Luton Town striker Elliot Lee celebrated scoring against Wycombe Wanderers on Tuesday night with a touching tribute to his friend, former West Ham United forward Dylan Tombides. Tombides died in April last year after a battle with testicular cancer and Lee, a friend of the tragic Hammers youngster, showed off a message under his shirt after his seventh-minute equaliser. The 20-year-old is on loan at Kenilworth Road from West Ham and has also been wearing the No 38 shirt, the same squad number as Tombides had during his time at Upton Park. Elliot Lee (right) showed off a vest as a tribute to his friend Dylan Tombides when scoring for Luton Town . The shirt reads 'For you Dyl, gone but never forgotten' and was shown when he scored on Tuesday night . Tombides died after a struggle with testicular cancer last year in April after a long battle . The vest, shown during the live televised visit of Wycombe, read: 'For you Dyl, gone but never forgotten,' with a picture of the Australian striker who died aged 20. Kenilworth Road has also been renamed 'The Prostate Cancer UK Stadium' for the evening in a partnership with the charity that shares the name. it is the first time a Football League club's stadium has been renamed in support of a charity. Lee later grabbed a second equaliser for Luton but Alfie Mawson crashed in Wanderers' third goal after earlier strikes by Sam Saunders and Paul Hayes, from a penalty. Tombides died last April after being diagnosed with cancer three years previously. Tributes to him poured in, with the DT38 Foundation formed to raise awareness and provide support for those suffering with testicular cancer. Tributes poured in for 20-year-old Tombides after his tragic death, a foundation has been subsequently set up .

Summary: West Ham youngster Dylan Tombides died from cancer in April last year . Elliot Lee is on loan at Luton from the Hammers and prepared a tribute . He showed a picture of Tombides on a vest against Wycombe Wanderers on Tuesday with the message: 'For you Dyl, gone but never forgotten' Lee wears No 38 at Luton, Tombides' old squad number at West Ham . Alfie Mawson scored third goal in 3-2 win for promotion-chasing Wycombe .


This is the dramatic moment an extreme skier uses his parachute to fly over an avalanche to avoid being knocked off a cliff. Ugo Gerola captured the action on his helmet camera as he was hurtling down a slope on the Aiguille du Midi in the French Alps. At first, the 23-year-old glides over the powder white snow, occasionally using his parachute to take off and land metres away. Then, out of nowhere, an avalanche comes into shot and nearly sweeps him over the edge of the mountain. Extreme skier Ugo Gerola is seen on his helmet camera hurtling down a slope in the French Alps moments before an avalanche sweeps across his path, nearly knocking him over the face of the 4,000m mountain . Danger: Out of nowhere, the avalanche comes into shot from his left as he races down the slope . Averting disaster: Mr Gerola uses his parachute to lift several feet in the air to dodge the avalanche's path . The extreme skier sails over the path of the avalanche as it sweeps out of view . But Mr Gerola uses his parachute to dodge its path and watches as the powder, ice and rocks drop hundreds of feet below him while he floats in the clear blue skies. He said: 'I was so lucky escaping the avalanche. I only just saw it at the last moment. 'Fortunately from my experience of skiing I knew where to go. 'Once I was safely away from the cliff face, it was amazing to watch the snow falling below my feet. 'In that moment I felt incredibly small.' As Mr Gerola looks behind him, the avalanche can been seen tumbling over the edge of the cliff . He watches as the powder, ice and rocks drop hundreds of feet below while he floats in the clear blue skies . He said: 'Once I was safely away from the cliff face, it was amazing to watch the snow falling below my feet' Mr Gerola has been freeriding for six years and works as a ski instructor throughout the winter months. Freeriding, or speed flying as it is also known, involves skiing off off-piste, often with a winged parachute, much like paragliding. Sometimes referred to as 'off-piste', there is a much higher possibility of there being avalanches as the snow is less stable. Mr Gerola said: 'When I showed my friends the video, they were amazed. 'Some of them say I'm crazy because of the dangers of freeriding but it just makes me feel alive. 'I have been practicing for many years now so the risk of my rides is always carefully calculated.'

Summary: Ugo Gerola, 23, captured near-miss on helmet camera in the French Alps . Used parachute to dodge avalanche as it sweeps into shot and over cliff . He said: 'My friends say I'm crazy, but free-riding just makes me feel alive'


Leeds United have been hit with more bad news as the Championship outfit's chief operating officer Matt Child has quit his role at the club with immediate effect. Child, who is a lifelong Leeds fan, took control of the day-to-day running of the club after president Massimo Cellino was banned by the Football League from having any involvement. However Child decided to resign from his post at Elland Road on Monday morning, leaving the club to look for a new chief operating officer. Leeds United chief operating officer Matt Child has left his role at the Championship outfit . Child took control of the day-to-day running of the Elland Road club following Massimo Cellino's ban . Leeds have yet to make an official comment on the reason behind his surprise departure. The Whites go into their last seven league games in 13th position. Neil Redfearn's side drew 1-1 with Championship strugglers Blackpool on Saturday. Leeds United drew 1-1 with Championship strugglers Blackpool at Bloomfield Road on Saturday .

Summary: Leeds chief operating officer Matt Child has left role with immediate effect . The lifelong Leeds fan took control of club following Massimo Cellino's ban . Leeds are 13th in the Championship with seven games left to play .


Craig Gordon insists Dundee United’s Ryan McGowan will revel in his role as Public Enemy No 1 at Celtic Park on Saturday. Speaking as the clubs prepare to meet for the fourth time in a fortnight, the Parkhead goalkeeper played down talk of a running feud after the tally of red cards rose to six in three games during Wednesday night’s ill-tempered Scottish Cup replay. Celtic striker Anthony Stokes was dismissed just moments before McGowan’s sending off for an uncompromising challenge on Liam Henderson, which was later dubbed ‘dangerous’ and ‘career-threatening’ by Ronny Deila. Goalkeeper Craig Gordon has played down talk of a running feud with Dundee United . However, the Australian international will play in Saturday’s SPFL clash after appealing his red card – and is certain to face a hostile reception from the Parkhead crowd. A former Hearts club-mate of the full-back, however, Gordon believes McGowan will be unfazed, saying: ‘I know Ryan, and he will probably enjoy it. ‘He’s that type of boy. He wears his heart on his sleeve and he goes out and gives 100 per cent. ‘If it is the case he is booed, I don’t think he will be overawed by that. ‘He was in the youth team when I was at Hearts. I never played with him. But I knew of him coming through. ‘It is something he will have to deal with, and I am sure he will. ‘But, as far as the players are concerned, there is nothing in that. We will just concentrate on ourselves.’ Ryan McGowan is sent off by referee Calum Murray after he scythed down Celtic sub Liam Henderson . McGowan used Twitter to apologise to Henderson in the aftermath of the game, but angered Celtic supporters by appealing a red card many believed to be clear-cut. ‘He likes a tackle,’ added Gordon. ‘He has no problem with that. ‘Perhaps he maybe just lost the head for a split second with the way the games have been going. ‘And that’s a difficult thing to actually put up with if you are losing a couple of games to the same opposition and somebody is trying a bit of skill to beat you in the corner. ‘It takes a lot to keep a calm head. But both sets of players are going to have to do that to make sure we keep a full complement of players on the pitch. ‘There is nothing there in terms of between the players. But, during the 90 minutes, both teams want to win desperately.’ McGowan took to social media again yesterday to refer indirectly to the furore, Tweeting: ‘Heard it’s very “dangerous” possibly “career threatening” for ur eyes to watch the eclipse without glasses! Lucky I have mine with me.’ No fan of Twitter, Gordon insists he hadn’t seen it, but grinned: ‘He has always been a confident lad, and that has probably helped him. ‘Hearts fans still hold him in very high regard, probably just as much for his Twitter account as for his football. Deila celebrates at full-time as his side

Summary: Celtic face Dundee United for fourth time in a fortnight on Saturday . Six players have been sent off in last three meetings between teams . Ryan McGowan was dismissed for rash challenge on Liam Henderson .


Muhammad Ali showed he was looking healthy when 'The People's Champion' took to Twitter to praise his daughter Laila Ali's new role as an NBC boxing analyst. The Parkinson's sufferer will have pleased his fans by showing his fans he's recovered from his recent stint in hospital for a urinary tract infection. The boxing legend was delighted with the news that his offspring is to be the first female pundit to join the Premier Boxing Champions team. Muhammad Ali posted this photo on Twitter to show his support of his daughter's television success . He tweeted: 'So proud of my baby girl. 1st female boxing analyst with NBC Premier Boxing Champions. #AliTweet. Laila, an undefeated women's boxing champion,made her debut as a corner analyst when Keith Thurman faced Robert Guerrero and Adrian Broner took on John Molina Jr. at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. With Ali's latest snap, it's pleasing to know that the former champion of the world is in good condition and high spirits. 'The Greatest' celebrates after beating Sonny Liston in the famous showdown in Miami Beach, Florida . Former three-time World title holder Laila Ali is the new corner analyst on NBC's Premier Boxing Champions .

Summary: Muhammad Ali tweeted a picture of himself to praise his daughter Laila . The former World champion showed he was looking healthy in the snap . The offspring of 'The Greatest' is the new corner analyst on NBC . Click here for all the latest boxing news .


Arrest: Joe Lawton was found dead at home two days after being accused of drink-driving by police . A ‘perfect son’ killed himself two days after being arrested for drink-driving because he believed he had ‘ruined his future’. Joseph Lawton, described as an ‘exemplary student’, was found in his family’s farmhouse alongside a shotgun and a police charge sheet. Joseph, 17, was caught drink-driving on his way home from a party just four weeks after passing his driving test. He was kept in the cells overnight at Cheadle Heath police station in Greater Manchester without his parents’ knowledge. Two days later he used his father’s shotgun to kill himself at the £850,000 family farm in Disley, Stockport. The charge sheet and a letter were at his feet when his father found him. Following his death, his parents Nick and Jane Lawton successfully lobbied the Government to change the law so that 17-year-olds are treated as children in custody. An inquest into Joseph’s death heard the model pupil – who had recently gained one A and four Bs in his AS-Levels – was working on his university application and travel plans and had shown no signs of depression or anxiety. But the note found next to his body said he feared being a ‘constant disappointment’ and felt his arrest had ‘ruined his future’. The jury at Macclesfield Coroner’s Court heard that Joseph was kept in a police cell overnight after being arrested in August 2012. The youngster was driving his new Peugeot 107 home from a party with his friends when he was stopped by police and breathalysed. He was over the legal limit and was taken to a police station, where he was detained for more than seven hours overnight. His parents were unaware he had been arrested. Mr Lawton, 53, who runs a building supplies company with his wife, said: ‘He was 17 and had been treated as an adult and I said straight away that was wrong. There was an anomaly in the system.’ CCTV showing Joseph arriving at the police station and undergoing further searches and tests was shown to the jury. As the footage was played, Mrs Lawton, 49, left the courtroom. Mr Lawton said of Joseph’s letter: ‘What he means by that is he can see himself being a disappointment in the future. He had never been a disappointment – he was a very high achiever, he did everything that was asked of him. Father: Nick Lawton told an inquest that Joe was a 'perfect son' who had never disappointed the family . ‘He was a perfect son and loved by everyone. He thought he’d ruined his future and he wouldn’t be able to reach the standards he wanted to reach.’ Joseph’s family did not know of his drink-driving arrest until after his death because he was treated as an adult in custody without the need for a parent or guardian. His parents have successfully campaigned for a change in the law to see anyone aged 17 or under treated as a child in custody. The previous

Summary: Joe Lawton was found dead with shotgun and the charge sheet next to him . He left a note saying he feared being a 'constant disappointment' after arrest for drink-driving two days earlier . Father tells inquest teenager was 'a very high achiever' and 'perfect son' Joe's parents were not informed of his arrest by police at the time .


The new finance minister for Greece has been accused of making an offensive gesture to Germany during a speech. Yanis Varoufakis is continuing to negotiate for a reduction in Greece's debt from the EU and has been doing a whistlestop tour of Europe in a bid to get support for his proposals. But the new finance minister has been hit by an allegation recently that he held up his middle finger when giving a speech about Greece's finances and Germany in 2013. Scroll down for video . Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis has been accused of making an offensive gesture with his middle finger during a speech he gave in 2013 about the country's finances, and mentioning Germany . He is alleged to have made the offensive gesture before he was appointed as finance minister, and Varoufakis has denied sticking up his finger. The minister claims the footage has been doctored. A video of the speech appears to capture the offensive gesture. As he raises his finger, Varoufakis says: 'My proposal was that Greece should simply announce that it is defaulting, just like Argentina did, within the euro, in January 2010, and stick the finger to Germany and say well, you can now solve this problem by yourself.' The claims are likely to make a tense situation even more tricky for Varoufakis who has been trying to negotiate favourable terms for Greece to pay back its debt to the EU since the election of the radical left-wing party Syriza in January. Alexis Tsipras, leader of the radical left-wing party heading the new coalition, immediately demanded a renegotiation of Greece' £179 billion international bailout deal. Yanis Varoufakis has been under increasing pressure to secure a better loan repayment deal for Greece . The party has continued to describe itself as 'anti-austerity.' The call catapulted Varoufakis onto the European stage. Last month he visited George Osborne in London to garner support for the move and has been touring several European countries. Greece was likely to run out of money by March if a deal was not reached before the end of February and a four month extension to the bailout programme for Greece was agreed on a conditional basis. February 9 2010 – Greek Parliament approved first austerity package measures - included a freeze in the salaries of all government employees, a 10% cut in bonuses, and cuts in overtime workers. March 3 2010 – Parliament passed a new major austerity package. Measures included: Pensions freezes, an increase in sales tax from 19% to 21%, rises in taxes on fuel, cigarettes and alcohol, rises in taxes on luxury goods, cuts in public sector pay. April 23 2010 – George Papandreou, Greece’s prime minister formally requested an international bailout. The financing will come from an emergency aid package with the participation of European Union, European Central Bank and International Monetary Fund. May 2 2010 – Papandreou, the IMF, and euro-zone leaders agree to a €110 billion bailout package that would take effect over the next three years. The government announced the new austerity package measures.

Summary: Finance minister has been trying to negotiate a better debt deal for Greece . Yanis Varoufakis has been under pressure from EU to secure repayments . A video has emerged in which he appears to raise his middle finger . Varoufakis makes offensive gesture while giving speech about Germany . He has denied footage is genuine and claims it has been doctored .


A municipal court judge who resigned after being slammed in a Department of Justice report has announced he is stepping down from two more roles. Ronald J. Brockmeyer left his Ferguson position earlier this week after he was directly criticised in the report, which was prompted by the fatal police shooting of Michael Brown. He also left his post as a Dellwood prosecutor. He has now announced he will no longer be the prosecuting attorney in Vinita Park and Florissant. Scroll down for video . Ferguson municipal court judge Ronald J. Brockmeyer (left) resigned on Monday following a scathing report from the U.S. Department of Justice. He has also left three other roles. State appeals judge Roy L. Richter (right) was appointed to take his place in Ferguson . The report, released on March 4, singled out the 70-year-old and suggested he was behind Ferguson’s aggressive strategy of using its municipal court to generate revenues. It added that Brockmeyer was particularly 'creative' when it came to traffic fines and fees, including dismissing tickets for himself and friends. Announcing his resignation Brockmeyer said he wanted to help the city 'begin its healing process' and to promote public confidence in the court. Roy L. Richter, a state appeals judge, was appointed by the Missouri Supreme Court to take his place and make 'needed reforms'. Richter will be authorized to overhaul court policies in order to 'restore the integrity of the system' and ensure the respect of defendants' rights, according to the high court. He will start on March 16. Chief Justice Mary Russell said she believes Richter will bring a 'fresh, disinterested perspective' to the court. 'He is able and willing to implement needed reforms,' she said. 'Extraordinary action is warranted in Ferguson, but the Court also is examining reforms that are needed on a statewide basis.' But Vinita Park Mayor James McGee said that Brockmeyer’s service would be 'dearly missed'. A Justice Department investigation found patterns of racial bias in the Ferguson police department and at the municipal jail and court. Brockmeyer stepped down to help the city 'begin its healing process', he said . Two Ferguson Police Department commanders - Rick Henke and William Mudd - also resigned last Thursday after racist emails were discovered by the DoJ's investigation, while Mary Ann Twitty, a court clerk, was fired. It is unclear whether the three were the recipients or senders of the 'racially biased' emails included in the 102-page civil rights report. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Henke was associated with a 2008 email suggesting that President Barack Obama would not complete a full presidential term because a black man can't hold 'a steady job'. Mudd is reportedly associated with a 2011 email suggesting a New Orleans woman was paid by 'CrimeStoppers' to terminate her pregnancy. The Justice Department highlighted several other emails in the report including one that featured a photograph of topless women dancing, with the caption 'Michelle Obama's High School Reunion'. The report states that the emails illustrate racial, ethnic, or other forms of bias among those involved and

Summary: Ronald J. Brockmeyer already resigned from Ferguson municipal court . Has also left his roles as prosecuting attorney in Vinita Park and Florissant . 70-year-old said he stepped down to help restore public confidence . State appeals judge Roy L. Richter will take his place in Ferguson . Richter will be authorized to overhaul court policies to 'restore integrity' 102-page report highlights illegal practices, racism and abuses of power . Two police commanders also resigned and a city clerk was fired .


The United States announced Wednesday that it is sending small unarmed drones, armored Humvees and other assistance to Ukraine in its fight against Russian-backed separatists – but for the first time the White House said arming Ukraine hasn't been ruled out. Some lawmakers are upset that lethal weapons haven't already been included as part of $75 million in new aid announced Wednesday. Asked during a White House press briefing to confirm that the U.S. won't send weapons to the former Soviet nation, Press Secretary Josh Earnest said, 'That's not necessarily accurate.' 'I can't,' he said. 'The President, I think, in his own mind, is continuing to evaluate the situation in eastern Ukraine,' Earnest told reporters, 'and continuing to assess the risk that's associated with providing additional lethal assistance to the Ukrainian military.' Scroll down for video . STILL ON THE TABLE: White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest said Wednesday that the Obama administration hasn't ruled out sending lethal military aid to Ukraine . BROKEN DOWN: Ukraine's military vehicles are being repaired with COINS where bullet-holes have made them otherwise unfit for new duties on the front lines . NEW COSTS? Russian President Vladimiar Putin has consistently denied arming rebels in the war in eastern Ukraine, which began in April after Moscow annexed the mostly Russian-speaking Crimean Peninsula . Obama is weighing the consequences of putting new lethal weapons in the hands of Ukraine's military, weighing the risks that it could further inflame a conflict in which more than 6,000 people have already lost their lives. 'That bloodshed is something that we're trying to avoid and de-escalate,' Earnest said. 'So the president is very mindful of the potential risk that's associated with providing additional lethal military assistance to the Ukrainians.' Members of Congress from both parties have repeatedly urged Obama to provide Ukrainian soldiers with lethal weapons to defend themselves. Cory Fritz, spokesman for Republican House Speaker John Boehner, told the Associated Press that the new aid 'will be completely ineffective.' 'The Ukrainians are begging for help, and the Congress is begging the administration to provide the defensive lethal assistance we authorized in December. Our allies deserve better,' Fritz said. CHEWING IT OVER: Obama, seen Tuesday in Atlanta, Georgia, is said to be mulling the geopolitical pros and cons of standing up to Putin by sending new defensive weapons to Kiev . DEVASTATION: Pro-Russian rebels last week inspected the rubble of a destroyed coal mine that was used as a Ukrainian army outpost . In the Senate, a bipartisan group of 13 lawmakers wrote on Tuesday to Mississippi Republican Sen. Thad Cochran and Maryland Democratic Sen. Barbara Mikulski, the top dogs on the Appropriations Committee, asking them to set aside funds specifically for 'defensive weapons' earmarked for Ukraine. 'While these weapons would not allow Ukraine to outmatch the Russian military, they would enable Ukraine to better defend itself and increase the costs of President Putin’s aggression in Ukraine,' they wrote. 'By increasing costs for President Putin’s aggression, it would discourage future aggression in eastern Europe that could even more directly threaten U.S. national

Summary: Obama spokesman cites 'risk assessment' and says president wants to 'de-escalate' military action, not ramp it up . The US is sending another $75 million in nonlethal aid but won't commit to arming Ukrainian troops against Vladimir Putin's Russia . Group of 13 Republican and Democratic senators want Congress to appropriate money specifically to buy 'defensive weapons' for Ukraine . Two other senators, one from each party, say the US should be 'equipping Ukraine with the means to impose a greater military cost on Russia'


Everyone may be in love with the cast of characters on Lee Daniel's music-themed drama Empire, but behind the scenes the actors are far from in love with each other. Sources close to the record-breaking Fox series - which drew an impressive 21.1 million viewers for its season finale last week, the highest-rated finale since Grey's Anatomy in 2005 - tell Daily Mail Online that there is just as much drama behind the scenes as you see on camera. Empire is a hip-hop drama based on the story of Lucius Lyon, played by Terrence Howard, a former drug dealer turned hip hop mogul, and his ex-wife, Cookie (Taraji P. Henson). And while the couple are at odds in the show, they are co-conspirators behind the scenes. The insider revealed that Oscar nominees Taraji P.Henson and Terrence Howard have complete control the set. The two stars oversee the scripts and are often making changes as late as the day of taping. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Thick as thieves: Empire stars Terrence Howard and Taraji Henson rule the roost - both in the show and off . A leg up: The plotting pair have made sure they have control over scripts and co-stars . Weighty issues: Henson and Grace Gealey (who plays Anika "Boo Boo Kitty" Calhoun) don't get along on the set. Sources say that Henson has been trying to lose weight and wears Spanx to cover her 'tummy pooch' Dolce & Gabbana Floral Fans Embellished Sandals . Get them at Farfetch . Visit site . She plays the lead on one of the hottest new shows on TV but Taraji P. Henson's off screen style is a lot more subtle than the character she plays on Empire, Cookie Lyon. During a recent event, the talented actress joined her costar, Terrance Howard, onstage in a pink ribbed Cynthia Rowley dress and a pair of Dolce & Gabbana strappy sandals, showing off her amazing pins. We'd wear ours with a pair of stovepipe denim trousers or a ladylike white midi skirt and blouse. You can score these beauties at Farfetch for $1195. Not looking to spend quite so much? Shop the edit below for spicy picks from Badgley Mischka and more. And if you want to buy into the brand at a lower price point, we've got another pair of sandals from D&G on sale for just under $400. Get them before it's too late! Badgley Mischka Giovana T Strap Sandals at Shopbop . Visit site . Steve Madden Multicolor Lolyy Sandals at C21 (now $59.99) Visit site . Steve Madden Majestic Jewelled Barely There Sandals at ASOS . Visit site . Dolce & Gabbana Embellished Strappy Sandals at Farfetch (now $391.22) Visit site . Meowch: A catfight scene in the season finale between Henson and Gealey was too close for comfort, says insider . 'They call for re-writes if they don't like the lines or feel as though another character is getting more camera time than they are,' says the source. 'They both have final approval over the script, which often frustrates

Summary: SPOILER ALERT (if you haven't watched the finale) The hip hop drama Empire ended its premier season with a blast - and huge ratings . Lead actors Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson have taken control over scripts and co-stars . Taraji is envious of Gealey's small waist and the sexy, fitted dresses wardrobe likes to put her in . Taraji's been wearing Spanx . What happens to Malik Yoba on the finale was at Howard's urging .


A clueless criminal who spent 15 years behind bars for robbing a children's shoe shore has admitted targeting the outlet again a day after his release... and the same shop assistant was behind the counter. In 1999, Christopher Miller - then 25 - was arrested after he forced employees into the back room of the Stride Rite shoe store in New Jersey in the U.S., tied them up and fled with cash. After serving a 15-year sentence, Miller was released from South Woods State Prison in March last year. Clueless criminal: Christopher Miller (pictured in 1999, left, and more recently, right) robbed the same store twice . Police said Miller, then 40, entered the store at about 4.20pm the following day and demanded cash, telling the workers - a 17-year-old boy and 43-year-old woman - to go to the back room. He was not believed to be armed and the workers refused to follow his orders. He became agitated, according to police, and took the cash register drawer, which contained $389 (£260). He then took the workers' mobile phones and the store phone, and fled on foot. Police said they found Miller a few blocks away, with the cash stashed in a gutter and the phones in a garbage can. The clerk had been notified about Miller's release and identified the suspect as the same person who had robbed the store in 1999. At the time, Toms River Police Chief Mitchell Little said he wondered whether Miller considers prison his home. Shoe store: The shop assistant had been notified about Miller's release and identified the suspect as the same person who had robbed the store in 1999 . 'Maybe that's the only life he knows, and the only thing he could think of was going back to the same store and doing the same crime again - getting caught and going back where he was taken care of and told what to do and getting meals and shelter and everything else,' he said. Miller was charged with robbery - again - and was held on $100,000 (£668,000) bail. On Monday, he pleaded guilty to second-degree robbery. He faces a prison term of between 10 and 20 years when he is sentenced in May. In 1999, Miller was sentenced to 15 years in prison for a total of three armed robberies in New Jersey, as well as theft, criminal restraint and possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes.

Summary: Christopher Miller, 41, has admitted robbing the same U.S. shoe store twice . In 1999, he was arrested after tying up the workers and fleeing with cash . After serving a 15-year sentence he returned to the store just one day later . He demanded cash and took the cash register drawer containing just £260 . Clerk identified Miller as the same person who robbed the store previously .


Sunderland midfielder Sebastian Larsson has blasted his side's 'embarrassing' and 'shocking' performance against Aston Villa that had supporters heading for the exits even before half-time. Gus Poyet's side were four down at the break as fans attempted to storm the Uruguayan's dugout in anger as Sunderland were plunged deeper into the relegation mire. Christian Benteke and Gabby Agbonlahor both scored twice at the Stadium of Light on Saturday as Sunderland suffered a humiliating first-half capitulation. Sebastian Larsson (left) branded Sunderland's 4-0 home defeat by Aston Villa as embarrassing and shocking . Gus Poyet was sacked as Sunderland head coach on Monday following the humiliating defeat on Saturday . Fans showed their outrage as the Black Cats slumped to a record of one win in 12 Premier League games . Poyet, who accepted responsibility for the defeat after the match, was sacked following talks with the club's hierarchy on Monday. But Larsson insists it is the players who are to blame for the 4-0 drubbing at the hands of relegation rivals Villa. 'It's a shocker of a performance in the first half after a good start,' Larsson told the Sunderland Echo. 'All of us 11 players out there have to take the blame. Sunderland fans attempt to storm Gus Poyet's dugout as the home side fell behind to Aston Villa . Midfielder Larsson insists it was the players that were to blame for the performance . 'The goals we conceded in that first half were so avoidable, every single one. 'It's just a ridiculous amount of mistakes from all of us out there. Look at all four goals and none of them should be going in. 'That's the very, very frustrating thing. 'It's just embarrassing. For one bad goal to go in and for us to collapse the way we did, is absolutely shocking.'

Summary: Sunderland lost 4-0 to Aston Villa at the Stadium of Light on Saturday . Gus Poyet's side found themselves four down in the first half . Supporters headed for the exits before half-time as Sunderland capitulated . Angry fans attempted to storm the dugout to confront manager Poyet . Sebastian Larsson branded the defeat as 'embarrassing' and 'shocking' Midfielder insists it is the players who are to blame for the performance . Poyet was sacked as the club;'s head coach following talks on Monday .


Dutch legend Johan Cruyff believes Barcelona were fortunate to come out of Sunday's El Clasico against Real Madrid with all three points. Goals from Jeremy Mathieu and Luis Suarez handed the Catalans victory at the Nou Camp, despite the best efforts of Cristiano Ronaldo who bagged Real Madrid's goal. The win sends Barcelona four points clear at the top of La Liga, but Cruyff, who spent time as both a player and a manager at the Nou Camp, was less than impressed with the way his former club played against Los Blancos. Luis Suarez celebrates scoring the winner for Barcelona against Real Madrid in El Clasico on Sunday night . Cristiano Ronaldo scored the equaliser but was not able to lead his side to victory at the Nou Camp . Real Madrid's Gareth Bale is tackled by Barcelona defender Gerard Pique on Sunday night . 'Football is so great, that you can play a match poorly and win,' the Dutchman told AS. 'When a team plays well, the logical outcome is a win, but when a team plays poorly and wins... 'How many balls did Barca concede? Who won on possession? Madrid, no? Well that's all that needs to be said.' Dutch football star Johan Cruyff poses with his son Jordi Cruyff at the Nou Camp in Barcelona, Spain .

Summary: Johan Cruyff believes his former side were fortunate to win El Clasico . Goals from Jeremy Mathieu and Luis Suarez earned Catalans victory . Cristiano Ronaldo scored for Real Madrid but Barcelona won the match . Cruyff admits it was great to pick up the win despite playing poorly . Pete Jenson: Barcelona are in charge of their own destiny with Suarez CLICK HERE for all the latest Barcelona news .


A married teacher is accused of inappropriate sexual behavior with three high school students. Ashley Parkins Pruitt, a 28-year-old mother of one, was arrested in Blount County, Alabama in November after turning herself in. She has been indicted on five counts: two counts of providing pornography to a minor, two counts of sex act with a student, one count of sex contact with a student, AL.com reports. Arrested: Ashley Parkins Pruitt, left in her booking photo and right, has been indicted on five counts: two counts of providing pornography to a minor, two counts of sex act with a student, one count of sex contact with a student . Pruitt, an English and physical education teacher at Appalachian High School, is accused of incidents with three different students between August and October. From August until September, she allegedly kissed and according to authorieies 'made out' with a student under the age of 19 in a car in Oneonta and used Snapchat to send him sexually explicit messages, according to court records. Then in October, she sent photos of her breasts and genitals to a student under the age of 18, again using Snapchat, which deletes messages after they are viewed by the recipient. Accused: The 28-year-old English teacher and sports coach, who is married (her husband is pictured) with a young son, allegedly carried on the relationships with students between August and October . She also told the student that she wanted to take his virginity, according to the affidavit. Also that month, she engaged in oral sex with another victim, who is also under 19, in a car, and used Snapchat to set up the meeting, according to authorities. Pruitt, who is head coach for the junior girls basketball team at Appalachian High School, is married with a young son and lives in Locust Fork. She was placed on leave during the investigation. Authorities have not revealed if Pruitt taught the students in question or if they attended other schools in Blount County. Pruitt has pleaded not guilty to the charges. A trial date has not yet been set. Pruitt was a teacher at Appalachian High School. Authorities have not revealed if Pruitt taught the students in question or if they attended other schools in Blount County .

Summary: Ashley Parkins Pruitt, a married mother-of-one, 'had sexual relationships with three different students between August and October' She 'kissed one student and sent him sexually explicit messages, and sent naked photos to another and told him she wanted to take his virginity' In October, she 'engaged in oral sex with a third student'


The tail fin of a German plan that was flown during the Second World War by the world's deadliest-ever fighter pilot is to go up for auction. The bullet-ridden section of the Messerschmitt is covered with stencil paintings of the 121 British and Commonwealth aircraft shot down by Luftwaffe pilot Heinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer. It was discovered by a military-air historian in the 1960s, who spotted the unique artifact being used to patch up a roof in the village of Hillegossen, Germany. Scroll down for video . Deadly aim: The bullet-ridden section of the Messerschmitt (right) is covered with stencil paintings of the 121 British and Commonwealth aircraft shot down by Luftwaffe pilot Heinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer (left) Targets: Night pilot Schnaufer shot down the Allied aircraft - costing some 500 lives - on 164 operations between 1 June 1942 and 7 March 1945. Above, a Messerschmitt similar to the one flown by Schnaufer . Wolfgang Lohmann, an expert on Luftwaffe aircraft, bought the fin from its owner - who had picked it out of wreckage after the war - and has had it on display at his home in Germany ever since. The fin, which also features a large swastika, could fetch up to £20,000 when it goes up for sale in May. Night pilot Schnaufer shot down the Allied planes - costing some 500 lives - on 164 operations between 1 June 1942 and 7 March 1945. He marked each 'kill' by printing an icon of his target on the tail fin of his plane, each accompanied with the date it was destroyed. Nicknamed 'The Spook of St Trond', after the city where he was based in occupied Belgium, he is one of only 27 men awarded the Knights Cross with Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds. His plane was finally shot down on March 30, 1945, but Schnaufer was not on board. The pilot died in 1950 following a road accident. Record: Schnaufer marked each 'kill' by printing an icon of his target on the tail fin of his plane, each accompanied with the date it was destroyed, pictured above. They were stenciled over a large swastika . Honoured: Luftwaffe ace Schnaufer (second left) recieves the Oak Leaves with Swords, Germany's highest military decoration at the time, from from Adolf Hitler. He is one of only 27 men who received the award . Chris Albury, a senior auctioneer at Dominic Winter Auctioneers in Cirencester, Gloucester, where the fin will be auctioned on May 15, said: 'We have not had a Messerschmitt tail fin like this before. 'Obviously this one is more than any other - it is unique. It makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up. It makes you feel very close to the Second World War. 'We have put it up in the foyer in a low key fashion. It's caused quite a few comments. So many people have relatives or ancestors with a connection in the Second World War. 'I don't think this is as controversial a piece as some Nazi memorabilia can be. If it was the

Summary: Luftwaffe pilot Heinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer shot down 121 planes in WW2 . Marked each 'kill' by printing icon of the target on the tail fin of his jet . 121 British and Commonwealth aircraft were stenciled over large swastika . Historian spotted artifact patching up roof in German village in the 1970s . The 'unique' piece of memorabilia will go up for auction in Britain in May .


A 14-year-old student has died after a gang fight broke out because two girls had fallen out. The teenager - known only as Li - was stabbed three times after becoming involved in the brawl between 18 students in Hai Nan, China. It started after two women, who had previously fallen out after a physical altercation before Chinese New Year, saw each other around 2am on March 1, People's Daily reported. A 14-year-old student has died after a gang fight broke out in Hai Nan, China, because two girls had fallen out . The teenager - known only as Li - was stabbed three times after becoming involved in the brawl . Miss Xing saw Miss Wen grabbing a late-night snack and the pair started bickering. Miss Wen's boyfriend then followed Miss Xing back to her rented apartment and a fight started. As well as a deep stab wound to the chest Li also had two cuts on his arms, police said. The main suspect is a man named Zhang, who is thought to have deliberately targeted Li with a dagger. The fight started after two women, who had previously fallen out after a physical altercation on Chinese New Year, saw each other around 2am on March 1 . Their friends rushed to the scene and immediately attacked each other in the brawl, which lasted less than a minute . Security staff arrived at the scene less than a minute after the fight started, but most of the teenagers managed to get away. Police are now questioning 24 suspects - 12 men and 12 women - over the death. So far nine suspects have been detained. Eighteen of the suspects are aged under 18. The oldest is 21 years old. The case continues. The narrow street, which was lined with mopeds, was filled with people screaming and shouting . Security staff arrived at the scene less than a minute after the fight started, but most of the teenagers managed to get away .

Summary: Li was stabbed three times after joining the brawl between 18 teenagers . Started after two women began to bicker about a previous altercation . Police are questioning 24 people over the attack and have detained nine .


Ireland will be forced to 'take it a little bit easy' in training on Monday, counting the cost of playing 'one-and-a-quarter Test matches' in their 23-16 defeat to Wales. Head coach Joe Schmidt conceded he would hand his shattered players extra time to recover as Ireland come to terms with their 'straight-up' lesson in failing to convert pressure into tries. Ireland can still win the RBS 6 Nations on points difference if they beat Scotland in Edinburgh handsomely on Saturday, despite blowing their Grand Slam chances in Wales. Ireland are feeling the strain after a narrow defeat to Wales that ended their Grand Slam chances . VIDEO Wales dash Ireland's Grand Slam hopes . Kiwi boss Schmidt believes the carrot of retaining the championship title for the first time since 1949 will allow Ireland to shake off their frustrations from Saturday's Millennium Stadium loss. 'Probably Monday we might have to take it a little bit easy on the back of there being a lot of ball in play,' said Schmidt, who confirmed no new injury worries. 'There were a lot of long phases of play, we probably played one-and-a-quarter Test matches in the context of some of the other Tests we've played. 'And there's a lesson we've got straight-up - if you're going to play like that then you've got to be able to keep going in those moments that you do get pressure on them. 'The players all left the field able to play, but they'll have some bruises for sure which will limit anything we do (on Monday).' Ireland's starkest lesson from Saturday's aborted Grand Slam bid surrounded killer instinct, or the lack of it. Former Leinster boss Schmidt has already admitted Ireland 'didn't achieve anything' by expecting to see off Wales by accumulating penalties in Cardiff. Joe Schmidt admitted there were plenty of tired bodies in the Irish camp, and said he would take things easy . Ireland, Wales and England can all still now claim the Six Nations title, but Schmidt continued to warn his side about being sidetracked by trying to gauge what points difference could secure further glory. 'We learned from those 10 wins and we will learn from this loss as well,' said Schmidt, after Ireland suffered their first loss since 13-10 defeat to England in last year's Six Nations. 'What we can learn is that we won't lack for character, we don't lack for endeavour and those are important starting points. 'What we do know is we are still in the championship and we still have a fantastic opportunity to do something that hasn't been done for a long time if we can create enough opportunities in Murrayfield next week. The match against Wales was a bruising encounter, with Ireland failing to take their chances . 'But if you go looking for differentials without first of all making sure you have targeted the result, you are going to make it a pretty tough day for yourself.' Schmidt admitted he will push his Ireland side to sharpen up their attacking accuracy this week in a

Summary: Ireland lost Grand Slam hopes with 23-16 defeat to Wales . Joe Schmidt claims the effort was like playing 'one-and-a-quarter Tests' Ireland can still win championship if they beat Scotland convincingly .


Nicolas Hamilton, the younger brother of Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, is to compete in this season’s British Touring Car Championship. Hamilton, who has cerebral palsy, will make his debut in June and becomes the first disabled driver to compete in the series. The 22-year-old will take part in five of the 10 rounds at Croft, Snetterton, Rockingham, Silverstone and the final meeting of the championship at Brands Hatch. Scroll down for video... Nicolas Hamilton posed a picture with his British Touring Car. The Briton said 'it's been a tough few months' Nicolas Hamilton, pictured with his older brother Lewis at the Indian Grand Prix in 2013 . Hamilton celebrates his elder brother's championship triumph at last season's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix . Croft Circuit - June 27-28 . Snetterton - August 8-9 . Rockingham - September 5-6 . Silverstone - September 26-27 . Brands Hatch - October 10-11 . Hamilton, who raced in the Renault Clio Cup in 2011 and 2012, said: ‘I am incredibly excited to be racing in BTCC with AmD Tuning this year. ‘BTCC is the top national motorsport series here in the UK and having the opportunity to race at that level is the biggest challenge I’ve taken on in my career to date. ‘I’m coming into the championship with a lot to learn and my expectations are to develop as a driver as my programme across the season progresses.’ Hamilton was trackside for both his elder brother’s Formula One world championship triumphs in Brazil in 2008 and last year in Abu Dhabi. Hamilton raced in the Renault Clio Cup in 2011 and 2012. He will take part in five rounds of the BTCC this year . Lewis Hamilton celebrates his maiden F1 championship with brother Nicolas and dad Anthony in 2008 . He has been granted a guest entry by British Touring Car boss Alan Gow and will take to the wheel of an AmD Tuning Audi S3. ‘Whilst I’m aiming to improve as a driver, I’m also hoping to inspire others to strive for their own personal goals, whatever their situation in life,’ added Hamilton. ‘Anyone can exceed expectations in one way or another and I hope to prove that when I race alongside, not just able-bodied drivers, but the best Touring Car drivers in the UK.’ Nicolas' brother Lewis Hamilton is bidding to become the first Briton to successfully defend his Formula One title. He heads into this weekend’s Malaysian Grand Prix leading the championship after winning the curtain raiser in Melbourne earlier this week ahead of Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg. Hamilton leads the Formula One world championship after winning the opening race of the season in Australia . Hamilton is bidding to become the first Briton to win back-to-back titles following his 2014 triumph . Nicolas Hamilton and his brother Lewis at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed . Cerebral palsy is the general term for a number of neurological conditions that affect movement and co-ordination. Specifically, cerebral palsy is caused by a problem in the parts of the brain responsible for

Summary: Nicolas Hamilton will take part in five of the 10 championship rounds . The 22-year-old lives with the neurological condition cerebral palsy . He competed in the Renault Clio Cup in 2011 and 2012 . Nicolas is the younger brother of F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton .


Tens of thousands of curious visitors have crowded historic Mont Saint-Michel and other beauty spots along the French coastline with the promise of a ‘tide of the century’, but it may not have lived up to everyone's expectations. Anticipating a wall of water that could equal the height of a four-storey building, tourists and locals staked out positions around the picturesque landmark last night and again today, including the partially-washed out causeway as the tide retreated. They travelled to France’s northern coast for the first giant tide of the millennium, with experts predicting that it could reach as high as 46ft - 18ft above normal - thanks to the effects from yesterday’s spectacular solar eclipse. Scroll down for video . Tens of thousands of people are visiting the Atlantic coastline in France, including Mont Saint-Michel, for the 'supertide' Tidal specialist Nicolas Pouvreau told French media that the surge was a few inches short of expectations . French officials said the supertide would be a major opportunity for tourism in Brittany, including the walled port city of Saint-Malo . Large waves crash over the crowded waterfront - leaving spectators soaking wet - during the incoming tide in Saint-Malo, France . But tidal specialist Nicolas Pouvreau told France 24 the surge was a few inches short of expectations. Mont Saint-Michel was briefly turned into an island at high tide, but low tide provided an opportunity for people to walk on the expansive flat seabed. Although it is dubbed the ‘tide of the century’, the ‘supertide’ phenomenon occurs once every 18 years when a rare alignment of the sun, moon and Earth create a massive gravitational pull on the sea. On each occasion, Mont Saint-Michel provides a stunning setting for those looking to watch the phenomenon. Incredible photos snapped from the air show Mont Saint-Michel, an 11th century abbey located off France’s Normandy coast, cut off from the mainland as it was surrounded by water in the English Channel. Perched on a rocky island, the Unesco World Heritage Site is exposed to some of the most powerful tides in the world and attracts an estimated two million visitors a year. In nearby Saint-Malo, France, spectators were soaked by large waves which crashed over the crowded waterfront. Perched on a rocky island, the Unesco World Heritage Site is exposed to some of the most powerful tides in the world, pictured is Mont Saint-Michel during low tide . A woman walks on the sand at low tide around Mont Saint-Michel, an 11th century abbey about half a mile off France's Normandy coast . Visitors staked out positions around the rocky island in anticipation of a wall of water that is expected to reach 46ft . Experts said the wall of water could equal the height of a four-storey building and 'will come in faster than a running man' Incredible aerial photos show the picturesque landmark, about half a mile off the coast of Normandy, cut off from the mainland . Experts said the last 'tide of the century' occurred on March 10, 1997 and people will have

Summary: Experts said the wall of water could equal the height of a four-storey building and surge faster than a 'running man' A tidal expert told French media that the surge was a few inches short of expectations . Massive tide occurs due to the gravitation pull created by the alignment of the sun, moon and Earth . Incredible aerial photos show the picturesque landmark off the coast of Normandy cut off from the mainland . Similar tides are expected along the coasts of Britain, the Netherlands and Canada this weekend . The last 'tide of the century' occurred on March 10, 1997 and the next will take place in March 2033 .


Seven decades of separation has seen even the language of North and South Korea split into two different dialects. The two countries, though enemies, are tied together by history, by family and by language - but only to a point. South Koreans have incorporated many English words and phrases into their language while isolated communist North Korea has eliminated words with foreign origins and created homegrown substitutes. North Korean defector Pak Mi-ok ended up going without water during a meal in the South because she was too shy to admit she didn't understand the term 'self-service' For those south of the divide, English-based words like 'shampoo,' 'juice' and 'self-service' are common. But they mean absolutely nothing to defectors from the insular North Korea. When Pak Mi-ok first arrived in South Korea after her defection in 2002, she was told by a waitress at a restaurant that water was 'self-service,' an English phrase she had not heard before. She ended up going without water during her meal because she was too shy to admit she didn't understand. 'I worried the waitress would look down on me,' she told the Associated Press. She started out working at restaurants but struggled to understand customers. 'I thought they spoke a different language,' she said. But she gradually picked up the new vocabulary and uses words like 'stress' and 'claim' that are not heard up in the North. Similarly, people in Seoul are confused by homegrown North Korean words like 'salgyeolmul,' which literally translates to 'skin water' - but is just 'lotion' in the South. The Korean Peninsula's 70-year split has created a widening linguistic divide that produces misunderstandings, hurt feelings and sometimes even laughter. The North's isolation near-worship of the ruling Kim family (pictured centre, leader Kim Jong-un) has also skewed the language . The gap has grown so wide that about a third of everyday words used in the two countries are different, according to scholars. North and South Koreans are generally able to understand each other given that the majority of words and grammar are still the same . But the differences show how language can change when one half of the country becomes an international economic powerhouse and the other isolates itself, suspicious of outside influences. The huge cultural influence of America through its military presence, business ties and Hollywood has flooded the South Korean vernacular with words borrowed from English. 'Konglish' uses English words in non-standard ways, like 'handle' for steering wheel, 'hand phone' for cellphone and 'manicure' for nail polish. In North Korea's view, this is just further evidence that the South is an American cultural colony. The North's isolation and near-worship of the ruling Kim family has also skewed the language. South Koreans use the English loan word 'juice' but North Koreans say 'danmul,' or 'sweet water.' South Koreans watch a 'musical' but North Koreans see a 'gamuiyagi,' or 'music and dance story.' 'Suryong' is the revered title for North's founding leader and his son, but in the South it's a historical term referring to a medieval regional or faction

Summary: Two countries are tied together by history, by family and by language . But a third of everyday words used in the two countries are different . South Koreans incorporate English words and phrases into their language . But in communist North Korea, words with foreign origins are eliminated .


Sam Rimmer, 19, sexually assaulted an 84-year-old woman at knife point and was jailed for 12 years . A teenager who sexually assaulted an 84-year-old woman at knifepoint in a brutal attack which left her with 44 separate injuries has been jailed for 12 years. Sam Rimmer, 19, climbed in through the window of the frail victim's home before launching the 'vicious' sex attack. The drunken intruder was armed with a large bread knife when he broke into her house in Greater Manchester on November 8 last year. The terrified woman became aware of a 'shadow in her room' moments before he sexually assaulted and tried to rape her, Manchester Crown Court was told. She fought back and grabbed the knife from the thug, dropping the weapon by the side of the bed. Rimmer, from Irlam, Greater Manchester, responded by punching the arthritis sufferer on the shoulder and forcing his fist into her mouth to silence her screams as he continued his horrifying attack. But as she prayed out loud he 'suddenly came to his senses', apologised and fled before confessing to a friend. Prosecutor Phil Dobson told the court how the woman's mobility was badly affected by the attack. Because she now struggles to move her right arm, the pensioner has become reliant on her family and struggles to pay for carers to help with cooking, dressing and bathing. Despite sleepless nights, she has shown a 'spirited determination and forgiving attitude' in the wake of her terrible ordeal, Mr Dobson said. In a witness impact statement, the elderly woman said she had forgiven Rimmer for the shocking attack. 'I feel comfortable in the home I have had for 55 years and I will not let anyone force me out of my own home,' she said. 'Unfortunately I don't think I will ever be able to forget this incident, due to the physical problems I have and the upset it has caused not only me, but my family. 'I really struggle to understand why he has done this to me, however I have no ill feelings towards him and forgive him for what he has done. 'I'm a strong Catholic and feel sorry for him and his family. I hope he will turn his life around.' Rimmer forced his hand into the frail woman's mouth to silence her screams as he continued his horrifying sex attack, Manchester Crown Court (pictured) heard . Hunter Gray, defending, argued that with no previous convictions, Rimmer should not be classed as a 'dangerous' offender. But judge Hilary Manley disagreed, saying that Rimmer attacked the victim with 'extreme force and viciousness'. She added: 'She tried to resist and fight you. You were a young man of 19, making yourself as fit as possible for entry into the Army. She was an 84-year-old who had to use sticks when she walked. 'She is clearly resilient and brave but these offences have had a profound impact on her life... she's not spent a night at home alone since this incident. This was a vicious and humiliating attack on a

Summary: Sam Rimmer sexually assaulted and tried to rape an 84-year-old woman . Drunken teenager climbed through her window before launching his attack . He was armed with a bread knife as he sexually assaulted elderly woman . Rimmer forced his fist into the woman's mouth to silence her screams . She has forgiven her attacker despite being left with life-changing injuries . Rimmer, 19, was jailed for 12 years after admitting the 'vicious' attack .


My daughters had told me the hotel was a favourite of Kim Kardashian so I thought it would be big, brash and boastful... and it was. But Atlantis the Palm - which sits at atop the world's largest artificial islands created in the shape of a palm tree - is also beautiful, and that is not what I had expected. The Dubai resort, which opened in 2008, was clearly designed by someone who loves the sea and tales of the lost city. Scroll down to watch the journalist's video . Atlantis the Palm was clearly designed by someone who loves the sea and tales of the lost city . Every column, ceiling, painting and even door handle has been carefully crafted to remind the visitor that sea-life is central to its operation. The complex is big, very big. Ever visited the London Aquarium? The Atlantis has its own version inside the hotel, but with 11 million litres and 65,000 marine animals it's more than five times as large. At Atlantis we stayed in an executive suite, but for visitors who can't get enough of watching marine life, the underwater suites feature floor to ceiling views of the aquarium. You can watch the sharks, piranhas and sea horses as you soak in your bath or even from the comfort of your bed. For visitors who can't get enough of watching marine life, the underwater suites feature floor to ceiling views of the aquarium. You can watch the fish as you recline in your bath or even from the comfort of your bed . The Dubai resort, which opened in 2008, is a favourite of Kim Kardashian and her mother Kris . Priced at £6,000 a night these are aimed at honeymooners, however, I suspect most honeymooners will be otherwise engaged to appreciate the view. But as a keen fisherman seeing all those wonderful creatures must have triggered some primeval and we dined on seafood all week. Deciding which restaurant to visit at Atlantis the Palm was never an easy decision, but with such a wide range of culinary delights it was a dilemma that we enjoyed - the only problem was remembering the location of a particular restaurant because the hotel was so vast. A favourite was the hotel's award-winning seafood restaurant, Ossiano and as expected, the food and service was superb. The restaurant has a floor to ceiling glass wall and the view of the aquarium was simply mesmerizing - conversation consisted of 'Wow, look at the colours on that one' or 'I have never seen a creature like that'. Stevie and his wife enjoy dinner at the hotel's award-winning seafood restaurant, Ossiano . The hotel is a 20-minute car ride from the city centre, but to ensure that you don't feel like straying, the hotel has 21 restaurants, bars and lounges to entertain its guests. During our exploration we managed to sneak a look at the 924 square-metre Royal Bridge Suite, where Kim Kardashian and her friends stayed in November. Pictured: A close-up view from the table at dinner . Located

Summary: Atlantis the Palm sits atop the world's largest artificial islands . The Dubai resort designed with tales of the lost city in mind . It boasts an aquarium with 11 million litres of water and 65,000 creatures .


Fiona Cullum is facing jail after she sheltered one of the killers of an innocent nursery teacher hours after she was gunned down as she celebrated her 24th birthday . A mother who sheltered one of the killers of an innocent nursery teacher hours after she was gunned down while celebrating her 24th birthday is facing jail. Fiona Cullum, 25, provided cover for Hassan Hussain, 30, as he and fellow murderer Yassin James, 20, were hunted by police. She also lied when asked by police about Hussain after he was arrested on 2 October 2013 over the murder of Sabrina Moss on Kilburn High Road, northwest London. The men sprayed bullets at a bar while mother-of-one Miss Moss and her friends sheltered from the rain in their party dresses. Her friend Sabrina Gachette, 24, was lucky to survive after being blasted in the back with a sawn off shotgun during the attack outside Woody Grill, in South Kilburn. The Old Bailey heard the shooting was part of an ongoing rivalry between gangs in South Kilburn gang and Kensal Green. Hussain, James and their getaway driver Martell Warren, 23, were jailed for a total of 111 years at the Old Bailey last year. Cullum claimed she was so ‘out-of-it’ on drink and drugs she had no idea Hassan was sheltering in her small north London flat. ‘It is at least a possibility that in this sort of state that Hussain entered... and stayed there for however long, entirely without her knowledge, while she was sleeping off the effects of the night before,’ her barrister Rebecca Randall said. But an Old Bailey jury found her guilty of two counts of perverting the course of justice for sheltering Hassan and providing a false statement to police. She was found not guilty of perverting the course of justice for sheltering James after the jury could not reach a verdict. She was standing trial alongside Reid Daniel, 24 and Matthew Bouzemada, 22, who were both convicted of assisting getaway driver Martell Warren, 23. Rakheed Daniel, 21, was found not guilty of the same offence. The men sprayed bullets at a bar while mother-of-one Sabrina Moss (left and right) and her friends sheltered from the rain in their party dresses . Her friend Sabrina Gachette, 24, was lucky to survive after being blasted in the back with a sawn off shotgun during the attack outside Woody Grill, in South Kilburn . Ms Gachette punched the air as the verdicts were read out while Bouzemada and Reid Daniel hugged Cullum as they were remanded in custody to be sentenced on 17 March. Judge Stephen Kramer QC told Cullum ‘be under no illusions, the likely sentence is one of custody’ as he bailed her to be sentenced on 10 April. Prosecutor Duncan Atkinson said: ‘This case is not concerned with who was involved in the plan to seriously harm members of the South Kilburn gang, or the shooting of Sabrina Moss and others when that plan was carried through. ‘This case, rather, is concerned with events after that dreadful incident

Summary: Fiona Cullum provided cover for Hassan Hussain and Yassin James . The men were wanted over the murder of innocent teacher, Sabrina Moss . The gangsters sprayed bullets at a bar while mother-of-one Miss Moss and her friends sheltered from the rain in their party dresses, court heard .


Bernie Ecclestone has very particular requirements for Formula One's pre-race grid walk. Being a glamorous woman is top of his list. In a letter that has come to light, Ecclestone wrote to former Caterham team principal Cyril Abiteboul requesting: . Bernie Ecclestone appears to have written a letter outlining his requirements for the grid . The Formula One chief made a point of calling for glamorous ladies to be given passes . Bernie's daughter Tamara at the British Grand Prix with her husband Jay Rutland last year . 'Please be reminded that where possible, grid access passes should be used for celebrities or people of note or as always, really glamorous ladies. 'This is not so much a sporting matter but a part of the show business of Formula One.' The letter, from May 2013, is signed 'Bernie' and appears to be genuine. Sportsmail contacted Ecclestone's office for confirmation but they declined to comment. Ecclestone's blueprint is hardly surprising, the grid walk being unashamedly about glitz and glamour. Red Bull's Adrian Newey on the grid with Amanda Holden at Silverstone last year . Shell grid girls line up at the Belgian Grand Prix last year . Ecclestone's letter was written to former Caterham team principal Cyril Abiteboul .

Summary: Bernie Ecclestone sent a letter to the former team principal of Caterham . Writing to Cyril Abiteboul, he has specific requirements for grid passes . They should be given to celebrities or glamorous ladies, he says . The letter is signed 'Bernie' and is believed to be genuine .


Germany manager Joachim Low says that midfielder Mesut Ozil had the permission of Arsene Wenger to fly to Berlin despite missing Arsenal's win against Newcastle due to illness. Just hours after the Gunners beat John Carver's side 2-1 at St James' Park - a game that Ozil was not well enough to feature in - the playmaker was spotted in a nightclub in the German capital. It was a move that is sure to have angered club boss Wenger, who is likely to remind the 26-year-old of his responsibilities when he returns from international duty. Mesut Ozil missed Arsenal's game against Newcastle before being reportedly spotted at a nightclub . Ozil joins Sami Khedira for a Germany training session in Frankfurt on Monday . Germany coach Joachim Low (centre) watches training ahead of their games against Australia and Gerogia . Ozil appeared in high spirits during training but is likely to have to answer to Arsene Wenger on his return . Germany play Australia on Wednesday in a friendly before contesting a Euro 2016 qualifier with Geogria on Sunday and World Cup winning manager Low said Ozil was allowed to travel to Berlin on Saturday. 'It's anyone's guess whether he was partying or not,' Low told reporters ahead of Wednesday's friendly. 'He has told me that he was in Berlin. I spoke to him and he said that he was weakened by a cold during last week and so Arsene Wenger and Ozil together took the decision to not play him at the weekend. After the match, he was allowed to fly to Berlin.' Germany manager Joachim Low continued to prepare his players on Tuesday for the Australia game . Low defended his decision to name Lukas Podolski in his squad for the upcoming internationals . The Arsenal forward, on loan at Inter Milan, has struggled for form and game time since the January switch . Meanwhile, Low defended his selection of on loan Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski. The Inter striker has struggled for form and game time since joining the Italian giants in January . 'I saw his match against Cesena in the stadium and then spoke to Lukas the following day,' Low said. 'The match was revived when he came on at half time. He is overall in better physical shape, but of course he has had initial difficulties in Italy. Germany manager Low deep in conversation with his assistant Thomas Schneider at training on Tuesday . The Germany players were put through their paces ahead of the Australia friendly on Wednesday . 'Lukas has always been there for us in the last 11 years. He gave it his all for the team. He has played loads of games and scored many goals. And he still has a lot of quality -- age has not taken its toll. 'He has our full support behind him. This will help him at his club, wherever he will be playing. It's important for him that he gets to play regularly and plays well.'

Summary: Arsenal beat Newcastle in Premier League at St James' Park on Saturday . Mesut Ozil missed the match after suffering illness during the week . The midfielder was spotted in a Berlin nightclub later that night . Joachim Low said Ozil had Arsene Wenger's permission to go to Germany .


Sarah stares at the camera, her pupils large and black, and her gaze unfaltering. Her soft skin is peppered with freckles and the corners of her mouth are turned, just slightly, at the corners. Though she is not quite smiling, she is beautiful in the dim light of the hospital room. She has a terminal illness and has accepted that she will soon die. She is one of 20 people photographed by American photographer Andrew George, who spent two years in hospitals taking pictures of people like Sarah, who are preparing for the end of their life. ‘At least I got to see the black president,’ reads Sarah’s page in Mr George’s new book, Right Before I Die. Mr George, who lives in Los Angeles, wanted to explore perspective and what people value in their final moments, saying he admired the ‘brutal honesty’ displayed in his subjects’ testimonies. He decided to leave out their former professions, or the disease or condition that was killing them, calling these things ‘the least relevant facts’. Instead, as well as the haunting pictures, he gathered stories from their lives, vignettes of experience and fragments of how they would advise others. Here, in an extract from his book, he shares some of the photographs and accompanying words... Sarah, in her hospital bed. She said: ‘Time is so precious. God, it's precious. Life is definitely not infinite. You never know what is going to come up and you really have to take risks. I can’t really think about what’s fair – fair doesn’t make any sense. Things are not fair or unfair, it’s just the way life is. Things happen – or they don’t. You take opportunities – or you don’t’ Josefina, pictured in hospital, said she has never been afraid to die: ‘If you’re dead, you’re dead. That’s it. It doesn’t come back and I don’t think we reincarnate. I know The Bible says otherwise and I don’t want to contradict it, but to me, I don’t believe that. When we die, we die and we go to nothing. Dust to dust... I think the end of the world reaches you when you die’ René said his biggest regret is not being in touch with his daughter in El Salvador. He said: ‘I didn’t give her the right to be part of my life.’ He adds that there is ‘no such thing as happiness in life’. ‘What we call happiness are contributions; all we have is what we are and what we have given at that moment. The meaning of life is the search for it’ Joe wrote just these brief words to accompany his photo. He said: ‘I feel like I am the luckiest man in the world. I have a wonderful wife, son and daughter, grandchildren and great grandchildren. No one could ask for more than that' Sally said she was taking care of her sick brothers and sisters when she developed cancer. She said being in love is the greatest happiness in life: ‘Being in love is like being in a different world. You

Summary: American photographer Andrew George spent two years in hospitals taking pictures of people who are terminally ill . He asked them to share anecdotes from their lives, their regrets and what life advice they would give to others . Here, he shares extracts from his new book, Right Before I Die, where he exhibits each person's story...


The wife of a man who suffered fatal head injuries as he tried to save his younger brother from an oncoming Tube train today paid tribute to a 'perfect husband'. Nick Mann, 35, was killed he attempted to rescue Robert, 32, who is believed to have dropped his mobile or wallet on to the line at Old Street station in London. The pair were taken to the Royal London Hospital where Nick, a journalist and press officer, died. Today, Nick’s wife Jennifer Kavanagh, said she had been left 'beyond heartbroken' by the death of a man who she described as 'gentle', 'kind' and 'considerate'. 'Perfect husband': Nick’s wife Jennifer Kavanagh, pictured with her late husband, said she had been left 'beyond heartbroken' by the death of a man who she described as 'gentle', 'kind' and 'considerate' Tragic: Nick Mann, 35, left, was killed he attempted to rescue his younger brother Robert, 32, right, who is believed to have dropped his mobile or wallet on to the Tube line at Old Street station in London . Meanwhile, music fans and writers took to social media to pay tribute to Nick, who edited rock fanzine, A Short Fanzine About Rocking, an influential alternative music fanzine. Robert, who lives in Manchester, was yesterday in a stable but critical condition at the hospital. No updates are being given on his condition at the request of his family. Speaking to the Evening Standard today, Ms Kavanagh said the couple had met in Manchester, where Nick, who was born in Leeds but grew up in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, went to university. She said: 'He was kind, gentle, funny and so considerate. He had hundreds of friends in London, which we’ve called home since 2007. 'We have been on lots of adventures together overseas and had many more planned. 'Nick was a journalist and press officer. He was passionate about writing and was so intelligent. He loved music, especially hardcore and punk, and went to many gigs.' She added that her husband had loved Shrewsbury Town Football Club and had travelled around the country to see them play. Nick edited A Short Fanzine About Rocking, which covered rock, punk and hardcore rock. Popular: Ms Kavanagh said the couple, pictured together, had met in Manchester, where Nick, originally from Shrewsbury, Shropshire, went to university. She said that Nick had 'hundreds of friends in London' The final print edition was published in May 2014, but Nick had hoped to continue his work online, according to the website. Today, members of the music community paid tribute to a man described as 'selfless'. Music writer Guy Manchester said he was not surprised the heroic man acted in such a 'selfless' fashion and that he was one of the 'warmest' men you could meet. Mr Manchester, co-editor of the Louder Than War music website, said: 'It breaks our hearts to have to pass on the sad news that sometime contributor to these pages and erstwhile pillar of the hardcore community, Nick Mann, died yesterday in tragic circumstances attempting to save his brother's life. 'That Nick

Summary: Robert Mann, 32, jumped onto Old Street station Tube tracks on Sunday . His brother Nick, 35, tried to save him as Northern line train approached . Both men were hit and taken to hospital, where fanzine editor Nick died . His wife, Jennifer Kavanagh, today remembered a 'kind' and 'gentle' man . Music fans and writers today paid tribute to the 'selfless' 35-year-old .


Your very own home to buy for less than $200,000, a short drive from Sydney's CBD - no, this is not a real estate fairytale. SQM Research guru Louis Christopher has poured over the current listings and singled out his top 10 in Sydney and Paul Bird from the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, has done the same for Melbourne buyers. If you think you've been priced out of the Sydney or Melbourne property markets, you're wrong, according to these real estate experts, who have found hidden gems among the over-inflated prices. 'The Sydney market is now 25 per cent above fair valuation but there is bargain buying,' Mr Christopher admitted. One of his top picks came in under $200,000 and where he found the others will surprise. Less than $200,000. The cheapest on the market and top pick, just 45 kilometres west of the CBD, a one-bed, one bathroom unit in St Marys is listed at $199,950 in the over-inflated Sydney property market . St Marys unit described as 'a low buy in price, all studios have been renovated to a high standard, close to train station and shopping centre with excellent growth prospects for the area' This St Marys apartment is going for less than half the median price for units in the western suburb of Sydney . There are listings in the eastern suburbs and inner west which make his top ten. And while there is no Toorak or Malvern in the Melbourne cheapies, they are still close to the Victorian capital and won't stretch the budget much beyond $300,000. Globally, Sydney is considered the third most expensive property market behind only Hong Kong and Vancouver, when it comes to housing versus household income - and Melbourne fares little better, ranking sixth. But there are ways around the rankings. 1 Werribee $240,000 . 2. Hoppers Crossing $299,999 . 3. Carrum Downs $329,000 . 4. Wyndham Vale $352,500 . 5. Hampton Park $360,000 . 6. Deer Park $363,500 . 7. Truganina $370,000 . 8. Pakenham $375,000 . 9. Frankston $375,000 . 10. Craigieburn $378,500 . 1. St Marys $199,950 . 2. Waterloo $380,000 . 3. Cronulla $400,000 . 4. Wiley Park $419,000 . 5. Potts Point $429,000 . 6. Kingswood $440,000 . 7. Casula $470,000 . 8. Gladesville $485,000 . 9. Dharruk $490,000 . 10. Ingleburn $490,000 . The Potter Street apartment enjoys open plan kitchen equipped with premium appliances, flowing to private garden side balcony, a built-in robe and ducted air conditioning and access to a swimming pool, spa, sauna and gym . Room with a view in Waterloo. Just four kilometres south of the CBD, this studio apartment is considered a perfect entry point for the first home buyer and the astute investor - just $380,000 . 'Suburbs just like St Marys are increasingly in demand because of their affordability, the importance of the future second airport and infrastructure plans,' Louis Christopher said. The property on the Great Western Highway is going for just $199,950. 'Now this is a basic entry level but you must remember that St

Summary: Bargains still to be found in over-inflated Australian property market within touching distance of capital cities . Homes for under $200,000 less than 40 minutes from the CBD . Top 10 bargain buys as picked by real estate gurus . Among them a property walking distance from the beach for just $400,000 . Globally both Sydney and Melbourne are considered among the most expensive capital cities for property .


A shoulder injury to James Tomkins means Cheikhou Kouyate is likely to find himself at the heart of West Ham's defence at Arsenal on Saturday - and the Senegal international has a plan. The 25-year-old midfielder has been used to plug a hole in the centre of Sam Allardyce's defence already this season and Kouyate wants to use the performance of his former club Anderlecht as inspiration for leaving the Emirates Stadium with a positive result. Tomkins, who has recently penned a new long-term deal at Upton Park, dislocated a shoulder in training on Thursday and joins fellow defender Winston Reid on the injury list - with forwards Andy Carroll, Carlton Cole and Enner Valencia also likely to miss out and Alex Song nursing a slight knee injury. West Ham midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate (right) is looking forward to facing Arsenal at the Emirates stadium . James Tomkins is one of three defenders who are unavailable for Saturday's Premier League clash . Add to that Carl Jenkinson's ineligibility against his parent club, and Allardyce will be selecting from a much-depleted pool for a fourth successive Barclays Premier League London derby. But Kouyate was in the crowd as his previous side Anderlecht recovered from a 3-0 half-time deficit to take a Champions League point home from north London and he wants to follow in the footsteps of the Belgian outfit. 'I have never played at the Emirates stadium before, but I know I will play my game and try to enjoy it. I want to help the team and battle for the points,' he told whufc.com . 'Arsenal is a very big team, but West Ham need the points. It's a very good game and London derby, which I like. I'll go to Arsenal to do battle. 'I went to the Emirates to support Anderlecht in the Champions League earlier this season and they did very well and drew three-all. Kouyate went to the Emirates to watch his former club Anderlect secure a dramatic 3-3 draw in November . The Gunners were stunned as the Belgian side came from 3-0 down to grab a point in the Champions League . 'I was very happy because Anderlecht is my second family. Arsenal went 3-0 up and I was thinking "What is this game?" but in the second half Anderlecht came with a new mentality. 'It went to 3-1, then 3-2 and then 3-3 - it was unbelievable! 'I am very happy for Anderlecht, but now West Ham go to Arsenal and it would be fantastic if we could do the same. We want to get a draw or even a win.' The Hammers confirmed on Friday morning that Tomkins required hospital treatment as he became the latest player ruled out of Allardyce's squad. 'West Ham United can confirm that James Tomkins has suffered a dislocated shoulder. The 25-year-old was taken for hospital treatment and will continue to be assessed by the club's medical staff,' they wrote over two tweets. Kouyate, pictured with Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas, says West Ham are aiming for a 'a draw or

Summary: West Ham take on Arsenal at the Emirates on Saturday, kick-off at 3pm . Cheikhou Kouyate watched Anderlecht draw with the Gunners in November . The midfielder wants the Hammers to put in a similar performance . Kouyate could play in central defence with James Tomkins out injured .


Whoopi Goldberg says that almost all of her use of marijuana is medical, to treat her glaucoma . Whoopi Goldberg announced that she only smokes marijuana these days for medical purposes, and she said that children should be able to use the drug for the same reason. The View host has a history of proclaiming her love of cannabis and has now claimed it helps treat her glaucoma symptoms. 'I had just been smoking a long time before the glaucoma, and for the fun of it,' she told High Times magazine. 'What I did notice is that there were fewer headaches. Didn't take me long to see there might be a correlation,' she said. She added that almost all of her 'use nowadays is medical', according to the New York Post. And while she uses it to treat her glaucoma, she told the magazine that she is also an advocate for pediatric medical marijuana for sick children. People use medical marijuana to relieve symptoms and side effects of a number of illnesses, including epilepsy and cancer. 'When we talk about marijuana and I hear people say, 'Well, what about the children?' Yeah, what about the children,' Goldberg said. She went on to say that families who have tried giving their children cannabis are 'being treated like criminals'. She added: 'Because, as a last resort and after much research, they've decided that cannabis may help their kid. 'They know they may face jail time, but these are their kids and they will do everything they can to bring peace to the convulsions or calm after the chemotherapy.' Medical marijuana can be used to treat a number of illnesses and the side effects that come with them. Some uses include reducing seizures and calming effects after chemotherapy .

Summary: Goldberg says she uses medical marijuana to treat her glaucoma . She said she notices fewer headaches when she smokes the drug . The View host appears to support families who research medical marijuana for their children . People use medical marijuana to reduce seizures and anxiety, among other things .


British summer time has officially begun after the clocks went forward one hour overnight - although the weather seems unlikely to oblige with wet and windy conditions forecast for today. Worse still, temperatures seem unlikely to increase above 13c although the Met Office said that rain should clear in the early afternoon leaving a mix of sunny spells and blustery showers. The change meant the nation lost an hour's sleep, but it marks the start of the evenings getting longer. Scroll down for video . Clocks went forward one hour overnight marking the start of British Summer Time . Bury's crunch League 2 with Southend only featured six-minutes' play due to a torrential downpour . The referee was forced to abandon the game due to a waterlogged pitch after calling the players inside . Parts of the pitch had large standing pools of water which made it too dangerous to continue . Bury's crunch League Two fixture with Southend was abandoned after just six minutes when the referee Tony Harrington decided the pitch was waterlogged. Mr Harrington led the players inside but soon called off the game when the conditions worsened considerably. Forecaster Nicola Willis said: 'Sunday's rain will clear away overnight and we will see clearer conditions and a north westerly breeze and continuing into Monday. 'But further south we will see another band of rain pushing west to east during Monday, with rain coming in from the west.' The rain could turn to sleet and even snow on higher ground. She said that rain will hit all parts of Britain tomorrow, starting in Northern Ireland, Wales and the south west of England, moving eastwards. There will also be 20mph winds with gusts of up to 55mph. The bad weather is expected to continue on Monday with further rain arriving from the west. Although some sunny intervals should break through on Tuesday and Wednesday. Luckily, for many people, their smartphones and computers automatically update the time, but many watches, cars, cookers and traditional clocks have to be changed manually. Despite the start of British Summer Time, the first three days look particularly grim with rain and strong winds . Southend United's manager Phil Brown, pictured, got soaked as he tried to cross the waterlogged pitch .

Summary: Rain, wind and even snow will mark the start of British Summer time . Most computers and smartphones automatically update their time settings . Some parts of the country could be battered by 55mph winds .


She is the Queen of Soul and they are bigger hitters in the world of politics. But despite being an unlikely trio, both Eric Holder and the Reverend Al Sharpton got together to help celebrate the 73rd birthday of Aretha Franklin on Sunday night. The outgoing attorney general and the civil rights activist joined guests from the world of music for the annual party at New York's Ritz Carlton hotel. Scroll down for video . Aretha Franklin is joined by U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder and the Rev Al Sharpton at her 73rd birthday party in New York City . Both Mr Holder and the Rev Sharpton are close friends of the singer. Mr Holder was with his wife Sharon Malone, while Rev Sharpton was accompanied by date Aisha McShaw . The singer, who doesn't actually turn 73 until Wednesday, has become known for holding star-studded parties to mark her birthday. At last night's celebration, Miss Franklin, who wore a sparkling silver dress blew out the candles on her cake and was even treated to a chorus of 'Happy Birthday' sang by Labelle singer Sarah Dash. Miss Franklin has been a long time friend of both Mr Holder and Reverend Sharpton. Earlier this year, she sang at a ceremony to announce Mr Holder would be stepping down from his position of Attorney General. The singer wore a silver sparkling dress with a coat as she walked the red carpet on the way to her party . She sang 'America The Beautiful' as an homage to Mr Holder, who was visibly moved by the gesture. It was reported that as she approached the podium to sing, President Barack Obama rushed to her side and handed her a stepping stool with the words, 'Hold on, Queen.' It is thought that she has become good friends with Mr Holder and his wife Sharon. Aretha Franklin blows out the candles on her birthday cake with the help of Mr Holder news correspondent Tamron Hall and music executive Clive Davis . Meanwhile Miss Franklin was last seen partying with the Rev Sharpton at his 60th birthday party last October, where she described him as a 'man among men'. At one point during the party, New York mayor Bill de Blasio was addressing the Reverend. But he was soon cut off by Mr Sharpton as Miss Franklin entered the room, with him saying: 'I don’t usually interrupt the mayor, but the Queen is in the room.'

Summary: The singer held her 73rd birthday party at New York's Ritz Carlton hotel . Guests included US Attorney General Eric Holder and Rev Al Sharpton . She blew out the candles on a cake while partygoers sang Happy Birthday .


Daniel Vettori became the 12th player to take 300 one-day international wickets as New Zealand eased to a six-wicket victory against Afghanistan. The 36-year-old, who took an impressive 4-18, is the first New Zealander to pass the landmark and now sits in the esteemed company of greats such as Muttiah Muralitharan, Wasim Akram and Glenn McGrath. Afghanistan required a seventh-wicket partnership of 86 between Najibullah Zadran and Samiullah Shenwari to post a respectable 186 all out, having chosen to bat, but a 19-ball 42 from Brendon McCullum ensured there would be no shock in Napier. Daniel Vettori became the 12th player to take 300 one-day international wickets . Vettori of New Zealand celebrates taking the wicket of Afsar Zazai of Afghanistan at the Cricket World Cup . Vettori celebrates with Brendon McCullum after taking the wicket of Zazai during the Cricket World Cup match . Perhaps a mark of the man and an added insight into the where the focus of the team remains, Vettori said the landmark was something he would think about after the World Cup. 'Right now we are caught up in the middle of a World Cup,' he said. 'We have an important game on Friday (group game against Bangladesh), and then probably the most important of our careers the following Saturday (quarter-final). 'Maybe in a month, it will be the time to look back on it. I didn't go into the World Cup thinking about that milestone, I didn't believe I would take this many wickets in this few games.' Understandably stung from being smashed for a record-breaking 417 runs by Australia in Perth days earlier, Mohammad Nabi chose to bat after calling correctly at the toss. Afghanistan were made to pay for a choice that signaled a slight naivety within the camp, with their own coaching staff having previously admitted that bowling was the side's strong suit. The newcomers to the World Cup stage collapsed to 34-3 and then 59-6, as Vettori caused most of the damage after Trent Boult had Javed Ahmadi trapped lbw for just one. McCullum has developed into an imposing captain, known for his ingenuity and outrageously attacking fields – so his decision to bowl his spinner in just the third over was met with mild surprise. The decision was less genius and more to allow New Zealand's opening bowlers, Tim Southee and Boult, to switch ends. The 36-year-old is the first New Zealander to pass the landmark of 300 ODI wickets . New Zealand eased to a six-wicket win over Afghanistan at the Cricket World Cup on Sunday . He now sits in the company of greats such as Muttiah Muralitharan, Wasim Akram and Glenn McGrath . Vettori of New Zealand speaks at a post-match press conference following their Cricket World Cup win . Still, Vettori showed that he's as accurate in the third over as in the 15th as he struck with his first ball. Usman Ghani lost sight of the ball and saw his off stump disturbed. With his opening strike bowlers having switched ends, McCullum resumed the pace

Summary: Daniel Vettori became just the 12th player to take 300 ODI wickets . The 36-year-old is the first New Zealander to pass the landmark . He took 4-18 to earn his place among greats such as Muttiah Muralitharan . New Zealand eased to a six-wicket victory over Afghanistan in Napier .


Police in North Carolina are searching for a man who robbed a bank while dressed head-to-toe as Darth Vader from Star Wars - except he had a shotgun instead of a light saber. The robbery happened at the Pineville State Employees Credit Union at about 11.45am on Monday, a time when there's a lot of foot traffic in and out of the area. The man entered the bank dressed as Darth Vader and demanded money from the teller as he pointed a shotgun over the counter, police said. Scroll down for video . The man walked into a Pineville, North Carolina bank on Monday at about 11.45am, when customers and staff were in the building . The man, who was dressed in dark clothing and a Darth Vader mask, pointed a shotgun over the counter as he demanded money . Pineville Police said that the State Employees Credit Union is a high foot traffic area around mid-day, when the man went into the building . Unlike the massive and towering Darth Vader from the films, the suspect is about 5ft, 5in tall, police said. He was wearing dark clothing and a mask, according to WSOC. The man fled the scene in a gray four-door Chevrolet Suburban, taking off with thousands of dollars, police said. 'You think about what time of day it was. It was right around lunch time in a very busy area, very busy intersection of our town,' Pineville Police Lt Corey Copley told WSOC. 'There's a lot of foot traffic in and out of the bank at that time of day. This is definitely something unusual you don't see every day in law enforcement,' he added. Though there were customers and staff in the bank at the time, no one was injured during the robbery. Unlike the massive and towering Darth Vader from the Star Wars films, the suspect is about 5ft, 5in tall . Though there were customers and staff in the bank at the time of the robbery, no one was injured during the incident . The man fled the scene in a gray four-door Chevrolet Suburban, taking off with thousands of dollars, police said .

Summary: The suspect walked into Pineville, North Carolina bank at 11.45am Monday . He pointed a shotgun over the counter as he demanded money . Police said he escaped with thousands of dollars in a Chevrolet Suburban . Man is about 5ft, 5in tall and wearing dark clothing and a mask, police said .


A homeowner checking his house after tenants moved out found the property had been rigged with explosives set to detonate with the flip of a light switch. Lendel Williams was inspecting the house in Milton, Massachusetts on Tuesday as he prepared to sell the home when his electrician came across the suspicious device in a bedroom closet. They called police and it was successfully deactivated a few hours later. 'I am angry,' Lendel told reporters outside the home on Tuesday night. 'I just can't believe people can really do that to be quite frank with you.' Scroll down for video . Danger: This owner of this home in Milton, Massachusetts found it had been rigged with explosives . Safe: The homeowner called police who arrived at the home on Tuesday and deactivated the device . Investigation: Hours later they declared the home safe and removed items from the property . The electrician found the explosive device behind a recently plastered section of wall in a bedroom closet, CBS Boston reported. The mechanism involved a gallon of a flammable substance with wires snaking out of it and around the house. The end of the wire led to a light switch. 'We believe the intention was that if someone flipped the light switch on where it ended, the device would have exploded,' Milton Police Chief Richard Wells said. 'It took some work to put it in there.' Authorities said the intricate system could have caused 'significant destruction' if it had been set off and could have even resulted in a loss of life. Police have not yet named any suspects and said they are considering anyone with access to the house as a person of interest in the case, WCVB reported. Shock: Homeowner Lendel Williams, pictured, said he could not believe that someone had set up the device, which his electrician found behind a recently-plastered wall during an inspection on Tuesday . Scene: Police and members of the bomb squad swarm the street outside the home on Tuesday . But Williams said he believes his former tenants could be responsible and the Boston and Milton police departments are looking for them. Last week, police were called to the home for an act of vandalism after Williams found cement had been poured down the drain. On Sunday, a few days after the complaint was filed, the former tenants, a man, his wife and their daughter, moved out. They had lived at the property since June. Police were called to the home on Craig Street and several hours later, a bomb squad rendered the device safe. Officers were seen removing brown bags from the house. See below for video .

Summary: Lendel Williams was checking his property in Milton, Massachusetts on Tuesday ahead of selling it when his electrician found the device . It was behind a recently plastered wall in a bedroom closet and had wires leading out of it to a light switch . Police believe it was designed to cause 'significant destruction' The tenants moved out last week, days after a vandalism complaint was filed when cement was poured down the drains . Authorities are seeking the family and others who had access to the house .