Fernando Alonso has declared himself 'ready to go' ahead of facing one final hurdle prior to his return to Formula One in Malaysia this weekend. The double world champion missed the opening round of the season in Australia following a crash in his McLaren in the second pre-season test in Barcelona in which he sustained concussion. Alonso has since undergone numerous tests and examinations to ensure he is fit to step back into the cockpit of his car, with a final medical assessment by the FIA due to be conducted on Thursday at the Sepang International Circuit. Fernando Alonso has declared himself fit after recovering from concussion for the Malaysian Grand Prix . Given the heat and high humidity in Malaysia the FIA will also be eager to satisfy itself Alonso will be able to cope with the conditions. The Spaniard is adamant he is fine as he said: 'I've been working hard on my fitness and I feel good and ready to go this weekend. 'The heat in Malaysia is always very tough for the drivers, but I've been focusing on this in my training and I'm definitely prepared for all of the weather conditions we can face in Sepang.' The Spaniard suffered the concussion after being involved in a serious crash during testing . Alonso was airlifted to hospital and didn't take part in the opening race of the Formula One season in Australia . Should Alonso return he faces an immediate uphill struggle given the lack of performance of McLaren, now reunited and powered again by Honda. After stand-in Kevin Magnussen retired on the formation lap with a technical issue in Melbourne, Jenson Button went on to see the chequered flag at Albert Park, only to finish two laps down on race-winner Lewis Hamilton in 11th and last place. Aware of the difficulties to come, Alonso added: 'I watched the weekend in Australia very closely and I was in touch with the team from the moment they arrived. After leaving Ferrari to sign with McLaren-Honda, the Spaniard will be hoping to get the all clear to race . 'It's clear we have a lot of work ahead of us, but Jenson's result in Melbourne was encouraging from the point of view of reliability and data collection, which are extremely important. 'The weekend will still be tough, but I'm looking forward to getting into the car for the first time in a grand prix and getting back to racing. 'I've spent some time in the simulator back at the factory, and my focus will be on continuing the development of our package with my engineers, and working on our balance and race set-up. 'There's a lot of potential in the car and we will keep pushing every race until we see results. 'Although we are a long way from the front, everyone in McLaren-Honda is working hard to develop the package and keep building momentum with each race.'

Summary: Fernando Alonso has declared himself fit for the Malaysian Grand Prix . The Spaniard suffered a concussion while in testing for McLaren-Honda . Alonso was prevented from racing in the Formula One opener in Australia . Click here for all the latest Formula One news .


The world’s largest boring machine was lifted out of an underground tunnel in Seattle, where it has been stuck for more than a year after it broke down mid-job. The gigantic drill, known as Bertha, stopped working in December 2013 after digging just 1,000ft of its two-mile journey to replace the aging Alaska Way, which was damaged in 2001 by an earthquake. A crew from Dutch construction company Mammoet used a huge red crane on Monday to hoist the front end of the machine – which is fivestories tall and weighs 2,000 tonnes – out of the ground so it could be repaired. Scroll down for video . The front end of gigantic digger Bertha is being lifted out of the ground by a huge red crane in a painstaking process . The machine, pictured in the ground, stopped working after digging just 1,000ft of its two mile trip to replace an aging waterfront highway . Workmen spent hours on Monday carefully lifting the equipment, which weighs 2,000 ton, to the ground so it can be fixed . A release by the Washington State Department of Transportation said removing the removing the equipment, buried 120 feet underground, would take workmen at least 16 hours but there was no set schedule, adding: ‘Crews will take as long as necessary to prepare for and safely complete the lift.’ The operation was the fourth and final lift in the department’s repair programme, with crews already removing three pieces of Bertha’s exterior from the pit, the department added. The machine's breakdown and other construction issues have left the $80million project two years behind schedule and sparked concern about cost overruns and other unforeseen obstacles. The original highway overhaul was expected to cost $2 billion and be completed by 2015. The new timeline for replacing the busy Alaskan Way Viaduct, damaged in a 2001 earthquake, is 2017. A white crane arrives on the scene in Seattle to help lift part of Bertha, which had been buried 120 feet underground . Workers prepare a gravel pad as Bertha is pulled out of the ground. Mammoet, the company who set up the huge red crane to remove Bertha, has completed similar lifts across the world including hoisting a Russian nuclear submarine from out of the Arctic Ocean . Matt Preedy, deputy Highway 99 tunnel administrator for the Washington State Department of Transportation, praised the work of Mammoet, Seattle Tunnel Partners (STP) and tunnel-machine maker Hitachi in a report to The Seattle Times, saying they had devised a good lifting plan and did an 'excellent job'. The mammoth task saw the digger gradually heaved to ground level at a rate of four to five inches a minute, with the help of seven miles of cable. He added that Bertha now needs to be disassembled, inspected and repaired before construction companies commit to a time frame where the machine will start work again - with some contractors saying work could start again in August, . Mammoet has performed other lifts around the world, including recovering a Russian nuclear submarine from the

Summary: Gigantic device, known as Bertha, stopped working in December 2013 after digging just 1,000ft of a highway tunnel . Workmen used a huge red crane to pull the front end of the broken-down tunnel in painstaking operation . Crane was lifted to ground level at a rate of four inches a minute and using seven miles of cable . Breakdown has meant the $80 million project to replace the Alaska Way has been delayed by two years .


For three long years Claire O’Meara put her regular, excruciating migraines down to the stress of her high-flying career in sports marketing. Long hours spent at her computer, plus business trips abroad were surely responsible for triggering the searing headaches that made it feel as though her head was being gripped in a vice. ‘I was 30 when the migraines began, randomly at first, but then they came every month,’ says Claire, 35, who lives in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, with her husband Brendan, 42, a fitness centre owner. ‘I blamed my career and lifestyle. At work, I’d have to sit in a dark room and shut my eyes as the pain was all-consuming. Sometimes, the migraines would wipe me out for a week. Claire O’Meara (pictured) used to put her regular, excruciating migraines down to the stress of her high-flying career in sports marketing . ‘Despite being a virtual workaholic, there were times I was unable to function and would have to phone in sick, which left me feeling terribly guilty.’ Things got so bad that last year Claire gave up her job to work part-time for her husband, helping to market his firm. But then Claire had an epiphany when she began keeping a diary of her headaches — her migraines were linked to her menstrual cycle. ‘I noticed they always came the day before my period, and it was a relief to finally realise what the trigger was. ‘It altered the way I tried to deal with them. I took advice, mapped out my cycles, and upped my dosage of magnesium (said to regulate hormones) and took over-the-counter drug Migraleve to try to prevent a migraine coming on 24 hours before I knew my period was due. This has staved off a full-blown migraine for the last few months.’ Claire is not the only woman suffering from this commonly misdiagnosed side-effect of the menstrual cycle. Claire (pictured after a migraine) gave up her job to work part-time for her husband last year when the migraines got really bad . According to charity the National Migraine Centre, a staggering 50 per cent of women suffer menstrual migraines immediately before, during or just after their period. But, like Claire, very many don’t make the connection between the two for years — and neither do their GPs. Online forums are awash with women discussing the ‘lightbulb moment’ they finally realised their cycle was to blame. Although migraines are an age-old problem, the diagnosis of specific menstrual migraines is a modern phenomenon, following extensive research over the past 25 years. Professor Anne MacGregor, a leading specialist in headaches and women’s health, says: ‘The most common cause is a drop in oestrogen towards the end of the cycle. This hormone is released at the start of it, and levels rise, eventually triggering ovulation and an egg’s release. Claire (pictured) has seen various GPs and doctors about her severe migraines but none have been able to come up with a treatment that has worked completely . ‘Progesterone is released and prepares the womb lining for a

Summary: Claire O’Meara, 35, put her headaches down to the stress of her career . Things got so bad that last year Claire gave up her job to work part-time . Marie Brown, 47, has suffered from migraines for over a decade . She kept a diary and realised they were linked to her menstrual cycle .


In the history of human invention, there's nothing that matches the car. We rely on them every day. To do our jobs, drop the kids off at school, or take an elderly relative shopping. Cars mean freedom and independence, and most importantly of all, convenience. But years of crazy parking rules have made many law-abiding shoppers and drivers feel like criminals, and caused enormous damage to local shops and businesses. We all know the story. You return a minute late to find a parking ticket slapped on your windscreen. Or maybe you run a local shop, and customers have dried up because what you sell costs less than the parking fee. Local Government and Communities Secretary Eric Pickles (left) and Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin (right) have vowed to end the 'war on the motorist' with their new 'common sense' approach . In 2010 we said this war on the motorist must end. That meant not only changing the rules, but changing attitudes, because under the previous Government councils were encouraged to fleece shoppers and rivers for every penny, treating them like cash machines on wheels. This included spying on and filming drivers going about their daily lives. Where if you made a mistake it would mean an expensive bill in the post. If you protested it could mean a doubling of the original fine, or an angry bailiff knocking on your door. And all these parking rules were changed without proper debate by Parliament. Residents and businesses just had to suffer in silence. The minister says they want to see 'fairness and balance' restored to the system so parking no longer generates profit . These rules have now been changed during this parliament. Local residents and businesses will be able to demand a review of parking in their area, including charges and the use of yellow lines. Parking adjudicators will be able to hold councils to account so they can look to change signs and stop charging fines in areas where parking tickets keep being issued. They have also vowed to end the industrial use of CCTV 'spy cars' to enforce on-street parking . We are bringing back common sense. Very soon shoppers and drivers will also benefit from 10 minute 'grace periods' for council-controlled parking, whether it's on or off-street, paid or free. It means you won't get fined for being a few minutes late. We're also ending the industrial use of CCTV 'spy cars' to enforce on-street parking. The new rules will end the plague of parking tickets in the post, but ensure public safety as CCTV will still be used to protect schools, bus lanes and red routes. Why have we done this? Because we want see fairness and balance restored to the system. As a result it will no longer possible to use parking to generate profit and we're cracking down on the use of aggressive bailiffs. And in another victory for common sense parking at an out-of-order meter will not result in a fine if there is no other way to pay. There are also occasions where

Summary: Move comes from Eric Pickles and transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin . They want to 'change attitudes' to stop shoppers being 'fleeced' for money . Grace period will apply to on and off-street council parking, paid or free . Also announced powers for residents and businesses to review parking .


The Swedish driver's licence examiner has come under fire after asking students if it is 'a mitigating circumstance' if a woman is drunk during sexual assault. Learner drivers undergoing a compulsory theory course on drink-driving have been invited to discuss several rape scenarios where alcohol is involved. The organisation behind the material has defended the use of questions involving rape, saying it is intended to inspire discussion about using alcohol 'as an excuse when you do something stupid'. Anger: Sweden's driver's licence examiner asked learner drivers to discuss if it is 'an aggravating or mitigating circumstance' if a woman is drunk during a sexual assault (stock image) The theory booklet is used across Sweden for compulsory risk-assessment courses as part of the drivers licence theory exam, which mostly undertaken by 16 to 18-year-olds. Learner drivers are asked to discuss several scenarios where alcohol and drugs are involved, including two about rape with no relation to traffic or driving. The book asks: 'An intoxicated woman is raped by a man. When he is punished, is it an aggravating or mitigating circumstance that she was intoxicated?' It also described a similar rape-scenario where the male perpetrator is 'intoxicated' and whether that would be 'an aggravating or mitigating circumstance' in court. Linnea Risinger, 32, from Falun, Dalarna, spotted the questions during her course, and posted a picture of it on her Facebook. The two questions read: 'An intoxicated woman is raped by a man. When he is punished is it an aggravating or mitigating circumstance that she was intoxicated?,' and similarly 'An intoxicated man rapes a woman' Unrelated question: The questions were asked during a compulsory course which all learner drivers in Sweden must undergo in order to get their licence (stock image) The picture caused heated reactions, with many asking what the rape scenarios had to do with getting a driver's licence. Ms Risinger said she had been surprised to see the questions, especially as there could be victims of sexual assault forced to take part in discussions about rape in a context where they could not be expected to be prepared for them. 'Rape has nothing to do with a driver's licence,' Ms Risinger, a spokesperson for the local Green Party, told Aftonbladet. 'It is not okay that you should be forced to discuss during a compulsory course to get your licence. 'It is highly likely that there are boys and girls who take part in this course who are victims. They are there to get a driver's licence, not go to therapy.' However, The Swedish National Organisation for Driving Schools (Sveriges trafikskolors riksförbund) defends the use of the rape scenarios, saying it shines a light on the fact that alcohol is often used as an excuse when 'doing something stupid'. 'We want a discussion about taking responsibility for your actions, and that is the reason the questions are in there,' a representative told newspaper ETC.

Summary: Swedish learner drivers asked about rape during compulsory course . Asked if it is 'aggravating or mitigating' if a female rape victim is drunk . Heavily criticised as scenarios are unrelated to traffic or driving . Examiner says it is to inspire discussion about alcohol 'as an excuse'


Autism is mainly caused by a child’s genes, a major study of British twins has found. Scientists said that, in the average boy or girl with autism, genetics explain up to 98 per cent of the illness. The research, by King’s College London, found the condition is highly inheritable. Controversial research linking autism with the MMR jab has been widely discredited, but more recent concern has focused on the condition being fuelled by environmental factors such as pollution. The team compared the behaviour of pairs of identical twins, who share all their DNA, and non-identical twins, who have only half their genes in common (file picture) With cases of autism much more common today than in the past, many fear it is also being caused by modern lifestyles. Estimates suggest that as many as one in 100 people in the UK now has autism. But the researchers said their study suggested that lifestyle and environmental factors were a distant second to genetics. The team compared the behaviour of pairs of identical twins, who share all their DNA, and non-identical twins, who have only half their genes in common. They found the condition was far more common in identical twins than in non-identical ones. The study, in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, concluded that rogue DNA explains between 74 and 98 per cent of the cause of the average case of autism. If genes are key, the recent rise in cases could be explained by more people being correctly diagnosed with the condition. Controversial research which linked autism with the MMR jab has now been widely discredited (file picture) Dr Francesca Happe told the BBC: ‘Our findings suggest environmental factors are smaller, which is important because some parents are concerned whether things like high pollution might be causing autism. The main consensus now is that the rise in diagnosis has more to do with increased awareness of the condition.’ Dr Judith Brown, of the National Autistic Society, said: ‘Autism is a highly complex story of genes not only interacting with other genes, but with non-genetic factors too. ‘This large population-based twin sample is significant because it helps us to understand much more about the role genetics play in autism and opens up the possibility of whole families gaining a better understanding of a condition they may share.’ But she added: ‘We are still a long way from knowing what leads to autism. ‘What people with the condition, their families and carers need most of all is access now to the right kind of support to be able to lead full lives.’ The study looked at 128 pairs of twins in which at least one sibling had an autism diagnosis, between the ages of 12 and 14. Lead researcher Beata Tick said: ‘This study shows that the genes are very important and the increased rate of autism is more down to awareness than environmental factors.’ Latest figures suggest more than one in 100 people in Britain has autism, including related conditions such as Asperger’s syndrome. This is a ten-fold increase on 30 years ago. Symptoms

Summary: Controversial research has linked autism with MMR jab and environment . But researchers say lifestyle and external factors are second to genetics . Study carried out on twins - it was far more common in identical pairs .


Television companies must try and stop children from embarrassing themselves on air, amid fears that their parents may not always have their best interests at heart. Ofcom, the broadcasting regulator, called for the crackdown after a flood of viewer complaints about the way children are treated on shows like Benefit Street or Jeremy Kyle, where they are openly mocked or shown in severe distress. In one instance, a 17-year-old guest on Jeremy Kyle was accused of having slept with 33 men, and told that her mother would disown her for stealing. Scroll down for video . In one instance a 17-year-old guest on Jeremy Kyle was accused of having slept with 33 men, and told that her mother would disown her for stealing . In another, children were ‘vilified’ on Benefits Street, the Channel 4 series which follows a street-full of families which live off state welfare. Viewers complained that the individuals sacrificed their ‘dignity’ for entertainment, even though their own parents did not complain about the treatment. In a new set of guidelines, which raise worrying questions about the lengths people will go to for fame, Ofcom has now told television producers to be wary about parents’ motives for allowing their children on air. Broadcasters should ‘form their own judgements’ about how much children should be allowed to do or say on camera, and not ‘rely solely on the assurances of parents or guardians, particularly where vested interests may be involved,’ it said. The warning comes amid growing concerns that parents allow their children to embarrass themselves on television in exchange for a fee, or because they are offered all-expenses paid hospitality, including restaurant meals and overnight stays in hotels. Other parents allow their offspring on air in the hope that they will become celebrities, a source said. Broadcasters should continue featuring children in their programmes, but they must take care that they are emotionally and mentally mature enough to cope with the public exposure, Ofcom said. ‘Children form strong views and feelings from a very early age and these deserve to be seen and heard in programmes. However, the ability of participants to weigh up the potential consequences of participation can vary widely. In another instance, children were ‘vilified’ on Benefits Street, the Channel 4 series which follows a street-full of families which live off state welfare. Pictured is James Turner Street where the show was set . ‘Children and young people differ in their vulnerabilities and resilience; their age, gender, physical and mental capacity, their maturity, their cultural, ethnic and religious background and their previous life experiences can all affect how they might respond to specific circumstances and nature of performance.’ Ofcom warned television companies to watch children’s body language, and made it explicit that they have a choice to opt out of appearing on television, in order to ensure that they are not being pushed into it by adults. And even if broadcasters do think they can deal with the public profile, children must be taught how to deal with potential bullying, including on social media platforms like

Summary: Ofcom calls for action after children openly mocked or shown in distress . In one instance, a 17-year-old guest on Jeremy Kyle was accused of sleeping with 33 men . Children were 'vilified' on the controversial Channel 4 series Benefits Street .


A Fort Worth, Texas elementary school has come under fire from parents who claim certain teachers and administrators have cultivated a 'toxic' environment for their children. At a Monday board meeting, parents turned out to support Kourtney Glaser, the former vice principal at Comanche Springs Elementary School in the Eagle Mountain-Saginaw Independent School District, who was placed on administrative leave after she experienced heavy vaginal bleeding that the school claims was caused by 'severe anxiety.' Glaser, 31, and her doctors, have firmly stated the bleeding, which occurred during a district training session and required Glaser to seek immediate medical attention, was the result of an intrauterine device being lodged in her uterine wall. This was just the beginning of the parents complaints as well, as they also voiced their concern over 'staff drinking,' the 'use of disparaging nicknames for teachers, parents and even children,' and a principal who has been reassigned after her 'bullying tactics.' Scroll down for video . Kourtney Glaser (above), the vice principal at Comanche Springs Elementary School in Fort Worth, Texas was placed on leave because she had vaginal bleeding . Once parents got wind of this news, many rallied behind Glasser, and seemed to place most of the blame on the principal, Katy Maurer (above in leopard print top) According to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Glaser was forced to go to the emergency room on January 28 when she began suddenly bleeding, and two days later had her device removed to stop the trauma. She was not allowed to return to work however, and instead placed on leave after receiving a letter shortly after that said her bleeding had occurred on multiple occasions and was the result of 'severe anxiety.' On top of this, she was told she would need to see two doctors and sign a waiver releasing her medical records before she would be allowed to return to work. The letter also claimed she had trouble speaking in front of large groups, something Glasser denied in an interview with ABC 8. At this point, some parents at the school became aware of the situation, and seemed to place the blame on Katy Maurer, the principal of the school. The situation then became even further complicated when just last week Maurer filed a police report claiming she was being harassed by an employee at the school and her husband. The name of the employee was not released, but it was revealed to be someone who was on leave. In her report, Maurer claimed this employee had posted 'very hateful things' about her on social media, and that these posts had led to national attention. The employee also reportedly referred to Maurer as an 'idiot,' while the employee's husband is accused in the report of stalking Maurer, coming to the school unannounced, following her to restaurants, and showing up at her home. Maurer, 34,said this has been going on for close to five weeks. The district said it is examining the claims, while a lawyer for Glaser, Brittany Lannen, all but admitted she was the woman named

Summary: Kourtney Glaser, a vice principal at Comanche Springs Elementary School in Fort Worth, Texas was placed on leave because she had vaginal bleeding . The school claimed her bleeding was due to 'severe stress' while Glaser's doctor explained it was because an IUD was lodged in her uterine wall . Once parents got wind of this news, many rallied behind Glaser, and seemed to place most of the blame on the principal, Katy Maurer . A former teacher has accused Maurer of 'bullying tactics' and said working with her was like 'working with a person in the seventh grade' Maurer soon filed a police report against an employee on leave claiming she and her husband were harassing her . Parents brought this situation up at a meeting Monday, along with staff drinking on campus and the use of disparaging nicknames for students .


It has been a multi-million pound rescue mission lasting 12 years, but 900-year-old Cardigan Castle, in Wales, is set open its doors to visitors once more in April. Tens of thousands of people are expected to flock to the historic castle, to see the results of the Cadwgan Building Preservation Trust project. It is set to be a lavish affair, with 3,000 daffodils and 1,700 rolls of turf planted in celebration of the occasion. Cardigan Castle is set to open in April, after an £12m renovation. It is hoped that the Castle will become one of west Wales’ top tourist destinations, attracting at least 33,000 visitors in the first year . The castle, which has been unoccupied since 1996, will open its doors to visitors in April, following an extensive £12m restoration project which began in 2011 . The new lease of life for the castle includes the recreation of the paths and lawns of the regency gardens, a glass restaurant with panoramic views over the River Teifi, and the restoration of the whalebone arch – a popular feature for early 19th Century gardens. The impressive landmark has a fascinating history, from being build as a wooden Iron Age settlement by Gilbert de Clare in 1100, to enduring medieval battles between Normans and Welsh rebels, and hosting Wales' first Eisteddfod in 1176. The last inhabitant was Barbara Wood, who sold the castle in 2001 after residing there for almost 60 years. The redevelopment of the site has included the recreation of the paths and lawns of the Regency gardens and the fitting of a floor-to-ceiling glass restaurant . In 1165, The Lord Rhys and his Welsh army captured the castle and Cardigan became the first town in the country to be occupied by the Welsh . The design of some elements of the stone castle were inspired by the crusades and are the earliest examples of this work in the UK . The summer will feature events including an open-air theatre to music concerts, and fascinating exhibitions which tell the story of Cardigan, the castle, the people who lived there, and its role as the birthplace of the Eisteddfod . The castle was purchased by the council in 2003 and began being repaired as part of the regeneration of Cardigan by the CBPT charity. Jann Tucker, chair of CBPT, who was recently awarded an MBE for her efforts in preserving Welsh heritage, said: 'It's been a long time coming but the finishing post is nearly in sight. We have worked so long and so hard for this. 'The Castle will really put Cardigan on the map.' Through extensive refurbishment, and many hours work from numerous volunteers, the derelict site has been transformed into a high-end heritage attraction, luxury accommodation, restaurant and wedding and events venue. The renovation has transformed the house, previously inhabited by Barbara Wood, and restored the building for guests. Barbara was the last person to live in the castle and moved to the site as a young girl in July 1940 . Situated on raised ground overlooking the River

Summary: Cardigan Castle is to open after 12 years of renovation on April 15, 2015 . The 900-year-old historic site is set to be the top west Wales attraction . 9,500 archaeological artifacts have been discovered at the castle .


Lukas Podolski's loan spell at Inter Milan has been far from impressive, and the Arsenal man could find himself back in north London come the summer. The 29-year-old German forward was shipped out to Serie A in January but has failed to net on nine occasions for Roberto Mancini's side, and his agent has revealed that a move back to the Emirates could be on the cards. 'Anything could happen,' Ali Pektas told Fanatik. 'Last summer he could have moved to Galatasaray, but it never materialised. Every summer Lukas and I go on holiday to Turkey. Despite working hard at training, Lukas Podolski has struggled to make an impact on loan at Inter Milan . Podolski strikes the ball during a session at Inter Milan's Appiano Gentile training ground on Wednesday . 'For the moment he's on loan at Inter, and when it ends at the end of the season he could return to Arsenal, where he still has a year on his contract. 'With regard to his future, all I can say is that anything could happen, even a transfer to Turkey. Why not? He appreciates [Turkish football] a lot, and he wants to keep playing at a high level.' Podolski was this week rated as the second-worst Serie A signing of the season in a poll conducted by Gazzetta dello Sport, but he is not fazed by the criticism being levelled at him. The Arsenal loanee falls to the floor under the challenge of Fiorentina defender Gonzalo on Sunday . Podolski battles for a header with Milan Badelj (right) but he has not impressed during his time in Serie A . He told Sport1: You need to swallow [criticism] in professional football. There is always another direction, meaning a positive one. 'I don't care for media or people being critical of me. I know that this is part of the business. It's important to know what you have to do to be better. Podolski was given an opportunity to start Inter's crunch clash with Fiorentina on Sunday, but was hauled off in the second half after another lacklustre performance. A particular low point of the match came when Podolski kicked the flag while taking a corner and miskicked the ball, which failed to reach the penalty area and was intercepted to set up a Fiorentina counter-attack. Podolski was voted Serie A's second worst signing of the season by a poll in Gazzetta dello Sport this week . The Arsenal forward's agent says Podolski (right) may return to the Emirates at the end of the season .

Summary: Lukas Podolski joined Inter Milan on loan from Arsenal in January . In nine games, Podolski has failed to score and has not impressed . Podolski's agent says he may return to Arsenal at the end of the season . The 29-year-old was voted Serie A's second worst signing of the season . CLICK HERE for all the latest Arsenal news .


Police say a 21-year-old man suspected of participating in an illegal street race that killed two spectators in Southern California has been booked on suspicion of murder. Henry Gevorgyan turned himself in on Saturday night accompanied by his lawyer. Jail records show he’s being held on $2 million bail. The Los Angeles Police Department said Gevorgyan fled the scene of the deadly accident in the San Fernando Valley last week. Authorities said he was driving a souped-up Ford Mustang that veered out of control and crashed into a crowd on the sidewalk. Henry Gevorgyan, 21, turned himself into the Los Angeles police after they suspected him of driving his Mustang into a crowd of onlookers, allegedly killing two . A souped-up car that was illegally street racing lost control and veered on to a sidewalk, killing two spectators and critically injuring another before the driver ran away at about 2.15am on Thursday, police said . Two cars were reportedly involved in the accident, police said. This is one of the two cars that was crushed after the planned early-morning race . Spectators Eric Siguenza, 26, and Wilson Wong, 50, were killed, according to ABC 7. A third man was hospitalized with serious injuries. Police said Gevorgyan could face murder charges. 'We are pursuing murder charges against the driver of one of the vehicles and continue to investigate the role and responsibility of the other,' McMahon told the Los Angeles Daily News on Thursday. The motorist of a second vehicle also allegedly fled the scene. Police did not have immediate information as to whether the driver had been identified or apprehended, according to the Los Angeles Times. One of the victims of the crash was 26-year-old Eric Siguenza (pictured left). He was a spectator at the street race . Car skid marks covered the pavement along a street in the Chatsworth section of Los Angeles the day after the incident . A crisis response team surveys skid marks at the drag racing scene on Thursday. Though it's in a commercial area, the street has been used for illegal nighttime races for quite some time . The street where the incident happened, in a commercial and office area that is mainly deserted after dark, has long been the scene for illegal nighttime street races. City Councilman Mitch Englander told the Daily News that he'll introduce an ordinance allowing police to seize cars involved in street racing or reckless driving resulting in serious injury or death. McMahon told CNN that people should be aware that street racing is a dangerous activity. 'Many view this as an entertainment, glamorous activity. I think it's important for the public to know that this is illegal, dangerous and an all too deadly activity,' he said. Though Gevorgyan turned himself in, police are still searching for a second suspect who was allegedly involved in the street race .

Summary: Henry Gevorgyan, 21, turned himself into police on Saturday night . About 60 people gathered to watch street race at 2.15am on Thursday . Gevorgyan allegedly fled scene after driving his car into crowd, killing two . Police said Gevorgyan could face murder charges and he is being held on $2 million bail . A second motorist, who police didn't immediately identify, also allegedly fled .


Even Fernando Torres wasn’t relegated to the reserves. But for £250,000-per-week Radamel Falcao – perhaps the most handsomely-rewarded second-string striker in history – this was the ultimate indignity. Does he feel an injustice, angry with Louis van Gaal for such a degrading demotion? Or is there an acceptance that his powers have faded? In fact, they’ve gone out like a light. Radamal Falcao has scored just four goals since arriving at Manchester United . His latest run out was for the Under 21s as they faced Tottenham on Tuesday night . At least with fellow £50million flop Torres his decline was something of a slow burn, occasionally illuminated by a flicker of glories past. Sadly, for Falcao, there is no sign of him emerging from the darkness at Old Trafford. An unused substitute as Manchester United struggled for a goal (Falcao has scored more than 200 in his career) during their 2-1 defeat by Arsenal in Monday’s FA Cup quarter-final, the Colombian was back at the Theatre of Nightmares 24 hours later for an Under 21 fixture against Tottenham. He wasn’t there to cheer on the club’s next generation, he was lining up alongside them. United insist it was a fitness exercise. But fitness is allied to form, and Falcao certainly doesn't boast the latter right now. Falcao fluffed his lines and missed several chances during a win over QPR back in January . The striker has spent plenty of time warming the bench at Old Trafford . Louis van Gaal must decide whether to take up the option to buy Falcao at the end of his loan spell . He failed to score against Spurs, fluffed one chance and was then withdrawn – a synopsis which could well be applied to the majority of his outings since his £6m loan move from Monaco. The beauty of that arrangement – and it’s something of an ugly truth – is that United are not committed to making his stay permanent and there is zero chance of them doing so after his failure to impact, four goals from 19 appearances his sorry return. Compare that with the 70 strikes from 91 matches for Atletico Madrid and his demise is given some numerical context. Falcao drew a blank against League One Preston in the FA Cup last month . He also struggled against Cambridge from League Two in the previous round . Celebrations have been few and far between for Falcao, pictured here after scoring against Leicester . River Plate . 2005-06 - Games 11 Goals 7 . 2006-07 - Games 20 Goals 3 . 2007-08 Games 39 Goals 19 . 2008-09 Games 35 Goals 16 . Porto . 2009-10 Games 43 Goals 34 . 2010-11 Games 42 Goals 38 . 2011-12 Games 2 Goals 0 . Atletico Madrid . 2011-12 Games 50 Goals 36 . 2012-13 Games 41 Goals 34 . Monaco . 2013-14 Games 19 Goals 11 . 2014-15 Games 3 Goals 2 . Manchester United . 2014-15 Games 19 Goals 4 . It was, of course, in the colours of Atletico that

Summary: Radamel Falcao has scored four goals since arriving at Old Trafford . Manchester United are unlikely to take up the option to buy him . He was forced to play for the Under 21s against Spurs on Tuesday . Falcao drew a blank for the second string . His fall from the top is the most spectacular since Fernando Torres . CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester United news .


Sir Alex Ferguson has hailed the fantastic career of Dave Mackay as the tributes came in for the former Tottenham and Scotland midfielder, who died on Monday night aged 80. Edinburgh-born Mackay passed away at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham. Having joined Tottenham from Hearts in 1959, Mackay went on to achieve a historic league and FA Cup double with the north London club in 1961. Derby captain Dave Mackay with the Watney Cup after their 4-1 victory over Manchester United in 1970 . Mackay, who also played for Hearts and Swindon, was capped 22 times by Scotland . Mackay (right) and Danny Blanchflower are introduced to the Wembley crowd before the 1981 FA Cup final . Spurs are set to hold a minute's silence for their former captain, who also helped Derby to success as a player and coach before taking up a similar role with Swindon. Ferguson, who fondly remembers Mackay as a contemporary and a friend, told Sky Sports News: 'I played against him once and I'm glad it was only once! 'He was hard. He was one of the hardest men of all time - a great Scottish player. You think of Denis Law, Kenny Dalglish, Graeme Souness; Dave Mackay was along with them. 'He came back from two broken legs. He broke it against Manchester United actually, recovered and broke it again. He went on to play for Derby County and won the league and then became the manager, which was not an easy task because he followed Brian Clough, of course. Mackay, then at Derby County, challenges Manchester United's George Best during a game during the 1970s . Best again felt the full force of Mackay's boot as the pair battle for the ball in 1971 . 'But he's had a fantastic career both has player and as manager. I always remember he was a good friend of mine.' Spurs will hold their minute's applause ahead of Wednesday night's game against Swansea at White Hart Lane, with black armbands being worn by the squad and a number of the club's highest-profile former players paying tribute to Mackay at half-time. Current Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is anticipating an emotional occasion for the evening kick-off, saying: 'It is a great loss for British football. He was a legend for Tottenham and in British football. Sir Alex Ferguson hailed Mackay as fantastic player and manager as well as a good friend . 'A very sad day and I want to send condolences to his family and friends. 'He is a legend, big player and manager, and it is a very sad day. It is emotional yes. Our players know it is important to get the three points.' The Scottish FA announced it will also hold a minute's applause in honour of Mackay before Scotland's friendly against Northern Ireland later this month. The 22-cap Scotland international began his career with Hearts in 1953 and captained the Edinburgh side to the Scottish League title during the 1957-58 season. Mackay (right) rushes to congratulate goalscorer Jimmy Greaves (middle) with Jimmy Robertson

Summary: Dave Mackay, the Scottish enforcer of Spurs' 1961 Double winners, died aged 80 on Monday night . Mackay passed away at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham . Having joined Tottenham from Hearts in 1959, Mackay went on to achieve a historic league and FA Cup double with the north London club in 1961 . Tottenham will hold their minute's applause ahead of Wednesday night's game against Swansea at White Hart Lane . Current Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is anticipating an emotional occasion for the evening kick-off . Arsene Wenger hailed Mackay as 'an iconic figure of English football'


A brother and sister who bravely gave chase to a man attempting to kidnap their 22-month-old baby brother have spoken about the moments leading up to young Owen Wright being snatched. Brenden, 10, Delicia, 8, and Owen were approached by the stranger as they played in a park in the tiny town of Sprague, Washington, after their babysitter had left them unattended on Sunday. The man, described as about 30 years old, 6-foot to 6-foot-2, with a thin build, brown hair and a mustache, first attempted to befriend the two older children. Scroll down for video . Delicia Wright, 8, said that the man told them he was nice to kids and had been babysitting for a long time, she didn't believe him and her screams helped raise the alarm . Big brother Breden said he wasn’t scared by the man and jumped into action because they he wanted his brother back so they could go to their cousin's birthday party . ‘He said he was nice to kids and he had been babysitting for a long time,’ Delicia told Good Morning America. Surveillance video shows the man, who police are still tracking and hoping to ID, running down the sidewalk with the toddler in his arms. In hot pursuit are Owen’s brother and sister. ‘I thought he was trying to kidnap him so I ran and screamed,’ said Delicia. Big brother Breden said he wasn’t scared by the man and jumped into action because they had an important family function to attend. ‘I was chasing him so I could get my brother back for my cousin’s birthday party,’ he explained. The dramatic scene ended after a pair of local teenagers also chased after the man and he set the boy down and ran off on Sunday, authorities said. Michael Wright, the father of the three children, said he was relieved that young Owen was unhurt and very proud of his other kids' bravery. ‘For my kids to run after him that is an act of courage,’ he said . Michael Wright, the father of the three children, said he was relieved that young Owen was unhurt and very proud of his other kids' bravery. ‘For my kids to run after him that is an act of courage,’ he said. Wright had left his three children with a babysitter on Sunday while he went to work. They were playing unsupervised in a city park near the sitter's house. 'I can't explain the feeling, the anxiety and everything that goes into finding out your children is missing or something has happened to them,' Wright told KXLY-TV. Sheriff's deputies said the man talked with the children for a few minutes, then scooped the toddler out of his stroller and ran down the street. Surveillance video from a grocery store showed the kidnapper running, child in arms, with Delicia chasing and Brenden not far behind. Delicia's screams alerted Dorothy Giddings, who was working at her antique store downtown, reports. Authorities are searching for a man caught on surveillance video running down a sidewalk with a

Summary: Brenden, 10, Delicia, 8, and Owen were approached by a stranger after their babysitter left them playing unattended in a park in Sprague, Washington . The man told the older children that he was nice to kids and had been babysitting for a long time . Delicia Wright said he didn't believe him and when he picked up her younger brother she started to scream which helped raise the alarm . Older brother Breden said he wasn't scared of the man and it was important to get Owen back as they had to attend a cousin's birthday party . Father Michael Wright said he was relieved that young Owen was unhurt and very proud of his other kids' bravery . Police have no leads in their search for the stranger who is about 30 years old, 6-foot to 6-foot-2, with a thin build, brown hair and a mustache .


Barcelona midfielder and former Spain international Xavi is close to agreeing a deal to join Al Sadd, the Qatari side said on Saturday. The 35-year-old has played for Barca a record 751 times since he graduated from the academy to the first team in 1998 but has had limited game time this season under coach Luis Enrique. 'Al Sadd Sports Club confirms that the latest news about bringing the Spanish star Xavi Hernandez to the club is still under negotiation,' Al Sadd announced on their website. Al Sadd have announced on their website they are close to signing Barcelona's legendary playmaker Xavi . Xavi has made 751 appearances for Barcelona since graduating from the club's youth academy in 1998 . 'The Spanish player is currently in Doha with his family to know more about the country where he will live in the near future,' the club added. 'The club assures it will announce the news immediately through both local and regional media once the player has signed officially.' Spanish media reported this week that Xavi was poised to sign a three-year deal with Al Sadd worth around 10 million euros (£7m) a season with an option for a further season. One of the most decorated footballers of all time, Xavi represented Spain 133 times, a record for an outfield player and only bettered by goalkeeper and captain Iker Casillas. After making his debut in a friendly against Netherlands in November 2000, he was a key figure in La Roja's glittering run when they won the 2008 and 2012 European Championships and the 2010 World Cup. Xavi has won three Champions League crowns, seven La Liga titles and a host of other trophies with Barca. Xavi has won seven league titles and three Champions League trophies while playing for Barcelona .

Summary: Al Sadd have confirmed they are nearing a deal to sign former Spain playmaker Xavi from Barcelona . He is currently in Doha getting to know the country and its culture . The 35-year-old has played 751 times for Barca since graduating from the club's academy in 1998 . Xavi is one of the most decorated footballers of all time and has won trophies at both club and international level .


Thousands of nostalgic baby boomers have been poring over pictures in the famous Peter and Jane tales from the 1960s and 1970s in a Twitter challenge to spot the difference. Helen Day, who has more than 10,000 of the Ladybird stories, enjoys comparing the famous Reading Scheme books, which were first printed in 1964 then updated in the 1970s and 1980s to reflect Britain’s changing society. She started posting the 'before and after' illustrations on her Twitter feed, @lbflyawayhome, and now has more than 5,000 followers. In the 1960s Daddy watches Mummy wrap the present, by the 1970s he was joining in . Before and after pictures of Peter and Jane books have become a surprise Twitter hit with fans poring over drawings from the 1960s and 1970s to spot the subtle updates that were made to reflect changing attitudes . The new artwork shows how seatbelts, life jackets and pavements were added to the original pictures as people became more safety conscious. Peter and Jane’s clothing was also given a makeover, from smart dresses and trousers to scruffy jeans, while dad was shown helping more around the house. However, many of the changes in the books are so tiny they are easy to miss at first glance and Ladybird book enthusiasts have enjoyed spotting and commenting on them. 'The pictures from the 1964 books had quite a retro feel even at that time, which is why they were changed just ten years later,' said Helen. 'Britain changed a lot during the Sixties and Seventies as there was more awareness of sexual discrimination and people became more safety conscious and the books started to look quite dated. 'Parents and teachers wrote in to complain and many of the books were given a subtle makeover to bring them up to date.' One of the most popular set of 'before and after' pictures on Helen’s Twitter page shows Mummy and Daddy wrapping up Christmas presents. Domestic bliss as Jane quietly reads, but in a later version (right) the children argue . Peter and Jane originally looked onto fields (left) but later the view changed to reflect more housing . The children were helped onto the bus in early editions by a bus conductor but catch it themselves a few years later in a new bus with no-one to help them on it . In the 1960s, Mummy is wrapping the present and Daddy is just watching, but in the later version daddy is pictured enthusiastically holding a pink ribbon and taking part. 'The artwork is almost identical, but there is a very tiny difference and it shows that the role of dad has started to change,' said Helen. 'There is another photo called The Picnic in which Daddy is shown dressed in a suit and looking very uncomfortable, but by the 70s he is dressed down and joining in.' Other pictures were altered as parents became more safety conscious. A life jacket has been drawn on to a little boy in a dinghy, dogs are put on leads and a pavement is drawn alongside

Summary: Peter and Jane books were a childhood staple for children in 60s and 70s . Super fan Helen Day posts before and after pictures from the different editions on her twitter account @lbflyawayhome . Has been collecting the books for 15 years and has over 10,000 copies . The Reading Scheme books were first published in 1964 . Subtle changes were made to reflect lifestyle shifts one decade later . Earlier editions feature Jane in pretty dress, later version in modern jeans . Daddy is also depicted helping around the house in updated stories .


Adam Johnson has returned to training with Sunderland after they lifted his suspension following the extension of his police bail. Sunderland suspended Johnson, 27, pending the outcome of a police investigation after he was arrested on March 2 on suspicion of sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. On Tuesday Johnson's bail was extended by five weeks until April 23 and on Wednesday it was revealed his suspension was lifted. Johnson could now feature for new boss Dick Advocaat in Sunderland's fight for survival. Adam Johnson, pictured with girlfriend Stacey Flounders, has had his bail extended until April 23 . The 27-year-old winger could feature for new manager Dick Advocaat after his suspension was lifted . The gates at Johnson's £1.85million mansion were shut following his arrest earlier this month . Sunderland said in a statement: 'The club has discussed the current position in detail with both the PFA (Professional Footballers Association) and Adam’s representatives. 'In line with those discussions we recognise that the player is entitled to re-commence his duties with the club while the legal process continues. He will therefore return to training. 'The club’s own investigation cannot continue until the conclusion of the legal process. 'Sunderland AFC will make no further comment on the matter due to the ongoing police investigation.' VIDEO Sunderland lift Johnson suspension . Former Manchester City player Johnson has had his suspension lifted following the extension of his bail . Johnson played 81 minutes of Sunderland's 2-0 defeat by Manchester United shortly before being arrested . Johnson, pictured playing against Switzerland in 2011, has 12 England caps to his name . Johnson has been training with a fitness coach and could play his first match at home in the Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle on Easter Sunday. Johnson scored the only goal at St James' Park in the reverse fixture in December and it would prove a hostile environment in which to return. Dick Advocaat, pictured here in charge of PSV Eindhoven in 2012, has taken over at Sunderland . Gus Poyet was sacked by Sunderland with the club just one point above the Premier League relegation zone . Sunderland supporters turned on manager Poyet after their side were thrashed 4-0 by Aston Villa at home . Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Summary: Adam Johnson's bail had been extended by five weeks to April 23 . The club banned Johnson pending the outcome of a police investigation . Sunderland confirm they have lifted the player's suspension . Johnson has returned to training and could even play in North East derby .


How about some Vegemite ice-cream with Weet Bix on top? The ultra-Aussie confection is just one of the weird and wacky flavours being concocted by an adventurous, multi-award winning, ice-cream connoisseur. Dooley's Ice Cream parlour in Apollo Bay, on Victoria's famous Great Ocean Road, is known for producing some of the oddest combinations in ice-cream - and its Vegemite flavour may be the strangest yet. Owner Dooley Milner told Daily Mail Australia the flavour is a massive hit with international tourists and 'gets people talking'. Dooley's Ice Cream Parlour on the Great Ocean Road has released a Vegemite flavour . But others are not so keen, saying the black, salty yeast byproduct is not well suited to ice cream. Dooley's, which has won 370 awards for excellence, often creates unique flavours in the run-up to special events. Just before Christmas, Dooley's made a Xmas Pudding flavour and for Australia Day the shop made a Lamington flavour. But it's Vegemite that has stood the test of time. The parlour first introduced the unique ice-cream on Australia Day in 2011 and it has been on the shelves ever since. In 2012, it won a silver award at the Royal Melbourne Show and the parlour's vanilla flavour has been voted the number one ice-cream in Australia at the Australian Grand Dairy Awards 2015. 'I've stuck with it since. It has been received quite well.' Mr Milner said. The famous shop, which is visited each day by hundreds of tourists, has a range of odd flavours on display . 76-year-old Dooley Milner has been running the parlour for the past 14 years and his daughter Alyciandra came on-board in 2007 . The 76-year-old has been running the parlour for the past 14 years and his daughter Alyciandra came on-board in 2007. 'It’s a great point of interest with people coming in. They come in and they ask "can we try the Vegemite?", Mr Milner said. 'They've never heard of it before, especially not in an ice cream.' 'Some say it’s too strong and some say it’s just right and come back and buy more.' The shop is known for creating unique flavours for special occasions. This Lamington flavour was made available for Australia Day . The ice-cream parlour has won over 370 awards for it's range of different flavours . While Mr Milner said the ice-cream tastes of Vegemite, there have been some critics of the acquired flavour online. A commenter on Reddit wasn't impressed with the potent flavour while others claimed they were desperate to try it. 'Not good....the taste was too strong,' the user said. Another commenter was desperate to taste the flavour, telling other users he wouldn't mind if it's wasn't nice. While people are eager to queue up to taste the unique product, there have been some critics of the Vegemite flavour online . Dooley's owner Mr Milner said he will continue selling the Vegemite flavour ice-cream as it's a conversation starter among the many curious tourists who pass his shop everyday on the Great Ocean Road. The shop also sells strange

Summary: An ice-cream parlour in Victoria has created a Vegemite flavour . The flavour was conjured up on Australia Day 2011 . Dooley's on the Great Ocean Road sells the unique product . Owner Dooley Milner says Vegemite flavour is big hit with foreign tourists . But it has some critics online .


Vani Hari has become known as the 'Food Babe' and has built a loyal following of her food blog, where she calls multi-national companies into account . As American fast food chains are forced to tackle the issues of healthy eating and using chemicals in their products, one woman's musings on the food industry are leading to sweeping changes. She is not a scientist, politician, policymaker or a trained nutritionist. Vani Hari is a food blogger. Her writing has earned her the nickname 'Food Babe' and a cult following which has enabled her to influence large companies such as Kraft and Subway to stop putting chemicals into their food. Hari, of Charlotte in North Carolina, left her job as a managerial consultant to become a blogger in 2011 and began writing down and posting tweets about her concerns that chemicals were being used by some of America's biggest food chains. Four years later she has been named one of the '30 most influential people on the internet' by Time magazine and has influenced changes, such as Subway removing chemicals from its flour, the New York Post reported. However she has been criticised by experts who say her lack of scientific knowledge means she often mixes up the names of chemicals and their impact - and some of her comments can be likened to 'fear mongering.' Hari's most successful campaign was persuading Subway to stop using ingredients containing azodicarbonamide - a chemical used to bleach and condition flour, which is also found in yoga mats. The 34-year-old started a campaign by dubbing the compound the 'yoga mat chemical', which paid off when Subway agreed to change its recipe. 'Subway had to respond to the media blitz. It went worldwide. I was interviewed everywhere,' she told the Post. 'Before my campaign no one in the world knew about azodicarbonamide.' Subway changed its recipe but later claimed it had been planning to do so anyway. Hari was also involved in persuading Kraft not to use yellow dyes in its 'three mac-and-cheeses' and has piled pressure on Starbucks, accusing the company of adding hazardous chemicals to its pumpkin lattes. Among Hari's triumphs in getting companies to change the way they use chemicals are Subway and Kraft . She has recently been campaigning for butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) not to be used in cereals as a preserving agent. Hari said she began to call for change, which is documented in her book The Food Babe Way, released in February, after she noticed the success of others who spoke up about their food concerns - such as 'the pink slime campaign' against lean finely textured beef, after it was featured on a Jamie Oliver show. However her work has been criticised for its lack of scientific accuracy and mistakes. Hari's book The Food Babe way was released in February and has been published on the back of her blog . Yale neurologist Steve Novella has labelled her 'the Jenny McCarthy of food activism.' Dr Marion Nestle, of Yale University said that her mistakes were giving the industry a bad

Summary: Vani Hari is a food blogger and has become known as the 'Food Babe' She gave up her job to write about nutrition and comment on chemicals that are needlessly added to food sold by large food chains in America . Her writing has influenced Subway and Kraft to remove chemicals . But scientists have criticised her lack of specific training and accuracy .


A Navy SEAL who was shot 27 times and still managed to pull out his handgun and kill two enemy fighters is now training to run a half-Ironman triathlon in honor of his fellow veterans. Mike Day is representing Dallas-based Carrick Brain Centers, where he was treated for PTSD eight years after he survived a gunfight while serving in Iraq. In 2007 Day was hit 27 times by enemy fire after he was the first of his SEAL team to enter a room where four enemy fighters were waiting and quickly shot the rifle out of his hand. Scroll down for video . Former Navy SEAL Mike Day, who was shot 27 times during a gunfight in Iraq, is now training to run a half-Ironman triathlon in honor of his fellow veterans . During the attack 11 shots hit Day's body armor while the other 16 wounded him. He was shot in both legs as arms, the buttocks and scrotum, as well as his abdomen. His thumb almost had to be amputated . Day managed to kill two enemy fighters with his pistol before he was knocked unconscious by a grenade that exploded less than 10-feet away from him. Eleven shots hit Day's body armor while the other 16 wounded him, according to WTKR. When Day woke up a minute later in the midst of a firefight, he grabbed his handgun and shot down two enemy fighters before the gunfire ceased. The tough SEAL then got up and walked himself to the medical helicopter. Day described the extent of his numerous injuries on his half-Ironman fundraiser page, writing that he was shot in both legs and arms, as well as the buttocks and scrotum. He said a shot to his abdomen also left him with a colostomy bag for a year, and his left thumb was almost amputated. Day said now his life's mission is to 'care for and lead my wounded brothers and sisters' Day's ribs were also fractured and he suffered contusions to his lungs after his body armor was hit so many times, but the bullets missed all his vital organs. 'This was a single gunfight at an ordinary day at the office,' he wrote on the page. After spending 16 days in the hospital, where he lost 55 pounds, Day was discharged and awarded the Purple Heart. Day, who has spent 20 years in the SEALS, has also won the Silver and Bronze Star. But Day said his life's mission is not about him but to 'care for and lead my wounded brothers and sisters'. Day has raised $68,585 of his $75,000 goal for the center, which specializes in working with wounded warriors as well as children with severe brain injuries. He will run participate in the half-Ironman, a 70 mile triathlon, in Florida next month. Day shows his body armor, which was hit by 11 bullets. Day was discharged after the attack and awarded the Purple Heart. He has also received the Silver and Bronze Star during his 20 years of duty with the SEALS .

Summary: Mike Day is representing Carrick Brain Centers, where he was treated for PTSD eight years after surviving the brutal gunfight in Iraq . Eleven shots hit Day's body armor while another 16 wounded him . Day was able to walk himself to the medical helicopter after the attack . He was shot in both legs and arms, as well as the buttocks and abdomen . Day said his new mission is to care for his 'wounded brothers and sisters'


Last year was the safest in the history of commercial aviation despite the loss of two high-profile Malaysia Airlines flights in which hundreds of people were killed, according to industry experts. While more people died in air accidents in 2014 than the . average in recent years, the number of fatal accidents compared . with the total number of flights was a record low, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said. The organisations said in a new report that there were 12 fatal accidents in 2014 with 641 fatalities, versus 19 fatal accidents and 517 fatalities per year in the five-year period between 2009 and 2013. The downing of MH17, in which 298 people died, was not included in the safety report because it was not technically classed as an accident . Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 takes off from Schipol airport near Amsterdam prior to being shot down as it flew over Ukraine . 'While aviation safety was in the headlines in 2014, the . data show that flying continues to improve its safety . performance,' said Tony Tyler, IATA's director general and chief . executive officer. The statistics translate into an accident rate, measured in 'hull . losses' per 1 million flights, of 0.23, or the equivalent of one . for every 4.4 million flights. IATA's 2014 statistics did not include the loss of Malaysia . Airlines Flight MH17, which was shot down by a surface-to-air . anti-aircraft missile in Ukraine last June and so not classified . as an accident. All 298 people on board were killed. 'To the flying public an air tragedy is an air tragedy, . regardless of how it is classified,' said Tyler. 'In 2014 we saw . a reduction in the number of fatal accidents - and that would be . true even if we were to include MH17 in the total.' The other high-profile event of 2014, the disappearance of . Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 on a flight from Kuala Lumpur to . Beijing on March 8, 2014, with 239 passengers and crew, has . become one of the biggest mysteries in the history of aviation. An extensive search in the southern Indian Ocean, where . satellite data showed that the Boeing 777-200ER ended up after . being diverted from its original flight path, has not found any . sign of the plane. An investigation report that was released on . Sunday did not reveal anything new. Australian deputy prime minister Warren Truss shows a new search area in the Indian Ocean where rescue crews are continuing to look for any signs of MH370's whereabouts . An Australian Defence Vessel sails through the Indian Ocean as no trace has yet been found of the missing aircraft . U.S. Navy aircrewman Karl Shinn searches from above for any signs of the missing Malaysia Airlines plane . The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a . United Nations body that regulates global aviation, proposed . after MH370 that commercial aircraft report their position every . 15 minutes instead of the current norm of 30-40 minutes. Tyler told

Summary: Last year was the safest in history of commercial aviation, report claims . This was despite disappearance of MH370 and shooting down of MH17 . But MH17 death toll not included in report because it was not an accident . An AirAsia flight also crashed into the Java Sea, killing all 162 on board .


Battlelines have been drawn for the only major TV debate of the election campaign, when seven party leaders will go head-to-head in a two-hour marathon. Tory leader David Cameron, Labour's Ed Miliband and Lib Dem Nick Clegg will share a platform with Ukip's Nigel Farage, SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon, the Green Party's Natalie Bennett and Plaid Cymru's Leanne Wood. Strict rules released by broadcaster ITV for Thursday's night's event spell out in minute detail who will speak when, and for how long, with host Julie Etchingham trying to keep order. Scroll down for video . From left to right the line up will be: Natalie Bennett (Green), Nick Clegg (Lib Dem), Nigel Farage (Ukip), Ed Miliband (Labour), Leanne Wood (Plaid Cymru), Nicola Sturgeon (SNP) and David Cameron (Conservative). Lots have been drawn to decide the order in which each leader will speak, including the opening and closing statements and giving one-minute answers to the four studio audience questions . Lots have been drawn to agree where each of the leaders will stand and when they get to speak. The agreed line up behind the podiums will be, from left to right: Natalie Bennett (Green), Nick Clegg (Lib Dem), Nigel Farage (Ukip), Ed Miliband (Labour), Leanne Wood (Plaid Cymru), Nicola Sturgeon (SNP) and David Cameron (Conservative). Names drawn out of a hat also helped to decide who will get to speak first, with Ms Bennett opening proceedings and Mr Cameron having the final word by giving the last closing remarks. The two-hour live debate will be be screened from 8pm to 10pm on Thursday night. Each leader will give an opening statement to a studio audience of around 200 people. They will then be allowed to deliver an uninterrupted one-minute answer to each question, before 18 minutes of debate on each question. There will be just four 'substantial election questions' covered during the night. Each leader will then give a closing statement to the cameras, before the programme ends at 10pm. ITV newsreader Julie Etchingham will be keeping keep order as moderator during the debate on Thursday night . The seven-way debate is a long way from the 2010 contest, when Mr Clegg and Mr Cameron went up against Labour Prime Minister Gordon Brown . Mr Cameron will speak last, enabling him to have the last word. He is likely to repeat his refrain that a vote for anything other than a Tory majority will mean 'chaos'. Producers insist that the leaders will not see the questions in advance and an 'experienced editorial panel' will select them. Polling company ICM has chosen the 'politically-balanced' audience, with around 20 per cent said to be undecided voters. During the entire two-hour programme there will be just one advert break, a highly unusual move for Britain's biggest commercial broadcaster. The live programme is the only debate involving all of the main leaders scheduled for the campaign, after months of protracted negotiations between broadcasters and the parties. Ukip's Nigel Farage today unveiled an anti-immigration poster in Dover (left) while Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood launched the party's

Summary: Strict rules revealed on who will speak and when during two-hour show . ITV draws lots to agree which podium each leader will stand behind . Just four 'substantial election questions' will be asked during the night . ITV newsreader Julie Etchingham will keep order with just on ad break .


Ford may be known for its cars, but at this year’s Mobile World Congress the auto giant also unveiled a pair of electric bikes. Both prototypes are powered by 200-watt motors, fold to fit on a train or in the boot of a car, and with pedal assist, help riders reach speeds of up to 15mph (25km/h). The bikes are part of an experiment by Ford called Handle on Mobility, which aims to make journeys safer and more efficient. Ford unveiled two prototype electric bikes at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Both the MoDe:Me (pictured) and MoDe:Pro are powered by 200-watt motors, fold to fit on a train or in the boot of a car, and with pedal assist they help riders reach speeds of up to 15mph (25km/h) They are also part of the company's wider Smart Mobility plan, which is designed to make cars and other vehicles more connected. The bikes, called MoDe:Me and MoDe:Pro, are based on designs by Ford employees and take inspiration from technology seen in cars. For example, both bikes are fitted with rear-facing ultrasonic sensors. These sensors link with the handlebars to discreetly alert the rider when a car is about to overtake using subtle vibrations. The MoDe:Me e-bike (pictured) was designed for commuters ‘to keep moving in congested city traffic’. It folds and stows easily, allowing commuters to park outside the city, for example, take the e-bike onto public transport or a car and travel to the centre, then ride the e-bike to their destination . Both bikes have a slot for an iPhone so an app can be used as a sat-van (pictured left) and show when a car is about to overtake (pictured right), thanks to rear-facing ultrasonic sensors in the bike's frame . Earlier this week Ford unveiled its latest app that not only shows how far you can travel on the power you have remaining on an electric car, but bases its predictions on your unique driving style. Called MyFord Mobile, it also lets drivers remotely access their vehicles meaning they can set the cabin temperature on a cold morning before they leave their house. The app was announced at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona and currently works with a selection of Ford’s electric and hybrid cars. It specifically suits electric cars because the app can directly link to the battery to see a status level and accurate mileage. But Ford spokesman Abraham Phillip told MailOnline the team is working on developing the software for petrol and diesel range. These handlebars also light up to make the bikes more visible to motorists. The MoDe:Me e-bike – built with the help of bicycle manufacturer Dahon - is designed for commuters ‘to keep moving in congested city traffic’. It folds and stows easily, allowing commuters to park outside the city, for example, take the e-bike onto public transport and travel to the centre, then ride the e-bike to their destination. Meanwhile, the MoDe:Pro e-bike – built by a Ford team – is intended for commercial use by couriers, electricians, and goods and

Summary: The electric bikes by Ford are called MoDe:Me and MoDe:Pro . Both are powered by 200-watt motors and are foldable to fit in cars . Rear-facing sensors warn a cyclist when a car is overtaking . The bikes link to MoDe:Link app, which offers navigation features . Vibrations in the handlebars tell the rider which direction to turn . Bikes are part of an experiment by Ford called Handle on Mobility aiming to make journeys safer and more efficient .


Sydney Siege survivor Marcia Mikhael has revealed she contemplated suicide after she was the victim of an online hate campaign, where people accused her of cashing in on her terrifying ordeal. Ms Mikhael was one of 18 people who were held hostage on December 15 by gunman Man Haron Monis for almost 17 hours inside the Lindt cafe at Martin Place in Sydney's CBD. She and other victims of the siege were reportedly paid to tell their stories on rival networks Channel Seven and Channel Nine in January. Scroll down for video . Marcia Mikhael appeared in an interview on Channel Seven back in January and told of her ordeal during the Sydney Siege . Man Haron Monis held 18 people hostage inside the Lindt cafe in Sydney on December 15 . Ms Mikhael told the Blacktown Sun was bullied online after her lawyer told media she wanted a six-figure sum to tell her story in a television appearance. 'I went from being a victim and a hero to a villain, police basher,' the mother-of-three said. 'When all the bullying started I actually thought about killing myself. 'Every single one of the hostages received a payout from either Channel Seven or Nine. So why am I the only greedy monster?' Ms Mikhael said she had donated an unspecified amount of money from her television appearance and magazine interview to mental health service Lifeline. The Westpac project manager also revealed she had flashbacks and nightmares about the siege. Ms Mikhael said she had been slammed on social media, accused of profiting out of her terrifying experience . Katrina Dawson (right), who died in the siege, and Ms Mikhael were forced to stand side-by-side in the window on December 15 . She said she did not trust people anymore and was 'terrified' to go out. The 43-year-old added she had undergone two surgeries on each leg to remove more than 200 pieces of shrapnel. One of her comments during her interview on Channel Seven, which drew the most controversy, was how she thought the army could have handled it better than the NSW police who she said could have been more proactive in their approach. Ms Mikhael told the Blacktown Sun those comments had been taken out of context, adding she had thanked the police for saving her early on in the interview. Hostage victim Elly Chen (pictured running from the cafe on December 15) appeared alongside Ms Mikhael on Channel Seven in January . Jieun Bae was also interview who said Marcia Mikhael was a brave woman during the Sydney Siege . The former bodybuilder believes her road to recovery will be a long one but she was forcing herself back into her old routine. In January during her Channel Seven appearance, Ms Mikhael told reporter Mel Doyle how she shouted out to officers to let them know where she was on the floor, next to Katrina Dawson. When Monis fired the deadly shot to the back of Tori Johnson's head, Ms Mikhael and Ms Dawson were side-by-side, and also in the firing

Summary: Marcia Mikhael, 43, has spoken out about how she has been cyber bullied . Mother-of-three said she had contemplated suicide after hate messages . Ms Mikhael said other siege victims had been paid for interviews as well . She asked why she was the only one being called a 'greedy monster' During her Channel Seven interview, Ms Mikhael criticised NSW police . She said they were not proactive and the army could have handled it better . But Ms Mikhael said these comments had been taken out of context .


A Brazilian man known locally as the ‘Ninja of Serpents’ came face-to-face with a pair of snakes in his latest date with danger. Captured on camera, Arteval Duarte holds what appear to be two BCC Boa Constrictors – native to South America – in his hands as he addresses the camera. He releases the snakes – also known as Red-tailed boas – and starts to blow up a balloon, dodging one of the snakes that lunges at him. The snakes watch him intently as the balloon he is inflating gets bigger and closer to them before violently lunging at him without warning. Bursting the balloon instantly, the snake comes incredibly close to puncturing the man's face. The viper then retreats back to its original position and Duarte begins to blow up another balloon. Arteval Duarte is known locally as the ‘Ninja of Serpents’ because of his many filmed encounters with snakes . Duarte moves closer to the Boa Constrictors while blowing up a balloon, causing one of them to strike . He repeats the dangerous feat three more times – the two snakes taking it in turns to pop the balloons as he compliments their intelligence. The video concludes with the snake ninja approaching the constrictors on the table and after dodging another lunge, grabbing and holding onto them. According to Duarte, the two snakes have been trained to obey his commands and bursting balloons from his mouth like this appears to be something they are used to doing. The motive for the stunt is in apparent protest against the deforestation of the Amazon. The mouth of the snake that bursts the balloon is only inches away from puncturing Duarte's face . Duarte blows up a total of four balloons and the two snakes appear to take it in turns bursting them . Arteval has specialised in performing bizarre stunts with snakes for 15 years to protest the deforestation of the Amazon . Arteval says that he dedicates his life to protecting the habitats of animals and that his videos bring attention to the problems. Specialising in bizarre stunts for over 15 years, Arteval has also been recorded putting tarantulas and scorpions in his mouth. He has been bitten by many snakes in his time, which may give an explanation for the bandage on his arm.

Summary: A pair of snakes lunge at daredevil Arteval Duarte as he blows up balloon . Holding it in his mouth one snake lurches forward, popping it with its fangs . The snake ninja repeats this highly dangerous feat three more times . The Brazilian creates videos to protest against Amazon deforestation .


Evergreen Paul O'Connell can still scale new heights ahead of notching his 100th Ireland cap in Saturday's pivotal RBS 6 Nations showdown in Wales, according to Sean Cronin. Veteran lock O'Connell will equal Mick Galwey's record as Ireland's oldest captain of all time at exactly 35 years and 145 days at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday. The Munster talisman will become just the fourth star to hit 100 Tests for Ireland, joining Brian O'Driscoll, Ronan O'Gara and John Hayes in the century club. Sean Cronin believes veteran Paul O'Connell (above) still has a long career ahead of him . Leinster hooker Cronin hailed O'Connell's 'intensity and physicality' as the crux of Ireland's relentless pursuit of ever-higher standards under taskmaster boss Joe Schmidt. 'It's a phenomenal achievement: I think he's getting better with it even as the years go on,' said Cronin, as Ireland look to home in on a second Grand Slam in six years this weekend. 'But he's the kind of player that, whenever he's playing, he nearly makes you play better because that's the enthusiasm, the passion, the physicality that he brings. 'He kind of instils that in the players around him, it's great to play under him. 'He sets the standard and you've got to get up there with him. 'He'll demand it off you one way or another, so it's great to play with a person like that, because it raises your standards as well.' O'Connell will equal Mick Galwey's record as Ireland's oldest captain of all time on Saturday . O'Connell will stride past a multitude of milestones in Cardiff this weekend, as he aims to mark his 50th Six Nations performance by setting Ireland a new winning Test run of 11 matches. Wales and Scotland block Ireland's path to Grand Slam glory and a third career Six Nations crown for O'Connell. As the teams complete preparations in the Millennium Stadium's bowels this weekend, O'Connell will launch into a trademark tub-thumping team talk. Cronin acknowledged the legend around O'Connell bringing team-mates to tears with his unbridled pre-match passion - but admitted the Munster stalwart's rhetoric far more fearsome than emotive. The 35-year-old is put through his paces during an Ireland training session at the Kingspan Stadium . 'I've nipped out a couple of times to dot the eyes during his talks!' joked Cronin of myths O'Connell can invoke raw emotions. 'No, but seriously, he scares me more than makes me cry to be honest with you. 'He brings a certain level, you see him doing it, his intensity, physicality, attention to detail. 'So when you see him doing that, you're saying to yourself 'I need to get to that as well'. 'If 15 or 23 lads get to that level, we're hard to beat. 'He's similar to Joe (Schmidt) in some ways. 'Paul isn't going to get to the heights of Test rugby that he has without hard work and accuracy. 'He's got great influence on the squad, the lads buy into that and he's fantastic to have around.'

Summary: Paul O'Connell will equal Mick Galwey's record as Ireland's oldest captain . Veteran lock will take to the field for 6 Nations match against Wales . Sean Cronin believes O'Connell is getting better with age .


For a man who had just made it to the Champions League quarter-finals and broken the record for goals scored in European competition, Cristiano Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure as he left the pitch shaking his head on Tuesday. The mood of the world's best player hadn't changed when he emerged from the home-team dressing room and told waiting television crews that he would not be talking again publicly until the end of the season. The significance of 'the end of the season' is that by then we will know just how much a campaign that promised so much for Real Madrid has delivered. Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring, but he couldn't prevent his side slumping to a 4-3 defeat . Ronaldo vowed he would not talk publicly again this season after the defeat by Schalke on Tuesday . Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo watches on with his hands on his hips as Klaas-Jan Huntelaar celebrates . Much more will also be known about the futures of Ronaldo - Real Madrid's top scorer — and also his team-mate Gareth Bale and his coach Carlo Ancelotti. Supporters at the Bernabeu turned on Ancelotti even before Real's 4-3 defeat by Schalke had started, with the manager's name jeered as it was announced before kick-off. Bale was whistled at in the second half while goalkeeper Iker Casillas also bore the brunt of the discontent, more justifiably because he could have done more about Schalke's first two goals. When Casillas, as captain, summoned his team-mates into the centre-circle at the final whistle they went reluctant — Ronaldo more than most — but were met with more resounding boos and a show of white handkerchief protest. Casillas has said he wants to stay until he is 40 but Real want Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea, and every day that passes without him signing a new deal at Old Trafford leads them to believe they still have a chance. Some Real Madrid fans waved a white handkerchief after the final whistle on Tuesday night . Iker Casillas has been below his best for some time, but replacing him is not as simple as it sounds . Casillas called on his team-mates to acknowledge the home supporters following the surprise defeat . Casillas pulls midfielder Isco toward the centre circle to applaud the fans . United will be watching the potential unravelling of Real's season closely. The campaign could still end gloriously if important injured players like Sergio Ramos, James Rodriguez and the fit-again Luka Modric return to their best ahead of the Champions League latter rounds. But what if things don't end well? United have made little secret of wanting Bale at the end of this campaign. He is happy in Spain but how many times can a player have his first mistake verbally chastised by his own fans before he starts to wonder if he might not be better off elsewhere? The former Tottenham star is not a particularly social animal and has not put down any great emotional roots in the city. United must be encouraged

Summary: Real Madrid were beaten 4-3 by Schalke in the Champions League . Competition holders progressed to the quarter-finals 5-4 on aggregate . Cristiano Ronaldo vowed not to talk publicly for the rest of the season . Gareth Bale was subjected to boos by Real Madrid supporters again . Carlo Ancelotti was jeered when his name was called out before kick off .


A businessman who once owned the world's most expensive home but was then exposed as a fraudster has failed in his claim to claw back £66million from the taxpayer after his mansion was seized by the State. Baljit Singh Bhandal bought and developed Updown Court, a 100-room mansion in Surrey, using the proceeds from money laundering and evading tax on alcohol sales. HM Revenue and Customs took control of the home as part of an investigation into his business - but his prosecution on fraud charges subsequently collapsed. However, today a High Court judge told him he was not entitled to compensation because it was 'beyond any reasonable doubt' that he was in fact guilty of the crimes he was accused of. Court case: Baljit Singh Bhandal, who built Updown Court, pictured, has lost his claim for compensation over the seizure of the property . Luxurious: The home was once the world's most expensive property when it went on sale for £70million . Bhandal bought Updown Court in the 1990s, after it had been practically gutted by the Great Storm of 1987, and rebuilt the interiors in a lavish style. The home was raided by HMRC in 2001, after Bhandal was accused of smuggling duty-free alcohol out of the bonded warehouse where it was stored and selling it on the black market. He was taken to court, but the case collapsed when it emerged that the manager of the warehouse was a police informant. Bhandal jumped bail and left the country using a false passport during the failed trial, but on his return to the UK in 2005 he was jailed for eight years for attempted kidnap. In his latest legal struggle, he argued that HMRC owed him millions in compensation because he would have been able to develop and sell Updown Court if he had not been arrested and prosecuted on the fraud charges. Lavish: Updown Court, which sold for £35million in 2011, is decorated throughout with marble interiors . Fraud: Bhandal lost his claim that the house, which boasts a bowling alley, was wrongly seized . Government lawyers insisted that he was guilty all along despite the collapse of the trial, saying: 'There was no acquittal on the merits and it was clear that massive fraud had been committed.' They claimed the seizure of the mansion was legitimate because it had been bought using the proceeds of crime. Mr Justice Collins today dismissed Bhandal's case, saying: 'I regarded him as a thoroughly unsatisfactory witness. 'I am satisfied beyond any reasonable doubt that he is guilty of the criminal conduct alleged against him and that Updown Court was acquired from the proceeds of crime.' The house in Windlesham, Surrey was said to be the most expensive home on the market anywhere in the world when it went up for sale for £70million. View: This image shows the rooftop pool on top of the house in Windlesham, Surrey . It was owned by property tycoon Leslie Allen-Vercoe, who claimed to have spent £30million on renovating it - but it passed into the

Summary: Baljit Singh Bhandal built a huge fortune from fraudulent alcohol business . Bought Updown Court in Surrey and redeveloped the giant mansion . He was put on trial for money laundering but the court case collapsed . Businessman sued HMRC claiming he could have made £66million from Updown Court if it hadn't been seized by investigators . But a High Court judge ruled today that he was guilty of the crimes .


A petty feud between the two most powerful women in Ed Miliband’s inner circle has rocked the Labour Party. The dispute between the party’s Election chief Lucy Powell and Chief Whip Rosie Winterton flared up over an invitation to the Brit pop music awards on the night of a crucial Commons vote. Insiders say the row brought simmering tensions between the starkly contrasting pair – both rivals for Miliband’s ear – to a head. Flare-up: Election chief Lucy Powell, 40, left, and Chief Whip Rosie Winterton, 56, became embroiled in a dispute over Ms Powell's Brit Awards plans . It was caused by the desire of 40-year-old Ms Powell – who is tipped as a future Labour leader – to attend the Brits ‘pre-party’ where guests mingle with pop stars. But Ms Winterton, 56, ordered Ms Powell to stay at Westminster for a vote called by Miliband to ban MPs having second jobs. One source said: ‘Rosie told her she had no right to miss the vote to go hobnobbing with Madonna and Co.’ The argument reportedly intensified when Powell was told she had a special duty to be there because the ‘second jobs’ debate was partly the responsibility of Labour’s Shadow Cabinet Office team, which includes her. In the end, Ms Powell backed down and took part in the vote. But she still managed to get to the main Brits Awards event at London’s O2 Arena. Yorkshire-born Ms Winterton, who has never married and is renowned for her black leather boots, revels in her role in charge of party discipline. Commenting on the dispute, one source said: ‘Rosie told her she had no right to miss the vote to go hobnobbing with Madonna (pictured falling on stage) and Co’ at the Brits . She learned her backroom wheeler-dealing skills from her mentor and close friend John Prescott, who gave her first break in politics – as tea girl in his office in 1980. Stylish Lancashire-born brunette Ms Powell has had a meteoric rise through the party’s ranks. Only two years after becoming an MP, Miliband put her in charge of his Election campaign in November. A Labour MP said: ‘Lucy and Rosie are a generation apart and totally different in their approach to politics. ‘We have been waiting for this dust- up to occur.’ A Labour spokesman said last night: ‘There is no truth in this allegation.’

Summary: Election chief Lucy Powell planned to mingle with stars at Brits pre-party . But Chief Whip Rosie Winterton ordered her to stay at Westminster for vote . Ms Powell, 40, backed down but still made it to music awards main event . Insiders say row brought simmering tensions between the contrasting pair .


International criminals are using British property as their preferred ‘safe haven’ to stash their corrupt money, a startling report claims. Transparency International UK said 36,000 London properties are owned by hidden companies registered in offshore havens. They fear many of these are being used by corrupt overseas politicians from the world’s poorest countries who want to hide their criminal cash. A new report has revealed that thousands of homes in London are being bought anonymously by offshore companies so they can hide corrupt money (file picture) The charity said more than £180million worth of property in the UK has been investigated by police as suspected proceeds of ‘grand corruption’ since 2004. The organisation defined ‘grand corruption’ as the theft and laundering of assets by foreign politicians, public officials and their associates from the developing world. More than three-quarters of these cases investigated by the Metropolitan Police involved ‘hidden’ offshore companies, which makes it hard to identify the owner, the charity said. Astonishingly, almost one in 10 properties in the City of Westminster and one in 14 in Kensington and Chelsea are owned by companies registered in offshore accounts. More than a third of foreign companies holding London property are incorporated in the British Virgin Islands, followed by Jersey, the Isle of Man and Guernsey. While many register their properties in offshore havens to avoid their tax obligations in Britain, campaigners say others do so to hide stolen assets. More than a third of foreign companies holding London property are incorporated in the British Virgin Islands, pictured, followed by Jersey, the Isle of Man and Guernsey . The charity has now called for the Government to act quickly to ensure the UK does not become ‘the destination of choice for global corruption’. They said analysis of documents from the Land Registry and the Metropolitan Police Proceeds of Corruption Unit showed this problem was on the rise. Robert Barrington, of Transparency International, said: ‘There is growing evidence that the UK property market has become a safe haven for corrupt capital stolen from around the world, facilitated by the laws which allow UK property to be owned by secret offshore companies. ‘This has a devastating effect on the countries from which the money has been stolen, and it’s hard to see how welcoming in the world’s corrupt elite is beneficial to communities in the UK. ‘It is astonishing that the UK has sleepwalked into this situation, and the Government needs to act quickly to make sure that the UK does not become the destination of choice for global corruption.’ They called for a new law requiring that the owners of companies which hold UK properties are named in Land Registry documents. The Metropolitan Police admitted that the current system meant ‘it can take years to unpick the layers of corruption and secrecy which ultimately result in the purchase of UK properties’. More than three quarters of cases investigated by the Metropolitan Police involved ‘hidden’ offshore companies . A spokesman said: ‘Such properties are often owned by companies registered in foreign jurisdictions and while secrecy jurisdictions

Summary: Around 36,000 London properties are thought to be owned by hidden firms . Transparency International say the firms are registered in offshore havens . The charity fears many properties are being used to stash corrupt money . One in ten properties in Westminster are owned by offshore companies . Charity urges government to make sure UK doesn't become a destination for 'global corruption'


A Colorado woman accused of luring an expectant mother to a basement and cutting the baby from her belly will not be charged with murder. Catherine Olguin, a spokeswoman for the Boulder County District Attorney's Office, said prosecutors won't bring the charge in the baby's death, but she declined to say why or what charges Dynel Lane, 34, will face. Investigators say Lane lured Michelle Wilkins, 26, to her Longmont home March 18 with an ad on Craigslist offering baby clothes. Inside, police say, Lane attacked Wilkins and extracted her unborn baby girl. Scroll down for video . Dynel Lane (left) will not be charged with murder for cutting out the baby of expectant mom Michelle Wilkins (right) Wilkins had gone over to Lane's Longmont, Colorado home (above) on March 18 after responding to a CraigsList ad for baby clothes . Lane's husband found the infant in a bathtub and rushed the child to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Wilkins survived the attack and was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday. District Attorney Stan Garnett is expected to release more information Friday about the decision not to charge Lane with murder, and the coroner's office is expected to release the findings of an autopsy performed on the baby. The gruesome attack revived the highly-charged debate over when a fetus can legally be considered a human being. Even though the baby girl died, legal experts say the situation is complicated by the fact that Colorado is one of 12 states that do not have laws making the violent death of an unborn child a homicide. State legislators in 2013 voted down such a measure over fears it would interfere with abortion rights, and voters overwhelmingly agreed when they rejected a similar ballot measure in 2014. Advocates say the attack shows the need for a fetal homicide law. Naomi Garcia, 11, holds a sign in the direction of passing cars during a protest against Dynel Lane . Legal experts say a person can still be charged with homicide for an unborn child's death under existing Colorado law if the baby was alive outside the mother's body and the act that led to its death also occurred there. After rejecting a fetal homicide law in 2013, Colorado legislators did pass a measure that makes it a felony to violently cause the death of a mother's fetus. The maximum punishment under that provision is 32 years in prison. The maximum punishment for homicide in Colorado is the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Lane is expected to be formally charged on Friday.

Summary: Dynel Lane, 34, will not be charged with murder for cutting out the baby of expectant mom Michelle Wilkins . Wilkins had gone over to Lane's Longmont, Colorado home on March 18 after responding to a CraigsList ad for baby clothes . Once there, Lane cut on the baby, who later died, while doctors were able to save Wilkins . Colorado is one of 12 states that do not have laws making the violent death of an unborn child a homicide . Lane will be formally charged on Friday .