Damaging winds, hailstones and severe thunderstorms were predicted to hit Sydney's far west as well as the Hunter, Illawarra and Central Tablelands regions on Thursday evening. The Bureau of Meteorology said a severe storm swept through Springwood, Bilpin and the Yengo National Park in the Blue Mountains on Thursday evening before heading north. Photos on social media show large hailstones raining on residents in the Blue Mountains, described as 'sheets of ice' by local Shannon King on Twitter. Photos on social media show Blue Mountains residents holding up large hailstones in the wake of the severe storm . Jacki Allen uploaded this image of several large hailstones found in Faulconbridge . 'I have some small dents in my car but animals (are) ok,' Ms King said. Large hail was reported at Faulconbridge on the lower Blue Mountains at about 7pm. Faulconbridge resident Andrew Ballard said on Twitter the hail was 'twice the size of golf balls,' reports ABC. The Bureau previously warned the hail, severe winds and heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology said a severe storm swept through Springwood, Bilpin and the Yengo National Park in the Blue Mountains . The storms come after wild weather lashed Sydney's west and south on Wednesday evening. More than 20,000 homes lost power when heavy rainfall, damaging winds and lightning rolled through after 7pm. A Bringelly family was forced to leave their home when their roof collapsed, while another piece of roof blew onto train tracks at Mount Druitt. Faulconbridge resident Amy Margaret Thorpe uploaded the following image following the wild thunderstorm on Thursday evening . Faulconbridge, situated on the lower Blue Mountains, was the area worst hit by the storm .

Summary: Damaging winds, hails and thunderstorms lashed the area on Thursday . Photos on social media show large hailstones raining on residents . A severe storm swept through the Blue Mountains before heading north .


No-one enjoys filing their tax return, but paying your duty would have been an even more arduous task 2,000 years ago. A recently translated ancient Egyptian tax receipt has revealed that it probably took more than 220lbs (100kg) of coins to settle just one wealthy person's bill. The tax receipt was written in Greek on a piece of pottery that is said to date back to 22 July 98 BC. A recently translated ancient Egyptian tax receipt (pictured) has revealed that it provably took more than 220lbs (100kg) of coins to settle one wealthy person's bill. Although it is difficult to calculate what it would have been worth in modern-day terms, estimates place it in the region of $1,670 (£1,120) The person, whose name is unreadable, paid a land transfer tax of 75 talents, which was a unit of currency, as well as a fee of 15 talents on top, reports LiveScience. The pottery receipt shows that the tax was paid in coins, which were hauled to a bank in the city of Diospolis Magna, also known as Luxor or Thebes. Brice Jones, a PhD student at Concordia University in Montreal who translated the text, said that the bill was ‘incredibly large’. As paper money didn’t exist and there were no coins as large as one talent, the payees of the bill would have had to make up the sum using drachmas, where 6,000 of the coins equalled one talent. A stock image of a silver drachma dating to the 3rd century BC is shown . It may seem incredible that such a rigid tax system continued to function at a time of political infighting. Politics were deadly in 98BC. Pharaoh Ptolemy X, who was part of a dynasty of pharaohs who ruled Egypt after the death of Alexander the Great, had fought against his brother for the throne and some sources say he killed his own mother to keep a firm grip on power. Despite his best efforts, in 89BC his army mutinied and he was killed the following year, leaving his brother to take over the running of the region. As paper money didn’t exist and there were no coins as large as one talent, the payees of the bill would have had to make up the sum using drachmas, where 6,000 of the coins equalled one talent. Consequently, 540,000 drachma were needed to settle the tax bill written on the receipt. Although it is difficult to calculate what this would have been worth in modern-day money, estimates suggest it would have been around $1,670 (£1,120). Catharine Lorber, an expert in Egyptian coins, explained that the highest denomination coin was probably worth just 40 drachma, so 13,500 of them would have been needed to pay the bill. ‘The coins in question weigh, on average, 8 grams (0.3 ounces), so the total payment of 90 talents probably had a weight in excess of 100 kilograms (220 lbs),’ she said. The people charged with collecting the money, known as tax farmers, would have had to ring the heavy load to the bank,

Summary: Tax receipt written in Greek on pottery is dated to 22 July, 98BC . It says 75 talents plus a surcharge was paid to a bank in Luxor, Egypt . Expert has calculated this would have equated to 220lbs (100kg) of coins . Currency may have been transported to the bank by donkeys . Charge was likely applied because part of the bill was paid in bronze coins . Although it is difficult to calculate what it would have been worth in modern-day terms, estimates place it in the region of $1,670 (£1,120).


For most people advancing in years, old age is about donning a pair of comfy slippers and taking life at a steadier pace. However, one group of mischievous seventysomethings, the stars of a new series of Channel 5 show OAPs Behaving Badly, are determined to rage against the stereotype. Among those behaving badly is former popstar Lee Graham. The 75-year-old, who had a smash hit in 1968 with 'Little Arrows' under his stage name 'Leapy Lee', is refusing to put his carousing days to bed. Scroll down for video . Give us a kiss! One-time sixties pop star Lee 'Leapy Lee' Graham admits growing old disgracefully with his Danish girlfriend Bettina, who he describes as 'very sexually active' Living in Mallorca, Lee admits to sharing a saucy sex life with his much younger girlfriend Bettina, 49. The couple make it clear in the show that they are still very much full of life, with Danish Bettina at one point presenting her lover with a penis pump after visiting a sex shop. Lee said: 'Tina is a very sexually active young lady, she is quite fit and she's quite a big girl. She's just a very healthy young lady and I'm delighted to have her. 'I suppose you could meet ladies of your own age but 75 year old ladies are a lot different to 50 year old ladies.' Lee admits to creaking bones but says his new lover has given him a fresh take on life. Singing to a different tune: Lee and Bettina argue over who has the most energy. She says her 75-year-old boyfriend is 'never tired' Having fun! Lee entertains locals in Mallorca with his old tunes and says: 'I think the game is to just, just make the most of it really' He said: 'As far as age is concerned - I know that old cliché "it's just a number" - but it is just a number isn't it really? 'After meeting Bettina and everything it's like a bit of a new lease of life.' It seems that there's life in the old dog yet. Bettina admits to often having trouble keeping up with her pension-age lover. She said: 'I'm tired all the time he's not. He's almost never tired.' Lee keeps busy by belting out his tunes to the ageing party animals in Spain and still has plenty of female admirers - something which turns Bettina green with envy. He said: 'Over the years I suppose I've played to hundreds and hundreds and thousands of people, because I have been here thirty odd years.' 'I think as far as the future is concerned when you get to my age what's behind you gets longer and what's in front of you gets shorter. 'I think the game is to just, just make the most of it really. 'And with Bettina's help who knows.' The series also follows the fortunes of other outrageous pensioners including swinging professor Colin and 'spiritual healer' Raimondo, who is on the hunt for a younger lover. OAPs Behaving Badly is on Channel 5 at

Summary: Lee Graham was a one-hit wonder in the sixties with 'Little Arrows' Younger girlfriend Bettina buys him a penis pump after visit to a sex shop . 75-year-old Lee says he's determined to 'make the most' of old age .


A whirlwind romance quickly turned into a nightmare for a British grandmother who married a man 20 years her junior in The Gambia. Anne-Marie, 52, from Warwickshire, met husband Omar on a night out when he was in the UK on a student visa. At the time, she was 41 with two children from a previous relationship and he was 21. 'He was handsome and charismatic, he said he'd treat me like a queen and I would never want for anything. He told me everything I wanted to hear,' she told Channel 5 show Love Rats Abroad. Anne-Marie, now 52, from Warwickshire, met husband Omar when she was 41 and he was 21 . She said Omar persistently text and called her after they first met so, in the end, she thought 'why not' and started dating him. Not long after they had been together, he suggested he move into her family home as he couldn't afford the rent on the place where he had been living. Then as his student visa neared its expiration date, they decided to get married just months after they had first met. 'He had come to the country on a student visa, he hadn't been able to finish the course, he needed to send money back home, otherwise people wouldn't be able to eat. I admired him for staying and doing what he had been doing to keep his family going,' Anne-Marie said. 'I entered into the relationship besotted and in love, it was dream.' After a whirlwind romance, the couple married in the Gambia . Anne-Marie's son Joe, who was ten when they got together, said their relationship did seem to move quickly. He said: 'I was young so I didn't know about relationships but it felt quick. I went from seeing him a couple of times a week to him always there and staying.' Anne-Marie and Omar travelled to his native The Gambia to marry in 2006 - but she said she immediately regretted it. 'On my wedding day it was a wonderful day but I had doubts in the back of my mind, I was thinking "am I doing the right thing?" Anne-Marie said Omar had been charming and charismatic before they tied the knot . 'The day after we married we had argument, his eyes were bulging, he put his face in mine and said "you are my wife now, you do as you're told". I was frightened, I thought "what have done? I think I've made a big mistake.".' Anne-marie said Omar was aggressive and violent when they returned to the UK and spoke of one harrowing incident - which he denies - when she said he whipped her with a belt. She said: 'He held me to the floor and he took his belt off whipped me over and over on the top of my thigh. I was crying screaming and begging for him to stop and he carried on. I asked "is this how you control your girlfriends?" and he shouted "yes" back to me.' Anne-Marie said Omar put

Summary: Anne-Marie, 52, met husband Omar on a night out in the UK . He was staying in the UK on a student visa . At the time, she was 41 with two children and he was 21 . 'He was handsome and charismatic,' she said . Months later he moved in with her and then they married in The Gambia . After tying the knot, she said he changed and became aggressive . Alleges he made her take out loans that left her £15,000 in debt . 'Awful' marriage lasted five years before Omar left .


It's the TV show that's taken the nation by storm, as much for its action packed fight scenes and historical storytelling, as its hunky lead actors including former Calvin Klein model Travis Fimmel. But while audiences are swooning over History channel's shirtless, shield-wielding stars, the Australian model-turned-actor says he doesn't think the show's sexiness has been crucial to its success. The actor instead credits the TV series' loyal following to good quality scripts, story lines and lovable characters. Scroll down for video . Australian Travis confesses that before filming Vikings he knew little about the true history, but thanks to the 'informative' and detailed scripts written by Michael Hirst, he has learned a lot more about European history . Travis first shot to fame in 2002 as the face of Calvin Klein's famous men's underwear range. His billboard posters were said to have caused traffic pile-ups in America, while the then 23-year-old became the first male model to be signed exclusively by Calvin Klein for an entire year, earning him a six-figure sum . Talking to MailOnline, Travis, who shot to fame as the face of Calvin Klein's lauded men's underwear range in 2002, said it was both the pilot episode and historically accurate scripts that first piqued his interest in Vikings. He said: '[Writer] Michael Hirst is a very talented guy and I wanted to work with him. 'I didn’t know that much about it, I knew as much as anybody else that the Vikings raped and pillaged, but Michael’s writing, you can’t help but learn from it.' The star did admit however, that historical fact alone isn't always enough to capture the full attention of today's audience. Former Australian model Travis Fimmel has won over viewers as legendary viking leader Ragnar Lothbrok, the star of History channel's action-packed historical drama series Vikings, which is now in its third series . Despite claiming to not care for the sexier elements of the show, Travis has won himself a legion of loyal admirers for his portrayal of farm-hand turned viking warrior king Ragnar Lothbrok . From the non-stop raunch of Game of Thrones to the topless Aidan Turner scenes in BBC's new period drama remake of Poldark, there's no denying today's batch of historically based shows are reeling in viewers by upping the sex factor. But Travis, who plays Ragnar Lothbrok, the main character in the action-packed programme, insists there's more to Vikings than just bare brawn. He said: 'I guess for some people maybe it has to [be sexy], but we’re making an adventure out of it and it's exciting for the audience - and it’s very informative. On-screen brothers Travis (pictured right) and Clive Standen (pictured left as Vikings character Rollo) have helped to revolutionise the reputation of historical television shows and period dramas . Once thought to be slow and staid, there's now a new breed of period drama packed with action, violence, drama, sex and heartthrobs, breathing new life into the telling of stories steeped in true historical fact . 'It’s hard to make people want to learn

Summary: Model Travis Fimmel stars in History channel series Vikings . Former underwear model claims he doesn't care how he looks onscreen . Latest hunk to send pulses racing in bawdy costume dramas . Game Of Thrones, Outlander and Poldark all star dishevelled hearthrobs .


The art of management is to create an aura, to brainwash the players into believing that they can routinely beat a team every bit as good as Barcelona. It is to inspire, to send Manchester City’s players into the tunnel at the Nou Camp in the minutes before kick-off and look down their noses at Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Luis Suarez or Neymar. Out on the training pitches, where the real work is done, the coaches must come up with a plan to squeeze the pips out of the players over two legs in the Champions League. That is the job. It can be done. Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp took his team to the Champions League final at Wembley against Bayern Munich; last year Atletico Madrid reached the final under their clever coach Diego Simeone. Unfortunately for Manuel Pellegrini, he has come up short. This is no disgrace and there is no need to make his life a misery just because he cannot find a way to beat Barcelona. He just isn’t good enough. Manuel Pellegrini has not taken Manchester City forward and looked clueless in the Nou Camp . Pellegrini could not alter the game or put the shackles on Barcelona as City's Euro dream died . Ivan Rakitic lifts the ball over the onrushing Joe Hart and into the empty net to give Barca the advantage . Read Martin Samuel's match report from the Nou Camp as Barcelona beat Manchester City 1-0 to progress to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League. The temptation, in the shakedown that will follow this Champions League elimination for yet another English club, is to start over again. In the aftermath the cry now will be to send for Simeone, to send for Pep, to send for Ancelotti, or to send for someone else to have a go. The brutal truth is that it’s coming to that. Bayern Munich’s exalted coach Pep Guardiola was here, settling down to watch his former club pass City off the park in a series of dizzying spells. Possession football is anathema to English football. City spilt their guts here, exposing the size of the task to turn the current champions of the Barclays Premier League into a team capable of living with a group of players who can change the pace of a game at will. Barcelona’s tempo is soothing and reassuring. If City want to dominate in Europe, in a way that Barcelona did when they won the Champions League in 2006, 2009 and 2011, then Pellegrini is not the man. That much is clear. Since he arrived at City he has had four chances to beat Barcelona and has yet to even secure a draw. Team and coach are not up to it. City need innovation, a man with stature and the confidence to redevelop the team with some clever signings over the next couple of years. What Manchester City would give for a player like Lionel Messi, and you feel they would have to pay the earth . Lionel Messi glides past Fernandinho during

Summary: At the elite level of European competition, Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has come up short. Not once, but every single time . If City want to dominate Europe, in a way that Barcelona did when they won the Champions League in 2009 and 2011, then Pellegrini is not their man . City need innovation, a man with the stature and the confidence to redevelop this team and take them to the next level . Pellegrini: Defeat at Barcelona is not a failure, it is a disappointment . CLICK HERE for all the latest Man City news and match reaction .


West Brom legend Laurie Cunningham's historic first England cap is to be sold at auction to raise money towards the Celebration Statue in the town centre. Cunningham, who was previously the first black player to represent England at any level after playing for the Under 21s, won the first of his six international caps against Wales at Wembley in 1979. Cunningham's mother Mavis gave the cap to local businessman Jim Cadman who is determined to give supporters an opportunity to see it before it is put up for sale in late summer. Baggies legend Laurie Cunningham will have his first England cap auctioned for charity . Cunningham was previously the first black player to represent England at any level after playing for U 21s . Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, he said: 'The family are absolutely delighted with the statue and she told me we could have a cap. 'To then discover it was his first cap is extraordinary. When it comes to memorabilia it is a real piece of history. The Three Degrees meet Cunningham, Brendan Baston (centre) and Cyrille Regis (right) at the Hawthorns . 'It is far too valuable to auction off straight away, so having spoken to the PFA and Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson we want the fans to see it first. 'We will take it on a mini tour with the help of the Albion Supporters Club and then auction it in the late summer early autumn with all the proceeds going to the final phase of the statue funding.' Cunning scored 21 goals in 86 appearances for the Baggies as part of the so-called 'Three Degrees' alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendan Baston before being sold to Real Madrid where he won the La Liga and Copa del Rey double in 1979-80.

Summary: Laurie Cunningham played for West Brom between 1977 and 1979 . The left winger made his England debut against Wales at Wembley in 1979 . His first international cap will be auctioned to raise money towards the town's Celebration Statue .


Nigel Farage used to claim he wanted to move away from the idea Ukip was a one-man band which relied on his own personal profile. But at the launch of his party's pledge card today, he was photographed in front of no fewer than seven images of himself. Amid a media scrum, Mr Farage used the event to boast that Ukip is 'quite reflective of what modern Britain is', as he called to leave the EU, control borders, spending £3billion more on the NHS, cut foreign aid spending and scrap income tax for the minimum wage. Nigel Farage today launched Ukip's election pledge card, surrounded by no fewer than seven photos of himself . Mr Farage used the event in central London to boast that Ukip is 'quite reflective of what modern Britain is' Ukip hopes to use the election to make a major breakthrough into the Commons, securing enough seats to hold the balance of power in the event of a hung Parliament. Mr Farage said a strong showing for Ukip at May's election could boost the calls for electoral reform, which in turn could make his eurosceptics a 'big party in British politics'. He said: 'I've always thought there should be election reform but that is frankly irrelevant in the next 38 days. 'Yes, this is very hard for us because you find good Ukip support in Labour constituencies and in Conservative constituencies. 'Yes, that's a challenge but what we have to do is to get over the line in enough seats in this General Election campaign and then you'll see how many seats we've actually come second in, and you'll realise as part of a longer-term strategy this really could become a big party in British politics.' Mr Farage was mobbed by photographers, camera people and journalists as he arrived in Smith Square in central London to unveil the poster truck. He was hidden by the media scrum for the duration of the press conference and had to fight his way into his car as he left. Mr Farage was mobbed by photographers, camera people and journalists as he arrived in Smith Square in central London to unveil the poster truck . Earlier Mr Farage played down a run of opinion polls which suggest his support is on the wane, insisting his party is 'more in tune' with the British public. Although the posters include a pledge to control the UK's borders, the word immigration does not feature. The leader was joined by Ukip MP Mark Reckless and other senior Ukip figures, each other them holding an over-sized pledge card in front of the billboard. But Clacton MP Douglas Carswell, who defected from the Tories last year, did not attend the event as he was campaigning in his constituency. Last year Mr Farage warned that people would not vote for Ukip unless he broadened its appeal beyond his own profile. 'I don't think people will vote for us in a general election in big numbers if they think it's a one-man band. I intend to change that over the

Summary: Ukip leader insists his party is 'more in tune' with the British public . Admits Ukip has been damaged by race rows but wants to put it in past . Wants to stop EU referendum being pushed into 'long grass' of 2017 .


Swansea City midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson insists he has no regrets about choosing to join Tottenham over Liverpool despite enduring a disappointing two seasons in north London. The Iceland international made his name in the Premier League at Swansea under Brendan Rodgers and had the opportunity to follow him to Liverpool in 2012. Sigurdsson chose Tottenham instead but returned to south Wales after a disappointing two-year spell at White Hart Lane. The 25-year-old has no regrets, though. Swansea City midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson scores against his old club Tottenham on Wednesday night . Sigurdsson made his name in the Premier League at Swansea City under Brendan Rodgers . Sigurdsson said he enjoyed his time at Spurs and was pleased to play with people like Gareth Bale . He said: 'I always say I enjoyed my time at Spurs and I improved as a player so I don't look back and think "what if?". 'I played with some really good players and I'm in a good team now and really enjoying my football. 'With the Brendan link in the Press it seemed it was more likely I'd go there but Tottenham showed a lot of interest in me and at that time they had players like Gareth Bale and things looked really good. 'Obviously there have been plenty of changes over the past two years and new faces have been brought in but I will always remember my time as a positive one.' Sigurdsson left north London after a disappointing two years in which he failed to establish himself . Sigurdsson said he had a lot to thank Rodgers for after playing under him at Swansea and Reading . Swansea host Liverpool in their next Premier League match, which is on March 16 at the Liberty Stadium . Sigurdsson and Swansea will come face-to-face with Rodgers and Liverpool at the Liberty Stadium in their next league match, and the midfielder admitted he has a lot to thank the Northern Irishman for. 'He was the one who pushed me into the first team,' said Sigurdsson. 'I played my first games under him at Reading and he brought me to Swansea as well so I will always be grateful to him for his confidence. 'He is a great manager. His one-on-one skills are really good and he protects the players as well. 'He's gone through that phase when some people wanted him to leave Anfield, has come back strong and the team is playing really well. 'I will always remember what he did for me, he has played a big part in my career. I will always be thankful for that.'

Summary: Gylfi Sigurdsson made his name in the Premier League at Swansea City . When Brendan Rodgers joined Liverpool he tried to bring Sigurdsson . But Sigurdsson turned down the move and instead went to Tottenham . The Iceland international struggled in London and went back to Wales . Sigurdsson insists he has no regrets about the way things worked out .


Hefty bonus: Antony Jenkins, who receives £5.5m a year, was immediately accused of being ‘out of touch’ over the 'pie in the sky' comments . The boss of Barclays has called for an end to free banking, claiming the controversial move would be a ‘step forward’ for customers. Antony Jenkins, who said he would not make the first move in case it scared off customers, was immediately accused of being ‘out of touch’. His comments came as the High Street giant unveiled another big pay-day for staff. Mr Jenkins’ total package more than tripled from £1.6million in 2013 to £5.5million last year. Asked whether he would approve of free in-credit bank accounts being outlawed and charges introduced across the board, he said: ‘I do think that would be a step forward, yes. ‘It’s difficult to achieve of course because the banks can’t do that. It would probably have to be regulated or legislated.’ He told ITV News it was unlikely that any bank would make the first move in case it lost business. John Mann, a member of the Treasury committee, said last night: ‘He lives in a different world from the rest of us. People on lower incomes would suffer. This shows how out of touch Mr Jenkins is, as so many customers value free bank accounts.’ Mr Jenkins came under fire last year when he argued that closing bank branches would lead to a ‘better customer experience’ as current account holders are increasingly banking online. James Daley of consumer group Fairer Finance said his latest comments were ‘pie in the sky’, adding: ‘To try and scrap the free in-credit banking system we have now would be incredibly unpopular. 'No government would legislate for it – it would be a vote loser because more people benefit from it [free banking] than lose out’. But Mr Jenkins has the support of senior regulators including Bank of England deputy governor Andrew Bailey, who has called free banking a ‘dangerous myth’ – partly due to the confusing array of hefty charges for the millions who go overdrawn. Supporters of packaged accounts – which can cost around £15 a month and typically include ‘perks’ such as travel insurance – also claim banks will be less likely to mis-sell other products. But latest figures from the Financial Ombudsman show complaints from customers who believe they were mis-sold packaged accounts have soared. Royal Bank of Scotland last week revealed it had set aside £150million to compensate customers mis-sold packaged accounts. The comments came as the High Street giant unveiled another big pay-day for staff (file picture) The row came as Mr Jenkins was forced to defend his decision to accept a £1.1million bonus for last year, despite cutting 14,000 jobs. The 53-year-old insisted the decision was ‘appropriate’, saying: ‘You have to look at the very significant progress we’ve made in the two-and-a-half years that I have been chief executive.’ Barclays has set aside almost £1.3billion to pay likely fines for rigging the £3.5trillion-a-day foreign exchange market. This helped drag down profits by 21 per cent to £2.3billion.

Summary: Mr Jenkins accused of being 'out of touch' over 'pie in the sky' comments . It came as the High Street giant unveiled another big pay-day for staff . But he said he would not make first move in case it scared off customers . Also came under fire when he said closing branches would lead to ‘better customer experience’


Two suspected Al-Qaeda terrorists were today identified as the ringleaders of the murderous attack in Tunisia in which British people were caught up. They were named as Yassine Abidi and Hatem Khachnaoui, both Tunisian in their 20s, who were themselves gunned down by police commandoes after killing 19 people, and wounding 44. Both had spent 'a great deal of time' in Kasserine, the western province which is considered a stronghold of a jihadi group linked to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). Scroll down for video . Running for their lives: Tourists and visitors to the Bardo museum are seen evacuated from the area by security forces during yesterday's sickening terror attack . At least six others were wounded in the attack. Tunisian authorities are now hunting several men believed to have helped carry out the massacre . 'The young men had boasted of their links with AQIM,' said a Tunisian Interior Ministry source. 'One was living permanently in Tunis, while another was still based in Kasserine. 'AQIM is well established in the region, and anti-terrorist operations are currently underway there in connection with yesterday's attack'. It came as the British foreign office confirmed that two Britons were 'caught up' in the shootings at the Bardo National Museum, next door to the Tunisian Parliament, in Tunis. Kalashnikovs and grenades were used by Abidi and Khachnaoui during an onslaught which lasted four hours. They are thought to have had accomplices, and a nationwide hunt was today underway to try and find them. Their victims were mainly tourists from Japan, Italy, Colombia, Spain, Australia, Poland and France, said Tunisian Prime Minister Habib Essid. Many were on a Costa cruise ship, which was moored in the Goulette port in Tunis. A spokesman for Coast Cruises said: 'The captain says fourteen passangers are missing. We can't say at this stage if they were among the victims.' A wounded victim of the attack is evacuated by rescue workers outside the museum yesterday . Pictures from French TV show people fleeing from the museum with armed security services providing cover as they run up the steps . A British Foreign Office spokesman said: 'We can confirm that two British nationals were caught up in the shootings in Tunis on Wednesday and that we are providing consular assistance. 'We are working with the Tunisian authorities as well as with contacts in the tourist industry to establish if any further British nationals have been affected. 'Through our travel advice, we are urging people to exercise caution and follow the instructions of the local authorities.' Forty-four people were injured in the attack, including 13 Italians, seven French, four Japanese, two South Africans, one Pole, one Russian and six Tunisians. Prime Minister David Cameron said on Twitter: 'Appalled by sickening terrorist attack in Tunis - my thoughts are with those affected. UK stands ready to support Tunisia.' British tour operators confirmed that while thousands of customers are believed to be in the country, very few were in the capital where the attack was carried out. Tunisians gather at Avenue Habib Bourguiba in

Summary: Suspects named as Yassine Abidi and Hatem Khachnaoui, both in their 20s . Pair are both Tunisian nationals with links to Al Qaeda's north African cell . They spent 'a great deal of time' in Tunisian jihadi stronghold Kasserine . Pair were shot dead by police after killing 19 people, and wounding 44 . Attackers 'hunted down' tourists indiscriminately at Bardo Museum .


Per Mertesacker says that a frank team meeting between the defenders has sorted out the problems that bedevilled Arsenal's first leg of their Champions League tie against Monaco. The Gunners face Monaco on Tuesday night knowing they must score at least three times after their 3-1 defeat at the Emirates Stadium last month. But Mertesacker, the Arsenal vice-captain claims that the response of the team since that result – with four straight wins, including the FA Cup sixth-round victory at Manchester United, and in conceding just two goals since then – is an indication that the team is ready to overturn the two-goal deficit and produce an extraordinary comeback. Per Mertesacker speaks to the assembled media ahead of Arsenal's Champions League tie in Monaco . The World Cup winner shares a joke with Mesut Ozil as the Gunners prepare for their second-leg clash . 'We speak a lot to each other, even when we win,' said Mertesacker. 'We need to learn after defeat and winning. We always try to improve as a defensive unit. It’s always a topic to analyse things that went right and things went wrong. ‘After that game lot of things didn’t go well. That is a mental thing for tomorrow. We know mentally that we weren’t really up for it and at times we could feel there was a bit of pressure and we couldn’t really cope with that. 'But we feel after the game we moved on from that and that’s why we’re confident we can beat any team in the world. ‘We’re coming out of great week with two important wins and a good level of confidence. There is always a good mood in the squad and during the season we’ve responded well. But we have to face truth and show a different face tomorrow. We need to embrace the challenge.' Mertesacker tangles with Ashley Young during Arsenal's FA Cup victory at Manchester United . Mertesacker celebrates in front of the Arsenal fans at United after their impressive Cup win .

Summary: Arsenal face Monaco in the second leg of their last-16 tie on Tuesday night . The Gunners must score at least three times in order to progress . They travel to Monaco trailing 3-1 in the tie after a shambolic home display . But Per Mertesacker believes Arsenal can beat 'any team in the world' CLICK HERE for all the latest Arsenal news .


Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall have certainly packed a punch while on their tour of the US, cramming in plenty of sights during their four-day visit and attracting visitors from far and wide. And the final day of their tour saw the couple receive a warm message from boxing royalty. Boxing legend Muhammad Ali paid tribute to the Prince as he and Camilla arrived in his home city of Louisville - describing the heir to the throne as 'the greatest'. Scroll down for the video . The final leg: Prince Charles, wearing a light blue suit, gingerly walks down the aircraft steps after landing on the tarmac in Louisville, Kentucky. The Duchess of Cornwall follows closely behind . Flying high! The standard for the Prince of Wales and the United States flag are flown from the cockpit of the plane carrying Prince Charles and Camilla as it lands in Louisville . Welcome to Kentucky! The Prince of Wales is greeted by by the Governor and First Lady of Kentucky, Steve and Jane Beshear after touching down at Louisville International Airport . The sport star's words came in a letter - not in person - as he was not well enough to join leading figures from the city at a cultural greeting for Charles and Camilla. But the presence of the three-time former world heavyweight boxing champion was still felt when a letter written by him was read to the prince. The 73-year-old sports star, considered by many to be the greatest boxer of all time, retired in 1981 and has suffered with Parkinson's disease since the mid-1980s. A marching band greets the royal couple as they arrive at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage . The pensive Prince: Charles interacts with exhibitors while touring a cultural festival at the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage . Although boxing legend Muhammad Ali (pictured here in 2014) was too ill to attend, he did send a heartfelt letter welcoming Charles and Camilla to his home city of Louisville . Clap along! Charles and Camilla burst into applause following a presentation by local residents in Louisville . Superfan: Renate Elmore of Louisville, complete with Union Jack hat and bag, waited outside the gates of the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage in order to try and catch a glimpse of Charles and Camilla . Meet me in Louisville! Prince Charles meets local dignitaries in front of the iconic Big Four Bridge . The royal couple were visiting the Kentucky Centre for African American Heritage - a stone's throw from Ali's childhood home - Louisville's Mayor Greg Fischer welcomed the royal couple. The welcome was, on every level, a traditional one. A choir serenaded with a rendition of 'My Old Kentucky Home' and later the couple toured stands showcasing the state of Kentucky and Louisville's heritage, culture, history and sustainability projects. Mr Fischer reading Ali's words said: '(My wife) Lonnie and I welcome you to our hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, USA. We are honoured that you have come to explore, share and learn

Summary: The final day of their four-day visit to the US takes in Louisville, Kentucky . A welcome letter from boxing legend Ali is read out to the royal couple . The couple visited the Kentucky Centre for African American Heritage . Charles and Camilla chatted with teens at the Food Literacy Project at Oxmoor Farm in Louisville .


Timothy Royle is alleged to have stole almost £7,000 of cash as well as expensive equipment from the school where he was headteacher . A headteacher who advised Gordon Brown and David Cameron's governments on education pocketed almost £7,000 of school cash and stole expensive equipment, a court heard today. Timothy Royle is alleged to have falsely reported how bursary funds were spent over the three years leading up to his retirement from Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre in 2012. All the while, he was keeping the cash and taking home cameras, a MacBook Pro laptop, an iMac computer and a set of speakers and headphones, a court heard. The 64-year-old was appointed as one of the first national leaders in education, awarded to headteachers of outstanding schools who advise the Government on policy and help other struggling schools. He joined the Reading-based school, Berkshire, in 1998 and is accused of pocketing £2,000 in 2008, £2,246 the following year and £2,550 in 2010. Prosecuting, John Law told the jury at Reading Crown Court: 'This defendant is accused of offences of fraud and of theft. 'He was the headteacher of a school and we say he abused the status he had and the school had, by keeping public monies for his own benefit. 'He also took when retiring from the school items with him that he was not entitled to.' The court heard alarm bells were sounded by the school business manager after Royle retired and an investigation was launched. Mr Law told the jury: 'You will hear in this case about something called the National College for Teaching and Leadership. This case is about payments that the public body paid to Highdown School. 'Mr Royle was recognised for his work and selected as a national leader of education. The school was given national support school status. High performing schools assist others, so monies are available in association with that.' The court was told that the school was entitled to bursary grants between 2008 and 2010, which helped cover the costs of sending staff to other schools and to training days. Nicholas Syfret QC, defending, said that Royle had been 'instrumental' in improving the previously failing school, so much so the arts building was named in his honour. Mr Law said: 'The payments were applied for and made directly into a business account in Mr Royle's name. After that, he had to file a report at the end of the year to say where the money had been spent. Mr Royle joined Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre in Reading, Berkshire (pictured) in 1998 and is accused of pocketing £2,000 in 2008, £2,246 the following year and £2,550 in 2010 . 'If any funds are left over at the end of the year, they are repaid to the National College or knocked off the following year. 'What we say Mr Royle did was to falsely report - lie - that the money was spent on attending conferences when he knew the school paid for attendance of conferences, both directly and by paying

Summary: Timothy Royle is alleged to have stole thousands from Highdown School . He also took home cameras, a two Apple computers and a set of speakers . Former headteacher Royle denies three counts of fraud and five of theft . The 64-year-old was previously an advisor on government education policy .


A Spanish priest has been arrested after allegedly performing at least 13 exorcisms on an anorexic girl after her parents told him she was 'possessed by the devil'. Jesús Hernández Sahagún, the official exorcist of Valladolid, is facing charges of gender violence, causing injury and mistreatment, according to local media. The rituals began in 2012 when the girl's parents contacted Sahagún for help after being convinced she had been possessed by the devil, reported El País. Jesús Hernández Sahagún, the official exorcist of Valladolid, is facing charges of gender violence, causing injury and mistreatment, after performing 13 exorcisms on an anorexic girl. File photo . In a statement to a court in Burgos, the girl's parents said Sahagún was aware their daughter was receiving medical treatment at the time, adding he had full access to her records. They said the priest had assured them the exorcism would not interfere with her treatment, thelocal.es reported. The ceremonies, which involved her being tied up with crucifixed placed on her head, left the girl injured - and at one point, she tried to commit suicide. But in December last year, Sahagún told El Mundo newspaper defended the exorcisms, adding he had performed more than 200 in the past four years. The archbishop of Burgos also spoken out last year, insisting the suicide attempt was not a result of the exorcisms. Pope Francis made exorcisms an official Catholic practice last year, hailing it as a 'form of charity' He added exorcisms are 'a religious practice maintained as part of the Church's tradition, as a right available to all the faithful'. Pope Francis made exorcisms an official Catholic practice in July last year. The Vatican, who hailed exorcism as a 'form of charity' formally recognised the International Association of Exorcists, a group of 250 priests in 30 countries who liberate demons from the faithful. In Spain, there are currently around 15 priests in with Church authorization to perform exorcisms.

Summary: Parents arranged for exorcisms after believing daughter was possessed . Jesús Hernández Sahagún, from Valladolid, performed at least 13 rituals . He is facing charges of gender violence, causing injury and mistreatment .


A paleo diet guru who wrote a controversial cookbook with My Kitchen Rules judge Pete Evans has hit back at critics after it was revealed she performed voice-overs for junk food commercials. In a statement released on Tuesday, food blogger Charlotte Carr argued she never 'personally' endorsed the products she spruiked in advertisements for Cadbury, Coca Cola and KFC. The revelations came just weeks after publisher Pan MacMillan dumped her controversial cookbook, Bubba Yum Yum: The Paleo Way for New Mums, Babies and Toddlers, after public health experts expressed alarm over a DIY baby formula recipe in the book. 'I am a working mother and like everyone else, will do everything I can to keep my family safe and nurtured,' Ms Carr said today about her decision to do voice-overs for the junk food brands. 'If I'm telling you through advertising on television or radio to buy a certain car, or catch a certain airline, or use a certain toothbrush, I may not drive that certain car, or use that airline or use that toothbrush.' Charlotte Carr (pictured) has worked as a voice artist for a number of leading brands. She has written a paleo diet book with My Kitchen Rules judge Pete Evans . Food blogger Charlotte Carr (left), the wife of 2008 Australian Idol winner Wes Carr (right with son Willow), has co-authored a controversial recipe book with MKR judge Pete Evans . In a statement, Ms Carr (pictured on stage) said it was difficult to select individual voice-over roles because she worked as a freelancer and often received offers as a package deal . Ms Carr said it was difficult to select individual voice-over roles because she worked as a freelancer and often received offers as a package deal. She said she was talking to her agent about choosing 'roles that align more closely to my values'. Ms Carr, Mr Evans and nutritionist Helen Padarin are forging ahead with plans to independently publish their controversial cookbook in a digital format next month. The book has copped heavy criticism from dietitians and health authorities, with the president of the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA), Heather Yeatman, quoted saying 'a baby may die if this book goes ahead'. The PHAA said its DIY baby milk formula, which is based on liver and bone broth formula, contained excessive amounts of Vitamin A. In an interview about the book with the That Paleo Show podcast, Ms Carr said there had been a 'censorship issue' with the recipe. 'I think we need to look at possibly where the comments have come from and who sponsors those organisations,' she said. 'It's a very, very big issue here. 'It's also a censorship issue, you know? This has been promoted and printed I know it's well over 500,000 times because the (inaudible) manual has been printed that many times already. 'And it's in many, many other books across the world.' 'Bubba Yum Yum: The Paleo Way - for new mums, babies and toddlers' will be published independently online. Pan MacMillan Australia will not publish the book

Summary: Paleo diet guru Charlotte Carr breaks her silence on junk food voice-overs . It emerged she performed voice-overs for Cadbury, Coca Cola and KFC . In a statement, Ms Carr said she did not 'personally' endorse the products . 'If I'm telling you through advertising on television or radio to buy a certain car... I may not drive that car,' she told her followers . Ms Carr recently co-authored a controversial cookbook with My Kitchen Rules judge Pete Evans . Publisher Pan MacMillan will not go ahead with the recipe book after health authorities raised the alarm over a baby formula . Public health experts had warned 'a baby may die' if the book goes ahead . Ms Carr said in a podcast interview there was a 'censorship issue' over the recipe .


Australian scientists have made a major breakthrough in treating Alzheimer's with a new drug-free method that can restore memory loss. Researchers at the University of Queensland's Brain Institute hope to be able to trial their new 'cheap and mobile' ultrasound device within two years on humans. The treatment attacks the neurotoxic amyloid plaques that cause memory loss and cognitive failure with ultrasound waves. Scroll down for video . Researchers at the University of Queensland's Brain Institute hope to be able to trial their new 'cheap and mobile' ultrasound device within two years on humans. Research director Professor Jürgen Götz hopes the new method will revolutionise Alzheimer's treatment by restoring memory for sufferers. Research director Professor Jürgen Götz hopes the new method will revolutionise Alzheimer's treatment by restoring memory for sufferers. 'We're extremely excited by this innovation of treating Alzheimer's without using drug therapeutics,' Professor Götz said, according to The Australian. 'The word 'breakthrough' is often misused, but in this case I think this really does fundamentally change our understanding of how to treat this disease, and I foresee a great future for this approach.' The mobile device could be used by patients in their own homes several times a year,eliminating the need for expensive drug treatment that costs up to $250,000, Prof Götz said. 'With an ageing population placing an increasing burden on the health system, an important factor is cost, and other potential drug treatments using antibodies will be expensive,' he said. The mobile device could be used by patients in their own homes several times a year,eliminating the need for expensive drug treatment that costs up to $250,000, Prof Götz said. 'In contrast, this method uses relatively inexpensive ultrasound and microbubble technology which is non-invasive and appears highly effective.' Almost two thirds of all dementia patients in Australia suffer from Alzheimer's, which accounts for almost 250,000 people. The total number of dementia cases in Australia is expected to rise to 900,000 by 2050. Findings of the research, 'Scanning ultrasound efficiently removes amyloid-β and restores memory in an Alzheimer's model', are published in the journal.

Summary: University of Queensland scientists have made the medical breakthrough . 'Cheap' and 'mobile' ultrasound device that can be used for treatment . Drug-free treatment breaks down the plaques that cause memory loss . Will be particularly helpful to suffers in the early stages of the illness . Tested on mice who were put through mazes and had to remember objects .


An eight-year-old girl has taken on Clarks over its 'sexist' shoes range saying she would rather wear dinosaur trainers than a pair covered in flowers and butterflies. Sophia Trow took to social media to vent her frustration after being told the Stomp Claw range of dinosaur trainers was for boys only. She tweeted the multi-national company saying: 'Dear Clarks, I don't like how girls have flowery shoes - I like dinosaurs and fossils, so I think that other girls might as well.' The eight-year-old from Middlesbrough said she was upset when she was told the specific range, which leaves behind 'awesome' reptilian footprints, was not suitable for female bone structure. Sophia Trow, eight, has taken on Clarks over its 'sexist' shoes range saying she would rather wear dinosaur trainers than a pair covered in flowers and butterflies . The eight-year-old schoolgirl said she would rather wear dinosaur trainers than a pair covered in flowers and butterflies (pictured shoe from Clarks range) 'I really want dinosaur shoes because they leave footprints in the sand and mud,' she said. 'Clarks should learn what girls really want and do something about it.' She said she felt like killing anyone who told her she couldn't have or do things 'just because I'm a girl'. 'I don't like how girls just have to like pink and purple - I like blue and science and fossils,' she said. Sophia's sentiments are backed by her six-year-old sister Helena and their mother, 34-year-old Jane Trow. Ms Trow tweeted Clarks on her daughter's behalf, saying: 'My daughter has written you a letter about your sexist shoes. Not all girls want to be pretty princesses.' She said young children should be given more choice rather than being prescribed gender-specific toys and clothes. 'Dinosaur shoes are fun, exciting and something to stomp around and make noise in which is apparently just a boy thing,' she said. She tweeted the multi-national company and sent a letter asking: 'Why can't girls have dinosaur shoes?' The eight-year-old was upset when she was told the specific range, which leaves behind 'awesome' reptilian footprints, was not suitable for female bone structure during a shopping trip . 'Girls' shoes are dainty and flowery while boys' are sturdy and fun - where's the choice?' She added: 'I want my children to have options - if they want to go down the pretty girl, traditional route and grow up to have a family then I'll be proud. 'If they'd prefer a career, no children or to play with toys that aren't supposed to be for girls then I'm equally as proud. 'I don't want them hampered by expectations that tell them how they should behave as girls - I want them to be able to do whatever they want to do and become strong women.' A spokeswoman for Clarks said the company offered a wide range of children's shoes to meet 'varied tastes and needs'. She added: 'We are sorry to hear that our product range didn't suit Sophia's personal tastes.'

Summary: Sophia Trow, eight, has taken on Clarks over its 'sexist' shoes range . She was upset after being told Stomp Claw range was for boys only . And she did not want a pair of shoes covered in flowers and butterflies . So she tweeted company saying girls like dinosaurs and fossils as well . Her mother Jane Trow said: 'Not all girls want to be pretty princesses'


When it comes to leaders on the pitch Ireland coach Joe Schmidt knows he is blessed. Leading out the Grand Slam chasers against Wales in the Six Nations in Cardiff on Saturday will be talisman Paul O'Connell, the giant lock who will be earning his 100th international cap. O'Connell has captained Ireland in all but two of the 16 tests since Schmidt took charge but his style of leadership means other players are given their head when it comes to making decisions in the heat of battle. Ireland fly half Jonathan Sexton has been in superb form for his country this season . Ireland captain Paul O'Connell is set to win his 100th cap against Wales in Cardiff . Sexton works on his ball skills as head coach Joe Schmidt (right) watches on at the Millenium Stadium . 'One of the other things is that Paul doesn't assume every leadership responsibility, he delegates and he encourages and so that is one of the fantastic things for the coaches as well,' Schmidt told the Irish Times. 'It means Jamie (Heaslip) has a definite role. He has some particular things that he leads on, that Johnny Sexton does, that Rob Kearney does, Peter O'Mahony, we have got a number of provincial leaders, Rory Best, who step up and take different roles of leadership. 'So I think of the best things about Paul is that he doesn't try to carry the whole weight of leadership on his own shoulders.' O'Connell will pack down with Leinster lock Devin Toner in the engine room the Irish pack . 'He is incredibly driven to improve his own performance and thereby leads others in doing that.' Fly-half Sexton, who will win his 50th cap against Wales, said O'Connell's very presence, both on and off the field, is an inspiration. 'He's an outstanding leader,' Sexton said. 'When he speaks to the squad during the week the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. 'He know how important his words are.' Sexton's predecessor and long-time team mate of O'Connell, Ronan O'Gara added: 'Paul is very, very special in terms of the ability to deliver the right message at the right time.' That quality will be especially handy in the red-hot cauldron of the Millennium Stadium where Wales, after their opening loss to England, have put themselves back in contention for the title. Victory would leave the grand slam tantalisingly close with an away match against struggling Scotland to finish. 'It's a massive game for a whole lot of reasons. An opportunity to do what no Irish team has ever done in the history of the game,' Schmidt said.

Summary: Ireland will clash with Wales at the Millenium Stadium on Friday . Joe Schmidts side are unbeaten after three rounds of action . Paul O'Connell is set to win his 100th cap against Warren Gatland's side .


Manor had no intention of competing at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix and will pay a price for their failure to race, Formula One's ringmaster Bernie Ecclestone indicated on Monday. The struggling British-based team, who emerged from the remains of the failed Marussia outfit after going into administration and missing the last three races of 2014, failed to turn a wheel on the track in Melbourne. They missed all three practice sessions and Saturday qualifying, blaming software problems, which ruled them out of the race. Manor mechanics work on their car in Melbourne, but they failed to take part at any point over the weekend . British driver Will Stevens has been named one of Manor's drivers this term, and Graeme Lowdon (right) However, they escaped punishment with stewards deciding to take no action after an enquiry decided the team had made 'all reasonable endeavours' to get their cars ready. 'We should have never ever, ever allowed Manor to do what they've done. It's our fault. I predicted this would happen,' Ecclestone said. 'They had no intention of racing in Australia. Zero. They couldn't have raced if someone had gone there with a machine gun and put it to their head. 'It was impossible. So they had no intention. We'll have to see now. And they will have to pay their way to get there and get out of there,' he added. Bernie Ecclestone has indicated that Manor will pay the price for their no-show at the season opener . Marussia, who were ninth overall last season thanks to a ninth-place finish by Frenchman Jules Bianchi in Monaco, won a race against time to get their cars through crash tests and onto the air charter for Australia. Ecclestone said there had been no charge for the freight because they were entitled to that providing they were competing. 'They are not competing so they have to pay for that,' he added. The team are in line for some £28million of revenues from last season but would have forfeited the right to that if they had not turned up to compete in Australia with cars that satisfied the regulations. 'We knew we had the possibility of unknown problems and we haven't had the benefit of sorting some of those problems out in pre-season testing,' sporting director Graeme Lowdon said. 'But equally we had to come here on the basis that we're racing so we brought all of our normal equipment. There's 28 tonnes of equipment to support these cars and all of the staff. 'We are trying very hard but it is a tough thing to do in the time available.' VIDEO Hamilton cruises to victory in Australian GP .

Summary: Manor failed to take part in practice, qualifying or the race in Melbourne . The British-based team escaped sanction from the Australian GP stewards . Team would have forfeited £28m of revenues after finishing ninth in last year's constructors' championship if they did not attend opening race . But F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone indicated that they must now pay .


A design flaw has left a fighter jet that's part of the Pentagon's most expensive project ever incapable of carrying the military's most highly advanced bombs. The F-35B's internal weapons bay is too small for a Small Diameter Bomb II (SDB II) load, according to an Inside Defense report. The fighter jet is the centerpiece of the British Royal Navy's new aircraft carrier-based fleet, and dozens have already been ordered. Trouble in the skies: The F-35B's internal weapons bay is too small for a Small Diameter Bomb II (SDB II) load (file photo) The Ministry of Defence has ordered 48 of the aircraft and they are the only fighter jets set to launch off two planned British aircraft carriers - the HMS Queen Elizabeth and the HMS Prince of Wales. Though it's mandated that an F-35B jet, designed by Lockheed Martin, hold eight SDB IIs in the bay, only four reportedly fit. The problem will not affect the Royal Navy's consignment of F-35Bs, however, as its aircraft are to carry different weapons. The F-35 program will reportedly cost more than £2.5billion over the next decade. The F-35B is one of three variants of the F-35 program - and it's proved the most expensive and most troublesome to get off the ground. The F-35B features a lift fan that will allow it to make short takeoffs and vertical landings - like a helicopter. The F-35 in general - and the F-35B in particular - has been plagued by massive cost overruns and delays. The queen unveils HMS Queen Elizabeth with Prince Philip in a ceremony on the Firth of Forth in July. The ship will be launched for sea trials in 2016 . The Ministry of Defence has ordered 48 of the aircraft and they are the only fighter jets set to launch off two planned British aircraft carriers - the HMS Queen Elizabeth(pictured) and the HMS Prince of Wales . Since work began in 2007, an estimated 10,000 shipyard workers and engineers have been employed in building the ship which will employ a crew of fewer than 700 once complete . Artists impressions of the ship's flight deck released before construction was underway. When completed the vessel will have enough room for dozens of aircraft . Joe DellaVedova, a spokesman for the F-35 program, said in an Inside Defense interview last week that changes are being made to the jet so it can be released on schedule. DellaVedova also said that Lockheed Martin will likely get the alterations contract down the line in 2015. 'This is not a new issue to us,' DellaVedova told Inside Defense. 'We've been working with the SDB II program office and their contractors since 2007. 'The fit issues have been known and documented and there were larger and more substantial modifications needed to support SDB II that have already been incorporated into production F-35 aircraft. 'These minor or remaining changes were put on hold until the aircraft reached a sufficient level of maturity to ensure that the needed changes would not adversely impact any ongoing SDB [II]

Summary: F-35B is slated to be used by the Royal Navy on HMS Queen Elizabeth . Fighter jet's internal weapons bay is too small for a proper bomb load . F-35B is supposed to hold eight SDB II bombs in the bay, but only four can fit . A program spokesman has said changes are being made to the jet . Royal Navy's version is not intended to carry SDB II bombs . F-35 program will cost an estimated £2.5billion over the next decade .


Glasgow could yet host Britain’s glamour Davis Cup quarter-final with France in July – if Team GB opt to put atmosphere ahead of a desire to play on grass. Andy Murray led the home team to victory over USA in front of 7,500 passionate fans at the Emirates Arena on Sunday and, with all three days sold out in a matter of minutes, there is an obvious desire to see Scotland’s greatest active sportsman in action again. Murray himself expressed a preference for facing the French on grass – but said: ‘I think grass might be a good surface, but we’ll have to see, because playing in front of a crowd like this also makes a difference and it helps. Andy Murray celebrates extravagantly during his straight sets win over John Isner on Sunday . Great Britain supporters would relish supporting Murray and Co in Glasgow again in July . All three day's of Davis Cup action at the Emirates Arena were sold out in a matter of minutes . If we can’t guarantee that at a grass venue maybe it makes sense to play it somewhere we can get that.’ GB captain Leon Smith, a Glaswegian himself, said there was ‘no chance’ of finding or creating a suitably large outdoor venue – a minimum of 600 seats are required – in order to bring a grass-court tie to Scotland. But he added: ‘I say no chance but I’m not a lawn expert. So, if someone can tell me there’s a chance, I’m sure we would explore it. GB captain Leon Smith doubts the chances of Glasgow being able to create a larger grass-court venue . Smith embraces with Murray after the latter's straight sets win secured GB's quarter-final berth . Murray (middle) is looked on in envy by his fellow GB team-mates after securing a tie against France . 'Internally, we’ve looked at other options, thinking outside the box. ‘The first thing I need to do, over the next week or two, is think about the best surface. Andy said grass there but we need to sit as a group, look at the likely French team and think about what’s best. ‘Then we have to go somewhere with a great atmosphere. If it’s indoor hard, why not here – or somewhere near here? Something like this, it definitely worked in Scotland. 'You have to look at when the tie lands in the summer, too. ‘There will have been an awful lot of tennis in certain regions, so you want to put it somewhere people have the hunger for more tennis. We’ll be phoning around like mad. ‘Ultimately you go with the surface that gives you the best chance of winning. The atmosphere is great – but it will be even better to be in the semi-finals. ‘We’ve got to pick a surface that all the players agree on. We’ll put our heads together over the next week, then go to the suits and ask them to make it happen.’

Summary: Great Britain face France in the Davis Cup quarter finals in July . This tie could be held in Glasgow if GB decide atmosphere outweighs the desire to play on a grass court . Their 3-2 win over the USA was played inside the Emirates Arena . Andy Murray admits his preference is grass, but that playing in Glasgow again with the crowd behind them could be crucial . GB captain Leon Smith doubts the prospects of creating a suitably large outdoor venue in order to have a grass court in Glasgow .


Sir Alex Ferguson has described Hearts owner Ann Budge as ‘a guardian angel’ for galvanising the club following the devastating effects of administration. The former Manchester United manager was in Edinburgh this week to attend the funeral of Hearts’ greatest-ever player Dave Mackay. But the 73-year-old also took time out to pay tribute to the leadership of Budge after head coach Robbie Neilson guided the team to the Championship title last weekend with seven games to spare. Ferguson said: ‘I think Dave would be very proud of Hearts. As you know, they’ve been through a terrible time. I go back to when I was a boy and they were my sort of second team after Rangers, with the great players John Cumming, (Willie) Bauld, (Alfie) Conn and (Jimmy) Wardhaugh. Sir Alex Ferguson pictured leaving the BBC Sport studio in Manchester on Wednesday . Sir Alex Ferguson gave a moving tribute to Hearts, Tottenham and Derby great Dave Mackay at his funeral . ‘That period when things go so bad, I just think that sometimes a guardian angel comes along and saves you. ‘The job that Ann Budge has done has not only regenerated the club but it’s given everyone a lift in sense of the ambition is back in the club, they’re back in the Premier League. ‘They’ve won the Championship by 20-something points, it’s a phenomenal number of points and I’m delighted for them. I’m really proud of the job that Ann Budge has done. ‘I think it is onwards and upwards,’ Ferguson told Hearts TV. ‘I don’t think there’s anyway back now and you’ve found your way. Sometimes you get lost on the road to where you want to go to and now they’ve found their way again. ‘They look more than a useful team because I’ve watched them a few times this season. They play some really good football and I think you’ll be very welcome in the Premier Division, I’m sure of that, and you’ll do well.’ Ferguson arrived at Hearts' Tynecastle earlier in the afternoon prior to leading the tributes . Ferguson was in distinguished company, with former Manchester United man Denis Law (back) also present . Meanwhile, Hearts legend John Robertson insists there is no chance the newly-crowned Championship winners will slack off out of respect for the teams still chasing promotion. Neilson’s side have a role to play when it comes to who finishes among the three play-off places in the second tier. Hearts host fourth-placed Queen of the South on Saturday and still have Rangers to play twice as well as an encounter against city rivals Hibs. All-time record Hearts goal scorer Robertson, who also coaches the club’s Under-17s, insists the team is fully aware of their responsibilities for the remainder of the season. Owner Ann Budge has steered Hearts back to the Scottish Premiership . Budge pictured with Hearts director of football Craig Levein and head coach Robbie Neilsen . ‘We’ve got players that have not had a lot of game time and they’ll want to play,’ he said. ‘They’ll want to show

Summary: Hearts won the Scottish Championship after Rangers beat Hibs on Sunday . The club are 23 points clear of second place Hibs with seven games to left . Sir Alex Ferguson has heaped praise on owner Ann Budge .


A long-time producer for The View has been fired after publicly berating host Rosie O'Donnell. An insider told Page Six that Jennifer Shepard-Brookman was 'profoundly and publicly disrespectful' to the returning host back in February. After an initial suspension, eight-year The View veteran Shepard-Brookman was fired last week. According to the Page Six source, the spat began when Shepard-Brookman was complaining about O'Donnell behind her back. Scroll down for video . Dissed Rosie? An insider told Page Six that Jennifer Shepard-Brookman was 'profoundly and publicly disrespectful' to the returning host back in February . 'During a production meeting, Jennifer began mumbling behind Rosie, who told her, "If you have something to say, say it to my face!" So Jennifer did — she laced into Rosie, and there was a shouting match,' the source said. Staff members, including O'Donnell, were appalled enough by her behavior to complain. Now, ABC top brass have answered in the form of her termination. Not that Rosie O'Donnell cares all that much. The incident occurred right around the time she announced she is leaving The View for a second time. Her publicist, Cindi Berger, said in early February that the outspoken co-host of the ABC daytime chat show would be exiting to focus on her five children after the breakup of her marriage. Booted: Shepard-Brookman, an 8-year veteran of the show, was reportedly suspended in February around the time of O'Donnell's departure and fired last week . Complaints: Staff who say the producer's outburst and Rosie herself reported complained to top ABC brass . Berger says O'Donnell and Michelle Rounds, her wife of three years, split in November. The 52-year-old O'Donnell had returned to The View only last summer. Her initial yearlong stay ended stormily in 2007. Now in its 18th season, the program recently was the target of rumors that a fellow panelist, Rosie Perez, had left for good to appear in a new Broadway play, but she returned. Moderator Whoopi Goldberg and Nicolle Wallace remain with Perez on the show, which was created by Barbara Walters in 1997. 'During a production meeting, Jennifer began mumbling behind Rosie, who told her, "If you have something to say, say it to my face!" So Jennifer did — she laced into Rosie, and there was a shouting match,' the source said.

Summary: Jennifer Shepard-Brookman was with the show for eight years prior to the incident with O'Donnell last month, Page Six reports .


The new head of the Secret Service has admitted he has agents with a drinking problem after two were accused of crashing their car while drunk at the White House. Joseph Clancy, newly-installed director of the agency, made the admission in a stormy session in front of Congress as he tried to get their approval to build a replica White House for agents to practice protecting the president. He was told his answers were 'hogwash', berated for the string of failures by the Secret Service, and when he said he had to build the 'trust' of his employees, told bluntly by Republican Chris Stewart: 'Dude, you don't have to earn their trust. You're their boss!' Clancy also admitted he did not know about the crash for five days, and said the two staff were still being fully paid and had not yet been disciplined, although they were on administrative rather than active duty. The hearing itself was to be an exploration of Clancy's budget request for the 2016 fiscal year - including the $8 million he is asking for to build a scale replica White House. But 'the 800-pound gorilla in the room,' as Homeland Security subcommittee chairman Rep. John Carter said, was 'what happened the other night at the White House.' SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEOS . A frustrated Joseph Clancy, the new Secret Service director, told Congress on Tuesday that his hands are tied and he can't fire suspected drunk-driving agents until a lengthy process plays out . A SECOND WHITE HOUSE? The Secret Service wants to build a scale model of the presidential mansion in Maryland so agents can be trained in a facility that's just like the real thing – but it probably won't include today's St. Patrick's Day fountain . Clancy had few answers to questions about an early March incident in which two agents were accused of drunk-driving a government car through a White House barricade after an after-hours party. On-duty officers at the scene, according to The Washington Post, wanted to arrest the agents and administer sobriety tests, but a supervisor overruled them and allowed the suspects to go home. Worse, they appeared to have driven over a 'suspicious package' that their fellow agents were in the process of investigating. Clancy, it emerged on Tuesday, was only told of the incident five days later. He said 'there will be accountability'. He promised new 'ethics training' and said he had moved the accused officers to 'non-supervisory' desk duty, but with 'no financial penalties' such as a salary reduction or a suspension without pay. 'It's going to take time, perhaps, to change this culture,' he said, referring to a fast-and-loose attitude inside the agency he inherited after former director Julia Pierson resigned last year. He said the Secret Service has a rule prohibiting the consumption of alcohol '10 hours before your duty assignment.' But 'we don't have protocols for off-hours' activities,' he added. 'There's an element within our agency that does cope with stresses... by using alcohol,' Clancy said, noting that the agency recently launched an initiative to

Summary: Joseph Clancy was quizzed by Congress after two allegedly drunk agents crashed through White House barricades during 'suspicious package' crisis . He admitted some agents dealt with stress by 'using alcohol' and that he had not known about incident for days . Said he had seen CCTV footage of the incident - although it has not been made public . One congressman called his answers 'hogwash' and another told him to get a grip on troubled agency which he is supposed to get working again . Clancy was asking for cash to build $8 million replica of the White House in Maryland so agents can be trained better .


Over 70 schoolchildren were left screaming in terror after the top deck of the bus they were travelling in was completely sliced off when it slammed into a low bridge. The youngsters, who were on a school trip to the Thorpe Park amusement park, were forced to duck for cover as the vehicle hit the railway bridge in Staines, Surrey, shortly after 10.20am. Miraculously nobody was seriously hurt in the crash although 11 people have reportedly been taken to hospital to be treated for minor injuries. Scroll down for video . Lucky escape: The roof of this double decker bus, which was reportedly carrying 76 schoolchildren, was completely ripped off after it hit a low railway bridge . There are understood to have been 76 schoolchildren aged 14 or 15 as well as four to five teachers from St John's School in Epping, Essex, were on board at the time. Writing on the school website, headteacher George Yerosimou said: 'I have just been informed that the double decker coach transporting our students on the Gold Trip to Thorpe Park has been involved in an accident. 'We have spoken to a number of staff and we are able to confirm that there are no serious injuries although some students may have suffered some cuts and bruises.' Wreckage: The roof of the bus lies on the road next to the railway bridge following the accident in Staines, Surrey . Passengers: In total 76 schoolchildren and four or five teachers from St John's School in Epping, Essex, were on board the bus when the accident happened . The school's website says pupils are given the opportunity to go on a reward trip if they achieve a high number of house points. Christopher Nice, a spokesman for Galleon Travel, said: 'A double-decker bus picked up 76 children from St John's School in Epping at 8.30am. 'They were on their way to Thorpe Park. On one of the roads in, the bus struck a bridge. 'Fortunately, as far as we are aware, none of those passengers on the bus have sustained any serious injuries. 'As of 11am, Galleon Travel were in the process of arranging for a replacement vehicle to take them back to the school.' Emergency services rushed to Chertsey Lane in Staines after the crash while eyewitnesses reported seeing the roof sliced free from the vehicle . Headteacher George Yerosimou said no one had been seriously hurt in the crash although 11 people have been taken to hospital with minor injuries . Emergency services rushed to Chertsey Lane in Staines after the crash while eyewitnesses reported seeing the roof sliced free from the vehicle . Emergency services rushed to Chertsey Lane in Staines after the crash while eyewitnesses reported seeing the roof sliced free from the vehicle. A man travelling on a train said: 'I saw some young girls pointing at the bridge then all debris was flying in the air. We were directly overhead when it hit.' Another said: 'A double-decker bus tried to go under a low bridge, there were children on board.

Summary: Youngsters forced to duck for cover as bus slammed into the bridge . They were being treated to a trip to Thorpe Park as a reward for good work . Eyewitnesses report seeing the roof being sliced free from the vehicle . Miraculously nobody was seriously hurt although 11 people were taken to hospital with minor injuries .


Here is some news that might cheer up Angel di Maria. The Argentina international is having a miserable season at Manchester United but his form would not appear to be affecting his popularity - with shirts bearing his name requested more than any other player in the Premier League. According to retailers Sports Direct, who sell Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Liverpool, United, Manchester City, Tottenham and Newcastle shirts, Di Maria's is the name asked for by almost one in 10 of fans in stores. Manchester United's record summer signing Angel di Maria tops the list of SportsDirect player shirt sales . Di Maria has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford despite a bright start last year . Di Maria, Sanchez and Costa make up with top three with a combined share of 15.66 per cent . His tally of 9.59 per cent puts him streets ahead of Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez, with the Chilean playmaker in second place with 3.8 per cent. Di Maria has struggled for form since his £59.7million summer switch from Real Madrid. He has also had to endure an attempted break-in at his home which saw him and his family move to a hotel in a panic before finding a new residence in the heart of the city centre. But these figures will give the winger a boost as he bids to stop his Old Trafford career from ending before it has even began. Alexis Sanchez has 13 Premier League goals to his name and is second with with 3.80 per cent share of sales . Chelsea's Diego Costa sits third as the Premier League's three big summer signings make an impact . Costa, seen here scoring against Arsenal in October, has 19 Premier League goals to his name so far . Another summer arrival on our shores, Chelsea's Diego Costa, is the third most-requested player with 2.27 per cent ahead of Di Maria's United team-mated David de Gea on 2.16 per cent. Speculation that the Spanish goalkeeper will quit Manchester to head back to his home city of Madrid to join Real has not deterred fans from opting for his name on the back of their shirts. Belgium and Chelsea star Eden Hazard is in fifth place followed by United pair Wayne Rooney and Radamel Falcao - another South American import who is struggling to adjust to life in the Premier League. David de Gea's No 1 United shirt is the fourth-most requested with a share of 2.16 per cent . Belgium and Chelsea star Eden Hazard (left) is in fifth place followed by Wayne Rooney . MLS-bound Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard is in eighth place followed by Manchester City's Sergio Aguero in ninth while another United striker, Robin van Persie, completes the top 10. Just missing out is Newcastle's popular Spaniard Ayoze Perez, who takes 11th place. As for Christian names 'Jack' is the most popular request, accounting for 0.39 per cent of name sales. Strikers are the most common to be asked for with Luke Shaw, the most popular defender, in 38th place on

Summary: Almost one in 10 of fans in stores ask for Angel di Maria's name to be put on the back of a shirt . Man United signed Argentine winger for record £60m fee last summer . Summer signings Alexis Sanchez and Diego Costa complete the top three . David de Gea's No 1 jersey is in fourth with 2.16 per cent share of sales . CLICK HERE for all the latest Premier League news .


Dozens of MPs are claiming taxpayer-funded expenses to rent homes or stay in hotel rooms in London while letting out property they own nearby, it emerged last night. The 46 MPs have claimed more than £1.3million for rent or hotel rooms at the same time as receiving rent from properties that were often purchased and refurbished from taxpayers’ money. An investigation by Channel 4 News found 25 Conservatives, 14 Labour and four Liberal Democrats had benefited from the expenses loophole, which is not against parliamentary rules. Many of the MPs bought their London properties with the help of the taxpayer under the previous expenses system that allowed claims for mortgage payments. 46 MPs - including Scottish Labour leader Jim Murphy (left) and former Conservative health secretary Andrew Lansley (right) - have claimed more than £1.3million for rent or hotel rooms at the same time as receiving rent from properties . But since the claims were banned by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) following the expenses scandal, the MPs have switched to renting out the properties they own and instead claimed expenses for rent and hotels. Under the current system, MPs are allowed to claim £20,600 a year in London rent and £150 a night for hotels. Labour’s shadow culture minister Chris Bryant has claimed £35,350 in the past two years to rent a property in London despite already owning a penthouse. He bought the two-bedroom apartment, which has a private lift and porter, in 2005 and claimed around £1,000 a month in mortgage claims. But when the rules changed he moved into another flat and let out the property he already owned for around £3,000 a month. Scottish Labour leader Jim Murphy owns a property two miles from Westminster that he bought with taxpayer help. But in the previous two years he claimed £39,372 to rent another flat for himself. Labour’s shadow culture minister Chris Bryant (left) has claimed £35,350 in the past two years to rent a property in London despite owning a penthouse. Former Liberal Democrat defence minister Sir Nick Harvey (right) has charged the taxpayer £39,772 for the rent of a flat, despite owning a house in Lambeth . Former Liberal Democrat defence minister Sir Nick Harvey has charged the taxpayer £39,772 in expense claims for the rent of a flat, despite owning a house in Lambeth, which he has let out to tenants since the rule change. Andrew Lansley, the former Tory health secretary, has claimed more than £7,440 since 2013 to stay in London hotels, despite owning a flat with his wife in upmarket Pimlico, which was bought with help under the old expenses system. SNP MP Angus MacNeil owns a flat in Lambeth, a short walk from the Houses of Parliament, which was paid for with taxpayer help. But he has claimed £42,177 in hotel expenses om the three years since 2012/13. Former Chairman of the Committee for Standards in Public Life Sir Alistair Graham said MPs should be seen to be upholding the spirit of the rules that state they must not ‘exploit the

Summary: 46 MPs used expenses loophole, which is not against parliamentary rules . Allowed to claim £20,600 a year in London rent and £150 a night for hotels . Mortgage claim ban forced them to let out second homes, MPs said .


A British Muslim fashion vlogger called Dina Torkia, 25, will appear in a documentary tonight about her entry into the international Muslim beauty pageant, World Muslimah. Contestants are subjected to a two-week boot camp where they take one numerous tasks, including entertaining orphans, medical exams and a psychological test where the women are quizzed on aspects of their personality. The contest, which first ran in 2011, judges women on dedication, reputation and concern for Islamic values and community development. Scroll down for video . Dina Torkia is pictured in Yogyakarta, where she took part in the Muslim Miss World pageant . It is held exclusively for Muslim women, who are assessed not only their appearance (in Islamic dress) but also their piety, religious knowledge and understanding of the Koran. Hundreds of women enter the contest online and 20 finalists are then chosen by judges. In previous years, entrants were asked to talk people through their path to the religion and what wearing a headscarf meant to them. The founder of the competition Eka Shanty says that she started the event to empower women. She tells the TV cameras: 'This is about mind, body and soul. 'Women are supposed to be highly educated and well appreciated - my duty as head of World Muslimah is to empower them. 'It is about the ideal Muslim. I've been thinking about how to put Lady Diana into an Islamic personality.' Dina introduces herself to the other contestants . The event is run as an international charity event by the World Muslimah Foundation (WMF) to benefit relief of Muslim women in food crises, wars, conflicts and natural disasters. After travelling to Jakarta in Indonesia from her home in London for the event, Dina and the rest of the 18 contestants are woken at 3am to recite the Koran on the first morning. They are then put through a rigorous medical exam which includes giving blood and urine samples. The results of the test are then given to the judges, who will include the information when weighing up who will win. According to the organisers, the reason for the test is to make sure that the winner will be healthy enough to complete her duties as Miss World Muslimah. The women are then given a 'psycho test' to complete to rate their personality (Dina pictured with some of the other contestants) The women are then given a 'psycho test' to complete, which is a multiple choice exam designed to rate their personality. Dina is astonished at some of the questions and reads one of them out for the cameras. She says: 'One of the questions in the multiple choice are: "I like to participate in discussions about sex and sexual activities," or, "I like to predict how my friends will do in various situations."' She adds: ‘I think I’ll just circle any old s*** because I’m pretty sure this means nothing.’ The women are then taken to one of the city's slums so they organisers can see how their interact with underprivileged people and how it affects them.

Summary: Fashion vlogger Dina Torkia, 25, from London, enters World Muslimah . In a new documentary she travels to Jakarta to take part in the pageant . The contestants are then put through a series of tasks over two weeks . The show judges women on dedication, reputation and Islamic values .


The parents of teenagers who flee Britain to join ISIS should take more responsibility for their children's actions, a senior police officer has said. Sir Peter Fahy, one of the country's leading counter terrorism officers, said families are more to blame for young jihadis who runaway to Syria than the police, schools or local authorities. Rather than report their concerns to police for fear of being criticised, some parents are guilty of embracing 'victimhood' when their children leave, he claimed. Scroll down for video . Sir Peter Fahy (above) said the parents of jihadi runaways should take more responsibility for their actions . Sir Peter's comments come after the families of three jihadi schoolgirls claimed police had not done enough to prevent their daughters from leaving the country. Kadiza Sultana, 16, Amira Abase and Shamima Begum, both 15, fled their north London homes in February. They are thought to have joined former classmate Sharmeena Begum in the ISIS stronghold of Raqqa. Their families have since lambasted police for not warning them that Sharmeena had earlier travelled to Syria. But Sir Peter has slammed their 'ill-advised' condemnation which he says could lead to a 'backlash'. A senior police officer claimed the families of runaway jihadis were embracing 'victimhood'. Fahmida Aziz (left), Sahima Begum (centre), and Abase Hussen (right), criticised police in front of a Home Affairs Select Committee when three London schoolgirls fled for Syria . Kadiza Sultana, 16, Amira Abase and Shamima Begum, both 15, fled their north London homes in February and were seen on CCTV in Turkey shortly afterwards . 'What is ill-advised is to just blame the police, blame the authorities, blame the school, when the absolute prime responsibility for the welfare of children lies with parents,' he told The Times. 'I'm not saying that is easy. But it creates the conditions for a backlash which again is not positive.' His comments come after the the schoolgirls' families castigated police for not warning them of concerns before the girls fled the country in February. Sharmeena Begum fled the country months earlier . Sitting before a Home Affairs Select Committee, they claimed they should have been told directly that their daughter's friend and classmate, Sharmeena Begum, had gone to Syria to pursue terrorists. In a joint statement, they said: 'With respect to the disappearance of our children we have been disappointed by the handling of this matter by the school, Met police and the local authority, all of whom we feel failed to act appropriately and pass on vital information to us or indeed between each other. 'As parents, we expect the safeguarding of our children to be the top priority of schools and the local authority whilst our children are in their care. 'Had we been made aware of circumstances sooner, we ourselves could have taken measures to stop the girls from leaving the UK.' While Metropolitan Police delivered letters to the three girls, its Commissioner, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, admitted their parents should have been contacted directly. Sharmeena, 15, left the home she shared with her father in north

Summary: Sir Peter Fahy said the 'prime responsibility' for runaways lies with parents . He claimed the families of youngsters who have fled embrace 'victimhood' Police, schools and local authorities are not be to blame, he added . Comes after relatives of three London schoolgirls lambasted Scotland Yard . Claimed they should have been told the girls' classmate had gone to Syria . Now all four youngsters are thought to be in the ISIS stronghold of Raqqa . Elsewhere Muslim mothers said families were 'in denial' about extremism .


A Phoenix woman who left her two young sons alone in a hot car during a job interview pleaded guilty Monday to a felony child abuse charge in a deal that lets her avoid jail time. The plea agreement calls for Shanesha Taylor to serve 10 years of probation, undergo parenting classes and pay an unspecified amount of restitution. Her children remain in her custody. Taylor attracted sympathy around the nation after her tear-stained mug shot went viral on the Internet. Her story of trying to get a job but not being able to find child care resonated with the public, and she received more than $114,000 in donations through an online site. Scroll down for video . National attention: Shanesha Taylor attracted sympathy around the nation after her tear-stained 2014 mug shot went viral on the Internet . Plea: Taylor (seen in the floral print shirt) pleaded guilty Monday to a felony child abuse charge in a deal that lets her avoid jail time . But she became the target of backlash after she missed deadlines to fund a trust for her children and questions arose about where the money went. In court Monday, Taylor provided one-word answers to a court commissioner's questions and, unlike her earlier court appearances, avoided TV cameras outside the courthouse by leaving through a side exit. Her lawyer tried unsuccessfully to bar a TV camera from recording the hearing. As part of the plea, defense attorney Valeria Llewellyn said her client, by leaving the children in the car, put them in a situation where they could have been hurt. Court Commissioner Jeffrey Rueter asked Taylor whether her attorney's statement was correct. 'Yes,' Taylor answered. Taylor was arrested nearly a year ago after leaving her two young boys in her car for about 45 minutes while she interviewed for a job with a Scottsdale insurance company. Authorities said the temperature inside the car exceeded 100 degrees. A witness found the infant crying hysterically and sweating profusely. Taylor told investigators she didn't have anyone to watch her then-2-year-old and 8-month-old sons. Deal: Monday's plea marks the second time Taylor has struck a deal with prosecutors to resolve her case. An agreement last summer allowed Taylor to avoid charges as long as she set up a $60,000 trust fund for her children with the donated money . Broken arrangement: Taylor (seen here last year) broke the 2014 deal by missing a deadline for putting money in the trusts, even after the amount of her payments was lowered to $40,000 . Monday's plea marks the second time Taylor has struck a deal with prosecutors to resolve her case. An agreement last summer allowed Taylor to avoid charges as long as she set up a $60,000 trust fund for her children with the donated money. But she broke that agreement by missing a deadline for putting money in the trusts, even after the amount of her payments was lowered to $40,000. Taylor has said she didn't fund the trusts because her children won't get the money if they decided not to

Summary: Shanesha Taylor, 36, pleaded guilty to a felony child abuse charge Monday . Taylor was arrested in 2014 after leaving her two young boys in her car for about 45 minutes while she interviewed for a job . She attracted sympathy around the nation after her tear-stained mug shot went viral on the Internet . The mother received more than $114,000 in online donations . An agreement last summer allowed Taylor to avoid charges as long as she set up a $60,000 trust fund for her children with the donated money . She broke that agreement by missing a deadline for putting money in the trusts, even after the amount of her payments was lowered to $40,000 .


Unless your name is Rebecca Adlington, Victoria Pendleton or Mo Farah, sport is probably nothing more than an enjoyable hobby. Now a new study has revealed that your choice of sport says more about you than you could possibly have imagined. According researchers, cyclists are more likely to be emotionally stable, runners the most extrovert and swimmers the happiest, while walkers are the least materialistic. Scroll down for video . Happiest: Swimmers such as Rebecca Adlington are happier - and tidier - than most . Best for romance: According to the research, swimmers make the best lovers . The psychological study, which was carried out by experts Mindlab, also revealed that sport can also offer clues to a person's attitude to charity, reading habits and even their voting intentions. Cyclists, for instance, are most likely to vote Liberal Democrat and tend to be laid back and calm, if keen on acquiring material possessions. Meanwhile runners tend to be Labour-voting extroverts who love being the centre of attention and have a penchant for upbeat dance music. Those who swim tend to make the best lovers, are tidy and are also the most charitable, although according to Mindlab, 61 per cent of adults are fond of charity regardless of their choice of sport. Walkers, a category that includes those who enjoy rambling, orienteering and trekking, are least concerned about material possessions and like their own company. 'It has long been known that exercise is not only good for your body, but also your mind,' comments neuropsychologist, Dr David Lewis. Extrovert: Runners such as Mo Farah tend to be extroverts with a taste for upbeat music . The research claims cyclists love shopping and vote Liberal Democrat . 'Past research has shown that exercising can act as a mood-enhancer, can be used to treat and possibly even prevent anxiety and generally has a positive effect on mental health. 'The results from this study show that no matter what kind of person you are, there is the right kind of exercise for everyone.' The study, which was commissioned by the British Heart Foundation to mark the launch of its 2015 series of events, also found that favourite sports vary by area. Thus in Birmingham and London, cycling is the sport of choice for most while running wins the race in Leeds and Newcastle. Swimming was most popular in Cardiff, Dublin and Manchester, while walking was most loved in Bristol, Glasgow, Norwich and Nottingham. Peaceful: Those who love walking tend to enjoy their own company and are least materialistic . Supporters: Pippa Middleton (left) and heptathlete Louise Hazel (right) are high profile BHF supporters . The British Heart Foundation is famous for its sporty fundraisers and will once again stage the London to Brighton bike race this June. Pippa Middleton, one of the charity's best-known supporters, is set to take part, as will Olympic heptathlete Louise Hazel. 'Whatever your sports personality or level of fitness, I would encourage everyone to sign up to a BHF event,' said Hazel. 'Heart disease devastates too many lives, killing around 80,000

Summary: Swimmers are tidy, happy and good in bed according to new research . Cyclists are Liberal Democrat voters who enjoy a shopping trip . Walkers are the least materialistic and are happy spending time alone . Research conducted by Mindlab which specialises in psychology .