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By . Daily Mail Reporter . He may have been wanting to phone home, but nerds from the 1980s are still obsessed about the thought there may be hundreds of Atari Computer games buried in a New Mexico landfill. After decades of rumors, digging will finally begin this weekend in a New Mexico landfill for an apparent stash of what some call 'the worst video game ever.' The dig at the Alamogordo landfill is where the computer company Atari reportedly discarded millions of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial game cartridges in 1983 and will start excavating on Saturday morning along with officials from Microsoft-owned Xbox. Get digging! Gamers will finally know the truth behind the gaming legend of whether or not Atari buried millions of video games cartridges of the epic flop E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial in a New Mexico landfill in 1983 . Fail! The game was one of the worst commercially released games ever made and is often blamed for the game industry crash of 1983 . After the success of the Steven Spielberg film Atari snatched up the rights for an astronomical $22 million to release a game. The game was produced in just five weeks and was one of, if not the worst commercially released games ever made. Despite being a complete flop, it was still one of the Atari 2600's best selling game. Two million copies were sold before anyone realised how bad it was. It left another three million copies left unsold. Looking for E.T.:Crews begin digging at the old Alamogordo, New Mexico to search for copies of the Atari game"E.T. The Extraterrestrial purportedly buried there in the 1980s . The excavation will be open for public viewing. The company is joining with Fuel Entertainment and LightBox Interactive to search the landfill. All three companies are making a documentary about the project. Microsoft plans to release the documentary on its Xbox One console. If anything is recovered, the city would have the rights to any discovered games. City Attorney Stephen Thies said any game cartridges will be stored by the city for possible marketing. However, a tentative agreement between the Alamogordo City Commission and Fuel Entertainment's parent company calls for Fuel to receive some games. The city will give Fuel either 100 game cartridges or 10 percent, depending on which is the lesser amount. The company plans to hand out the cartridges to film crews. A roaring success: The video game was based on the wildly popular 1982 Steven Spielberg movie about a boy who befriends an extraterrestrial who is mistakenly left behind on Earth . One for the trash! This game console is playing E.T., which is widely considered one of the worst games of all time. The game was so bad, and the business plan so badly thought-out, that it nearly destroyed the entire game industry . All three companies gained approval last month from the New Mexico Environmental Department for their waste excavation plan. The agency plans to send a representative to monitor the project once it commences. Atari paid director Steven Spielberg tens of millions of dollars to license the wildly popular 1982 movie's name, and game developers completed the project in just six weeks. In the game, the player takes on the role of the titular alien and tries to elude FBI agents while collecting pieces of a telephone to call E.T.'s spaceship. The end result was a huge commercial dud that caused the troubled company's worth to sink even further. Atari purportedly disposed of millions of game cartridges and other equipment by the truckload at the landfill. The area's supposed role as a gaming burial ground has taken on urban-legend status over the years. The landfill was first used as a dumping ground in the 1920s but has been closed since the late 1980s, officials said. | Steven Spielberg film that became one of the most iconic movies of all time .
Video game E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is considered to be Atari’s worst-selling ever .
Alamogordo Landfill in New Mexico is believed to have millions of unsold cartridges of the game .
A team of film makers and garbage contractors will dig them up - and the public is invited to watch . | c048d14806530b12a261aaa358de8ecc0f79f0c1 | [
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Sunderland are hopeful of winning the race for Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk. Gus Poyet wants a centre-back and Sunderland are willing to pay £8million for the Holland U21 international. Everton and West Bromwich Albion have also asked about the 23-year-old but he has told team-mates that Sunderland are showing the greater commitment to a deal. Gus Poyet wants a centre-back and Sunderland are willing to pay £8million for Virgil van Dijk . Everton and West Bromwich Albion have also asked about the 23-year-old, but he prefers Sunderland . Van Dijk has impressed for the Scottish champions since joining from FC Groningen in 2013 and has been included in recent Holland squads. Tottenham, Southampton, West Ham, Arsenal and Manchester City have also watched him over the past 18months. Celtic have been scouting for a replacement and expect bids to be formalised next week. Everton and West Bromwich Albion have also asked about the 23-year-old Van Dijk . | Sunderland manager Gus Poyet wants to purchase a centre-back .
Poyet is prepared to pay £8million for Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk .
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An heroic Chinese father sacrificed his life to save his son by pushing him to safety from the path of a lorry. Hsiung Kuo rolled his son Yong away from the wheels of the truck moments before the same vehicle crushed him to death in Quanzhou City in southeastern China. Police say the pair had been traveling on an electric scooter with Yong, 47, driving his 71-year-old father into the city, in the Fujian Province of the country. Yung Kuo, left, is pushed to safety by his father Hsiung as the lorry smashes into the scooter they were riding into the city of Quanzhou, China . Hero father Hsiung Kuo, 71, pushes his son Yong, 47, to safety as he is dragged under the wheels of a lorry in Quanzhou in southeastern China . CCTV images show the pair stopping briefly at a crossing as a lorry comes into shot. But as the truck smashes in to their scooter, the father bravely grabs his son and pushes him away to safety. Even as the lorry ran over his legs, he was still trying desperately to push Yong away from danger. Seconds later the father's chest was run over, killing him instantly. Hsiung Kuo kept up his desperate bid to push his son to safety, even when his own legs were being crushed by the lorry . The harrowing images were taken over a period of just seconds. Medics arrived shortly after, but he was declared dead at the scene while Yong was consoled by emergency crews and treated for shock. The truck driver, who reportedly ran from the scene of the accident, has been arrested while police investigate the death. Moments after Hsiung, 71, saved his son's life, hi own life is ended when his chest is crushed by the lorry at a road crossing in Quanzhou, China . | Hero father pushes son to safety as lorry smashes into scooter at crossing .
Hsiung Kuo kept up brave actions even as truck runs over his legs .
71-year-old tragically dies after same vehicle crushes his chest .
Driver arrested after 'running from the accident' in Quanzhou City, China .
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Alec Baldwin's stalker is in trouble again after she was allegedly seen lurking outside the actor's home again - just months after being released from jail on Riker's Island. Police tell MailOnline one of Baldwin's assistants spotted Genevieve Sabourin, 42, and called the cops about 9am on Friday. By the time officers arrived, she was gone. The French-Canadian actress could be arrested and sent back to jail for violating a no-contact order that prohibits her from going anywhere near Baldwin and his family. The NYPD says she is being sought for questioning on stalking allegations. Neither Baldwin nor his wife Hilaria have given public comment on the stalker's latest alleged appearance at their home in Manhattan's Greenwich Village. Scroll down for video . Violated: French-Canadian actress Genevieve Sabourin (above), 42, allegedly violated an order of protection Friday when, police say, she was found outside of Alec Baldwin's home . Jail: Years of the actress's stalking culminated last November when Sabourin was sentenced to six months in jail for stalking and harassing Baldwin and his wife Hilaria . Neither Baldwin nor his wife Hilaria have given public comment on the stalker's latest appearance at their New York home . Years of the actress's stalking culminated last November with Sabourin being sentenced to six months in jail for stalking and harassing Baldwin and his wife Hilaria. She received an additional 30 days for contempt of court, according to People. 'Your relentless and escalating campaign of threats and in-person appearances in private spaces served at a minimum to harass, annoy and alarm Mr. Baldwin,' Manhattan Criminal Court Judge Robert Mandelbaum said in court last year before finding her guilty on all counts including harassment, aggravated harassment, stalking, and attempted criminal contempt, according toNew York Daily News. Cops: Things escalated to a critical point when Sabourin showed up at Baldwin's home in April 2012 and Hilaria (above) called the cops on her . The two reportedly met during a movie shoot back in 2000, and one decade later, Baldwin took Sabourin out to dinner and gave her career advice as a 'favor to a friend,' he told the court, People reports. That friend was 'Scarface' producer Martin Bregman. Bregman claimed that Baldwin was cheating on Hilaria with Sabourin which Baldwin denies. Sabourin said that Baldwin took her on a 'dream date' that ended in a sexual encounter and many empty promises made by Baldwin. Instead, Baldwin dropped her. Begged: Over the next few years, Sabourin would maintain a phone and email relationship. Baldwin said he would send friendly emails but also begged her to leave him and his family alone . Claims: Sabourin claims that Baldwin took her to dinner in 2010 and the two had a sexual encounter in a hotel afterward . Over the next few years, Sabourin would maintain a phone and email relationship, according to People. Baldwin said he would send friendly emails but also begged her to leave him and his family alone. Things escalated to a critical point when Sabourin showed up at Baldwin's home in April 2012 and Hilaria called the cops on her, according to the Daily News. It seems that since their 2010 dinner, Baldwin has been unable to rid Sabourin. It seems that neither a restraining order nor jail time is enough to keep away this woman scorned. | Genevieve Sabourin, 42, was spotted in front of Alec Baldwin's home on Friday, according to the actor's assistant .
She is wanted for questioning by the NYPD and could be arrested for violating a protective order .
Sabourin received 30 days in addition to her six-month sentence for acting up in court .
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England stormed into their fourth successive Women’s World Cup final on Wednesday night as a devastating scrum onslaught and a superb all-round performance by goal-kicking centre Emily Scarratt quelled spirited Irish resistance. Gary Street’s team fell behind to an early Ireland try at Stade Jean Bouin in Paris, but once the pack had established a formidable set-piece platform the result became a glaring formality. They were in front from the 33rd minute and went on to touch down five times. What began as a compelling contest turned into a rout as the Red Rose forwards — led by veteran props Rochelle ‘Rocky’ Clark and Sophie Hemming — blasted their opponents into set-piece oblivion. The scale of their dominance was astounding, while initial lineout problems were gradually overcome and the back row were ferociously combative. Try time: Kay Wilson of England touches down during the IRB Women's Rugby World Cup semi-final matchx . Anthems: England line up before their match against Ireland at Stade Jean Bouin . Yet, the victors produced ample creativity to go with their clout and commitment. In their pool-stage draw with Canada there was no real cutting edge but this semi-final was illuminated by the footwork of full back Danielle Waterman and pace out wide from Kat Merchant and Kay Wilson. In midfield, Scarratt spread constant mayhem; carving through the opposition repeatedly and kicking 11 points. This had all the makings of a close encounter. Ireland had stunned champions New Zealand to send the previously imperious Black Ferns crashing out of the tournament, but they were unable to hit such heights again, while England rose to the occasion in fine style. Despite Maggie Alphonsi’s typically relentlessly defensive efforts, the Irish went over from a lineout drive in the 16th minute to take the lead, but their advantage was short-lived. Through the gap: Emily Scarratt of England escapes a challange from Nora Stapleton and Grace Davitt . Try No 1 for England saw Clark plunge over from close range to level proceedings. The first of Scarratt’s two penalties put her side in front, then the No 13 created the next try with a long-range break down the left. The ball was shipped across to the far side and Merchant claimed her 44th try in her 57th appearance for England. After the break, the procession went on as the scrum mis-match continued. England captain Katy McLean shunned the option of a shot at goal from a 57th minute penalty and made the decision pay off with the decisive pass to send Wilson hurtling in at the left corner.a . With 19 points between the teams, the game was up, but the runners-up from the last World Cup were in no mood to ease up. Galvanised by their replacements, England struck twice more, with both tries coming from Wasps flanker Marlie Packer. Evasive: England captain Katy Mclean throws looks for a way past Stapleton and Niamh Briggs . She burst through a crowd of defenders and stretched over for her first, before pouncing on Rachael Burford’s deft kick through for her second. When the one-way traffic finally stopped, McLean said: ‘We knew Ireland would be very tough but the result reflects our performance. We showed that when we get it right, we can cause teams a lot of problems.’ If they can reach the same standards again in Sunday’s final, the title they have long craved will be theirs for the taking. On the charge: England Captain Katy Mclean throws past Nora Stapleton and Niamh Briggs . | England books place in fourth successive Women's World Cup final .
Centre Emily Scarratt inspires Red Rose to victory against Ireland .
Gary Street's side will contest Paris final on Sunday . | 4d13236a3433d0491dde1eaa6acccec9a95dd453 | [
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By . Mail On Sunday Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 19:00 EST, 22 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:25 EST, 22 June 2013 . A fake diploma created by artist David Hockney is predicted to sell for £20,000 at auction. The artist ruined his chances of graduating from the Royal College of Art in 1962 when he spoiled his final exam paper in an act of defiance. Hockney, then aged 25, refused to write the essay required, saying he should be judged on his body of work throughout the course. Celebrated: Artist David Hockney printed 50 copies of his early work 'The Diploma' in 1962, one of which is expected to fetch £20,000 . So he created his own certificate by scrawling the word ‘diploma’ beneath the college crest. The drawing features the official crest of the college at the top of the page and the word diploma written in capital letters in pencil below. The Diploma: Hockney created this satirical version of the Royal College of Art's certificate after he failed to graduate . Hockney has drawn himself wearing his graduation gown hanging like a protester from the crest with the principal stood below trying to get him down. The head is depicted with a Hitler moustache and is goose-stepping like a Nazi. There is a monster-like creature with its mouth open behind him about to gobble him up. Hockney went on to become one of Britain's most famous painters and is well-known for his swimming pool series of work. The record sum paid for one of his works is five million pounds. He made 50 copies of The Diploma, and London auctioneers Bloomsbury are selling No 17 on Thursday. Some of the copies are today held by museums such as the Tate and the V&A. Ross Thomas, of auctioneers Bloomsbury, said: 'This was Hockney's way of sticking two fingers up at the establishment after he wasn't allowed to finish his final year. 'He believed that his work was more important and relevant than an essay which he refused to write. 'His response was wonderfully satirical. He produced his own diploma, poking fun at the very teachers that refused to pass him.' The auction takes place in London on June 27. | Hockney lost his chance to graduate when he spoiled his final exam paper .
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George Osborne famously started wearing a sleep-monitoring wristband when he was given one for his birthday in May. But it seems the gadget – designed to check its wearer gets a good night’s sleep – may do more harm than good. Experts suggest the devices – which cost around £100 – give buyers an extra thing to worry about. Sleep gadgets can make a person sleep less well because they become obsessed with sleep and worry too much about, experts say (stock image) Dr Irshaad Ebrahim, from the London Sleep Centre, said: ‘People can become obsessed about their sleep through these gadgets, worrying about it and in turn getting less decent sleep.’ The wristbands link up with a smartphone app to allow users to monitor their every toss and turn in bed. The Chancellor of the Exchequer revealed he used his wristband to monitor his sleep patterns and track his fitness regime. George Osborne famously starting wearing one of the monitors at night . Former Education Secretary Michael Gove was also spotted wearing a Jawbone wristband – leading to speculation that senior ministers were struggling to sleep at night. Studies claim those who sleep for less than six hours a night have a risk of high blood pressure three times greater than those who get more than six hours. Women who sleep less than four hours a night are twice as likely to die from heart disease as those who sleep longer. Dr Ebrahim added: ‘Anything that allows you to wake up feeling refreshed in the morning is what you should be aiming for, which is generally between six and nine hours’ sleep. ‘But it's not all about time, it's about the quality of the sleep, whether you complete cycles.’ Research has suggested lack of quality sleep is linked to diabetes, obesity and cancer, not to mention deterioration of mental health and memory. Conversely, sleeping too long has also been shown to cause issues. | George Osborne started wearing band after being given it as present in May .
Former Education Secretary Michael Gove also seen wearing Jawbone band .
Dr Irshaad Ebrahim said gadget wearers can become obsessed with sleep .
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Spain will not defend their European Under 21 Championship title in the Czech Republic next summer after they were beaten in the qualification play-offs by Serbia. The Spaniards had won the tournament in 2011 and 2013 but, after a goalless draw in the first-leg in Serbia, they lost 2-1 in Cadiz on Tuesday night and will miss out on the showpiece next summer. A Jose Gaya own-goal had given Serbia a vital away goal in the first-half before Sergi Roberto and Filip Kostic traded goals in stoppage-time. Captain Thiago Alcantara lifts the trophy as Spain won the Euo 2013 title in Israel - but there won't be a repeat . The Spaniards were able to boast Real Madrid star Isco and Barcelona' Munir El Haddadi in midfield, but he could not inspire his young team-mates to match the heroics of 2011 and 2013. The defeat brings to an end their 35-match unbeaten streak and relinquished their hold on the trophy. Spain coach Albert Celades said: 'We did everything we could, but in football the best team doesn't always win. They had two shots on target and scored two goals. We played well, we had a lot of the ball, we gave everything but it was all for nothing. 'This is a terrible blow for everyone; the team does not deserve this punishment. We tried to win the game right until the final second, but it was no use. We are left with a terrible feeling and everyone in the dressing room is destroyed, because these boys gave everything but it was impossible.' England join Serbia at the finals after Will Hughes scored the winner in a 2-1 win (4-2 aggregate) in Croatia . England will join Serbia and the hosts next summer after they beat Croatia 4-2 on aggregate with Italy completing a 4-2 win over Slovakia over two-legs. Germany won 2-0 on the night to see off Ukraine 5-0 on aggregate, Portugal beat Holland 5-4 in a thriller to advance 7-4 and Denmark overcame Iceland on away goals after a 1-1 draw. | The 2011 and 2013 tournament winners lost 2-1 to Serbia in Cadiz .
Their first leg ended in a goalless draw, meaning Spain are out .
Joe Gaya's own-goal and Filip Kostic's strike saw off the champions .
Sergi Roberto replied but it was not enough to see them through .
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Divers have found a bizarre alien 'slime' in water-filled underground caves beneath Australia’s Nullarbor Plain. Researchers were stunned to find life in the deep cave. They reported unique ‘curtains’ of biological material now known as Nullarbor cave slimes. A 'curtain' of slime found by Australian divers in water-filled underground caves beneath Nullarbor Plain . The researchers say the organisms that make up the Weebubbie cave slime community survive in a very unusual way – by oxidizing ammonia in the salty . cave water. They are completely independent of sunlight and ecosystems . on the surface, the researchers say. Researchers Sasha Tetu, Katy Breakwell, Liam Elbourne, Andrew Holmes, Michael Gillings and Ian Paulsen from Macquarie University are exploring how this alien ecosystem works. They published their findings this week in the journal of the International Society for Microbial Ecology, showing that an unusual combination of microbes thrive in the Weebubbie caves in the underground system. 'Earlier studies on the community suggested that there was an unusual chemistry going on in the caves, but we didn’t know how the microbes were making a living in the cave environment,' says the lead scientist Professor Ian Paulsen of Macquarie University. In order to find this ‘missing link’, the team of researchers made use of a range of new technologies, such as next-generation sequencing of environmental DNA and scanning electron microscopy to take an in-depth look at the composition of the Weebubbie cave slime community. They found a dominant group of organisms in the cave slimes, known as the Thaumarchaeota. This community of microbes thrives in the total dark, independent of photosynthesis. The alien cave slime under a microscope: The slime community survive by oxidizing ammonia in the salty water and are completely independent of sunlight and ecosystems on the surface . Another of the alien slime communities found in the cave . It is thought that the inundations of the Nullarbor caves by the sea occurred a number of times in the past and so researchers suggest that the Weebubbie Thaumarchaeota may have a marine origin. 'We know that the Nullarbor Plain’s karst system arose from the sea in the Middle Miocene period and so this may be a clue as to where the Weebubbie Thaumarchaeota came from,' says Professor Paulsen. The research team says this analysis shows that the organisms that make up the Weebubbie cave slime community survive by oxidizing ammonia in the salty cave water – and are completely independent of sunlight and ecosystems on the surface. 'It just goes to show that life in the dark recesses of the planet comes in many strange forms, many of which are still unknown,' says Professor Paulsen. The entrance to the cave system under Australia's Nullarbor Plain . The Nullabor Plain, in red, is well known for its underground cave system . | Divers found group of organisms in the cave slimes known as the Thaumarchaeota .
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By . Paul Revoir . PUBLISHED: . 14:23 EST, 12 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:37 EST, 12 April 2013 . Carol Thatcher returned to Britain last night to help with the preparations for her mother’s funeral. Miss Thatcher, who lives in Klosters, Switzerland, arrived at her mother’s home in Belgravia shortly before 7pm. She arrived in a black Jaguar accompanied by a casually dressed man believed to be her boyfriend Marco Grass. Grief: Carol Thatcher arrives at the home of Lady Thatcher in Belgravia, London this afternoon . Family photo: Carol and Mark Thatcher pose outside Lady Thatcher's Belgravia home with their partners, Miss Thatcher's boyfriend Marco Grass and Sir Mark's wife Sarah . Unity: Mark Thatcher puts a comforting arm around his twin sister before quickly ushering her inside their late mother's London townhouse . Dressed in a black shawl with black . trousers and large dark sunglasses, the 59-year-old appeared emotional . as she was met on the steps by her twin brother Mark who quickly ushered . her into the house. Meanwhile, programming chiefs at ITV . rejected plans for a news special to provide full coverage of Lady . Thatcher’s funeral, opting instead for it to be covered through This Morning, it emerged yesterday. Journalists at the broadcaster were . dismayed to learn that Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield will be . used as a link to the funeral as they present their popular daytime . show. According to sources, Alastair Stewart . and Julie Etchingham had been lined up to present if the broadcaster . had agreed to traditional live coverage on Wednesday. Now Miss . Willoughby, 32, and Mr Schofield will link to Mr Stewart to provide . ‘live updates’. Gathering: Mark Thatcher took to the steps of Lady Thatcher's home to welcome his sister as she returned from Switzerland to the UK . Siblings: This is the first time in a decade that Mark and Carol Thatcher have been seen in public together . Family mourns: The siblings briefly appeared on the steps of their mother's home tonight, their first appearance together since their father's funeral . In comparison, the BBC will provide . more heavyweight coverage through veteran presenter David Dimbleby, . who will front a three-hour special. ITV insiders say proposals for a . special programme fronted by its journalists were rejected because of . the cost, understood to be in the region of £500,000. One reporter on ITV News said: ‘There is always disappointment when you are leaving full coverage to others.’ Meanwhile it has been reported that Italy premier Silvio Berlusconi will not be attending the funeral, despite a concerted effort to gain an invitation. Mr Berlusconi’s office made ‘numerous . and insistent’ phone calls to the Italian embassy in London, but acting . prime minister Mario Monti will represent Italy. | Carol Thatcher arrive in London ahead of funeral of Baroness Thatcher .
She was greeted by twin brother Mark at Thatcher's London home tonight .
First public appearance together since funeral of their father Sir Denis .
MPs and peers will be able to pay respects on the eve of her funeral .
White House still yet decide who will represent United States at St Paul's .
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Andrew Leigh, 42, is accused of murdering his estranged wife of eight years Luan, 42, (pictured) at their home in the Pype Hayes area of Birmingham . A jealous husband drugged his wife before strangling her to death at their home after finding out she was having an affair with another man, a court heard. Andrew Leigh, 42, is accused of murdering his estranged wife of eight years Luan, 42, after she rejected his attempts to get back together. Birmingham Crown Court heard today how Miss Leigh's body was discovered at the property in the Pype Hayes area of Birmingham at about 7.25am on June 29. The court heard how Leigh, a telecommunications engineer, had moved out of the property about a year ago but wanted to rekindle his relationship with his wife. However, she had 'moved on' and, in a jealous revenge attack, he allegedly drugged her with sleeping pills before strangling her to death in her own bed, jurors were told on the opening day of the trial. Opening the case, Rachel Brand QC, prosecuting, said: 'It was about 6.45am on June 29 when the defendant rang his wife's sister, a woman called Natasha Chamberlain. 'His opening remark was "I am really sorry, Natasha, but your sister has passed away." 'Natasha replied: "What the hell do you mean? What has happened?" 'He told her he found her dead in bed at about 10.30pm the previous evening but did not call an ambulance because he did know what to do at the time. 'He had killed his wife. 'When the ambulance arrived on the Sunday morning, Luan Leigh was as cold as ice.' Jurors were told that Leigh had drugged his wife on the Saturday evening with over-the-counter sleeping pills. Traces of the main ingredients were found in Mrs Leigh's blood during a post-mortem examination. Ms Brand said: 'We do not how much was given to Luan...but we do know she was drugged. 'Police found the empty packet of tablets, along with their receipt and instructions of use in the house. 'He was on CCTV buying [tablets] in the Lloyds pharmacy in Walmley on the Saturday morning.' The court heard how Leigh had become aware his estranged partner was dating somebody else after going through her phone and trying to hack her Facebook account. Miss Leigh's body was discovered at the couple's marital home in the Pype Hayes area of Birmingham (pictured) on June 29. A post-mortem found she had high quantities of sleeping pills in her system . Ms Brand added: 'Luan told her sister and friends that he once locked her in her garage in a bid to get back together. 'He had also tried to hack into her Facebook account. 'About one week before her death, Luan told Andrew that she did not want him to go on a family holiday and gave him his money back. She wanted to take her mother instead. 'It transpired that the defendant had been snooping around her mobile phone on the evening of June 25. 'She had just starting seeing someone else and the defendant found out about it. He did not move on.' Leigh denies one count of murder. The trial, which is expected to last two weeks, continues. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. | Andrew Leigh accused of murdering his estranged wife of eight years Luan .
42-year-old allegedly drugged her with sleeping pills before strangling her .
Birmingham Crown Court heard how she had started seeing someone else .
Leigh denies murder and the trial, which is set to last 14 days, continues .
An earlier version of this article used photographs of a person who has no connection with this case. We are happy to clarify this and we sincerely apologise for any distress caused. | edfb6e85cb71a859a1d324d88a55fff8917a1fa6 | [
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By . Associated Press Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 10:26 EST, 25 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:20 EST, 26 August 2012 . A huge explosion rocked Venezuela's biggest oil refinery early on Saturday, killing at least 24 people and injuring more than 50 others in the deadliest disaster in memory for the country's key oil industry. Balls of fire rose over the Amuay refinery, one of the largest in the world, in video posted on the Internet by people who were nearby at the time. Those killed included a 10-year-old boy, and at least 53 people were injured, Falcon state Gov. Stella Lugo said on state television. She said firefighters had controlled the flames at the refinery on the Paraguana Peninsula in western Venezuela, where large clouds of smoke were rising. Blast: A fire is seen after an explosion at Amuay oil refinery in Punto Fijo, in the Peninsula of Paraguana on Saturday . Raging: A fire burns after the explosion. Officials said 'the blast wave was of a significant magnitude' At least 24 people were killed, many of them National Guard troops stationed at the refinery, Vice President Elias Jaua said on television after traveling to the area. He said the authorities were 'trying to save the greatest number of lives.' Oil Minister Rafael Ramirez said that Venezuela has enough fuel supplies to guarantee continued exports and domestic supply. As far as fuel shipments, he said, 'we won't have major effects.' The blast occurred after 1 a.m. when a gas leak created a cloud that ignited, Ramirez said. Some nearby houses were damaged by the blast, he said on television. 'That gas generated a cloud that later exploded and has caused fires in at least two tanks of the refinery and surrounding areas,' Ramirez said. 'The blast wave was of a significant magnitude.' Under control: A column of smoke rises after an explosion at Amuay oil refinery in Punto Fijo, in the Peninsula of Paraguana on Saturday. Officials say the fire is now contained . Wounded: Emergency personnel stand by to ferry the injured to nearby hospitals . Images in state media showed the flames casting an orange glow against the night sky. One photograph showed an injured man being wheeled away on a stretcher. 'The areas that had to be evacuated were evacuated, Lugo said, according to the state-run Venezuelan News Agency. 'The situation is controlled. Of course they're still a fire rising very high, but ... the specialists tell me there is no risk of another explosion.' Ramirez said oil workers will determine what caused the gas leak and were inspecting the damage along with troops. Ramirez said that nine storage tanks were damaged. He said supplies of fuel had been cut off to part of the refinery, and that the fire had been brought under control. Troops were securing the area at the refinery, Lugo said. 'At this time, the situation is controlled,' Jaua said on television, while smoke continued to rise from the refinery. Jaua said earlier on his Twitter account that the military was deployed to the area and that air ambulances were dispatched to ferry the wounded. Amuay is part of the Paraguana Refinery Complex, which also includes the adjacent Cardon refinery. Together, the two refineries process about 900,000 barrels of crude per day and 200,000 barrels of gasoline. Venezuela is a major supplier of oil to the U.S. and a member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries. | 10-year-old boy and National Guard troops among the dead .
Explosion occurred when a gas leak created a cloud that ignited .
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By . Andrew Levy . PUBLISHED: . 18:42 EST, 17 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 18:48 EST, 17 December 2013 . Anything for little Oliver... Professionals are . using their financial muscle to buy homes - even second homes - close to over-subscribed schools . Cunning and underhand tactics used by wealthy parents to get their children into top state schools have been laid bare in a report. Professionals are using their financial muscle to buy homes – even second homes – near over-subscribed schools, while others are resorting to breaking the law by setting up fake addresses in desirable catchment areas. The Parent Power survey commissioned by education charity the Sutton Trust found a third of professional parents deliberately moved to an area with good schools, while one in five moved to the catchment area of a specific school. Astonishingly one in 20 could afford to buy a second home just to use the address when applying. This was more than double the two per cent among parents in general. Six per cent – double the average – admitted using a relative’s address on application forms. And one in ten said they had started going to church to get their child into a faith school compared with one in 16 among parents in general. And one in 20 - five per cent - bought a second home to use the address when applying for a place at a specific school. This was more than double the two per cent among parents in general. The release of the survey comes two days after the Chief Inspector of Schools attracted criticism by saying grammar schools are ‘stuffed full of middle-class kids’. Sir Michael Wilshaw dismissed the argument they help social mobility on the grounds that better-off families are forcing out poorer pupils by snapping up properties in the area or paying tutors to help their children through the 11-plus entry test. Supporters say it is the lack of grammar schools in England - just 164 remain - that is creating the intense competition for places. They argue opening more would deliver the benefits grammar schools achieved before Labour politicians started their demise. The Parent Power report, commissioned by the Sutton Trust education charity and involving 1,173 parents of five to 16-year-olds, found a third of professional parents deliberately moved to an area with good schools and one in five to the catchment area of a specific school. Around two-fifths are ‘hyperchoosers’ who use five sources of information, such as Ofsted reports and exam results, when picking a school. Among low-income families the figure is just 13 per cent. Professional parents were also more likely to pay for weekly music, drama or sporting lessons and activities outside school. Over two-thirds pay for extra-curricular activities, compared to around half of working class parents and less than a third on the lowest incomes. No darling, that's an A-flat: Professional parents were also more likely to pay for weekly music, drama or sporting lessons and activities outside school, found the survey by the education charity The Sutton Trust . The Sutton Trust called for reforms including random allocation of school places through ballots and free transport for poor pupils to give them access to a choice of schools. Chairman Sir Peter Lampl said: ‘This research suggests that those with money actively choose to live near good schools, employ tutors and ensure their children have extra lessons and enrichment activities that are often too expensive for other families to afford. ‘This provides a significant advantage in school choice and in developing the cultural capital that is so important to social mobility and later success. ‘Education is about more than what happens at school and providing a more level playing field in school choice and out-of-school activities is essential if every child is to achieve his or her potential.’ However, report co-author Professor Becky Francis, of King’s College London, added: ‘Our findings also demonstrate the extent to which some working class parents are enacting “informed choice” and policymakers may also learn from their practices.’ | A third of well-off parents have moved home to an new area for a school .
Others break the law by setting up fake addresses in catchment areas .
Sutton Trust calls for reforms to make access to good schools fairer . | 2366c4702c7e2207259613fa6686dfbd4eb85843 | [
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United Colors of Benetton has hand-picked Joan Smalls to be the face of its bright spring/summer 2015 campaign, describing the model as an 'icon' and 'today’s top supermodel'. The 26-year-old, who hails from Puerto Rico, looks casual and chic as she poses in the vibrant shoot. Joan, who has been dubbed a modern day Naomi Campbell, poses on a stool and showcases the Italian label's seasonal offerings, including a bold blue knit and green mini skirt. Scroll down for video . United Colors of Benetton has hand-picked Joan Smalls to be the face of its colourful SS15 campaign . Describing its muse, the brand said: 'Joan is a highly talented and successful woman who reflects the perfect Benetton way of life - Italian style that mixes fashion and practicality.' The upcoming collection aims to celebrate Italian style and the brand's designers have curated flirty separates to pay tribute to the Italian zest for dressing well, say Benetton bosses say. Joan stars in the first of four campaigns to showcase the Italian brand's flirty new designs . The campaign was shot in New York by American photographer Cass Bird, who has recently worked for The New York Times Magazine, Rolling Stone, GQ and Paper Magazine. Between February and May, Joan will feature in four different campaigns for the brand to show off the new collection in all its glory. Joan's highly successful fashion career began in 2007. Since then, she has walked the runway for the most celebrated designers and fashion houses, featured on the most prestigious covers and appeared in popular music videos, including Beyonce's Yonce video. Joan, pictured at the British Fashion Awards 2014, was picked by the brand because they believe her to be a 'highly talented and successful woman who reflects the perfect Benetton way of life' In 2014, Joan topped models.com’s ranking of the 50 most sought-after models, and appeared on the Return of the Supermodel cover of American Elle. She also made history when she became the first Latina model to represent Estée Lauder cosmetics, interviewing newcomer Kendall Jenner when she joined. She is also part of the new age of hot, young models and is regularly seen hanging out with Karlie Kloss, Cara Delevingne and Georgia May Jagger. Models Lily Donaldson, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Joan Smalls attend the after party for amfAR's 20th Annual Cinema Against AIDS during The 66th Annual Cannes Film Festival in Cap d'Antibes, France last year . Cara Delevingne and Joan Smalls, who are close friends, dance during Stella McCartney's AW14 show . | 'Highly talented and successful' Joan, 26, was hand-picked by brand .
Will star in four colourful advertisements between February and May .
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Blur frontman Damon Albarn last night waded into the row over Jeremy Clarkson's number plate scandal, describing the Top Gear presenter as an 'a**hole'. Speaking to fans ahead of a concert in Argentinian capital Buenos Aires, the singer apologised for Clarkson's behaviour, telling them that he thought the stunt was 'not cool'. Clarkson and his team were forced to flee the country last week after locals were incensed by the H982 FKL number plate on his Porsche, which they said was a reference to the 1982 Falklands War. Scroll down for video . Speaking out: Blur frontman Damon Albarn, pictured left, described the Top Gear presenter as an 'a**hole' Albarn told the cheering crowd at the city's Gran Rex Theatre: 'I'm sure it was all in the press here but I want to really apologise for all the behaviour of a guy called Jeremy Clarkson who does a show called Top Gear.' Making a rude hand gesture, he added: 'He's a f***ing a***hole... not cool.' The row erupted when photos of Clarkson's FKL registration were posted on the internet by angry Argentinians who claimed the Top Gear presenter was mocking their country. The show's convoy was then attacked by a gang armed with rocks, sticks and pickaxe handles, forcing Clarkson and fellow presenters James May and Richard Hammond to flee into Chile. Clarkson later took to Twitter insisting the number plate was a coincidence and was switched to a neutral plate - H1 VAE - as soon as the reference to the Falklands was spotted. But Argentinian police yesterday revealed that two further plates were later found inside his abandoned vehicle - one white and one yellow - bearing the registration number BE11 END. Row: Clarkson and fellow presenters Richard Hammond (left) and James May (far right) were forced to flee the country last week after locals were incensed by the H982 FKL number plate on his Porsche . The discovery throws Clarkson's claims that the plates were a coincidence into doubt after it emerged that the BBC has contacted the man who sold them the vehicle in an alleged 'cover-up'. A local official said: 'We know bellend doesn't mean the end of the bell and is a word used instead to describe the head of the penis which is often employed as an insult in England. 'We regard it as another insult to the people of Argentina. We're sure the Top Gear team were planning another provocation with the number plate in the same way they provoked us with the one referencing the Falklands War.' Controversy: The anger was sparked by the H982 FKL plate, which locals say was a reference to the 1982 Falklands War . It also emerged this morning that the Top Gear has told a car dealer who sold the crew the Porsche to pass on any enquiries about the sale to them. Mark Waring, of Surrey-based Rennsport Classics, told MailOnline: 'Top Gear contacted me and gave me the number of their press office to hand to anyone who contacted me.' The controversy over the alleged 'cover up' comes as Falklands War veterans in southern Argentina announced they would file a formal complaint to a court considering whether to open a criminal investigation for alleged falsification. Osvaldo Hillar, a member of the Commission of Falklands War veterans in Ushuaia, where Clarkson encountered most problems, confirmed the intention today. Forced out: The show's convoy was attacked by a gang armed with rocks, sticks and pickaxe handles . He said: 'I like to deal with things diplomatically and I want to see this through to the end and make sure justice is done because you don't cause offence to our dead and the question of the Malvinas. 'We will be filing a formal complaint to the courts and leaving it in the hands of the judicial system.' Clarkson admitted at the weekend the number plate on his Porsche was changed after the problems he experienced. Court sources in the city of Rio Grande, which is expected to announce next week if it is opening a criminal investigation, say the crime of falsification for using different number plates to those in a car's official documentation carries a prison sentence of six months to three years. Under fire: Argentinian Police have now revealed they have found another set of offensive number plates in the car. The discovery casts doubt over Jeremy Clarkson's claim that the original number plate was a coincidence . Federico Sciurano, mayor of Ushuaia, described last week's violence, which ended with the Top Gear team being stoned by angry locals as they drove towards Chile with a police escort, as a 'great mistake.' He said after Clarkson's departure: 'We have committed a great mistake with the violence. That never resolves anything and the impact it was going to have was not taken into account. 'Instead of talking today about a person who was trying to be clever, we're talking about the victimisation of that same person. 'Obviously I don't agree with violence and smashing windows of a car wasn't necessary. 'I believe the people responsible made a big mistake when they decided to act in that manner because now the news is that they decided to smash up the cars instead of talking about the real issue.' | Blur singer blasted Clarkson on stage ahead of show in Buenos Aires .
He said that he wanted to 'really apologise for all of Clarkson's behaviour'
Top Gear team forced to flee country last week after number plate scandal .
Clarkson has insisted plates' reference to Falklands War was coincidence .
Emerged that number plates spelling out 'BE11 END' also found in car .
Discovery throws into doubt Clarkson's claim 'Falklands' plate were fluke .
Car dealer who sold car to Top Gear says he has been contacted by show .
MP says any BBC cover-up to protect Clarkson would be 'unforgivable' | ad82930cfce1904062f6440460f58b384c5c5c1d | [
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(CNN) -- Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has signed a one-year contract extension with the Spanish champions. Guardiola took over at Barcelona in 2008 after coaching their B team and already has seven titles to his name. The new deal will take him through to June 2011. In his first year in charge he led his team, including Argentina striker Lionel Messi and Spanish pair Xavi and Andres Iniesta, to the Spanish league and cup double, as well as a European Champions League triumph. Guardiola added the World Club Cup, the Spanish Super Cup and the European Super Cup to his impressive haul the following year, as well as retaining the Spanish League with a record breaking 99 points. Barcelona failed to retain their Champions League title in 2010 after they were beaten in the semifinal by Italian champions Inter Milan, who were then coached by Jose Mourinho. Mourinho has now taken over as coach of Barcelona's rivals Real Madrid and will be aiming to take Guardiola's title next season. Barcelona provided seven of the starting 11 players that secured Spain's first ever World Cup win as they beat Netherlands 1-0 in South Africa. Guardiola gave his word to previous club president Joan Laporta that he would extend his contract back in January, and he signed the deal with new president Sandro Rosell at Barcelona's Nou Camp stadium on Wednesday. | Pep Guardiola signs one-year contract extension at Barcelona .
Barca have won back-to-back Spanish titles .
Guardiola won the European Champions League in 2009 .
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Earlier this week scientists were left baffled by a huge feature that surfaced in the seas of Titan that measured a staggering 100 square miles (260sq km) - the size of Washington DC or the city of Birmingham in the UK. And in the latest speculation a number of theories have been considered including a giant iceberg and a huge field of bubbles. Speaking to MailOnline, two scientists explained their thoughts on what it might have been and that they hope to learn more upon repeated observations early next year. In this series of images from the Cassini spacecraft the giant object 100 square miles (260 square kilometres) in size is seen rising out of one of Titan's largest seas before disappearing again. In the latest image on the right the object still seems to be partially submerged beneath the surface . In July 2013 the giant feature was seen surfacing from under the liquid before partially disappearing again in August this year. Regarding the iceberg theory one scientist explains how, if it's the correct assumption, they might differ to icebergs on Earth. 'For a bit of background, on Earth it's quite a simple situation because ice floats in water,' Jason Hofgartner, a graduate student at Cornell University who works on the Cassini Radar Science Team, tells MailOnline. 'On Titan it's more complicated because you have a methane and ethane mixture, we think, and there's nitrogen from the atmosphere that also gets dissolved. The iceberg theory is one of the more favoured ones at the moment. This suggests some frozen mass, perhaps frozen methane and ethane, was dislodged from the seabed and rose to the surface. Another theory is that this may be a vast field of bubbles released by underground vents of volcanoes that are now resting on the surface. It could also be surface waves drifting across the sea, although this theory is unlikely as Titan is tidally locked to Saturn (the same face also points towards the planet) so its seas to not have tides as dramatic as those seen on Earth. One theory that that has been ruled out is that this is a land mass. Jason Hofgartner from Cornell University says if it was it would have been visible under the liquid in the previous images. 'So when you freeze it, it undergoes complicated composition changes. 'Whether you can get icebergs that can float is a matter for debate, but it's possible. 'When it warms those icebergs could switch from sinking to floating.' Hofgartner explains how the northern hemisphere, where the iceberg was spotted, is currently transitioning from spring time to summer. This process might be responsible for warming the sub-surface icebergs, which then caused them to rise from the seabed. Other processes like currents in the sea could also be dislodging such features. Another theory is that it is a bubble, although not necessarily a giant bubble across the whole feature. Hofgartner says it could be a series of smaller bubbles spread over the huge area, each perhaps just centimetres in size. The cause of these bubbles could be vents, undersea volcanoes or seasonal changes. One theory that can be ruled out, however, is that this is some sort of giant non-ice land mass that has risen from the depths. This is because the radar system on Cassini can penetrate into the liquid so it would have spotted such a land mass. 'If this was a land mass or mud flat under the sea, we should have seen it in earlier images because the radar would have penetrated,' he explains. A comparison image from 26 April 2007 (left) shows how no similar feature was previously spotted in the region of interest. The feature was spotted by Nasa's Cassini spacecraft, which is currently in orbit around the Saturnian system. On the right is an image of Titan in orbit around Saturn . Another feature of the images is that the object appears to be fading. 'I don't know if that's anything to do with what's under the liquid; we see it's decreased in brightness an extending. 'So what could be happening is it's spreading out and becoming less concentrated in one area, and spreading into a larger area.' The feature is certainly rare, although it's possible that more may be spotted in future. This specific area will be imaged by radar again early in 2015, and exactly what state the feature is in will surely be of huge interest. One of Nasa's future proposals to Titan is for a boat to sail the seas, but Hofgartner says features like this would not necessarily be a threat to such a mission. 'Perhaps the boat could help us nail down what is happening here,' he says. This is an artist's impression of the Titan Mare Explorer (TiME) capsule, a proposed mission to perform the first direct inspection of an ocean environment beyond Earth by landing in, and floating on, a methane-ethane sea on Saturn’s largest moon: Titan . Speaking to MailOnline Professor of Planetary Plasma Physics Emma Bunce from the University of Leicester, who also works on the Cassini mission, agreed that it may have been some sort of iceberg akin to something we see on Earth. 'It could be something floating that sunk and came back to the surface,' she says. 'I was thinking almost like an iceberg, similar to something in Earth's oceans.' But she doesn't rule out the possibility of it being some sort of giant bubble, or even surface waves. She goes on to explain that the feature may have arisen due to the change in season at Saturn. The first image in 2007 was taken 'around Saturn equinox [when the sun is above the equator], and then the latest image is now heading towards northern summer solstice on Saturn. 'That's sort of an ongoing theme for a lot of the Cassini results; a lot of things depend on the season at Saturn as it moves in orbit. 'Because this lake itself is actually near to Titan's northern pole, perhaps it is something to do with illumination conditions.' The feature was spotted in Ligeia Mare (shown), one of the largest seas on Titan, and was observed by Cassini's radar experiment. Several theories currently exist including surface waves, rising bubbles, floating solids, solids suspended just below the surface or 'something more exotic' according to Nasa . The feature was spotted by Nasa's Cassini spacecraft, which is currently in orbit around the Saturnian system. It was spotted in Ligeia Mare, one of the largest seas on Titan, and was observed by Cassini's radar instrument. In images from 10 July 2013 to 21 August 2014 the feature is shown rising and then falling below the surface. With its thick atmosphere and organic-rich chemistry, Titan resembles a frozen version of Earth several billion years ago, before life began pumping oxygen into our atmosphere. Because Titan is smaller than Earth, its gravity doesn't hold onto its gaseous envelope as tightly, so the atmosphere extends 370 miles (595 kilometres) into space. As on Earth, the climate is driven mostly by changes in the amount of sunlight that comes with the seasons, although the seasons on Titan are about seven Earth years long. Titan's 'water' is liquid methane, CH4, better known on Earth as natural gas. Regular Earth-water, H2O, would be frozen solid on Titan where the surface temperature is -180°C (-292°F). With Titan's low gravity and dense atmosphere, methane raindrops could grow twice as large as Earth's raindrops. As well as this, they would fall more slowly, drifting down like snowflakes. But scientists think it rains perhaps only every few decades. A comparison image from 26 April 2007 shows how no similar feature was previously spotted in that region. The mysterious feature appears bright in the radar images, suggesting it has a somewhat similar composition to the land nearby in the image. This supports one theory that it may be a solid structure that surfaced from under the liquid before sinking again for an unknown reason. The dark area in the image is the liquid hydrocarbon sea on Titan's surface, while the bright area to the right is land. Scientists on the radar team are confident that the feature is not an artifact - or flaw - in their data. They have also ruled out the possibility of it being due to evaporation, as the nearby shoreline has not changed much. Several theories currently exist including surface waves, rising bubbles, floating solids, solids suspended just below the surface or 'something more exotic' according to Nasa. The appearance of the feature may also be due to changing seasons on Titan, with summer drawing near in the moon's northern hemisphere. Monitoring these changes is a major goal of Cassini's current extended mission. 'Science loves a mystery, and with this enigmatic feature, we have a thrilling example of ongoing change on Titan,' said Dr Stephen Wall, the deputy team lead of Cassini's radar team, based at Nasa's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. 'We're hopeful that we'll be able to continue watching the changes unfold and gain insights about what's going on in that alien sea.' It's not just Titan that is thought to have an active surface; earlier this month scientists found the first sign of geologic activity on a solar system world other than Earth - Europa. Experts from the University of Idaho and the Johns Hopkins University, Maryland, say Europa could be more Earth-like than experts imagined. The latest find appears to solve a puzzle that has perplexed planetary scientists. It shows where old crust was destroyed and how the icy crust is expanding. Many parts of Europa's surface show evidence of extension, where wide bands - up to tens of miles wide - formed as the surface ripped apart, and fresh icy material from the underlying shell moved into the newly created gap, a process akin to terrestrial seafloor spreading, according to the study published in the journal Nature Geoscience. Europa's surface is considered to be relatively young at between 40 and 90 millions of years old, which can perhaps now be explained by plate tectonics. It has been a decade since Cassini entered orbit around Saturn (illustration shown). In June the Cassini mission celebrated 10 years of exploring the planet, its rings and moons. It arrived for a four-year mission but has since been continuously extended, although it will almost certainly end in 2017 . | Two scientists have told MailOnline that they think the giant object on Saturn's moon Titan could have been an iceberg .
Astronomers at Nasa in California were left baffled by its appearance .
It's possible the giant feature emerged from under the sea as Titan's Northern Hemisphere moves from spring to summer and heats up .
This may have dislodged the potential iceberg from the seabed .
However one expert says this would not be a threat to future boats planned to explore the seas of Titan .
The massive object appeared in one of Titan's largest seas in July 2013 before disappearing beneath the surface again in August 2014 .
It could also be a field of rising bubbles from vents or undersea volcanoes .
Monitoring changes like this is one of the key goals of Nasa's Cassini spacecraft that is currently in orbit in the Saturnian system . | 38ba2bbcb50d3b306913ae7a77c1b26d51634012 | [
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By . Peter Campbell . PUBLISHED: . 19:22 EST, 31 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 05:02 EST, 1 February 2013 . Grilling: Chairman Lady Margaret Hodge said the evidence given by accountancy bosses was 'shocking' and 'laughable' Britain's biggest accounting firms yesterday said they were ‘proud’ of making billions helping companies avoid UK tax. In ‘shocking’ evidence to MPs, bosses told how they regularly advised wealthy corporate clients to use offshore havens and legal loopholes to minimise UK tax payments. They admitted to having more than 200 offices in tax havens such as the Cayman Islands or Switzerland. One even confessed to selling policies which had a high chance of later being declared unlawful in court. Helping companies avoid tax earned them more than £2billion a year, said the four firms – KPMG, PWC, Ernst & Young and Deloitte. The testimony was condemned as ‘shocking’ and ‘depressing’ by MPs on the public accounts committee. Astonishingly, each of the executives in turn said they were ‘proud’ of their work. Kevin Nicholson, head of tax at PWC, said: ‘We are giving the best advice we can to clients on the options which they have. ‘I don’t see anything wrong with that.’ But committee chairman Margaret Hodge said Mr Nicholson’s company’s activity ‘stinks’. She said the taxman had little hope of . competing in a ‘David and Goliath’ battle against the accountancy giants . paid millions to help companies avoid tax. Mr Nicholson yesterday admitted selling policies which had a 75 per cent chance of being later declared unlawful. Mrs Hodge replied: ‘I find that shocking.’ It also emerged that the companies all send senior tax partners to HMRC or the Treasury to help draft new legislation. When they return to their firms, the companies use the new-found knowledge of loopholes to devise new ways for corporations to avoid paying full dues to the taxman. Mrs Hodge said it was ‘depressing’ that such ‘clever’ people had chosen to work ‘in an area which reduces the available resources for us to build schools, hospitals and transport infrastructure’. She told the companies they should be barred from receiving government contracts worth millions if they deliberately advised their wealthy firms and individuals to cut the tax they pay to the Treasury. But the firms were unrepentant. Bill Dodwell, head of tax at Deloitte, said: ‘We help make the tax system work.’ Another boss, Jane McCormick of KPMG, insisted: ‘Our main purpose is to help our clients pay their tax’ – a statement Mrs Hodge described as ‘laughable’. The four heads of tax were grilled for almost three hours in the House of Commons in the midst of huge public controversy over the low tax bills paid by multinationals such as Amazon, Google and Starbucks. Dismissed: Jane McCormick from KPMG said her company's job was to 'help clients pay tax' - a claim Margaret Hodge described as 'laughable' In his speech to the World Economic Forum in Davos last week, Prime Minister David Cameron said there were ‘some forms of avoidance that have become so aggressive that I think it is right to say these raise ethical issues’. He warned he would use Britain’s presidency of the G8 to press for action from the world’s most powerful governments. But the firms denied their practices were ‘aggressive’ and were keen to distinguish between evasion – which is illegal and which they all said they would not engage in – and avoidance, which is taking advantage of incentives within the system. | Bosses told public accounts committee how they advise wealthy clients to use offshore havens and legal loopholes to minimise UK tax payments .
One even admitted selling policies which had a high chance of later being declared unlawful .
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Early man began to walk on two feet because of rocky terrain and not climate change, according to a new study. Researchers have said that our upright gait may . have its origins in the rugged landscape of East and South Africa which . was shaped during the Pliocene epoch by volcanoes and shifting tectonic . plates. Hominins, our early ancestors, would . have been attracted to the terrain of rocky outcrops and gorges because . it offered shelter and opportunities to trap prey. But it also required . more upright scrambling and climbing gaits, prompting the emergence of . bipedalism. It was previously thought that climate change and a reduction in tree cover forced early man to stand up, but now experts believe the rocky African landscape played a far more significant role . The new study, carried out by archaeologists at the University of York, has challenged evolutionary theories behind the development of our earliest ancestors from tree dwelling quadrupeds to upright bipeds capable of walking and scrambling. The study, ‘Complex Topography and Human . Evolution: the Missing Link’, was developed in conjunction with . researchers from the Institut de Physique du Globe in Paris. The York research challenged the traditional theory that suggested our early forebears were forced out of the trees and onto two feet when climate change reduced tree cover. Dr Isabelle Winder, from the Department of Archaeology at York and one of the paper’s authors, said: 'Our research shows that bipedalism may have developed as a response to the terrain, rather than a response to climatically-driven vegetation changes. Archaeologists at the University of York said the rocky African landscape - such as Granitberg Mountain in South Africa (pictured) - provided shelter and opportunities to trap prey for early man . Neanderthals breastfed their babies for over a year - just like humans, according to new research. Chemical analysis of a neanderthal child's tooth reveal it was reared on mother's milk for seven months with suckling continuing for the same period coupled with solid food. The change from breastfeeding to plants and grains can be established by looking at differences in the distribution of barium – a similar compound to calcium - in teeth enamel. This enabled Dr Manish Arora and colleagues at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York to discover the early life diet of a 10 to 12 year-old child that lived in a cave in Belgium around 100,000 years ago. 'The broken, disrupted terrain offered . benefits for hominins in terms of security and food, but it also proved a . motivation to improve their locomotor skills by climbing, balancing, . scrambling and moving swiftly over broken ground - types of movement . encouraging a more upright gait.' The research has suggested that the hands and arms of upright hominins were then left free to develop improved dexterity and tool use, supporting a further key stage in the evolutionary story. The development of running adaptations to the skeleton and foot may have resulted from later excursions onto the surrounding flat plains in search of prey and new home ranges. Dr Winder said: 'The varied terrain may also have contributed to improved cognitive skills such as navigation and communication abilities, accounting for the continued evolution of our brains and social functions such as co-operation and team work. 'Our hypothesis offers a new, viable alternative to traditional vegetation or climate change hypotheses. It explains all the key processes in hominin evolution and offers a more convincing scenario than traditional hypotheses.” The findings were published in the journal Antiquity. | Traditional theory suggested that our ancestors were forced out of the trees and onto two feet when climate change reduced tree cover .
But new theory shows that upright gait may .
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Burnley have announced the double signing of striker Marvin Sordell from Bolton and former West Ham midfielder Matt Taylor. Sordell has made his switch for an undisclosed fee, the 23-year-old agreeing a deal that could keep him at Turf Moor until 2017. Dynamic duo: Burnley have signed Marvin Sordell (left) and Matt Taylor (right) ahead of the 2014/15 season . New recruit: Burnley have signed former West Ham midfielder Taylor on a two-year deal . On the ball: Bolton striker Sordell has moved to Turf Moor for an undisclosed fee . He spent last season on loan from Bolton at Charlton, for whom he scored eight goals, and has been capped 14 times for England Under-21s. Sordell previously worked under Burnley boss Sean Dyche at Watford, the club with whom he made his Football League debut. Taylor, 32, has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the Clarets after the conclusion this summer of his West Ham contract. He is another ex-Bolton man and played for Portsmouth before that. Those arrivals are the second and third this week for Burnley after they announced on Wednesday that former Blackpool goalkeeper Matt Gilks had joined them. The other player to sign for them this summer has been Michael Kightly, who had been on loan from Stoke last term and has now made the move permanent. Burnley are preparing for their return to the Premier League after clinching promotion from the Sky Bet Championship at the end of 2013/14. Safe hands: Burnley also announced the arrival of former goalkeeper Matt Gilks on Wednesday . Permanent deal: Michael Kightly joined the Turf Moor this summer after impressing on loan last season . | Burnley have signed Matt Taylor and Marvin Sordell .
Taylor joins the Clarets on a two-year deal after his West Ham deal expired .
Sordell has penned a Turf Moor contract until the end of 2017 for an undisclosed from Championship outfit Bolton .
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A restaurant owner was allegedly punched, scratched and kicked after a woman and her friend refused to pay their $289 bill at a trendy tapas restaurant. Sandra Nikolic's 31st birthday celebration at her favourite Spanish restaurant, El Bulli in Surry Hills, in inner-Sydney, ended with her and her friend Daniel McGinn being arrested on Saturday night. At about 8.30pm the pair were seen verbally abusing a waitress when Adrian Paita, the restaurant's owner, approached the party of seven and asked the two to stop swearing at his staff members, Parramatta Bail Court heard on Sunday. Sandra Nikolic, 31, and her friend Daniel McGinn allegedly assaulted a restaurant owner after refusing to pay the $289 bill at Spanish restaurant El Bulli in Surry Hills, Sydney . Adrian Paita, the restaurant owner, told police he was kicked, punched and scratched . Nikolic and McGinn, 29, allegedly flew into a rage and began to verbally lash out at the owner. 'You get f****d you f*****g c***', Ms Nikolic allegedly said. 'We're not welcome here, our money isn't good enough - we should just leave without paying,' McGinn allegedly added. Nearly an hour later, five people from the party left the restaurant, leaving her and McGinn with the $289 dinner bill, according to Sydney Morning Herald. But rather than pay in full, McGinn reportedly said: 'Here's $200, I want a receipt', while the two stood at the register. Following his refusal to accept a lesser amount, Mr Paita stood in front of the restaurant's door and ordered his staff to 'call the police' and 'lock the door'. Nikolic began allegedly scratched the owner's neck, arm, ear and chest and ripped at his clothes, the court heard. Nikolic was celebrating her 31st birthday with seven friends at her favourite Spanish restaurant in Sydney . McGinn allegedly joined in on the physical abuse, punching the owner's back and kidney area and kicking his knee. Restaurant staff attempted to restrain Nikolic but McGinn shouted 'this is sexual assault!' and began to allegedly violently abuse them. When police arrived to arrest the pair, Nikolic is accused of resisting arrest and kicking one of the officers in the arm while being placed in a police van. New South Wales Police searched the pair and reportedly found four tablets of the prescription drug diazepam, used to treat anxiety disorders or alcohol withdrawal systems. Nikolic was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, resisting arrest and assaulting police. Her friend was charged with assault. Both have been granted bail and are set to return to court on November 14. When police arrived at the scene, Nikolic allgedly resisted the arrest and kicked one of the officers while being escorted into a police van . Before the incident, Nikolic posted an invite to all her 'REAL' friends on Facebook. 'To all my REAL FRIENDS on here i will be having a birthday party dinner thing if anyone is interested in coming let me know the plan is to go to the best restaurant ever for dinner el bulli spanish tapas and cocktails yum yum then maybe out for some dancing and much much more drinking its this saturday,' she wrote. | Sandra Nikolic was celebrating her 31st birthday with seven friends at El Bulli in Sydney's Surry Hills .
She and her friend Daniel McGinn, 29, allegedly began to abuse a waitress .
They are said to have refused to pay the $289 bill in full .
The pair punched, scratched and kicked restaurant owner Adrian Paita, a court heard .
Both have been charged with assault and will appear in court on November 14. Nikolic faces a further charge of resisting arrest . | 3dd0b1e6d204b4d60add20fae39037b9aedacb00 | [
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(CNN) -- Edward Snowden's leaks of classified intelligence already have him being compared to Daniel Ellsworth of the Pentagon Papers and Bradley Manning of the WikiLeaks fame. Snowden felt compelled to leak valuable documents about the NSA's surveillance programs. The 29-year-old was willing to give up his $200,000 job, girlfriend, home in Hawaii and his family. He boldly pronounced, "I'm willing to sacrifice all of that because I can't in good conscience allow the U.S. government to destroy privacy, Internet freedom and basic liberties for people around the world with this massive surveillance machine they're secretly building." The uproar over the recent revelations about government surveillance programs has raised eyebrows and concerns across the political spectrum. Many on the left have been surprised that most of the same policies (now even the surveillance of U.S. citizens and phone companies) that President George W. Bush initiated, are being used, and expanded upon, by the Obama administration. Many on the right say it is government overreach and that Congress should have been briefed on the broad programs. Although the cause for alarm in political or policy circles might have merit, the exercise of these authorities by the executive branch does, in fact, appear to be legal. Once again, the war on al Qaeda is pitting national security against America's longstanding commitment to the promotion of civil liberties and human rights. Opinion: Edward Snowden is a hero . The current threat by al Qaeda and jihadists is one that requires aggressive intelligence collection and efforts. One has to look no further than the disruption of the New York City subway bombers (the one being touted by DNI Clapper) or the Boston Marathon bombers to know that the war on al Qaeda is coming home to us, to our citizens, to our students, to our streets and our subways. This 21st century war is different and requires new ways and methods of gathering information. As technology has increased, so has our ability to gather valuable, often actionable, intelligence. However, the move toward "home-grown" terror will necessarily require, by accident or purposefully, collections of U.S. citizens' conversations with potential overseas persons of interest. An open society, such as the United States, ironically needs to use this technology to protect itself. This truth is naturally uncomfortable for a country with a Constitution that prevents the federal government from conducting "unreasonable searches and seizures." American historical resistance towards such activities is a bedrock of our laws, policies and police procedures. But what might have been reasonable 10 years ago is not the same any longer. The constant armed struggle against the jihadists has adjusted our beliefs on what we think our government can, and must, do in order to protect its citizens. However, when we hear of programs such PRISM, or the Department of Justice getting phone records of scores of citizens without any signs of suspicious activities nor indications of probable cause that they might be involved in terrorist related activities, the American demand for privacy naturally emerges to challenge such "trolling" measures or data-mining. The executive branch, although particularly powerful in this arena, must ensure the Congress is kept abreast of activities such as these surveillance programs. The need for enhanced intelligence activities is a necessary part of the war on al Qaeda, but abuse can occur without ensuring the legislative branch has awareness of aggressive tactics such as these. Our Founding Fathers, aware of the need to have an energetic, vibrant executive branch in foreign affairs, still anticipated checks upon the presidency by the legislature. Working together, the two branches can ensure that both legally, and by policy, this is what the citizens desire of their government -- and that leaks such as Snowden's won't have the impact and damage that his leaks are likely to cause. As for Snowden, regardless of how any of us feel about the national security surveillance programs at issue, he must be extradited back to the U.S. for interviews and potential trial -- if for no other reason than to deter others from feeling emboldened to break the law in the same way in the future. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Glenn Sulmasy. | Edward Snowden leaked classified intelligence about government surveillance .
Glenn Sulmasy: Enhanced intelligence activities are necessary in the war on terror .
Abuse can occur if Congress is not aware of tactics like data-mining, he says .
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In the wake of criticism over a two-game suspension for Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice, the NFL has established a six-game unpaid ban for personnel who violate the league's policy on domestic violence, Commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday. A second incident would be punished by a lifetime ban from the league, Goodell said in a letter and memo to the owners of the league's 32 teams. Without referring to Rice by name, he acknowledged in his letter that he made the wrong decision in that case. "I didn't get it right. Simply put, we have to do better. And we will," he wrote. The policy, which is effective immediately, also applies to other types of violence. "Violations of the Personal Conduct Policy regarding assault, battery, domestic violence or sexual assault that involve physical force will be subject to a suspension without pay of six games for a first offense, with consideration given to mitigating factors, as well as a longer suspension when circumstances warrant." Goodell said the circumstances that would warrant a longer suspension include incidents that predate a person's time with an NFL team or acts that involve choking, repeated blows or a weapon. They also include violence against a pregnant woman or in view of child. Lifetime bans may be appealed after a year. The players union issued a response. "We were informed today of the NFL's decision to increase penalties on domestic violence offenders under the Personal Conduct Policy for all NFL employees. As we do in all disciplinary matters, if we believe that players' due process rights are infringed upon during the course of discipline, we will assert and defend our members' rights," the NFL Players Association said in its statement. Read the letter and memo . Rice was suspended for two games after video showed him dragging his unconscious fiancee -- whom he later married -- from an elevator. Rice resolved the charges stemming from the incident with his now-wife, Janay, and entered a pretrial intervention program in May, the NFL said. Under the program, he won't be prosecuted, and the charges will be expunged after a year, the league said. The punishments, both from the NFL and from the criminal justice system, were widely decried as too light, and the issue quickly spiraled into debates over domestic violence and victim-blaming. Opinion: NFL, apologize to women for Ray Rice . Goodell's letter tells teams to distribute a memo about the new policy to each player and all members of the organizations. The NFL's Personal Conduct Policy states that employees are "held to a higher standard" of conduct. "Persons who fail to live up to this standard of conduct are guilty of conduct detrimental and subject to discipline, even where the conduct itself does not result in conviction of a crime," the policy states. The NFL regular season is 16 games. Ravens' Ray Rice: 'My actions were inexcusable' | Players union says it will continue to defend players rights .
The new policy takes effect immediately, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says .
The commissioner admitted he should have punished Ray Rice more severely .
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Hong Kong (CNN) -- The world watched, as the London 2012 Olympic Games opened with director Danny Boyle's elaborate ode to England, and furiously tapped their reaction on social media. But one comment on Twitter has sparked a political fracas on the home soil of the games, as a British member of Parliament lamented the "multi-cultural crap" of the £27 million ($42.4 million) ceremony. Entitled "Isle of Wonder," Boyle -- the Oscar-winning director best known for hit movies "Trainspotting" and "Slumdog Millionaire" -- put together a star-studded on-field dramatization that drew on Shakespeare and Brit Pop to chart Britain from its pastoral roots through the Industrial Revolution to James Bond, Harry Potter and the Beatles. "The most leftie opening ceremony I have ever seen -- more than Beijing, the capital of a communist state! Welfare tribute next?" wrote Aidan Burley, a Conservative Party MP who was fired as a ministerial aide in David Cameron's government after revelations he attended a Nazi-themed stag party in France last year. "Thank God the athletes have arrived! Now we can move on from leftie multi-cultural crap. Bring back red arrows, Shakespeare and the Stones!" he added minutes later. Burley backpedaled after the strong online backlash against his comments, posting: "Seems my tweet has been misunderstood. I was talking about the way it was handled in the show, not multiculturalism itself." Queen opens the London 2012 Olympics . There was a great deal of comparison being drawn between the London ceremony and the 2008 Beijing Olympics. @legallyblondekf wrote: "Ha! London sees your zillion drummers drumming in unison and raises you a deaf drummer. Your move China," referring to deaf Scottish percussionist Evelyn Glennie leading drummers during the London ceremony. Like London, a pre-eminent director -- Zhang Yimou, director of films such as the 1991 film "Raise the Red Lantern" and more recently "The Flowers of War," starring Christian Bale -- choreographed the Beijing ceremony. "(London's) opening ceremony was a far cry from Beijing's. Even the director of the London Olympics ceremony complained of the budget being too small, having only 27 million pounds," user Haluo-yuan wrote on Sina Weibo, the largest micro-blogging site in China, where state censors block Twitter. "There's no comparison with the formidable China." China's best Olympic hopes in London . Still, commentators on Sina Weibo were largely complimentary of the London ceremony -- although many complained about getting up at 4 a.m. in China to watch the event live. "London's Olympic opening ceremony certainly was interesting, but it can't be said that it was superior to Beijing's. It can only be said that each had its merits," wrote Zhang Yiwu, a professor at Peking University with 3 million followers on Sina Weibo. "Beijing's Olympics and its immense grandeur were hosted by a developing country, by a country that had never hosted the Olympics before," he added. "Now, we can relax but must also understand to strive for new heights of dignity. There's no need for contentious feeling. Each has its own beauty." Ai Weiwei, the Chinese artist and activist, helped design the iconic Bird's Nest stadium for the 2008 Beijing Olympics before he fell afoul with authorities and is now under house arrest on tax evasion charges. He wrote Saturday: "The London opening ceremony is free, relaxed and touching, smoothly switching between different time and space, expressing confidence. It's the festival of modern citizens." Athletes themselves were posting from inside the London arena, such as LeBron James, the three-time NBA MVP who is playing for the U.S. basketball team. James was up late into the night feeding images to Instagram from his view of the ceremony inside the stadium. "Me with one of the best the game of basketball has to offer," he wrote, tweeting a photo alongside U.S. teammate Kobe Bryant. Decoded: Boyle's Olympic spectacular . Indeed, the real-time social media scrum seemed to take some of the fun out of the ceremony for viewers in the U.S., where the broadcast on NBC was tape-delayed to run during prime time hours. Gareth M. Skarka @gmskarka wrote: "Hey @NBCOlympics -- there's still #openingceremony occurring. You already tape-delayed it. Howsabout letting us watch it, not interviews?" . Added Charles Johnson @Lizardoid: "NBC News in LA is still stubbornly pretending the Olympics opening ceremony is just beginning." . After the ceremony, director Boyle tweeted: "Thank you, everyone, for your kind words! Means the world to me. "Proud to be British." CNN's Alexis Lai, CY Xu and Hilary Whiteman contributed to this report . | British politician's opening ceremony tweet sparked a social media backlash .
Aidan Burley, a Conservative Party MP, called the ceremony "multi-cultural crap"
Many online weighed the London ceremony versus the 2008 Beijing Olympics .
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These are the shocking injuries suffered by a Chinese teenager after her father used diesel fuel to try and clean a burn on her foot. Cui Tung, 13, initially scalded her toes while carrying a pan of hot water from the stove to the bath at her home in southern province of Guangdong. Her worried father Cui Shen, 43, did not have any medication to hand, but was told by a neighbour that diesel fuel would solve the problem by numbing the pain. Scroll down for video . Lucky to be alive: Cui Tung, 13, suffered third-degree burns to 60 per cent of her body after her father tried to use diesel fuel to clean a wound on her foot . Badly burned: Tung scalded her foot while carrying hot water from the stove to her bath, and her father Cui Shen decided to use gasoline on the wound after taking advice from a neighbour . Human fireball: Tung was engulfed in flames after the open fire in her home ignited the diesel fumes, causing her legs to burst into flames which quickly set her clothes alight . Shen said: 'He told me that the oil would soothe the injury and would also cool it as it evaporated.' But unfortunately the fumes from the diesel were ignited by an open fire in the family kitchen, turning the girl's legs into a fireball which quickly set her clothing alight as well. The girl's mother, Cui Wan Jen, was also burned after rushing to try to help put out the flames covering her daughter's legs. By the time the flames were extinguished, Tung had burns covering all four of her limbs, and her lower torso. Shen took both of them to hospital, where medics revealed his daugher had suffered third-degree burns to 60 per cent of her body. Doctor Chi Li said: 'For a while it seemed as if she might not even survive. Blunder: Father Shen said a neighbour told him the fuel would numb the wound, and cool it as it evaporated . On the brink: Medics in China's southern Guangdong province said it was doubtful that Tung would survive at first, but her condition is now stable . 'However she is now on the road to recovery although she will need extensive cosmetic surgery and skin grafts to get any sort of normal appearance in the future. 'It's going to be at least five months before she can probably even walk again.' He added: 'The father had taken the fuel from his motorbike. Using diesel fuel to treat a burn is medically completely pointless and indeed, in this case, potentially deadly.' Shen's wife, who was not named, suffered second-degree burns on her calf, and was able to walk again in a week. Recovering: Doctors say Tung will now need extensive skin grafts to her body, and it may be five months before she is able to walk again . Hurt: Tung's mother, who was not named, also suffered second-degree burns to her calf as she tried to extinguish the flames covering her daughter's body . | Cui Tung, 13, burned her foot carrying hot water to fill a bath in China .
Father Cui Shen was told by a neighbour that diesel would numb the pain .
But open fire set light to fuel causing Tung's legs to burst into flames .
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A Romanian television presenter was left nursing a bruised ego after this bizarre stunt went horribly wrong. It all started when the host attempted to climb a metal ladder that was being held up by two women as he tried to demonstrate how a local singer, dubbed the Beyonce of Romania, became famous. But, as he ascended the ladder while describing the gypsy singer's rise to fame, he met the opposite fate with a humiliating fall. A bizarre stunt went horribly wrong on Romanian programme Bad But Good when host tried to climb a ladder . Held up by only his two female assistants, the women struggled under his weight as he ascended . Audience members watched in bemusement as 33-year-old Mihai Morar, the presenter of the programme called Bad But Good, tumbled off the ladder as his assistant, who was struggling to hold it up under his weight, came crashing down with him. After falling face-first into the hard floor, Morar jumped up and shouted: 'Jesus Christ! What a hit. I got it straight in the head.' His lovely assistant was knocked onto her back as the ladder fell against her chest. He quickly fell face-first towards the studio floor, taking his two co-workers down with him . After hitting the floor, the host cried out: 'Jesus Christ! What a hit! I got it straight in the head!' Thankfully, no one was seriously injured - though the TV host did suffer from a severely bruised ego . Viewer Ion Maniu, 25, from Bucharest, said: 'It was all very strange and much more bad than good. 'I didn't really get what he was trying to show and then he fell off and landed on his face while his assistant was knocked over by the ladder which had hit her hard in the chest. 'Full credit to her, she got up and continued smiling. 'But he didn't seem to pay any attention.' A spokesperson for Morar said: 'Mihai hit his head and had to be taken to hospital after the show. He is OK now though.' | Bizarre stunt went horribly wrong on programme called Bad But Good .
TV host attempted to climb a ladder held up by his female assistants .
As he ascended, the ladder came crashing down .
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The 15-year-old son of the leader of a Somali center in Missouri has died after he was intentionally plowed down by an SUV driver on Thursday afternoon. The driver, a man in his 30s, smashed into two boys as they climbed into a car outside the Somali Center of Kansas City at 5.30pm, severing the teenager's legs. The man then tried to drive off, but his vehicle was disabled by the crash so he fled on foot - with witnesses saying they saw him carrying a machete - but he was caught by police and arrested. His identity has not been released, but community members told Fox4 that he had been threatening them on Facebook for months and pulled a gun on a group last month 'because of their Muslim religion'. Scroll down for video . Crash: A 15-year-old boy was climbing into this parked car outside a Somali Center and mosque in Kansas City, Missouri on Thursday when a driver intentionally smashed into him, police said. He later died . 'A month or two ago he came to the Somali mall, two blocks from here. Things got bad, they started arguing and he pulled a gun,' said Abdul Mohamed, who knows the victim. The boy's legs were severed in the crash and he was rushed to Children's Mercy Hospital. Police said he lost a lot of blood. His family told Fox4 that the boy, who has not been identified, was brain dead and they decided to take him off life support on Thursday night. Another boy sustained non-life threatening injuries in the crash. There were also two children inside the targeted vehicle but they were unharmed. Sergeant Bill Mahoney told local news outlets that authorities believe the man intentionally targeted the group, in part because he was found with a machete and other weapons. 'It became pretty clear that this was not an accidental crash, there is a considerable amount of evidence that leads us to believe it was intentional,' he said. Scene: The crash unfolded outside the Somali Center, pictured, which the boy's father heads. Community members said that the driver had previously pulled a gun on people there for being Muslim . People at the scene told Fox that the boy was the son of the Somali Center's leader. Before news of the child's death, one woman, Khadra Dirr, said he was her nephew - 'a smart kid... a straight up A student'. 'Our family is very destroyed at what happened,' she said. 'He's a sweet, loving kid. He doesn't deserve this. I'm pretty sure it's a hate crime from things I've been hearing. I hope that someone brings him to justice.' See below for video . | The teenager was climbing into a car outside the Somali Center of Kansas City - which his father heads - on Thursday afternoon when he was hit .
The driver's car was disabled in the crash so the man fled on foot carrying a machete but was stopped by police and arrested .
Members of the community say a man had been threatening them online for months and had pulled a gun on a group 'for being Muslim'
The boy's legs were severed in the crash and he was declared brain dead; his family took him off life support on Thursday night . | 45af9bc0216654bc9c700b55fdd269fc0f28a629 | [
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By . Rachel Quigley . Last updated at 6:52 PM on 10th July 2011 . Theirs is more than just your average boy-meets-girl story. It's a New York love story, with a very modern twist. Allen Sheinman, 58, and his wife Collette Stallone, 56, said they know the secret to a happy and successful marriage - live in separate homes. For the first four years of wedded bliss the quirky couple - who met online - lived apart, she in Greenwich Village and he in West 23rd street in Manhattan. Secret: Collette Stallone said she believes marriage is a state of mind and doesn't see why two people have to live together . Force: Allen Sheinman said he didn't want to both get married and lived together but the recession drove them to cohabit . Allen - a managing editor at a trade publication - said: 'We consider seventh avenue a long hallway between our two domiciles.' But hard times hit as it did with many New Yorkers and when Allen's boss raised his rent to $1,800 a month, the couple did the unthinkable - they moved in together. Allen said: 'It was really a financial move to cohabit. Now we are transitioning into real-time marriage. This is it.' Speaking about living together - or not living together - Allen said it was an arrangement they were both comfortable with. He said: 'I told her I could handle getting married and living together, just not both. And to my relief she said, "OK let's get married and keep our own places". That's what I was hoping for.' Colette said: 'When you're young you think, "Oh, . we’re in love," all that. But when you get older, you say, "You know, I . love you, but I need my space".' Expensive: Allen leaves his spacious apartment on West 23rd street because the rent was increased to $1,800 . Tight squeeze: There is barely room for Collette's stuff in her Greenwich Village apartment nevermind her husbands . When Allen moved into Colette's tiny one-bedroom Greenwich Village apartment, where she has been for 31 years, even then they weren't prepared to fully live together. Instead of embracing cohabitation, the couple drew up battle lines, put up invisible walls and lay down a set of ground rules. According to the New York Post, there was no crossing into each other's space without permission, she had her own bedroom - where she generously said he could sleep at weekends - and he slept in a sofa bed in the living room. The end?: The couple are still blissfully in love after four years of marriage and living apart but will cohabiting change that? They have their own newspaper and magazine subscriptions,' watch their own TV shows from their own space and even have a shower rota. The kitchen - which also hosts the apartment's only shower - is the only place that is allowed for both couples any time of the day or night. Colette - a retired high-school teacher who now runs her home-made jewellery business - believes that not living together was the secret to their happy marriage. 'Getting married is a state of mind, I don't see why we have to live together. I don't need to see him brush his teeth,' she told the Post. 'It's bad enough I see him brush his hair. 'I don’t know where this idea came from that you always have to be in the middle of whatever the other person is doing.' Alarmingly, she said when she told her ex-husband they were now living together he said: 'I give it four months.' The couple are featured in a documentary titled 'Two's a crowd' which will have its New York premiere at the Rooftop Films Summer Series on July 21. | New York couple happy for four years of marriage until recession saw husband give up his apartment and move in to hers . | 5e195daf0f27b2fb13da8115eaab19a80c5f92e3 | [
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By . Kieran Corcoran . PUBLISHED: . 08:01 EST, 7 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 12:03 EST, 7 March 2014 . Britain could have its first true taste of spring this weekend as parts of the country experience temperatures warmer than Ibiza, and the first batch of British-grown strawberries hit the shelves. London and parts of Devon could hit 18C over the weekend, while the famous Balearic party island, as well as inland hotspots including Madrird, are expected to be just 16C. According to forecasters, the warm weather will continue tomorrow morning, with waves of sunshine working their way up from the south. Signs of spring: A woman relaxes among the daffodils in St James's Park, London, this afternoon. The capital is expected to experience temperatures of up to 18C this weekend . Majestic: Glorious sunshine could be seen today over Buttermere in the Lake District as Britons were told to expect a weekend of good weather . Still waters: The weekend weather will be dry and still, as well as mild, the Met Office predicted . Misty start: Clouds will precede the sunny breakthrough, here being enjoyed by walkers over Derwentwater in the Lake District . The rise in temperatures, which will be accompanied by dry and still weather, is expected to bring a welcome change across the country after an unrelentingly damp winter. Forecasters at the MeteoGroup are predicting highs of 18C in London for Sunday. Forecaster Andy Ratcliffe said: 'England and Wales in general will be fine and warm with sunny spells. It will be cloudier in the Northwest, Scotland and Ireland.' Temperatures have been steadily increasing over the past days, with the year's highest - 16.7C in Heathrow - recorded this afternoon. A wave of high pressure across the southern England has sent sun-revellers into the shops with John Lewis reporting an 11 per cent increase in the sales of barbecues this week. Shops have also reported a spike in barbecue sales in anticipation of of the warmer temperatures. Retailer John Lewis has sent extra stocks of barbecues in its department stores to prepare for the weekend. It has seen online sales of barbecues increase by 11 per cent this week, compared to the same time last year, with other outdoor essentials also performing well. Sun's on the way: Four-year-old Katie Page enjoys a patch of grass coated with flowers ahead of a pleasant weekend . Horesplay: These horses were enjoying blue skies and clear waters in Mynydd Epynt, Wales . Clear skies: These fields of daffodils near Penzance, Cornwall, are another herald of the spring weather to come . Rolling away: These scenes from over Derwentwater give a taste of the glorious vistas forthcoming clear weather will bring . Boating: Calm scenes greeted walkers and watchers at the lake of Derwentwater this morning . Fresh batch: Aida Armasoiu takes a bite of one of the year's first English strawberries, growing here at Donaldsons Nursary in Chichester, West Sussex . Sales of planters are up by 67 per . cent compared to last year, while demand for garden tools has increased . by more than 400 per cent, with green-fingered Brits keen to make the . most of the sunshine. Nicola . Gidlow, outdoor living buyer at John Lewis, said: 'After a wet and . miserable winter it looks as though spring may have arrived earlier than . expected. Tomorrow will bring a wave of mild . and settled weather across the country, with the peak temperature to be . found in Devon and built-up areas around London. North Devon, Heathrow . and Norwich in Norfolk were all tipped by the Met Office to experience . the peak 17C temperature, with lower highs across the rest of the . country: . Scotland: 13CNorthern Ireland: 14CNorth of England: 13CMidlands: 14CEast Anglia: 14CWales: 14CSouthern England: 16CLondon: 17-18C . 'Last March . we still had snow on the ground across much of the UK, so this year . Brits are understandably keen to make the most of the warm weather by . getting their grills going.' A spokesman for the Met Office said: . 'We're going to see progressively drier and more settled weather over . the weekend, continuing for a couple of weeks. 'Saturday will have a dull start, put sunshine will come up from the south, spreading across the country by mid-afternoon. 'An . area of high pressure sitting over the UK should mean really good . weather up until Wednesday, and early indications are that it will . continue for some time. 'Although temperature will be mild, the air will be very settled, so you won't have that chill from the wind. People will feel warmer because it had been so wet over the whole winter, which can make it feel colder.' Although the temperatures nationwide will be a far cry from the March weather record - a reading of 25.6C in Cambridgeshire from 1968 - they are still several degrees in excess of the average. The happy predictions come as Tesco announces that its first English strawberries will be on sale tomorrow thanks to an early harvest because of the unseasonal warmth. The supermarket said that fruit from Chichester, West Sussex, will be sold from tomorrow - a week earlier than usual. Strawberry buyer Simon Mandelbaum said: 'We are a nation of strawberry-lovers who cannot get our hands on the English crop quick enough and this year will be no exception - we are expecting a mad rush. 'Good levels of sunshine and unseasonably warm weather so far in March have been key for our growers, giving them an early crop.' The high pressure system set to send good weather our way is currently settled over France, where beach-goers have been enjoying temperatures in excess of 19C. The beach at Nice was packed as sun-seekers looked out over the clear blue waters, with some giving their bikinis the first outing of the year. Bikinis: Beachgoers were out in force in Nice in the south of France today, where temperatures hit 19C . Sun-soaked: Weather systems in France are set to move on to affect the UK . Relaxed: A woman sunbathes, making the most of the good weather gracing the French shores . | Areas in southern England set for warmest temperatures this year - with 18C predicted for London .
Meanwhile the Spanish party island is expected only to reach 15C or 16C, with inland sunspots like Madrid the same .
Met Office forecasters said the whole country can expect warm, still and dry weather after wet winter .
High pressure system currently affecting France could lead to the pleasant condition lasting well in to next week .
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Dale Jennings bagged a brace as ruthless Barnsley showed no mercy against non-League Chester to book their place in the third round of the FA Cup. Barnsley’s players were woeful in the first match at Oakwell but a rollicking from Tykes boss Danny Wilson did the trick as they swept their Conference opponents aside to set up a home tie against Middlesbrough. The visitors edged ahead when Peter Ramage’s shot was blocked by Matty Brown and the ball fell kindly to Kane Hemmings who emphatically dispatched it high into the net from near the penalty spot. Chester were fortunate to only be a goal down at half-time with goalkeeper Jon Worsnop forced to make saves to deny Jennings and Conor Hourihane. Barnsley players celebrate after Kane Hemmings opens the scoring against Chester . Dale Jennings (3rd left), who scored a brace against Chester, celebrates with team-mates . Barnsley took the sting out of the contest just after the hour when Hemmings slid in Jennings and the winger curled a low shot into the corner. The same player rounded off the scoring in the 88th minute with the pick of the goals, jinking his way into the box with a mazy dribble before planting a shot pass Worsnop. Matt Done scored a hat-trick as Rochdale comfortably saw off Conference side Aldershot with a thumping 4-1 victory to book a third-round tie at home to Nottingham Forest. The League One side, who beat Colchester by the same scoreline on Saturday, took charge of this second-round replay when Done struck in the 31st mnute. Aldershot’s Dan Fitchett equalised in the second half but Rochdale made sure when Peter Vicenti made it 2-1 before Done struck twice in the last 10 minutes. Matt Done opens the scoring for Rochdale against Aldershot before bagging a hat-trick . Tranmere finally had something to celebrate as a goal from Max Power booked them a third-round tie at home to Swansea with a 2-1 victory at home to Oxford. Struggling at the bottom of League Two for much of the season, Tranmere fell behind in the 29th minute when Alfie Potter headed in from Danny Hylton’s cross. But they fought back to equalise with a Kayode Odejayi shot seven minutes later. Then, with 15 minutes left, Power popped up to score from a difficult angle to win it for the home side. League Two side Cambridge and Luton will meet in the third round after both won 1-0 last night. Luton beat Bury at home thanks to a second-half strike from Luke Rooney while Cambridge won at Mansfield after Sully Kaikai scored with a right-foot shot in the 10th minute. | Barnsley beat Chester 3-0 to set up third round tie with Middlesbrough .
Rochdale beat non-league Aldershot 4-1 and face Nottingham Forest next .
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By . Alex Hawkes . PUBLISHED: . 17:00 EST, 23 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 17:00 EST, 23 March 2013 . Sir Joshua Reynolds' portrait of Omai was exempt from capital gains tax because it was used in the business of opening the house to the public . The owners of multi-million-pound art treasures may be able to class their paintings as worthless to escape hefty tax bills after a landmark ruling. The aristocratic Howard family successfully argued that a painting they sold for £9.4 million was part of ‘plant and machinery’ at their stately home and therefore a ‘wasting asset’ exempt from capital gains tax (CGT). The family said the picture by 18th Century English painter Sir Joshua Reynolds had been put on display to attract visitors and so was declining in value for tax purposes. Wealthy aristocrats, nightclub owners and high-end restaurant chains are all eyeing the new tax break that could save them millions of pounds when they sell treasured collectors’ items. The painting – a depiction of Omai, a South Sea Islander who spent two years in England in the 1770s after being picked up by Captain Cook’s ship Adventure – was sold at Sotheby’s in 2001. The Howards, whose Yorkshire home was the setting for ITV’s 1981 adaptation of Evelyn Waugh’s classic Brideshead Revisited, had been arguing with the taxman ever since. But this month’s Upper Tax Tribunal judgment determined that there was no CGT due on the sale of the painting. Mr Justice Morgan said: ‘I accept that there is something surprising in holding that an asset of high value, and one liable to appreciate in value, with a predicted life of more than 50 years, was a wasting asset. ‘However, the painting was only a wasting asset because it satisfied the established test.’ HM Revenue & Customs had argued that if famous paintings could be treated as plant, it would create a huge loophole for tax avoidance. Simon Howard and his wife Rebecca successfully argued that the £9.4¿million painting was part of ¿plant and machinery¿ at their stately home and therefore a ¿wasting asset¿ exempt from capital gains tax . Officials are now considering the judgment. Accountants are equally interested in the details. ‘We will be raising it with our clients, many of whom have valuable paintings,’ said Mike Warburton, a tax adviser at accountancy firm Grant Thornton. ‘People will be looking to locate artwork where it is a part of their business.’ Mr Warburton said the ruling could have wide implications. ‘Supposing somebody bought a Jimi Hendrix guitar. If you hang it on the wall of your nightclub, it’s there for the ambience,’ he said. That would mean it would not be subject to CGT. Individuals usually pay up to 28 per cent tax on any gain they have made when selling valuable items. It is not clear how much CGT the Howard family will avoid through the ruling. The painting was acquired by Frederick Howard, the 5th Earl of Carlisle, in the 1790s. Mr Warburton said the case showed that tax rules are a muddle. ‘The painting was not caught for capital gains tax because it was treated as a wasting asset. 'A valuable painting is almost certainly going to survive for more than 50 years and rise in value. The lawyers were successful in arguing that the painting was “plant”. Few people would think a painting was plant.’ A spokesman for the Howard family said: ‘For many years the painting had been on display to visitors. The judge held that Omai had been ‘‘plant’’ used in the business of opening the house to the public. It therefore qualified for exemption from capital gains tax when sold.’ | Painting of Omai by Sir Joshua Reynolds exempt from capital gains tax .
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(CNN) -- The Sinjar Mountains rise suddenly from the endless desert of northern Iraq, a ridge of craggy rock some 50 kilometers (30 miles) long, running east to west. Barren and windswept, some 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) high, they make a forbidding sight. But for centuries, they have been the refuge of the desperate and a place of mystical importance. Last week, the mountains saw another influx, as tens of thousands of people tried to escape the rapid advance of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, or ISIS, which now calls itself the Islamic State. Many of them were Yazidis, fleeing the town of Sinjar and surrounding villages in convoys of dozens of vehicles. The lucky ones used smuggling routes to cross into Syria and back into Kurdish-controlled areas of northern Iraq. The less fortunate were either seized by ISIS militants or headed into the mountains. The Yazidi are an ancient religious sect -- mainly ethnic Kurds -- that worship an angel figure held by many Muslims to be the devil. ISIS has executed Yazidis who refuse to convert to its extreme ideology. By Sunday, according to Iraqi and Kurdish sources, as many as 20,000 had been able to leave the mountains -- perhaps half of those who had been stranded for nearly a week. U.N. agencies estimated late last week there were as many as 50,000 people in the mountains. Kurdish peshmerga forces appear to have secured an escape route, but a hazardous one with ISIS militants still roaming the area. According to some accounts, Syrian Kurds also helped people use parts of northeastern Syria under their control to reach Kurdish areas of northern Iraq. U.S. airstrikes Saturday against several armored personnel carriers used by ISIS in the area may have helped the escape. But President Obama acknowledged Saturday that securing safe passage for those still stranded would be "logistically complicated." Donatella Rovera of Amnesty International, who is in the region, spoke Sunday of families that had escaped, arriving in the town of Fishkhabour after a circuitous trek through Syria "in terrible condition, fainting from exhaustion." Some had told her that ISIS had abducted women and girls. Unless food and water reach those remaining, mainly on the southern slopes, they have an impossible choice between dying of dehydration and giving themselves up to ISIS. Daytime temperatures exceed 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit). Video of a Kurdish relief mission showed a helicopter landing with supplies on a barren scarp. Hundreds of desperate people ran toward it. Twenty lucky ones were able to scramble aboard for the return flight, many of them hysterical. A few dozen more have been picked up by Iraqi helicopters, which have also been bringing aid to the mountains. Photographs from last week showed thousands of people abandoning their vehicles before trekking to higher altitudes, carrying what they could. On the northern side of the range, Christians were also fleeing, as ISIS fighters pushed toward the mountains from two directions. A few took refuge in caves, according to those who have escaped. Many more wandered the boulder-strewn slopes. The U.S. Air Force has carried out three relief drops on successive nights since Thursday, which have included some 50,000 ready-to-eat meals. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said the Pentagon had "pretty solid information" that of the 72 bundles dropped by C-17 and C-130 aircraft in the first mission, more than 60 had reached "the people who were trapped up there." Two more U.S. airdrops followed, the latest on Saturday night, as well as one by the Royal Air Force. The U.N. Children's Fund -- UNICEF -- estimates that at least 20 flights would be needed to keep the thousands trapped alive for a week. France is also planning aid drops. Crossroads of conflict . The Yazidis settled in the area around Sinjar in the 12th century. The mountains on which they now suffer had a special place in their beliefs. Yazidi tradition held that Noah's Ark had come to rest on the summit. As a minority, they are no strangers to conflict and persecution. Through the ages, cultures, religions and ethnicities have competed and clashed in this part of Iraq. In the early 19th century, the Kurds, Arabs and Yazidis all had different names for Sinjar. Kurdish fighters invaded Yazidi lands, killing hundreds. Frederick Forbes, a British colonial officer who visited the area in 1838, said the Yazidis had "kept the whole of the country between Mosul and Nisibin in a state of alarm" until being "pacified" by the Ottoman Empire. When he reached the town of Sinjar, Forbes found a fertile place fed by mountain streams, but the "ruins of many Mohammedan buildings" recalled earlier battles. Another colonial visitor, Gertrude Bell, wrote in the 1920s that "until a couple of years ago the Yezidis were ceaselessly at war with the Arabs and with everybody else." Everybody else included the Turkish army, which had tried to force the Yazidis to convert to Islam in the last few years of the 19th century, a story told by the traveler Oswald Hutton Parry in his "Six Months in a Syrian Monastery," written in 1895. After the Yazidis had been told to convert, Parry wrote, "none responded. Christianity they were less unready to accept; the Christians were their friends and fellow-sufferers. Islam had always cursed and persecuted them." So the Sultan sent troops commanded by his son to Yazidi villages. "The soldiers slew in all some five hundred men. ... The pretty women and girls he took captive, marrying them by force to his soldiers." The Yazidis did indeed see Christians as fellow sufferers. A hundred years ago, they helped Armenian Christians fleeing Turkey to settle in the shadow of the Sinjar Mountains, along with Chaldean and Syriac Catholics. But in the spring of 1918, Turkish forces arrived and destroyed the settlement as well as many Yazidi homes. For a while after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the Yazidis were unsure whether they would end up as part of Iraq or Syria. Eventually, in 1933, an international commission placed Sinjar inside Iraq -- a decision by colonial overlords that would later haunt the Yazidis. During Saddam Hussein's rule, many of their settlements were razed and their inhabitants forced into "collective villages" as a buffer against the troublesome Kurds. As Matthew Barber writes in the blog Syria Comment, "Saddam bulldozed countless Yazidi towns until there was nothing left but gravel, and then forcibly moved their former inhabitants into collectives situated in locations that served his strategic interests." At least one of those collectives saw its population swell with refugees from Sinjar in recent days. Even after Hussein was overthrown, there was little peace for the Yazidis. Relations with Sunni Arabs remained tense, and after a 17-year old Yazidi girl in the town of Bashika was suspected of having a relationship with a Sunni teenager, extremists murdered more than 20 Yazidis. The girl was stoned to death by her own relatives for daring to have an "impure relationship" -- a so-called honor killing. At the time, the region was a stronghold of al Qaeda in Iraq and a conduit for militants arriving from Syria to fight U.S. forces. Suicide bombings in August 2007 targeted Yazidi communities in and around the town of Qahataniya, killing nearly 200 people. One U.S. military raid near Sinjar in October of that year uncovered hundreds of al Qaeda documents listing foreign fighters who had passed through the area. Now another -- much more powerful -- surge of Islamist militancy threatens the existence of one of the Middle East's most vulnerable peoples. | Tens of thousands of people are trying to escape militants from the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria .
Many of them are Yazidis, who fled into the Sinjar Mountains last week .
Members of the religious sect worship an angel figure held by many Muslims to be the devil .
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By . Mark Duell . UPDATED: . 16:52 EST, 26 July 2011 . A 14-year-old American citizen has been jailed for three years after telling authorities he beheaded four people whose bodies were hung from a bridge. Edgar Jimenez Lugo, known as 'El Ponchis' (The Cloaked One), was given the maximum sentence allowed for a minor in Morelos, Mexico. The U.S. teenager worked for the Beltran Leyva brothers' cartel and killed four people whose bodies were hung in Cuernavaca, authorities said. Jailed: Edgar Jimenez Lugo, of California, known as 'El Ponchis' (The Cloaked One), was given the maximum sentence allowed for a minor in Morelos, Mexico . A judge gave Lugo the maximum sentence for a minor for organised crime, homicide, kidnapping, and drug and weapons possession. He was born in San Diego, California, and was arrested in December as he tried to board a plane in Cuernavaca to Tijuana with his sisters. One of his sisters, aged 16, was also allegedly involved in the crime gang. She apparently disposed of her brother's victims by dumping the bodies on streets and freeways, officials said. Unmasked: Mexican soldiers presented Edgar 'El Ponchis' Jimenez Lugo to the media in the city of Cuernavaca, Mexico, in December 2010 . Another teen sister accompanying them is not suspected of being involved with the cartels. 'I participated in four . executions, but I did it drugged and under threat that if I didn't they . would kill me' Edgar Jimenez Lugo . A video shot by CNN in December showed the boy being interrogated by Mexican military authorities after his capture. In the video, an interrogator asks: . 'How many have you killed,' as Jimenez responds, 'four'. The soldier . then asks: 'How did you execute them?’ The . boy calmly adds: 'I slit their throats. I participated in four . executions, but I did it drugged and under threat that if I didn't they . would kill me.' Explanation: 'El Ponchis' talks to a journalist as he is presented to the media last December shortly after he was arrested . Jimenez and his siblings were living in a poor neighbourhood of Jiutepec, a working-class suburb of Cuernavaca, known as a weekend getaway for Mexico City residents. The area has an industrial area with Nissan, Unilever and other factories and has rustic single-level concrete homes and some farms. Many youths are used by drug cartels in their bloody battles against the government and each other, but the story of El Ponchis is shocking. After he was captured, he said he was kidnapped aged 11 and forced to work for the Cartel of the South Pacific, a branch of the splintered Beltran Leyva gang, and that he had participated in at least four decapitations. Mexican newspaper La Razon reported last month that El Ponchis was paid $3,000 for each murder he committed. | Edgar Jimenez Lugo gets maximum jail term for a minor .
Gang member known as 'El Ponchis' - The Cloaked One .
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The mystery of the Loch Ness monster has drawn millions to the Highlands in the search of the mythical beast. More than 80 years since she was first photographed, a recent spate of Nessie sightings has added weight to the claims that there really is something lurking in the depths of the loch. But the numerous sightings of the so-called beast over the last weeks could be something far more mundane, with experts at the Woodland Trust suggesting people could just be seeing logs floating on the water. Scroll down for video . Earlier this year Richard Collis captured footage of Nessie's head and neck emerging from Loch Ness, but was it just a log? Branch or beast? Another picture taken on the loch showed a strange shape emerging from rough waters . Comparison: Monster photographer Jonathan Bright drew a rough sketch to show how he sees the mysterious object in the water . Several Nessie spotters have come forward in the last few weeks, but the environmental charity claim people could be mistaking driftwood for the mythical creature. The Woodland Trust say 'deadfall' washed out by rivers from nearby Urquhart Bay Wood could explain the vast number of sightings since the Loch Ness Monster was first photographed in 1934. 'Large amounts of wood flows out of the woodland through the two winding rivers that flow into Loch Ness each year, peaking when water is high in late autumn and spring,' a spokesman for the trust told the Independent. 'I think that some of that debris explains the long thin, sometimes stick-like, shapes seen.' The spokesman added that the wood was effectively a 'Nessie spawning ground'. Sightings of the Loch Ness Monster date back to the 6th century, but became more common from the 1930s after George Spicer and his wife claimed to see 'a most extraordinary form of animal' cross the road in front of their car. This underwater photograph from 1972 is said to have been taken during an expedition using sophisticated underwater cameras and sonar equipment . This picture, taken in 1934, sparked a surge in visits to Loch Ness by people desperate to photograph the beast . The Spicers' story led thousands of people to visit Loch Ness to try to take a photograph of the creature. After sonar searches, countless hoaxes and dozens of weird and wonderful explanations for the sightings, no one has taken a clear picture of Nessie. In 2006, palaeontologist Neil Clark, from Glasgow University's Hunterian Museum, put forward an intriguing explanation linking the Loch Ness monster sightings to elephants. He said circuses used to visit Inverness often and would stop on the banks of Loch Ness to give the animals a rest. There are similarities between trunks and some of the most famous Nessie photographs, he said. 'The circuses used to take the road up to Inverness and allow their animals to have a rest, swim about in the Loch and refresh themselves,' Dr Clark said at the time. More recently, images have emerged allegedly showing Nessie poking her head out of the water, but the blurry images and video are not clear cut. Last year a satellite picture from an Apple map app appeared to show a large, mysterious creature swimming through the loch. The Official Loch Ness Monster Fan Club said the sighting was 'likely' to be a true image of the beast. In 2013, this shadowy form measuring around 100ft long and seemingly having two giant flippers powering it through the waters of Loch Ness was photographed by an Apple map app . A poll conducted in 2012 found that 24 per cent of people professed belief in the Loch Ness monster . Following Nessie's first modern sightings in the 1930s, which were often printed in newspapers, thousands took to Loch Ness to try to take their own picture of the mysterious creature. Dozens of blurry images emerged, with some taking to creating elaborate hoaxes of the hidden beast. Here are some of the most famous sightings of the Loch Ness Monster. This blurred picture, said to show the Loch Ness Monster, was taken by Hugh Gray in 1933 and published in the Daily Express . A close-up of what could be the Loch Ness Monster. The photo was taken by William Jobes in 2011 . In 2001 semi-retired photographer James Gray and friend Peter Levings took this while they were out fishing . | Loch Ness monster sightings may actually be logs, Woodland Trust say .
Driftwood could be to blame for all Loch Ness sightings, the charity said .
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By . Lawrence Conway . PUBLISHED: . 11:21 EST, 17 April 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 13:25 EST, 17 April 2012 . Brave: Chris Taylor from Lancashire will be the first man to take on the London marathon with a defibrillator implant under his skin . A man with a rare genetic disorder will be the first to complete the London marathon with a built-in defibrillator that will zap him back to life if his heart stops mid-race. Chris Taylor nearly died when he went into cardiac arrest suddenly last year. Since then he has worn a small heart-shocking device implanted under his skin similar to footballer Fabrice Muamba’s. Chris, 23, was born with a condition which means the walls of his heart are sponge-like instead of ‘compact’ like a normal heart. It means that at any time he could suffer another arrest and must limit his physical activity at all times. But despite his potentially deadly condition, Chris has pledged to take on the 26-mile challenge on April 22 in the hope of raising thousands for the British Heart Foundation. His case comes just weeks after Bolton Wanderers midfielder Fabrice Muamba dramatically collapsed on the pitch suffering from a similar heart condition. Muamba was technically 'dead' for 78 minutes after collapsing during the FA Cup tie at Tottenham last month, but was released from hospital on Monday after being fitted with a defibrillator implant. Chris, from Lytham St Annes, Lancashire, said: 'I heard about it after it had happened and watched it back afterwards. 'I saw the paramedics shocking him and it was very close to home for me. 'I can’t remember how long my own heart stopped for, but seeing the Muamba incident makes you remember being in that position. Determined: Chris Taylor in training for his London marathon bid . 'It’s one of the reasons that I’m so determined to complete the marathon because I want to raise awareness of heart conditions such as his and mine.' Chris was diagnosed with the condition, called left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy, at 15 after a series of MRI scans. His a genetic illness so rare that at that time only a handful of cases had been discovered. His father Tommy, 48, an airline pilot, carries the faulty gene and had also passed the condition on to Chris’s sister, Vicky, 24, a trainee solicitor. High-tech: The device and how it sits under the skin . Chris decided to become a school teacher and started a two year course in geography. But just four months into his first year, he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while lying on his bed. He was rushed to hospital and spent four nights at the Heart Attack Centre at Staffordshire University Hospital. There doctors gave him three options: do nothing, have a heart monitor fitted or have a high-tech subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator fitted under his arm. The implant would not only monitor his heart but would also shock him back to life if he ever suffered another cardiac arrest in the future. After discussing it with his family, Chris opted for the implant as he was terrified of suffering another cardiac arrest. Chris Taylor (front left) as a child with his family wearing his grandad's marathon medal . Chris said: 'It’s an extremely rare condition and the medical understanding of it is changing all the time. 'I wanted to do something that would help raise of awareness of my condition and others like it.' Despite the limitations of his condition, Chris has always been fit and had long wanted to complete the London marathon like his granddad, an accomplished runner. He applied for the race through the British Heart Foundation charity and when he was accepted he discovered he would be the first to complete it while wearing a defibrillator implant. Chris said: 'Doing the marathon is my way of showing people that heart conditions don’t necessarily have to hold you back. 'I won’t be able to run a lot of it because of my medication but I’m still hoping to do it in about six hours. 'And although I know it’s unlikely, I know the implant is there as a safety net if the worst comes to the worst.' To sponsor Chris visit www.justgiving.com/christaylormarathon. Footballer: Fabrice Muamba with Dr Andrew Deaner (left) and Dr Sam Mohiddin (right) on release from hospital with a similar heart implant as Chris . | Unique marathon attempt despite serious health risk .
Chris Taylor, 23, to prove condition won’t hold him back .
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BERLIN, Germany (CNN) -- A Canadian auto parts supplier has come to the rescue of German carmaker Opel, negotiating a deal with the German government that will save the company from insolvency. German Finance Minister Peer Steinbrueck talks to reporters early Saturday morning following talks on Opel. Officials from all sides announced the agreement after talks lasting into the early hours of Saturday. German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier called it a "responsible solution" that would preserve the highest number of jobs. Under the terms of the deal, supplier Magna will have a 20 percent stake in GM Europe, an arm of General Motors, which owns the Opel brand. Russia's Sberbank will own a 35 percent share, Opel employees will have 10 percent, and General Motors will retain a 35-percent stake, according to GM spokesman Joerg Schrott. The German government will provide a bridge loan to keep GM Europe operating in the short term. The deal ensures that General Motors' European assets -- which also include the Vauxhall car brand in Britain -- will be unaffected by GM's expected bankruptcy filing. Magna warned during negotiations that it would have to cut about 10,000 jobs. General Motors has around 55,000 employees in Europe. About 2,000 of the job cuts would be in Germany, Magna has said, but a top company official tried to reassure the Germans that it would try to protect the company as much as possible. "We will, and I want to stress that again, preserve all the German Opel locations," said Magna co-Chief Executive Siegfried Wolf. "We're keen to have talks with all the states where Opel has factories in the next few weeks and are confident to be able to find solutions to preserve jobs, because every job that is lost is one too many. We will work with Opel management to try to avoid those job losses." Steinmeier told reporters that such risks can't be avoided. "But," he said. "I think we have found a responsible solution with private investors and interim funding from the state. It is a solution which preserves Opel's location in Germany and also preserves the highest possible number of jobs." German Finance Minister Peer Steinbrueck said early Saturday that the country has guaranteed transitional credit for Opel of 1.5 billion euros ($2.1 billion). In addition, a trust will be created where Opel's stock will be parked prior to the division of shares. Along with Sberbank, Russia's biggest bank, Russian automaker GAZ Group will provide some financing, said Andrzej Kasperek, director of corporate business development with GAZ. "I think the whole arrangement with Magna and the Russian partners made this a very attractive deal for GM," Kasperek said. "Opel is very well regarded as a brand. But we think we can increase sales in the next five years." Financially strapped General Motors is expected to announce as soon as Monday that it is filing for bankruptcy. "Opel has received a perspective for the future," said German Chancellor Angela Merkel after the agreement was reached. "That is a chance for the employees, who have earned it, as I find, because they are not to blame for the situation but instead big mismanagement in the United States of America at GM." Merkel said the German government did "what it had to do" in rescuing Opel. "I had an open exchange in a phone call with the American president, and we agreed that we do everything to bring this complex task to a good conclusion. And this clearly set the tone for the negotiations," Merkel said. | Germany picks Magna to buy majority stake in Opel, news reports say .
German government agrees to fund bridging loan to keep Opel in business .
Magna also seeking to bring Russian partners into Opel deal .
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Since shooting to fame as Mark Wright's fiance on The Only Way Is Essex back in 2010, Lauren Goodger has seen her star - and her confidence - rise. As well as enjoying a stint on Celebrity Big Brother and Dancing On Ice, the 28-year-old has successfully launched her own cosmetics company, Lauren's Way. But the reality TV star-turned-entrepreneur wants to put her newfound confidence and sense of style to good use - by designing a clothing range. Big plans: Lauren Goodger found fame on TOWIE back in 2010 and now she wants to grow her empire by launching a clothing range . Speaking about what she's got coming up, Lauren told MailOnline: 'I would love my own clothing range that's different and caters for curvy sexy girls.' Lauren would be following in the footsteps of her former castmates Gemma Collins, Sam Faiers and Amy Childs, who all have their own fashion ranges. The blonde star also revealed the secret behind the toned body she's been flaunting in her recent social media snaps. So THAT's her secret! Lauren, who has been showcasing her toned physique on social media in recent weeks, says her newfound love of dancing helps her stay in shape . Speaking about her healthy new lifestyle, she explained: 'I try and work out as much as I can and eat healthily, which can be hard with my busy schedule. I love dancing, so that’s a great way to stay toned.' And Lauren has certainly been putting her newly acquired dancing skills to good use in her Instagram videos, where she can often be seen gyrating and twerking to the camera. Lauren is also something of a beauty buff and has her own range of tanning products, lashes and hair extensions under the name of Lauren's Way. The glamorous star has been amping up her beauty regime recently - and she swears by chemical peels for beating her acne. Beauty buff: Lauren, who has her own range of lashes and tan, has been getting chemical peels to treat her acne and sun damage . She said: 'I’m always trying various treatments so when I heard about the The Perfect Peel I had to give it ago. 'It’s basically a chemical face peel that takes just 15 minutes, I visited a London clinic to have it done as it is a strong treatment but it was pain free (which surprised me) and the results you just can’t get with any products at home. 'I had mine done which can help with acne and sun damage. After my recent trip to Dubai my skin was in need of some TLC, so I had it to clear my skin and remove any dead skin or pigmentation that the sun caused. It's a deeper treatment which makes your skin clear and glowing, I see it as an investment.' Look good, feel good: The 28-year-old say she has no judgement on anyone who wants to better themselves by having cosmetic surgery . As well as peels, Lauren says she loves getting her eyebrows done. 'Eyebrows really shape your face so it’s important to have strong great brows. I also recently had a Lava Shell massages as it helps me relax and wind down after a long day, running a business can be quite stressful at times,' she added. And the beauty buff is all for cosmetic surgery if it makes you feel more confident. She said: 'I have no judgement on anyone who wants to better themselves and everyone wants to feel good and everyone should feel good.' Lauren and her girl pals enjoyed a night out at the KISS FM Haunted House party in London on Friday night, all dressed in typically risque outfits. Flaunt it! Lauren Goodger dressed as a sexy vampire at the Kiss FM Halloween Party in London this weekend . | Lauren, 28, already has tan and lashes range .
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By . Ray Massey . PUBLISHED: . 09:40 EST, 7 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:22 EST, 7 June 2013 . Network Rail has been condemned for missing all of its punctuality targets across England and Wales – a finding that will come as little surprise to millions of regular train passengers. The rail infrastructure firm – whose top five directors were awarded annual bonuses totalling more than £350,000 – was blamed for 61 per cent of all trains running late over the past year. That rises to 70 per cent on the key West Coast mainline from London to Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool and Glasgow.. Failures by Network Rail caused trains to be delayed for millions of minutes . The rail infrastructure firm was responsible for the majority of delays on most lines, the damning new report showed . Of the 657,000 trains which ran late during the past 12 months, Network Rail was responsible for 401,000 of them, say watchdogs. Their damning report lists a catalogue of failures from punctuality to passenger disruption and concludes that Network Rail ‘must do better’. More than 70,500 long-distance services were either cancelled or ran more than ten minutes late – putting Network Rail on track for a £75million fine. And more than 361,000 train services in London and the South East were either cancelled or more than five minutes late last year, according to the report by the Office of Rail Regulation. Regional services also narrowly failed to meet their punctuality targets, with 91.1 per cent on time, compared to a target of 92 per cent. Failure: Network Rail has missed every punctuality target in England and Wales . The report comes amid anger that the top . five Network Rail directors will be awarded annual bonuses totalling . more than £350,000, with chief executive Sir David Higgins getting . almost £100,000 to go with his £577,000 annual salary. Anthony Smith, chief executive of independent watchdog Passenger Focus, . said: ‘Passengers will be disappointed to see that Network Rail is . failing to deliver on their top priority – performance.’ Bonus: Network Rail chief executive David Higgins is to receive £100,000 extra on top of a salary of £577,000 . Bob Crow, general secretary of the RMT transport union, added: ‘This is a ludicrous way to run our railways.’ Shadow transport secretary Maria Eagle said: ‘It is not good enough that . commuters are facing so many delayed and cancelled trains, despite . inflation-busting fare rises and huge public investment in our railways. 'These latest figures make it all the more outrageous that Network Rail . bosses have received massive bonuses.’ Rail minister Norman Baker said: ‘Passengers expect their trains to arrive on time but unfortunately the industry’s performance over the past year has not been good enough. The industry needs to up its game.’ The watchdog also cites failures on the length of delays, freight punctuality, and Network Rail’s ability to manage its assets, including tracks and bridges. The report concludes bluntly: ‘Network Rail missed all of its targets for the punctuality of passenger services in England and Wales in 2012-13. ‘Levels of punctuality for passenger services in England and Wales remain below what Network Rail has been funded to achieve. The company has some catching up to do.’ The watchdog is also investigating ‘whether Network Rail did everything reasonably practicable to deliver punctuality targets for passenger services in the long-distance and London and South East sectors’. A Network Rail spokesman said: ‘The economic times in which we live mean that alongside delivering new capacity we need to keep a constant drive for improved efficiency.’ Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group has launched legal action against Network Rail for alleged breach of contract . | Damning report reveals catalogue of 'fails' and says firms 'must do better'
Senior bosses received bonuses sparking 'rewards for failure' row .
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This picture shows the aftermath of a drink-driver who ploughed into the side of a police car and narrowly missed two officers while they were out on patrol. The two policemen had a lucky escape when a Volkswagen Golf crashed into their car in Dudley, West Midlands in the early hours of Saturday morning. The car was hit with such force the doors were wrenched off. Amazingly, one policeman managed to limp from the wreckage to arrest the suspect. A drink-driver smashed in this police car, causing both doors to be wrenched off. One officer was trapped inside the vehicle but the other managed to escape and arrest the 44-year-old male driver . The second policeman was trapped in the passenger seat at the scene - but was later freed with the help of firefighters. Both officers were taken to hospital for treatment but neither man's injuries are believed to be serious. West Midlands Police confirmed the 44-year-old driver of the other vehicle was held on suspicion of drink driving. The suspect, from Dudley, has since been released on police bail pending further enquires. The force has also released a picture showing the mangled wreckage of the squad car in the aftermath of the crash - which happened at around 2.40am. The man was driving in a Volkswagen Golf (library image). Police confirmed the 44-year-old was held on suspicion of drink driving, but was released on police bail . Today, Chief Inspector Jack Hadley, West Midland Police's force incident manager, said: 'Both officers were extremely lucky not to suffer more serious injuries. 'They were on a routine patrol when the collision happened. The driver of the other car had lost control of his vehicle and the end result could have been far worse. 'I want to remind everyone to think carefully before getting behind the wheel this weekend - there is absolutely no excuse for driving while drunk. 'If you're planning a night out over the bank holiday weekend think about how you're going to get back and leave your car at home.' | Drink-driver ploughed into a police car in Dudley, West Midlands .
Car was being driven by two officers on Saturday morning patrol .
One was trapped inside car in smash - with the other managing to escape .
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Trying to save the dog, the good Samaritan then needed to be saved himself . A good Samaritan had to be pulled from a freezing river after risking his own life to save a stranger's dog. The well-meaning 51-year-old man jumped into the icy water in Northumberland to try save a dog which was in trouble. But things soon took a turn for the worse when the good Samaritan himself began to drown - other park-goers ran to find buoys to throw to him. An unidentified good Samaritan jumped into freezing temperatures to save a stranger's dog from the icy waters of the River Wansbeck in Morpeth, Northumberland on the weekend . People then rushed to drag the man from the River Wansbeck in Morpeth, while others looked on anxiously. He then had to be helped to safety by passers-by, who threw buoys after the freezing conditions in the river took hold . Witnesses said it took around ten minutes for the man to be hoisted to . safety before the emergency services arrived to assess his condition. The man was taken to Wansbeck Hospital to be checked over while the dog emerged safe and sound. Police warned people not to go into icy water in any circumstances. Sergeant Niall Mackel, from Northumberland Area Command, said: ‘Although . this person was trying to help another member of the public by rescuing . their dog, this only serves to highlight the dangers of going into open . water. ‘Particularly with the recent freezing temperatures which can lead to even strong swimmers getting into difficulty. ‘We would always warn people against going into open water and to . contact emergency services so that they aren't endangering their own . lives in attempting a rescue. ‘Fortunately this didn't result in tragic consequences and I extend my . thanks to those people who assisted this gentleman prior to emergency . services arrival.’ John Phillips, from Morpeth, Northumberland, took pictures of the rescue while he was in the park with his son, Cameron, seven. The 38-year-old coach builder said: ‘I was down at the park in Morpeth . sledging with my son and I saw someone running with a buoy. ‘People were saying 'what is it, what is it?' and I looked along the . promenade and there was a man with two buoys wrapped around him with a . rope around them. ‘They were trying to pull him out of the water. ‘There was a woman shouting and everyone was wondering what was going on. ‘The ambulance, police and fire brigade came but the man was already out . by then. It was the public that got him out of the water.’ The man was taken to Wansbeck hospital while the dog emerged safe and sound . Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said three fire engines and their . Swiftwater Rescue team were sent to the scene but the man was already . in the care of paramedics. Temperatures plummeted to well below freezing on Saturday night with heavy snow fall causing delays around the region's roads. | Trying to save the dog, the good Samaritan then needed to be saved himself .
During all the kerfuffle, the dog emerged from the water safe and sound .
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By . Anna Edwards . PUBLISHED: . 03:02 EST, 19 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:25 EST, 19 September 2013 . An Egyptian police chief was shot dead today as security forces tried to regain control of an area where gunmen killed 11 policemen last month and mutilated their bodies. Police had earlier fired tear gas and exchanged gunfire with armed men in Kerdasa, on the outskirts of Cairo, state TV reported. Despite wearing a bulletproof vest, Giza Police Chief General Nabil Farag was killed after unidentified militants opened fire. He was shot dead, and as these dramatic photographs show, had to be carried away by his fellow officers. Egyptian security forces help the lifeless body of Giza Police Chief General Nabil Farag, who was killed after unidentified militants opened fire . Police Chief General Farag had been on an operation with security forces deployed early morning to the town of Kirdasa to drive off suspected Islamists taking control of the town near Giza Pyramids, Egypt . Security troops backed up by helicopters, had stormed into the area, an Islamist stronghold, to carry out arrests after the torching of a number of police stations and the killing of an estimated 11 officers in clashes that followed the removal of President Mohamed Morsi in July. Kerdasa police station was abandoned after it was hit with rocket propelled grenades and gunfire on August 14 - the same day security forces moved against protests by supporters of the deposed president, killing hundreds. Police forces had not been allowed in Kerdasa since then. General Nabil Farrag, the assistant security director of the Giza Province, is dragged from a car after he was shot during an operation against gunmen . General Nabil Farrag died shortly after being brought to a hospital. Security forces captured 14 Islamist fugitives wanted for alleged involvement in violence in the village and at the six-week long Islamist sit-in outside Cairo University in support of ousted president Mohammed Morsi . The Egyptian Interior Ministry said the police chief was shot by gunmen positioned on the roofs of schools and mosques which the militants had taken over. At least one other police officer was injured in Thursday's violence, state TV reported. It said police forces took control of the area and imposed a curfew. As police and rebels fired at each other, Egyptian explosives experts were working to defuse bombs found on the public metro. Specialists defused two primitive bombs which has been planted 100 metres from Helmeyet el-Zaytoun station in northeast Cairo. Security troops stormed into the area to arrest people accused of torching police stations and killing an estimated 11 security officers . Egyptian soldiers wait for instructions as they gather in a street during an operation against gunmen in the underfire Kerdasa district . Residents of the area said yesterday they were not in control of the area but do not want police there . Egyptian soldiers take cover behind an armoured personnel carrier as they keep watch during an operation against gunmen in the Kerdasa district . Egyptian security forces take cover during clashes with suspected militants, who have been fighting with police since Morsi was ousted . Egypt has suffered outbreaks of violence and attacks on police and civilians following Morsi's exit. Violence between his supporters and security forces included massive attacks on police stations, security officers and churches. At least 1,000 people have died in the violence with most deaths coming during the security forces' dispersal of two pro-Morsi sit-ins in Cairo on August 14. About 100 police officers also died in the clashes. Nearly 2,000 Islamist activists and politicians have been arrested since Morsi's removal. Smoke rises during the fierce battles between Egyptian security forces and suspected militant, in the town of Kirdasa, near Giza Pyramids . Kerdasa, known for producing and selling luxury fabrics is 14 km from Cairo and known to be an Islamist stronghold. Residents of the area said yesterday they were not in control of the area but do not want police there. 'We don't trust them as we know they will come to arrest people we know and respect whom they blame on the violence that we know was done by outsiders, not by our respectable sheikhs,' Ahmed Aly, a resident, told Reuters on Wednesday. Egyptian security forces had on Monday stormed the town of Delga in Minya province, about 300 km south of Cairo, clearing barricades that was set by Morsi's supporters there who were almost in control of the town. Forces arrested 56 residents. | Troops stormed Kerdasa, near Cairo, to arrest those accused of torching police stations and killing security officers .
Policeman shot dead as officers and gunmen fired tear gas and bullets .
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(CNN) -- As part of an effort to share the best practices of modern business among organizations across the globe, CNN is talking to some of the world's top executives. In line with this, CNN will be hosting three events looking at modern strategies in today's business arena. The first of these master classes will be based at the China Europe International Business School in Shanghai and will be aired November 10 and 11. One of the guests at the event will be Howard Schultz, chairman of the international coffee shop chain Starbucks. He will be part of a live discussion at the master class and will take questions that you, the CNN audience, put to him. As the head of a coffee empire that now boasts over 12,000 stores and recorded revenues in 2006 of $7.8 billion, Schultz is well equipped to tackle questions on the best ways to succeed in today's business world. The CNN Boardroom Master classes will take place in the homes of the world's largest stock markets -- Shanghai, New York and London. It airs on November10 at 2115 and November 11 at 0115 & 1615 HKT. E-mail to a friend . | CNN will host three Boardroom Master Classes with business experts .
The first event will feature Starbucks Chairman Howard Schultz .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 13:50 EST, 20 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 17:37 EST, 20 December 2013 . Canada has removed all anti-prostitution laws after sex workers fought for safer working conditions following the serial killings of prostitutes by a pig farmer in British Columbia. The 9-0 Supreme Court ruling found that the laws violated the guarantee to life, liberty and security of the person but it will not take effect immediately because Parliament has a one-year reprieve to respond with new legislation. Prostitution isn't illegal in Canada, but many of the activities associated with prostitution are classified as criminal offenses. Scroll down for video . Cracking the whip: Dominatrix Terri-Jean Bedford was one of three plaintiffs in the case pushing for the decriminalization of certain activities associated with prostitution like running a brothel . Concern: Sex workers felt that by banning the likes of street solicitation, their health and safety was at risk . The high court struck down all three prostitution-related laws: against keeping a brothel, living on the avails of prostitution, and street soliciting. The landmark ruling comes more than two decades after the Supreme Court last upheld the country's anti-prostitution laws. The decision upheld an Ontario Court of Appeal ruling last year that struck down the ban on brothels on the grounds that it endangered sex workers by forcing them onto the streets. Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin, writing on behalf of the court, said Canada's social landscape has changed since 1990, when the Supreme Court upheld a ban on street solicitation. 'These appeals and the cross-appeal are not about whether prostitution should be legal or not,' she wrote. 'They are about whether the laws Parliament has enacted on how prostitution may be carried out pass constitutional muster. I conclude that they do not.' Happy day: Valerie Scott (center) is a former sex worker who helped push for the change in laws after six prostitutes were found dead on a pig farm that belonged to a serial killer . A Vancouver sex worker who was part of a group that brought the case applauded the court's decision. 'I'm shocked and pleased that our sex laws will not cause us harm in a year,' Amy Lebovitch said in a news conference. Katrina Pacey, a lawyer for the group, called it 'an unbelievably important day for the sex workers but also for human rights.' 'The court recognized that sex workers have the right to protect themselves and their safety,' she said. Sex-trade workers argued that much has happened since the high court last considered prostitution, including the serial killings of prostitutes by Robert Pickton in British Columbia. Pickton was convicted in 2007 of killing six women whose remains were found on his farm outside Vancouver. In 1990, the two women on Canada's Supreme Court dissented on the ruling upholding the ban on street solicitation. This time, all six men on the court justices sided with their three female colleagues. Now and then: Scott (left) and Bedford (right) are both retired but the change in legislation will effect current sex workers like Amy Lebovitch (center) when it goes into effect next year . Peace of mind: Scott and Lebovitch hug after the ruling was announced, which cited sex workers' right to life, liberty and security of the person . 'The harms identified by the courts below are grossly disproportionate to the deterrence of community disruption that is the object of the law,' McLachlin wrote. 'Parliament has the power to regulate against nuisances, but not at the cost of the health, safety and lives of prostitutes.' The Supreme Court appeared to acknowledge the Pickton case in the ruling, saying: 'A law that prevents street prostitutes from resorting to a safe haven such as Grandma's House while a suspected serial killer prowls the streets, is a law that has lost sight of its purpose.' Grandma's House was a safe house established to support street workers in Vancouver's drug and violence-riddled Downtown Eastside, at about the same time as fears were growing that a serial killer was prowling the streets. The Supreme Court also struck down the law that makes living off the avails of prostitution illegal, rejecting the Ontario government's argument that it is designed 'to target the commercialization of prostitution and to promote the values of dignity and equality.' The three principles in the case are: Lebovitch, retired dominatrix Terri-Jean Bedford and former prostitute Valerie Scott, of Toronto. Parliament could ask the Supreme Court for an extension on the effect of the ruling, if it has tabled legislation but can't meet the one-year deadline. The ruling told Parliament it needs to reshape the legal framework around prostitution. | Prostitution was already legal in Canada but a number of related laws attempted to curb the practice .
Today's court ruling struck down the bans against running brothels, living off gains made by prostitution and street solicitation .
Fight began when sex workers called for greater legal protections after serial killer on a pig farm murdered six prostitutes .
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(CNN) -- The United States is a Pacific power. Not only do millions of Americans live in states that border or are firmly rooted in the Pacific, more than 300,000 military service members and civilians who support them are stationed throughout the Pacific. Countless American businesses and farmers also rely on access to this expanding market that has become an engine of global economic growth. In addition to reflecting our values, our foreign policy must reflect the fact that our prosperity and security is intimately linked with that of the Asia-Pacific. Having just returned from this critical region, we heard directly from senior U.S. military commanders, along with key leaders in Japan and South Korea, about the desire for bolstering alliances that have been the cornerstone of stability in Asia. We also met senior Chinese officials in Beijing and U.S. business leaders in Shanghai about potential opportunities and challenges accompanying China's dramatic rise. Asia's continued economic growth is not certain, and the region is threatened by a despotic and volatile North Korean regime armed with nuclear weapons. Many nations are concerned that China will use its growing economic and military power to coerce its neighbors. Our allies and adversaries alike have seen how America failed to enforce its "red line" in Syria, and they are questioning whether we have the resolve to respond decisively to challenges in Asia. Our partners are watching America's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. They fear allowing an assault on Ukraine's territorial integrity to stand will invite challenges to the established international order and fuel already tense maritime territorial disputes that threaten stability in Asia. For decades, America has deterred threats to peace in Asia, and these partners worry America lacks the commitment and capabilities to back threats with action. America cannot lead in the region if it is thousands of miles away. The indispensable symbol of American strength and leadership is the U.S. carrier fleet. Protecting key international shipping lanes -- vital to our own economic stability -- has long been a central mission of the U.S. Navy. But it is a mission that requires the forward basing of significant American naval resources, most importantly aircraft carriers such as the USS George Washington. We were honored to board the George Washington at its forward port facility in Japan and visit its crew. This aircraft carrier is due for a midlife overhaul, but the administration's proposed budget doesn't include funding for this much-needed service, putting the future of it and the 11-carrier fleet in jeopardy. Our military commanders were clear about the need for the unique power projection capabilities provided by our aircraft carrier fleet. These commanders know our allies and adversaries alike are watching to see if America allows its military superiority to wither, and struggle every day to reassure their counterparts throughout the region. America cannot keep the peace alone -- nor have we. Our allies have welcomed American military forces on their soil for decades, allowing the United States to project military power far from our shores and enhancing our security here at home. We are encouraged by the desire of these allies to contribute more to regional security, but much work is needed to help them bolster their defenses, encourage greater coordination among them and reassure our allies and adversaries of our enduring commitment to Asia. The sheer economic dynamism of Asia is impressive, and more than half of the world's population lives there. It is important for America's economy that billions of Asian consumers are able to purchase our goods, services and agricultural products more easily. This is why we support the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which is needed not only to facilitate greater trade across the Pacific but also to establish the economic rules of the road firmly for the 21st century. A trade agreement based on mutually beneficial terms will promote real economic growth and real jobs here at home. We saw in China the stunning scope of economic growth that has lifted millions out of poverty and bolstered our own economic fortunes. But we were also struck by the absence of political and religious freedom in China. While in Shanghai, we learned of the plight of a Catholic bishop under house arrest for refusing to be subservient to the Communist Party. And we visited a synagogue that by government edict is only open on High Holy Days, just a few times a year. We believe that with economic freedom there should also be political freedom, and we call upon the Chinese government to respect the universal human rights of its own citizens. America has a bright future in Asia, but only if we seize it. Our trip coincided with President Barack Obama's visit to the region. Both Republicans and Democrats delivered similar messages about the importance of our alliances in Asia and our commitment to the region. Now we must back our words with actions. Unless the United States reinvests in its military, strengthens its alliances and displays strong leadership, we will see increased threats, greater risk of instability and economic turbulence in a region of pivotal importance to America's future. Join us on Facebook.com/CNNOpinion. | A GOP delegation, fresh back from Asia trip, looks at U.S. standing in region .
Asia's continued economic growth is not certain, these lawmakers say .
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By . James Slack . PUBLISHED: . 13:12 EST, 28 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 14:53 EST, 28 March 2013 . Andrew Parker has today been unveiled as the new director general of MI5 . A keen birdwatcher who has led MI5’s fight against international terrorism was yesterday named Britain’s new spymaster. Andrew Parker, a married father-of-two, will take charge of the Security Service next month. Home Secretary Theresa May said the 50-year-old - who has worked in security and intelligence for three decades - would bring a ‘wealth of experience’ to the job. He led MI5’s response to the July 7 terrorist attacks in London, overseeing a huge expansion in the Security Service’s resources. Officials say his teams of officers also played the lead role in the disruption of Al Qaida’s attempt to attack multiple transatlantic airliners with bombs hidden in drinks bottles in 2006. He was appointed Deputy Director General of MI5 in April 2007 and has long been considered the favourite to land the top job. For the past six years he has been responsible for all the security service’s investigative and operational work - during which time a string of major plots have been disrupted. His biography, revealed on the MI5 website, says Mr Parker ‘enjoys the outdoors and is a keen ornithologist and wildlife photographer.’ Mrs May said Mr Parker brings ‘a wealth of experience and knowledge’ to the job. She added: ‘Under his leadership the Service will continue to stay ahead of global and domestic threats to our national security and further develop its reputation as one of the world’s most effective security agencies.’ Mr Parker, said: ‘It is a great honour to be appointed Director General of MI5. Mr Parker will replace Sir Jonathan Evans (left) on April 22. Home Secretary Theresa May (right) today said under Mr Parker's leadership 'the Service will continue to stay ahead of global and domestic threats to our national security' ‘I am extremely proud of the . extraordinary work the men and women of MI5 do to keep the country safe . in challenging circumstances. I look forward to leading the Service . through its next chapter.’ The Cambridge University Natural . Sciences graduate has worked on Middle East terrorism, counter . espionage, Northern Ireland terrorism, serious and organised crime, . protective security, policy and strategic planning during his 30 year . career. He spent three years on secondment to . HM Customs & Excise as Director Intelligence before returning to . the Service in 2002 to join the Board as Director for Northern Ireland . terrorism, Protective Security & Serious Crime. Mr Parker led the agency's response to the July 7 attacks on London in 2005 . Mr Parker replaces Sir Jonathan Evans, who is standing down next month after six years in charge. Earlier this week, Mrs May praised . Sir Jonathan’s ‘tireless work’ in helping to ensure there were no . terrorist attacks on the London Olympics. A string of terrorist . atrocities were also foiled on his watch. Mr Parker will face what officials call a ‘diversifying’ range of threats against the UK’s interests. On Wednesday, the Home office . revealed medicine is being stockpiled in readiness for a possible . biological attack on a city centre or train station by terrorists, . security officials revealed yesterday. Officials also warned of the . possibility of a Mumbai-style firearms attack on a crowded place, and . British extremists returning from the civil war in Syria to launch a . plot at home. | Andrew Parker will replace Sir Jonathan Evans on April 22 .
Mr Parker led the agency's response to the July 7 attacks in 2005 .
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A turtle in a hamburger, tadpoles inside the mouth and a corpse all rank among the top five weirdest items passengers have tried to smuggle on to planes. The bizarre list, compiled by Jetcost, also reveals a man attempted to board a plane in Miami for Brazil with bags full of exotic snakes – and reptiles in his pants. Rather than trying to get through security with liquids more than 100ml in volume, it seems some passengers are hell-bent on getting their money’s worth when it comes to hand luggage. Cunning disguise: A man attempted to smuggle guns inside his son's soft toys - including a Mickey Mouse bear . Security alert: A woman tried to smuggle tadpoles through Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China . 1. A turtle in a hamburger.2. A weapon and ammunition in his son's stuffed toys3. Tadpoles inside the mouth4. Seven snakes and three turtles in his pants5. A corpse in a wheelchair pretending to be a passenger . Scooping first place on the list is a man identified as Mr Li who tried to board a flight to Beijing from China's Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in 2013. Security workers noticed ‘strange bulges’ in his luggage as it passed through X-ray machines. Upon finding a turtle hidden in a burger, Mr Li told them: ‘This is not a turtle, but just a hamburger.‘There is nothing to see.’ Second place goes to American father who attempted to smuggle weapons and ammunition in his son’s stuffed toys – including a Mickey Mouse bear. The security officers made the find at . the boarding area in Rhode Island T.F. Green airport in 2012. But, after . speaking to the man, he and his four-year-old son were allowed to fly . to Detroit as it was deemed he posed no threat. Something fishy... A woman attempted to smuggle tadpoles on to a plane by carrying them in her mouth . In third place, a South Korean woman was put under arrest in the Guangzhou Chinese airport when she tried to pass through security checks with her mouth full of tadpoles last year. The woman was seem trying to board the plane with a bottle of liquid. She was given the option to drink it or throw it – and she chose the first option – but officials noticed she didn’t swallow it. After ordering her to spit out the contents of her mouth, revealing the tadpoles, which she said had been given to her by a friend and she didn’t want to lose them. Seven . snakes on a plane make it into fourth place after a man tried to board a . plane in Miami for Brazil with the reptiles – including turtles - . hidden in his pants. The . Transportation Security Administration spokesman, Jonathon Allen, said . the creatures were confiscated at the time of the attempt in 2011. Snakes on a plane! A man attempted to carry seven snakes and three turtles on to a plane . Making up the top five are the two women who tried to board a plane at Liverpool John Lennon airport – pretended a relative’s corpse in a wheelchair was a passenger. The two German women were arrested in 2010 for ‘failing to give notification of the death ’of a 91-years-old man, with whom they were trying to travel to Berlin – by covering his eyes with sunglasses and pretending he was asleep. A spokesman for Jetcost said: ‘Undoubtedly most flight passengers have experienced airport security controls and have been forced to leave behind small bottles of water, nail clippers or even cheese, just for being too creamy. ‘On the other hand, less innocent objects have tried to pass the inspection and on occasion even succeeded.’ | Snakes on a plane and reptiles in pants also feature among the list .
Chinese man attempted to smuggle his pet turtle in a hamburger .
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It has become one of the worst kept secrets in technology - with everything from models to the real thing being spotted and posted online. Now it appears one of Samsung's own ads has been leaked, revealing the two handsets the firm hope can topple the iPhone. Samsung's Galaxy S6 is expected to appear in a radical Edge version with curved screens when it is unveiled on Sunday, while the standard version looks like an iPhone 6. Scroll down for video . A leaked Samsung advert reveals the two new Galaxy handsets, the S6 and the S6 Edge - which are not being officially announced until Sunday. CNET Korea also revealed these images, which it claims show the final Galaxy S6 Edge. Previous leaks said the Galaxy S6 will feature a Quad HD 5.5-inch display. Other reports claim the screen will measure a smaller 5.1 inches. It is expected to have an octa-core processor and 16MP rear-facing camera. More recent rumours suggest the firm will also unveil an Edge version of its flagship phone. The S6 Edge is said to have a curved screen that covers both sides. The Korean giant believes its curved technology could give it an edge over arch rival Apple. And the curved screen has already been used in Samsung's Note Edge. Both handsets are expected to be unveiled at Mobile World Congress on 1 March. Both phones will be revealed at a special event in Barcelona before the Mobile World Congress begins there on Monday. A 'verified employee' on Reddit called iamdenden posted the following teaser revealing the Samsung Galaxy S6 and Galaxy S6 Edge, the latter with its curved display. A series of photos from CNET Korea also claims this is the official handset. The images were posted to the xda-developer website. No other information about the handsets was posted. Another user also posted pictures of the standard version of the handset on the same forum. 'Can't say where it's from but it's from AT&T directly,' the poster said. 'Obviously a prototype or test model and it says not for sale on the package. 'Obviously a phone, I was scared to play with it much but seems a glass back and front with metal on the sides.' 'Our source, who has seen Samsung's new devices in person, tells us that the mid-level 64GB curved Galaxy S6 will cost carriers €949 ($1,076), with the top-end 128GB model priced at €1,049 ($1,189)—around €50 more expensive than the comparable iPhone 6 Plus.' The same source also said the firm is having yield issues for the curved display, which could mean the handset is in very short supply when it launches. Reports claim the ground breaking handset could be prohibitively expensive - and that Samsung is struggling to make the screen. According to a source at one of Samsung's mobile carrier partners in Europe who spoke to Ars Technica under the condition of anonymity, Samsung is launching both the curved and normal Galaxy S6 at high price points. Samsung's new Galaxy S6 handsets are revealed in this image, it has been claimed. is expected to appear in a radical Edge version with curved screens when it is unveiled on Sunday, while the standard version looks like an iPhone 6. The Standard version of Samsung's Galaxy S6, which will be revealed on Sunday. The firm has been showing off the curved screen in teaser adverts, but is believed to be struggling to manufacture them in large quantities. For the non-curved Galaxy S6, European pricing is €749 ($849), €849 ($963), and €949 ($1,076) for the 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB models respectively - $100 cheaper than the curved version. The site warns that these high prices could dent the phone's popularity. 'The pricing of both the normal and curved versions of the Galaxy S6, however—if carriers pass the price hike onto consumers—could be problematic unless the hardware is truly sensational.' Samsung is set to unveil the handset in Barcelona on March 1st. The Galaxy Edge will have curved screens on each side, and the Korean giant believes its curved technology could give it an edge over arch rival Apple. Created by designes Ivo Marić and Jermaine Smit, the new renders show both expected versions - a standard one and an 'Edge' with both sides having curved displays. Both phones are also expected to have all-metal bodies, in a move away from Samsung's current plastic range, and 5.1-inch screens. The Korean giant believes its curved technology could give it an edge over arch rival Apple. And the curved screen has already been used in Samsung's Galaxy Note Edge. However, the S6 Edge will have the ability to work in a left or right-handed mode . Users will have an option to choose favourite contacts and an ability to assign specific colours to them. Both phones are also expected to have all-metal bodies, in a move away from Samsung's current plastic range, and 5.1-inch screens. The handsets are also set to include wireless charging capabilities. And now the Korean firm has heavily implied the device - or multiple new devices - will come with wireless charging built-in. Many current phones need specially-designed cases and accessories to charge wirelessly, but Samsung's next-generation models could add the feature within the handset on a single chip. In a blog post by Seho Park, principal engineer in Samsung Electronics' IT and mobile division wrote: '2015 will be a landmark year for the growth of wireless charging. The S6 is expected to look similar to Apple's iPhone 6 handset . It will also include a rumoured 20 megapixel camera . 'With our upcoming Galaxy smartphones, users will be able to enter a new wireless world like never before.' The use of the plural 'smartphones' adds further weight to the fact Samsung will unveil at least two handsets at this year's Mobile World Congress in Barcelona in March. These are expected to be the Samsung Galaxy S6, and the S6 Edge that is rumoured to have a curved screen that covers both sides. Until now, many phones and other products have predominantly used the 'magnetic-inductive' method of charging. This involves pairing a device with a dock and is used from phones to electric toothbrushes and shavers. There are three wireless charging organisations including the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), and its Qi standard, the Power Matters Alliance (PMA) and the Alliance for Wireless Power (A4WP). Samsung is a member of all three groups. This means that manufacturers have to choose which standard they use, and not every standard is supported across different charging points, for example. However, last year, components that support multiple standards on a single chip were released and in January, the PMA and A4WP announced they would join forces to offer better wireless charging features. The S6 won't be the first phone to have wireless charging built in - the Nokia Lumia 920 already offers this feature - but the Lumia 920 runs on the Qi standard. The concept video shows both handset designs . Until now, many phones and other products have predominantly used the 'magnetic-inductive' method of charging. This involves pairing a device with a dock and is used from phones to electric toothbrushes and shavers. There are three wireless charging organisations including the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), and its Qi standard, the Power Matters Alliance (PMA) and the Alliance for Wireless Power (A4WP). Samsung is a member of all three groups. This means manufacturers have to choose which standard they use, and not every standard is supported across different charging points, for example. However, last year, components that support multiple standards on a single chip were released. Samsung's next Galaxy phones are expected to be the first to support these multiple standards on a built-in chip. Samsung's next Galaxy phones are, however, expected to be the first to support multiple standards on a built-in chip. This means they will be more versatile to take advantage of public charging ports being introduced across retailers such as McDonalds and Starbucks. It will also beat main rival Apple to introducing the technology. Samsung surprised audiences at the Berlin-based trade show IFA in September when it unveiled its original curved device. The screen was described by Samsung's David Park at the event as working like a 'ticker', with notifications and news scrolling along it. The Galaxy Note Edge's unique curved touchscreen provides quick access to frequently used apps and alerts. The curved screen displays notifications at the top and bottom, while viewing a video without disruption, for example. Earlier this month, in the face of stiff competition, and following a consecutive drop in profits, Samsung announced plans to curb the number of phones it makes each year. Instead of releasing handset after handset and saturating the market with Samsung devices, the firm has decided it needs to concentrate on making fewer handsets, better. The South Korean manufacturer is also expected to ramp up production of its remaining models so they can be sold more cheaply. The use of the plural 'smartphones' in the blog post adds further weight to the fact Samsung will unveil at least two handsets at this year's Mobile World Congress in Barcelona in March. Samsung's invite (pictured) hints at a curved device and the firm is expected to announced the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge . The strategy was unveiled during a presentation in New York by Samsung's head of investor relations, Robert Yi. He said the company would reduce the number of smartphone models in 2015 by between a quarter and a third. Executives at the South Korean firm said it would overhaul its lower-tier line-up to boost price competitiveness, and use higher-quality components to set its devices apart. 'The mid-to-low end market is growing rapidly, and we plan to respond actively in order to capitalise on that growth,' said Samsung Senior Vice President Kim Hyun-joon during a conference call with analysts. In a rare acknowledgement, Mr Yi added that Samsung had lagged behind changing market conditions. The company's response 'was not quick enough,' said Mr Yi. Both phones are expected to have all-metal bodies, in a move away from Samsung's current plastic range, and 5.1-inch screens. The Korean giant believes its curved technology could give it an edge over arch rival Apple. And the curved screen has already been used in Samsung's Note Edge (pictured) | Set to come in standard and edge varieties when revealed on Sunday .
Galaxy S6 Edge will have curved screens on both sides .
Both handsets are expected to be unveiled in Barcelona in March .
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Growing up, Cheikhou Kouyate always dreamed of following in the footsteps of his idol Patrick Vieira. His journey to London, signing for West Ham for £7million this summer, and development as a player have been so similar to the Arsenal great they could practically have worn the same shoes. Both were born in Dakar, Senegal, but travelled through Europe to gain their footballing education as teenagers in various countries before ending up in the Barclays Premier League. Vieira moved to France and then Italy before landing in England at Arsenal. Kouyate’s route was even longer. In pursuit of football he moved first to Greece, leaving his family behind, then to France and finally Belgium before he found East London this summer. Midfield man: New West Ham man Cheikhou Kouyate joined the Hammers from Anderlecht in a £7million deal . But their similarities stretch further than simple geography. They are both 6ft 4in and of a similar imposing build. Both are known on the football field for their immense physicality and tough tackling. t was not long before the comparisons came when Kouyate finally broke into the first-team at Brussels in 2007 aged 18. ‘When I started playing in Belgium I played 10 matches and people began comparing me with Patrick Vieira,’ Kouyate said. ‘It was an immense pleasure to be compared to such a fantastic player because he was a role model for us Senegalese and an inspiration. ‘When he showed how good he was, he made us dream and aspire to achieve similar things. I know it will be tough. Now it is up to me that I deserve the comparison. ‘To do that, I need to give the best to my team. I hope to achieve just a bit of what he achieved. I know it will be difficult. It is now up to me to show my qualities and play like I can.’ Idol: Kouyate has followed in the footsteps of his hero Patrick Vieira in making it to the Premier League . Thumbs up: Kouyate poses with fellow West Ham new boys Diego Poyet (left) and Mauro Zarate (centre) It was that ‘obsession,’ as Kouyate describes it, to get to England that drove him on when he felt lonely and homesick and wanted to give it all up. The first three months away from home were the hardest, but it is this experience which, he believes, gives him the mental strength for the English top flight. ‘It was so difficult that I wanted to go back to Senegal,’ he said. ‘It was the first time I had left my country without my family, I had nothing and was completely on my own. It was really cold. It was the first time I had seen snow. ‘But I spoke to my grandmother and my mum on the telephone and they told me to stay put. I was on my own a lot of the time, but I got used to it. It was then my mental strength began to increase, I became tougher.’ Big move: Kouyate moved to Belgium from Senegal and made his debut for Anderlecht at the age of 18 in 2007 . His mother and brother are getting loose ends tied up with work in Senegal but plan to move over here. There is talk of December, but they may wait until next summer so the temperature is not such a shock to the system. Luckily, through his travels, Kouyate is fully prepared for the cold, wet and windy evening and afternoon games ahead. He played with Romeleu Lukaku at Anderlecht, where he signed from this summer, and garnered advice from him. He also spoke to other Senegalese players El Hadji Diouf and Mo Diame. He added: ‘Diouf said I need to work hard, concentrate in training and that I mustn’t hold back.’ When Kouyate takes to the field at Upton Park against Tottenham this afternoon [SAT], provided he does not hold back he will be a step closer to emulating his idol. | West Ham's Cheikhou Kouyate dreamed of moving to Premier League .
Former Arsenal star Patrick Vieira was Kouyate's hero .
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Pretoria, South Africa (CNN) -- During a swift pre-trial hearing Tuesday, a South African judge delayed Oscar Pistorius' murder case for two months -- and warned that misconduct in the media could delay the process even longer. The hearing in Pretoria lasted only about 10 minutes. The magistrate granted the prosecution's request to postpone the case until August 19 to allow for more time for the investigation. The judge addressed concerns Tuesday about the "sanctity of judicial processes." He said there appears to be a trial by media, which could result in contempt of court. The judge's comments came days after photos of the bloody scene from Pistorius' home were leaked to the media. The Olympic and Paralympic track star made his first public appearance in months during the hearing Tuesday. The judge ordered Pistorius re-released on the same bail conditions he had before. The double-amputee sprinter is charged with premeditated murder for killing Reeva Steenkamp, a model and law school graduate, on Valentine's Day. The date for the murder trial could be announced on August 19 -- which, incidentally, would have been Steenkamp's 30th birthday. No one disputes that Pistorius killed his girlfriend; the point of debate is whether he intended to kill her. Pistorius has said he thought an intruder was inside his house. He said he ran on his stumps to the bathroom, where he shot through a door four times. It was only upon returning to his bedroom, Pistorius said, that he realized Steenkamp was not in bed and that she was actually the one in the bathroom. But prosecutors said the act was a premeditated murder -- that Pistorius had an argument with Steenkamp, put on his prosthetic legs, walked to the bathroom, and shot through the door, intentionally killing his girlfriend. The high-profile case against the Olympic athlete has strained the nerves and patience of some South Africans. "They've had so much time to prepare the case against Oscar, and now we are expecting nothing more than a postponement," Gabi Zaharieva said shortly before the hearing. "They really have to get going on this." CNN Exclusive: Photos show Steenkamp's transformation . Taking refuge in uncle's house . Pistorius has been living at his uncle's house in Pretoria for the past three months. He has grown a beard because he doesn't want to be recognized and has surrounded himself with photos of Reeva Steenkamp, his uncle said. "He's got photos in his room, photos all over the place," Arnold Pistorius told CNN's Robyn Curnow. "He's housebound, you know. He doesn't go out in public places." Arnold Pistorius described the his nephew's grief as unimaginable. "What can you say if the person you love the most dies, and you were the instrument? How would you feel? It's unthinkable." Trouble with the investigation . The police investigation into the killing has been beset by problems and scandals since the start. Hilton Botha, the original lead investigator, admitted during Pistorius' bail hearing that police had failed to wear protective shoe covers at the crime scene because they had run out of them, and that it was possible evidence had been damaged as a result. Botha also drew audible gasps from the packed courtroom when he testified that testosterone had been found at Pistorius' house, before being forced to admit that he hadn't actually read the full name of the substance. The sprinter's lawyers testified that the substance was an herbal remedy. The Paralympian's lawyers also got Botha to acknowledge that investigators had failed to collect any evidence that counters Pistorius' argument that he mistakenly shot Steenkamp. But police spokesman Phuti Setati said authorities are confident Pistorius will be convicted. "Nothing will distract the detectives from the case. They will remain on course to make sure that they secure a murder conviction." If convicted of premeditated murder, Pistorius could face life in prison -- which in practice typically amounts to 25 years, unless someone can prove extraordinary circumstances. But even if a judge finds him not guilty of premeditated murder, he could still face a charge of culpable homicide, which is based on negligence. The punishment for culpable homicide is at the court's discretion. Not everyone surprised by Pistorius' fall from grace . CNN's Robin Curnow reported from Pretoria; Holly Yan wrote from Atlanta. CNN's Nkepile Mabuse, Nick Thompson, Hamilton Wende, Susannah Cullinane and Kim Norgaard contributed to this report. | The court granted the prosecution's request to postpone the case until August 19 .
The Olympic track star is accused of premeditated murder in the death of his girlfriend .
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(CNN) -- A Christian evangelical group said Thursday that a Bible school -- backed by American evangelist Franklin Graham -- was destroyed in the latest bombing raid to hit South Kordofan, an oil-rich Sudanese province that borders the newly created independent country of South Sudan. At least eight bombs were dropped in the area Wednesday during the school's first day of classes, according to a statement by Samaritan's Purse, Graham's Christian humanitarian group, which supports the school. Two bombs landed inside the compound -- located in the region's Nuba Mountains -- destroying two Heiban Bible College buildings and igniting grass fires across the area, the group said in a statement . No injuries were reported. "It was a miracle that no one was injured," the statement added. Graham, who has called on the international community to take out Sudan's air assets and establish a no-fly zone in the region, said in a statement Thursday that he blamed Sudan's air force for the strike. At least four churches have been destroyed since August, the group said. "We are deeply concerned for the welfare and lives of the people of South Kordofan and we condemn the bombing of churches and Christian facilities," added Graham, son of the famed Rev. Billy Graham. More than 78,000 people have fled South Kordofan and Blue Nile states since August of last year after an armed rebellion took root, the United Nations reported. The Sudanese government is thought to have responded to the rebellion by conducting sustained air raids with the use of Russian-made Antonov bombers, which have raised concerns over civilian casualties. Decades of civil war between the north and south, costing as many as 2 million lives, formally ended with a U.S.-brokered peace treaty in 2005. But before South Sudan gained independence in July of last year, human rights monitors expressed concerns that longstanding grievances could again lead to violence consuming the region. In November, there were several days of bombings near an entry point for refugees at the border, the United Nations reported. It did not specify who launched the bombs. | Rev. Franklin Graham's group, Samaritan's Purse, supports the school .
At least 8 bombs were dropped in the area during school's first day of classes .
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By . James Black . Student representatives claim that fingerprint records will infringe privacy rights . University students may have to scan their fingerprints in future to prove they are going to their lectures. Newcastle University plans to introduce biometric scanners to bring the institution in line with the UK Border Agency (UKBA) and clamp down on illegal immigrants. Students and staff at the North-East university will be monitored through the Student Attendance system from the start of next academic year. Exactly how it will work is still in question but one option being discussed is to introduce finger scanners at lectures and classes. These readers would recognise students' fingerprints and collect data on which sessions they have attended. Newcastle University claims the move is a necessary step to meet their obligation to UKBA and ensure international students don't use student visas as a way to sneak into the country and work illegally. But the university also believes the new system will keep on top of attendance and help identify home students who are in need of support. But some students and staff claim the move is 'unnecessary and intrusive'. A student group at Newcastle University claims biometric scanning is over the top and infringes their privacy. Newcastle Free Education Network has organised protests against the plans, claiming the scanners would 'turn universities into border checkpoints' and 'reduce university to the attendance of lectures alone'. In a referendum at the Students' Union, 1,200 students voted against the scheme, with just 320 voting in favour. Dr Kyle Grayson, a senior lecturer in international politics at the university, spoke at a student meeting. He said finger scanning risked ruining the university's reputation overseas. Dr Grayson said: 'I have had international students say that they don't pay thousands of pounds a year to be treated like they are on probation. 'Part of the problem is that the Government has created the issue about student visas being an easy way to get into the country and work illegally, but it has been blown out of proportion. 'The majority of students, especially at a university like Newcastle, are genuine. 'They are creating this whole surveillance operation to deal with something which isn't a big problem. 'If you asked a student in the USA whether they wanted to go to Newcastle and be biometrically scanned three or four times a week, or to St Andrews, or Northumbria, or elsewhere where they don't have to do that, it is an easy choice.' The university has tabled the move to comply with a Border Agency crackdowns on misuse of student visas . Dr Grayson said home students had also raised concerns about how the data could be used, or what would happen if it was breached. Jeannette Strachan, academic registrar for student and academic services at the university, said various options are being considered. She said: 'As part of UKBA licence agreements, every university is obliged to carry out attendance monitoring to be able to certify at any time, to any visit by the UKBA, that an international student is present on campus and engaged in their studies. 'If either a student or a university does not comply with UKBA requirements then that student and university is at risk of severe sanctions.' | Biometric scanners to be introduced in line with the UK Border Agency measures .
Scanners would recognise students' fingerprints and collect data on which sessions they have attended .
Border Agency measures to ensure international students don't use student visas as a way to sneak into the country .
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Taxpayers paid out more than £2,300 a month for a council chief executive Bryn Parry-Jones to drive around in a luxury Porsche, it was revealed today . Taxpayers paid out more than £2,300 a month for a council chief executive on a £195,000 a year salary to drive around in a luxury Porsche, it was revealed today. Chief executive Bryn Parry-Jones' high-powered office car was leased at more than £28,000 a year, and funded by taxpayers in Pembrokeshire. Then, the cash-strapped council had to pay £8,600 to end the hire contract on the Porsche Panamera when Mr Parry-Jones, 62, quit his post last October. The highest earning council boss in Wales had the sleek £90,000 Porsche leased for him while earning a salary of £195,000 plus benefits, earning him more than the Prime Minister - who is paid £142,500 a year. The car, a favourite of popstars and professional footballers, cost the council a further £2,368 a month - and over the course of the year added up to more than the average annual salary of £26,500. A graduate nurse is paid around £21,000 a year, while a newly qualified teacher would be on a starting salary of £22,000. Last month, Pembrokeshire Council was ordered by the Information Commissioner to reveal the full cost of the hire car within 35 days. A local councillor then revealed that ending the lease agreement ahead of schedule had cost £8,670. The council has confirmed this figure was correct. Mr Parry-Jones was handed a £280,000 golden goodbye, despite the fact he had been forced to quit over a suspected unlawful payments scandal. Details of his car only emerged at the start of December after a long Freedom of Information battle with the council. Insiders said the extravagant expense had 'stuck in the craw' of cash-strapped council workers who knew about it for months. Campaigners and politicians hit out at the 'offensive waste of money' at a time when the council was making cuts to local services. Last year, Pembrokeshire Council revealed it would have to make savings of £20million over two years. Proposed measures include closing public toilets, charging for social services and increasing parking fees. Council tax rose by 3.4 per cent this year. The highest earning council boss in Wales had the sleek £90,000 Porsche Panamera leased for him while earning a salary of £195,000 plus benefits . Paul Miller, who leads the opposition Labour group on the Independent-controlled council, said: 'Why a council chief executive needed a Porsche is completely beyond me. 'It's an absolute disgrace, the way he used to operate that council was outrageous. 'He was a dictator and it got to the point where he thought he could do whatever he wanted and it was council tax payers who footed the bill.' Mr Parry-Jones came under pressure to resign from his post after it was revealed he had taken cash payments which the Wales Audit Office said were unlawful. The payments to Mr Parry-Jones were investigated by police, who later decided there was no evidence of wrongdoing, and no further action should be taken. Last year, Pembrokeshire Council revealed it would have to make savings of £20million over two years . | Bryn Parry-Jones, 62, was leased Porsche for Pembrokeshire Council role .
It cost £28,000 a year to hire, more than the average £26,500 yearly salary .
He left the position in October with a £280,000 'golden goodbye'
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Aaron Rodgers battled through pain barrier to rally the Green Bay Packers to a thrilling 26-21 play-off victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday and send them to the NFC Championship Game against Seattle Seahawks. Rodgers, despite struggling with a calf injury, threw two touchdown passes in a row as Green Bay fought back from a 21-13 third-quarter deficit. He passed for three touchdowns and 317 yards for the game. 'His performance in the second half was as good as it gets,' said Packers coach Mike McCarthy. 'What he has done in this stadium in the last two games with the conditions of his calf has been spectacular.' Aaron Rodgers helped the Green Bay Packers come from behind to beat the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday . Rodgers threw two touchdown passes in a row in Green Bay's comeback despite playing with a calf injury . The Cowboys though were left fuming about a controversial incompletion ruling late in the fourth quarter where instead of being at the Packers one-yard line after a brilliant Dez Bryant leap for a Tony Romo pass, they were forced to give Green Bay the ball back on downs. Rodgers had struggled in the final two games of the regular season and the first signs that a two-week break had not allowed for a complete recovery of the calf came when the Packers took the lead on their first drive. Rodgers looked to run with the ball but hobbling slightly, he spotted Andrew Quarless in the end zone with a four-yard pass. Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant was left in tears when his catch in the fourth quarter was overturned . Bryant made a stunning grab as he leaped above Sam Shields before coming down just shy of the end zone . Bryant didn't have full control of the ball as he hit the ground and it was ruled an incomplete pass . 'I feel like with my normal mobility I would have been able to just run that in,' said Rodgers. 'The pain in my calf helped me make that decision very easily.' Dallas struck back quickly with a pass interference penalty giving the Cowboys the ball at the one-yard line and Romo found fullback Tyler Clutts for his first career score. The Cowboys scored again when Romo connected with Terrance Williams and the receiver raced into the end zone. The Packers reduced the deficit to a point thanks to field goals on either side of halftime from Mason Crosby. Richard Rodgers catches a touchdown pass for Green Bay during their win at Lambeau Field on Sunday . Rodgers is mobbed by Packers fans after his 'Lambeau leap' into the crowd following his touchdown . Packers wide receiver Davante Adams celebrates a touchdown with Randall Cobb and Andrew Quarless . But with Rodgers lacking mobility, Dallas extended their advantage on a one-yard touchdown run from DeMarco Murray who had shown his electrifying speed with a 26-yard rush earlier in the drive. Curiously, as time went on, Rodgers began to move better and he looked like his usual self when he moved out of the pocket, connecting with Davante Adams for a 46-yard touchdown pass to pull within one point. When the Packers quarterback then found Richard Rodgers with a 13-yard go-ahead touchdown pass, the Lambeau Field crowd sensed victory. Dallas quarterback Tony Romo shakes hands with his Green Bay counterpart Rodgers after the game . Dallas, though, will lament that crucial fourth-quarter decision by officials when, on fourth and two, Bryant rose spectacularly to catch a 31-yard pass and move the Cowboys to the one-yard line. After a challenge flag from McCarthy, the officials ruled the pass incomplete, handing the ball back to the Packers on their 33-yard line and Green Bay never gave the ball back to close out the win. Now they face the toughest of tasks in Seattle, where they lost 36-16 to open in the regular season in September. | Green Bay Packers beat Dallas Cowboys 26-21 at Lambeau Field .
Packers advance to NFC Championship Game against Seattle Seahawks .
Aaron Rodgers throws three touchdown passes despite calf injury .
Packers came from eight points down in the third quarter to win .
Dallas left fuming after Dez Bryant's catch just short of the end zone was reversed late in the fourth quarter in Green Bay . | 6d78e18d98b590c7fef4e59b45fc15cb6b836f87 | [
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Former Chelsea defender Dan Petrescu has claimed he was offered the job at Nottingham Forest and turned it down. Dougie Freedman replaced Stuart Pearce this week, but former Rapid Bucharest coach Petrescu told DigiSport in Romania that he was approached by the Championship club. 'Everyone knows that I had offers from Nottingham. I had a clear offer, but the terms of the contract were not what I wanted. And the people there did not want to negotiate much.' Former Chelsea defender Dan Petrescu claims he turned down the Nottingham Forest manager job . Petrescu pictured during his time as manager of Unirea Urzicena in 2009 in a Champions League tie at Ibrox . Freedman knows he needs to restore the confidence of his players if he is to revive Nottingham Forest's ailing season. 'Confidence is low,' said the 40-year-old. 'I'm not up on my stats about it but I know there haven't been many wins in the last few months, so that's understandable. 'Confidence is low because of results, there's no doubt about that, and that needs to change quickly. Dougie Freedman was appointed as the successor to Stuart Pearce at the City Ground . 'But there's many things you can do to change it. You can turn that around by managing players. Results do it too. 'Many things can bring confidence back to a team. The message you put across or the way you put it across can help. It might be a change in personnel or systems. 'I'll find the way to do. It's important because confidence can breed results and then you can get momentum and confidence continues to grow and before you know it you're climbing up the table.' | Dan Petrescu said he was offered Nottingham Forest job .
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A highly respected religious studies teacher was facing jail last night after he was convicted of having a sexual relationship with a besotted 16-year-old pupil. Married Stuart Kerner, 44, had sex with the girl at school – taking her virginity in a store cupboard on a yoga mat. He also took her to his family home when his wife was at work and had sex with her in their guest bedroom. In between sex sessions he made her Marmite on toast and they watched Bargain Hunt on television. His defence tried to claim the victim had invented a fantasy relationship based on the novel Fifty Shades Of Grey, in which an older, more experienced man has an affair with a younger woman. Stuart Kerner, pictured with wife Katy, has been found guilty of having sex with a pupil in empty classrooms and cleaning cupboards at a south east London school . But Kerner was convicted by a majority verdict of two counts of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust. Father-of-one Kerner, who was also vice principal at Bexleyheath Academy, South East London, sobbed as the verdict was delivered. His wife Katharine was inconsolable and fled from the court. ‘She’s destroyed our lives,’ she said. ‘This is a miscarriage of justice, she’s a liar’. The victim, now 19 but who cannot be named for legal reasons, nodded as the verdict was delivered. Teachers at Bexleyheath Academy (pictured) in south east London told the court the pupil was a 'liar' Over two weeks, Inner London Crown Court heard how the ‘troubled’ victim had a schoolgirl crush on Kerner and was ‘besotted’. It was said he ‘gave in to temptation’. A member of the victim’s family reported the affair to police in 2013 and Kerner was sent home from school on gardening leave. Prosecutor Warwick Tatford said: ‘This was a gross breach of trust – a teacher giving in to temptation. The Crown aren’t saying she’s innocent in all this. She was anxious to have a relationship with him ... (But) he was a senior teacher who took advantage of a vulnerable young girl.’ THE court heard the victim was a ‘troubled’ child who had told lies to get attention. Jurors were told she was able to give such graphic details about her encounters with Stuart Kerner because she had read the erotic novel Fifty Shades Of Grey, which portrays sex between a graduate and a powerful businessman. Edward Ellis, defending, said the teenager copied scenes from the book – which she confirmed to the jury she had read. The court also heard that the victim had a ‘difficult’ relationship with her mother – who admitted hitting her – and later ran away to go and live with her father. Her stepmother found out about her relationship with a teacher after questioning her about unrelated ‘sexual material’ on her mobile phone. An investigation began after her stepmother told the police. Teachers said the victim was ‘very bright’ , but said she also told lies to get attention. Librarian Marion King said: ‘As she got older she got very cocky and thought everybody fancied her.’ She added: ‘I think she had a crush on [Kerner].’ She told how on one occasion the teenager turned up to school claiming to have been in a car accident. But teachers eventually discovered from her mother there had been no accident. Prosecutor Warwick Tatford said: ‘It’s very easy for the defence to say “she’s a liar, don’t believe a word she says”. [But] She has been very frank about the fact that she has lied about other stuff.’ Mr Ellis told the girl: ‘You are a liar and you lie to get attention. This amounts to an elaborate fantasy that you created.’ She replied: ‘I disagree.’ The court was told that the pair first had sex on February 28, 2012. Kerner sent a message to the girl while she was in class, asking her to meet him. She was on ‘tenterhooks’ as she was ‘anxious to lose her virginity’. ‘My first lesson was IT,’ she said. ‘In the lesson I had a note. It said, “Go to reception immediately”. My name was on it, it was in his handwriting. I didn’t go to reception – I went to his office. He said go to this room during the fourth lesson.’ She said they then had sex after Kerner moved a table in front of the door and put a blanket over a yoga mat. She later feared she was pregnant, it was claimed. Shortly afterwards, someone using Kerner’s login and password changed the victim’s attendance record on the school computer system to say she had been in the lesson. The following day Kerner was absent from school as his wife, who supported him during the trial, had a miscarriage. In a video interview with police played to jurors, the schoolgirl said: ‘I felt special. But, I dunno, it wasn’t really. And admitting that does kind of hurt.’ She said ‘hand on heart’ Kerner would never have made a move on her without her encouragement, and that she fell ‘in love’ with him. She told a detective: ‘I knew it was wrong, but it felt right as well ... There was always a little voice at the back of my head saying “He’s just using you”.’ Kerner denied all the charges, saying the girl was a ‘devious and wicked liar’. He claimed she had found out details about him – including the type of underwear he wore and about a scar on his back – from eavesdropping on his conversations with other teachers. Kerner said she also knew information about his home because he had given a presentation about his home life to pupils. But she was able to draw a detailed plan of his £500,000 detached home in Aylesford, Kent, for police, pinpointing the guest bedroom where they had sex on October 3, 2012. Mr Tatford said: ‘It’s possible that [the victim] could have found out things but she would have to be a real detective to find out everything’. He added: ‘Somebody is lying, it’s either [the victim] or Mr Kerner, whoever it is is telling very wicked lies...[if it’s Kerner] he’s deceived his friends, his colleagues at school and his wife’. The victim told police that on October 3, Kerner picked her up in his car from a leisure centre before driving her to his home. Kerner made her Marmite on toast while they watched Bargain Hunt on television during breaks from sex. She said: ‘It was probably the best day I can remember, just being with him.’ After sex in the guest room, the pair also roamed the house, where the teacher had a large photo of his eight-year-old son hanging on the wall, she said. Analysis of Kerner’s phone showed he made two journeys to Bexleyheath at around the same time the victim said he picked her up and then dropped her off. The girl told the court how she also kept a coded diary and marked each page with different ‘smiley faces’ to record their encounters. She said Kerner bought her a souvenir Fifty Shades Of Grey keyring. The girl’s mother later found a keyring matching its description in a box in her bedroom. Jurors were told how Kerner took the pupil's virginity in the same week his wife Katy (both pictured outside court today) suffered a miscarriage. She told police Kerner had described their relationship as ‘written in the stars’ and likened their affair to the well-known case of a teacher who ran away to France with a pupil. A number of colleagues gave evidence on behalf of Kerner, saying he was a ‘great teacher’ and the court heard he was previously ‘a man of exemplary good character’. Speaking about Mrs Kerner, Edward Ellis, defending, said: ‘She has been supporting her husband, the man she fell in love with 25 years ago. She gave him a son which Mr Kerner dotes on.’ The jury of six men and six women cleared him of four other charges of sexual activity with a child by a person in a position of trust. They also cleared him of two counts of sexual activity with a child, which were said to have happened when she was 15. Judge Joanna Greenberg warned Kerner that all sentencing options remained open. He was bailed until sentencing on January 14. | Stuart Kerner, 44, found guilty of two counts of sexual activity with a child .
Court heard teenage schoolgirl crush turned into an illicit 18-month affair .
Kerner took her virginity the same week his wife miscarried, court was told .
His wife screamed as the jury delivered its verdict - Kerner now faces jail .
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By . Paul Scott . PUBLISHED: . 19:29 EST, 28 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 19:29 EST, 28 September 2012 . There is something vaguely disconcerting about the sight of Adrian Chiles with a smile playing on his pudgy lips, not least because he usually bears such a strong resemblance to a lugubrious Toby jug. Yet there is no doubt that the perennially gloomy TV presenter has plenty to be jovial about at the moment — this week the 45-year-old was photographed canoodling with his girlfriend, comedienne Catherine Tate. He and Miss Tate, 44, were kissing and cuddling like lovestruck teenagers in a park in Santa Monica, California, she sporting a slouchy, tartan shirt-dress, while he wore a pair of faded cargo shorts of the type that might constitute warm weather attire on any British building site. New couple: Perennially gloomy TV presenter Adrian Chiles, 45, has plenty to be jovial about at the moment after being photographed canoodling with his girlfriend, comedienne Catherine Tate, 44 . The fact that the Chiles-Tate liaison is already nearly a year old apparently means they’re well past the stage where they’re dressing up to the nines for each other. But what they lack in sartorial punch, they certainly make up for in easy togetherness. Clearly, it is not an interest in fashion that unites the pair. In fact, surprisingly, they have bonded over a mutual and deep faith in God. ‘They are both devoutly religious,’ a friend and colleague of Worcestershire-born Chiles told the Mail this week. ‘I’m pretty sure they have also gone to church together from time to time, and they pray together. ‘It’s not something either of them really talks about, but their faith is very important. They’re not happy-clappy or evangelical, they just share a love of God.’ Looking at them, it is certainly hard to imagine a more content-looking couple. One Los Angeles-based Briton, who saw the couple out in the city this week, told me: ‘They were window shopping in the sunshine, but every time they stopped, or waited to cross the road, he had his hand on her stomach like an expectant father would. ‘Maybe it’s that they are so comfortable with each other and he’s just the tactile type, but my immediate thought was: “I wonder if she’s pregnant?” ’ Whatever the case, Miss Tate’s relationship with Chiles is progressing apace, to the extent that in the summer he flew his lover out to Poland, from where he was presenting ITV’s coverage of the Euro 2012 football tournament, and, apparently, took her on a ‘date’ to the Auschwitz death camp. So what is the story behind their spiritual connection? In love: Mr Chiles and Miss Tate were kissing and cuddling like lovestruck teenagers in a park in Santa Monica, California, she sporting a slouchy, tartan shirt-dress, while he wore a pair of faded cargo shorts . Chiles, who was brought up in the Anglican church but converted to Catholicism five years ago, is understood to have introduced convent school-educated Miss Tate to a select group of his religious mentors over the past year. Key figures in his life include Father Ben O’Rourke, an Augustinian Friar who lives at Clare Priory in Suffolk, and John Maguire, a television director and, like Chiles, an avid West Bromwich Albion fan, who acted as his ‘sponsor’ during his conversion. Understandably, both men are protective of their protege. 'It’s not something either of them really talks about, but their faith is very important. They’re not happy-clappy or evangelical, they just share a love of God' Friend and colleague of Adrian Chiles . ‘I couldn’t say anything without talking to Adrian about it first,’ Mr Maguire told me this week. However, other friends admit that Chiles and Miss Tate — famous for her catchphrase ‘Am I bovvered?’ — are uncannily similar. Both confess to being natural-born worriers and pessimists, and both have seen long-term relationships founder — all of which makes their public display of affection all the more endearing. Miss Tate is understood to be renting a house close to the Pacific in LA, where she is filming the U.S. version of The Office. Sources in Hollywood say she has been commuting between London and the programme’s set since early May. After appearing on-and-off in the show as socially inept Briton Nellie Bertram for the past 18 months, Miss Tate plays a much bigger part in the current series, which began airing last week in the States. She has become something of a regular fixture in the starry enclave of Santa Monica, but, as a non-drinker, she avoids the British-style pubs where LA-based expat actors congregate. Happy couple: Rumours that Miss Tate, 44, and Mr Chiles, 45, were dating first emerged a year ago . Rumours that she and Chiles were dating first emerged a year ago. And in July this year Miss Tate, who has a nine-year-old daughter, Erin, with her ex-partner, was photographed on the back of Chiles’s motorbike in London, wearing knee-high boots. But their nascent love affair was dealt what might have been a terminal blow by the arrival on the scene at the end of last summer of Take That’s Jason Orange. Catherine and the handsome 42-year-old singer met when she played him in a spoof version of the band for Comic Relief in March last year. 'They were window shopping in the sunshine, but every time they stopped, or waited to cross the road, he had his hand on her stomach like an expectant father would' Los Angeles-based Briton, who saw the couple in the city this week . When she and Jason were introduced during the filming of the sketch, people on the set at the time say, she confidently asked the lantern-jawed singer for his number. Meanwhile, members of Jason’s inner circle told me this week that Little Britain comic David Walliams acted as matchmaker between the two after Miss Tate and Jason went to cheer him on when he swam the Thames for charity last year. But they made an unlikely couple — a view shared by countless Take That fans who went on internet forums to accuse Miss Tate in unflattering terms of punching above her weight. Perhaps unsurprisingly, her relationship with the pop star cooled around Christmas, when she stayed at home and Jason went off to detox at a Thai spa famous for its colonic irrigation and yoga in Koh Samui. With Jason off the scene, Chiles made a sudden re-emergence in the life of the often-troubled comedy star. Born Catherine Ford on the Brunswick Centre council estate in London’s Bloomsbury, she never knew her father, who split from her mother, Josephine, before she was born. Bullied for having ginger hair, Catherine was afflicted as a child by a strange obsessive-compulsive disorder linked to the letters of the alphabet. One symptom meant she was convinced something terrible would happen if she left her jumper on the floor, because it began with the same letter as her mother’s name. All smiles: Surprisingly, Mr Chiles and Miss Tate have bonded over a mutual and deep faith in God . After attending the Catholic Notre Dame school in Southwark, South London, she won a place at Central School of Speech and Drama and took a string of bit parts before being spotted performing at the Edinburgh Fringe by a casting director. A role in the sitcom Wild West, with Dawn French, followed, before she was given her own BBC2 show in 2004. But even as she was filming the first series of The Catherine Tate Show, she was succumbing to the trauma of acute postnatal depression following the birth of her daughter. Her then partner, Twig Clark, from whom she split last summer, gave up work as a stage manager to help her cope with the baby. Clark now has a flat around the corner from the £800,000 mews house where Catherine and Erin live in East Sheen, West London. Friends says the split has been amicable. Clark is regularly seen arriving in the morning to do the school run, and Erin often stays overnight with her father. Catherine’s career success has done little to lift the impression the comedienne gives of being shrouded by a pall of melancholy and angst. Until recently, she fretted that Erin would choke on her breakfast cereal while she was away filming, and admits to suffering panic attacks, which she has sought to dispel with a rather obsessive interest in, among other things, astrology and the alignment of the planets. ‘I’m an incredibly negative person,’ she says. ‘I’ve realised I need a gnawing, nagging, anxious doubt when I wake at 4am.’ Which is where, one imagines, the overcast Adrian Chiles comes in. After all, he has made a career of his distinctly downbeat demeanour. He married Jane Garvey, now a presenter of Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, in 1998, but they divorced three years ago on the grounds of his unreasonable behaviour. They have two daughters, Evelyn, 12, and nine-year-old Sian. Adrian did a disastrous stint with his former One Show co-host Christine Bleakley on ITV’s Daybreak. Their reunion in September 2010 lasted until December last year, when they were axed as ratings tumbled. There had long been rumours about the nature of Chiles’s relationship with Miss Bleakley, which was warm and affectionate and involved after-work curries at his West London flat. But their friendship cooled when Ulster-born Christine began dating Chelsea and England footballer Frank Lampard three years ago. Judging by how things looked this week, however, it would seem that Chiles’s relationship with Miss Tate is hotting up very nicely. | Adrian Chiles, 45, and Catherine Tate, 44, were pictured in California .
Couple have surprisingly bonded over mutual and deep faith in God .
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By . Lydia Warren . Six-time Olympic gold medalist Amy Van Dyken Rouen has posted a photograph showing her smiling from her hospital bed just days after she severed her spine in an ATV accident. 'Doing great today,' the swimming champion wrote alongside the picture. 'My room is the most decorated in ICU. Thx for ur thoughts & prayers!' In another image, she grins as medical staff help her sit up in a body brace, with the caption: 'Making progress. First day I sat up.' Her husband, former Denver Broncos punter Tom Rouen, said in an earlier statement that the swimming champion is her 'typical spunky self' but is aware of the massive challenges she now faces. The couple were driving back from dinner in Show Low, Arizona on Friday when Van Dyken's ATV hit a curb and threw her down an embankment, breaking a vertebrae and severing her spine. Fighter: Olympic gold medalist Amy Van Dyken shared these images inside her hospital room on Tuesday, assuring fans she's 'doing great'. Her spine was severed in an ATV crash at the weekend . Still smiling: In another photograph on Tuesday, hospital staff help her sit for the first time since the accident . Rouen, who was on a motorbike, raced to reach her and lifted her head to help her breathe. He kept her stable until the helicopter . arrived, he revealed in a letter than he released with her family. A witness, who ran to her as she lay beside the ATV, said she was not wearing a helmet. When help arrived, Van Dyken, 46, said she could not feel her legs and was airlifted to the intensive care unit at Scottsdale Healthcare Osborn Medical Center. 'Amy . awoke within hours of surgery acting like her typical spunky, . boisterous, ebullient self and has spent the last 24 hours entertaining . her family and her medical staff in the ICU,' said the letter, which was shared with Swimming World Magazine. 'She has made at least one . male nurse blush. Amy's attitude has been overwhelmingly positive and . optimistic. She has been far more of a comfort to us than we have been . to her.' Support: Van Dyken shared this image of relatives, including her brother, saying: 'I have the best family' Loved: Beside this colorful painting shared on her Instagram page, she wrote: 'A drawing from my niece and nephew. They are so sweet. Made me smile. #hospitalsSuck' The retired . athlete's family said she had severed her spinal cord and that her broken . vertebrae came within millimeters of rupturing her aorta. Their letter continued: 'Amy has a long, trying road ahead of her, but as anyone . who knows her can attest, her unparalleled mental strength and . determination will propel her. She is a fighter. Family statement . 'Amy has overcome . seemingly insurmountable obstacles before, winning 6 Olympic gold medals . and becoming one of the greatest female athletes of her generation . despite battling lifelong chronic asthma. 'Now this is her new challenge, . her new battle. With the unconditional love and support of her friends, . family and fans, Amy welcomes the challenges she will face as she opens . this new chapter of her life.' Van Dyken showed this fighting, positive spirit with the photos she shared on Instagram. 'Never . get us all together anymore,' she wrote beneath a picture of her . relatives, including her brother David. 'This is amazing. I have the . best family.' Accident: Van Dyken-Rouen, right, was thrown from her ATV after driving back from dinner on Friday . Battle ahead: Tom Rouen has said his wife, Olympic gold medalist winner Amy Van Dyken is back to her usual 'spunky, boisterous, ebullient self' after waking up from surgery after severing her spine . 'A drawing from my niece and nephew,' she wrote beside an image of a colorful drawing. 'They are so . sweet. Made me smile. #hospitalsSuck.' The couple is receiving a lot of support from family, friends and fans, Rouen told the Denver Post. 'It's rough,' he said. 'But Amy is aware of the challenges ahead of her. She is ready to meet them head-on.' He told police officers that he had changed the throttle mechanism on the ATV from a thumb accelerator to a twist accelerator a few days before the accident - but he wasn't sure if it was a factor in the accident. He added that his wife had not been drinking alcohol during their dinner that evening. In a statement to Swimming World Magazine, USA Swimming said they were 'devastated' to hear about her accident. 'We're happy to hear that she escaped and is now in great care,' the statement continued. 'That she is already 'acting like her typical spunky, boisterous, ebullient self' shows she's on a great path. 'Amy is a . champion who has proven throughout her life that she is a fighter who . takes on challenges and comes out on top. We know Amy will tackle her . rehabilitation with vigor and be back on her feet sooner rather than . later.' Video Source YouTube . Champion: Van Dyken became the first U.S. woman to win four golds at one Olympics . Van Dyken had taken . up swimming to help relieve her asthma, swimming for the University of . Arizona for two years before transferring to her home town to attend . Colorado State. She . went on to become the first U.S. woman to win four golds at one . Olympics, which she which she accomplished in 1996 by picking up gold in . the 100 meter butterfly, 50 meter freestyle and the 4x100 meter . freestyle and 4x100 meter medley relays. She won two more Olympic relay golds in 2000 and was inducted into the U.S. Olympic Committee Hall of Fame in 2008. She . has lived in Arizona in recent years, working in local radio and later . nationally for Fox Sports Radio. She married Rouen in 2001. | Amy Van Dyken Rouen hit a curb and was thrown down an embankment as she drove from dinner in Show Low, Arizona on Friday .
She told emergency responders she could not feel her legs and it emerged that she had broken a vertebrae and severed her spine .
Witnesses said she had not been wearing a helmet .
Her husband, former Broncos punter Tom Rouen, said she is entertaining everyone in hospital - but knows she has a long recovery ahead .
In 1996 she became the first U.S. woman to win four golds at one Olympics . | 1af2ba2d79ccab8477aaefa3f539555a93499e3b | [
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Tragedy: Insomniac Sue Greenwood, 43, was found hanged in a wooded area close to her home two days before Christmas . A teacher plagued by decades of insomnia killed herself two days before Christmas after becoming addicted to sleeping tablets she bought online, an inquest has heard. Sue Greenwood, 43, was found hanged in a wooded area close to her home in Bolton, Greater Manchester, in the early hours of December 23. Her heartbroken husband Dave Greenwood said his wife had suffered from insomnia deprivation throughout her adult life and would often go for days without sleep. An inquest into to her death was opened and adjourned ahead of a full hearing, but there are believed to be no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. Mr Greenwood said the couple had enjoyed a dream wedding on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar in 2011 and had battled through her problems together. He said he wants to raise awareness about the damage insomnia and the purchase of sleeping tablets without prescription can do. He said: 'Sue would sometimes go several days without being able to sleep. 'It would reach a point where she was desperately tired, but still she could not sleep. 'If she could sleep, it was often during the day, which would cause enormous disruption to her life. 'It was something she had suffered from since being at school and university. 'Sue tried everything - hypnotherapy, acupuncture and CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy). 'Unfortunately, she resorted to accessing sleeping tablets, which should only be prescribed by GPs, online, and became dependent on them. 'It's totally wrong that people can get these things on the internet, but how do you stop it? 'Ultimately, she was taking too many of them and they were making the problem worse. But she must have been desperate. 'She was a beautiful, intelligent and driven woman and what has happened is devastating.' Tribute: Sue's husband Dave, pictured together on their wedding day in 2011, said his 'beautiful and brilliant' wife was driven to despair by her lack of sleep . Mr Greenwood, 47, said he now knows sleep deprivation affects many people in all walks of life, but there is too little publicity about possible cures. Dependency: The 43-year-old tried everything to manage her insomnia but then resorted to sleeping pills she bought online . 'I have only found out since Sue has died that GPs often run sleep clinics, specifically for people suffering from insomnia,' he said. 'They might have helped. It seems insomnia is something even the medical profession seems reluctant to talk about. 'If anything positive can come out of this, it is that more people must know about insomnia as an issue and how to access coping strategies to combat it. 'I would urge anyone suffering from such a problem to be assertive with the medical services of getting help. 'I would also like something to be done about the ease at which people who are desperate can get hold of prescription drugs - containing who knows what - with the click of a button on the internet. 'In an age when you can't even buy more than two packets of paracetamol from a supermarket without being challenged, it is wrong.' Mrs Greenwood, 43, was found dead in the wooded area at Haslam Park in the Deane area of Bolton, Greater Manchester. She moved to the town more than 20 years ago after qualifying as a teacher at Edge Hill University near Liverpool. She worked at Brandwood Street and Church Road primary schools in Bolton, Claypool in Horwich. Anderton Primary School, and rose to the position of an assisted skills teacher at Manor Road Primary School in Chorley. She had also worked as a primary education consultant in Trafford. She had no children. A humanist service will take place at the East Lancashire Crematorium in Cemetery Road, Radcliffe, on Friday, January 16 at 1pm. | Sue Greenwood, 43, killed herself in woods two days before Christmas .
Her husband Dave says her insomnia meant she was often awake for days .
Mr Greenwood wants her death to raise awareness about insomnia .
He said: 'Sue tried everything. Unfortunately she resorted to accessing sleeping tablets online and became dependent on them'
A full inquest into her death will be held later this year .
For confidential .
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(CNN) -- Like thousands of other Iranian women, Parisa took to Tehran's streets this week, her heart brimming with hope. "Change," said the placards around her. Iranian women demonstrate Thursday in the streets of Tehran, the capital city. The young Iranian woman eyed the crowd and pondered the possibility that the rest of her life might be different from her mother's. She could see glimmers of a future free from discrimination -- and all the symbols of it, including the head-covering the government requires her to wear every day. Women, regarded as second-class citizens under Iranian law, have been noticeably front and center of the massive demonstrations that have unfolded since the presidential election a week ago. Iranians are protesting what they consider a fraudulent vote count favoring hardline incumbent Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, but for many women like Parisa, the demonstrations are just as much about taking Iran one step closer to democracy. "Women have become primary agents of change in Iran," said Nayereh Tohidi, chairwoman of the Gender and Women's Studies Department at California State University, Northridge. The remarkable images show women with uncovered heads who are unafraid to speak their minds and crowds that are not segregated -- both the opposite of the norm in Iran, Tohidi said. She said a long-brewing women's movement may finally be manifesting itself on the streets and empowering women like Parisa. "This regime is against all humanity, more specifically against all women," said Parisa, whom CNN is not fully identifying for security reasons. "I see lots of girls and women in these demonstrations," she said. "They are all angry, ready to explode, scream out and let the world hear their voice. I want the world to know that as a woman in this country, I have no freedom." Though 63 percent of all Iranian college students are women, the law of the land does not see men and women as equal. In cases of divorce, child custody, inheritance and crime, women do not have the same legal rights as men. In the past four years, Ahmadinejad has made it easier for men to practice polygamy and harder for women to access public sector jobs, according to CNN's Chief International Correspondent Christiane Amanpour. Amanpour, who has reported extensively from Iran, describes Iranian women as "very strong." In 1997, it was women who came out along with young people to put reformist candidate Mohammed Khatami into the presidency, Amanpour said. Increasingly, women's voices are gaining power as their numbers rise and their demands grow louder. Even the granddaughter of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the architect of the Islamic republic, voiced frustration at the way women are treated. "Women are just living things," Zahra Eshraghi told Amanpour. "A woman is there to fill her husband's stomach and raise children." For the first time, women were allowed to register for the presidential race, though none, including Eshraghi, were deemed fit to run by the religious body that vets candidates. But women's issues surfaced in the campaign. That was partly the result of a women's movement comprised of educated, urban, middle-class women that has grown in recent years with the addition of more conservative and poorer women, said Tohidi, a longtime observer of women's rights in Iran. Ironically, traditional women first gained voice under the clerics. "Khomeini needed their votes, so he encouraged them to be publicly active," Tohidi said. The middle-class women who enjoyed certain freedoms in prerevolutionary days refused to turn back, while a new generation of conservatives were awakened to feminism. In 2003, lawyer and women's rights activist Shirin Ebadi won the Nobel Peace Prize, providing a "big boost" for Iranian women, Tohidi said. At the same time, private organizations and charities that deal with women's issues blossomed under the presidency of reformist Mohammed Khatami, growing by as much as 700 percent, Tohidi said. Marriage age increased as more women opted to marry for love, instead of entering arranged marriages. The One Million Signatures Campaign officially launched in 2006 sprouted new discourse and attention with a petition that asks the parliament to reform gender discriminatory laws. In this year's presidential campaign, Iranian women pressured candidates to agree to ratify the U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. The 1979 treaty has been ratified by 186 nations, including several Islamic states. Two opposition candidates, Mir Hossein Moussavi and Mehdi Karrubi, vowed to look into parts of the Iranian constitution that defer women's rights to what is regarded as an outdated version of sharia, or Islamic, law. Moussavi had even promised to appoint women as cabinet ministers for the first time. Some women in Iran looked to Moussavi to carry their banner, perhaps because they were inspired by his wife, Zahra Rahnavard, a much-admired academic who told CNN's Amanpour that Iran's 34 million women want civil laws and family laws revised. Author and journalist Azadeh Moaveni, who spent several years working in Iran, said Ahmadinejad's fundamentalism has pushed Iranian women to the edge. "He has been a catastrophe for women," said Moaveni, who wrote "Lipstick Jihad" and co-authored "Iran Awakening" with Nobel laureate Ebadi. The weight of discrimination against women is felt most profoundly through Iran's legal system, but Moaveni said Ahmadinejad added to the hardship by clamping down on women's lifestyles. He mandated the way women dress and even censored Web sites that dealt with women's health, Moaveni said. A woman would be hard-pressed to conduct a Google search for something as simple as breast cancer. Moaveni was almost arrested because her coat sleeves were too short and exposed too much skin. In that setting, she said, it's striking to see women protesting, especially without their hijabs, or head coverings. "While it's not at the top of women's grievances, the hijab is symbolic. Taking it off is like waving a red flag," Moaveni said. "Women are saying they are a force to be reckoned with." Azar Nafisi, a professor at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies and author of "Reading Lolita in Tehran," said she has been watching the footage from Iran with "inordinate pride." She marched on the streets during the 1979 revolution because she believed in greater freedoms for her people, only to see her dreams shattered as hardline clerics took hold of Iran. "Reading Lolita" is largely a memoir of her harrowing days in Iran until 1997, when she immigrated to the United States. "The way I walked down the street became a political statement," Nafisi said. She recalled her own mother being a devout Muslim who chose not to wear a veil. Her grandmother, like more traditional women in Iran, wore a veil but resented the government ordering her to do so. Covering up, Nafisi said, was a matter of faith, not politics. Nafisi believes that women have become a symbolic statement of the power of the Islamic state. She called Iranian women canaries of the mind -- barometers of how free society is. It's impossible to predict what will transpire in Iran in the coming days. Nafisi believes a regime change will not be enough; that only a change in mindset can lead to greater freedoms for women. Moaveni said the sheer scale of the demonstrations assures her that the political and social climate will never again be the same in Iran. Tohidi is keeping her fingers crossed that the protests won't prompt Iran's hardliners to clamp down and rule by repression. But all of them shared the hopes of the women -- like Parisa -- who are marching on the streets. "Today, we were wearing black," Parisa said, referring to the day of mourning to remember those who have died in post-election violence. "We were holding signs. We said, 'We are not sheep. We are human beings,'" she said. Parisa was thankful for all the images being transmitted out of Iran despite the government's crackdown on international journalists. She was thankful, too, that the world cared. "Today," she said, "I had this feeling of hope that things will finally change." | Women have been strikingly noticeable in street demonstrations .
Many hope the protests will lead to changes in gender discriminatory laws .
Iranian women have been slowly building a movement for greater rights . | 1d7e3225e1913b841440a6837fc02ca3f5e9aec6 | [
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By . James Chapman and Matt Chorley . PUBLISHED: . 17:46 EST, 24 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:11 EST, 25 April 2013 . David Cameron is warning Nick Clegg he will get the blame if he blocks a temporary withdrawal from the European Convention of Human Rights to enable the deportation of Abu Qatada. Sources close to the Prime Minister made clear he would expect the Liberal Democrat leader – who has insisted he will not countenance any suspension of the ECHR – to explain to voters why the hate preacher remained in Britain in such circumstances. Home Secretary Theresa May told MPs yesterday that she has signed a new treaty with Abu Qatada’s native Jordan which, she believes, will mean the courts finally allowing his removal. Hate preacher Abu Qatada has been the subject of an on-going battle between the government and European Convention of Human Rights . But she said the Government was also examining a temporary suspension of the ECHR if all else failed. ‘I believe we should look at all the options and that should include leaving the jurisdiction of the court altogether,’ she told MPs. ‘The Prime Minister is looking at all the options.’ Mr Clegg was kept in the dark about a ‘council of war’ ordered by Mr Cameron on Wednesday, as the Court of Appeal refused the Home Office permission to take Qatada’s case to the Supreme Court. The Premier told the Home Secretary, Justice Secretary Chris Grayling and Attorney General Dominic Grieve that it was ‘intolerable’ that Qatada remained in Britain. Today Mr Clegg ruled out changing the law to accelerate the process. He told LBC 97.3: 'No one’s proposed and certainly no one’s put to me this idea that we . should somehow suddenly start, I don’t know, pulling out of this or that . international agreement. He insisted: 'I want to get rid of Abu Qatada. I am as . impatient as anybody in the Government to do so. 'Of course this Government is not going to act illegally.' However, he added that he was 'quietly a little bit more optimistic' that Britain would kick Qatada out and praised Mrs May for doing a 'fantastically good job'. Tussle: Nick Clegg, pictured today visiting the Stockwell Park Estate in Brixton, was kept in the dark about a 'council of war' ordered by David Cameron . Mr Grieve is also nderstood to be . fiercely opposed to any move to leave the ECHR, and Kenneth Clarke, the . Cabinet Office minister, publicly dismissed the idea. Mr Clarke, a former Lord Chancellor, . said: ‘It’s not the policy of this government to withdraw either from a . short period or for a lengthy period from the European Convention on . Human Rights.’ Even if the UK did withdraw, he added, it would have little impact on the Qatada case because English common law would prevent his deportation if there was a risk of torture. The Home Secretary said a treaty containing a 'fair trials guarantee' had been struck with Jordan . ‘You’re not going to get a British court to deport anybody for trial to a country where torture is going to be involved, you never have, you never will,’ Mr Clarke said. A Downing Street source, however, insisted Mr Cameron was ‘deadly serious’ about a temporary withdrawal from the convention if the courts refused to accept the new treaty. The source added: ‘The Prime Minister is willing to see every avenue pursued. This is a priority for him and for the British people. ‘Frankly, if anyone wants to be the person that keeps Abu Qatada in this country then they will need to stand up and make that argument.’ In the Commons, the Home Secretary said a treaty containing a ‘fair trials guarantee’ had been struck with Jordan and would reassure UK courts that torture evidence would not be used against the terrorist suspect. But she warned: ‘Even when the treaty is fully ratified, it will not mean that Qatada will be on a plane to Jordan within days. ‘We will be able to issue a new deportation decision, but Qatada will still have legal appeals available to him, and it will therefore be up to the courts to make the final decision. That legal process may well still take many months, but in the meantime I believe Qatada should remain behind bars.’ Several Tory MPs suggested that the Government should simply ignore the Strasbourg and British courts and deport Qatada anyway. Mrs May said: ‘The answer I give is the same as I have given in the past – I believe the UK Government should abide by the rule of law.’ Qatada is accused of plotting a terrorist atrocity in Jordan to coincide with the Millennium. His removal to stand trial there was originally approved by the British courts, only to be overruled by the European Court of Human Rights last year. Strasbourg judges said they feared he would not get a fair trial because evidence obtained through torture might be used against him. The Home Secretary then sought assurances from Jordan that there would be no use of torture, but an immigration tribunal ruled the assurances were not reliable and halted his removal. Qatada, who has been resident in the UK since September 1993, was returned to jail earlier this month after he was arrested for alleged bail breaches. | Home Secretary says treaty with 'fair trials guarantee' has been struck with Jordan .
Kenneth Clarke says even if UK withdraws it would not impact on Qatada because English common law prevents deportation if there is torture risk . | c27125692a2a5839d8ff69d2c208a942bece9b4d | [
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Television producer and writer Glen Larson, whose hits included some of the biggest series of the 1970s and 80s, including Battlestar Galactica and Magnum P.I., has died aged 77. Larson, who was also responsible for Quincy M.E. and Knight Rider, passed away from esophageal cancer at UCLA Medical Center in Santa Monica, California, on Friday night, his son, James, said. On Saturday, dozens of industry professionals took to Twitter to express their grief at the death of the married father-of-nine, described by many as a 'creative' and 'inspirational' man. Actor and director Edward James Olmos, who played William Adama in the re-imagined Battlestar Galactica in the 2000s, tweeted: 'Glen Larson, we thank you for the ride, you are a battlestar.' Scroll down for video . Successful: Television producer and writer Glen Larson (pictured), whose hits included some of the biggest series of the 1970s and 80s, has passed away aged 77 from esophageal cancer, according to his son James . Popular: Larson's show Battlestar Galactica (pictured) - for which he was given a then-unprecedented $1million-per-episode budget - lasted just one season on ABC from 1978-79, yet the impact was incredible . Paying tribute: On Saturday, dozens of industry members took to Twitter to express their grief at the death of the married father-of-nine. Actor and director Edward James Olmos tweeted: 'We thank you for the ride' Meanwhile, screenwriter Steven de Souza wrote: 'RIP #GlenLarson, one of my 1st bosses in Hollywood, I really took off the training wheels under his tutelage, as did many others.' And producer Jesse Stern said: 'RIP Glen Larson. Thank you so much. Magnum, The Fall Guy, Sheriff Lobo, BJ McKay and his best friend Bear, Manimal. I loved you.' Born in in Long Beach in 1937, Larson started in the business in the 1950s as a singer in the clean-cut pop group The Four Preps, which later composed a number of the theme songs in his TV shows. After first becoming enthralled with storytelling as a child, he then went on to work for Quinn Martin Sr on several productions, including The Fugitive, on which he gained his first credit as a writer in 1966. Saying thanks: Producer Jesse Stern. who has worked on Call of Duty, wrote: 'RIP Glen Larson. Thank you so much. Magnum, The Fall Guy, Sheriff Lobo, BJ McKay and his best friend Bear, Manimal. I loved you' Expressing his sadness: Meanwhile, screenwriter Steven de Souza said: RIP #GlenLarson, one of my 1st bosses in Hollywood, I really took off the training wheels under his tutelage, as did many others' Hospital: Larson passed away at UCLA Medical Center (pictured) in Santa Monica, California, his son said . In following years, he produced a number of popular shows, including ABC’s It Takes a Thief, which starred his fellow Hollywood High School alum Robert Wagner as a burglar for the U.S. Government. He also took it upon himself to rewrite the original pilot for The Six Million Dollar Man - based on the 1972 novel, Cyborg - after ABC initially spurned it. The pilot, alongside scripts for a pair of 90-minute telefilms, convinced then-network executive Barry Diller to greenlight the action series, starring Lee Majors as a former astronaut with bionic implants. During his long-running career, Larson also created NBC's McCloud, Alias Smith & Jones, B.J. and The Bear, Switch (another series starring Wagner), Manimal and The Misadventures of Sheriff Lobo. Creative: Born in in Long Beach in 1937, Larson (pictured) first became enthralled with storytelling as a child . Pop group: Larson started in the business in the 1950s as a singer in the clean-cut pop group The Four Preps (pictured, Larson is second on right), which later composed a number of the theme songs in his TV shows . His show Battlestar Galactica - for which he was given a then-unprecedented $1million-per-episode budget - lasted just one season on ABC from 1978-79, yet the impact was incredible. The science-fiction series, featuring Lorne Greene and Richard Hatch as leaders of a homeless fleet wandering through space, was greatly influenced by Larson’s Mormon beliefs. Although it was axed after 24 episodes due to its cost, in 2003, it was re-imagined and remade, beginning with a three-hour mini-series, followed by a weekly series which ran from 2004 to 2009. Quincy M.E., starring Jack Klugman as an LA-based medical examiner, ran for 148 episodes on NBC from 1976 to 1983, while CBS's Magnum P.I. aired for a whopping eight seasons from 1980 to 1988. One of his creations: Larson's Knight Rider, featuring David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight (pictured), a modern crime fighter aided by a Pontiac Trans-Am with artificial intelligence, lasted four seasons on NBC . Another show: Quincy M.E., starring Jack Klugman (left) as an LA medical examiner, ran for 148 episodes . NBC's Knight Rider, featuring David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight, a modern crime fighter aided by a Pontiac Trans-Am with artificial intelligence, lasted four seasons (90 episodes). And ABC's The Fall Guy, with Lee Majors, Douglas Barr and Heather Thomas, ran for five seasons (113 episodes) from 1981 to 1986. When asked how he kept up with such a huge workload in 2009, Larson, who left Universal for Fox following his production of Knight Rider, said he attempted to keep every show under control. 'I tried to stay with things until I thought they were on their feet and they learned to walk and talk,' he told the Archive of American Television. 'If you believe if something, you must will it through, because everything gets in the way. Everyone tries to steer the ship off course.' But despite his incredible career, Larson never won an Emmy; earning just three nominations, two for his work on McCloud and one for Quincy. However, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1985. '[Our shows] were enjoyable, they had a pretty decent dose of humor. All struck a chord in the mainstream. What we weren’t going to do was win a shelf full of Emmys,' he told the news station. Hit: Meanwhile CBS's Magnum P.I. (with Tom Selleck, pictured) aired for eight seasons from 1980 to 1988 . 'We got plenty of nominations for things, but ours were not the kind of shows that were doing anything more than reaching a core audience.' Larson is survived by his wife Jannie, brother Kenneth, five daughters and four sons (including his son, James) from his former wives, Carol Gourley and Janet Curtis. A memorial service will be held in the near future, James told The Hollywood Reporter. | Glen Larson, 77, died from esophageal cancer at hospital on Friday night .
Married father-of-nine's hits were some of the biggest series of 1970s/80s .
Included Battlestar Galactica, Magnum P.I, Quincy M.E. and Knight Rider .
Larson was also an accomplished singer; formerly part of The Four Preps .
On Saturday, industry professionals paid their respects to him via Twitter .
Memorial service for Larson will be held in the near future, son James said . | a7dcb8566f0a8bce60ee5f68f8ad3158b43d518a | [
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By . Ellie Zolfagharifard . PUBLISHED: . 04:37 EST, 20 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:26 EST, 20 December 2013 . Ahead of the grand unveiling at next month's Consumer Electronics Show, more details are emerging about Samsung and LG's respective 105-inch ultra high resolution TVs. Both screens are said to use the 21:9 ‘CinemaScope’ aspect ratio and both will have resolutions of 5,126 x 2,160. This resolution provides 11.1 megapixels per frame. By comparison, HDTV screens have 1920 x 1080 resolution screens with 2.1MP per frame. Scroll down for video . Samsung and LG are both set to unveil 105-inch ultra high resolution TVs next month. The Samsung UDHTV is pictured. Both screens are said to use the 21:9 'CinemaScope' aspect ratio and both will have resolutions of 5,126 x 2,160 . Both screens on the Samsung and LG 105-inch TVS are said to use the 21:9 ‘CinemaScope’ aspect ratio. They will also both have resolutions of 5,126 x 2,160. This . resolution provides 11.1 megapixels per frame. By comparison, HDTV . screens have 1920 x 1080 resolution screens with 2.1MP per frame. 4K UHD, with its resolution of 3840 pixels x 2160 has 8.3MP per frame. According to Samsung's press release, its version uses 'a new proprietary picture quality algorithm' which . is said to make colours appear 'sharper and deeper.' This . means the images will be 'twice as vivid' of other Ultra HD TVs. that . delivers optimised colour and a greater feeling of depth. Philips has, until now, been the only company to release the superwide 21:9 aspect ratio sets, but retired the format recently. It is called CinemaScope because it is the ratio used in some cinema screens. LG claims its 105-inch model will used LCD screens, rather than OLED panels, to offer 'breathtaking clarity' that more evenly distribute colour and brightness. The technology in both screens is either sharper than 4K UHD, with its resolution of 3840 pixels x 2160 and 8.3MP per frame. 4K UHD has twice . the horizontal and vertical resolution of the HDTV format, with . four times as many pixels overall. Both TV sets will be unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show on 7 January. The resolution of the screens, LG's model is pictured, provides 11.1 megapixels per frame. By comparison, HDTV screens have 1920 x 1080 resolution screens with 2.1MP per frame and 4K UHD offers 8.3MP . Samung also announced a 4K 110-inch screen, although its not curved, in Berlin in September, pictured. The vast panel has been likened to looking through a window and will be on sale from next spring . Samung also announced a 4K 110-inch screen in Berlin in September - although it is not curved, . The vast panel has been likened to looking through a window and . will be on sale from next spring. It is one of the new generation of supersize ultra high-definition TVs which promise astonishing picture clarity. For those who cannot wait, the 98-inch S9 version is on sale in Britain for £40,000. However, there are smaller models with screens of 50 to 60-inch screen with more modest price tags of around £5,000. Curved TVs are expensive compared to normal flat TVs. For instance, the Samsung's 55-inch curved TV (pictured) costs around £7,000 compared to around £2,000 for its flat screen equivalent . Next . year’s football World Cup in Brazil will be the first major event to be . broadcast in full Ultra HD to viewers in Japan, while the Rugby World . Cup in England in 2015 will be the first in the UK. Consumer . electronics guru, Barry Fox, said the images on the new sets are . extremely impressive, offering a far better experience than 3D. ‘The pictures are mind-blowing, it is like looking through a window,’ he said. Samsung’s . Michael Zoeller, senior director of European sales and marketing, said . the screen is so big that players would appear almost life-size to . viewers during a football match. ‘This looks stunning. The screen in nearly 2.5 metres across,’ he said. Speaking at the CES exhibition in Las Vegas, experts claim that curved screens may be better suited to smaller devices, used by one person at a time . The South Korean electronics giant also unveiled a television that allows two people to watch different shows . at the same time. The S9C features a giant 55-inch curved screen to give . viewers a cinema experience in their living room. The television, expected to cost around £7,000, boasts a . cutting-edge OLED screen - offering the ‘amazing’ MultiView feature. Viewers wear special glasses that pick up one piece of . content at a time, with audio delivered through a built-in earpiece. ‘Two people can watch two different programmes at the same . time in full screen in full HD and even in 3D with Samsung MultiView glasses,’ said Zoeller. ‘It is like having two televisions in one.’ Another TV in the range, announced in Berlin in September, was the S9 OLED television. It features a curved screen, which Samsung claims makes the viewer feel like they are 'standing in an arena' | Samsung and LG's screens are said to be like looking out of a window .
The 105-inch screens use 21:9 CinemaScope with 5,126 x 2,160 resolutions .
This resolution provides 11.1 megapixels per frame .
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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 03:38 EST, 21 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:00 EST, 21 February 2013 . Melissa Mackenzie, 21, lost control of her Vauxhall Corsa when she drove over newly laid chippings after enjoying a meal with her twin sister Sarah . An aspiring model who died in a car crash could have survived if she had worn a seat belt, an inquest heard. Melissa Mackenzie, 21, lost control of her Vauxhall Corsa when she drove over newly laid chippings after enjoying a meal with her twin sister Sarah. The fashion store manageress, from Pwllheli in Gwynedd, Wales, was partially thrown out of the shattered driver's window, suffering the injury that led to her death. Ruling that the death was accidental, Coroner Dewi Pritchard-Jones said that had she been wearing a seat belt Miss Mackenzie would not have suffered the injuries that led to her death. He took the chance to reiterate the importance of wearing a seat belt, adding 'Seat belts . do save lives'. He said: 'If I look at the last twelve . months I have had four or five road traffic cases that were entirely . survivable if the people concerned had been wearing seat belts.' After the hearing, Miss Mackenzie's father Andrew said: 'She was responsible, independent and ambitious. She . was a high achiever.' Following her death, he described how his life had been 'ripped apart'. He said: 'She was 21-years-old and achieving all she had set out to succeed in. 'She was a highly social, well-loved girl who seemed to know everybody. Her popularity is evident when you see the Facebook tributes posted - and the lovely, kind words written.' The hearing also heard that there was no alcohol found in Miss Mackenzie's blood. The coroner said that before the incident in August 2011, the 21-year-old would have seen a warning sign advising motorists of a loose surface and recommending a 10mph maximum speed. The coroner said: 'At what speed she approached the bend the evidence I have heard doesn't say but my impression is she went into that bend at a speed in excess of 10mph. Friends: Melissa Mackenzie (right) pictured with her twin sister Sarah (left), who she had enjoyed dinner with before the incident in August 2011 . 'Having gone around the bend the car went out of control. He . added: 'There would have been a thickness of chippings. It could be . that the nearside wheels went on to that area of thicker loose . chippings. 'The evidence isn't clear but that would possibly explain why the car went out of control.' 'The underlying cause of all this is she went in the right-hand bend at a speed that was, with the benefit of hindsight, higher than prudent for the conditions. That made the car go out of control.' Senior Gwynedd council engineer Peter Garlick said the road had not yet been swept when the accident happened. | Melissa Mackenzie, 21, crashed when her car drove over chippings on road .
Fashion store manageress from Pwllheli in Wales was thrown out of vehicle .
Coroner said if she had worn seat belt she would not have sustained injuries . | 3983148eaeb8bc4bc353e5019a2c4c9c3b8363e2 | [
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A 50-year-old Missouri woman was jailed after she threatened some neighborhood children with a chainsaw while wearing a ski mask. Lynn Marie Herzog of Winfield, has been charged with felony harassment of a child under 17 following Sunday's incident. Neighbor, Patty Fleming, called the police after witnessing Herzog screaming and cursing at her son and his friend while wearing a ski mask and shaking a chainsaw. Lynn Marie Herzog faces charges of felony harassment for allegedly approaching neighborhood children while wearing a ski mask and holding a chainsaw . She told Fox2 that Herzog had been sawing a tree when she confronted the children. 'I come out of my door and hear her screaming at the kids. The boys start walking and she starts walking towards them with her skull mask and her chain saw, shaking it like she was going to hurt the kids,' Fleming said. In the past neighbors say Herzog has screamed abuse at the neighborhood kids and has also been seen . photographing and videotaping them. Herzog, who in the past has accused neighbor boys of throwing rocks at her or her home, faces up to four years in prison if convicted. Horror show: Herzog attempted to frighten the local children while wearing a ski mask similar to Jason from 'Friday the 13th' movies and a chainsaw like Leatherface from 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre' Herzog had been sawing a tree outside her home when she confronted the children . Neighbors believe a mental treatment facility would be better than prison. Herzog, who lives with her elderly father, was jailed on $10,000 bond. She doesn't have an attorney. Sheriff's department spokesman Andy . Binder said the chain saw was not running during the alleged incident. Manker told police she didn't believe the children were in danger. | Lynn Marie Herzog was jailed after threatening some local kids with a chainsaw while wearing a ski mask .
She faces up to four years in jail .
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When a 911 call from the 11-year-old son of a hiker critically injured after a 150ft fall from a cliff cut out, rescuers had no idea where to start their search. But, thanks to a quick-thinking dispatcher, the father and son were tracked down by a picture they had posted on Facebook from the mountain earlier that day. Ryan Pritchard and his sons Jake and Devon were hiking on a remote mountain trail near Sacramento, California, when the father slipped and fell, suffering a severe head injury. Scroll down for video . Ryan Pritchard fell 150ft off a cliff but, after his 11-year-old son's (pictured with another of Mr Pritchard's sons), 911 call cut out, dispatchers found him thanks to this Facebook picture . Trainee 911 dispatcher Breanna Martinez (right) tracked Mr Pritchard (left) down on Facebook, leading rescuers to the stricken father . Jake, 11, phoned 911 but the signal cut out before he could tell dispatchers where they were. With a race against time before nightfall, the call handlers made desperate attempts to call back and track down the family. The only clue they had was that the call connected with a cellphone tower near Vacaville - which eventually turned out to be more than 30 miles from their actual location near Lake Berryessa. Trainee dispatcher Breanna Martinez used her initiative and started hunting down the father online, finding his LinkedIn page to work out he was from Sacramento. From there, Ms Martinez, from California Highway Patrol, was able to find Mr Pritchard's Facebook page - and a photograph of the family. 'We are both working vigorously on trying to find out who this person is, where this person is at, especially when we don't have a definite location,' said dispatcher Shari Speakman. The Pritchards were walking the Blue Ridge Loop Trail not far from Sacramento, California . Mr Pritchard is now recovering in hospital after suffering a head injury, several fractured bones and broken jaw in the fall . Ms Martinez added: 'I decided to search myself since they were busy, so I plugged the name into Google and his LinkedIn account came up. So I was able to get a picture and know he was from Sacramento. 'I scrolled down and the very first post was a picture of his two sons and behind him was the lake - Lake Berryessa. And it just said 'Hiking the Blue Ridge Trail today.' The miraculous find helped rescue teams pinpoint where the Pritchards were, finding the injured father before sunset on Tuesday. Solano County Sheriff Thomas Ferrara said: 'Being in law enforcement 31 years I don't know that I would have thought of that.' Mr Pritchard's family say he had several fractured bones, a head injury and a broken jaw from the fall, but his son Jake was not hurt. The father is now recovering in hospital. | Ryan Pritchard fell 150ft from a cliff while out hiking with his two sons .
Jake, 11, dialled 911 but call cut out before he could say where they were .
Dispatchers could not get back to the Pritchards as night started to fall .
But a trainee call handler tracked the stricken father down on Facebook .
A photo showed where they were hiking, leading rescuers to their location .
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Parents have been urged to replace a child car seat after it failed safety tests and was branded dangerous. Consumer group Which? has issued an alert to warn all parents about the danger of the seat, which was on sale online and at Argos, after it scored zero in safety tests. It said they had found a 'serious failing' when the seat was put through crash tests, during which parts of it were ripped off. In a real crash the child would be at risk of colliding with the seat in front because of the failure of parts of the seat. Argos, which sold the car seat, said the seat had been removed from its catalogue in July, but a small amount of remaining stock would still be sold as the seat passes standard European safety tests. Scroll down for video . The Babystart car seat failed the safety tests done by Which? and scored zero in one of the trials carried out . Which? safety tests are more stringent than the standard European tests - including a 'slide test' and a front-on crash at a higher speed. The Babystart multi-recline child seat was previously on sale for £35. A spokesman from Which? said: 'If you own this seat, or know anybody who has this seat, we advise you to replace it as soon as possible due to a serious failing we uncovered in our car seat crash testing.' The seat has passed official EU regulatory tests to be sold as suitable for children from birth up to 18kg, and was marked as ECE R44/04 approved. The car seat is no longer being produced but Argos confirmed it was still selling any existing stock it had as it had met the standard European safety regulations. A spokeswoman said: 'As the product meets all of the required safety regulations we have not removed the remaining stock from sale.' Which? said second-hand products are available on websites such as Gumtree and Ebay and advised against buying the seat or any second-hand car seats. The Which? front crash tests are carried out at 40mph, rather than 30mph, and these caused the shoulder parts of the seat to break off . When the seat was facing forward and subjected to a front crash test the plastic seat shell did not withstand the crash and the harness came away as the plastic broke. The crash test dummy was not restrained properly and it scored 0 . The car seat failed the Which? safety tests . The assessment also includes a slide impact crash test, which the seat still scored poorly for . The seat was marginally better when it was facing backwards, but still only scored 33 per cent . Which? tests child car seats in a real car body, not on a sledge with a car bench seat fixed to it. This makes the fixing points for seatbelts more realistic . The seat scored the lowest ever test score of zero per cent in the more demanding, independent crash tests, which are conducted at higher speeds and forces than the current UK standards require. Which? branded the seat a ‘don’t buy’ because the shoulder parts of the harness were ripped out of the plastic seat shell as it broke under the force of the crash tests. If this were to happen in a real-life crash, a child would collide with the seat in front, with just the lap part of the belt keeping them attached to the car seat. Argos no longer lists this particular seat in its catalogue. But it does sell a range of other Babystart car seats on its website. As well as pushchairs, highchairs, baby carriers and equipment produced by the company. The tests, carried out by the test laboratory of the German car club ADAC, are well-respected for how they have contributed to improving the standard of child car seat safety over the last decade. Any child car seat marked as approved to ECE R44/04 is better than no car seat at all and will provide some protection in a crash, but the results indicate that a child using the Babystart Multi-Recline car seat in Group 1 mode, reclined, would be at risk of serious injury in the simulated crashes. The seat is not on Argos' current list of recalls but Which? said production has stopped. A spokeswoman at Argos said: 'Customer safety is our top priority and we were extremely concerned to hear of the issues raised in the Which? Report regarding the BabyStart Multi Recline Car Seat. 'Following an internal investigation alongside our supplier TeamTex, we can confirm that we have had no issues or customer complaints in relation to this product. 'The BabyStart range is sold exclusively at Argos and we stopped selling this particular car seat in July as part of our normal new range process, however a small number of car seats are still available.' | Babystart multi-recline child seat has been branded dangerous by testers .
It scored zero in Which? crash test which is harder than other checks .
Consumer group identified 'serious failing' in the safety of the car seat .
Has been withdrawn from production but Argos is still selling existing stock .
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By . Rachel Quigley . PUBLISHED: . 13:22 EST, 3 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 13:41 EST, 3 October 2012 . Her last words before she was shot to death by her daughter's boyfriend were: 'I'm not dead yet', prompting the gunman to return and shoot her again - this time fatally. The lone survivor of the shooting rampage Candice Moten, from San Antonio, testified against her former boyfriend yesterday, telling the court he shot dead her mother, sister and unborn child after they accused him of slashing their car tires. She told jurors she watched as 32-year-old James Morrison gunned down her family outside their apartment in April 2009 after the couple had been arguing. Scroll down for video . Survivor: Candice Moten told jurors she watched 32-year-old James Morrison gun down her mother and younger sister outside their apartment in April 2009 . Mother: Laura Moten, 46, yelled out 'I'm not dead yet' prompting the gunman to return and shoot her again fatally . Sister: Krystle Moten, 23, also died in the shooting rampage at their San Antonio home in April 2010 . Accused: Morrison's lawyers claim he acted in self defense, fearing for his own life because the women each weighed more than 240 pounds and were aggressive and violent . Candice - who was five months pregnant at the time - was shot in the abdomen. She survived, but her unborn child did not. Candice, left, denied that she and sister Krystle, right, and mother Laura were violent and aggressive towards Morrison . She said Morrison came to their home to slash their tires and when they came out to confront him he pulled out a gun and started firing at them. 'He shot us, period, and then (my mom) yelled . out, "I'm not dead yet" and he came back and shot more,' Candice Moten told the jury. 'He shot more . after she yelled at him.' Morrison's defense lawyers say he acted in self defense. They have argued he feared for his own life because each of the three women weigh 240 pounds and were being aggressive and violent towards them. Attorney Joel Perez pointed out that is client is only 5' 8" tall and at the time weighed only 160 pounds. The . three women were described as the aggressors to the court, according to MySanAntonio.com and the jury were told Morrison only opened fire to . fend the women off after a struggle. He is charged with capital murder in the shooting deaths of Laura Moten, 46, Krystle Moten, 23, and Candice's unborn child who she later named Angel. Candice was in hospital a week before she learned that her three family members were dead. Morrison was not the father of the unborn child. He could face the death penalty or life in prison if convicted. Perez quizzed Candice about the sworn testimony she gave earlier to the court. Damage: The argument started after Morrison slashed the tires of the vehicles in the driveway . April 2010: Candice Moten was shot in the abdomen, she survived but her unborn child did not . She told the jury she and her then-boyfriend had been arguing all night and that he had been drinking vodka and beer right before the shooting. It was while she was on the phone to 911 about the tire slashing incident that he shot at her. He then shot her sister and mother as they tried to escape, she testified. Perez told the court the three women charged him all at once and his client started shooting because he was trying to get away. Under cross-examination, Candice denied this but acknowledged that she, her mother and sister could be violent. She later downplayed this, saying her mother and sister were 'verbally violent', according to mysanantonio.com. The trial continues. | Lone survivor Candice Moten testified against ex-boyfriend James Morrison .
Said he shot her - killing her unborn child - before killing her sister and mother .
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This week, House Speaker John Boehner announced that the House will not consider immigration reform this year. Despite growing numbers and increasing political influence of the nation's Latino population, the House leadership has chosen to show it disrespect. How shameful. Here is some context: Last year, 409,849 human beings -- mothers, fathers, sons and daughters -- were torn from their families and deported. Millions have been exploited, forced to live in unrelenting fear of workplace raids and criminalized as they seek a fair pathway to citizenship. An entire generation of immigrants, the majority of whom are immigrants of color, are relegated to second-class status. Sadly, many of the same corporations that build the country's correctional facilities also build and run prison-like immigrant detention facilities. Since the Illegal Immigration Reform Act and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996, which cuts off long-standing policies of pardoning eligible immigrants who were at one point undocumented, and since 9/11, even the path to legality and recognition as human beings with equal rights has become an illusion. The breakdown of our democratic values does not end there. The path to equal representation in our democracy — our fundamental right to vote — must also be urgently addressed. On June 25, the Supreme Court struck down the formula of the Voting Rights Act needed for the federal government to protect rights in states with long histories of discrimination. Just two hours after the decision, Texas announced it would reinstate its strict voter ID law. This law had already been struck down by the Justice Department as discriminatory against Latinos and African Americans -- groups significantly less likely to have the limited forms of government-issued photo ID required under the law. Florida has followed suit by purging its voting rolls, ensnaring former immigrants who are now citizens despite the lack of measurable non-citizen voter fraud. Under the purge procedure, Florida's immigrant communities may be at risk of getting hit with letters questioning their citizenship status, hearing dates, requirements to show their papers and the costs of replacing lost documents. The state renewed this intimidating attempt to scare off communities of naturalized citizens, despite having settled a discrimination claim brought over a similar purge in 2012 by Advancement Project, Latino Justice, other national voting rights groups, and Florida-based Latino and Haitian American community groups. In state after state across the country, voter ID and other "show me your papers to vote" laws, laws that disparately impact immigrants of color, are being pursued at an alarming rate. Given our nation's long history of racial discrimination, it is perhaps not surprising that there is a great backlash against inclusion and equality as the face of our nation changes and the immigrant population grows dramatically. Restrictions on voting rights based on race have been going on since formerly enslaved black Americans first became "citizens" and eligible to vote. But disenfranchisement is not the American way. True democracy is impossible if millions have no road map to become citizens, and if those who are citizens have their voting rights challenged at every turn. For a true and just democracy, we must dismantle any ethnic and racial barriers to citizenship and voting rights. Only when each person, regardless of race or ethnicity, is allowed to equally participate will our fundamental notions of citizenship and democracy -- and indeed, the American dream -- be realized. | Katherine Culliton-González: Boehner says House won't take up immigration reform .
She says this is shameful; a generation of immigrants live in shadows .
Promise of equal rights also hurt by Voter ID laws that tend to target people of color, she says .
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By . Jonathan Block . On Tuesday, the FBI released a warning, titled 'Advice for U.S. students studying abroad: Be Aware of Foreign Intelligence Threat.' On the webpage containing the advice is included an FBI-produced video called 'Game of Pawns' The video as well as the FBI's new effort are in response ot the case of Glenn Duffie Shriver, a college student from Michigan who had studied in China. While there, he was courted by Chinese intelligence officers to provide national defense information to them. He received a total of $70,000 from 2005 through 2010 for his efforts. Scroll down for video . In the FBI-produced video 'Game of Pawns,' an American student is given an envelope with a wad of cash from a Chinese official . In an effort to hide bundles of cash before going out, the student wraps the money around his torso in 'Game of Pawns' In 2011, Shriver was sentenced to federal prison for four years for attempting to provide sensitive information to the Chinese. 'Game of Pawns' is a nearly 30-minute dramatic retelling of Shriver's story. In it, he is seen in Shanghai, excited to be studying abroad. He responds to a job ad to write political papers in a seemingly innocent job, but which is really a ploy to get him to engage in more sinister activities. Later, he is seen meeting with a Chinese woman who then introduces him to a Chinese man, and Shriver ends up finding the allure of tens of thousands of dollars to spy for the chinese government an offer too good to pass up. Glenn Duffie Shriver, the former Michigan college student who pled guilty in 2011 to charges he attempted to spy for the Chinese government while studying in Shanghai. He is serving a four-year sentence in a U.S. federal prison . More than 280,000 American college students studied abroad last year, according to the Institute of International Education. The experience provides them with cultural opportunities, as well as langugage and leadership skills that make them more appealing to both the private sector and the U.S. government. 'But this same marketability makes these students tempting and vulnerable targets for recruitment by foreign intelligence officers whose long-term goal is to gain access to sensitive or classified U.S. information,' the FBI says. The FBI warns that foreign intelligence officers would never claim they work as such when approaching a student. Rather, they first develop are relationship under seemingly harmless pretexts, such as an internship, writing assignments or cultural immersion program. As the relationship grows, the officer may then ask to provide information, in exchange for money or another type of reward, with the demands growing over time. They also suggest that the student apply for U.S. government jobs when they graduate from college. And that's exactly what happened to Shriver. After writing papers, the woman invited the man to meet some of her associates. That was when they suggested to have a 'friendship' and Shriver start applying for jobs with the federal government in the U.S. Shriver ended up applying for jobs at the State Department and the CIA, the latter as a clandestine service officer. He eventually realized the associates were members of the Chinese intelligence service, but that doesn't stop Shriver from applying. A federal agent prepares to arrest college student Glenn Duffie Shriver (played by actor) in the FBI-produced short film 'Game of Pawns' The FBI advises students to avoid 'money-for-nothing' offers, as well those that seem too good to be true. In addition, students should be skeptical of free favors, such as obtaining visa and work visas while abroad. In addition, the FBI suggests students minimize information about themselves through social media and not engage in contact with people who are involved with the foreign government or might be involved in criminal activities. 'A keen awareness is the most powerful weapon [against being recruited],' Shriver warns students. | Effort spurred due to the case of Glenn Duffie Shriver, who attempted to give the Chinese government classified information while he studied in Shanghai .
In 2011, Shriver pled guilty to charges of attemping to spy for the Chinese and sentenced to four years in a U.S. prison .
FBI made 30-minute dramatization of Shriver case called 'Game of Pawns'
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By . Joshua Gardner, Ap Reporter and Chris Pleasance . PUBLISHED: . 07:42 EST, 21 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:42 EST, 21 October 2013 . Researches are refusing to hand over a . list of buildings in Los Angeles which they say are liable to collapse . if an earthquake strikes. Professor Jack Moehle, from UC Berkeley, previously said he would hand the list to city officials without making it public for fear of being sued. However, . a spokesman for the Mayor Eric Garcetti said that when his office . requested the list in order to make a head-start on tackling the . problem, they were told they couldn't have it. Which ones? A list of Los Angeles' buildings in danger of crumbling in the next big quake is being held back by UC Berkeley researchers . Last weekend scientists warned that a . 6.7 magnitude earthquake is almost certain to happen on the West Coast . in the next 30 years and if it does 1,500 ageing buildings in LA could . turn into death traps. The research team, lead by engineering professor Moehle, looked at public records and . did a walking survey in order to establish which properties were at . risk. The team found modest homes, . millionaire high rises, and factories with outdated . concrete constructions that had slipped through the cracks of city ordinances. The Los Angeles Times reported Sunday . that the buildings are susceptible . because they do not contain enough steel reinforcing bars to sustain . them during the sideways shaking triggered by a large quake. Neither Professor Jack Mohele, who lead the study, nor any of his team responded to requests for comment by the Times. LA . officials have known about the dangers for more than 40 years but have . failed to force owners to make their properties safer or to compile a . list of endangered buildings, according to the Times. The . Times compiled its own list using many of the same methods the . scientists did. The newspaper had a team of reporters research thousands . of city and county records to identify older buildings. Awaiting disaster? The iconic Capitol Records building (left) was identified by the LA Times as one of 1,000 outdated structures in danger of collapse in the next big Southern California earthquake, as was Hollyood's Guaranty building, now home to the Church of Scientology . The . reporters visited the buildings themselves, checked building . permits and interviewing owners to see what if any quake-safety upgrades . had been made over the years. The . analysis concluded that more than 1,000 structures are at risk, with . more than 50 in Los Angeles likely to fall down, putting thousands of . people at risk. Many of . these at-risk buildings include landmarks and . buildings frequented by many of LA’s 40 million visitors per year—such as the Capitol Records building, Pantages Theater, the . Hollywood Guaranty building, home to the Church of Scientology, and the . Avalon Hollywood nightclub. Many of the at-risk buildings were found to be in the Hollywood area, which is bisected by a fault capable of rocking the area with a direct 7.0 earthquake. Full house: The study pointed out the historic Avalon Theater as in danger of falling down in the next quake thanks to outdated construction. It is now a popular nightclub with a capacity for 2,000 people . LA’s downtown area, full of outdated . textile factories, is also at risk. This includes Scott Kim’s family . business, which his family paid $5 million for 10 years ago. ‘It . went through other earthquakes, and it's still here,’ Kim told the . Times. ‘I know back in the day they built buildings much sturdier than . buildings today.’ Metal skeleton: This reinforced concrete column shows today's construction. Metal rebar throughout prevents collapse. Older buildings lack such steel skeletons and are in danger of buckling and crushing those inside . However, Kim admits that no one walked him and his family through the seismic risks when they bought the place. Two earthquakes, Sylmar in 1971 and Northridge in 1994, killed 125 people, injured more than 9,000 and toppled two hospitals, an apartment building and several freeway overpasses, including one that was rebuilt after falling during the 1971 quake. More than 40,000 buildings were damaged across Southern California. A 1995 earthquake in Kobe, Japan . killed 6,000 and many were in concrete buildings. Another 133 people died in a . 2011 New Zealand quake after two non-reinforced concrete office . buildings were toppled. A . 2008 forecast gave 99 percent chance of a 6.7 magnitude quake in the . next three decades, and 46 percent chance of a 7.5 or greater, with . Southern California at the epicenter. Researchers . like Thomas Heaton of Caltech’s Earthquake Engineering Research . Laboratory worry it will take a deadly tragedy to create change. ‘We . know darn well that if a bunch of people die, there will be lots of . stories, lots of reports, things will change,’ Heaton said. ‘But the . question is, do we have to have lots of people die in order to make this . change?’ Historic: Hollywood's Pantages building is also at risk of collapse due to non-updated construction says the LA Times and scientists say the next big quake will likely come within the next 30 years . CONCRETE BOOM . The . City of Angels saw a massive population influx in the 1920s and a huge . rush to build homes and business to accommodate the new Angelenos. The era saw a concrete structures spring up en-masse, helping to pave the way toward the sprawling Los Angeles seen today. In the 1970s, concrete towers began to line LA's famous avenues, like the historic Capitol Records building. Pancaked: An aerial shot of an LA building that pancaked following the 1994 Northridge quake. Outdated, non-reinforced concrete structures routinely collapse during powerful earthquakes and many such buildings remain in LA . CONCRETE BUST . In 1971, the 6.6 Sylmar earthquake killed 52 people after the concrete structures failed to withstnd the tremor. On such building was the 3-storey San Fernando Valley VA Hospital which collapsed, crushing patients in their beds. The magnitude 6.7 Northridge earthquake in 1994 saw even more concrete structures destroyed. As . a result of the two disasters the city tightened regulations for new . buildings and began retrofitting older sites with steel beams. However, attempts to force building owners to update their properties have largely been a failure. The work is costly and owners are either unwilling or unable to foot the bill. Destroyed: This iconic image from the 1994 Northridge quake shows the concrete Kaiser Permanente building that sat near the epicenter of the 6.7 temblor . | Scientists refuse to pass on details they collected on unsafe buildings .
Non-reinforced concrete structures are a deadly trap during major quakes .
Separate list by LA Times shows Capitol Records building, Pantages Theater, and Avalon nightclub among dangerous buildings .
Scientists confirm 99 percent chance a 6.7 quake will hit within 30 years .
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When young British models Cara Delevingne and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley stepped out at Paris Fashion Week wearing V-neck tops slashed to their waists this week, onlookers might have expected an abundance of breast on show. After all, the new trend for deep-plunge necklines leaves little to the imagination. But there was, in fact, barely any cleavage to be seen — despite the minimal material. For this slick new style, spearheaded by the slimmest of celebrities, is actually all about having no cleavage. It is, indeed, the ‘no-cleavage cleavage’: a daring display of chest that demonstrates not acres of soft, ample bosom but a hard, toned torso without a whiff of wobble. Scroll down for video . Rosie Huntington-Whiteley: It's hard to upstage a strip sequin jumpsuit, bur Rosie's gravity-defying body puts this Balmain creation in the shadows. But then, this plunge is designed to do one thing: show off a taut, perfect torso. Gwyneth Paltrow: Gwyneth manages a laid-back take on the tux by pairing relaxed trousers with her plunging neckline. The result is effortlessly chic, though the chunky gold chain emphasises her jutting collarbone. Abbey Clancy: Grown-up rather than gimmicky, she channels the no-cleavage cleavage look in a classic white suit. Perhaps it is the fear of flashing, or lavish amounts of sticky tape under the jacket, which leaves her looking uncomfortable. Cara Delevingne: Dramatically plunging is an understatement — this top is smaller than most swimming costumes. Coupled with stripy, see-through trousers and a waist-squeezing belt, her Balmain jumpsuit screams ‘look at my chest!’ Kate Hudson: Kate's beautifully draped frock is a red carpet winner, complete with regal train and shimmering fabric, but it’s the plunge neck that steals the show, and the toned skin and body it reveals. Georgia May Jagger: Proof that no-cleavage cleavage can be classy. Georgia’s sophisticated Thierry Mugler dress flashes large amounts of flesh but strikes a balance between chic and sexy. Sienna Miller: Sienna's low-cut lace dress with waterfall hem needs only one accessory — a golden tan. Oh, and perfectly toned, svelte side order of toupee tape to keep it all in place. Reese Witherspoon: Reese's trademark prom dress gets a modern makeover with this slashed-to-the-navel version. It’s further highlighted by a split-patterned long skirt which ensures the right flash of flesh is on show - her chest. Miranda Kerr: The Australian model is more shapely than many — but this outfit is calculated to play down her curves. Seen at this week’s Louis Vuitton show, her only accessory is the gold chain of her Vuitton bag. Kate Moss: An original member of the ‘flat pack’, supermodel Kate has long shown bigger isn't always better — and by pairing this super-low neckline with batwing sleeves, her kaftan-inspired dress is respectable rather than racy. Cheryl Fernandez-Versini: Cheryl plunging neckline shows that even with more womanly curves, you can still nail the no-cleavage cleavage look. Bold, blue and brave — Cheryl goes all-out with this daring jumpsuit carefully tailored to highlight her upper body. Suki Waterhouse: This plunging neckline highlights not just a toned chest but also more of her pale, interesting look. Where most V-neck dresses are designed to highlight a cleavage, this version, worn with no bra, does the opposite. Minnie Driver: Minnie's scooped neckline shows off not her cleavage — cleverly supported as it appears — but her collarbone and swathes of soft, supple skin. The figure- hugging, long dress only further highlights the effective look. Stella Tennant: Masculine tailoring and muted colours would make British model and Queen of Androgyny Stella Tennant’s outfit a masterclass in understatement if her shirt wasn't worn quite so open to reveal acres of bare flesh. A curvy chest has long been a sought-after asset — driving women to try everything from push-up bras and gel pads to breast-boosting surgery, with designers delighting in showing off a generous bosom with corset tops and scoop necklines. But it’s naturally associated with a more curvaceous figure — and if there’s one thing today’s celebrities don’t want, it’s to be anything other than pin thin. So far from being shy about showing off a flat-chest, bony Gwyneth Paltrow deliberately opts for a daringly low V-neck black trouser suit, while of-the-moment supermodel Suki Waterhouse makes the most of her total absence of cleavage in a deep-cut black dress. Cara and Rosie’s bold jumpsuits go one step further, with nothing but narrow, bandage-like straps that would struggle to hold in most women’s modesty and a skin-tight halterneck style that actively flattens what little bosom they have. After decades of women enhancing their cleavage, these clothes go flat out to obliterate any hint of a curve. Never mind that such an androgynous chest would look more normal on a teenage boy than an average adult woman (typical size, a voluptuous 36C and rising) — what better way for stars to flaunt their taut, trim body than by showing off a bare, flat front? The style also demonstrates their enviable ability to go bra-less; if most ladies’ breasts might sag and escape without support, these stars show not so much as a crease. The subtext is clear: not for them the oh-so-common battle to contain troublesome lumps and bumps, their bodies are so neat and pert they require no assistance at all. Except, of course, that such a style is not quite as carefree as it looks; hidden under these well-positioned outfits will be plenty of carefully placed tape to keep the fabric attached to the skin, as well as secret modifications, from nipple stickers to strapless cups to ensure a smooth, safe appearance. Here we look at how the stars are turning to dramatically low-cut attire to show off their no-cleavage cleavage . . . | In the past women have gone to great lengths to enhance their cleavage .
But now plunging necklines are being worn to show off flat, taut stomachs .
Fashion icons Cara Delevingne and Gwyneth Paltrow favour the new look .
Style demonstrates enviable ability to keep everything in place without a bra .
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A police dog shot in the face in the line of duty while confronting a gunman has been deemed well enough to go home by the end of the week. Bruno, a seven-year-old German shepherd, underwent several surgeries after his jaw was shattered and lung damaged, while a bullet was lodged close to his heart. But Anaheim Police Department has now announced he has made a strong recovery. Scroll down for video . Bruno, the Anaheim, California Police dog who was shot in March. He is well enough to finally leave an animal hospital . Anaheim Police K9 Bruno recovers at the Yorba Linda Regional Animal Hospital where he underwent surgery Thursday to remove a bullet that damaged his ling . Bruno posing with his partner, RJ Young of the Anaheim police (left), prior to the shooting. Right, suspected gang member 21-year-old Robert Moreno Jr. who was shot dead in the incident . He should be released from Yorba Regional Animal Hospital on Friday ahead of his retirement from police work. 'With . expert care from Yorba Regional Animal Hospital, Bruno is now well . enough to go home and continue his recovery,' said the Anaheim Police . Department in a statement. 'Bruno . will make only a brief appearance at this conference, as he is just . being released from care and it is anticipated he will need time to . adjust.' In March, Bruno received a blood transfusion from another dog on the force, such was his condition. The . dog, the most experienced K-9 on the unit, was shot when trying to . apprehend a suspect who fired at probation officers who were at the home . of a man they were checking in on.The man was with two friends at the . time, both of whom ran after spotting the officers. One . of the officers walked down an alley to see if he could find the men . when he was shot at, according to Lt Tim Schmidt, an Anaheim Police . spokesman. When Bruno and . his partner, Officer RJ Young arrived about an hour later, the K9 went . searching for the men. When the dog found one of the them hiding by a . trash bin in the courtyard of a nearby apartment complex, according to . the Orange County Register, the perpetrator fired several shots at the . dog and officers, with one of the bullets striking Bruno in his jaw. Officers . fired back, killing 21-year-old Robert Moreno Jr. The man who probation . officers were set to interview was taken into custody, but the third . man escaped. Police say all three are suspected gang members. Officer . Young took his injured partner to the Animal Hospital, where Bruno . underwent three-hour surgery. Since the round traveled from his jaw into . his chest area, veterinarians had to remove part of Bruno's lung. They . also had to reconstruct his lower jaw. Bruno wears an police badge as he looks out the window of his partner's police cruiser prior to the shooting . | Bruno has been in hospital for several weeks after incident .
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By . Mario Ledwith . PUBLISHED: . 05:09 EST, 17 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:29 EST, 17 January 2013 . Party: Jabbar Cambell, 32, claims a group of NYPD officers assaulted him after responding to a noise complaint about a gay pride party in his Brooklyn apartment . A Brooklyn man claims he was brutally beaten by a group of nine 'homophobic' police officers responding to a noise complaint at his gay pride party. Jabbar Cambell, 32, claims the NYPD officers burst into his eight-bedroom flat yelling 'fag' and 'f***ing homo', in what his lawyer has described as a 'hate crime'. Mr Cambell, a computer forensics investigator, is also claiming that the police tried to 'conceal evidence' by tampering with a video camera outside his property before they entered. After being left with a bloodied mouth and black eye, and having spent 24 hours in custody following the incident, Mr Campbell has now issued legal papers indicating he intends to sue the police. Recalling the incident, he said: 'They were yelling ‘you f***ing fag’ and . ‘homo'.' 'I couldn’t block the . blows. I was fighting to stay conscious [but] I was blacking out because . of the hits I was taking.' The alleged beating followed a call to police about excessive noise at Mr Cambell’s apartment on . Sterling Place in Crown Heights, where around 80 revelers had gathered. Two officers first arrived at the property at approximately 2:50 am where they told partygoers - some dressed in drag - to quieten down. After leaving, it is alleged another group of officers arrived 10 minutes later. The officers buzzed at the locked door — and one even reached out to disable the surveillance camera in the vestibule. Cambell claims he observed the police arriving through a surveillance camera, before he noticed a police officer disabling the camera. Scroll down for video . Belligerent: A police report claims Mr Cambell ignored their demands to 'discontinue a party' and then pushed an officer, before attempting to flee and acting 'belligerently¿ . He has provided a videotape that appears to show three officers standing outside the property before one of them reaches towards the camera. 'I noticed them turning the security camera and I got scared,' Mr Cambell told the New York Post. After ten minutes, Mr Cambell says he went to the door to let the officers in to the apartment, which takes up the entire second floor of the two-story building. He said: 'I opened the door and one officer . used his foot and arm to hold the door open. There was a . sergeant, he yelled ‘get him!’ and that’s when I got attacked. 'They kept saying ‘Stop . resisting’ but I wasn’t resisting. I didn’t have any time to respond.' Police claim Mr Cambell ignored their demands to 'discontinue a party' and then pushed an officer, before attempting to flee and acting 'belligerently’. Hotels are a particular concern. Police have worked closely with managers, urging them to guard against anyone who might seek to check into a guest room and use it to launch a sniper or other type of attack . Mr Cambell was later charged with resisting arrest, attempted assault and possession of marijuana. The alleged victim claims two officers held his . arms while another pushed his head forward, before a fourth officer repeatedly punched his face. He was later taken to Kings County Hospital for treatment before being held in custody for 24 hours. Mr Cambell claims he was paid $300 by a party planner to . host the gay pride party at his property, with guests paying a $5 entrance fee. His lawyer, Herb Subin, said the accused the police of 'screaming anti-gay epithets', describing the incident as a 'hate crime'. | Jabbar Cambell, 32, accuses officers of shouting 'fag' and 'homo' at party .
Says the NYPD officers left him with a black eye and bloodied mouth .
Video claims to show officers 'tampering' with his surveillance camera .
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By . Sam Adams . PUBLISHED: . 06:16 EST, 31 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:47 EST, 31 May 2013 . Dramatic video footage captures the moment a bear is sent flying into the air after being hit by a car - before walking away apparently unharmed. The footage, which was taken from inside the vehicle as it was driven along a highway, believed to be in Russia, shows the animal walking across the road before being hit. After smashing violently onto the car's bonnet, the bear is sent rolling into dirt by the side of the road - but simply rights itself and scampers off into the forest. Scroll down for video: . Collision: The bear (bottom left) can be seen wandering in front of the car as it is driven along a highway in Russia . Force: The bear is sent sprawling across the car's bonnet and into the windscreen by the force of the impact . Dramatic: The video shows the animal flipping upside down in midair after being struck by the car . Recovery: The bear hurtles head over heels across the dirt by the side of the road before picking itself up and scrambling into the forest . The video, captured and uploaded by YouTube user Stanislav SS, has become an internet hit. It is unclear exactly where the collision took place, but bears, particularly brown bears, are found across Russia. Many Russian drivers attach cameras to their dashboards to record accidents. The practice is thought to be influenced by a lack of public confidence in the country's traffic police. Watch video here: . Driving in Russia is relatively dangerous, with 200,000 traffic accidents in 2011 alone, according to the Business Insider. Adult brown bears generally weigh between 220 and 1,400lb and are covered in a thick layer of muscle and fat. East Siberian brown bears are usually darker with a proportionately larger skull than other varieties. Bears have played a key role in Russian culture and folklore for centuries - and have been used at times as a symbol of the Russian state. | Bear shown strolling into path of car on highway - thought to be in Russia .
Animal is sent hurtling into the air by force of impact .
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Sending people to Mars may be impossible due to an increased radiation risk from cosmic rays, claims a study. It's thought that a predicted decrease in solar activity will raise the levels of radiation astronauts are subjected to from cosmic rays on a deep space mission. This will increase the risk of suffering sickness, cancer and more on lengthy trips to the red planet lasting about a year to levels beyond what is considered safe. A study from the University of New Hampshire suggests missions to Mars (illustrated) might be impossible due to an increased risk of radiation. Research suggests when sun is less active cosmic rays increase. This lowers the amount of time an astronaut can safely stay in space . The research, published in the journal Space Weather, was led by Dr Nathan Schwadron of the University of New Hampshire. In the research it was found that a 30-year-old astronaut can spend about one year in space before cosmic rays raises the radiation-risk beyond safe exposure limits. A long-standing puzzle in astrophysics is the source of ultra-high-energy particles from space that hit Earth. Called cosmic rays, they're up to a billion times more energetic than particles at Cern's Large Hadron Collider. They strike the atmosphere and cause an enormous shower of other particles, mostly muons, electrons and photons, over a wide area. Though they were discovered decades ago, cosmic rays at these high energies are very rare, making it difficult to pinpoint where in the universe they originated. It's thought that some come from supernovas, but it's likely there are other sources of cosmic rays in the universe as well. That's just enough time to get to Mars and back. However, many scientists predict that the sun's activity is weakening, which would mean the number of days a human could spend in space before reaching the limit is less than thought. In fact, the next solar minimum could decrease the time by 20 per cent – making a mission to Mars much more difficult and possibly life-threatening. Nasa sets limits on how much radiation it is safe for an astronaut to be exposed to. In the research it was found that it would take 400 days for a 30-year-old male astronaut to reach the maximum radiation does in the last solar minimum. For a female, this drops to just 300 days. More worryingly, if solar activity continues to decrease, then men could be allowed just 320 days in space, and women just 240 days. This would make a mission to Mars for a man difficult, but for women it would be all but impossible without them succumbing to serious effects of radiation. 'While these conditions are not necessarily a showstopper for long-duration missions to the moon, an asteroid, or even Mars, galactic cosmic ray radiation in particular remains a significant and worsening factor that limits mission durations,' says Dr Schwadron. 'These data are a fundamental reference for the radiation hazards in near Earth 'geospace' out to Mars and other regions of our sun's vast heliosphere.' Cosmic rays originate outside the solar system - possibly in supernovas - and travel through the universe. The solar wind, however, can push back this radiation (shown) and prevent it causing too many harmful effects. It is predicted solar activity will continue to decrease in future, increasing levels of cosmic rays . The sun's activity is known to have a clockwork 11-year cycle, with approximately six to eight-year lulls in activity (solar minimum) followed by two to three-year periods when the sun is more active (solar maximum) Cosmic rays originate outside the solar system - possibly in supernovas - and travel through the universe. The solar wind, however, can push back this radiation and prevent it causing too many harmful effects. Yesterday science writer Kate Greene, who took part in a simulated mission to the red planet, argued that the first mission to the red planet should be crewed by only women. Last year she took part in a Nasa project called Hi-Seas (Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation), which simulated a long-duration mission to Mars on Earth. Ms Greene and five other crewmembers - three men and three women in total - spent four months in a dome on Hawaii, only leaving the habitat in mock spacesuits. She says it was rare for a woman to burn more than 2,000 calories a day, whereas men regularly exceeded 3,000. Her conclusion is that sending women to Mars would be cheaper and more feasible than one with men. However, this latest research suggests that such a mission by be limited by the amount of time the crew could stay in deep space before succumbing to harmful effects of radiation exposure. But during periods of decreased solar activity, the cosmic radiation levels increase to a point that would be harmful to future space explorers, according to the study. The sun's activity is known to have a clockwork 11-year cycle, with approximately six to eight-year lulls in activity (solar minimum) followed by two to three-year periods when the sun is more active (solar maximum). In 2006 the longest solar minimum ever recorded was observed, which brought about the highest intensity of galactic cosmic rays, according to the study. This created worsening radiation hazards that would potentially threaten deep space astronaut missions. The high radiation levels seen during the sun's last minimum cycle limits the days astronauts could remain safely in space, even behind special shielding against radiation. This means that the number of days an astronaut can safely stay in space decreases during a solar minimum. The data was gathered by the Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation (Crater) on Nasa's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO). At the heart of Crater is material called 'tissue equivalent plastic' - a stand-in for human muscle capable of gauging radiation dosage. The data was gathered by the Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation (Crater) on Nasa's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO). At the heart of Crater is material called 'tissue equivalent plastic' - a stand-in for human muscle capable of gauging radiation dosage . | A study from the University of New Hampshire suggests missions to Mars might be impossible due to an increased risk of radiation .
Research suggests when sun is less active cosmic rays increase .
This lowers the amount of time an astronaut can safely stay in space .
It is predicted solar activity will continue to decrease in future .
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(CNN) -- New Jersey's second winning ticket in the recent $448 million Powerball lottery jackpot has been presented and a third of the big prize claimed, state lottery officials said Monday. Having two winning jackpot tickets in the same state is rare -- the last time anything close to that happened was December 22, 1993, when two players in Washington, D.C., had winning tickets. Three winning tickets were sold in the August 7 Powerball draw -- two in New Jersey and one in Minnesota. Sandy victims among the 'Ocean's 16' Powerball winners . Mario Scarnici, of Monmouth Junction, New Jersey, claimed the final third, New Jersey officials said. Scarnici purchased his winning ticket at a Super Stop and Shop store. "I go in the store and buy a newspaper and lottery tickets," said Scarnici, who will distribute to his two adult sons some of the $62 million he chose to receive in cash, after federal and state taxes were withheld. The other New Jersey jackpot winner was a jointly-held ticket claimed by a group of New Jersey co-workers on August 12. Called the "Ocean's 16," several winners suffered property losses in Superstorm Sandy, and one is the daughter of a man who helped write New Jersey's lottery law. Unclaimed lottery ticket worth $1 million set to expire . | Two winners in the same state share massive jackpot .
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Paris, France (CNN) -- French police raided the Paris home of L'Oreal heiress Liliane Bettencourt on Wednesday, a local prosecutor told CNN. Investigators have been looking into Bettencourt's finances for weeks after allegations of secret, possibly illegal payments to French politicians, including President Nicolas Sarkozy. The lawyer for Bettencourt, reported to be France's richest woman, asked the court last month to stop the retrieval of additional information on his client. A decision on his request is due in two weeks. Bettencourt is at the center of several ongoing cases, including the one involving the alleged payments to politicians. Her former bookkeeper, Claire Thibout, told police she received envelopes of cash that were to be given to Sarkozy and French Labor Minister Eric Woerth, who previously worked in the Budget Ministry and was in charge of reforms to France's retirement system. Thibout said she withdrew the sums of money at the request of Bettencourt's financial adviser, Patrice de Maistre. Police have questioned de Maistre several times about the allegations, which Sarkozy and Woerth have both denied. The alleged payments came to light in secret recordings, purportedly made by Bettencourt's butler and revealed this summer, that also refer to a Bettencourt bank account in Switzerland containing 80 million euros ($98.3 million) which had not been reported on her taxes. At the same time, Bettencourt's daughter went to court in June accusing a photographer of bilking her mother out of a billion euros. Bettencourt was friends with the photographer, Francois-Marie Banier, and allegedly gave him the money. The daughter, however, claims her mother is not mentally competent to handle her own affairs and took the case to court to recover the funds. Bettencourt has since cut Banier out of her will, her lawyer, Georges Kiejman, told CNN on Wednesday. Banier had been the sole heir to Bettencourt's fortune, and no one has been added to the will in his place, Agence France-Presse reported, citing Kiejman. CNN's Sarah Goddard contributed to this report. | Liliane Bettencourt is at the center of several ongoing cases .
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Rant: Dictator Robert Mugabe said his country would never support gay rights . Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe said 'to hell with you' to David Cameron in a speech after the Prime Minister called for global rights. The 88-year-old tyrant used a speech at his birthday party yesterday to urge Zimbabweans to shun Western values and homosexuality. His comments came after Mr Cameron last year warned Britain could withdraw aid from developing countries which failed to protect gay rights. Mugabe, who has ranted about homosexuality for years, has previously branded gays ‘worse than dogs’. The dictator said his government entirely rejected the suggestion from its former colonial master. He said: 'We reject that outright and say to hell with you. 'You, David Cameron, are you suggesting that you don’t know that, or is it some kind of insanity or part of the culture of Europeans?' During his speech, which was broadcast by Zimbabwe’s state-owned television network, Mugabe added that he would never allow gay rights in his country. He said: 'In their newspapers, that’s one of my sins. That I called (gays) worse than pigs and dogs because pigs know there are males and females. 'I won’t even call him a dog because my own dog will complain. 'It’s even in the Bible that you create through the system of marrying. That’s how we were born, so we reject that outright and say to hell with you. Celebrations: Dictator Robert Mugabe eats cake yesterday as he marks his 88th birthday - with an attack on Western values . 'You are free as a man to marry a woman and that is what we follow. 'That’s what produced you and me. This kind of insanity is now part of the culture of Europe and the United States.' Mugabe’s rambling speech came as he addressed a crowd of around 20,000 supporters during a birthday rally in the eastern city of Mutare. The aging dictator turned 88 last Tuesday and celebrated yesterday with a lavish party. Local . media reported that a massive birthday cake was baked for the event in . Harare and driven the 160 miles to Mutare under a police escort. Members of Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu-PF who attended the celebration were also treated to musical performances from local bands. Anti-discrimination drive: Mr Cameron said last year that any developing country that fails to support gay rights could have their aid withdrawn . Meanwhile several cattle were slaughtered to provide food for the event, which was reportedly funded by businesses loyal to the ruling party. The scale of Mugabe’s birthday celebrations have sparked outrage in Zimbabwe, where millions live in poverty following years of disastrous economic mismanagement. However the president appeared typically unrepentant as he gave his speech, during which he also called for fresh elections to end a power-sharing government with the opposition Movement for Democratic Change. His comments about homosexuality came after Mr Cameron told a conference of Commonwealth leaders in October that Britain could cut aid to developing nations which failed to protect human rights, including gay rights. Homosexuality is illegal in Zimbabwe and two members of the same sex caught kissing or even holding hands can face a jail sentence. Mugabe, a devout Catholic, has repeatedly said he believed same-sex relationships were morally wrong and has criticised MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai for backing gay rights. | Mugabe attacks Western values in rambling birthday speech . | 6180579b98064a543341dde210993c68ad3a48a3 | [
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Forget a few baubles and a wreath, for middle-America’s most fanatically festive families, Christmas decorations include 100 trees, six foot Santas and lights so bright, pilots at the local airport use them as a beacon. The ostentatious families are the stars of a new U.S. TV show that's made it's way to the UK this month. The Great Christmas Light Fight, which airs on truTV, follows America’s most fanatically festive families. Feeling festive: A new TV show sees Christmas-obsessed families across America competing for a £30,000 prize fund . Each episode takes decking the halls to the absolute extreme, as households compete to create the most over-the-top Christmas light displays to win a £31,000 ($50,000) cash prize. Hosted by judges Michael Moloney and Sabrina Soto, each family has just three weeks to transform their home for the holidays, working around the clock as they pit their wits against each other to create the most ridiculously elaborate illuminations. Judged on rigorous and strict criteria that ranges from use of lights, overall design and Christmas spirit, their displays feature six foot Santas, luminous snowmen, glowing reindeer and metres and metres of coloured lights in the most astonishing display of festive cheer. Competition: Each family has just three weeks to transform their home for the holidays, working around the clock as they pit their wits against each other to create the most ridiculously elaborate illuminations . Battle: Each episode takes decking the halls to the absolute extreme, as households compete to create the most over-the-top Christmas light displays to win a £31,000 cash prize . One of the families featured, the Baughmans from Dallas, adorn their house with 100,000 lights, 100 Christmas trees and 16 Christmas-themed arches. They take the whole process so seriously that they spend all year prepping and programming the lights, spend two months setting up and are known as local celebrities thanks to their display. Giving them a run for their money is the Downs family from Oklahoma. The Downs family Christmas display is one of the largest musically synchronized displays in the country. The display has become such a spectacle that an average of 20,000 cars attend each year and on Christmas Eve last year, they had close to 5,000 cars driving by. Winter wonderland: This home features a Ferris wheel, 80 ft ski lift and 180,000 lights and pilots at the local airport even use their home as a beacon during the holiday season . Shine bright: Each house is judged on rigorous and strict criteria that ranges from use of lights, overall design and Christmas spirit . Mark and Kathy from Miama have been doing their display since 1990 when they tied the knot. The family spends a total of five hours, three days a week for three months to get their display ready in time for the holidays. They believe their Ferris wheel, 80 ft ski lift and 180,000 lights are what set their display apart from others. Pilots at the local airport even use their home as a beacon during the holiday season. New Yorker Kevin Lynch, 54, has been doing his display for 16 years and it normally takes seven weeks and over 300 hours to put it up. He has over 300,000 lights and 350 figures and has received awards from US Senator Patavan and City Councilman Tony Avella. Classic: This home is all about the fairy lights but for others, Christmas decorations include 100 trees and six foot Santas . Les Mize, 68, has been decorating his home in San Francisco for 43 years. What started as a mere Mickey Mouse and Disney memorabilia collection has become a full-blown obsession. Patty, his wife, tries to keep Les in check and the decorations under control but finds it difficult to squash Les’s Christmas spirit. The house takes 294 hours to decorate, uses 200,000 lights just on the exterior, has over 400 Mickeys in the garage display alone, has 10,000 visitors over a three week period and has become known as the Mickey Mouse Christmas House. The Blount family from Los Angeles, meanwhile, turn their display into a charitable affair. Father Andrew, a CEO of a software company, likes to give back to the community and last year they displayed 120,000 lights and served tonnes of warm apple cider to faithful visitors. The Blounts even have a tree shipped in from Siberia each year. Over-the-top: Some of the families get so carried away that they spend days decorating their homes and have hundreds of people visiting . Spectacle: Some displays have an average of 20,000 cars attending each year . The Great Christmas Light Fight premieres on truTV, freeview channel 68, from Monday 15 December at 9pm. | American show being broadcast in UK sees Christmas-obsessed families .
One display has 20,000 cars attend each year .
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Washington (CNN)Neera Tanden, one of Hillary Clinton's longtime confidants and former policy adviser, dropped whatever coyness was left regarding the former secretary of state's all-but-certain presidential run at an event on Tuesday night. Addressing an audience of about 150 people at an Asian-American and Pacific Islander Ready for Hillary event, Tanden -- president of the Center for American Progress -- said she was looking forward to seeing everyone in Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada. "I am really exited for these next two years. With any Clinton adventure, it is a roller coaster. It is going to be very exciting," Tanden said. "She is really going to need all of us to step up, step in, be involved, fight for her, be a voice for her." Tanden closed the speech with a call to action for the crowd by referencing Clinton's failed 2008 campaign. "I look forward to seeing you on the campaign trail, in Iowa. I still have PTSD," she said, referring to the fact that Clinton finished third in the caucus. "So maybe I will be spending my time in New Hampshire, Nevada. I will say one thing about Hillary, she always remembers, she always remembers her friends, in good times and in bad, so I know it will be an adventure, but I am glad we will all be doing it together." Tanden, who has worked with Clinton since 1997, is very close with the former first lady. The two regularly speak and because of their relationship, Tanden has been sheepish in the past to comment on her possible 2016 run. When Clinton ran for Senate in 2000, Tanden was her deputy campaign manager and issues director and went on to serve as legislative director in Clinton's Senate office. When Clinton ran for president, Tanden served as policy director and adviser. "When you are making decisions, whether you are secretary of state, or senator, first lady, or future president, it matters who is at that table," Tanden said at the event. "I can tell you, we will be at that table if she is president." Rachel Rosen, a spokeswoman for the Center for American Progress, said that Tanden was "kidding about spending time in those states — she's not going anywhere." SEE ALSO: Clinton prepares for 2016 with staff picks, meetings . "Neera wasn't saying [Clinton] would run, but what it would be like if she did run," she said. Of course, it is the worst kept secret in Washington that Clinton is running for president. In the past two months, the former first lady has hired a number of top staffers and been meeting with advisers to chat out a strategic course for a presidential run. Tanden has not said whether or not she would leave the think-tank and join the likely Clinton campaign. The Washington Post reported in 2013 that Tanden would not return to a hypothetical campaign. Politico, on the other hand, reported that Tanden was "likely to play an informal role if she [Clinton] runs." The think-tank president has been equally coy about whether or not Clinton will run at all. "I honestly believe that whoever runs for president," Tanden told the Post, "is going to have to have a vision of how to grow this economy in a way that's more shared than it has been." Adam Parkhomenko, founder of Ready for Hillary, reflected on Tanden's comments to his organization by saying this: "We are always as ready for Neera as we are for Hillary." | One of Hillary Clinton's closest confidants hinted at likely presidential run on Tuesday .
"I am really exited for these next two years," said Neera Tanden, a former Clinton policy adviser.
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A robber who followed a pensioner home to rip the gold chain off her neck was caught thanks to a suspicious shopkeeper who filmed him earlier in the day. Sadaqat Khan was sitting in his car outside the post office he runs in Eccles, Manchester, when he noticed Aleksandras Bogdanovic acting suspiciously behind a 76-year-old woman. The 35-year-old started filming the criminal who, once out of view, followed the woman home and robbed her. Scroll down for video . Aleksandras Bogdanovic (pictured) was jailed for robbing a woman at her home after being filmed by Sadaqat Khan from his car . Mr Khan handed his footage over to police when questioned about the attack in his post office the following day. Bogdanovic, 27, was jailed for seven-and-a-half years at Manchester Crown Court after a jury was shown the footage taken on Mr Khan's phone. 'I was sat in my car when I noticed him. He looked dodgy, like he was up to no good and we’d had a phone snatch nearby a few days before so I watched him for about five minutes,' said Mr Khan, who was awarded £300 for his assistance. 'When I saw him start to walk behind the old lady I took pictures and video of him on my mobile phone. 'The police came in later that day and said an old lady had been robbed so I handed the footage straight over and said that might be him. It was a terrible crime. Mr Khan (pictured outside the shop he runs with his wife) was awarded £300 after handing his footage over to police to use as evidence against the criminal . Bogdanovic was jailed for seven-and-a-half years by a judge at Manchester Crown Court (pictured) 'I’m just glad I’ve been able to help put this man where he belongs and help my community and, hopefully, give her some peace of mind.' Det Con Paul Davies of Greater Manchester Police said: 'Bogdanovic targeted an elderly woman because of her vulnerability. 'He then forced her through the trauma of going to court knowing full well what he had done. The evidence against him was overwhelming due to the fantastic community spirit we have in this area. 'Mr Khan captured him following the victim home and this was backed up by CCTV from local businesses.' | Aleksandras Bogdanovic was acting 'suspiciously' on the street .
Post Office owner Sadaqat Khan began filming him from his car .
The 27-year-old followed an elderly woman home and robbed her .
Footage taken by Mr Khan used as evidence at Manchester Crown Court .
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There was an hour of daylight left in the Omani desert when we hopped into the Land Cruiser. Our guide, Zubair, revved the engine - in another life he might have been a rally driver - and off we set. ‘Dune bashing!’ cried Zubair, encouraged by squawks of delight from our youngest daughter, aged ten. Down and dirty in the dust: Oman is a great place to try the very modern motorised pastime of dune-bashing . Oman’s Wahiba Sands are classic desert terrain - the sort you get in a David Lean film or one of those ‘parched man crawls towards oasis’ newspaper cartoons. Hillocks of sand stretched to the horizon. What was most striking was the colours, at once uniform and subtly different. The sand was all yellow, of course, but there were valleys of brown and black, too, lengthening as the golden sun dropped. Zubair drove with gusto. We surged over and through the dunes. It was like skiing. ‘Snowplough!’ I yelled when we seemed to be going down an incline far too steeply - and the car, thrillingly, was skidding sideways, throwing out a high spray of sand. Where desert meets water: The Omani capital Muscat has a picturesque charm and an undiscovered vibe . Our children cackled with laughter. Zubair grinned broadly. My wife screamed. The moment we stepped out of the 4x4, there came a contrast: complete, refreshing silence as we sat on the dune tops and watched the sun set on this astonishing landscape. This was the reason I’d dug deep into the family savings and chosen Oman for a week’s holiday over New Year. It lived up to every expectation. The Sultanate of Oman, long an ally of Britain, lies east of Saudi Arabia. To its south is troubled Yemen. British Airways flights from Heathrow take seven hours to reach the Omani capital Muscat. For the first four days, we had the company of speed-merchant Zubair. He took us to the fortified town of Nizwa, where a splendidly busy and smelly livestock market is held on Fridays. The nut sellers in the souk had copped on to the idea of overcharging Western tourists — when my wife asked for a small bag of cashews, she was charged the Omani rial equivalent of £3. ‘You should have haggled,’ I said. She told me she would have felt mean. ‘They expect and enjoy haggling,’ insisted Zubair. Nizwa has a restored fort that could have been the setting for Carry On Up The Khyber. I was half expecting to find Kenneth Williams round the next turret. A solid day's work: Fishing is still an important part of life in the waterfront Muttrah district of Muscat . Even better than Nizwa’s fort was the one at Jabrin, where a 17th-century sultan reclined with dates, concubines and political worries. His reception room had hidey holes from which his henchmen could pounce to slay visitors. And his fortifications had gizmos worthy of James Bond: false steps on stairs down where attackers might plunge to their deaths, and ‘killing holes’ through which boiling-hot date syrup could be poured. The beautiful Sun And Moon room, meanwhile, was cleverly designed to keep the ruler cool by day and silver-lit by night. Arid Oman’s mountains are a purpling grey, and water is precious. Where the irrigation projects have not yet reached, you see blue water lorries labouring up roads. Government infrastructure work is everywhere. Since 1970, the country has been wrenched from medieval times into the 21st century, yet its people remain gracious and attractively modest. Although Western tourists are welcomed, women are urged to dress discreetly in the streets (no short skirts, low-cut tops or bare shoulders). Pleased to meet you: Though a different prospect to Dubai, Oman is a place that offers a warm welcome . Nor would you ever go to Oman for a Western stag night - alcohol is not plentiful. We spent a night on the country’s tallest mountain, 9,800ft Jebel Shams, which has a not-so-mini ‘Grand Canyon’. Our accommodation at the View Camp was odd - freezing-cold, prefab huts with mod-con bathrooms worthy of a London hotel. But true to its name, it had a fine view of the plain below. The nearby village of Misfat was a delight, an oasis perched on a hill with banana trees and palms. My wife was so enchanted by one deep-gorge wadi we visited that she has kept drawing pictures of it since we got home. In the desert, we stayed at another camp where the sleeping quarters were Bedouin-style tents, and evening entertainment was provided by a discordant band of bongo drummers and overweight dancing ladies. For supper, the staff produced a side of spiced lamb that had been cooking for 24 hours. Gosh, it was cold that night. But our children found it all fascinating - and they even got to grips with a few hesitant words of Arabic. Meeting the local wildlife: It is almost impossible to travel through Oman without spotting a camel or two . The least interesting part of the trip was when we returned towards Muscat and had a few nights at the opulent (but pricey) Al Waha Hotel. Great pools, comfortable rooms, but we could have been in Western Europe, complete with a clientele of bored white bankers and their pouting girlfriends. We did manage to escape into the city, however, and visit the souk, with its goodly whiff of frankincense, the fish market (rather different smells there) and the Grand Mosque, which was completed in 2001. The chandelier in the mosque’s main chamber has more than 1,000 bulbs - just think of the electricity bills! The mosque complex, which can accommodate 20,000 worshippers, is a monument to cultural and national self-confidence in a country blessed with rich natural resources and a lingering Arabian mystique. Abercrombie & Kent (01242 854 133, www.abercrombiekent.co.uk) offers eight nights in Oman from £1,675 per adult, based on two sharing. Children under 12 are an additional £1,025 pp based on two sharing, including return flights with British Airways. | Dubai's next-door neighbour has plenty to offer as a holiday destination .
Dune-bashing - driving on huge piles of sand in a 4WD - is a key attraction .
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By . Lucy Buckland . Last updated at 8:47 AM on 5th November 2011 . The Archbishop of York has told how he set free the spirit of a girl who was terrified she would be used as a human sacrifice after visiting a witches coven. The child was terrified she would be killed by witches after she saw the ritual slaughter of a goat, Archbishop John Sentamu said during a debate in the House of Lords. She was so afraid she would wake in the night screaming in terror, he revealed. Cure: Archbishop of York John Sentamu told the House of Lords how he set the spirit free of a girl who was terrified she would be made a human sacrifice . He said the young girl had been paralysed by fear and despite a GP, a psychiatrist and a psychologist visiting the child's south London home, the girl was petrified she would be coven's next sacrifice. Speaking to peers on Wednesday the . Archbishop said: 'When I first became a vicar of a parish in south . London I was invited into a home because somebody said that there was a . presence there. 'I did not understand that phrase but . I went into the home where there was a young girl who had not been able . to move for nearly three weeks. 'The GP, a psychiatrist and a psychologist had visited the house. Sometimes the girl shouted a lot in the middle of the night. Somebody said that they had been to a witches' coven that night where a goat had been sacrificed. Terrified: The Archbishop said the girl had visited a witches coven, similar to the one . pictured in Nepal, and witnessed the sacrifice of a goat. She then became terrified that she . would be next . 'She was absolutely petrified that she would be sacrificed next. She could not speak apart from shouting.' To rid the child of the spirit, the Archbishop said he anointed her with oil and lit a candle. He told the House of Lords: 'I left and received a telephone call later to say that the young girl was no longer terrified and had started to speak. 'That was not mental or physical illness; there was something in her spirit that needed to be set free.' Dr Sentamu was speaking during a debate on an amendment of the NHS bill for England where he called for spiritual health to be part of the government's agenda for health. During the debate the Anglican Archbishop said schools now emphasised students' spiritual side, as well as their physical and mental well being. If passed the Health and Social Care Bill would give doctors more responsibility for their own budgets while greater competition with the private sector would be encouraged. | Child had witnessed ritual slaughter of a goat, he tells House of Lords .
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North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania (CNN) -- Focused, determined and dedicated: that's how friends and neighbors describe Nicolas Checque, the Navy SEAL killed during the successful rescue of an American doctor kidnapped in Afghanistan. They say when the petty officer first class died, Checque was living the life he had always wanted. As far back as middle school, he knew he wanted to join the Navy's special forces. "He loved it," said high school classmate Anthony Troisi. "In seventh grade, eighth grade, he knew what he wanted to do with his life: he wanted to be a Navy SEAL." Read more: U.S. citizen rescued from the Taliban in Afghanistan . He was driven and goal-oriented, according to Stephanie Stewart, who usually rode the school bus with Checque to Norwin High School. "He knew exactly how to get where he wanted," she said. Growing up here, Checque kept a short, military-style haircut, and even got Lasik eye surgery -- mainly to make sure there was nothing that could disqualify him from becoming a commando, according to Troisi. In addition to his classes, the young man focused on wrestling and fitness, which friends say he saw as a way to prepare for the physically demanding role Checque was striving for. "He was a team leader," said Michael Choby, who graduated a year ahead. "Not a superstar, but a leader in the room -- and at matches, too." Send memories or messages . At the end of an exhausting wrestling practice, Checque was still ready to swim laps, Choby said -- another type of training that could help lead to a career as a commando. Troisi described him as mentally tough, but reserved, at matches. "He would beat a guy up -- and then walk off like it was just his job," he said. Checque was a four-year honors student, said his physics teacher Doug Knipple, but rather than go to college, he chose to go straight into the Navy. At Norwin on Tuesday morning, students, faculty and staff observed a moment of silence. Choby, who now works as the assistant principal at the school they both attended, says Checque's accomplishments can serve as an example for today's students. "He didn't just have a dream, and wish it happened, or hope it happened. He worked, worked, worked-- and he achieved amazing things for himself," he said. Home and Away: Coalition casualties in Afghanistan and Iraq . In addition to winning a coveted slot in the elite special warfare unit known as SEAL Team Six, Checque, 28, received a number of commendations, including the Bronze Star. But when the Monroeville resident visited home in recent years, he did not talk about his assignments or his missions, said former neighbor Kim Victor. After al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed by American commandos in Pakistan, old high school friends joked about how Checque was probably involved. Now, Troisi said, they know the truth: Checque actually did serve in the very unit from which the soldiers on that high-stakes mission were selected. (The Pentagon has not disclosed whether Checque was on the bin Laden mission) The International Security Assistance Force said Taliban insurgents kidnapped the rescued U.S. doctor. Two local officials identified the kidnappers as smugglers. "He died doing what he loved," former neighbor Kim Victor said of Checque. "Not that that makes it any easier." Checque's remains were returned to U.S. soil at Dover Air Force Base on Monday, as officials ranging from President Barack Obama to the rescued doctor's employer thanked him for his sacrifice. "He gave his life for all of us," said Josh Behun, another Pennsylvania friend of Cheque's from school. "Protecting freedom, and standing up for those who couldn't stand up for themselves -- as he always had." Home and Away: Iraq and Afghanistan War Casualties . CNN's Adam S. Levine contributed to this report. | As a student, Nicolas Checque focused on goals, fitness .
He wrestled for high school team in Pennsylvania .
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(CNN) -- The Penn State scandal was just starting to reach a rolling boil last month when the Department of Education announced that it would be investigating the school for a possible violation of the Clery Act. A quarter century ago, Jeanne Clery was asleep in her Lehigh University dorm room when she was raped and killed by an intruder. The act came about after Clery's parents discovered that more than three dozen violent crimes had been committed on the campus over the three years before their daughter's murder; yet administrators didn't see fit to disclose this information. In 1990, Congress passed the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, requiring that schools that receive federal funds report crime statistics and make timely warnings to the campus community about crimes that pose a threat to students and employees. Often it takes a tragedy to establish or improve public policy. So it is that the recent flurry of high-profile child sex abuse scandals will surely trigger change and reform. We can start here: suspending the statute of limitations in these types of cases. Laws vary among states, but in most cases, when victims reach a certain age, perpetrators can no longer be charged with these crimes, nor can the accusers seek remedies in civil court. The statute of limitations in New York for bringing civil claims for child sex abuse is five years after it was reported to police or five years after the victim turns 18 . That was also the standard for criminal prosecutions, until it was lifted altogether in 2008 for first-degree rape, aggravated sexual abuse and course of sexual conduct against a child. In Pennsylvania, the criminal statute of limitations extends until the victim reaches the age of 50. But child sex abuse victims must file civil suits before they turn 30 -- and the law was enacted in August 2002, so survivors who turned 20 before the law was enacted are barred from suing their perpetrators. How does this apply to the recent cases in Penn State and Syracuse? If a victim of Jerry Sandusky was born before 1982, he is likely time-barred from bringing action against the disgraced former Penn State football coach. (Given that it was in 1977 that Sandusky established the Second Mile Foundation -- the organization through which, prosecutors allege, he cultivated relationships with victims -- this is significant.) In Syracuse, despite finding the allegations to be credible, prosecutors have already declined to pursue criminal sex abuse charges against former assistant basketball coach Bernie Fine. Why? Because the men accusing Fine of molestation in the 1980s are well into adulthood, and the statute of limitations has long since lapsed. There are various reasons why we have statutes of limitations for crimes, other than the worst felonies, and for torts. Memories fade. Witnesses die. Evidence goes bad. We want to encourage plaintiffs to bring suit as quickly after the alleged injury as possible. Potential defendants should be able to get on with their lives without worrying about getting charged or sued for acts alleged from long ago. If anyone could sue anyone at anytime it would further clog an already congested legal system. In most cases, this all makes sense. Not so for child sexual abuse. The very nature of the crime is predicated on secrecy and shame and manipulation. It often takes years, decades even, for victims to grasp what has happened: that an adult, often a trusted authority figure or a family member, did horribly wrong by them. Regardless of the guilt or innocence of Sandusky or Fine, the obvious complexity and ambiguity of the relationships they had with their accusers, as well as the intense public fallout in the wake of the allegations, offer graphic examples of why alleged victims might feel disabled well into adulthood. Shutting the door on accusers only serves to arm the molesters with still another advantage in what is already an unfair fight. Tammy Lerner knows this first hand. Now 41, she maintains that, as a young girl growing up in Union County, Pennsylvania, she was raped by a favorite relative. Conflicted, ashamed, scared to risk fraying the tapestry of her tight-knit family, she held it as a deeply guarded secret. In the late '90s, she felt that she could no longer stay quiet. As it turned out, several of her cousins claimed to have had similar experiences. Together, they went to the local prosecutor, only to be told they had been time-barred. "It was just that he wasn't brought to justice," says Lerner, who went on to found the Foundation to Abolish Sex Abuse, Inc. "When he wasn't charged and there could be no civil case, he couldn't be named publically ... Worse than injustice for victims is the paralysis and guilt that we feel over not being able to spare a new generation of kids the horrors of abuse that we experienced as children." Over the objections of numerous groups -- insurance lobbies, teachers unions, Roman Catholic clergymen-- some states have decided to suspend the statute of limitations for these crimes, a tacit recognition of the unique dynamics of child sex crimes. Delaware recently suspended the statute of limitations for two years, creating a window for those previously time-barred to come forward. More than 100 alleged victims emerged. In California, a similar suspension spurred more than 300 lawsuits, some dating back to episodes from the 1950s. "It's clear that it can take a long, long time before victims are ready to confront abuse and everything that can come with it," says Marci Hamilton, a law professor at Cardozo Law School and a lawyer for one of the accusers in the Sandusky case. "It's just wrong to have [policy] that favors the predator." A vast body of research indicates that the effects of childhood sexual abuse often span a lifetime. The opportunity to seek justice should last just as long. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Jon Wertheim. | Jon Wertheim: Charges of sex abuse can't be pursued once victims reach certain age .
But abuse depends on secrecy and shame, he says, so victims often take years to reveal it .
Prosecutors won't bring case against Bernie Fine because accusers are too old, he writes .
Wertheim: In Sandusky case, alleged victims cannot sue after the age of 30 . | 3026769ec06d1b2c3d3bfca2c108fd60ddfaa8c8 | [
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By . Matt Chorley, Mailonline Political Editor . PUBLISHED: . 04:24 EST, 7 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 07:23 EST, 7 March 2014 . Ukip supporters and Eurosceptic Tories are making it harder to stop Scotland voting to leave the UK, Vince Cable will warn today. The Lib Dem Business Secretary will use a speech tonight to accuse right-wing parties of British ‘indulging in British nationalism and Euro-separatism’. He will tell his party’s spring conference in York that people calling for Britain to leave the EU made it harder to persuade Scots to ignore the ‘siren voices of nationalism and separatism’. Lib Dem Business Secretary Vince Cable accuses Ukip of putting the union at risk . Voters in Scotland will have their say on independence in a referendum on September 18. Senior Conservatives are conscious that the arguments about Scotland remaining in the UK, including on employment, economy and global influence, also apply to Britain’s EU membership. David Cameron has promised to negotiate a ‘fresh settlement’ with Brussels before staging an in-out referendum by 2017. But Mr Cable will warn the uncertainty is damaging the British economy, with the Tories plunged into a ‘UKIP induced funk’. He will say: ‘The possibility of a Tory government after the election and the uncertainty around a referendum in three years’ time is creating a blight over the business investment which we desperately need to support recovery and jobs. ‘And let me say this to UKIP and so-called Eurosceptics in the Tory party. You are also putting at risk the union of the UK. ‘How on Earth do you expect to persuade . the Scots to ignore the siren voices of nationalism and separatism when . you indulge in British nationalism and Euro-separatism?’ The rise of Nigel Farage's Ukip has put pressure on the Tory party to present a more Eurosceptic front . Some members of the UK Independence Party are ‘literally akin to the Nazis’, according to a Tory MP. In . an incendiary attack ahead of the European elections, Robert Halfon . said the anti-EU party had played a helpful role in ‘cleansing’ the . Conservatives of people with extreme views. Mr . Halfon, an ally of Chancellor George Osborne and Tory chairman Grant . Shapps, cited the example of UKIP immigration spokesman Gerard Batten, . who believes that British Muslims should sign a special code of conduct . rejecting violence. He cited . the example of UKIP immigration spokesman Gerard Batten, who believes . that British Muslims should sign a special code of conduct rejecting . violence. Mr Halfon, who is . Jewish, said: ‘To me there are two kinds of UKIP – the [former defence . spokesman] Godfrey Bloom guy who’s like a cross between Sid James and . Bernard Manning, and then there's a much more sinister element, like the . MEP who said every Muslim has got to sign a declaration of . non-violence, which to me is literally akin to the Nazis saying Jews . should wear a yellow star. ‘I . genuinely find it abhorrent and frightening. I'm amazed that man is . still an MEP. How someone could say such a thing and then not apologise . for it…’ The pro-independence campaign has suffered a string of setbacks this week, with big business lining up to warn against separation. Investment and savings business Alliance Trust today became the latest firm to say it is to set up additional companies in England as a result of uncertainty surrounding the independence referendum. The 125-year-old Dundee-based business said it was taking the precaution in order to protect its customers regardless of the outcome in September. The trust currently has offices in Dundee, Edinburgh and London. In a statement outlining the company's annual results, chief executive Katherine Garrett-Cox said: ‘2014 is an important year for Scotland. The referendum in September is creating uncertainty for our customers and our business, which we have a responsibility to address.’ It follows warnings from oil giants BP and Shell, banks RBS and Lloyds and pensions firm Standard Life about the threat to their business and investment caused by Scotland going it alone. Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond has also struggled to counter the warning from the Tories, Labour and Lib Dems that they would block a currency union allowing an independent Scotland to continue using the pound. Mr Salmond has accused the Westminster parties of ‘bullying and bluster’, and insisted a currency union could still be agreed if voters back independence. But today Lib Dem Danny Alexander will insist the decision is final. The Chief Secretary to the Treasury will say: ‘I've seen some people suggest we are not serious about refusing a currency union. ‘Let's call this the John McEnroe defence. Except in this instance it's not just one person they're shouting at, but three. ‘And our decision - taken in the best interests of Scotland and the rest of the UK - is final. ‘No ifs, no buts. No matter how much of a racket they make, it isn't going to change.’ Generator and heating supplier Aggreko warned yesterday that Scottish independence would lead to 'years of uncertainty and hiatus' for the business. Lloyds Banking Group, Barclays, Standard Life, Royal Bank of Scotland, the Macfarlane Group and Breedon Aggregates have all listed independence in their risk management sections of their annual reports. But other high-profile business figures have voiced support for independence, including Willie Walsh, the boss of British Airways' parent company, who said last month that a Yes vote in September could be a 'positive development'. | Business Secretary uses conference speech to attack Eurosceptics .
Warns against rise of 'British nationalism and Euro-separatism'
Calls to leave the EU make it harder to persuade the Scots to stay, he says .
Tory MP claims some Ukip members are 'literally akin to Nazis' | 56cd0f4be80623576d7f8cc323a29ad94b00b76c | [
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The head of the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) said Friday that underwear bombers are still a concern. Speaking at the Aspen Security Forum, TSA chief John Pistole said al Qaeda has retooled its underwear bomb designed to take planes down over the United States. Airport security systems had to be modified after a double agent discovered exposed the second iteration of the device last year, Pistole said during a question and answer session moderated by ABC reporter Brian Ross. Uncovered: TSA honcho John Pistole spoke in detail about 'Underwear 2,' the next generation of underwear bombs from al-Qaeda designed to being down planes over the U.S. TSA equipment ‘wasn’t calibrated to detect [the device], and all of our 800 bomb-sniffing dogs had not been trained for that specific type,’ Pistole said of the recently-discovered bomb. Designed to create an explosive cocktail by mixing two liquids with separate syringes Pistole called a ‘double initiation system,’ the security chief explained that ‘Underwear 2’ is a ‘new and improved’ device that has the potential to be much more effective than the first underwear bomb, which failed to detonate when Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab attempted to up a plane on Christmas Day, 2009. Instead of damaging the plane, the bomb instead severely burned the would-be terrorist’s groin, according to reports. Gotcha!: Said Al-Shehri, a Saudi second-in-command of Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) was killed in a U.S. drone attack in Yemen, AQAP said on July 17, 2013 . The additional use of household caulk sealed the explosive device, keeping vapors from detection by bomb-sniffing dogs or TSA equipment, Pistole added. The TSA honcho attributed the more advanced bomb to Yemeni bomb making expert Ibrahim al-Asiri, an alleged member of al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula. After Ross referred to al-Asiri’s new bomb as ‘our greatest threat,’ Pistole agreed, saying ‘all the intel folks here [at the forum] know that is a clear and present danger.’ Yemeni authorities announced Thursday that Said al-Shehri, the deupty head of al-Qaeda in Yemen, was killed in a drone strike in the country, according to reports. In admitting his death, al-Qaeda claimed the fallen leader became lazy with his use of cell phones, making him an easy target. | The new bomb was discovered by a double agent .
Uses a number of more sophisticated techniques designed to avoid detection by bomb-sniffing dogs or TSA equipment .
'Underwear 2' allegedly built by a Yemeni bomb making expert affiliated with al-Qaeda in the Arabian peninsula . | 51e1487ee8c96227a672e7f7272844692403a9b9 | [
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Concerns: Esther Rantzen fears the allegations of . child abuse surrounding Jimmy Savile could destroy her 'life's work', . campaigning to protect children . Esther Rantzen fears the allegations of child abuse surrounding Jimmy Savile could destroy her 'life's work', campaigning to protect children it has emerged. The presenter was last week forced to deny rumours she is facing the sack as patron of a child abuse charity after claims she failed to act on allegations that Savile molested youngsters. Ms Rantzen, a patron of the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC), had said earlier that some in broadcasting 'blocked their ears' to the claims against the Jill'll Fix It star 18 years ago. But in an interview with the Daily Express, Ms Rantzen said: 'Say what you like about me – just please don’t destroy my life’s work.' Ms Rantzen founded ChildLine, a . 24-hour confidential helpline that takes more than a million telephone . calls a year providing free counselling for children to discuss abuse . and neglect, in 1986. For more than 25 years she has campaigned to raise awareness of the bullying and sexual or psychological abuse of children. The 72-year-old, who is also a trustee of the NSPCC, said that she remembered finding Savile 'creepy' and 'very odd' and said that she had met him about six times at charity events. She . insisted she had only heard one rumour about Savile abusing young . children and that was when she was working at the BBC as a researcher . when she was 21. Ms Rantzen added that her main motivation was to continue campaigning for children and older people and bring them justice. She said: 'It . would be such a great shame if all that work was sabotaged by this. My . concern is for the children who are suffering and other survivors who . need support.' Esther Rantzen with Jimmy Savile, pictured in 1988. She has since said she found him 'creepy' and 'odd' She told MailOnline: 'I would be . very, very distressed if people lost confidence in me, particularly if . people working with children lose confidence in me, but I'm told that . everyone who works at whole-heatedly support me.' Ms Rantzen said there might be lessons that could be learned from the scandal. She said: 'A therapist said on Radio 4 . that Jimmy Savile groomed the whole nation and that is true. He . convinced us all that he was a tireless charity worker and a harmless, . eccentric entertainer. He wore a mask which disguised the fact that he . was predatory and dangerous. 'I think it's very important that we discover if there are lessons that can be learned. 'We need to set in place a . whistle-blowing process so that people can report abuse if things are . happening or if they witness things.' The interview with Ms Rantzen, who has been awarded an OBE and CBE, follows allegations by a sex abuse campaigner who said she confided in Ms Rantzen about Savile, but nobody acted on her concerns. A slew of alleged victims have come forward to claim that the popular presenter molested them . Shy Keenan, 49, who founded Phoenix . Survivors, a charity that supports child sex abuse victims and their . families, says she heard the rumours and believed she a had a 'duty' to . raise the alarm and so told Ms Rantzen after they were introduced . through a sex offender specialist. Ms Rantzen told the MailOnline last week how . she had 'absolutely no recollection' of meeting Ms Keenan, who claimed . she spoke up about the claims against the star 18 years ago. Ms Rantzen said: 'If it's true I'm afraid I have absolutely no recollection of the conversation with her (Ms Keenan). But she did concede that she had . 'literally had hundreds of conversations about child abuse but I'm sure I . do not remember meeting this woman'. She said: 'But I'm afraid that in my television life I did meet thousands of people.' 'It could have been after a . program... It said in The Sun that Ray Wyre [the pioneering probation . officer who worked with paedophiles] introduced us and I did know him . very well.' This week, Ms Rantzen said that what Savile did to children had produced 'national rage and fury'. She said it would be a 'tragedy' if the scandal damaged ChildLine's work. Founder: Ms Rantzen, who presented on television show That's Life, founded ChildLine in 1986 . Scotland Yard said the . investigation into Savile’s abuse of young girls has tripled in scale to . 340 separate lines of inquiry. There are now 60 potential victims . and 15 police forces investigating the paedophile BBC presenter’s six . decade reign of child abuse. David Cameron is facing Labour demands to set up an independent inquiry into the abuse scandal. Labour leader Ed Miliband insisted . that a broad inquiry into Savile’s activities at the BBC, Stoke . Mandeville hospital and Broadmoor was essential to 'do right by the . victims'. Culture Secretary Maria Miller has . dismissed calls for an independent inquiry, saying she was 'confident' BBC chiefs were taking the claims 'very seriously'. But Mr Miliband said the BBC’s internal investigations were not enough. | Ms Rantzen is patron of the National Association for People Abused in Childhood and founded ChildLine .
Ms Rantzen says: 'Say what you like about me – just please don’t destroy my life's work'
She brands Savile 'predatory and dangerous' and says it is important to find out if lessons can be learned from the scandal .
Television presenter faces accusations that she failed to act on information .
Child abuse campaigner Shy Keenan claims she warned Ms Rantzen about paedophile rumours but Ms Rantzen denies this . | acfc988c7d0144d9e14ac3fb75559708b76be082 | [
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By . Anna Hodgekiss . PUBLISHED: . 11:44 EST, 28 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:51 EST, 28 January 2013 . Prescribing self-help books on the NHS is an effective treatment for depression . Reading a self-help book really can alleviate depression, new research suggests. Patients offered books had significantly lower levels of depression four months later than those offered routine GP care such as antidepressants. The findings are good news in an era where non-drug forms of treatment, such as talking therapies, are hard to come by. More than 200 patients who had been . diagnosed with depression by their GP took part in the University of Glasgow study. Half of them were on antidepressant drugs and some were provided with a self-help . guide dealing with different aspects of depression, such as sleep problems. These people read the book and had support sessions. The self-help book was based on the . principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is a . well-established ‘talking therapy’ for depression. It is based on the principle that problems can be managed by changing thought process and actions. But accessing a therapist can be difficult. CBT is already recommended by NICE (the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) for the treatment . of depression, either as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate . depression, or in combination with antidepressants for more severe . depression. However, as it is usually provided by specialist therapists, people in some areas may have limited access to treatment. In the study, patients who read the books also had three meetings with a support worker who went through the literature and helped the volunteers plan what changes to make. After four months those who had been . prescribed the self-help books had significantly lower levels of . depression than those who received usual GP care. After four months, those who had been prescribed the self-help books had significantly lower levels of depression than those who got usual GP care . Participants in the guided self-help CBT group also had better . knowledge of depression, the researchers reported in the journal Plos One. Study leader Prof Christopher Williams, who also wrote the books called Overcoming Depression and Low Mood, said the guided . sessions were crucial in the success of the books. He told the BBC that the sessions could be delivered by GPs, rather than therapists, thereby reducing the waiting lists for talking therapies. The sessions can be delivered in general practice without referral to a specialist, taking pressure off waiting lists. 'We found this had a really significant clinical impact and the findings are very encouraging,' he told the BBC. 'Depression saps people's motivation and makes it hard to believe change is possible.' The study was published in the peer-reviewed journal Public Library of Science (PLoS) One. | Patients offered books had significantly lower levels of depression four months and a year later .
Self-help books based on the .
principles of 'talking therapy' cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
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Tokyo (CNN) -- Japan will review and possibly cut financial aid to China, in light of Beijing's growing economic power, the nation's foreign ministry said Friday. "With China overtaking Japan in terms of gross domestic product, it is completely inconceivable for Japan, which has been outranked, to increase its ODA (official development assistance)," said Japan's foreign minister, Seiji Maehara, on the floor of the parliament Friday. Last year, China overtook Japan as the world's second largest economy. Maehara also said he has instructed the ministry to conduct an official review of Japan's ODA policy for other countries, in light of Japan's economic challenges. The Democratic Party of Japan, the nation's ruling party, has been under increasing pressure to cut the country's spending deficit. Japan has the developed world's highest debt to gross-domestic-product ratio, nearing 200%. GDP is a broad measure of a nation's economic output. The government is also struggling with a dwindling worker and tax base, as Japan ages faster than any other country in the world, because of its long lifespan and low birth rate. Tokyo started extending aid to China in 1979, but stopped fresh loans in 2007. Japanese loans to China during the 2008 fiscal year totaled 3.32 trillion yen or about US $40.5 billion, according to Tokyo. From CNN's Kyung Lah . | China overtook Japan as the world's second largest economy last year .
Japan has the developed world's highest debt to gross-domestic-product ratio .
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By . Lawrence Booth . PUBLISHED: . 01:51 EST, 2 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:45 EST, 2 December 2013 . Before the start of the Ashes series last summer, one of England’s back-room staff privately voiced concerns about two members of the Australian set-up. Darren Lehmann, soon to replace Mickey Arthur as coach, was one. The other was Ryan Harris, the bullocking but injury-prone fast bowler who until this year had never played more than three Tests in a row because his body simply couldn’t stand the strain. Lehmann has since been credited with helping the Australians to relax, replacing video replays on the team bus of the side’s latest match with music and cans of beer. And Harris, far from breaking down, is now on the verge of a sixth successive Test. No worries: Aussie skipper Michael Clarke is thought to be fine despite having trouble with his ankle in Adelaide . 24 - Harris's wickets in the summer Ashes series. He was second only to Graeme Swann (26), despite playing one Test fewer. 9/10 - Nine of Harris's top 10 dismissals are English, including Alastair Cook (6) and Joe Root and Ian Bell (both 4). 19.58 - Harris's average in the summer, considerably lower than England's top bowlers: Broad (27.45), Swann (29.03), Anderson (29.59), Bresnan (29.60). Since the previous five, starting at Lord’s in July, have brought him 29 English wickets at under 19 apiece, the concerns of the back-room staffer have proved worryingly prescient. And any hopes England might have had of Harris sitting out what could be a gruelling Test for fast bowlers on Adelaide’s drop-in pitch appear to have been dashed by the fast bowler’s insistence that he intends to approach the second Test ‘all guns blazing’. One school of thought before this series suggested he would be allowed to sit out one of the five Tests in order to ensure he was still charging in at 90mph at the series finale in Sydney in the new year. But Harris insisted: ‘I am not going to . miss a Test unless I have to. I have said since the start I am here to . play five Tests. Boof [Lehmann] has not mentioned one word about me . resting which is good. I am feeling good and ready to go.’ All guns blazing: Ryan Harris, with team-mate Peter Siddle looking on, is declared he is ready to go against England in Adelaide . Most of the focus since Australia’s 381-run win at Brisbane has been on Mitchell Johnson, who claimed nine wickets in the match with his pace and hostility. But Harris took five himself, and is in the process of establishing strangleholds over all of England’s major batsmen. In his five Tests this year, he has dismissed Alastair Cook and Joe Root four times each, as well as Kevin Pietersen three times and Ian Bell twice. And the absence of another regular victim, Jonathan Trott (four dismissals), has created a vacancy at No 3 which the Australians are hoping will turn into a weakness. ‘It is a great loss with Trotty not there,’ said Harris. ‘It is going to be interesting to see who they put in there. Hopefully it will be Bell in there early, as it will give us a chance to get him out. Whoever it is, Belly or Joe Root, they are both good players.’ Whole new ball game: Skipper Clarke is all smiles as he passes a rugby ball during an Australian nets session . Danger man: Mitchell Johnson will look to repeat his first Test success against England when the two sides met again this Thursday at the Adelaide Oval . At Brisbane, where Johnson was the bowler who most troubled Trott, it was easily forgotten that Harris had exposed his discomfort against the short ball during the summer. But he had only generous words for his opponent, who flew home last week because of a stress-related illness. ‘Jonathan has gone now,’ he said. ‘I will be disappointed if anyone brings that up on the field. It is not a nice thing he is going through. All the boys who have commented on it have said we want Jonathan Trott back playing cricket. The whole world does. ‘I know the Australian team does, because he is one of their best players and we want to play against their best team. He has made a big decision to go home and I would love to see him back playing soon. The England team needs him, but world cricket needs him too because he is a world-class player.’ Green keepers: Shane Watson is the centre of attention as Australia warm-up ahead of Thursday's second Test . Trott’s departure, however, has not dimmed the hosts’ competitive spirit. A frailty has been noted among the England batsmen, and – drop-in pitch or not – Australia’s fast bowlers intend to exploit it. Harris said: ‘Mitch has already said he is not going to change the way he bowls. No matter what kind of wicket you are on, if you are bowling that quick the bouncers are either going to go over your head – or hit you if they don’t bounce.’ Meanwhile, Michael Clarke was said to be ‘OK’ by Cricket Australia after appearing to roll his right ankle during Monday’s training session at the Adelaide Oval. The Australian captain, who made a century at the Gabba, came through nets practice after repeatedly flexing his right ankle during fielding drills, and is not thought to be in danger of missing the second Test. Movember may be over, but Mitchell Johnson is expected to keep his terrifying tache for the rest of the Ashes. The paceman, who sported a Dennis Lillee-style growth while taking nine wickets at the Gabba, tweeted: ‘Should I keep the Mo?? Well if we can raise $50,000 by Dec 3, I will keep it for the rest of the ashes series! Donate to my mo space.’ Meanwhile, former Aussie paceman Jason Gillespie believes England flattered Johnson in Brisbane. He tweeted: ‘Of the 229 balls Johnson bowled at the Gabba, only 10 would have hit the stumps. England will have seen that.’ | Ryan Harris set to play sixth successive Test for Australia .
Ankle injury fears for captain Michael Clarke are allayed . | 8bc1d3a63204616dd25017a94ea6dab944e3cd66 | [
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The members of Stanford's class of 2018 have some famous parents: Katie Couric and Rob Lowe both dropped off their smart children at the prestigious university on Tuesday. Ms Couric tweeted a sweet photo of her with her 18-year-old daughter, Carrie Monahan, with the caption 'Move in day @Stanford! #goodluckclassof18!' Stanford's location in Palo Alto, California, is conveniently close to Yahoo's headquarters in Sunnyvale. Ms Couric, 57, was named Yahoo's first Global News Anchor by the company's President and CEO Marissa Mayer in November 2013. Scroll down for video . Proud mom: Katie Couric (right) dropped off her daughter Carrie (left) at Stanford Tuesday and shared a photo of the occasion . Sister, sister: Ms Couric shared a family photo at the beach with daughters Carrie (left) and Ellie (right) in 2013 . The Today show veteran had Carrie in 1996 with her late husband Jay Monahan, who died from colon cancer in 1998. Carrie's older sister, Ellie, graduated from Yale in 2013. In June, Ms Couric married financier John Molner at her home in East Hampton, New York. One of Carrie's new Stanford classmates is Mr Lowe's 18-year-old son, John Owen Lowe. Family ties: Rob Lowe (right) and his wife Sheryl Berkoff (center) prepare to send son John (left) to Stanford . Mr Lowe shared a photo of Stanford's bizarre palm tree mascot, the latest of various iterations of the school's tree mascot. 'One of the best, (and most disturbing) mascots ever. #DropOffDay,' the 50-year-old tweeted. Mr Lowe also Instagrammed a picture of Sheryl Berkoff, to whom he's been married since 1991, posing with their son in his new dorm room. A mom's love: Mr Lowe shared a photo of Ms Bankoff with John after sprucing up his new dorm room . Tree pose: Mr Lowe also documented Stanford's odd mascot while dropping off his son . 'This dorm was empty this morning. A mom's love and talent and a few hours later: a new home,' he captioned the photo. John also shared a photo of him and his parents before he left for Stanford, noting that his older brother Matthew, who is currently enrolled at Duke University, was absent. 'The fam unites (minus @matthewedwardlowe ) one last to send me off...Stanford here we come.' | Stanford's location in Palo Alto, California is close to Sunnyvale, where Ms Couric's new employer Yahoo is headquartered . | d9913f565f6de530681367a7afe4f40454d6eba2 | [
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Google has asked the High Court to throw out former Formula One boss Max Mosley's claim for damages over 'sex orgy' pictures as a judge admitted awarding compensation would be 'difficult' Google has asked the High Court to throw out former Formula One boss Max Mosley's claim for damages over 'sex orgy' pictures as a judge admitted awarding compensation would be 'difficult'. Mosley, 74, is seeking damages from Google UK and parent company Google Inc, and an injunction banning the publication of the photographs on the search engine. He has brought a claim against US-based Google Inc and Google UK under the Data Protection Act and against Google Inc for misuse of private information. However, Google’s lawyers say that his case is unsustainable in fact and law and should be struck out. They also argue that permission to serve the claim on Google Inc outside the jurisdiction of the court should be set aside. The litigation follows Mosley’s 2008 privacy victory against the now-defunct News Of The World newspaper when he won £60,000 compensation after it accused him of taking part in a 'sick Nazi orgy' with five prostitutes. Mosley, the son of the 1930s Fascist leader Sir Oswald Mosley, did not dispute taking part in the sadomasochistic roleplay at a rented Chelsea basement flat, but said it was consensual and private, with no Nazi overtones. He said that his life had been devastated by the March 2008 expose and by the newspaper putting secretly-filmed footage on its website, which attracted at least 3.5 million hits. Today, Mosley continued his battle against Google in London’s High Court, but Mr Justice Mitting said damages ‘may simply not be available’ to him. However, the judge said some form of injunction banning the images could be ‘much less problematic’. Google’s counsel, Antony White QC, said today that the threshold test was whether a person had a reasonable expectation of privacy, taking into account all the circumstances of the case. Scroll down for video . 'There can be few privacy claims which relate to material which has been quite so widely publicised over so many years as the images which are the subject of this claim,' he told Mr Justice Mitting. He said that, shortly after the expose, Mr Justice Eady refused Mosley a temporary injunction against News Group Newspapers (NGN), saying that he no longer had any reasonable expectation of privacy and, even if he had, the 'dam has effectively burst' and an order would be futile. During the damages trial, Mr Justice Eady ruled that the newspaper article was not in the public interest. Mosley, 74, is seeking damages from Google UK (pictured) and parent company Google Inc, and an injunction banning the publication of the photographs on the search engine . He said Mosley 'had a reasonable expectation of privacy in relation to sexual activities (albeit unconventional) carried on between consenting adults on private property.' But he branded the former President of the motoring organisation the Federation Internationale de L’Automobile 'reckless and almost self destructive' and 'the author of his own misfortune.' After the trial, the judge did grant a permanent injunction against NGN, preventing re-publication, on the basis that it should not be entitled to profit from its own wrongdoing, but this did not prohibit other parties outside England and Wales from using images already in the public domain. 'The images, including the 95-second video, have now been continuously available online for over six years and have in all likelihood been viewed by millions of people around the world,' said Mr White. “There is no previous successful claim for misuse of private information which relates to material which has been so widely disseminated and which is so well-known. 'If the claimant had lost his reasonable expectation of privacy back in April 2008, within days of publication, it is clear that six years on he cannot have any reasonable expectation of privacy in relation to the images.' Today, Mosley continued his battle against Google in London’s High Court, but Mr Justice Mitting said damages ‘may simply not be available’ to him . Mr White said that, notwithstanding this, Google Inc had used its notice and takedown procedures to block images when specific URLs had been provided because, whatever the strict legal position, it had some sympathy for Mosley and wished to avoid a dispute. He described Mosley, who was in court for the hearing, as someone who had remained in the public eye as 'an admirable campaigner for privacy rights'. Mosley has campaigned for privacy since the article was printed, backing pressure group Hacked Off and giving evidence in the Leveson Enquiry. He has also been successful in legal bids to stop Google from directing users to images of the orgy via the French and German courts. Mosley (pictured), who was in court for the hearing, was described as 'an admirable campaigner for privacy rights' by Google's lawyer Antony White . Mr White added that Google Inc, as the operator of Search, was not a 'publisher' of the images for the purposes of a privacy claim and no general obligation to monitor could be imposed on it. Mosley’s lawyers say that Google’s application is misconceived and want it dismissed with a defence filed within 28 days. His counsel, Hugh Tomlinson QC, said that although Mosley had pursued third parties who continued to publish in several jurisdictions, the image remained accessible to users of Google Search. Google accepted that links to the images should be removed from its indices, but would only do so after Mosley sent them the precise URL for each image, which meant he was forced to engage in what a Canadian court had described as an 'endless game of "whack-a-mole"''. Mr Tomlinson added that this was despite the fact that, as Google now accepted, it was possible for it to take technical steps to prevent the images being indexed by Google Search in the first place. Faced with 'this lack of co-operation' from Google, Mosley had brought his claim in July last year. Mr Tomlinson added: 'Despite its dominance of the online search market in the UK, Google has consistently sought to avoid appearing before the English courts to defend itself on the merits. 'Whilst accepting that it should take material down - as in the present case - it has consistently refused to use automated technical means to assist individuals. 'The court should dismiss these applications and the defendants should be required to defend themselves at a full trial.' Mr Justice Mitting said he was not bound by Mr Justice Eady’s decision, since it was an interim order, adding he did not ‘see why, even if the fact is public, the photographs should not be subject to continuing restraint’. ‘If you accept as a premise that the possession alone of photographs of an intimate act is itself a breach of privacy and confidentiality, then it seems to me that you are entitled to restrain it, whether or not it is in the public domain,' he added. However, the judge indicated Mosley was unlikely to be able to win any sort of damages from Google. The judge said, ‘That particular remedy may simply not be available to the claimant’. Later he said that ‘the difficult part of Mr Tomlinson’s case is that [damages] part of his case’. But he said ordering some form of injunction appeared ‘much less problematic’. The lawyers mentioned the possibility of ‘fingerprinting’ pictures, which would identify them as being unfit for publication. Mr White conceded it was possible to mark certain pictures in this way and said it was not a difficult exercise for Google to undertake. Mr Justice Mitting appeared to favour this solution, saying it was ‘strongly arguable that there is a difference between something you can’t do anything about and something you can do something easily about’. On a separate issue, Mr White denied that Google was a ‘publisher’ of material, stating search results were created by ‘an algorithmic exercise without human knowledge or involvement’. Quoting an earlier judgement, he said Mosley’s case was ‘impermissibly speculative’. The hearing continues tomorrow when the judge is likely to reserve his decision to a later date. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article. | Mosley, 74, is seeking damages and an injunction over the photographs .
He alleges Google UK and Google Inc breached the Data Protection Act .
Google argues any form of filter on searches could amount to censorship .
Search engine says Mosley's case is unsustainable .
Action follows Mosley's 2008 privacy victory against News Of The World .
He won £60,000 in compensation over report that he took part in sex party .
Judge says today damages 'may simply not be available' to Mosley .
He suggests an injunction banning the images could be 'less problematic' | e93e9ce7864a0af4183ff99822e3c60382138de8 | [
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Imagine being so desperate that you decide to entrust your child to a paid smuggler to help him or her cross the border into the United States. You can't know if your child will survive the dangerous journey through the desert, mountains or across the river. And you don't know if he or she will be abused or deprived of air, food or water by handlers along the way. So what would make a parent take the enormous and terrifying risks anyway, and pay huge sums of money in the process? One look at the appalling and unsafe environments these children hail from makes it clear why parents will risk so much for a better life for their children. And it is not just about the poverty. Many children, for example, haven't been able to go to school because they have been threatened by the "mara," or gangs. A child will be told that if he doesn't cooperate, he or she will be killed. The threats are not hypothetical: They are very real, and will have been underscored by the death of friends or family members in their town. These are the horrifying dynamics that make up the plight of some of these vulnerable children, some as young as 4, who have been crossing the border into the United States without a parent or guardian. When I joined the board of Kids In Need of Defense, or KIND, a nonprofit organization that seeks to provide pro-bono lawyers to represent unaccompanied minors navigating our immigration system, I didn't know that we were on the verge of a massive humanitarian crisis. There were no front-page articles about the thousands of children crossing the border. It wasn't the lead story on cable news. They weren't trending on Twitter. So, I had questions about how we should respond, including the moral hazard risk of encouraging ever growing numbers of children to attempt the perilous journey if we said all were welcome. But I also knew we could not treat these vulnerable children as criminals undeserving of compassion. Which is why I decided to learn more about their plight and our nation's legal and social response. As part of this determination to find out more, I recently spent two afternoons at a local shelter in New York doing art projects with a group of boys from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. Art is a universal language and a great nonverbal way to express emotions and experiences. The boys all introduced themselves, some with a shy smile and eye contact, others more warily. The caseworkers told me how grateful and polite the boys had been once they realized they were going to be treated with kindness. After arriving at Newark airport in shackles and with only the shirts on their backs, the boys received showers, food, a bed, bandages for leg and foot wounds and a change of clothes. They still didn't know where they would be going or what would happen to them, but for the moment they were safe and appreciative. One boy had been making paper flowers with hidden messages of gratitude in the petals. "God bless you for having such big hearts," one petal said. On my second visit, I heard about some of the family reunifications that had occurred in the interim, with boys either being picked up by or delivered to a parent whom some had not seen in years. They described a mix of excitement, anxiety and joy, with many tears shed by the caseworkers who witnessed the reunions. But half that group of boys was still there, and more were due to arrive the next day. The boys made collages depicting their journeys through the desert: the snakes, the coyotes, the dirty river, the truck, and the train commonly referred to as "La Bestia" (The Beast) because of its many dangers. They worked in silence and with intense focus. After finishing, one boy decided to add a layer of ribbons over the journey picture and explained that they were now "Feliz," which, even with my limited Spanish, I knew meant "happy" or "fortunate." The Spanish-speaking caseworker later explained that while one of the boys had fled his town because he had been constantly attacked with rocks and was sexually abused because he was gay, most had left to escape deadly gang violence in their towns. There are many aspects of this problem that may divide us, including all kinds of fears, funding limitations and the debate about the demand for illegal drugs that gives oxygen to gangs. But it is the human piece to the puzzle that might be the one best able to unite us. The fact is that if we look at our family trees, most Americans are the sons and daughters, the grandchildren and great-grandchildren of immigrants. Each of our forebears had their own compelling reasons to make their dangerous journey to America. The cornerstone of the Statue of Liberty reminds us, in poet Emma Lazarus' words: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." Even though the surge has abated somewhat, there are still tens of thousands of children in need of a safe place to call home. Each of these vulnerable children would benefit from having a volunteer lawyer present their case so our immigration court judges can assess whether they need refugee status, asylum, or if they can be safely returned home. These children deserve our compassion and a chance at a safe future, not our kicks and turned backs. "Our need for compassion is profound and basic," psychologist Martha Straus once said. "From the beginning of time, this is what's made us human." The boys I met in the shelter are no exception. | Carole Geithner looks at why parents smuggle children to United States .
She says pressure on children to join gangs is one reason .
Children need fair immigration hearings to decide their fate, she says . | 9ec976388e696f1cdbf11b17737560e6fa258d21 | [
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(CNN) -- As the summer ocean waves wash up onto America's beaches, we find ourselves thinking, nervously, about Steven Spielberg's "Jaws" and the paralyzing fear that sharks inspire in us. Yet, paradoxically, we celebrate global attempts to protect the declining number of sharks. The world has figured out we need these species, along with all creatures of the Earth, to maintain a delicately balanced ecosystem. Sharks, in particular, are "in" these days. Thanks to good public policy and the power of public education and multimedia campaigns featuring stars such as Yao Ming, Jackie Chan and Ang Lee, killing sharks for shark fin soup is no longer cool. The demand has been rising for decades, threatening sharks with extinction -- up to 100 million sharks are killed each year just for their fins. But we have started to reverse the trend, particularly in affluent areas of the U.S. and overseas where restaurants once proudly displayed shark fin delicacies on the menu. In California, and other states, a ban on the sale and possession of shark fin soup has gone into effect this year after aggressive marketing campaigns by WildAid and other organizations. Overseas, marketing and public diplomacy efforts featuring posters on public transportation systems and TV ads have been underway for the past few years. These efforts all show signs of success, on both the supply side and the demand side of trade in shark fins. Hong Kong's Census and Statistics Department tracked 3,100 metric tons of shark fin being imported from the island to China last year, but this year's numbers are way down. Stopping the killing of sharks is part of a broader movement to stop the killing of wild animals and the trafficking of wildlife products around the world -- products that come from poaching elephants, tigers and rhinos, in addition to killing marine life. Opinion: Elephant slaughter surges as ivory funds terror . In November, former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called for a global strategy to protect wildlife, raising the level of urgency to a growing national security threat. For example, the poaching of elephants in search of ivory tusks for luxury goods had became a full-scale war between poachers, who are sometimes terrorists, and governments in parts of Africa. Illegal shipments of tusks across porous borders bring in the prizes of money and weapons. Once a marginalized issue of U.S. foreign policy, Clinton and current Secretary of State John Kerry have placed wildlife trafficking at the top of the agenda, given its wide tentacles to Africa, Asia, Russia, Indonesia and consumers in almost every country. According to National Geographic, which has been tracking elephant poaching, the financial losses place the issue on the scale of global drugs and crime, with an estimated 30,000 African elephants being killed for their tusks last year -- a rate of slaughter, say wildlife experts, that could drive the animals to extinction within the century. The dwindling of African elephant populations is alarming. Much of the ivory is destined for China to make chopsticks and jewelry, and the Far East, where it can fetch upward of $1,300 a pound. Whether it is shark fin soup or ivory piano keys, killing animals is big business. Together with international partners, conservation groups, nonprofits and businesses, the United States is leading the worldwide effort to reduce demand for high-end jewelry, herbal medicines, skins, foods and other products that rely on killing animals and marine life. Working with governments through existing protocols and conventions, the U.S. is convening stakeholders to pressure those who provide sanctuary for the poachers or allow parts and goods to make their way out of countries to market. Public diplomacy and public education, together with sound policy, give us a model for success. Using Facebook, Twitter, public service advertisements, the media, celebrity interviews, videos and classroom teaching, we can martial the forces to convince consumers that buying products that come from slaughtered elephants or harpooned sharks is simply wrong and dangerous. And we can track the results of wildlife trafficking and punish the offenders. This is one of those rare international tales of where the public and private sector, along with Hollywood, can create a very different kind of movie. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Tara Sonenshine. | Tara Sonenshine: As China gets richer, demand for shark skin soup rising .
International campaigns and help from U.S. have slowed the demand for the soup, she says .
She says saving sharks is part of a movement helping elephants, rhinos, other animals . | 2cf483441d9ff35e41fe69ff843b862b887886fe | [
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(CNN) -- A corporate jet crash in western Germany on Sunday killed all four people aboard the aircraft, police said. Witnesses told police that the plane burst into flames after it crashed near the town of Trier. Authorities are investigating what caused the crash. Local fire officials told German public broadcaster ZDF that the plane hit a power pole. There was dense fog in the area at the time of the crash, ZDF reported. The jet had come from England and was scheduled to arrive at a small airfield in Fohren, Germany, ZDF said. The two passengers and two crew members on the Cessna Citation jet are believed to be German nationals. CNN's Sara Mazloumsaki contributed to this report. | A plane crashed and burst into flames in western Germany .
All four people aboard were killed, police say .
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By . Sam Greenhill and Daniel Martin . PUBLISHED: . 14:09 EST, 12 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:54 EST, 13 December 2012 . David Cameron’s spin doctor was yesterday accused of threatening a newspaper planning to expose details of a Cabinet minister’s expenses. Craig Oliver, the Prime Minister’s director of communications, contacted the Daily Telegraph when he learned it was preparing to reveal that Culture Secretary Maria Miller’s parents lived in her taxpayer-funded second home. Mr Oliver telephoned the newspaper’s editor last Friday and allegedly suggested that any such story would be ill-timed when the issue of press regulation was being discussed. Culture Secretary Maria Miller leaves a cabinet meeting at Downing Street today . The newspaper claimed he indicated that the article may be poorly timed as ‘she [Mrs Miller] is looking at Leveson at the moment’. This was a reference to the aftermath of the Leveson inquiry into Press standards. He also said she was considering making a complaint to the Press Complaints Commission. Mrs Miller is in charge of implementing Lord Justice Leveson’s report, which proposes statutory underpinning for a new press complaints body. Joanna Hindley, a special adviser to Mrs Miller, also brought up the Leveson report, it is claimed, allegedly telling the paper she wanted to ‘flag up’ the fact that her boss was involved in implementing it.The minister claims the newspaper harassed her elderly father, and she was angry that he was quoted in the paper. Last night Downing Street issued a rebuttal, saying it was ‘ridiculous’ to suggest that Mr Oliver had threatened the Telegraph’s editor, Tony Gallagher. Meddling minister claim: Daily Telegraph editor Tony Gallagher, left, was warned by the Government over a story about culture minister Maria Miller's expenses. Downing Street communications boss Craig Oliver was one of the advisers who called the newspaper to 'flag up' Ms Miller's role in regulating the press . But the interventions by Mr Oliver . and Miss Hindley come at a time of widespread concern about politicians . being given a role in overseeing the regulation of the press. Shocked MPs said they looked like an . attempt to threaten the paper with tougher regulation if it went ahead . with the expenses story. Last night Mrs Miller faced calls to remove herself from any involvement in the Government’s response to Leveson. The editor of The Times newspaper has resigned. James . Harding, 43, announced he was quitting after the owners - Rupert . Murdoch’s News Corp – made clear they wanted a new editor. The . move comes at a time when Mr Harding, one of the youngest journalists . ever to take charge of the paper, was heavily involved in the newspaper . industry’s response to the Leveson Inquiry. Mr . Harding, who has been in charge of the paper for five years, said: ‘It . has been made clear to me that News Corporation would like to appoint a . new editor of the Times. I have, therefore, agreed to stand down. 'I called Rupert this morning to offer my resignation and he accepted it. ‘I will be leaving at the end of the year and a new editor will be appointed in due course.' The national independent directors of The Times will be now be consulted on a replacement, a company spokesman said. In . Mr Harding’s leaving speech he said: 'This paper has an unrivalled . history and, I am extremely confident, a long and impressive future . ahead of it. 'It . is also something else: a wonderful place to work, full of smart, warm, . extraordinary people. I will miss it, but most of all you.' Mr Harding began his journalistic career at the Financial Times after studying at Cambridge University. Miss Hindley, 29, flatly denied that . her words were intended as a threat, and claimed it was ‘misleading’ to . ‘suggest it is anything to do with Leveson’, and Downing Street backed . the aide. A spokesman for Number Ten said: ‘For . the Daily Telegraph to suggest that Craig Oliver was threatening them . at any time is beyond absurd. Maria Miller had had a day of dealing with . her elderly father, who was very upset. ‘Mr Oliver phoned Tony Gallagher to discuss the story, who then sent through an apology for any distress that had been caused. ‘The conversation was about Maria . Miller being very upset at a time when she was extremely busy with a . whole load of things, including Leveson. ‘The suggestion, made five days after . the conversation, that that was some kind of threat is completely . ridiculous.’ The row began when the Telegraph, which broke the expenses . scandal in 2009, investigated Mrs Miller for billing the taxpayer . £90,000 for a second home where her parents lived. She has been claiming the cost of the . mortgage and other expenses associated with the large property in South . London. The taxpayer is liable for this because Mrs Miller claims that . for five years her main home has been a rented property in her . Basingstoke constituency. Her arrangements appeared to be at . odds with parliamentary rules. In 2009, Tony McNulty, the Labour Home . Office minister, was severely reprimanded for letting his parents live . in his taxpayer-funded second home. The Telegraph sent reporters to the . address to check if Mrs Miller’s parents lived there, where they are . said to have held a ‘brief conversation’ with Mrs Miller’s father. It . formally approached her office about the second home last Thursday. A reporter spoke to Miss Hindley, and . she pointed out that the Telegraph’s editor was involved in meetings . with the Prime Minister and the Culture Secretary over implementing the . recommendations made by Lord Justice Leveson. According to the Telegraph, she said: . ‘Maria has obviously been having quite a lot of editors’ meetings . around Leveson at the moment. So I am just going to kind of flag up that . connection for you to think about.’ Yesterday, neither Miss Hindley nor her department denied she used these words. Douglas Carswell, Conservative MP for . Clacton, said: ‘I don’t want to live in a country where politicians’ representatives are able to stop newspapers from holding politicians to . account. ‘If we become that sort of country then we will be a tin pot country.’ John Mann, Labour MP for Bassetlaw, . said: ‘This is the kind of thing you would expect in a Stalinist . dictatorship. It has no place in British democracy. But the Prime Minister’s official . spokesman said: ‘My understanding is that she [Miss Hindley] was raising . legitimate concerns about the way in which the investigation had been . handled. It was perfectly reasonable for her to do that.’ | Telegraph about to reveal minister's parents lived in taxpayer-funded second home .
Culture Secretary Maria Miller's special adviser pointed out boss's involvement in implementing Leveson report .
Conservatives' director of communications phoned paper's editor to remind him Miller looking at Leveson .
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Tulane quarterback Nick Montana was in a tight spot Saturday with no timeouts and the clock running out on fourth down, but would his dad have approved of his solution? Montana, son of football legend Joe Montana, got his share of criticism after deciding to spike the ball in Saturday's game. The decision came at the end of a lackluster game against Central Florida, throwing for 147 yards and two interceptions on the way to a 20-13 loss. Scroll down for video . Montana, son of football legend Joe Montana, got his share of criticism after deciding to spike the ball in Saturday's game . Sports reporters thought the son of Joe Montana would know better than to shame the family legacy . 'There are certain things, like spiking the football, that you just don't do on fourth down,' chided Bleacher Report. 'You would think that of all people, Joe Montana's son....would know that.' Bleacher Report conceded that Montana was under a lot of pressure when he made his decision. USA Today was a little less harsh overall, but still called the move 'one of the worst mental blunders of the season.' Bleacher Report conceded that Montana was under a lot of pressure when he made his decision. | Tulane quarterback had led a lackluster game against Central Florida .
Spiked the ball with time running out on the way to a 20-13 loss .
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One baby is born through IVF to lesbian parents almost every day in the UK, new figures have revealed. The numbers from 2012 – the most recent available – show that 348 babies were born to women recorded as having a female partner. This is a 14-fold increase on the 25 such babies born in 2003, according to the statistics from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority. One baby is born through IVF to lesbian parents almost every day in the UK, new figures have revealed (file picture) In total, over the ten-year period, IVF treatment clinics have helped bring 1,388 children into the world for lesbian couples. In addition, the HFEA said that over the same ten-year timespan 1,149 children were born through IVF to single women. However, the official numbers are considered an underestimate of the real total, as more children will have been conceived by single and lesbian mums with the help of donor insemination – much of which takes place outside regulated clinics. These latest figures from the HFEA reveal that almost 1,000 lesbian mums underwent IVF treatment in 2012 in a bid to become a mother. In 2003, just 77 women recorded as having a female partner underwent IVF treatment, resulting in 25 babies. By 2012, this number surged to 916 would-be lesbian mothers, who successfully gave birth to 348 babies. The number of lesbian couples having this type of fertility treatment has expanded rapidly in the last ten years, with much of it being funded by the NHS. Figures reveal that almost 1,000 lesbian mums underwent IVF treatment in 2012 in a bid to become a mother . The law was liberalised in 2008 to make it easier for two women to have children via IVF, by removing the obligation for clinics to consider the need for a father figure for the potential child. And in 2013, NHS rules were changed so that women in same-sex relationships with proven infertility could access state-funded fertility treatment. Before then, lesbian couples had to pay privately, at an estimated cost of around £15,000. A spokesman for the gay rights charity Stonewall said: ‘We think it’s fantastic that even more children are being conceived in safe and supportive environments, and into loving families, since the ban on lesbians using fertility clinics was lifted.’ But some campaigners have warned of the dangers of a generation of fatherless children. Dr Trevor Stammers, a trustee of the Family Education Trust, said: ‘The large recent increase in children born to mothers with a same sex partner at the time of the birth is concerning, in the light of a number of recent research studies which have shown – for example – a four-fold increase in emotional problems in children of same-sex parents, compared with children raised by both their biological parents.’ | 348 babies were born in 2012 to women recorded as having female partner .
Figure is 14-fold increase on 25 such babies born in 2003, statistics reveal .
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Shirley Player, 61, stole £57,000 a year from 2007 to 2014 . When Shirley Player was diagnosed with cancer, she decided she had nothing to lose. Facing debts, and assuming she would be dead before anyone found out, she stole £400,000 from her employers. But fate did not deal her the hand she had accepted. Doctors gave her the cancer all-clear...and police charged her with theft. While the 61-year-old accounts manager has escaped her death sentence, she is now beginning a four year jail sentence. ‘She had not expected to be still here,’ prosecutor Carolyn Branford-Wood told Bournemouth Crown Court. The extent of the married grandmother’s thieving came to light when her employers, an estate agency, carried out an audit earlier this year. They discovered Player had transferred a total of £390,550 into her personal bank accounts over seven years, concealing the payments as tenant deposit returns. She made 390 transactions into four accounts, and then covered up the payments by editing the company’s accounts system to make them look legitimate. Mrs Branford-Wood said Player, from Bournemouth, used the money to settle debts, pay rents and on ‘family treats’. She said: ‘She had thought she might have died before the thefts were discovered. ‘She lost both her sisters to cancer in the mid-2000s and she had then been diagnosed but responded favourably to treatment.’ The court heard how Player confessed her crimes to police immediately. Mrs Branford-Wood said Player – who turned up to court smoking a cigarette – told officers: ‘It started because I had debts and then I thought, “I’m getting away with it” and it just escalated. In the end I could not stop.’ The prosecutor said: ‘Asked where the money had gone, she said it was on bills, rent and treats for the family. There was no property purchase and no expensive new car.’ Player worked at Allan and Bath estate agents, which was bought by Leaders in 2006, for 14 years, starting off as an accounts assistant but eventually becoming accounts manager. In mitigation, Brian Sharman, said his client had lost one sister to cancer in 2006 and another in 2008. Although she didn’t have the disease when she began the theft, Player was convinced it was just a matter of time before she would be diagnosed, and she was in 2010. The accounts manager claims she stole the money because her two sisters had previously died from breast cancer. Bournemouth Crown Court heard she had thought she would 'not be here' when her employers uncovered what she had been doing . Mr Sharman added: ‘She thought she would be dead before they found out.’ Sentencing Player, Judge John Harrow said: ‘You stole a colossal amount of money.’ He said her gross abuse of trust meant that imprisonment was unavoidable. Player, who lives in a £250,000 semi-detached house in Bournemouth, was given the all-clear about six months ago after radiotherapy. Her retired husband Malcolm said he had no idea about his wife’s crime spree until the police investigation. He added: ‘We weren’t driving around in Bentleys and drinking champagne. We might have gone out for the odd steak dinner.’ | Accounts manager Shirley Player, 61, stole £57,000 a year from 2007-2014 .
Court heard she thought she 'wouldn't be here' when employers found out .
But after responding well to treatment grandmother was given the all clear .
She made 390 transactions into four accounts then covered up payments .
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