A man who has not been in Italy is always conscious of an inferiority, from not having seen what it is expected a man should see. So said Samuel Johnson, who was forever ready with a suitable aphorism. Suitable, that is, if you were living in the 18th Century, when the rich and titled minority wafted around Florence and Rome as part of their Grand Tour, allowing travel to broaden their minds before bringing back new ideas to influence our architecture, landscape and gardening. The cities they visited overflowed with statues and art, some of which they bought on the cheap, or pinched when the Italians were looking the other way. Though Tuscany can sometimes seem overcrowded, it’s still possible to return with plenty of treasured memories (pictured: San Gimignano and its towers) Johnson would be surprised to see how popular Italian cities have become nowadays: visitors are well advised to arrive outside the summer peak when sightseeing can be hard (and sometimes positively dangerous given the rise of the selfie-stick – the ultimate stupidity of modern- day tourism). E. M. Forster took a wry look at the early days of mass tourism to Italy at the end of the 19th Century in A Room With A View. When the young heroine Lucy Honeychurch finds herself in the church of Santa Croce without her Baedeker guidebook, Forster is expressing the horror of the intellectual at the worrying rise of the ‘uneducated’ tourist. He went so far as to wonder whether there ought to be some sort of intelligence test imposed at Dover to weed out the truly stupid traveller. But today’s tourists don’t come to Tuscany so much to learn as to ‘experience’. The treasures of the Uffizi or an up-close sight of David in Florence’s Accademia Gallery are stirring in their own right – you don’t really need to know their place in the history of Renaissance art in order to enjoy them. Chianciano Terme was called Fontes Clusinae by the Romans, and they made use of its thermal springs . In Florence you can assimilate the art and savour it, just as you might imbibe a glass of fine Italian wine. The problem is that at busy times, it’s hard to find the space to enjoy either the art or the wine. But though Tuscany can sometimes seem overcrowded, it’s still possible to return with plenty of treasured memories. Mine are of a pleasant three-star hotel in a place named Chianciano Terme, about 50 miles south-east of Siena, which was our base. The Romans called it Fontes Clusinae, and made use of its thermal springs, as visitors still do. I have good memories, too, of the Tuscan landscape, with its well-tended fields and vineyards, its olive groves and cypress trees. I like being in a countryside that has not been neglected, or turned into a theme park for townies. In this regard, Tuscany is rewarding. The ‘Chianti Classico’ area, which lies between Florence and Siena, still looks much as it was when it was painted by the great Renaissance artists

Summary: It’s possible to return from overcrowded Tuscany with treasured memories . The Romans made use of Chianciano Terme's thermal springs . San Gimignano, a small walled medieval town, is a popular destination .


Nigel Owens does a bit of stand-up comedy in his spare time, as well as after-dinner speaking, and one can imagine him being quite funny. The Welsh referee, considered among the finest in world rugby, was amusing in his response to being flattened by Jimmy Cowan a few years ago. ‘Try going past me next time,’ he remarked, after eventually returning to his feet, even though he knew full well that he, and not the New Zealand scrum-half, was at fault. It was entertaining to listen to him this week as he reflected on a hugely impressive performance at Twickenham last Saturday. Welsh referee Nigel Owens disputes a decision with England captain Chris Robshaw at Twickenham . Television viewers were struck by the manner in which he handled the players during an extraordinary game that occasionally became bad-tempered. He defused certain situations quite beautifully, even addressing individuals by their full Christian names to exert some authority. Chris Robshaw became ‘Christopher’, with Owens praising the England skipper and his opposite number for playing some marvellous rugby while ordering them to cut out the nonsense. It worked — players addressed him as ‘sir’. Rugby players generally tend to respect referees rather more than their footballing counterparts but Owens, 43, commands more respect than most. Owens commands more respect than many referees when taking charge of top level rugby . When he was the victim of homophobic chanting at Twickenham last autumn, — two England fans were fined and banned for abusing Owens for being gay — he received messages of support from players from England as well as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, France and Wales. And when he once asked Ronan O’Gara to sign a copy of his autobiography for his father, the then Ireland fly-half wished Geraint Owens a happy Christmas, but also added how proud he should be of his son. He will go up in the estimation of most for the way he handled a situation only this week. The victim of a homophobic tweet after last weekend’s Six Nations encounter, Owens agreed to travel to Carmarthen Police Station to meet the 18-year-old who had abused him. As part of an agreed Adult Community Resolution — an alternative way of resolving crimes that allows victims to be involved in deciding how the offender can be dealt with by choosing from a list of out-of-court options — Owens accepted what he described as ‘a profound apology’ and let the matter rest. International referee Nigel Owens jokes around with wrestler Barri Griffiths on a Welsh TV show . Owens, who does some stand-up comedy in his spare time, appears to enjoy the limelight . ‘It’s like refereeing a game of rugby,’ Owens told me. ‘You can’t referee in black and white. There is an awful lot of grey and you have to apply a bit of common sense. ‘This young man was genuinely remorseful for something he accepts was stupid. He apologised to me publicly on Twitter and on Facebook. ‘He could have been left with a criminal record but I saw

Summary: 43-year-old took charge of England vs France Six Nations clash . Owens defused certain situations quite brilliantly in bad-tempered match . 'Sometimes you can defuse a situation with a smile or a quick bit of wit'


Real Madrid have reached an agreement with FC Porto to sign right back Danilo next season. The 23-year-old defender will join the La Liga giants on a deal up until June 30 2021, it was announced on Tuesday night. Danilo, who started both of Brazil's recent international friendly wins against France and Chile - has won 14 caps for his country so far. Real Madrid have reached an agreement to sign defender Danilo from Porto next season . The full back has been strongly linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu in recent months and on March 25 - he admitted he was flattered by the speculation linking him to the European champions. 'I'm living a great moment with Porto,' he told Spanish newspaper AS. 'It makes me happy a great club like Madrid is interested in me. 'When the season ends I'll sit down with Porto and we'll decide what is best for me and them.' After breaking through at Brazilian side America Mineiro he joined domestic rivals Santos in 2010 where he helped them win the Copa Libertadores a year later. The 23-year-old (right) will join Real Madrid on a deal up until June 30 2021, it was announced on Tuesday night . His performances with the South American giants helped earn him a move to Porto in 2012. During his time at the Estadio do Dragao he has has won two Portuguese league titles and two Super Cups to date. The athletic defender has also tasted success at international level where he was part of Brazil's triumphant side at the Under 20 World Cup in 2011. His imminent arrival at Real will provide competition to current full backs Dani Carvajal and Alvaro Arbeloa in that position. Danilo (right) has won 14 international caps for Brazil - his latest coming in their 1-0 win over Chile on Sunday .

Summary: Danilo will join Real Madrid on a deal keeping him at there until June 2021 . 23-year-old has won two Portuguese league titles with current side Porto . Brazil international defender has also won 14 caps for his country so far . CLICK HERE for all the latest Real Madrid news .


Most infections are caused by bacteria on the patient's skin entering the surgical wound . Scientists in the U.S. have devised an implant in a tiny silk 'purse' that kills infections after surgery and then dissolves in the body. Up to four in 100 people undergoing surgery in the UK will develop an infection, and this can prolong hospital stays by as much as nine days. Surgical wound infections are the leading cause of hospital readmissions after operations, according to a study published last month. Most infections are caused by bacteria on the patient's skin entering the surgical wound. The most common culprits are Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, responsible for 20 per cent of surgical site infections, coagulase negative staphylococcus, and enterococcus bacteria. The infection can usually be treated with antibiotics but sometimes patients need more complex treatment, including further surgery. The new implant uses heat to kill off bacteria. It consists of a tiny, magnesium coil wrapped in a pocket of silk protein, and is implanted during surgery - if the patient later shows sign of infection, the implant can be switched on using a remote control. This raises the temperature of the coil. The silk protein protects the coil - both harmlessly dissolve in the body over the next fortnight. This is an improvement on previous medical implant devices, which are made from non-degradable materials that need to be removed. Researchers at Tufts University have used the implant in mice infected with Staphylococcus aureus, raising its temperature for two periods of ten minutes. Within 24 hours the tissue was infection-free. The device, including the coil, completely dissolved after 15 days. 'This is an important step forward for the development of on-demand medical devices that can be turned on remotely,' the researchers said. 'These wireless strategies could help manage post-surgical infection, for example, or pave the way for eventual "wi-fi" drug delivery.' The team has also carried out experiments using remote control to deliver antibiotics to treat E.coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Stella Vig, consultant vascular and general surgeon at Croydon University Hospital, said: 'This is an exciting new concept and an innovative tool against the war of surgical site infection. This new purse could allow a reduction of bacterial load with an implantable device . The concept of reducing bacterium within the tissues and thereby reducing risk of infections is not new, and was previously achieved by deploying antibiotic beads within the tissues. These required retrieval and therefore are not used routinely. 'This new device would allow a reduction of bacterial load with an implantable device, which then disappears without the need for surgery to remove it. 'Surgical site infections are costly as they increase the length of stay for patients and can lead to further surgery.' Meanwhile, a team at the University of South Florida has developed a new antibiotic to fight the superbug methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA, which kills thousands of people worldwide each year. The bug is a form of Staphylococcus aureus which does not respond to the usual antibiotics. The new treatment is based on a class

Summary: Surgical wound infections are the leading cause of hospital readmissions . New tiny silk 'purse' that kills infections after surgery is being trialled . Has been used successfully in mice infected with Staphylococcus aureus .


A have-a-go-hero was so badly beaten and covered in blood after he challenged a car thief that his family thought he had been shot. Danny Mason, 37, was repeatedly punched in the face and left with a fractured cheek, broken nose and cut lip after he approached the would-be-thief in Blackburn, Lancashire. He had just left a family party at around 11.45pm on Saturday when he tried to stop the would-be-thief from stealing a number of cars. The 37-year-old, who now lives in Kidderminster, Worcestershire, was found slumped unconscious on the ground by family members and is now in so much pain that he cannot sleep or work. Danny Mason, 37, was repeatedly punched in the face and left with a fractured cheek, broken nose and cut lip after challenging a car thief . He said: 'It all happened so quickly that I did not have a chance to think about it. 'Looking back, I thought I was doing the right thing by speaking to this man, but now I am in so much pain that I cannot sleep or work.' He was taken by ambulance to Royal Preston Hospital before being transferred to the facial injury unit at Royal Bolton Hospital. Police have now released CCTV images of a white man around 6ft tall who they would like to speak to in connection with the incident. Mr Mason's sister Sue Bannister said that the family have been 'deeply shocked and upset' by the attack and asked anyone with information to come forward. She said: 'We had come to Blackburn for a family party and were having a really good time until the incident happened. 'Danny had gone outside for a cigarette when he spotted a man who looked like he was trying to break into vehicles. 'He spoke to him and asked him what he was doing and the man just started attacking him. 'A neighbour spotted what was happening and the man took off. He said that he had been punching him over and over. The 37-year-old (before the attack, left) was found slumped unconscious on the ground by family members and is now in so much pain that he cannot sleep or work (after the attack, right) Police described the attacker as white, between 6ft and 6ft 2in tall, of an average to medium build with short light brown or dark blonde hair . 'Our cousin came outside to see where Danny was as he had been a long time and saw him slumped unconscious on the ground. 'He has been in a lot of pain and the whole family have been left deeply shocked and upset by the incident. 'We really want anyone who has any information to come forward in order to try and catch whoever is responsible.' Councillor Jackie Slater, who represents the Fernhurst ward, described the attacker as an 'evil thug' and said she was appalled by the assault. 'My thoughts are with Mr Mason and his family. It was such a brave thing for him to do and he has to be applauded in

Summary: WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT: Danny Mason, 37, challenged car thief . He was so badly beaten and bloodied his family thought he had been shot . Mr Mason had just left family party when he approached would-be-thief . He suffered a fractured cheek, broken nose and cut lip in the attack .


An angry Christian mother fears her daughter will ‘become a religious minority’ after she was allocated a place at a Sikh school. Kirsty Jarvis said 11-year-old Freya has been looking forward to moving up to secondary school in September. But they have been left ‘shocked and upset’ by the decision by council admissions officers to give her a place at the Khalsa Secondary Academy, despite it not being named as one of her preferred choices. Khalsa Secondary Academy, where Kirsty Jarvis does not want her 11-year-old daughter Freya to go as she would be a 'minority' The Sikh faith school opened in the village of Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire, last September despite protests from residents. Mrs Jarvis, who lives in the nearby village of Farnham Royal, said most of Freya’s friends have been allocated places at a school in the town of Beaconsfield. ‘We’re a practising Christian family and while we aren’t wanting her to go to a Christian school, my daughter should not be expected to attend a Sikh school,’ said Mrs Jarvis. ‘We knew we were ever so slightly out of the catchment for a number of our first choices but we never thought we would be given Khalsa. ‘In this day and age I could not imagine ever sending my child to a school where she would become a minority. 'Although it’s open to all, each day they take students off for morning prayers and my daughter would not be doing that, and she would, therefore, be taken out and isolated. I’m not sure she would be able to cope with that.’ St Giles Church in Stoke Poges. Khalsa Secondary Academy opened in the village in September . Khalsa Secondary Academy opened with 180 pupils, and aims to build up to 850. The school intends to cater for students from all backgrounds, with ‘50 per cent of places prioritised for non-Sikh students’. Plans to open the school were put forward by Slough Sikh Education Trust in 2013. Khalsa Primary School was already open in Slough, which is just across the border in Berkshire and has a large Sikh population. But the trust said there was no suitable site for the new school in Slough. There was a legal battle over the plans to open the school after people in Stoke Poges protested, saying they were worried about extra traffic and the ‘urbanisation’ of their village. A Buckinghamshire County Council spokesman said: ‘Where we can’t meet any of a parent’s preferences, then the nearest school is allocated. ‘In Mrs Jarvis’s case, Khalsa Academy is the nearest school at 1.771 miles away, although Burnham Park E-Act Academy is the catchment school where there are still places. 'The advice to parents is – accept the place at this point and then appeal for preferred schools.’

Summary: Freya Jarvis not happy at being allocated Khalsa Secondary Academy . Mum Kirsty does not want her going to Sikh faith school in Stoke Poges . Practising Buckinghamshire Christian family did not name it as choice . Mrs Jarvis 'could not imagine' her child being a 'minority' at school . Khalsa opened with 180 pupils and aims to play host to all backgrounds .


Beijing's Forbidden City is following in the footsteps of Rome's Colosseum and London's National Gallery and banning the selfie stick. Bosses at the Palace Museum in the city have begun a crackdown on the popular phone accessories over fears that one wrong move could cause lasting damage to the invaluable artifacts in the ancient palace houses. The People's Daily Online reports that eagle-eyed staff are keeping watch over photo-enthusiasts in the palace's narrow or crowded areas, as well as all the indoor exhibitions, to avoid any potentially costly accidents. Ban: The Forbidden City has said selfie sticks are no longer allowed inside the exhibition rooms or narrow passageways over concerns an unfortunate accident may occur . 'Selfie sticks will cause safety concerns, whether for tourists or the exhibits,' Shen Lixia, deputy director of the museum's tourist reception department, told China Daily. 'It may touch the glass exhibition case and cause damage to the cultural relics.' She added that as well as being banned in exhibition areas, the sticks would be banned in outdoor areas of the museum - so visitors would be wise not to bother taking them at all. However, the sticks will still be allowed outside the palace in the Forbidden City - so tourists can still get the all-important shot of the famous 15th century building in the background. There was speculation that the move could be the first step to a total ban, as has been implemented at other cultural attractions around the world. It is thought the Louvre in Paris will bring in a ban in the next few weeks, while several football stadiums have banned them over fears the extendable devices could be used as a weapon. But it seems should the Forbidden City instill a total ban in mobile-mad China - there are said to be 19,300 versions of the selfie stick available on the country's answer to eBay, Taobao - they would have a fair amount of support. Popular: Chinese tourists use 'selfie sticks' to take pictures as they stand on Jingshan Park, overlooking the Forbidden City, in February. There are more than 19,000 versions of the sticks for sale on Taobao . 'Museum photos are good for spreading the cultural messages, but we should pay attention to our ways,' Cao Wei, a celebrated Sina Weibo blogger, told People's Daily. 'I support the museums' actions on the selfie stick ban.'

Summary: Museum bosses have banned stick in exhibition rooms and narrow areas . Staff will also ask people to put the accessory away when it is crowded . But pictures outside in Forbidden Palace grounds are still allowed for now .


It was a weekend when Andy Murray was full to bursting with emotion, but he struck a note of pragmatism after leading Great Britain to Davis Cup victory. The din of what is the closest he can get to a home-town crowd was still ringing in his ears as he considered the implications of a 3-2 victory over America - one that has again put Leon Smith’s squad into the last eight of the sport’s premier team competition. Wimbledon’s host nation may not be able to raise a quorum when it comes to volume of players in the world’s top 100, but where there is Murray, there is hope. Andy Murray celebrates as his win over John Isner leads Great Britain into the Davis Cup's last eight . Murray celebrates during his straight sets win over Isner that clinched the Brits a quarter-final place . Murray produced the right results in points at key moments to overcome the fancied American . He showed that again as he held off a ferocious challenge from 6ft 10in John Isner to win 7-6, 6-3, 7-6 and push Britain into a July quarter-final against France. Yet he was cautious about whether that could actually lead to GB winning the Davis Cup for the first time since 1936. ‘To win the event is an extremely difficult thing to do,’ he said. ‘Even with someone like Federer, such a great player, it’s taken him to have a top five in the world partner (Stan Wawrinka) to help him to do that. We’re playing at the limits of our level right now.’ If he was merely being realistic there was not, after all, a great deal of time for heady celebration. Such are the demands of the tour that he was flying back to London on Sunday night and then flying on Monday morning to Los Angeles for the season’s first Masters level event at Indian Wells. Accompanying him will be James Ward, without whom none of this weekend’s triumph would have been possible. Murray was the star but this was truly an Anglo-Scottish enterprise at a time when such things are under threat. James Ward turned the tie in Great Britain's favour with his own victory over Isner on Friday . Ward took the first two sets in the dead rubber against Donald Young but retired to protect his knee . Ward’s Friday night epic against Isner turned this match in the home side’s favour - just as he had 13 months ago in the corresponding first-round match against America, when he defeated Sam Querrey. The 28-year-old Londoner is one of those players who grows an extra three inches in the team environment, but it is expecting a lot of a player outside the world’s top 100 to keep the upsets coming. Ward even took the first set against Donald Young in the dead rubber after Murray’s victory on Sunday but then conceded the match to protect his sore knee. When asked about his side’s potential, Smith said: ‘We have still got a bit of work to do

Summary: Andy Murray beat John Isner in straight sets to secure GB win over US . Murray's GB team-mate James Ward had before upset world No 20 Isner . The Scot said GB are playing at their limit having moved into the last eight . Great Britain will face France at home in the quarter-finals in July .


Juventus forward Alvaro Morata is likely to feature up front for Spain in Friday's Euro 2016 qualifier against Ukraine in Seville, coach Vicente del Bosque said on Thursday. Morata is the obvious choice in the striker's role for the European champions following the withdrawal due to injury of Diego Costa as second-placed Spain look to maintain pressure on Group C leaders Slovakia. 'We have been training with all the players we have, we have deployed them in the positions they are going to play and we have a lot of expectations of Morata,' Del Bosque told a news conference ahead of the game at Sevilla's Sanchez Pizjuan stadium. Alvaro Morata is set to start for Spain in their Euro 2016 qualifier against Ukraine on Friday . Morata has two international caps to his name but looks likely to add to his tally on Friday . Morata is put under pressure by Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos during a training session on Thursday . Spain manager Vicente del Bosque confirmed that Morata was likely to start up front against Ukraine . 'It has been positive that he has enriched himself by moving abroad and it is good that he has had playing time (at Juve),' Del Bosque added. Morata joined the Italian champions from Real Madrid in the close season after breaking into Real's first team from the youth ranks but finding his playing time limited. The 22-year-old, who has scored seven goals in 22 Serie A appearances this term for the Italian champions, is competing for a place up front with the likes of Barcelona's Pedro and Malaga's Juanmi. Cesc Fabregas, who plays in midfield for Chelsea but has often been drafted in as an extra striker for his country, is another option. Morata was given strong backing by Spain team mates Sergio Ramos and Andres Iniesta. The Spain squad were put through their paces ahead of the match against Ukraine . Real Madrid midfielder Isco tries to bring the ball down during Thursday's practice in Seville . Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas makes a diving save during training on Thursday . Manchester City playmaker David Silva takes refreshments on board . Andres Iniesta (left) and Sergio Ramos both gave their backing to Morata ahead of the qualifier in Seville . Spain lie second in qualifying Group C, three points shy of Slovakia . Results so far: Luxembourg 1 Belarus 1; Spain 5 FYR Macedonia 1; Ukraine 0 Slovakia 1; Belarus 0 Ukraine 2; FYR Macedonia 3 Luxembourg 2; Slovakia 2 Spain 1; Ukraine 1 FYR Macedonia 0; Belarus 1 Slovakia 3; Luxembourg 0 Spain 4; Luxembourg 0 Ukraine 3; FYR Macedonia 0 Slovakia 2; Spain 3 Belarus 0 . Fixtures to come: March 27 - FYR Macedonia vs Belarus, Slovakia vs Luxembourg, Spain vs Ukraine; June 14 - Ukraine vs Luxembourg, Belarus vs Spain, Slovakia vs FYR Macedonia; September 5 - Luxembourg vs FYR Macedonia, Ukraine vs Belarus, Spain vs Slovakia; September 8 - Belarus vs Luxembourg, FYR Macedonia vs Spain, Slovakia vs Ukraine; October 9 - FYR Macedonia vs Ukraine,

Summary: Spain play Ukraine in their latest Euro 2016 qualifier in Seville on Friday . Juventus forward Alvaro Morata likely to replace the injured Diego Costa . Morata has flourished since joining from Real Madrid last summer . The 22-year-old has scored seven goals in 22 Serie A matches .


China has seen the first successful flight of a commercial airplane powered by what's probably the country's biggest threat to food safety - waste cooking oil. The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, operated by Hainan Airlines, flew around 100 passengers from Shanghai to Beijing. It meant China joined a handful of countries in the world that possess the research and development ability to create its own biofuel production technology, according to the People's Daily Online. Pioneer: Hainan Airlines flew a Boeing 737 like this one using a biofuel made from cooking oil . But the fact that the new fuel was developed from waste cooking oil - which is in all too plentiful supply in China, leading to many problems with blocked drains and sewers - has prompted excitement in the country. Apart from the environmental concerns surrounding the dumping of cooking oil, there is also widespread concern about how much of it ends up on dining tables around the country after unscrupulous dealers remove it from drains and sell it back to retailers. The carrier informed all the passengers before departure that the aircraft would use a new type of fuel. 'The flight was very smooth. I didn't experience anything unusual,' said Pu Ming, Vice President of Hainan Airlines who was also a passenger on the flight. 'I hope the biofuel could be promoted throughout the country.' 'When I was asked on the phone whether or not I would mind flying with a plane using biofuel, I said of course I wouldn't. I'd love to be a lab mouse,' said one passenger named Ms Zhong. 'The successful flight is a landmark and on one hand the low carbon biofuel significantly reduces greenhouse gasses which helps China realise its 2020 carbon dioxide emissions per GDP by 40-50 per cent,' said Lu Dapeng, spokesman of China Sinopec. 'On the other hand, it could help with altering the route of catering waste oil and help stop the danger of it from ending up on the dinner table.' Food safety: The illegal recycling of waste cooking oil is a constant headache for the Chinese authorities . Fly greener: The government is seeking to promote greater environmental sustainability . Produced by Sinopec, China's state-owned oil and gas company, this particular biofuel uses restaurant waste cooking oil, often known as the 'gutter oil' in China, as the raw material. The cooking oil is then blended at a one-to-one ratio with ordinary jet fuel to create the finished product. Animal fat is the reason why waste cooking oil can be turned into biofuel. Sinopec has spent the past five years researching and developing biofuel, according to researcher Xu Hui, who also stated that the price of biofuel is two to three times more expensive than normal aviation fuel due to the cost of the raw material. Apart from animal fat-based biofuel, China is also developing sugar-based and starch-based biofuels, whose prices are expected to be 15-80 per cent of normal aviation fuel. Waste cooking oil is often collected by underground dealers in China. It's then reprocessed in rudimentary means and

Summary: Hainan Airlines completed China's first commercial flight using biofuel . Waste cooking oil is used as the raw material to mix with normal jet fuel . The Boeing 737-800 flew around 100 passengers from Shanghai to Bejiing . A handful of countries possesses the ability to create its own biofuel . Waste oil is major health problem in China as it is collected from gutters and sold back to restaurants .


Albert Park - Australian Grand Prix . It seems incredible to think Sepang has been hosting the Malaysian Grand Prix since 1999, but it appears one of Herman Tilke's circuit designs has actually become part of the furniture on the F1 calendar. Sepang's sweeping nature can be a challenge to the drivers, but the biggest factor that can have an outcome on the race is the highly unpredictable weather which can leave plans and strategy in absolute ruins. In the past, race day always threw up a challenge whatever the conditions. If it wasn't the flash storm catching out the drivers, it was the hot and extremely humid sun which sapped the energy from the drivers. A later start time since 2009 has limited the factor played by the sun, but race day tends to be an exciting affair as Sportsmail looks back at the archive and memories from the Malaysian Grand Prix. For Albert Park memories I included a quiz half-way down the page but this week we will start with one. The Sepang Circuit hasn't changed its layout since the first race in 1999 but in which year was this overhead shot of the track taken? (Answer at the bottom of the page) 'Not only is Michael the best No 1 driver - he is also the best No 2.' Eddie Irvine (right) knew exactly who to thank after he won the first ever Malaysian Grand Prix in 1999. Michael Schumacher dominated the race after returning from a mid-season leg break, and allowed Irvine to win to aid his title bid. Mika Hakkinen (bottom left) finished third but would go on to win the 1999 world championship . Leading the pack under the safety car and heading into the final corner is Michael Schumacher ahead of Ferrari team-mate Rubens Barrichello in 2000. Schumacher would go on to win the race with Barrichello finishing third behind the McLaren of David Coulthard . Schumacher had already been crowned world champion in 2000, but the double Ferrari podium allowed the team to clinch the constructors' championship. Here both drivers (with THAT red hair) celebrate with test driver Luca Badoer (right) and team boss Jean Todt (bottom right) The 2000 Malaysian Grand Prix was a joyous occasion for Ferrari, but it was the end of the road for Johnny Herbert who driving for Jaguar competed in his final race. The Brit's sad eyes appear to reflect that an 11-year career as an F1 driver was about to come to an end . Legend has it that the 2001 Minardi was so slow that Fernando Alonso needed a push up the hill from a track marshall to make it round the circuit during qualifying. Giancarlo Fisichella passes in his Benetton Renault which fared little better performance wise over the season . Race day in 2001 was hit by a flash storm, and clever tactics by Ferrari saw them change tyres at the right time before claiming a one-two with Schumacher (front) leading home Barrichello. It was the first year where the race took place in

Summary: Round two of the Formula One season takes place in Sepang for the Malaysian Grand Prix . Sepang has held an F1 grand prix every year dating back to 1999 . Michael Schumacher dominated early years of the circuit, with Jenson Button winning shortened 2009 race . Lewis Hamilton looking to win at Sepang for second time after triumphing with Mercedes last season . CLICK HERE for all the latest F1 news .


Ahead of this weekend's Premier League action, Sportsmail will be providing you with all you need to know about every fixture, with team news, provisional squads, betting odds and Opta stats. Here is all the information you need for Leicester City's home clash with Hull City... Leicester City vs Hull City (King Power Stadium) Team news . Leicester City . Kasper Schmeichel may make his return for Leicester after four months out with a broken foot. The goalkeeper has been in full training and is now fit enough for first-team action ahead of the visit of Hull, and boss Nigel Pearson must choose between him, Mark Schwarzer and Ben Hamer. Dean Hammond (calf) and Anthony Knockaert (personal reasons) are out for Pearson's side, though, with the Foxes bottom of the Barclays Premier League. Provisional squad: Schmeichel, Schwarzer, Hamer, Moore, Konchesky, De Laet, Simpson, Upson, Wasilewski, Morgan, Schlupp, Mahrez, Drinkwater, James, King, Cambiasso, Albrighton, Vardy, Nugent, Ulloa, Kramaric. Goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel may make his return for Leicester after four months out with a broken foot . Hull City . Mohamed Diame, Liam Rosenior and James Chester are close to first-team returns but will not be fit for Saturday's trip to fellow strugglers Leicester. Rosenior is back in training and could be joined by Diame and Chester next week, though none are ready to take on the Foxes. Robbie Brady (calf) remains sidelined and Robert Snodgrass (knee) is out for the season. Provisional squad: McGregor, Harper, Davies, Dawson, McShane, Robertson, Bruce, Elmohamady, Livermore, Meyler, Quinn, Huddlestone, Jelavic, Hernandez, Aluko, Ramirez, N'Doye. Hull City midfielder Mohamed Diame is closing in on a first-team return for Steve Bruce's side . Key match stats (supplied by Opta) Kick-off: Saturday (3pm) Odds (subject to change): . Leicester City 6/5 . Draw 11/5 . Hull City 5/2 . Referee: Jonathan Moss . Managers: Nigel Pearson (Leicester City), Steve Bruce (Hull City) Leicester City have lost just one of their last seven league meetings with Hull City (W4 D2 L1). Steve Bruce’s side have won just one of their last 13 Premier League away matches (W1 D5 L7). Both sides were shown a red card in the closing stages of the reverse fixture at the KC Stadium back in December, which was the first ever meeting between Leicester and Hull in the top flight. There have in fact been five red cards in the last six league meetings between the two teams. The last time this exact fixture was played was in the Championship in September 2012 and David Nugent netted a hat-trick in a 3-1 win for the Foxes. Dame N'Doye has scored in all three of his Premier League starts for Hull City . The Tigers have failed to score in seven of their last 10 Premier League matches on the road. Leicester City have won just three of their last 25 Premier League home matches (W3 D12 L10), losing six of the last eight (W1 D1 L6). Nigel Pearson’s side have scored just three goals in their last eight Premier League games at King Power Stadium. Dame

Summary: Kasper Schmeichel may make Leicester return after four months out . Mohamed Diame and James Chester close to returning for Hull City . Foxes have lost just one of their last seven league meetings with the Tigers .


Islamic State murderer Jihadi John had links to the 2005 bomb plotters who tried to blow up London's tube system just weeks after the horrific July 7 attack which killed 52 people, it has been revealed. Mohammed Emwazi, who was unmasked as Islamic State's cold-blooded executioner last week, was a member of a terror cell that was known to have links to the failed July 21, 2005 attacks on London. Documents have revealed a key figure of his London-based terror cell talked to one of the terrorists on the day of the attempted tube bombing - the would be terrorist was later jailed for life over the failed attack. Scroll down for video . Mohammed Emwazi (pictured) who was revealed as Islamic State's cold-blooded executioner Jihadi John this week, was a member of a terror cell that was known to have links to the failed July 21 attacks on London . The revelation has raised even more questions over how Emwazi, the Islamic State extremist behind the beheading of western hostages, was able to run away from Britain and the scrutiny of the security services despite being a member of the watched terror cell. Emwazi, who was brought up in west London, was subject to a no fly order and was on a terror watch list but still managed to leave without detection. It was revealed this week that he was a 'person of interest' to MI5 as a member of a cell known as The London Boys, which was set up to recruit and raise funds for Somalia-based terror group al Shabab. MI5 was also aware of Emwazi for six years before he appeared on a hostage video for the first time in August 2014. And now, even more worryingly, it has been revealed at least one member of his network had a connection with the worst terrorist atrocity to take place on British soil. The failed July 21 attacks came just two weeks after four men blew themselves up on London's tubes and a bus, killing 52 people and injuring more than 700 in 2005. CCTV footage of failed July 21 bomber Hussein Osman (circled in green) at Clapham Junction train station . Metropolitan Police footage showing Ismail Abdurahman with Hussein Osman at Vauxhall train station . Court documents seen by The Observer reveal a leading member of Emwazi's network had a phone conversation on the day of the attacks with Hussein Osman, who was later jailed for life for placing an explosive at Shepherd's Bush tube station. The documents show that security services were aware that associates of the 12-strong west London terror group had joined the four July 21 bombers at a training camp in Cumbria a year before the attempted terror attack. On Friday, Boris Johnson lashed out at Home Secretary Theresa May for watering down strict anti-terror powers which may have helped Emwazi escape the net and travel to Syria. The London Mayor accused his Tory leadership rival of giving the 'benefit of the doubt' to terror suspects like Emzawi. Mr Johnson's attack comes amid the

Summary: Mohammed Emwazi was revealed as Islamic State's executioner last week . He had links to the 2005 bomb plotters who tried to blow up the tube . Failed attack was due to take place just two weeks after 21/7 bombing . 52 people were killed and 700 injured in worst terror attack on British soil . Court documents reveal key member of Emwazi's watched terror cell spoke to one of the failed terrorists on the day of the attempted bombing . Revelation raises urgent questions over how Emwazi was able to leave UK .


Oliver Downes has avoided jail after admitting making and possessing indecent images of children . A Birmingham grammar school teacher has avoided jail after admitting making indecent images of children. Oliver Downes was suspended from Bishop Vesey Grammar School in Sutton Coldfield, after police began an investigation into the allegations last year. The 40-year-old, who had been teaching and coaching rugby for 13 years, resigned shortly after in July. A spokesman for the prestigious school, whose former pupils include TV presenter Cat Deeley, said that none of their pupils had been involved in the offences. Downes appeared at Birmingham Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to nine counts of making indecent images of children and nine counts of possessing indecent images of children. He had also admitted production of a Class B drug, cannabis. In a statement after the court case, a Bishop Vesey spokesman said: 'The school has co-operated fully with the police. 'The offences relate to the former teacher's behaviour outside of school and there is no evidence to suggest any child from the school was involved in any way. 'The member of staff was suspended and resigned on 18 July with immediate effect.' Downes received a two-year jail sentence, suspended for two years, and was ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work in the community. Downes was suspended from Bishop Vesey Grammar School (pictured) in Sutton Coldfield after police began an investigation last year . He was also ordered to attend a sex offenders' work programme for 50 hours and was placed on a two-year supervision order. Bishop Vesey is one of the oldest schools in the West Midlands, founded in the 16th century. Today it caters for more than 900 pupils and has almost 100 full and part-time members of staff. Downes, an avid football fan, had joined the school in 2001, having graduated from university in 1998. He had previously been a student at King Edward VI School in Aston. On his Facebook site, Downes describes himself as single and as 'chilled, different, fun, intense, work that out.' The 40-year-old sports fan, who had been teaching and coaching rugby at the prestigious school for 13 years, resigned shortly after he was suspended from the school last July .

Summary: Oliver Downes, 40, was suspended from Bishop Vesey Grammar School . The Birmingham teacher admitted making indecent images of children . He also pleaded guilty to the production of a Class B drug- cannabis . Handed a two-year suspended sentence and 100 hours of unpaid work .


Rangers fans have demanded the club's remaining board members follow chairman David Somers out of the Ibrox exit. The club confirmed on Monday morning that Somers had resigned following 16 months turbulent months in charge. The 66-year-old was a deeply unpopular figure with fans but walked before he was pushed out of the club by Dave King at a general meeting this Friday. David Somers (left) resigned from Rangers on Monday and fans want Derek Llambias (right) to go too . He even sold his 61,000-share stake in the Light Blues just two hours after his departure was confirmed. Somers' exit leaves the Ibrox club with just two directors, chief executive Derek Llambias and finance director Barry Leach. Both can now expect to be swept out of the club when shareholders meet at Ibrox to vote. James Easdale resigned his directorship last week in the face of growing fan opposition and the signs are now clear that King is on the verge of grabbing control of the Glasgow giants. Now the Rangers Supporters Trust have told Llambias and Leach to accept defeat. In a statement containing derogatory comments about Somers, Leach and Llambias, the fans group said: 'We are delighted that David Somers has finally resigned as chairman of Rangers. We note that his parting comments are entirely in keeping with his behaviour during his time at the club. Somers, pictured here in the stands at Ibrox, was a deeply divisive figure amongst supporters . 'He will be remembered as one of the most inept and embarrassing chairmen of our wonderful sporting institution. 'Our focus now turns to the remaining directors. They should do the right thing, appoint the nominee directors and then follow Mr Somers out of the door. Mr Leach should have resigned when he made disparaging comments about major shareholders in a meeting with fans. He should be suspended and subject to disciplinary procedures after the general meeting.' The statement also criticised the process which led to Llambias' appointment as chief executive and the board's threats of legal action against the outgoing representatives of the Rangers Fans Board. The statement described Llambias' position as 'untenable'. Somers sits on a number of company boards - including Zenith Bank, Europe Arab Bank and the Fujitsu Technologies International Pension Plan - and it is understood he did not want to risk his reputation by being forcibly removed from the Ibrox boardroom. Supporters want fiace director Barry Leach (second from the right) to resign as well . In his resignation statement, he said: 'I have resigned as chairman of Rangers International Football club plc. I have worked in the City of London, the world's greatest financial centre for decades and enjoyed considerable success. 'When I was approached about the chairmanship of Rangers, friends warned me that the world of football has different rules and codes of behaviour. I now know that is a gross understatement. 'I am a non-confrontational man and have always tried to bring harmony to boardrooms and with stakeholders. 'At the risk of antagonising my army of critics I would

Summary: David Somers resigned from his position as Rangers chairman on Monday . Somers' exit leaves the Ibrox club with just two directors . But Rangers fans want Derek Llambias and Barry Leach to go too .


Ronny Deila has urged his Celtic players to embrace history - rather than fear it - when their aspirations of landing the Treble are put on the line in three showdowns with Dundee United. Celtic travel to Tannadice on Saturday in the Scottish Cup quarter-final - before a Hampden clash with Jackie McNamara's men in the League Cup final seven days later is followed by a Premiership meeting with the Tangerines the following weekend. Those three games will go a long way to determining if this Celtic team have the mettle to become just the fourth in the club's history to complete a clean sweep of domestic honours. Ronny Deila has urged his Celtic players to embrace history, rather than fear it, against Dundee United . Deila says his squad are fully aware that only Jock Stein's sides of 1967 and 1969 together with Martin O'Neill's class of 2001 had previously won the league, Scottish Cup and League Cup. But the Norwegian believes they should be inspired by the prospect of matching such heady feats rather than be daunted by it. 'Everyone is aware of that,' Deila said. 'That's a positive thing - and we really want it. But we have to do it on the pitch. Celtic's Efe Ambrose leaves the field dejected as St Johnstone celebrate their midweek win at Celtic Park . 'There is nothing to fear. These are positive things. We are not talking relegation. That's a hard pressure. We have everything to win and we are really looking forward to it. 'Dundee United have done a very good job this year. They have been a good team and are going to be a tough opponent. We have to be up for the game. 'The three games between them – they are going to be really tough. But to win the championship and trophies is going to be hard. Everybody knows that. The cup is one game so we have to do everything we possibly can before the game to be ready for it.' Celtic blew a chance to extend their lead over Aberdeen to nine points on Wednesday by losing 1-0 at home to St Johnstone. St Johnstone's Steven MacLean holds off Celtic's Jason Denayer during the game at Celtic Park in midweek . Yet, Deila was reluctant to be overly critical of his players, given the game was their eighth in 26 days. 'It is not the second and the third and the fourth game that is hard when you play so many games,' he insisted. 'It is when you come to the sixth and seventh after each other and also only having three days instead of four between games. 'It is a big difference because you can't get 100 per cent rested. You lose 10 per cent against Inter Milan and then go into the game against Aberdeen and lose another 10 per cent again because you can't rest. St Johnstone's Murray Davisdon clears the ball from Celtic's Virgil van Dijk during the midweek clash . 'You saw against St Johnstone that the first 25

Summary: Celtic Dundee United in the Scottish Cup quarter finals at Tannadice . Duo then go ahead-to-head again seven days later in the League Cup final . The trip is followed by a Scottish Premier League clash the following week . Celtic go into the game on the back of a defeat to St Johnstone .


In a fitting move after Zayn Malik's departure from One Direction, budget supermarket chain Lidl has knocked off a fifth of the price of its One Direction Easter eggs. The German brand showed it had a sense of humour by announcing the news on its Twitter and Facebook accounts with the caption '#Awkward - looks like we'll just have to knock 1/5 off too' and the hashtag #AlwaysInOurHeartsZaynMalik #ByeZayn'. The eggs were originally priced at 99p and will now cost 79p after the 20 per cent discount. Lidl's response to Zayn Malik's departure from chart-topping boy band One Direction was greeted with merriment by social media users... although there were some loyal fans who found it 'disrespectful' Zayn Malik announced he was quitting One Direction after five years on Wednesday . The discount applies to all its UK stores, excluding Northern Ireland. A Lidl UK Spokesperson told FEMAIL 'This is naturally devastating news for all the 1D fans out there, ourselves included. 'In times like this only chocolate will do, so we've decided to reduce our One Direction Easter eggs by 1/5, to help make things a little easier for everyone.' The move was greeted with merriment by social media users, with some describing it as 'comedy gold' and 'hilarious' and 'too funny'. User Jenn Reid made a joke of her own, tweeting: 'A lidl banter never hurt anybody' whilst tweeter Kariss Leigh praised the brand for its swift response, saying: 'That's some genius marketing right there.' The brand's response did however come under fire from the chart-topping boyband's loyal fanbase, the Directioners. User @thats0llovcely tweeted: 'That isn't even funny.' James Davies chimed in with: 'This is so disrespectful to my bae' (the acronym for 'before anyone else') whilst @fluffyxhood was slightly coarser with his comments, saying: 'That's just f****** rude.' The original tweet received more than 20,000 retweets and nearly 26,000 likes on Facebook. Jenn Reid made a joke of her own, tweeting: A lidl banter never hurt anybody. Kariss Ainsworth praised the German budget supermarket for their 'genius marketing' On Wednesday, Zayn Malik quit One Direction after five years. The 22-year-old singer has made the decision to bow out of the chart-topping boy band, leaving Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson to continue as a four-piece. 'I know I have four friends for life in Louis, Liam, Harry and Niall. I know they will continue to be the best band in the world,' he said. The Best Song Ever hitmakers will record their fifth album in Zayn's absence and will continue with the remaining dates on the band's forthcoming world tour. Zayn said in a statement released to MailOnline on Wednesday afternoon: 'My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. An unhappy One Direction fan criticised Lidl's move, tweeting: 'That isn't even funny' James Davies said: 'This is so disrespectful to my bae' (the acronym for 'before anyone else' 'But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I'd like to

Summary: The One Direction eggs which were 99p are are now a bargain 79p . German brand posted the news on their Twitter and Facebook pages . Social media users greeted the news with merriment and glee .


Chelsea continued their attack on Premier League referees after the club's official website published an article complaining that they have not been awarded enough penalties this season. The piece called 'penalty puzzle' analysed how many spot-kicks the Blues have been given in each of the last five years. The argument, that the number is 'abnormally low', echoes manager Jose Mourinho's view that there is a 'campaign' against the club. Chelsea were angered last weekend by referee Mike Dean's refusal to award Branislav Ivanovic a penalty . Referee Dean had some tough calls to make in Chelsea's draw with Southampton but made most correctly . Chelsea have been awarded five penalties in eight Champions League games, including against PSG . The 'penalty puzzle' article leads the way on Chelsea's official website . At Old Trafford in October defenders John Terry and Branislav Ivanovic were denied a spot kick despite being wrestled to the ground. Former Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas was tripped during Chelsea’s game against Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium, but instead he picked up a yellow card for diving. Jose Mourinho’s side appealed for a penalty against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, only for the north London side to get away with handling the ball in their own box. A blocked arm again denied the current Premier League leaders at home to Burnley despite the shot being clearly stopped by a raised arm. Ivanovic was again left perplexed last Sunday at Stamford Bridge when visitors Southampton got away with yet another clear penalty against the Blues. The article, with no byline, comes after Branislav Ivanovic was denied a penalty in last weekend's draw with Southampton, an incident the Chelsea website described as 'a clear spot-kick'. However, general consensus, as outlined by Sportsmail's Graham Poll, was that the contact on Ivanovic, while undoubtedly present, was too slight to spot with the naked eye. The article also notes that Chelsea have received five penalties in just eight Champions League games, which they cite as evidence that the 'campaign' is limited to Premier League officials. Mourinho has been vociferous in his criticism of officials all season, first suggesting there was a campaign against his team in December, before appearing on Sky Sports last month after a challenge by Burnley's Ashley Barnes on Nemanja Matic went unpunished. It is not the first time in recent weeks that the club's online team have sought to back up their manager's controversial view. Jose Mourinho first brought up the 'campaign' against his side after a draw at Southampton in December . Mourinho's players came under fire when nine of them surrounded referee Bjorn Kuipers against PSG . Click HERE to read what chief sports writer Martin Samuel had to say when he covered the subject in his colum last month . Last week the official Chelsea Instagram account posted historic pictures of Sportmail columnist Jamie Carragher and Graeme Souness arguing with referees, after Mourinho accused them of having short memories. Carragher had described the Chelsea players' behaviour against PSG, when nine of them surrounded the referee, as 'disgraceful'. Mourinho appeared

Summary: Chelsea have been awarded seven penalties this season, two in the league . Club website points out discrepancy with previous years . Jose Mourinho has suggested there is a 'campaign' against his team . Latest in series of controversial online posts by club . CLICK HERE for all the latest Chelsea news .


Even the more well-travelled among us would struggle to scratch the surface of Unesco's World Heritage List. Jaw-dropping scenery, ancient monuments and incredible wildlife are just a few of the 1007 sites earmarked for preservation by the organisation. But while well-known destinations such as Machu Picchu and the Acropolis in Athens may feature prominently on many intrepid explorers' 'to do' list, there are a number of stunning sites that the majority of us will simply never get to see. Here, we highlight a number of Unesco World Heritage sites that due to conflict, or deterioration, risk being lost to us forever - as well as a few destinations that you may be able to see for yourself... but only if you're quick. Scroll down for video . The UNESCO World Heritage sites you may never get to see: . Afghanistan - Minaret of Jam . The glorious Minaret of Jam has was built in the 12th century by Ghurid Sultan Ghiyas-od-din and marks the ancient city of Firuzkuh . The Minaret - in the Ghor province in Afghanistan - is covered in intricate brickwork and blue tiles arranged in Kufic inscription . It has survived countless wars and pillaging the but Minaret of Jam - situated in a remote spot in the Ghor province of Afghanistan - is facing its biggest challenge yet. Extensive restoration work is needed to preserve the ancient structure, which is at risk from erosion from a nearby riverbed as well as a compromising tilt, similar to the tower at Pisa. The 65 meter needle was built in 1194 by Ghurid Sultan Ghiyas-od-din, and is covered in intricate geometric brickwork as well as Kufic inscription in dazzling blue tiles - yet most people will never get to see the Minaret. Not only is the monument miles away from the nearest human settlement, it lies in a dangerous Taliban stronghold making travel to the region virtually impossible. North-West Iraq - Samarra Archaeological City . The Great Mosque and spiral minaret are among a collection of remarkable monuments in the city, 80 per cent of which has yet to be excavated . The archaelogical city at Samarra in Northern Iraq marks the site of a powerful Islamic capital city that ruled the region for much of the 9th century. The Great Mosque and soaring spiral minaret are among a collection of remarkable monuments in the city, 80 per cent of which have yet to be excavated. Unfortunately for the rest of the world, this rich cultural landscape is out of bounds. The city is located in the North-West of Iraq which remains in the grip of a bitter and ongoing conflict between local militia, Isis and Kurdish forces. When, and indeed if, the remaining site will be excavated is doubtful. Ancient city of Aleppo - Syria . The city of Aleppo was named the 'Islamic Capital of Culture 2006', although you won't find any tourists there today . The Grand Mosque in the ancient city of Aleppo is at risk due to the ongoing civil war that blights the country

Summary: There are 1007 incredible sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List . Many sites are inaccessible due to conflict while other are simply hard to reach . The Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan and the ancient city of Aleppo in Syria risk being lost forever . You can still see the remains of the Chimu Kingdom in Peru - if you're quick .


Jeremy Clarkson is 'confident' he will be able to return to the BBC . Jeremy Clarkson is ‘confident’ he will be able to return to the BBC, but he may be given an executive minder to keep him on the straight and narrow. The manager would sit above Andy Wilman, Top Gear’s longstanding executive producer, who has known Mr Clarkson since they were children, when they both attended the £10,500-a-term Repton School in Derby. The two men have been inseparable for years, but BBC executives are concerned that Mr Wilman cannot keep Mr Clarkson in check, following a string of scandals. ‘I think that people do see a way to resolve this, and that is by putting someone strong in to manage the show and manage Clarkson. He is a brilliant broadcaster, everyone can see that,’ a senior BBC figure said. According to sources close to the Top Gear host, he is keen to return to the Corporation after he was suspended last week for a ‘fracas’ with his producer, Oisin Tymon. Mr Clarkson, 54, is said to be furious with the way the BBC has treated him, and is particularly angry that a high level BBC executive compared him to the serial paedophile Jimmy Savile. He has instructed lawyers to demand a retraction and demanded a full investigation into who spread the smear. Both he and Mr Tymon have now given evidence to an internal investigation into their ‘dust up’, and a verdict is expected within days. Mr Clarkson allegedly split Mr Tymon’s lip with a punch after a long day of filming, when the Top Gear host was offered cold cuts instead of the hot steak he wanted. However, friends of the Top Gear presenter deny that he punched the producer, and claim that tensions flared over the steak because of another problem with Mr Tymon. The executive minder to keep Clarkson on the straight and narrow would sit above Top Gear's longstanding executive producer . ‘Jeremy did report it himself to Danny Cohen [the BBC’s director of television]. He feels that the BBC has gone too far with smearing him over it, but the aim is to come back to Top Gear.’ BBC bosses are also likely to be keen to find a way to keep him on Top Gear, given its £50million-a-year- contribution to the Corporation’s balance sheet. Clarkson was suspended last week for a ‘fracas’ with his producer, Oisin Tymon, pictured . However, introducing a new executive minder between Mr Wilman and Mr Clarkson would help it avoid what a source described as some of their most embarrassing ‘excesses’. It would also go some way to battling the tide of criticism over the Corporation’s ability to manage controversial talents like Mr Clarkson. Last week, Noel Edmonds, himself a former Top Gear host, accused BBC bosses for being ‘out of touch’, ‘out of control’ and ‘incompetent’ when it comes to dealing with larger-than-life broadcasters. A senior television source added: ‘It’s entirely a management issue. Or non-management. The BBC has no strong managers so Clarkson and Wilman were left

Summary: Jeremy Clarkson, 54, could return to Top Gear with executive minder . Manager would sit above show's executive producer Andy Wilman . BBC bosses are concerned Mr Wilman cannot keep Clarkson in check . Presenter was suspended last week over 'fracas' with his producer .


Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has changed his mind over his side's main aim this season as the Dutchman is now prioritising Champions League qualification over winning the FA Cup. Van Gaal, who has been criticised during the course of the season for constantly tinkering with Manchester United's tactical approach, said back in February that winning the FA Cup was his side's main objective. The Dutchman, speaking after Manchester United's 3-0 win against Cambridge United on February 3, said: ‘We have a real chance now. Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal appears to have changed his mind over his side's main priority . Van Gaal, pictured after United's win against Newcastle, is focused on Champions League qualification . United are currently fourth in the Premier League . ‘Why? We are the highest qualified team in the FA Cup so people are maybe betting on us. I am not allowed to (bet), I am not a casino man – but I give you a tip. ‘Of course, I think the highest qualified teams have more possibilities to win than lower qualified teams. But Arsenal is still in the cup and Liverpool will fight tomorrow (Wednesday, February 4). ‘For me, personally, I have always won a title in my first year everywhere I have worked so the chance of winning the title is bigger in the FA Cup than the Premier League. ‘Every club in the FA Cup wants to win, and so do we. For the club, the fans and the coach and my staff, we want to win a title this year. The biggest chance is the FA Cup, but we still have to win four games to do that.’ Van Gaal, pictured after winning the Bundesliga in 2010, previously said his main aim was to win a trophy . However Van Gaal, speaking ahead of his side's quarter-final clash against Arsenal, now insists finishing in the top four is more important than winning a piece of silverware. Van Gaal said: 'I always want to get the goals what we have set. And the goals we have set is the top four. 'A title is fantastic. When you win the FA Cup you are not in the Champions League which is important for the club, but you have won a title. So for the players it is fantastic, for the manager it is fantastic but our goal is to reach in our first year together a place in the Champions League. 'I think that for a club the Champions League is the highest level. To finish in the first four is a fantastic result, I think. And for us, Manchester United, more I think.'

Summary: Louis van Gaal insists side must prioritise league form over FA Cup glory . However he previously said winning the FA Cup was his main objective . Manchester United face Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup . The Red Devils are currently fourth in the Premier League .


Labour MP Simon Danczuk has confessed to watching pornography but insisted voters want politicians who 'live in the real world'. The husband of selfie-loving Karen Danczuk was spotted favouriting hard-core porn on Twitter - but blamed it on a fault with his iPhone. However, the 48-year-old was unembarrassed about the gaffe. He stressed he does not use porn regularly, but insisted: 'I am a man of the world and it is part of life, many people do.' And wife Karen urged people to watch porn, claiming it is 'healthy'. Scroll down for video . Labour MP for Rochdale Simon Danczuk, pictured right, the husband of selfie-loving Karen, pictured left, was spotted favouriting hardcore porn on Twitter . It came as Mrs Danczuk was invited to host the UK Porn Awards, although she has apparently turned down the opportunity. Mr Danczuk explained that he accidentally favourited a tweet linked to an account described as 'an 18+ Erotic account for posting sexy pictures of sexy women'. The Rochdale MP does not follow the account, which features dozens of pornographic pictures of women. Giving a convoluted explanation for the gaffe, he told radio station Key 2 in Manchester: ‘This is genuinely true. It’s what you might call a technological accident. 'I had put my iPhone on charge using one of those uncertified chargers. I went on to Twitter while it was plugged in. 'And when I went on Twitter it started jumping about. It started doing predictive text and moving around the screen everywhere. 'Before I knew it, and unbeknown to me, I had favorited a tweet which related to this porn site image.' He insisted that politicians should not be berated for viewing porn. 'Let’s be truthful about this. If I am being asked have I ever used porn, then the answer is yes. 'I am a man of the world. I wouldn’t deny that sort of thing. I think we should not be too sanctimonious about this. 'I think there is far too much of that in politics and I think don’t put politicians on a pedestal. Let’s just have real conversations about real issues. 'The reality is politicians are under scrutiny and many others have been caught out on this.' MP's wife Karen Danczuk took to Twitter to urge people to watch porn, insisting it is 'healthy' He pointed out that one of David Cameron's official accounts was found to be following a 'high class escort agency' on Twitter while fellow Labour MP Jack Dromey like a tweet from 'some gay porn site'. It’s something that easily happens. We are under a lot of scrutiny,' Mr Danczuk said. Asked if he watches porn regularly, he replied: ‘Not regularly but the point I am making is I am not going to come on this show and say I haven’t. 'I am a man of the world and it is part of life, many people do. Let’s not be sanctimonious about it. Wife Karen, who has made a name for herself posting photos of her cleavage online, tweeted yesterday: 'Anyone seriously offended by a

Summary: Labour MP Simon Danczuk favourited hard-core pornography on Twitter . Blunder flagged up by a eagle-eyed constituent who spotted the error . Rochdale MP Danczuk later blamed the favourite on a fault with his iPhone . Admits to watching porn and says voters want MPs 'living in the real world'


David and Victoria Beckham's plans to refurbish their new £31.5million mansion have hit trouble after a rich neighbour complained they are damaging the historic character of their leafy London boulevard. For 18 months the couple, said to be worth a combined £210million, have spent £5million improving the palatial west London home - an inner-city replacement for their sprawling Hertfordshire estate 'Beckingham Palace'. But at least one neighbour is upset about plans to install air conditioning in five rooms, including in the new gym and wine cellar. Moving in: The Beckhams are spending £5million on building work before they move into their new London home, pictured, but a neighbour has complained over plans to install air conditioning . Plans: The first floor will belong to David and Victoria, and boast a huge bedroom, an even bigger dressing room and an en-suite bathroom. The house will include rooms for hairdressing, manicures and make-up, as well as separate rooms for 40-year-old Victoria’s shoe collection . Portfolio: The couple, pictured together at a charity dinner, have applied for planning permission to improve their mansion, which will become their main UK residence after they sold Beckingham Palace in Hertfordshire - they already have homes in California, France and Dubai . One resident has written to the local council and said he 'totally disagrees' with the plans, which 'will affect the historic character of the Victorian house of the streets, my house included'. MailOnline understands that the complainant is worried about air conditioning units being attached to the mansion, because of the visual impact and the humming noise. His letter said: 'The council must identifed (sic) our deep concerns about all adverse impacts on living conditions from noise, vibration, dirt, pollution and dust from construction and from associated traffic, in addition to concerns about impacts on drainage, on appearance and landscape, on structural stability, and on historic buildings.' The Beckhams have hired designer Rose Uniacke to oversee the project and plans for 'internal alterations at all levels' were approved in February this year. This included the enlargement of the lower ground floor wine cellar and the installation of a retractable cinema screen. They also want to re-configure two bathrooms while removing a third-floor guest bathroom to form an extended bedroom and sitting room. When ready, the home will have six-bedrooms, a gym, study, office, playroom, cinema and large drawing room. The first floor will belong to David and Victoria, and boast a huge bedroom, an even bigger dressing room and an en-suite bathroom. The house will include rooms for hairdressing, manicures and make-up, as well as separate rooms for 40-year-old Victoria’s shoe collection. Staff and security will have access to a tunnel which will take them unseen to a second property. The couple have already installed a sound system so that music can be played in every room, and which can be controlled by a phone or computer. They are planning on adding specially designed waterproof plasma TVs in every bathroom. Their children Brooklyn, 16; Romeo, 12; Cruz, ten; and daughter Harper, three, will take over the second

Summary: Beckhams are spending £5m on renovations on London replacement to previous mansion Beckingham Palace . Four floor property will have gym, wine cellar and include rooms for hairdressing, manicures and make-up . Neighbour unhappy about plans for air conditioning, which will damage 'historic character' of the grand street .


Witnesses were left shocked on Friday when a mother grabbed her one-year-old baby by the ankles and used the child as a weapon. The incident occurred at around 9:45am on Friday morning on Smith Street in Alice Springs. Police were called to the scene, where the mother was using the baby as a human weapon against a man, in what is believed to have been a domestic dispute. A woman in the Northern Territory is under investigation after using her one-yea-old child as a human weapon . There have been unconfirmed reports that the baby had fallen on it's head. The child was hospitalised yesterday and placed under the care of the NT Department of Children and Families. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, a Northern Territory police spokesperson said they were 'definitely' investigating the incident. 'We are investigating but we cannot comment, as the investigation is ongoing,' the spokesperson said. However they did confirm that the baby did not suffer from any life-threatening injuries. 'As far as we are aware the baby didn't have any significant injuries,' they said. The shocking case of child abuse shocked witnesses, as the mother swung her baby at a man on a public street . The mother is under arrest and assisting police with inquiries. Kidsafe NT chief executive, Victoria Pollifrone, told ntnews that the incident was distressing for all that were involved. . 'It's not just the physical injury to the baby but the emotional and mental,' Ms Pollifrone said. 'It's very important not to judge people placed in situations where stress levels are so high they do irrational things to vulnerable children. 'Women who are victims of domestic violence should seek help from relevant support agencies long before it reaches such a crisis point.'

Summary: A woman is being questioned for using her baby as a human weapon . Police are investigating the incident of child abuse . The shocking scenes occurred at Smith St in Alice Springs on Friday . The baby has been hopitalised but the injuries are not serious .


A Florida woman has been charged with fraud after claiming that she had cancer and collecting thousands of dollars from well-wishers. Kelly Johanneson, 36, of Citrus County, raised at least $4,400 after she disappeared for a month in 2013 and came back to tell her friends and neighbors that she had been diagnosed with stage four breast cancer. Her community rallied around her, holding fundraisers such as a barbeque and airboat event last year where a $2000 assault rifle was raffled off. Scroll down for video . Kelly Johanneson, 36, of Citrus County, Florida raised at least $4,400 after she told her friends and neighbors that she had been diagnosed with stage four breast cancer . She shaved her head and attended fundraisers such as the event held by the Citrus County Airboat Alliance wearing a bandana. A Go Fund Me page was set up for donations as well as a campaign on Our Backyard Foundation. 'Thank you to everyone that has given me their love, prayers and support during this very difficult time of my life. On behalf of my two beautiful children and all of my family you have my deepest appreciation and love,' she said on the site. It is not known how much money was raised through various avenues of giving. Police received a complaint about Johanneson in September and found that the woman in fact did not have cancer, but had been putting on an elaborate hoax that included shaving her head. She gave detectives paperwork that appeared to be from the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, but the treatment and research institute said that she was never a patient there. The community gathered around Johanneson and her supposed illness, holding fundraisers that brought in an unknown amount of money . Johanneson is being charged with a third degree organized fraud, a felony punishable in Florida by up to five years in prison . The center also said that the paperwork provided was falsified. Johanneson is being charged with a third degree organized fraud, a felony punishable in Florida by up to five years in prison. 'It just seems so implausible that someone would use a horrible illness like cancer for personal gain' Citrus County Detective John Bergen said. 'Johanneson hurt so many people, from people that loved her to people that hardly knew her but wanted to help It really is unbelievable.' Facebook users of the Citrus County Sheriff's Office page posted their disgust at the fraud. 'Having lost a mother and grandmother to Breast Cancer, my heart was broken for Kelly and her two young children,' Jackie Martin said. 'This really hit home for me so my husband and I donated to assist Kelly and her family. Now having learned this today, I'm literally sick to my stomach.' Johanneson, who has seen her hair grow back, is being held without bond, according to Fox 13. The mother of two also gave police paperwork from a nearby cancer clinic that the research center said was a fraud. She is being held without bond . A fundraiser

Summary: Kelly Johanneson, 36, of Citrus County, Florida, raised at least $4,400 . Mother of two disappeared for month before telling of stage four cancer . She provided detectives with fake documents about treatment in Tampa .


Chris Evert has given a vote of confidence to Laura Robson by insisting that the former British No 1 can still make the world’s top 10 when she finally gets back from injury. The American, among the all-time greats of the women’s game, reckons that Robson can make up for lost time despite having been out for 14 months with a wrist injury that required surgery last April. Evert offered her endorsement as current Great British No 1 Heather Watson went out of the Miami Open second round on Saturday, beaten 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 by world No 15 Angelique Kerber after creating enough chances to have won. Heather Watson makes her way off the court after crashing out of the Miami Open to Angelique Kerber . Watson was beaten 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 by world No 15 Kerber at Crandon Park Tennis Centre on Saturday . ‘Yes it has been a very long but Laura is still young so she will be fine,’ said Evert, speaking at the launch of her new Chrissie by Tail clothing line. ‘If she was 27 or 28 there would be a problem but she has got plenty of time on her side,’ said the 18-time Grand Slam winner. ‘I was very impressed with her at Wimbledon in 2013 before the injury. I was thinking top 10 for sure and that can still be attainable. But she has got to get herself really fit for her return to the tour and that is going to be tough for Laura.’ Current British No 1 Watson (left) shakes hands with Kerber at the net after their second round match . Laura Robson has been backed to reach the top 10 upon her return from a 15-month injury lay-off . There are signs that Robson may finally be ready for a return to action in time for May’s French Open in Paris, despite missing out on Miami and taking her name off the entry list for next month’s WTA Tour event in Bogota. When she does come back, however, it is likely to be at a lower-profile event. Meanwhile, her long-time friendly rival Watson resumed at 5-7 down in her rain-delayed contest with Kerber, having missed a set point the previous afternoon before a deluge arrived. The final two sets proved to be as wildly undulating as the first one had been. The 22-year-old from Guernsey, breathing down the neck of her career-high ranking of 38, will know that this was a match she could have won against a player who has been as high as No 5 in the world but has suffered a disappointing year to date. Watson plays a shot at the 2013 US Open - she has been out injured after needing surgery on her wrist . Former US tennis star Chris Evert has backed Robson to return to her best and make it to the top 10 . With a little more composure she would have done, and an indication of how much it hinged on the more vital moments was that she ended up with

Summary: Heather Watson was beaten in the Miami Open second round on Saturday . Angelique Kerber won 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 against Watson to end her progress . Elsewhere, Chris Evert has backed Laura Robson to reach the top 10 . Robson has been out for 14 months with a wrist injury that needed surgery .


A British tourist has been stranded in a Spanish hospital for 11 days because there were no available NHS beds available in the UK. Retired Chris Carr, 62, from Melksham, Wiltshire, was visiting Benidorm as part of a four-month caravan trip with his wife Sally, 59, when he was rushed to hospital with severe stomach pains. Spanish doctors found he is suffering from a diaphragmatic hernia which is causing a huge twist in his stomach, and said he needed an operation in the UK where he would get the necessary post-operative care. Chris Carr (pictured) was visiting Benidorm as part of a four-month caravan trip with his wife when he was rushed to hospital with severe stomach pains and told he needed an operation . But when his medical insurance company rang three hospitals near his home they were told there were no free beds. The couple's concerned friends rallied round and launched a campaign, putting pressure on the hospitals and getting support from their local MP. Mr Carr, who is still currently in Spain, has finally been offered a bed at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, Somerset, and is due to fly home tomorrow. But after 11 days of not knowing, Mrs Carr, a retired NHS midwife, said: 'I feel extremely angry - I was furious when we were told about there being no beds. Mr Carr was told by doctors he needed an operation in the UK where he would get post-operative care . Mr Carr's insurers phoned three hospitals near his home: Bristol Royal Infirmary, Bath's Royal United Hospital (pictured) and Swindon's Great Western Hospital - but all said there were no beds available for him . 'We've both worked hard all our lives and paid our taxes. 'Chris worked at the university for 35 years or more and I was a midwife for the NHS for 40 years. 'We've paid our taxes all this time and then for this to happen - I was so frustrated.' Speaking from Spain, she added: 'We had all the proper insurance - which isn't cheap - so it should have been seamless all the way through. 'But while the care here has been brilliant, it is back in the UK where there has been all the trouble.' He is suffering from a diaphragmatic hernia which is causing a huge and painful twist in his stomach . Former university IT worker Mr Carr travelled to Spain with his wife as part of a four-month group trip with the Camping and Caravanning Club in January. He began to feel unwell on February 14 after a meal out and after suffering extreme vomiting went to Hospital Marina Baixa, where he was diagnosed with food poisoning. He returned to his caravan with tablets but when his stomach swelled to four times its normal size he returned and was instantly seen by worried doctors. They diagnosed the hernia on his diaphragm which had caused his stomach to swell and twist, leaving him in agony. Doctors told the Carrs he needed an operation to remove part -

Summary: Chris Carr, 62, was taken to hospital in Benidorm with stomach pains . He suffered a diaphragmatic hernia - causing a huge twist in his stomach . He needs an operation in UK where he can receive post-operative care . Insurance company rang UK hospitals but were told there are no free beds . Mr Carr has been stuck in a Spanish hospital 11 days while they searched . Following campaign he will now be flown to the UK to undergo operation . But all three hospitals have now denied speaking to anybody about Mr Carr .


A mother has described her horror after an autistic teenager attacked her three-month-old baby son in his pram, leaving his face scratched and bloody. Janet-da-Silva, 30, a mother-of-two, said she was getting off a bus in Denaby Main, South Yorkshire, with her son Gabriel Jones and her mother when the attack took place last Wednesday. She said three men were walking towards her when suddenly one launched himself forward, clawing at Gabriel's face. Janet-da-Silva, 30, a mother-of-two, was climbing off a bus when a teenager launched himself at her son Gabriel's pram, scratching at his face (pictured right with a scratch on his cheek and below his left eye) It later emerged that the 17-year-old was a pupil at a nearby special needs school who was out walking with two carers. Ms da-Silva said: 'He shoved both hands in and clawed Gabriel’s face. He could have blinded him. 'I screamed: “What the hell are you doing?” Then he stood up, looked at me and laughed. 'Gabriel was screaming out and I saw blood on his face and I started screaming. 'The other two men then grabbed the guy on either arm and stood him up against a wall. Neither of them said anything to me, I didn’t know who they were or where they were from. 'It happened so fast I didn’t have time to stop him.' Despite Ms da-Silva asking the men to stop, they turned their backs and walked away. It later emerged that the boy was a 17-year-old pupil with autism who studied at nearby Fullerton House School, and had been on a walk with two carers . She added: 'They wouldn’t listen to me or stop. One of them said: “We’ve got to get him away before he gets more angry and violent." 'I kept asking them where they were going but no-one gave me any information.' Ms da-Silva left baby Gabriel to be comforted by grandmother Debbie Rojas Marinero and followed the men, eventually seeing them going into Fullerton House School. The institution caters from teenagers with learning difficulties. The pupil in question is said to have complex needs arising from his autism and has been at the school for some time. A spokesman for the school said that both carers have been suspended and an internal investigation is underway. The spokesman said: 'Due to the complexity of his disability he does not have the mental capacity to be charged.' Chris McSharry, chief executive of the Hesley Group which runs Fullerton House said: 'This is an incredibly unfortunate incident and my thoughts are with the baby and his family.' Ms da-Silva said she has been left afraid of going out with baby Gabriel following the attack, which took place last Wednesday (pictured, the road where the attack took place) However, Ms da-Silva said: 'I was disgusted by their attitude. I understand people need their freedom and sunshine but they knew the teenager was violent so why was he not walking within the school premises?' She has now been left scared to go out with Gabriel. 'It was

Summary: Janet-da-Silva, 30, was getting off bus with three-month-old Gabriel Jones . Suddenly teenager launched himself at pram, clawing at Gabriel's face . Boy laughed at Ms da-Silva before two male companions led him away . Later emerged that boy has autism and was on walk with two carers .


Eat sensibly, never count calories and don't keep bathroom scales at home. Those are breakfast TV queen Lorraine Kelly's top tips for keeping in shape after three decades in front of the cameras. In an interview in The Times the ITV presenter says she 'won't countenance' bathroom scales in her home and if she can't fit into a certain pair of trousers she knows it's time to do something about it. Scroll down for video . Lorraine Kelly says she 'won't countenance' bathroom scales at home and never counts calories . The 55-year-old also says she would prefer to grow old gracefully, and would never consider Botox. She says: 'I would never, ever, ever mess around with my face. Ever.' Size 12 Lorraine, who once famously said 'life's too short to glower at a lettuce leaf', reckons she has lost and gained the equivalent of three rugby players over the course of her 30-year career. Lorraine tells the Times that her confidence peak came at 50, when she realised she looked 'fine'. In 2008 Lorraine, who first appeared on TV screens in 1984 as TV-am’s Scotland Correspondent, was the face of The Sun's Fit Squad Diet in which she managed to drop a dress size in six weeks. Three years later, in 2011, she lost more than a stone and dropped two dress sizes after taking part in a 100km desert trek for Comic Relief. Lorraine pictured in 1993 age 32, left, and in 2008 after becoming the face of The Sun's Fit Squad diet . Lorraine in 1995 promoting the weight loss programme Weight Watchers . Lorraine now writes a column for The Scottish Sun in which she often tackles obesity. She says: 'Junk food is cheap and, actually, it's not bad to have junk food now and again.' 'It's just that you see kids being weaned on it. I think schools should teach many things, but [here are] three: they should teach sex education; they should teach how to manage your finances; and they should teach you how to bloody well cook. It would set kids up for life.' Meanwhile, Lorraine - who's an ambassador for Avon cosmetics - recently unveiled her new ad campaign for JD Williams' new spring collection. She showed off the range of floral dresses, bright separates, jumpsuits and pieces from her own collection for the mature fashion retailer. Lorraine in 2002 when she revealed her bra to show her support in the fight against breast cancer . After shedding the weight she gained in 2008 Lorraine ran the London Marathon in 2010 . The advert - a multi-million pound campaign by JD Williams - was filmed on location in Cape Town, South Africa and features Lorraine at a lively summer garden party dancing with friends to the Gipsy King’s salsa track, Bamboleo. The TV queen's dance moves were inspired by her Zumba fitness classes, which she enjoys three times a week, along with walking regularly to keep fit and healthy. Speaking about her latest campaign, Lorraine said: 'The shoot for the spring TV advert was

Summary: The breakfast TV queen, 55, says she doesn't keep scales at home . Lorraine presenter only diets when she can't fit into her clothes . Size 12 mother would never consider Botox as it would 'mess' with her face .


A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 rocked the South Pacific nation of Papua New Guinea on Monday, generating a 'small tsunami' and frightening locals near its epicenter. The quake struck at a depth of 65 kilometers (40 miles), about 50 kilometers (30 miles) southeast of the town of Kokopo, near Rabaul, at around 10am local time, the U.S. Geological Survey reported. It was followed by a 5.7-magnitude aftershock and a 1.5-foot-high tsunami, which was measured in Rabaul's harbor, near the quake's epicenter, said Martin Mose, from the National Disaster Center. But despite the quake - which was likely felt by people up to a staggering 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles) away - and the subsequent tsunami, no damage nor injuries have been reported, officials said. Quake: This photo, released by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), shows a shakemap of the region (white cross) in Papua New Guinea where a 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit Monday . The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center had warned the quake could cause tsunami waves of up to 10 feet in parts of Papua New Guinea, and waves of less than one foot in other Pacific countries. It said 'hazardous tsunami waves were possible for coasts located within 1,000 km of the earthquake epicentre along the coasts of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands'. But the center lifted the warning a few hours later, after reporting a one-inch tsunami wave was measured at a wharf in the Solomon Islands, about 450 kilometers (280 miles) from the epicenter. A Geoscience Australia spokesman told Daily Mail Australia on Monday that while a tsunami warning had been issued for Papua New Guinea, there was no threat to Australia at the time. Target: The quake struck at a depth of 65 kilometers (40 miles), about 50 kilometers (30 miles) southeast of the town of Kokopo, near Rabaul (pictured), at around 10am local time, the U.S. Geological Survey reported . Frightening incident: The quake was followed by a 5.7-magnitude aftershock and a 1.5-foot-high tsunami, which was measured in Rabaul's harbor, near the quake's epicenter. Above, another shakemap of the region . 'We've had no reports of a tsunami being generated for local region at this stage,' he said. In Rabaul, residents noticed the sea level rose slightly, prompting ocean water to flood the parking lot of a shopping center near the beach, said Mika Tuvi, an employee at the Rabaul Hotel. 'But nothing beyond that - no damage caused,' she said. When the quake struck, guests and workers at the hotel fled outside, fearing the building would collapse, Ms Tuvi said. The tremors, which lasted for about 5 minutes, were frightening in their intensity, but the hotel withstood the shaking, she said. Location: The quake hit about 10am local time Monday and a tsunami warning has been issued in the region . No threat: On Monday, Geoscience Australia said there was no immediate threat to Australia . Officials in the capital, Port Moresby, were working to contact their counterparts in the outer provinces, but hours after the quake, there still

Summary: Strong 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked Papua New Guinea on Monday . Followed by 5.7-magnitude aftershock and generated 1.5ft-high tsunami . Pacific Tsunami Warning Center had said quake could cause 10ft waves . But it lifted its warning a few hours later after reporting smaller tsunami . No damage/injuries have been reported, officials said Monday afternoon . Local tsunami threat was issued in PNG but was no threat to Australia .


It was an exit done with a flourish. Having arrived in Plymouth by Royal Train, the Queen took a more direct route home and was picked up from the flight deck of HMS Ocean by a helicopter. Smiling broadly as she climbed into the aircraft, the Queen, who had just completed a tour of the enormous vessel, was waved out of sight by sailors. Her Majesty travelled down to the Devonshire port early this morning and arrived shortly after the eclipse. Scroll down for video . And she's off: The Queen boards her helicopter on the flight deck of HMS Ocean . Visit: Her Majesty had been touring the helicopter carrier of which she is Lady Sponsor . Taking off: The helicopter is used by all royals, most recently the Duchess of Cambridge in the Potteries . Lift off! The helicopter rises up above HMS Ocean which is currently moored in Devonport . Back to London: The Queen's flight banks before starting its journey north to London . Resplendent in a bright purple ensemble, the Queen was without the Duke of Edinburgh who had remained behind in London. Greeted by Sir Eric Dancer, the Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, the Queen stopped to say hello to the waiting crowds before being driven to HMNB Devonport in her official state Bentley which had been driven down for the occasion. The Queen is the sponsor of HMS Ocean, a titanic helicopter carrier that came into service in 1998 and has seen service in the Gulf and the Mediterranean among others. Ocean, which glories in the nickname of 'The Mighty O' within the Royal Navy, was also deployed to Greenwich in 2012 to help provide security during the Olympics. Docked on a bend of the Thames, the gargantuan ship towered over river traffic and even managed to make the huge O2 arena look comparatively small. Looking around: The Queen is shown around the flight deck by Ocean's captain, Timothy Henry . All smiles: The Queen, who had lunch onboard the ship, appeared to enjoy her day . Rising up: The Queen has a go on the elevator used to lift aircraft to Ocean's deck . Impressive: The gargantuan HMS Ocean is shortly to become the Royal Navy's flagship . Taking an interest: The Queen has now visited HMS Ocean on four separate occasions . Involved: Her Majesty is kept updated about the progress of the ship and its activities . Royal visit: The Queen inspects her honour guard during a re-dedication ceremony for HMS Ocean . The Queen, who was making her fourth visit to the ship, was welcomed to Devonport, the Royal Navy's Plymouth base, where she was welcomed by Vice Admiral Philip Jones to the sound of a 21-gun royal salute. Joined by Devonport's commanding officer, Captain Ian Shipperley and Captain Timothy Henry of HMS Ocean, she then heard the National Anthem ahead of a re-dedication ceremony for the ship. Her Majesty, who was wearing the same cheerful ensemble worn for last year's Christmas Day service at Sandringham, then inspected a guard of honour drawn

Summary: The Queen visited helicopter carrier, HMS Ocean, in Plymouth . Her Majesty inspected a guard of honour and had lunch in the Wardroom . Travelled to Plymouth on the Royal Train without the Duke of Edinburgh . Made her exit by helicopter which landed on Ocean's flight deck . Was visiting HMS Ocean, of which she is Lady Sponsor, for the fourth time . Gargantuan ship carries 18 helicopters and a Royal Marine squadron . Currently based in HMNB Devonport but has seen service abroad .