HELL AND HIGH WATER . by Sean Conway . (Ebury Press £10.99) As usual with books about crazed adventures and daft derring-do, this one, about the author’s attempt to swim the length of the British coastline, begins with an account of the preparation involved. However, very unusually for such books and adventures, Sean Conway’s account is mainly about what he hasn’t thought of doing. Charity swimmer Sean Conway, 32 (pictured), arriving at John O'Groats, in the north of Scotland, after being the first person to swim from Lands End to John O'Groats . Just weeks before he’s due to dive into the sea off Land’s End, he hasn’t done any training or sought any funding and has no ‘plan’ to speak of. Nor is this some long-held ambition of his. Indeed, it seems that he only thought of this ultra-long-distance swim up the British coast because his attempt to cycle around the world didn’t happen as he’d have wished — all was going well until he had a crash and, although he completed the pan-global bike ride, it couldn’t get him into the Guinness World Records. So, the swim is meant to fill that crucial gap in his CV. Somehow, he manages to acquire three people to act as his support crew and a cut-price yacht, leaving £110 in his budget for everything else — supplies, equipment, the lot. Not surprisingly, there are those who tell him he’s crazy and that he’d be best off spending his last £110 on the medication his GP would surely be only too happy to prescribe. But on our hero ploughs, somehow gaining a bit of sponsorship (partly from Speedo, the trunks people) and eventually managing to get his support crew to Land’s End to start his Big Swim. Only to discover two problems. First, there’s the temperature: ‘I slowly walked into the water,’ Conway recalls, ‘and was surprised at how cold it was.’ Right . . .Turns out the sea is not only cold, it apparently also has these things called tides. As he’s settling down to his first crawl, it begins to dawn on Conway that he’ll have to time his swims so that he’s going with the tide rather than against it — because even Michael Phelps at full tilt wouldn’t be a match for the current and would start to go backwards. Which is exactly what happens to Conway. Soon after, there’s another problem — seasickness, for Conway, as well as two of his support crew. There are lots and lots of other dangers ahead, almost all of them coming as a shock to our intrepid swimmer. Between Cornwall and the north coast of Scotland, there will be whirlpools, riptides, the mountainous seas off Cape Wrath, busy shipping lanes, a tornado warning and toxic jellyfish. Plus his scabby toe gets worse daily, his wetsuit doesn’t fit properly, he has to eat about 8,000 calories a day, often in mid-swim, and the protein shakes are giving him wind something dreadful. Conway’s original ‘plan’ was that he’d be swimming for two months. A thousand

Summary: Just weeks before the swim Sean Conway hadn't done any training . Sean faced plenty of dangers on his swim, not least the icy waters . It took him 135 days to swim to the harbour at John o’Groat’s .


They have made well over 1000 appearances between them for Barcelona, but Andres Iniesta has admitted that he sometimes struggles to play in the same team as Xavi. The pair are Barcelona legends, having been at the club since the beginning of their careers, but after their win at the weekend Iniesta produced some surprising comments about his oldest team-mate and friend. 'Sometimes I get the feeling that it seems we can't play together,' Iniesta told Marca. Andres Iniesta and Xavi (right) have had a long, successful career together in Barcelona's first team . Despite their incredible careers, Iniesta (left) says that he sometimes struggles to play alongside Xavi . 'But it is always a privilege to be by his side because not only does he make your job easier, but he also makes the team work better. 'Sometimes, as with all players, things don't work out. We have been together for a long time now and the feelings are always very good, though.' At 30 and 35 respectively, Iniesta and Xavi have had long and illustrious careers at the Nou Camp, collecting trophy after trophy under a number of different managers. Since Iniesta made his debut in 2002, the pair have been regulars in the first team at Barcelona . Iniesta, at the age of 30, impressed in the midfield on Sunday in the Barcelona midfield against Rayo Vallecano . But together they have remained, and when Barcelona took to the field to face Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, there they were in the midfield once more. Barcelona trounced Rayo Vallecano 6-1 to take them top of La Liga for the first time since October. Perhaps a rare feat this season, but something wonderfully ordinary for two players that have spent all of their careers at the very top of the game. Iniesta drives a shot through the Vallecano defence as Barcelona eased to a 6-1 win in La Liga . Iniesta and Xavi stand alongside then team-mate Thierry Henry at the end of the 2009-10 season . Iniesta though, is still focused on the matches to come. Eibar in the league, Manchester City in the Champions League, and then a Clasico to potentially decide the title. 'More important than being at the top or not is the general feeling of the team after the game we just played,' Iniesta continued. 'We feel good and have to continue along that line. We have two or three months left to go - not long, but the most complicated part.' Like our Barcelona Facebook page.

Summary: Barcelona star Andres Iniesta says he struggles in the same team as Xavi . Xavi and Iniesta have been in Barcelona's first team together since 2002 . Iniesta went on to say that it is still a privilege to play alongside Xavi . Barcelona beat Rayo Vallecano 6-1 on Sunday to go top of La Liga . CLICK HERE for all the latest Barcelona news .


He's considered one of the MLB's most promising prospects, but Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Daniel Norris has chosen to escape the hype surrounding his baseball career by living out of a 1978 Volkswagon van outside a Wal-Mart. Predictably earning himself the nickname 'Van Man', the 21-year-old - who received a $2 million signing bonus - has currently parked the camper outside one of the mega-stores in the suburbs of Florida, saying it brings him peace of mind. He works out in the carpark, cooks his meals - mostly eggs and stir fries - on a portable stove and likes to go surfing during the day. 'It's like a yin-and-yang thing for me,' he told ESPN in a new interview. 'It's like a yin-and-yang thing for me': Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Daniel Norris has chosen to escape the hype surrounding his baseball career by living out of 1978 Volkswagon camper he bought for $10,000 . Twins: Having traveled all over in the van, Norris has now pulled up stumps at a Wal-Mart in suburban Florida . 'I'm not going to change who I am just because people think it's weird. 'The only way I'm going to have a great season is by starting out happy and balanced and continuing to be me. 'It might be unconventional, but to feel good about life I need to have some adventure.' Norris paid $10,000 for the van in 2011 - straight after high school. He refers to it as 'Shaggy'. Norris doesn't spend all his time outside Wal-Mart. While there, he likes to read Jack Kerouac at night using a torch, but he also goes on trips through the mountains of Tennessee and to surfing destinations along the Carolina coast. At work: When not parked outside a Wal-Mart, surfing or on a road trip, Daniel Norris is considered by many as the 'future' of the Toronto Blue Jays . Alternative: Beyond his quirks, Norris maintains his head is always in the game . Life on the road: With a love of the outdoors running in his family, the left-handed pitcher from Johnson City, Tennessee spends his the off-season camping in mountains and driving on the open road . He then drives to spring training in Florida. Norris hit the major league last year and hopes to make the Jays rotation this year. While he has become much more well-known for his alternative lifestyle, Norris maintains his focus is and always has been the game. 'Baseball's been my No. 1 passion my whole life,' Norris told Baseball America. "All the stuff with the van is cool and (a good story) and that's fine, but baseball is my main focus. 'That's my main passion and what I think about the most.' Fan club: Daniel Norris is seen here in a photo from his Twitter page. He says he has gotten used to 'people staring' at how he camps out in carparks . Toronto Sun baseball columnist Bob Elliot recently said that, beyond his quirks, Norris has the sporting goods to back it up. 'To Blue Jays decision-makers and

Summary: Daniel Norris is considered the 'future' of the Toronto Blue Jays . He hopes to make the rotation this year and received a $2M signing bonus . The left-hander lives out of a 1978 Volkswagon camper . Currently parked outside a Florida Wal-Mart . He also goes on surfing road trips along the coast and to Tennessee . Says it gives him the 'ying and yang' he needs to play pro ball .


Toilet paper has become the barometer for how confident people are in their economy and whether they can afford a minor splurge - like a luxury brand . Sales of luxury toilet paper are being heralded as the newest way to measure the economy - and judging by our current spending habits things in Britain are looking up. Spending on products for short-term use is crucial in revealing how confident a country's population are in their own economic prospects - and luxury loo paper sales suggest the recession is well and truly over. A report by market intelligence firm Euromonitor International found the UK stands out among the European countries as only 5.3 per cent of £1.9billion toilet paper sales were made up from the cheaper brands. The analysts found although top brands like Cushelle, Andrex and Velvet are a little pricier, they are a luxury most people can afford. They said in the report: 'While the idea of luxury toilet paper may be slightly odd, its performance suggests otherwise.' They added that toilet paper has become the barometer for how confident people are in their economy and whether they can afford a minor splurge. Waitrose recently announced that premium toilet tissue sales are up 12 per cent year on year. Victoria Fletcher, the store's paperware buyer, told The Times: 'It's the little luxuries which are sometimes the best.' Abid Ditta from Star Tissue UK told newspaper: 'We have definitely seen an increase in demand for better quality products since we have invested in a new state-of-the-art toilet tissue production line.' Meanwhile sales of luxury toilet paper are also being enjoyed in the US with the market hitting $1.4 billion last year - and sales are still growing. With the recovery of the UK economy consumers have gone back to buying branded products . A report by Euromonitor International found the UK stands out among the European countries because only 5.3 per cent of total toilet paper sales were made up from the cheaper brands - like this Morrisons Value pack . The Washington Post reported luxury toilet paper sales have grown more than 70 percent since 2000. The analysts from Euromonitor wrote in their report: 'Higher growth is expected out of the luxury segment as the improved economy allows consumers to satisfy their desire for comfort.' Toilet paper is not the only unusual way to measure the economy. The Hemline Index was established by economist George Taylor at Wharton School of Business in 1926, when he noticed a correlation between good times and short skirts. When the economy was good women would wear higher hemlines to show off the more expensive hosiery compared to rough times where the skirts would become longer so women could hide their cheap stockings. Autumn/Winter 2015 collections from the biggest fashion houses saw high hemlines at Topshop, Julien MacDonald and Giles - while flares were also a big hit, implying there is money to spend on additional material. Hairstyles are another economic indicator. MailOnline reported earlier this month that the the growing popularity of shorter haircuts

Summary: British people are buying luxury toilet roll rather than cheaper alternatives . Sales increasing 12 per cent year on year according to some supermarkets . Economists have started using it as the barometer for economic recovery . Only 5.3 per cent of toilet paper sales in UK is made up of cheaper brands . Toilet paper sales in UK has grown by 2 per cent and is worth £1.9 billion . Meanwhile sales of luxury toilet paper in the US hit $1.4 billion last year .


In the past 16 months, Jordan Rhodes has been shunned by Scotland and then dropped by Blackburn Rovers. Any suggestion that the mild-mannered forward might throw in the towel, however, has been a definite non-starter. Deemed unsuitable for Gordon Strachan’s favoured high-energy 4-2-3-1 system, a conciliatory Rhodes vowed that if he couldn’t change his game he would certainly bust a gut to try to improve it. Blackburn striker Jordan Rhodes talks to Scotland boss Gordon Strachan on the touchline on Wednesday . Then, left out by Gary Bowyer for Blackburn’s FA Cup goalless draw against Liverpool at Anfield earlier this month, the 25-year-old again elected to keep his counsel. In an era when young millionaires aren’t slow to sound off about their perceived woes, the £8million man’s riposte was delivered silently on the park. A winning goal in his first game back against Bolton was followed up by a deadly double at Charlton the following week. It led to a £10m bid for his services from Middlesbrough, swiftly booted out by Blackburn owners Venkys two weeks ago. Kevin Gallacher, the former Blackburn and Scotland striker, is a big fan of Rhodes but admits there were times he feared there might be parallels between the hitman and Kris Boyd. Jordan Rhodes (left) challenges Northern Ireland's Aaron Hughes during the 1-0 victory . Boyd may have been the finest goal-grabber Scotland has produced in recent years, but the flaws in his overall game limited him to just 18 international caps and seven goals for his country. Gallacher has been impressed, however, to see Rhodes show a fighting quality to match his efficiency in front of the net. The boy seemingly without a temper has rolled up his sleeves and scrapped it out to win his first Scotland call-up since November 2013. Gallacher now feels Rhodes could be a key player on Sunday against whipping boys Gibraltar in a European qualifying group where goal difference could prove decisive. ‘Jordan’s not egotistical. He wouldn’t spit the dummy,’ said Gallacher. ‘But he’ s a real predator. Even though it’s not been his best season he’s still got 16 goals this season for Blackburn. Rhodes in action during his last Scotland call-up which was back in November 2013 . ‘We had someone like that before in Kris Boyd. But for some reason Kris never got the opportunity at national level to get many caps and many goals. Jordan had seemed to be going along similar lines. But he’s up for the battle. He’s proven that at Blackburn, where he has found it difficult this season. He’s been in and out of the side. But he came back in and got a few goals and put pressure on the manager. ‘I know he’s elated to be back in the Scotland squad for the Northern Ireland and Gibraltar games and he’ll be looking to start. He’s got to take his chance when it comes. Since Poland and Ireland have both taken seven off Gibraltar, I’ ve a feeling this group is going to come down to goal difference – and

Summary: The striker has been dropped by Blackburn and Scotland in past 16 months . 25-year-old has scored 16 goals for Blackburn so far this season . Rhodes last earned a call-up for Scotland in November 2013 . Scotland faces Gibraltar in a Euro 2016 qualifier on Sunday .


This toe-tapping performance takes in-flight entertainment to a whole new level. Simian King from Quebec, Canada, filmed the moment his air stewardess sister busted some while waiting for passengers to board a WestJet flight. Footage shows the sassy brunette swinging her hips and pumping her fists in the air as Bruno Mars' Uptown Funk starts to play over the intercom. With only around three feet of space to work with, she keeps her moves tight. King says that his sibling is a trained breakdancer and can easily pull off backflips and headspins among other tricks. Along with dozens of passengers, the pilot is also seen turned in his seat watching the impromptu show. At one point King's sister - wearing her work uniform and black leather boots - pretends to play the guitar, enthusiastically strumming the strings to the beat. Caught on camera: Simian King from Quebec, Canada, filmed the moment his air stewardess sister busted some while waiting for passengers to board a WestJet flight . Getting into the groove: Footage shows the sassy brunette swinging her hips and pumping her fists in the air as Bruno Mars' Uptown Funk starts to play over the intercom . The audience are heard laughing as they watch the scene unfold. After around 20 seconds the music cuts and the act comes to an end. 'All right, round of applause,' one man can be heard saying as other start to cheer and clap. King uploaded the clip to YouTube on March 9 and to date it has been viewed more than 90,000 times. Many viewers have applauded the flight attendant for her performance. 'That's the cutest thing I've seen all day,' one commenter wrote. Another added: 'It's inspiring to see people sharing their passions in the places you would least expect!'

Summary: Simian King from Quebec, Canada, filmed the moment his air stewardess sister busted some moves while waiting on passengers to board . Footage shows the sassy brunette swinging her hips and pumping her fists in the air as Bruno Mars' Uptown Funk starts to play over the intercom . The impromptu performance took place on a WestJet flight .


It is a cross between Facebook and Tinder, designed to let student meet new friends and hook up in a safer environment. Princeton seniors Michael Pinsky and Vaidhy Murti say their new app, called Friendsy, could change the way students make new friends. Unlike other dating apps, only students are allowed to join. Scroll down for video . The app allows users to swipe through profiles, swiping left to discard someone. Rather than simply swiping right to match with someone, users select if they want to friend, date or hook up with another college student. If they also want to, you match. Through the app, users can chat anonymously, compliment each other, and make friendly and romantic matches when feelings are mutual. The app allows users to swipe through profiles, swiping left to discard someone. Rather than simply swiping right to match with someone, users select if they want to friend, date or hook up with another college student. If they also want to, you match. Unlike other dating apps, only students are allowed to join. 'College students get stuck,' Pinsky said. 'They want to branch out, but it can be surprisingly difficult to meet new people on campus.' The app has already been a huge success, with 25,000 users and 200,000 mutual matches in tests on 40 campuses. Today Friendsy is launching nationwide, simultaneously establishing networks at more than 1,600 colleges and universities. Pinsky and Murti said they felt Facebook, Tinder, and Yik Yak don't sufficiently help students branch out of their limited social circles. Through the app, users can chat anonymously, compliment each other, and make friendly and romantic matches when feelings are mutual. The app allows users to swipe through profiles, swiping left to discard someone. Rather than simply swiping right to match with someone, users select if they want to friend, date or hook up with another college student. If they also want to, you match. Friendsy's main differentiator from Facebook, Tinder, and Yik Yak is its exclusive, private network comprised of only verified college students with .edu email addresses. 'This goes back to the roots of what first made Facebook viral,' the firm says. Princeton seniors Michael Pinsky (right) and Vaidhy Murti say their new app, called Friendsy, could change the way students make new friends. University of Michigan sophomore Lindsey Sholes told USA TODAY, 'I definitely feel like Friendsy is a little safer because it is more like a peer group than Tinder.' To date, Friendsy has raised a total of more than $200,000 from sources including Princeton University and angel investors in New York City to prepare for today's nationwide launch. 'As an interested venture capitalist put it, we're trying to do to Tinder what Facebook did to Myspace,' Murti said. 'Make it exclusive and clean.'

Summary: Only users with a .edu email address can sign up to new service . Created by Princeton seniors Michael Pinsky and Vaidhy Murti .


The special bond between a severely disabled boy and his dog has been recognised at Crufts. Rescue dog Miracle beat off 200 other entrants to scoop the prestigious Friends For Life award. The crossbreed was saved from Thailand's illegal dog meat trade a couple of years ago and adopted by Amanda Leask from Strathglass, Scotland, and her six year old son Kyle. Scroll down for video . Six year old Kyle has developed an incredibly close bond with his canine companion Miracle . Miracle was snatched from the streets of north east Thailand and loaded onto a truck with hundreds of other stolen dogs, all destined for the dog meat restaurants of Hanoi in Vietnam. Luckily for Miracle, the truck carrying him to his death was intercepted by agents working for the Phuket-based animal welfare charity Soi Dog Foundation. The dogs were taken to a purpose-built shelter in Thailand, where they were then put up for adoption. Amanda Leask spotted Miracle’s photo shortly after he’d been rescued on a Soi Dog Facebook post. Crossbreed Miracle (seen here hanging over the crowded pet cages) was destined for dog meat restaurants in Vietnam when he was saved by the animal welfare charity Soi Dog Foundation . Devastated by his plight and the hopelessness of his situation, she enquired about adopting him. Already an owner of three rescue dogs from Soi Dog, Amanda very soon had her fourth. And while Miracle quickly got to work returning the favour to his new owner by creating a powerful bond with her son Kyle that transformed the young boy's life. Kyle was born with cerebral palsy, and was later diagnosed with autism. His condition means that it is incredibly difficult for him to communicate with his family. After learning that autistic people can develop extremely close relationships with canine pets, Amanda decided to adopt some dogs. Kyle and Miracle have since developed a close bond, which Amanda says reveals an unspoken mutual understanding. Amanda (pictured here with Miracle and Kyle) says there is an 'unspoken language' between the hound and her disabled son . She said: 'They’ve both faced so much hardship in their lives, it’s like there’s an unspoken language between them. 'When Kyle gets upset because he can’t convey what he wants to, Miracle will go and lay at his side for Kyle to touch and stroke. 'Miracle seems to automatically know when Kyle needs him.' 'If Kyle simply wants some attention, Miracle will go over and shower him with kisses, and it works the other way too.' Amanda adopted Miracle after seeing his photograph on a Soi Dog Facebook post - he has now made a full recovery . She continued: 'Kids can build up confidence in dogs where they seek solace, and Miracle gets this in abundance from Kyle.' The unique bond between man and dog is still yet to be explained fully but Amanda says the amount it has helped Kyle is unlimited. She said: 'He seems so much happier in the presence of Miracle. 'It’s like they’re soul mates.' Miracle won £1,500

Summary: Crossbreed Miracle was destined for the dog meat restaurants of Hanoi . His truck was intercepted by animal welfare charity Soi Dog Foundation . Scotland-based dog lover Amanda Leask, 45, adopted the hound . He has now developed a strong bond with her autistic son Kyle, six .


Nick Clegg today bet a Ukip candidate six pints that the Lib Dems would have many more MPs than Nigel Farage’s ‘pipsqueak’ party. The Lib Dem leader dismissed Ukip’s ‘bluster, anger and brave talk’ ahead of May’s general election, despite being behind in the polls. The Deputy Prime Minister has grown increasingly confidence that despite his slump in popularity nationally, the Lib Dem vote is holding up in the 57 seats where they already have an MP. Scroll down for audio . Nick Clegg was challenged on live radio by Ukip candidate Keith Fraser, who boasted his party would win more MPs than the Lib Dems . One poll this week put the Lib Dems on just 5 per cent, the lowest for 25 years, while Ukip were on 14 per cent. However, the concentration of Lib Dem support in a few dozen seats means they are likely to hang on to many of them despite their national collapse. By contrast, Ukip has built support across the country but party insiders admit it is unlikely even to get 10 MPs on May 7. Mr Clegg made the provocative boast that he will win more MPs than Ukip during his weekly radio phone-in on LBC. One poll this week put the Lib Dems on just 5 per cent, the lowest for 25 years, while Ukip were on 14 per cent . Ukip candidate Keith Fraser called into the programme to attack Mr Clegg’s stance on civil liberties and boast that the Lib Dems face wipeout. But Mr Clegg hit back: ‘Rather than making slightly silly political points on the radio… . ‘How about this, I will bet you, I don’t know, what shall I bet you, I will bet you several pints that the Liberal Democrats will have many, many, many, many, many more MPs than your party after the election. Ukip leader Nigel Farage boasted his party would win more than 10 MPs and could hold the balance of power . ‘I can not only bet, I can close to guarantee you that your party is going to be a little pipsqueak party after May 7 compared to the Liberal Democrats. ‘All your bluster, and all your anger and all your brave talk I think will dissolve.’ Mr Clegg initially appeared reluctant to commit his own money to the bet, but when LBC host Nick Ferrari offered to pay the money, Mr Clegg replied: Oh alright then, six pints. ‘Let me be absolutely clear Keith, you believe on behalf of Nigel Farage, that you Ukip will have more MPs than the Liberal Democrats after May 7, is that right?’ Keith replied: ‘I think there’s a very good chance of overtaking your party. Am I taking the bet? Two pints will go to each: if I lose, I’m buying Nick Ferrari two pints, I’m buying Nick Clegg two pints, how about that?’ But Mr Clegg insisted: ‘Bad luck Keith, you might as well set the money aside already. Brave talk.’ Later Mr Fraser told MailOnline: 'If I lose, or Ukip loses, I will

Summary: Lib Dem leader takes up bet from Ukip candidate Keith Fraser on radio . Stakes six pints of beer on Lib Dems have more MPs after May election . Insists his party will defeat Ukip's ‘bluster, anger and brave talk’ Fraser says after the election Clegg will have more time to drink beer .


A black member of the University of Oklahoma fraternity plunged into scandal after film emerged of them has hit out at his so-called 'brothers'. William Bruce James II, who is one of just two black men ever to join the university's Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter, pledged in 2001 - but has now turned his back on the organization. The footage showed SAE members, riding a bus while wearing bow ties and dress shirts, chanting 'There will never be a n***** SAE' to the tune of If You're Happy And You Know It. Scroll down for videos . Renouncing: William Bruce James II was an SAE pledge in 2001 - but now says he wishes he never joined the frat in the wake of a video showing current members singing a racist chant . Cut it off! As one frat brother gleefully sings a racist chant, another steps in and tries to cut off recording of the shameful incident . It concluded: 'You can hang him from a tree, but he'll never sign with me, there will never be a n***** SAE'. Outraged leaders of SAE's national organization shut down the fraternity Sunday night, and today the University of Oklahoma ordered the members to leave campus. In the wake of the sickening footage, James published an uncompromising letter on his blog, in which he described how hearing the chant 'hit me in the core of my soul'. James said that while he was at SAE he never felt as if racism was endemic, but says that in light of the current members' behavior, he wishes he had never joined. James published the letter on his blog, under the title There Will Never Be Another BLACK SAE, and also spoke to local news station KFOR about his renunciation of SAE. He said: 'My former fraternity broke my heart today... to say it was racist is not enough. It hit me in the very core of my soul when I saw the video. 'I know those bus rides well. I was a member of this chapter 14 years ago. The second BLACK MAN to be initiated in those halls. We had our own songs….different songs…but songs we sang on every bus trip to every date party for four years. '...So now 14 years later, my "brothers" now sing this song. This is what gets their spirits united for a great night out with their friends and their dates (one of which, thank God exposed this …this). 'This is what binds them. But I remember what binded us. I remember the True Gentleman.' Parents came out in to help their college children move out of the fraternity house on Monday . Coming down: University workers on Monday tore down the Greek letters for SAE on the fraternity house - after officials cut all ties to the fraternity . The True Gentleman is the Sigma Alpha Epsilon creed, which extols virtues such as self-control and humility, which members are supposed to strive to live up to. He continues: 'I thought we were different. Maybe we weren’t. Maybe

Summary: William Bruce James II pledged to Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter in 2001 . But says he regrets his decision after video emerged of current members . Frat brothers were filmed singing about lynching on their way to a party . James said the fraternity he joined was not racist - and video shocked him . The SAE chapter has been shut down, and members kicked off of campus . University president is considering legal action against those responsible .


She has become a global style icon and a Hollywood A-lister, starring in a string of action movies adored by millions of fans. But even Angelina Jolie had to start her career somewhere – and that meant modelling clothes for Debenhams and Miss Selfridge for a little-known British magazine. The long lost pictures, taken when Jolie was just 18, were published under the headline 'Honeychild' in Look in 1993. Scroll down for video . Angelina Jolie started her career modelling clothes for Debenhams and Miss Selfridge in tiny British style magazine Look aged 18, pictured reaching for the sky on a beach . The long lost pictures, taken when Jolie was just 18, were published under the headline 'Honeychild' in Look in 1993 and included shots of her squatting on the floor of a desert wearing a headband . And Angelina was such an unknown that even her name was misspelled – with a 'j' replacing the 'g' in her first name in a caption. Living in Los Angeles in her late teens, Angelina signed to the Nina Blanchard agency after her mother, Marcheline Bertrand, suggested she do some modelling. In the pictures she is seen in two separate shoots: squatting on the floor of a desert, and kneeling on a beach and reaching for the sky. It is not known if she agreed with the magazine's claim that 'beige is not boring – it encourages people to open up to you.' Angelina was such an unknown that even her first name was misspelled – with a 'j' replacing the 'g' It is not known if she agreed with the magazine's claim that 'beige is not boring – it encourages people to open up to you' Angelina also made her professional acting debut in 1993, playing her first leading role in the science-fiction film Cyborg 2. Three years later, she appeared in the road movie Mojave Moon, prompting the Hollywood Reporter to write: 'Jolie is an actress whom the camera truly adores.' Then came the role of Lara Croft in Tomb Raider in 2001, and it was clear that a major new star had been born. Angelina is now married to Hollywood heart-throb Brad Pitt and the couple have six children. Angelina made her professional acting debut in 1993, playing her first leading role in the science-fiction film Cyborg 2, pictured at the UK Premiere of Unbroken last year . Ralph & Russo Couture . Spring 2015 . Visit site . She's been touring the world, stunning on the red-carpets from country to country and all in the name of the film she's directed, 'Unbroken'. And boy did she look the part here in London's Leicester Square. Donning a Ralph & Russo couture piece, Angelina stunned. The gorgeous neck-pleat detail could only be couture and the shoulder-cape finish is perfectly on-trend. Ralph & Russo designed this piece with summer in mind, but the colour keeps popping up on the red carpet this season (think J-Law at The Hunger Games premiere). So whether you want your little white number for now or next

Summary: Angelina Jolie started career modelling clothes in Look magazine aged 18 . Long lost pictures were published under the headline 'Honeychild' in 1993 . British magazine misspelled her first name replacing the 'g' with a 'j' She made professional acting debut in 1993 with the lead role in Cyborg 2 .


France's ruling Socialists suffered a crushing defeat in regional elections last night - as three years of left-wing rule was branded a 'massive failure'. Exit polls showed Nicolas Sarkozy's opposition UMP party controlling up to 70 departments, compared to 37 for the Socialists. This meant a loss of 30 of the regional councils for Francois Hollande's party, which came to power nationally in 2012. Scroll down for video . France's ruling Socialists under Francois Hollande (pictured) suffered a crushing defeat in regional elections last night - as three years of left-wing rule was branded a 'massive failure' Even the Correze department - Mr Hollande's home turf in the south west - was won by the UMP. Former president Mr Sarkozy said: 'Tonight, the Republican right, and the centre, has won the departmental elections.' Referring to the UMP's electoral alliance with the centrist Union of Democrats and Independents (UDI), Mr Sarkozy said: 'Never in the history of the Fifth Republic has our political family won so many departments.' Mr Sarkozy said 'three years' under the most outdated Socialist party in Europe had brought the country to its knees, and the electorate had had enough. Exit polls showed the opposition UMP party under Nicolas Sarkozy (pictured) controlling up to 70 departments, compared to 37 for the Socialists . 'A new era is starting. Hope is reborn for France,' said Mr Sarkozy. 'The road will be long and hard, but change is coming and nothing can stop it.' Also highlighting the 'failure' of the Socialists, was the far-right National Front (FN) leader Marine Le Pen. Although the FN was expected to win up to one department maximum, they were on course to win more than 200 seats on regional councils. Calling on Manuel Valls, the Socialist Prime Minister, 'to resign', Ms Le Pen said her anti-immigration and anti-Europe party had a huge part to play in the future of France. Manuel Valls, the Socialist Prime Minister, conceded 'incontestable' electoral defeat soon after the polls closed at 8pm. Far-right National Front (FN) leader Marine Le Pen (pictured) also highlighted the 'failure' of the Socialists . Noting increased extremism in his country, Mr Valls said: 'Far-right gains in local elections are a sign of lasting change in the French political system'. The election will choose 4,108 local councillors and - crucially - shape the political landscape in the run-up to the 2017 presidential race. The vote was also a key test for Mr Sarkozy who, despite a series of corruption scandals, is convinced he can return to power in two years' time. According to the exit polls, the UMP and its centrist allies could end up with nearly twice as many seats as President Hollande's Socialists.. Yesterday represented the Socialists' third political battering in a year - they were roundly beaten in municipal and European elections last May.

Summary: Exit polls have shown Nicolas Sarkozy's party controlling 70 departments . Even Francois Hollande's own Correze department was won by the UMP . Election will choose 4,108 local councillors and shape political landscape in run-up to the 2017 presidential race .


As co-host of The Voice UK Emma Willis has been causing a stir recently with her sexy and sophisticated fashion choices. Twitter went crazy for the Victoria Beckham design the presenter chose for this week's live quarter finals, as she showed off her fabulous figure in a pastel pencil dress. And now the weekend TV star, 39, has ramped up the sex factor once again, posing in tiny shorts and a camisole as she is announced as celebrity ambassador for shaving brand Venus. Scroll down for video . Emma Willis has been announced as celebrity ambassador for shaving brand Venus . The Gillette brand chose the 39-year-old to front their 'Use Your And' campaign because they say she is a 'great example of a modern woman who has unleashed her potential'. And as a TV presenter, radio host, model, mother and wife (the TV favourite has two children Isabelle and Ace with husband Matt Willis of McBusted fame) Emma certainly knows how to fit a lot into life. The Voice UK presenter flashes her well-toned legs in pictures for the 'Use Your And' Venus campaign . As well as posing in the pretty lingerie set the petite brunette flashes some well-toned leg in denim hotpants and tailored shorts in the pictures by fashion photographer Matt Holyoak . As well as posing in the pretty lingerie set the petite brunette flashes some well-toned leg in denim hotpants and tailored shorts. There's even a leg-bombing shot in the campaign images by fashion photographer Matt Holyoak. Recently Emma stood down from her long-term presenting role on Celebrity Big Brother show Bit On The Side. The Channel 5 show, which the mother-of-two co-hosted with Rylan Clarke, was thought to be her career highlight until she hit the ratings big time on BBC1 show The Voice. The 'Use Your And' campaign wants to inspire women and girls to use the word AND instead of OR in order to celebrate the many different qualities that make us all unique. Emma said: 'I‘ve always believed that having many different interests, ambitions and ideas is what makes life interesting. 'Women today have the chance to try so many different things, develop their skills and of course define who they want to be more than ever. Emma showed off her killer figure this weekend in a Victoria Beckam dress on The Voice UK semi-finals which she co-hosted with Marvin Humes . 'So I’m really surprised that according to a recent study into stereotyping and labelling by Venus, a whopping 70 per cent of British women still feel held back by one-dimensional labels placed on them . 'I’m proud to partner with the brand on the new Use Your And campaign, which aims to inspire and encourage women everywhere to celebrate all the different brilliant qualities that make them unique'. Sharing her budget beauty tips with FEMAIL, Emma said: 'As a woman who is constantly on the move there is nothing more I love than a bargain beauty buy which I can pop in my handbag. I have always loved Paw Paw

Summary: The radio host and model, 39, is winning fashion points on The Voice UK . Chose a clinging blush Victoria Beckham dress for latest live show . Emma recently left long-term gig as Bit On The Side presenter .


Jozy Altidore was by no means prolific in the Premier League, but across the Atlantic he scored two goals on his debut for Toronto on the opening day of the MLS season. The 25-year-old American scored one goal in 42 Premier League appearances in the red and white of Sunderland, while before that he netted just once in a season-long loan spell at Hull City. His time in England concluded with two goals in 70 Premier League matches - against Manchester City and Chelsea, to be fair - but upon returning to the league in which he began his career, Altidore scored twice to help Toronto to a 3-1 victory in their first game of the season. Jozy Altidore celebrates with his team-mate Jonathan Osorio after scoring his penalty against Vancouver . Altidore is brought down by Pa Modou Kah (left) in the dying moments of the game to win a penalty . The US international striker moved to Canada as part of a swap deal with Jermain Defoe, and got off to a flyer in his first game, netting a brace. Toronto went 1-0 down to Vancouver Whitecaps in the all-Canadian affair, before Altidore scored his first; one touch to take it round the goalkeeper, and one touch to fire home. Toronto took the lead through Robbie Findley, but Altidore was not finished. The USA striker scored once in 42 league games in England, but has already doubled that at Toronto . Altidore celebrates his one and only Premier League goal for Sunderland, against Chelsea in December 2013 . In the latter stages of the game, the former Sunderland man was brought down in the box by Pa Modou Kah, and opted to take the spot-kick himself. Not content with your average penalty, Altidore's confidence was evident when he produced a Panenka to secure a 3-1 away victory for his side. His dismal three seasons in English football will have done Altidore's career no favours, but if Saturday's performance is anything to go by, it'll be back on track in no time at all.

Summary: Striker Jozy Altidore scored one goal in 42 league matches for Sunderland . In 2009/10, he was at Hull where he scored once in 28 league matches . He joined Toronto in the summer, and scored two goals on his debut . Altidore joined the MLS side as part of a swap deal with Jermain Defoe . The 25-year-old's second goal was a cheeky Panenka penalty .


Aston Villa's appeal to find Fabian Delph's captain's armband proved successful after the midfielder's 'lucky charm' was tracked down on Twitter by the club's masseur. The stand-in skipper was mobbed by Villa supporters during a pitch invasion following their 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion in the FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday evening. Villa masseur Alex Butler appealed for Twitter to help find the armband ahead of their semi-final at Wembley, offering Scott Sinclair's top as a reward for whoever returns it. Fabian Delph's 'lucky charm' was tracked down on Twitter by the club's masseur Alex Butler . The stand-in skipper was mobbed by Villa supporters during a pitch invasion following their 2-0 win . Butler's appeal was successful when one supporter proved a 'good sport' and returned the armband . 'The armband has been missing for 12 hours now... please share and bring him home #AVFC #returnofthearmband,' Butler tweeted. And it proved a success when a supporter agreed to return the armband. Butler then added on Sunday morning: 'Ok, #AVFC fans the armband is being returned let's all just enjoy our day and thank @Rob___Taylor for being a good sport.' Aston Villa captain Delph was mobbed by fans after the final whistle of their FA Cup quarter-final tie . England midfielder Delph admitted the pitch invasion on Saturday was 'scary and dangerous' Goalscorer Delph claimed fans nicked his captain's armband as well as his left boot during the invasion .

Summary: Fabian Delph's 'lucky charm' was tracked down by the club's masseur . Villa masseur Alex Butler appealed for Twitter to help find the armband . Butler offered Scott Sinclair's top as a reward for whoever returns it . 'The armband is being returned let's all just enjoy our day,' he tweeted .


El Clasico is a little over two weeks away and the verbal jousting between the two sides has already started. Barcelona's Neymar believes the Catalan club's strike force of himself, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez is stronger than Real Madrid's, which consists of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema. Brazil international Neymar was asked if Barcelona's attacking force is more dangerous than Madrid's and he said: 'I think so. Neymar (second right) believes Barcelona's strike force is superior to Real Madrid's . Neymar described Messi (right) as the 'best in the world' with the El Clasico approaching . Neymar commended the scoring ability of his other strike partner, Luis Suarez (right) 'But we focus on ourselves, we don't think about the opponents. 'We try to do damage to rival defences and every day we understand each other better. They are two brilliant players. 'Leo is the best in the world and Suarez is a great goalscorer. It is an honour for me to play with them. They are two brilliant players.' Madrid were beaten 1-0 by Athletic Bilbao at the weekend, while Barcelona thrashed Rayo Vallecano 6-1, meaning they replaced Madrid atop La Liga. Neymar believes his team's attack is better than Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Karim Benzema . Madrid were beaten 4-3 at home by Schalke on Tuesday but advanced into the last eight of the Champions League 5-4 on aggregate. Barcelona play their second leg against Manchester City on March 18. They won the first leg 2-1, thanks to a double from Suarez.

Summary: Neymar believes Barcelona's strike force is better than Real Madrid's . Barcelona recently replaced Madrid at the top of La Liga . The pair will meet in El Clasico on March 22 in the Spanish league .


The award ceremony at Crufts was overshadowed by a protester who ran onto the stage as the winner of Best in Show was presented with the trophy after a competition of seemingly never-ending drama. As Rebecca Cross and her Scottish terrier Knopa were handed the trophy at the prestigious dog show, the suited man charged in front of the winning pair, holding aloft a sign which read 'Mutts Against Crufts'. The demonstrator was quickly hauled off stage by four members of security as the shocked crowd watched in astonishment, eventually leaving owner Ms Cross and Knopa to enjoy their victory. Top dog: Rebecca Cross and Scottish terrier Knopa won the Best in Show category after earlier winning the terrier group . Barking mad: The glitzy award ceremony at Crufts was tarnished by a protester who ran onto the stage as the winner of Best in Show was presented with her trophy . The demonstrator smirked as he was hauled off stage by four members of security as the shocked crowd watched in astonishment . The protest is the second controversy to hit this year's Crufts, with an owner claiming that her prize-winning red setter was poisoned. Dee Milligan-Bott said her dog, known by its competing name Thendara Satisfaction, collapsed and died on Friday and she believes the three-year-old must have been poisoned at the competition the day before. And just when it seemed the dog show could not get any more dramatic, it emerged that winning owner Ms Cross almost did not make the grand finale after her flight from America was delayed. According to Dogs in the News, the proud owner said: 'I can’t believe it, I am in complete shock. I almost didn’t make it, my flight was delayed, and I thought I wouldn’t make it in time. 'Knopa is one in a million. She was Best of Breed here in 2013 and it’s been a really wild ride. It hasn’t sunk in yet, I really can’t believe it. She was supposed to retire today so if so this was her retirement show.' Ms Cross and Knopa, who was bred the U.S. under Russian owners and competes under the name McVan’s to Russia With Love, had earlier won the terrier group before taking the Best in Show award. The Scottish terrier, who is the first of its breed to be crowned top dog since 1929, beat Dublin, a flat coated retriever, into a well-earned second place. Dublin, from Sweden, had earlier won the Gundog group. Ms Cross and Knopa, who was bred in the U.S. under Russian owners and competes under the name McVan’s to Russia With Love, had earlier won the terrier group . Ms Cross, taking her prized terrier for a walk, almost did not make the grand finale after her flight from America was delayed . Dubbed the 'toy and utility' day, today was the final installment of this year's competition - which has been marked by an array of incredible and outrageous costumes. Among the competitors at Birmingham's NEC arena were dogs in colourful body suits,

Summary: Climax of award ceremony at Crufts is ruined by a protester running on to the stage as trophy was being presented . Rebecca Cross and her Scottish Terrier were picking up the Best in Show award when demonstrator emerged . Terrier, winning her last competition before retirement, is the first of her breed to be named top dog since 1929 . Fourth and final day of world's largest dog show saw 'toy and utility' competitors strut around Birmingham arena . Continuing the Crufts tradition of outrageous outfits, hundreds of dogs arrived in an array of colourful costumes . World-famous event also marked by tragedy as it emerges an award-winning competitor was killed by poison .


With the expansion of the European Championships from 16 to 24 teams for 2016, there has never been a better opportunity for all four of the Home Nations to qualify for a big tournament. And after the fifth round of qualifiers this weekend, all have a strong chance of making it to France next summer. At the half-way point in the qualification campaign, we look at the story so far and assess the chances of each making it. WALES . The story so far . Wales have enjoyed an excellent start to their campaign, with three wins and two draws putting them top of Group B. The reformatting of the competition means that the top two from each group advance automatically to France 2016, while the third-placed side enter the play-offs. Gareth Bale celebrates after scoring a late free-kick in Wales' 2-1 win over Andorra . Wales started sluggishly, requiring a late Gareth Bale free-kick to spare them from embarrassment against minnows Andorra, before earning a credible goalless draw at home to Bosnia-Herzegovina, who played at the World Cup in Brazil. Goals from David Cotterill and Hal Robson-Kanu saw off Cyprus before a 0-0 draw away to Belgium, on paper the strongest team in the group. On Saturday, they went top following a 3-0 win against 10-man Israel. Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey put them ahead on the stroke of half-time before the sending off, and two Bale strikes made absolutely sure after the break. Results: Andorra 1 Wales 2; Wales 0 Bosnia 0; Wales 2 Cyprus 1; Belgium 0 Wales 0; Israel 0 Wales 3 . Aaron Ramsey celebrates his opening goal in the 3-0 win over Israel at the weekend . Wales are currently two points ahead of Israel in Group B though they have played one game more . When did they last reach a major tournament? You have to go all the way back to 1958, when Wales reached the World Cup in Sweden, to find their one and only finals appearance. They came close to reaching Euro 2004, but lost to Russia in a play-off. What's still to come? Much now rests on their match with Belgium, who are currently third, in Cardiff on June 12. If Chris Coleman's team can get something from that, they will be in a very strong position. September sees a visit to Cyprus and a home return with Israel, before the campaign concludes with a tricky trip to Bosnia and a final home game with Andorra. From here, there really is little excuse not to make it but Wales have come close before, only to agonisingly miss out. Fixtures: June 12 - Wales vs Belgium; September 3 - Cyprus vs Wales; September 6 - Wales vs Israel; October 10 - Bosnia-Herzegovina vs Wales; October 13 - Wales vs Andorra . Bale was on target twice in Haifa as Wales lifted themselves top of qualifying Group B . SCOTLAND . The story so far . It was a case of hardest match first for the Scots, who mounted some stiff resistance away to World

Summary: We've reached the mid-way point of qualifying for Euro 2016 in France . England made it five wins from five with 4-0 win over Lithuania on Friday . Wales boosted their chances with a 3-0 win away to Israel . Scotland thrashed Gibraltar and remain behind Germany and Poland . Northern Ireland have claimed four wins from five so far .


Ricky Haruna (pictured) whose duties included guarding Kate Middleton, said she was fired from the Met Police after complaining about racism . A decorated female police officer who sued Britain's biggest police force for racial discrimination after claiming she was called a n***** by a colleague has won her case and will return to work. Ricky Haruna, 39, whose duties included guarding Kate Middleton, said she was fired from London's Metropolitan Police last June after complaining about racism and launched a case for harassment and wrongful dismissal. She is now returning to duty after an appeals tribunal backed her claims. PC Haruna was sacked from the force after what she called a 'malicious arrest' over an alleged fraud, one of three claims which led to her dismissal, and which she was later cleared of. She told the tribunal the Met only took disciplinary action against her because she pursued the racism complaints. She said: 'There was no evidence on which any reasonable, unbiased panel would have dismissed me.' The racist abuse started in 2010 when a suspected shoplifter called her 'midnight' - a racist term used in South London. She said instead of supporting her other officers present 'appeared to laugh'. She added she did not receive support from senior officers when she told them a colleague called her 'a n*****'. She said: 'After that I was harassed and  victimised by racist police officers and those that support and cover up for racists in senior management.' She also said she was excluded from a staff Christmas dinner, telling the tribunal: 'I was the only black police officer and only female police officer based in that office at the time and I felt singled out and picked on.' She was sacked seven years after she was pictured alongside Kate Middleton - then Prince William's girlfriend - and who she regularly escorted. PC Haruna was sacked from the force after a 'malicious arrest' over an alleged fraud which she was later cleared of. She is pictured holding the two commendations which she was awarded by the force in 2007 . Although she cannot speak about the case as she is now re-employed by the force, her lawyer Lawrence Davies said: 'She was devastated to be unlawfully dismissed and elated to be reinstated. 'She very much looks forward to rebuilding her career in the Met Police,' he told the Sunday Mirror. He previously said: 'When PC Haruna reported the bullying in the workplace, rather than support her, the Met's response was to target her and sack her.' PC Haruna joined the Met in January 2002 after graduating in sociology and criminology from Goldsmiths, University of London. She saved the lives of two people during her career and was awarded two commendations. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: 'Her disciplinary process was prompted by a public complaint regarding alleged criminal conduct which was investigated by the Directorate of Professional Standards. 'It is only right that such complaints are investigated, however, the steps taken by the MPS in this instance will be reviewed in the light of

Summary: Ricky Haruna, 39, won her racial discrimination case against the Met Police . Decorated officer guarded Duchess of Cambridge as part of her duties . Ms Haruna said she was fired after complaining about experiencing racism . Said she was called 'a n*****' by a colleague and senior staff did nothing . Sacked after a 'malicious arrest' over alleged fraud she was later cleared of . Tribunal backed her malicious sacking claim and she will return to duty .


This is the moment a tearful Chinese mother and her two daughters knelt down to beg forgiveness from the parents of a student who died while saving the two girls' lives. The youngsters, aged seven and nine, had gone with their mother Li Xiaoli at the end of last month to visit a man-made lake near the village of Xizhaolou in Qingfeng county, in central China's Henan province. But as they were playing on the side of the lake, the younger of the girls - named Chao - slipped and started to fall towards the water, and when her sister Liao went to grab her, she fell in as well. Li Xiaoli and her two daughters beg the parents of the man who died saving them for forgiveness . Meng Ruipeng drowned after rescuing the two girls pictured, but their mother failed to report it for fear of a compensation claim . Both girls were wearing winter coats and it was clear they would not survive long as they struggled to get back to the shore. The girl's mother, who was unable to swim herself, started screaming, alerting a nearby university student named Meng Ruipeng who ran over to help. Without thinking of his own safety, Meng jumped into the water to rescue the girls, The People's Daily reported. He managed to throw the youngest girl from the steep-sided quarry lake back onto the bank, plucking her from below the surface where she had started to sink, and then pushed the older girl towards the bank where she was grabbed by her mother and pulled to safety. Meng Ruipeng (pictured), 24, died dragging two young girls to safety from a man-made lake . But the intense cold and exertion had left the 24-year-old student so weakened that he sank below the surface seconds later and vanished from sight. Yet incredibly, instead of raising the alarm, the girls' mother had been terrified that she would end up in trouble and possibly a compensation claim from the boy's family, and had told the girls to say nothing. Instead, she had taken them home, dried them and changed their clothes, and acted as if nothing had happened. However, she did not realise that the drama had been watched by fishermen on the other side, who had raised the alarm with police. After divers investigated, they recovered the young man's body, and then started trying to work out if other people were involved in his death. That eventually led them to the girls and their mother Li Xiaoli, who had initially denied knowing anything about the tragedy but later admitted what she had done. So as the young man was being prepared for the funeral, she and her daughters turned up dressed in black together with all their savings, a total of 10,000RMB (£1,000), and offered it to the parents of the dead student to make amends. She said: 'I forced my girls to say nothing, it was my decision, and all the shame is mine. 'I offer you my apology and my tribute to your

Summary: Mother begs for forgiveness after failing to report man's death after rescue . Meng Ruipeng, 24, jumped into freezing cold water to save two girls' lives . But exertion and freezing temperatures drained his energy and he drowned . The girls' mother, fearful of a compensation claim, failed to report it . But she appeared at his funeral in tears to beg his parents for forgiveness .


David Beckham made a name for himself with a sublime strike from inside his own half at Wimbledon and son Romeo could be set to follow in his father's footsteps, but in a different sport. It has been Brooklyn attracting the limelight in the Beckham family in recent weeks with his future at Arsenal being closely monitored, but younger brother Romeo has now hit the headlines after he was tipped to become a future tennis star. If he fulfills his potential, according to tennis coach John Johnson, the 10-year-old could be winning titles at SW19 in the future. Romeo Beckham has the potential to have a 'serious' tennis career, according to his coach . David Beckham with his sons Brooklyn (left) and Romeo (right) watch a game at the Emirates Stadium in 2013 . Beckham Snr with his three sons Brooklyn (left), Cruz (centre) and Romeo . Johnson even revealed plans to have a chat with mum Victoria to make her aware of Romeo's talent. 'He has a lot of talent and very good hand-eye coordination,' Johnson was quoted as saying in the Daily Star. 'I'm going to have a meeting with his mother about it to reinforce that because I'm not sure his parents realise how good he is. Brooklyn Beckham (sitting third right), with Arsneal team-mates, will be released at the end of the season . Proud dad David (centre) watched Romeo in action for the young Gunners against Liverpool last week . 'Romeo really loves tennis. He is really into it and very talented. Romeo has a natural swing and is very enthusiastic, he just loves it. 'He kept telling me and I could see how focused he was.He is very energetic, very quick and strong.'

Summary: Romeo Beckham has been tipped to be a future tennis star . Tennis coach John Johnson says Romeo could have a 'serious' career . Brooklyn has been attracting headlines after playing for Arsenal youth .


On September 1 a Soyuz‑FG rocket will blast off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome on a mission to the ISS. And alongside a Russian commander and Danish flight engineer will be English soprano Sarah Brightman - who is said to have already paid £35 million to fund the outlandish space trip. Earlier today the 54-year-old announced more details about the project and revealed some of the gruelling training she is undergoing at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Moscow. On September 1 a Soyuz‑FG rocket will blast off from the Baikonur Cosmodrome on a mission to the ISS. Alongside a Russian commander and Danish flight engineer will be English soprano Sarah Brightman. The singer is pictured during training at Star City in Moscow . The trip will make her the eighth so-called 'space tourist' who has paid millions for the privilege of bloasting into space. Others include software developer and founder of Canonical - which makes the Linux-based operating system Ubuntu - Mark Shuttleworth, and Cirque De Soleil founder Guy Liberte. Ms Brightman will begin her 10-day stint in space and on-board the ISS on 1 September. She will be accompanied by Colonel Sergei Volkov, a 42-year-old Russian who will be leading his third mission into space, and 35-year-old Danish Flight Engineer Andreas Mogensen. However, she will still need to to receive the basic training all astronauts must endure before being allowed into space. At a press conference at the Ham Yard Hotel in Soho the 54-year-old singer (pictured left) said her training lasts for 16 hours a day, starting at 6am, and this includes four hours of Russian language classes. She will also need to undergo weightlessness training in the Russian hydro lab (pictured right) A mock-up of the Soyuz spacecraft used to take astronauts to the ISS is pictured . Ms Brightman said her training lasts for 16 hours a day, starting at 6am, and this includes four hours of Russian language classes. It also includes being thrown around inside a machine called a centrifuge at high speeds to adjust to the varying levels of G force the journey into space involves. This training is taking place at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Centre in Star City in Moscow because the crew will travel to the ISS on a Russian Soyuz capsule and need to know how to use it. It falls into three phases, which will last until the mission blasts off in September. These are General Space Training, Group Training, and Crew Training. General Space Training: This starts up to five years before the mission and involves survival training and a final exam. Group Training: During the Group Training phase, cosmonauts focus on learning about the Soyuz and ISS. Crew Training: The final Crew Training phase then covers detailed vehicle operations procedures, ISS training, and English language. At the Yuri Gagarin Centre the training is broken into a further four sections: simulators, weightless environment training facility and a so-called 'hydro lab', centrifuge and flying laboratories. Flying labs (pictured) help train cosmonauts to carry out specific technical tests of

Summary: Sarah Brightman will board the Soyuz space rocket on September 1 . She will be blasted into space along with two other cosmonauts . Singer will spend 10 days on the space station before returning to Earth . The 54-year-old is undergoing 16 hours of training a day in Moscow . This includes four hours Russian language classes, weightlessness and G-force simulations, and engineering tests . It is estimated her extra-terrestrial trip will cost more than £34million . She is also hoping to sing a song she wrote for the trip while in space .


If you find your hour in the gym leaves you exhausted, spare a thought for four determined British women about to embark on an epic adventure that will test them to their limits. The women are attempting to be the first female 4's team to row unsupported across the Pacific Ocean from America to Australia. Throughout the 8,446-mile journey, the women will have to spend two hours on the oars and two hours off for six months solid. Scroll down for video . The women (front to back, Laura, Natalia and Emma) will be alone on the vast ocean for six months of mentally and physical activity . Laura, Isabel, Natalia and Emma on their rowing machines. 'The main muscle groups we train by doing dead lifts, bench press, leg press, seated row, single arm row and core strengthening,' explains Natalia . The women are attempting to be the first female 4's team to row unsupported across the Pacific Ocean from America to Australia, which will involve spending two hours on the oars and two hours off for six months . Apart from issues like sleep deprivation, adverse weather conditions, injury, salt sores, sun exposure and potential equipment malfunction, the coxless crew also need to train themselves to deal with psychological challenges of monotony, confined living quarters and limited contact with the outside world. That's on top of the fitness and strength training needed to take on the momentous rowing feat. Yet, the formidable foursome set to embark on this exceptional journey - in a 29ft long and 7ft wide pink boat called Doris - describe themselves as 'ordinary'. Laura Penhaul, 31, from Cornwall, is a physiotherapist for the Paralympics and is the team leader; Natalia Cohen, 40, from Manchester is a travel operations manager and has spent two decades living in countries in the developing world; Isabel Burnham, 30, from Cambridge works as a solicitor and Emma Mitchell, 29, from Marlow is an expedition manager for a travel company. The coxless crew, who are aiming to raise over a quarter of a million pounds for two charities: Walking With the Wounded and Breast Cancer Care survivors, have just over two weeks to go before they embark upon their voyage. Taking on the challenge of a lifetime: Isabel Burnham, Laura Penhaul, Emma Mitchell and Natalia Cohen will row the Pacific in a 29ft long and 7ft wide pink boat called Doris . Laura said: 'We say that this row is 85 per cent psychological in how we cope and 15 per cent physical, but our psychological state will be affected by being dehydrated, calorie deficient, sleep deprived and hormone imbalanced. So if we can optimise these variables then it will will help our mental state.' Natalia added: 'Our mental strength is going to be vital. I believe that we all have our own Pacific to cross, in whatever form that comes. 'We want to empower others to have faith and dig deep to fight and overcome whatever adversity life throws your way. I believe you can do anything you set your mind

Summary: Four women will attempt to row 8,446-miles from America to Australia . They share their training secrets to building up mind and body for the feat . They want to be first female 4's team to row unsupported across Pacific . For six months they will sleep and row in two-hour intervals . Women, who have day jobs, say it will be 85% mental and 15% physical .


Leicester striker Andrej Kramaric has criticised the standard of Premier League refereeing following Leicester's 2-0 midweek defeat at Manchester City. Goals from David Silva and James Milner gave the hosts victory, in a match that contained several talking bouts. Nigel Pearson's side felt they should have been awarded two penalties during the match when Kramaric and team-mate Jeffrey Schlupp both fell under challenges during the clash at the Stadium. Leicester striker Andrej Kramaric is unsatisfied with the standard of Premier League refereeing against them . And Kramaric believes Wednesday night's match isn't the first time that Foxes have had the rub of the green go against them. 'We should have been awarded two penalties against Man City, one on me and one on [Jeffrey] Schlupp,' the 23-year-old told Goal in an exclusive. 'I admit, my contact with [Joe] Hart was not a penalty, but when Fernando fouled me, it was clearly inside the box. I have to admit: I am not satisfied [with] how referees treat Leicester.' Leicester were denied a penalty when Jeffrey Schlupp (left) fell under the challenge of Wilfried Bony . The Croatia international has scored twice in eight appearances for Leicester since joining the club in January from Rijeka. Despite their struggles as a team domestically, Kramaric feels he has adapted well to the demands of the Premier League - and in particular England's top-flight defender. 'I have played against many top Premier League defenders so far and I can handle every one, no one is impossible,' he added. 'I need just a little more time to get used to everything here.' Kramaric (right) believes he has adapted to Premier League defenders well since joining Leicester in January .

Summary: Manchester City won 2-0 at home to Leicester on Wednesday night . Foxes were denied two penalty appeals during the match at the Etihad . Andrej Kramaric believes he has adapted to Premier League defenders well since joining Leicester in January .


Educator: Los Angeles teacher Thelmo Garcia, 37, is accused of placing a plastic over the head of a 10-year-old female student in class last month . A Los Angeles elementary school teacher was arrested this week after police say he placed a plastic bag over the head of a 10-year-old student. Thelmo Garcia, 37, a fourth-grade teacher at Rosewood Elementary School, pleaded not guilty to one count of child abuse Friday, two days after he was taken into custody in connection to the February 5 incident. According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, the educator placed a bag over the head of a girl in his class 'for several seconds' during school hours. The child reportedly did not pass out after the stunt, according to CBS Los Angeles. Investigators would not say whether Garcia was disciplining the girl, or just joking with her, as he's been known to do with other students. Garcia has been with the Los Angeles Unified School District since 1999 and taught fourth grade at Rosewood since 2010. The 37-year-old man was ordered held on $100,000 bail. If convicted, he could face up to six years in prison. The school has suspended Garcia with pay pending an investigation. Scroll down for video . Place of learning: The alleged incident took place at Rosewood Elementry School, where Garcia has taught fourth grade since 2010 . The 37-year-old pleaded not guilty and was ordered held on $100,000 bail . ‘We take these allegations very seriously,’ Ellen Morgan, of the Los Angeles Unified School District, said in a statement. ‘The district is fully cooperating with the LAPD investigation.’ Some parents and students at the LA school were stunned to learn of the allegations against Garcia, who was described as a caring and playful teacher. According to CBS, Garcia had no history of infractions over the course of his teaching career.

Summary: Thelmo Garcia, 37, pleaded not guilty Friday to one count of child abuse . Prosecutors say on February 5, Garcia placed a bag over the head of a 10-year-old girl for several seconds at Rosewood Elementary School .


Cissy Houston has broken her silence on the condition of her comatose granddaughter Bobbi Kristina to reveal the 21-year-old is not showing any signs of improvement. Despite having been transferred last week to a Georgia rehabilitation facility, Whitney Houston's 81-year-old mother told New York's WBLS radio that little has changed in Bobbi Kristina's condition. 'She's the same,' Cissy said. 'We've moved her to a place for rehabilitation. And you know, still not a great deal of hope.' Not much hope: Cissy Houston has broken her silence on the condition of her comatose granddaughter Bobbi Kristina to reveal the 21-year-old is not showing any signs of improvement . 'She's the same,' Cissy said. 'We've moved her to a place for rehabilitation. And you know, still not a great deal of hope.' Moved: Brown, the daughter of late pop singer Whitney Houston, was moved to a rehabilitation facility from a Georgia hospital almost two months after she was found unresponsive in a bathtub . 'The family had for weeks stayed mostly mum about Bobbi's condition Houston also took the time to thank fans who'd been praying for Bobbi since she was found unresponsive in a bathtub of her Georgia home January 31. 'I feel every bit of it,' she said. 'I truly do.' Houston said: 'I'm asking everybody: "Just pray to the Lord who we know CAN do something about it."' Brown, the daughter of late pop singer Whitney Houston, was moved to a rehabilitation facility from a Georgia hospital almost two months after she was found unresponsive in a bathtub, NBC News reported on last week. Family members, including Bobby's son Landon and Whitney's sister-in-law Pat Houston, lent their support during the transfer, with Pat seen carrying items including stuffed toys and books. Doctors at Emory attempted to slowly remove life support to see if Bobbi responded but unfortunately it was to no avail and sources have confirmed she is in the same non-responsive state she's been in for weeks. The new facility is said to be better for long-term care. Bobby reportedly remains confident that his daughter can come out of the coma even though doctors have told the family to prepare for the worst. Bobbi was taken to North Fulton Hospital in Roswell, Georgia after being resuscitated on January 31 and was later transferred to Emory Hospital where she had been until this week. Meanwhile, according to Radar Online, R&B star Bobby 'wants god to make the decision' of whether to take his daughter off life support and is 'devastated' that he is going to have to make this decision about his child. Bobbi's singing sensation mother, Whitney Houston, died three years ago when she accidentally drowned in a hotel bathtub in Los Angeles.

Summary: Whitney Houston's 81-year-old mother sat for a radio interview in New York Wednesday to reveal little has changed . Bobbi Kristina was moved from Emory University in Atlanta to a rehabilitation facility March 20 . The 21-year-old has been in a coma since January 31, when she was found unresponsive in a bathtub at her Georgia home .


The sight of an aspiring model who had bleach thrown in her face was saved by a friend splashing her eyes with Pepsi. Victoria Smith, 17, was left with raw burns and hair loss when a school bully attacked her at a party shouting: ‘Here’s your shot of bleach.’ Yesterday a judge sentenced Rebecca Morris, then also 17, to 27 months behind bars for the assault, which he described as a ‘spiteful and vengeful act’. Miss Smith, who modelled under the name Toria Melody and at the time dyed her hair bright pink, had been bullied by Morris at the college where they were studying, the court heard. Victoria Smith, 17, was left with raw burns and hair loss when a school bully attacked her at a party in Hull in August last year, while shouting: ‘Here’s your shot of bleach' Morris was suspended as a result and began threatening to attack her accuser with bleach. ‘She knew she was a model and it was designed to burn and disfigure,’ said Stephen Welch, prosecuting. But her sight was saved when a quick-thinking friend carrying some Pepsi splashed it over her burning eyes. The assault came in a carefully-planned ambush in which Miss Smith was lured to a house party in their home town of Hull last August. First aid manuals stress the vital importance of flushing out the eyes with lukewarm water if they come into contact with harmful chemicals. Ideally the eyes will be bathed for at least 15-20 minutes to dilute the substance and remove as much of it as possible before it can cause damage. If water isn’t available, alternative liquids such as soft drinks can also be suitable – making the action of Miss Smith’s friend an admirable improvisation. However, once an acid or alkali enters the eye, there is usually no specific benefit in using the opposite to try to neutralise it. She was unaware that Morris was there but became suspicious that something was wrong and left. Her tormentor then followed her down the street and flung the bleach in her face with the aim of ruining her looks. A previous hearing heard that Morris shouted: ‘Here’s your shot of bleach instead of your shot of vodka. This is for getting me thrown out of college’. She could have suffered permanent damage to her sight had it not been for ‘a friend who irrigated her eyes with the soft drink she was carrying’, Judge David Tremberg told Hull Crown Court. ‘This was an assault which was unprovoked and premeditated.’ However, Miss Smith needed treatment in hospital, continues to suffer chronic dryness in her eyes and had to wear a wig as a result of damage to her hair. She also suffered severe psychological harm – leaving her feeling unable to socialise with friends – and made a suicide attempt two months later. Writing on Facebook after the attack, Miss Smith said: ‘The outer layer of my eyes are permanently damaged and my hair has turned green from the bleach and has fallen out at the front.

Summary: Victoria Smith, 17, was left with raw burns and hair loss after attack in Hull . School bully shouted: 'Here's your shot of bleach' before throwing liquid . She could have suffered permanent sight damage without friend's actions . Rebecca Morris, then 17, jailed after pleading guilty to 'spiteful and vengeful act'


The White House, State Department and Hillary Clinton's personal office knew in August 2014 that the former secretary of state was using a private email account to conduct official government business. Clinton's staff, who knew that House Republicans had received information from the private email address, made the decision to keep the information from the public. Her staff waited until after the New York Times published an article on Tuesday about the subject to discuss the email address. Scroll down for video . White House and State Department staff, as well as Hillary Clinton's personal office knew about her personal email address in August, but her office decided to keep the information from the public . Key personnel from the Obama Administration and on Clinton's staff were aware of the address for six months, sources said, according to Politico. And, it is possible that Clinton distributed sensitive information through her personal email, the State Department has admitted, and only a review of her messages will determine if she broke the rules. The State Department first became aware of the email address when responding to a request form the House Select Committee during the aftermath of the terrorist attack on the US consulate based in the Libyan city of Benghazi. When State and White House officials noticed Clinton's private email address on documents, they notified her personal staff and said they should take lead, since she was no longer a government employee. Clinton spokesman Nick Merrill said staff believes Clinton's email practices were not a cause for concern, nor did they break rules. 'There was nothing to get ahead of,' Merrill said. 'This was perfectly permissible and the practice of past secretaries, and not only did she turn over all pertinent emails, she has taken the extraordinary step of now asking them to be released to the public. When that’s done, which we hope is soon, it will become clear that it’s all in there and then some.' A State Department official who spoke to The Washington Post, however, acknowledged that some of the correspondence Clinton sent through her private email may constitute a breach of security guidelines. The official said that Clinton didn't directly defy State's policies by using her personal email for government communications, but a manual obtained by news outlets shows that since 2005 State has directed its employees to use its email system because it has the 'proper level of security control.' The former secretary of state's team has responded to a storm of criticism surrounding Clinton's email practices by hunkering down and waiting for it to pass. But top communications gurus are recommending the campaign immediately act to deflate 'email-gate' Top communications gurus are recommending Clinton' steam immediately act to deflate email-gate. Democrats in early states worry the scandal is an early warning sign that Clinton's presumed presidential campaign is on the path to destruction and could 'implode'. From the outset, the State Department has cautiously avoided declaring Clinton innocent of any wrongdoing while encouraging reporters to give her the benefit of the doubt. 'She and her team

Summary: Staff discovered private emails in the aftermath of the terrorist attack on the U.S. consulate based in the Libyan city of Benghazi . They decided that since she was no longer part of government, her personal office should handle the information . Clinton's staff decided to keep quiet about the private email address . Spokesman Nick Merrill said the staff believes Clinton's email practices were not a cause for concern, nor did they break rules .


A teacher and wrestling coach has been charged after allegedly having sex with a high school wrestler. Megan Blair Baker, 25, has been accused of sexual contact with a 17-year-old Sherwood Cass High School student amid reports that she had sex with him on a school bus in January. The teacher, from Urich, Missouri who is believed to be married, was indicted by grand jury on March 20. She was freed on $7,500 bond, KCTV5 reported. Scroll down for video . Teacher and wrestling coach Megan Blair Baker, 25, has been accused of sexual contact with a 17-year-old Sherwood Cass High School student . According to members of the school community who spoke to the local TV station, the teenage boy 'had been bragging' about what happened with the teacher. The boy's father reported the incident to police on February 2. School superintendent Tim Gallagher told Daily Mail Online that Mrs Baker was placed on paid administrative leave when the allegations were first reported. She could face up to four years in prison if found guilty. The high school (pictured) said that Mrs Baker was placed immediately on paid leave following the allegations .

Summary: Megan Blair Baker, 25, has been accused of sexual contact with a 17-year-old Sherwood Cass High School student . She reportedly had sex with the teenager on a school bus in January . Mrs Baker was suspended from the school on paid leave and is out on $7,500 bond .


Andres Iniesta wants Manchester City to ‘suffer’ in tomorrow’s Champions League tie in the Nou Camp. Barcelona lead 2-1 from the first leg at the Etihad and are expected to progress to the quarter-final of the competition. Iniesta said: ‘We play in a comprehensive manner, we want ball possession so that they suffer. We need to find our superior skills and minimise their potential. We want to control what goes on at every moment. Andres Iniesta, rested in Barca's weekend win over Eibar, is expected to return to the staring line-up to take on City on Wednesday . Barcelona's Croatian midfielder Ivan Rakitic controls the ball as Xavi and Pedro look on during training before Wednesday's clash . Neymar aims a friendly kick at fellow Barcelona striker Luis Suarez after the Uruguayan ad gone down during training . The Brazil captain was in high spirits throughout the session, as Barcelona prepared for their Champions League last 16 second leg . ‘In a season there are different moments, I am not there in Manchester City with the team and this players but from a distance, as an opposition player, my perception is that they are a sound team. ‘They are a team with top quality players, it is difficult opposition.’ Iniesta also admitted Barcelona will have to pay special attention to their former midfielder Yaya Toure after he returns from suspension. Iniesta said: ‘He is very important for them, he is very powerful physically, he has important qualities because of all his skills. We will try to minimise his potential.’ Iniesta's team-mates seemed to be enjoying themselves ahead of City's visit with a lively training session on Tuesday with Neymar in particular acting the joker. The Brazil star was seen laughing with team-mates throughout, and gave fellow striker Luis Suarez a kick up the backside after the Uruguayan had taken a tumble during one exercise. Suarez and Lionel Messi were in fine form in the first leg as Barcelona beat Manchester City 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium . The Barca stars will be hoping to reach the Champions League quarter finals by holding off Manchester City at the Nou Camp . Barca have not failed to reach Europe's last eight since 2007, and saw off Manchester City at the same stage last season . But Iniesta insisted that his team-mates are taking Wednesday's game very seriously, and are not letting next week's Clasico, or talk of a potential treble, cloud their mines. 'It is true that after tomorrow we have a very important match on Sunday against our main opponents in La Liga in Real Madrid, but we don't think beyond tomorrow,' he added. 'It's very important we are totally concentrated on tomorrow.' Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has played all of Barca's Champions League games so far but not a single league game, prepares for City . The Barcelona players move the ball around during a training exercise ahead of the vital showdown with City . Neymar shares a joke with Jeremy Mathieu as the Brazilian enjoyed his final training session before the

Summary: Barcelona train ahead of crucial last-16 second leg against Manchester City at the Nou Camp . Spanish side lead City 2-1 after first leg, when Luis Suarez scored twice at Etihad stadium . But Barca star Andres Iniesta insists the tie is not over, and says Barcelona are fully focused on Wednesday's game .


The loved ones of a young woman tragically killed when the car she was travelling in while standing up through the sunroof collided into a tree have posted tributes to the 'beautiful soul'. Alex Ryder, from Byron Bay in NSW, suffered horrific injuries from the car crash on Skinners Road on Tuesday night, and was aided by a passer-by until paramedics arrived. The 29-year-old was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital where she died on Wednesday, surrounded by family. 29-year-old Alex Ryder (right) was killed when the car she was standing up in crashed into a tree on Tuesday . On Wednesday, her sister Adriana took to Facebook to express her grief, posting a compilation of several pictures of shared moments with her sibling. 'My love for you is undying,' she commented underneath the photo, later posting a photo of a technicolour stairway to heaven. Friends and family were quick to add their memories of the 29-year-old, who had moved to Byron Bay in 2013 and worked as a teacher and waitress in the area. 'What a beautiful soul,' posted one Facebook user, while another said 'May her spirit live on forever in our hearts.' 'It's amazing just how beautiful Alex was and how many lives she touched with her beautiful infectious personality ... May her spirit live on forever in our hearts,' posted another. Ms Ryder's sister Adriana posted a compilation of moments with her sibling on Wednesday . Tributes: 'It's amazing how beautiful Alex was and many lives she touched,' said one person in an online post. Ms Ryder had moved to Byron Bay in 2013 and worked casually as a teacher and waitress in the area . The Harvest Cafe, closed on Thursday as colleagues mourned the much-loved waitress's death . The 29-year-old posted on Facebook that she was 'In love ... with life! Never been so excited about the future!' when she moved to Byron Bay two years ago. The restaurant in the Byron Bay hinterland where Ms Ryder worked, The Harvest Cafe, closed on Thursday as colleagues mourned the much-loved waitress's death. On Wednesday the cafe posted a picture to their Facebook page which said 'Harvest will be closed tomorrow due to the loss of one of our beautiful team.' 'We thank you for your understanding while we take this time together.' 'Harvest will be closed tomorrow due to the loss of one of our beautiful team,' the cafe posted on Facebook . The 29-year-old was airlifted to Gold Coast University Hospital (above) where she died on Wednesday . Ms Ryder suffered horrific injuries from the car crash on Skinners Road (above) on Tuesday night . 'So so saddened by this news,' posted one Facebook user on the post. While police are still investigating, it is understood that Ms Ryder's best friend was driving the car at the time of the crash. The 22-year-old was uninjured, and was taken to hospital to undergo mandatory blood and urine tests. It is unclear how fast the car was travelling, but a source said there were no tyre marks were

Summary: Alex Ryder, from Byron Bay, was standing up through the sunroof of a car when it crashed into a tree on Tuesday night . The 29-year-old suffered horrific injuries and died in hospital on Wednesday, surrounded by family . Her sister Adriana took to Facebook to pay tribute, posting that 'my love for you is undying' under a compilation of photos of Ms Ryder . Friends and family, as well as Ms Ryder's workplace, have posted tributes . It is believed Ms Ryder's best friend was driving the car, and police are investigating the cause of the crash .


Tens of thousands of serious criminals are being let off with just a slap on the wrist because of lazy police officers, a report claims today. Almost one in three crimes is ‘inappropriately’ punished with a police caution or penalty notice, including some that carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, such as rape, MPs say. Some 86,000 offences that could have gone before a Crown Court were dealt with out of court in the year to June 2014, they add. Revelation: Tens of thousands of serious criminals are being let off with just a slap on the wrist because of lazy police officers, a report claims today . The Home Affairs Select Committee points to an ‘alarming’ rise of the caution culture – which grew and peaked under the Labour government – and says this has damaged public confidence in the justice system. The committee’s report concludes that too often, police used cautions as a ‘time-saving tool’ rather than the correct way of tackling an offence. In total, police issued 318,500 of the so-called out-of-court disposals, mostly for minor offences, in 2013-14, down from 660,965 in 2008. Despite ministers insisting cautions are ‘inappropriate’ for serious offences, 70 sexual and violent offenders a week received one in the past four years. Keith Vaz, Labour chairman of the committee, said: ‘The inappropriate use of out-of-court disposals to deal with serious offences is unacceptable. ‘It is alarming that they are not being used in the correct way in up to 30 per cent of cases. ‘We cannot allow the misuse of out-of-court disposals in serious cases to continue. The public deserve to feel reassured that their local police forces are not tackling serious crimes with a slap on the wrist.’ Keith Vaz, Labour chairman of the committee, said the 'inappropriate use of out-of-court disposals to deal with serious offences unacceptable. The committee also says the use of cautions has resulted in a ‘postcode lottery’. In Gwent, 49 per cent of offences were brought to justice, compared with 26 per cent in West Yorkshire. At the peak, one in ten of all solved cases was dealt with by out-of-court disposals. By last year, it had fallen to fewer than one in 20. The report found that cautions could save the police time and money by cutting bureaucracy, allowing front-line officers to spend more time pounding the beat. Arresting an offender takes almost three hours of police time, and charging someone takes five hours. But too many cautions were being handed out ‘inappropriately’, says the committee. The report welcomes reforms being introduced by Justice Secretary Chris Grayling that will end the caution culture which led to criminals being let off with a warning. Six types of out-of-court disposals will be replaced with just two which are designed to compel offenders to make some form of reparation. Minor criminals will be told they must apologise to victims or repair damage they have caused to prevent a court appearance. More serious offenders will be give a ‘suspended prosecution’, which means they must meet a set of conditions such

Summary: Almost one in three crimes ‘inappropriately’ punished with police caution . 86,000 potential Crown Court offences were dealt with out of court last year . Home Affairs Select Committee points to ‘alarming’ rise of caution culture .


Dave Bassett and Wally Downes are to set the record straight about the glory days at Wimbledon after agreeing to write a book about the club’s incredible rise through the Football League. Bassett claimed that the Crazy Gang had been misrepresented in a 90 minute BT Sport documentary - which won an award at the Sports Journalists’ Association dinner on Monday - screened late last year. Bassett, who was manager of the Dons between 1981 and 1987 and his former player Downes are working in collaboration on the new book. Wimbledon manager Dave Bassett pictured with his team back in 1985 . John Fashanu (left) and Wally Downes hug Vinnie Jones during a 1986 match with Sheffield Wednesday . The Crazy Gang's crowning glory came when they beat Liverpool to win the FA Cup in 1988 . They started work on the project on Wednesday and the book is expected to be released towards the end of the year. Bassett, who won four promotions with the Dons and took them into the old First Division, is wounded by the portrayal of the Crazy Gang as a team of thugs who would go to any lengths to beat the opposition. On Monday night, the documentary maker’s acceptance speech included a reference to Bassett’s trenchant views on the content of the film. In the documentary Vinnie Jones claimed he was the leader of the dressing room and John Fashanu had his own colourful version of events on the club’s rise through the divisions. Now Bassett and Downes, who also took part in the documentary, will have their extended say in the forthcoming book.

Summary: Bassett and Downes will write about club's incredible rise in 1980s . The manager won four promotions with the unfancied London club . They were nicknamed the 'Crazy Gang' for their bizarre antics . BT documentary last year misrepresented the team, they say . Book set for release later in the year will set the record straight .


Ronny Deila accused Ryan McGowan of endangering the career of Liam Henderson with a wild lunge in the dying moments of Celtic's Scottish Cup victory over Dundee United. The Norwegian's side strolled into a semi-final meeting with Inverness by putting four goals past the Tannadice men, yet the third of four successive meetings between the sides was again pockmarked by ill-discipline. Anthony Stokes was sent off by referee Calum Murray for a swipe at Paul Paton before McGowan was also dismissed for scything down Celtic sub Henderson – prompting the sixth red card in three back-to-back meetings. Ryan McGowan is sent off by referee Calum Murray after he scythed down Celtic sub Liam Henderson . And a clearly angered Deila believes the young Celt was fortunate to escape serious injury. 'It was a red card,' he insisted. 'It was a stupid tackle on the sideline. We need to get these things out of football. 'It was a youngster trying a little trick in the corner. You could have stayed there and kept him out wide instead of going in with both feet. He could have injured him for life. 'It must have been frustration. It was a straight-forward win in the end but there were some angry and disappointed players out there. 'It got a bit tense at the end but that can happen. Celtic boss Ronny Deila claimed McGowan could have injured Henderson for life with his late challenge . 'These have been important games for both teams and sometimes it can get a bit tense. 'Today, we were the better team, like we were on Sunday, and they had some frustration. We need to handle that and get ready for the next game.' Deila, who wanted to look at the Stokes incident before commenting further, isn' t concerned the ill-feeling will spill over in the fourth encounter between the sides on Saturday. 'I spoke to Stokes,' he added. 'His mouth was bleeding after a challenge from Paton and he reacted. We have to see it again if it is a red card. 'I am not concerned for my players. We have to be at the same level and get the three points. I am delighted to be playing them again.' Celtic eased through at the second attempt thanks to goals from Jason Denayer, Leigh Griffiths, Kris Commons and Virgil van Dijk. But given the tempestuous nature of the three previous games, Griffiths believes there's every chance matters might get out of hand when the teams reconvene on league business at Celtic Park. 'That's six red cards in three games now and if I was a betting man then I would be putting money on another sending off this Saturday,' he said. Anthony Stokes (second left) comes together with McGowan during an ill-tempered second-half . 'It is just one of those things and the Dundee United players are getting a bit frustrated and we move on to Saturday and hopefully we can pick up another three points. 'I don't think there is niggle between both sets of players. I just think

Summary: Celtic defeated Dundee United 4-0 in the Scottish Cup on Wednesday . The victory was overshadowed by Ryan McGowan's dangerous challenge on Celtic's Liam Henderson . McGowan was red carded for his challenge on Henderson . The match was pockmarked by bouts of ill-discipline from both sides . Celtic striker Anthony Stokes was sent off for a swipe at Paul Paton .