And so finally it arrives. The clash we have been waiting so long for. The top-of-the-bill dust-up which for many is the highlight of the meeting and one which is quite simply too close to call. Nicky Henderson’s Sprinter Sacre versus Gary Moore-trained Sire de Grugy in the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase. Sprinter Sacre was the imperious winner of the race in 2013 but could not defend his title 12 months ago because of illness. In his absence, Sire de Grugy galloped away with his crown displaying the same disdain for the leaden-footed gallopers chasing him. Barry Geraghty riding Sprinter Sacre celebrates victory in the Queen Mother Champion Steeple Chase in 2013 . Sprinter Sacre clears a fence on his way to winning the race two years ago . Both pack a killer punch and both are battled scarred giants. Both also hail from stables reluctant to admit the possibility of defeat. If they were boxers, they would probably be nose-to-nose, eyes bulging, refusing to be the first to blink. But underneath would be a grudging respect borne not only out of mutual ability but also shared battles against adversity. They have met once before in the Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton in December 2013. But it was a race memorable for the wrong reason as jockey Barry Geraghty pulled up Sprinter Sacre after the seventh fence with a fibrillating heart problem. It was an issue which kept him off the track until his second to Dodging Bullets at Ascot in January, a good performance off such a lengthy lay-off but one which only fuelled debate about whether the Sprinter Sacre of today is a shadow of the horse rated one of the best steeplechasers in his pomp. The delayed return had scuppered the pair’s first anticipated clash in the Tingle Creek Chase at Sandown in December. Sire de Grugy, ridden by Jamie Moore, galloped to the crown at last year's Festival . But by then Sire De Grugy, who mopped up Britain’s four Grade One two-mile chases in Sprinter Sacre’s absence, had also been sidelined. In his case it was a hip injury which initially had Moore fearing his season might be over. But after a blip when Moore’s jockey son Jamie was unseated in last month’s Game Spirit Chase at Newbury, confidence was restored with a smooth winning performance at Chepstow. The debate over their relative merits and how much talent they retain has been endless but now the time for talking is over. Henderson (left), the most successful trainer in Festival history, has shown trademark patience in nursing Sprinter Sacre back into shape. He said: ‘It will be the clash of the Festival. It is what we wanted last year and didn’t happen. It will be a hell of a clash. They have got a crown that we want back. I think we have a chance. You can’t be confident but I am hopeful. He is in seriously good shape and doing everything we have remotely asked him to do. Sprinter Sacre (left) finished second to Dodging Bullets

Summary: Sprinter Scare won the Queen Mother Champion Chase in 2013 . But was not given the chance to defend his title last year due to illness . Sire de Grugy galloped away with the title in 2014 with comfortable win . The pair go head-to-head in the race on day two of the Cheltenham Festival .


As PR blunders go it was hardly on the scale of Gerald Ratner's infamous quip that one of his jewellery company's products was 'c***'. But Manchester City's decision to extend Frank Lampard's contract to the end of the season, rather than allowing him to move as planned to sister club New York City, left many questioning whether the powers-that-be in Abu Dhabi believed their new American operation was an inferior product. Some in the Big Apple, who had already shelled out for season tickets, demanded refunds. In the home of Broadway, others rather dramatically branded it a betrayal. Frank Lampard (left) closes down James Morrison during Manchester City's 3-0 win over West Brom . Lampard reacts after he hit the post during his side's victory over the Baggies at the Etihad on Saturday . It was not, and the reality is that Spain legend David Villa was always a bigger draw in a city with a huge Hispanic population. Regardless, some may now be questioning the logic of keeping Lampard in Manchester, rather than Manhattan, after the media storm the decision triggered. Since January 1, when the former Chelsea man was expected to cross the Atlantic, City have encountered choppy waters. Knocked out the FA Cup they are now six points behind Lampard's former club, out of the FA Cup and out of the Champions League. Not that he can be blamed for that. Lampard has made 30 appearances for City this season, but many of those have been cameos from the bench . At 36, Lampard was never intended to be a regular starter, but given the ferocity of the response to his extended stay, City fans may have expected more. Manuel Pellegrini has given the former England man just 190 out of 990 Premier League minutes following the turn of the year. In that period he has scored once, in a 3-2 victory over Sunderland on New Year's Day. Should City stage a miraculous defence of their title, that may prove key but it is unlikely. Even with Yaya Toure absent in Africa and his remaining midfielders looking like they were operating on separate Continents the Chilean was reluctant to turn to a man who has won more Premier League trophies than the club he plays for. Former Spain and Barcelona star David Villa (centre) in action for New York City . Lampard, belatedly, did start Saturday's 3-0 stroll over West Brom. He was steady and kept things ticking over before being substituted with the game long won. As Pellegrini pointed out after that canter, the season is not over and there are still 24 points to play for as they head into the final furlong. However, if the decision to keep Lampard here is to be justified he must turn more often to his thoroughbred.

Summary: Frank Lampard signed for New York City before delaying his MLS arrival to finish the Premier League season playing for Manchester City . City have been knocked out of the FA Cup and are now six points Premier League leaders Chelsea . Lampard started in City's recent 3-0 victory against West Brom . CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester City news .


Kevin Pietersen is willing to give up his Indian Premier League contract to play county cricket in an attempt to make an extraordinary return to the England side. In what would be the first step of a very long journey back to international cricket, the exiled star is ready to accept the challenge of new ECB chairman Colin Graves and try to fight his way back to the England side. Graves had said in a BBC interview last month that Pietersen would have to be playing regular county cricket if he was to have any chance of being considered by the a regime which is making sweeping changes at the ECB. Kevin Pietersen is willing to turn his back on the Indian Premier League in order to represent England . Pietersen, pictured in 2008, would have to repair his relationship with England boss Peter Moores . The governing body were then quick to emphasise that nothing had changed in their stance and they would only pick those who were not only performing well in county cricket but who were ‘a positive influence on the England side.’ Pietersen was picked up relatively cheaply by the Hyderabad Sunrisers of the IPL this year in a deal worth around £200,000 making it less expensive for him to throw in his lot with an as yet unnamed county and try to call Graves bluff. Yet a comeback, approaching 35, would still be remarkable. England’s need is greatest in one-day cricket, the format of the game Pietersen least enjoyed during his later years with England, and the wounds from his bitter sacking from England are still raw. He reopened many with his bitter book. If he came back it would be hard to see how he could work with senior players like Alastair Cook, Stuart Broad and Jimmy Anderson as well as coach Peter Moores, who he tried to force out in 2009, managing director Paul Downton, who sacked him last year, and national selector James Whitaker, who said in December that Pietersen would never play for England again. For Pietersen to come back now a lot of people would have to either depart or rebuild some seriously broken bridges. Pietersen's England future lies in the hands of new ECB chairman Colin Graves .

Summary: Kevin Pietersen is keen to make a return to the England set up . The 34-year-old will have to convince new ECB chairman Colin Graves . Pietersen has a frosty relationship with England boss Peter Moores .


The NFL’s free agency began and blurred the boundaries between fantasy football and reality with a breathtaking first five minutes. Jimmy Graham is now a Seahawk. Haloti Ngata left the Ravens for Detroit and Nick Foles heads to the Rams with Sam Bradford heading the other way. Seattle gave up a first-round and a fourth-round pick from this year’s draft - and center Max Unger - to give Russell Wilson a red zone target in the shape of 28-year-old Graham. Jimmy Graham (right) has joined the Seattle Seahawks following four years at the New Orleans Saints . Max Unger moved in the opposite direction to complete a switch to the New Orleans Saints . With 4,752 receiving yards and 51 touchdowns since entering the NFL in 2010, Graham’s move is an admission by New Orleans that they mismanaged their cap. Meanwhile, Seattle welcome a player to their ranks once called ‘soft’ and ‘the most overrated player in the NFL’ by defensive end Michael Bennett. Ngata's move possibly signals the introduction of a 3-4 in the wake of Ndamokung Suh’s imminent departure to Miami. The Ravens reckoned that the nose tackle was too expensive going into the final year of his current deal. Detroit gain a 31-year-old run-stuffer capable of anchoring a defense and with experience of working with defensive co-ordinator Teryl Austin. Baltimore acquire fourth, fifth and seventh-round picks as part of the deal, ESPN report. Arguably Bradford is the happier of the two following the quarterback trade. He joins Chip Kelly’s fast-paced offense where his accuracy will put up the big numbers. That’s if he stays fit. After missing the entire 2014 season after tearing his ACL - his second such injury in as many years - injury concerns will plague Bradford for the rest of his career. But if he stays fit, the opportunity is there. Sam Bradford has joined the Philadelphia Eagles, while Nick Foles moved in the opposite direction . Haloti Ngata, pictured in white, has left the Baltimore Ravens to join the Detroit Lions . It is tough to say the same for Foles, who started 18 games for Kelly and won 14 of them. But after breaking his collarbone, he was jettisoned to St Louis, joining the likes of LeSean McCoy and Jeremy Maclin out of Philadelphia, who also re-signed quarterback Mark Sanchez on a $9m, two-year deal on Sunday. Elsewhere, the future of serial free agent and now Super Bowl-winner Darrelle Revis is uncertain and Percy Harvin is visiting the Buffalo Bills since his release by the New York Jets. Verstile tight end Julius Thomas heads to Jacksonville after agreeing a deal worth around $9m a season. Torrey Smith follows thew path successfully trodden by Anquan Boldin by joining the 49ers from the Ravens after agreeing a five-year, $40m deal. Frank Gore joined the Colts after ten bruising years in San Francisco. The bulldozing running back had looked to join the Eagles, but will be in the backfield behind Andrew Luck. Five-time All-Pro linebacker Patrick Willis announced his retirement from the game in a further

Summary: The Philadelphia Eagles and St Louis Rams agree a rare quarterback trade with Nick Sam Bradford and Nick Foles heading in different directions . Jimmy Graham joins the Seattle Seahawks from New Orleans to give Russell Wilson a new red zone target . Haloti Ngata heads to the Detroit Lions, giving defensive co-ordinator Teryl Austin an experienced nose tackle upon which to build a new 3-4 scheme . Torrey Smith leaves Baltimore for San Francisco on a five-year, $40m deal .


The nation's system for guiding planes and other aircraft is at 'increased and unnecessary risk' of being hacked, according to a report by government watchdog released Monday. The Federal Aviation Administration has taken steps to protect the air traffic control system from cyber-based threats, but 'significant security control weaknesses remain, threatening the agency's ability to ensure the safe and uninterrupted operation,' said the report by the Government Accountability Office. One area of weakness is the ability to prevent and detect unauthorized access to the vast network of computer and communications systems the FAA uses to process and track flights around the world, the report said. A government watchdog group's new report warned that the nation's system for guiding planes and other aircraft is at 'increased and unnecessary risk' of being hacked . The FAA relies on more than 100 of these air traffic systems to direct planes. There also are inadequate protections to prevent entry into air traffic computer systems from other, less-secure computer systems not directly involved in traffic operations, the report said. Other problems identified in the report include: . -Security weaknesses identified by the FAA weren't always addressed in a timely way. -Security control assessments by the agency weren't always comprehensive enough to find weaknesses. -Shortcomings in monitoring for hacking incidents or unauthorized entries mean the FAA may not be able to 'contain, eradicate or recover from incidents.' These weaknesses put the air traffic system 'at increased and unnecessary risk of unauthorized access, use or modification that could disrupt air traffic control operations,' the report said. The accountability office made 14 recommendations to the FAA and another three to the Transportation Department. Keith Washington, a Department of Transportation acting assistant security, said in a letter to the accountability office that the FAA is aware of the importance of the matter and has achieved several milestones in improving its cybersecurity. FAA officials had no comment. The agency is part of the Transportation Department. The FAA says it is aware of the concerns and taking serious steps to shore up security . Following the report's release, the chairman and senior Democratic member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation sent a letter to FAA Administer Michael Huerta asking for a "full accounting on the status" of the accountability office's recommendations. "These vulnerabilities have the potential to compromise the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system, which the traveling public relies on each and every day," said Sens. John Thune, R-S.D., and Bill Nelson, D-Fla. They called the report "troubling."

Summary: The Government Accountability Office warned of 'increased and unnecessary risk' in new report . FAA uses vast network of systems to process and track flights worldwide, leaving many possibilities for weakness . Other issues are inadequate protections to prevent entry into air traffic computer systems from other, less-secure computer systems .


The Netherlands' King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima were among the crowds that flocked outside to watch the partial solar eclipse this morning. Resplendent in a crimson ensemble, 43-year-old Maxima donned protective glasses and watched from a wharf in Hamburg alongside her husband. Perhaps not finding the eclipse quite as dramatic as she had hoped, the Argentina-born royal soon began laughing and whipped off her glasses. Scroll down for video . Watching the eclipse: The Netherlands' Queen Maxima and King Willem-Alexander watch the eclipse . Looking good: Maxima looked wonderful in a bright crimson ensemble, complete with matching gloves . Impressed: King Willem-Alexander appeared impressed with what he saw, pointing up towards the eclipse . The Dutch royal couple are currently in the middle of a brief 48-hour tour of northern Germany with Schleswig-Holstein and Hamburg on their itinerary. In Britain, millions turned out to watch the first solar eclipse of this century, which plunged parts of the UK in to brief darkness. Britain's skies began to darken at around 8.24am this morning as the Moon started to move between us and the sun, with the eclipse peaking at around 9.30am across the country. Today's eclipse produced a 100-mile-wide 'totality' shadow path that crossed the North Atlantic, resulting in a partial eclipse across the northern hemisphere, including the whole of Europe, Greenland, Newfoundland, northern Africa and western Asia. Is that it? A less enamoured Maxima took off her glasses early and turned away . On tour: The Dutch royals are touring Hamburg today as part of a brief 48-hour tour of northern Germany . Meeting: They are attending a meeting aimed at boosting Dutch business and trade links . Gas: The royal couple are also being shown a new barge that is fitted out to carry liquefied natural gas . Maxima and Willem-Alexander arrived Germany yesterday, after completing a short three-day tour of Denmark. Having waved goodbye to their Danish hosts at Copenhagen's Kastrup Airport, they flew on to Lübeck where they were greeted by excited well-wishers clutching hand-painted portraits. After a lunchtime reception, they then continued on to the Thünen Institute for Organic Farming in Trenthorst, where Maxima came dangerously close to getting her shoe stuck in some silage. Along with watching the eclipse, today's schedule includes a meeting at Hamburg's Fischauktionshalle to discuss business opportunities for Dutch firms in Germany. The royals will also be shown a newly-built barge, named the Hummel, which is designed to carry liquefied natural gas. All natural: Yesterday, Maxima came close to treading in some silage (fermented hay) during a farm visit . Looking around: The Dutch royals were touring the Thünen Institute for Organic Farming in Trenthorst . Warm welcome: The couple arrived in Lübeck to be met by well-wishers proffering portraits of them . Maxima and Willem-Alexander will also tour the Joop van den Ende Academy, which focuses on innovation in theatre technology - also a speciality of the Dutch performing arts sector. So keen are the Dutch royals on giving local performers a boost, they flew four dancers from Amsterdam to Copenhagen for

Summary: The Dutch royals are currently in Hamburg and watched the eclipse there . Maxima turned away smiling while Willem-Alexander looked enthralled . Eclipse plunged most of the Northern Hemisphere into partial darkness . Dutch royals have just finished a tour of Denmark and return home today .


Blame modern life, but it turns out that sitting down all day puts you at more risk of having a heart attack or stroke. However, before you put your trainers on to make up for a day at your desk, experts warn going to the gym won’t help either. A study has found that for every hour each day an adult spends sitting down during their life, the likelihood of developing heart disease goes up by 14 per cent. A study has found that for every hour each day an adult spends sitting down during their life, the likelihood of developing heart disease goes up by 14 per cent (file picture) And they said a session at the gym won’t repair the damage because any increase in fitness from an hour’s exercise is undone by several hours of sitting. The study, presented at the American College of Cardiology in San Diego, California, adds to evidence of the damage caused by our sedentary lifestyles. Government research warned last year that inactivity was as deadly as smoking and responsible for a sixth of deaths in Britain. Scientists from the Medical College of Wisconsin in the US looked at levels of activity of 2,031 adults whose average age was 50. They compared the number of hours spent sitting down each day with levels of deposits in blood vessels that signal for heart disease. Sitting down all day puts you at more risk of having a heart attack or stroke, a study has found (file picture) The adults spent two to 12 hours a day sitting at the office and then in front of the TV. Researchers found that for every hour spent sitting, the levels of artery deposits increased by 14 per cent. Adults who went for regular runs, gym sessions or aerobics classes were no less at risk. Lead researcher Dr Jacquelyn Kulinski, an assistant professor of cardiovascular medicine, urged adults with office jobs to stand up or go for a walk every hour, adding: ‘Reducing the amount of time you sit by even an hour or two a day could have a significant and positive impact on your future cardiovascular health.’ Despite the research suggesting the benefits of exercise could be quickly undone, she said it was important to aim for at least 30 minutes a day. ‘It’s clear that exercise is important to reduce your cardiovascular risk and improve your fitness level.’ ‘The lesson here is that it’s really important to try to move as much as possible in your daily life, for example, take a walk during lunch, pace while talking on the phone, take the stairs instead of the elevator and use a pedometer to track your daily steps. ‘And if you do have a very sedentary job, don’t go home at night and sit in front of the TV for hours on end.’ The news comes as it was revealed that antidepressants could protect against heart attacks and strokes. A US study of 5,000 patients found they were 50 per cent less likely to die or develop heart disease.

Summary: Fitness boost from an hour's exercise undone by several hours of sitting . Study adds evidence of the damage caused by our sedentary lifestyles . Experts looked at activity levels of 2,031 adults whose average age was 50 . Research carried out by scientists at Medical College of Wisconsin in US .


Most parents dream of their children growing up to become doctors, lawyers or astronauts. But when Richard and Sara from Newport think of their nine-year-old son Toby's future, they see prison. The schoolboy, who features in a new programme tonight on Channel 5 called My Violent Child, has suffered from bouts of extreme violence since he was very young - even at the age of four he threatened his older brother, then five, with a knife. Scroll down for video . Sara and Richard from Newport are struggling to control their nine year old son Toby, who suffers from violent outburtss . Despite still not reaching double figures, he has already been in trouble with the police for causing permanent damage to a fellow child's mouth after hitting them with a brick. His father Richard said: 'From a very young age he was very aggressive. When he was about four, he held a knife to Casey and threw bricks at Casey.' He continued: 'We've had police at the house where he's thrown brick - a child ended up injured and needing dental treatment. 'I expect for Toby in his teens to be locked up, we're expecting that. Because he doesn't care.' Sara comforts Toby after one of his outbursts . The couple, who have three other children; Casey, 10, Corey, seven, and Jacob, four, have been unable to control Toby's behaviour for years because they have no idea what the root of the problem is or what will start him off. Sara said: 'Absolutely anything sets Toby off, it can be anything as daft as two items of food touching on his plate, a noise, a smell or something he sees - it can be anything. 'He's physically abusive, he's mentally abusive, he really gets to you - to the point that he makes me want to cry sometimes. 'Sometimes I just let him pinch me and hit me and then he'll calm down and sometimes he does. 'I don't want to live on edge every day when he wakes up, I should be able to enjoy being his mum.' Toby attacks his mother during a tantrum . Sara and her son Casey try to get Toby off a bike during one of his outbursts . The brunt of Toby's behaviour is borne by his parents - Richard and Sara have both been strangled by their son and during the hour-long programme, he is regularly filmed punching, biting and kicking them both. But the violence also extends to his brothers, including four-year-old Jacob, who is filmed being kicked by Toby in the park. His nature has become so unpredictable that Sara reveals she is worried about leaving them alone in a room. Sara reveals that she often just allows Toby to kick and punch her to calm him down . Sara said: 'I can't leave him with his brothers because I know he'll hit them.' The strain has become so great on Sara and Richard that it has almost split them up several times. Richard said: 'It has driven us to the

Summary: Richard and Sara from Newport have four sons aged four to 10 . But the couple's second eldest Toby, nine, suffers violent outbursts . He has already been in trouble with police for attacking a child with a brick . The family are appearing on Channel 5's show My Violent Child tonight .


A five-year-old boy asked why 'Santa' never visited him despite being good after he was seriously neglected by his mother and her partner. The young child had severely rotten teeth, with several having exposed roots and abscesses, while there was no toothbrush suitable for his use in his house. Authorities were alerted to the boy's plight after he escaped from the house and his frantic mother rang the police. York Crown Court, pictured, heard that the young boy had several teeth removed due to decay . When police arrived at the house, officers found it was covered in flies, with piles of rubbish and rotting food. The kitchen was full of dirty plates while there was dogs excrement inside the house. The fridge was full of rotten food. York Crown Court heard that the boy's school had warned his mother and her partner of their concerns over his welfare. Prosecution counsel Aisha Wadoodi said several of the child's baby teeth had exposed roots while some teeth had developed abscesses. Several of his teeth needed extraction. Ms Wadoodi told the court that after the child was recovered, he was placed into foster care. The court heard that the child's education standards and speech were considerably below the average for his age. According to The York Press, the child told his foster mother: 'Santa doesn’t come to my house. I don’t know why, because I have been good.' The court heard that there were no toys in the boy's room and he had no idea what a bath was for or how he should be washed. York Crown Court heard that the child wanted to know why Santa never visited despite being 'a good boy' Ms Waddodi said that over the past six months, the boy has thrived in foster care, described by his foster mother as 'a lovely little boy, very chatty, open and likes to please people.' She said that the boy does not mention his family or his previous home. She added: 'This was serious long-term neglect.' The boy's mother, who is 43, and her 42-year-old partner have both pleaded guilty to two charges of child cruelty by not seeking dental care or providing suitable living accommodation. The pair, who cannot be named for legal reasons, recently moved into the property. The court heard that the boy had been neglected between September 1, 2013 and August 2014, while the man had neglected him between March and August. The mother's defence team claimed she was a loving and caring parent who was suffering from depression. She said the mother received no support from the boy's father. Victoria Smith-Swain, for the woman claimed she had difficulty coping with rearing her son and working in a shopping centre. The court adjourned sentencing so it could assess reports of the mother's mental health. Her partner has not yet provided his mitigation statment. The pair are due to be sentenced next month at Leeds Crown Court.

Summary: The five-year-old boy ran away from home and was found by police . Officers found rotting food, dog faeces and rubbish all over the house . The child suffered exposed roots in his teeth and needed extractions . Officials placed the youngster into foster care where he is thriving . The child did not know what a bath was for or how to wash himself . The boy's mother and her partner have pleaded guilty to child neglect . They will be sentenced next month at Leeds Crown Court .


A frantic husband covered in blood called 911 dispatchers and described his wife's horrific wounds after she was shot in the chest during a struggle over a shotgun. Timothy Sparks, 58, begged for an ambulance to be dispatched to his home in Mason, Ohio, early yesterday morning when his wife Susan, 56, was shot after she allegedly implied she would kill herself. Sparks told call handlers his wife suffers from depression, and later said to police he found her in their bedroom pointing a loaded shotgun at her chest around 6:40am. It is unclear exactly what happened in the struggle. Sparks told police he was holding the gun during the struggle, but did not elaborate as to whether his wife was also holding it, and who pulled the trigger. Scroll down to hear the 911 call . Shotgun struggle: Timothy Sparks center called 911 after his wife Susan was hit in the chest by a shotgun blast following a struggle. The two are pictured above with their sons . Emergency: Police and an ambulance were dispatched the the Sparks's home in Mason, Ohio . The panicked man described how his wife was struggling for breath as handlers instructed him to perform CPR. She was declared dead as soon as an ambulance arrived. During the 911 call, Sparks said: 'My wife had a gun, the gun went off, my wife, she's been shot. He continued: 'She had the gun, I was trying to take the gun away from her. I have no idea... I can hear her gulping, gulping, she's gulping.' Sparks later told police that he was getting ready for work when his wife angled the weapon at her chest and told him: 'It will be better this way'. A police report released Tuesday said that he told an officer driving him to the police station that 'he tried to get the shotgun from her but that she had the barrel toward her chest' while sitting on their bed. Sparks, who said he was recovering from shoulder surgery, allegedly tried to wrest the gun away, but was pulled on top of her. Struggle: Sparks told police he tried to wrest the gun away from his wife when it fired into her chest . He said he was holding the weapon, which he did not think was loaded, when it discharged into his wife's chest. He did not explain whether his wife was also still holding on, or how the trigger was pulled. According to local news station WCPO, the pair have been married 33 years and have three sons. Timothy Sparks was a manager at Chevrolet dealership, and Susan Sparks used to work for Ford, the channel said. During the 911 call, Sparks was asked to describe her wounds, and said: ''It looks like right in the chest. I tried to take the gun from her she pulled her towards her. She's bleeding from the chest, she's bleeding a lot.' When asked whether his wife ever seemed suicidal, he said: 'She suffers from depression, she has depression really bad. She would never

Summary: Timothy Sparks dialed 911 when wife Susan was shot in Mason, Ohio . Told officers there was a struggle over a shotgun in their bedroom . Cops arrived to find Sparks distraught and covered in her blood . Police have described death as 'questionable' and are investigating .


Emails have become the norm within the workplace but they are now being banned at some Australian companies as it is seen to be the cause of stress and misunderstandings among staff. Face-to-face interaction or instant messaging has become the preferred means of communication among these employees in order to de-clutter their inbox and create better working relationships. One director also says his team has been advised against sending emails to each other during out of office hours, including weekends. Some Australian companies are banning emails as directors believe internal emails cause stress and misunderstandings among staff . Nathan Schokker, the director of facilities management service provider Talio, says he implemented this new rule six months ago and has already seen a positive difference in the workplace. The policy was introduced to his 30 staff members in Brisbane after particular instances which caused unnecessary pressure, conflict and disagreements. 'We had a few cases where staff were feeling compelled to respond to emails that were sent on weekends or public holidays,' Mr Schokker told Daily Mail Australia. 'Staff were feeling like their personal time was being stolen from them. 'I also found that it is hard to imply the correct tone in an email so there were often instances where staff were offended by emails sent by other colleagues or felt like they were being unfairly treated. 'It was enough to cause angst among employees which further became a distraction in the workplace.' Face-to-face interaction or instant messaging has become the preferred means of communication among these employees in order to de-clutter their inbox and create better working relationships . For the CEO of website optimisation company Quasion, he's introduced instant messaging among staff and has left email correspondence for clients only. 'It's about finding the right way to communicate in a simple manner within the workplace,' Matt Braithwaite-Young told Daily Mail Australia. 'I'm not anti-email. I believe clients love emails but they have to be relevant. 'However emailing often isn't suitable for internal communication and these kind of emails can clutter our inbox. 'I found that instant messaging was much suitable for the business and also a very casual form of communication.' Mr Braithwaite-Young also introduced this new strategy about eight months ago to his five Sydney staff and 15 others who are based overseas. 'The problem with email is that it is an e-version of a letter so it's unnecessary for internal communication,' he said. 'Also if your inbox is getting too cluttered that's also bad for the business because it'll pile up over important emails from clients and they can often get lost this way.' Mr Braithwaite-Young says emails or even phone calls can be intrusive to staff who are not in the office at the time. 'With instant messaging, people can respond when it's suitable for them when they're back in the office,' he said. 'There's a misconception and expectation that your response to instant messages has to be immediate but that's not how we see it. For us, it's an organising method that works for our great team

Summary: Companies believe internal emails cause stress and misunderstandings . Instant messaging or face-to-face communication is preferred over emails . One workplace, Talio, has seen a 90 per cent reduction in emails . Emails have also been banned from being sent to staff over the weekend .


Police have confirmed that a 911 call claiming to have been made from inside the Miami Beach home of rapper Lil Wayne on Wednesday reporting four people had been shot was a hoax. A major contingent of police and SWAT surrounded the expansive $9.4 million property at 94 Largorce Circle after the call was placed at 12.40pm. Officials said a man called Miami Police Department saying he had shot four people and 'requested assistance'. According to WSVN, the 32-year-old performer - real name Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr. - is in Miami today but was not at home at the time of the incident. Officers entered the 10-bedroom waterfront and inspected each room, soon declaring it all-clear and establishing the report a sham. Scroll down for video . Scene: A 911 call was placed reporting shots were fired Wednesday afternoon at the Miami Beach home of 32-year-old rapper Lil Wayne. The call was later determined to be a hoax. SWAT officers are seen here on the roof . Live: Miami Beach Police set up a perimeter around the house, located at 94 Lagorce Circle. Aerial shots of the home show there is a skate park on the roof . 911: Police and new crews are seen outside Lil Wayne's home on La Gorge Island after a hoax phone call reported four people shot inside his house in Miami Beach, Florida . Major police presence: Officials closed off the area around Lil Wayne's home (left) amid reports of shots fired. Lil Wayne (pictured with daughter Reginae Carter, 16, in November) was not at the house at the time . Sprawling: The 10-bedroom home, last valued at $9.4 million, was purchased in 2011 . Lil Wayne Tweeted this afternoon: 'Prank call mane.' Investigators are now trying to determine who made the call and from where. On Saturday, police were called to the same house around 3am amid reports of a lurker,TMZ reported at the weekend. Officers arrived at the home and, after speaking with a man at the site, gave it the all-clear. Lil Wayne was not at home at the time and police did not find anyone on the premises. On the same day reports emerged on social media that Lil Wayne had been killed during a shooting at a club in Charlotte, North Carolina. He had been pictured at Label Club with fellow rapper T.I., however there was no further suggestion he was still there at the time of the shooting or that he was injured in the shooting. Police said two people were injured with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. A phone call made to the Miami Beach Police Department on Wednesday afternoon indicated a shooting occurred at Lil Wayne's house in Miami Beach (pictured), which he bought in 2011 . Reports indicated a shooting occurred at the house, but it was later confirmed to be fake . Lil Wayne is currently suing his record label, Cash Money, in New York for $51 million after claiming that it stiffed him for $8 million on a record he delivered in December. In the federal lawsuit

Summary: Miami police received a call at 12.40pm Wednesday from a man saying he had shot four people inside the rapper's home . Lil Wayne was not at the $9.4 million home at the time . House was surrounded but given the all-clear about 3pm . Police responded to the same house on Saturday amid reports of a lurker .


Ateltico Madrid fell seven points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona on Sunday as Diego Simeone's reigning Spanish league champions were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Valencia. Koke drilled Atletico into the lead in the 33rd minute with a fierce low strike from the edge of the area. But Valencia defender Shkodran Mustafi headed in a cross that goalkeeper Miguel Moya misjudged in the 78th to deny Simeone's side a sixth straight home league win. Koke's fierce low strike was too much for Valencia goalkeeper Diego Alves to save . Koke leads the celebrations after putting Atletico into a first-half lead . Koke is mobbed by his team-mates after his goal had put Atletico ahead against rivals Valencia . Shkodran Mustafi (second right) headed in Valencia's equaliser in the 78th minute . Mustafi celebrates his header with Rodrigo Moreno in the draw at the Vicente Calderon . Mustafi's goal meant Spanish champions Atletico are seven points adrift of leaders Barcelona . The visitors had Javi Fuego sent-off for a second bookable offence in the final moments but held on for the draw. Valencia remain a point behind Ateltico in fourth place. Simeone elected to begin with Mario Mandzukic on the bench, starting with Fernando Torres in the absence of star striker Antoine Griezmann. Torres provided the assist for Koke's opener, heading down a free kick from Thiago Mendes for the midfielder to pounce upon. Atletico manager Diego Simeone gesticulates to his team during the draw at home to Valencia . Fernando Torres controls the ball and holds off Valencia's Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi . Atletico midfielder Gabi (left) vies for the ball with Valencia defender Jose Gaya during the match . Torres was replaced by Mandzukic on the hour mark and ten minutes later, Thiago hit the crossbar form close range when he should have doubled Atletico's lead. It was a costly miss as Mustafi levelled on 78 after a free kick hit the crossbar. Barcelona replaced Real Madrid at the top of La Liga with a 6-1 win over Rayo Vallecano earlier on Sunday.

Summary: Koke lashed in for Atletico Madrid after 33 minutes on the edge of the area . Valencia equalised in the 78th through Shkodran Mustafi's header . Atletico are now seven points behind leaders Barcelona in La Liga .


London turned green this afternoon as Irish dancers, revellers and pets in fancy dress marched through Trafalgar Square to mark the beginning of St Patrick's Day celebrations in the capital. Revellers donned traditional Irish costumes as they jigged through the centre of London to the sound of ceilidh music, bagpipes and banging drums. There was a vivid array of colours on show, with festival-goers sporting bright wigs, outlandish hats and resplendent outfits. Scroll down for video . A man shows off a pair of shamrock glasses - a symbol of Ireland - to celebrate the lead-up to St Patrick's Day in London . A dog kitted out in a green Ireland football jersey joined the festival as revellers marched through Trafalgar Square this afternoon . A group of dancing women twirl in central London as part of early St Patrick's Day celebrations in the capital . Two women leap in the air in front of a rather bashful photographer as they danced along Trafalgar Square this afternoon . A group of people play the bagpipes, flanked by the London Wexford Association - a group celebrating its 60th anniversary this year . The parade is the lead-up to the main event on Tuesday when 150,000 people are expected to congregate in London for the 14th annual St Patrick's party. It is being headed by former world champion boxer Barry McGuigan and features floats representing all 32 counties of Ireland. The festival begins at Green Park station at noon and then meanders along Piccadilly, Lower Regent Street, the Mall and Cockspur Street before heading up to Trafalgar Square and eventually finishing on Whitehall. A group of three get into the spirit of things by donning Guinness party hats and badges cheekily saying 'Kiss me, I'm Irish' There was a vivid array of bright colours on show, including this resplendent outfit worn by one daring festival-goer . Some revellers dressed up as Catholic priests for the St Patrick's parade, while others wore traditional green and white hats . The parade is being headed by former world champion boxer Barry McGuigan and features floats representing all 32 counties of Ireland . A woman dressed as a leprechaun to mark the beginning of the St Patrick's Day celebrations in London . Onlookers take pictures of the mechanical 5th century bishop as it wheels its way through central London this afternoon . It will include performances by the cast of smash-hit West End musical The Commitments, Lord of the Dance and rapper Lethal Dialect. Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: 'It's a pleasure to once again be supporting one of the greatest St Patrick's Day celebrations anywhere in the world. 'Our free event in the heart of the capital is a terrific opportunity for Londoners and visitors to embrace the traditions of Ireland, and celebrate everything the Irish have given to the city and continue to do.'

Summary: Irish dancers, revellers and pets in fancy dress marched through Trafalgar Square for St Patrick's Day Parade . Part of build up before Tuesday's main event when 150,000 people are expected for 14th annual St Patrick's party . Headed by former world champion boxer Barry McGuigan and features floats representing all 32 counties of Ireland .


In what was Britain’s first industrial war, huge amounts of munitions were needed - but the men who dominated manufacturing jobs had left to fight. So it was down to more than 600,000 women to take on roles in mills, laboratories and factories to help the First World War effort on the Home Front. And these photographs show women munitions workers making shells and fuses for the first time in a Greater Manchester factory in 1915. Teamwork: Women munitions workers began making shells and fuses for the first time in this factory in Oldham, Greater Manchester, in 1915 . Posed up: One electrical engineering firm that diversified and began to employ women in 1915 was owned by Sebastian Ziani de Ferranti . Many firms in the North West and elsewhere converted to start making munitions in the war, with women now working alongside men in these jobs. And one electrical engineering firm that diversified and began to employ women in 1915 was owned by Sebastian Ziani de Ferranti in Oldham. The company had previously made meters and transformers, but switched production to fuses and 18-pounder shells in 1915. In the same year, Mr de Ferranti hired the first female supervisor - family friend Olivia Forbes, who ended up working for the firm for 40 years. It was her job to recruit new female workers at the factory, where there were more than 1,000 women working by the end of the war in 1918. Katie Belshaw, curator of an exhibition on Manchester’s war effort, said: ‘It was something that had to be done because the men were going off to fight. Hard work: Many companies converted to start making munitions during the war, with women now working alongside men in these jobs . Getting involved: Britain was facing a huge shortage of munitions on the front lines in 1915, leading to what became known as the Shells Crisis . ‘But instead of the women coming in and doing the same job that a male skilled worker would do, they broke down the job into smaller pieces.' She told MailOnline: ‘They would have worked on turning the shells and finishing them - making them smoother once they had been manufactured. ‘They even were driving trucks around the factory, operating lifts - they really were doing what the men were doing.’ Britain was facing a huge shortage of munitions on the front lines of the war in 1915, leading to what became known as the Shells Crisis. The Government appointed David Lloyd George as munitions minister, which prompted the construction of new shell factories across Britain. The exhibition at Manchester's Museum of Science and Industry features diaries, company archives, sketches and letters written by Mr de Ferranti. Diversifying: The company had previously made meters and transformers, but switched production to fuzes and 18-pounder shells in 1915 . Family: The exhibition at Museum of Science and Industry features diaries, sketches and letters written by Mr de Ferranti (second left, back) These include letters the engineer wrote to his sons Basil and Vincent fighting at the front

Summary: 600,000 women took on roles in mills, laboratories and factories to help First World War effort on Home Front . 1,000 of these were working at Sebastian Ziani de Ferranti in Oldham, Greater Manchester, by end of war in 1918 . His firm had previously made meters and transformers, but switched production to fuses and 18-pounder shells .


Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 30th league goal of the season but couldn’t prevent Real Madrid dropping two points in a 1-1 draw with Villarreal. He is now only one goal from his tally for last season with 12 games left and has become the first striker to score 30 goals a season for the fifth consecutive campaign in one of Europe’s top leagues but he left the pitch annoyed at Real’s failure to pull away from Barcelona at the top of La Liga. They are now just two points clear of their rivals with a trip to the Camp Nou later this month still to come. Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates with Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema after putting Real Madrid 1-0 up from the penalty spot . Ronaldo, who won the penalty himself, looked to have put the hosts in control when he sent Sergio Asenjo the wrong way from the spot . Gerard Moreno celebrates after scoring the equaliser that Villarreal's quality and endeavour deserved, and his side held on for a point . Dani Carvajal makes a stunning goal-line block with his head, diving behind Real Madrid keeper Iker Casillas to keep the score at 0-0 . Real Madrid: Casillas, Carvajal, Pepe, Varane, Marcelo, Bale, Kroos, Silva (Jese 72 mins), Isco (Illarramendi 78), Benzema *(Hernandez 81), Ronaldo . Subs not used: Navas, Coentrao, Nacho, Arbeloa. Booked: Carvajal, Pepe . Goal: Ronaldo (pen) Villarreal: Asenjo, Mario, Bailly, Dorado, Costa, Pina (Trigueros 61), Sergio Marcos, Moi Gomez, Campbell, Gerard, Giovani (Vietto 62). Subs not used: Juan Carlos, Musacchio, Víctor Ruíz, dos Santos, Uche . Booked: Bailly, Moi Gomez, Asenjo, Trigueros, Costa . Goal: Gerard . Joel Campbell was in the starting line-up for Villarreal after coach Marcelino made wholesale changes just three days ahead of his team’s second leg cup semi-final against Barcelona. The Arsenal loanee was bundled over by Pepe in one of Villarreal’s first attacks and from the free-kick the visitors won a corner which led to their first clear cut chance. It fell to Gerard Moreno but with only Iker Casillas to beat he shot straight at Spain keeper. When the rebound ran to Moi Gomez his effort was dived-headed to safety by Dani Carvajal. The keeper congratulated the full-back – both had saved certain goals. Bale was seeing plenty of the ball down the Madrid right although he was at times handicapped by his preference for crossing with his left. He should have been awarded a penalty when Jaume Costa grabbed his arm at a corner and stopped him taking off to connect with Kroos’ kick. It was a spot-kick but the referee waved away the Welshman’s appeal. From another Kroos corner on the half hour Bale this time jumped unimpeded and headed just wide. Varane came even closer shaving the post from another corner kick as Real pushed for the opening goal. As the half went on Real took more and more risks with Marcelo flying forward and throwing himself at an Isco pass but failing to connect effectively. Bale then hit the top of Sergio Asenjo’s bar

Summary: Gareth Bale hits the cross bar as Real Madrid fail to break their opponents down in difficult first half . Cristiano Ronaldo converts penalty after being pulled down by Eric Bailly in the box . Gerard Moreno fires in equaliser from edge of the box to earn visitors a deserved point at the Bernabeu .


Children born in the summer should be allowed to start school later in the year if they struggle with lessons, an education minister has admitted. Nick Gibb backed parents who have called for their children to delay entering classroom, telling councils and headteachers to do 'what's in the best interests of the child'. It follows warnings from campaigners that some local authorities made it difficult for families who want to put off joining reception classes, raising the prospect of 250,000 children having to start in Year 1. Education minister Nick Gibb backed parents who have called for their children to delay entering classroom, telling councils and headteachers to do 'what's in the best interests of the child' The Department for Education issued guidance to schools and councils in July 2013 and last December making it clear that there is no rule stating that a child has to be in the right school cohort for their age group. Summer-born children can wait until the September after their fifth birthday if their parents feel they need more time to develop. And it suggests delaying the start of school by 12 months should be 'no barrier' to the child then starting in reception class. The rule was introduced after research showed they were more likely to struggle at school, do worse in exams and have less chance of getting into university. But some councils are still sending youngsters straight into Year 1 if their parents hold them back unless they can prove there were 'exceptional' circumstances. In one high profile case, mother Rosie Dutton is fighting for her daughter to be allowed into reception class at school a year later after she decided to delay her education because she only turned four a few weeks before school started. Battle: Rosie Dutton, 30, is demanding her daughter Olivia is allowed into reception class after she chose to exercise her right to hold her back a year because she would have started just after turning four . Department for Education guidance allows parents to delay their child's schooling until the September after their fifth birthday. This policy, updated last spring, is designed to help children with birthdays between April 1 and August 31. This is because because experts believe they are more likely to struggle academically if they start school after just turning four. The Department for Education guidance says: ‘An increasing number of cases have come to the attention of the department and ministers in which parents, local authorities and admissions authorities have struggled to agree on the year group in which it is most appropriate for a summer-born child to start school. 'There are no statutory barriers to admitting a child of five to a reception class'. But some campaigners say years of unclear and conflicting government advice on the policy has allowed schools and councils to use a loophole to push these children into Year 1 to ease pressure on places in reception. Bracknell Forest Council says: ‘If you choose for your child not to start until their statutory school age... starting in a

Summary: Nick Gibb says schools and councils must do the right thing for children . Official Whitehall guidance insists youngest pupils can start a year later . Government says: 'No barriers to admitting child of five to reception class' But councils have tried to say young children should start in Year 1 . 250,000 children may be forced to miss a year of schooling by rules .


Everton manager Roberto Martinez has claimed John Stones and Ross Barkley are 'as good as it gets' for their respective positions. Martinez feels 20-year-old Stones is leading the way as a 'young centre-half' while 21-year-old Barkley is at the top as a 'No 10 in English football'. Both are England internationals and Martinez has backed Stones as a future captain of Everton. Everton's John Stones makes a timely interception on Stoke City's Victor Moses during their match . Everton manager Roberto Martinez has claimed Stones and Ross Barkley are 'as good as it gets' Barkley dribbles with the ball at the Emirates Stadium in March as Martinez hails his young talent . 'He has got the essence, the material, the responsibility,' Martinez told the Daily Telegraph. 'He understands what it takes for a player to be a leader by action. 'He's getting integrated into the Everton culture. It's been impressive how he's reacted every time he's had a game, how he became better the next time. 'Players with that sort of character need to be in the firing line. We can always replace a player with an experienced player but it's going to limit you. If we replace players with younger players who have incredible potential, we're going to have a period of learning, getting experience, but the benefits at the end will be untold. 'In terms of a young centre-half with potential, John is as good as it gets. As a No10 in English football, Ross is as good as it gets. Ross knows exactly what he wants. When you love the game as he does, and get an education as he has at Everton, it's not a surprise that we keep producing these characters.' Martinez has backed 20-year-old defender Stones as a future captain of Everton .

Summary: Everton manager Roberto Martinez has hailed his young talent . Martinez says John Stones and Ross Barkley are 'as good as it gets' Martinez feels Stones is leading the way as a 'young centre-half' He adds 21-year-old Barkley is at the top as a 'No 10 in English football'


School children around the country will be watching tomorrow's once-in-a-decade solar eclipse on TV due to safety fears. Britain will be thrown into partial darkness around 9.30am tomorrow morning as the moon passes in front of the sun, blocking out up to 98 per cent of its light. But many schools are keeping children indoors when the phenomenon takes place because of fears they could damage their eyes by looking at the sun. The decision by head teachers has angered parents, who want their children to experience the rare celestial event without sitting in front of a screen. Pupils at a number of schools around Britain will be kept indoors tomorrow during the solar eclipse over fears they may damage their eyes by looking at the sun. File photo . Those living in some parts of Britain may not see the eclipse due to the cloudy weather which is forecast . Mother-of-two Jen Palmer, from Worthing, West Sussex, tweeted: 'Hands up who is rebelling against school rules tomorrow and sending their kids in late having watched the eclipse?' And Paul Towner, a father from Reading, Berkshire, wrote: 'Should I take my son to school late so he can watch the Eclipse? They are watching it on TV!' Isabel Stevenson, a mother-of-four from Glasgow, added: 'So not happy about secondary school my kids go to doing NOTHING for solar eclipse tomorrow! Livid and furious. I'm on a mission today.' She has set up a petition calling on her children's school, Greenfaulds High School in Cumbernauld, to do more to mark the occasion. The petition states: 'I have been told by the school that they are doing nothing for the event. 'Pupils who are absent from class will be penalised as normal, and the school has no plans in place for viewing the eclipse as it happens, either by video, or by projection. 'Pupils with solar viewing glasses will not be allowed to go outside and use them. '[The school] is dismissing the value that witnessing this rare astronomical event will have on many pupils and it goes against the idea that school is a place of education.' Parents in other areas say they have been left running around after schools only announced today that children would have to bring their own 'eclipse-viewing glasses'. The decision has caused anger among parents, who do not want their children to miss out on the event . Pupils around Britain also went online to complain after some were told the blinds in their classrooms would be closed during the eclipse and others said they would be shown a recording of the event in the afternoon. Oldway primary school in Paignton, Devon, is another one of those which has come under fire for keeping children inside, where they will watch it on computer screens. Parent Sophie Bertorelli said: 'It is a bit of a shame to watch it on a computer. I would have thought they would have maybe supplied some protective glasses.' Head teacher Jane Smythe said she had 700 children to look after and she 'could

Summary: Moon will pass in front of sun tomorrow creating 98% eclipse in some parts . The event due to take place at 9.30am, meaning children will be at school . Parents angry after some headteachers decide to keep youngsters indoors . School chiefs say they will not risk children's eyesight from looking at sun .


A cattle farmer went above and beyond to save a freezing calf by spending an hour with it in a hot tub. Dean Gangwer, 46, from Cutler, Indiana, came up with unusual hypothermia remedy after spotting the animal barely breathing in the snow last week. He told ABC News that he hauled the cow, named Leroy, to his backyard and jumped with it into his heated bath full-dressed. Doting farmer: Dean Gangwer ,46, from Cutler, Indiana, went above and beyond to save a freezing calf by spending an hour with it in a hot tub . Indeed, photographs show Gangwer sat with the creature in the water with his T-shirt on and his spectacles slightly steamed up. In a bid to stop the young cow from drowning, Gangwer is seen supporting his head above the surface. After about 60 minutes the animal was apparently warmed up. Gangwer then carried it into his home and bundled it up in a pile of heated electric blankets. The third-generation farmer says that Leroy's mother wandered away from the herd and gave birth in a snowbank. On the road to recovery: He later carried the animal into his home and bundled it up in electric blankets . Sense of humor: Gangwer joked that Leroy is 'done hot-tubbing' but 'sunbathing is definitely in his future out in the grass' But in freezing weather, the decision to go off alone almost proved fatal for her young. Luckily Gangwer got to the scene just in the nick of time. Leroy is now fully-recovered from the chilly ordeal and has started to nurse. Gangwer joked that Leroy is 'done hot tubbing' but 'sunbathing is definitely in his future out in the grass.' He says luckily his wife loves animals as much as he does and she has cleaned the house after Leroy's impromptu visit. However, Gangwer added: 'She is leaving the hot tub for me to deal will. You never know what you might have to do when you live on the farm.' Many people have applauded the farmer's quick-thinking antics, with one commenter noting in jest: 'You could have just thrown some potatoes, onions and carrots in the hot tub and had dinner.' Clean-up operation: The farmer says his wife left him to deal with the hot tub . Bright future ahead: Leroy is now fully-recovered from the chilly ordeal and has started to nurse .

Summary: Dean Gangwer, 46, from Indiana came up with unusual hypothermia remedy after spotting the animal barely breathing in the snow last week . After his hot bath, the calf was wrapped in heated electric blankets . He is now fully-recovered from the chilly ordeal and has started to nurse .


With a kennel this fancy, dogs may deliberately misbehave in order to be in the doghouse. Samsung has unveiled a futuristic kennel with luxuries including an entertainment wall, paw operated snack dispenser, ‘woofing’ tannoy system and hot-tub. The 'Dream Doghouse' was designed by a team of 12 architects and fabricators and took six weeks to make, costing a staggering £20,000. Scroll down for video . Bark to the future: Samsung has unveiled a futuristic kennel with luxuries including an entertainment wall (in the back room), paw operated snack dispenser (next to Gracie the dog), ‘woofing’ tannoy system and hot-tub (shown right) It was commissioned to mark Samsung’s sponsorship of Crufts 2015, which is the world’s largest dog show and will go on show at the event from March 5 at the NEC in Birmingham. The prototype kennel is divided into two areas – one for rest and relaxation and the other for dining. There is also an outside astro-turfed leisure area for some exercise. To work out the most desirable features for the kennel, Samsung surveyed 1,500 people. It found 64 per cent of dog owners think their pets would benefit from more technology and gadgets, with a quarter admitting they would like their dog to have treadmill, and a similar number a TV or tablet. Barking mad? The kennel (illustarted) was commissioned to mark Samsung’s sponsorship of Crufts 2015, which is the world’s largest dog show and will go on show at the event from March 5 at the NEC in Birmingham . Paw at the ready: The Kennel features a dog operated snack dispenser (pictured), which means pampered pooches can help themselves to treats . £20,000 kennel has two main rooms. One contains a padded sleeping area with silver fabric, 'dog-proof' leather buttons and bone-design pillows. In the sleeping quarters, there's a wall-mounted Tab S so dogs can watch TV. The tablet can aslo be used for two-way communication with owners. A 'push-to-woof' call bell acts as a tannoy and lets dogs summon their owners. A dog operated snack dispenser means that dogs can treat themselves. There's a treadmill outside so they can work off the treats and take a bath afterwards in the 'hot-tub'. Finishing touches include a large window, fire retardant carpet, paw and bone print wallpaper and skylight. Almost one in five said that they would like their dog to have a hot-tub or spa while 22 per cent found the idea of a dog operated feeder the most appealing. The back area of the Dream Doghouse features a padded sleeping area with ‘dog-proof’ leather buttons and luxurious bone pillows. A wall-mounted Samsung Galaxy Tab S allows dogs to watch TV from their bed and owners to contact them via an interactive video link. Dogs can even summon the attention of their owner using a ‘push to woof’ call button. In the front kennel, dogs can stare out at a garden through a large polycarbonate window, or take in the ‘designer’ paw and dog print wallpaper, upon which frame portraits of Crufts winners hang. A skylight doubles

Summary: Samsung's futuristic kennel is created to celebrate Crufts 2015 . The Dream Doghouse cost £20,000 to make and features two main rooms . Padded bedroom contains a tablet TV and tannoy to summon owners . Living room includes a dispenser so dogs can give themselves treats . Outside there's a treadmill and hot-tub for athletic canines . Samsung says 64 per cent of dog owners think their pets would benefit from more technology and gadgets, such as treadmills and tablets .


Mike Holpin, a recovering alcoholic from Ebbw Vale in Monmouthshire, has an unusual way of keeping track of his children. With 22 that carry his last name, 18 who don't and 'probably a few more', Mr Holpin is one of the UK's most prolific fathers with offspring aged between 37 and three. To keep track of all his children, who were born to 20 different mothers, he has had their names tattooed across his back. Scroll down for video . Prolific: Mike Holpin, 56, has 40 children with 20 different women but thinks he may have more . Although he insists that he loves all of his children, Mr Holpin is no longer in touch with some, while others were removed by social services thanks to his alcoholism and womanising. Nevertheless, he says he is a changed character who wants nothing more than to reunite his vast brood - and would like to add a few more if he can. 'I'm as fertile as sin,' he explains. 'I don't believe in contraception and I love sex.' According to Mr Holpin, his first sexual experience came aged nine but his baby-making career didn't really get underway until he got a job at a fairground in his late teens. 'Boys working on rides like that, they're only there for one reason and that's to pull women,' he reminisces. 'Good looking boys are better but funny boys are spectacular. 'You have to do some manoeuvring but me, I thought, I just want sex. I'd pat them on the rump and if they say f*** off then they're not really up for it. If they say yes, then great.' Keeping track: Mr Holpin, from Ebbw Vale in Monmouthshire, shows off his family tree tattoo . Reformed: Mr Holpin, a recovering alcoholic, says he is a reformed character and wants to reunite his family . Taken: Because of his alcoholism, many of his children were taken by social services and grew up in care . Although Mr Holpin has had many girlfriends, he admits to having had only six serious relationships, all of which fell victim to his ongoing battle with alcohol. His children too have suffered because of his alcoholism, with nearly all being taken into care as a result. It is, says Mr Holpin, his biggest regret. 'Due to my drinking and my womanising, most of my kids have gone through the care system,' he explains. 'It makes me feel like s*** because they've suffered. They [social services] took them from me because I'm an alcoholic. I'm still an alcoholic - I just don't practise it.' Now the reformed character is hoping to reunite his huge brood and fulfil the promise he made to each child as they were removed. 'When they went into care, I made a promise that no matter how long it took, I will get my kids home,' he says. Perfect: Mr Holpin says being reunited with his huge brood would complete him and make his life perfect . Adding: He hopes to add to his family, aged between 37 and

Summary: Mike Holpin, from Ebbw Vale in Monmouthshire, has around 40 children . He isn't sure of the exact number but has 22 with his name and 18 without . Estimates that there are 'probably a few more' of his children in the world . The children he is sure of are aged between 37 and three years old . Says he would like to have more children and will probably never stop . Mr Holpin doesn't believe in contraception but 'loves sex' Says by going forth and multiplying, he is carrying out God's wishes . A recovering alcoholic, many of his children grew up in care as a result . Mike Holpin appears on 40 Kids by 20 Women, tomorrow night at 9pm on Channel 5 .


They are not recognised by neighbouring countries, do not know their ages, and have little concept of reading or writing. The Bajau people are known as the 'sea gipsies,' as they spend most of their time living on boats and working in the turquoise Pacific Ocean. Photographer Réhahn spent eight days among the sea nomad children in Borneo, learning about their fascinating aquatic lives. Scroll down for video . Like a fish! The Bajau children in Borneo spend time on boats from an early age, and begin their hunting around the age of eight . French photographer, Réhahn, 35, said the friendly children loved him taking their pictures and seemed happy to see a foreigner . Réhahn uses a Canon 5d Mark III to capture his stunning pictures, and spent eight days living among the tribe to learn about their lives . The Bajau live in small boats or stilted huts, relying on their extensive knowledge of the ocean to make a living through fishing. The young children learn from a young age how to swim or dive, and start their hunting as young as eight years old. Despite many of them not knowing their ages, or written communication, Réhahn described the peace and serenity that emanated from the water tribe. 'The children are like fish in the sea. Young children are sometimes on the boat alone, but all seemed very happy to see a foreigner,' the 35-year-old French photographer said. 'Children were jumping from a wooden bridge and they wanted me to take their photo. They were perfect models.' The Bajau tribe's beliefs centre around a combination of animism and Islam, with their relationship with the ocean and its inhabitants being at the heart of the nomads' existence. Happy and content! Réhahn said the sea gipsies were like fish in the water, and spent a lot of their time jumping happily into the water from a bridge . Due to extended periods under the surface, the sea nomads have an enhanced underwater-vision, perfect for spearfishing . Réhahn said: 'When I arrived, children jumped on the boat to come near me. Some families invited me to their house' Being around water from a young age results in the best divers being able to stay submerged at depths of 20 metres for several minutes, while they hunt for fish. The hunter-gathers mainly use spearfishing to get their produce, but can dive for pearls and sea cucumbers. Studies have shown that youngsters have exceptionally good underwater-vision due to being constantly in the ocean environment. As diving is such a big part of their lives, often their ear drums rapture at an early age. Regardless of their age, everyone in the Bajau tribe has a place and helps in some way to catch the fish . Splashing around! Bajau children enjoy their water existence and play in the turquoise waves . The best divers are able to stay underwater at depths of 20 metres for several minutes, while they hunt for fish . Réhahn, who has over 180,000 fans of his work on his fan

Summary: Photographer Réhahn lived among the seafaring Bajau tribe learning about their aquatic lives . The sea gipsies spend most of their time on boats or stilted huts, diving and spearfishing . Most can't read or write, and have little concept of time, but welcomed him generously into their homes .


Two bungling teenagers stole a a £100,000 Lamborghini during a break-in only to crash it two miles later. Connor Smart, 18, and friend Jason Grant, 17, had broken into the the Aberdeen home in the middle of the night where they stole three sets of car keys. The pair made off with the Lamborghini Gallardo and a BMW X5, worth £60,000, as well as four mobile phones, an iPad, a TV and £500 cash. Connor Smart (left) and Jason Grant (right) broke into a car owner's home in the middle of the night and stole three sets of car keys . But the car thieves lost control of the high powered Lamborghini and crashed into a van just two miles away. Officers were then led directly to Smart's family home after the car owner used an app to track down one of the stolen iphones. The pair denied the offences but a jury of eight men and seven women took just 40 minutes to find them guilty at Aberdeen Sheriff Court. Car owner Colin Crighton and his partner woke up in the early hours of the morning to find his cars had gone along with the keys for his Aston Martin Vanquish. The bungling car thieves stole a high powered Lamborghini Gallardo, worth a staggering £100,000, but crashed it just two miles away . Grant and Smart also took at BMW X5, worth £60,000, as well as four mobile phones, an iPad, a TV, wallet, handbag and £500 from the property in the west end of Aberdeen . Police were called out to reports of a car crash on the city's Lewis Road at about 3:09am. When officers arrived at the collision scene, they found the damaged Lamborghini and a van lying on its side on a pavement. The driver had left the scene. Neighbour Kimberley Murdoch told the court she had seen Grant driving the Lamborghini in the early hours of August 4 after hearing loud revving coming from outside her bedroom window. Kimberley Murdoch, 26, said there were lots of high performance cars in her neighbourhood and thought it was a strange time of the morning for her neighbour to be out. 'I heard the revving of what sounded like a super car,' said the medical student. 'It was approximately three o'clock in the morning.' The 26-year-old said she initially thought it might be her neighbour's Bentley or Aston Martin but when she looked out of her bedroom window, she noticed both cars were still parked outside. The pair had tried to deny the offences but the jury of eight men and seven women took just 40 minutes to find them guilty at Aberdeen Sheriff Court (pictured) Ms Murdoch then saw a white Lamborghini drive past her window a few minutes later. She said: 'I saw that there was one occupant in the car. It was a male. 'It appeared that the driver wasn't familiar with driving that type of vehicle. 'The revving was extremely loud for the speed that the car was trying to go at.' Sheriff Graeme Buchanan

Summary: Connor Smart and Jason Grant stole two high-end cars during a break-in . Thieves drove off in a Lamborghini Gallardo- worth £100,000 but crashed . Pair also stole BMW X5, cash and iPad from the home in west Aberdeen . Arrested after owner used app to track his stolen iphone to Smart's house .


The similarities are uncanny – from the outlandish fascinators, to the plummy voices and voluptuous curves. New drama The Royals, which launched in America last week, is about a ‘spoof’ British Royal Family – but two red-haired sisters, Penelope and Maribel, bear uncomfortable resemblances to Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie. The creators of the show, which stars Elizabeth Hurley as a couture-clad Queen, insist all the characters are ‘purely fictional’. Scroll down for video . 'Dim': Penelope (Lydia Rose Bewley) (left) and Maribel (Hatty Preston) (right) have certain similarities to Eugenie and Beatrice . The real deal: 'The make-up girls and wardrobe ladies had photos of Beatrice and Eugenie pinned up everywhere,' said Hatty Preston, who plays Maribel . Many of the young Royals are shown engaging in wild, drug-fuelled orgies. Hatty Preston, who plays ‘dim-witted’ Maribel, told The Mail on Sunday: ‘It’s inevitable that people will compare the sisters to Beatrice and Eugenie. ‘I based Maribel on the Made In Chelsea stars, but the make-up girls and wardrobe ladies had photos of Beatrice and Eugenie pinned up everywhere. It’s a spoof. I hope they realise we’re laughing with them, not at them.’ The Royals has already been panned by US critics. The first episode will be screened in the UK on E! on Wednesday.

Summary: The Royals, launched in the U.S. this week, is about a ‘spoof’ royal family . Penelope and Maribel bear similarities to Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie . The creators of the show insist all the characters are ‘purely fictional’ But actress who plays Maribel said photos of princesses were everywhere .


In the Stockton-on-Tees hall of fame, Richard Kilty is sandwiched between John Walker, the inventor of the matchstick, and George Stephenson, who envisaged the first passenger steam train. There can be no doubt which hometown boy is delivering the most high-octane thrills these days, but even the most fanciful residents in the North East market town could not have predicted the success Kilty now enjoys back in 2013. After missing out on the London Olympics with a torn hamstring he had no coach, no Lottery funding, had quit athletics and was about to join the Army. Kilty (second left) was close to quitting athletics after missing out on the London Olympics in 2012 . He had a torn hamstring, no coach, no Lottery funding and was planning to join the army . The Teeside Tornado took 60m gold for Great Britain at the European Indoor Championships in Prague . Kilty was not a stranger to hard times. As a 13-year-old, for seven months he shared one room in a homeless hostel with his parents and four siblings after the family ran into financial difficulties. Citing his ‘mental strength’, he decided to give athletics one last roll of the dice. It paid off with a 60m gold medal at the World Indoor Championships in Sopot last year, where he surprised everyone - including the bookmakers who had him at 33-1 - by beating Jamaican Nesta Carter in the final. Boosted by his extra income, Kilty has rejoined the Linford Christie training group of which he was a part in the run-up to London 2012. Asked after his golden 6.51sec season’s-best run on Sunday what Christie had brought to the party, Kilty did a double gun salute. After his victory Kilty gave the event mascot, a mole called Krtek, a relieved hug . Stockton-on-Tees high-achievers (from left): John Walker, the inventor of the matchstick, and George Stephenson, the man who envisaged the first passenger steam train . Kilty (third right) clocked 6.51 seconds in a commanding win and is now targeting 100m outdoor glory . ‘I’m stronger. I’ve got a bit more bicep there,’ he said, ‘We didn’t necessarily train for the indoors but if you saw the semi-final I dropped my arms and could have run about 6.45sec.’ He doubts whether even the Americans and Jamaicans, including Usain Bolt, could beat him over the distance. ‘Kim Collins beat me a couple of times but a lot of people beat me early season. They don’t count. In a championship I think it would be very difficult.’ He has now set his sights on breaking that hallowed 100m 10-second barrier outdoors. ‘Some people think I’m a spring runner but you’ve only seen me on the scene for 12 months now. ‘If you watched the race today and saw the way I ran away from the field you can see what is going to happen outdoors.’

Summary: Richard Kilty won the European Indoor Championships 60m gold medal . He backed up his victory at last year's World Championships in Sopot . Kilty gave athletics one last rolls of the dice after missing the Olympic . The confident runner doubts anyone can beat him over the indoor sprint .


Opening GP surgeries at weekends would mean two million fewer patients waiting in A&E every year. Research shows the number of visits to casualty has dropped by 8 per cent in areas where patients can see family doctors seven days a week. Academics say there is a huge decrease in the numbers going to emergency departments with mild or moderate ailments such as colds, sprains and back ache. They also believe the NHS should pay GPs more to open routinely at weekends – possibly by using cash saved from the reduction in visits to A&E. Research shows that if GP surgeries were open at weekends would mean two million fewer patients waiting in A&E every year. File photo shows ambulances parked outside St Thomas's Hospital in London . Over the past decade the numbers of patients arriving in casualty has soared by 50 per cent with 21.7million in 2013/14. The rise has partly been blamed on a contract introduced by Labour in 2004 which enabled GPs to opt out of working evenings and weekends. These services are now subcontracted to private firms which patients either do not trust or do not know how to get hold of, instead going to A&E. Professor Peter Dolton, an economics expert at Sussex University, looked at the A&E attendances at Central London Clinical Commissioning Group, an NHS body covering 34 GP practices. Four of the surgeries offer weekend appointments to all patients as part of a Government pilot project launched in 2013. The research found that, on average, the number of patients arriving at A&E dropped by 8 per cent – up to a 10 per cent reduction at weekends. If this were true for all surgeries across England, then an estimated 1.736million fewer patients would have gone to casualty last year. The scheme – called the Prime Minister’s Challenge Fund – involves 1,147 English GP surgeries which were each given a slice of £50million to ensure several practices in the area stay open seven days a week. Draft research by NHS England last month found that, since the scheme was established in Birmingham, the number of A&E patients had dropped by as much as 25 per cent at one practice. Research shows the number of visits to casualty dropped by 8 per cent in areas where patients can see family doctors seven days a week. File photo . They fell by more than 10 per cent in Arden, Herefordshire and Worcestershire and by 10 per cent in North West London. Professor Dolton, speaking at the Royal Society of Economics conference in Manchester, said: ‘It’s having a significant effect on A&E and it’s very important.’ He said the Government should consider giving GPs extra funding to open their surgeries at weekends permanently. The money provided under the current scheme is only a one-off. One way of doing this, he said, would be to use money saved from the reduction in A&E visits which are very costly to the NHS. The average cost of an A&E visit is £114 compared to a GP appointment which is just

Summary: Casualty visits dropped in areas where patients can see doctors every day . Huge decrease in numbers going to A&E with mild or moderate ailments . Visitors to emergency departments has soared by 50% in the past decade . A contract introduced by Labour in 2004 which enabled GPs to opt out of working evenings and weekends is partly to blame .


Working from home has become a way of life for many employees. But when your home is 4,000 miles from the voters who put you in office, questions are going to be asked. Brian Riley insists he'll still be able to represent the people of Hadleigh in Suffolk when he moves to Raleigh in North Carolina. And, despite being an ocean and a four-hour time difference away, the 71-year-old will be entitled to keep claiming his annual allowance of £10,274. The former banker, whose daughter is Sky Sports News presenter Kate Riley, is under pressure from leaders at Tory-run Suffolk council to quit before March 20 so that a by-election can coincide with the May 7 general election. Jet-setter: Tory councillor Brian Riley (centre) will soon be moving to North Carolina but says he can still represent his constituents in Hadleigh, Suffolk from across the Atlantic Ocean . Round trip: Despite being an ocean and a four-hour time difference away, the 71-year-old will be entitled to keep claiming his annual allowance of £10,274 . But he is legally entitled to hold the seat until the next county council election in 2017 as long as he attends a meeting every six months. Candidates must live in the UK to stand. Despite having had the Conservative whip withdrawn by furious colleagues on Tuesday, Mr Riley has refused to back down. He claims modern technology and regular trips to the UK will allow him to stay in touch with his constituents. 'I am moving to the USA but I shall be coming back to the UK every six or seven weeks to keep up with my council work,' said Mr Riley, whose wife Alice, 66, is American. 'We are in the 21st century with emails and Skype and there are plenty of ways of keeping in touch with people in Hadleigh. It isn't a case of gathering around the parish pump any more.' He confirmed he would resign his other seat – on Babergh district council – because it involved 'nitty gritty issues' but would be able to continue as a county councillor because the role was 'more strategic'. Mr Riley even said he would have time to help the campaign to get Hillary Clinton to the White House. The presidential election takes place next year – meaning he will have even less time for his constituents if the former first lady is chosen as candidate for the Democrats. Councillor: The former banker (pictured) is legally entitled to hold the seat until the next county council election in 2017 as long as he attends a meeting every six months . Tory leader Mark Bee yesterday said his colleague had caused outrage. 'If a councillor moves out of the county it looks like an awkward relationship but it beggars belief to be in the United States,' he said. 'We don't think it represents the spirit of being a locally elected representative.' Labour opposition leader Sandy Martin said the situation was 'completely bonkers'. He added: 'It is all very well saying he will use Skype but a

Summary: Brian Riley represents Hadleigh in Suffolk but is moving to United States . He believes he can still represent his ward from Raleigh in North Carolina . Says modern technology will help him keep in touch with his constituents . Former banker has come under intense pressure to quit before March 20 . Departure before then would trigger by-election alongside general election . But he can hold his seat until 2017 if he attends a meeting every six months .


This herd of 30 deer roamed the streets at night as residents slept, completely unaware the animals had decided their gardens would make a nice, light snack. The herd of fallow deer live in a wooded area near the houses in Essex and at around 11pm, when the roads were deserted, they crept out of their home to eat the grass. Around 30 deer appeared and wandered through the streets until 4am, before returning to the woods. The herd of deer live in a wooded area near the houses in Essex and at around 11pm they crept out to eat the grass . Around 30 deer appeared and wandered through the streets until 4am, before returning to the woods . Amateur photographer Mark Bridger captured the deer on camera as they explored the streets and people's gardens . Photographer Mark Bridger captured the deer on camera as they explored around the houses and people's gardens. The 46 year old, who works as a graphic designer, said: 'I love to take photos of deer, and to see them in an urban environment was strange but satisfying when you got the shot. 'The deer were very, very skittish and they are aware that they only have one or two escape routes if they need to run. 'The slightest noise and they are off and for such a large animal they can disappear into the shadows in seconds.' Unfortunately for the unsuspecting home owners, it was their immaculately kept gardens which lead to the deer wanting to eat their grass and plants. Mr Bridger, from West Malling, Kent, said: 'There is a lack of natural woodland areas left for the deer, and for the number of fallow deer that are wild in the UK now. The 46 year old, who works as a graphic designer, said to see them in an urban environment was strange but satisfying . Unfortunately for the unsuspecting home owners, it was their immaculate gardens which led to the deer to the area . Looking for new, safe places to eat the deer were drawn to the suburban area after dark, while residents were asleep . 'The grass and plants in the gardens were well looked after so the deer go where the food is, and it just so happens it is around normal houses.' Mr Bridger added that patience and staying silent were key when photographing this big herd of deer in Essex. He said: 'You have to be ultra quiet to do this type of photography, they are wild animals in an urban environment as so they are very nervous and disappear at the slightest hint of people. 'When we saw the group we parked up around the corner and got out of the car, then crept as quietly as we could to get into a position where you hope the deer will walk into. 'This is probably the hardest photography I've done.' Mr. Bridger said he had to have as much patience with the animals as possible because they were nervous of their new surroundings . Carefully in

Summary: The herd of deer crept from their home in the woods to walk the deserted streets in search of a late night snack . They entered the Essex suburb completely alone, with the exception of amateur photographer Mark Bridger . Mr Bridger waited quietly so that they were not scared and when the animals came closer took these pictures .


Gone are the days when women were too fearful to travel the world on their own. In fact, in recent years, the idea of the 'wandering woman' has risen in popularity, and not just among younger people. Women of all ages are now keen to embark on a solo trip, with 60 per cent of British women revealing that they are open to the idea. Scroll down for video . 60 per cent of British women surveyed reveal that they are open to the idea of travelling by themselves . A quarter of those surveyed between the ages of 35 and 44 were motivated to travel alone in hopes of 'finding themselves.' And in honour of International Women's Day, MailOnline Travel is celebrating all those adventurous women trekking around the globe solo. However, before heading anywhere - and this advice stands whether travelling by yourself or with a group - it is important to take basic safety precautions. Travel deal site, Travelzoo, recommends doing your research ahead of time, alert your credit card company and banks that you'll be travelling and check out if and how your mobile phone will work while abroad. Among the most popular destinations for solo female travellers? France, Spain and Canada . It's also a good idea to make a copy of your passport and other important documents and email them to yourself. Whether you're headed to France, Spain or North America, which are all places favoured by female travellers, or somewhere entirely different, don't simply rely on the internet for recommendations. Speak to reliable locals, such as your hotel concierge or a local tourism office, to find out exactly which parts of town are safe for solo female travellers. Travelzoo has come up with their top travel tips for adventurous women exploring the globe on their own .

Summary: Travelzoo found that 60% of British women are open to idea of solo travel . Those surveyed between 35 and 44 were motivated to 'find themselves' Some of the most popular destinations include: France, Spain and Canada .


A single-engine plane crashed into a Florida home on Monday, though it managed to land in the backyard with minimal damage to the house . The Beechcraft BE 36 plane 'clipped a power line, skimmed some trees and the struck the back porch of the home before landing' according to police in Citrus County. Police received a call from the Inverness house around 3.45pm Monday and flew 75-year-old pilot Joseph Smith to a hospital for his injuries, which were minor. A Beechcraft BE36 plane landed in a backyard in Inverness, Florida on Monday after having engine trouble on its way up to the central part of the state . The plane managed to avoid landing on the house, which had its owners inside, though it hit a powerline and the back porch . The crashed plane's pilot Joseph Smith, 75, received minor injuries and was flown to a local hospital, according to police . Smith had reportedly been having engine trouble while flying from Marco Island, on Florida's southwest tip, to Ocala, in the central part of the state. He decided to divert towards an airport two miles from where he crashed, according to WTSP. The pilot was the only one aboard the plane. Jennifer and Robert Hoar were inside their home playing pool before the harrowing experience, but were not injured, according to the Tampa Bay Times. The downed power line knocked out electricity to residents of the area, though it was later fixed. Other objects in the Citrus County, Florida, backyard that were damaged by the plane include an above ground pool and a glass table . Crews fixed a downed power line and the Federal Aviation Authority will investigate the circumstances behind the crash . An above ground pool in the backyard was also struck by the plane, which collided with trees and a fence. Glass from a table in the backyard was also shattered. The Federal Aviation Authority will investigate the cause of the crash. The aircraft was registered to Associated Packaging in Gallatin, Tennessee, according to Fox 17. A Joseph Smith is listed as the owner of the company on the Better Business Bureau. The aircraft that landed in the backyard of the Florida home (pictured) was registered to a company in Gallatin, Tennessee owned by a Joseph Smith .

Summary: Beechcraft BE36 hit power line, trees, porch, pool and fence . Pilot, Joseph Smith, 75, received minor injuries and treated at hospital . Plane had engine trouble and Smith wanted to divert to nearby airport . No injuries to residents who were home playing pool before crash .


One is a figure of fun who convinces himself he is still loved by the nation by hosting eccentric phone-ins on local radio. The other is Alan Partridge. Nick Clegg today showed how his conversion into the comedy character has stepped up a gear with the unveiling of a bright yellow mobile radio studio almost identical to one used in the hit film Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa. The Lib Dem leader is to tour the country in an election battlebus fitted out with a radio studio to allow him to continue his regular broadcasts designed to drum up support before May 7. He will hope to avoid the fate of Partridge in the 2013 movie, which saw the DJ accidentally shoot himself in the leg on Cromer pier. Scroll down for video . Nick Clegg posed in the doorway of his yellow battlebus, echoing Steve Coogan's appearance as Alan Partridge at the premiere of the 2013 film Alpha Papa . The bright yellow Lib Dem battlebus will tour marginal seats across the country as Mr Clegg tries to prevent electoral wipeout on May 7 . Mr Clegg's bus bears a striking resemblance to the Radio Norwich mobile radio van used by Partridge . The Lib Dem vehicle has even been fitted with a radio studio to allow Mr Clegg to continue broadcasts. In the film Alpha Papa, Partridge is take hostage by DJ Pat Farrell and they continue their broadcast on the road . Mr Clegg is pinning his hopes of survival on wooing women in key parts of the country. The Lib Dems claim that a drop in undecided voters in selected marginal seats has coincided with a rise in support for their party. Today he appeared with his battlebus in Abingdon, part of a key marginal seat the Lib Dems are hoping to win back from the Conservatives. Party officials said that Mr Clegg's battlebus has been fitted with a satellite radio transmitter so that he can do interviews and radio phone-ins while he is on the road. Since January 2013, the Deputy PM has hosted Call Clegg on LBC, answering questions from listeners ranging from the political to the personal. Conversations about where he buys his underpants, wearing a onesie and the price of diesel could have been lifted straight from a Partridge script. In the film Alpha Papa, Steve Coogan's character is taken hostage by sacked fellow DJ Pat Farrell and they continue their broadcast on the road using the bright yellow roadshow truck. Mr Clegg appeared with his battlebus in Abingdon, part of a key marginal seat the Lib Dems are hoping to win back from the Conservatives . Steve Coogan as Alan Partridge at the 'Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa' world premiere in Leicester Square in July 2013 . Mr Clegg will hope to avoid the fate of Partridge in the 2013 movie, which saw the DJ accidentally shoot himself in the leg on Cromer pier . The Lib Dem vehicle is decorated with abstract images by two graphic design students and the slogans 'stronger economy, fairer

Summary: Lib Dem launches campaign with visit to Oxford West and Abingdon . Battlebus fitted with radio studio will tour the country in run-up to May 7 . Internal party polling suggests in 18 marginal seats women are switching . 6% of men say they will vote Lib Dem, but 9% of women, YouGov poll .


Tim Sherwood insists Aston Villa are ready for the home straight and wants to avoid a photo finish in the relegation battle. The boss takes his Barclays Premier League thoroughbreds to Sunderland on Saturday for a crunch clash. The Black Cats are a point and a place ahead of fourth bottom Villa, who themselves are just three points above the drop zone. Tim Sherwood wants to ensure Premier League survival for Aston Villa with games to spare . Former Tottenham boss faced the media on Thursday ahead of the crunch clash with Sunderland on Saturday . And with the Cheltenham Gold Cup on Friday, Sherwood is hoping Villa, who have never been relegated from the Premier League, can avoid being unseated. He said: 'I think it'll be a photo finish and I hope we're not in it. 'We're probably just coming around the corner but it's probably the longest run-in in racing history. 'All we're looking at is the next fence and that's Sunderland. After that we hope we can stay in the running, there might be a few who fall along the way and we're hoping that's not us.' Villa have won their last two under Sherwood, beating West Brom twice in the league and the FA Cup to reach the semi-finals. Gabby Agbonlahor, who has been rejuvenated under Sherwood, trains on Thursday morning . Christian Benteke was out through his paces at the training ground on Thursday . They were the new manager's first wins since replacing Paul Lambert in February and Sherwood has been impressed with the squad's attitude. 'They've been good and a win makes an awful lot of difference. They have been focused and up for the fight,' he said. 'They haven't dwelt on the position. It's about looking forward now, what we have done previously counts for nothing.' Sherwood, before becoming head coach, was at Tottenham as assistant first-team coach under Harry Redknapp and worked with Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe at White Hart Lane. Villa boss Sherwood watches from the touchline as his side beat West Brom in the FA Cup quater-final . Sherwood knows all about Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe's qualities having worked with him at Spurs . The 32-year-old returned to England in January after a year with Toronto in Major League Soccer and Sherwood believes Defoe is the Black Cats' chief threat. He said: 'If they are going to survive it's going to be Jermain Defoe who keeps them in the Premier League, that's why they forked out that sort of money for him. 'He didn't have to go, he went for a lifestyle change to Canada but he still has that appetite to come back and play for Sunderland, in a relegation battle. 'Jermain can score goals on his own but he prefers people to slide the ball across the six-yard box for him to be in the right place at the right time, that's what he's done all of his career.'

Summary: Aston Villa play Sunderland in the Premier League on Saturday . Tim Sherwood is hoping to secure top flight football with games to spare . Villa have won their last two matches beating West Brom twice . CLICK HERE for all the latest Aston Villa news .