The adoptive parents of a teenager missing from her home for years have received prison sentences from a federal judge who also scolded them for the girl's treatment. U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Schroeder in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on Friday sentenced Casey Parsons to 10 years in prison for tax fraud. Her husband, Sandy, received an eight-year sentence. Erica Parsons, the couple's niece, lived with the family until she disappeared in 2011 at age 13. She wasn't reported missing until 2013 when her 20-year-old adoptive brother informed authorities of his sister's absence after getting into a fight with his parents. Scroll down for video . U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Schroeder in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on Friday sentenced Casey Parsons (right) to 10 years in prison for tax fraud. Her husband, Sandy, received an eight-year sentence . Schroeder said that, after sentencing more than 1,000 people, he has never been more troubled by a case. Last month, the judge delayed the sentencing after a hearing revealed the conditions under which Erica Parsons lived before her disappearance. Prosecutors said the couple routinely abused the girl and continued to collect benefits after she disappeared. Casey and Sandy Parsons collected benefits for their adopted niece after her disappearance, including a $634 monthly check for adoption assistance. Additionally, prosecutors say the Parsons lied on their income tax returns by using different identities to make up false dependents. According to the indictment, Erica was home-schooled, had hearing problems and learning disability. The Parsons continue to claim that they sent Erica to live with her 'Nan', though the girl's biological mother says no such grandparent exists. The missing teen's biological mother Carolyn Parsons spoke out against the couple's claims, saying she will not give up looking for her daughter, who is now 15. Video from WSOC-TV . Gone: Erica Parsons was 13 years old when she was last seen in November 2011. However she wasn't reported missing until July 2013. A picture of a younger Erica on the left, while on the right an age-progressed image shows about what she would look like now . She also said she had not wanted to hand her daughter over to her in-laws, but felt she had to because she was unable to bring up the child properly. 'No mother wants to have children and just give them up,' she said. 'I didn't want to. She didn't deserve the life that I had.' Carolyn says she has not seen Erica since January 2011, 10 months before she went missing. A polygraph test carried out on Sandy Parsons was found to be 'strongly deceptive' when he described how he had nothing to do with her disappearance.

Summary: Casey Parsons was sentenced to ten years in prison for tax fraud. Her husband, Sandy, received an eight-year sentence . Erica Parsons, the couple's niece, lived with the family until she disappeared in 2011 at age 13 . She wasn't reported missing until 2013 when her 20-year-old adoptive brother informed authorities of his sister's absence . The Parsons continue to claim that they sent Erica to live with her 'Nan' - though the girl's biological mother says no such grandparent exists .


A derelict block of public toilets certainly doesn't jump to mind when thinking of your ideal holiday home - yet these crumbling conveniences on the Cornish coast could fetch a staggering £100,000, thanks to the stunning view. The 502 sq ft block, which looks out over St Austell Bay and its historic harbour, would make the perfect getaway for one lucky bidder, auctioneers have claimed. Of course, the toilets, in Charlestown, on the south coast, will need a revamp at least - if not completely rebuilding. Auction: This block of toilets on the south Cornish coast could fetch £100,000 last this month . Stunning: The view across St Austell Bay make it one of the best residential opportunities in Cornwall today, according to Graham Barton, auctioneer and regular on BBC One's Homes Under The Hammer . The block is being auctioned later this month and has a freehold guide price of £75,000 to £95,000 - a bargain in the small town, where the average property price is £260,400, according to property website Rightmove. Plymouth-based Graham Barton, auctioneer and regular on BBC One's Homes Under The Hammer, said: 'This is arguably the most gloriously located residential development opportunity for sale in Cornwall today. 'It has stunning panoramic and jaw dropping sea views. The property looks southwards across St Austell Bay with the historic harbour at its western edge. 'We are expecting strong interest at auction as there is huge potential for a fantastic family home or holiday home with extension or complete replacement among the options subject to planning consent.' The auction, by Clive Emson, will take place at the St Mellion International Resort, near Saltash, at 11am on Thursday, March 26.

Summary: The 502 sq ft block of toilets is going up for auction later this month . View across St Austell Bay, in Cornwall, make it a piece of prime property . But the derelict building will need a complete revamp to make it livable .


Manchester City keeper Karen Bardsley has until 6pm Tuesday to answer a FA charge for violent conduct after an ugly goalmouth altercation with Birmingham City's Freda Ayisi. The pair came to blows as they jostled for position before a corner in their sides' 0-0 draw in Women's Super League One on Sunday before video of the incident went viral. Ayisi was sent off following the 45th-minute incident but after the referee's report confirmed he had not seen Bardsley's involvement in the scuffle and FA charge was brought. Video footage catches Manchester City keeper Karen Bardsley and Birmingham City's Freda Ayisi clash . Video footage of the incident shows Ayisi use her elbow on Bardsley's chest, to which the 30-year-old keeper reacts with a swinging arm of her own. Ayisi then strikes Bardsley twice more before they were separated. American-born Bardsley, who has played 43 times for England's senior women's side, said she had contacted Birmingham City and regretted the altercation. 'Passions ran high against Birmingham yesterday. Viewing the footage again, I regret the incident with Freda Ayisi,' Bardsley posted on Twitter. 'Whilst I was provoked, it was out of character for me to react in that way. I’ve contacted Birmingham to apologise for my involvement.' The goalmouth incident occurred on Sunday in Man City and Birmingham City's 0-0 draw . The referee sends off Ayisi for her involvement in the incident but he didn't see Bardsley's involvement . Bardsley, who has played 43 times for England, has contacted Birmingham to apologise .

Summary: Karen Bardsley traded blows with Birmingham City's Freda Ayisi . Ayisi was sent off but the referee missed Bardsley's involvement . The Man City keeper has until 6pm Tuesday to answer the FA charge . Bardsley said she contacted Birmingham to apologise for my involvement .


Suresh Raina hit an unbeaten 110 as India defeated Zimbabwe by six-wickets to ensure they finished the group stages unbeaten. Earlier, Brendan Taylor had hit an impressive 138 in his final match for Zimbabwe before moving to England to play for county side Nottinghamshire as a Kolpak player. However, the 29-year-old was denied a fairytale ending by Raina and MS Dohni as the reigning champions were pushed hard to ensure they kept up their winning momentum. Suresh Raina of India celebrates after scoring a century during India's victory against Zimbabwe on Saturday . Raina waves his bat in celebration as captain MS Dhoni congratulates his team-mate . Despite being an emotional day for Taylor, who had spoken about his sadness at leaving the international stage, he became the first Zimbabwean player ever to hit back-to-back World Cup centuries. And, on a record-breaking day Taylor passed his mentor Alistair Campbell for the most one-day international hundreds scored with his eighth ton. For India, they passed their first real test as they stretched their World Cup winning streak to 10 – behind only Australia on 25. On a green wicket, batting first always seemed like the ideal option but having won the toss Dhoni said he wanted his side to be tested and face a chase, so chose to bowl. It seemed unlikely that Dhoni was going to be granted his wish as his consistently impressive trio of fast bowlers, Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav and Mohit Sharma, each took an early wicket to reduce Zimbabwe to 33-3. Plenty of supporters were still finding their way into Eden Park when a fuller Yadav delivery caught the outside edge of Hamilton Masakadza’s bat (2) and Dohni took a low catch behind the stumps. Raina's unbeaten 110 earned him the Player of the Match trophy as India kept up 100 per cent record . Zimbabwe skipper Brendan Taylor hit an impressive 138 in his final international match . Six balls later Chamu Chibhabha (7) followed his fellow opener back into the hut as he sent a thick edge into the hand of Shihkar Dhawan in the slips off the bowling of Shami. And when Solomon Mire was caught behind off Mohit for a turgid nine from 22-balls, Zimbabwe looked to be buckling against the world champions. However, it arguably brought Zimbabwe’s two best batsmen, Taylor and Sean Williams, to the crease and together they rebuilt their side’s innings. The pair shared a 93-run fourth wicket partnership as both batsman battled against each other to reach their half-centuries first, with the chase won by captain Taylor. Williams (50) followed suit the very next ball but then fell tamely has he attempted to whack the ball hard past bowler Ravichandran Ashwin only to be caught sharply by the spinner. Taylor though wasn’t willing to leave the international stage without a personal milestone and he found a willing partner in Craig Ervine to help him to his ton. Taylor takes his helmet off as he celebrates his second successive century . As the wicketkeeper-batsman passed 73 he became the highest

Summary: India beat Zimbabwe by six wickets at in Auckland, New Zealand . Suresh Raina hit an unbeaten 110 as India made it six wins in Pool B . Brendan Taylor scored 138 for Zimbabwe in his final international match . It was Zimbabwe's fifth defeat during the group stages .


You'd never know it with his clothes on, but 22-year-old blogger Matt Diaz is carrying around sizable rolls of excess skin underneath his shirt, and he's finally ready to reveal it to his fans. Mr Diaz, from Brooklyn, New York, has lost an impressive 270lbs from his nearly-500lb frame since the age of 16 - a journey he's documented on his Tumblr blog, My Annoyances - but he has 'never' shown his excess skin before, and says he can no longer 'preach' about body positivity while continuing to hide his own flaws. So, in an emotional video he shared on Tuesday, Mr Diaz removed his shirt and stated: 'I'm really scared to put this up. But I think it's important for me to share this with you guys, because this is who I am.' Laid bare: Blogger Matt Diaz, 22, revealed his excess skin in an emotional video he made for his fans this week, saying he could no longer 'preach' about body positivity and continue to hide his own flaws . Before and after: Mr Diaz, from Brooklyn, New York, has lost an impressive 270lbs from his nearly-500lb frame since the age of 16 (left) - pictured (right) after his weight loss . Mr Diaz, who is on the verge of tears throughout the five-minute video, says he suffered 'an anxiety attack' before going ahead with the big reveal. 'I have stretch marks, I have birth marks, I have all this excess skin,' he says as he shifts from side to side and showcases his folds of skin. 'I'm scared people won't find me attractive anymore. I'm scared that all the nice messages will stop.' On the contrary, Mr Diaz was amazed to receive nothing but support from his fans and followers. 'You are gorgeous Matt, I would date you,' wrote one user. 'This is hands down the bravest thing I’ve ever seen,' commented another. Not easy: Mr Diaz, who is on the verge of tears throughout the five-minute video, says he suffered 'an anxiety attack' before going ahead with the big reveal . This is me: 'I have stretch marks, I have birth marks, I have all this excess skin,' he says . No trolls: Mr Diaz was amazed to receive nothing but support from his fans and followers in response to the video . Mr Diaz, who describes himself as a 'writer, comedian [and] all-around f*** up', states in the video: 'I want to be proud of who I am, and I want all of you to be proud of who you are, and part of that is not hiding it.' Despite working out 'hard' and following a healthy diet plan, Mr Diaz knew that the only way he would be able to get rid of his excess skin would be with surgery. With that in mind, he set up a GoFundMe campaign on Wednesday to raise the $20,000 he needs for the procedure, and already, donations have reached $32,000. Transformation: Mr Diaz, pictured before (left) and (after) his weight loss, is barely recognizable now as the boy he

Summary: Blogger Matt Diaz, 22, weighed nearly 500lbs at the age of 16 . Over six years, he has lost 270lbs . Despite working out 'hard', he is unable to shift the excess skin resulting from weight loss . Since Mr Diaz revealed himself shirtless in a video to his fans, donations of over $30,000 have flooded in for him to get skin surgery .


We've divided the Premier League into teams from the north and south of England - with Welsh side Swansea included in the south. Rob Draper had the choice to pick any players from the south teams, in any formation, with no limit on the number of players from each club. Here's how we split the clubs: . South . Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Leicester City, QPR, Southampton, Swansea City, Spurs, West Brom, West Ham United . North . Burnley, Everton, Hull City, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Newcastle United, Stoke City, Sunderland . North vs South. It is perhaps the fiercest argument between the people of England. But without dipping into the political allegiances, property prices and weather, we're sticking to the ultimate debating point – football. This week we are starting a new North vs South debate - who would you pick and who would win? In the NBA, each season they stage an All-Star match that pits the best from the West against the cream of the East. And wouldn't it be fascinating if the Premier League adopted a similar event? Kicking off today, Rob Draper selects his South XI - plus seven subs. A full explanation of the criteria is below. Tomorrow, Joe Bernstein will reveal his North XI. Then on Wednesday, we'll reveal who would win the match thanks to our friends at Football Manager. And, as always, we want you to tell us who you would have picked in your team... Chelsea are top of the Premier League, and they provide the back-bone of our south XI to face the north . Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea) Not much to say – either him or David de Gea as goalkeeper of the season, so he’s a natural for the southern No 1 slot. Right back: Nathaniel Clyne (Southampton) You can wrestle this one back and forth with Branislav Ivanovic who has been superb. But I want a little more pace from my full backs and also am looking to the future by giving Clyne the nod. Centre back: Jose Fonte (Southampton) Everyone thought Dejan Lovren was the mainstay of the Southampton defence – but quietly getting on with his job and holding together the best back four in the country has been Fonte. Thibaut Courtois has proven himself to be a genuine Premier League star in his first season in England . Nathaniel Clyne (left) has earned himself an England spot, and keeps Branislav Ivanovic out of our side . Despite losing his centre back partner last summer, Jose Fonte has marshalled the best defence in the league . Centre back: John Terry (Captain) (Chelsea) Would be ridiculous not to pick him – the best defender in the Premier League at present. Left back: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea) Outstanding. Unfussy and consistently good. Best left back in the Premier League. Defensive midfield: Nemanja Matic (Chelsea) For months he has been the pivotal player for Chelsea in providing balance – in the mould of Patrick Vieira and there is no higher praise. Defensive midfield: Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton) The

Summary: No place for Diego Costa or Olivier Giroud as Harry Kane leads the line . Southampton and Chelsea - the Premier League's meanest defences - make up the entire back seven of our Southern XI . Eden Hazard and Alexis Sanchez will play with Santi Cazorla behind Kane . We'll test who is better with help from Football Manager .


Warm weather has returned at last to the Northeast and Midwest, after months of frigid winter. In New York City today, temperatures jumped above freezing to around 48°F, while in Philadelphia the mercury was just shy of 50. According to forecasts, the warmth is set to remain for at least the next few days, melting much of the snow still remaining across the northern parts of the country. Springing: Cities across the Midwest and Northeast are warming up - and are due to stay that way for some days . Further south, in Washington, D.C., temperatures of 57°F were recorded - with the warmth set to stick around for several days. Boston was at 40 degrees Sunday afternoon - but falling temperatures through the evening could bring more snow showers to Massachusetts Bay. The city is now teetering some two inches away from breaking its all-time snowfall record of 107.6 inches, which is likely to fall if the projected snowfall takes place. However, across much of the nation snow was retreating rapidly, with more than half the area covered by snow this time a week ago now bare. Snow in retreat: The above map snows the snow coverage across the United States on Sunday, which 30.1 per cent of the nation was blanketed - a sharp drop from earlier . Last week: On Sunday March 1, 63.4 per cent of the U.S. had snow cover - more than half of which has melted . On March 1, 63.4 per cent of the contiguous United States was covered in snow, while by March 8 the figure was 30.1 per cent, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Higher temperatures have already been creeping northwards over the weekend, especially in the lower Midwest. The Weather Channel reported that Kansas City hit 70 degrees, while parts of Montana and South Dakota were in the low 60s. Warmer temperatures are due to remain at least as long as Tuesday, which will see some central areas of the United States soar to 25 degrees above their regular mid-March average. Heating up: According to AccuWeather, the above highs could strike halfway into next week . Shifting: The Weather Channel shows above how the changing jet stream will affect temperatures . Around the Great Lakes, highs above freezing point will settle in. Minneapolis and Chicago could breach 50 degrees by Tuesday in highs most recently seen as long ago as early November. According to AccuWeather forecasters, the high temperatures are linked to changes in frigid arctic air systems. They had been squatting . Alex Sosnowski, a senior meteorologist, said: 'A change in the weather pattern will turn off arctic air invasions to allow the March sun to go to work over much of the central and northeastern United States'.

Summary: New York City, Chicago and Washington, D.C., are all well above freezing . Warmth is due to continue into next week, with highs breaching 60°F . Snow cover across the country has halved from 63% to 31% in a week . However, Boston could still be due more snow in the next few days .


A Russian schoolboy has been filmed falling 100 feet to his death after accidentally grabbing a 30,000 volt electricity cable while making a free-climbing video. The 14-year-old, identified only by the name 'Maxim', was climbing along the top of a railway bridge in the capital Moscow while a friend of the same age filmed his dangerous stunt. After walking along the metal railing once, Maxim stops and walks towards the edge of the bridge to get a better view. However he appears to stumble and instinctively grabs the high voltage cable, which electrocutes him and causes him to fall on to the railway tracks below. Risky: The 14-year-old, identified only by the name 'Maxim', was climbing along the top of a railway bridge in the capital Moscow while a friend of the same age filmed his dangerous stunt . Shock: After walking along the metal railing once, Maxim stops and walks towards the edge of the bridge to get a better view. However he appears to stumble and instinctively grabs the high voltage cable . Transport police in Russia issued the disturbing video as a warning to others against performing dangerous stunts on railway lines in order to get pictures and video to put on social media. Maxim had climbed onto the top of the railway bridge not far from Sheremetyevo International Airport in the Russian capital Moscow together with a friend also aged 14-years-old. And as the second schoolboy videoed, Maxim crouched as he edged his way towards the end of the bridge and then turned round and slowly walked back, this time standing higher. Seconds later he appears to lose his balance and instinctively grabs the 30,000 volt electricity cable in the hope of regaining his balance. However a cloud of smoke is seen coming from the schoolboy's right hand as the current knocks him unconscious and causes him to tumble off the railing on to the railway tracks 100 feet below. Horror: A cloud of smoke is seen coming from the schoolboy's right hand as the current knocks him unconscious and causes him to tumble off the railing on to the railway tracks 100 feet below . Plummet: Maxim's tragic death was captured on film by his 14-year-old schoolboy friend . The 14-year-old was climbing along the top of this bridge when he slipped and fell to his death . The schoolboy fell from the top of the bridge on to the railway lines 100 feet below . Transport police spokeswoman Jana Vasilieva said: 'This was a tragic accident that cost a young man his life and illustrates the danger of trespassing on railway property. 'The incident is still being investigated though so we cannot say any more this stage.' Video of the incident emerged on the same day a shocking video was released showing the moment passers-by refused to help a fatally injured young man who burst into flames while trying to steal copper wire from an electricity substation. The unidentified South African, who appears to be in his teens, was seen with horrific burns covering most of

Summary: Schoolboy named Maxim was filmed climbing a railway bridge in Moscow . He walked to the edge of the a metal railing but appeared to lose balance . The 14-year-old then instinctively grabbed a 30,000 volt electricity cable . He suffered a massive electric shock which caused him to fall on to the railways tracks 100 feet below .


An 80-year-old driver who killed a grandmother when his foot slipped on the accelerator was seen laughing outside court after being handed only a £500 fine and a two-year driving ban. Thomas Gidman hit his neighbour Irene Wills, 75, in his Ford Focus, crushing her against a wall. The grandmother of three had to have her leg amputated and died in agony in hospital six days later, leaving her husband of 52 years bereft. Yesterday Joe Wills, 77, told of his anger and astonishment that Gidman had escaped ‘scot-free’ with only a ‘slap on the wrist’ over his wife’s death last September. Wheelchair-bound Thomas Gidman, 80, from Stoke-on-Trent, (pictured above with friends outside court) was sitting in his stationary car when his foot slipped on the accelerator and the vehicle crashed into Irene Wills . 'A two-year driving ban and a £500 fine for taking my wife's life is ludicrous,' he said. ‘I’m not an awful person but if you lose your wife you expect more than this. 'Everybody thought it was going to be in the crown court but he has been given a slap on the wrists. Mr Wills, from Norton, Stoke-on-Trent, did not attend court earlier this week after being told by police that the matter was likely to be transferred to the Crown Court. However, Gidman pleaded guilty to causing Mrs Wills’s death through careless driving at his first appearance at North Staffordshire Justice Centre, and was immediately sentenced by magistrates. 'I was waiting for the case to be sent off to crown court - I thought it was impossible when I heard he had been sentenced on Tuesday,' said Mr Wills. 'The charge should have have been much more serious - it is shocking. ‘I actually thought they were kidding me. He has got away scot-free for killing my wife. ‘We had the best life together and it was cruelly snatched away like this and all he gets is a slap on the wrist, and has the cheek to laugh about it. I am still distraught and really very angry that justice has not been served. I will love Irene until the day I die. I just cannot believe that a life can be that cheap.’ Irene Wills (pictured above with her husband Joe), died aged 75, after being pinned against a wall by Gidman's car after his foot slipped on the accelerator. She had a leg amputated but died from her injuries . Chairman of the bench Howard Ball told Gidman: ‘We feel no amount of fines or other community activity is going to change this very, very sad situation.’ Outside court, wheelchair-bound Gidman was seen laughing with friends. Magistrates heard Gidman was waiting for his daughter in his car in a doctor’s surgery car park when his foot slipped on to the accelerator. The car leapt forward in a 90-degree arc, propelled by ‘high-level harsh acceleration’, crossed a road, then hit Mrs Wills, a retired kitchen assistant, as she walked just yards from her home. The court heard how witnesses reported a 'high-level harsh acceleration'

Summary: Thomas Gidman sitting in stationary car when foot slipped on accelerator . 80-year-old's car lurched forward and crashed into grandmother Irene Wills . She was pinned against wall and needed leg amputation but died days later . Gidman admitted causing death by driving without due care and attention . He was given two-year driving ban, fined £500 and ordered to pay £85 costs . Joe Wills, 77, said he had lost 'the best wife in the world, his best friend, lover and companion' and described Gidman's punishment as 'ludicrous'


With their exit from the FA Cup against Arsenal, Manchester United's attention now rests solely on their Premier League campaign. Supporters won't expect Louis van Gaal to be winning any silverware this season, but a top four finish is a must for a club that invested heavily in the summer. Is that now a realistic possibility, though? United haven't beaten a side currently in the top half of the Premier League since their home win against Liverpool in mid December last year. Manchester United face a testing final 10 games in the Premier League, they'll play all of their rivals . Louis van Gaal has won less than half of his games against side's in the top six of the Premier League . To make matters worse, they now face the prospect of playing four of the top six in their next five games (and all of them before the end of the season). With Liverpool just a point behind United in the league, and Tottenham a further two points behind them, Van Gaal knows he can't afford to slip up. His record against the top six, though, is not especially encouraging. A fortuitous win at Arsenal and comfortable victory against an out-of-form Liverpool are the only notable moments. Monday's FA Cup tie proves the Gunners will be no pushover and Liverpool are unbeaten in the league since their loss at Old Trafford in 2014. With just 10 games to go until the end of the campaign - half are away from home and half are against direct rivals - Van Gaal and his side will need to show considerably better form to secure Champions League football next season. After Angel di Maria's red card against Arsenal, United will be without their record signing for the next match . United will have to stop the league's most in-form striker when they face Tottenham in their next game . Tottenham (H) - Sunday March 15 . These two sides drew 0-0 at White Hart Lane earlier in the season but with the Premier League's most in-form striker among Spurs' ranks this will be a stern test for United, who will be without the suspended Angel di Maria. Liverpool (A) - Sunday March 22 . A formidable proposition for Van Gaal. Liverpool haven't lost in the league in three months and have won nine of their last 11 matches. Aston Villa (H) - Saturday April 4 . A month ago United fans would have considered this an easy win but Tim Sherwood has reinvigorated Villa, who have now won their last two games in all competitions. Liverpool have not lost a Premier League game since they were beaten by United in December 2014 . United still have to host their fiercest rivals, and Premier League champions, Manchester City . Manchester City (H) - Sunday April 12 . United lost to their rivals 1-0 at the Etihad Stadium, City aren't in the most convincing spell of form but they are the Premier League champions nonetheless. Chelsea (A) - Saturday April 18 . Away at the

Summary: Manchester United have to face Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea in their next five games (and Arsenal later down the line) Louis van Gaal has just 10 games left to save United's season . Haven't beaten a side currently in the top half of the table since December . READ: United will not win a trophy in two seasons for first time in 26 years . Ian Ladyman: Manchester United are playing Hackney Marshes football . CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester United news .


The investigation into claims of a VIP paedophile sex ring widened dramatically yesterday after police raided the home of a disgraced Tory MP. Harvey Proctor, 68, had been named on a list of politicians passed to police by campaigning Labour MP John Mann. Scotland Yard officers spent two days searching his grace-and-favour home at Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire after a police team arrived on the estate on Wednesday. Harvey Proctor insisted he was a 'discreet' man and had never been part of 'any rent boy ring' with Cabinet ministers, MPs or military top brass . Former Essex MP Proctor, who quit Parliament in 1987 after admitting ‘spanking sessions’ with rent boys, was forced to deny any knowledge of the abuse and deaths of three young boys. He said he did not attend Westminster ‘sex parties’ at an exclusive address near Parliament and claimed to be trapped in a ‘Kafka-esque fantasy’. It is understood that investigators now have up to nine current and former senior politicians on Mr Mann’s list in their sights as the sensitive inquiry gathers pace. Speaking last night, Mr Mann said he was pleased at the progress of the investigation and insisted that ‘no stone must be left unturned’. ‘It is encouraging to see that the Met are continuing to fully investigate allegations of child abuse and prominent people,’ he added. Mr Proctor today said he knew nothing about the allegations and wanted to talk to police at the 'earliest opportunity' Proctor faces being interviewed under caution within weeks by detectives with the Met’s Operation Midland squad – which was set up in November to investigate claims of a VIP Westminster child sex abuse ring in the 1970s and 1980s. Victims have come forward to claim men in powerful positions abused boys at the luxury Dolphin Square apartments in Pimlico. They are also examining allegations that figures in politics, the military and law enforcement abused children at other locations. At the centre of the inquiry is an eyewitness described by police as ‘credible’ who claims three of those abused were murdered. In addition, detectives are examining a list passed to them by Mr Mann last December which identifies 22 potential suspects across the political spectrum. It is believed that Proctor’s name has been repeatedly given to police by at least two alleged victims. On Wednesday, detectives arrived at Belvoir Castle near Grantham – the seat of the Duke of Rutland – where Proctor has lived since 2003. They searched at least two properties on the 16,000-acre estate including a red ramshackle building he moved out of in recent months. A Metropolitan Police spokesman confirmed the search. Proctor quickly proclaimed his innocence yesterday, denying any knowledge of abuse or murders. Standing in the grounds of Belvoir Castle, he said he is ‘helping police with their inquiries’. Earlier he told BBC Radio 4: ‘I find myself in a very Kafka-esque fantasy situation. I have never attended sex parties at Dolphin Square or anywhere else. I have not been part of any rent-boy ring with Cabinet ministers, other Members of Parliament or

Summary: Harvey Proctor denies attending sex parties in London's Dolphin Square . Says he knows 'nothing about' claims three young men were murdered . Is in 'Kafka-esque situation' of not knowing why police investigating him . Detectives from Operation Midland searched his house overnight . He lives in the grounds of Belvoir Castle near Grantham, in Leicestershire . In 1987 pleaded guilty to gross indecency for having underage gay sex . Labour MP John Mann said many more Westminster figures will be probed . Mr Mann has handed police list of 22 politicians accused of historic abuse .


Five suspects including a policeman who served in Chechnya have appeared in court over the assassination of Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov. Their appearances come a week after the 55-year-old was shot four times in the back while walking along a bridge in full view of the Kremlin with his model girlfriend Anna Duritskaya, 23. One of the suspects - Zaur Dadayev - has allegedly made a statement confirming his guilt, Judge Nataliya Mushnikova said. She did not specify his actions. All of the men were escorted from a bus to Basmanny district court, in Moscow, with their hands bound in front of them and masked men standing either side. Scroll down for video . Five suspects including a policeman who served in Chechnya have appeared in a Moscow court over the assassination of Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov. One of the suspects, Tamerlan Eskerkhanov, is pictured above . Another suspect is Zaur Dadayev, who is believed to have served for around ten years in the 'Sever' battalion, part of the interior ministry of Chechnya. Judge Nataliya Mushnikova said he has now made a statement confirming his involvement . Once inside they continued to be flanked by armed guards and were forced to speak from a defendant's cage. The Investigative Committee, the state agency leading the investigation, applied to the court to formally arrest the suspects. All five will now remain in custody. Meanwhile a sixth man thought to be involved in Mr Nemtsov's death blew himself up after being approached by police at his apartment block, Interfax said. The 30-year-old reportedly threw a grenade at officers in Grozny, Chechnya, on Saturday night before setting one off near himself. The court heard that Dadayev, 33, served for around ten years in the 'Sever' battalion, which is part of the interior ministry of Chechnya. His sister confirmed that he had won medals for bravery and courage. Judge Mushnikova added: 'Dadayev’s involvement in committing this crime is confirmed by, apart from his own confession, the totality of evidence gathered as part of this criminal case.' Anzor Gubashev, who worked for a private security company in Moscow, was named as another suspect. He denied any involvement. Alexander Bortnikov, the head of Russia's federal security service, said Dadayev and Gubashev were 'suspected of carrying out the crime'. It was not clear if either of the men were believed to have fired the shots that killed Mr Nemtsov. Nemtsov (left) and his 23-year-old model girlfriend, Anna Duritskaya (right), were walking through Moscow when he was shot four times in the back . The masked men who escorted the suspects up a set of stairs carried large guns and kept completely covered in dark clothing . Russian state investigators said they are seeking the arrest of five suspects, who appeared in court earlier today . Even when they were inside the building the suspects were kept bent over and well within the grasps of the armed guards . Four guards escort Dadayev, one of the main suspects, to and from the courtroom. They carry several guns between them

Summary: Investigative Committee applied to court for formal arrest of five suspects accused of Boris Nemtsov's murder . Appearances come a week after 55-year-old was shot four times in the back while walking near the Kremlin . Suspect Zaur Dadayev has now admitted involvement in the crime, according to Russian news authorities . He was arrested in Ingushetia and is thought to have served for ten years in the 'Sever' battalion in Chechnya . All of the men were escorted into court from a bus with hands bound and masked guards either side . Other suspects are Anzor Gubashev, Shagid Gubashev, Khamzat Bakhayev and Tamerlan Eskerkhanov . Meanwhile a sixth man thought to be involved blew himself up with a grenade after being approached by police .


When photographer Trent Parke was just 13-years-old he was at home alone with his mother when she died from an asthma attack right in front of his eyes. In an instant the Sydney photo journalist's childhood was gone and his whole life changed forever. He refused to attend her funeral, too traumatised by what had happened and blocked out all his memories. Instead he locked himself away in his mother's darkroom in their Newcastle home and picked up her camera, which hasn't left his side since. Ants on Jatz cracker biscuit,Dampier, Western Australia, 2011 . Now, 43-year-old Parke, who is the only Australian member of the prestigious group Magnum, has unlocked his harrowing childhood for the first time, showcasing nearly 2000 photographs at the Art Gallery of South Australia as part of his Black Rose exhibition. 'From the moment that mum died it was just get on with it get on with life,' Trent told Daily Mail Australia. 'I would sit there and think about from that point on: Why are we here? Where are we going? What is life? and ever since then I've been continually searching and looking for the answers to life and the camera always helped me do that.' Tree, Drysdale River, Western Australia, 2011 . Trent Parke (pictured) ha delved into his harrowing childhood memories as part of his new exhibition . Swan, Adelaide, 2007 . 'It's been a way of trying to deal with something I didn't ever want to deal with.' As he grew older, Parke's main ambition was to become a professional cricketer. After playing for NSW, Parke moved to Adelaide to join the cricket academy but soon realised the career wasn't for him. He took a job at the Daily Telegraph and soon after became a photographer for The Age, which sent him touring with the Australian cricket team. Slippery dip, Gundegal, New South Wales, 2007 . Limestone Coast,South Australia, 2007 . However, when Parke's landlord called saying he needed his house back, Parke took it as a sign. He and his wife, photographer Narelle Autio, picked up their two boys and set off on the journey of a lifetime, taking seven years to embark on a path of discovering, which cumulated in The Black Rose exhibition. The items in the exhibition, his largest ever, have been hand-picked from more than 7,000 reels of film, 15,000 words scribbled in diaries, and 14 published books. Fever, Dash,Adelaide, 2014 . Parke used his camera like therapy on his trip and he admits it got him through the tough experience of losing a parent. The Black Rose symbolises his long journey, his mother's funeral and the fact that she is not alive any more. While on his way around Australia, Parke came across a black rose and took a cutting of it, planting it in his garden so he and his father and brothers can use it as place where they can remember their mum. The black rose is now 1.5m long and is a strong symbol for the prestigious photographer. Cockatoo, Newcastle, New South Wales,

Summary: Photographer Trent Parke watched his mother die when he was 13 . Traumatised he locked away memories of his past . Then he embarked on a journey of Australia and took over 7000 photos . Now he has unlocked his past and is showcasing the pictures at the Art Gallery of South Australia .


NSW Labor leader Luke Foley is campaigning to be the state's new Premier . A political party's attempt to use LOL cat memes as part of their election campaign has backfired after social media users pointed out they should be focusing on policy not comedy. NSW Labor, whose leader Luke Foley is campaigning to win the upcoming state election, posted a series of cat memes targeted at Liberal Premier Mike Baird on Saturday which they renamed 'Caturday'. But the party's Facebook fans were quick to point out cat memes had ‘become a bit passé’ and blasted ‘get your message across in an adult way, as it is adults who vote’. One meme showed two cats yawning with the tagline: ‘Mike Baird says prices won’t go up. LOL.’ Another showed a grumpy looking cat with the line: ‘Electricity privatisation… no.’ While a cute post showed a cat and a kitten cuddling with the words: ‘Labor is investing in schools for your little one.’ One fan of the NSW Labor party page, Sammy Yousef, wrote: ‘This is the best you’ve got? Freakin’ lolcats? That’s your counterargument? 'You have the easiest job of any opposition in the history of this country and you’re being so idiotic about it there’s STILL a danger we’ll end up with LNP.’ NSW Labor posted a series of cat memes targeted at Liberal Premier Mike Baird on Saturday which they renamed 'Caturday' One of NSW Labor's Facebook posts includes a grumpy looking cat with the words 'Mike Baird... no' One fan of the NSW Labor party page, Sammy Yousef, wrote: ‘This is the best you’ve got? Freakin’ lolcats?' Will Sawyer said: ‘Seriously using grumpy cat for political advertisement is seriously cringe worthy. I say this out of concern.’ On March 28, NSW residents will be required to vote for the 56th Parliament. Jason Muller commented: ‘Omfg how pathetic! Ur resorting to using cats to get votes!... Game over! Jesus Christ!’ Jenni May said: ‘Why the Hallmark cat ads? Aren’t you trying to sell intelligent political concepts. This approach will alienate all the “dog” people out there.’ '$1,000+ courses at TAFE? No thanks,' NSW Labor wrote alongside this cute kitten . Kate Marksell called for less cat posts and more 'policy, policy, policy please' 'Take it from this cat - whatever Mike Baird tries to tell you, prices will go up when he sells off our electricity network,' NSW Labor said on Facebook . The NSW Labor party used this sleeping kitten picture to illustrate how 'under Mike Baird, $3 billion has been ripped out of our healthcare system' Jason Muller commented: 'Ur resorting to using cats to get votes!' 'Really cats? Is this what political debate in NSW has come too,’ Anthony Bosh wrote . Bev Little wrote: ‘No more cats environment not friendly.’ Kate Marksell instructed: ‘OK, I like cats but enough with the cats. Policy, policy, policy please.’ ‘Yeah but honestly pictures of cats on them has become a bit passé,’ Peter Humble replied. ‘Most people aren’t posting pictures of their own cats anymore, text or no text.

Summary: NSW Labor posted cat memes on their Facebook page on Saturday . They renamed the day 'Caturday' and targeted NSW Premier Mike Baird . NSW Labor leader Luke Foley is campaigning to become Premier . Facebook fans said cat memes had 'become a bit passé' Others blasted 'get your message across in an adult way' The state election will be held on March 28 .


Three in four households are paying up to £250 a year more on gas and electricity than they have to, official figures reveal. Most families are still on their energy firm's standard variable tariff – two years after David Cameron promised to force suppliers to put all customers on the best deal. The standard packages are £180 a year more expensive than the cheapest tariff, with some customers paying nearly £250 a year more. Three in four households are paying up to £250 a year more on gas and electricity than they have to, because they are on a standard variable tariff rather than the cheapest deal . Shadow energy secretary Caroline Flint said Mr Cameron had promised 17 times in the House of Commons to make energy suppliers automatically put all customers on their supplier's lowest tariff. She said: 'More than two years after David Cameron promised to make energy companies put all customers on the lowest tariff, millions of households are still being routinely overcharged by hundreds of pounds every single year. 'That's why the next Labour government will freeze energy prices until 2017, so that bills can fall but not rise, give the regulator the power to force energy suppliers to cut their prices and end overcharging once and for all.' Last month the Competition and Markets Authority released early findings of an inquiry into the sector that the Big Six were overcharging millions of loyal customers by up to £234 a year. During Prime Minster's Question's Time, David Cameron pledged to force energy firms to put customers on the cheapest tariff . Its findings showed 95% of the UK's 19 million dual fuel customers - those who take gas and electricity from the same company - could have saved between £158 and £234 by switching tariff or supplier. The CMA found the Big Six had consistently charged higher prices for standard variable tariffs than for other deals such as fixed tariffs. Energy UK chief executive Lawrence Slade said: 'Standard variable tariffs are just that, the standard price a company is offering energy to customers. Labour's Caroline Flint said Mr Cameron had promised 17 times to make energy suppliers put all customers on the lowest tariff . 'Part of the cost of energy is an assurance that the gas and electricity has been bought months in advance, making sure energy will be available to customers when it is needed. 'New fixed-price deals are able to take advantage of short-term changes in costs and usually offer lower prices than the standard deals, often for a year or two. 'However, the important thing for customers to remember is there are a wide range of deals available in the market. 'If a customer thinks they might be able to save some money by switching tariff or company, they should log on to a comparison site or call their supplier.' Ofgem chief executive Dermot Nolan said: 'While recent price cuts are a step in the right direction, many customers could be better off to the tune of up to £250 by moving from

Summary: Families paying up to £250 a year more on energy than they have to . Three in four families are still on their energy firm's standard variable tariff . In 2013 the PM pledged to force suppliers to put all customers on best deal .


A young Polar bear has been pictured playing in the ice as he made his first public appearance at a German zoo. The cub was born at Rostock Zoo in the North East of the country in December and has now been christened Fiete after his keepers received 3,000 name suggestions. Fiete's father is a male called Lars - the same bear that fathered Knut, a cub that became a global sensation after he was born in captivity in Berlin eight years ago. Scroll down for video . Refreshments: Fiete the polar bear takes a bite at some snow on a branch in his enclosure in Rostock Zoo . Standing tall: Fiete has been pictured playing in the ice as he made his first public appearance at the zoo . Chilling out: Rostock Zoo's four-month-old bear was christened by the city's mayor Roland Methling . Explorer: Four-month-old Fiete, who weighs 20kg, wasted no time looking around his enclosure as he made his first public appearance . Rostock Zoo's four-month-old bear was christened by the city's mayor Roland Methling, who sprayed the young animal with water from a fire hose. At just four months old the bear is still living with his mother Vilma - and has already been seen exploring his snow-covered enclosure. The young animal will remain under the care of his mother for the next two years while he gathers strength. Hear me roar: The young animal will remain under the care of his mother for the next two years while he gathers strength . The cub was born at Rostock Zoo in the North East of the country in December and has now been christened Fiete after his keepers received 3,000 name suggestions . Fiete's father is a male called Lars - the same bear that fathered Knut, a cub that became a global sensation after it was born in captivity in Berlin eight years ago . The last polar bear births at the zoo were ten years ago in 2004 when twins Venus and Valeska were born . The last polar bear births at the zoo were ten years ago in 2004 when twins Venus and Valeska were born. He currently weighs in at 20kg, according to newscom.au. His older brother Knut died in 2011 from the after effects of a brain infection. Before his death, he had drawn millions of visitors to Berlin Zoo. Newscom.au reports that he was the zoo's first polar bear to live beyond infancy in 30 years .

Summary: The cub was born in Rostock Zoo in December and has been named Fiete . Four-month-old bear is still living with mother Vilma and weighs just 20kg . Fiete has been pictured taking a look around his snow-covered enclosure .


A mother and her daughter who both have a rare condition which makes their skin wrinkle prematurely have undergone matching £50,000 facelifts. Tracey Gibson, 45, and her daughter Zara Hartshorn, 18, both suffer Lipodystrophy, a rare condition which makes fat dissolve beneath tissue. While Zara had a face-lift at the age of 16 to stave off bullies, her mother has long suffered lingering stares and cruel nicknames. Having been rejected by the NHS for a free operation, the mother of seven thought she would be forever trapped in a sinking face. But, two years since her daughter received free surgery from American doctors, the 45-year-old has unveiled her new £50,000 face after being flown overseas to receive the same VIP treatment. Scroll down for video . Zara Hartshorn, 18, and her mother Tracey Gibson, 45, (above) have undergone matching £50,000 facelifts abroad after suffering a lifetime of taunts over their wrinkled skin . Before: Zara, left, aged 16 and Mrs Gibson, right, aged 45. Both women have suffered at the taunts of bullies who made fun of the rare condition which sees their skin wrinkle prematurely . After: The mother daughter duo were treated to free surgery by doctors in America after being turned down by the NHS . Speaking of the treatment- a face and neck lift plus Botox injections - Mrs Gibson, who was constantly teased as a child, says she has never felt better. 'My face is worth £50,000 and it feels absolutely amazing when I get up in the morning,' she said. 'I’ve been called a "granny" and a "monkey" all my life and when I look at old pictures now I think I looked like the dragon off Shrek. 'But now I’ve got a new lease of life and I can hold my head high when I walk down the street. I think I look pretty good now and totally different.' Mrs Gibson, who lives off disability allowance, has been plagued with low self-esteem her entire life because of the condition. While lipodystrophy can occur as a side effect of various illnesses, a small number of people in the world are born with the condition. The results can vary between sufferers. In Mrs Gibson's case her face, neck and arms were the worst affected making her look double her age at times. Now the pair say they enjoy better self-esteem and higher levels of confidence despite being turned down by the NHS . The pair (left, after the procedure and right, in 2011) are among a handful of people afflicted with Lipodystrophy in the UK . Zara (pictured aged seven) was born with the condition and teased at school. When she was 16 she was contacted by surgeons in America who offered to perform a facelift free of charge . Three of Mrs Gibson's seven children were born with the condition though Zara (left) was the worst afflicted. They are pictured above with her daughter Jolene who also has Lipodystrophy, in 2012 . Mrs Gibson, who has been married three times, said that for the fist time

Summary: Tracey Gibson and her daughter Zara Hartshorn both suffer Lipodystrophy . The rare condition makes fat dissolve beneath tissue and wrinkles skin . Zara, now 18, was offered free treatment in the U.S. when she was 16 . Her mother, 45, was rejected by the NHS when she asked for a facelift . American doctors have since treated her to the same deal as her daughter . Face and neck lift as well as multiple Botox treatments were worth £50,000 .


This is the horrifying moment a bus driver was stabbed in the eye with a Stanley knife by a passer-by. The 41-year-old was driving his route along the high street in Penge, south east London, when the suspect and another man with a dog walked out in front of the bus. The driver challenged the man, who was crossing the road with a young child, after he was forced to slam on his brakes and he proceeded to kick the doors of the bus as it passed. Appeal: Police are trying to trace this man who stabbed a bus driver in the eye with a Stanley knife and ran off . Attack: Metropolitan Police have released these CCTV images in a bid to trace the suspect, who can be seen putting his arm through the cab of the bus and stabbing him . When it stopped at a set of traffic lights further along the road the man is seen running towards the open window of his cab. He then leans inside and attacked the driver with a Stanley knife, causing a puncture wound to his eye before making off. The bus driver was taken to hospital after the incident at about 5pm on June 30 last year to receive treatment for the wound. Metropolitan Police confirmed that the bus driver has been in hospital since the attack. Officers released the CCTV images in a bid to trace the suspect, who they describe as black, thought to be in his early 20s, with afro hair and wearing a bright blue tracksuit. Anyone with information is urged to contact PC Jay Thorn on 020 3054 8978 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting ref 152798. The incident began when the man was crossing the road with a toddler followed by a man with a dog and they stepped out in front of the bus . The man and the child continue to walk in front of the bus while the other man and his dog stay at one side . He steps up onto the pavement where he is challenged by the driver about walking out in front of the bus . The man is caught on camera as he kicks the bus door from behind as it passes on the high street in Penge . The bus driver, who the police have not named, is then seen in his seat while waiting at a red traffic signal . The suspect runs up to the side of the bus while it's waiting in traffic at about 5pm on June 30 last year . CCTV footage then shows the man punching his arm through the open window of the bus driver's seat . He is armed with a Stanley knife, which he uses to stab the bus driver in the eye, causing a puncture wound . The man then makes off down the street. The bus driver was taken to hospital, where he remains receiving treatment and police are still trying to trace the suspect, who they describe as in his early 20s

Summary: The 41-year-old bus driver was taking usual route along Penge high street . Suspect holding a child's hand and a man with a dog walked in front of bus . Driver forced to slam on brakes and challenged man, who kicked bus doors . When bus stops at traffic lights he leans in cab and stabs driver in the eye . Man escaped down road and driver was rushed to hospital for treatment . Police released CCTV in a bid to trace suspect, described as in early 20s .


If Uxizandre’s Ryanair Chase success on Thursday is to be AP McCoy’s last Festival win - the 31st of his career - it will stick long in the memory. But, typically, at least for the time being, it will be confined to the recesses of the McCoy memory bank as he fixes his thoughts on the prospect of a fairy-tale end to his Cheltenham career on Friday afternoon. Over breakfast, he might afford himself a smile - of contentment not satisfaction, you don’t win 19 championships being satisfied - as he dares to dream what might be when his Betfred Gold Cup mount, Carlingford Lough, begins his bid for glory shortly after 3.20pm. One thing is certain, the mood will be better at the McCoy table than it was 24 hours earlier. AP McCoy rides Uxizandre to victory in Thursday’s Ryanair Chase for his 31st Cheltenham Festival win . McCoy celebrates with the trophy after his first Festival win of 2015 with his Peadar McCoy by his side . Wife Chanelle admitted the atmosphere had been ‘melancholy’ after two fruitless days amid, no doubt, a creeping fear that things were not going her husband’s way for his last performances on the greatest of jump racing stages. McCoy's wife Chanelle admitted a ‘melancholy’ had come over AP after two winless days but that he was delighted to break his duck on the 16-1 shot . All that changed when 16-1 shot Uxizandre, not even the first string of his trainer Alan King in the Ryanair Chase but transformed by the fitting of a visor, galloped out in front and never looked like being caught as he passed the finishing line five lengths clear of Ma Filleule. Even the crowd seemed stunned at first. The roar took time to grow but by the time McCoy had returned to the winners’ enclosure, they were raising three cheers. After being joined on the winner’s podium by Chanelle, his father Peadar and boss JP McManus, McCoy said: ‘Cheltenham is a very special place. It is where every jockey wants to win and I am no different. These are the days I am going to miss that’s for sure. ‘I had lots of rides coming into the week but did not have any real bankers. ‘You have to keep going race after race and hope one of them wins. That is how my life has normally been, so there is no point changing this week. ‘I was all right. You can try your best to make them go faster but you need the horse — and this horse is very well. ‘I was a bit worried he would not have the stamina to see it out but he got a lot of the others in trouble trying to keep up with him.’ McManus, his ally for a decade, looked as if he derived just as much satisfaction at being able to supply one last winner for his retained jockey as he does landing one of his legendary punts. He said: ‘It is great to have a man like

Summary: AP McCoy rode his 31st Festival winner on Uxizandre in the Ryanair Chase . His win on the 16-1 shot came after two frustrating days without success . McCoy rides Carlingford Lough in the Betfred Gold Cup on Friday . Carlingford Lough has given McCoy four wins in nine rides so far . JP McManus said Carlingford Lough 'has a chance in a very open race' On how he would replace McCoy, McManus joked: 'We’ve had him cloned’


In Cuba's socialist wonderland even the stray dogs are issued with identification cards and provided with state sponsored accommodation and health care. More than a dozen state institutions have 'adopted' a stray dog, which is then issued with an official state identity card bearing its photograph name and where it lives. Five of the dogs live at Old Havana's Museum of Metalwork and regularly patrol the streets after hours. When not patrolling, each of the dogs can be found sleeping underneath the institution's grand stairway. Vladimir the former street dog now lives at the Old Havana Museum of Metalwork in Havana, Cuba . Each of the street dogs is given an official identity badge with its photograph and contact details . Security Guards Dary Valdes, left, and Margarita Garcia, right, enjoy looking after their unusual colleagues . The dogs, Vladimir, Canela, Aparicio, Leon and Carinoso spend the days avoiding the hot Caribbean sun among the museum's artworks. All of the dogs afforded the special status are immune from the attentions of Havana's dog catcher. Yarisbel Perez, who works in one of the historic buildings in Plaza Vieja, in the centre of the old city, said: 'I don't like dogs but I've really developed a soft spot in my heart for them.' Ms Perez and her colleagues are responsible for two dogs, Nina and P9, who is named after a bus line in the city. Ms Perez feed her dogs half-eaten pork chips and left-over chicken and rice from a nearby restaurant. Ordinarily, all animals are banned from workplaces in Cuba with the exemption of guard dogs. Nora Garcia, President of the Cuban Association for the Protection of Plants and Animals said the dogs were afforded their special status after a guard was awoken one night by a barking dog who noticed some people were looking to steal an air conditioning unit. Guard Yarisbel Perez said she did not initially like the dogs but has since developed a soft spot for them . The dogs are afforded special protection from Havana's dog catcher because of their security role . Leon, Canela, Vladimir and Aparicio pictured are four of the five dogs at the metalwoork museum . Ms Garcia said: 'There was a public ceremony in which the dog received an award for saving the air conditioners.' Some security guards adopt the dogs to alleviate the boredom of protecting buildings in a city with little crime. Victoria Pacheco, who works in the metalwork museum said: 'They don't eat bones. They eat cold cuts, mincemeat, hotdogs and liver.' The animal protection society maintains a list of 21 dogs living in state institutions, including a Communist Party gas station, offices of the Cuban Journalists' Union and a mechanical workshop of the Ministry of Public Health. Dalia Garcia, caretaker of a public toilet has taken responsibility for two of the dogs. 'They stay here and nothing happens to them. Everyone takes care of them, no one hits them. They don't bark and they don't bite anyone.' Each of the dogs is provided with free healthcare and accommodation

Summary: Dozens of state institutions in Cuba have decided to adopt a stray dog . The dogs are issued with their own special identity cards with pictures . The dogs were appointed after they foiled attempts to steal a/c units .


A woman with multiple sclerosis was forced to get out of her power wheelchair and carried on stage to speak at a disability conference. Speaker Deborah Haygarth was hoisted out of her chair and escorted by two people up the four stairs between the floor and the raised stage. Disability rights advocate Jax-Jacki Brown was at the National Disability Summit at Melbourne's Sheraton Hotel last Thursday and was outraged by the oversight. Speaker Deborah Haygarth, who has multiple sclerosis, was forced to get out of her wheelchair and carried by two people on and off the stage . 'I thought 'They're going to pull out a ramp, they obviously planned for this',' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'No ramp was forthcoming so the next best thing is they are going to move the table and microphone so she can sit with everyone else, but they didn't do that. 'They suggested she move out of her chair and be carried on by two people.' Ms Brown - who is a wheelchair-user herself - said it was degrading to see a person in a wheelchair be treated like that. 'It just removes your agency and your power to move around the world,' she said. 'It makes you dependent on someone to give assistance. To add further insult, chairs were stacked inside the disabled toilets, preventing people from using it . 'It's not the way you want to be able to be seen. It's not an empowering way to enter a stage.' To add further insult, the disabled toilet at the venue had been stacked up with chairs, preventing people in wheelchairs who had to go to the bathroom from using it. Ms Brown said disabled toilets were often seen as secondary storage spaces. 'To use a toilet is quite crucial and a fundamental right that non-disabled people take for granted,' she said. 'It speaks volumes about the space the National Disability Summit was held in. 'I mean we don't even have the right to pee.' Susan Ryan, who is the disability discrimination commissioner at the Australian Human Rights Commission, said she had written to the organisers of the summit. Disability rights advocate Jax-Jacki Brown was at the National Disability Summit in Melbourne and said it was a degrading sight to see . The Sheraton Hotel in Melbourne has apologised for the incident, saying they 'fell short' of delivering all their duties, and vowed a similar incident would not reoccur. 'On behalf of Sheraton Melbourne Hotel, I would like to apologise for the incident that took place at the National Disability Summit. We fell short of delivering all of the necessary requirements and this is disappointing,' Hal Philp, General Manager at Sheraton Melbourne Hotel said. 'At Sheraton Melbourne Hotel, the comfort and safety of our guests is of paramount importance to us. Whilst these are isolated incidents, it is nonetheless a lesson learnt. 'We will ensure every effort is made to further improve the accessibility in our hotel premises, so that such incidents do not re-occur,' Mr Philip added. But this is not the first

Summary: Speaker Deborah Haygarth was speaking at the National Disability Summit . She was forced to get out of wheelchair and carried by two people on stage . Disability rights advocate Jax-Jacki Brown was at Melbourne conference . Ms Brown said it was degrading to see Ms Haygarth treated in that matter . Additionally, the disabled toilet at the venue was stacked full of chairs .


Furious MPs are in revolt over a decision to sell off the House of Commons silver – to save a ‘paltry’ £200 a week. Some of the silver-plated cutlery used in Commons dining rooms could be sold to tourists as souvenirs and replaced by stainless steel knives and forks made in Vietnam. A leaked report obtained by The Mail on Sunday reveals a plan to strip the new cutlery of the traditional Commons portcullis logo to deter visitors from stealing them. Faded: The silver cutlery used in the dining rooms at the House of Commons . A report accepted by the Commons Administration Committee says the move will save nearly £50,000 over the next five years – £10,000 a year or just under £200 a week. But Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, who is leading a battle to get the decision overturned, said: ‘Selling off Westminster’s family silver to save a paltry £10,000 a year is taking cheeseparing to ridiculous lengths. ‘There is a fundamental triviality about trying to save this sort of money when we are told we need to find £3 billion to restore the Palace. ‘Dignitaries who come here rightly expect to use silver-plated cutlery – not something one stop short of plastic forks and polystyrene cups.’ Commons catering chiefs claim it costs too much to maintain silver cutlery and insist a new £17,000 stainless steel set – made in Vietnam or Taiwan – will not ‘compromise on class or elegance’. In a report they told MPs: ‘Our silver cutlery must be sent back to the manufacturer for refurbishment annually and burnished weekly (rubbed and cleaned) to maintain its finish. This process is costly, labour intensive and it is becoming more difficult to maintain the cutlery to an acceptable standard.’ The officials say it would cost £72,400 over five years to keep the silver cutlery, including: . Fighting cause: Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg is leading a battle to get the cutlery decision overturned . By contrast, a new stainless steel set will cost £17,000 to buy and £6,800 to replace items that go missing. When the £880 profit from selling off a few worn pieces of silver cutlery for scrap is accounted for, it produces a saving of about £47,000. But that does not include the potential profit from selling some of the silver cutlery through Commons gifts shops, which officials are looking at. The report says ‘the best’ of the silver cutlery will be kept for ‘MP dining clubs, a Member’s wedding breakfast etc’. MPs on the committee voted to keep the portcullis logo and have asked catering chiefs to look at buying cutlery made in the UK.

Summary: Leaked report reveals plan to strip the new cutlery of Commons logo . The change will save nearly £50,000 over the next five years . But Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg is leading battle to get decision overturned . A staggering £22,600 for ‘fork restoration’ – understood to include straightening them after MPs attack their food too aggressively. £8,500 for restoring spoons. £8,300 to sharpen knives – presumably to make sure MPs can slice through large steaks. £21,200 for ‘in-house burnishing including chemicals’ – cleaning and polishing in layman’s terms. £11,800 for ‘par stock levelling’ – thought to be a polite reference to replacing missing or stolen items.


A father of a 12-year-old girl who he married off in an Islamic ceremony told his daughter that Australian laws forbidding her from marrying were 'stupid'. The father, who cannot be named legally, is on trial at Sydney's Downing Centre District Court charged with procuring a child for unlawful sexual activity and with being an accessory before the fact of sexual intercourse with a child. The girl told a Sydney court her father said Australian law was 'stupid' and girls her age should be allowed to get married and have sexual intercourse. Scroll down for video . A father of a 12-year-old girl who he married off in an Islamic ceremony told his daughter that Australian laws forbidding her from marrying were 'stupid' The girl's interview with a child protection worker was played as part of her father's trial. She said days after her wedding, her father began to panic that her husband might be jailed. 'He was upset because we might be in trouble,' the girl said. '(My father) knows no marriage under the age of 16. 'Because he says to me the law here is stupid, girls your age should be allowed to get married and have intercourse. 'He said we didn't do anything wrong, we were just following religion.' Her father said her husband, now 27, 'shouldn't be put away', and that they were 'just following religion'. The girl, now 14, said in her father's religion, marriage was allowed once the girl got her period and having sex before marriage was punishable by stoning or death in Islamic countries. '(Premarital sex) is actually one of the worst things you can do,' she said. A 27-year-old man (pictured) has been sentenced to at least seven and a half years behind bars for marrying and sexually assaulting a 12 year old girl. Now her father is on trial for agreeing to the arrangement because he discovered that his daughter was' menstruating and interested in boys' a court heard . The court also heard the girl and her husband had sex 'once or twice' a day after they were married. They also spent five nights staying at her father's house. The girl also detailed the motivation for the marriage being organised, which was her reaching puberty. In the video interview shown to the court, she said she understood puberty to be 'blood...when I got my period'. She also said her father told her not to take birth control pills, and that her father reminded her not to let her husband wear a condom. 'Don't use pills or condoms - don't let him use anything,' she said. 'He always said that - I think the first time was just after we got married.' The court also heard her 'husband' approached her father about the marriage after he had been refused by leaders at her usual mosque. 'They said no because of my age and because I was Aussie,' she said. 'After he went to sheiks, after a while he came back and asked my Dad.' Her comments come after her mother said she

Summary: Father charged for sending his 12-year-old daughter to be married . Court heard his reason was he did not want her to have extramarital sex . Girl tells court her father said laws surrounding marriage were 'stupid' 'He knows no marriage under 16,' the girl said in an video interview played . Court heard he told his daughter girls her age should be able to have sex . Girl married 26-year-old in Islamic ceremony at her father's home in 2014 .


Footage has emerged of doomed Bali Nine ringleader Andrew Chan speaking about second chances just hours after the first round of executions on January 18. The heartbreaking video shows Chan speaking from what is believed to be inside Kerobokan jail. Behind him prison bars are visible as he looks tearily into the camera and talks in soft spoken tones. Scroll down for video . The heartbreaking video shows Andrew Chan speaking from what is believed to be inside Kerobokan jail . The 30-second video was aired on Channel Seven's Sunday Night. 'My name's Andrew Chan,' the convicted drug smuggler said. 'It's a day - pretty much a few hours - after the execution of six innocent lives. 'Guess what runs through my head is about how precious life really is.' On January 18, five people were executed by firing squad on Nusakambangan - Indonesia's 'Death Island - in Central Java. Dutchman Ang Kiem Soe, Brazilian Marco Archer Cardoso Moreira, Nigerian Daniel Enemuo, Malawi's Namaona Denis and Indonesia's Rani Adriani were killed that day. Another woman Tran Bich Hanh, from Vietnam, was also put to death nearby. Myuran Sukuraman (right) revealed he knew the identity of ringleader Mr Big and tried to strike a deal with Indonesian police to spare his life, while Chan (left) denied he knew anything about him . Kerobokan prison had been the Bali Nine duo's home for 10 years after they were found guilty of drug smuggling . Their deaths triggered Chan to ask: 'I guess sometimes you kinda got to think, what does it take to get a second chance? 'People get second chances within their lives on the outside, but how much can you get when you’re a convicted criminal.' Since they were sentenced to death, Chan converted to Christianity and studied to become a pastor while behind bars. At the same time, Sukuraman - under the tutelage of Ben Quilty - has become an artist, even teaching inmates how to paint. This turnaround in the pair has led many to believe they have been rehabilitated. Sunday Night also revealed fellow Bali Nine member Myuran Sukuraman knew the identity of 'Mr Big' - the ringleader of the group - but did not want to name him publicly as he feared for the safety his family. Sukuraman told the news program he had tried to trade this information to avoid the death penalty, but Indonesian police refused the offer. Myuran Sukuraman (left) and Andrew Chan (right) are being led to an armoured vehicle at Cilacap airport in Central Java on Wednesday . 'We tried with the police to get some sort of co-operation thing but there weren't really like that was our only card that we had to play,' he said. 'They wouldn't and then the lawyers advised us not to go that way.' While Chan said he did not know the identity of the mystery ringleader. Sukuraman also admitted he had thought about hanging himself or getting someone else to shoot him. 'I don't really think I'll enjoy the process of being dragged in front of

Summary: Video surfaces of Andrew Chan reflecting on life after January's executions . It is believed Bali Nine member is speaking from inside Kerobokan jail . A visibly emotional Chan asks: 'What does it take to get a second chance?' Myuran Sukuraman also revealed he knew ringleader Mr Big's identity . He tried to trade this information for a reduced sentence but police refused . Bali Nine duo are facing death row and are now on Indonesia's Death Island .


Simone Matthews felt a tummy tuck was the 'perfect way' to mark her 50th birthday . With her 50th birthday approaching, Simone Reeves decided that celebrating with a cruise or party wasn’t going to be enough. Neither was she interested in new clothes or a fancy meal. Instead the grandmother from Kent treated herself to a new stomach. The £4,800 operation was, she says, the ultimate 50th birthday treat to herself. Simone, who has three grown-up children, is one of a growing number of women said to be marking their milestone birthdays with surgery. And she says the decision to go under the knife just weeks before her 50th was one of the best she has ever made. Explaining her decision she said: ‘A tummy tuck was something I had thought about but the time never seemed right. ‘Then I was facing a new decade, my circumstances had changed dramatically and it seemed not only the perfect time, but also the perfect way to mark the occasion. ‘It was a lot of money to spend on a birthday treat but I felt I deserved it, and because I had divorced and downsized, for the first time in my life I had the money available. ‘Now thanks to my operation I have entered my fifties looking and feeling better than ever.’ Entering her forties had been a very different experience for Simone, who found she was increasingly conscious of what she calls her ‘jelly belly.’ After giving birth to Ben, now 34, Candice, 28, and Nicholas, 27, by caesarean, she had always been unhappy with the scar. Then aged 41 she underwent a hysterectomy and the additional scarring meant her tummy ‘never recovered.’ She explains: ‘I was left with an apron of saggy skin that I absolutely hated. I knew no amount of exercise would change it. ‘I did my best to hide it in Spanx underwear and always wore shorts over my bikini. I just assumed that at my age it was too late to fix or worth worrying about.' But that changed when in 2001 Simone separated from her husband Peter after 21 years of marriage. She says: ‘Peter was wonderful and had always accepted my body. It was never a problem for him so I tried to not let it be a problem for me. ‘But I never expected or imagined that I would be single again at my time in life and couldn’t even imagine dating again with my stomach as it was.’ Approaching her 50th she decided to take action. She said: ‘We’ve all heard the phrase fabulous at fifty but to be honest I felt anything but.’ So she began researching tummy tucks on line and booked a consultation with Transform: 'I was incredibly nervous but the surgeon put me at ease by explaining in great detail how he would perform the operation. After three children and a hysterectomy Simone's stomach was left sagging and throughout her forties the grandmother became more and more conscious of her 'jelly belly' During her tummy tuck operation surgeons removed 2lb

Summary: Simone Reeves spent £4,800 on a new tummy for her birthday . She was unhappy with caesarean scar after three births . Surgeons removed 2lb of excess skin during the procedure .


Earth may have been witness to a stunning aurora displays, but they are nothing compared to what can be seen on Mars. Because Mars has a very thin atmosphere, the sun's energetic particles hit it directly and penetrate deeper creating incredibly bright and vast light shows. And their behaviour doesn't always follow existing rules. Nasa scientists were recently stunned to discover aurora that reaches deep into the Martian atmosphere. Artist’s conception of Maven's Imaging UltraViolet Spectrograph (IUVS) observing the “Christmas Lights Aurora" on Mars. Maven observations show that aurora on Mars is similar to Earth’s "Northern Lights" but penetrates deep into the atmosphere . Earth has a magnetic shield, known as a magnetosphere, that protects its atmosphere from radiation from the sun. Aurora take place on Earth because some of the sun's energetic particles have managed to break through this shield. Mars, however, only has a very thin atmosphere. Its magnetosphere was lost billions of years ago turning a once watery world into the barren planet we see today. When solar particles hit the red planet, they can hit the atmosphere directly and penetrate deeper creating incredibly bright and vast light shows. Maven's Imaging Ultraviolet Spectrograph (IUVS) also observed what scientists have named 'Christmas lights.' For five days just before Dec. 25, Maven saw a bright ultraviolet auroral glow spanning Mars' northern hemisphere. Aurora, known on Earth as northern or southern lights, are caused by energetic particles like electrons crashing down into the atmosphere and causing the gas to glow. 'What's especially surprising about the aurora we saw is how deep in the atmosphere it occurs - much deeper than at Earth or elsewhere on Mars,' said Arnaud Stiepen, IUVS team member at the University of Colorado. 'The electrons producing it must be really energetic.' The source of the energetic particles appears to be the sun. Maven's Solar Energetic Particle instrument detected a huge surge in energetic electrons at the onset of the aurora. Billions of years ago, Mars lost a global protective magnetic field like Earth has, so solar particles can directly strike the atmosphere. The electrons producing the aurora have about 100 times more energy than you get from a spark of house current, so they can penetrate deeply in the atmosphere. They also made the unexpected discovery of dust about 93 miles (150 km) to 190 miles (300 km) above the red planet's surface. Although the source and composition of the dust are unknown, Nasa said there is no hazard to Maven probe and other spacecraft orbiting Mars. A map of Maven's auroral detections in December 2014 overlaid on Mars’ surface. The map shows that the aurora was widespread in the northern hemisphere, not tied to any geographic location. The aurora was detected in all observations during a 5-day period . 'If the dust originates from the atmosphere, this suggests we are missing some fundamental process in the Martian atmosphere,' said Laila Andersson of the University of Colorado's Laboratory for Atmospherics and Space Physics (CU LASP), Boulder, Colorado. It is unknown if the cloud is a temporary phenomenon or

Summary: Maven probe spotted ultraviolet auroral glow in northern hemisphere . What was suprising was how deep in the atmosphere aurora occurred . Dust was also found up to 190 miles (300 km) above planet's surface . No known process on Mars can explain the appearance of dust clouds .


Forget chasing mice - this athletic kitten's more interested in brushing up on his ball skills. Two-month-old Zeke was filmed as he excitedly batted a miniature plush basketball around his pen at the Cincinnati Zoo in Ohio. The spotted youngster, who is a Serval breed, didn't let the cameras distract him from his sporty antics and he continued to play away. Scroll down for video . On a roll: Two-month-old Zeke was filmed as he excitedly batted a miniature plush basketball around his pen at the Cincinnati Zoo in Ohio . Lost in the moment: The spotted youngster who is a Serval breed, didn't let the cameras distract him from his sporty antics and he continued to play away . Footage shows him rolling around as he scoops the ball between his paws. Zeke was born at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, before being transferred to his new home. He is currently in quarantine at Cincinnati Zoo’s nursery to ensure he is healthy before being introduced to the other animals. He will eventually be part of the park's Cat Ambassador Program which allows visitors - by special arrangement - to see some of the cats up-close and without bars. Celebrated delivery: Zeke was born at the Gladys Porter Zoo, in Brownsville, Texas, before being transferred to his new home . Growing pains: He is currently in quarantine at Cincinnati Zoo’s nursery to ensure he is healthy before being introduced to the other animals . Serval cats are native to the grasslands of Africa. They have the longest legs of any cat, relative to body size. Weighing an average of 40 pounds they can grow 24 inches in height and up to 36 inches in length. The Serval is currently classified as 'least concern' on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, but they do face threats, in the wild, from larger cats. They are also hunted for their pelts. Despite being wild, the Serval cat has been kept as a pet by Europeans for hundreds of years. On show: He will eventually be part of the park's Cat Ambassador Program, which allows visitors, by special arrangement, to see some of the beautiful cats, up-close and without bars . Safety in numbers: The Serval is currently classified as 'least concern' on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, but they do face threats, in the wild, from larger cats .

Summary: The two-month-old cat was filmed as he excitedly batted a miniature plush basketball around his pen at the Cincinnati Zoo in Ohio . He is currently in quarantine to ensure he is healthy before being introduced to the other animals . Zeke will eventually be part of the park's Cat Ambassador Program, which allows visitors to see some of the cats, up-close and without bars .


The Saudi Arabian blogger sentenced to 1,000 lashes could now face the death penalty, his wife has revealed. Raif Badawi hit headlines earlier this year when he was handed the sentence for supposedly insulting Islam. The draconian punishment meant that he would be flogged 50 times every Friday for 20 weeks. Scroll down for video . Saudi blogger Raif Badawi, who was sentenced to 1,000 lashes for 'insulting Islam', could now face the death penalty . Leaked video footage taken on a mobile phone showed the first flogging session, as a shackled and standing Mr Badawi was hit on his legs and back by a policeman . But after the first beating in Jeddah on January 9 this year, the process was paused when doctors ruled that a week later his scars had not healed sufficiently for him to face another round. The punishment has since been postponed each week on medical grounds but the government has so far failed to come up with a long term solution. Yesterday Ensaf Haidar, wife of the father-of-three, said her country’s criminal courts want him to undergo a retrial for apostasy. She said the ‘dangerous information’ had come from ‘official sources’ inside the conservative kingdom. If found guilty he could face the death penalty. It comes nearly two years after a judge threw out the charge of apostasy against the 31-year-old blogger in 2013 after he assured the court that he was a Muslim. Ensaf Haidar (pictured), Mr Badawi's wife, said the Saudi Arabian courts wanted to re-try him for apostasy - which is punishable by the death penalty . Philip Luther, Director of Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa Programme said: ‘We are looking into reports that Raif might be facing the death penalty again and can’t verify that at this stage. Raif and his family must be thinking "what new hell is this?" ‘The torment of facing each week the possibility of another brutal public flogging is an unimaginable torture. These latest rumours that the death penalty is a possibility again add to the nightmare. ‘Over a million people have called for Raif’s freedom. That should be the only development we’re hearing about.’ Last night Mr Badawi’s family explained that the penal court where he faces a retrial now has juristiction over major cases punishable by the death penalty. In a statement the family said: ‘Due to a new regulation issued by the Supreme Judicial Council on 19.09.2014, the penal court has now jurisdiction over major cases, which are punishable by the death penalty, amputation and stoning. Distressing: The father-of-three was earlier this month seen being flogged in public by a police officer . ‘We have reasons to believe without any doubts that the same judge has again asked the Head of the Court of Appeal to charge Raif with ‘Apostasy’. ‘We call on the world citizens and governments not to leave Raif dragged by such bigots to death. And we renew our calls to his Majesty King Salman to pardon Raif Badawi and allow him to leave for Canada to be united

Summary: Saudi Raif Badawi was sentenced to 1,000 lashes for 'insulting Islam' But the blogger's wife says Saudi courts want him to undergo a retrial . If he is found guilty of apostasy, Mr Badawi could face the death penalty . Shocking footage revealed in January showed the blogger being flogged .


Former PM Gordon Brown warned that leaving the EU would turn Britain into Europe's North Korea . Britain would turn into the European North Korea if it left the EU, Gordon Brown has claimed. In a bizarre warning ahead of a speech to the Commons tomorrow, the former Prime Minister said the UK would be 'left out in the cold with few friends [and] no influence' like the regime in Pyongyang. He rejects claims that Britain could succeed on its own by becoming an open, trading nation like Switzerland or Hong Kong. But the warning that Britain would fall into North Korean isolationism is likely to spark ridicule. A report commissioned by Boris Johnson last year said leaving the EU was 'definitely a viable option' for the UK. Mr Johnson's chief economic adviser Gerard Lyons said the best option was to stay in a reformed European Union – but if that couldn't be achieved exit was better for the economy than the status quo. But in a startling intervention ahead of tomorrow's House of Commons debate on the EU, Mr Brown said: 'We must tell the truth about the 3 million jobs, 25,000 companies, £200billion of annual exports and the £450billion of inward investment linked to Europe.' He said leaving the EU but staying in a free-trade area could leave us 'subject to EU rules, but denied a vote in shaping them'. The former Labour leader, who is stepping down as an MP in May, also dismissed the 'Hong Kong option – leaving Europe to join the world. He said this was 'really the North Korea option – out in the cold with few friends, no influence, little new trade and even less new investment'. In a bizarre warning ahead of a speech to the Commons tomorrow, former Prime Minister Gordon Brown said the UK would be 'left out in the cold with few friends [and] no influence' like North Korea under Kim Jong-un . Mr Brown, writing in the Guardian, said Britain should not contemplate exit when it was on course to overtake Germany as the EU's largest economy. He said: 'It would be sheer defeatism to cast ourselves, as sceptics do, as helpless victim, impotent bystanders unable to influence events. 'Our destiny is not a bit player on someone else's stage, or a spectator hectoring from the wings, but always setting the agenda, bringing people together, and championing change.' He added: 'Being half-in half-out, a Britain that is semi-detached and disengaged – the Britain of the empty chair even when we are in the room – has made us weaker than ever: irrelevant on Greece, fringe player on climate change, mere spectator in the debate that could have shaped a European pro-growth policy, marginal on Ukraine, with ministers sounding ludicrous as simultaneously they say: 'Russia must be confronted with a more united Europe', and: 'By the way, we are thinking of leaving.'

Summary: Former PM rejects claim Britain could succeed on its own outside the EU . Dismissed suggestion UK could be an open, trading nation like Hong Kong . He said this was 'really the North Korea option' with Britain isolated .


Tasmanian independent politician Jacqui Lambie will miss parliament next week due to a minor surgical procedure on her back. Senator Lambie said she had contacted the Senate president's office to make arrangements to have her votes recorded. In a video uploaded to YouTube, the former Palmer United Party member said she is looking forward to working with former colleague Glenn Lazarus, who has also left the Palmer Party. In a video message posted on YouTube this week, the Jacqui Lambie said she would be doing her best to represent Tasmania from her hospital bed . Lazarus quit the party via text message and a Facebook post on Friday morning, accusing leader Clive Palmer of being a bully. In a statement addressing her operation, which is expected to keep her out of action for about a week, the senator said 'I'm looking forward to leaving hospital soon. However the doctors don't want me flying anywhere.' The former soldier injured her back during an army field exercise in 1997. In a video message posted on YouTube this week, the gown-clad senator said she wasn't very well, but would be doing her best to represent Tasmania from her hospital bed. Lambie said she is looking forward to working with former colleague Glenn Lazarus (pictured right), who has also left the Palmer Party . She said her heart went out to former Palmer United Party senator Glenn Lazarus. Senator Lambie quit PUP in November after a bitter and very public slanging matche with her leader. 'I know you're feeling it. I know things are going to be a little bit rough over the next few weeks,' she said. Senator Lambie said she had contacted the Senate president's office to make arrangements to have her votes recorded. 'Between the two of us and the other crossbenchers up there, we will be able to achieve a great deal in the future, there's no doubt about that.' There have been reports that Lambie and Lazarus had formerly clashed because Lambie believed she deserved to been made the Palmer Party's Senate leader.

Summary: Tasmanian independent Jacqui Lambie will miss parliament next week . Lambie has contacted the Senate to ensure her votes can still be recorded . She said she is looking forward to working with Glenn Lazarus . Lazarus quit the Palmer party on Friday morning via text message .


The legal appeal for condemned Bali Nine pair Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran will be heard in a Jakarta court on Thursday. It comes after Friday's news that Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran's executions have been indefinitely delayed due to ongoing legal proceedings. The delay and new appeal have been welcomed by the pair's legal team, as well as Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, both of whom have voiced their optimism at the prospect for a repeal to the execution sentence, reports Yahoo News. Bali Nine pair Myuran Sukumaran and Andrew Chan (left to right) , will have a legal appeal against their execution sentence heard in a Jakarta court on Thursday . The new appeal will be the men's second challenge to the clemency bid which was rejected in January. Michael O'Connell, one of the lawyers for the two Australians, said the delay was a 'welcome development' as it represented a change to the previous position of Indonesian attorney-general Muhammad Prasetyo. 'The indications that we've had yesterday are encouraging because there does now appear to be some regard to his principles.' Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said she hoped the appeal represented a possible shift in the stance of the Indonesian government. 'There could be other reasons for the delay but I hope, in my heart, that it's a change of mind,' she said. Julian McMahon (C), the lawyer for Bali Nine pair. The condemned Australian's legal team said the delay was a 'welcome development' as it represented a change to the previous position of the Indonesian Government' Drug trafficker Scott Rush is led away for interrogation at Bali Police Headquarters. The now 29 year old has voiced his sympathy for Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran after hearing they will face the firing squad . It comes after Scott Rush- one of the Bali Nine members who had his sentence changed from death to life in prison-has spoken out about his sympathy for the pair. Rush, 29, told The Weekend Australian via a friend he was 'shocked and heartbroken' by news of the their fate. 'I am praying for Myuran and Andrew and for the other condemned prisoners that even at this time mercy can't be shown,' he said. 'I send love and prayers to the families and loved ones. May God bless them all,' Mr Rush reportedly said. One of the Brisbane man's lawyers said that while his client was saddened by the destiny of the condemned duo, the reports he felt guilty were inaccurate. Scroll down for video . The family of condemned Australian drug smuggler Andrew Chan, his mother Helen (centre) and brother Michael (wearing pink shorts) arrive at Yogyakarta airport on Thursday to make the five-hour drive to Cilacap . Myuran Sukumaran's mother Raji (right) and sister Brintha (centre) on the tarmac at Yogyakarta, the closest main airport to the port town of Cilacap to which they will drive on Thursday afternoon . News has also surfaced that Chan and Sukumaran's families have been blocked from visiting them on Nusakambangan Island. Australian consular are seeking leniency for the

Summary: The execution of Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran has been delayed . An appeal for the condemned Bali Nine pair will be heard in a Jakarta court . Their legal team said the delay is a welcome and promising change . Bali Nine member Scott Rush has voiced his sympathy for the two men . Chan and Sukumaran's families are blocked from visiting Death Island . Australian consular staff are seeking leniency for the devastated families . Australia has lodged a formal complaint on the treatment of the men .


German shepherds were bred specifically for their high levels of intelligence and as a result are commonly used as police and guard dogs around the world. However their desire to learn, which clearly overpowers their desire to just accept what is, can sometimes lead them to become a source of amusement, as this dog's owner recently found out. Filmed in a garden, the German Shepherd named Sonja stares down at its shadow being cast on the floor before giving its owner and his friends a laugh. The dog initially stares down at its shadow being cast onto the patio before making an attempt to paw at it . Wagging its tail, the dog initially seems to try and lose its shadow by hopping around and making a sharp turn. As it gets back to its original position it realises that the shadow is still there, and it stamps on it with its left paw. Suddenly the German shepherd leaps into the air and jumps down onto the shadow, before hopping three more times in quick succession. Attempting to lose the shadow, the dog jumps up into the air and lands back down onto it below . The German Shepherd called Sonja later jumps onto the shadow three more times in quick succession . The people standing around watching can be heard laughing and one of them notes: ‘He’s playing with the shadow. He sees the shadow.’ The dog then circles its shadow once more, as if deciding on the most strategic plan of action – its tongue sticks out in concentration. Before leaping into the air – leaving the ground with all four legs – and landing back down onto it several more times. The dog circles its shadow, as if deciding on the most strategic plan of action, before jumping on it . The people watching can be heard laughing as the German shepherd attempts to lose its shadow . The video concludes with the dog eventually losing its shadow by moving out of the sun and into the shade. The hilarious video was recorded in Warsaw, Poland in what appears to be the owner’s garden.

Summary: The dog named Sonja stands outside and stares at its shadow on the floor . An amusing video shows Sonja leaping high into the air . The filmmaker and friends can be heard laughing at the confused dog .