Authorities are looking for a missing 22-year-old college student who disappeared during a night out with a friend in Minneapolis. The Minneapolis Police Department said in a Saturday Facebook post that Jennifer Houle was last spotted Friday morning 'sometime between 1:00 and 2:00 am.' She was last spotted inside Dinkeytown bar Blarney Pub and Grill, police said. Houle's friend Brooke Laven told KSTP that she and Houle went bar-hopping Thursday evening. Laven told the television station that while out, the pair ran into one of Houle's ex-boyfriends. Scroll down for videos . Missing: Jennifer Houle (left in both pictures) attends the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and is a Phi Beta Phi sorority member . Scene: Houle's friend Brooke Laven has said she and Houle went to Blarney's Pub and Grill (pictured), where they wound up separated from one another - and that she hasn't seen Houle since . Party: Jennifer Houle disappeared during a night out with a friend in Minneapolis last week. While out, she and a friend reportedly ran into an ex-boyfriend at a bar . 'That kind of set off some emotions,' Laven told KSTP. Laven told the television station she and Houle went to Blarney's Pub and Grill, where they wound up separated from one another. Laven told KSTP she hasn't seen Houle since. Laven told KSTP 'Her purse and phone were found in the middle of the street near her apartment building, which is a few blocks down from Blarney's. So a lot of us think she may have tried to walk home from Blarney's.' Minneapolis police posted on Twitter Saturday that Houle's purse was found at 3am on Friday. 'Purse was located on the 1100 block of 4th St SE. No further info is available at this time,' a Saturday tweet from the police department said. Police have said Houle was wearing a black leather jacket, black boots, along with a green blouse and black leggings. She is 5'5" and weighs 140 pounds, according to authorities. KSTP reported that police have spoken with an ex-boyfriend of Houle's and multiple other individuals. According to the television station, Houle attends the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and is a Phi Beta Phi sorority member. The chapter's president, Madeline Eddy, said in a Saturday statement to WCCO 'Pi Beta Phi is fully cooperative and our main focus is finding Jen and supporting her family.' University vice provost Danita Brown Young said in a Sunday statement to KSTP 'The University of Minnesota is working with local law enforcement to help find Jennifer Houle, a Carlson School of Management student and Pi Beta Phi sorority member, who has been missing since Friday, March 27.' She said counseling is available for the University of Minnesota community. Police wrote on Facebook that 'Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call 9-1-1 or send a text to 847 411 (tip 411), enter MPD and the tip or call the tipline at 612-692-TIPS (8477). All texts are anonymous.'

Summary: Authorities are looking for 22-year-old college student Jennifer Houle, who disappeared during a night out with a friend in Minneapolis . She was last spotted inside Dinkeytown bar Blarney Pub and Grill early Friday morning, police said . Houle's friend Brook Laven has said she and Houle went bar-hopping Thursday evening and ran into one of Houle's ex-boyfriends . While at Blarney's, the two women wound up separated from one another - and Laven hasn't seen Houle since . Houle's purse was found at 3am on Friday not far from the bar .


From elaborate hats to colourful coats and skyscraper heels, this week's Cheltenham Festival has proved as memorable for its fashion as it has for the drama unfolding on the course. But today, racing fans were left shivering in their flimsy frocks as the heavens opened and gave everyone a soaking. Luckily, most had come prepared with umbrellas, turning the racecourse into a sea of bright colour as the brollies were unfurled. Beneath them were racegoers dressed in an array of colourful ensembles, with some braving the downpour in bare legs and spike heels while trying desperately to keep their elaborate titfers dry. Scroll down for video . Chilly: A couple of ladies chose to brave the cold weather in bare legs and platform shoes, even leaving warm coats at home . Brrrr! Racegoers were left shivering after the heavens opened on the fourth and final day of this year's Cheltenham Festival . Well prepared: Most had come prepared with umbrellas but a few chose to brave the chill in bare legs regardless . Hidden: A lady arrives well wrapped up in a chic green tweed coat but is almost totally obscured behind her umbrella . Watch the hair! Others took shelter beneath large hats but those wearing fascinators had no choice but to carry a brolly . Not put off: It might have been raining but that didn't stop many racegoers from ramping up the glamour in their spike heels . Not impressed: Although some appeared to be enjoying the rain, others - particularly those with suspect brollies - looked less thrilled . Others went down a more practical route, wrapping up in cosy fur coats and oversized hats. More still, perhaps with an eye to the weather rather than fashion, shucked off their finery and replaced it with waterproof cagoules. Despite the downpours, most of the men and women arriving for the final day of racing action managed to look cheerful - perhaps with the prospect of seeing veteran jockey AP McCoy compete in the final Gold Cup of his career in mind. McCoy, who has won the prestigious trophy no fewer than five times during his 20-year career, will compete for the final time aboard the hotly-tipped Irish bay gelding, Carlingford Lough. 'It's impossible to not back AP McCoy's last ever ride in the Gold Cup,' comments Ladbroke's Jessica Bridge. 'It would be a fairytale end to a glittering career for the 20-time champion jockey. Back again: Zara Tindall returned for the fourth day in a row and looked chic in her brown wool coat by Irish designer, Paul Costelloe . Good look: The Queen's granddaughter opted for a striking Rosie Olivia cocktail hat topped with traditional pheasant feathers . Family outing: Zara was later joined by her mother Princess Anne and her husband Mike Tindall . Enjoying their day: Zara and Mike enjoy a chat during their day out at Cheltenham in a row . Close: Zara gives her mother Princess Anne a kiss on the cheek (left) and right, Zara and Mike pay close attention to the action

Summary: Temperatures took a turn for the worse as the final day of the Cheltenham Festival got underway this morning . Zara Tindall and Ola Jordan were among the racegoers waiting to see the biggest race of the week, the Gold Cup . Princess Anne was also at the races and went straight there after attending a service at St. Paul's in London . Most came prepared for the rain with brollies and cagoules but some were left to shiver in their flimsy frocks .


Paris St Germain thumnped RC Lens 4-1 to move top of Ligue 1 on Saturday as the French Champions geared up for their Champions League clash at Chelsea next week. David Luiz, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Blaise Matuidi and Javier Pastore scored the goals that put PSG on 56 points from 28 games, two ahead of Olympique Lyonnais who can reclaim the lead if they beat Montpellier away on Sunday. Marseille are a further point back in third on 53 after thrashing Toulouse 6-1 away on Friday. David Luiz celebrates after putting Paris St Germain 1-0 up at home to Lens on Saturday . Zlatan Ibrahimovic doubled his side's lead from the penalty spot after Gregory Van der Wiel was fouled . The Swede celebrates his penalty, which put PSG in total control of the game at the Parc des Princes . PSG visit Stamford Bridge for their last 16 return leg with Chelsea on Wednesday having drawn 1-1 at the Parc des Princes. Lens, who reduced the arrears to 2-1 through Yoann Touzghar after 68 minutes, stayed second from bottom on 22 points having lost seven of their last 10 league games and won none. The hosts dominated but Lens keeper Rudy Riou kept his team afloat with a string of fine saves before the northerners cracked on the stroke of halftime. PSG went ahead when Luiz wrongfooted Riou with a low, long-range free kick in thr 43rd minute as the Brazil defender netted his second league goal. Laurent Blanc's side doubled their tally on the hour when Sweden striker Ibrahimovic converted a penalty after Gregory van der Wiel was brought down by Bapiste Guillaume. Maxwell jumps on his team-mates to celebrate as the French champions went top of the table . Ibrahimovic holds the ball up under a challenge from a defender as PSG moved above Marseille and Lyon . Edinson Cavani holds off the tackle of Jean-Philippe Gbamin during what turned out to be a comfortable win . Touzghar narrowed the deficit from close range but Lens's hopes quickly vanished. PSG substitute Pastore had an immediate effect when France midfielder Matuidi tapped in from the Argentine's cross to make it 3-1 10 minutes from time. Pastore wrapped it up three minutes later by volleying home Ibrahimovic's fine lofted pass in the box. Van der Wiel almost added a fifth in the closing stages but his rising shot from the spot smashed against the bar.

Summary: David Luiz opens the scoring in the eighth minute . PSG captain Zlatan Ibrahimovic doubles the advantage before half time . Yoann Touzghar pulls one back for Lens but Blaise Matuidi and Javier Pastore secure comfortable win for Paris St Germain . PSG move ahead of Marseille and Lyon, with the latter to play on Sunday . PSG face Chelsea in Champions League last 16 second leg on Wednesday .


A veterinary student was killed in a murder-suicide just two months before graduation and days before she was expected to attend job interviews. Whitney Engler, 27, was found shot to death in a home she shared with Joseph Hein, 24, in Davis California, on Friday. The body of the University of California student was discovered after police staged a seven-hour stand-off outside the duplex, believing there was an armed gunman inside. Scroll down for video . Veterinary student Whitney Engler, 27, was found shot to death in a home she shared with Joseph Hein, 24, in Davis California, on Friday following a murder-suicide . Police received a mysterious 911 call from a man saying two people had been shot to death inside. According to the Sacramento Bee they initially thought it was a hoax, so only entered the building at 1:30am when they threw tear gas through the window. Authorities have not publicly revealed who pulled the trigger, but Whitney's parents told the California paper officials said her daughter was the victim. She and Hein were said to be in a platonic relationship and in a short-term rental agreement - creating mystery around what prompted the tragic events to unfold. After father, Dennis Engler, told the Bee she moved in with Hein in December because the house she had lived in was too crowded. He said the deal was that she would cook in exchange for five months free rent. Whitney's family have said she and Hein (left) had a platonic relationship. He uploaded a picture to Facebook of a card (left) which read: 'Here lies Joseph Hein, 1991-2015, devoted friend, lover of __________' last year . He also posted images of a black semi-automatic rifle to the social media account . He posted a number of pictures of a semi-automatic rifle on his Facebook last year as well as an image of a card which read: 'Here lies Joseph Hein, 1991-2015, devoted friend, lover of __________.' It had a Cards Against Humanity branding at the bottom, referring to the popular card game. The space is supposed to be filled by a word. Mr Engler said: It’s mystifying. Nothing I’ve learned leads to even a hint of an explanation, which might never be forthcoming. Whitney was a lover of animals and had been looking after a service dog called Rosie at the time. It has since been found after her friends set up a search in the area. Friend and fellow veterinary student Anjolie Anjali Daryani, who led the search for Whitney's pets, said on Facebook on Saturday: 'Last night I lost a good friend, and the world loss an amazing person. Friend Anjolie Anjali Daryani said Whitney was only two months away from graduating and had a number of job interviews planned this weekend . 'Whitney Engler I hope that you rest in peace and know that we are all doing everything we can to find Rosie. 'I will never forget all of our time spent together.. whether it was horseriding, training our dogs, going out to dinners, going shopping, or

Summary: Whitney Engler, 27, was shot to death at a duplex in Davis, California . Her body was found beside that of her roommate Joseph Hein, 24 . He posted an image of card reading: 'Here lies Joseph Hein, 1991-2015' on Facebook in December along with pictures of black semi-automatic rifles . Whitney's friends say she had a number of job interviews lined up . Police are yet to confirm who pulled the trigger - but her parents have claimed she is the victim .


A temporary order by a Superior Court judge is keeping a man from smoking inside his home in the District of Columbia - even though it's completely legal. WJLA-TV reports that Edwin Gray's next door neighbors in northeast Washington have filed a civil suit claiming they're being harmed by smoke that sneaks into their home through a hole in the basement. The family moved into the home next to Gray last year and have one child, and another on the way. No smoking zone: Edwin Gray has been ordered not to smoke inside his home, which his family has owned for the past 50 years . Complaints: The temporary injunction was ordered by a Superior Court judge after one of Gray's neighbors in northeast Washington, DC filed a lawsuit saying smoke was leaking into their home . A judge issued a temporary injunction last week saying neither Gray nor any family or guests may smoke in the home the family has owned for 50 years. The family has vowed to fight the order. In court filings and a statement, the neighbors say they tried to work with Gray and his sister Mozella Johnson, but that the mediation attempts failed and they decided to file the suit. 'You want me to stop what I've been doing in my house, all my life,' Gray remarked. In addition to seeking an injunction on smoking at the house, the neighbors are also asking for $500,000 in damages. The lawsuit does set a precedent for other complaints in the DC area. A columnist for the Washington Post said the Gray lawsuit could lead to hundreds of others, from neighbors hoping to control the activities of other residents. 'We were floored,' Gray's sister, Johnson, said. 'If this judge has done this, who will be next? What other neighbor will be next?'

Summary: A Superior Court judge has temporarily ordered Edwin Gray and the rest of his family to stop smoking inside their Washington, DC home . Injunction is the result of a pending lawsuit launched by Gray's new neighbors, who say they are being harmed by the smoke .


An artist from Seattle has created a form of street art that is guaranteed to brighten up your rainy day. Rainworks, the brainchild of Peregrine Church, is a form of water-activated art that only becomes visible when it is raining. Its inventor came up with the concept when he discovered superhydrophobic coating – a nanoscopic surface layer that repels water. Peregrine Church has developed art that will make people's rainy days feel a whole lot better . He claims that he was intrigued by the numerous viral videos that featured the miracle substance and believed he could create interesting patterns with light and dark contrasts on pavements. Travelling around the streets of his native Seattle, Peregrine sprays through stencils to create motivational messages – that are initially invisible – on the ground. Demonstrating his work in the video, the artist throws a bucket of water onto a piece of inconspicuous pavement and from nowhere a hopscotch appears on the floor. Discussing his work, he says: ‘I make things that make the world a more interesting place like a Rainwork.’ Peregrine sprays through stencils to create motivational messages – that are initially invisible – on the ground . The artist says he hopes his work will 'make the world a more interesting place' Featured on his computer, Peregrine designs a number of feel-good stencils to be used on the street. He notes that Seattle is a place synonymous with rainfall and that his artwork is therefore ideal for the seaport city. Later in the video he discusses his numerous murals and where they can be found in and around Seattle and as far as Olympia. Peregrine was intrigued by the numerous viral videos that featured a miracle substance that protected surfaces from liquids . Two men brave it to pose for a special experiment as they get ready to be covered in paint . It's clear to see which man had the superhydrophobic coating – a nanoscopic surface layer that repels water . He says: ‘The very first one I did said ‘stay dry out there’ and had a bunch of raindrops falling. It was on a bus stop. 'And now there are about 25 to 30 Rainworks out there.’ The video concludes with the artist positively noting: ‘It’s going to rain no matter what, so why not do something cool with it?’ Peregrine uploads examples of his work to his website and the original video can be viewed here. The numerous murals and where they can be found in and around Seattle and as far as Olympia . There are around 25 to 30 Rainworks around Seattle .

Summary: Peregrine Church is the brainchild behind the water-activated art form . He came up with Rainworks after discovering a miracle water repellent . The artist sprays motivational murals on roads that appear in the rain . Peregrine's work features in and around the seaport city of Seattle .


Seven Southwestern states will soon be infiltrated by 1,200 military special ops personnel as part of a controversial domestic military training in which some of the elite soldiers will operate undetected among civilians. Operation Jade Helm begins in July and will last for eight weeks. Soldiers will operate in and around towns in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah and Colorado where some of them wil drop from planes while carrying weapons loaded with blanks in what military officials have dubbed Realistic Military Training. But with residents of the entire states of Texas and Utah dubbed 'hostile' for the purposes of the exercises, Jade Helm has some concerned the drills are too realistic. Scroll down for video . Hostile: An unclassified military document reveals the states involved in a controversial multi-agency training exercises that will place 1,200 military personnel into 7 Southwest states--with residents of Utah, Texas and part of Southern California designated as 'hostile' Special ops: Operation Jade Helm will involve Green Berets and SEALs and special forces from the Air Force and Marines starting in July and lasting 8 weeks . Headlines like Freedom Outpost's 'Operation Jade Helm—military trains for martial law in American South-west' abound across the Right-leaning blogosphere and Info Wars warns that Jade Helm is simply 'an effort to test the effectiveness of infiltration techniques' on the American public. 'They're having Delta Force, Navy SEALS with the Army trained to basically take over,' Info Wars' Alex Jones said Sunday. 'Texas is listed as a hostile sector, and of course, we are...We're here defending the republic.' The Houston Chronicle reports that, among the planned exercises, soldiers will attempt to operate undetected among civilian populations. Residents, in turn, will be asked to report suspicious activity in order to gauge the effectiveness of the soldiers. Military officials say they've gotten the go ahead for the operations from local authorities such as mayors and county commissions. And sheriff's deputies told the Houston Chronicle they would ensure residents living near where aircraft were slated to create disturbances and drop soldiers, civilian and military vehicles will barrel through and where blank rounds would be fired. Jim Stewart with the Brazos County, Texas Sheriff's Office told the Chronicle that such exercises are far from anything new. 'Special ops for years have trained off-post for years, where they go out and have folks that are role players out on the economy,' said the Army intelligence veteran. 'They'll have a scenario they'll be following and they'll interact with these role players as if they're in another country.' However, the U.S. Army Special Operations Command themselves say Jade Helm is different. See more at KEYE-TV . Reassuring? Sheriff's deputies say they will ensure residents living near where aircraft were slated to create disturbances and drop soldiers, civilian and military vehicles will barrel through and where blank rounds would be fired [FILE PHOTO] . Texas, which the military has designated as 'hostile' for the purposes of the training, was chosen to be a hub of the unprecedentedly large program because 'Texans are historically supportive of efforts to

Summary: Operation Jade Helm will see 1,200 service members including Green Berets and SEALs and special forces from the Air Force and Marines in July . Soldiers armed with blank rounds will operate in and around towns in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah and Colorado for 8 weeks . The so-called Realistic Military Training has some residents fearful the drill is a preparation for martial law .


Hand-carved from luxurious 75 per cent Tanzania Origin chocolate and measuring approximately 38cm high, this Easter bunny took two days to make … and costs a whopping £33,000. The sumptuous sculpture, which weighs in at approximately 5kgs and contains 548,000 calories, has eyes of two solitaire diamonds with a combined value of £25,000, nestled into the chocolate. The luxury chocolate rabbit was carved by award-winning Chocolatier and International Pastry Consultant and former Chef Décor of Harrods, Martin Chiffers. The world's most extravagant Easter bunny is 38cm high and weighs in at approximately 5 kilograms . Chef Martin Chiffers (centre) with VeryFirstTo's Marcel Knobil (left) and Tobias Kormind from 77 Diamonds . The world's most extravagant chocolate Easter bunny is on offer at luxury launches website VeryFirstTo.com . Its two 1.70ct Round Brilliant diamonds - that are G Colour and GIA certified and boast VS clarity - are from luxury jeweller 77 Diamonds who possess the largest selection of diamonds in the world. They were chosen exclusively for inclusion in this exceptional never done before Easter creation. Martin Chiffers said: ''I'm delighted to be working with 77 Diamonds on such a glamorous item which is certainly a culinary phenomenon. 'Whilst I am very accustomed to teaching about and creating extravagant luxury chocolate pieces, incorporating diamonds is a first!' The eyes of the rabbit are made from two solitaire diamonds with a combined value of £25,000 . The creative chocolate carving took two days to make and is extremely labour-intensive. The truly a one-of-a-kind Easter delight has detailing which includes three solid gold-leaf decorated chocolate eggs at the foot of the bunny. Tobias Kormind, Managing Director of 77 Diamonds said: 'We are delighted to match exceptional diamonds to this decadent creation. We are also happy to create a bespoke piece of jewellery featuring the solitaires free of charge, once the bunny has been devoured.' Marcel Knobil, founder of VeryFirstTo, Superbrands and Cool BrandLeaders said: 'Whilst the detailing of the carving in this exceptional chocolate bunny is enough to make it truly special, 77 Diamonds has enabled us to catapult it into the top echelons of Easter gifts'. VeryFirstTo is also catering to those who wish to purchase the Bunny with different coloured diamonds and gems, or with lower cost gems. And don't worry if you don't think your waistline could withstand the calories; the decadent delight can be displayed for two years, as long as the temperature is regulated to around 16 degrees.

Summary: World's most extravagant chocolate bunny on offer at VeryFirstTo.com . The 5kg sculpture is made from 75% Tanzania Origin chocolate . Eyes made from two solitaire diamonds valued at £25,000 .


Defending champion Novak Djokovic completed the line-up for the men's quarter-finals at the BNP Paribas Open by beating John Isner in a twilight encounter. The Serbian world number one booked a last-eight showdown with Bernard Tomic as he subdued big-serving American Isner to prevail 6-4 7-6 (7/5). Tomic endured a harder road to the next round in Indian Wells courtesy of 18-year-old Thanasi Kokkinakis. World No 1 Novak Djokovic celebrates after defeating John Isner 6-4 7-6 (7-5) to reach the quarter-finals . The Serb will now play Bernard Tomic in the last eight at the Indian Wells BNP Paribas Open . Djokovic and Isner shakes hands at the conclusion of their match on day 10 of the tournament . The big-serving American Isner was no match for Djokovic at Indian Wells . The Australian teenager, who had previously eliminated Juan Monaco and Guillermo Garcia-Lopez, forced a deciding set but Tomic raised his game to complete a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory. Also into the quarter-finals is experienced Czech Tomas Berdych, who came through a three-set battle against compatriot Lukas Rosol 6-2, 4-6, 6-4, and Milos Raonic, who beat Spain's Tommy Robredo 6-3, 6-2. Awaiting the Canadian is third seed Rafael Nadal after the world No 3 eased past Gilles Simon with a 6-2, 6-4 victory. Second seed Roger Federer - last year's beaten finalist - made it safely through to the last eight and a meeting with Berdych after dispatching American Jack Sock 6-3, 6-2 - it was the Swiss great's 50th match win at this tournament. Tomic defeated the Australian teenager Thanasi Kokkinakis to reach the quarter-finals . Kokkinakis, 18, had knocked out Juan Monaco and Guillermo Garcia-Lopez but couldn't add Tomic to his list . Rafael Nadal booked his place in the quarter-finals with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Gilles Simon . Roger Federer made no mistake against American Jack Sock, recording his 50th win at Indian Wells . Andy Murray equalled Tim Henman's British career-wins record of 496 after he beat France's Adrian Mannarino in straight sets. Murray was made to work hard for his victory against the world No 38 but came through 6-3, 6-3 in California. The world No 4 is into the last eight for the fifth time and will now face Spain's Feliciano Lopez, who pulled off a shock 6-4, 7-6 (7-2) win against Japan's Kei Nishikori. Simona Halep became the first player to reach the semi-finals of the women's competition as she beat Carla Suarez Navarro over three sets. British No 1 Andy Murray also made it through into the last eight, defeating Adrian Mannarino . Simona Halep was the first to reach the women's semi-finals, beating Carla Suarez Navarro . Serena Williams is also through, following a hard-fought victory over Timea Bacsinszky . The Romanian lost the opening four games, rallied to level the set, but Suarez Navarro eventually clinched it with a huge forehand winner. Third seed Halep needed only 63 more minutes to take her revenge, though, powering to a 5-7, 6-1, 6-1 triumph after finishing off with an unstoppable ace. Serena

Summary: Novak Djokovic beat John Isner 6-4 7-6 (7-5) in late-night encounter . World No 1 will take on Bernard Tomic in BNP Paribas Open quarter-finals . Tomic needed three sets to beat 18-year-old Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis . Tomas Berdych and Milos Raonic are also through to last eight . Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Roger Federer and Feliciano Lopez through .


The US has launched airstrikes against targets in Tikrit to support Iraqi ground forces trying to push ISIS militants out of the city, a senior official said. Iraq requested the strikes, which began Wednesday and are 'ongoing,' according to the unnamed US official. An Associated Press correspondent in Tikrit reported hearing warplanes overhead late Wednesday, followed by multiple explosions. Scroll down for video . Stalled ground offensive: Smoke rose over Tikrit, where Iraqi security forces and Shiite militias have battled ISIS militants . Iraq began the Tikrit ground offensive in early March without requesting US air support, even as it welcomed help from Iran. In an address to the nation Wednesday evening, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi predicted success in Tikrit but did not say the US was providing airstrikes. 'We have started the final phase of the operation in Tikrit,' he said. "You will liberate your ground, not anyone but you," he said, in a speech to the Iraqi people. Al-Abadi praised all the groups involved in the battle against the Islamic State group, including the so-called Popular Mobilization Forces, which the US calls Iranian-backed militias, the Sunni tribes and coalition forces. He fell short of confirming that the coalition is playing a direct role in Tikrit. US airstrikes in Tikrit raise highly sensitive questions about participating in an Iraqi campaign that has been spearheaded by Iraqi Shiite militias trained and equipped by Iran, an avowed US adversary. Difficulties: Militias like the Imam Ali Brigades, one of whose members is shown, have encircled ISIS forces but have been unable to dislodge them from the city . Iran has provided artillery and other weaponry for the Tikrit battle, and senior Iranian advisers have helped Iraq coordinate the offensive. Iraq pointedly did not request US air support when it launched the offensive in early March and recently, the offensive has lost momentum. Col Steve Warren, a Pentagon spokesman, said Wednesday the Iraqi forces have encircled Tikrit but not yet made significant inroads into the heavily defended city limits. 'They are stalled,' he said. The US has hundreds of military advisers in Iraq helping its security forces plan operations against the Islamic State, which occupies large chunks of northern and western Iraq. But the US has said it is not coordinating any military actions with the Iranians. Warren said that at Baghdad's request the US began aerial surveillance over Tikrit in recent days and is sharing the collected intelligence with the Iraqi government. The US-led air campaign, launched in August and joined by several European allies, has allowed Iraqi forces to halt the ISIS group's advance and claw back some of the territory militants seized last summer. Uneasy: Militiamen guarding the front line in the battle between Iraqi forces and ISIS militants, a battle which has 'stalled' recently . But the growing Iranian presence on the ground has complicated the mission, with Washington refusing to work directly with a country it views as a regional menace, yet is currently embroiled with Iran in sensitive negotiations over a nuclear deal. The prominent role of the Shiite

Summary: Iraq requested the airstrikes to support an offensive begun in early March . At the outset of the offensive, the Iraqi forces declined US-led coalition support though it looked to Iran for weapons and artillery . A Pentagon spokesman said the offensive has 'stalled'


It sounds like the ideal solution for older women wanting to have children. A controversial method to improve the health of an old egg is being used by a Massachusetts-based fertility company. The firm, OvaScience, says its technique involves rejuvenating an egg's mitochondria, which are the tiny structures that create energy to run a cell. Massachusetts-based fertility company, OvaScience, says its technique involves rejuvenating an egg's mitochondria, which are the tiny structures that create energy to run a cell . Studies suggest that 23-33 is the ideal time to conceive, as a healthy woman is still fertile and may be more psychologically prepared to have a baby. But fertility does begin to diminish slowly from the age of 25 as a woman's eggs decrease. One report claiming that women are 10 per cent less fertile at 27. This is because they now have fewer eggs to fertilise - a few thousand - which are also older. But according to a report by Tia Ghose in LiveScience, experts advise caution over those claims. 'They're quite private and secretive about what they're doing,' Dr Aimee Eyvazzadeh, a fertility specialist told LiveScience. The technique, dubbed Augment, takes energy-producing mitochondria from a patient's own 'EggPC cells'. These are immature egg cells found in the protective ovarian lining, which are added to the patient's mature eggs to supplement the existing mitochondria. 'A key component of egg health is the number of functioning mitochondria in the egg since mitochondria are the source of energy that helps an egg develop,' OvaScience co-founder, Michelle Dipp, told DailyMail.com . The idea is that immature cells with their healthy mitochondria could rejuvenate ageing eggs. Studies suggest that 23-33 is the ideal time to conceive, as a healthy woman is still fertile and may be more psychologically prepared to have a baby. The method, dubbed Augment, takes energy-producing mitochondria from a patient's own EggPC cells. These are immature egg cells found in the protective ovarian lining, which are added to the patient's mature eggs to supplement the existing mitochondria . But fertility does begin to diminish slowly from the age of 25 as a woman's eggs decrease. One report claiming that women are 10 per cent less fertile at 27. This is because they now have fewer eggs to fertilise - a few thousand - which are also older. The Augment treatment is not available in the US as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn't approved the method. It is, however, available in some in vitro fertilisation clinics in Canada, the UK, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey. So far, more than 150 patients have received the Augment treatment. But there are still problems with the method. For instance, Kateryna Makova, a genomicist at Pennsylvania State University in State College told LiveScience that the follicles in the ovary are unlikely to be in any better condition. As yet, there are no any published studies proving the existence of the precursor cells the company says it uses. OvaScience has yet to respond to Dailymail.com regarding criticism of its procedure.

Summary: OvaScience says it has found a way to boost an egg's mitochondria . Mitochondria are the tiny powerhouses that create energy to run a cell . It involves taking immature egg cells found in protective ovarian lining . These are inserted into the patient's mature eggs to rejuvenate them . But the company has been criticised for failing to back up their claims .


No police officers will be disciplined despite failing to properly investigate the systematic rape and abuse of young girls in Rochdale, it was revealed today. Seven Greater Manchester Police officers were served with misconduct notices but after a four year investigation six were given 'management advice' and one was allowed to retire. The Rochdale scandal saw hundreds of vulnerable young girls fall into the hands of Asian grooming gangs because the authorities failed to protect them over at least six years. In 2012 nine Asian men were jailed for a total of 77 years for rape and trafficking after they preyed on girls as young as 13, plying them with drugs, alcohol and money before passing them round the group for sex. No further action: Seven police officers who were served with misconduct notices over the abuse scandal in Rochdale (pictured), will not face disciplinary action . A subsequent report said the girls were allowed to fall into the hands of Pakistani grooming gangs because police and social workers may have been scared of seeming racist. It sparked an investigation conducted by the force's professional standards branch, and supervised by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), which today highlights a number of significant failures. Its report, published today, concludes that the officers placed too much emphasis on the credibility of the victims, and not enough on the crime. The seven officers investigated were interviewed about their decision-making, handling of investigations, and victim care. They were the former divisional Chief Supt, John O'Hare, a Superintendent, plus two Det Chief Inspectors, two Detective Inspectors, and one Sergeant. One Detective Inspector was found to have a case to answer for misconduct but retired before the inquiry could be completed. Nine men, including these eight, were jailed for a total of 77 years for rape and trafficking after they preyed on girls as young as 13-years-old . By the summer of 2013 force investigators had identified the Det Insp should attend a formal misconduct hearing but they left the force in January 2014. The investigation - titled Operation Span - exposed flaws across all agencies in response to the challenges associated with child sexual exploitation, including a lack of understanding of the complexity of the issue. Other failures were identified as issues, with information being shared across agencies that used different IT systems, GMP's focus being on addressing serious acquisitive crime, and officers not having the necessary skill set. It also said the 'churn' of staff at Rochdale, particularly in the inspecting ranks, meant that leadership of the issue could not be maintained, and there was little in the way of effective handover. Shame: The abuse of the jailed gang began at two takeaways in the Heywood area of Rochdale, including the Balti House (pictured), which is under new ownership . The investigation identified one detective sergeant who made individual errors in his handling of the investigation, but it found that he had raised concerns about a need for more resources but was not supported by his superiors. Others who were served notices included the former

Summary: Seven police officers were served with misconduct notices over scandal . Six were given 'management advice' and one was allowed to retire . Police failed to properly investigate the abuse and support the victims . Hundreds of young girls were abused by predominantly-Pakistani gangs . Nine men were jailed but victims say abusers are still walking free .


A cow in Northeast Texas has defied great odds and apparently given birth to four calves that have been named Eeny, Meeny, Miny and Moo. Jimmy Barling said Monday that DNA tests will be done on tissue samples from the three bull calves and the one heifer calf to satisfy those who may question the births from one mother. 'We knew she was pregnant, but we didn't know she was going to do this,' the 76-year-old Barling said. 'This was a shock. This blew our minds.' Awesome foursome: Dora Rumsey-Barling is seen here among newborn calves Eeny, Meeny, Miny and Moo near DelKalb, Texas, on March 16. It is incredibly rare for a momma cow to birth four calves . Rare: The cow, described by Dora Rumsey-Barling as 'just a run of the mill red cow', had been bred to an Angus bull, so all four of the calves are black . This momma cow has apparently defied great odds and given birth to four calves. DNA tests will be done to satisfy those who question the veracity of the calves . Barling's wife, Dora Rumsey-Barling, owns the couple's 20 or so cattle outside of DeKalb, near the Arkansas and Oklahoma borders. Rumsey-Barling's granddaughter named the four black calves Eeny, Meeny, Miny and Moo, Barling said. Local veterinarian Mike Baird called the March 16 births 'extremely rare.' He said the odds of four live births from one cow are 1 in 11.2 million. Baird knows the couple well and is nearly certain the four came from one mother, rather than a nearby cow perhaps birthing one or two and then moving along so that it appeared the four came from the Barling's cow. 'In the interest of science and the animal world, it's one of those things that need to be verified beyond a shadow of a doubt,' he said. Proud: Jimmy Barling shows off two of his new calves, after one of his cows apparently underwent an extremely rare pregnancy and birth . The couple watched the birth of the fourth calf after going to check on her when they saw buzzards circling above a field. Because the mother cow is unable to nurse all four calves, the couple are relying on neighbors to help. Moo has stayed with her mother, while Eeny, Meeny and Miny are with two different caretakers. Meeny is the smallest of the calves, weighing in at about 25 pounds. A typical healthy birth weight for a calf is 75 pounds. Standing has also been difficult for some of the quadruplets.

Summary: Odds of four live births apparently from one cow are 1 in 11.2 million . Cow in DeKalb, Texas, had four calves on March 16 . Moo has stayed with her mother . Eeny, Meeny and Miny are with two different caretakers . Meeny is the smallest, weighing 25 pounds .


Saturday is the day when love of math and a hankering for pastry come full circle. Saturday is Pi Day, a once-in-a-year calendar date that this time squares the fun with a once-in-a-century twist. Math nerds all over the world will be celebrating with pizza specials, romantic outings, and mathtastic special events. Saturday is 3-14-15, the first five digits of the mathematical constant pi: 3.141592653. Pi day!: Students from the Maurice J. Tobin School makes a human Pi symbol at the school in Boston during a celebration of Pi Day in 2007 . The best times to celebrate are at 9:26 and 53 seconds, morning and evening. The next time that happens is in March 2115. 'It's a portal into this magical mysterious world of mathematics,' said University of California Berkeley mathematician and author Edward Frenkel. 'Pi is special.' Pi is the constant used to calculate the area of a circle, as in pi times the radius squared, but it appears all over other parts of mathematics. It 'is kind of a basic atomic building block" for math, said Temple University mathematician and author John Paulos, who was interviewed at precisely 3:14:15 p.m. In some places, Pi Day is celebrated with the edible type of pie. eat your numbers: To celebrate Pi day (the math constant and March 14 or 3-14), Wanda's Pie in the Sky, owned by Wanda Beaver made these pies in 2011 . 'It's a real exciting moment for math enthusiasm,' said Nathan Kaplan, a Yale University math professor, who called it a time for people to 'remember how much fun they found some of the stuff in school.' Kaplan acknowledged that most people don't really recall math as fun, blaming that on how it's taught: 'There's fun stuff out there in the quantitative world.' One interesting aspect of pi is that it is irrational, which means the decimals after 3 go on to infinity with no repeating patterns. Yet in 1897, a bill before the Indiana legislature tried to round it up to 3.2. It fell flat. 'We cannot change it. It's not subject to opinion or taste or time,' Frenkel said. 'How many things like this in the universe mean the same thing to everyone through time and space?' Celebration: A pi-adorned Dominic Vitale watches a performance at Hanover High School during the 2011 celebration of Pi day . The wall Street Journal reports that Dana Emanuel and Byron Clarke decided to hold their wedding on the special day. The date won't come around again for 100 years, so the couple decided to send circular wedding invitations to family and friends. The nuptials are even in unison which their engagement date on June 28 last year — 6.28, or two pi. 'The guests are really getting into and are able to laugh about it,' said Clarke. 'It kind of plays into our personalities and humor will hopefully be a big part of the day.' Baked goods: Hanover High School students participate in Pi Day activities in 2012 and made this tasty and dorktastic creation . Nice crust!:

Summary: Saturday is 3-14-15, the first five digits of the mathematical constant pi: 3.141592653 . The best times to celebrate are at 9:26 and 53 seconds, morning and evening and the next time that happens is in March 2115 . math enthusiasts Dana Emanuel and Byron Clarke decided to hold their wedding on the special day . Over at Massachusetts Institute of Technology will let prospective students will learn if they've been accepted beginning at 9:26 a.m. on Saturday .


Being locked up in prison cuts a person off from every aspect of everyday life, including intimacy with a partner. But if a couple are married, in may countries the inmates are allowed are allowed conjugal visits from their husband or wife. In 2007, Romania changed their penal laws to allow such visits and built bedrooms in their prisons for the liaisons to take place. Romanian photographer Cosmin Bumbut has travelled his country taking pictures of conjugal visit rooms in prisons, like this image of Iași prison, which he took in 2011 . Romanian photographer Cosmin Bumbut has spent the last few years photographing these rooms at 35 different jails across the country. He has now published the collection of images in a new exhibition called Camera intimă (The Intimate Room), which has been shortlisted for the Sony World Photography Awards in the Architecture section. Cosmin told FEMAIL that the Romanian prison system has changed a lot over the last decade. He said: 'Once Romania joined European Union, in 2007, the prison system was reformed; the biggest change was to introduce the right to private visits.' Aiud prison, 2008 . A woman's prison in Târgșor, 2011 . Bistrița prison, 2011 . He continued: 'A prisoner who is married has the right to receive, every three months, a two-hour private visit which takes place in a separate room inside the prison compound.' The project developed by chance while Cosmin was taking photos for a separate collection on prisoners in the Romanian city of Aiud in 2008. He was taking shots of a man and his wife during a conjugal visit and realised that the rooms would make an interesting series on their own. Gherla prison, 2011 . Arad prison, 2013 . Oradea prison, 2013 . Cosmin said: 'In 2008, I took the first photos inside the intimate room with an inmate and his wife after their private visit. 'I realised that these rooms represent the institutionalisation of love, the cancellation of tenderness. 'In 2011, I started photographing the intimate rooms systematically until 2014. 'I shot the rooms and some absurd details and also some footage from the point of view of the inmate lying on the bed.' Chilia Veche prison, 2013 . Juvenile detention centre in Tineri, Bacău, 2011 . Satu Mare prison, 2011 . Botoșani prison, 2011 . Cosmin added that although many prisons have got to the effort of making the rooms appear relatively warm, they are all tinged with sadness. He said: 'In this cold space, with information about STDs and safety hung on the walls, two people meet their loved ones, after months of waiting.' Cosmin's photography work can be found at en.teleleu.eu and www.bumbutz.ro .

Summary: Romanian photographer Cosmin Bumbut photographs conjugal rooms . He has taken pictures of the bedrooms in 35 prisons across Romania . Exhibition has been shortlisted for the Sony World Photography Awards .


It's Hot or Not time again as Ian Ladyman reveals what's been making him feel warm this week and what's been leaving him cold inside. Finally a referee bucks the trend of poor performances and one of golf's most controversial characters returns in style. But it's not good news for two of the Premier League's best known strikers. WHAT'S HOT . MICHAEL OLIVER . Even without Sir Alex Ferguson, Old Trafford remains the hardest place to referee, especially when players are cheating. Oliver's handling of Angel di Maria and Adnan Januzaj on Monday set standards of bravery others should follow. They won't do it. Michael Oliver shows Angel di Maria a red card during Manchester United's defeat by Arsenal on Monday . MASHRAFE MORTAZA . The Bangladesh captain bowled his side to victory over England wearing a brace on both knees. He could hardly run but the 31-year-old said: 'You just have to bear the pain.' It is unclear whether he was talking about his ailing joints or the England team. Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza celebrates after taking the wicket of England's Joe Root . DUSTIN JOHNSON . According to legend, Johnson has become the first sex and drugs and rock and roll golfer. Much of what was written during his absence from the game remains unproven. Johnson, for his part, has returned to the tour with victory at Doral. Dustin Johnson proudly shows off the Gene Sarazen Cup after winning the WGC Cadillac Championship . BLACKBURN ROVERS . The Championship club's draw at Liverpool was deserved and notable for their peculiar sky blue kit. Turns out it's a replica of a Rovers strip first worn in 1882. For once, Blackburn's owners have done something Jack Walker would approve of. It's taken a while. Blackburn's sky blue kit is a replica of a Rovers strip first worn way back in 1882 . WHAT'S NOT . DIEGO COSTA . Six months in to his stay in England, Chelsea's gifted striker must decide whether he wants to be a footballer or a pantomime villain. As he does this, it's worth him remembering that when children boo at a pantomime they tend to mean it. Diego Costa tussles with PSG's David Luiz during Chelsea's Champions League exit on Wednesday . THE THIRD EYE . The decision to give Chris Jordan run out in Adelaide couldn't be proved to be right so was therefore completely wrong. A warning to football here that even the wonders of technology don't make a sport completely immune to the incompetence of the individual. Chris Jordan was controversially run out as England were beaten by Bangladesh in Adelaide . PETER CROUCH . An enduring Premier League footballer with a lovely wife, a career to be proud of and a reputation as one of the more likeable, grounded guys in sport. And then he posed for a modelling shot with a tiger. Joke or no joke, there is no coming back from that. Stoke striker Peter Crouch took to Twitter to give fans a glimpse of himself posing with a tiger cub

Summary: Michael Oliver impressed during Arsenal's win against Manchester United . Injured Mashrafe Mortaza bowled Bangladesh to victory against England . Diego Costa was involved in more controversial incidents against PSG . BT Sport's pundits should stick to the studio instead of venturing outside .


Chelsea have called for an end to sexism in football after footage emerged of fans directing abuse at their club doctor Eva Carneiro. Recordings of fans at Manchester United and Manchester City chanting and shouting obscenities at Carneiro were broadcast by the BBC on Thursday night, leading to an unequivocal statement from the Blues. A spokesman for the club told the Guardian: 'The issue of equality is one we take extremely seriously and we abhor discrimination in all its forms, including sexism. Such behaviour is unacceptable and we want it eradicated from the game.' Recordings of Manchester United and Manchester City fans shouting abuse were shown on BBC on Thursday . Abuse was directed at Chelsea club doctor Eva Carneiro by opposition fans on seperate occasions . Chelsea have called for an end to sexism in football after fans directed abuse at their club doctor . Campaign group Women in Football is launching an anti-sexism social media drive on Friday and has also contacted all 92 Premier League and Football League clubs asking them to champion female members of staff in their matchday programmes ahead of International Women's Day on March 8. Minister for Sport Helen Grant is supporting the initiative. She said: 'It is absolutely right that we champion and celebrate women who work in the football industry and play vital roles in making the game the success that it is. Demba Ba is treated for a broken nose by Carneiro after being kicked in the face against Newcastle . Carneiro joined Chelsea in 2009 but was promoted to the first team by Andre Villas-Boas in 2011 . 'I want more women to get involved in football across the board and to see it as a great industry to work in. Sexism, in any shape or form, should not be tolerated so I applaud this push to encourage people to report any incidents of sexist abuse and for the promotion of inclusivity across football.' Carolyn Radford, chief executive at Mansfield Town, told the BBC: ‘You are almost made to feel if you should be made to tolerate such abuse. If it was racist language being chanted at me then perhaps people would say something about it, but because it is just banter, so to speak, I’ve got to flick my hair and just accept it.’ Chelsea's Kurt Zouma is tended to by Carneiro as he is stretchered off after a collision in the penalty area . Chelsea keeper Petr Cech goes off injured with Carneiro during the Champions league semi-final in 2014 . Carneiro tends to Diego Costa during Chelsea's Premier League match against Liverpool in November 2014 . Blues first team doctor sits on the bench during the Chelsea's match against Aston Villa in March 2012 .

Summary: Man United and Man City fans filmed chanting abuse at Eva Carneiro . The BBC showed the footage of supporters on Thursday night . Chelsea say: 'We abhor discrimination in all its form, including sexism' READ: FA urge fans to report sexist abuse after horrible footage emerges of Carneiro being abused . READ: Meet Eva Carneiro, the Chelsea medic (and Real Madrid fan) CLICK HERE for all the latest Chelsea news .


A kind-hearted London cabbie has reunited a couple with treasured holiday photos after they left their camera on his back seat. One million people saw black cab driver Roshan Varma's internet appeal to find the Aussies after they flew home on Sunday evening. His search for the couple was shared widely on social media and Peter Fox and his wife Su Harris, who had travelled to London, New York and Europe to celebrate her 40th birthday, were found. Kind-hearted: Black cabbie Roshan Varma managed to track down the Australian couple who left their camera in his taxi . Memorable holiday: The couple travelled to New York, Europe and London to celebrate Su's 40th birthday . Mr Varma, 45, picked up the couple on Sunday evening from The Shard, and quickly struck up a conversation with them. He dropped them at London Paddington station where they caught the Heathrow Express to the airport. But when the cabbie picked up his next customers, they pointed out there was an expensive camera on the back seat. He contacted Australian airline Qantas and Heathrow Airport, but feared he would never be able to track them down. 'I picked up this Australian couple at The Shard in London and took them to Paddington to catch the Heathrow Express,' Mr Varma said. 'We were chatting away, they were a lovely couple, nice young decent couple and off I went and I thought that was the end of it - until I picked up another customer and they said "oh someone has left a black carry case in the back of the cab with a camera in it". 'I tried Qantas but they didn’t get back to me and I contacted Heathrow. And then another cabbie told me to contact Lostbox.' Yesterday, Mr Varma contacted lost and found site Lostbox and in less than five hours his message had been seen by one million people. Today, Mr Fox contacted the site to say it was the camera he and his wife had left behind. 'And then it was shared and the next thing I know we’ve found the guy,' the taxi driver added. 'We get a bit of bad press at the moment but it’s nice to show London cabbies go the extra mile. 'The camera is an expensive bit of kit, I didn’t go through all the pictures but these are obviously happy memories from their time going round the world.' Mr Fox told MailOnline: 'We are blown away by the efforts the cab driver took to track us down. The kindness of Roshan the taxi driver and all the people who liked and forwarded on the post has just blown us away' The Aussie added: 'This positive social media experience has now turned a disaster into one of the most memorable holiday experiences' Internet appeal: Mr Varma contacted the website Lostbox on Thursday and in less than five hours his message had been seen by one million people . 'A cab friend of mine, Mike, has said his daughter is flying over to Australia later this month

Summary: Peter Fox and his wife Su Harris left their pricey camera in a London taxi . Couple took a cab to the station on their way home to Australia on Sunday . Driver Roshan Varma used a lost and found website to find the owners . Appeal viewed one million times in five hours and Mr Fox was soon found . Couple travelled to New York, Europe and London to celebrate Su's 40th .


A Texas mother claims she and her 5-year-old daughter were shamed last weekend, when they went shopping for a suit for the little girl in Denison, Texas. Rachel Giordano and her daughter Maddie stopped by Martha's Miniatures on Saturday to get an Easter outfit when the tomboy little girl asked to try on a suit. Mrs Giordano told KTEN that when the shop clerk realized Maddie was a girl, she looked at them with a 'face of disgust'. Scroll down for video . Dressing herself: Texas mother of three Rachel Giordano (right)says her 5-year-old daughter Maddie (left) was discriminated against at a children's clothing store for wanting to buy a suit instead of a dress for Easter . Shamed: The mother and daughter were shopping at Martha's Miniatures in Denison, Texas on Saturday when one of the store clerks gave them a look of disgust and told Mrs Giordano not to indulge her daughter's tomboy tastes . 'She told me that I was promoting wrong behavior. That parent's should not let their children choose the way that they dress if it's cross-gendered,' Mrs Giordano said. Mrs Giordano decided to not give the store her business and walked out with her crying to child to J.C.Penney where they found a suit. Following the eye-opening encounter, Mrs Giordano wrote a negative post about the store on Facebook, leading many of her friends to give the store one-star review's on it's now deactivated Facebook page. But before the store's owners took down their Facebook, they wrote a response to Mrs Giordano's complaint, saying that she was a child abuser for letting her daughter decide how she wants to dress. Response: Following the incident, Mrs Giordano wrote a post on Facebook and many of her friends gave the shop a one-star rating. The shop responded by defending the reaction with the above response . Closed: Eventually, the shop took down their Facebook and now their website says they are temporarily closed for maintenance . 'This mother brought her three children. She asked if I had a size 5 boy's suit. I found a 6 and a 5. She tried the boys suits on the child and then told me neither suit fit the little girl. I was so shocked, that she asked for a boy's suit for the child. I asked her why she was encouraging this...This is child abuse from the mother.' Daily Mail Online's calls to Martha's Miniatures were not immediately returned on Tuesday. The store's website says that they are closed for maintenance and plan to re-open soon. The Giordano's experience at Martha's Miniatures comes a week after Indiana and Arkansas have passed legislation which allows businesses to cite their religious beliefs as a defense in potential lawsuits with customers. However, many pointed out that businesses could use the new law to discriminate and not serve homosexual customers. The new law in Indiana has sparked fury across the nation, and has been publicly criticized by celebrities, politicians and businessmen from Apple CEO Tim Cook to Ashton Kutcher. Indiana Governor Mike Pence says he

Summary: Rachel Giordano was shopping with her 5-year-old daughter Maddie at Martha's Miniatures in Denison, Texas on Saturday . The mother and daughter were shopping for an Easter outfit when 'tomboy' Maddie gravitated towards a suit instead of a frilly dress . Mrs Giordano says a shop clerk gave her and her daughter a disgusted look and said she should not let her child cross-dress . The store later posted a statement on Facebook (which was later deleted) saying the incident was an act of 'child abuse'


Josh Campbell, who has anger management issues, injured the infant by his rough handling of it, a court heard . A man who broke a baby's arm and leg through 'reckless cruelty' has been spared jail. Doctors said the infant's broken leg may have been caused by Josh Campbell 'yanking' it out of its cot, while its broken arm appeared to be the result of a 'forceful rapid rotation injury'. But Campbell, who has anger management issues, denied yanking the baby, telling the court he had lifted it out its cot by its arms. At Newcastle Crown Court, the 20-year-old pleaded guilty to child cruelty on the basis of 'reckless rough handling'. He was allowed to walk free from court after he was handed a suspended sentence. Michael Hodson, prosecuting, said: 'The Crown are opening the case on the basis of rough handling and reckless behaviour. 'The Crown say there was not deliberate pulling in order to hurt the child, but an impatience to get the child to do what the defendant ignorantly thought the child ought to be able to bear. 'It's clear the defendant has a short fuse and can be an angry individual who has a problem with his temper, especially when drunk. 'When he was told about the injuries he became very silent and dropped his head.' Newcastle Crown Court heard how the baby was taken to hospital because it's right arm was not moving freely and X-rays discovered fractures to the arm and leg. Campbell from South Shields, who admitted child cruelty, was given an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, with supervision and 150 hours of unpaid work. Judge Robert Adams told Campbell: 'You accept you were too rough. The child suffered two separate fractures. 'I accept that you bitterly regret this, it is clear from your letter. You were 19 at the time, you are now 20, have clearly grown up and are determined to put this behind you. But the 20-year-old denied yanking the baby's leg at Newcastle Crown Court (pictured) and pleaded guilty to child cruelty on the basis of 'reckless rough handling' 'I don't consider you are a dangerous offender and sending you to immediate custody is going to achieve very little in this case.' Katherine Dunn, defending, said: 'He is a 20-year-old man who is young, immature and naive. 'The injuries were caused when he was roughly handling the child. He has learned a very harsh lesson indeed.'

Summary: Josh Campbell had broken the infant's leg and arm lifting it out of its cot . The 20-year-old admitted child cruelty due to his 'reckless rough handling' Court heard Campbell, 20, had anger issues and had been 'impatient'


South Africa coach Russell Domingo is keeping his faith with out-of-form Quinton de Kock despite the opener's lack of runs. De Kock's 26 against United Arab Emirates in their last World Cup pool game was his highest score in his last seven one-day internationals, a run that followed his century against Australia in November. The difficult patch, including five single-figure scores, is a far cry from De Kock's early career form, which once saw him score three straight centuries against India in December 2013. Quinton de Kock looks to the skies in dejection after being caught out against the UAE for 26 runs . The out-of-form opener leaves the field after being dismissed against Pakistan for a duck . While AB De Villiers and Hashim Amla currently lead the run charts for the Proteas, ahead of their quarter-final against Sri Lanka on Wednesday at Sydney, Domingo is confident De Kock is closer than ever to a match-winning innings. When asked if De Kock was facing a mental barrier, Domingo told a press conference: 'I am not a sports psychologist but I don't know how a player can be perceived to be mentally shot. It's a little bit nasty. 'It's going to be a tough selection (meeting). On the one hand we know Quinton has got the ability to win games. But it's often difficult to have all six batters in form at the same time. 'We just sort of have this gut feeling that Quinton has got a big score around the corner. He's done well against Sri Lanka. I'm sure he'll have a good feeling playing against Sri Lanka.' One player De Kock can look up to outside of his own dressing room is Kumar Sangakkara, with the Sri Lankan currently leading the World Cup run-scoring charts at 496 - he has four successive centuries to boot and is fighting for the number one ranking with De Villiers. De Kock is set to continue at the top of the South Africa batting order for the quarter-final against Sri Lanka . South Africa coach Russell Domingo believes De Kock is due a big score . For Domingo, though, the law of averages again is a handy way to look at things, as he added: 'He's in the form of his life. You've got to think his low score is just round the corner I suppose. 'But we have worked on some plans that we feel we need to execute well against him.' And while South Africa hope they have 'learned from the lessons' of past sides, Sri Lanka are getting political in their approach to the knockout stage. No less than Sri Lanka's president and prime minister have offered their vocal support, with the latter unsurprisingly keen to claim his successful election campaign from January as the benchmark for aiming high. In quotes paraphrased in a statement on Sri Lanka cricket's website, prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe stressed on the need to study South Africa's weaknesses, adding: 'That's what some of us did last December.'

Summary: South Africa play Sri Lanka in the World Cup quarter-final on Wednesday . Quinton de Kock's 26 against UAE was his highest score in seven ODIs . Coach Russell Domingo is keeping faith with his out-of-form opener . Domingo is sure De Kock is set for a match-winning innings .


At the Etihad Stadium last month, one of the most gifted players of his generation was given the run of the place during Barcelona’s 2-1 victory. It was an exhibition from the very best. Andres Iniesta took 112 touches in Barcelona’s midfield, five more than his celebrated team-mate Lionel Messi and far more than any player in a Manchester City shirt. James Milner, anointed by Manuel Pellegrini as one of his team’s most important players, was the highest with 64. The numbers simply don’t add up, which is one of the reasons English football is struggling to make an impact over two legs in Champions League ties. When will our game learn? Probably never. Andres Iniesta, rested in Barca's win over Eibar, is expected to return to the starting line-up against City . Barcelona's Croatian midfielder Ivan Rakitic controls the ball as Xavi and Pedro look on during training . Neymar aims a friendly kick at fellow Barcelona striker Luis Suarez after the Uruguayan had gone down . The Brazil captain was in high spirits as Barcelona prepared for their Champions League last 16 second leg . ‘We play in a comprehensive manner and we want possession so that they suffer,’ admitted Iniesta as he prepares to pull on the red and blue stripes of Barcelona once more. ‘We need to find our superior skills and minimise their potential. We want to control what goes on in every moment. We have to beat Manchester City with a complete performance.’ Barcelona are conditioned to play a certain way, all possession-based and keeping the ball in circulation until they can find a way through the gaps in City’s defence. Iniesta is a slave to the game, a man still seeking perfection even after three triumphs in the Champions League, plus two European Championships and the 2010 World Cup, in which he scored the winner for Spain. Barcelona will be hoping to reach the Champions League quarter finals by holding off Manchester Cit . Barca have not failed to reach Europe's last eight since 2007, and saw off City at the same stage last season . His incredible strike against Chelsea in the 2009 Champions League semi-final, second leg at Stamford Bridge is one of the most dramatic goals in the history of the game. At the age of 30, he wants more. ‘We do not gather as a team to discuss what we can achieve, but the important thing is that we know what the possibilities are,’ he added. ‘There are no guarantees, but we know that we are doing well and we are prepared for this match.’ Luis Enrique’s team are in fine fettle, a point ahead of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga ahead of El Clasico on Sunday and on course for the Champions League quarter-final if they can protect their 2-1 advantage. The Barcelona players move the ball around during a training exercise ahead of the vital showdown with City . Manager Luis Enrique will be hoping his team take another step on the road towards Berlin .

Summary: Barcelona train ahead of crucial last 16 second leg at the Nou Camp . Spanish side lead City 2-1 after first leg, when Luis Suarez scored twice . Andres Iniesta insists tie is not over and says Barcelona are fully focused .


A guitarist for the platinum-selling rock band Slipknot was stabbed in the head and rushed to the hospital after an early Wednesday knife fight with his brothers, according to reports. Mick Thomson engaged in the bloody brawl with his brother Andrew before bother were taken by ambulance to a Des Moines, Iowa hospital with serious injuries. The altercation broke out at 41-year-old Thomson's Clive, Iowa home after a long night of heavy drinking, according to TMZ. Brotherly brawl? Slipknot guitarist Mickeal Thomson, 41, (left) was stabbed in the back of the head in the drunken 4am brawl with his little brother Andrew Thomson (right) Lead guitarist: Mick Thomson has played lead guitar for the multi-platinum Des Moines band since 1996 . According to a report obtained by the Des Moines Register, Clive police reported that the fight, in which Mick suffered a stab wound to the back of the head, occurred in his front yard. Clive police, as of Wednesday afternoon, had not confirmed whether the Mickeal Gordon Thomson and Andrew John Thomson, 35, were the guitarist and his brother. However, the band's lead singer, Corey Taylor, did his own investigation after hearing the news and tweeted to fans Wednesday: . 'In regards to the story about Mick, I'm doing the best I can to find out if he's alright. I'll get back to you later.' Stabby: Andrew Thomson stabbed Mick in the back of the head in Mick's front yard in the reportedly drunken Wednesday morning spat, according to reports . Then, around 5pm, he wrote: . 'Mick Update: from what I've heard he's okay. We're sendig him all your thoughts. Thank you for that.' The fight occurred after 4am, the police report says. After things became especially heated, they moved the fight outside. That's when the stabbings occurred. Neither brawling brother sustained life-threatening injuries. They were transported in separate ambulances, reports the Register. The Thomsons did not suffer life-threatening injuries. They were transported to a Des Moines-area hospital in separate ambulances .

Summary: Mickeal 'Mick' Thomson, 41, was stabbed in the back of the head in the drunken 4am brawl, according to reports . He and the other stabber named in reports--Andrew John Thomson, which is also the name of Mick's little brother--sustained no life-threatening injuries . The fight occurred in Thomson's Clive, Iowa front yard. The men were transported in separate ambulances to a Des Moines area hospital .


The callous owner of this tiny Rottweiler puppy threw her out with the rubbish after severe spinal damage left her unable to stand. Vets made the difficult decision to put the stricken three-month-old animal to sleep due to the serious nature of her injuries. The puppy was found curled up in a cardboard box and dumped next to some bins in Enfield, north London. Vets were forced to put down this dumped three-month-old Rottweiler puppy after it was unable to stand due to severe spinal damage . A second newborn Rottweiler cross, believed to be from the same litter, was found nearby and showed signs of mistreatment. Anna White, manager at the RSPCA's Southridge Animal Centre, in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, described it as one of the saddest cases she has seen. 'This poor puppy was brought to us in the cardboard box she was found in, and could not stand up, let alone walk, and definitely could not get out of the box,' she said. 'Her back legs were just not working properly and she was very, very poorly. And yet she was just left like this, on her own, on a busy London street in the freezing cold. 'She was tossed out, when she was at her most vulnerable. It is just heartbreaking.' X-rays revealed the dog had extensive spinal damage but vets were unable to ascertain whether it was due to the abuse or a birth defect. RSPCA inspector Kate Ford said: 'We do not know how this poor dog came to be dumped in this way and can't be sure whether her health issues were something she was born with or were the result of some mistreatment. 'She was of a very distinct silver-hued colouring, and there have also been reports of other puppies in the area of North London with similar colouring, also being mistreated, so the concern is that there could be others out there in need of help. The eight puppies could have died after being dumped in a rubbish bin in Queenferry, North Wales . Eight tiny newborn puppies found in a rubbish bin were at the centre of an RSPCA investigation. The tiny pups - some with their umbilical cords still attached - were discovered by a group of a children in Queensferry, North Wales. Bosses from the animal charity said they were stunned at how someone could throw away the animals as if they were rubbish. As well as praising the quick-thinking actions of the youngsters who contacted a local dog warden after yesterday's shocking discovery in Chester Road East, officials also urged anyone with information to come forward. RSPCA inspector Tim Jones said: 'It is totally unnecessary and these puppies could have died if nobody had heard them. They could not be seen in the bin. 'They all appeared to be fine but are very young as some of them had their umbilical cords still attached.' 'We are appealing for information to try and find out who abandoned these tiny dogs.' The puppies - thought to be Staffordshire bull terrier cross-breeds -

Summary: Three-month-old Rottweiler puppy found dumped by bins in Enfield . Dog had to be put down after spinal damage left her unable to stand . RSPCA found another mistreated puppy dumped in the same area . Inspectors appeal for help in tracing other dog that may need help .


He was the brains behind Made In Chelsea and she was the E4 show's original postergirl - and now Hugo Taylor and Caggie Dunlop have reunited for a charity fashion shoot. The duo, who grew up together in Chelsea, star in a shoot for Hugo's 'Taylor Morris' sunglasses range - and they're going to auction the snaps off for charity. Taylor Morris - the collection the Harrow-educated star launched with his best friend Charlie Morris -are working with the Namibian Tourist Board on the photography project. Scroll down for video . Hugo Taylor and Caggie Dunlop, who grew up together in Chelsea and starred in the E4 reality TV show based on their sloaney lifestyle, travelled to Namibia together to curate snaps for Hugo's 'Taylor Morris' sunglasses range - and they're going to auction them off for charity . The reality TV stars flew to the African country to create some beautiful imagery, which will then be turned into an exhibition and auctioned off to raise money for Malaria No More - the same charity Hugo is running the London marathon for in April. The trip covered the Sossusvlei Desert and the Skeleton Coast and the shots show the pair enjoying the sun-drenched country. The friends flew to the African country to create some beautiful imagery, which will then be turned into an exhibition and auctioned off to raise money for Malaria No More . The trip covered the Sossusvlei Desert and the Skeleton Coast - and the sloaney pair said it was the best week of their lives . They travelled with some old school friends and enjoyed sand surfing, safari and hot air ballooning . From sand surfing and safari to hot air ballooning and champagne breakfasts in the desert, the pair said it was the best week of their lives. Caggie, 25, who is best friends with Millie Mackintosh, and 29-year-old Hugo also travelled with Charlie Morris, some old school friends and photographer, Grey Hutton. Hugo may have left Made In Chelsea years ago but he's gone on to launch one of the most stylish sunglasses ranges on the market. The brand is already a hit with celebrities - with everyone from Cara Delevingne and Suki Waterhouse, to Rita Ora and even super sloane Pippa Middleton stepping out wearing the shades. Hugo and Charlie designed the glasses down to the last hinge, and are determined to offer a luxury product at an accessible price. Caggie, who was famously dating Spencer Matthews, and Hugo, who dated Millie Mackintosh, found fame in the dramatic episodes of E4 show, Made In Chelsea . The photographs will form an exhibition and be sold off the the same charity that Hugo is running the London marathon for in April . Of course, the pair wear Hugo's sunglasses in every shot and he says that he and Charlie have worked tirelessly to ensure every element of Taylor Morris meets their own high standards . Since leaving the E4 reality show back in 2012, Caggie has been focusing on her career as a singer/songwriter and fashion

Summary: Stars travelled to Namibia to shoot for Taylor Morris eyewear range . Photos will be in an exhibition and then auctioned off for charity . Hugo set up sunglasses range with best friend, Charlie Morris .


When it comes to shaving, boys are normally taught the art by their fathers or older brothers. But this means bad habits can also be passed down through generations. Now a principal scientist from Gillette has revealed the science behind shaving including how hairs behave, why washing the skin is so vital and why you should never, ever tap your razor on the sink. She also settles the debate about whether you should go with, or against the grain. Scroll down for video . Beard hairs are, on average, a tenth of a millimetre in diameter. When dry, the hair is around 130 microns in diameter (left) but when hydrated this expands to almost 150 microns. Washing the face before a shave increases the surface area the blades can cut through said Gillette principal scientist Kristina Vanoosthuyze . Dr Kristina Vanoosthuyze has worked in the Gillette Shaving Technology area at the Innovation Centre in Reading for the past nine years. Every morning 80 volunteers visit the centre and shave in front of a filming rig that combines magnifying lenses, high-speed cameras and special high-intensity lighting. This has revealed how the blade cuts through the hair, and in the case of multiple-blade models, the first blade pulls the hair up, the second cuts it, the third blade acts in a similar way to the first, and so on. In some of their products, Gillette also offers a vibrate function that further lifts the hair and reduces the friction caused by the blades. This footage has also revealed the differences between dry and hydrated skin and beard hair. Every day 80 volunteers shave in front of a rig that combines magnifying lenses and high-speed cameras. This has revealed how the blade cuts through the hair. In the case of multiple-blade models, the first blade pulls the hair up, the second cuts it, the third blade pulls and so on . When hydrated, skin is also tighter (an image of the skin is shown before washing left and after washing right). This exposes more of the hair's surface area to the blade. As a result Dr Kristina Vanoosthuyze recommends showering before shaving - and not the other way round . This image is a microscopic image of cut hairs on dehydrated skin. Dry hair can have the strength of copper wire and when hair and skin hydrates it swells and makes the hair easier to cut. Additionally, the lubricating ingredients in a shaving gel reduce friction between blade and skin, improving glide . Beard hairs are, on average, a tenth of a millimetre in diameter. When dry, the hair is around 130 microns but when hydrated this expands to almost 150 microns. This increases the surface area that the blades can cut through, and when hydrated, skin is plumper, which reveals more of the hair. Before the shave, hydrate the hair by washing the skin with a gentle cleanser: This softens the hair and significantly reduces the force needed to cut it. Apply plenty of shave gel: This provides a protective anti-friction layer and improves

Summary: Dr Kristina Vanoosthuyze studies the shaving habits of 80 men every day using high-speed cameras at Gillette's Innovation Centre in Reading . Her footage reveals what happens as multi-blade razors move over hairs . Scanning electron microscopy shows difference between dry and wet skin . The Gillette scientist has also revealed the do's and don'ts of shaving . She recommends people shower before a shave, and use light strokes . Tests have shown people should start by shaving in direction of the hair . And razors should never be tapped on a sink under any circumstances .


A new study suggests tall rooms (stock image pictured) encourage people to explore space as well as think freely, as previously discovered . When choosing the perfect house, many people opt for high ceilings and a sense of space, despite premium price tags and the higher cost of heating airy expanses in the winter. Now a new study suggests that tall rooms excite the brain and encourage people to explore space, building on previous research that high ceilings are linked to a sense of freedom. A psychologist thinks that the combination of a room that promotes free thinking and is stimulating to the senses, explains why people choose airy homes. Dr Oshin Vartanian of the University of Toronto-Scarborough, told Fast Co Design: ‘On the one hand, rooms [with high ceilings] promote visuospatial exploration, while at the same time they prompt us to think more freely. ‘This could be a rather potent combination for inducing positive feelings.’ An international study, led by Dr Vartanian scanned the brains of volunteers while they looked at images of 200 rooms, half of which had high ceilings. Participants indicated whether each image was beautiful or not while in the fMRI scanner and the experts found that people were more likely to find spaces with high ceilings attractive, than those with low ceilings. Studying levels of brain activity, they also discovered heightened activity triggered by high ceilings in two areas of the brain associated with visual exploration – the left precuneus and left middle frontal gyrus. Scientists studied volunteers' reactions to rooms with high and low ceilings using an fMRI scanner and found that airy rooms activated areas of the brain associated with visual exploration, while more enclosed spaces (stock image is shown) did not catch people's attention and stimulate their senses . This suggests that high ceilings capture people’s attention and stimulate the senses, encouraging people to explore the space they are in. But because the fMRI results didn’t show any difference in brain regions linked to pleasure or emotion, the study, published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, hints that high ceilings don’t instantly put people in a good mood. Interestingly, enclosed rooms were more likely to ‘elicit exit decisions’ and activity in brain regions such as the anterior mid cingulate cortex, suggested enclosed spaces might trigger an emotional response. Studying levels of brain activity, theydiscovered heightened activity triggered by high ceilings in two areas of the brain associated with visual exploration – the left precuneus (marked in red on this stock image) and left middle frontal gyrus . Last year, a study of 2,000 homeowners revealed that in 68 per cent of cases, the majority of the decision of where to live was made by women. It was commissioned by online estate agent Quick Move Now. Seven out of ten men said they were happy for their wife or partner to take the lead when it came to choosing their dream home. It also emerged one in five men have agreed to buy a property on their wife's say-so - without even seeing it. The

Summary: Study found high ceilings stimulate the senses and explore space . Airy environment stimulated two areas of the brain, fMRI scanner showed . Previous research has shown high ceilings encourage creative thinking . Findings may explain why people are willing to pay more for airy homes .


An eye test that has improved the performance of British Olympic stars and elite rugby players is helping transform children's reading skills, experts claim. The £189 test – a more advanced form of a high street eye exam – has already boosted the concentration of champion skier Chemmy Alcott by recommending she wear pink-tinted goggles to reduce glare while hurtling 80mph down the slopes. Experts also say they have improved reaction times of members of the English women's lacrosse team. Now parents claim that children taking the test are improving their reading speeds – and performing better at school. An eye test that has improved the performance of British skier Chemmy Alcott (pictured) is helping transform children's reading skills . Those behind the test say it identifies people suffering from 'visual stress', which means their eyes are over-sensitive to black and white and words appear to swim on the page. It is thought this happens because cells in the area of the brain responsible for vision get over-excited by the pattern and work too fast, causing text to become distorted. Studies suggest as many as one in four has this problem. However, most are unaware they are affected and the condition is not picked up during a routine visit to an optician. Children with the sensitivity are said to lose concentration easily because they struggle to focus on text, and can fail to perform well at school despite being bright. Experts at Vision in Learning, the company behind the test, say many can be helped by using colour-tinted glasses or a transparent sheet of coloured plastic which can be laid on top of textbooks. Colour is thought to 'calm' the cells so that the image becomes stabilised. But the colour each person needs to correct the problem is different – and scientists are unable to explain why. Charlie Raynes, 14, was lagging behind his twin sister at school but after taking the test passed his 11-plus . Charlie Raynes, 14, from Colchester, was lagging behind his twin sister Annabel at school and was regularly placed bottom of the class. After taking the test, he passed his 11-plus. His mother Paula said: 'Charlie would say text would move around and he couldn't focus. He lost confidence and was very unhappy at school. When we took him to do this test, an orange colour was placed over the text and it was a eureka moment. Suddenly he could read.' The test takes place in the company's offices in Braintree, Essex, but other opticians offering it can be found via the Society for Coloured Lens prescribers. Chemmy Alcott, 32, who competed as part of Team GB in four Winter Olympics, did the test after suffering from snow-blindness. She said: 'I was skiing with a yellow-tinted lens, but the test found that my eyes had to work less hard with a pink lens. 'You put your lens down just before you start to race, and it had been taking my eyes a few minutes to adjust. With the pink, it was immediate.' Harlequins rugby team and

Summary: Advanced eye test has boosted the concentration of skier Chemmy Alcott . Experts say the same test is also helping improve students' reading skills . Parents claim their children are benefiting from increased reading speeds .


A website which collects together pictures of London's most handsome male commuters has proved a huge hit in China - but it might not be quite for the intended reason. TubeCrush.net is filled with pictures of the capital's finest looking men on the Underground, uploaded by fellow commuters for others to rate and share. It has proved exceedingly popular since it was set up in 2011, with almost 10,000 likes of Facebook and 8,600 followers on Twitter. But it seems these figures drastically underestimate the actual popularity of the site, because they fail to take into account a massive audience in China. Scroll down for video . Papped: Fellow commuters take pictures of good looking men to share on the website TubeCrush.net . Rating: Fellow users can then rate the men on their 'hotness' - although the website's tone is always positive . Popular: TubeCrush has almost 10,000 likes of Facebook and 8,600 followers on Twitter . TubeCrush has been trending on Weibo, the country's own version of Twitter, revealing that pictures from the UK website are being shared tens of thousands of times. According to BBC Trending, comments include 'I want to take Tubes everyday!' and 'Handsome people really look good in anything'. Some experts have suggested the popularity of the pictures is down to the impression given of all British men being well-groomed and well-mannered - a Chinese cliche. However, it is not always the men's arms, stubble or sharp suits which is making people share the images. It transpires some are more taken with the space available to commuters on London's Tube network. 'You think we like the men; we just like looking at men taking up so much space on the Tube,' The Times reported one commenter as saying. International appeal: The good-looking men of London are also creating waves on the otherside of the world . Thousands: One picture can get 100,000 shares - popularity boosted by the 'Downton Abbey' effect . Room: But some have alleged it is more to do with the space on the Tube, rather than the dashing gentleman . Packed: The two cities driving most of the Chinese traffic to TubeCrush.net are Shanghia and Guangzhou - which have the fourth and sixth busiest metro systems in the world, respectively. Pictured: Shanghai metro . 'Look at where the traffic to this site comes from - it's all from cities where our own underground systems are massively overcrowded.' Tubecrush.net co-founder Stephen Motion, confirmed to the BBC that most of the Chinese traffic was driven by people from Guangzhou and Shanghai. Both cities metro systems are in the top ten busiest networks in the world. Guangzhou Metro had 2.28billion passengers in 2014, putting it sixth in the list, while Shanghai's 2.824billion passengers meant it was the fourth busiest globally, according to RailwayTechnology.com. In comparison, London has just 1.265billion passengers last year. 'I suppose TubeCrush could be misinterpreted,' Motion said. 'Perhaps people who are travelling on the underground system in China are thinking more about space [than good looking men].' He joked: 'It's probably driving the

Summary: Tubecrush.net collects photos of the Tube's best looking commuters . Proved huge hit since it was launched in 2011 with thousands of followers . But biggest market is China, where one snap can be shared 100,000 times . But some suggest it is the space not the men making the pictures a hit . China is home to four out of ten of the busiest metro systems in the world .


So was The New One the unluckiest horse at last year’s Cheltenham Festival? Twelve months of wondering should finally be answered at around half past three on Tuesday afternoon. The ground the gelding surrendered when hampered by the fatal fall of Our Conor at the third flight seemed crucial at the time. But were we all conned by the final-furlong surge that he conjured under jockey Sam Twiston-Davies to grab third place behind Jezki and My Tent Or Yours, just in front of dual winner Hurricane Fly in fourth? Sam Twiston-Davies has unfinished business in Monday's big race at Cheltenham . Twiston-Davies riding The New One on the way to victory in the StanJames.com Champion Hurdle Trial . Jezki and Hurricane Fly, who have traded punches all winter across the Irish Sea, are back again. They have been joined by Hurricane Fly’s unbeaten stablemate Faugheen, christened ‘The Machine’ because of the stunning visual nature of his performances. Significantly, he is also the choice of stable jockey Ruby Walsh. Together they make up one of the strongest ever Irish assaults on the Stan James Champion Hurdle. Britain can muster only three runners and two of them, Bertimont and Vaniteux, are rank outsiders. With hopes resting on the shoulders of the 22-year-old Twiston-Davies and the gelding trained by his father Nigel — and with the Irish wave advancing — Sam could be forgiven if he felt like Michael Caine in the film Zulu. However, he is totally focused on exorcising last year’s nightmare experience. It was one which prompted an enduring image of the 2014 Festival, the crest-fallen Sam with his head in his hands. Back in 2013 Ireland outscored Great Britain by winning 14 of the 27 races, the first time in Festival history that the Irish have won the majority of the races. Great Britain was back on top last year (15-12) but face a strong challenge this time, with five of Tuesday’s races containing favourites from across the water. Ireland dominates the betting for the feature Champion Hurdle, with The New One an island of red, white and blue amid the green, white and orange of the main contenders. Twiston-Davies is entirely focused on exorcising last year's nightmare experience . If the hot four favourites trained by Willie Mullins and ridden by Ruby Walsh all win on Tuesday, bookmakers claim they could be facing their worst day since Frankie Dettori’s Magnificent Seven at Ascot in 1996, which cost them £40million. The Irish duo struck twice on opening day last year and team up this time with Douvan in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, Un De Sceaux in the Arkle Chase, Faugheen in the Champion Hurdle and Annie Power in the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle. Coral’s Dave Stevens said: ‘If all four win it will be our worst day in Festival history. They are bound to be popular and linked in accumulators.’ Sam says: ‘There are loads of different opinions and I’d love to know what the answer is. I have watched the video hundreds of times. ‘It is one of the hardest things

Summary: The New One and Sam Twiston-Davies looking to avenge last year's defeat . Since the Champion Hurdle, The New One has won all five of his races . The New One drew plaudits for victory in Cheltenham’s International Hurdle .


It was, claimed OK! USA, a 'dramatic delivery'. 'It's a girl for Kate!' screamed Life & Style, adding that the birth had been a 'last minute C-Section'. Accompanied by photos of Prince William cradling a baby and crowds outside the Lindo Wing, the magazine promised details of 'family feuds' and claimed Prince George has already met his 'sister'. Unfortunately for the titles, their excitable announcement of the birth of the Duchess of Cambridge's second child has proved somewhat premature. Scroll down for video . Still pregnant: Despite reports in US tabloids, the Duchess of Cambridge remains pregnant . Beulah London Chiara Wool Coat . Buy it now from the designer! Visit site . The Duchess of Cambridge is perenially perfect. By this point, Kate Middleton has totally mastered the art of looking put-together and ladylike (as if she had any other choice!). There's a reason why her outfits are endlessly replicated everywhere. Of course, being royalty has something to do with it, but apart from that, Kate has majorly enviable style so its understandable why so many people want to get a piece of it to call their own. As every pregnant woman knows, it's next to impossible to look chic and structured as your belly comes in, but Middleton pulls it off with ease! The Duchess of Cambridge's coat is amazingly still available over at Beulah London for close to one grand. But as we all know, once word gets out about where to buy this jacket, it's sure to sell out super fast, so buy it while you still can! If you don't have the budget of a to-be-Princess, one of our picks in the edit below should fit the bill! Libertine-Libertine Long Overcoat at Farfetch . Visit site . Which We Want Langdon Blazer at Need Supply Co. Visit site . The Row Guire Wool Suiting Jacket at Saks Fifth Avenue . Visit site . MSGM Classic Overcoat at Farfetch . Visit site . Asked to comment on the rumours and whether the Duchess has indeed had her second baby, a spokesman for Kensington Palace said, simply: 'She hasn't'. Ridiculous though the latest round of American magazine covers are, this is not the first time US publications have run ludicrous stories about the Royal Family. In 2012, The Globe claimed the Queen was dying and followed up with allegations of an 'evil plot' mounted by the Duchess of Cornwall to seize the throne. Unsurprisingly, the Queen is still very much alive two years later and no such 'evil plot' has been uncovered. The Duchess of Cornwall is a frequent target of the tabloid, which regularly runs stories claiming she is trying to sabotage the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's relationship. Dramatic delivery: OK! USA breaks the news of the royal birth with claims of a 'dramatic delivery' Panic: Life & Style says the Duchess has had a girl and included lots of dramatic photos taken in 2013 . Target: The Duchess of Cornwall is regularly a target for bizarre claims in US tabloids . Allegations: One paper ran a

Summary: US magazines OK! USA and Life & Style made the claims this week . One claimed the Duchess had 'a last minute C-Section' and a baby girl . Kensington Palace have confirmed that the reports are totally untrue . US tabloids have a history of publishing bizarre Royal stories . The Globe caused outrage in 2012 when it claimed the Queen was dying . It also alleged that Camilla had mounted an 'evil plot' to seize the throne .