SAPHIR DU RHEU (Cheltenham, 3.20) has a good way to go before being mentioned in the same breath as World Hurdle legend Big Buck’s, but he can begin to write his own chapter in history with victory on Thursday. The festival sprung to life for Paul Nicholls on day two and the son of Al Namix, who sports the same colours as his illustrious predecessor, has undergone an unusual preparation for the hurdling feature following three starts over fences. It was a path also trodden by Big Buck’s and Nicholls will be hoping lightning strikes twice for the six-year-old who displayed great tenacity to land the Cleeve Hurdle from Reve De Sivola in January. Saphie Du Rheu can being to write his own chapter in history with a win at Cheltenham on Thursday . The bare form of that performance is arguably short of what is required but if his handler has managed to extricate some improvement he should be thereabouts. Monksland and Jetson appeal as outsiders capable of outrunning their prices. Having backed HIDDEN CYCLONE (Cheltenham, nb, 2.40) for the Champion Chase, I was frustrated to see him rerouted for Thursday’s Ryanair Chase, but it still looks a smart move by connections. Shark Hanlon’s gelding was runner-up in the race last year when outstayed by Dynaste and I wonder, with hindsight, if jockey Andrew McNamara may have employed a more patient ride as he became a sitting target late on. A recent Punchestown romp should have put the selection spot-on and he could go one better this year and end the Irish hoodoo in this race. With the Willie Mullins stable carrying all before them, Vautour will be a popular order in the JLT Novices’ Chase. However, he will be priced accordingly and VALSEUR LIDO (Cheltenham, 1.30) looks a sound alternative as he was reported to be a little ring-rusty when edged out by Apache Stronghold at Leopardstown last time. Hidden Cyclone, pictured during the Paddy Power Gold Cup in 2013, was rerouted for the Ryanair Chase . The selection had previously beaten that foe by an impressive eight lengths at Fairyhouse and appears to jump a shade more fluently than Noel Meade’s charge, who remains one of the chief dangers. There will be plenty of tips doing the rounds for the Pertemps Network Final but TRUSTAN TIMES (Cheltenham, nap, 2.05) is a solid conveyance for a race of this nature and may run well at a big price. The nine-year-old lacks the profile of a number of his rivals, but was a creditable third in the race last year — beaten by just a nose and a neck — and looks to have been campaigned with just one race in mind all season.

Summary: Saphir Du Rheu backed for the 3.20 at Cheltenham on Thursday . Hidden Cyclone has been rerouted for Thursday’s Ryanair Chase . Trustan Times may run well at a big price for the Pertemps Network Final . Cheltenham racing tips: Not sure who to back? Take a punt at these... CLICK HERE to follow the Cheltenham Festival 2015 action LIVE!


Newcastle United have just three fit defenders ahead of Wednesday’s visit of Manchester United. The Magpies have confirmed that left back Massadio Haidara will miss the game after picking up a knee injury during Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Aston Villa. Midfielder Ryan Taylor is set to deputise after replacing the stricken Frenchman at the weekend. Ryan Taylor looks set to start against Manchester United after Massadio Haidara sustained a knee injury . Taylor (centre) has made just four Premier League appearances since the start of the season . Haidara had to be carried off on a stretcher during Newcastle's 1-0 win against Aston Villa . Head coach John Carver is already without Steven Taylor and Paul Dummett, while Davide Santon and Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa were allowed to leave the club in January. And he said: ‘We thought Haidara might be available but he's got a bit of fluid on the knee and has been for an injection, so he almost certainly won’t make it. ‘We're short of defenders and we've not got many possibilities, so Ryan comes into contention and he filled that role very well the other day. ‘But with another injury I'll have to start to try pulling rabbits out of a hat.’ When asked if he had been left short by the club’s failure to bring in January reinforcements, Carver said: ‘The squad itself is big enough, we've just been so unfortunate with these injuries. ‘You normally have three or four of these long-term injuries per season, but we've had more than that with nine already. ‘Our squad at the start of the season was in a healthy position, the only thing you can do is go into the out-of-contract market and it might be something we look at, but not yet.’ Papiss Cisse will be hoping to add to his first-half winner against Aston Villa when he faces Man United . John Carver is all smiles as he puts his players through their paces ahead of Wednesday's match .

Summary: Newcastle's Ryan Taylor looks set to replace the injured Massadio Haidara . Haidara will miss game after picking up a knee injury against Aston Villa . John Carver believes his side have been 'unfortunate' with injuries .


We spend hundreds or thousands of pounds on holidays that whisk us away from 'everyday life' to far-off places that provide the ultimate escape. But one designer believes people can find that escape with a unique - and cheaper - experience that allows them to fall in love again with the landscape that is around them every day. Goetz Schrader's proposed '15-Minute Vacations' would be carried out on an extendable balcony that lifts visitors some 30ft into the air for an alternative view. German designer Goetz Schrader believes his extendable balconies would help people to better appreciate the cities they live in . The German designer believes seeing the sights from a different vantage point can eliminate the need to travel abroad . The 36-year-old German's concept creates temporary instruments for a holiday without the need to travel. Speaking to MailOnline Travel, Mr Schrader said: 'We spend more and more time working - at the same time the affordable space for living, and therefore relaxation is decreasing. 'Europeans tend to travel overseas whenever they get the time without even knowing their own country. 'This concept aims to help you see your own area or town from a different perspective.' The platform situated at the top of the lifting mechanism can be designed to the operator's specifications . Goetz Schrader's '15-Minute Vacations' are carried out on an extendable balcony that lifts visitors 30ft into the air for an alternative view . Within a few seconds the machine converts the familiar environment into a new experience for 15 minutes. The location is not fixed - but cities like London and New York are the target group since private space in those cities is limited and potential holiday spots can be far out of town. 'For just a short time, perhaps in your lunch break, you create a new and exciting situation by just shifting the perspective,' added Mr Schrader. People in cities such as London and New York are considered the target group, as their personal space is 'limited' The German anticipates the platforms will be hired locally, and the furniture on top can include dining areas and gardens, which will be owned by the city or private operator. Prices will vary from city to city, and will be dependent on the type of platform chosen, and what facilities are on offer, he added. Mr Schrader was born in Dusseldorf, Germany in 1978, and went on to study at University College London, as well as institutions in Vienna, Halifax, Canada and in his hometown. He has worked in London, Los Angeles and Dusseldorf.

Summary: Goetz Schrader has designed extendable balconies that allow users to see a landscape in a different light . The German designer believes his balconies eliminate the need for people to travel away from their hometowns . Different platforms can be designed for the top of the extendable arm, including gardens and dining areas . Mr Schrader believes the balconies would be ideal for London, New York and other cities where space is limited .


England’s Young Lions booked their place in May’s Under 17 European Championship with an impressive 3-1 win over Slovenia at Chesterfield. John Peacock’s team, the defending European champions, surged into a three-goal lead by half-time courtesy of goals from Reece Oxford and Nathan Holland followed by an own goal by Matija Rom. Although Slovenia pulled a goal back through Jan Mlakar in the 65th minute, England were worthy winners and advanced to May’s finals in Bulgaria with a match to spare. England's Under 17 squad secured a place at the European Championships on Monday after beating Slovenia . Reece Oxfoed (centre) headed the England team into the lead after 20 minutes against Slovenia . Oxford (centre), the England Under 17 captain, celebrates putting his side ahead . England (4-2-3-1): Paul Woolston (Newcastle United); James Yates (Everton), Reece Oxford (C; West Ham United), Easah Suliman (Aston Villa), Jay DaSilva (Chelsea): Tom Davies (Everton), Daniel Wright (Sunderland); Nathan Holland (Everton), Chris Willock (Arsenal), Layton Ndukwu (Leicester City); Kazaiah Sterling (Tottenham Hotspur) Substitutions: Will Patching (Manchester City) for Willock 48; Marcus Edwards (Tottenham Hotspur) for Ndukwu 54; Lukas Nmecha (Manchester City) for Holland 64. Scorers: Oxford 20; Holland 36, Rom own goal 38 . Booked: Suliman, Oxford . Slovenia (4-3-2-1): Rok Vodisek; Matija Rom, Luka Gucek, Oscar Cvjeticanin, Sven Karic Sostaric; Vitja Malencic, Sandi Ogrinec, Kristjan Sredojevic; Jacob Novak, Timi Max Elsnik; Jan Mlakar (C) Substitutions: Rok Buzinel for Rom 40; Dejan Petrovic for Ogrinec 40; Gaber Petric for Sredojevic 67 . Scorer: Mlakar 65 . Boosted by Saturday’s 3-1 win over Norway at Burton-upon-Trent, England made the short trip north to Chesterfield full of confidence ahead of the second of three Elite Round qualifiers held this week. And they were soon on the offensive, with visiting goalkeeper Rok Vodisek pushing away a fierce shot from the Leicester striker Layton Ndukwu, who was chasing his fifth goal in Euro qualifying, inside two minutes. Slovenia, who had easily beaten Romania 3-0 in their first game of the qualifying mini-group on Saturday night, threatened when Timi Max Semic cut inside and forced England goalkeeper Paul Woolston into a low fingertip save. But England took the lead on 20 minutes and it was all the work of young Everton winger Holland. He helped win a corner with a purposeful run and then swung in a delivery that Oxford, the captain, headed into the top corner. Back came Slovenia and Newcastle stopper Woolston excelled with a one-handed save to keep out Jacob Novak’s thunderbolt. While the away side failed to take their chances, England were clinical and were in total command by half-time. Holland gained a goal that was just reward for his efforts on 36 minutes, playing a one-two with Arsenal man Chris Willock inside the box before drilling the ball into the bottom corner from 10 yards. And Holland was involved in the third too, which arrived two minutes later. Having advanced into space down the right, his cut-back was sliced by full-back Rom into his own net. Peacock was allowed the luxury to make changes in

Summary: England Under 17 captain Reece Oxford scored as England beat Slovenia . Oxford scored the opener and England were 3-0 up at half-time . They secured European Championship qualification with a game to spare .


Angel di Maria must deliver performances worthy of his £60million price tag if Manchester United are to achieve their goal of Champions League football, according to Gary Neville. Di Maria has failed to live up to his early promise in a Manchester United shirt since his big-money move from Real Madrid in the summer. And former Manchester United defender Neville is sympathetic to the reasons why the Argentina international has struggled over the last eight months at Old Trafford – but says it is time for him to deliver. Angel Di Maria struggled to make an impact on Manchester United's game at Newcastle . Di Maria looks dejected after he was take off at St James' Park . Adnan Januzaj came on to replace Di Maria on Wednesday night in Newcastle . Di Maria has struggled to live up to his £60m price tag in recent months . Writing in his Daily Telegraph column, Neville cites the burglary of Di Maria’s house at the end of January, his lack of English and coming to terms with the fact he did not want to leave the Bernabeu in the summer as some of the reasons why he has been off the boil. Neville said: ‘I fully expected Di Maria and Luke Shaw to form a devastating partnership down the left flank and, even at close to £60m, I had no thoughts whatsoever that his signing was a risk. ‘When he dribbled down the wing at the King Power Stadium before chipping the Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel to score his second goal in three games since arriving from Madrid, the United fan in me was so excited and I was thinking, ‘Here we go!’ Di Maria has had a difficult few months at Manchester United after his great start to life at Old Trafford . Di Maria did not want to leave Real Madrid in the summer but was sold to United for £60m . ‘It was an example of everything I expected Di Maria to bring to the Premier League - pace, audacity and a moment of magic capable of turning a game. ‘But since that day, Di Maria has scored just two more goals - one of them coming against Yeovil in the FA Cup - and he has quite simply looked a shadow of his former self.’ ‘He has come to United when he did not want to leave Madrid, has suffered the trauma of a burglary, and started to work for a new manager while playing in a team that is still in a ‘storm’ phase of development. Di Maria scored an excellent goal for United away at Leicester earlier in the season . ‘All of those are factors that would go some way to explaining why Di Maria has struggled after his bright start, but I feel as though I have a parrot on either shoulder, with one telling me to give the benefit of the doubt because of those reasons while the other is saying that, actually, the time has come for a £60m player to deliver.' United

Summary: Angel di Maria has been substituted in recent games for Man United . The Argentina star has struggled with life in England in recent months . Di Maria must deliver if United are to qualify for the Champions League .


With scenes echoing Brett Favre, the NFL's latest will-he, won't-he scenario appears to be over with Peyton Manning set to take a $4million pay cut and remain with the Denver Broncos. The five-time MVP will make a $15m base salary for the 2015 season - his 18th in the NFL. After being plagued with thigh injury down the stretch, the deal will be sealed after the 38-year-old completes a medical, which should happen in the next 24 hours. After meetings with general manager John Elway, Manning, who turns 39 this month, agreed to the cut in wages with the money to be used on strengthening the Broncos roster. Peyton Manning will begin his fourth season in Denver after agreeing to a $4m pay cut . Elway has been aggressive in free agency in the recent past and the Broncos used the franchise tag and $12.823m on wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. Speaking at last month's combine, Elway addressed Manning's legacy. 'I do think that the one thing he can add is another Super Bowl championship. I think with where Peyton is, as I told him in our meeting, I said, "You don't have to throw for another yard and you don't need to throw for another touchdown pass because your legacy is going to be one of the all-time greats as it is as we sit here now." Where he can really add to his legacy is to win a Super Bowl. I think that's our goal, as it is for 31 other teams, but we feel like we've got a real good football team and Peyton Manning is the best player for us.' Following the departure of former head coach John Fox and offensive coordinator Adam Gase to Chicago, Manning will now start afresh with new head coach Gary Kubiak and OC Rick Dennison.

Summary: Manning will receive $15m in wages for the 2015 season - a cut of $4m . Manning, who turns 39 this month, will make up the shortfall through perfomance incentives . The first pick of the 1998 draft will head into his 18th NFL season chasing an elusive second Super Bowl ring .


The former Maine summer home of beauty magnate Elizabeth Arden has been purchased by a nonprofit dedicated to disabled veterans. The Travis Mills Foundation - named after a former Army staff sergeant who became a quadruple amputee after a 2012 Afghanistan bomb blast - announced the purchase Tuesday. The foundation said in a release it intends to make extensive renovations to the property and convert it 'into the nation's first fully accessible, "smart home" retreat dedicated to serving the recreational and reintegration needs of combat-wounded veterans and their families.' Married to wife Kelsey and father to daughter Chloe, Mills established the foundation bearing his name and is now a motivational speaker. The estate was placed on the market last summer for $765,000, but the foundation did not announce the purchase price. Purchase: The Travis Mills Foundation has purchased a Maine home that was once Elizabeth Arden's Maine Chance Spa . Off the market: The estate was placed on the market last summer for $765,000, but the foundation did not announce the purchase price . Beauty magnate: Arden, seen left, built the main house in the town of Rome as her summer estate in the 1920s and later established the Maine Chance Spa at the site. Women are seen on the right at the spa in 1948 . New purpose: The Travis Miller Foundation is named after a former Army staff sergeant severely injured in a 2012 Afghanistan bomb blast who became a quadruple amputee. Miller is seen here with his family . Mills told The Kennebec Journal of the purchase, 'We're definitely excited,' and said that there is no opening date arranged yet. The Travis Mills Foundation is hoping to gather $1.7 million for renovations - and over $27,400 has already been raised, according to a GoFundMe page. The page says, 'On April 10, 2012, United States Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne was critically injured on his third tour of duty in Afghanistan by an IED (improvised explosive device) while on patrol, losing portions of both legs and both arms. He is one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive such extensive injuries.' Mills received extended treatment from Walter Reed Army Medical Center, CNN reported last year. Now, he participates in a number of physical activities, including snowboarding, according to the television station. Mills told CNN 'I'm not wounded any more. I'm just a guy living life.' Expansive: The property once covered 1,200 acres but was subdivided after Arden's 1966 death . Father: Mills, seen left with his daughter Chloe before the accident, now works as a motivational speaker . Efforts: The foundation has already raised over $27,000 in donations . In a trailer for a documentary on his life, 'Travis: A Soldier's Story,' Mills said 'You know, people call me a hero, but I'm not sure what part of it makes me a hero. I just had a normal day at work that turned ugly. 'About six seconds [after the explosion] I guess later, I woke up. My medic came

Summary: The former Maine summer home of beauty magnate Elizabeth Arden has been purchased by a nonprofit . The Travis Mills Foundation, which is dedicated to disabled veterans, announced the purchase Tuesday . Arden built the main house in the town of Rome as her summer estate in the 1920s and later established the Maine Chance Spa at the site . Mamie Eisenhower, Judy Garland, and Ava Gardner were among the guests .


Feeding time doesn't get much cuter than at this panda research centre in China. These adorable pictures show the baby pandas are more than happy to lie-back and feed themselves their bottle of milk, just like human babies, at the panda sanctuary in the Sichuan Province. Like after any large meal, one looks particularly sleepy and goes in for a cuddle from a staff member, clutching on as she carries it inside. Cute: Three giant panda cubs lie back on the grass and feed themselves milk from baby bottles at the Chengdu Panda Research Base . Cuddles: A young panda clutches on to a staff member, burying its head into her shoulder, while being carried at the research centre in China . The Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base – just outside the city of Chengdu – is home to 83 adults and cubs. Also known as the Chengdu Panda Base, the facility has been breeding and researching the huge black and white creatures since 1987. All gone: This fluffy little panda cub holds onto the empty bottle after feeding itself a helping of milk at the Chengdu Panda Research Base . It was created to imitate the pandas' natural habitat to give them the best possible environment for rearing and breeding. The not-for-profit research and breeding compound started with six giant pandas that were rescued from the wild. By 2008, it had already had 124 panda births. Along with the giant panda, the sanctuary is a refuge to other endangered species such as the red panda, the snow leopard, and the clouded leopard among the 109 species of mammals recorded. Close: These young pandas look close enough to kiss after climbing a tree together at the breeding sanctuary . Playful: The bears show the sharp claws that helped them scale a tree on the grounds of the Chengdu Panda Research Base, China .

Summary: Panda cubs are being well looked after as they clutch on to the milk bottles . Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base home to 83 adults and cubs . Giant pandas drink milk then have diet made up of 95% bamboo .


There are only two places on earth where tectonic plates are visible above sea level: Kenya's Rift Valley, and in the south west of Iceland. On Mount Hengill, an active lava field, just outside Þingvellir National Park, the striking ION hotel stands on a craggy outcrop close to where the North American and Eurasian plates meet, drifting further and further apart, each year. Boiling water bubbles just 25ft underground here, so when it was built on the site of a geothermal power plant, its creators had to use building materials seven times stronger than standard materials used in Reykjavík. The striking ION Hotel is situated on Mount Hengill, an active volcano whose last eruption was around 2,000 years ago . The 45-room hotel is an extension and renovation of the old workers' quarters of the Nesjavellir geothermal power station, bought in 2011, with the intention of being the only hotel in this isolated - and beautiful - part of the country. ION makes use of Iceland's unique geography in two ways: the biothermal energy is harnessed in a spectacular outdoor natural hot spring; and a glass building - the Northern Lights Bar - allows guests to admire the frequent aurora borealis displays. Owner Sigurlaug Sverrisdóttir, who was born and raised in the region, knows all too about extreme weather, and said the Northern Lights never get old. She says: 'This respect for Mother Nature is in our blood; our parents and grandparents certainly knew not to mess with her. One month before I was born, in January 1973, there was an eruption on the Westman Island, a small island south of Iceland. A glass extension to the building - the Northern Lights Bar - allows guests to admire the frequent aurora borealis displays . ION is surrounded by natural hot springs, which provide geothermal hot water and energy to the hotel's own natural outdoor pool . Rooms at the ION hotel start at £184 (bed and breakfast) Go Green offer tours green and sustainable tours of Iceland . For flights, see icelandair.co.uk . 'Overnight almost the entire island was covered in lava. The rescue to move the islanders to the mainland was successful mainly due to the fact that all of the fishing boats were in harbour as these as were too rough for the locals to fish. 'The first boat left with habitants to reach the mainland only 30 minutes after the volcano erupted. Even though I was born here, I’m still fascinated about the lava, moss landscape around ION. 'I still feel amazed when I see the Northern Lights dancing in the sky on one of my late returns from work. Even though you have experienced it several times before it is different when you are outside of the city, it's much more intense. The Northern Lights bar has floor-to-ceiling glass windows on three sides, making it the perfect vantage point for watching aurora borealis . Inside, there's a modern, natural aesthetic created by Icelandic wool throws, Icelandic art, and flower vases, hand-blown by local artists . 'I also thrive

Summary: Iceland's Ion Hotel is positioned at the foot of Mount Hengill on the edge of Þingvellir National Park . Luxury accommodation is located in an area where North American and Eurasian plates drift further apart each year . Nesjavellir geothermal power station delivers around 1100 litres of hot water to Reykjavík and neighbouring towns .


Newcastle have announced the signing of Tonga international prop Taione Vea from London Welsh. The Auckland-born 26-year-old, who has won six caps for Tonga, will join the Falcons on a two-year deal in time for the 2015-16 season. Newcastle director of rugby Dean Richards said of the former Wasps and North Harbour front-rower: 'We're pleased to be able to add Taione to the squad for the next season. He's a quality prop who is a great scrummager and equally strong on the loose work too. Taione Vea (centre) has signed for Newcastle Falcons on a two-year deal from current club London Welsh . Vea breaks through a challenge for London Welsh against Northampton Saints last year . 'As a Tongan international he brings a powerful and skilled head to our front row, although he's also a very humble guy who I know will fit in well with our squad.' The 6ft2in 20-stone Vea, who joined London Welsh from Wasps last summer, said: 'I've spoken with Dean about his plans for Newcastle Falcons and his vision on where the club is going and it sounds like something I want to be involved with. 'I'm still learning a lot and want to get more Premiership experience so I'm looking forward to doing that at Newcastle Falcons.' Vea has six caps for Tonga and previously played for Wasps before moving to join London Welsh last summer .

Summary: Newcastle have signed Tonga prop Taione Vea from London Welsh . Falcons tie 26-year-old down to a two-year deal in time for 2015-16 season . Director of rugby Dean Richards praises prop as a 'great scrummager'


The list may surprise you but falcons, live lobsters and pet pigs are some of the bizarre things that airlines will allow to fly. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a prohibited items list as long as your arm, but antlers, cannisters of human remains and monkeys also make the cut. In the case of a monkey, it is not just any old monkey. It is only service monkeys that are welcome aboard. The Transportation Security Administration allows service monkey through security screening . A service monkey is a type of assistance animal, similar to an assistance dog, that is specially trained to help people with quadriplegia, severe spinal cord injuries, or other mobility impairments. TSA officers visually inspect the service monkey and will coach the handler on how to hold the monkey during the visual inspection. The inspection process may require the handler to take off the monkey’s diaper, but he can still board the plan. A falcon can also buckle up next to you. German airline Lufthansa announced it will soon allow its passengers to travel with falcons. Lufthansa will soon allow falcons on board, while Etihad Airways already allows customers this privilege . Live lobsters (pictured) and even crabs are perfectly fine to bring on as checked-in baggage on many airlines . TSA officers visually inspect the service monkey and will coach the handler on how to hold the monkey during the visual inspection . Later this year, travellers will be able to take their hunting birds onboard in a newly-designed device called the ‘Falcon Master’ tray, which can be fitted with a cage. The move is set to prove popular with the airline’s Middle East customers, where falconry is hugely popular. The United Arab Emirates runs wild falcon conservation projects as well as breeding farms and veterinary hospitals for the animals. For centuries hunting with falcons was a major source of meat in the harsh desert region, and the birds remain a national emblem, found on everything from corporate logos to banknotes. But with wildlife under pressure, hunting has been restricted, and many affluent Emiratis now travel abroad to locations as far as Morocco, Pakistan and Central Asia. In some countries and airlines, the Vietnamese pot-bellied pig is also now very trendy and has been legally classified as a 'companion animal' Just in case you did not know, crematory remains are also allowed to be taken on board a flight . Antlers are also allowed to be transported on planes as long as they have the skull attached . Bowling balls also make the cut, with some airlines allowing the sporting equipment to travel with you . Other recreational equipment allowed is scuba diving gear for those who are partial to the past time . The same applies to fishing rods which can also go with their owners when they take to the skies . For example, Etihad Airways based in Abu Dhabi regulations accept the carriage of falcons in the main aircraft cabin provided that all the necessary documents have been obtained. They also accept falcons as

Summary: Transport Security Administration will clear service monkeys for flight . While, German airline Lufthansa announced it will allow falcons on-board . Already Etihad Airways lets the bird on as passenger or checked baggage . Live lobsters, pigs and antlers are also given the green light to take flight .


Keith Ambrey (pictured) died after he stumbled into the road and was hit by Joseph Wild’s 4x4 . An elderly driver, who ran over a disabled man, dumped his body at the side of the road and then lied that his victim had been hit by a taxi, has been jailed. Keith Ambrey, who had Motor Neurone Disease, suffered fatal injuries after he stumbled into the road and was hit by Joseph Wild’s 4x4 in the early hours of March 23 last year. Mr Ambrey had missed his train stop after a night out in Manchester and was walking home when he collapsed onto the carriageway at New Mills Newtown in Derbyshire. Derby Crown Court heard other drivers saw an object in their headlights but Wild, 74, who was driving home from a casino in the early hours, hit 61-year-old Mr Ambrey after thinking he was a bin bag. When the farmer and businessman, realised what had happened, he dragged Mr Ambrey’s lifeless body to the side of the road and lied about what happened. Shockingly, Wild made no attempt to seek help before abandoning Mr Ambrey and driving home to bed. He has now been handed a 17-month jail sentence after committing the ‘grotesque act’. The court heard Mr Ambrey, who was the former chief executive of Central Manchester Primary Health Care Trust, suffered from advanced MND. On the night of the tragedy, he had been out with friends in Manchester before making his way home to Hazel Grove, near Stockport, on the last train at 11.10pm. His companions said they did not consider him to be drunk. But after he missed his stop, he waited until Whaley Bridge, Derbyshire, to get off the train. He was seen walking home along the A6 at New Mills Newtown some three miles away. At around 1.30am, a couple had driven past on the other side of the road and saw Mr Ambrey fall and hit his head. But he sat up in the road and appeared to be searching for his glasses. Seconds later, Wild's large Mitsubishi Shogun passed them heading towards him. Another driver flashed his headlights when he saw the vehicle approaching. He thought it would stop, but the driver made no attempt to slow down or steer around the object. The court heard the car drove over it and dragged what looked like 'a dummy' along before it came to a stop and a man got out. Julia King, prosecuting, said said: 'Ultimately and tragically he stumbled into the road and fell and was hit by Wild's car.' Mr Ambrey was walking home after a night out with friends when he collapsed onto the carriageway at New Mills Newtown (pictured) in Derbyshire and was run over by Joseph Wild . Moments later, John Redfearn drove past Wild's 4x4 and after seeing a badly injured man, he quickly turned his car round and went back to the scene. 'He saw Wild standing next to his car,' said Ms King. 'When Mr Redfearn asked what had happened, Wild said he had found

Summary: Keith Ambrey stumbled into the road and was hit by Joseph Wild’s car . 61-year-old with Motor Neurone Disease was walking home in early hours . Wild, 74, hit Mr Ambrey and then dragged his lifeless body to the kerb . Judge, who jailed him for 17 months, said Wild's actions 'beggared belief'


Police hunting the rapist of an 18-year-old girl who was left for dead after she was dragged from a bus stop and repeatedly smashed over the head have released an e-fit of the suspect . Police hunting the rapist of an 18-year-old girl who was left for dead after she was dragged from a bus stop and repeatedly smashed over the head have released an e-fit of the suspect. The victim was waiting by the roadside in Leeds, West Yorkshire, when she was grabbed and hauled to a nearby garden and repeatedly struck with what is believed to be a large stone. The horrific attack was captured on CCTV - but police say the quality of the footage is not sufficient to identify the attacker. The young woman was left with serious head and hip injuries and rushed to hospital after the attack around 10.52pm last Friday. Now detectives investigating the attempted murder have released an e-fit image of the suspect. The Asian teenager was grabbed from behind by a man, in his 20s and also believed to be Asian, in the Beeston Hill area of Leeds. He dragged her into a garden and raped her. She was assaulted over a considerable period of time which left her with head injuries, a possible broken hip, and lying in blood. Detective Superintendent Nick Wallen, of West Yorkshire Police Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said: 'The victim is making a good recovery in hospital and we are continuing to support her and work very closely with her to gain as much information as we can about the incident. 'As part of that process, we have been able to produce an e-fit image of the man from her description of him. We would ask people to look at it closely and think very carefully if it is anyone they recognise. 'The description remains of him being of Pakistani or Middle Eastern origin, aged in his early twenties, slim, with receding black hair. He was wearing dark clothing and possibly a light blue top with a hood. The scene of the horrific attack. Police say the incident was captured on CCTV - but police say the quality of the footage is not sufficient to identify the attacker . The victim was assaulted over a considerable period of time which left her with head injuries, a possible broken hip, and lying in blood . 'We are still considering the possibility that the suspect could be somebody who is new to the area. They may be staying locally in a bedsit or hostel and I would like to hear from anyone who runs such premises who thinks they know who it might be. 'Our enquiries are ongoing and we are currently trawling the area for any CCTV footage of the suspect that could assist us in identifying him. 'The incident was captured on CCTV and it is clear there were a number of people in the area at the time, either walking down the road or getting on and off buses on either side of the road. I

Summary: Victim was attacked while waiting by roadside in Leeds, West Yorkshire . The teenager was grabbed and hauled to a nearby garden and repeatedly struck with what is believed to be a large stone, police said . Police investigating attempted murder have released e-fit image of suspect .


England Women got back to winning ways with a 42-13 Six Nations victory over Scotland on Friday night. After defeat to Ireland two weeks ago in Ashbourne, the world champions were in more convincing form and Ruth Laybourn led them to an eight-try victory with a hat-trick. England were ahead inside a minute with Katy McLean, Ceri Large, Fiona Pocock and Lydia Thompson all combining to allow Laybourn to touch down. Ruth Laybourn touches down for one of her three tries as England thrashed Scotland in Darlington . Lydia Thompson dives in for a score, one of eight that England managed on the night, in an impressive display . Katy McLean directs proceedings from behind the scrum as England bounced back from defeat to Ireland . McLean missed the conversion and a Nuala Deans penalty cut the deficit before Tamara Taylor barged her way over after a nicely floated McLean pass. Lisa Martin booted another Scottish penalty but two further tries before the break from Justine Lucas and Rochelle Clark put England in control with a 14-point lead. Bianca Blackburn and Harriet Millar-Mills put Pocock over in the second half but Eilidh Sinclair replied for Scotland, with Deans adding the conversion. That was as good as it got for the Scots, though, with Laybourn adding her second on 56 minutes before Thompson went over with Amber Reed adding the extras. Laybourn then crossed over for her hat-trick to seal a comfortable England win. Fiona Pocock dives over for a second-half score before Eilidh Sinclair hit back for Scotland's only try . England's Tamara Taylor breaks through two Scottish tackles as her side returned to winning ways .

Summary: England run in eight tries in demolition of Scotland . World champions had lost to Ireland away last week, but bounced back . Eilidh Sinclair scored only Scottish try, but England always comfortable .


A post-mortem examination found shop worker Miss Pollock, 41, died as a result of strangulation and severe stab wounds to the neck . A 52-year-old builder has been charged with murder following the discovery of a woman's body at a flat. Officers found the body of Sarah Pollock, 41, in her flat in the Springbourne area of Bournemouth, Dorset, at 3.26pm on March 25. Her colleagues raised the alarm when she failed to open the shop she was working for at the Dolphin Centre in Poole. A post-mortem examination found Miss Pollock died as a result of strangulation and severe stab wounds to the neck. Builder Colin Dymond, 52, from Bournemouth, who was known to Miss Pollock, was today charged with her murder. He will appear before Bournemouth Magistrates' Court tomorrow. Detective Inspector Mark Samuel, of Dorset Police, said: 'Family liaison officers have updated Sarah's family with this development and the thoughts of the investigation team are with her loved ones. 'Clearly this is a very difficult time for the whole family and they have requested privacy. 'I would also like to thank local people who have been patient and assisted police, particularly some of the residents of Avon Close who have been temporarily relocated. 'Their understanding and co-operation has helped us conduct a thorough investigation into this tragic matter as swiftly as possible.' At 3.26pm on Wednesday, March 25, Dorset police found the body of the 41-year-old in her flat in Avon Close in the Springbourne area after concerns were raised that she had not arrived at work as expected . Miss Pollock's body was formally identified by family members, who are being supported by police family liaison officers. Mr Samuel appealed for the public's help to trace the movements of a Peugeot 308 estate hire care with the registration HN14 HWC. 'Although we have charged a man with murder we still want to hear from members of the public if they have any information that could help with the investigation into Sarah's death,' he said. 'We have now recovered the Peugeot hire car from the London area and I am interested if anyone saw it being driven or parked in Dorset or Hampshire between 4pm on Tuesday 24 March and 10pm on Wednesday 25 March 2015. If so, please call Dorset Police urgently. 'We are still building a picture of exactly what happened to Sarah. If anyone saw or heard anything suspicious in the Avon Close area of Bournemouth or has any other information that could be useful, I would urge them to please get in touch.' In a statement, Miss Pollock's family said: 'We have lost an important part of our lives; a kind, caring, honest, outgoing and ultimately indescribable daughter, sister and auntie from our close-knit family. 'She was unforgettable and she will always remain in our hearts and minds, although she should not be gone. 'We respectfully ask that we are left to grieve without intrusion and want to thank Dorset Police for their hard work so far in helping our distraught family.' Anyone with information should

Summary: Builder Colin Dymond, 52, charged with murder of Sarah Pollock, 41 . Body was found in flat in Springbourne area of Bournemouth, on March 25 . Post-mortem found she died from strangulation and stab wounds to neck .


A financial advisor who swindled £5million from his elderly victims has been ordered to pay back just £1. Terry Warrington persuaded dozens of vulnerable people to part with their life savings, after spending 25 years running a successful investment company with his business partner. But the pensioners were left penniless when their investments were lost, and Warrington was jailed for four-and-a-half years in January 2014 after admitting fraudulent trading, theft and operating while unregulated. Terry Warrington (left) persuaded dozens of vulnerable people to part with their life savings, after spending 25 years running a successful investment company with Malcolm Barber (right) At a proceeds of crime hearing hearing at Preston Crown Court, Warrington, who has now declared himself bankrupt, was made to pay back just £1, despite benefiting from more than £5million. An elderly couple from Morecambe, Lancashire, who lost over £100,000 after investing on the advice of Warrington, said: 'That money was to help the family and give us something to fall back on and that worries us more than anything.' A couple from Heysham, Lancashire, who invested £30,000 following advice from Warrington, said: 'Terry came to our house three times and told us he was having a bit of trouble raising the cash, but he would pay it out of his own pocket. We are still waiting.' For almost 25 years, Warrington and his colleague Malcolm Barber ran an investment company offering fixed bonds and loans to hundreds of investors. At a proceeds of crime hearing hearing at Preston Crown Court (pictured), Warrington, who has now declared himself bankrupt, was made to pay back just £1, despite benefiting from more than £5million . But in April 2007, the scam was uncovered and the business partners were jailed following a lengthy investigation. They were both banned from being company directors for five years. An investigation will now be launched into all Malcolm Barber's assets, to determine how to meet the £5.7million payback. All the money eventually recouped will be paid back proportionately to the victims. A further hearing will take place in September once investigators have analysed Barber's assets. A Crown Prosecution Service spokesman said: 'Should Terry Warrington come into any money in the future, that will be confiscated.'

Summary: Terry Warrington persuaded dozens of victims to part with life savings . He and business partner Malcolm Barber ran investment firm for 25 years . But many pensioners were left penniless when their investments were lost . Warrington was jailed last year after admitting fraud and theft charges . He declared himself bankrupt and has been ordered to pay back just £1 . Ruling was made at a proceeds of crime hearing at Preston Crown Court .


A millionaire hospital executive stabbed to death his wife then set fire to their New Jersey home in a murder-suicide, officials have ruled - despite the couple's children insisting they were both murdered. John Sheridan, 72, the CEO of Cooper Health System, and his 69-year-old wife, Joyce Sheridan, were found dead, with seven stab wounds between them, in their blazing Skillman house last September. Mrs Sheridan, a retired high school teacher, died from a stab wound to her chest, while her husband, an ally of state governor Chris Christie, passed away from 'sharp force injuries' and smoke inhalation. On Friday, prosecutors ruled Mr Sheridan had attacked his wife with a knife in the seconds leading up to their deaths, which occurred just a day after the couple had decorated their home for Halloween. 'Murder-suicide': John Sheridan (left), 72 ,stabbed to death his wife, Joyce (right), 69, then set fire to their home in a murder-suicide, officials have ruled - despite the couple's children insisting they were murdered . Crime scene: Mr Sheridan, the millionaire CEO of Cooper Health System, and his wife were found dead, with seven stab wounds between them, in their blazing Skillman, New Jersey, house (pictured) last September . Mrs Sheridan suffered eight wounds to her head, a stab injury to her chest that 'perforated her aorta', wounds to her hands that were 'characterized as defensive in nature' and bruising, officials said. She was ruled to have died before the fire started on September 28. After killing his wife of 47 years with a 'carving-type knife', Mr Sheridan then doused the room with gasoline and set it alight, it is said. Mr Sheridan finally stabbed himself with a sharp item three times in the torso and neck area, causing a 'small perforation to the right jugular vein', prosecutors ruled. He was then overcome by thick smoke. Despite the murder-suicide ruling, announced by Somerset County Prosecutor Geoffrey Soriano on Friday, the four grown sons of the Sheridans have released a statement challenging the findings. The men, including Mark Sheridan, who is a prominent Republican election law lawyer, said they were not satisfied with the result of the investigation and still don't know who killed their parents. 'The conclusion announced today fails to provide those answers,' the sons' statement said. Connections: Mr Sheridan (left) is pictured with, from left, George Norcross III, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Dr. Paul Katz during an event in 2012. He was an influential member of the Republican party . Revelation: On Friday, prosecutors said in a statement (pictured) that Mr Sheridan had fatally stabbed his wife on the day of their deaths, which occurred just a day after they had decorated their home for Halloween . 'It is nothing more than an expedient way for the Prosecutor's Office to close its file and put an end to its embarrassing bungling of this murder investigation in the hope that our family, the citizens of Somerset County and the press will stop inquiring about what actually happened. Authorities discovered the Sheridans' bodies in their master bedroom

Summary: John Sheridan and wife, Joyce, found dead in New Jersey home last year . They had both been stabbed several times, while their house was ablaze . On Friday, prosecutors ruled Mr Sheridan, 72, stabbed to death wife, 69 . Cooper Health System CEO 'then set fire to house and stabbed himself' Couple's children have released statement challenging official findings . Four sons say they still don't know who killed parents on September 28 . But prosecutors said inquiry found no signs of break-in at the property . Also said Mr Sheridan was 'withdrawn' and 'very upset' prior to deaths .


A family dog was nearly blinded, its owner has said, by an allergic reaction after it was groomed at a Pets at Home mega-store. Terry Maughan, 20, from Norton paid £36 for his 20-month-old West Highland terrier Snowbell to have the treatment. But when he took his beloved pooch home he was shocked to see the dog struggling to breathe and unable to open her eyes. Terry Maughan (left) with his younger brother Christopher Maughan (right) with Snowbell . Builder Terry rushed Snowbell to the vets where they discovered she had suffered an allergic reaction to the shampoo. 'We all thought she was going to die,' Mr Maughan said. 'She could have had a heart attack, it was beating so fast. Her eyes were red and she wouldn't open them and she was drooling a lot. 'Snowbell was walking into things so we thought she could have also gone blind. Everyone was so worried about her, she is part of the family and my brothers and sisters were in tears. 'I think it's disgraceful what happened. You don't expect anything like this to happen to your dog when you put it in the hands of licensed and trained professionals. 'She's improving now thanks to a course of eye drops they vet gave to her but it's a very slow process. 'I fear she will have eyesight problems in the future because of this and may go blind. 'My father went to the Pets at Home store to tell them to stop using chemicals because our dog almost died. When Terry took his dog to the vets its eyes were red and aggravated, it was drooling excessively and had a rapid heart rate and temperature. The symptoms appeared to have been caused by a grooming seesion . 'It took them three days to respond to our complaint and they never even asked us how . Snowbell was or said sorry for what happened. I think it's disgraceful and appalling.' Snowbell fell ill an hour after having a shampoo, wash and haircut at the Groom Rooms salon based at Pets at Home in Festival Park, Stoke-on-Trent. The family were landed with a £102 vet's bill. Pets at Home have launched an investigation into the grooming products that were used on Snowbell . 'Snowbell was reluctant to open her eyelids, which appeared swollen with yellow purulent discharge coming from both eyes,' Vet Susan Cuthbert at Charter Veterinary Surgery in Newcastle-under-Lyme, said. She explained that parts of both of the dog's eyes were red and inflamed and the dog was drooling far more than usual. 'It could have been worse had they not brought her in on Sunday. She looked in a bad state and distressed and I'm glad they brought Snowbell to see me. I don't know for certain what caused it, but it could have been a reaction to something,' Ms Cuthbert said. Pets at Home have launched an investigation into the products they use on dogs. A spokesman said: 'Our Groom Room colleagues are all highly trained and use only specifically formulated products

Summary: Dog had bloodshot eyes and rapid a heartbeat just after it was groomed . Its owner, Terry Maughan, from Norton rushed to take the pooch to the vet . Vet said quick action saved dog, Snowbell, but family feared it would die . Pets at Home has started an investigation but the cause remains unknown .


These heart-wrenching photographs show the appalling conditions at a landfill site where Bangladeshi children are forced to scavenge for valuables amongst the piles of rubbish. The pictures show people trying to make the best of a bad situation as the mounds of rubbish at the site in Dhaka have become an accepted part of their daily lives. The rubbish at Matuail, the largest waste site in Dhaka, is a product of over three and a half million people and 65 per cent of the total waste generated in the city. Scroll down for video . These heart-wrenching photographs show the appalling conditions at a landfill site where Bangladeshi children are forced to scavenge for valuables amongst the piles of rubbish . The pictures show people trying to make the best of a bad situation as the mounds of rubbish at the site in Dhaka have become an accepted part of their daily lives . Birds circle women looking among the trash for something valuble at the Matuail Landfill In Dhaka . Cristiano Ostinelli, the Italian photographer who recently visited the site, said: . 'The Landfill was almost all organic waste so the smell was just awful, it smelt like vomit. 'It was appalling to see children with rags of clothes with their hands in something inexplicable. It was like hell on earth.' Waste management workers only earn a dollar a day but amazingly, these conditions are an improvement. A young Boy makes the best of a bad situation at the Matuali Dump . The site was recently transformed from an open dump to a controlled landfill with perimeter drainage, site roads, site control offices and an electronic weighbridge . Incredibly all of the upgrading was done while Matuali received 1500 tonnes of waste per day and the site is now one of the best examples of a controlled waste site in South Asia . Photographer Cristiano Ostenilli said that the landfill site smelt like vomit . A slum child collects rubbish for resale from the dump yard . Ostenilli described the dump as being 'like hell on earth' Two years ago, local government made the decision to upgrade the standard of disposal at the site utilizing finances from the Japanese debt-cancellation fund. The site was transformed from an open dump to a controlled landfill with perimeter drainage, site roads, site control offices and an electronic weighbridge. Incredibly all of the upgrading was done while Matuali received 1500 tonnes of waste per day and the site is now one of the best examples of a controlled waste site in South Asia.

Summary: Images show appalling conditions at a landfill at Matuail in Dhaka . It's the product of over three and a half million people's rubbish . The waste is nearly all organic, so the smell is horrific, said photographer .


Singer Cher has petitioned a court to allow a 96-year-old woman to return to her home in northern Virginia. Edith Hill was taken away from her new 95-year-old husband last year after a court accepted she did not have the mental capacity to enter into a marriage. However, the 68-year-old singer was so moved by the story of Mrs Hill and Eddie Harrison that she has pledged to help Mrs Hill return home. Cher was moved to act after she saw a documentary on Edith Hill and her husband Eddie Harrison . A court ruled that Edith Hill, left should be removed from her home and transferred to Florida. Her husband Eddie Harrison remained at home in Virginia but later died a couple of weeks after they were split apart . Unfortunately Mr Harrison died several weeks after his wife was taken away. However, Cher was inspired by the story and decided to act on behalf of Mrs Hill and see whether it was feasible to return her to her long-term home. A judge in McClean, Virginia has ruled that Mrs Hill should be returned home following Cher's commitment. Mr Harrison died in December, just weeks after Hill was taken away to Florida on the recommendation of a court-appointed guardian, but a custody dispute continued over who should care for Hill and where she should live. Cher said she will help pay for needed upgrades to Hill's family home in Alexandria. In a telephone interview, Cher expressed frustration that Eddie and Edith had been split up against their wishes. She said: 'This whole thing is a travesty, what happens to old people. Once they do the repairs and she comes back home, it's going to be bittersweet because she only wanted to be with him.' Earlier this month, after Cher offered to pay for the home improvements, a judge ordered that Hill should return to Alexandria once repairs are complete. Mrs Hill's daughter Rebecca Wright said: 'Mom's coming home!' Mrs Hill was in favour of her mother's marriage to Mr Harrison. Mr Harrison and Mrs Hill had been companions for more than a decade before they got married. In December, the court ruled that Mrs Hill should be moved to Florida and later that same month, Mr Harrison died. Mrs Wright said: 'He actually gave his life to this effort.' She said Mr Harrison became depressed after Mrs Hill was taken away as he thought it was unlikely that they would ever see each other again. Cher became aware of the case when a TV news broadcast showed the couple dancing. The singer said she would pay for any repairs inside the Alexandria home and ensure it was suitable for a 96-year-old woman. She also pledged to help with her ongoing medical bills. Cher saw a documentary about the couple when Mrs Hill was taken to Florida. She said she was impressed by how in love the pair seemed to be and was outraged over their treatment. She added: 'I think this is an important story. It's not right what is going

Summary: Singer Cher, 68, has vowed to help a 96-year-old woman move back home . Edith Hill was separated from her new 95-year-old husband Eddie Harrison . Weeks after they were separated by a court, Mr Harrison died . Mrs Hill's family said she suffered from mild dementia and needed help . Cher said she was outraged the couple had been split against their wishes . She has promised to pay for upgrades to Mrs Hall's home in Virginia .


Secret Service Director Joseph Clancy said on Thursday that two agents who allegedly 'crashed' into a White House barrier in early March while driving under the influence merely bumped into a barrel. 'Previous reports of a crash are inaccurate - there was no crash,' Clancy told a Senate Appropriations subcommittee during testimony on the agency's budget request. 'The video shows the vehicle entering the White House complex at a speed of approximately 1 to 2 mph, and pushing aside a plastic barrel. There was no damage to the vehicle.' Clancy also told senators that the Secret Service was doing everything in its power to 'recreate' surveillance footage from the night in question that had already been erased by the time he learned of the incident. A U.S. Secret Service K-9 team works along the second, temporary fence on the north side of the White House this week. Congress may never know whether two agents who crashed into a White House barrier in early March were driving under the influence because it's Secret Service policy to erase tapes after 72 hours, a congressman has revealed . House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Jason Chaffetz, pictured here at a Capitol Hill hearing on Tuesday, says lawmakers who were present for the Secret Service director's explanation of why tapes were destroyed were stunned. 'That doesn't make any sense to us' The newly minted Secret Service director's testimony follows the chairman of the House Oversight Committee's public disclosure on Wednesday that it is Secret Service policy to delete footage of the White House after 72 hours. Utah Republican Jason Chaffetz said Clancy offered up the policy on Tuesday at a closed-door meeting as an explanation for why he could only offer Congress video of the incident from two angles. 'I don't think anyone in that room could believe it,' Chafettz told CBS News Wednesday. 'That's just a stunning revelation that 72 hours after they make a tape they destroy it? That doesn't make any sense to us.' On Tuesday at a House hearing on his appropriations request Clancy admitted that he did not know about the alleged drunk driving or crash, which interrupted a suspicious package investigation, until five days after it happened. 'The fact that I did not learn of this allegation until five days after it is said to have occurred is unacceptable,' he said today in his prepared remarks. The lapse in notification means that all evidence of a crime could have been destroyed before the time Clancy says he was informed of his agents' misconduct. 'If it's regular policy to destroy them after 72 hours, why did they have two of the tapes, and where are the rest of the tapes?' Chaffetz had asked on Wednesday. A spokesperson for the Secret Service did not return Daily Mail Online's request for comment on the matter Thursday morning. And the White House's chief spokesman declined, when asked by Daily Mail Online on Thursday, to say whether he or the president felt it was 'appropriate' for the Secret Service to delete surveillance footage with

Summary: 'Previous reports of a crash are inaccurate - there was no crash,' Secret Service Director Joe Clancy told a Senate committee Thursday . He admitted the Secret Service destroys surveillance tapes every 72 hours . The agency is doing everything in its power to 'recreate' footage from the night in question he said . Clancy was not informed of the incident until five days after it happened, which is why he was unable to preserve videos from additional angles . 'That's just a stunning revelation that 72 hours after they make a tape they destroy it? That doesn't make any sense to us,' Rep. Jason Chaffetz said . Allegedly drunk agents interrupted a suspicious package investigation; Chaffettz says they came feet from hitting the suspected bomb .


FIFA president Sepp Blatter has delivered a considerable snub to the BBC by turning down the opportunity to join a televised debate with his three challengers before the election in Zurich on May 29. Blatter was always expected to refuse the request, put to him in a letter from the BBC and Sky, for an hour-long debate with Prince Ali of Jordan, Luis Figo and Michael van Praag about their plans for leading FIFA. The event would have been hosted by top broadcasters from the two networks and given equal prominence to each candidate. FIFA president Sepp Blatter speaks to journalists after the IFAB meeting in Belfast last month . FIFA presidential hopeful Luis Figo takes notes during the CONMEBOL Ordinary Congress on March 4 . But rather than give a courteous answer by letter to the prominent TV stations, Blatter relayed the curt reply ‘thanks but no thanks’ via one of his flunkeys in a telephone call. This didn’t impress the BBC, who have been FIFA partners as World Cup rights-holders since proper live coverage started in 1966. Blatter’s three challengers replied by letter that they would be happy to participate. But the whole project depended on Blatter and he is not even prepared to outline his reasons for not taking part, let alone have his make-up applied for the TV cameras — in front of which he would have by far the most to lose. Far better for Blatter is to fast-track FIFA Goal Programme funding to African countries, where he enjoys mass voting support. Prince Ali of Jordan is pictured during a press conference in central London last month . Michael van Praag, also going for the FIFA presidency, poses for a photo in Schiphol earlier this month . Boxing promoter Barry McGuigan is in positive talks with ITV about super bantamweight Carl Frampton making his second world title defence on terrestrial TV. Frampton’s win over Chris Avalos in Belfast’s Odyssey Arena last month had far more impact because it was on free-to-air television. ITV say their plans for screening boxing are on a fight-by-fight basis. Carl Frampton is lifted up by trainer Shane McGuigan after defeating Chris Avalos in Belfast last month . The Premier League have caused plenty of angst for the FA by flexing their financial muscle during power battles. However the FA, who have the power of veto as the 21st shareholder in the PL, will not object to CEO Richard Scudamore becoming executive chairman and the governance statute changes that will trigger. Sport England, who fund grassroots sport, make no secret that they are hugely influenced by the participation findings of the Active People Survey when doling out cash. So it’s difficult to see how swimming, who shed 245,000 participants last year according to the latest APS figures, can avoid having funds diverted from the national governing body when the allocations are announced on Thursday. Charlie Hemphrey poses for a photo during his days with Kent in April 2009 . County reject’s Oz ton . At least one English cricketer can hold his head

Summary: FIFA president Sepp Blatter has turned down a televised debate . The FIFA presidential election takes place in Zurich on May 29 . Barry McGuigan is in talks with ITV over Carl Frampton's next fight . Cricketer Charlie Hemphrey became the first Englishman to score a century in Australia's Sheffield Shield for 37 years . Rio Ferdinand is expected to be a BT Sport Champions League pundit .


Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner is due in England before the end of the week as he presses ahead with plans to sell the club. Lerner has entered into discussion with a consortium over a proposed £150million sale of the Midlands club. And Sportsmail understands Lerner is expected to fly into Birmingham over the coming days for further discussions regarding a sale. Randy Lerner, pictured in 2011, is speaking to a consortium over a proposed £150million sale of Aston Villa . Talks over a takeover are understood to be at an advanced stage and Lerner’s decision to fly into England is viewed as a key step towards the completion of a deal. The consortium is in the due diligence stage of their proposed takeover, though the eventual price of the sale will depend on which league Villa are playing in next season. Christian Benteke is pictured scoring for Aston Villa in their 4-0 thumping of Sunderland last month . Lerner wants to receive his full £150m asking price . Lerner’s expected arrival in the Midlands comes after it emerged Lerner’s Midlands property has been made available as part of the takeover. The farmhouse, located in Bodymoor Heath, is understood to be worth in the region of £3m. Lerner has been keen to sell Villa for some time, a period that has seen the club go through a difficult period on the pitch. The sacking of Paul Lambert and subsequent arrival of Tim Sherwood has helped stimulate the club, as has their pending FA Cup semi-final. But Villa are still in danger of dropping into the second tier of English football for the first time since 1987. Lerner is desperate for the team to avoid that scenario as he looks to receive his full £150m asking price. Relegation into the Championship would severely lower Villa’s value, possibly as much as half. The consortium expect to complete their takeover soon after the end of the season.

Summary: Randy Lerner, the Aston Villa owner, is due in England in coming days . He has entered into discussion with consortium over proposed £150m sale . Takeover talks are at advanced stage and Lerner's decision to fly to England is seen as significant . Aston Villa are still in danger of dropping into the Championship . CLICK HERE for all the latest Aston Villa news and takeover updates .


Believe it or not, 2015 marks the 30th anniversary of Comic Relief – and yesterday celebrities including Samantha Cameron were getting into the spirit of Red Nose Day. The Prime Minister’s wife posed for photographs with her 11-year-old daughter Nancy, who was painting her face as Larry, the Downing Street cat. In a rare interview yesterday she said the charity was ‘close to my heart’, and revealed that her family made £200 for Red Nose Day last year, saying: ‘Biscuits, flapjacks, scones – the kids and I cooked for days.’ The Prime Minister’s wife posed for photographs with her 11-year-old daughter Nancy, who was painting her face as Larry, the Downing Street cat . She also gave an insight into their life behind closed doors, crediting her husband with being a ‘good cook’ and praising him for making an effort to join the children at breakfast and bedtime. But she joked that she was still trying to ‘train’ him to ‘pick up his clothes’. Painting a picture of a normal family life, she talked about the school run, cinema trips, play dates at Number 10 and doing ‘quite badly’ at school quiz nights. And in the interview with The Sun, she said she was ‘proud’ of her husband, and ‘desperately’ wants him to win the election in May, but added: ‘Obviously it will be up to the British people.’ The Prime Minister's wife also posted for a selfie with David Walliams. Mrs Cameron said she was 'proud' of her husband and 'desperately' wants him to win the election in May .

Summary: Nancy Cameron, 11, posed for photographs with her mother Samantha . Turned Mrs Cameron into Larry the Downing Street Cat with face paint . The Prime Minister's wife took part in a rare interview for Red Nose day . Revealed her family raised £200 for charity last year by baking .


When you go on safari, you want to get a good view of the animals, and experience nature up close. One motorist, in the Kruger National Park in South Africa got more than they bargained for, when they were trapped right in the middle of a pride of lions and a ginormous elephant. The small blue car was powerless to move as more than a dozen large cats from the Vurhami pride lay in its path, with a tusked elephant blocking the route behind. The nail-biting moment when a pride of lion gazes at a small car unable to move round them as it is trapped by a giant elephant behind . The photographs of the incident were taken by a housewife in another vehicle, who witnessed the scary encounter . Just lion around! The driver's path is blocked by a dozen cats, part of the Vurhami pride, relaxing on the safari road . Thankfully the car owner was in no danger, and waited for the elephant to continue its stroll, before managing to escape round the lazy cats. The dramatic photographs were taken by housewife Stella Stewart in 2013 and have only recently come to light. The 59-year-old housewife who took pictures from the car opposite, said the motorist was in no danger. She said: 'There was no aggression from either the elephant or lions so I was more interested on how long she would have to wait for the lions to move over. 'She wasn't ever in danger. The elephant didn't even give it a second glance. 'But the lions on the other hand were very wary of both the car and elephant. 'I've seen lions and elephants road blocks but never together and a car stuck between them.' As the elephant slowly ambled to the other side of the road the driver, who has not been identified, calmly swerved round the side of the pride to avoid the lethargic cats. Phew! Thankfully the giant elephant ambles across the road allowing the small car to reverse and escape round the pride of lions .

Summary: A motorist got up close and personal to the wild creatures when it was sandwiched during a safari . The photographs, taken by another car, show the driver powerless to move past a dozen lions . The Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and is home to the 'Big Five' game animals .


Jonas Bjorkman is the preferred candidate to become Andy Murray's new assistant coach with the Swedish former world No 4 joining the Brit's team for a trial period. Murray has been searching for a new No 2 coach since Dani Vallverdu left the team last November before going on to work with Czech Tomas Berdych. Bjorkman will work with Murray for one week in the next month or so once his television commitments with Let's Dance, the Swedish version of Strictly Come Dancing, are over. Former world No 4 Jonas Bjorkman will join up with Team Murray for a trial week as assistant coach . Andy Murray celebrates after securing victory for Great Britain against the USA in the Davis Cup in Glasgow . The 42-year-old has plenty of experience in the game, reaching the semi-finals at Wimbledon and the US Open and winning nine doubles titles across all four Grand Slams. Bjorkman tweeted: 'I'm super excited and I'm really looking forward to join @andy_murray and his team for a test week.' Murray and Bjorkman have played each other on tour once, the former coming out on top in five sets in their second-round clash at the 2007 US Open. Dani Vallverdu (right) left the Murray camp last November and is now working with Tomas Berdych . Murray is currently in Indian Wells, California with main coach Amelie Mauresmo for the BNP Paribas Open and is scheduled to take on Vasek Pospisil or Mikhail Kukushkin in the second round on Saturday or Sunday. Speaking before Great Britain's victory against the USA in the Davis Cup last weekend, Murray said: 'After the Aussie Open I spent the next three or four weeks with no coach and I feel that's something I obviously need to get sorted so that when I get to the clay-court season I am not in that position, because I feel like there are some things I need to work on all the time and when I don't have someone there it's harder to do that.'

Summary: Andy Murray will work with Sweden's Jonas Bjorkman for a trial period . Murray has been searching for a new No 2 since Dani Vallverdu left . Bjorkman, 42, won nine doubles titles across all four Grand Slams .


A teenager who was searching for her missing pet was relieved when she was told someone had found the dog and taken it to the vet, only to find out the animal had been put down. Kerri Lawson, 18, put an appeal on Facebook when her Labrador Homer sneaked out of the garden of her family home in Washington, Tyne and Wear, and disappeared. Her despair initially turned to joy when she was told it had been found by a member of the public who took the animal, which had arthritis which makes him drag his back leg, to a vet. But she was then told by the vet that they had put Homer down because of his condition - without telling his devastated owner first. Kerri Lawson said she was distraught after she found her missing dog had been handed in by a member of the public to the vet, only for staff to decide to put the animal down - without informing her first . Ms Lawson said: 'Homer did have a few health problems, but he was not as bad as the vet said he was. 'They shouldn't have just gone ahead and done this without our say-so.' After Homer, who was 16-years-old, disappeared he was found by a member of the public and taken to Cestria Vets in Chester-le-Street. Vets said he was having trouble breathing and within 24 hours he was put to sleep. Ms Lawson believes the arthritis in his legs, which caused him to drag his back leg and look ill, was known to the vets after Homer was injured in an accident 12 years ago. The student added: 'The problems were known to the vet and they said it was completely fine and there was no need to worry. 'They should have contacted the dog warden at the council to tell them he had been handed in. 'They could have waited. That way, we would have known he had been found - we would have had a point of contact. Miss Lawson said her pet had arthritis in his legs, but claimed veterinary staff had known about his condition . 'We had no way of knowing he'd been taken to the vets.' Homer was not microchipped but Ms Lawson said he had a docked tail and cauliflower ear, making him more distinctive. He was also not wearing a collar. Veterinary staff said they were forced to take action after the Labrador was found 'thin and experiencing breathing difficulties.' A spokeswoman for the practice said staff take their responsibilities to animals very seriously and said it would not have been ethical for them to have admitted such an unwell animal, thought to have been a stray, in such a 'desperate' condition. She added: 'Our obligation to stray animals is to provide such emergency treatment and pain relief as is appropriate and we treat many strays each year, before either successfully reuniting them with their owners, or passing them on to the relevant authorities. The dog was taken to Cestria Veterinary Centre in Chester-le-street, where the

Summary: Kerri Lawson's pet Labrador had arthritis which made him drag back leg . The 16-year-old dog slipped out of Tyne and Wear home and disappeared . Miss Lawson put out appeal and was contacted by woman who found him . Dog had been taken to the vets, who then decided to put labrador down . Miss Lawson claims veterinary practice knew of her pet's health problems . Homer the labrador was not microchipped or wearing a collar at the time . But practice said dog was very thin and having breathing problems and it was 'not ethical' for them to admit a stray animal in such a poor condition .


Lionel Messi remains a doubt for Argentina's friendly against Ecuador having missed Saturday's 2-0 win over El Salvador on Saturday. The Barcelona forward was kept on the bench during the victory in Washington and Argentina boss Gerardo Martino has vowed not to risk the 27-year-old. 'The third training day he was unable to wear the right boot,' Martino told reporters. 'We all understand that the fans had hoped to see him play, but he was really unable.' Lionel Messi remains a doubt for Argentina's friendly with Ecuador on Tuesday because of a foot injury . Messi was kept on the bench during Argentina's 2-0 win over El Salvador on Saturday at FedExField . Messi was forced to watch from the sidelines as Argentina held a training session on Friday in Maryland . 'Leo always tries to play. We'll wait for his recovery until the last minute before the kick-off, but we won't risk him. 'If he remains this way, he won't play on Tuesday.', . On Monday, Messi welcomed new Argentina team-mate Federico Mancuello to Instagram after posting a photo with the winger to the social media site. Mancuello, who plays his club football for Independiente, scored on his Argentina debut in the win over El Salvador having replaced Angel di Maria in the second half. Messi welcomed new Argentina team-mate Federico Mancuello to Instagram on Monday evening . Mancuello is congratulated after scoring on his Argentina debut during the victory over El Salvador .

Summary: Lionel Messi missed Argentina's win over El Salvador with a foot injury . Argentina boss Gerardo Martino insists he won't risk the Barcelona star . Messi welcomed Federico Mancuello to Instagram on Monday evening .


Disgraced MP Eric Joyce used his taxpayer-funded credit to pay for £450-a-night hotels during his £13,000 expenses binge, it has been revealed. The ex-Labour backbencher, who is standing down at the next election after he was convicted of headbutting a Tory MP in a Commons bar, repeatedly used his Parliamentary card to settle big bills. Many of these payments were later declared unclaimable on expenses, but his card was not blocked by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (Ipsa) for more than two years. He even claimed that one £896.92 bill for two nights was for a 'whole bunch of people' to stay at the four-star Park Plaza near Westminster. Disgraced MP Eric Joyce used his taxpayer-funded credit to pay for £450-a-night hotels during his £13,000 expenses binge . Mail Online's Tom McTague revealed earlier this week that Commons expenses chiefs made the unprecedented decision to recoup the cash by deducting around £1,000 a month from his salary. But that will not clear the outstanding sum of around £10,000 before Parliament is dissolved. The Falkirk MP accepts that he made mistakes in filing claims after using his card, suggesting he was also paying for rooms for staff. However, he is disputing at least £6,000 of the debt. If he refuses to repay voluntarily the watchdog's only option will be to pursue him in the civil courts. The details emerged after Ipsa admitted it has been labelling some of Mr Joyce's hotel claims as 'not paid' in its regular disclosures - when in fact it has paid a much higher bill in full. The Falkirk MP accepts that he made mistakes in filing claims after using his card, suggesting he was also paying for rooms for staff . The watchdog confirmed he put £743 on a card to fund a three night-stay at a 'non-London' hotel, believed to be in Glasgow, in September last year. The bill was automatically paid by Ipsa. But as he is only entitled to claim up to £120 a night for hotels outside the capital, an excess of £383 was added to his debt. The published expenses records merely state that £383 was 'not paid'. He was was 'not paid' £272.33 for a non-London hotel claim in August, and £208 for another in September. Mr Joyce stayed at a prestigious Intercontinental Hotel in London in May 2013, when he appears to have broken the £150 a night limit for hotels in the capital by £203.05. He used the same group again the following month, but this time breached the ceiling by just £61.45. The issues seem to go back to at least 2012. In December of that year - 10 months after he headbutted a Tory MP during a brawl in a Commons bar - he charged £896.92 to the card for a two-night stay at a London hotel. It is understood that the claim was declared invalid because key parts of the receipt had been blacked out - although again Ipsa had already footed the cost and subsequently reported it as 'not paid'. Altogether there are dozens of

Summary: MP Eric Joyce racked up £13,000 on hotels and trains in expenses binge . He claimed £450-a-night hotels on his taxpayer-funded Parliamentary card . Mr Joyce claimed £896 bill for two nights was for a 'whole bunch of people' Ex-Labour backbencher was convicted of headbutting a Tory MP in 2012 . Commons expenses watchdog IPSA docking his wages by around £1,000 .


Since dazzling Australia on the Miss Universe stage in 2010, Jesinta Campbell has proven she's more than just beauty - she's also got the brains. Appearing on Channel Nine's Today breakfast show on Thursday, the 23-year-old was asked about her views on the imminent executions of Bali Nine ringleaders, Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran. The pair have since been moved from Kerobokan Prison after 10 years on death row, to Nusakambangan, or 'Death Island', where they will be executed by firing squad. Scroll down for video . 'That's the law': Appearing on Channel Nine's Today breakfast show on Thursday, model Jesinta Campbell was asked about her views on the imminent executions of Bali Nine ringleaders, Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran . They were convicted for smuggling heroin into Indonesia from Australia in 2005. 'It's so sad. I mean, watching all the footage play out on the news... it breaks your heart because you can't help but feel for their families and they are two humans at the end of the day,' Jesinta said of the polarising situation. She did however stress that despite being strongly against the death penalty herself, the laws in Indonesia regarding drugs are widely known. 'But, like a lot of Australians believe, at the end of the day unfortunately, Indonesia has these rules and if you break them these are the consequences. 'It's so sad, I do not agree with the death penalty, but that's their law.' Sharing her thoughts: 'It's so sad. I mean, watching all the footage play out on the news... it breaks your heart because you can't help but feel for their families and they are two humans at the end of the day,' Jesinta said of the polarising situation . Jesinta is a regular on Today, offering her intelligent opinions on everything from serious current affairs to light-hearted topics. The likely area on Death Island where Chan and Sukumaran will take their final breaths is called, Nirbaya. Found in the island's remote centre, Nirbaya was also the place where the Bali bombers, Amrozi, Ali Gufron and Imam Samudra were executed in 2008, six years after they carried out the nightclub bombings which killed 202 people, including 88 Australians, 38 Indonesians and 27 Britons. On Wednesday, Black Sabbath rocker, Tony Iommi, wrote a letter to Indonesia's President, Joko Widodo to ask for clemency for the Australian pair. The lead guitarist wrote a letter to President Joko Widodo to ask for clemency for the Australian pair. 'I appeal to you, as a forgiving man, to take note of their transformation,' Tony Iommi wrote in a letter to President Joko Widodo about the two Australian drug smugglers on death row. 'They are now reformed men who are making a positive difference to the lives of their fellow prisoners. 'For this reason, I would ask that you stop the execution of Andrew and Myuran. 'Please allow them to serve out life sentences where they contribute to the well-being of Indonesia and make good for the error of their previous ways.' Controversial topic: Chan and Sukumaran have since

Summary: Jesinta Campbell spoke about the imminent executions of Bali Nine duo . She appeared on Channel Nine's Today breakfast show on Thursday . The 23-year-old said she was sad for the families of Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran . 'I do not agree with the death penalty, but that's their law,' she said . Chan and Sukumaran were transferred to Nusakambangan island on Wednesday .


We think it provides them with a warm and cosy sanctuary – but apparently horses hate being saddled with stables. The beasts find them a miserable and stressful experience, research reveals. As a herd animal, horses prefer to be in groups and stables prevent them interacting with their neighbours, according to a study by Nottingham Trent University. Stable condition: Scientists found the animals’ stress levels - measured by the hormone corticosterone - rose and they became difficult to manage as they became increasingly isolated . Scientists found animals that were isolated had higher levels of stress hormones and became difficult to manage. The findings, published in the journal Physiology and Behaviour, showed that horses are at their happiest in a paddock. Scientists found the animals’ stress levels - measured by the hormone corticosterone - rose and they became difficult to manage as they became increasingly isolated. These stress levels could also lead to sickness and disease, the study published in the journal Physiology and Behaviour found. Research: The study by Nottingham Trent University (above) found that as a herd animal, horses prefer to be in groups and stables prevent them interacting with their neighbours . Equine welfare expert Kelly Yarnell told the Daily Telegraph: ‘To the human eye, the stable appears safe and inviting and is based on the belief of what the horse finds comfortable. ‘However, for a social animal that spends most of its time in close contact with other horses, the isolation brought about by single housing could activate an equine stress response.’ She said equine welfare would be improved by shared housing. In the wild, horses live in herds that move over up to 30 sq miles while domestic horses often spend most of the day inside. Lee Hackett, director of equine policy at The British Horse Society, said the study should change the way we keep horses. He said: ‘It is fairly obvious that keeping any animal in a domestic setting could potentially compromise it, whether that be a hamster in a cage or a lion in a zoo.'

Summary: Stables prevent horses interacting with their neighbours, scientists say . Isolated animals suffer higher stress levels and become harder to manage . Nottingham Trent University study shows horses are happiest in paddock .


Maintenance works at the hotel where Jeremy Clarkson allegedly punched a producer in a row over a steak dinner had to be delayed the morning after - so he could have a cooked breakfast. BBC staff reportedly pleaded with the Simonstone Hall Hotel in the Yorkshire Dales not to disconnect the hotel's electricity supply for planned works after Clarkson overslept following the incident. Clarkson was suspended after allegedly punching producer Oisin Tymon during a row after filming over a hot meal at the hotel. Scroll down for video . Maintenance works at the hotel where Jeremy Clarkson (pictured today) allegedly punched a producer in a row over a steak dinner had to be delayed the morning after - so he could have a cooked breakfast . BBC staff reportedly pleaded with the Simonstone Hall Hotel in the Yorkshire Dales not to disconnect the hotel's electricity supply for planned works after Clarkson overslept following the incident . The following morning the Top Gear presenter slept in while most of the BBC crew checked out and left, a hotel staff member said. The worker, who spoke to Sky News anonymously, said Clarkson was lucky he had not been served cold cereal instead. They said: 'I got a call to say Clarkson was still in his room and wouldn't be down 'til 10 o'clock,' a member of the kitchen staff told Sky News. 'I said, "Well in that case he'll have to have Weetabix" because a sign on reception said the electricity would be cut off at half past nine.' The top-rating show was pulled off air while an inquiry was launched into the alleged 'fracas'. The BBC's report into the events will be handed over to the director-general next week, a corporation spokesman said. Senior BBC executive Ken MacQuarrie has been tasked with sorting out what happened during the incident, but a date for the conclusion of the inquiry is not yet known. The BBC has postponed the remaining episodes of Top Gear following the incident - a move which has seen it lose millions of viewers and receive thousands of complaints . Clarkson was suspended after allegedly punching producer Oisin Tymon during a row - which took place after filming - over a hot meal at a hotel. The top-rating show was pulled off air while an inquiry was launched . The BBC has postponed the remaining episodes of Top Gear following the incident - a move which has seen it lose millions of viewers and receive thousands of complaints. Sunday night's planned episode was replaced by a Red Arrows documentary which pulled in just one million viewers - compared to the five million who regularly tune in for the popular motoring show. Meanwhile, a petition to Bring Back Clarkson has attracted more than 960,000 supporters. Another petition calling on the BBC to hire Alan Partridge, the fictional broadcaster played by Steve Coogan, as the new presenter of Top Gear has also been launched, with almost 20,000 signatures. The presenter is still scheduled to appear alongside co-hosts James May and Richard Hammond at

Summary: Clarkson was suspended after allegedly punching producer Oisin Tymon . Row allegedly over a lack of hot food at Simonstone Hall Hotel after filming . Staff say BBC workers pleaded with them to delay works the morning after . Electricity turned off hour later so Clarkson could have cooked breakfast . The top-rating show has been pulled off air while an inquiry is held .


The nephew of John Travolta has come forward in a new interview to describe his decision to leave the Church of Scientology, and what his life has been like since. Sam Travolta Jr. says he decided to leave Scientology in 2007 after almost taking his own life, and has now been forced to live on the run. 'It's psychological warfare and after a while it gets to you,' he said of being a member of the polarizing religion. 'Things got so bad that I tried to jump off a bridge in Los Angeles in 2007, trying to kill myself.' He spent 28 days in a mental institution following this incident, and that is when he finally left the church. Scroll down for video . The nephew of John Travolta (above with wife Kelly Preston) has come forward in a new interview to describe his decision to leave the Church of Scientology . Sam Travolta Jr. says he decided to leave the Church of Scientology (above) after he tried to take his own life, at which point members began mouthing to hi, 'You are dead' Speaking with The National Enquirer, Sam did however say that his famous uncle did everything he could to help him, but even he could not stop the attacks that were waged against him after his decision to leave. 'Planting drugs on me' and 'spreading rumors around town that I was psychotic, and even worse - a pedophile,' are just two of the ways Sam claims members of the church tried to bring him down after his decision to leave Scientology. ''My uncle told me, "Sorry, Sam, I can't help you. They don't care who I am."' His uncle does however supply Sam with a monthly allowance, which is greatly appreciated by the struggling screenwriter. Sam also says in the interview that Travolta has never pressured members of his family into joining Scientology, though he does say he would be 'friendlier' to those individuals who were members of the church. The other claim Sam makes against the church, and one that has been brought up frequently by former members, is the amount of work required of members for little to no pay. Sam claims he worked as a file clerk, 'making $36 for a 60-hour week.' Then, there was the treatment he received from other members shortly before he left the church. Sam, claims they 'would mouth to me, "You are dead," over and over again. It was all about mental control for them.' The 47-year-old says he has moved on now that the attacks have stopped, and he is finally trying to get his life back on track. Sam's interview meanwhile could not come at a worse time for the church, with the HBO documentary Going Clear set to premiere later this month. The film takes a look at the religion, and how its treatment of A-list members like Tom Cruise and Travolta, differs from others in the church. It is based on the book of the same name, which was released to widespread critical acclaim in 2013,

Summary: Sam Travolta Jr., the nephew of John Travolta, is discussing why he left Scientology in 2007 in a new interview, and what life has been like since . Sam says he decided to leave the church after he tried to take his own life, at which point members began mouthing to him, 'You are dead' He also claims members 'planted drugs on him' and spread the rumor that he was 'psychotic' and a 'pedophile' Sam asked his uncle for help, but he claims even he could do nothing to stop the attacks . He does say that Travolta provides him with a monthly allowance and has never pressured his family members to join the church . Sam also claims he was forced to work 60-hour weeks as a file clerk for the church and was only paid $36 .


A restroom at a Wal-Mart in eastern Indiana has been closed indefinitely after an employee discovered a working meth lab inside. State police say a Wal-Mart employee alerted police after seeing a man he described as suspicious enter the restroom about 11:30 pm Thursday with a backpack and then leave without it. Police were called, and determined that inside the backpack were items that constituted a miniature meth lab, with chemicals used to 'cook' the drug were being mixed in containers. State police say people who make methamphetamine are leaving 'the deadly explosive chemicals in public places to return later to get the finished product,' rather than risk explosions and contamination at their own homes. Scroll down for video . Scene: An employee of the Walmart at 1501 E. 29th St. in Muncie alerted police officers to a backpack that had been left in this restroom, which was being used to mix dangerous chemicals to make methamphetamine . The incident occurred at the Wal-Mart in Muncie, Indianapolis, late on Thursday night . The discovery of such 'labs' are becoming routine for authorities. The fastest way to make meth is referred to as 'shake and bake', where the chemicals are mixed in two liter bottles, and later cooked in the oven until it crystallizes. However mixing the chemicals runs a huge risk of explosion, with the blast of one bottle capable of killing someone. The Star Press reports that members of a state police meth suppression team removed the dangerous chemicals. Delaware County Health Department inspectors closed the restroom and a nearby women's restroom until they could be 'decontaminated' by a professional cleaning company. An investigation into who left the backpack in the restroom is now under way. Brian Nick, director of National Media Relations for Walmart, said the store's surveillance video was being provided to police for that probe. Dangerous: The fastest way to make meth is referred to as 'shake and bake', where the chemicals are mixed in two liter bottles, and later cooked in the oven until it crystallizes. This is a file photo .

Summary: Police were called to a Wal-mart in Muncie, Indiana, at 11.30 pm Thursday . A man had left a backpack inside the restroom . Inside the pack were containers filled with mixed chemicals to make meth . Mixing the chemicals runs a high risk of explosion . More people are setting up makeshift 'labs' to stop explosions at home . Police removed the chemicals and now trying to track down the suspect .


An Army volunteer who contracted Ebola has been successfully treated with an experimental drug, but credits the humble strawberry with saving her life. Corporal Anna Cross was the first person in the world to be treated with MIL 77, after choosing to do so following 'careful consideration'. But when asked what helped her pull through, she said: 'Strawberries. I reckon I've had ten punnets.' Cpl Cross joined the Army Reserves in 2013 as a staff nurse and volunteered to help care for Ebola patients in Sierra Leone, arriving there last month. But she was evacuated back to the UK in an RAF plane on March 12 after becoming the third Briton to test positive for the virus. Scroll down for video . Corporal Anna Cross has been successfully treated with an experimental Ebola drug, it emerged today . Today, she told a press conference at London's Royal Free Hospital that she had been treated by an 'absolutely incredible bunch of clinicians'. Cpl Cross, from Cambridge, praised both the Army and the NHS, which she works for as an intensive care nurse. 'If it wasn't for both of those institutions I wouldn't be here today,' she said. 'It's thanks to them I'm alive.' The 25-year-old said she cried when she found out she was free of the virus and attributed eating strawberries to help her through it. She said it will still take a 'long time' before she is fully fit and would 'love' to continue volunteering with the military - although she suspected she would not be able to return to Sierra Leone. MIL 77 is a close relative of the medicine ZMapp – the drug given to British nurse William Pooley when he too was treated for Ebola at the Royal Free. ZMapp is a blend of three laboratory-made antibodies designed to neutralise the virus. Infectious diseases specialist Dr Michael Jacobs said he was 'absolutely thrilled' to announce that Cpl Cross was Ebola-free. Cpl Cross, from Cambridge, praised both the Army and the NHS, which she works for as an intensive care nurse. She was the first person in the world to be treated with MIL 77, after choosing to do so following 'careful consideration' The 25-year-old joined the Army Reserves in 2013 as a staff nurse and volunteered to help care for Ebola patients in Sierra Leone. But shortly after arriving, she became the third Briton to contact Ebola . He said it was impossible to say on the basis of treating one patient whether MIL 77 would work as well with others. 'But what I can tell you is that the treatment went very well,' he told reporters. 'It caused no side effects that we were able to illicit and we were very happy with its use.' It was produced by a company in China which 'very kindly' provided the drug and there was a 'limited supply' left that they could treat future potential patients with. Cpl Cross said today she had no idea how she contracted the virus. An investigation was carried out at the treatment centre where

Summary: Corporal Anna Cross, 25, is an Army reservist and nurse from Cambridge . But was evacuated from Sierra Leone last month having caught the virus . Was first in the world to be treated with experimental drug MIL 77 - and says eating strawberries got her through the ordeal . Said she cried when doctors revealed she was free of the deadly virus .