set by Ireland. Happy to embrace hindsight with the title secure for another year, O'Brien believes defeat to Wales must now act as a harsh World Cup lesson for Joe Schmidt's men. 'Looking back now it might not have been the worst thing in the world,' said O'Brien, of Ireland losing 23-16 in Wales to spoil their Grand Slam chase. 'We know we can learn and move forward. That was the biggest thing to come out of last week: that we didn't do our jobs correctly and we didn't do what we did during the week. Sean O'Brien of Ireland goes over to score the second try in a 40-10 win at Murrayfield . Ireland's O'Brien scores a try during the 2015 RBS Six Nations match at Murrayfield on Saturday . 'If we approach the game like we did today, for instance, make sure everyone is going 100 miles an hour, we know we are never too far away.' Ireland's third Six Nations triumph in six years tees head coach Schmidt's men up nicely for the autumn World Cup in England. Schmidt's impressive transformation of Ireland's fortunes raises hopes that his side can reach a first World Cup semi-final later this year. Head coach Schmidt's ultra-tactical approach came under fire after defeat in Wales, with Warren Gatland beating his Kiwi compatriot at his own game. Scott Williams goes over during the 23-16 victory over Ireland, which ended their Grand Slam challenge . Ireland rediscovered their attacking rhythm in Edinburgh however, their four tries against Scotland matching their previous tally for the entire tournament. O'Brien is adamant Ireland can play whatever brand of rugby required to get the job done under shrewd boss Schmidt. 'There has been a lot of talk about the style of play the last few weeks but defences in this competition are very strong,' said O'Brien. 'With analysis and what not, they are able to close people down and the quality of player and strength in depth, you have really good players playing against you. Captain Paul O'Connell holds aloft the Six Nations trophy after Ireland were crowned champions . 'You have to bring them to a place where they are under a lot of pressure and maybe we haven't done that in the last few weeks. 'But we can

Summary: Ireland crowned 2015 Six Nations champions after dramatic final day . Joe Schmidt's side beat Scotland 40-10 to move into driving seat . England's 55-35 win over France not enough for Stuart Lancaster's men . Ireland blew their Grand Slam chances losing 23-16 to Wales in fixture four .


George Osborne's taunts have hit a nerve in Paris, after the Chancellor boasted that Britain's booming economy was storming ahead of France. Senior Tories have repeatedly contrasted the UK's strong recovery with the sluggish growth and high unemployment on the other side of the Channel where socialist Francois Hollande has floundered. Now French minister Segolene Royal has hit back at the 'spiteful and inappropriate' attacks, and warning: 'What goes around comes around.' French minister Segolene Royal (left) has hit back after George Osborne repeatedly contrasted the UK's strong recovery with the sluggish growth and high unemployment on the other side of the Channel . In his Budget statement last week, Mr Osborne made several references to Britain's strong growth compared to France. He mocked the high rate of French unemployment, quipping that one English county - Yorkshire - had created more jobs than the whole of France. He pointed to forecasts suggesting the British economy grew by 2.6 per cent last year, '50 per cent faster than Germany, three times faster than the euro-zone – and seven times faster than France'. He and the Prime Minister also pointed to the UK's nearest continental neighbour as a lesson of why Labour - whose leader closely associated himself with the approach of Socialist Party president Francois Hollande - would be bad for Britain. He and the Prime Minister also pointed directly to the UK's nearest continental neighbour as a lesson of why Labour - whose leader Ed Miliband closely associated himself with the approach of Socialist Party president Francois Hollande - would be bad for Britain. 'Our economy is growing seven times faster than France's,' Mr Cameron wrote in the Sunday Times. 'Imagine if Miliband had been free to pursue his French dream: the fallout would be felt in catastrophic job losses, falling living standards, eye-watering debt and fast-diminishing hope in our future.' The UK economy has enjoyed much stronger growth than France since the crash in 2008, according to Eurostat . Unemployment has also fallen more sharply in the UK than on the other side of the Channel where more than 10 per cent were out of work in 2014 . Asked about the attacks, Ms Royal told BBC2's Newsnight: 'I am very surprised by what I consider to be something which seems so far removed from the traditional British sense of fair play. 'It is rather condescending. It seems a little spiteful and inappropriate.' European countries 'should all stand together when any country is in difficulty', she said. 'When a country like the UK is facing difficulty, we don't make fun. In your country your budget deficit is much greater than it is in France, we don't have take pleasure from it. 'In the end, what goes around comes around.' Ms Royal is the ex-partner of Mr Hollande. The pair, who have four children together, never married, reportedly because they considered it 'too bourgeois'. The French economy has struggled since the financial crisis as it struggles to reform its bloated public sector . Ms Royal has four children with French President Francois

Summary: Senior Tories say the state of France's economy justifies their policies . But top French politician Segolene Royal has called for solidarity . She insists Britain is not that strong and 'what goes around comes around' Boris Johnson wades into row today saying France is stuck in the 1970s .


Nick Clegg insisted yesterday his party was 'here to stay' as he predicted the Liberal Democrats would defy the odds to serve a second term in government. Despite consistently dismal poll ratings, the Lib Dem leader claimed it would win more seats than forecast and could still hold office with fewer MPs. Attacking his Conservative coalition partners, he compared David Cameron to 'Nigel Farage in a white tie' and declared: 'Cows moo, dogs bark – and Tories cut. It's in their DNA.' Scroll down for video . Liberal Democrats leader Nick Clegg salutes the audience after speaking at a party conference in Liverpool . Mr Clegg claims his party could stop a 'rag-tag mob' of MPs from Ukip or the Scottish National Party from holding the balance of power after the election on May 7 . Nick Clegg hugs his wife Miriam Gonzalez Durantez, a partner at a US law firm, after his speech in Liverpool . Mr Clegg also criticised Labour, despite making it clear he could foresee a coalition with either of the major parties. But he ruled out a formal coalition deal involving the SNP or Ukip. He went so far as to claim that only his party could stop a 'rag-tag mob' of MPs from Ukip or the Scottish National Party from holding the balance of power after the election on May 7. The latest polls have consistently put the Lib Dems on just 7 per cent, with experts predicting they will lose at least half the 57 seats they won at the last election. But, bizarrely, Mr Clegg compared their hopes for the future to last November's landing of the Rosetta space probe on the surface of a comet. 'What an audacious, optimistic thing to have ever dreamt of attempting,' he said. Speaking at the party's spring conference in Liverpool, he added: 'I want us to take just a little bit of the spirit of that audacious project and to think big.' Mr Clegg, who appeared to have matched his pink tie with the bubblegum-pink dress worn by his wife Miriam, watching from the front row, said his party would 'defy the odds and win this May'. He added: 'I have a message for all those who are writing us off again: The Liberal Democrats are here to stay. I've heard the predictions, I've seen the polls. But let me tell you this: We will do so much better than anyone thinks.' However, his upbeat speech was overshadowed by an attack from Left-winger Tim Farron, who is thought to want his job. Mr Farron, the Lib Dems' former president, said a second coalition with the Tories would tarnish the party's reputation 'over the next generation'. He said he would give the party just two out of ten for its handling of coalition government. Mr Clegg, who appeared to have matched his pink tie with the bubblegum-pink dress worn by his wife Miriam, watching from the front row, said his party would 'defy the odds and win this May' Wife Miriam Gonzalez Durantez and Women's minister Jo Swinson

Summary: Mr Clegg claims Lib Dems will will more seats than forecast in May election . Says his party can stop a 'rag-tag mob' of MPs from Ukip or SNPs . Claims his party will 'defy the odds and win this May' despite gloomy polls .


The family of one of the schoolgirls feared to have fled to join Islamic State discovered a handwritten shopping list of items which included tips for crossing into Syria, it emerged last night. Details of prices for flights to Turkey, visa money, coaches, hotels, taxis and other supplies were found on a diary and planner page in one of the girl’s bedrooms. It also includes sinister tips for how to slip over the Turkish border and into IS-held territory, scrawled in different handwriting at the bottom of the page. Scroll down for video . The parents of one of the three schoolgirls (pictured) from London who fled to join ISIS in Syria have found a list of essential items for their trip, including underwear, an epilator, and £1,000 plane tickets . This hand-written list shows some of the vital items the ISIS recruits needed to buy . The list of purchases, seen by The Guardian, includes a £50 epilator, two sets of £12 underwear for two girls, socks for £4 and a phone for £75. Next to each item is one of the initials of the girl’s first name, and appears to show either who was to purchase them or who they were for. Below the list of items to buy ahead of the trip is a list of the costs of reaching Turkey, and appears to be written in different handwriting. The total cost of the items, which includes £1,000 plane tickets to Turkey and appears to match with an Isis online guide for potential recruits, amounts to £2,190. The list was found in one of the girl’s bedrooms and has now been handed to police investigating the girls' disappearance. Their families of three girls - Amira Abase, Kadiza Sultana and Shamima Begum - told the Guardian in an interview last week they had no idea how the girls could have raised the money for the trip. They also alleged that the police had mishandled their case, saying they were not informed that another girl from the same school had disappeared and was thought to have gone to Syria. Kadiza Sultana 16 (left), Amira Abase, 15 (middle) and Shamima Begum 15 (right) went missing two weeks ago after boarding a flight from Gatwick to Istanbul . The trio went missing two weeks ago after flying to Istanbul. They were then pictured on CCTV catching a bus to the border town of Arai (pictured), and are now believed to be in ISIS's headquarters in Raqqa . Family members will today testify before the home affairs committee of MPs. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe will also appear. The three girls went missing two weeks ago after boarding a flight from Gatwick to Istanbul. They were then pictured at a bus stop on the outskirts of the capital, in Bayrampasa, where it is thought they waited for up to 18 hours before travelling to the border town of Arai. From there they crossed into Syria, and it was reported yesterday that the girls are now in Raqqa, the headquarters of ISIS, where it

Summary: List split into two parts and appears to be in two sets of handwriting . Top part details items such as underwear and phones to buy before travel . Bottom half lists costs of crossing Turkish border into Syria on arrival . Total cost of all items was £2,190, including £1,000 aeroplane tickets .


Roy Hodgson has revealed that Arsene Wenger rang him for advice before signing Danny Welbeck for £16m on transfer deadline day - and that he is delighted that his strong recommendation paid off for both Arsenal and Welbeck. Wenger has since said that he only appreciated quite how good a player Welbeck was after seeing him close up every day in training - and Hodgson says he gave similar feedback to the Arsenal manager when Wenger was weighing up whether to buy Welbeck or not last August. Hodgson said: 'Arsene and I speak more often than most managers as he always comes up to the directors' box at Arsenal and I speak to him very often. And we spoke of course before he signed Danny. I was singing Danny's praise so I'm delighted that Arsene has seen that my judgement wasn't wrong and that he shares that judgement. Danny Welbeck joined Arsenal from Manchester United for £16m on transfer deadline day . Welbeck scores the winning goal for Arsenal against his former club in the FA Cup quarter-final . 'We like Danny very much. We've always shown faith in Danny. Many times he's been selected by me and my staff when he was not actually playing for Manchester United. Sometimes he's not even been on the bench and yet still we' ve selected him because we think he has the qualities required. 'And what Danny really needs is the faith of his manager, which he obviously has from Arsene, to get more games. And then I think we'll see more and more performances from him that we've been lucky enough to see with England and Arsenal were lucky enough to see the other night when he played at Monaco. I thought he was really, really good.' Welbeck is likely to start for England in their Euro 2016 qualifier against Lithuania next Friday. He made 24 starts for Manchester United last season and since moving to Arsenal on transfer deadline day has already started 25 times with at least eleven games remaining, which Hodgson believes is benefitting the England player. Arsene Wenger and Roy Hodgson in the director's box at the Emirates Stadium . 'Arsene has used him and he's played quite a lot of games if you compare it to the games he played for Man United. With us he's always done what I think is a very, very good job for the team. There aren't many times when he's played for England where I've been disappointed in him or in his work rate or desire. But of course it would be great if he gets himself as one of the first names on the Arsenal team sheet and play for them every week, that would be a bonus certainly for him and it won't do us any harm. 'I'm pretty sure he must have benefitted (from Wenger's confidence in him). But it's not something that has struck me like a bolt of lightning, that's for sure. When he's come with us he's not lacked confidence ever. He knows what we want

Summary: Danny Welbeck joined Arsenal from Manchester United in the summer . Striker moved to north London for a £16m fee on transfer deadline day . Roy Hodgson said Arsene Wenger phoned for advice before the signing .


A driver's dash cam has captured a heart-stopping moment when his vehicle slammed into a head-on collision with a truck. The footage shows a red Mazda hatchback driving along Kingsford Smith Drive in Brisbane when a truck turned onto the Gateway Motorway at a red arrow and onto oncoming traffic. The black ute on the right lane can be seen stopping at the intersection in time to avoid a near-miss collision as the truck made its turn. But it appears the driver of the red vehicle, known only as Brad, did not attempt to brake or swerve at the time. Shocking footage has emerged of a truck turning at a red arrow and onto oncoming traffic in Brisbane . The incident, which was filmed on February 17, has attracted more than 90,000 views within three hours after being posted on Facebook on Monday night. Dash Cam Owners Australia, which shared the video on their page, assured that no one had sustained any serious injuries and the driver of the car suffered a minor whiplash. A caption along the video said: 'Truck driver ran a red arrow heading onto the Gateway Motorway off Kingsford Smith Drive. 17/2/15 Driver escaped with a bit of whiplash.' The black ute on the right lane can be seen stopping at the intersection as the truck made its turn . But it appears the driver in the red Mazda did not attempt to brake or swerve in time as the truck turned . The driver of the Mazda captured a heart-stopping moment when his vehicle collided with an oncoming truck . Dash Cam Owners Australia assured the driver of the red Mazda only suffered a minor whiplash . The horrific video has accumulated almost 500 shares and has received a significant amount of mixed responses from members of the public. Buzz Quick posted: 'As a Truck driver I must say ....................... what the Truck was he thinking?' Andrew Wylie wrote: 'Sweet looking Mazda.. But were they paying attention at all? Not even a partial nose dive to indicate they hit the brakes.' Sarah Larkins said: 'Is everyone forgetting the ute was partially blocking the view of the truck for the mazda??' Leon Davis posted: 'Remember the camera isn't in line with the driver so he would have seen the truck after the camera does hence why he had little time to brake.'

Summary: Shocking footage has emerged of a truck turning into oncoming traffic . The video shows a red Mazda colliding head first with the truck . The ute on the right lane can be seen stopping at the intersection . It seems the driver did not attempt to brake or swerve at the intersection . The video was posted on Monday and has attracted more than 90,000 views . Dash Cam Owners Australia claimed the driver suffered a minor whiplash .


Radamel Falcao left Manchester United's Carrington training base on Thursday, well aware that his chances to impress at his loan club have run out. The Colombian striker suffered an embarrassing demotion to United's Under 21 side this week and sources close to Falcao say he recognises that he made the wrong move when picking Old Trafford in the summer. Despite his chances of starting against Tottenham Hotspur in the Barclays Premier League on Sunday seeming to be close to nil, Falcao smiled as he left the Aon Training Complex in his United-red Range Rover Sport. Radamel Falcao smiles from the window of his Range Rover Sport as he arrives at training on Thursday . Falcao toiled upfront against Tottenham Hotspur for Manchester United's Under 21s on Tuesday night . The failing loan signing is aware he has no long-term future at Old Trafford and will be sent back to Monaco . It was a stark contrast to his expressions on Tuesday night against Tottenham's Under 21 side, where Falcao looked surprised and upset to be pulled off after 71 minutes on his latest poor performance. And with Louis van Gaal appearing to show little belief in his deadline day signing, something else that sources close to Falcao have revealed the striker believes, he must have little hope of playing against the same club on Sunday. With wages of £300,000-a-week and an expected fee of close to his £40million release clause, United will not take up the option to sign Falcao and he will return to Monaco - although there are expected to be other suitors despite a dismal season in England. Come the end of May, he looks to be leaving Carrington - and Old Trafford - for good. Argentine defender Marcos Rojo was also at training on Thursday, and was driving a Bentley Continental . Chris Smalling was another Bentley driver around Carrington, leaving the preparations for Sunday's game . Marcos Rojo, Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw and Victor Valdes were among the other players pictured leaving Carrington on Thursday, while Adnan Januzaj may have been staying late to put in some time in the gym. The lightweight United playmaker told the Manchester Evening News: 'I do a lot of work in the gym. 'I am trying to be faster and stronger so I can be tougher when I go out on the pitch. 'I am doing a lot of short, sharp stuff so, when I turn a defender or go past a player, I can just get a few metres away from them with my acceleration.' Luke Shaw (right) was not at the wheel of his Chevrolet, the cars provided by United's shirt sponsors . Victor Valdes played alongside Falcao in Tuesday night's Under 21 game against Tottenham at Old Trafford .

Summary: Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao left training in a Range Rover . On-loan Colombian forward has recognised he has no future at the club . He was demoted to United's Under 21s against Tottenham on Tuesday . Marcos Rojo, Chris Smalling and Victor Valdes were also pictured leaving .


The world's oldest pretzel has been discovered by archaeologists in Germany - and has lost none of its appeal despite being baked 250 years ago. The popular snack was found at an excavation site in the eastern Bavarian city of Regensburg and experts believe it was thrown away in disappointment after being burnt to a crisp in the oven. The black pretzel was discovered alongside the charred remains of a bread roll and a croissant and it is thought that the food items have been preserved for so long because they were badly burnt by their 18th century baker. Lasting flavour: The world's oldest pretzel was discovered in the eastern Bavarian city of Regensburg . Silvia Codreanau-Windauer from the Bavarian Bureau for the Conservation of Historic Monuments told The Local: 'This is definitely the oldest pretzel ever found.' The mayor of Regensburg Joachim Wolbergs added. 'This discovery is really extraordinary, because it depicts a snippet of everyday life.' Pretzels are a traditional south German and Austrian delicacy and have been a favorite in Germany for centuries. In Bavaria, pretzels are often eaten for breakfast alongside weisswurst (white sausage) with sweet mustard. Also found: The charred remains of a bread roll were found near the pretzel and experts believe the baked goods have been preserved because they were burnt by an 18th century baker who then threw them away . Charred remains: The pretzel measures four inches and the mayor of Regensburg, where it was found, has called the discovery 'extraordinary' The earliest recorded evidence of pretzels comes from 1111 when they appear in the crest of German bakers' guilds in 1111. The snacks have long been integrated into the Christian faith. By the 16th century, it had become tradition to eat pretzels on Good Friday in Germany, and Catholics once considered them the official food of lent. Today, pretzels are most popular in the USA and Germany. Source: www.todayifoundout.com . Speaking to The Local, Ms Codreanu-Windauer added some historical context to the find, saying: 'The form of the pretzel is supposed to represent the crossed arms of monks. Eventually it ended up as a fasting meal.' Monks are the symbol of Bavaria's capital Munich and different orders and monasteries give their names to many of the state's most prominent beers. The excavation site in Regensburg has been a hit with archaeologists, who recently discovered a wooden house there thought to be up to 1,200 years old. On the site, which lies on the Danube, there are plans to build a museum for Bavarian history to mark the 2018 centenary of the region's status as a free state. The excavation site in Regensburg, Bavaria, has been fruitful for archaeologists, who recently discovered a wooden house there thought to be up to 1,200 years old . Popular snack: Pretzels are a traditional south German and Austrian delicacy and have been a favorite in Germany for centuries .

Summary: Traditional snack was found next to croissant and bread roll in Regensburg . All are charred and experts believe they were burnt by 18th century baker . They concluded that the preservation is a result of them being burnt . Pretzels have been a popular snack in Germany and Austria for centuries .


Lewis Hamilton used the regular pre-race drivers’ briefing to demand answers from Formula One’s governing body about the mysterious crash that caused Fernando Alonso to miss the opening Grand Prix in Australia. The double world champion asked race director Charlie Whiting what the FIA’s investigation into the accident had revealed. Observers said Hamilton repeatedly demanded more details in the meeting on Friday night, ahead of Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix in which he will start from pole position in his Mercedes. Lewis Hamilton will start Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix in pole position in his Mercedes . Hamilton secured pole position during miserable wet conditions in Malaysia . Hamilton drives during final practice for the Malaysia Formula One Grand Prix at Sepang Circuit . Alonso was silent as Hamilton spoke. Whiting, one of Formula One’s most experienced and respected officials, then took Hamilton aside to reassure him that the data showed no failing on the McLaren car Alonso was driving. Hamilton said he would be ‘very interested to hear’ the FIA’s findings. But the FIA have decided not to publish their investigation, although senior figures within the organisation have privately said that McLaren’s own 37-page explanation of the accident, which gave their car a clean bill of heath, was scrupulously accurate in every detail. McLaren’s position is irreconcilable with Alonso’s assertion last week that the accident was caused by his steering locking. Fernando Alonso stands in front of the world's press as he poses for the cameras ahead of Sunday's race . Alonso has claimed his steering wheel locked which caused his pre-season testing crash in Barcelona . Alonso insisted he will have no problems stepping back into the cockpit for first practice on Friday . His maverick statement caused some tension in the team but both ‘sides’ now want to move on. McLaren told journalists at their post-qualifying press conference not to ask about the incident, and Ron Dennis, the McLaren chairman, said deftly: ‘There is no problem between the team and Fernando. He gave his recollection of events, we provided our data relating to the accident and that’s the end of the story. Everything is fine.’ Amid wet conditions, Hamilton took pole again. He set the fastest time with his first lap of the final session. But, shock of shocks, Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel will start in second place with Hamilton’s team-mate, Nico Rosberg, only in third. ‘Yes, P2, great, Rosberg 50.2,’ chimed Vettel over the radio after beating his fellow German by three-tenths of a second in tough but fast-drying conditions. Daniil Kvyat drives ahead of Nico Rosberg during qualifying for the Malaysia Formula One Grand Prix .

Summary: Lewis Hamilton used regular pre-race drivers’ briefing to demand answers . Mysterious crash caused Fernando Alonso to Grand Prix in Australia . Alonso claims his steering locked during pre-season testing in Barcelona . Hamilton will start Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix in poleposition .


A son took the stand in his mother's murder trial Wednesday to testify against his father. Pelle Wall testified in a Salt Lake City, Utah courtroom and described how happy and energetic his mother, Uta von Schwedler, had been in the year before she died, a death that was initially thought to be a suicide but is now believed by authorities to be a carefully plotted out murder on the part of her ex-husband and Pelle's father, John Wall. Pelle also described his father's erratic behavior in the hours after his mother died, including a moment when he sat down on his son's bed and said to the young man, then still a teenager, 'What if I killed her and I don't remember?' Scroll down for video . Pelle Wall (above) took the stand in the murder trial of his mother, Uta von Schwedler, in a Salt Lake City, Utah courtroom on Wednesday . Pelle testified against his father John Wall (above), who is accused of killing his ex-wife and staging it to look like a suicide . According to the Deseret News, John had a very tempestuous relationship with his ex, and Pelle testified he would often say negative things about the woman in front of their children, telling them 'Uta's a bad parent' or 'Uta's making my life difficult.' He said on the stand the two would often argue when it came to the children, and that the last time he saw the two together, John rolled up his car window and drove off with the couple's four children in the middle of a conversation that the two were having in von Schwelder's driveway. Uta Von Schwedler (above) was found in her bathtub on Sept. 27, 2011 with multiple cuts to her body and a high level of Xanax in her system . The next morning Pelle said he father was nowhere to be found, and when he returned home from school that afternoon he said the man had a large cut above his eye. Von Schwedler was found in her bathtub later that day with multiple cuts to her body and a high level of Xanax in her system. That night, John woke his son up while he was sleeping and began displaying 'erratic behavior,' saying 'Uta's dead and they think I did it.' He then asked his son, 'Am I a monster?' and 'What if I killed her and I don't remember?' Pelle testified that his mother had never taken any prescription pills or antidepressants to his knowledge, remembering her as 'happy' and 'energetic.' He also said that while his father initially seemed sad following the death of his ex-wife, that soon turned 'more toward anger, hatred.' He also noted that after his parents first divorced, while he was still in elementary school, the children spent most of their time with their father, but that had changed in the years leading up to his mother's death, with custody split between the two parents, something that angered his father. The 21-year-old has long believed his father killed his mother,

Summary: Pelle Wall took the stand in the murder trial of his mother, Uta von Schwedler, in a Salt Lake City, Utah courtroom on Wednesday . Pelle testified against his father John Wall, who is accused of killing his ex-wife and staging it to look like a suicide . Von Schwedler was found in her bathtub on Sept. 27, 2011 with multiple cuts to her body and a high level of Xanax in her system . Pelle said his mother never showed any signs of depression or took any medication to his knowledge . He also testified to his father's erratic behavior after the death of his mother, saying he woke him up in the middle of the night the day she died . 'What if I killed her and I don't remember?' Pelle says his father asked .


Anyone struggling to decide on a venue for their upcoming nuptials, take note. American couple, Cheetah Platt and Rhiann Woodyard, have come up with the ultimate way to celebrate their love: by getting married in as many places around the world as they can in just under 90 days. The adventurous pair first came up with the globe-trotting plan after getting engaged last year - and finding themselves unable to come up with one specific theme or idea for the big day. Cheetah Platt (left) and Rhiann Woodyard (right), from Los Angeles, have decided to get married in 12 countries around the world . Their round the world adventure first began on February 8, when they packed two big backpacks and headed to Bogota, Colombia. During their three month journey, the couple hoped to visit 12 countries to have 38 wedding ceremonies in 83 days. Platt and Woodyard, who live in Los Angeles, admit that they did look for a traditional venue in their hometown, but nothing felt special and many they saw were simply outside of their price range. 'A lot of women spend a whole lot of time and stress and money on their one day and then it's over,' Woodyard told Buzzfeed. 'I love that I get to marry [Platt] over and over again. 'It's exciting that it's not just done in one day.' One of the couple's most recent stops? Egypt, where they tied the knot in front of an audience of camels and pyramids in the background . Platt and Woodyard first embarked on their round-the-world trip on February 8, flying to Bogota, Colombia . With the help of generous donors, Platt and Woodyard are scheduled to have 38 ceremonies in just 83 days . During their trip, the pair have decided to wear white at all times - and they will be married in the same outfits during each ceremony . One of the first few stops, the couple stopped in Spain for a beautiful ceremony amid the dramatic architecture . When they aren't officiating their stunning ceremonies, the couple takes in local experiences, like the Giraffe Center in Nairobi, Kenya . One of their favourite ceremonies took place in Mumbai, India. 'What a wonderful wedding!' Platt wrote. 'This ceremony meant so much.' With the help of honeymoon registry website, Honeyfund, the two were able to raise funds for this once in a lifetime journey. Posting the costs of the hotels they hoped to stay in and flights they hoped to take during their travels, Woodyard and Platt sourced the amounts needed to jet from the United States to Europe, Africa, Asia and everywhere in between, before returning to Los Angeles for a ceremony with friends and family in May. And forget paying for officiants in dozens of cities around the world, Woodyard and Platt were ordained online through the church of Spiritual Humanists so that they could marry each other. 'We're so excited for this once in a lifetime opportunity and we can't wait to make these dreams come true,' the pair wrote online. And

Summary: The couple first began their trek on February 8, flying from Los Angeles, California to Bogota, Colombia . Their first wedding ceremony was held in Colombia, before jetting to Spain, Ireland, Morocco and Egypt . To save money, the pair will wear the same outfit for each ceremony and have been ordained to officiate .


Ireland narrowly missed out on reaching the quarter-finals of the Cricket World Cup as they fell to a seven-wicket loss against Pakistan. William Porterfield had earlier struck his maiden World Cup century and Ireland were indebted to their captain as his 107 helped them post a modest 237 all out. However, the 30-year-old was outshone by Sarfraz Ahmed, whose unbeaten 101 led Pakistan through to the next stage of competition on net run-rate. Sarfraz Ahmed of Pakistan celebrates after reaching 100 runs against Ireland . Ireland players shake hands with their Pakistani opponents following their World Cup exit . Ahmed's century helped secure a comfortable seven-wicket win for Pakistan . Ireland's John Mooney (left) reacts after bowling a wide delivery to Pakistan's Ahmed . Pakistan's Ahmed Shehzad (left) and Ahmed run between wickets during their Cricket World Cup match . Wednesday, March 18 - South Africa v Sri Lanka - Sydney . Thursday, March 19 - India v Bangladesh - Melbourne . Friday, March 20 - Australia v Pakistan - Adelaide . Saturday, March 21 - New Zealand v West Indies - Wellington . The sides’ had contrasting starts to the competition and it was associate side Ireland that began the better of the two; with victories over the West Indies and the UAE. Pakistan however, were on the end of heavy defeats against bitter rivals India and the West Indies and were facing increasing scrutiny over whether they were going to be able to seriously contend at this World Cup. But with the competition geared towards ensuring the ‘top-eight’ teams make it through to the knockout stages of the competition, all the sides knew even as little three wins could see a team advance. In hindsight the turning point in the tournament for Ireland came against South Africa, against whom they suffered a mammoth 201-run loss. The match obliterated their net run-rate. Ireland's Ed Joyce takes a catch to dismiss Pakistan's Shehzad for 63 runs . John Mooney of Ireland stands in the outfield as they attempted to beat Pakistan in Pool B . Meanwhile, Misbah-ul-Haq, Pakistan’s effervescent and immovable captain was slowly ensuring he continued to carry his side back to some respectability. A shock 29-run (D/L) victory over South Africa ensured the match against Ireland would be a straight knockout, after the West Indies guaranteed their safe passage to the quarter-finals with an easy victory against the UAE earlier in the day. Porterfield decided having runs on the board would be his side’s best chance of victory against the 1992 World Cup champions, having won the toss. Admittedly the Adelaide Oval pitch did look every bit the ‘batting paradise’ Shahid Afradi called it and despite missing their leader with the ball Mohammad Irfan, Pakistan had Ireland in all sorts of trouble early on. Paul Stirling went for three to World Cup debutant Ehsan Adil as he tried to play across the line and was trapped lbw. Despite surviving an early scare after being dropped by Shehzad on five, Ed Joyce failed to make the most of his reprieve as

Summary: Pakiston cruise to seven-wicket win over Ireland in Adelaide . Ireland condemned to exit after Sarfraz Ahmed's unbeaten 101 . They go out after West Indies secure better run rate following UAE win .


One person is dead and another being treated for life-threatening injuries after a bluff at the end of a popular hiking trail at Point Reyes National Seashore collapsed. The two visitors were standing on the Arch Rock lookout point just before 6 p.m. on Saturday when the bluff gave way and the pair fell about 70 feet, winding up covered with rocks and debris. Collapse: A bluff collapsed at Point Reyes National Seashore in Marin County, killing one hiker and leaving a second with life-threatening injuries . The National Park Service had posted signs at the site two days earlier warning hikers that a fissure along the top of Arch Rock may have weakened the cliff and that walking along the edge was dangerous. The park did not close the trail and in spite of the warnings, one hiker who visited the park that day told the San Francisco Chronicle she had seen dozens of people walking in the area that day. 'It was clear no one should be on that rock with the huge fissure,' Karen Blasing said. 'We stayed back, but many others were unconcerned and dangerously taking chances.' KBCW reports that other park-goers scrambled to assist before officials from Marin County fire, sheriff, and Park Rangers arrived to rescue the pair. A Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office carried the pair to the trailhead, where a medical chopper was waiting. One of the hikers was pronounced dead at the scene. The other was airlifted to a hospital. They have not been identified. After the fall, the trail was closed entirely, with the National Park Service posted a message to their website. 'The area leading up to Arch Rock is closed for your safety,' the message read. 'The land may still be unstable and further collapse or erosion could occur.' Dangerous terrain: The National Park Service put up signs days earlier that warned about a fissure, seen in this undated photo, along the top of Arch Rock that could have weakened the cliff . Fallen: The two hikers fell 70 feet when the bluff gave way, killing one visitor and requiring an airlift for the severely injured hiker .

Summary: A bluff along a hiking trail in Point Reyes National Seashore in Marin County crumbled away Saturday evening . One hiker fell 70 feet to their death while another had to be airlifted to the hospital . The National Park Service had warned visitors about a fissure that had opened up on Arch Rock, possibly weakening the cliff . The two hikers have not been identified . After the fall, the National Park Service closed the trail entirely .


The happy ending of one Detroit man who used to walk eight hours to work every day is being tainted by the greed of his ex-girlfriend. James Robertson was recently able to move out of his Detroit neighborhood to a suburb with the more than $360,000 in donations he received in a crowdfunding campaign that started out as a means to purchase the 56-year-old a car. But apparently his ex-girlfriend and former landlady wants a cut of his new wealth. Scroll down for video . James Robertson used to walk eight hours to work every day, but now has a car, new home, and some money for retirement thanks to a kind crowd-funding campaign. Pictured above on March 4, cleaning his car . Robertson's ex-girlfriend and former landlady reportedly has been harassing Robertson for a cut of his money. Robertson pictured above cleaning at his new home in Troy, Michigan on March 3 . In this Tuesday March 3, 2015 photo, James Robertson, left, shows Charlie Purtan Levenson, 13, how to properly swing a baseball bat while he was visiting Robertson with his mother and others at Robertson's new apartmen . The Detroit Free-Press reports that Robertson has had to take out a restraining order against ex Tanya Fox, 60, who claims he owes her money. 'He said he was going to give me $50,000 to fix up the house,' Fox told the Free-Press, adding: 'James was not a neat person; he got grease all over the wall' in the apartment he rented from her for 15 years. Fox is just one of many in Robertson's old neighborhood who he has completely cut ties with. 'I may have been born there, but God knows I don't belong there anymore,' Robertson said about his old neighborhood near Detroit's New Center area. The plastic-molding operator also said he didn't tell people in his old neighborhood where he was moving. The 56-year-old gained celebrity after the newspaper reported earlier this year that he began walking to a job at an auto parts factory when his car stopped working in 2005 and bus service was cut back. Robertson pictured above hitting the pavement on his old 21-mile walk to work . A local college student launched a modest crowdfunding campaign to a buy a new car. It led to $360,000 eventually being raised and Robertson receiving a new, $35,000 Ford Taurus from an auto dealership. He still works at the same factory in Rochester Hills which pays him $10.55 an hour, but the hours-long walking trip now is done in a 20-minute drive. 'I'm going to keep working — that's for sure,' he told the newspaper. Financial experts are donating their service to help Robertson manage his money. The 1-bedroom apartment in Troy costs him $800 a month in rent. He had been paying $880 per month for less space in his ex-girlfriend's home in Detroit. Most of his money now is in a trust that has a principal amount of $351,000. The earnings from the trust should be enough to keep Robertson's nest egg untouched

Summary: James Robertson, 56, used to walk eight hours to get to his $10.55/hour job . The hard worker was given a new car, and $360,000 in a crowd-funding campaign . He has since had to take out a restraining order against his ex-girlfriend and former landlady Tanya Fox, 60 . Fox allegedly has been harassing Robertson for a cut of his new money .


These are the adorable images of a set of polar bear cubs seeing the world for the first time. Despite temperatures reaching -50C, the excitable cubs played in the snow - even during a blizzard - rolling around and climbing on top of their mother. Photographer Andy Skillen tracked down the family at Wapusk National Park in Manitoba, Canada, and followed the family for two days. Welcome to the world: A mother Polar bear introduces her two newborn cubs to the joys of playing in the snow . Tumble: It takes time to learn to keep your balance! Wildlife photographer Andy Skillen spent two days following the bears at Wapusk National Park in Manitoba, Canada . Drowsy: According to Mr Skillen, the polar bears had recently resurfaced after spending the winter in hibernation . The area is famous for its polar bear dens, and Mr Slkillen managed to capture a set of heart-warming scenes. In the region, most polar bears build their dens around November and come out of hibernation in February. The photographer said that most bears in the park, hungry after months of being in their dens, are anxious to get hunting seals before the spring thaw. Having excitable young bears in tow, though, makes things a little trickier. He said: 'It's a fascinating scene to watch unfold. 'Polar bears live in a world of extremes, and yet despite their fearsome reputation show a remarkably touching side. 'They are programmed to survive like no other animal on earth, and the sheer enormity of the tasks these mothers have to take on every couple of years is beyond belief. 'I have the utmost respect for all animals that can make a living in the Arctic, and bears top the lot.' Content: The family of bears was spotted in the Waspusk National Park in Manitoba, Canada . Bliss: The two young cubs, pictured, frolicked in the snow for several hours in temperatures of -50c . Love: The area is very famous for the number of polar bears who spend the winter hidden away in their dens . Protective: As soon as the young cubs take a few steps away their mother, she looks on intently . Cosy: The two young cubs use their mother as a form of protection from the worst of the elements . Safe: The cubs enjoyed their first taste of freedom but they never went too far from their protective mother . Hidden: The Polar Bear mother seemed completely oblivious to the presence of the wildlife photographer .

Summary: Wildlife photographer Andy Skillen spent two days tracking the bears at the Wapusk National Park, Manitoba, Canada . He found a mother bear introducing two newborn cubs to the joys of playing in the snow . The bears were emerging from hibernation and the mother was anxious to hunt - but it was not so easy with two cubs in tow .


The International Association of Athletics Federations has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport over the punishments handed out to six Russian drug cheats. Athletics' world governing body said it disagreed with the 'selective disqualification of results' applied by the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA). Race walkers Valeriy Borchin, Olga Kaniskina, Sergey Bakulin, Sergey Kirdyapkin and Vladimir Kanaykin and steeplechaser Yuliya Zaripova were all banned by RUSADA because of abnormalities in their biological passports. Yuliya Zaripova blows kisses to the camera after winning the 3,000m steeplechase at London 2012 Olympics . Sergey Kirdyapkin crosses the finish line to take gold in the 50km Race Walk at The Mall, London . Kirdyapkin and Zaripova were both gold medal winners at London 2012. The IAAF said in a statement: 'While the IAAF agrees with RUSADA that there is, in each case, sufficient evidence of an anti-doping rule violation and that there are aggravating circumstances justifying an increased sanction of more than two years, the IAAF disagrees with the selective disqualification of results applied by RUSADA as a consequence of the previous rulings.' Kirdyapkin was one of six Russian athletes to be banned after abnormalities with biological passports . The IAAF said the case of Tatyana Chernova, who beat Jessica Ennis-Hill to heptathlon gold at the 2011 World Championships but was later banned, was still under review. It added: 'The decision with respect to the case of Tatyana Chernova, arising from the re-analysis of her urine sample collected at the World Championships in Berlin in 2009 and kept by the IAAF as part of its retesting strategy, is still under review.'

Summary: Six Russian's were banned after abnormalities with biological passports . Two, Sergey Kirdyapkin and Yuliya Zaripova, won gold at London 2012 . International Association of Athletics Federation has appealed to CAS .


Brazil battled back from a goal down to beat France 3-1 in Thursday's international friendly at the Stade de France. The hosts took an early lead thanks to Raphael Varane's thumping header but were pegged back thanks to goals from Oscar, Neymar and Luiz Gustavo. Here Sportsmail's Luke Augustus provides his player ratings from the clash in Paris. FRANCE (4-3-3) Steve Mandanda - 6.5 . Made good saves from Neymar, Roberto Firmino and Luiz Gustavo - and could do little about the former's brilliant goal, even if he was beaten at his near post. Bacary Sagna - 5.5 . Given a tough time at right back when Neymar drifted over to the left to combine with Oscar. Raphael Varane - 6 . Scored the opening goal of the match with a bullet header - his second for his country. Lost Luiz Gustavo for Brazil's third though. Raphael Varane (top) heads home the opening goal of the game for France against Brazil . The France defender wheels away in celebration after netting his second international goal . Mamadou Sakho - 6 . Kept Firmino quiet but will be disappointed to be part of a back line that conceded three times. Patrice Evra - 6 . Fared better than Sagna on the opposite flank and was willing to get forward at any opportunity. Moussa Sissoko - 6 . Had a quiet game in midfield and was replaced in the second half by Geoffrey Kondogbia. Morgan Schneiderlin - 6.5 . Broke up play nicely in midfield for Les Bleus. Only his eighth cap for France but looks assured at international level. Morgan Schniederlin (right) broke up play nicely in midfield for Les Bleus against Brazil . Blaise Matuidi - 6 . Like Sissoko, the Paris-Saint Germain star had a quiet game in midfield. He seemed to lack his box-to-box dynamism on Thursday night. Antoine Griezmann - 6.5 . Was neat and tidy in possession but failed to carve open the Brazil back line. Mathieu Valbuena - 7 . Provided the assist for Varane's goal from the corner. Impressed in the first half with his constant movement and his deliveries throughout the game caused the Brazil defence a lot of problems. Karim Benzema - 4.5 . Captained his country for the first-time ever. Should have scored early on from close range and missed a glorious chance in the second half. Failed to get into the match overall. Karim Benzema looks to the heavens after missing a glorious chance in the second half for France . Subs . Geoffrey Kondogbia (on for Sissoko, 74 mins) - 5.5 . Failed to make to make an impact in the match when he came on. Nabil Fekir (on for Griezmann 74) - 6 . Made his debut for France and came close to scoring with a long range effort late on. Dimitri Payet (on for Valbuena 82) - N/A . Olivier Giroud (on for Matuidi 84) - N/A . Brazil (4-4-2) Jefferson - 6.5 . Produced a brilliant save to deny a Benzema header on seven minutes and made a

Summary: Brazil beat France 3-1 in Paris' Stade de France on Thursday night . Karim Benzema wasted two glorious chances for France in either half . Willian provided two assists for Brazil as they came from behind to win .


Wayne Rooney realised his boxing-in-the-kitchen video might not be quite so easy to shrug off when Coleen caught five-year-old Kai mimicking his father’s knockout goal celebration. ‘My wife went to pick him up from school and saw him doing that in the classroom,’ said Rooney. ‘I’m sure you won’t be seeing that celebration again.’ There will be no repeat if the England captain hits the target in a Euro 2016 qualifier against Lithuania at Wembley on Friday and moves ever closer to Sir Bobby Charlton’s goal record. Wayne Rooney says he won't repeat his knockout celebration if he scores for England against Lithuania . Rooney produced the celebration after scoring in Manchester United's 3-0 win over Tottenham on March 15 . The 29-year-old's celebration was in jest to him being floored by by Stoke defender Phil Bardsley at home . Rooney prepares to fall to the floor in reference to the leaked video of the impromptu bout at his family home . Ashley Young (right) laughs as Rooney falls as part of his humorous boxing celebration at Old Trafford . How Group E stands ahead of Friday's matches . Rooney celebrated scoring for Manchester United against Tottenham earlier this month by falling flat on to his back, a joke aimed at a film of him being floored by Stoke defender Phil Bardsley during an impromptu bout at his home which has since proved the source of much amusement for team-mates. ‘There has been a bit around the place, at United and England training, but you’d expect that, they’re a group of lads,’ said Rooney. ‘I’ve always loved boxing. Unfortunately, sometimes it doesn’t go too well. I was caught on the end of a punch. I wasn’t knocked out. ‘I didn’t see it as a big issue. I spoke to the manager, and he didn’t see it as a big issue. I come from a boxing background. I’d have apologised if I felt it was wrong. But for me, that’s been and gone.’ What if he had fallen badly, someone asked. ‘I never, so…’ shrugged Rooney and flashed a smile. Roy Hodgson, seated beside him, smiled too, not about to chastise his skipper, a player who will win his 102nd England cap on Friday. Only eight players have more. As for his pursuit of the goal record, he is only two behind Gary Lineker, three behind Charlton’s 49 and in splendid form for his country. ‘Bobby’s been a great for Manchester United and England,’ said Rooney. ‘I speak to him regularly at the club, especially after games. He gives me great advice, certainly when I was playing midfield because he was an attacking midfielder and he spoke to me about my role. Rooney (right) will be hoping to close in on Sir Bobby Charlton's England goalscoring record on Friday . Rooney currently has 46 goals in 101 appearances for England - just three shy of Charlton's tally . Expected line-ups for Friday's Euro 2016 qualifier . ‘But I don’t want to bring it up with him and say I’m close to beating him.

Summary: Wayne Rooney has scored 46 goals in 101 appearances for England so far . Sir Bobby Charlton is England's all-time top goalscorer with 49 . England host Lithuania in their Euro 2016 qualifier on Friday night .


The completed stone tomb of Richard III is to go on public display after being lowered into position overnight - 530 years after his death in battle. A special service marking the end of the king's journey from his forgotten grave under a council car park to a place of honour in Leicester Cathedral is being held today. The 2.3-ton tombstone, with its Christian cross carved on the top, was lifted carefully into place overnight, sealing the king beneath. Scroll down for video . Final resting place: The completed stone tomb (pictured) of Richard III is to go on public display after being lowered in to position . A special 'service or reveal' marking the end of the king's journey to the cathedral will take place today . The 2.3-ton tombstone, which features a Christian cross carved on the top, was lifted into place overnight at Leicester Cathedral . The setting of the great slab of Yorkshire Swaledale stone marks the end of a week in which the king was reinterred in a ceremony that included a poetry reading by actor Benedict Cumberbatch. The Queen called yesterday's service a moment of 'great national significance'. Organisers aimed to rebury the king with the 'dignity and honour' he was denied in death, after his original burial in a hastily-dug grave in the old Greyfriars church following his death at Bosworth field. The cathedral said it was expecting 'a considerable number of visitors from all over the world' to come and see the king's completed memorial. The king was reinterred in a ceremony at Leicester Cathedral yesterday in a service described by The Queen as a moment of 'great national significance' Actor Benedict Cumberbatch (pictured), Downton Abbey creator and writer Julian Fellowes attended the service, alongside the Countess of Wessex and the Duke and Duchess of Glouceste . Today's 'service or reveal' will include interpretative dance charting the rediscovery of Richard's grave, the science behind identifying his remains and his reburial. A banner with the king's coat of arms, provided by the Richard III Society, will also be hung over the tomb in the ambulatory during the service. Liz Hudson, the cathedral's communications director, said: 'King Richard III's tomb is now a permanent feature in Leicester Cathedral. Archaeologists discovered the king under a council car park not far from the cathedral in August 2012 . 'However, there are still a considerable number of visitors from all over the world in Leicester who we expect will want to take a last opportunity to see it before returning home. 'We anticipate a great deal of interest and suggest that people who live locally may find it easier to plan a visit to see the tomb at a slightly later date.' Last Sunday, more than 35,000 lined the streets for a procession of the king's coffin from the University of Leicester, whose archaeologists discovered his grave, to Bosworth and finally on to Leicester. Throughout the week, thousands waited in line for hours to see Richard's coffin as it lay in repose in the cathedral, before yesterday's reinterment presided

Summary: The completed stone tomb of Richard III was lifted into position overnight . Service marking end of the king's journey to the cathedral being held today . Actor Benedict Cumberbatch attended a reinterment ceremony yesterday . The 2.3-ton tombstone will now go on public display at the cathedral .


The day before George Osborne delivers his budget to the nation the Lawn Tennis Association came up with its rough equivalent – the latest long term plan to revive the state of the game in Great Britain. Chief Executive Michael Downey finally unveiled his vision for the governing body, and in budgetary terms the big winner will be those people involved in marketing the sport and trying to get more people playing it. Over the next four years there will be a 50 per cent uplift in money spent on marketing, so that by 2018 around £26 million will be spent on promoting the sport of tennis in the United Kingdom. While Andy Murrayis established as one of the world's best players, problems still exist at grass roots level . Other countries will look on enviously at such a huge sum although, given the current rankings of most GB juniors, many may well comfort themselves that their stocks of elite players will be superior for years to come. Downey reaffirmed the LTA's laudable, broad policy of building the game from the bottom up by concentrating on participation and talked through a range of worthy and sensible measures to help achieve this. However, there was nothing especially original to stir the imagination or make an impact with the wider public, no 'Parks tennis revolution' or some such thing. Anyone wanting to see something more radical to improve the British game would be left disappointed. Not that Downey, the former head of Tennis Canada who was appointed 18months ago, pulled all of his punches in presenting the latest of what have hitherto been doomed long-term plans for the British game. LTA Chief Executive Michael Downey has unveiled his long term strategy to rejuvenate the game . 'Our sport is declining and some people have a problem hearing that,' he said at the start. What he was specifically referring to was the problems tennis, like most other ball sports, has with declining participation numbers. They all face a challenge from what he termed 'doorstep' sports, highly convenient and less technically demanding activities such as running, cycling, swimming and going to the gym, which can be done solo and whenever time permits. Despite the hundreds of millions gleaned from Wimbledon profits and that event's ever growing popularity, there has been an average drop of 5 per cent in adult participation over each of the past five years. The particular problem is among the 16-44 age group with numbers steady above that. Curiously he omitted to mention, until asked, that tennis is now played to a greater or lesser extent in 20,000 schools among 2.6 million children, an impressive figure that would be envied by most other sports. Among the smorgasbord of measures to improve things, there will be a drive to increase participation in parks tennis. 'I think the old LTA would have driven by the parks and straight into the clubs and schools,' he said. The LTA receives millions annually from funds generated by the Wimbledon Championships . There were other sensible ideas. With tennis

Summary: LTA have unveiled their long term plan to get more people playing tennis . There will be 50 per cent increase in marketing budget over next four years . There has been five per cent drop in adult participation over last five years . Chief Michael Downey has spoken to Andy Murray on spreading the game .