The taxman enjoys a ‘cosy’ relationship with the accountants who help multinationals avoid billions in tax, a damning report will claim today. A powerful committee of MPs claims weak law enforcement means tax avoidance – and evasion – remains ‘a risk worth taking’. The Public Accounts Committee said HM Revenue and Customs is failing to sufficiently tackle ‘widespread’ tax avoidance by US giants, including Starbucks, Google and Amazon. Margaret Hodge, chair of the Public Accounts Committee, said HMRC needs to come down hard on companies who use artificial overseas offices to avoid tax, and the firms that advise them . They must also do more to challenge the accountancy firms which help these multinationals to dodge their liabilities, the group will say. Major corporations have been accused of funnelling billions of pounds through tax havens such as Luxembourg and Ireland to reduce their bill. They are accused of exploiting a loophole which enables them to pay tax in the country where they are based, rather than where they sell their goods. By setting up ‘artificial’ offices in low-tax countries, they are able to pay a much lower annual levy on their profits. Today, the PAC will say that the taxman must do more to ‘challenge’ these tactics, saying: ‘HMRC needs to show that it comes down hard on tax cheats and change the perception that it is far too tolerant of those who break the law by hiding their income. ‘The current system still causes the odds to be stacked in favour of tax evaders using offshore accounts when the worst that will happen if they are caught is that they will pay the tax they owe and a fine.’ Amazon, Starbucks and Vodaphone have all previously been found to funnel profits through tax havens, despite earning that money in the UK . It added: ‘HMRC has not been sufficiently challenging of the manifestly artificial tax arrangements of multinationals.’ The report was critical of large UK accountancy firms, such as Pricewaterhouse Coopers, which it claimed advised many multinationals on how to pay less tax in the UK through the use of complex schemes. They accused HMRC of not doing enough to ‘challenge’ this tax advice and instead focusing on the multinationals themselves. Margaret Hodge, chair of the Public Accounts Committee and a Labour MP, said: ‘We remain concerned that HMRC’s relationship with these large accountancy firms is too cosy, and it needs to get much tougher in challenging the advice they give to their clients. ‘It is disappointing that HMRC has rejected our recommendation for a tougher code of conduct for tax advisers - a response which is out of kilter with its wider policy to clamp down on aggressive tax avoidance. ‘Furthermore, we do not believe there are enough prosecutions for tax evasion to act as an effective deterrent to those who break the law. As it stands, tax avoidance – and even evasion – can be a risk worth taking. ‘We are not persuaded that HMRC and the Crown Prosecution Service are doing enough to prosecute serious tax evasion cases.’

Summary: Public Accounts Committee said HMRC is failing to tackle tax avoidance . Chair Margaret Hodge said harsher penalties are needed for those caught . Weak enforcement means 'tax avoidance can be a risk worth taking'


A documentary maker who embarked on a high-sugar diet for 60 days to demonstrate the dramatic effect of sugar on the body has weighed into the debate about controversial new coke product, 'Coke Life'. Health experts have accused Coca Cola of ‘health washing’ consumers with the launch of its new ‘lower-calorie’ soft drink as it still contains the full amount of an adult’s recommended daily allowance of sugar. Damon Gameau spent two months eating so-called 'healthy' foods such as juice, cereal and sports drinks for a documentary called That Sugar Film - exposing the prevalence of 'hidden sugars'. Australian actor Damon Gameau reintroduced sugar into his diet after three years with shocking results . Coca-Cola Life (left) comes in a green can and although it has less sugar than regular Coca-Cola (right) it still contains six teaspoons of sugar . Dr Rooney highlighted research carried out in the eighties where rats were given a sugar solution, a saccharin [artificial sweetener] solution and only drank a certain amount. But when the rats were given both sugar and saccharin mixed together they drank more than they normally would. ‘It’s called a super mix, a little bit of sugar and sweetener drives over consumption… if this translates to the human population then that is fantastic for Coke’s profit line,’ Dr Rooney said. Coke Life has its very own ‘super mix’ of both sugar and Stevia - a type of sweetener. ‘Coke will be pushing more products but we will be doing more detriment to our health,’ Dr Rooney warned. When it comes to the green colour of the Coke Life packet it can give off a ‘healthy vibe’, Dr Rooney said. He noted Coke would have done a great amount of market research before they launched the product. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley launched Coca-Cola Life - sweetened from natural sources with a blend of sugar and stevia leaf extract - back in London in September . In documentary 'That Sugar Film' he aims to highlight the sugars that are often hidden in 'health' foods . ‘There would have been some work that went into the association of green with health. I can understand how on some superficial level at least that it is seen as a healthier product. ‘But people should be aware that a sugar sweetened beverage is still an excessive calorie product with no nutritional benefits,’ he said. Dr Rooney explained that ‘liquid calories’ are the worst type of calorie source because the body metabolises them differently to solid food. ‘If you are looking to improve health the very first step is to remove your liquid calories,’ Dr Rooney said. The best drinks to consume are water and milk, he advised. And when it comes to Coke’s claims that they are trying to help battle the obesity epidemic, Dr Rooney said it is ‘disingenuous, duplicitous and highly inappropriate for Coke to frame their products as healthy.’ Dr Rooney said it is 'disingenuous, duplicitous and highly inappropriate' for Coke products to be marketed as healthy . Coca-Cola Life uses a mix of sugar and natural plant

Summary: A 330ml can of Coca Cola Life still has 22g of sugar and 89 calories . A can of regular Coca Cola has 35g of sugar and 139 calories . Experts say branding Coke Life as low-calorie is 'disingenuous' Damon Gameau spent two months eating so-called 'healthy' foods for a hugely popular documentary called 'That Sugar Film' He has weighed into the debate, criticising the sugar-laden beverage for marketing itself as a product for health-conscious consumers . 'Coke Life should not be considered a healthy option,' nutritionist says . It has its very own 'super mix' of both sugar and natural sweetener Stevia . 'People should be aware that a sugar sweetened beverage is still an excessive calorie product with no nutritional benefits,' expert says .


With injuries piling up ahead of Scotland’s final Six Nations match against Ireland, Vern Cotter has identified a solution to his selection problem. ‘We will play the Under-20s against them,’ said the Scotland head coach in his laconic, deadpan style. ‘We had eight players injured against England. How many are doubts for the Ireland match? All of them.’ Jim Hamilton, seen here tackling England's James Haskell, is one of five doubts for the Ireland game . Such was the despondent air hanging over the Scotland head coach as he spoke in the bowels of Twickenham on Saturday evening, he could be forgiven for thinking the worst at the time. Thankfully, a Scottish Rugby Union medical bulletin issued on Sunday suggested it was five players — not eight — who will require further treatment ahead of the match at BT Murrayfield. Second row Jim Hamilton, who had to come off for a time after being concussed in the first half, then had to be replaced following a back spasm, is the biggest doubt to face Ireland. Matt Scott suffered a ‘dead leg’ with bad bruising and now faces a race against time to be ready. Alasdair Dickinson has a leg injury he picked up in a tackle, winger Tommy Seymour an elbow problem and flanker Blair Cowan a calf strain. The walking wounded will be excused training on Monday, with an SRU spokesman saying the medical team will be working with them over the next few days to try to ensure they can put some work in before the final Six Nations match. Vern Cotter was downbeat after the defeat, which came with a heavy price in terms of personell . Others who Cotter thought were more seriously hurt, such as Finn Russell, David Denton and Euan Murray, should be fit. ‘We have been unlucky with injuries, which hasn’t helped us,’ said Cotter, who lost Alex Dunbar in the build-up to the Calcutta Cup encounter. ‘Everybody has to be patient. We can turn the corner, come back strong and do well against Ireland. ‘Right now, we have to take that defeat to England on the chin and keep working, analysing what went wrong, what went right and moving forward. ‘I thought there were some real positive aspects for us in our game at Twickenham but we have Ireland next week and they beat England — so it will be very tough test.’ Cotter continues to insist his side are ‘heading in the right direction’ despite a fourth Six Nations defeat and a likely wooden spoon. Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw takes a heavy hit as he brings down Ben Youngs during the narrow defeat . VIDEO O2 Inside Line: England v Scotland match review . He praised his players for battling back against England after losing a fourth-minute converted try from Jonathan Joseph. ‘England based their strategy on starting well and they did just that,’ added Cotter. ‘What I saw from our team after that pleased me. I saw great character. They didn’t panic, got themselves back into the match and I got a

Summary: Soctland lost eight men during defeat to England on Saturday . Five of those are doubtful for Ireland clash next weekend . Scotland have lost all four games so far, but Vern Cotter calls for patience .


Jailed: Vicky Marks stole £4,200 from vulnerable Joan Groucher while pretending to care for her . A carer stole thousands of pounds from the 90-year-old dementia victim she was supposed to be looking after finding her PIN written in her diary. Vicky Marks left her frail victim Joan Groucher 'heartbroken' by abusing her trust to plunder £4,200 from her bank account over a seven-month period. The victim was so upset by the crime that she has had to leave her home in Croydon, south London and move into sheltered accommodation. Marks, 59, visited Mrs Groucher twice a week and stole her bank card so she could withdraw large amounts of cash, using the code written in the elderly woman's diary. She even stole money while Mrs Groucher was ill in hospital, Croydon Crown Court heard. Sentencing Marks to 12 months in jail, Recorder Silas Reid told her: 'The victim was in her nineties, had problems with dementia, and, effectively, you inveigled your way into her family.' He added: 'It's still unclear to me why you would do that to someone of that age, why you would cause her that much pain, which, in the end, wasn't really for that much money. 'But time and time again you took her card and took money from her account. It seems almost every time you went to her house you would have taken money.' Mrs Groucher, who has four children and eight grand-children, had lived at the same house for around 30 years, but she was so distressed by the crime that her dementia deteriorated and she had to move into care. 'One of the features of this case which is disturbing is that she had to leave her home,' Mr Reid said. In a victim impact statement read to the court, Mrs Groucher said: 'I know Vicky does not have a mother, but that is no reason to do what she did. 'You were trusted by me and I'm heartbroken. It's disgusting what Vicky did to me. It worries me she could have done it to other people.' Paul Fairley, prosecuting, told the court that Mrs Groucher paid Marks £10 every time she visited. The thief's deception was found out when Mrs Groucher's daughter Caroline Baldwin, 70, saw that there was money missing from her bank account in July last year. Hearing: Croydon Crown Court (above) heard Marks even stole money while Mrs Groucher was ill in hospital . 'She noticed there was £2,000, or £3,000 less than what there should have been,' Mr Fairley said. Mrs Baldwin then took a closer look at her mother's bank statement and noticed 'a pattern of sums of £100 and £200 withdrawn over a significant period of time', he added. She notified the police who checked CCTV footage from the Lloyd's Bank branch in Croydon and identified Marks withdrawing £100 from the victim's account the previous day. Marks, from Coulsdon in Surrey, was arrested and pleaded guilty to fraud at an earlier hearing. Speaking outside court today, Mrs Baldwin said her family was 'elated' by the jail

Summary: Vicky Marks, 59, was supposed to be caring for 90-year-old Joan Groucher . But she copied her PIN and stole her bank card to withdraw thousands . Marks has been jailed for 12 months after taking advantage of her victim . Mrs Groucher was so distressed she was forced to leave her home and move into sheltered accommodation .


The contest was effectively over before it began. With two minutes and 39 seconds on the clock, Shakhtar Donetsk defender Olexandr Kucher received the quickest red card in Champions League history before Thomas Muller converted the resulting penalty. The 10 men never stood a chance as Bayern Munich sauntered into the quarter-finals at the Allianz Arena. Jerome Boateng added a second for the German champions in the first half before Franck Ribery, Muller, Holger Badstuber, Robert Lewandowski and Mario Gotze completed the rout. Robert Lewandowski slides the ball past Andriy Pyatov to make it 6-0 to Bayern Munich . The Poland international clenches his fist in celebration as Pep Guardiola's side ran riot . Holger Badstuber powers a free header past the Shakhtar keeper to make it five . The Bayern defender lets out a roar in celebration after netting in the last 16 second leg . Thomas Muller slides the ball into an empty net after it broke kindly to him in the penalty box . Pyatov looks back in despair as Franck Ribery fires past him from a tight angle to make it 3-0 . Bayern Munich: Neuer, Boateng, Badstuber (Dante 67), Alaba, Rafinha, Schweinsteiger, Gotze, Muller, Ribery (Bernat 59), Robben (Rode 19), Lewandowski . Subs not used: Benatia, Pizarro, Lahm, Reina . Scorer(s): Muller 4, 51, Boateng 34, Ribery 48, Badstuber 63, Lewandowski 75, Gotze 87 . Booked: Boateng, Badstuber . Manager: Pep Guardiola . Shakhtar Donetsk: Pyatov, Srna, Kucher, Rakitskiy, Shevchuk, Fred, Stepanenko, Douglas Costa (Wellington 79), Teixeira (Ilsinho 70), Taison (Kryvtsov 9), Adriano . Subs not used: Fernando, Gladkiy, Kanibolotskiy, Ferreira Bonfim . Booked: Douglas Costa . Sent off: Kucher 3 . Manager: Mircea Lucescu . Referee: Willie Collum (Scotland) Shakhtar had held Bayern to a hugely credible goalless draw in Donetsk three weeks ago but, knowing that an away goal in Bavaria could prove crucial, got off to the worst start possible. Mario Gotze burst into the Shakhtar penalty area after he being released by Franck Ribery's slick first time pass before Kucher went to ground. The contact was minimal but enough to fell the World Cup-winner. Muller made no mistake from 12 yards after the defender had harshly been brandished with a red card. The hosts had to wait 30 minutes before doubling the lead as Robert Lewandowski, who should have scored, hit the post before Andriy Pyatov denied Ribery with a smart stop. But the Ukrainian outfit's resistance was finally broken again on 34 minutes. Former Manchester City defender Boateng tapped home from a yard out after Pyatov had saved at Lewandowski's feet. Ribery added a third for the home side on 49 minutes after exchanging passes with David Alaba before firing a crisp effort past Pyatov from a tight angle. Ribery celebrates with the ball under his shirt after scoring Bayern's third . Jerome Boateng taps home from less than a yard out to double Bayern's lead in the first half . The former Manchester City defender points to the sky in celebration as he is mobbed by team-mates . Thomas Muller celebrates

Summary: Shakhtar Donetsk were reduced to 10 men inside three minutes . Oleksandr Kucher brought down Mario Gotze in the penalty are . Thomas Muller made no mistake from the spot to give Bayern the edge . Jerome Boateng doubled the lead for the Bundesliga champions . Franck Ribery and Muller added two more within six minutes of the restart . Holger Badstuber scored a fifth for Bayern with a powerful header . Robert Lewandowski and Gotze sealed the win with six and seven .


England's opponents in next week's friendly, Italy, have the best defence in Europe and the statistics prove it. Having shipped four goals in 14 games, Italy, who face Bulgaria in a Euro 2016 qualifier on Saturday before hosting Roy Hodgson's side on Tuesday, have the meanest rearguard in Europe in terms of goals conceded in this qualifying competition and its predecessor. With next best England having let in six goals in 12 games, Azzurri defender Leonardo Bonucci said on Thursday that is clear that when it comes to shutting out the opposition, Italy are the best in the business. Leonardo Bonucci trains with the Italy squad ahead of their games against Bulgaria and England . Bonucci says his Italian defence, with Gianluigi Buffon and Giorgio Chiellini, is the best in the world . 'I believe so,' Juventus and Italy defender Bonucci told a news conference. 'I don't want to sound boastful but (Gianluigi) Buffon (Giorgio) Chiellini, (Andrea) Barzagli and myself are the best when you're talking about international competition. 'The numbers don't lie.' With Barzagli recently returning to fitness, Italy coach Antonio Conte can field the same defenders that helped him win three league titles in his previous role as Juventus manager. 'I'm very happy that Andrea (Barzagli) is back. We've been playing together forever and this helps,' Bonucci said. 'Especially, when we are a back three, I can lead them in pressuring opponents and they know that I'll be a few steps behind and help out, if they need me.' Italy visit Bulgaria on Saturday, where they have not won in five previous attempts. England managed to score once against the Italians at the World Cup, but still ended up losing in Manaus . Bonucci says having his Juventus team-mates together in international football is an advantage . Buffon and Chiellini have been two key players for Juventus and Italy for many years . 'Our attitude is to try to dictate play and put pressure on them starting in their own end but we'll have to be careful as their counterattack is dangerous,' Bonucci said. Italy are second to Croatia on goal difference in Group H on 10 points and have conceded two goals in four games. Conte, who replaced Cesare Prandelli after last year's disappointing World Cup campaign in which Italy failed to make it out of the group stage, is, according to Bonucci, meticulous in his attention to detail. Andrea Barzagli (right) returns for Italy after an injury layoff, and will offer even more stability . Antonio Conte worked with the Juventus back three, and Buffon, for several years, and is now Italy boss . The coach has his players sit through two hours of video every morning, where he goes over past games and talks about upcoming matches. 'The boss is a very charismatic person,' Bonucci said. 'He prepares each game in minute detail. 'As soon as we got here he showed us our last two matches (against Croatia and Albania) and not a day went by, when he was at Juve, in which he did not have

Summary: Italy have conceded just four times in last 14 games . England are the next best in Europe, with six goals against in 12 games . Leonardo Bonucci says his side have the best back four in the world . Roy Hodgson's team travel to Italy for a friendly on Tuesday .


The England players were put through their paces on Tuesday ahead of their penultimate Six Nations game against Scotland at the weekend. Stuart Lancaster's men are looking to bounce back from the disappointing defeat by Ireland with victory at Twickenham. And the players returned to the Bagshot training field and looked relaxed, facing a Scotland side who are looking to avoid a Six Nations wooden spoon having lost their opening three games. Chris Robshaw grapples with team-mate George Ford during a warm-up at the England training session on Tuesday . England captain Robshaw looked relaxed as he play-fighted with Ford ahead of the Six Nations game with Scotland . Stuart Lancaster watches on his team prepare for the crucial encounter at Twickenham at the weekend . Graham Rowntree has demanded a reaction from England having finally come to terms with the defeat by Ireland . Graham Rowntree has demanded a reaction from England having finally come to terms with a chastening defeat by Ireland. A 19-9 loss in Dublin has left the red rose on the periphery of the RBS 6 Nations title picture, needing Wales to intervene by beating the reigning champions in Cardiff this weekend. It was an alarming performance at the Aviva Stadium just five matches out from the World Cup with a pack that has excelled over the last year failing to cover itself in glory. Forwards coach Rowntree expects Scotland to feel the full force of England's anguish when the Championship enters its penultimate round. 'There is lots we have to put right because the Ireland game was immensely frustrating and disappointing,' Rowntree said. 'I've just got over it, if I'm honest. We had a long week last week pulling it apart. 'We're playing a team at Twickenham who have just lost at home and have a lot to prove themselves. I expect a reaction from us. We have an honest group of lads and we're not satisfied at all with that performance. But we have this week to put it right.' The pack were subdued against Ireland, lacking the Celts' ferocity as they came off worse in just about every department of the game. He added: 'We just couldn't get our game going and that comes down to a multitude of reasons. Ill-discipline was one. It was a very good Ireland performance. They stifled our game and fair play, the best team won. 'The way they quickly amassed points on the scoreboard was frustrating, but at half time we were still very much in the game. 'It was a clinical performance from Ireland, but we came back strongly and that was important. If we'd had more opportunities to play in that area of the field then the result could have been different.' Mike Brown was back training with the squad in Bagshot and the full back could feature . Captain Robshaw attempts a rare drop goal in the warm up of England's training session on Tuesday . Danny Cipriani may feature against Scotland after the full back didn't have time to impress in Dublin . A

Summary: England face Scotland in their fourth 2015 Six Nations clash at Twickenham on Saturday . Mike Brown back training with the squad in Bagshot, Surrey, as England prepare for the game . Graham Rowntreehas demanded a reaction from England having finally come to terms with the defeat by Ireland . Captain Chris Robshaw and fly half George Ford look relaxed during training session on Tuesday .


After a lifetime of working hard, pensioners deserve to raise a toast to retirement. And these days they’re doing just that – enjoying a daily tipple at 6.30pm. Some prefer to crack open a bottle a little earlier, around 4pm, but others can’t even wait that long... and say cheers with their first glass at lunchtime. Researchers found the majority of pensioners are making the most of their later years with a packed diary of social engagements, days out, short breaks, holidays and shopping, as well as time spent outside (file image) With such a relaxed start to the day, it’s no wonder that a poll of retirees aged 60 and over found 94 per cent are enjoying their post-work life, while half said they are having more fun than ever before. Improvements in healthcare and living standards mean that these days pensioners have the energy to manage a hectic social diary, buoyed up by an average disposable income of £330 a month, which allows them to go on three holidays, two weekends away and 17 day trips a year. The survey found that 6.30pm is retirees’ favourite time to enjoy a tipple or two. A third of those polled said they drink alcohol between 6pm and 7pm, while one in ten prefer a late afternoon drink between 4pm and 5pm, and a hardy one in 20 kick off their socialising between 1pm and 3pm. More than half said they drink wine, while the rest opt for spirits or beer. The study also showed that most pensioners eat out three times a month, but one in ten do so more than twice a week. This is despite family commitments, with retirees dedicating an average of six hours a week to looking after their grandchildren. Of those who do not already care for grandchildren, two-thirds said they would like to in the future. The average retirement consists of a daily glass of wine at 6.30pm, research has found (file picture) Most said they are active and exercise at least six times a month. The most popular activities are brisk walking, gardening and rambling. But a more ambitious 17 per cent participate in cycling, Zumba or salsa dancing. And one in 20 take at least five weekend breaks in Britain every year. Almost three-quarters said they feel a lot younger than their actual age, with the same proportion saying retirement is better than they expected. It’s no wonder then that 20 per cent of those polled said they wish they had retired years ago. Going on a cruise, taking up a new hobby and buying a dog are common achievements in the first year of retirement, while IT lessons and losing weight were also popular among those polled. Shortly after retiring, a third said they booked lunch dates with friends, a quarter revamped their house and one in ten signed up to Facebook. A glamorous few said they plan to or had already invested in makeovers or cosmetic surgery. Senior Railcard, which runs a rail discount scheme for train companies, polled 1,260 pensioners. Andrew

Summary: Survey found typical pensioner enjoys three 'slap-up' meals out per month . They also plan two weekends away per year and 17 day trips, poll showed . A quarter decide to redecorate their home while one in ten join Facebook . 20% of those polled also said they wished they had retired 'years ago'


This is the excruciating moment a woman appears to snap a bone in her leg while using gym equipment. The unidentified woman cries in pain as her bone apparently snaps, moments after she lifts a heavy weight using a leg press. A leg press is a machine used in strength or resistance training. It requires a person to push weight away therefore engaging their leg muscles. But when the woman she is halfway through her second repetition, having already lifted the weight, she relaxes her leg while it is extended, rather than keeping her knee bent to support the weight. The unidentified woman screams in agony as her leg bone snaps. She was using a leg press machine at the gym, in which she was pushing away weights with her leg muscles . But the weight is too heavy and bears down on her leg, forcing it to bend the wrong way. The force causes a painful injury to her leg. While the woman writhes in agony, a man standing nearby in a suit watching her workout rushes to help. While it is unclear what exactly injury she sustained, an expert told MailOnline she could have fractured the tibia (the bone between the knee and ankle) or the femur (bone that extends from the pelvis to the knee). It is also possible she sustained an injury to the posterior cruciate ligament, the strongest ligament in the knee. Sammy Margo, a chartered physiotherapist said: ‘On the second repetition, her leg went into hyperextension, which means the ligaments go beyond themselves and the knee has bent back on itself. ‘She could have torn her posterior cruciate ligament,' she said. 'The ligament prevents the knee joint from what physios call "posterior instability". 'This means it prevents the tibia from moving too much and going behind the femur - the knee buckling back on itself. ‘It’s also possible she pulled the ligament off the leg bones and they fractured. She would have dislocated her knee.’ Fitness experts today warned of the dangers of carrying out exercises such as a leg press without the proper training or supervision. Sit on the machine with the back and head against the padded support. Place feet on the foot plate about hip width apart, ensuring the heels are flat against the platform. The legs should form a 90 degree angle at the knee and the knees should be in line with the feet. Brace the abdominal muscles and push the platform away with heels. Don't lock the knees or relax when the leg is extended. Slowly allow the platform to lower back to its starting position by bending the knees in a controlled manner. Make sure heels are always touching the plate, the knees are not bowing outwards or inwards and ensure the head is steady. Start with a modest weight and progress to a higher weight if comfortable. Some said that resistance machines such as the leg press are dangerous because they isolate muscles in a way that does not mimic 'real life' movement, while others warned a person

Summary: Woman is lifting weights with her legs using a leg press machine . When she lifts the weight she keeps her leg extended rather than bending it . Weight bears down, pushing her leg the wrong way and injuring her leg . She writhes in agony as a man standing nearby rushes to help her . Expert today told MailOnline people should never use machines like leg presses without appropriate training or supervision .


Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has questioned the long-term effects of holding the 2022 World Cup in the winter. The final of the showpiece event in Qatar is to be on Sunday, December 18 - a decision which will allow traditional Boxing Day club matches to take place in Britain and avoid the fierce heat of June and July. It will be a shortened tournament over 28 days instead of the usual 32, starting on November 21. December 18 is also Qatar's national day. Manuel Pellegrini has expressed concern over the plans to play the Qatar 2022 World Cup in winter . The Manchester City manager watches on during his side's 1-0 defeat by Barcelona on Wednesday night . However, Pellegrini is concerned how Premier League games, which would usually be scheduled for November and December, will be caught up later in the season and the impact of doing so on the next domestic campaign. 'I think it is difficult to stop all the European leagues in that month, especially in our league at this moment, and not play football here in November and December,' Pellegrini said. 'When you recover those amount of games what will happen in the next season, when you finish late, how many days the national squad will need their players? 'I don't think it is easy. It is a big task.' Swansea manager Garry Monk echoed Pellegrini's thoughts, but conceded that teams would just have to 'get on with it'. Swansea boss Garry Monk says the break will be strange but the clubs will just have to get on with it . Roberto Martinez says teams around Europe will have to adapt to the affect of a winter World Cup . 'It will be strange having a two-month break in the middle of the season. I'm not sure how that's going to work and I'd have to see the exact lay-out of it, but I don't think it's a great thing,' he said. 'It's beyond the powers of Swansea City, but I can't imagine too many teams are happy with it. But it sounds as if we're just going to have to get on with it.' Everton boss Roberto Martinez conceded the tournament moving to November would need plenty of adaptation, but he always expected a World Cup in Qatar to be held over the winter. 'You need clarity and then you can prepare towards that,' Martinez said. 'But I always felt that once it was given to Qatar it was going to be a winter World Cup. 'When all the talk is about wanting the World Cup in different continents and different countries, and when the hosts are going to be Qatar, it's only normal that it's going to be played in the winter. 'That's going to affect two or three seasons around that date, but we need to adapt and make it a big football celebration like the World Cup's supposed to be.' Hull boss Steve Bruce says playing the World Cup in the winter is the only sensible solution . Hull manager Steve Bruce

Summary: Qatar 2022 World Cup will take place from November 21 to December 19 . The Premier League will break mid-season between these dates . Manuel Pellegrini does not think it'll be easy to recover the missed games . Garry Monk said break will be strange but clubs will have to get on with .


They form an unlikely duo - especially for something as physically demanding as planting trees. But a blind man and a double amputee have overcome their disabilities by becoming each other's eyes and hands. Jia Haixa and Jia Wenqi embarked on their heart-warming partnership 10 years ago after finding they were unable to secure jobs due to their respective impairments. Together they have created their own unique way of working that has allowed them to transform a three-hectare stretch of riverbank, according to The People's Daily online. Team work: Blind Jia Haixa and double amputee Jia Wenqi have found a unique way of working together . Helping hand: In the last 10 years the friends have become the eyes and hands for each other in the rural village of Hebei, China . Partnership working: Blind Mr Haixa scales a tree with the help of Mr Wenqi, so that he can find fresh cuttings to plant in the ground . 'I am his hands,' said blind Mr Haixia. 'He is my eyes. We are good partners.' The 53-year-old was born with congenital cataracts which left him blind in his left eye. Then in 2000, due to a work accident, he also lost the sight in his right eye. Mr Wenqi, also 53, lost both arms in an accident when he was just three-years-old. In 2001, unable to secure work elsewhere, the eco-warriors leased a large stretch of the river bank from the local government in a bid to plant trees for future generations. The proud pair also hoped to earn a modest income from their work from government funding and help protect their village from flooding in the process. Each day the dedicated pair leave their home at 7am armed with only a hammer and iron rod. Before they can start their work Mr Wenqi has to carry his blind companion across a fast moving river. Without money to buy saplings, they then have to collect cuttings. This is no easy task and involves Mr Haixa scaling large trees. Without the use of his eyes, he is guided by his armless companion as he hauls himself through the branches. Back on solid ground, he then creates a hole and plants the new shoot. It then becomes Mr Wenqi's job to water the saplings. It hasn't been fast work, but now the three hectare site is covered with trees that attract a large number of birds. In total the duo believe they have planted 10,000 trees in a decade and have no plans to stop. 'Though we did not accomplish much in a dozens years, we recognize our effort,' said Mr Haixia. Mr Wenqi added: 'We stand on our own feet. The fruits of our labor taste sweeter. Even though we are gnawing on steam buns, we find peace in our hearts.' Companions: Mr Wenqi carriers his blind colleagues across the river before they can begin their days work . Best of friends: The inspirational pair have refused to let their individual disabilities hold them back . The pair have planted 10,000 trees together

Summary: Jia Haixia and Jia Wenqi, both 53, have planted 10,000 trees in Hebei, China . Mr Haixia is blind in both eyes and Mr Wenqi is a double amputee . Created unique way of working together after they were left unable to work . 'I am his hands and he is my eyes,' says Mr Haixia. 'We are a good team' Together they have transformed a three-hectare stretch of riverbank .


David Cameron has been told that he can stay in Downing Street even if he loses the election while other parties try to piece together a coalition. He will remain Prime Minister until an alternative is found, and ministers who lose their seats could continue to serve in a caretaker government for weeks. Sir Jeremy Heywood, the country's top civil servant, insisted that Mr Cameron must remain in Number 10 until there can be a 'smooth transition' to a new government. David Cameron will remain Prime Minister until an alternative is found, and ministers who lose their seats could continue to serve in a caretaker government for weeks . In 2010, Gordon Brown was accused of 'squatting' in Downing Street while the Tories and Lib Dems negotiated the details of their coalition pact. But Sir Jeremy, the Cabinet Secretary, insisted that it was the right thing to do to ensure the wheels of government kept turning. Five years ago the coalition deal was agreed in just five days, but with a hung parliament likely again, it is expected that any power-sharing agreement could take much longer, possibly even several weeks. Sir Jeremy told the Political and Constitutional Reform Committee: 'The reality is what Gordon Brown did last time I think was generally applauded, not in every single quarter. 'But the idea that you would stay in Downing Street until it was pretty clear who would be better placed than you to form another government, that's what he did, that's what happened and we ended up with a very smooth transition. 'I would certainly urge a future prime minister in the same position to adopt a similar approach.' Sir Jeremy Heywood, the country's top civil servant, insisted that Mr Cameron must remain in Number 10 until there can be a 'smooth transition' to a new government . Polls suggest both Labour and the Tories will fall short of securing an overall majority at the general election on May 7. With the SNP on the rise in Scotland, the Lib Dems defending 57 seats and Ukip predicting they will win more than 10 seats, it is possible that no two parties would be able to form a majority. A coalition deal between three or more parties would take much longer to agree, and could prove unstable. Sir Jeremy added: 'I think it would be very unfair, particularly if it took slightly longer next time than just the five days it took last time, it would be very unfair if the incumbent prime minister was criticised for staying around in Downing Street when he was simply doing what most people would regard as the expectation placed upon him.' In 2010, Gordon Brown was accused of 'squatting' in Downing Street while the Tories and Lib Dems negotiated the details of their coalition pact . Sir Jeremy said it would be a 'bad mistake to drag' the Queen into any decisions or negotiations that would need to be taken if no party has a clear majority after the election, even if there if two coalitions were formed

Summary: Top civil servant Sir Jeremy Heywood reveals post-election planning . Cabinet Secretary has spoken to Cameron about staying on after result . He will remain PM until an alternative government can be formed . Coalition talks between multiple parties could last for several weeks . Ministers who lose their seats could stay on in caretaker government .


A wave of migrants 4,500 years ago left their trace in the DNA and languages of modern Europeans. This is according to a study that found evidence of this Stone Age migration by analysing DNA of 69 people who lived across Europe between 8,000 and 3,000 years ago. Among the shifts in the genetic make-up of ancient Europeans they found that DNA associated with the Yamnaya people appeared strongly in what is now northern Germany. Researchers have identified a mass migration of Kurgan populations (Yamna culture) which went from the Russian steppes to the centre of Europe 4,500 years ago. Previously, researchers had believed it spread 8,500 years ago, when the first farmers from the Near East, now modern day Turkey, brought it to Europe . There are two main theories as to how Indo-European languages spread in Europe. The first is the Anatolian hypothesis, which claims spread of the language occurred some 8,500 years ago, when the first farmers from the Near East (currently Turkey) brought it to Europe. The Kurgan hypothesis, meanwhile, proposes that the language was spread by nomadic herders of the steppes found to the north of the Black and Caspian Sea. This theory suggests their language spread throughout Europe after the invention of wheeled vehicles, from 6,000 to 5,000 years ago. The Yamnaya were herders who lived in the steppe north of the Black and Aral Seas. This injection of DNA indicates 'a massive migration into the heartland of Europe from its eastern periphery,' said the researchers, led by David Reich of Harvard Medical School. Such a large-scale influx would likely have affected not just the DNA but ancient cultures as well. Although genes can't determine what people spoke, the researchers argue that their findings could influence the debate about the origins of Indo-European tongues. Indo-European languages include more than 400 tongues, from modern languages such as English and Polish to ancient languages like Hittite and Sanskrit. Basque, which is spoken in south-west France and northern Spain, is not Indo-European, and may be the only surviving relic of earlier languages once spoken more widely, according to the BBC. Linguists have long debated whether Indo-European languages came to Europe with farmers migrating from the Middle East or some other group, such as the Yamnaya. Previously, researchers had believed that Indo-European language spread some 8,500 years ago, when the first farmers from the Near East, now modern day Turkey, brought it to Europe. The latest study suggests that Europe was first reshaped at this time in what archaeologists call the Neolithic Revolution. Farmers from Anatolia travelled north, bringing new technology and language into Europe. This was followed by a second wave of people several thousand years later from what is today Ukraine and Russia. The latest study suggests that Europe was first reshaped during the Neolithic Revolution 8,500 years ago. Farmers at this time travelled north, bringing new technology and language into Europe. Pictured is an early Neolithic 35-40 year old male from, Czech Republic, who was part of the first mass migration to Europe . As well as

Summary: Study looked at DNA of Europeans who lived 8,000 and 3,000 years ago . DNA associated with Yamnaya people appeared in northern Germany . Yamnaya were herders from the steppe north of the Black and Aral Seas . This suggests a large influx that would have changed speech and DNA . Previously, researchers believed that Indo-European language spread some 8,500 years ago, by the first farmers from the Near East, now Turkey .


This is the terrifying moment a teenage girl is almost crushed to death as a car hurtles through the front of a pizza store. A surveillance camera caught the near-fatal incident happening at Pudge Brothers Pizza in Aurora, Colorado, around 5pm on Wednesday. Footage shows the unidentified 15-year-old being driven through the front of the restaurant as a vehicle rams her from behind. She is suddenly showered with shards of glass as the window breaks before her. Furniture from the eatery is upturned and pushed forwards. Miraculously the girl appears to be okay as she gets up from the bonnet and walks away. A passer-by stops at the front door to check out the situation. The sedan then appears to start backing up. Police told CBS News that the driver accidentally took her foot off the break, which caused her to speed forwards out of control. Her 15-year-old son, who was sat in the passenger seat, suffered a bloody nose and was taken to hospital. Caught on camera: This is the terrifying moment a teenage girl is almost crushed to death as a car hurtles through the front of a pizza store . Freak accident: A surveillance camera caught the near-fatal incident happening at Pudge Brothers Pizza in Aurora, Colorado, on Wednesday daytime . Unexpected ride: Footage shows the unidentified 15-year-old being driven through the front of the restaurant as a vehicle rams her from behind . The teenager she hit was also checkout by medics. Both patients were fortunate to be released with only minor injuries. Roma Butenko, a Pudge Brothers Pizza employee, said he felt very lucky to escape the accident unscathed. He was serving up slices from behind the counter when chaos ensued. Butenko recently moved to the U.S from Ukraine and added that he felt a 'higher power' was involved. 'I feel very, big lucky,' he said. 'The car stopped just one half meter from me. Phew.' 'God helped me, yes, it’s a god.' Pudge Brothers Pizza resumed business on Thursday but the storefront was mostly boarded up. Authorities will not be pressing charges against the driver as the case was deemed an accident. Lucky escape: Miraculously the girl appears to be okay as she gets up from the bonnet and walks away . In need of repair: Pudge Brothers Pizza resumed business on Thursday but the storefront was mostly boarded up . Before the accident: Authorities will not be pressing charges against the driver as the case was deemed an accident .

Summary: A surveillance camera caught the near-fatal incident happening at Pudge Brothers Pizza in Aurora, Colorado, on Wednesday daytime . Footage shows the unidentified 15-year-old being driven through the front of the restaurant as a vehicle rams her from behind . Miraculously the girl is seen getting up from the bonnet and walking away . She was later given the all-clear by medics at a local hospital .


Mystery continues to surround the disappearance of a young Kansas City woman who left her home one night in February and was found dead eight days later in a well behind a locked gate in a remote part of a city park. New surveillance footage has now emerged of her the night after her disappearance. Janina Vasquez, 27, known to loved ones as Nina, left the home she shares with her mother, Jennie Cochran, and stepfather in Overland Park, Missouri, on the night of February 11. At 10 p.m. that night she texted her stepfather and told him that she was going to stay the night with 'Allen and Nicole' and would be back the next day. The first mystery is the identity of Allen and Nicole – Vasquez’s mother had not heard of them before. Surveillance footage released by the Kansas City Police Department shows Janina Vasquez at the Isle of Capri Casino on February 12. She left the casino at 7:40 p.m. in a red car with an unknown driver . Vasquez left home on the night of February 11 and texted her stepfather telling him that she was going to stay the night with 'Allen and Nicole' and would be back the next day . The following day Vasquez was seen on the new surveillance footage leaving the Isle of Capri Casino at approximately 7:40 p.m. Detectives say she got into a red car driven by an unknown person, and they want to speak with that driver or anyone who saw her get into the car. No one saw or heard from Vasquez again until the discovery of her body in a 25 feet deep flood control well at Richard Berkley Riverfront Park on February 19. Scroll down for video . The park is immediately next to the casino on the banks of the Missouri River and a heritage trail links the two. She was found wearing the gray Victoria Secret sweatsuit she was last seen in, but the jacket was tied around her waist despite the weather being so cold during the eight days she was missing. Her cell phone was in one of her burgundy boots and her ID was found in the other, but her bra, underwear and socks, and the burgundy North Face backpack she was carrying are all missing. The park itself is one mile from where her cell phone last pinged a signal tower, on February 12 – at the intersection of Third and Cherry streets, approximately a mile and a half from the casino. Vasquez was found dead in a flood control well behind a locked gate in a city park. She was wearing the gray sweatsuit she is seen wearing in surveillance footage, but with no underwear and the top tied around her waist . The well where Vasquez's body was found is in a remote part of the Richard Berkley Riverfront Park on the Missouri River a short walk from the casino . Vasquez was found with a severe injury to the back of her head that would have killed

Summary: Janina Vasquez, 27, left her mother's house in Overland Park, Missouri, on February 11 and texted to say she would stay with 'Allen and Nicole' Her body was found in a flood control well in a river park on February 19, with her jacket around her waist and her cellphone and ID in her boots . Missing from the body were her bra, underwear, socks and the North Face backpack she took with her . She had a severe injury to the back of her head and fractures to her wrists . Her cellphone last pinged a signal tower on February 12 . Footage has since emerged of her leaving the Isle of Capri Casino on the evening of February 12, and getting into a red car with an unknown driver .


The League Two clash between play-off rivals Bury and Southend at the JD Stadium had to be abandoned after just seven minutes as torrential rain rendered the pitch unplayable. The game went ahead despite a heavy downpour prior to the 3pm kick-off but after a short discussion with the managers the referee decided to postpone the match. The officials planned to bring the players back out after 20 minutes to re-assess the state of the pitch and the weather but, despite the use of rollers during the break, the match was abandoned. Players were taken off the pitch just seven minutes into the League Two clash between Bury and Southend . Torrential rain before and during the game cause the pitch to become waterlogged . Bury groundsman tries in vain to rid the pitch of some of the surface water before the game was abandoned . Players battle for the ball in the very wet conditions before the game was postponed . The visiting Southend fans had to make the 500-mile, eight hour round trip from Essex to Lancashire to witness just a few minutes of football and the fixture is now likely to be replayed on a midweek evening. Bury manager David Flicroft said: 'Absolutely right decision by the ref, he had every right to start the game. Well done to the ref for making the right decision. 'I am gutted for the fans, as it looked like a great turn out by them today. It's tough for the Southend fans now who'll have to make the long trip up on a Tuesday night now.' Southend fans had to make the 500-mile round trip that would have taken longer than eight hours . Southend manager Phil Brown leaves the pitch in the heavy rain . Both manager agreed that it was the right decision to call the game off . Southend manager Phil Brown shared Flicroft's sentiments regarding the supporters but was able to take comfort in the fact he didn't have a full-strength side for the crucial fixture. 'I’m disappointed for the fans but it’s a good call for us because we had four players out today,' Brown said. 'Twenty minutes before the game the pitch was playable and both managers agreed with that. But it was monsoon-like and the rain is still coming down so it was the right decision (to abandon the game).' Supporters have been offered a half price ticket for the re-arranged fixture.

Summary: Bury took on Southend at the JD Stadium in League Two on Saturday . The players were taken off after seven minutes after a torrential downpour . The match was later abandoned as the rain continued to fall .


Damning figures today expose the extent of the ‘justice deficit’ for victims of rape. Only one in four reported rape cases is passed on to prosecutors, who then decide whether to press charges, data shows. The figures, published by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, also reveal worrying differences between forces across England and Wales in how often officers mark down cases as ‘no crime’. Low figures: Some areas saw prosecutions in only one in five reported rape cases (picture posed by model) In some areas, the number of ‘no crime’ cases is as high as one in five, the inspectorate’s Rape Monitoring Group found. Victims’ groups condemned the ‘postcode lottery’ and said that despite police efforts, the experience of victims is not improving. Mark Castle, of Victim Support, said it revealed an ‘unacceptable culture of disbelief’ in some areas. He said: ‘It is extremely concerning that in some parts of England and Wales a rape allegation is four times more likely to be rejected than in others. ‘While there can be legitimate reasons to record a rape allegation as "no crime", these figures suggest an unacceptable culture of disbelief continues to exist in some parts of the police.’ Katie Russell, of Rape Crisis, said the data showed ‘no improvement’ in victims’ overall experience of the legal system. Worried: Victim Support chief executive Mark Castle called the low prosecution figures very 'concerning' She added: ‘There’s still a huge justice deficit for those who experience sexual violence offences compared to those who suffer other kinds of crime.’ The figures showed huge discrepancies between forces’ ‘no criming’ rates. This is when an offence is initially recorded as rape but then on further consideration it is decided no crime took place. Victims have complained that 'no criming' has been used by police as a way of improving their statistics. On average, around 9 per cent of adult rape cases were marked down as no crime. But in Leicestershire that figure was nearly one in five. At the other end of the scale it was about 2 per cent for Gloucestershire Constabulary. The 43 forces in England and Wales recorded 20,727 alleged rapes in 2013/14. Of those, 12,952 involved adult victims and 7,775 children, the HMIC data shows. In the same period, 5,850 were referred to prosecutors – around 28 per cent. The slight time delay between a case being reported and sent on to the CPS means the figures will not cover exactly the same cases. Nicole Westmarland, a professor of criminology at Durham University, said: ‘Today’s figures provide stark evidence of the inconsistent policing of rape, and the disservice that is being done to those who decide to report to the police.’ She said there was ‘no good reason why such large numbers are not being referred from the police to the CPS for consideration’. Martin Hewitt, of the Association of Chief Police Officers, said: ‘There are caveats to this data. 'Comparing the number of rapes reported to the police with the number of convictions oversimplifies a long and complex process, in which a criminal

Summary: Worrying differences between forces in recording of 'no crime' cases . It's claimed victims' experiences are not improving despite police efforts . 43 forces in England and Wales recorded 20,727 alleged rapes in 2013/14 . 5,850 (or 28%) of these were referred to prosecutors in the same period .


Sir Michael Wilshaw, chief inspector of schools and children’s services, said saving youngsters from exploitation required ‘political and moral courage' Politicians were yesterday warned they should never ignore sex crimes against children out of a misguided fear of being called racist. Sir Michael Wilshaw, chief inspector of schools and children’s services, said saving youngsters from exploitation required ‘political and moral courage’ on the part of local leaders. ‘They must never allow misguided beliefs about the impact for certain ethnic and cultural groups to get in the way of confronting this horrific abuse wherever it occurs,’ he added. His warning came amid the row over the failure of social workers, politicians or police to act against gangs of mostly Pakistani men who exploited hundreds of children in Rotherham and Oxford. An inquiry last month said Rotherham councillors shied away from the issue for fear of being accused of disturbing ‘community cohesion’. It added: ‘By failing to take action against the Pakistani heritage male perpetrators of child sexual exploitation in the borough, the council has inadvertently fuelled the far-Right.’ Last week an inquiry into a similar scandal in Oxford, carried out by the head of the local safeguarding board, said there was ‘no evidence of any agency not acting when they should have done because of racial sensitivities’. But the Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner accused it of ‘pulling its punches’. Sir Michael’s warning was contained in an Ofsted report that found most local councils charged with looking after children’s safety are failing at the job. Only ten out of 43 inspected over the course of a year were found to give a good standard of care and protection. Criticised: Rotherham's director of children's services between 2008 and 2014 Joyce Thacker (left) and former Rotherham Council leader Roger Stone (right) were both criticised for their inaction over the scandal . Sir Michael said youngsters who go missing from children’s homes while in council care are disproportionately at risk of abuse but social workers in some areas still fail to take notice of them. He added: ‘We found children and young people who had been missing were either not having an interview on their return or having one that was of poor quality. 'There was no clear understanding of why children had gone missing.’

Summary: Sir Michael Wilshaw said ‘political and moral courage’ is needed in future . Words came amid row over failure of Oxford and Rotherham social workers . Cases involved mostly Pakistani gangs exploiting hundreds of children . Inquiry last month said Rotherham councillors shied away from the issue .


A country song with a theme as old as time has some listeners up in arms - and some radio stations now refusing to put it on the airwaves. Little Big Town has a hit with their new tune Girl Crush, selling an impressive 25,000 copies a week, a song about a girl who wants to get back her man. That girl though is not afraid to admit she is a little bit jealous of her former man's new lady however, and some are now claiming the song 'promotes the gay agenda.' Scroll down for video . The song Girl Crush by Little Big Town (above) has been banned by some country stations after listeners complained it 'promotes the gay agenda' The problem it seems is with one of the verses sung by group member Karen Fairchild, in which she croons; 'I want to taste her lips, yeah cause they taste like you / I want to drown myself in a bottle of her perfume / I want her long blond hair, I want her magic touch / Yeah cause maybe then, you’d want me just as much. . . I got a girl crush.' And for this, a simple tale of jealousy, some stations are saying they are getting just as much outrage from listeners as when The Dixie Chicks criticized President Bush back in 2003. 'Is it frustrating to you that here is your song - that is one of the Top 10 sellers for weeks and weeks and weeks - and people on the radio are still afraid to play it because they think it’s a lesbian song?' radio host Bobby Bones asked the group during a recent interview according to The Washington Post. 'Just the fact that we’re still discussing that, number one, there’s so many problems with that whole issue,' answered Fairchild. Bones, who hosts the most popular country radio morning show in the country then said; 'It shouldn’t even matter if it’s a lesbian song, is the first thing.' This is not the case for listeners however, with one individual in Texas writing in to say to a station after they played the song; 'You are just promoting the gay agenda on your station and I am changing the channel and never listening to you ever again!!' Alana Lynn, who hosts a morning show in Boise, Idaho, says she got a similar response from some listeners. Kacey Musgraves (left) went through the same thing when her single Follow Your Arrow included a line about girls kissing girls, but Katy Perry topped the pop charts with I Kissed A Girl (right) Newcomer Kacey Musgraves dealt with the same problem from country radio when her song Follow Your Arrow, listed by some in the industry as one of the best songs of 2013, was shunned as it included the lyrics; 'Kiss lots of boys / Or kiss lots of girls / If that's something you're into.' Despite selling over 500,000 copies, the song never charted higher than 43 of the Billboard chart for country music radio airplay. This

Summary: The song Girl Crush by Little Big Town has been banned by some country stations after listeners complained it 'promotes the gay agenda' This despite the fact that the song is about wanting back an ex, and just includes lyrics detailing the attractiveness his new girlfriend . The group has now filmed a spot explaining the video in hopes of clarifying that it is not a song about homosexuality . Bobby Bones, one of the most popular country radio hosts, recently said; 'It shouldn’t even matter if it’s a lesbian song, is the first thing' Country singer Kacey Musgraves went through the same thing when her single Follow Your Arrow included a line about girls kissing girls . Katy Perry meanwhile topped the pop charts with her first single, I Kissed A Girl .


Outspoken actress Miriam Margolyes has made a very short and sharp comment to express her dislike for Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott. The English performer, who divides her time between the U.K. and Australia, did not hold back when asked what she thought of the man in the country's top job by an audience member on the ABC TV show Q&A. Famous for her no-nonsense manner, the 73-year-old Harry Potter star bluntly replied with: 'I think he's a tit'. Scroll down for video . Actress Miriam Margolyes (right) called Tony Abbott (left) a 'tit' on the ABC TV show Q&A . Twitter lit up with nothing but praise for Margolyes' bold remark with one suggesting she become the next PM . The woman prefaced the question by pointing out that Margolyes had previously described former Labor Prime Minister Julia Gillard as fascinating - and that she even went as far to say that Bob Hawke, another former Labor Prime Minister, was 'just ravishing'. The woman then asked if the actress had a similar opinion of the current leader which caused the studio to erupt into laughter. Following Margolyes' comment, which is a word commonly used as an insult in Britain, she remained unusually quiet when fellow panel members had their say. Editor-in-chief of Mamamia. Jamila Rizvi, was the first to chime in with 'I think you're supposed to say ten points to Hufflepuff' - making a reference to Harry Potter in which the actress stars in one of the movies as Professor Sprout. The show's host, Tony Jones, then asked Assistant Treasurer Josh Frydenberg to describe his boss in just one word and then suggested that some of his colleagues describe him as 'doomed'. Twitter followers are impressed with how Margolyes isn't afraid to say what she thinks . Mr Frydenberg was quick to respond that Mr Abbott was 'decent' and then felt the need to elaborate because he felt he was a minority with that particular view in the room. 'This is a guy who well before he ventured into politics was a hard-working member of his local community as an SES volunteer, as a surf lifesaver,' he said. 'He doesn't go out and do that stuff with a camera in tow - he's a father of three beautiful girls, he's a happily married husband and he's and he's hard worker in this top job.' Ms Rizvi then replied that the first word that came to her mind when she thought of Mr Abbott was: 'time-limited ....with a hyphen'. While Trisha Jha, from the Centre for Independent Studies, chose to stay out of the slinging match. 'I only have one thing to say and that is the tit is a lovely bird,' she said. Meanwhile, Twitter lit up with nothing but praise for Margolyes' bold remark. #Miriam Margolyes is aaaaawwwssssoooommmmm #qanda Finally someone not fearful to sy real facts,' Abby Saleh posted. 'Great work #Miriam Margolyes say it how it is! Love ya work!' Lisa Turner said. While another user was impressed that a Harry Potter reference got a mention on

Summary: Miriam Margolyes described Tony Abbott a 't*t' on ABC TV show Q&A . Audience member asked actress her thoughts on the Prime Minister . The outspoken British/Australian did not make any further comment . Social media lit up with comment praising Margolyes for bold remark .


Hundreds of sex offenders who are supposed to be closely monitored have been missing for up to 14 years - but police have refused to name dozens in case they breach their 'human rights'. Police forces across Britain have lost track of 396 registered sex offenders, including rapists and paedophiles, but they won't be identified in case it 'endangers their safety unnecessarily', one force said. The sex attackers are meant to be kept under close surveillance after being released from jail because many pose a 'risk of serious harm to the public'. Scotland Yard, the UK's largest force, has lost track of 167 sex offenders, including one who had been missing for 14 years . But figures released yesterday found that some have been missing for more than a decade. There are 23 from Greater Manchester are among the almost 400 missing nationally and police believe 11 have fled abroad and the other 12 are subject to 'periodic reviews' in a bid to trace them. But the force said today it would not name them to protect their rights. A spokesman said: 'It is not the policy of GMP or the Police Service of England and Wales to routinely name sex offenders whether they are missing or not as this would be a breach of their human rights. This also may endanger their safety unnecessarily and may also lead to the identification of victims.' Scotland Yard, the UK's largest force, has lost track of 167 sex offenders, including one who had been missing for 14 years. Among the missing is failed asylum seeker Patrick Mosekwe Kanda, 36, who was jailed in 1998 for raping a child. When the Congolese national was released in 2003 he was allowed to live at an address in Dagenham, East London, instead of being deported. Sara Payne, whose daughter Sarah was abducted and killed in 2000 by convicted paedophile Roy Whiting, said: 'It's completely unacceptable that any registered sex offenders have disappeared from authority management, putting the public at risk' Like other dangerous predators, Kanda was placed on the sex offenders register and was supposed to be monitored by police and probation officials. But Scotland Yard last month admitted it had lost track of the rapist two years ago and issued an appeal for information relating to his whereabouts. A spokesman for the Met force blamed London's 'diverse multicultural population' for losing so many sex offenders and admitted that many have probably fled the country. Last night Sara Payne, whose daughter Sarah was abducted and killed in 2000 by convicted paedophile Roy Whiting, said: 'It's completely unacceptable that any registered sex offenders have disappeared from authority management, putting the public at risk. 'It's time to take some serious pro-active action to bring them back under the police radar.' The NSPCC described the figures as 'alarming' and said there are 900 police staff currently responsible for monitoring 46,000 registered sex offenders. This equates to one officer being tasked with monitoring 51 sex criminals. Jon Brown, the NSPCC's head of sexual abuse programmes, said: 'About half of those on

Summary: Forces across Britain have lost track of 396 registered criminals . This includes rapists and paedophiles after they were released from jail . Scotland Yard, UK's largest force, has lost track of 167 sex offenders . Greater Manchester Police lost 23 - but won't name them over human rights .


Rugby World Cup organisers are urging fans trying to buy tickets to remain patient amid mounting anger about endless delays on the official website. There was huge demand when general sales resumed on Tuesday and by the evening, there were tickets still available for 17 matches in the tournament - being held in this country in September and October. All seats on sale at this stage for the opener, England v Fiji, had been snapped up, but two of Wales’ matches, against Fiji and Uruguay in Cardiff, remained up for grabs. Rugby World Cup organisers have asked fans to be patient amid anger about delays on the official website - sales for Millennium Stadium fixtures continued to lag behind other venues . The total number of tickets available when they first went on sale in September last year. Sales for fixtures at the Millennium Stadium continued to lag behind other venues, with a further three matches there still showing availability, although the remaining tickets for France v Ireland had been bought. The latest allocations for New Zealand v Argentina at Wembley and Scotland v South Africa at St James’ Park had also been rapidly claimed. However, it was a day when many supporters were left incensed by the process of trying to buy tickets online. With vast numbers attempting to the access the official website, delays of several hours and various technical glitches were reported by many of those trying to buy. Social media was awash with tales of angst as the system struggled to cope with the traffic. Recently departed chief executive Debbie Jevans had insisted before she resigned that the website would cope with demand. ‘The capacity we’ve built into the system means we are confident it will stand up,’ she predicted. But the experiences posted on Twitter by frustrated would-be spectators told a different story. Former head of the organising committee Debbie Jevans insisted the website would cope with demand . Tom Andrews tweeted: ‘I have been in online Queue for rugby world cup tickets for 8hrs 45 mins, unbelievable!!’ Rupert Garrett was equally fed up, posting: ‘Been queuing since 10am for Rugby World Cup tickets but still having to wait! Same happened with Olympics. Waste of time Disillusioned Joke!’ It was a similar story for ‘LittleMead’, who tweeted: ‘I know British people love to queue, but the Rugby World Cup tickets wheel of doom is something else! #whyarewewaiting’ Jamie Cleland added: ‘Seems to be a consistent pattern of ticket distribution for major sporting events. You’d think best practice would now be learned.’ An England Rugby 2015 spokeswoman insisted on Tuesday night that many thousands of tickets were sold yesterday but conceded that ‘there have been a lot of queues on the website and we are aware of that’. The official line is that those who managed to access the system often spent long periods browsing the options, which led to a delay for others in the queue. Having begun the day with around 70,000 tickets to sell, officials were attempting to keep potential spectators informed of progress via

Summary: Fans urged to be patient following huge delays on Rugby World Cup site . Many supporters have been left angry with the process of buying tickets . Debbie Jevans had insisted the site would cope with demand .


The 'quiet beer' that turned into an impromptu tip to Thailand has described it as 'a truly crazy experience', with a series of photos revealing the exploits of two Middlesbrough men who have become an internet sensation. Phillip Boyle and friend Jamie Blyth made headlines all over the world when it was revealed that a drink in their local pub turned into an all-nighter and a flight out to the Far East. Speaking to MailOnline Travel, Mr Boyle has revealed how the madness continued throughout the duration of the two-day trip - not all of it positive though. Phillip Boyle (right) booked a trip to Thailand with friend Jamie Blyth (left) after a night in Middlesbrough . 'Going out there was the roughest part in all honesty, as we were both suffering from hangovers, but once we got to Thailand, we threw ourselves into it,' said the 33-year-old company director. 'It was a crazy decision to make, booking flights out there after a session on the beers, but I don't regret it at all, it was a brilliant trip and a truly crazy experience. 'We knew some lads out there, and there's a big community from the UK, so it was great to catch up with people. 'We were out all the time, going for meals and having drinks in bars and pubs, we didn't get the chance to travel around much.' Mr Boyle, who paid £550 for a return flight and £60 for a two-night stay in Pattaya, revealed that he decided to upgrade his luggage after only heading out with a Tesco bag 'full of boxers and T-shirts'. The pair of friends from Middlesbrough met up with David Lamb (right) in the Robin Hood pub in Bangkok . Mr Boyle (left) had his trainers stolen; Mr Blyth (right) grabs some much needed rest before the flight home . 'When I got there I bought a bag and some trainers from Levis,' he added. However, on checking out of one hotel after their first night's stay, Mr Boyle fell on some hard luck. 'We were checking out, and there was a bit of confusion. One guy started to get involved in the conversation, we had no idea who he was. Phillip Boyle, 33, (far left) and friend Jamie Blyth, 33, (second left) pictured with friends they met in Thailand . The pair flew from Manchester Airport to Pattaya, Thailand with a stopover in Abu Dhabi . 'The next minute I looked down and my trainers had gone - he must have had his eye on them and that's why he came over.' Determined not to let the theft ruin his holiday, Mr Boyle continued the party - matching up shorts with a pair of black shoes. 'We got to Bangkok, and decided we had to get a motorbike as the taxi wasn't going anywhere and it was really busy,' he added. 'But there was no way I was getting on one barefoot, so I reached into my bag and pulled out my brogues and off we went.' Blyth and Boyle chill

Summary: Phillip Boyle, Jamie Blyth booked trip to Thailand after night of drinking . Photos reveal what they got up to on their two-day holiday in Far East . Mr Boyle had his trainers stolen, forcing him to make a fashion faux pas .


You can normally find him asleep in his basket under the vaulted splendour of his home, or washing his whiskers in the altar font. From time to time he will strut haughtily past a congregation at prayer, patrolling his territory on the lookout for mice. Louis the cat is so popular with folk at Wells Cathedral – home to the Bishop of Bath and Wells – that he has become the feline hero of a children's book, and even has his own merchandise stall in the cathedral shop. Louis the cat is often found sleeping by his favourite radiator in Wells cathedral in Somerset . Louis, the 17-year-old Wells cathedral cat, sits in his basket at the gift shop - but local owners have accused him of turning nasty and attacking dogs 'like a wild lion' The popular cat has been linked to at least three dogfights recently and locals fear there could be more . But yesterday the 17-year-old ginger tom's money-spinning empire was in danger of crumbling after he was accused of turning nasty – and attacking dogs 'like a wild lion'. He has been linked to at least three fights with dogs in recent weeks and locals fear there could be more. As news of the scandal spread, however, a 'Fans of Louis' group sprang to the moggy's defence. And cathedral staff suggested he could be a victim of mistaken identity, quickly issuing a statement which claimed there were 'at least two other ginger cats in the area who also enjoy strolling through the streets of Wells'. Louis became a regular sight at the cathedral after it adopted him as a stray ten years ago. His principal role was to rid the 12th century building of mice. Such was the esteem in which the rather solitary cat was held, the cathedral generated a regular fund-raising trade in Louis fridge magnets, pencils, mugs and other Louis-related trinkets, including an £8.99 paperweight and a £5.99 candle-snuffer. He would later star in a YouTube video narrated affectionately by the head verger. Louis is so popular in Wells that he has become the subject of a children's book, Louis the Cathedral Cat . But out there on the mean streets, it is alleged, he became a dangerous, feral beast. 'He pounced like a wild lion in the jungle on to my dog Millie's head,' said Mandie Stone-Outten, describing his alleged attack on her springer spaniel outside the Present Company gift shop in the nearby Market Place. 'We were just looking in the window of the shop and the cat was sitting outside. He walked towards us. He was staring at the dog, the dog was staring at the cat. 'Then suddenly, so quickly, it was attacking my dog's head. He turned into a cat about four times the size and he was waving his arms around. 'I tried to pull the lead back, but I went flying back and fell off the pavement into the gully. It had been raining and I was covered in mud. It hurt all down my right side,

Summary: Louis the cat likes to sleep in a basket in the Wells cathedral gift shop . Become so popular is subject of children's book, Louis the Cathedral Cat . But local dog owners say he has become feral and attacking their pets . Say he has set on them 'like a wild lion' in three incidents reported so far .


Mary Bousted, general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, has warned of a 'crisis' in the teaching profession . Almost half of new teachers leave the profession in their first year because of an excessive workload and 'exhausted and stressed colleagues', a union leader has warned. The number has tripled in six years, according to an analysis of figures by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL). The most recent statistics show that in 2011, around 10,800 newly-qualified teachers did not take up a teaching post – up from 3,600 in 2005. Around 40 per cent of newly-qualified teachers were not in the classroom after a year in 2011 – compared to 20 per cent in 2005. The latest figures have sparked fears of a 'crisis' in the profession. Mary Bousted, the ATL’s general secretary, told the union’s annual conference in Liverpool yesterday that an increased workload and bureaucracy had made teaching an unappealing profession. She spoke of a ‘crisis of teacher supply’ because trainee teachers are put off during work placements by the prospect of heavy workloads, excessive monitoring and poor pay. She added that would-be teachers are meeting more experienced teachers who tell them 'this is no career to enter'. Miss Bousted described teaching as being ‘incompatible with a normal life’ because it is ‘monitored to within an inch of its life’ due to the demands of heads keen to impress Ofsted inspectors. Dr Bousted told delegates that former education secretary Michael Gove said before he entered office that teachers should be highly valued and he wanted to give the profession more freedom over how to teach. 'If that was Michael Gove's intention, and I am sure that was his honest intention, how is it at the end of the coalition's term in office that not only are record numbers of teachers leaving the profession mid-career, but there is also a crisis of teacher supply?' she said. 'This crisis is happening right at the very start of teachers' careers. Teachers are leaving in their first year, or not starting teaching when they have completed their training.; . She added: 'Why are we losing the next generation of teachers - that new blood for the profession which should be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, full of promise and ambition? 'Is it, I wonder, because trainee and newly-qualified teachers see very early on just what teaching has become and decide that they do not want to be a part of it? She said trainee teachers are put off during work placements by the prospect of heavy workloads, excessive monitoring and poor pay (posed by model) 'Is it that they learn as they work with exhausted and stressed colleagues that teaching has become a profession which is incompatible with a normal life? 'Trainee and newly-qualified teachers cannot fail to understand that, despite Michael Gove's intentions, teaching has become a profession monitored to within an inch of its life.' Dr Bousted added: 'Seeing what teaching has become, and what the prospect of a career in teaching holds for them, is it in any way

Summary: In 2011, 10,800 newly-qualified teachers did not take up a teaching post . This was up from 3,600 in 2005, sparking fears of a 'crisis' in the profession . 40% were not in classroom after a year in 2011, compared to 20% in 2005 . Mary Bousted said trainees are put off by workload, poor pay and excessive monitoring .


A couple travelling in their car were killed after multiple hay bales slid off a semi-truck along a country road in Minnesota crashing into their vehicle. It's not clear how the bales came loose but the accident occurred as the truck went around a bend just after 9 a.m. on Saturday morning. Teresa Erickson, 52, and her husband Dale, 59, were driving their pickup in the opposite direction when they were unable to avoid the hay. Mr Erickson's car was forced into a ditch and burst into flames. Killed: Dale Erickson, 59, and Teresa Erickson, 52, died within days of each other after their vehicle crashed into a ditch on County Road 9 and caught fire on Saturday morning after they were hit by a bale of hay . Scene of the crash: The couple passed the truck carrying the hay along a curve on Houston County Road 9 northeast of Houston, Minnesota just after 9 a.m. on Saturday . The couple were airlifted to hospital in Wisconsin however Mrs Erickson died soon after the accident and her husband passed away earlier this week. The semi that caused the crash was driven by Randall Hongerholt, 49, of Houston, according to the state patrol. He was not injured but according to the Minnesota State Patrol, charges are pending following the outcome of an investigation into the crash. 'Commercial vehicles, and all vehicles, are required to secure their load in a manner that prevents any of it's load from dropping, shifting, leaking, blowing or otherwise escaping from the vehicle,' said Patrol Lt. Tiffani Nielson. 'This fatal crash, unfortunately, is exactly why we have these laws in place — to prevent injuries or death. 'This was a very tragic crash, and a family is grieving a terrible loss that could have been prevented.' Hay bales vary greatly in weight, depending not only on dimensions but density. A federal study analyzed seven deaths in Minnesota in the mid-1990s associated with large hay bales and found that the bales ranged from 750 to 1,500 pounds. In Minnesota, truckers can be fined $385 if they are found to have an improperly secured or shifting load.

Summary: As truck went around a curve on a road in Minnesota it lost its load of hay A pickup headed in the opposite direction was hit by one of the bales . Dale Erickson, 59, and his wife, 52-year-old Teresa Erickson were killed . The driver of the semi-truck Randall Hongerholt was not injured .


Switcheroo: Wisconsin governor Scott Walker changed his tune in an interview on Sunday . Governor Scott Walker once envisioned a world where the 11 million immigrants living in the country illegally could embark on a path to citizenship. But now the Wisconsin Republican calls that position 'amnesty' and says his view has changed. 'I don't believe in amnesty,' Walker told Fox News Sunday. 'My view has changed. I'm flat out saying it. Candidates can say that.' Walker, who emerged this past week in the top tier of potential candidates for the Republican presidential nomination for 2016, says the U.S. needs to secure the border and ultimately put in place 'a legal immigration system that works.' That means, in part, putting the onus on employers and getting them the tools to do that, like E-Verify, an existing federal program that allows businesses to check the immigration status of new hires, Walker said. Walker told the Wausau, Wisconsin, Daily Herald newspaper in 2013 that 'it makes sense' when he was asked whether he could see a world where 'those people' could get citizenship, with the right penalties, waiting periods and requirements in place. At the time, he supported a bipartisan approach to overhauling immigration, with people waiting to get citizenship having priority and others having a legal pathway to live here legally. Walker also said Sunday that President Barack Obama or 'anybody else who is willing to put their name on the ballot certainly has to have the love for country to do that.' Walker drew criticism last month after former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani questioned Obama's patriotism during a speech at a Walker fundraiser. When asked about the former mayor's comments, Walker sidestepped the question by saying he hadn't asked Obama about his love of country.

Summary: Wisconsin governor once favored plan whereby undocumented people could become US citizens . But admitted in interview on Sunday that 'my view has changed' Change of heart follows Obama's controversial executive action on issue .


Fuel retailers are ripping off the public and businesses on diesel charges, according to the RAC. The wholesale price of diesel is 1p a litre more than for petrol, yet diesel is almost 6p more at the pumps, it said. There is scope for a diesel price cut of around 4p a litre to restore some parity to the market, the RAC added. The automotive company calls out retailers, saying businesses in particular are paying excessive charges on Diesel as sales of the fuel increase . The RAC’s comments came as it highlighted Government figures which showed total fuel sales were up 3.5 per cent in February compared with the same month last year. Diesel sales last month, at 2.42billion litres, represented the fifth highest monthly total since 1990. But petrol sales are among their lowest for 25 years. Businesses, which are more likely to run on Diesel are being ripped off by retailers who are looking to offset losses from low petrol prices . Because companies traditionally run on diesel, they are particularly hard hit by the fuel rip-off. RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: ‘It’s hard not to think that business is being taken for a ride. 'With sales of diesel at an all-time high the retailers have maintained a higher margin on diesel, perhaps to subsidise petrol sales.’

Summary: RAC says individuals and business paying unfair charges on diesel . Government shows fuel's sales up 3.5 percent in February on last year . Diesel sales unusually high while petrol sales at 25 year low . Companies, which more often run on diesel, are hit hard by the fuel rip-off . Price of diesel should be cut by 4p to make the market fair RAC says .


Our love affair with mobile phones, iPads and other gadgets is ruining our sex lives, research shows. In-depth interviews with couples from across England revealed that modern technology is playing havoc with our relationships. Some 40 per cent of those questioned said they had put off having sex to make a phone call, send a text message or surf the web. Others said they had rushed romance in order to respond to messages. And one third admitted to answering their phone during sex. Scroll down for video . Couples are using their smartphones so much in bed they're 'living in different worlds', researchers found . One woman who spoke to the Durham University researchers described her husband’ s smartphone as the ‘third person in our marriage’. Another said: ‘Sometimes I’ll be on Facebook and he’ll be on a sporting app while we are both in bed; we realise that we are sitting next to each other but living in different worlds.’ Researcher Dr Mark McCormack, who carried out detailed interviews with 15 couples, said that taking phones and laptops into the bedroom has ‘potentially serious costs to relationships’. His study, commissioned by Durex, also revealed more than a quarter of couples had filmed themselves having sex and that 40 per cent had sent sexy pictures to each other. Taking phones and laptops into the bedroom has ‘potentially serious costs to relationships’ Susie Lee, of the Siren dating app, warned that technology can never completely replace human interaction. She said: ‘True chemistry comes from intimacy. ‘So whilst we need our tech – it has enhanced our lives, enabling us to reconnect with old friends, reach wider social groups and meet new people – we need to recognise the times and places when social networking doesn’t enhance our experience. ‘We really need to learn how to focus on each other in the bedroom, rather than on our smartphones or tablets.’

Summary: Durham University researchers highlighted our love affair with gadgets . 40 per cent of those questioned had put off having sex to use technology . One third even admitted to having answered their phone during sex . Phones led one couple to feel like they were 'living in different worlds'


John Terry has revealed he is still haunted by the memory of his penalty miss that cost Chelsea a first Champions League title against Manchester United in Moscow almost seven years ago. The Chelsea captain took what could have been the decisive penalty at the end of a 1-1 draw in the first ever final between two English clubs, but slipped on the run-up and hit the post to send the shoot-out into sudden death. Nicolas Anelka went on to miss Chelsea's seventh spot-kick to hand United a domestic and European double, but Terry's miss is still seen as the decisive and iconic moment at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium. John Terry says he is still haunted during the night by his penalty miss in the 2008 Champions League final . The Chelsea captain slipped on what could have been the decisive penalty against Manchester United . United goalkeeper Edwin van der Saar celebrates in the Moscow rain as Terry crumples to the ground . And having cried on the pitch during the post-match ceremonies, Terry says he still wakes up at night thinking of what could have been with regular flashbacks to his slip. ‘I’ll definitely never be over it,' he said. 'I still wake up in the night now and it’s like “s***”, it’s there and then you go back to sleep. 'It’s eased over the years for sure. But I still have a few times a year when I wake up and, bang, it’s on my mind. It’ll never go. It’s one of those things, it’s disappointing, and I was gutted at the time.' Terry admits that while he has begun to get over the pain of the memory, it still comes back to him at night . Terry stands back on the half-way line with his team-mates to watch the rest of the penalties in Moscow . There was little time for Terry to get over his horror moment in May 2008, with the Chelsea centre back called up to the England squad for a friendly against the USA almost immediately after the final. Terry scored in a 2-0 win at Wembley against the Americans but still ranks the build up to the game, spent with United players Wes Brown, Owen Hargreaves, Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney, as one of the worst times of his career. ‘The worst thing was, we had England the following week, we played USA at Wembley and I had to go and sit at a table with all the Man United players,' Terry told a Chelsea Pitch Owners dinner this week. Terry had to endure a week on England duty with United players including Rio Ferdinand (second left), West Brown (centre) and Owen Hargreaves (second right) who he had played against on that night in Moscow . The Chelsea and England captain scored in a 2-0 win against the USA a week on from his penalty miss . 'I was just sitting there fuming. I didn’t want to be there. It was a horrible time for me.’ Chelsea did eventually go on to be crowned

Summary: John Terry missed his penalty in the 2008 Champions League final . He had the chance to win the cup for Chelsea but they eventually lost out . Terry says he is still haunted at night by memories of the penalty miss . Manchester United came out as European champions after Terry's slip . Terry says his exclusion from 2012 triumph was 'just meant to be'


Mesut Ozil will be carpeted by Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger after being spotted in a Berlin nightclub just hours after missing the club’s game at Newcastle because he had a cold. The German international, the club’s £42.5million record signing, was left out of the match-day squad because he felt under the weather. And Wenger gave him permission to fly back to his homeland early to prepare for tomorrow’s friendly against Australia. But instead of nursing his illness he was pictured in a club on Saturday night. Mesut Ozil missed Arsenal's game against Newcastle before being reportedly spotted at a nightclub . Ozil joins Sami Khedira for a Germany training session in Frankfurt on Monday . His decision to go out partying leaves question marks over his omission from the squad to face John Carver's side on Saturday. And manager Wenger will remind the club's record signing of his responsibilities in a face-to-face meeting when he returns from international duty following Sunday's Euro 2016 qualifier in Georgia. Ozil would probably have travelled to Germany after the clash at St James’ Park anyway, but his actions after being allowed time off will leave Arsenal’s management unimpressed. Wenger rarely lets players who tarnish the club's reputation get away without, at the very least, a stern talking to. Germany coach Joachim Low (centre) watches training ahead of their games against Australia and Gerogia . Ozil appeared in high spirits during training but is likely to have to answer to Arsene Wenger on his return . Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was fined after being caught smoking in the dressing room following the New Year's Day loss at Southampton. Likewise, Wenger has warned midfielder Jack Wilshere over his conduct after he was twice photographed with a cigarette. After a mediocre start to his Arsenal career since joining from Real Madrid in 2013, Ozil is slowly starting to find his form. Despite being caught out over the weekend, Ozil is still likely to start against Liverpool after the international break. Olivier Giroud (centre) scored twice against Newcastle to earn a sixth successive win since Monaco defeat . Wojciech Szczesny has not started a league game since being fined for smoking after Southampton loss .

Summary: Arsenal defeated Newcastle 2-1 in their Premier League clash on Saturday . Playmaker Mesut Ozil was omitted from the squad through illness . Germany midfielder was reportedly partying with friends at a Berlin nightclub later that evening .


For the first time women are to get an advanced blood test to detect Down’s syndrome and other abnormalities in unborn babies on the NHS. The non-invasive IONA test examines DNA in cells from the foetus found floating in the mother’s blood and looks for evidence of chromosomal abnormalities that cause genetic disorders. It will be offered at in London through the NHS and privately. The non-invasive IONA test examines DNA in cells from the foetus found floating in the mother’s blood and looks for evidence of chromosomal abnormalities that cause genetic disorders . Results will be given within days – compared to the two weeks it takes to send comparable tests abroad for processing. It is one of several non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) examinations that promise greater accuracy for women at high risk of having a Down’s baby. Eventually such NIPT tests will be routinely used to reassure all pregnant women. Current screening for Down’s on the NHS consists of the less-accurate ‘combined’ test, which uses ultrasound to measure the amount of fluid at the back of the baby’s neck at 11 weeks, as well as a blood test. Professor Basky Thilaganathan, consultant obstetrician at St George’s, said the new test was the first to be regulated under the EU’s health and safety standards. He said: ‘Too many pregnant women have been through the anxiety and discomfort of invasive procedures after receiving false positive results [women wrongly identified as being at risk] from the combined test – the IONA test gives us the accuracy and reliability to reduce this number significantly.’ Results will be given within days – compared to the two weeks it takes to send comparable tests abroad . A study by the UK National Screening Committee to check whether NIPT should be offered routinely on the NHS is underway, involving five hospitals, and is due to report later this year. Trials of another NIPT test offering expectant mothers 99 per cent accuracy in screening for Down’s syndrome are being run by Great Ormond Street Hospital. NIPT has a higher detection rate and lower false positive rate than the combined test. This means fewer women will undergo unnecessary invasive follow-up procedures which are stressful and carry a small risk of miscarriage. Dr Stephen Little, CEO of Premaitha – the makers of the IONA test, said: ‘We recognised the limitations in the current standard of prenatal screening and the huge unmet medical need for a regulated test.’

Summary: Non-invasive IONA test examines foetus DNA in cells in mother's blood . Results will be given within days - not like the current wait of weeks . Test will be offered at St George's Hospital in London, and privately . Eventually similar tests will be routinely used to reassure pregnant women .