From March 2018 every new car sold in the European Union will legally have to be equipped with eCall technology. This will consist of a 'black box' that detects a crash and automatically calls the emergency services for help. This box is also fitted with a GPS sensor so it can send the car's precise location to the control room. From March 2018, every new car sold in the EU will legally have to be equipped with eCall technology. This will consist of a 'black box' that detects a crash and automatically calls the emergency services for help. Car manufacturers, including BMW, already include the technology in their latest models (i3 pictured) The European Parliament's Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee voted in favour of the draft EU rules on Tuesday. And the rules are expected to become law after a full European Parliament in April. The plans were first proposed last May, and in June 2014 the EU passed guidelines that required all members to have the technology ready to handle eCalls set up by October 2017. At the time of the original proposals the Government said the gadget will add at least £100 to the cost of vehicles. The technology contains a mobile phone-like SIM card designed to transmit the vehicle’s location to emergency services in the event of a crash. It is fitted inside a 'black box' built into the vehicle. An SOS button near the dashboard, linked to a SIM card, allows drivers to call 999 quickly. And if airbags are deployed it automatically sends a text message to emergency services with the car’s location - as well as its unique vehicle ID number. The technology contains a mobile phone-like SIM card designed to transmit the vehicle’s location to emergency services in the event of a crash. An SOS button near the dashboard allows drivers to call 112 quickly. And if airbags are deployed it automatically sends a text message to emergency services with the car’s location - as well as its unique vehicle ID number. But officials complained the scheme could be used by police or insurance companies to monitor motorists’ every move. Motorists will be unable to switch it off and it will be tested in MoT checks. Emma Carr, of civil liberties group Big Brother Watch, said: ‘Motorists will not be comfortable forcibly having a black box installed which is capable of recording and transmitting their exact location when they are driving.’ The technology contains a mobile phone-like SIM card designed to transmit the vehicle’s location to emergency services. An SOS button near the dashboard allows drivers to call 112 quickly. But officials complained the scheme could be used by police or insurance companies to monitor motorists’ every move . A separate study by the EU Data Protection Supervisor warns of the ‘potential intrusiveness’ of eCall given that it operates on the same basis as mobile phones and ‘potentially enables the constant collection of the vehicle’s geolocation’. It urged ‘stricter safeguards’ against ‘unlawful’ use of personal data. Brussels insists eCall will save 2,500 lives a

Summary: Under EU plans, cars sold from March 2018 will have a 'black box' device . Gadget contains a phone-like SIM card which tracks drivers' movements . Designed to help emergency services find vehicles in the event of crash . Government believes the device will add at least £100 to the cost of cars . But officials fear it could be used by police to monitor motorists' moves .


Australia captain Michael Clarke will retire from one-day internationals following Sunday's World Cup final against New Zealand. The 33-year-old made the surprise announcement at a press conference in Melbourne ahead of the match against the Black Caps. 'I think it's the right time for me and the Australian cricket team,' read a report on www.cricket.com.au, Cricket Australia's official news outlet. Michael Clarke shakes hands with New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum ahead of Sunday's final . The 33-year-old made the surprise announcement at a press conference on Saturday morning . 'I don't think it's reasonable to expect I'll be fit and healthy and available for the next World Cup, so I think it's the right time.' Clarke has played 244 ODIs for his country since making his debut in 2003, scoring 7907 runs at an average of 44.42, and was made captain when Ricky Ponting stood down following the 2011 World Cup. 'I know I've made the right decision,' he said. 'I told my team-mates 10 minutes ago. I told the selectors and (Cricket Australia boss) James Sutherland about an hour ago.' Shortly after Clarke made his announcement, Cricket Australia chief executive Sutherland released a statement thanking the batsman for his service. Clarke, who will continue to play at Test level, is pictured playing a shit in the nets ahead of Sunday's match . Clarke, pictured with team-mate Shane Watson, will lead Australia against England in the Ashes later this year . 'Michael informed me and his team-mates of his decision earlier today,' it read. 'We congratulate him on a wonderful career in one-day international cricket. 'From the time that he burst onto the scene as an exciting 21-year old way back in January 2003, he was always destined for great things. 'While his decision comes as something of a surprise, Michael leaves one-day cricket on his own terms, aiming to finish on an absolute high, in front of a packed MCG as a possible World Cup-winning captain. That's very special. 'Regardless of the result, he will leave the one-day international game as one our greats. We thank him for his wonderful contribution to one-day cricket and look forward to his continued leadership at Test level.' Clarke appeared in good spirits as he prepared for his final one-day international match on Sunday . Clarke will lead Australia in England this summer as they look to defend the Ashes they won with a whitewash in 2014 and he admitted that a desire to prolong his Test career was behind his decision. 'That's obviously a priority for me to continue to be successful in the Test format,' he said. 'By walking away from one-day cricket it probably gives me my best opportunity. 'I don't feel bad about saying I feel that Test cricket is the toughest part of our game. 'I love that challenge. I see it as the pinnacle. I feel like I've still got a lot to offer the Australian Test team as captain.' Clarke made his ODI debut 12 years ago and has scored almost 8,000 runs for his country . Speculation

Summary: Michael Clarke revealed surprise decision to retire ahead of Sunday's final . Clarke has played 244 ODIs for Australia after making his debut in 2003 . The Australia captain has scored 7907 runs at an average of 44.42 . Clarke, 33 to continue at Test level and will lead Australia against England this summer .


Graphic video footage has emerged of three Los Angeles police officers shooting dead a homeless man on a sidewalk in broad daylight after shouting 'drop the gun!' The clip, described by an LAPD commander as 'disturbing', was posted online within a few hours of Sunday's incident by the passer-by who filmed it. It comes in the wake of several fatal shootings in the US by on-duty police officers. At the start of the footage four officers are seen struggling to apprehend a man on Skid Row, an area in LA where many of the city's homeless stay. He is seen wheeling around trying to strike the officers. They eventually wrestle him to the ground amid a collection of sleeping bags as two more officers sprint to the scene. While two police detain a nearby female who picked up one of their dropped batons, another can be heard shouting: 'Drop the gun! Drop the gun!' Scroll down for videos . Shot dead: Los Angeles police were seen shooting dead a homeless man on Sunday at midday . Altercation: At the beginning of the clip, the man is seeing taking swings at several police officers on Skid Row . Two officers then breakaway to subdue a woman who had picked up one of their dropped batons as their colleagues struggle with the violent man . A Taser is heard being discharged before five gun shots are fired, leaving the man lying motionless, face down. The three officers, one of whom is a sergeant, shot the man as they struggled on the ground for control of one of the police officer's weapons, after a stun gun proved ineffective, LAPD Cmdr. Andrew Smith said. They were answering a report of a robbery at midday on Sunday. Smith said the department was aware of the video, and would attempt to amplify its sound and pictures to figure out exactly what happened. 'The video is disturbing,' Smith said at a briefing with reporters late Sunday night. 'It's disturbing any time anyone loses their life. It's a tragedy.' Smith said at least one of the officers was also wearing a body camera. The homeless man, who has not been formally identified, was later declared dead at a hospital. Confronted: He was being confronted over an alleged robbery inquiry before five shots were fired . The three officers, one of whom is a sergeant, shot the man as they struggled on the ground for control of one of the police officer's weapons, after a stun gun proved ineffective, LAPD Cmdr. Andrew Smith said . The fatal shooting took place in Skid Row at lunchtime on Sunday . The shooting in Skid Row came during a national debate about police use of force after several killings by on-duty police officers. In November rookie cop Peter Liang shot dead an unarmed black man, Akai Gurley, as they patrolled a housing estate in Brooklyn, New York. Police claim that Liang appeared to accidentally fire a shot when he was about 10 feet from the 28-year-old without saying a word. Prosecutors alleged that Liang's

Summary: WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT . Four LAPD officers surround man on Skid Row at midday on Sunday . Video shows them detain his female friend and shout 'drop the gun!' Five shots are heard, the man lies lifeless on the sunny street . He was pronounced dead at a hospital on Sunday afternoon . LAPD spokesman said the man was a suspect in a robbery inquiry . Man was known on the street as 'Africa', according to witnesses . At least one of the officers involved was wearing a body camera . Witness heard officer scream 'he's got my gun' before shots rang out .


A wartime airman’s poignant gift to his fallen RAF comrades has prompted an ‘overwhelming’ public response to ensure they are never forgotten. Squadron Leader Les Munro, now the only surviving pilot of the legendary Dambusters raid, is to auction his gallantry medals to help pay for the upkeep of Britain’s recently built memorial to the 55,573 airmen killed in the war . Yesterday after the Daily Mail reported the 95-year-old ex-pilot’s gesture, a wave of tributes and offers of donations swept social media and the RAF Benevolent Fund, which is responsible for the £50,000-a-year upkeep of the memorial in London’s Green Park. Donation: Squadron Leader Les Munro, 95, pictured, who is the last surviving Dambusters commander, hopes to raise £50,000 for the Bomber Command Memorial in London by selling his war medals . Comrades: Les Munro (centre at front) with his crew in front of the Lancaster Bomber he flew on the raid that smashed two dams . Now the Fund is starting a formal book of gratitude for Sqdrn Ldr Munro and opening an online facility for people to donate in his name. Director Mike Neville said: ‘The public response to Les Munro’s incredibly generous donation of his medals and log books has been overwhelming. 'We’ve been really impressed with the public support generated by the coverage, in particular an incredible response on social media. People who have been touched by Les’s generosity can now leave a message of thanks for him or make a donation towards the memorial.’ Yesterday the New Zealand born flyer, now the only surviving pilot of the 1943 Dambusters raid, revealed he was inspired to make the medal gesture after being moved by a visit to the memorial. Up for auction: Les Munro will sell his medal for New Zealand Order of Merit, above and, pictured left to right his medals for Distinguished Service Order, New Zealand Queen's Service Order, Distinguished Flying Cross, 1939-45 Star; Air Crew Europe Star with clasp France and Germany, Italy Star; Defence and War Medals 1939-45, New Zealand Service Medal 1939-45, and the New Zealand 1990 Commemoration Medal . Service: Les Munro leaning out of the cockpit of his Lancaster Bomber , which he flew on the Dambusters raid. The plane was hit over Holland and he managed to fly it home with a gaping hole in the body . Remembered: The Bomber Command Memorial is dedicated to the 55,573 airmen and ground staff killed during the Second World War. It costs £50,000 a year to maintain, and Les Munro wants to help pay for it . Hero: Les Munro (left) being introduced to George VI, centre, by Wing Commander Guy Gibson VC, right, who led 617 Squadron on the Dambusters raid . Old friends: Les Munro (left) shares a joke with Wing Commander Leonard Cheshire VC, who took over as 617 Squadron commander, at a 1986 reunion in New Zealand . He said he wanted to do so ‘out of comradeship’ for the airmen who never came home. He added it was a ‘travesty’ that the ‘magnificent memorial’ – dedicated

Summary: Les Munro, 95, flew Lancaster on raid on dams using bouncing bombs . He hopes to raise £50,000 for upkeep of the central London RAF memorial . Built to remember 55,573 aircrew and groundstaff who died in WW2 . Not finished until 2013 after row with Germany over respect for their dead . Sq Ldr Munro's Lancaster bomber was hit by Nazi fire over Holland on raid . But he flew plane back to UK with a gaping hole, saving lives of his crew .


ITV will reunite a number of England's 2003 World Cup-winning heroes as part of their broadcasting line-up for this year's tournament. Jonny Wilkinson, Lawrence Dallaglio and Jason Robinson and the coach who led them to that victory, Sportsmail columnist Sir Clive Woodward, will all be studio pundits for the tournament. England will host the competition, which starts on September 18, and the achievements of Woodward's side have set the benchmark for Stuart Lancaster's current squad as they look to win on home soil. Sir Clive Woodward (left) and Jonny Wilkinson (right) will be part of ITV's broadcasting team this summer . World Cup winners Jason Robinson and Lawrence Dallaglio will also be involved in the tournament . Wilkinson kicks the winning drop goal to give England victory in the final against Australia in 2003 . Wilkinson unforgettably kicked the winning drop goal for the Red Rose against Australia in the final 12 years ago, while Robinson scored England's only try in the topsy-turvy 20-17 triumph after extra-time. George Gregan, who skippered Australia that day and also played in the victorious 1999 Wallabies side, is also part of ITV's line-up. Former Wales and Ireland skippers Gareth Thomas and Brian O'Driscoll will also be involved in the coverage, which will be led by presenter John Inverdale. Thomas, the first openly gay professional rugby player, reprises his broadcasting role from 2011 and O'Driscoll watches a World Cup from the sidelines for the first time since 1995 after retiring from the game last year. Gareth Thomas (left) and Brian O'Driscoll (right) will also be involved in ITV's coverage this summer . Former British and Irish Lions and Scotland coach Sir Ian McGeechan, victorious 1995 South Africa captain Francois Pienaar, New Zealand's Sean Fitzpatrick, Australia's Michael Lynagh and David Flatman complete the list of pundits. Niall Sloane, ITV director of sport, said: 'A Rugby World Cup hosted by England is a once in a generation event and it's our privilege as the exclusive television broadcaster to bring viewers the full impact of all the action and emotion throughout what we hope will be an unforgettable tournament. 'We believe we've assembled a world-class line up of rugby talent who, through their own expertise, experience and sheer passion for the game can help deliver the best possible coverage for those watching at home.' England will be hoping for glory at Twickenham at the 2015 World Cup .

Summary: • 2003 World Cup-winning heroes to reunite at tournament this summer . Fly-half Jonny Wilkinson kicked winning drop goal 12 years ago . He will be joined by coach and Sportsmail columnist Sir Clive Woodward . Lawrence Dallaglio and Jason Robinson will also be involved on ITV .


Fined: Akthar Khan was handed a £4,000 fine and ordered to pay £21,869 in costs after one of his workers lost his fingers while working in his Birmingham supermarket . A food shop owner who was back using a food mincer less than an hour after it had sliced off the fingers of a part-time employee has been ordered to pay out more than £25,000. Akthar Khan - who used Fairy Liquid and hot water to clean the machine - was also handed an eight month suspended sentence after earlier admitting a single breach of health and safety regulations. Judge James Burbidge QC described Khan's management as 'woeful', and said: 'It is beyond belief the machine was still being used even after a man lost his fingers.' Birmingham Magistrates Court had previously heard Aston's Ash Food Fare's meat slicer had lost its safety guard a month before Mr Iqbal lost his fingers in October 2012. Staff had been using a plunger to insert meat since the breakage, the city's magistrates' court heard. Fellow workers heard Mr Iqbal screaming as he placed his right hand inside the machine, which continued to operate as an ambulance crew rushed to the shop. A paramedic only recovered three of Mr Iqbal's fingers after the machine was dismantled. But an hour later a police officer arrived to find the machine was back in use and one of the employees said washing liquid had been used to clean it. Khan, 57, then admitted he had used Fairy Liquid. Barry Berlin, prosecuting, said: 'Mr Abdul (the manager) said he used Fairy Liquid and hot water to clean it, which was fairly inadequate. 'He then passed vegetables through it before using it. There was no safe system of work here at all. 'We have looked and we can't find any steps he (Khan) took to protect his staff from the unguarded mincer.' Simon Morgan, defending, maintained Khan, of Witton, Birmingham, knew nothing of the missing hand guard - but said he fully accepted responsibility and 'bitterly regrets the injury caused'. 'He is 57 years of age, has no previous convictions, he is very highly regarded,' Mr Morgan said. 'He has worked extremely hard all his life.' Mr Morgan said Khan had also carried out good work for the benefit of the community spanning two decades. Suspended: Khan, 57, was a 'woeful' manager, according to Judge James Burbidge QC . Judge Burbidge said: 'You should have been more proactive and should be well attuned, given your position in the community, to follow basic safety procedures. 'If you had been, Mr Iqbal would not have suffered that traumatic amputation.' Khan was ordered to pay a £4,000 fine and £21,869 in costs.

Summary: Ash Food Fair owner Akhtar Khan admitted safety breach after accident . Fined £4,000, ordered to pay £21,869 costs and given suspended sentence . Judge James Burbidge QC described Khan's management as 'woeful' Part-time worker Nasa Iqbal lost his fingers in the faulty meat mincer . Machinery missing a safety guard and workers used plunger to insert meat . Ambulance was called and the machine continued to run until they arrived . Mr Iqbal's fingers were in the machine but his hand could not be saved . Police arrived an hour later to find the mincer was back in use by shop .


Massimiliano Alegri has warned his players to brace themselves for an important week as Juventus look to continue their push towards the Serie title and bid to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League. The Italian champions take on 11th-place Palermo on Saturday as they chase down their fourth consecutive Scudetto before travelling to Germany to to defend a 2-1 lead over Brussia Dortmund on Wednesday. Juve currently hold an 11-point lead over nearest rivals Roma but Allegri insists there is still work to do to secure the title as the club head into what the coach describes as a decisive week. Massimiliano Allegri says his Juventus players must be on top of their game ahead of a decisive few days . Paul Pogba celebrates after scoring the winner against Sassuolo on Monday . 'We begin a week that's more or less decisive as far as the league's concerned, which still hasn't been won, and the Champions League, where we've got a knockout game,' he said. 'But for now we'll just stay focused on Palermo. 'I think we'll have a difficult game because they're in a healthy position in the table and can play quite a carefree game. 'There will also be a full stadium and playing Juventus will provide a huge boost for them, I think. 'Crucially, they have shown themselves to be strong at home, they've taken 26 points at home, so it will not be an easy game.' Juventus maintained their 11-point lead at the top of Serie A with the victory . Allegri insists that Juventus still have work to do in the title race ahead of Saturday's game against Palermo . Juventus have been heavily linked with Palermo's impressive 21-year-old striker Paulo Dybala, who has netted 12 Serie A goals this season, but Allegri was giving nothing away when asked about the Argentinian. 'I think Dybala can get even better and eventually play for a great team,' Allegri said. Former AC Milan coach Allegri added that his side will have to be at their very best to reach the last eight of the Champions League but insisted the ambition is to turn Juventus into one of the best teams in Europe. 'On Wednesday we will have to be very good. 'Can Juve get into the top five in Europe in the future? It must be the goal and ambition.'

Summary: Juventus travel to Palermo in Serie A on Saturday 11 points clear at the top . Juve then travel to Germany to defend a 2-1 lead against Dortmund . Max Allegri has warned his players to be at their best for decisive week .


One of the suspects in the London murder of the former KGB spy Alexander Litvinenko is willing to co-operate with the inquiry into his death, the hearing heard yesterday. Mr Litvinenko died from radioactive poisoning three weeks after meeting former Russian agents Andrei Lugovoi and Dmitri Kovtun at a Mayfair hotel in November 2006. Kovtun and Lugovoi are suspected of slipping radioactive polonium-210 into Litvinenko’s tea. Both deny involvement and remain in Russia. Scroll down for video . One of the suspects in the London murder of the former KGB spy Alexander Litvinenko (pictured in hospital in 2006) is willing to co-operate with the inquiry into his death, the hearing heard yesterday . A man giving the name Dmitri Kovtun has been contacting the inquiry, counsel to the hearing Robin Tam QC told chairman Sir Robert Owen. 'During the course of the last fortnight, the solicitor to the inquiry has received communications from a man who has given his name as Dmitri Kovtun. 'He has said he is willing to take part in the inquiry.' Mr Litvinenko died from radioactive poisoning three weeks after meeting former Russian agents Andrei Lugovoi (right) and Dmitri Kovtun (left) at a Mayfair hotel in November 2006 . Sir Robert was expected to hear closing statements by the end of the month but Mr Tam said there was no prospect of hearing any evidence from Kovtun before Easter. It was unclear whether the Russian was offering to give evidence by video link or face questioning by police. The hearing was set up by the Home Secretary, Theresa May, last year. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Summary: Alexander Litvinenko died from radioactive poisoning in November 2006 . Met former Russian agents Andrei Lugovoi and Dmitri Kovtun three weeks earlier . Both suspected of slipping radioactive polonium-210 into Litvinenko’s tea . One of the suspects now willing to co-operate with inquiry into his death . A man giving the name Dmitri Kovtun has been contacting the inquiry . But inquiry not likely to hear any evidence from Kovtun before Easter .


Yahoo is shutting down its research and development centre in Beijing - the firm's only physical presence in the country. The company confirmed the plans on Wednesday and the move is expected to affect between 200 and 300 employees. Yahoo said in a statement that it is 'consolidating certain functions into fewer offices' and is 'constantly making changes to realign resources.' Yahoo is pulling the plug on its research and development centre in Haidan, Beijing - the firm's only physical presence in the country. The California-based company confirmed the plans on Wednesday and the move is expected to affect between 200 and 300 employees . Employees were informed of the closures yesterday. According to reports in Bloomberg, this is said to be around two per cent of its global workforce and follows editorial job cuts in Canada earlier this month. It has also recently closed offices in Amman and Jordan. Yahoo was once the leading search engine but has lost ground to Google and more recently Microsoft's Bing. Mozilla announced in December it was ending its partnership with Google as the default option for Firefox web searches. At the start of the year it began switching people using the browser in the US to Yahoo. The decision to switch to Yahoo came as a decade-long agreement with Google neared its end, and Mozilla 'evaluated its options', according to the firm. The partnership with Yahoo is set to last five years. A total of more than 100 billion online searches are done each year by people around the world using Firefox browsers and this is expected to increase Yahoo's market share. As of last month Yahoo accounted for 12.8 per cent of search volume in the US. Google took 64.5 per cent and Bing had 19.8 per cent. This is complicated slightly by the fact Yahoo is powered by Bing. The firm is also said to have struggled as people moved from laptops and desktops to smartphones and tablets - although Yahoo Mail is still one of the leading providers in many regions. Yahoo's profit for the quarter ending in December fell 52 per cent from a year earlier while revenue dipped 1 per cent. However, Mozilla announced in December it was ending its partnership with Google as the default option for Firefox web searches. People using the browser in the US are being switched to Yahoo. A total of more than 100 billion online searches are carried out each year using Firefox browsers and this is expected to increase Yahoo's market share considerably. The research centre in the Haidian district was set up in 2009 to 'provide products and technologies in making the world’s daily habits inspiring and entertaining.' It was used as an extension of the Sunnyvale-based company and engineers focused on studying search and advertising tools. The research centre was set up in 2009 to 'provide products and technologies in making the world’s daily habits inspiring and entertaining.' It was used as an extension of the Sunnyvale-based company and engineers focused on studying search and advertising tools . It is

Summary: Yahoo is closing its research and development centre in Beijing . The move is expected to affect between 200 and 300 employees . Centre is one of three global Yahoo research centres and opened in 2009 . Yahoo sold its Chinese operations to Alibaba Group in 2005 . Boss Marissa Meyer plans to spin off its Alibaba holdings valued at $32bn .


The father of Mohammed Emwazi is not sure that his son is masked Islamic State butcher Jihadi John, his lawyer has said. Jasem Emwazi, 51, feels there is 'no proof' that the black-clad knife-wielding man featured in chilling hostage execution videos is his eldest child, it was reported today. His Kuwaiti lawyer, Salem Al-Hashah, told Kuwait's respected Al-Qabas newspaper: 'He is not sure that he [Jihadi John] is his son. 'There is no proof that the man shown in the videos and photographs is his son, as the media has reported in the last few days.' Scroll down for video . 'No proof': Jasem Emwazi, 51, said that he was not convinced the Islamic State executioner was his eldest child Mohammed, according to his lawyer . Mr Emwazi (left) was seen in public for the first time today since he was questioned by Kuwaiti police about his son's activities . He added: 'There is no evidence that Mohammed is the man in the videos because his face was covered.' The lawyer's comments appear to contradict earlier remarks made by Mr Emwazi, who is said to have told a colleague that his son is 'a dog, an animal, a terrorist' and called for him to be killed. Mr Emwazi, who moved to the UK from his native Kuwait in 1994 and holds a British passport, was seen in public for the first time today since he was questioned by Kuwaiti police at the weekend about his son's activities. A Kuwaiti journalist present at a meeting in his lawyer's office in the upmarket Salmiya district of Kuwait said Mr Emwazi looked 'very scared' and was shaking. Mr Al-Hashah said the father is not responsible for what his son has done and that there is nothing to prove his father agreed with his son, or helped him in any way. The lawyer added: 'Jasem Emwazi is under stress. Many people are calling him names. He can't leave his home and can't walk outside. He is scared of people because everyone believes all the rumours that have been written about him.' The comments appear to contradict earlier remarks made by Mr Emwazi (left) who allegedly told a colleague that his son is 'a dog, an animal, a terrorist'. Pictured right: Mohammed Emwazi in a 1996 school photograph . Mr Al-Hashah said Kuwaiti police called Mr Emwazi at the weekend and he was interviewed by officers for two to three hours before being allowed to go without any restrictions. The lawyer said no foreign intelligence services have tried to contact Mr Emwazi since his 26-year-old son was identified as Jihadi John last week. Mr Al-Hashah said Mr Emwazi and his eldest daughter Asma, 25, are currently in Kuwait. His wife Ghaneya, 47, and other children are in Britain. He said Asma, who studied architecture at university in London, has denied reports that there are other extremists in her family. The two faces of Jihadi John: Mohammed Emwazi is seen before he went to Syria (left) and in one of the horrific execution videos made by ISIS (right)

Summary: Jasem Emwazi not convinced balaclava-clad butcher is son Mohammed . He feels there is lack of proof because his face is covered, his lawyer said . Lawyer added that the 51-year-old is not responsible for his son's actions . Contradicts Mr Emwazi's earlier remarks that his son is 'a dog, an animal' Father seen in public for first time today since Jihadi John was unmasked . Police quizzed Mr Emwazi but he was released without restriction, lawyer said .


Serena Williams ruthlessly ended the challenge of 15-year-old wildcard CiCi Bellis to ease into the fourth round of the Miami Open on Sunday. Williams, ranked No 1 in the world, was taking on the game's junior No 1 in a clash of generations, and unsurprisingly it was the top seed who came through against her fellow American. The 33-year-old triumphed 6-1 6-1 to set up a last-16 clash against former two-time grand slam champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, who ended the challenge of 13th seed Angelique Kerber 6-3 3-6 6-3. Serena Williams moved into the fourth round at the Miami Open for the loss of only two games . The world No 1 was too powerful for 15-year-old wildcard entry CiCi Bellis . Third seed Simona Halep was a 6-4 7-5 winner over Camila Giorgi, but the 30th seed's Italian compatriots fared better. Fifteenth seed Flavia Pennetta defeated former world No 1 Victoria Azarenka 7-5 7-6 (8/6) and Sara Errani, seeded 11th, booked her spot in the last 16 after hitting back to oust Garbine Muguruza 4-6 6-4 6-1. Elsewhere, Switzerand's Belinda Bencic knocked out German qualifier Tatjana Maria 6-4 7-5. Former world No 1 Victoria Azarenka crashed out after losing two close sets to Flavia Pennetta . In the men's draw, British third seed Andy Murray cruised to a 6-3 6-4 victory over Santiago Giraldo with the minimum of fuss. Murray continued the commanding form he displayed in seeing off Donald Young on Friday and his Colombian opponent, seeded 27th, had no answer. British No 1 Andy Murray made light work of his match against Santiago Giraldo . Murray's fiancee Kim Sears shields herself from the Florida sunshine while watching her man . There were, however, shock defeats for seventh seed Stan Wawrinka and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, seeded 11th and playing in his first competition this year. Wawrinka was edged out by Adrian Mannarino 7-6 (7/4) 7-6 (7/5), while Tsonga was sent packing after a 6-4 7-6 (7/4) defeat to French compatriot Gael Monfils. Fifteenth seed Kevin Anderson beat Leonardo Mayer 6-4 6-4 while Austria's Dominic Thiem came through 6-4 6-3 against Jack Sock of the United States.

Summary: Serena Williams reached the Miami Open fourth round with a 6-1, 6-1 victory over 15-year-old CiCi Bellis . World No 1 will play Svetlana Kuznetsova in the next round . Andy Murray cruised to a 6-3 6-4 victory over Santiago Giraldo .


Portugal went top of European Championship qualifying Group I with a 2-1 win over Serbia on Sunday. Defenders scored both Portuguese goals as Ricardo Carvalho and Fabio Coentrao netted in each half, either side of a spectacular equaliser from Nemanja Matic with an overhead kick. Portugal's third straight win under Fernando Santos, who took charge after Cristiano Ronaldo's team lost their opening qualifier against Albania, gave them nine points from four games. Ricardo Carvalho heads past Serbia goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovic to open the scoring for Portugal . Carvalho is congratulated by his team-mates after scoring the opening goal for Portugal against Serbia . Cristiano Ronaldo takes on Chelsea and Serbia defender Branislav Ivanovic during the game in Lisbon . Portugal: Rui Patricio, Bosingwa, R Carvalho (Fonte 17), Alves, Eliseu, Moutinho, Tiago Mendes, Coentrao (Quaresma 78), Nani, Danny (W Carvalho 86), Ronaldo . Subs not used: Ventura, Eder, Gomes, Vieirinha, Lopes, Soares, Mario, Antunes, Almeida . Goals: Carvalho 10, Coentrao 63 . Serbia: Stojkovic, Basta, Ivanovic, Nastasic, Kolarov, Petrovic, Matic, Markovic (Djuricic 65), Ljajic, Tadic, Mitrovic . Subs not used: Maksimovic, Lukac, Gudelj, Milivojevic, Tosic, Kostic, Tosic, Tomovic, Brkic, Skuletic, Obradovic . Goal: Matic 61 . Referee: Gianluca Rocchi . They are two points ahead of second-place Denmark, who have a game in hand, and Albania, who beat Armenia 2-1 in the day's other Group I game. Serbia have one point from four games as they try to make up lost ground after being deducted three points for disturbances during a home qualifier against Albania last October. The top two from the nine groups qualify automatically for Euro 2016. Carvalho, unmarked in the Serbian penalty area, headed in Danny's cross after 10 minutes, putting Portugal on the road to victory despite a patchy performance. Portugal shifted down a gear after the goal and allowed openings for the Serbians, with Dusan Tadic shooting wide. Ronaldo had little influence on the game until he unleashed a powerful swerving shot on the half-hour which Vladimir Stojkovic just managed to push wide, and two minutes later the striker pierced the visitor's defense with a run before he was closed down. Danny (left) and Thiago Mendes (centre) celebrate wildly after Portugal's opening goal of the game . Real Madrid left-back Fabio Coentrao slots the ball past the keeper to restore Portugal's lead in Lisbon . Real Madrid superstar Ronaldo (right) holds off the challenge of Liverpool's Lazar Markovic . Portugal's three points in Lisbon takes them top of Group I, ahead of Denmark and Albania . Portugal's win over Serbia takes them top, while their opposition lag in fourth position in Group I . Matic levelled with a bicycle kick inside the Portuguese area, but two minutes later Coentrao was at the back post to tap in Joao Moutinho's low cross from the right. Portugal coach Santos was barred from contact with players at the Stadium of Light in Lisbon as he served the first of a two-game ban for improper conduct at last year's World Cup, where he led Greece. Nemanja Matic produced a spectacular overhead kick

Summary: Ricardo Carvalho opened the scoring for Portugal with an early header . After half-time, Nemanja Matic produced a brilliant equaliser . Serbia were only level for two minutes, as Fabio Coentrao made it 2-1 . Portugal's win takes them top of their European qualifying group .


Green Party leader Natalie Bennett today threatened to bring about a ‘peaceful political revolution’ as she pledged to unite with the Scottish and Welsh nationalists to block government spending cuts. Miss Bennett said the election could be ‘a turning point in history’ after it was revealed the party has held talks with the SNP and Plaid Cymru about forming a left-wing ‘progressive alliance’ in Parliament. At the start of the party’s biggest ever conference yesterday, Miss Bennett pledged to introduce free social care for all over-65s and said the country ‘needs a range of new taxes’. Scroll down for video . Green Party leader Natalie Bennett threatened to bring about a ‘peaceful political revolution’ in UK politics . As she arrived for the speech in Liverpool, Miss Bennett had been ambushed by journalists and asked: ‘Have you got your brain in gear today?’ The party has experienced a so-called ‘Green surge’ with record support and a quadrupling of membership in a year, but Australian-born Miss Bennett has faced sniping from within her own party. After an excruciating radio interview last month, which saw her lapse into long silences, have coughing fits and complain of a ‘huge cold’, she apologised to members for her performance. MP for Brighton Pavillion, Caroline Lucas embraced the party leader Natalie Bennett on stage at the Green Party Spring Conference in Liverpool this afternoon . Green Party delegates listen and applaud as Green Party leader Natalie Bennett delivers her keynote speech . A CND (Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament) activist wears a woolly hat its campaign logo while attending the opening day of the Green party's pre-election conference . Leaflets in support of the Green Party's only MP, Caroline Lucas, sit on a table on the opening day of the party's conference . This afternoon, Miss Bennett told members in ‘in just nine weeks’ time, you will have in your hands something miraculous … the possibility of a peaceful political revolution. ‘Your vote can change the face of Britain. It can end the failed austerity experiment, end the spiteful blaming of the poor, the sick, the vulnerable for the mistakes of the wealthy. ‘This election can be a turning point in history.’ Miss Bennett announced that free social care for over-65s would be a pledge in the party’s manifesto, due to be released at the end of the month, because she said it was vital in a ‘decent, humane’ society. She did not explain how this would be funded, but said ‘those who have the most’ should contribute and said the party would introduce a new wealth tax, a financial transaction tax and higher income tax for those earning more than £100,000. Caroline Lucas, the party’s former leader and only MP, said there had been talks with the SNP and Plaid Cymru about acting as a left-wing bloc of MPs at Westminster in the event of a Labour government. ‘With the rise of the SNP, and with our own Green surge, we have the chance to forge a new grouping in Parliament. A progressive alliance,’ she said. She added

Summary: Miss Bennett said the general election could be 'a turning point in history' Party has held talks with SNP about forming left-wing 'progressive alliance' The Green Party pledged to introduce free social care for all over-65s . She told delegated the country needed 'a range of new taxes' after May .


A terror attack in Britain is a ‘price we should be willing to pay’ if it means spy agencies do not have access to masses of personal data, a human rights group has claimed. Isabella Sankey, Liberty’s director of policy, said it was better to let ‘some things happen’ than to give security services ‘privacy-infringing measures’ designed to catch extremists plotting atrocities in the UK and overseas. The claim that privacy should be put before national security was condemned as ‘unacceptable’ as a report revealed the extent of snooping by GCHQ. Scroll down for video . Relatives of victims killed in the London terror attacks in 2005 said Liberty was 'isolated from the real world' after suggesting allowing some preventable attacks to happen was a price worth paying . Liberty, which campaigns on civil liberties and human rights issues, was at the forefront of the criticisms of the security and intelligence services when the claims from whistle-blower Edward Snowden broke in June 2013. Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee found that agents at GCHQ, the government listening post, monitor 'large numbers of items' using 'bulk interception' powers to uncover terror threats. But the committee dismissed the claims that GCHQ had ‘blanket coverage’ of web communications and was rooting indiscriminately through private messages. It said GCHQ can access only a small part of the web and operatives see only a ‘tiny fraction’ of the messages collected after a sophisticated filtering process. Isabella Sankey, Liberty’s director of policy, said some terror attacks succeeding was a ‘price we should be willing to pay’ rather than have GCHQ use ‘bulk collection’ techniques . But this probably still means that thousands of texts, emails and Facebook messages are read every day by Government spies. Privacy campaigners argue the security services already have too much power to gather and read personal communications. Giving evidence on behalf of Liberty, Miss Sankey was asked by the committee in October if she opposed bulk collection even if it was used in a ‘targeted’ way to ‘prevent plots and contribute to national security’. Such techniques were, she said, wrong ‘in principle’ and could not be justified even if they were lawful and authorised. She added: ‘Some things might happen that could have been prevented if you took all of the most oppressive, restrictive and privacy-infringing measures. That is the price you pay to live in a free society.’ Her claims were backed by privacy campaign group Big Brother Watch. But the ISC said: 'We do not subscribe to the point of view that it is acceptable to let some terrorist attacks happen to uphold the individual right to privacy — nor do we believe that the vast majority of the British public would.' Labour MP Hazel Blears, a member of the Intelligence and Security Committee branded Liberty's views ‘unacceptable’. Pointing to the comments, Ms Blears said: ‘Their view was even if terrorist plots happened they were not prepared to allow this capability to collect information whereas that’s not a view we take.’ ‘The public will want to see they have that capability but

Summary: Isabella Sankey said GCHQ should not use bulk data collection at all . Some terror plots getting through is a 'price we should be willing to pay' Labour MP Hazel Blears branded policy director's views as 'unacceptable'


International observers trying to monitor the ceasefire in the Ukraine are being led on an impossible game of 'hide and seek' that could shatter the peace deal. Both pro-Russian rebels and government troops have been accused of concealing weapons from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) which could threaten the treaty. Under the agreement heavy artillery should have been pulled back from the front line, but just last week the opposing forces were seen to be breaking the deal. International observers of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) look at an armoured vehicle of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DNR) The inspection by the international observers took place in 100km easts of Donetsk . Yesterday eye-witnesses saw two rebel controlled tanks pushing forward and days earlier Ukraine troops were seen transporting a tank and a large calibre gun close to the battlefront. In a bid to monitor the fragile ceasefire the OSCE has asked to know how many weapons each side has and where they are being stored. Armed with cameras and clipboards the international observers have been driving around eastern Ukraine looking for rocket launchers and artillery. 'Some information has been provided from both sides, but we still need substantial information,' said Michael Bociurkiw, the OSCE mission spokesman. It is unclear to what extent the OSCE teams are able to decide on their own where to inspect. The monitors are also regularly complaining that they are not being allowed to travel through Ukraine freely. Sometimes they are made to wait at checkpoints, forcing delays, while in more extreme cases they are blocked entirely from reaching their destination. Mr Bociurkiw said even a short wait violates the verification process. 'Any delays are unacceptable in our books,' he said. This week a group of inspectors travelled from Donetsk to Novoamvrosiivske, a village near the Russian border, to visit a cement factory in the rebel controlled territory. Here they scrutinized dozens of tanks, rocket launchers and howitzers taking photographs and making notes. As they made there way back fresh tracks could be seen indictating that a convoy of heavy machinery had passed through while the inspectors were engaged elsewhere. In a bid to monitor the fragile ceasefire the OSCE has asked to know how many weapons each side has and where they are being store . Journalists in the Ukraine who followed the tracks found two tanks in a multi-vehicle convoy that included truck-pulled cannons and troop carriers full of rebel fighters. Two days earlier a Ukraine solider had boasted that a cease-fire busting cannon was being taken towards the front line. Ukrainian military officials have at times conceded that they are refraining from a complete withdrawal of heavy weapons, citing what they say is rebel reluctance to do the same. 'We will not withdraw all our weapons, as we have no confirmation that the same is being done by the enemy,' military spokesman Andriy Lysenko told reporters earlier this month. 'It would be wrong and criminal to leave our troops without any cover.' Armed with cameras and

Summary: Pro-Russian rebels and Ukraine troops accused of concealing weapons . Organization for Security and Europe trying to monitor both warring sides . Both have to remove heavy weapons from the front line as part of deal . Eye-witnesses told how the opposing forces were breaking agreement .


An anorexic teenager whose weight dropped to just five stone is fighting back from the condition by setting up a catering business. Faith March, 18 from Maldon, Essex, was surviving on nothing other than coffee when she dropped to her lowest weight in March of last year. After several ill-fated attempts to fight the illness, Faith collapsed in her bathroom where she was found by her boyfriend - and her family told her they feared for her life if she didn't get help. Scroll down for video . Faith March's weight dropped to just five stone when she was suffering from anorexia (left) but she is now in recovery and has set up her own patisserie business (right) After treatment at the Priory Hospital in Chelmsford, Faith is now at a healthier weight and credits the starting of her patisserie business, Whisk of Faith, as kick-starting her recovery. Faith said: 'This business has helped me get out of a massive hole. If I'm honest, it was a hole I never thought I would get out of. It just seemed like a never-ending cycle of problems.' Faith says she has had problems with her stomach which have baffled doctors for most of her life, but at 14 she was finally told her colon had collapsed and had surgery to insert a stent into her stomach. That returned her to some sort of normality, but in March last year her eating problems began to worsen and those around her began to notice. Faith said: 'My boyfriend, mum and dad noticed I had stopped eating again, I was just surviving on coffee,' she said. 'I was doing a cookery course at the time as well as working part time at a pub so I was surrounded by food but I just couldn't bring myself to eat anything. Faith looks happy as she poses with some of her cooking equipment and her freshly baked goods . Faith looks happy as she poses in her chefs outfit complete with an apron with the name of her company on the front . 'My boss told me to take some time out because it was clear I wasn't 100 per cent so I went to the doctors and that is when I was told I had anorexia. 'I knew I always had problems with food but to actually be diagnosed as anorexic just played havoc with my mind. Faith continued: 'I tried to combat it in so many ways that I look back on now and think 'what was I doing?' such as just staying in bed, working out at the gym all the time and just generally not accepting help. Then, a terrifying episode later that year made it hit home just how bad her problem was. Faith said: 'After one long day working from 11am until 10pm at the pub in which I hadn't eaten, my boyfriend found me collapsed on the bathroom floor. Faith's weight plummeted to just five stone but she is not much healthier (right) Pretty Faith poses with her boyfriend Alex who raised

Summary: Faith March's dropped to just five stone as she suffered from anorexia . The 18-year-old from Essex was living on just coffee and no food . After she collapsed in the bathroom, she had hospital treatment . Has now launched a patisserie business to help her recover .


A 14-year-old Sacramento girl who was given only a one-percent chance of surviving a life-threatening condition is looking forward to a trip to Disneyland. Paid for by the kindness of strangers donating to her gofundme page, Zoe Deibel suffers from a condition known as fetal hydrops, which causes fluid to collect on her lungs. Delivered by emergency Cesarean section at 33-weeks old, doctors told Zoe's mother and father that her chances of living much longer were almost non-existent. Bravery: Zoe Deibel has battled fetal hydrops since her birth. Doctors told her parents she had a one percent chance of survival at birth . Fighter: Zoe has always dreamed of traveling to Disneyland and has had to abort one attempt to get there in the past . Sick: Fetal hydrops affects Zoe's lungs and means she only has half the capacity of another 14-year-old girl . 'Every year they said she wasn't going to make it. And every year she proved them wrong,' mom Christine Deibel told KTLA sister station KTXL on Saturday. Since then, brave Zoe has been on life support multiple times and had six surgeries to repair his legs, which also suffer because of her illness. Indeed, her condition has meant that she once got to Disneyland only to be forced to turn around because she was too sick. Her lungs are so underdeveloped they only received about half the air she needs. Tough: Mom, Christine Deibel and Zoe make silly faces for the camera (right) while (left) Zoe recovers during one of her many visits to hospital . Mom, dad and Zoe: Doctors told the Deibel's that they should say good bye to their daughter shortly after she was born 14-years ago. She is still going strong now . Resolving to get Zoe to Disneyland and to also get her the portable oxygen concentrator tank she needs, the gofundme page is almost at its $10,000 target. Zoe told KTXl what the oxygen tank would mean to her. 'Go to my friend's house randomly, just stay after school or be able to do recess or something more often,' she said. The godfundme page tells Zoe's story and Jack Allen, the man who set it up, said his phone is going like crazy. 'From everywhere. My phone beeps all the time of 'you have another donation coming in,' Allen said. Once she has visited Disneyland, Zoe told KTXl that she wants to be a chef someday.

Summary: Zoe Diebel suffers incurable condition known as fetal hydrops . Parents have helped set up gofundme page to help with her care . Also hope to take her to Disneyland after one failed visit before .


Mary-Ann Wood, 53, has one leg which weighs two stone more than the other after cancer treatment . A grandmother has spoken of the agony of living with a medical condition that means she has one leg two stone heavier than another. Mary-Ann Wood's left leg began to swell after treatment for cervical cancer 17 years ago, but it is now so huge that her calf has a circumference of almost 3ft. The 53-year-old suffers from lymphoedema, a condition where the body's plumbing goes haywire. This means fluid doesn't drain properly, leaving her with a painfully swollen leg. Mrs Wood is now unable to bend her leg, is barely able to walk, and doctors have said she will be completely immobile in less than a decade. Despite this, she has been denied NHS funding for a liposuction operation to drain the fluid from her leg. She made the bid through her doctor, who agreed she would benefit from the treatment , which would cost the NHS £11,000. But after her case was assessed by a panel at her local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), her application was denied as the CCG said the evidence for the procedure's effectiveness was 'poor'. She claims she has been given several reasons as to why she can't have the treatment, including it being a 'cosmetic procedure'. Mrs Wood, of Midhurst, West Sussex, has been forced to give up her job working with special needs children while she continues to battle the NHS for the treatment. Last month, she was rejected by the Independent Complaint Advocacy on the grounds that her case is not 'exceptional enough', she said. Mrs Wood said: 'My leg is huge and the surgeon told me the only option is to have the operation. 'I've had loads of different excuses for being rejected - they once even said it would be "cosmetic". 'I was also told that I wasn't "exceptional enough" to get the op. It's ridiculous. She added: 'I was told that my best bet of getting the operation is to move to an area where the NHS provides it - it's a postcode lottery. 'But I've got two small grandchildren down the road I don't want to up sticks.' Mrs Wood's condition developed because she had lymph nodes removed along with her cervix as part of a hysterectomy. Her lymphatic system is no longer strong enough to drain her leg of the fluid causing the build-up. The lymphatic system is a filter network of tiny vessels which runs alongside the circulation and drains waste products from the blood . Normally, fluid drains from the lymph channels into the lymph nodes. These nodes act like filter stations that process the waste - the fluid itself goes back through the body into the circulation. However, if the lymphatic system is faulty - such as after cancer treatment - the fluid it would normally drain away accumulates in the tissue and the area swells up. The skin becomes like a soggy mattress, because there's too much fluid in the tissue. Mrs Wood Doctors calculated that

Summary: Mary-Ann Wood, 53, has a left leg which is almost 3ft in circumference . It weighs 2st more than her right leg, the equivalent of a four-year-old . Is barely able to walk and doctors say she will be immobile within a decade . Has lymphoedema - a condition where fluid builds up in tissue in the limbs . Has been refused NHS funding for liposuction to treat the condition . Clinical Commissioning Group argues the evidence for treatment is 'poor'


A Virginia middle school student received a 364-day suspension last September, after officials said they found him with a marijuana leaf. However, the 11-year-old's teacher parents, Bruce and Linda Bays, have said that three field tests proved their son did not have a leaf from the plant. A Virginia middle school student received a 364-day suspension last September, after school officials said they found him with a marijuana leaf. Speaking to the Roanoke Times, the Bays said there are varying accounts of the September 22 incident involving their son, identified as R.M.B. The couple said they'd heard the boy, who at the time was enrolled in Bedford Middle School's gifted and talented program, had displayed the leaf in a school bathroom, in his homeroom in another account, and while riding the school bus in yet another version. An assistant principal later searched the boy's backpack and pulled out both a lighter and a leaf, before he asked a school resource officer - who is a deputy for the sheriff's office - to step in, according to the newspaper. Linda Bays told the Roanoke Times 'I asked, "Can I see the leaf?" and the deputy said, "No, it’s already in evidence." We have never seen the leaf. He’s been out of school for six months.' R.M.B. received an immediate ten-day suspension, before the nearly year-long suspension was issued during a September administrative hearing, the newspaper reported. The Bays told the Roanoke Times that at a November juvenile court hearing, they found out about the leaf's multiple negative test results - and that a prosecutor planned to drop their son's marijuana possession charge. Linda Bays told the newspaper 'I immediately sent a letter to [the school's operations chief Dr. Frederick Duis] requesting a new hearing,' and claimed he told her 'The court system and the school system were two different entities.' The Roanoke Times reported that the couple has sued both the school district and the sheriff's office, claiming school officials violated their son's constitutional due process rights and that the sheriff's office committed malicious prosecution. The Bays told the Roanoke Times their son is being treated by a psychiatrist for depression and panic attacks, and is now anxious regarding being in public. Attorney Jim Guynn, who's representing both defendants, told the newspaper that the resource officer thought the leaf was from a marijuana plant. 'It’s the same punishment and exactly the same result,' Guynn told the Roanoke Times regarding how the school deals with fake drugs and real ones identically. The Bays told the newspaper that their son's denied any wrongdoing multiple times. Linda Bays told the Roanoke Times 'Why would you want an 11-year-old gifted-and-talented student out of school for 364 days?' Incident: 11-year-old R.M.B. was a gifted and talented student at Bedford Middle School, pictured, when he allegedly displayed the leaf .

Summary: A Virginia middle school student received a 364-day suspension last September, after officials said they found him with a marijuana leaf . However, the 11-year-old's parents have said that three field tests proved their son did not have a leaf from the plant . The couple has said their son now has panic attacks and depression . The Bays have also sued both the school district and the sheriff's office .


The CIA official who led the hunt for Osama Bin Laden is being removed from his post, it has been revealed. The head of the agency's Counterterrorism Center, who also directed drone campaigns which killed thousands, has been in the position for nine years and is described as a 'true hero'. His move is part of a major restructuring under CIA director John Brennan, and ends a tenure which has seen the center become a paramilitary unit, The Washington Post reported. The official, who has not been fully named by the paper as he is still undercover, is a convert to Islam and is believed to be in his 50s. The CIA official who led the hunt for Osama Bin Laden is being removed from his post as part of director John Brennan's (pictured) restructuring. The agency veteran has been described as a true hero . Known by his agency identity Roger, he presided over a campaign of espionage and armed drone strikes that have killed both terrorists and civilians. Many of Al Qaeda's most influential leaders have been slain under his leadership, but the main threat has since shifted to ISIS. In a Post profile written in 2012, he was described as chain-smoker and 'not at all a team player' by colleagues. He was also the basis for the character 'The Wolf' in the film Zero Dark Thirty and is said to have spent hours on the treadmill reading terrorism reports. But agency spokesman Dean Boyd paid tribute to the senior official as news of his departure surfaced. He said: 'After nearly a decade of outstanding work in this post, including the takedown of countless terrorists and many other successes in protecting the country, he will be moving on in connection with the CIA modernization plan announced last month.' Roger is believed to be staying on at the CIA and will be reassigned. His successor is known as Chris and is said to be an agency veteran who has already been in a number of high profile positions . Earlier this month Brennan ordered a sweeping overhaul of the spy agency, aimed in part at sharpening its focus on cyber operations and incorporating digital innovations into traditional intelligence gathering. Known by his agency identity Roger, he was the basis for the character 'The Wolf' in Zero Dark Thirty (not pictured). Kyle Chandler (left) and Jessica Chastain (right) during one of the scenes . The move was prompted after nine outside experts spent three months analyzing the agency's management structure. These included what deputy CIA director David Cohen called 'pain points' - or organizational areas where the CIA's bureaucracy does not work efficiently. US officials said that Brennan decided the agency had to increase the resources and emphasis it devoted to cyberspace because advanced communications technology is rapidly becoming pervasive. Historically, electronic eavesdroppers at the National Security Agency have been at the cutting edge of digital innovation within the US government. But the CIA felt that it too had to reorganize to keep up with the technological 'pace of change,' as one

Summary: Official known only by his agency identity, 'Roger', is stepping down the as Counterterrorism Center's head . Ran the drone campaign which killed thousands during his nine-year reign . Is a Muslim convert who has seen the center turned into a paramilitary unit . He will remain in the CIA and is being replaced by an agency veteran .


Former NRL star Mark Gasnier may be selling up to build his dream house, but his stunning Sydney home of five years is perfectly dreamy in its own right. The Fox Sports commentator and his wife Claudine have put their beach-side Avalon home on the market. They have lived in the breathtaking three-bedroom retreat for almost five years and are now looking to move on but remain within the area, with an asking price of $2,495,000. It was a surprise for player who never expected to live on the Northern Beaches, let alone fall in the love with the coastal area. Scroll down for video . The 15-metre lap pool is next to a generous guest house, which can double as a rumpus room. The incredible home is the perfect retreat, promising a private getaway with sun-filled rooms, lush greenery, a picturesque lap pool and immaculate yet warm styling . The property, painted a soft green and fresh white, has a beautiful entry with a porch, wide set steps and french doors . The versatile property can easily be used as a quiet retreat, a rumbling, happy family home or the ultimate location for entertaining . He had played 11 first grade seasons based in southern Sydney with the St George Illawara Dragons. Before his 2011 retirement Gasnier also played in the Australia and NSW sides and enjoyed a brief stint playing rugby union in France. However, after making the move to 33 Tasman Road Avalon from Cronulla in 2010 with his Newport-raised wife, he knows there is no going back. 'I didn't ever think I would live here on the northern beaches until I met Claude,' he told the Manly Daily. 'Now I can't imagine living anywhere else.' They are looking forward to buying another . The incredible home is the perfect retreat, promising a private getaway with sun-filled rooms, lush greenery, a picturesque lap pool and immaculate yet warm styling. The contemporary family beach house is the place where the Gasniers proudly welcomed their two children, Kalani, 3, and Havana, 2. The versatile property can easily be used as a quiet retreat, a rumbling, happy family home or the ultimate location for entertaining. The property is in a premium North Avalon location, just 300 steps from the beach and a stroll to shops, cafes and schools, ensuring a relaxed, easy lifestyle. The gem of a home is surrounded by lush greenery, tropical palms and sprawling grassed areas, perfect for a game of footy so Gasnier could show his two little children the ropes! The courtyard is perfect for summer entertaining, with a fully equipped bar, marble benches and a barbeque for sunny Sundays or moonlight dining . The breathtaking bathroom has a deep-set bathtub and spacious shower with an innovative curved screen . The 15-metre stunning lap pool is next to a generous guest house, which can double as a rumpus room . The property, painted a soft green and fresh white, has a beautiful entry with a porch, wide set steps and french doors. The home has a fresh

Summary: Former NRL player and Fox Sports commentator Mark Gasnier is selling his stunning Avalon property . Gasnier and his wife Claudine have lived there since 2010 and welcomed their children Kalani and Havana whilst enjoying the contemporary family home . The asking price for the three bedroom property on Sydney's northern beaches is $2,495,000 . The incredible home is the perfect retreat, promising a private getaway with sun-filled rooms, lush greenery, a picturesque lap pool and immaculate yet warm styling .


A newly-divorced father who used a train set to lure his two young sons to their deaths in a 'terrible' arson attack had been worried about his access rights to the children, an inquest has heard. Darren Sykes died alongside Paul, nine, and Jack, 12, after setting a fire in his home and locking himself and the boys in the attic. The 44-year-old had been worried about how much he would be able to see the children after recently divorcing from their mother, Sheffield Coroner's Court heard. Mr Sykes died in the attic after inhaling smoke while Paul's body was found near the edge of the loft. Jack, who was found unconscious next to its hatch door, died in hospital five days later. Darren Sykes died after setting fire to his home after luring sons Paul (left) and Jack (right) into the attic with a new train set. The newly-divorced father had been worried about his custody rights, an inquest into his death heard . The 44-year-old had recently divorced the boys' mother when he set the fire. Above, a family photograph taken in the years before their death . In the days before his death the father of two from Penistone, south Yorkshire, sent letters to a bank telling them he 'would not be alive' to pay his mortgage. On October 22, when the three were killed in the fire, he sent a text message to a handful of friends saying 'he was going to be at peace'. Concluding that the carpet estimator had intended to take his own life, Sheffield coroner Chris Dorries said: 'The whole business is absolutely terrible. Following a police statement which described the ongoing custody battle between Mr Sykes and his estranged wife Claire, he added: 'He may have taken the view he would have less access.' On the morning of his death Mr Sykes spent £800 on a model railway track before sending text messages to both his sons asking them to visit him at his house that day. Before luring them into the attic he sprayed four cans of petrol across the ground floor of the house and barricaded doors with furniture. He had also tied the front and back garden gates with cord to prevent anyone from accessing the property. Mr Sykes had recently divorced the boys' mother Claire (above). A coroner told of how he may have been worried about his access rights to the children after family court liaisons met with police officers . Jack, left, spent five days in hospital fighting for his life while younger brother Paul (right) was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital . Neighbours described seeing a flash come from the property moments after Mr Sykes sent text messages to friends saying he would be 'at peace'. Police and firefighters arrived to find the 44-year-old's body in the loft . Police were forced to smash a window to gain access to the property. Right, neighbours leave tributes to the family following the tragedy . 'The door to the stairs had been wedged to stop anyone coming

Summary: Darren Sykes, 44, died alongside his two sons in a house fire in October . He had barricaded them into the attic of his property in south Yorkshire . Lured the children with an £800 train set bought on the morning of death . Evidence showed eldest son, 12, tried to escape by opening attic hatch . He died in hospital five days later while younger brother died at the scene . An inquest heard newly-divorced father was worried about custody rights . Family court liaisons met with police two days before to discuss the case .


The funeral was held Sunday for Mexican wrestler Pedro Aguayo Ramirez, known as Hijo del Perro Aguayo, who died from injuries sustained during a match in Tijuana. Aguayo, 35, was the son of the legendary Pedro 'Perro' Aguayo, now retired and a member of the Aztec lucha hall of fame. The father didn't speak to reporters at the funeral in Guadalajara in central Mexico, but Aguayo's mother released a statement which came amid a debate over how the wrestler died and whether he received adequate medical attention following his injury. In this April 13, 2007 photo, Mexican wrestler Pedro Aguayo Ramirez, known as Hijo del Perro Aguayo, top, tries to remove the mask of Mistico during a wrestling match in Mexico City. Ramirez, the son of a wrestling legend in the country, died early Saturday March 21, 2015, from a hit suffered in the ring in Tijuana . A man delivers a wreath during the funeral of professional wrestler Pedro Aguayo Ramirez . 'We, as relatives of Pedro, want to thank all of you for the affection and respect you have shown for Pedro, and you will understand that we are in no condition to comment with respect to the death of Pedro,' Luz Ramirez said. Aguayo fell unconscious on the ropes, apparently after receiving a flying kick from fellow wrestler Oscar Gutierrez, known as Rey Mysterio Jr., according to video of the match. The Tijuana Boxing and Wrestling Commission called the death an unfortunate accident. Commission President Juan Carlos Pelayo said the doctor in charge was not at ringside because he was treating another injured wrestler, but paramedics and a doctor who was a spectator attended to Aguayo. Aguayo, 35, was the son of the legendary Pedro 'Perro' Aguayo, now retired and a member of the Aztec lucha hall of fame . A carriage arrives at the funeral parlor with the body of professional wrestler Pedro Aguayo Ramirez . Professional Mexican wrestler Daniel Lopez aka "El Satanico" arrives at the funeral of Pedro Aguayo Ramirez . 'The reaction for medical attention was quick, in my opinion,' Pelayo said Saturday. On Sunday, Gutierrez said that no arrest order had been issued for the other wrestler, though he did not discount that he would be called in for questioning. The team match continued for almost two minutes before the other participants and the referee realized Aguayo was seriously injured and tended to him, according to video shot in a municipal auditorium in Tijuana, Mexico. WARNING: GRAPHIC IMAGES . Dealt death blow on stage: El Hijo Del Perro Aguayo (pictured) was taking on former WWE star Rey Mysterio Jr. when he was kicked and then went completely limp (right) as the show continued . Aguayo went limp on the ropes of the ring after a kick from Mysterio Jr. appeared to hit his neck . The match continued before the other wrestlers and the referee realized that Aguayo was gravely injured . The wrestler lost consciousness and never recovered, reports San Diego Red. The Baja, California, state prosecutor's office said he was taken to

Summary: WARNING: GRAPHIC IMAGES . El Hijo Del Perro Aguayo, 35, was dueling former WWE star Rey Mysterio Jr. in Tijuana, Mexico, when a kick he received caused a grave injury . Family declined comment . Television images show the wrestler known as Hijo del Perro Aguayo going limp on the ropes after the blow from Mysterio . The match continued for almost two minutes before the other wrestlers and the referee realized what had happened . Star wrestler was taken to the hospital and died around 1.30am Saturday . Aguayo, 35, had wrested for 20 years and was a decorated AAA star . He was the son of legendary lucha libre wrestler Pedro 'Perro' Aguayo .


England lock Joe Launchbury could be back in action for his club Wasps by the end of April as he recovers from neck surgery. Launchbury has been sidelined since October with the nerve problem caused by a bulging disc but is closing in on a return to full training with the Champions Cup quarter-finalists. Director of rugby Dai Young has revealed the 23-year-old is on course to resume playing in either the Aviva Premiership match against Exeter on April 26 or Leicester on May 9. Joe Launchbury could return to Wasps by the end of the month as he nears the end of neck surgery recovery . Launchbury (right) is an England international but was out of the Six Nations due to the issue . Launchbury (left) has not played since October but could feature for Wasps against Exeter on April 26 . 'Joe is in the final stage of his rehab, so he's over the worst, but if one or two days don't quite go to plan it will make a difference in when he's back,' Young said. 'We've pencilled in either the Leicester or the Exeter games, so he should be back in either of those games. It will be like having a new signing .' Launchbury will be missing for Sunday's trip to double European champions Toulon with Wasps facing the toughest assignment of the four English teams in the last eight of the Champions Cup. The odds are heavily stacked against the Coventry-based club, but Young is planning to ambush the big-spending Top 14 team with a display bristling with attacking intent. 'If this is a slow, set-piece game we'll lose. If they are allowed to control the tempo, we don't have enough to win,' Young said. 'If we can get some real tempo and intensity and ask questions of them, then who knows what can happen? 'This is a game we have to try to win. If we sit back and are conservative, there's only winner. 'Toulon have lost games and they're not unbeatable, so you have to back yourselves. Launchbury, 23, could play against Leicester on May 9 if the game against Exeter comes too soon . Dai Young has a plan for Wasps' encounter against French side Toulon on the weekend . 'We've shown we can upset the best teams. Against these guys we'll have to play for 80 minutes. We just have to go out there and really play. 'If we can get quick line-outs or taps going then great. Anything within kicking range we'll kick it, but until then let's play rugby. It may be good enough on the day, it may not. 'We're not going to throw caution to the wind, but we have to be a little more adventurous than we would be in the Premiership.'

Summary: Joe Launchbury is nearing completion in recovery from neck surgery . Dai Young said Launchbury is pencilled in for Exeter clash on April 26 . Young is also preparing Wasps to play Toulon on Sunday .


The families of nine people killed in the Newtown elementary school shooting have filed lawsuits against the estate of the gunman's mother. The lawsuits allege that Nancy Lanza incorrectly secured her legally owned Bushmaster AR-15 rifle, which her troubled adult son, Adam Lanza, used to kill 20 children and six educators at Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2012, the Connecticut Post reported Friday. Adam Lanza killed his mother at their Newtown home before carrying out the school shooting and committing suicide as police arrived. The families of nine people killed in the Newtown elementary school shooting have filed lawsuits against the estate of shooter Adam Lanza's mother, Nancy Lanza. The lawsuits reportedly seek to collect on her homeowner's insurance. Mrs. Lanza's home is seen in this 2014 file photo . The lawsuits seek to collect on Nancy Lanza's homeowner's insurance, the Connecticut Post reported. Bridgeport lawyer Josh Koskoff, representing eight of the families suing, said homeowner's insurance applies when a person is injured as a result of an unsecured firearm in a home being accessed by a third party. 'With this many claimants, the money ends up being a symbolic gesture, but it serves as an important reminder that people who keep firearms in the home must be scrupulous about securing their weapons,' Koskoff said in a statement, adding that the policy is estimated to be worth between $1 million and $1.5 million. Eight lawsuits were filed in Bridgeport, and one lawsuit was filed in Danbury by Angelo Ziotas, the Connecticut Post reported. A status conference for the eight lawsuits is set to take place in Bridgeport Superior Court next month, according to the newspaper. Shooter: Adam Lanza killed his mother at their Newtown home before carrying out the school shooting and committing suicide as police arrived . Attorney John Majewski, who represents Nancy Lanza's estate, is seeking to have all the cases consolidated into one, according to the newspaper. Koskoff, Ziotas, and Majewski did not immediately respond to requests seeking comment from Daily Mail Online on Sunday. A publicist for Koskoff's law firm sent his earlier statement to Daily Mail Online on Monday. Koskoff's law firm also is suing the maker and sellers of the Bushmaster AR-15 rifle on behalf of families of the school shooting victims. The wrongful-death and negligence lawsuit says the rifle should not have been sold for civilian use because of its overwhelming firepower. Bushmaster, which on its website has a warning against improper or careless handling of its firearms, hasn't filed a response to the lawsuit in federal court but has indicated it intends to file a motion to dismiss it. Newtown officials bought the Lanzas' home from Nancy Lanza's estate for $1 and voted in January to tear it down.

Summary: The families of nine people killed in the Newtown elementary school shooting have filed lawsuits against the estate of the gunman's mother . The suits claim Nancy Lanza incorrectly secured her legally owned Bushmaster AR-15 rifle . Her troubled son Adam Lanza used the rifle to kill 20 children and six educators at Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2012 . Adam Lanza killed his mother at their Newtown home before carrying out the school shooting and committing suicide as police arrived .


The Princess Royal was pictured at Sandown Park Racecourse today looking cool in a pair of sporty sunglasses that she borrowed from her daughter Zara Phillips. The Queen's granddaughter, 33, was given the Adidas shades as part of her Team GB kit when she represented her country in the equestrian at the London 2012 Olympics. The sunglasses were certainly lucky for the mother-of-one who won a silver medal in the team event. The Princess Royal was pictured at Sandown Park Racecourse today, left, looking cool in a pair of sporty sunglasses first worn by her daughter Zara Phillips, right, during the London 2012 Olympics . Like mother, like daughter: The royal profiles look at same as they pose in the sporty shades . So that's perhaps why Princess Anne chose to wear the sunglasses today in the hope they would be a lucky charm for her at the races in Esher. The 64-year-old grandmother, who is 11th in line to the throne, looked happy and relaxed as she watched the horses compete. But while the sun shone causing her to don Zara's sporty shades, temperatures remained cool so she stayed wrapped up in a beige double breasted coat, polo neck jumper and red scarf. Anne looked happy as she watched the races - perhaps the shades were a lucky charm . And just like her mother the Queen who is rarely keen on a public engagement without wearing hat, the princess wore a brown hat with tartan trim. Anne, wearing pearl stud earrings, was pictured in the parade ring during the Grand Military Gold Cup Day at Sandown Park. The event dates back to 1841 and has always been a firm favourite with the British monarchy. One of the races held today is named in memory of the Queen Mother who was an avid fan of the sport. The royal chats to attendees in the parade ring during the Grand Military Gold Cup Day . Despite the sun shining, she still wrapped up in a double breasted coat, hat and red scarf . Earlier this week, the Princess Royal opened a new £2.3m youth arts centre in Jersey. The St James Centre was built in a converted church in St Helier and will include a performance space, studios, rehearsal rooms and a radio station. Meanwhile, Zara is busy training for the 2016 Rio Olympics with the hope of winning more medals - and perhaps more kit which she can share with her supportive mother.

Summary: Princess Royal was pictured at Sandown Park Racecourse . Looked cool in a pair of sporty sunglasses . Shades were part of Zara Phillips Team GB kit at London 2012 Olympics .


A desperate boyfriend has launched a crowd-funding campaign to raise money to join his partner on her spring break trip to Miami. Azel Prather Jr, from Maryland, USA, became worried after finding out his girlfriend had booked the holiday with friends and took to website GoFundMe because he believed she needed a 'chaperone'. The 25-year-old was worried that his girlfriend would cheat on him while away, Prather made a desperate call out on the Internet to help him track her down. Scroll down for video . A 25-year-old man launched a crowd-funding campaign to raise funds to follow girlfriend on holiday to Miami . 'If you know anything about Miami, you know that she shouldn't go without a chaperone,' he wrote on his GoFundMe page. 'I need to get there to be with her and share this joyous time but my funds have been exhausted. 'We have a great thing going and I would hate to see it go down the drain for a little sand and sun. 'If you can find it in your heart to donate anything to help save my relationship, I would greatly appreciate it. 'I just need a round trip flight. I will be staying wherever she lays her head, eating whatever she eats, and overseeing all parties and fun activity for the duration of the trip.' Azel Prather Jr kept his followers updated on social media as he raised the funds to track down his girlfriend . Just a few weeks before Prather headed out to Miami, he posted this image of him and his girlfriend, Marissa . Prather continued to update the page, including an image of his 22-year-old girlfriend in a bikini that she had uploaded to Instagram. 'Her bathing suit pic got 326 likes,' he added. 'Fellas, that right there is called the danger zone.' It worked! Prather managed to book a flight and find his girlfriend in Miami, posting an update of the two of them . Prather often posts images of himself and Marissa on social media and declares his love repeatedly . The 25-year-old's GoFundMe page has been shared 2000 times with Prather becoming famous in his own right . Surprisingly, Prather's pleas worked. The Glendarden, Maryland native raised the $300 needed for his flight in less than six days. And as evidenced by his recent Instagram post, Prather quickly tracked down his girlfriend, keeping his nearly 2,000 Twitter followers updated on every step of his journey. 'Love is in the air!' he wrote, alongside a picture of the pair in Florida. 'To all the hateful comments, I'll pray for all of you. 'God Bless, we're good over here!'

Summary: Azel Prather Jr, 25, created a GoFundMe page to raise funds for a flight . Was worried that girlfriend would stray while on holiday with friends . Prather kept his Instagram and Twitter followers updated on his journey . The pair was reunited just days later after his desperate pleas worked .


It's becoming as regular as clockwork at Arsenal: a Theo Walcott contract saga. Just over two years after signing a £90,000-per-week deal, the winger's future is again in the spotlight. As Arsene Wenger so jovially put it last week, contact has been made with 'the embassy' (Walcott's representatives) about a contract extension. Arsenal forward Theo Walcott comes on from the bench against Monaco, is now not a guaranteed starter . But just like two years ago, there are no guarantees Walcott will commit. Perhaps, even more so this time. Ever since recovering from a serious knee injury that kept him out for the majority of last year, Walcott has been on the peripheries. Walcott was flying before injuring his anterior cruciate ligament against Tottenham last January. He'd established himself as an integral member of Wenger's first-team plans. Walcott sprints away in celebration having scored against Leicester during the 2-1 victory last month . Theo Walcott wants a significant pay rise if he is to sign a new Arsenal contract . Since then, though, the landscape at Arsenal has changed. Alexis Sanchez has arrived, so to has Danny Welbeck. Walcott is no longer indispensable. In addition to Sanchez and Welbeck, there is Santi Cazorla and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to contend with. Walcott no longer walks into this team. So, with that in mind, does he warrant a pay-rise? That's the question Arsenal's moneymen will be asking themselves over the coming weeks. Because that's what he wants; a hefty hike on his current £4.6million-per-year deal. Can you justify paying someone in excess of £100,000-per-week who isn't a first-choice option for the manager? The England international gestures at Tottenham fans after injuring his anterior cruciate ligament last year . The Arsenal hierarchy are likely to argue not. And all that points to one thing: another Walcott contract row. You can understand where Walcott's representatives are coming from. At the age of 26, this could be his last big contract. His advisors have a duty to secure the best possible deal for their client. There will certainly be takers for Walcott if he leaves this summer. Liverpool and Manchester City are both monitoring the situation closely. The fact he has pace and is English (helping homegrown quotas) means he will be a valuable commodity if he's made available for transfer. Walcott has faced increased competition for a starting place in the Arsenal attack this season . As for Arsenal, they have four options. The first is to meet his demands, the second is to try to reach a compromise. The third is to let him enter the final year of his contract, which opens the door to Walcott leaving for nothing next year. Fourth is to sell him this summer. It's a game of poker. We're waiting to see who'll blink first. Walcott will be hoping to earn a similar amount to Gunners star man Alexis Sanchez on £140,000-per-week . Walcott looked certain to leave the Emirates Stadium in 2012 after rejecting a new contract. Wenger managed to persuade the speedster to stay and his subsequent performances

Summary: Theo Walcott is currently earning around £90,000-per-week, £4.6m a year . Walcott is holding out for an Arsenal pay rise before signing new deal . England international hoping for sum north of £100,000-per-week . CLICK HERE for all the latest Arsenal news .


Pictures of a terrified teenager being forced to strip naked before being punched and kicked by her classmates have shocked China. The 16-year-old girl can be seen cowering naked in the corner as the group - which is said to have included some of her supposed friends - carry out the vicious onslaught. It is thought she started off wearing a green T-shirt, but as the gang became more frenzied they ripped her clothes from her body in the dormitory of Bancang Middle School, in Bancang township in Funing county in south-western China's Yunnan province. Aggressive: The six-strong group beat the girl after tearing off her clothes in the school dormitory . Clothed: It appears the girl was fully dressed in jeans and a green T-shirt when the attack began . The six-strong group of girls then punch and kick the teenager, before covering her with toothpaste and hacking off her hair, the People's Daily reported. As a final insult, the group then appears to pose with the traumatised teen, who covers her face. And it seems the girls were so proud of their disgusting actions, that they posted the images to China's second biggest social networking site QQ to boast. The apparent ringleader posted the photographs boasting about how she and her pals who are not students at the school had 'Ripped the s**t out of this slut'. Police have identified her as Lu Tung, 16, who went on the run after outraged web users came across the horrifying pictures. Sickening: Later, they posed with the devastated teenager - and then posted the pictures on social media . Torture: The gang - who are now thought to be on the run - also chopped off the girl's hair . Proud: Alleged ringleader Lu Tung boasted on social media they had 'ripped the s***' out of the girl . Lu Tung is now thought to have fled along with the other girls to the crowded city of Guangzhou, in southern China's Guangdong province, which is 850 miles away. A police spokesman said: 'This was a particularly nasty and vicious assault and we have yet to establish the motive behind it. 'We are now searching for the girls and for Lu Tang who appears to have been the ring leader.' A school spokesman said: 'This is absolutely abhorrent and we will get to the bottom of it and demand punishment for the girls involved.' The victim is now being looked after by her parents and receiving counselling.

Summary: Girl, 16, is beaten and covered in toothpaste in school dormitory . Pictures then uploaded to China's second biggest social networking site . Police name ringleader as Lu Tung - and say she is now on the run .


Mystery surrounds the legacy of Cubs' legend Ernie Banks who apparently only left $16,000 worth of assets when he died in January aged 83. The news emerged as the star player's estranged fourth wife Elizabeth Banks and glamorous caretaker Regina Rice pursue a bitter court battle to seize the estate. Rice has been accused of coercing the baseball great into signing a will that left everything to her, without his family's knowledge. Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs has agreed to settle the allegedly unpaid bill - totalling $35,000 - for Banks' burial service after a funeral home sued the family for all costs plus legal fees. Missing millions? Ernie Banks, one of the greats of baseball, reportedly only left $16,000 when he died at 83 . Bitter battle: His widow Elizabeth Banks (left) and his caregiver Regina Rice (right) are fighting for the estate . And Rice maintains that Banks had wanted to be cremated, with his ashes scattered over Wrigley Field. Lawyers for Banks' widow, Elizabeth, have called for a review of the player's accounts including vehicles and baseball memorabilia after Rice's lawyers estimated him to be worth $16,000. Last month, Cook County Court heard Banks was never paid more than $75,000 a year throughout his lengthy and high-flying career. However, Rice's attorney Linda Chatman said the estimate was just preliminary, and she noted that the true value of the estate was in the rights to his name and likeness. That means that the estate could be worth far more, given Ernie Banks' place in the history of Major League Baseball and in Chicago, where he was a beloved sports figure for his 19 years on the field and decades after. Rice has been barred from selling anything that belonged to Banks as his widow and two sons contest the latest will. Heightening tensions, a law suit filed this week by Donnellan Family Funeral Services claims the Banks family did not pay $11,000 for the cost of the casket, $6,755 for flowers, more than $3,000 in car services and $2,700 in staff fees. 'I find it quite interesting that she did not tell anyone that she had an attorney write up a new will,' one of Banks' twin sons, Jerry Banks, said. A court heard Banks was never paid more than $75,000 a year for his lengthy and stellar career with the Cubs . Rice responded in a statement that Banks trusted her to carry out his wishes, some of which were during his lifetime and others after his life, and made her promise to adhere to them. Joey Banks said the family thought Rice was helping and watching over 'Mr Cub' while he was in Chicago. Family attorney Mark Bogen said that only after the funeral did the Banks family became aware he had signed a new will during his illness. A provision of the will, signed and dated on October 17, said: 'I am making no provisions under this will for wife or my children, not for a lack of love and affection for them and for reasons best known

Summary: Chicago Cubs great never earned more than $75,000 a year, court heard . His glamorous nurse Regina Rice claims he left all $16,000 to her in will . Estranged fourth wife Elizabeth Banks contends the latest will and called for review into worth of his assets including image and vehicles . Meanwhile, funeral home claims family didn't pay for $35,000 service . The Cubs' owners have agreed to settle the payment .


Forget being a supermodel as a career choice - young Chinese women are now dreaming that when they grow up they will get the chance to be an e-sport hostess. A recent report on 163.com, one of China's most-read websites, suggested that such hostesses, who are hired by gaming platforms to commentate on online video games and host live events in scanty clothing, are among the best-paid people in the country. Han Yiying, China’s top-paid e-sport hostess, was paid around ¥17 million (£1.8 million) to join a gaming company at the end of 2014. Xiao Xue (pictured) is an e-sport hostess and is recently featured by 163.com, one of China's largest websites . According to Xiao Xue, the income for hostesses vary considerably . Part of her job is to interact with live gamers over the Internet . Han's income almost caught up with Liu Xiang, a hugely popular Olympic gold medalist from China. Wages for e-sport hostesses increased more than 10 times in 2014 alone, according to the report. E-sport, short for Electronic Sports, is the name for organised multi-player video game competitions in which mostly male players pay to take part. Video game competitions associated with electronic sports involve real-time strategy, fighting and first-person shooter contests. Han Yiying (right) and Ruo Feng, two of the most influential e-sport hostesses in China . Han (left) was paid £1.8 million to join an online gaming platform last year . Originally from Sichuan, Han is also a professional online gamer and has participated in international competitions such as World Cyber Games . Many Chinese men take part in the events for a chance to ogle and communicate with beautiful women . There are cash prizes to competitors, but the real attraction for many Chinese men taking part in the events is the opportunity to ogle and communicate with beautiful women like Han Yiying, who is dubbed ‘Queen of e-sport’. Ms Han’s daily job includes dressing in a sexy outfit and chatting to the male competitors in the contests either through the internet or in person when there are live events. Han is also a professional gamer who has participated in a variety of international gaming competitions, including World Cyber Games. Bella is another super popular e-sport hostess in China . There are around 20 well-paid e-sport hostess in China, including Taiwan-born Xie Yitong (right) These hostesses wear sexy clothing in order to attract the mainly male players who participate in the e-sports . Han is one of a growing number of professional and highly paid e-sport hostesses, with at least 20 reported to be earning similar money. However, most of the hostesses are still on salaries considerably lower. 163.com reported that some of the new hostesses could only afford to eat one cup noodle per day, but they entered the industry out of passion. Hosting e-sport is becoming a dream job for some young Chinese girls . Beginners such as Xiaoxue are lowly paid and can only afford eating instant noodles . Xiao Xue communicates with gamers via smartphone apps . E-sport hostess

Summary: A gaming platform shelled out £1.8 million to sign hostess Han Yiying . Ms Han is the top-paid e-sport hostess in China . Her duties include chatting with gamers online and hosting live events . Young Chinese women are desperate to join the industry . Wages increased more than 10 times last year for hostesses, report says .


BBC 1 drama The Ark will not include the iconic scene of animals entering the Ark two-by-two. It stars Shameless actor David Threlfall as Noah . It is one of the strongest biblical images learned in childhood – the animals entering Noah’s Ark two-by-two. But BBC 1 drama The Ark, to be shown over Easter, will not include the iconic scene – because writer Tony Jordan doesn’t want it to feel ‘like Peppa Pig’. Jordan, best known for his work on EastEnders, said: ‘What we have done with Noah in the past is to change it into a children’s story. It’s like a version of Peppa Pig. ‘Every time someone makes a film, they have the ramp and then the two crocodiles followed by two ducks. It’s all rubbish.’ The Ark, which stars Shameless actor David Threlfall as Noah, also ignores the scene where a dove carries an olive leaf to Noah to let him know the flood is receding. But the changes do not please traditionalists. Theologian Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali said: ‘The animals are an integral part of the story because it is about the whole of creation, not just human beings. 'Then the dove coming back with the olive leaf, that is about calmness and the return to order.’ The gritty depiction of Noah may also surprise traditionalists. In one scene he headbutts a thief and in another his sons talk about the impossibility of making love to their wives in such cramped conditions. Jordan said his irreverent approach to the original material was about revealing the wider truth in the story, adding: ‘The characters are supposed to be human beings.’ The writer said he chose not to include the scene because he doesn’t want it to feel ‘like Peppa Pig’ (pictured)

Summary: BBC drama which will be shown over Easter will not feature iconic scene . Animals entering Ark two-by-two is one of the most famous biblical images . The Ark writer Tony Jordan said he does not want it to feel 'like Peppa Pig' Change not been welcomed by traditionalists who see scene as integral .