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Boris Johnson has been pictured caught up in a dramatic mid-air scuffle as he tried to help calm an abusive passenger who had to be restrained while on a flight from Kuala Lumpur. The Mayor of London joined efforts to restrain the man while flying at 35,000 feet. The man was described as 'off his head' by one of Mr Johnson's delegation. Technology ambassador Eileen Burbidge yesterday tweeted a picture showing five members of the crew tackling the man: 'so impressed w/MH2 cabin crew (Kuala Lumpur-LHR); amazing professionalism/handling of passenger who was off his head.' Today, images have emerged of Mr Johnson in the thick of a joint effort to reason with the man. Scroll down for video . Boris Johnson has been pictured caught up in a dramatic mid-air scuffle as he tried to help calm an abusive passenger who had to be restrained while on a flight from Kuala Lumpur . The Mayor of London joined efforts to restrain the man while flying at 35,000 feet. The man was described as 'off his head' by one of Mr Johnson's delegation . Boris Johnson has been caught up in a dramatic mid-air scuffle as an abusive passenger had to be restrained. Technology ambassador Eileen Burbidge tweeted this picture . A spokesman for the Mayor told the MailOnline: 'The Mayor along with a number of other passengers and members of the cabin crew did make several attempts to calm the gentleman concerned but to no avail. 'We understand the gentleman was restrained by the crew and detained by police on arrival at Heathrow.' The drama unfolded as Mr Johnson travelled on the 13 hour Malaysia Air flight home from his Far East tour. Mr Johnson was pictured beside members of crew before the flight took left Kuala Lumpur . The drama unfolded as Mr Johnson travelled on the 13 hour Malaysia Air flight home from his Far East tour . Boris rides a rickshaw after it was presented to him at the Kazanah Global Lectures in the centre of Kuala Lumpur on day 6 of his tour . The man - who was believed to be English - was said to be singing loudly, before becoming abusive. Mr Johnson sat with him and urged him to remain calm. But after a short time he eventually became aggressive again, onlookers said. Cabin crew on board the Malaysia Airlines flight later restrained the man after Mr Johnson's pleas for him to calm down were ignored. The Mayor of London, who was on the flight, joined efforts to restrain the man who was described as 'off his head' by one of Mr Johnson's delegation (stock picture) A Met spokesman said police were called at around 5.40am to reports of a disruptive passenger on a flight to Heathrow Airport. The 43-year-old passenger was met by officers at 6am once the plane landed at Heathrow, and was arrested on suspicion of being drunk aboard an aircraft and common assault involving a member of the cabin crew. The man was in custody this morning at a west London police station. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Mayor of London was on the flight and joined efforts to restrain the man . He was described as 'off his head' by one of Mr Johnson's delegation . She later said man also tried to headbutt those who helped restrain him . Drama unfolded as Mr Johnson travelled on the 13 hour Malaysia Air flight . A man was arrested once flight landed at Heathrow and taken into custody .

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Dr Nancy Snyderman apologized for violating an Ebola quarantine as she returned to NBC on Wednesday morning and insisted that 'good people make mistakes'. The NBC News medical correspondent appeared on the Today show for the first time in a month and apologized at length for her mistake before presenting a segment about depression. 'I'm very sorry for not only scaring my community and the country but adding to the confusion of the terms that came as fast and furious as the news about Ebola did,' she told Matt Lauer. 'We had already been taking our temperatures... and we knew our risks in our heads... but we did not really appreciate and - frankly were not sensitive to - how absolutely scared Americans were.' Scroll down for video . Apologetic: Dr Nancy Snyderman returned to the Today show on Wednesday after she violated her Ebola quarantine. She apologized for the mistake but said it mustn't distract people from the real story . Snyderman had been reporting on the Ebola outbreak in Liberia for NBC in October at the time a cameraman who briefly worked with her, Ashoka Mukpo, came down with the deadly virus. Mukpo was transferred back to the U.S. for treatment at a Nebraska medical facility and has since recovered. Snyderman and the rest of the NBC team were urged to voluntarily quarantine themselves for a 21-day period upon their return to the United States. But during the midst of that quarantine, Snyderman and her crew were spotted getting takeout food from a New Jersey restaurant, prompting New Jersey officials to make her quarantine mandatory. On the job: Dr Snyderman agreed to a voluntary quarantine for Ebola after covering the outbreak in Liberia for NBC, pictured - but she was seen getting takeout in New Jersey just a few days later . Neither she nor anyone else from the network came down with Ebola. Her takeout foray angered her bosses and unleashed a bitter response online, with some viewers saying that they would have a hard time trusting her again after the mistake in judgment. NBC News President Deborah Turness told Dr Snyderman to take some time off. On Wednesday, Snyderman explained: 'It was about breaking a promise and it was also my association with Ashoka Mukpo. 'Good people can make mistakes and I stepped outside the boundaries of what I promised to do and what the public expected of me, and for that I'm sorry.' But she also added that concern over her story had taken away from 'the real issue at hand' - the suffering she had seen of the virus across West Africa. Healthy: Snyderman and her team were quarantined after a crew member, Ashoka Mukpo (pictured center with his father and his girlfriend), was diagnosed with Ebola. He was sent back to the U.S. and has recovered . Snyderman, 62, will also report on a medical issue for NBC's Nightly News on Wednesday. There had been some question about whether the veteran medical journalist would ever return to NBC News. Snyderman, a surgeon, has been at NBC News since 2006 after spending 17 years as a medical correspondent for ABC News.

The NBC News medical correspondent had been reporting from Liberia in October when one of her cameramen, Ashoka Mukpo, got Ebola . Snyderman and the rest of the NBC team were urged to quarantine themselves for a 21-day period upon their return to the US . But Snyderman and her crew were spotted getting takeout from a New Jersey restaurant, prompting officials to make her quarantine mandatory . She returned to the Today show on Wednesday and apologized for the mistake - saying she had not appreciated the level of concern in the U.S. 'Good people make mistakes,' she said .

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Hidden behind locked gates and reserved solely for the enjoyment of a select few, it is an exclusive part of New York rarely seen by the outside world. Gramercy Park, in Manhattan, has been off limits ever since it opened in 1831 with only the wealthy residents who live in surrounding apartments granted keys to its wrought-iron gates. But thanks to a computer programmer and his trusty smartphone, anyone can take a tour of the tranquil two-acre park - after he posted his pictures of it online. Gramercy Park (pictured), in Manhattan, has been off limits ever since it opened in 1831 with only the wealthy residents who live in surrounding apartments granted keys to its wrought-iron gates . Thanks to a computer programmer and his trusty smartphone, the tranquil two-acre site (pictured) has suddenly become a lot more accessible . Requests for filming and photography in the park are routinely turned down, while just 383 keys exist for the wrought-iron gates . Requests for filming and photography in the park are routinely turned down, while just 383 specially-made keys exist for the gates – owned by those living in the 39 buildings bordering the patch of land. But Shawn Christopher, a former Army sergeant from the Pittsburgh area, gained access when he rented an apartment through Airbnb during a honeymoon visit to Manhattan. The room included access to one of the coveted keys – but he was not aware he was supposed to be accompanied by a key holder when visiting the park, or that commercial photography was banned. Instead, he took a series of 360-degree shots using the Google app Photo Sphere before uploading them to the company’s maps site. Now anyone can enjoy a look around the park from the comfort of their home. Shawn Christopher, from the Pittsburgh area, gained access to the park when he rented an apartment through Airbnb during a honeymoon visit to Manhattan . The room included one of the coveted keys – but he was not aware he was supposed to be accompanied by a key holder when visiting the park, or that commercial photography was banned . The organisation that runs the park receives three requests a day from people wanting to take pictures inside the gates - but each request is turned down . The New York Times reports him as saying: ‘When I found out where I was, I thought, “This has to be captured”. ‘The Internet is all about sharing knowledge, especially these secret, hidden things. ‘I just really wanted to share this with other people. It’s such a beautiful part of New York, and people shouldn’t miss out on that.’ Oscar Wilde, the Steinways and Thomas Edison all once had keys to the park while former presidents Teddy Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy played there as children . Celebrities including Uma Thurman and Rufus Wainwright are among those said to have access to the gardens, which are off-limits to outsiders . The newspaper says Oscar Wilde, the Steinways and Thomas Edison all once had keys to the park while former presidents Teddy Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy played there as children. Celebrities including Uma Thurman and Rufus Wainwright are among those said to have access to the gardens. The report says that Arlene Harrison, president of the Gramercy Park Block Association, receives up to three requests a day from people wanting to take pictures inside the gates – but that she always answers ‘no’. But she said she had no intention of asking Google to remove Mr Christopher’s images.

Gramercy Park in Manhattan, New York, has been off limits ever since it was set up in 1831 locked behind iron gates . There are only 383 keys to the two-acre park which are in the hands of those living in the surrounding apartments . But computer programmer Shawn Christopher gained access to the site while staying in apartment through Airbnb . He was unaware he was supposed to be accompanied by keyholder and that commercial photography was banned . Used smartphone to take 360-degree panorama shots with Google app Photo Sphere before putting them online .

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With the EU voting on plans that would see all washing-up gloves rigorously tested — meaning prices will rise by 20 per cent — should you stock up on before it’s too late? Alice Smellie rolled up her sleeves to find out . . . THE ORIGINAL — AND BEST? Extra-life Kitchen Gloves by Marigold . Extra-life Kitchen Gloves by Marigold, £2.50, Ocado.com . THE GLOVE: Thick yellow latex, with roll-top cuffs. Cotton-lined for comfort. THE TEST: Rubber gloves were created in 1889 by a surgeon to protect the hands of medical staff, with the first Marigolds made in 1947 for domestic use. I road-test them on a two-day-old lasagne dish that is encrusted with burnt cheese and mince. Although the water is scaldingly hot, I don’t feel the heat and even use my rubber-covered fingers to chip away stubborn bits of food. BACTERIA BASHERS . Anti-Bac Gloves by Lakeland, £2.99, lakeland.co.uk . THE GLOVE: Certified to eliminate bacteria such as e-coli, salmonella, listeria and MRSA. Also recommended for skin that’s sensitive to latex or nitrile (a type of rubber). THE TEST: According to Allergy UK, 6 per cent of us have a rubber latex allergy. But adding an anti-bacterial element seems excessive. Surely you are protecting yourself from harmful bacteria by wearing a glove in the first place? But they fit well and unlike others, these aren’t too thick — my fingers easily pick up the smallest of teaspoons from the sink. A KILLER PAIR . Insulated Hot Food Gloves, £23.99, wayfair.co.uk . Insulated Hot Food Gloves, £23.99, wayfair.co.uk . THE GLOVE: Protects your hands when handling hot food. THE TEST: As well as being very expensive, these are thick, heavy and an ominous dark, shiny grey. My husband walks into the kitchen and asks: ‘Have you killed someone?’ — and they do look like something a criminal would wear to clean up a murder! I cook chicken nuggets to perform a heat test. I try to scoop them from the baking sheet, but have to concentrate jolly hard because the gloves are so padded with insulation that dexterity is limited. But I don’t sustain any heat-related injuries, which is the point (they only withstand temperatures of up to 120c, though). When washing up, you can’t feel hot water, but it’s tricky picking up small objects (or even plates for that matter). FAILS THE TEASPOON TEST . True Blues, The Ultimate Household Glove, £9.99, lakeland.co.uk . THE GLOVE: Thick and latex-free. Extremely resistant to strong household cleaners. THE TEST: A very thick glove, and they feel cumbersome on. They keep my hands safe in very hot water, but the loose fit means that it’s not very easy to pick up a teaspoon. They’re also machine washable. After cleaning the downstairs loo, I pop them in a wash with tea towels. The next morning, they still aren’t dry, however, so I’m not sure I’d recommend it. Power Force Rubber Gloves with Anti-Slip Grip, 59p, Aldi . REAL STINKERS . Power Force Rubber Gloves with Anti-Slip Grip, 59p, Aldi . THE GLOVE: Non-slip grip moulded in. THE TEST: Look and feel like the cheap option. My six-year-old says the inside ‘smells disgusting’. They’re much thinner than the others, and in hot water my hands are sticky and warm after a few minutes. I’d recommend more expensive gloves. SUPER SCOURERS . Bizzybee Scouring Gloves, £2.40, bizzybee.co.uk . THE GLOVE: One glove has a non-scratch scouring palm; the other is left plain for easy handling. THE TEST: I often make bacon sandwiches and hot chocolate on a Saturday morning. This means somebody (me) has to wash up a greasy pan and a milky pan afterwards. The gloves have scouring pads running up the fingers and over the top of the finger on the right hand so you can get to tricky corners. They are absolutely brilliant — except for left-handers. MOISTURISE WHILE YOU SCRUB! Bizzybee Multi-Purpose Gloves With Moisturiser, £3, bizzybee.co.uk . THE GLOVE: Latex free, with luxury lining. THE TEST: The inside is so soft it feels like you’re wearing cashmere (to clean the house — how posh!). They look elegant and are comfy, too, while my dexterity with them on is excellent. After washing up, the plates are sparkling and my hands are so soft it’s as if I had a housekeeper do the work for me. Marigold Extra-Tough Outdoor Gloves . CAR-WASH WONDERS . Marigold Extra-Tough Outdoor Gloves, £2.59, ocado.com . THE GLOVE: Heavy-duty rubber with extra-comfy cotton lining. THE TEST: I don’t really ‘do’ stuff outside, but I decide to wash my car, which is encrusted in mud. Sure enough, the heavy-duty rubber means my hands don’t get dried out from repeated dipping in the hot water. As an extra test, I tidy up a load of leaves with my hands, which is very easy in these gloves.

EU voting on plans would see all washing-up gloves rigorously tested . Prices will rise by 20 per cent . Should you stock up on before it’s too late? Alice Smellie puts some gloves to the test .

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Temporary tattoos may be all the rage again thanks to Beyoncé - but it seems they're not just for humans. A new brand creates body art just for horses, helping transform equine friends into My Little Ponies. The Glamourati stencilled designs claim to be ideal for the horse and rider who like to stand out from the crowd. Scroll down for video . Glittery tattoos for horses are brainchild of Sally Rees from Coventry, who took inspiration from the ancient tradition of quarter-marking. Designs are applied using stencils and last up to two weeks . The  stencils transform equine friends into My Little Ponies, like this My Little Pony Earth Horse Belle Stars toy from 1982, by Hasbro . Created by mother of two Sally Rees, 40, from Coventry, the temporary tattoos can last from a day to two weeks, depending on the glue used to apply them. The glue doesn't touch the horse's skin, so vets say it's safe to use and the tattoos can be washed off with soap, water and a brush. Sally, a former beauty spa director, came up with the idea for the sparkly marks while looking for a way to generate extra income after becoming a mother-of-two. She explains: 'I used to be the managing director of a beauty spa until 2009 when I gave it up to look after my two young children. 'I had been dabbling with different ideas to bring a bit more money in when I came across someone doing glitter tattoos at a craft fair. The Glamouratti stencilled designs claim to be ideal for the horse and rider who like to stand out from the crowd . A delighted little girl stands proudly by her glittery horse . Sally demonstrates how glitter is sponged onto the horse . 'My daughter fell in love with them straight away and so I started doing them at children's parties. 'About a year ago my in-laws from Ireland were visiting and knowing they have horses I just said: "I don't know why no-one has made these for horses". 'It was a light-bulb moment for me - the more I thought about it the more it seemed like a good idea. 'I started to look into it and realised there was a real gap in the market.' A year after her eureka moment, Sally has turned her idea into a fully-fledged business. She is now turning horses into real life My Little Ponies after inventing temporary tattoos for the animals made from glitter. The savvy 'horse beautician' has taken inspiration from the ancient tradition of quarter-marking. The art involves the hair on a horse's rear quarter being brushed into patterns for show. Sally has dubbed her venture 'quarter-marketing' - as brands can use the tattoos to stick their logos on the horses. Decoration: The temporary tattoos invented by Sally Rees can be applied to the horse's hair . Vet approved: The glue doesn't touch the horse's skin so it's safe to use and the tattoos can be washed off with soap, water and a brush . Different colourways suit different horses for dramatic effects . The tattoos are applied using a stencil to ensure a perfect picture, and Sally said the products have been popular with horse owners and have been approved by vets. She said: 'We spent a lot of time developing an adhesive that was long lasting but easily washed off. 'We then tried out our new products on some horses at our local riding school and they were an instant hit. 'Quarter-marketing': Brands can use the tattoos to stick their logos on the horses. Temporary: The pictures last a day or two weeks depending on the glue used . 'We then had a stall at a big horse show and we had queues of people waiting to get glitter tattoos on their horses. 'The glitter kits are completely safe to use - they have been given the thumbs up by vets. 'Glitter and sparkle is huge in the world of equestrian accessories and now the horses can have some too. 'When the sun comes out you can't describe how amazing the glitter tattoos look.' Sally's equestrian glitter tattoo kits cost between £19.99 and £59.99 and can be bought from her website glamouratiuk.com . Riders can emblazon the horse's name on their side using glitter . 'Glitter and sparkle is huge in the world of equestrian accessories and now the horses can have some too,' inventor Sally said . Popular: Sally has turned her idea into a successful business .

Glittery tattoos for horses are brainchild of Sally Rees, 40, from Coventry . Mother-of-two took inspiration from ancient tradition of quarter-marking . Designs are applied using stencils and last up to two weeks . Vets say it's safe to use as the glue doesn't touch the horse's skin .

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A company director has been found guilty of manslaughter after a steel worker was crushed to death during a £500,000 basement conversion at a £3.9million London townhouse. Conrad Sidebottom, commercial director of construction company Siday, was found guilty at Southwark Crown Court after employee Anghel Milosavlevici, 37, was killed by a falling wall during a property renovation. Mr Milosavlevici, a manual labourer, was killed in front of his father Gheorghe as the pair carried out refurbishment works at a £3.9million home in Fulham, south west London, in December 2010. Anghel Milosavlevici, 37 (left), was killed by a falling wall in front of his father Gheorghe (right) during a £500,000 basement renovation at a £3.9million townhouse in Fulham, south west London, in December 2010 . The court heard details of how the incident unfolded, including how Gheorghe shouted for his son to 'run' after noticing an unsupported load-bearing wall beginning to collapse. Mr Milosavlevici, from Walthamstow, was working in a trench at the time the wall fell, and it toppled onto him, leaving him trapped. Workers tried to dig him out as his father helplessly cradled his head while he lay unconscious. However, despite the emergency services arriving within minutes, Mr Milosavlevici tragically died at the scene. During the trial, the jury heard that had the trench walls been properly supported, the wall would not have collapsed and Mr Milosavlevici would not have died. He had been employed by Siday Construction Ltd to work on the basement renovation and the company was contracted to provide building services at the residential property, including the excavation of the basement and the underpinning of the supporting walls. The court heard how company boss Sidebottom visited the site two or three times a week but failed to improve the dangerous conditions for the workers. The 46-year-old, of Hertford, Hertfordshire, denied unlawfully killing Mr Milosavlevici by gross negligence but was found guilty by jurors at yesterday's hearing. Health and Safety consultant Richard Golding, 43, was also found guilty of failing to take reasonable care for the health and safety of others. Mr Milosavlevici was killed as he worked in the basement at the property in Fulham, London (pictured) Self-employed Golding was contracted to work on the project by Allday Safety Services Ltd but he failed to properly inspect the dangerous site, directly contributing to Mr Milosavlevici's death. The pair are due to be sentenced tomorrow. In a statement read outside court yesterday, Mr Milosavlevici's sister Cristina and fiancée Claudia described his death as a 'tragic loss'. 'He was the most gentle, kind-hearted and generous man you could ever hope to meet,' they said. 'He worked for Conrad Sidebottom for more than two years before he was killed, but we were shocked to hear evidence at the trial about how dangerous the site had become, and how little concern Sidebottom showed for the safety of everyone involved in the excavation works. 'We hope the verdict makes other construction company directors take stock of their own working practices, and ensure that they are doing everything possible to keep their workers safe.' The owners of the two-storey Victorian semi-detached home decided to renovate their property, at a cost of £576,000, in 2010. The first and second floors were to be refurbished, a new conservatory and kitchen added on the ground floor and a basement created. Workers were using the traditional method of underpinning to create the basement, by digging under sections of existing walls and deepening the foundations to make the new walls. Conrad Sidebottom, 46, commercial director of construction company Siday, was found guilty at Southwark Crown Court of manslaughter after failing to inspect and address the dangerous site conditions for workers . Trenches were excavated adjacent to exterior walls to allow workers to dig horizontally through the earth, underneath the walls of the house and replace with reinforced concrete. However, even though the work was dangerous and the design was changed, the underpinning of the £168,000 basement was not properly planned. Workers were left to their own devices to figure out how and when they would prop up trenches to stop them collapsing. Siday employee Bobby Risipitu told the trial he was never shown a method statement, plan or design and said workers were left to prop up trenches based on whether they felt safe. He said earth often collapsed on them when they were digging and large sections of the trench he was working in were not supported at all. Workers regularly discussed the dangerous conditions, jurors heard. Mr Milosavlevici's father said the gravelly earth was like digging with sand, with trenches often crumbling in on themselves. Mr Milosavlevici, a manual labourer from Walthamstow, died after being trapped by a falling wall as he worked in a trench during the renovations . The court also heard how just weeks before his death, Mr Milosavlevici suffered an electric shock after his shovel hit a live electricity cable that had not been cut off. Jurors also heard how, in what appeared to be a money-saving decision, excavated earth was used instead of sand to mix concrete. The post-mortem examination confirmed Mr Milosavlevici died of severe crush injuries to his chest and abdomen, several bilateral rib fractures and severe underlying injuries to the lungs. His heart, aorta and spleen were also damaged, consistent with crushing by masonry. Golding, who had the authority to stop dangerous works, inspected the site on October 26 and November 23, 2010, but never commented on the excavations. The safety document he drafted was also inadequate and not followed. In a police interview, he said he was shocked and insisted he had not seen the trenches which were hidden under boards. Sidebottom said he briefed workers and employee Patrick O'Connor who he believed was supervising the build. He told police that to the best of his knowledge nothing was wrong with the site and he took no steps to improve the site despite being aware of the dangerous conditions. Following the incident, a local authority building control officer found the house was potentially at danger of collapse. A dangerous structure notice was served and the property had to be stabilised by independent contractors. After the verdict, Detective Chief Inspector Tim Duffield, of the Met Police's homicide and major crime command, who worked closely the Health and Safety Executive, said: 'There was overwhelming evidence that Sidebottom and Golding's failure to carry out their respective roles directly resulted in the death of Anghel Milosavlevici. 'In this case the danger of collapse was not only foreseeable, it had been specifically identified by Golding in his risk assessments. 'Sadly, for Anghel's family this lapse would have tragic consequences and give rise to his untimely death.'

Conrad Sidebottom, 46, guilty of manslaughter at Southwark Crown Court . Employee Anghel Milosavlevici killed by falling wall during refurbishment . 37-year-old was killed while working at £3.9million townhouse in Fulham . Sidebottom failed to inspect and address dangerous conditions at the site .

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A nurse was brutally knifed to death in the street by her stalker ex-lover after she jilted him, a court heard. After the 'remorseless' attack on 42-year-old mum-of-two Naudel Turner, Dariusz Miakienko calmly made a phone call and rolled a cigarette as he waited for police to arrive. Married Miakienko, 47, began an affair with Mrs Turner after meeting her at the north London GP's surgery where she worked, the court heard. As the relationship petered out he became 'obsessive' and began stalking her when she began a new relationship with practice manager Kevin McDonald, Isleworth Crown Court were told. Dariusz Miakienko, 46, (right) is accused of killing Naudel Turner, 42, (left) in a savage knife attack in a Tottenham street which took place during broad daylight after their relationship ended . The jury heard her new lover even met Miakienko the day before the murder and warned Mrs Turner to call the police as he was 'dangerous.' When the 42-year-old left work Miakienko followed her before repeatedly stabbing her in the middle of a street in Bruce Grove on March 19 of this year, it was alleged. Peter Finnigan, prosecuting, told the jury of ten women and two men the murder took place just a short walk from where Mrs Turner worked as a practice nurse in Tottenham, north London. He said: 'The stabbing was methodic. It was extremely violent. It was remorseless and it was prolonged. When the 42-year-old victim left work, Miakienko followed her before repeatedly stabbing her in the middle of a street in Bruce Grove on March 19 of this year, it was alleged. 'About 1pm in the afternoon Naudel Turner left the Castle View Surgery, where she worked part-time as a practice nurse and walked a short distance to nearby Bruce Grove. 'As she was walking along the road she was seen to be followed along the road by this defendant.' At first Mrs Turner did not acknowledge she was being followed, but witnesses said she must of been aware of it as she turned around and confronted him. Mr Finnigan said: 'She was heard to shout to him 'leave me alone.' She then got her phone out and tried to make a phone call. The defendant grabs her arm and she turns around and slaps him.' Miakienko then pushed her against a fence and Mr Finnigan added: 'He attacked her with a kitchen knife, he stabbed her and she fell to the ground and he continued to stab her.' He said a passing motorist tried to intervene, adding: 'He pleaded with him to stop, shouting 'don't kill her.' Miakienko, of Lordship Lane, Tottenham, had denied one count of murder at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court . 'It didn't make any difference, he continued to stab her.' Then, after putting down the knife, he 'took out his own mobile phone and started to make a call, and one witness saw him then rolling a cigarette.' He was then restrained by passers-by, including an off-duty cop, until police arrived, the court heard. Paramedics rushed to the scene, but Mrs Turner died on the way to the hospital. Mr Finnigan said that Mrs Turner had lived with her husband, William, but they had become estranged in 2009. However she lived on the top floor of the house while her husband live on the bottom floor, and they would not discuss each other's personal relationships. Describing Miakienko and Mrs Turner's relationship, Mr Finnigan said: 'He had been in this country, it seems, for about five years. 'He had been treated as a patient at Castle View Surgery, where Naudel Turner worked and they formed a relationship, an intimate relationship.' She even helped her lover rent a flat in Lordship Lane, on the same street where she worked by paying his deposit and acting as his guarantor. Dariusz Miakienko had allegedly made a calm phone call and rolled a cigarette as he waited for police to arrive after the attack . Police later recovered texts and data from the man's phone after the murder which showed the relationship had soured and he had become obsessed with her. He said: 'Members of the jury, what you might think emerges, is that he become obsessed with her. The messages can be tender and loving, and they can also be seen to be increasingly possessive and controlling. 'He believed she would leave William Turner and marry him, in fact he had a wife and children himself in Poland.' 'As time passed, Naudel's interest for a continued relationship with the defendant seemed to have lessened. In fact she met another man, Kevin McDonald. 'It's obvious that the defendant had learned about her attraction to Kevin McDonald, and didn't like it, and was jealous about it. 'He started to pester Naudel with constant calls and texts. She started to discuss him to others as a stalker.' Mr McDonald had not known about Mrs Turner's relationship with the Pole at first, but after discovering it he had arranged to meet Miakienko. Afterwards Mr McDonald 'told her to call the police as he believed the defendant was possibly dangerous.' Silver-haired Miakienko was surrounded by three dock officers and was aided by a Polish interpreter. Miakienko, 47, of Lordship Lane, Tottenham, denies one count of murder. The trial continues. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Dariusz Miakienko was having an affair with mum-of-two Naudel Turner . When the relationship petered out he became 'obsessive' and stalked her . Miakienko had followed the 42-year-old when she left work on March 19 . He allegedly stabbed her repeatedly in the middle of a Tottenham street . The 47-year-old then calmly called police and rolled a cigarette .

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A California surgeon has been disciplined for removing the wrong kidney of a federal inmate and leaving him with the diseased one. The Orange County Register reported Tuesday that the state medical board placed Dr. Charles Coonan Streit on probation for three years. The board said Streit, a urologist who has had his license for 41 years, relied on memory to decide which kidney to remove because he didn't have access to the patient's complete medical records. Diseased: Dr. Charles Coonan Streit has been placed on three years probation for removing the wrong kidney of a federal inmate leaving him with the diseased one . The 2012 operation at Fullerton's St. Jude Medical Center involved a 59-year-old federal inmate. The hospital was fined $100,000 because CT scans were left in an office on the day of the surgery. The inmate, who was serving time at Terminal Island, a low-security federal prison in San Pedro, underwent a second procedure to have the cancerous kidney removed. An attorney representing Streit didn't reply to a message seeking comment. The Register reports that Streit  has been barred from supervising physician assistants and is required to enroll in a wrong-site surgery course offered by the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. Fined: Fullerton's St. Jude Medical Center was fined $100,000 because CT scans were left in an office on the day of the surgery . Patient: Nurses and an anesthesiologist who assisted Streit in the surgery told inspectors that the patient told them the wrong side when they asked him which kidney was diseased (stock image) The board described Streit's conduct as 'an extreme departure from the standard of care,' and listed the many aspects of standard operating protocol that would have prevented the error. Streit and his assistants could have postponed the surgery until the proper records were available and could have done a renal ultrasound to determine which kidney was tumorous. Nurses and an anesthesiologist who assisted Streit in the surgery told inspectors that the patient told them the wrong side when they asked him which kidney was diseased. CBS news reports that though wrong-site surgeries are rare, -- occurring once every five to 10 years -- they are not unprecedented. The Register reports that the Department of Public Health have fined two other Orange County hospitals for wrong-site surgeries in the past seven years.

Dr. Charles Coonan Streit has been placed on three years probation for removing the wrong kidney of a federal inmate leaving him with the diseased one . Streit is required to take a wrong-site surgery course and is barred from supervising physician assistants . Those who assisted Streit in the surgery said the patient was the one who told them the wrong side .

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Pope Francis has 'sacked' the head of his Swiss Guard protection detail because the pontiff views the solider as being 'too strict'. Colonel Daniel Rudolf Anrig has been told by the Vatican that his contract will not be renewed on January 31, when it runs out. Pope Francis has been clearing out senior Vatican officials who do not share his modest outlook on life - including one cleric  dubbed 'The Bishop of Bling'. Pope Francis, centre, has sacked Colonel Daniel Rudolf Anrig, left, who was head of the Swiss Guard . Colonel Anrig, pictured, has been told his contract will not be renewed when it ends on January 31, 2015 . Vatican watchers said Pope Francis, pictured, thought 42-year-old Colonel Anrig was 'too strict' Franca Giansoldati, of Il Messaggero newspaper, told the Telegraph that the manner in which Colonel Anrig was informed of his sacking was quite unusual. He said: 'From what we journalists have been able to reconstruct, there is a different vision between the Pope who wants relationships inside the Vatican to be humane, brotherly, even paternally. 'And then, there is the vision of the Colonel who is the Colonel of the smallest army in the world, but it is still an army, with very rigid rules, very severe soldierly.' Pope Francis is believed to have been angered after he saw a young Swiss guard standing outside his papal suite all night. The pontiff is believed to have told the young man to sit down, and the solider replied that he could not as it was 'against orders'. Pope Francis responded by saying: 'I give the orders around here,' and went to buy the guard a cappuccino. Reports of the decision to remove Colonel Anrig were carried in the official Vatican Newspaper Osservatore Romano. Since Pope Francis' election, he has sacked his number two, Secretary of State Cardinal Bertone, three other members of the Commission of Cardinals, and the entire board of the financial watchdog. It is understood that Pope Francis was not impressed that Colonel Anrig had moved into a grand apartment over the Swiss Guard's barracks in the Vatican. Bishop Franz-Peter Tebartz-van Elst of Limburg, Germany, known as the Bishop of Bling was sacked earlier this year after spending £26million on a luxurious new residence and office complex while cutting staff. Pope Francis wants the corps to be run in a less military style, but Swiss guards found that the commander was too rigid, sources told agency ANSA. The 42-year-old father of four was previously head of the criminal branch of a Swiss police force, before he was appointed commander by Benedict XVI in 2006. He had previously served a Swiss guard in Rome from 1992 to 1994. The pope enjoys a familiar relationship with his bodyguards. He knows them by name and asks about their families. The corps are said to keep a glass that Francis drank out of when he stopped by their kitchens as a ‘relic’. Swiss Guards are the Swiss soldiers who have served as bodyguards of the Pope since the 16th century and are responsible for the security of the apostolic palace. They must be single Catholic men aged between 19 and 30, and at least 5ft 8.5ins tall. They swear allegiance to the Pope and are famous for their Renaissance-style uniform, with a plumed feather in their helmet, leggings and a high ruff collar.

Colonel Daniel Rudolf Anrig's contract is not being renewed by the Pope . Pope Francis believes that Colonel Anrig is 'too strict' and not brotherly . The pontiff has recently removed a number of senior Vatican officials . Colonel Anrig will step down from the Swiss Guard on January 31, 2015 .

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Deep within our city sewers, a new breed of genetically mutated ‘super rats’, immune to poison, are spreading at alarming speeds. Scientists have now begun charting their rapid invasion into new communities by monitoring their progress in 17 counties in the UK. Genetic testing by Huddersfield University has revealed that the rodents have developed a mutation that allows them to survive conventional poisons. Scroll down for video . A new breed of genetically mutated 'super rats', immune to poison, are spreading at alarming speeds. This giant vermin was reportedly found in Gravesend, Kent . In counties such as Berkshire, Suffolk, Surrey, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Kent, all the rats tested were found to have immunity to poison. Places such as Shropshire and South Gloucestershire had slightly less resilient rats with immunity levels at 33 per cent, and 50 per cent respectively. Around 30 per cent of rats in Kingston are immune to poison, in Sheffield it is 40 per cent, while 75 per cent of rats in Southampton are immune. A . giant, 2ft (0.6 metres) long rat caught in Liverpool. A swarm of 'super rats' spotted across the country is expected to outnumber humans two to one by . next year . While the rats have been changing, humans have been using the same anticoagulant poisons since the 1950s. Research earlier this year found that the swarm of 'super rats' spotted across the country is expected to outnumber humans two-to-one by next year. For the very first time, the Tonight programme, which airs at 7.30pm BST on ITV, will show footage and images of these tested ‘super rats’. ‘I think people should be concerned about these resistant rats because of public health concerns - because they carry disease and various other bacteria and viruses,’ said researchers Dr Dougie Clarke. ‘They also damage buildings…they cost billions of pounds of damage worldwide.’ ‘With the use of rodenticides, that will kill off the normal rats, and then the resistant ones will remain. ‘So it’s a sort of time bomb of resistance building up over generations of rats.’ ‘The fact we've tested 17 counties and every single one of them has got resistant rats was an amazing find to us. We didn't expect to have every single county having resistant rats.’ While the rats have been changing, humans have been using the same anticoagulant poisons since the 1950s. This photo shows a huge rat that was caught in Cornwall earlier this year. It measured 50cm from tail to nose . Dr Clarke claims communities across the country are running out of defences as the government contemplates the future of rodenticide use. The most potent rat poisons are currently for professional use only and cannot be used outside without special license. The decision about the future regulation of rodent poison – mainly because of secondary poisoning to birds of prey and other animals - is expected this autumn. Dr Clarke explained how the costs of pest control will escalate as a result of these poison-tolerant rats. ‘Unless there's new legislation for the more toxic poisons and maybe for the more lax use of them, then it will have to be the more physical forms of killing the rats,’ he said. ‘The costs are going to escalate because of the monitoring and the picking off of the rats, and the dead bodies.’ Jack Russell Max, owned by Royal Tunbridge Wells resident Mark Willmott, caught one of the large rats whose numbers are increasing around the country. And the problem is not just confined to Britain. Other huge rodents have been caught recently in homes in Stockholm and Dublin . Scientists have now begun charting their rapid invasion into new communities by monitoring their progress in 17 counties in the UK. Pictured are the counties in which all the rats tested were immune to poison . Figures have revealed that, in some regions of the UK, the number of vermin has already surged by 50 per cent since April last year. And experts believe the rat population could soar from 80 million to 160 million by the end of the year. In April, a 2ft (0.6 metres) long rat was captured in Cornwall while other monster rats have been reported in Kent and in Liverpool. Rats thrive in damp and soggy weather - of which the UK has seen plenty during the wettest year on record. Vermin are also swapping rural areas for the big city. They can carry illnesses which can be passed to humans, including Weil’s disease, which has flu-like symptoms initially but can lead to jaundice and kidney failure. Across the country, councils have reported a rise in the number of rats being reported. Birmingham has the highest number of call-outs with 5,100 in the past year. And the problem is not just confined to Britain. Other huge rodents have been caught recently in homes in Stockholm and Dublin, where one rat was trapped by pest control after terrorising an Irish family in south Dublin. The Dublin-based 'monster vermin' had been terrorising Grace and Ian Walters’ home in Kingswood shortly after they moved into their new flat. Giant rats, the size of cows or even bigger, could one day fill a ‘significant chunk’ of Earth’s emptying ecospace. The terrifying scenario could become a reality as super-adaptable rats take advantage of larger mammals becoming extinct, an expert predicts. ‘Animals will evolve, over time, into whatever designs will enable them to survive and to produce offspring,’ said geologist Dr Jan Zalasiewicz, from the University of Leicester. For instance, in the Cretaceous Period, when the dinosaurs lived, there were mammals, but these were very small, rat and mouse-sized, because dinosaurs occupied the larger ecological nichesOnly once the dinosaurs were out of the way did these tiny mammals evolve into many different forms. ‘Given enough time, rats could probably grow to be at least as large as the capybara, the world’s largest rodent, that lives today, that can reach 80 kilos (17lb). ‘If the ecospace was sufficiently empty, then they could get larger still.’

Humans have been using the same rat poisons since the 1950s . But rats have developed a mutation that allows them to survive poisons . Out of 17 UK counties tested, every single one of them had resistant rats . Reports this year suggest that rats in the UK are also becoming bigger . 'Super rats' are expected to outnumber humans two to one by next year . Footage of the rats will be shown on the Tonight programme, on ITV at 7.30pm BST .

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The body of a woman who vanished nine weeks ago without shoes, money or her phone has been found in a Utah river five miles from her home. Kayelyn Louder, 30, had not been seen since September 27, when she was captured on surveillance camera leaving her Murray condo barefoot in the heavy rain. On Monday, workers inspecting drainage pipes in the Jordan River in West Valley City found her decomposed body partially submerged. She was identified by dental records on Tuesday. Her cause of death is still undetermined and authorities are not sure how she ended up in the river, the Salt Lake Tribune reported. A creek that leads to the river runs behind Louder's home but investigators believe the it was too shallow to carry her body five miles away, Fox13 reported. Scroll down for video . Tragic: Kayelyn Louder, 30, (pictured left and right) vanished from her home in Murray, Utah in September and her body has now been found in a river five miles away. Authorities do not yet know how it got there . In the hours before she went missing, Louder had contacted 911 to report a fight at a wedding and then an intruder in her apartment - although police found no evidence of either. She did not have any history of mental health issues although her father said she had experienced 'a little bit of depression' due to her recent employment status. 'She's been in and out of jobs for the last year,' Jesse Louder told KSL after her disappearance. Investigators have said that the surveillance footage shows her talking excitedly. It appears that her black Chinese pug Phyllis is in the video with her, but the dog was later found unharmed. After stepping out of the final frame of the footage, she was not seen again. Scene: Her body was found by workers inspecting pipes in the Jordan River in West Valley City, pictured . Heartbreaking: The discovery on Monday brings some closure to her family after nine weeks of searches . 'We don't know what happened,' Allen Robins, a private investigator for the Louder family, told Fox. 'No one else saw her. No one has any other details as to what had happened from when she left that frame until [Monday].' A roommate alerted authorities after she realized she had not heard from Louder, known as 'Kiki' to her friends, in a while. Following her disappearance, friends and family launched a massive search for the woman through social media and raised more than $8,000 online to help the efforts. Shortly after news that her body had been found, her family released a statement. 'We are broken hearted with the news of Kayelyn's body being found, but are also grateful to know where she is,' it said. Last sighting: She was captured on surveillance footage on September 27 but has not been seen since . Loved: She had no history of mental illness but it emerged that she called 911 multiple times about non-existent crimes in the hours before she vanished. Her father said she had been low about her job . 'This has been an extremely difficult 9+ weeks for all involved. We hope that through all of our efforts that she has been able to see how much she is loved and cared for. 'We are forever grateful to the volunteers who have helped us in countless ways over the past 9 weeks. We are amazed at your love and dedication to our family. 'While finding her brings some closure we still have many unanswered questions and will not rest until we are able to fully understand what happened.' A candlelight vigil will be held in remembrance of Kayelyn in Murray Park at 5.15pm on Thursday. See below for video .

Kayelyn Louder was last seen on surveillance footage wandering away from her home in the rain on September 27 . On Monday, her body was found five miles away in the Jordan River . It is not yet clear how it got there; there is a creek that leads to the river behind her home, but investigators believe it is too shallow to carry her . Before she went missing, she called 911 multiple times about non-existent crimes but she had no history of mental illness .

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A family has been left devastated following the death of their newborn baby after she contracted a herpes virus from coming in contact with someone with a cold sore. Eloise Lampton, who was born healthily on November 1 via caesarean at Mackay Hospital in far north Queensland, died last week in the arms of her parents Sarah Pugh, 28, and Douglas Lampton, 35. The 24-day-old baby had been unknowingly infected with the herpes simplex virus while she was still in hospital in the days following her birth. Eloise Lampton, who was born healthily on November 1 via caesarean at Mackay Hospital in far north Queensland, died last week in the arms of her parents Sarah Pugh, 28, and Douglas Lampton, 35 . 'Doctors initially thought it was a feeding issue. When we came home she just wanted to sleep... she wasn't a crying baby,' Ms Pugh told Daily Mail Australia. But Eloise lost almost a kilo in the week after her birth and her health started to deteriorate quickly. She was taken to Brisbane's Mater Hospital and was placed on a machine to keep her alive as doctors scrambled to find out what was wrong. 'It all happened so quickly, like within hours. She was in the hospital and we thought she was fine, then that night we were told she might not survive the night,' Ms Pugh said. 'The machine fully took over her whole body. It went into her arteries to pump blood. It took over her organs to let her little body have a rest. Eloise was taken to Brisbane's Mater Hospital and was placed on a machine to keep her alive as doctors scrambled to find out what was wrong . Eloise lost almost a kilo in the week after her birth and her health started to deteriorate quickly . The 24-day-old baby had been unknowingly infected with the herpes simplex virus while she was still in hospital in the days following her birth . 'Everyday we'd go in there and it was devastating to see her like that. It was heartbreaking. 'She was fully sedated but we'd touch her and she'd try and hold our hand. We'd have to put lip balm on her lips and she'd move them.' Doctors informed Eloise's parents, who have three other children, that it was the herpes virus causing their daughter's illness after two days on the machine. 'I was shocked. I was devastated to know she was born healthy and then this happened,' Ms Pugh said. 'They thought it could have come from me, but I didn't test positive to the disease. It was passed on through a cold sore. You have to be in contact – kissed or touched. We didn't have any visitors at hospital. It could have been from anyone.' Doctors informed Eloise's parents, who have three other children, that it was the herpes virus causing their daughter's illness after two days on the machine . Eloise caught a staph infection in her blood while she was hooked up to the machine and doctors informed her parents there was nothing more they could do . Eloise's parents held out hope their baby would recover, but when she caught a staph infection in her blood doctors said their was nothing more they could do. 'Eloise had a very large legion on her brain, her organs had shut down and they couldn't be sure how she would recover again,' Ms Pugh said. 'She fought right until the end. Five times in one week I was told she wouldn't have made it. Every time she would pull through. She defied the odds. She put up a very good fight. Her parents said despite her illness, the newborn fought right until very end of her short life . Eloise had a very large legion on her brain and her organs had shut down when the life support was turned off . Ms Pugh hopes Eloise's death will help others to be more aware of the herpes virus and how it can effect newborn babies . 'They took the tubes out of her and we got to nurse her until she passed away. It was lovely to nurse her in that time.' Ms Pugh hopes Eloise's death will help others to be more aware of the herpes virus and how it can effect newborn babies. 'Sometimes you don't even know when you've got a cold sore. You never know what's going to happen,' she said. 'It's not just cold sores. Any virus could do this to a baby.'

Eloise Lampton was born healthily on November 1 via caesarean at Mackay Hospital in far north Queensland . The 24-day-old baby died last week after she was infected with the herpes simplex virus . She was rushed to a Brisbane hospital a week after her birth when her health started deteriorating following weight loss . Eloise was placed onto a machine that helped pump blood through her arteries and kept her organs functioning .

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A Booker prize winning author has scooped his latest literary honour when he received the 2014 Bad Sex in Fiction prize. Ben Okri, beat the challenge of Wilbur Smith and BBC Newsnight's Kirsty Wark due to a single passage in his novel, The Age of Magic. The judges were impressed by the encounter between his character Lao and his girlfriend Mistletoe. Booker prize winning author Ben Okri, pictured, last night won a slightly less prestigious literary award when he beat off the challenge of the BBC's Kirsty Wark and Wilbur Smith to win the 2014 Bad Sex in Fiction prize . The passage read: 'When his hand brushed her nipple it tripped a switch and she came alight.' Later in the scene, Okri describes the characters as being 'adrift on warm currents, no longer of this world,' before ending the unfortunate passage with 'somewhere in the night a stray rocket went off'. In 1991 Okri won a more welcome literary prize when he was awarded the Booker prize for his novel The Famished Road. Commenting on his latest award, Okri said: 'A writer writes what they write and that's all there is to it.' His editor Maggie McKernan said: 'Winning the award is fun but a bit undignified, just like sex, assuming you do it properly.' The prize, organised by The Literary Review magazine, was handed over to Laura Palmer, the editorial director of his publishers Head Of Zeus, at a ceremony in central London. It was established in 1993 by critic Auberon Waugh to 'draw attention to poorly written, perfunctory or redundant passages of sexual description in modern fiction, and to discourage them'. Previous winners include Norman Mailer, Giles Coren and Melvyn Bragg. Ben Okri's book, The Age of Magic, left, was awarded the 2014 Bad Sex in Fiction award ahead of  Kirsty Wark's The Legacy of Elizabeth Pringle, right, which was among the short-listed entries .

Ben Okri won the 1991 Booker prize for his novel The Famished Road . He received his latest award for a passage describing a sexual encounter . One couple is described by Okri as 'adrift on warm currents' Later a character felt that 'somewhere in the night a stray rocket went off' Okri claimed 'a writer writes what they write and that's all there is to it' His editor said: 'It's undignified, just like sex, assuming you do it properly'

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Struggling high streets received a boost after the Government announced a long-awaited review into punishing business rates. The rise in online shopping has been credited with the demise of the high street, with more than 100 shops closing down every week across the UK. Business rates, which are charged on bricks and mortar shops, have placed the high street at a further disadvantage to its online rivals. Around 100 shops close in the UK every week as business moves online, with industry leaders saying unfair rates have been an 'anchor' on growth in their sector (file . Now, the Chancellor has announced a review into the rates, which are based on the rental value of a building and which cost small business tens of thousands of pounds a year. Business groups said the way the tax was calculated was ‘outmoded, clunky and regressive’, and that it was an ‘anchor’ on growth and investment on the high street. George Osborne said he would also continue to cap the increase in business rates at 2 per cent, which is below RPI inflation. And for businesses whose rateable value – the annual rental value of the property – is below £50,000, an existing £1,500 discount on business rates will be extended for another year. Firms will pay no National Insurance for apprentices under the age of 25, Chancellor George Osborne announced yesterday. This means businesses will not pay the ‘jobs tax’ if they take on young workers and offer them employment and training. Ministers hope the move will help tackle youth unemployment, with a target of getting three million young people into apprenticeships by the end of the next Parliament. Nearly two million have taken up such posts since 2010 – a six-fold increase. The incentive for hiring apprentices will come into force in 2016, and is expected to cost £105million in the first year. It will apply to all earnings up to the 40p tax rate of around £42,000. This maximum is to discourage firms from calling highly-paid workers ‘apprentices’ as a way of avoiding tax. Employers pay NI at a rate of 13.8 per cent on staff earnings. In last year’s Autumn Statement, Mr Osborne announced businesses would no longer have to pay National Insurance for any workers under the age of 21 – rules which will come into force from April next year. In a boost for small businesses looking for loans, the Chancellor also extended the Funding for Lending scheme until 2016. Banks will receive up to £500million at cheap rates in return for lending to small firms. The moves were praised by shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants, although many expressed disappointment that the findings for the review would not be presented until 2016. Simon Tivey, of PricewaterhouseCoopers, said: ‘The extension of the tax relief will be welcome but I think waiting another year for any major changes to business rates will be disappointing for many. ‘The business rates system has been unchanged since 1988 and, in its current form, there are lots of elements which are starting to grate. It is well overdue for an upgrade.’ While shops pay high business rates for premises in central areas and high footfall, companies such as Amazon – which has a huge warehouse in South Wales, where land is cheaper – pay much lower rates. There are also anomalies in the system which leave some large retailers and department stores paying less than smaller businesses for their high street stores. Last year, the Mail reported that a fashion boutique in Rochdale had been forced out of its shop by sky-high business rates that saw it charged more per square metre than Harrods. Critics also claim that because the current rateable values are based on 2008 rental prices – at the peak of the property market – they are no longer applicable to some areas of the UK which are still recovering from the economic crisis. Stuart Adam, of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, said: ‘The fact that bricks and mortar businesses are based in high-value, high-tax areas, while online retailers do not need such a physical presence, does penalise the high street. ‘The business rates system is badly designed and there is lots of room for improvement.’ John Longworth, of the British Chambers of Commerce, added: ‘Businesses will be encouraged by the Government’s continued efforts to curb business rate increases. Shops in busier areas with high footfall generally pay higher rates, but anomalies mean that one fashion boutique in Rochdale was paying more per square foot than Harrods (file image) 'Firms will also be pleased to hear the Chancellor announce a review into the future structure of Britain’s business rates system. ‘This iniquitous tax is the highest in Europe and a drag anchor on investment and growth.’ A study of 500 town centres across Britain showed 3,000 outlets closed in the first six months of this year, while 2,600 opened. According to the Valuation Office Agency, business rates raised £20.5billion last year. The money is used to help pay for local services, such as police and firefighters. Emily Davies . Julie Deane, who founded the Cambridge Satchel Company, welcomed George Osborne’s decision to review the structure of business rates and his invitation for business groups to contribute to discussions. The 47-year-old sells brightly coloured leather satchels – popular with stars such as singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor and model Alexa Chung – from four British stores and says that a big selling point for her brand is that they are manufactured in the UK. But she added that selling from the UK meant she faced pressure from competitors abroad and online who did not have to pay the same business rates and thus were able to keep costs down. Julie Deane, founder of Cambridge Satchel Company, says high business rates penalise UK manufacturers . Mrs Deane said: ‘George Osborne said there would be a review of business rates overall and I think that’s a good idea. ‘I’m really hoping to see more investment in UK manufacturing and not penalising people with business rates. 'What it means when our overheads are so very, very out of kilter with other countries is that it stagnates our potential for growth.’ The business has a factory in Leicestershire and each day makes more than 1,000 satchels to be sold in more than 100 countries. The former stay-at-home mother said the freeze in business rates at 2 per cent will help her firm, which has a turnover of £13million and employs 120 staff, but she would appreciate more measures to help medium-sized businesses as well as smaller ones. ‘It’s great that there’s so much support for small businesses,’ she said. ‘But there’s also problems associated with being in the middle ground, as we are. ‘Scale-up businesses could contribute one million new jobs to the economy by 2034, so I just hope that we can get the support we need too.’

Business leader have branded rates an 'anchor' to growth on high street . Around 100 UK shops close every week as customers move online . Tax anomalies saw Rochdale boutique pay more per sqft than Harrods .

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Warnings that the 'Umbrella Movement' pro-democracy protests could devastate tourism in Hong Kong appear to be unfounded as the country saw a substantial rise in visitors in October. The uprising against the Beijing government's stalling of open elections for Hong Kong has led thousands of residents holding protests in the region - which have led to violent clashes with police. However, despite the ongoing tensions, the Hong Kong Tourism board has reported a 12.6 per cent rise in tourist numbers for October 2014 compared to the same month last year. A group of Occupy Central demonstrators hold signs outside the Central Police Station in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong - but tourists are not been put off visiting . A cardboard cut-out of Chinese President Xi Jinping (centre) carrying a yellow umbrella is seen at the pro-democracy movement's main protest site in the Admiralty district of Hong Kong . And, according to statistics, the greatest increase in numbers concerns visitors from mainland China - with an 18.3 per cent increase. Beijing banned tour group visas for Chinese visitors to Hong Kong for a week due to protests and coverage of the instability has been censored, however figures for Chinese visitorshave still increased. Chinese tourists have also been keen to view the pro-democracy art and take selfies in the area. The huge increase of Chinese visitors has offset a slight decrease in the numbers travelling over to Hong Kong from the Americas, Australia and Europe. A woman carrying an umbrella is seen at the pro-democracy movement's main protest site - despite the ongoing troubles, tourism has increased . Added to this, there was also a 7.1 per cent increase in South Korean and Japanese visitors. More tourists means an economy boost, and sales of iPhone 6s, clothing and jewellery are all said to have increased. The UK government has updated its travel advice for tourists who are thinking of heading to Hong Kong. It warns holidaymakers to avoid all demonstrations and to keep a keen eye on the media.

Been a 12.6% increase on October 2014 compared to October 2013 . Despite warned off travel, Chinese visitors up 18.3% . Troubles continue as 'Umbrella Movement' calls for democracy . UK government advises tourists not to get involved in demonstrations .

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George Osborne energised the housing market yesterday by dramatically overhauling the hated stamp duty system . George Osborne energised the housing market yesterday by dramatically overhauling the hated stamp duty system. Delighting his party and wrongfooting Labour, he made buying a home thousands of pounds cheaper for 98 per cent of families. Analysts predicted the Chancellor’s move – which takes effect today – will push property prices up almost a third by 2020. His announcement in the Autumn Statement put the aspirations of homeowners at the centre of next year’s general election campaign. And it echoed his conference speech in 2007 when he bamboozled Gordon Brown’s Labour government by saying he would raise the inheritance tax threshold to £1million. The Chancellor also offered relief for professionals paying the 40p higher rate of income tax, went after banks and tax-dodging multinationals and promised £2billion a year more for the NHS. He laid out plans for further spending cuts that economists say will shrink the state to its smallest size in 80 years. By 2019/20, public spending will be 35.2 per cent of national income, down from 40.5 per cent now. Mr Osborne hailed the fastest economic growth in the advanced world – telling MPs that 1,000 jobs are created every day. The UK is expanding two-and-a-half times faster than Germany and seven times the rate of socialist-ruled France. But he was forced to admit that the budget deficit is coming down too slowly and tax receipts are lower than expected, meaning more years of austerity lie ahead. The Office for Budget Responsibility says the stamp duty reforms will lift property values and transactions except at the top end of the market, where the tax will be higher. The independent agency has raised its forecasts for house prices – predicting they will soar 31.4 per cent between now and the start of 2020. With the general election only five months away, Mr Osborne’s mini-budget was packed with crowd-pleasing measures and traps for Labour, including: . It was the dramatic and unexpected reform of stamp duty, however, which electrified Westminster. As well as appealing to crucial swing voters in Middle England, it was designed to scupper Labour’s plans to levy a mansion tax on properties worth more than £2million. The Chancellor said stamp duty had become a ‘badly-designed tax on aspiration’ – and he prompted turmoil in the housing market by announcing that his changes would take effect at midnight. It means stamp duty will no longer jump dramatically at certain thresholds but will rise gradually through five bands. Analysts predicted the Chancellor’s move – which takes effect today – will push property prices up almost a third by 2020 . Mr Osborne said: ‘It’s a fair, workable, lasting reform to the taxation of housing. Today we back aspiration – the aspiration to save, to work and to own your own home. ‘It is in stark contrast to those who would hit people’s pensions and jobs and homes with higher taxes. That is an approach we entirely reject. ‘Instead we support people who want to work hard and get on – and it is for their sakes that we resolve to stay on course to prosperity.’ Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls said Labour would deal with the country’s challenges more fairly than Mr Osborne had. ‘People are worse off and the fact is he has failed to balance the books in this parliament,’ he said. Liberal Democrat Business Secretary Vince Cable broke Coalition ranks, questioning the Chancellor’s plans to cut the deficit in the next parliament with ‘brutal’ spending cuts rather than tax rises.

Analysts predict move will push property prices up almost a third by 2020 . Osborne also plans cuts to shrink the state to its smallest size in 80 years . But he was forced to admit that the deficit is coming down too slowly . A £600 hike in the personal tax allowance to £10,600 from next April – with higher rate taxpayers benefiting most; . An end to air passenger duty on children’s flights, saving a family with three children flying to the US more than £200; . A ‘Google tax’ targeting multinationals that shift profits outside the UK and a £4billion tax hike on banks; . A further squeeze on public sector pensions, saving £1.3billion a year; . An increase in the ISA threshold to £15,240 and a right for spouses to inherit the accounts tax-free; . An end to unemployment benefits for migrants with ‘no prospect of work’ after six weeks.

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Whisper any mention of Medinah. Forget any notion of Brookline. Only a miracle or a meltdown on the scale of those occasions in 2012 and 1999 can stop Europe now. Captain Paul McGinley’s team repelled everything the visitors threw at them during a magnificent US fightback in the morning to win the afternoon foursomes 3½-½ and move to the brink of victory . A four-point lead — the same as the US held at Medinah and Europe had at Brookline — heading into Sunday's singles is a scenario McGinley could only have dreamed about on Thursday. Europe had won only two of the previous 11 series in foursomes and fourballs. Sergo Garcia (left) and Rory McIlroy (right) embrace in celebration as they secure a point for Europe in the afternoon foursomes at the Ryder Cup . Reunited Europe pairing McIlroy (left) and Garcia (right) defeated US duo Jim Furyk and Hunter Mahan with two holes to spare . Garcia (left) and McIlroy (right) celebrate during their Ryder Cup foursomes victory over Furyk and Mahan . Tight-knit duo Garcia (left) and McIlroy support each other as Europe stars make their way down the fairway of the second at Gleneagles . Europe's Lee Westwood plays his approach shot towards the eighth green during their foursomes win on Saturday afternoon . Here they won two more — they never lost a single foursomes match in two sessions — and, with the greater strength in depth and so many proven competitors, it would be a shock of monumental proportions for them not to finish the job off now. So many fabulous performances, but Justin Rose has undoubtedly been the European man of the tournament so far. He was brilliant by any standard in the morning as he and Henrik Stenson won a match laden with a record number of birdies to become the first European pair to win their first three games since Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia in 2002. Stenson had a tight back and so sat out the afternoon. In came Martin Kaymer, with the pair up against the wonderful American rookies, Patrick Reed and Jordan Spieth. What a nerve-wracking occasion this proved. Europe's Justin Rose celebrates with fans at the end of day two after halving his match and ensuring his team's four-point leading going into the final day . Denmark's Thomas Bjorn (right) hugs England's Rose after he and Martin Kaymer finished their match against Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed all square . Rose shows what half a point means with a fist pump and a raise of his club to the gallery after draining his putt on the 18th hole . Kaymer missed three putts inside 10ft during a four-hole stretch from the 13th. Reed missed from barely 3ft at the 16th. In the end, with four tired players on view, it was wholly appropriate that proceedings on this truly fabulous day should all come down to Rose on the final green. A 6ft putt for a half to leave Europe so close. Well, you can guess what happened next, can’t you? Lee Westwood and Jamie Donaldson’s foursomes victory over Zach Johnson and Matt Kuchar allowed the Englishman to celebrate a cherished milestone. That point, his 23rd achieved over nine Ryder Cup appearances, meant he went past none other than Seve Ballesteros on the all-time list. One more point today from the singles would see him go past Colin Montgomerie and draw level with Bernhard Langer, leaving him looking up at only Sir Nick Faldo on 25 points. That tells you everything about what a fantastic Ryder Cup player he is and why McGinley gave him a wild card. Lee Westwood (right) clenches his fist on the 16th green at Gleneagles after going two-up on US pair Zach Johnson and Matt Kuchar . Team Europe captain Paul McGinley congratulates Welshman Jamie Donaldson after he and Westwood claimed a point in the afternoon foursomes . Westwood won his 23rd Ryder Cup point in nine appearances to move ahead of Europe legend Seve Ballesteros on the all-time list . Westwood gets down low to help Europe team-mate Donaldson line up a  putt on the ninth green . There were some eyebrows raised, given the decision left Luke Donald on the outside, but even the doubters would surely have to admit now that they were wrong. In two foursomes matches the Englishman and the Welshman were a combined nine under par and had just two bogeys. That’s tremendous golf by any standards. Equally good were Graeme McDowell and Victor Dubuisson. McGinley deserves great credit for taking Westwood and McDowell to one side and assigning these two rookies to them. Both the senior men gave the debutants an ideal platform to show off their skills and how they seized it. ‘Make no mistake, Victor is the next superstar of European golf,’ said G-Mac. ‘He is the best partner I have had since Rory McIlroy, and that’s saying something.’ And how about Donaldson, making his debut at the age of 38 and mustering two points from three matches. Graeme McDowell and Victor Dubuisson were big winners for Europe with a 5&4 result over US pair Jimmy Walker and Rickie Fowler . Dubuisson watches on as McDowell putts on their way to victory on day two at Gleneagles . McDowell rates his team-mate highly: ‘Victor is the next superstar of European golf. He is the best partner I have had since Rory McIlroy, and that’s saying something’ Alongside Americans Spieth, Reed and Jimmy Walker, the rookies in this Ryder Cup have been immense. The other European success came from world No 3 Sergio Garcia and world No 1 McIlroy, registering their first full point and with some fine golf as well. Everything was set up for a morning of good scoring, from the fourballs format to benign weather to faster greens, and trust the top players from the two continents to oblige. A slew of scoring records fell and immense credit has to go to the Americans, who showed lots of heart following their disappointing afternoon on Friday, when they collected just half a point. It says everything that all four American pairs were at least eight under, a formidable standard. Inevitably, Rose and Stenson took the plaudits but there were some gutsy performances from those wearing stars and stripes. Veteran Jim Furyk and Hunter Mahan contributed with the former finally beating Westwood at the Ryder Cup at the eighth time of asking. These two have played in every Ryder Cup since 1997. Reed and Spieth were brilliant again in demolishing Thomas Bjorn and Kaymer and then came the late heroics from McIlroy and Ian Poulter against Rickie Fowler and Walker. Poulter’s nerveless play came too late to earn him an afternoon match alongside his old mate Rose — the pairings had to be in at 12.30pm. Mr Ryder Cup showed up at 12.35pm but it surely left him full of confidence for today. Not surprisingly, American captain Tom Watson retained faith in three of his four pairings for the fourballs but Europe’s players are so competitively strong it’s hard to take them out twice in the same day. And so the momentum shifted, just as it had on day one. The champagne’s on ice and 50,000 people will descend on Gleneagles today thinking only of heroes to acclaim. But Medinah remains a fresh memory, and the Ryder Cup’s reputation for drama unrivalled. There’s still work to be done. Europe's Henrik Stenson (left) and Justin Rose (centre) clinched a 3&2 win in the morning over US pair Bubba Watson (right) and Matt Kuchar . Ian Poulter shows his passion after chipping in at the 15th in the morning when paired with Rory McIlroy but he was rested in the afternoon . Rory McIlroy retrieves and throws his ball to his caddie after sinking a putt in their halved match against Rickie Fowler and Jimmy Walker . Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy discusses tactics with Ian Poulter as they paired up for the morning's fourballs on day two . Jamie Donaldson and Lee Westwood vs Zach Johnson and Matt Kuchar - Europe win 2&1 . Martin Kaymer and Justin Rose vs Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed -match halved . Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy vs Jim Furyk and Hunter Mahan - Europe win 3&2 . Victor Dubuisson and Graeme McDowell vs Jimmy Walker and Rickie Fowler - Europe win 5&4 . Justin Rose and Henrik Stenson vs Bubba Watson and Matt Kuchar - Europe win 3&2 . Jamie Donaldson and Lee Westwood vs Jim Furyk and Hunter Mahan - USA win 4&3 . Thomas Bjorn and Martin Kaymer vs Patrick Reed and Jordan Spieth - USA win 5&3 . Rory McIlroy and Ian Poulter vs Jimmy Walker and Rickie Fowler - match halved .

Europe take a 10-6 lead over the United States into the final day of the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles . The hosts take a lead that is the same margin held by the US in 2012 when Europe won the 'Miracle at Medinah' Martin Kaymer and Justin Rose halved their match US young guns Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed . Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy defeated Jim Furyk and Hunter Mahan 3&2 . Europe's Victor Dubuisson and Graeme McDowell dominated Jimmy Walker and Rickie Fowler 5&4 . Ian Poulter was given the afternoon off after a sensational performance in his halved morning match .

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A Crufts trophy winner who was permanently banned from keeping dogs after inspectors found more than 90 animals living in 'despicable conditions' has moved to Scotland where she will be able to own pets again. Wendy Hutcheson, 62, who clinched second place in the yearling bitch category at Crufts in 2007 with an American cocker spaniel, kept animals in squalor at Audenshaw Dogs and Cats home near Manchester. She was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the needs of her animals and was also handed a lifetime ban on keeping animals in England and Wales following a court case in October 2010. Scroll down for video . Wendy Hutcheson, 62, was banned from keeping animals after she kept more than 90 pets in squalid conditions - but she has now moved to Scotland where she is able to keep pets due to a legal loophole . But Ms Hutcheson could now dodge the ban because of a legal loophole which means the prohibition order was not extended to Scotland. The woman - who now uses the name Boyle - has already been reported to the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) by concerned dog lovers who claims she is seen with the dog on a daily basis. A spokesman for the SSPCA confirmed it had investigated the claims but is satisfied that the dog is owned by Ms Hutcheson's relative. But a spokesman for the RSPCA, which successfully applied for the ban, said Ms Hutcheson would not be flouting the ban by keeping an animal because it does not apply in Scotland. They said: 'Provision was made during the formation of the Animal Welfare Act under section 46 that banning orders would cover Scotland, as well as England and Wales. 'However, this section was never implemented at the time the Act was passed, and so that means the ban does not apply to Scotland.' This is one of the neglected dogs found at the pets' home in Manchester which was owned by the former Crufts trophy winner . When inspectors arrived at Ms Hutcheson's property, the RSPCA seized 63 dogs, 25 cats, two rabbits and two birds. More than a third of the dogs needed to be sedated to be 'de-matted'. In one case the matting accounted for more than a quarter of the dog's original weight. Each dog took two veterinary nurses an average of three hours to de-mat. Many had breathing problems caused by the 'overpowering' stench. One dog's eye was so badly infected it had to be removed – another lost 26 teeth. Most of the cats had ear mites and fleas, and two had feline Aids, the RSPCA said. Animals were emaciated and their coats were caked with urine and faeces from being kept in cramped cages and pens which had not been cleaned for 'weeks if not months'. RSPCA inspector Vicki McDonald said after the case: 'I've never seen as many animals living in such horrendous conditions in all my time working for the RSPCA. 'I hope the sentence will ensure no further animals suffer because of Ms Hutcheson.' Hutcheson now lives in a quiet part of Inverness a few hundred yards from her elderly and frail stepmother, Marion Calder. Eye witnesses have seen her with a poodle in her car, going in and out of her house and her relative's property. There is also a dogbed in the back of her blue Ford Ka and various dog and cat ornaments on her doorstep. She refused to comment on the lifetime ban or even confirm there was one in place. Inspectors found animals emaciated, while their coats were caked with urine and faeces from being kept in cramped cages which the court heard had not been cleaned for 'weeks if not months' At first, she also denied she had a dog, but then said: 'That is my stepmother's dog.' But one eye-witness and dog lover Jodie Foster said: 'I am visiting my mother on a daily basis and see this woman almost every day, going from her house to her stepmum's house with the dog. 'She stays a little while and then leaves with the dog. 'She can't be going to the vet every day. There is no doubt in my mind she is keeping the dog. 'This has been happening for around six months now. 'What is the point of a lifetime ban if she is still allowed to be near animals.' Scottish SPCA Chief Inspector Iain Allan said: 'We have received complaints relating to a woman residing in Inverness who is allegedly breaching a ban on owning animals which was imposed in England. 'After investigating it is our understanding that the dog does not belong to her. 'The woman advised she has been transporting the dog to and from the vets for her mother as she is unable to, and we have confirmed this with the vet. 'We are satisfied the dog is being well looked after and have no concerns at this stage. We will continue to monitor the situation.'

Wendy Hutcheson was the runner-up in yearling bitch category in 2007 . She kept animals in a 'despicable condition' at pets' home in Manchester . 62-year-old found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to her animals . But the ban does not apply in Scotland, where Ms Hutcheson now lives . She has been spotted with a poodle, who she claims is her step-mother's . SSPCA has investigated claims and says Ms Hutcheson is taking dog to the vets on relative's behalf .

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Footage shows the moment a police officer pins down and repeatedly punches a disabled man as he resists arrest in a Brisbane shopping centre on the weekend. The amateur video shows two police officers hold down the 20-year-old man – who has no legs - and his 18-year-old female companion as they apprehend them. The incident took place on Saturday at Sunnybank Plaza in the Queensland capital during the city's major police operation over the G20 summit weekend. A Queensland Police spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia that police responded to a report of a theft at a liquor store at the shopping centre. Scroll down for video . Police pin down and repeatedly punch a disabled man, 20, as he resists arrest in a Brisbane shopping centre . The incident took place on Saturday at Sunnybank Plaza during the city's major police operation for G20 . 'As a result they chased a man and a woman for a short time in the shopping centre before apprehending them,' she said. The spokeswoman said police were still chasing details about the rest of the incident and will be providing a statement later on Tuesday. The 20-year-old man, from Albion north of the CBD, has been charged with two counts of serious assault on a police officer, one count of common assault, one count of stealing and one count of enter premises, Nine News reported. The 18-year-old woman, also from Albion, was charged with one count of enter premises, one count of stealing, one count of serious assault on a police officer and one count of hindering police. Police say they responded to reports a liquor store had been robbed and a chase ensued . Both will appear in court on December 4. The five-minute video shows the disabled man swearing and resisting arrest. At one point the police officer holding him down appears to punch him in the ribs, while onlookers can be heard screaming. 'Oh my god, what the hell?' one woman said. 'You guys are f***wits,' another onlooker said. The 18-year-old woman is also seen resisting arrest, knocking into chairs and tables and crying . The 18-year-old woman is also seen resisting arrest, knocking into chairs and tables and crying. 'I'm his carer, I care for him he's disabled,' she told officers. Later when she is pinned down she tells police: 'You are hurting me'. At one point more backup arrives and there are six officers arresting the two people. Sunnybank Plaza, south of the CBD, was not included in the G20 'secure zone'. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Amateur video shows police pin down 20-year-old disabled man . He was resisting arrest at a Brisbane shopping centre on Saturday . His 18-year-old female companion yells 'I care for him he's disabled' The incident took place during the heightened G20 police operation . Police were responding to reports of a liquor store robbery . The man and woman, from Albion, will appear in court on December 4 .

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For years, all Butch the Boston Terrier knew was a life of roaming the streets, rifling through trash cans in the hope of finding a meal. But for one week, he got to experience unwavering love thanks to Alicia Buzbee and her daughter Kansas, who found him in Pinson, Alabama and threw him a party before he was put to sleep. As a puppy, the terrier had an owner and a home but, after a couple of years, the owner cast the dog out and he was left to live in the streets, AL.com reported. He lived off scraps and found shelter from the frost, but a week before Thanksgiving, Buzbee and her daughter discovered him lying in a front yard, struggling to breathe. Scroll down for video . Loved: Alicia Buzbee and her daughter Kansas found Butch, a homeless and dying Boston terrier, the week before Thanksgiving and lavished him with attention for a few days until he had to be put down . Celebration: They threw Butch a 'farewell' party where he met Santa Paws and opened gifts . Joy: The pup, who had been abandoned by his owner years ago, dons a cute hat for his party . They took him to a veterinarian at the Birmingham Boston Terrier Rescue and learned that he had almost no lung capacity, his trachea was leaking and his heart was swollen. The vet suggested he be scheduled for a 'humane euthanasia' and the women planned a final hurrah for the dog. For a few blissful days over Thanksgiving, he feasted on burgers and pumpkin pie, enjoyed playing with new toys and relished in the attention from his temporary owners. Then they threw him an early Christmas 'going away' party, where he sat on Santa's lap and donned a party hat as he opened more gifts. Care: The dog, who had a swollen heart, experienced more love in his last few days than he did in his life . Treats: Butch, pictured with Kansas and friends left, took trips to PetSmart for new toys and treats . At home: Butch, pictured grinning with Kansas, showed marked improvement during his few days of joy . The Buzbees noticed that Butch perked up after all the attention and was no longer struggling to breathe, so the trip to the vet was put off. But a few days later, his condition worsened again. 'Before he goes, I want him to look into my eyes, and I want to look into his eyes, and I want to whisper, "I love you",'  she told AL.com. 'I want him to hear those words and to see those faces of the people who love him.' Last Saturday, she carried out her wish and put Butch down with her family by their sides. She said that she was overjoyed that she could bring a few days of joy to the abandoned pup and that she saw him become hopeful in that final week. 'The heart can do so many things when it gets what it needs,' she said. Dog days: Butch took a turn for the worse at the end of last week and was put down on Saturday .

Alicia Buzbee and her daughter found Butch struggling to breathe in a yard in Pinson, Alabama the week before Thanksgiving . They learned he'd been roaming the streets and living off scraps for years . He has a swollen heart and no lung capacity and vets recommended he be put down - but the Buzbees decided to give him some final days of joy . He feasted on burgers and met Santa at a party thrown in his honor . His condition temporarily improved but he took a turn for the worse again and was put down on Saturday .

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A mother was killed on the pavement in front of her husband and two-year-old son after a pensioner ploughed into her in his Mercedes because he mistook the accelerator pedal for the brake. Geoffrey Lederman, 83, killed Desreen Brooks and almost crashed into the whole family as he ploughed into a wall and mounted a pavement in West Hampstead in north London at 50mph. The pensioner had been driving home from a bridge game when he realised he had lost control of the powerful 3.8 litre V8 engine Mercedes and deliberately steered it into a garden wall in a bid to stop it, Blackfriars Crown Court heard. But Lederman had failed to spot there were pedestrians on the pavement. He clipped the toddler's pushchair before he crashed into Mrs Brooks, 33, who was killed. Desreen Brooks, 33, was walking home with husband Ben Brooks-Dutton (left) in West Hampstead when she was hit by a mercedes driven by Geoffrey Lederman, 83, who had lost control of the car and appeared to have confused the brake and accelerator pedals as he steered it into a garden wall at 50mph in a bid to stop it . The powerful classic car also hit a young woman who suffered brain damage and lost an eye. Lederman has been accused of causing death by dangerous driving and grievous bodily harm, which he denies. The court heard Mrs Brooks had been walking home with her husband, Ben Brooks-Dutton, the boss of Mischief PR, and their son Jackson from a friend's house at the time of the accident in November 2012. Witnesses described seeing Lederman's car 'screaming' along the lane, amid a cloud of smoke before it hurtled along the footpath in West End Lane at speed. Lederman ploughed into Mrs Brooks, 33, and also struck 23-year-old American student Amy Werner, who was left with permanent brain damage. Lederman, who had impaired eyesight and had previously suffered a stroke, floored the powerful car and didn't brake once before hitting the women, the court heard. Tom Kark QC, prosecuting, said: 'Over a period of just under 20 seconds it seems he accidentally put his foot on the accelerator instead of the brake. 'The car was very powerful and when he realised his car was out of control, not understanding why, Mr Lederman deliberately steered it onto the pavement and into the front garden wall of a house.' Widower Ben Brooks-Dutton arrived at Blackfriars Crown Court for the trial of Geoffrey Lederman . Jurors were shown CCTV footage of the blue Mercedes travelling at high speed before crossing onto the wrong side of the road, onto the path and into the women, at around 8.30pm. Mr Kark added: 'The first was Desreen Brooks who was walking down the road with her husband and two-year-old who was in a pushchair. 'The car scraped the pushchair but struck Mrs Brooks killing her. 'The car continued on its journey and struck a young American student named Amy Werner and she was severely injured. 'She suffered brain injuries and lost sight in one eye.' Lederman had spent the day at a bridge conference in Barnet, north London, before setting off for his west London home. He suffered minor injuries in the crash and had to be cut from the wreckage of his automatic Mercedes 380SL. Tests showed he had not been drinking and had a clean driver's licence. Investigators also found no mechanical faults with the car which he had bought second-hand in 1982. Mr Kark said: 'There is no evidence to suggest that vehicle defects caused or contributed to the accident and neither victim caused or contributed to the collision in any way.' Moments before the crash he had stopped to check his car after 'nudging' a pizza delivery man before carrying on his way, the court heard. Mr Kark said: 'He said he lost control soon after that, within seconds he seemed to be on the wrong side of the road going at almost racing car speed. 'He was tugging on the handbrake with no effect.' In the minutes before the crash Lederman's Mercedes was seen revving loudly for up to ten seconds as it sat stationary outside West Hampstead Underground Station. Lederman deliberately steered his Mercedes into a garden wall, but failed to see pedestrians on the pavement . The pensioner crashed into the wall at 50mph and may have confused accelerator and brake, the court heard . Investigators found he had mistakenly kept his foot on the car's accelerator when he thought it was the brake before careering off, the court heard. London Underground staff told police that they had heard a 'loud crunching sound' seconds before. Unlike modern automatic cars, the classic Mercedes did not require the brake to be pressed before engaging drive. Mr Kark said: 'It may be that when Geoffery Lederman engaged the drive gear when he believed he was pressing the brake or hadn't realised the car had slipped into neutral.' Richard Savours, a bridge partner of Geoffrey Lederman, told the court he found Mr Brooks-Dutton standing over his wife, Desreen, who was lying on the pavement, as she shouted for help. Mr Savours had taken part in a six hour bridge tournament with Lederman in Barnet when he overtook them on the pavement in his classic Mercedes. He told the court: 'I heard a scraping noise. The car overtook us on the right hand side and was on the pavement scraping along walls of gardens, which is what the noise was. 'Coming up to junction with Dynham Road, the car went over the junction, crashed into a wall and came to a stop. 'My wife stopped the car as the car went past us. 'I got out of the car and immediately saw a man standing directly opposite where I was standing shouting 'Please help us, won't somebody help me?' 'I first thought he was hurt and then I saw a woman lying on the pavement and he was standing over her. She was lying completely still. My first thought was she might be dead. Paramedics in a passing ambulance then got out to help and Mr Savours said it was impossible to get Lederman out of the car by the door as the handle had been sheered off by scraping along the wall. Lederman claimed he felt 'fine' throughout the day and had undergone an eye test in April 2012, adding that he didn't think he had to wear glasses as a condition of his licence but wore a contact lens in his left eye. He said he 'saw a gap' where he could crash the car and had not seen any pedestrians, believing he had 'done the right thing'. He told police he hadn't suffered any 'medical episode' that day and there is no evidence of a medical cause, the court heard. Mr Kark said lawyers acting for Lederman were expected to claim he had suffered 'some sort of seizure' before the accident. Lederman, of Maida Vale, who has been excused from attending the trial on health grounds, denies causing death by dangerous driving and grievous bodily harm. The trial continues. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Geoffrey Lederman crashed his powerful Mercedes into two women . He killed Desreen Brooks, 33,  and left another woman with brain damage . Lederman, 83, lost control of Mercedes as he drove through Hampstead . He deliberately steered into garden wall and pavement to stop car . But he failed to see pedestrians and ploughed into mother Mrs Brooks . Blackfriars Crown Court heard he 'floored' car before crash and didn't once hit the brake, and may have confused the two pedals in Mercedes . Lederman denies causing death by dangerous driving after 2012 crash .

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Chancellor George Osborne (pictured) has announced another purge on so called 'death taxes' Widows will be able to inherit their partner’s Isa without paying a penny in income tax, the Chancellor has announced. In a further purge on so-called ‘death taxes’, widows or widowers will be able to save nearly £500 a year on a £60,000 nest-egg that has been inherited. George Osborne also confirmed that spouses of deceased partners who receive payments from an inherited annuity won’t have to pay any tax from next April. Every year, anyone aged over 16 can save tax-free in a cash Independent Savings Account. The annual allowance is currently £15,000, and set to rise to £15,240 next April. But some 150,000 married savers die each year with an Isa which is passed to a spouse or civil partner, government figures show. When this happens they stop being an Isa – so interest earned on them is taxed. Someone who has built up more than £60,000 in a cash Isa earning 2 per cent would normally earn £1,200 interest tax-free. But outside an Isa, a basic-rate taxpayer would have to pay £240 tax a year on this interest; and a higher-rate taxpayer £480. ‘This restriction was a source of deep frustration and extra cost for grieving spouses,’ said Danny Cox, chartered financial planner at Hargreaves Lansdown wealth manager. ‘It’s good news for couples as most manage their money jointly, and the loss of the tax-free status on the cash has often come as a shock to the surviving spouse.’ The Chancellor said this brought Isa savings in line with reforms on pensions. Changes to the rules on Isas will give another boost to their surging popularity. Scroll down for video . In July, in a bid to boost savings in a climate of low-interest rates, the limit for tax-free savings was ‘supercharged’ by the Chancellor – and lifted from £11,880 to £15,000. However, the amount allowed to be saved in cash had previously been limited to £5,940. The new flexibility introduced from July 1 allowed savers to put the whole £15,000 allowance in cash. Savers can now also switch money between cash and shares; before the summer, you could only switch from cash into shares. Since being launched in 1999, Isas have helped encourage millions to put money aside for emergency savings – as well as boost their income in retirement. Roy Hamilton (pictured right) will be able to pass on the full worth of his pension to his wife Julie (left) if he dies before the age of 75 . Roy Hamilton will be able to pass on the full worth of his pension to his wife if he dies before the age of 75. The 65-year-old former council worker, from Bristol, has taken out a joint life annuity on his £75,000 pension pot with the help of advisers Hargreaves Lansdown. His 59-year-old wife Julie, a seamstress, is still in work but will be able to take 100 per cent of his pension without it being taxed after his death. The latest changes level out the playing field after the Budget in March allowed pensioners to take lump sums from their pension pots tax-free, but left those with an annuity worse off. Mr Hamilton, a grandfather of two, said: ‘The reason I took out an annuity is I like the idea of a regular payment. I took out a joint annuity to look after my wife, and she’ll get 100 per cent of that after I’m gone.’ Some 23 million investors and savers have £443billion in Isas. This is roughly equally split between cash and shares. The retirement shakeup means if a loved one dies before the age of 75, the surviving spouse won’t pay any tax on an inherited joint annuity. The Treasury is also to change tax rules to allow a joint annuity to be passed on to any beneficiary. The Chancellor’s announcement on joint annuities marks the latest in a long line of radical pension reforms started in his March Budget. From next April, there will be no need to buy an annuity. Those aged 55 or over will be able to dip into their pension whenever they want. Each time they withdraw cash, 25 per cent will be tax-free. However, they will have to pay income tax at their usual rate on the rest. The reforms also mean they will be able to leave pension cash in their will without the 55 per cent death tax, by paying into a so-called drawdown scheme. The Chancellor embarked on the reforms to stop savers being locked in to annuities that can be poor value or unsuitable for their lifestyle. An extra £2billion will be poured into the health service every year to relieve the pressure on hospitals. Mr Osborne said he had found the money from budget surpluses in other departments. Health chiefs had warned ministers that they faced an immediate funding gap due an ageing population, expensive new drugs and a rising bill for staff pensions. In addition to the £2billion for frontline services, Mr Osborne announced another £1.1billion for struggling GP practices over the next five years . It will be to funded by bank fines. Simon Stevens, the new head of the NHS in England, welcomed the cash injection. He has warned that the NHS faces a funding black hole of at least £8billion by the year 2020. The future of the NHS is expected to be a key battleground for May’s general election. David Cameron has already promised to protect its budget from cuts if he wins. Decaying churches could be restored to their former glory with the help of a new £15million fund for repairs. George Osborne announced that the Cathedral Renovation Fund will now be extended to cover repairs to all of Britain’s churches. It is hoped that the new money will help rescue the hundreds of church buildings which have fallen prey to thieves – who have been targeting the valuable lead in their roofs. Church leaders of all denominations will be able to apply for grants of between £10,000 and £100,000 in order to fund any repairs which are deemed to be urgent. Last month more than 800 churches were listed on English Heritage’s ‘at risk’ list because they had fallen into severe disrepair. The Bishop of Worcester, the Rt Revd Dr John Inge, said that the grant would make a ‘real and lasting difference’ to parishes. He added: ‘A secure roof can last 100 years and will prevent gradual, and ultimately costly, decay of fabric.’ Exposing the hidden mortgage fees . The Government is to probe baffling mortgage fees which make it hard for homebuyers to get the cheapest deal. Trade body the Council of Mortgage Lenders has been asked to work with consumer campaign group Which? to put an end to hidden house buying fees, it was revealed in yesterday’s Autumn Statement. Research by Which? has found that buyers can face more than 40 different layers of hidden fees when they buy a home. These include added extras such as fees for bank transfers, references and insurance. Charges run on through the life of a mortgage and can even be added at the end of a loan term. Because of fee confusion, just 3 per cent of buyers tested by Which? were able to correctly rank five deals in order of best value. The CML has now been told to make charges more transparent so that consumers can compare the total cost of mortgage deals. Paul Smee, director general at the CML, said: ‘Consumers need to be able to understand and compare products confidently. We welcome the opportunity to work with Which? towards measures that can make this easier for them.’ Which? executive director Richard Lloyd said: ‘With so many people on tight budgets trying to get a foot on the housing ladder or looking to remortgage as rates rise, it’s essential that they can more easily find the best deal.’ Any measures will be introduced in time for April’s Budget. From April, households paying a care worker up to £22,500 a year will not have to pay NI contributions. Stock picture used . Families who employ a carer will benefit from a National Insurance cut worth up to £2,000 a year. From April, households paying a care worker up to £22,500 a year will not have to pay NI contributions. The Chancellor has extended the Employment Allowance – a perk already available to charities and some small businesses – to ‘help with the employment of carers who do so much’. Emily Holzhausen, director of policy at the charity Carers UK, welcomed the move, saying it would help those relying on carers to buy more help or cope with pressure on their finances. She said: ‘This measure goes some way to reducing the cost of paying for care for families but more needs to be done to bring down the overall costs of care. There are 1.4million people providing more than 50 hours’ unpaid care for loved ones every week. ‘For those who do not qualify for social care services, the costs of care are high… many continue without much-needed care services until they reach breaking point.’

Widows will be able to inherit their partner's Isa without paying income tax . George Osborne claims this will bring Isa savings in line with pensions . Extra £2bn a year will be passed onto NHS to relieve pressure on hospitals . New £15million fund dedicated to church repairs is to be established . Families employing carers will benefit from a National Insurance tax cut .

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Eight families who lost loved ones in the Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 disaster when it was shot out of the sky in rebel-controlled eastern Ukraine are preparing to sue Russia, Ukraine and Malaysia. The Boeing 777 was travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on July 17 when it was downed, killing all 298 people on board, including 38 Australian citizens and residents. It is not known which of the families are suing, however News.com.au reports they are from five different states across Australia and will also take action against Malaysia Airlines. Aviation lawyer Jerry Skinner, who is based in Alaska, has taken up their case and is preparing to lodge it at the European Court of Human Rights. Scroll down for video . Flowers laid out on the wreckage of MH17 in eastern Ukraine after the tragic disaster in July . Back in July the lawyer first told the Sydney Morning Herald that he could potentially achieve million dollar payouts for the MH17 victims’ families, like he had obtained from Libya for the families of the 1988 Lockerbie disaster. 'Something creative is going to have to be done here because this is too big and too complicated for the judicial system to handle on its own and it involves people who will not yield to the judicial system, such as the Russians and the Ukrainians,' he said. ‘What happened in Lockerbie was that politics got involved and sanctions got involved and we said to the Libyans, if you want to settle this, it doesn't matter what the individuals did [for a living]. ‘The parties that are the main participants here are probably the Russians and their allies and also Malaysia Airlines. Both of them bear a lot of responsibility for this.’ Mo, 12 (left), Evie, 10 (right) and Otis, 8 (centre) are believed to be some of the MH17 victims whose bodies were returned to Australia in October. It is not known which families are suing . The Boeing 777 was travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on 17 July when it was downed . Now, Mr Skinner has said he will file a ‘very broad’ claim against Russia, Ukraine, Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines as soon as he gets some final information from the Dutch Safety Board. The airline has already promised to pay compensation out to the victims’ families and is liable to pay about $180,000 for each person killed. Amongst the Australian victims of MH17 were the three Maslin children, whose bodies finally arrived back on Australian soil in October. The bodies of Mo, 12, Evie, 10 and Otis, 8, were returned to their loved ones in Perth after arriving on board an RAAF Globemaster transport plane in Melbourne. They are believed to have arrived alongside a number of other victims of the tragedy. Families of the deceased were seen waiting at Melbourne airport as the plane arrived and watched as the coffins were removed from the plane. NSW resident Sister Philomene Tiernan (left) was killed while on board MH17 . A firefighter sprays water to extinguish a fire, on July 17, 2014, amongst the wreckages of the Malaysian airliner carrying 295 people . In July, the parents of the three Maslin children released a statement addressed to 'the soldiers in the Ukraine, the politicians, the media, our friends and family'. Anthony Maslin and Marite Norris wrote: 'Our pain is intense and relentless. We live in a hell beyond hell. 'Our babies are not here with us – we need to live with this act of horror, every day and every moment for the rest of our lives. 'No one deserves what we are going through. Not even the people who shot our whole family out of the sky.' Sons, daughters, couples, parents and grandparents were all among the people who never made it home to Australia after the tragic disaster. A much-loved nun from Sydney's St Mary Magdalene's Church, Sister Philomene, was on board the flight making her way home to Sydney after a sabbatical in France. Emma Bell (right), originally of Lithgow in NSW, was a passionate teacher who was returning from a trip to Europe to start the new school term in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory. Jack O'Brien (left) of Sydney, was 25. His family said he was 'loved so much' Mr Horder and his wife Susan, both 63, of Albany Creek, were among the Queenslanders aboard flight MH17 when it was shot down . Shaliza Dewal (left), 45, and her Dutch husband Hans Van Den Hende (centre) were travelling from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur with their three children, Piers, 15, (top right) and Marnix, 12, (top back) and daughter Margaux, 8, (top centre) Emma Bell, who was in her 20s, worked with Aboriginal children in a remote Northern Territory community and was spending the school holidays in Europe before boarding MH17 in Amsterdam. She was returning to the Northern Territory for the new term. A 25-year-old, Sydney man named Jack O’Brien, was flying back home after enjoying a 'fantastic seven-week holiday in Europe'. And just one of the couples on board was Queenslanders Howard Horder and his wife Susan, both 63, of Albany Creek. They were returning from a trip to Europe after retiring. In Germany, a mother of a passenger who died in the MH17 crash is already suing the Ukrainian authorities for 'negligent homicide' and £650,000 in the European Court of Human Rights. The German woman, whose daughter - named as 'Olga L' - was killed when the Malaysia Airlines plane, began legal proceedings in the past week. She is seeking compensation from the authorities after Ukraine failed to close its airspace to civil air traffic because of fighting with pro-Russian separatists, it has been reported. Ukraine’s President Petro Poroshenko is visiting Australia next week and is expected to discuss the security situation in eastern Ukraine and its impact on international relations, as well as the links between Australia and his country.

Lawyer Jerry Skinner will lodge their case at the European Court of Human Rights . He previously obtained millions of dollars from Libya for the families of the 1988 Lockerbie disaster . 38 Australian citizens and residents were killed when flight MH17 was downed on July 17 .

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Three people were arrested after police attended a student sit-in at Warwick University. West Midlands Police said that they were responding to an alleged assault on a university staff member. A video which was posted on YouTube but has now been made private, shows police dragging a protester to the floor, and the sound of a Taser can be heard. A tweet from the West Midlands Police account said a Taser 'was drawn but not deployed. The sound is a warning sound'. Scroll down for video . Police drew a Taser when they attended a student sit-in at Warwick University. Three people were arrested after an alleged assault on university staff - but students say the response was 'disproportionate'. Above, a still from a video of the struggle . A video which was posted on YouTube but has now been made private, shows police dragging a protester to the floor, and the sound of a Taser can be heard . In another video an officer appears to tell protesters to 'back off or you'll get CSed'. Protesters can be seen being dragged onto the floor and physically removed from the building. The group, Warwick For Free Education, said that they were staging a peaceful sit in at Warwick University's Senate House in protest at rising tuition fees and high wages for university management. However, a spokesman for Warwick University, which is based in Coventry, said that university security staff who were supervising the sit-in were subject to a 'shocking and unprovoked act of violence' which forced them to call in police. A spokesman for Warwick University said that university security staff who were supervising the sit-in were subject to a 'shocking and unprovoked act of violence' which forced them to call in police . A statement on the Warwick Free Education website alleges that activists were 'punched, pushed onto the floor, dragged, rammed by their throat into the wall and kneed in the face. 'At least 20 students were assaulted by university security and police.' A student at the protest told the Coventry Telegraph: 'A police officer took out his CS spray and sprayed it in one person's eyes and then into a crowd of about ten people. 'A Taser was taken out and was being made to crackle by pressing the trigger, but it wasn't used. 'It felt particularly disproportionate. When the police came they didn't say why they were there. 'A lot of younger students were visibly shaken and left in tears. It was quite a shock, especially considering that it was a quiet protest - we weren't even shouting.' A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: 'Police were called to reports of an assault at the University of Warwick Central Campus in Coventry this afternoon. 'Officers arrived at Senate House at 4.50pm to find a group of around 25 students protesting about fees and a staff member reported that he had been assaulted by one of the group. 'Three people were arrested from the site, one on suspicion of assault and two others on suspicion of obstructing police. 'Police officers and security staff from the university worked together to ensure everyone was safe. 'The protest continues and officers remain at the scene to ensure there is no further breach of the peace.' Shortly before 9pm West Midlands Police posted two tweets on its official @wmpolice account, saying: 'The protest at the University of Warwick Central Campus remains on-going. Three people have been arrested following reports of an assault. 'During the disorder a Taser was drawn and an audible and visible warning was issued to prevent further incidents. The Taser was not fired.' But a statement from Warwick Students' Union said the force used by officers was 'disproportionate'. It said: 'This afternoon, a group were demonstrating for Free Education and entered the lobby of Senate House. The police arrived and an altercation took place, the full facts of which we are still in the process of establishing. Three people were arrested. 'From the footage we have seen of this incident, we absolutely believe that disproportionate force was used against protesters. We stand in solidarity with the Warwick students who were unnecessarily harmed in this action. 'The Sabbatical Team will be attending the peaceful demonstration happening on Thursday at 3.30pm. We will also update students further with a full statement tomorrow.'

Students were staging a sit-in at Warwick University in Coventry . Three people were arrested after alleged assault on university staff . But students say the response was 'disproportionate' They claim 20 students were 'assaulted' by West Midlands officers . Witness says a Taser was drawn and students threatened with CS gas .

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Lewis Hamilton is living his American dream, with rap star friends, the celebrity Los Angeles girlfriend and a giant bling necklace. And the championship leader, who is mobbed in Austin, has even spoken about the possibility of raising a family on this side of the Atlantic. 'I enjoy it here, it's pretty cool,' he said. 'New York is a cool place to live. I was in Knoxville [Tennessee] the other day. It's beautiful, by the lake. But there is too much fast food. I'm always thinking about where I would raise a family and I haven't figured out where that would be. Lewis Hamilton with his American pop star girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger at the GQ Men of the Year Awards . Hamilton drives his way to second on the grid for Sunday's United States Grand Prix . 'It feels a little bit early but at some stage I want to have a family and continue the family name.' Hamilton, 29, trains in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and regularly travels from his home in Monaco to LA to see Nicole Scherzinger, his pop star girlfriend. A friend of rappers, he is keen on the music industry - an interest he could now actively look to develop into a business opportunity having just parted company with Simon Fuller's XIX management stable. Hamilton will wait until the end of the season before deciding who will look after his affairs, but non-racing concerns are sure to be a factor in that process. Hamilton is a crowd favourite at the US race in Austin, Texas, and has talked about a life there . Hamilton poses for a selfie with a fan in Austin, where he is proving hugely popular . (From left) Hamilton waves to the adoring crowd with pole winner Nico Rosberg and Valtteri Bottas, who will start Sunday's race in third, after their qualifying success on Saturday at the Circuit of the Americas . He is sporting a bold new look with his giant gold necklace with a picture frame containing a Warhol painting of Mercedes cars. 'I designed it myself,' said Hamilton, who stopped off in New York en route to Austin to appear on ABC's Today show. His latest bling follows his trademark diamond earrings, a host of tattoos and a giant flat-peak cap — a look that makes him stand out amid the more corporate and conservative world of modern Formula One.

Lewis Hamilton has talked about raising a family in the United States . The Brit starts the US Grand Prix second on the grid behind Nico Rosberg . He trains in Colorado and regularly visits his pop star girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger in Los Angeles, where he's also friends with rappers . Hamilton recently split from Simon Fuller's XIX management stable .

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Winter finally arrived in parts of Britain yesterday, threatening to put a chill in the tail of the hottest year for more than 350 years. Widespread frosts gave the landscape a Christmas card look while temperatures are forecast to plunge as low as minus 6C (21F) overnight on Saturday, with snow on high ground. But even as the cold spell began, 2014’s topsy-turvy weather had nature in a spin with cherry trees in blossom, frogs already spawning and daffodils in bloom several months early, while many of the summer’s roses are still in bloom. Blanket of white: A heavy frost at dawn on the River Brathay in the Lake District yesterday, but 2014 has seen the warmest average temperatures since records began . Chilly: Temperatures will slump as low as -6C overnight on Saturday following on from -5C last night, making it the coldest of the year so far . Frosty fields: Despite this wintery scene this morning forecasters say that 2014 is on track to be the warmest since records began in 1659 . Retired office worker Marilyn Fenn was stunned to spot a daffodil blooming in her garden this week, three months early. T . he 62-year-old widow, of Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, said: ‘It looks so lonely, I actually feel a bit sorry for it. 'I don’t know how long it will last with the cold weather.’ Records show that the year is set to be the warmest since records began in 1659. The Met Office said average temperatures from the beginning of January to late November were 1.6C (2.9F) above the long-term norm. The figures are based on Central England Temperature data. It has recorded monthly temperatures across an area between Lancaster, Bristol and London since 1659. For the whole UK, 2014 is the warmest in records dating back to 1910. The year’s crazy weather saw the wettest winter to strike southern England since records began in 1766, with severe flooding in Somerset, Kent and the Thames Valley suffering extreme flooding. Temperatures then hit 19C (66F) in the South in March, when the average is 9C (48F). A July heatwave roared in, with temperatures in the mid-30s (over 90F), but it was swiftly followed by the coolest August for 21 years as the remnants of Hurricane Bertha crossed the Atlantic bringing with it downpours and flash floods – just in time to catch the school holidays. After this, the driest-ever September preceded the warmest Halloween on record. Experts say that while a bitterly cold December could still knock 2014 off its top spot in the list of warmest years, this is unlikely. While all months except August have seen above average temperatures, no single month has seen a record-breaking high. Instead the year has been consistently warm. Can't make its mind up: This year has seen a July heatwave followed by the coolest August for 21 years and then the driest September ever . Don't jinx it: Meteorologists say that a bitter December cold snap could stop 2014 being the hottest year on record, but this is unlikely . Feeling the cold: While all months except August have seen above average temperatures, no single month has seen a record-breaking high . Across the world, the year is also on track to be one of the hottest, with global temperatures around 0.57C (1.03F) above the average 14C (57.2F) from January to October, just ahead of the previous record of 0.56C, according to the World Meteorological Organisation. However, the Met Office said that a single year’s extreme weather cannot be attributed to man-made global warming. A spokesman said: ‘One warm year does not necessarily say anything about long-term climate change – these trends need to be looked at over longer timescales of several decades.’ But global warming does make it more likely to have years with hotter-than-average weather, he said. Global: Last year is also set to be the warmest across the globe as temperature rises pushed the average 0.57C above the average of 14C . Heating up: Average temperatures from the beginning of January to late November were 1.6C (2.9F) above the long-term norm .

Frosty scenes across UK this morning after temperatures of -5C overnight, with -6C predicted for the weekend . But 2014 is set to become the hottest on record after every month except August saw above-average temperatures . Across the globe warm weather saw the mercury pushed 0.57C above the 14C average, which is also a record .

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Online retailing giant Amazon has launched its own brand of diapers, opening a new front in retail battles - and a direct challenge to name-brands already selling on the site. Amazon said the first offerings in its new Amazon Elements line of consumer products would be diapers and baby wipes, and that other competitively priced, 'premium' everyday consumer products would soon follow. But the Elements line is only available to members of Amazon's Prime $99-a-year subscription club, with the lowest prices available for those who are also members of its Amazon Mom group, as the company seeks to push more shoppers into its membership programs. Time for change: Amazon is launching the line of diapers and baby wipes exclusively for its Prime members to get more shoppers to sign up for the $99 annual program . Expanding: The launch comes a year after Amazon reported it was recruiting people to help create its own brand of products in the larger category known as consumables . Amazon highlighted that the Elements line would provide quality-conscious shoppers 'an unprecedented level of information' on product origins and materials. 'The two things customers told us they want are premium products that meet their high standards, and access to information so they can make informed decisions,' said Sunny Jain, Amazon.com Consumables Vice President, in a statement. Entering the market: The first offerings in the new Amazon Elements line of consumer products will be diapers and baby wipes . The initial prices, including discounts to Prime members and the Amazon Mom club, put a size 4 diaper 10 percent more expensive than the popular Huggies brand. But it was about 27 percent cheaper than the premium Seventh Generation brand, popular with health and environmentally-conscious consumers, in the Prime and Amazon Mom pricing. Amazon has been seeking to push shoppers into Prime, originally a subscription service for free shipping aimed at frequent buyers on its website. A Prime subscription now gives members unlimited video and music streaming as Amazon takes on powerful media groups like Netflix and Spotify. In some areas, Prime is now offering same day delivery on groceries as well.

Suppliers had long feared Amazon would eventually elbow them aside . Amazon Elements is a new line of Amazon-branded 'everyday essentials' available exclusively to Prime subscribers . Amazon's pack of 40 diapers will sell for $7.99 - 19 cents a diaper compared to national brands like Huggies and Pampers that go for about 24 to 34 cents . New diapers are up to 40 cents cheaper than name brand competitors .

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These are the scenes of squalor which were discovered by police when they arrived at the home of two-year-old girl who died after accidentally drinking her drug addict mother's methadone out of a Tom and Jerry beaker. Barry Jones, 42, and Michelle King, 30, were this week convicted of the killing of little Sophie Jones, who died after drinking from the cup she thought contained her favourite fruit shoot drink. When they arrived at the terraced family home in Blackpool, Lancashire, detectives found medication stacked next to children's toys and filthy rooms littered with dirty washing and pushchairs. Scroll down for video . These are the scenes which greeted police when they arrived at the home of two-year-old Sophie Jones, who died after accidentally drinking her drug addict mother's methadone out of a Tom and Jerry beaker . Sophie, aged two (pictured) drank from the beaker unaware it was her mother's powerful heroin substitute . The little girl drank from the beaker unaware it was the powerful heroin substitute which her mother Michelle King had been storing to sell on to fund her drug habit - in what police said was akin to 'leaving a loaded firearm in the reach of a child.' Sophie collapsed in March under the effects of the heroin substitute after an eye witness said she looked 'groggy' and was falling over. Paramedics rushed to the family home where the couple lived on benefits but despite attempting to revive her, the toddler was pronounced dead in hospital just 35 minutes later. Tests later showed Sophie had traces of four separate drugs in her hair including heroin, cocaine and diazepam and had been exposed to the drugs for several months. Police later found a quarter of a pint of methadone and the Tom and Jerry Beaker in the back garden . These are the scenes of squalor which awaited police when they they arrived at the terraced family home . It has emerged Sophie's father openly smoked heroin in the same room as his daughter - she had traces four separate drugs in her hair including heroin, cocaine and diazepam and been exposed to the drugs for months . Three of her dummies had traces of cocaine powder on the teat. Methadone was also found on an upstairs bathroom sink. The methadone had been prescribed to King as part of a drug treatment programme but she had been keeping the drug in her daughter's Tom and Jerry beaker, Tommy Tippy cup and Fruit Shoot bottles with a view to selling it on to fund her own drug habit. After Sophie accidentally drank the substance, the couple tried to cover up their role in her death by hiding the beaker and fruit shoot bottles around the family home. They were also seen filling up a wheelie bin with nappies and drug taking equipment. King sent two text messages to Jones relating to the child's drinking cup - one reading 'all the meth bottles out back under green thing'. Another said 'don't tip the methadone out, hide it.' Today pictures of the family's home taken by Lancashire Police emerged as Blackpool Council confirmed a serious case review was underway into the toddler's death. Neightbours have questioned why Sophie was allowed to live with tbe two drug addicts after it emerged her father openly smoked heroin in the same room as his daughter. It is believed there was no social services file into the family open at the time of Sophie's death. Sophie, pictured as a baby, drank from the Tom and Jerry patterned beaker unaware it was the powerful heroin substitute which her mother Michelle King had been storing to sell on to fund her drug habit . Barry Jones, 42, and Michelle King, 30, were convicted of the killing of Sophie Jones at Preston Crown Court. King admitted manslaughter and child cruelty whilst Jones was convicted of unlawful killing and child cruelty . When they arrived at the family home detectives found medication stacked next to children's toys . Father of two Adrian Walenciej, 32, a bar worker who lives in the same street said: 'How can there be two drug addicts with a daughter and no supervision? 'I'm blaming myself, thinking I could have done something and called the council. 'I'll always think if I had done something she could still be here. I thought they were drinking a lot but I didn't know the mum was dealing methadone. 'Accidents happen; a child can reach for medicine but what they did is unimaginable. 'You hear about kids who are born with a drug addiction. Maybe they had tried giving her a bit of methadone to stop her crying before and it had worked? 'We don't know what happened behind those walls, only they know. Nothing will bring that little girl back.' Another neighbour said: 'That couple should be locked up for good. A child does not ask to be put in that situation. 'You do wonder whether they meant for her to drink it but only they know exactly what happened. 'People put teddies outside the front door of the house after Sophie died. I put one there myself because I have children and can't imagine how any mum could do that to her daughter. The court heard a neighbour said in the run up to the tragedy he had often heard arguing between the adults and Sophie would be heard crying for long periods. The trial also heard on March 4 King sent several text messages to a drug user reminding her that she owed her £25. She had also gone to buy crack cocaine before returning home. A relative saw Sophie fall on two occasions and noticed that she was unsteady on her feet. King was heard to say that Sophie was acting weird and Barry to say 'I hope you've not left the top off your tablets'. Blackpool Council have confirmed they have launched a serious case review which is being led by Blackpool Children's Safeguarding Board and involves agencies including the council, health service and police . The methadone was prescribed to King but she had been keeping the drug in her daughter's Tom and Jerry beaker, Tommy Tippy cup and Fruit Shoot bottles with a view to sell them on to fund her drug habit . Neighbours left flowers and toys outside the family home in Blackpool following Sophie's death in March . Three of Sophie's dummies had traces of cocaine powder on the teat and methadone was found on a sink . The couple were told to call an ambulance but they lied about taking Sophie to a walk in centre and claimed the child may have drunk some cider. They also hid the beaker and fruit shoot bottles around the family home. The pair were also seen filling up a wheelie bin with nappies and drug taking equipment. Eventually at 11.40pm, Jones made a 999 calmly saying: 'I have a two-year-old daughter, right, and I don't think she's breathing - can I have an ambulance please.' An ambulance arrived three minutes after the call and found him in the lounge performing CPR on Sophie following directions being given over the phone. Vomit was visible in Sophie's hair, face, chest and on the floor and appeared to contain blood. While Sophie was in hospital King sent two text messages to Jones relating to the child's drinking cup - one reading 'all the meth bottles out back under green thing'. Another said 'don't tip the methadone out, hide it.' Hidden under a green cover in the back yard police found 146ml of methadone - approximately 1/4 of a pint . Police found traces of cocaine and heroin in the bins and a number of fruit shoot bottles inside the house . But hidden under a green cover in the back yard police found 146ml of methadone - approximately 1/4 of a pint and the Tom and Jerry beaker. They also found a large number of Fruit Shoot bottles at the house - one of which had traces of methadone inside. There were also traces of cocaine and heroin found in the bins. Tests showed Sophie's cause of her death was inhalation of stomach contents and poisoning by methadone - less than a teaspoonful can kill a child. At Preston Crown Court King admitted manslaughter and child cruelty whilst Jones was convicted of unlawful killing and child cruelty following a trial. Today Detective Inspector Andy Cribbin, of Lancashire Police, said: 'Sophie's death was as a direct result of the actions and neglect of her parents, the two people who should have protected her from coming to any harm whatsoever. 'Her death was wholly avoidable and was brought about by their chaotic and reckless use of illegal and prescribed drugs within the family home. 'Storing methadone in a child's drinking cup is akin to leaving a loaded firearm in the reach of a child - the outcome was almost inevitable.' Blackpool Council confirmed the serious case review was being led by Blackpool Children's Safeguarding Board and involves agencies including the council, health service and police.

Pictures show squalid conditions Sophie Jones was living in before death . Mother used children's beakers to store methadone she planned to sell . Youngster was seen looking 'groggy' after drinking from cartoon beaker . She later collapsed and died and was found to have been poisoned by drug . Blackpool Council have confirmed a serious case review into her death .

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More than 200 truckers responded to a Facebook message from a sick boy's mother who was on the hunt for a special present for her child's birthday. Lisa Welch's 10-year-old son Jorge, from Jimboomba in Queensland, was born with a rare condition called cortical dysplasia, causing Jorge to have the same brain functions as an 18-month-old baby. The disease occurs when the top layer of the brain doesn't form properly, affecting the patients ability to learn new things. Sick with trawling the aisles looking for baby toys, Lisa decided to take to Facebook and ask the trucking community if someone was free to bring a their rig around to Jorge's house for his big 10th birthday. Scroll down for video . Lisa Welch's 10-year-old son Jorge, from Jimboomba in Queensland, was born with a rare condition called cortical dysplasia, causing Jorge to have the same brain functions as an 18-month-old baby . Speaking to the Today Show  Lisa said she noticed that Jorge responded well to trucks who passed by on the freeway and wanted to do 'something cool' for his birthday. 'I put an ad on Facebook and I said I'll see what happens,' she said. However she did not expect the responses she received on Facebook to her sweet request. Sick with trawling the aisles looking for baby toys, Lisa decided to take to Facebook and ask the trucking community if someone was free to bring a their rig around to Jorge's house for his big 10th birthday . Jorge was granted the birthday of a lifetime after his mother organised a convoy of trucks to drive into his yard . The 10-year-old has the brain functions of an 18-month-old baby due to his illness . Over 200 truckers were willing and able to bring their lorry's to Jorge's home town. exceeding Lisa's wildest expectations. The truckers came in their droves from Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne and Townsville to brighten up Jorge's day. Trucking couple Melissa and Tommy said they had 'tears in their eyes' when they saw Jorge's broad smile upon their arrival. Truckers Melissa and Tommy had tears in their eyes when they saw Jorge's happy face . Jorge got to ride in the passenger seat of one of the trucks . Over 200 trucks came together to give Jorge his birthday wish . 'It was absolutely priceless,' Melissa said. 'There were a few tears in the eyes just watching him, it was just magical.' They let the happy boy ride in the passenger seat of their truck, while he took in his favourite piece of machinery. Jorge was mesmerised with the trucks, feeling their wheels and taking in the big machinery . The truckers made their way through the town beeping and waving to locals . Jorge got his birthday wish of riding in a rig . Jorge looked ecstatic to be surrounded by the magnificent trucks, touching their wheels, beeping the horn and waving at the truckers. The trucking community pulled out all the stops as the convoy made their way past Jorge's family home. Many donated gifts and funds to Jorge and his family as they made their way past the small town. Jorge's parents wanted to give him something special for his 10th birthday . Many truckers donated gifts and funds to Jorge and his family as they made their way past the small town . 'I don't even know what to say,' Lisa said. 'Thank you very much,' The disease cortical dysplasia causes seizures and the treatment is focused on controlling the seizures. A special diet also helps children control their seizures.

A sick boy has been given the birthday of a lifetime . Jorge suffers from cortical dysplasia and has the mental functions of an 18-month old baby . His mother Lisa was sick of trawling the aisles looking at baby toys . She wanted to give him a birthday to remember . Lisa put a post up on Facebook asking for a truck to come to her yard . The response was magnificent . Over 200 trucks made their way to Jimbooma from all over the country .

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A young elephant got thoroughly punished for his bad behaviour when he was forced to stay out in the rain while the rest of the heard sheltered under a tree. The male calf can be seen starring forlornly into the distance as thunderstorm and rain fall on the savanna. The family quarrel, preceded by what appears to be a 'trunk war' took place in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, . Naughty step: A young bull elephant is made to stay out in the rain - possibly for his bad behaviour - while his family huddle under an acacia tree . The herd of elephants was captured by Kelvin Zhang, a scientist from Los Angeles, California, who was visiting the Serengeti. Mr Zhang, 37, said he spotted the elephants underneath the acacia tree as he was also seeking shelter from the oncoming storm. He said: 'I wasn't sure if these elephants were there to hide from the rain or not because I thought thick skinned animals like elephants do not usually care much about the rain. 'Not until we got very close to the tree did I realise there was this little elephant calf standing alone in the rain, with all others under the tree.' Teenage tantrum: The young bull elephant appears to have been causing trouble earlier on . 'One, two, three, four, I declare a trunk war': The elephant  and an older relative have it out . The herd of elephants was captured by Kelvin Zhang, a scientist from LA, who was visiting the Serengeti . 'I was rather intrigued by the fact he was standing away from the tree alone, where all his companions congregate,  in my understanding deliberately as he had his face away from the rest of the group. 'It was a very interesting moment because it reflects some peculiar behaviour about these animals. 'They are highly social most of the time but like us they can have a temper or small fights. 'The calves can have their rebellious moments, and like us, they may sometimes prefer some alone time.' Muddled up: A very young elephant has had a dirty bath on the Serengeti . Playtime: Two elephants from the same herd enjoyed some leisure time in the water's edge before the storm .

Young bull elephant pictured 'on the naughty step' on the savanna . While his family stay dry under an acacia tree, he was left in the rain . The scene took place in the Serengeti National Park, in Tanzania .

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Pantone, the authority responsible for determining what hue will prove most popular in the coming year, has announced its color of 2015: Marsala. And while the New Jersey-based company has been happily singing the praises of the 'hardy, robust' red shade, the wine-inspired tone has already come under some serious fire from critics who have described it as 'boring', 'horrendous' and 'just plain awful'. 'Really, Pantone? That color looks like the vomit you might have after eating a bad chicken Marsala,' Twitter user Gina Torrecilla proclaimed, while Matt Nagel said: 'Marsala just isn't exciting. Radiant Orchid wasn't bad.' Scroll down for video . 'It isn't exciting': Critics of Pantone's color of the year for 2015, named Marsala, were quick to share their opinions on the red-brown hue on Twitter . Fashion favorite: Marsala, Pantone's color of the year for 2015, is expected to feature heavily on catwalks and red carpets in the coming months, having already been seen on designer Mikael D's runway (R) and worn by the likes of Blake Lively (L) Despite the somewhat negative criticism, Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, insists the hue will be incredibly popular in the New Year. 'Hardy, robust, satisfying, fulfilling,' she said of the shade. 'At the same time there's a certain glamour that's attached to this color.' Pantone's yearly color pick often serves as a good indication of what shades to expect in the coming year from fashion, beauty, housewares, home and industrial design and consumer packaging, though some years the influence is stronger than others. The 2014 color of the year from the forecasters and industry consultants was Radiant Orchid, a deep tropical purple. The year before that it was Emerald green, while Tangerine Tango was the pick of 2012. The idea, Eiseman explained in a recent interview, is not to choose a color that will necessarily 'overtake the world', but rather one that will leave a lasting impression on a wide variety of industries. Eiseman and her team travel the world to observe color at play. They see Marsala being used in any number of ways, be it an accent wall in a living room or office, a swipe of eye shadow mixed with bronze for a metallic look, a throw pillow, the exterior of a car, or a bit of jewelry evoking the 1950s. Beauty trends: Sephora announced that it will be releasing a make-up collection inspired by Marsala . From cars to carpets: Pantone's yearly color picks influence all manner of industry, from fashion and beauty to industrial design and homewares . 'It really does embody a certain amount of confidence and stability,' Eiseman added. The hue isn't a risky one and the Pantone team believe it will work, whether in a nail polish, a frock on a runway or a pattern of stripes in a men's tie or florals for table placemats or bedding. Eiseman noted the versatile shade was among colors Pantone flagged as spring/summer trends for 2015 earlier this year, as evidenced on the runways of Herve Leger by Max Azria, Dennis Basso and Creatures of the Wind, among other designers. As they did with Radiant Orchid, cosmetics favorite Sephora has already announced the launch of a limited-edition collection of beauty products based on Pantone and its latest pick. Eiseman added that Marsala has been widely used in lipstick and hair color for years. One of the color's strengths, she said, is the ease in combining it with gray, black, beige and other neutrals. 'It's a color that you can mix with what you already own,' she explained. 'You can add just a touch of it. That's the intent and purpose. It is not the color that swallows the world.'

The color authority announced the debut of the red-brown hue earlier today . While the company insists the shade is 'hardy, robust' and even glamorous, many people have taken to Twitter to blast it as 'boring'

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An investigation has been launched into the leaking of Defence Minister David Johnston's travel and hospitality receipts. The Defence Department is probing how Senator Johnston and his Chief Of Staff Sean Costello’s expenses were made public, the ABC reports, after it was revealed they indulged in a series of expensive meals with industry officials who are chasing lucrative government contracts. Dining receipts obtained by News Corp journalist Ian McPhedran show Mr Johnston, Mr Costello and defence industry executives spent $6384 of taxpayers money in pricey restaurants during November. Scroll down for video . Receipts showing thousands of taxpayers dollars being spent on lavish meals by Defence Minister David Johnson have been revealed, with this $662 receipt from Sean's Kitchen in Adelaide . The revelations of the meals - often washed down with $200 bottles of wine - come as ordinary troops in Australia's armed services face cuts to their entitlements and a 1.5 per cent pay increase which is below the rate of inflation. A spokesman for the Defence Minister told Daily Mail Australia that the spending was all within guidelines. 'All hospitality hosted by the Defence Minister and extended to foreign dignitaries or industry heads, including at the time of the Albany Commemoration, has been within guidelines and is consistent with previous Defence Ministers’ practice,' the spokesperson said. However, the Opposition's Nick Champion told the ABC the Prime Minister should take action against Senator Johnston. 'It's up to Tony Abbott really, to do what we all know needs to be done,' Mr Champion said. 'We all know it's going to be done. This minister is either going to be demoted, shifted out of his portfolio or sacked completely and put on the backbench.' This receipt shows some of the items indulged in at Balthazar restaurant in Perth on November 12 . The first lavish dinner took place on November 2 at Perth's Matilda Bay Restaurant, where rib eye steaks, lamb and snapper along with three bottles of Henschke Mt Edlestone Shiraz at $190 a bottle contributed to the $2332 bill, News Corp reported. The prestigious establishment has waterfront views of the Swan River. Just a few days later, on November 5, Mr Johnston and Mr Costello were in Adelaide dining with Bruce Carter, chairman of submarine builder ASC and one of the companies chasing government work, sources told News Corp. The trio polished off two bottles of $143 shiraz at Sean's Kitchen, and two martinis at $20 each, according to the $662 receipt. Defence Minister David Johnston (left) and his Chief Of Staff Sean Costello (right) dined with industry executives hoping to secure billion dollar government contracts . These accusations come as defence personnel are facing cuts to their allowances and pay . The next stop was Balthazar Restaurant in Perth where the $722 bill - again racked up between just three people - included two $172 bottles of Omensetter Shiraz, two pork fillets and a cheese platter, News Corp reported. For the November 12 dinner, Mr Johnston and Mr Costello shared a meal and a few drinks with 'a senior executive from Austal.' Shipbuilder Austal is also seeking defence work from the government according to News Corp. Matilda Bay in Perth was revisited on November 15 where the bill racked up by seven guests at the waterfront restaurant was $2062. Rib eye steaks were on the menu again, as were two bottles of Picardy Chardonnay at $170 a pop. Bruce Carter, Chairman of submarine builder ASC (left) and Andrew Bellamy, head of WA shipbuilder Austal (right) were among some of the pair's dinner guests . The final dinner destination for November was the Courgette in Canberra, where Mr Johnston and Mr Costello were joined by two others, totalling $599 for dinner and drinks. In stark contrast, ordinary defence personnel who travel on business are afforded allowances of $24 for breakfast, $28 for lunch and $47 for dinner.

Defence Department launches an investigation into leaked receipts . Receipts show $6384 of taxpayers money was spent on lavish dining by Defence Minister David Johnston and his Chief Of Staff Sean Costello . The pair entertained industry heavyweights looking to secure lucrative government contracts . The dinners included pricey meals and $200 bottles of wine . The receipts emerged as ordinary defence workers are facing below inflation pay rises and entitlement cuts .

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The Navy is revoking former-sailor Bill Cosby's title of honorary chief petty officer, saying allegations of sexual abuse made against the comedian are serious and conflict with the Navy's core values. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus and Master Chief Petty Officer Michael Stevens made the announcement Thursday in a statement. 'The Navy is taking this action because allegations against Mr. Cosby are very serious and are in conflict with the Navy's core values of honor, courage and commitment,' they said in a statement. Scroll down for video . Losing support: The Navy stripped Bill Cosby of an honorary title on Thursday after several woman have come forward to accuse the comedian of rape. Pictured above receiving the honorary title of chief petty officer in 2011 from Navy Secretary Ray Mabus, the same man who took the honor away from him on Thursday . In a statement, the Navy said the allegations against Cosby are in conflict with the military branch's 'core values'.  Pictured again at the 2011 ceremony . Cosby enlisted in the Navy in 1956 and served four years as a hospital corpsman before being honorably discharged in 1960 as a 3rd Class Petty Officer. The honorary title was presented to Cosby in 2011. The 77-year-old Cosby has refused to answer questions about mounting accusations that he sexually abused several women. NBC recently scrapped a Cosby comedy that was under development, some of his appearances have been canceled and he has resigned from Temple University's board of trustees. Former sailor: Cosby enlisted in the Navy in 1956, and spend four years as a hospital corpsman before he was honorably discharged in 1960 . Scores of women started coming forward to accuse Cosby of rape in October, after comedian Hannibal Buress went on a rant about the former Cosby Show dad's dark side during a stand-up set. Since then, at least 20 women, including former super model Janice Dickinson, have publicly accused Cosby of rape, with many saying he drugged them too. The allegations go all the way back to 2004 though, when a former Temple University employee went to authorities after  Cosby groped her. The case was eventually thrown out, with investigators saying there wasn't enough evidence to charge Cosby, so the woman filed a civil suit instead and four 13 other women to testify about Cosby's history of sex abuse. The lawsuit was settled out of court for an undisclosed amount. Unignorable: At least 20 women have come out to accuse Cosby of rape since October, but the allegations go all the way back to the mid-2000s when Cosby settled a lawsuit with a woman who claimed she was groped by the comedian .

Navy Secretary Ray Mabus and Master Chief Petty Officer Michael Stevens made the announcement on Thursday . In a statement, they wrote that the allegations are in conflict with the Navy's 'core values of honor,  courage and commitment' Cosby enlisted in the Navy in 1956, and spent four years as a hospital corpsman before he was honorably discharged .

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Thirteen illegal immigrants have been found in a tanker containing plastic granules at Dover's Eastern Docks, in Kent. The men, eleven from Syria and two from Afghanistan, were fit and well when Border Force and Home Office immigration enforcement officers attended yesterday. No action is being taken against the tanker's driver. They are the latest group to be detained at Dover amid concerns from the British freight industry about migrants' increasingly desperate attempts to reach the UK from Calais. Scroll down for video . The illegal immigrant's attempt to enter the UK is the latest of migrant's increasingly desperate attempts to reach the UK from Calais (stock pics) All 13 migrants will be interviewed and passed into the care of the county's social services department if they are found to be minors. The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has described the number of migrants attempting to enter the country illegally as a 'worsening situation'. They are now calling on the European Union to bring in stricter border controls to deal with the problem. More than 3,000 people have signed an e-petition demanding the UK Government helps solve the problems faced by British truckers. On September 4, scores of illegal migrants in the French port of Calais tried to force their way onto a ferry bound for England. The desperate migrants had tried to run up the MyFerryLink ship. About 85 people had forced their way through a gate and climbed over fences, overpowering security staff. But they were foiled when crew raised the ramp before they could get to the ferry. In the second wave, 150 illegal immigrants gained entrance to the port but were stopped by police. Recently, French police have tried to break up the camps of illegal immigrants around Calais, but the migrants claim they have nowhere to go. They want fines of up to £2,000 per migrant, imposed on lorry drivers and hauliers if stowaways are caught hiding in their vehicles, to be abolished. Truckers have complained about armed attacks from people trying to board vehicles destined for the UK. A Home Office spokesman said: 'We work closely with the police to tackle illegal immigration and continue to strengthen the security of our border to stop those who have no right to enter the UK. 'If people have a genuine need of protection they should claim asylum in the first safe country they reach. 'If they are just seeking to evade immigration control they need to know that they are risking their lives and that they will get caught. 'The new Immigration Act makes it harder for people to live in the UK illegally. 'It makes it harder for illegal immigrants to abuse our benefits and public services, and makes it easier for us to remove them by reducing the number of appeals.'

All the men were found fit and well and have been detained by immigration . It is latest in increasingly desperate attempts by migrants to reach the UK . The Freight Transport Association are calling for tighter border controls . No action has been taken against the driver of the tanker .

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Motorists were spared fuel price rises as the Chancellor confirmed a freeze on petrol and diesel duty would go ahead as planned from April 2015. George Osborne announced he was scrapping the ‘trigger-point’ for automatically putting up duty if oil prices drop below a set level, as they did recently. But yesterday’s parallel report by the Office for Budget Responsibility suggested that duty rises could return in September 2015 and rise in line with inflation from 2016 to 2019. Relief: George Osborne announced he was scrapping the ‘trigger-point’ for automatically putting up duty . AA president Edmund King welcomed the confirmed April 2015 freeze but said the OBR report appeared to confirm the fears of 84 per cent of AA members in a recent poll who said they were concerned that motoring taxes would increase after next May’s general election. Mr Osborne said he was ‘freezing fuel duty to help hardworking people be more financially secure’. He added: ‘Action on fuel duty since 2011 will save a typical motorist £675 by the end of 2015-16.’ However, the OBR report said: ‘The next duty rate rise, planned for September 2015, means that receipts are expected to increase by 0.3 per cent in 2015-16. Sceptical: Motorists fear rises in duty in the future . 'From April 2016 onwards duty rate rises are assumed to be in line with RPI inflation, leading to receipts growth of 2.5 per cent on average between 2016-17 and 2019-20.’ Mr King said: ‘Today’s re-confirmation of a £15billion investment in UK roads and the continuing fuel duty freeze puts drivers on a “highway to hope” after some hellish years of high fuel prices, potholed roads and only patchy investment. 'But our members were right to be sceptical about future taxes.’ RAC Foundation director Professor Stephen Glaister said: ‘The Chancellor is pushing for more transparency in the pricing of airline tickets, so now he should also back our call for pump receipts to show how much of the price of petrol and diesel is tax. 'Currently well over 60 per cent goes to the Exchequer in the form of fuel duty and VAT.’ RAC chief engineer David Bizley said: ‘The negative impact of fuel duty on economic growth is now acknowledged by the Treasury. 'With fuel duty already frozen until May 2015, we had feared an early return to the fuel duty escalator system – a deeply unpopular practice which led to a series of fuel duty hikes. 'But, for now, it appears that is not going to be the case.’ Howard Cox, founder of the FairFuelUK Campaign, said the government should investigate why pump price falls are not keeping pace with plummeting oil prices: ‘There should be 7p less showing at the pumps. Who is holding onto this profit?’ Motorway filling stations will soon have to post their prices in advance on roadside signs so motorists can see if there is cheaper fuel ahead. Ministers were inspired by the system used in France where motorists can see the price of fuel at a variety of outlets on signposts (pictured) miles before they reach each service station. It is hoped the move will promote competition and lower fuel prices. The signs will be tested at five service stations on the M5 between Bristol and Exeter, with a view to being introduced UK-wide by the end of 2015. The RAC last month found motorway service stations charge 10p more a litre of petrol than the national average.

Tax will once again be fixed at its current level in April next year . Move hailed by motorist groups including RAC, AA and FairFuelUK . But duty rises could return in September 2015 and continue to 2019 .

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A cybersecurity expert has raised the possibility that the cyberattack on Sony Pictures was not the work of North Korea, but instead carried out by a disgruntled employee. The hacking attack saw five major new films leaked alongside studio and personnel information which included the salaries of staff and personal emails. North Korea has refused to deny claims that it is behind a release and a spokesperson for the country would only say 'wait and see' when asked if Pyongyang was involved in the attack on Sony just a month before its planned release of a movie about a plot to kill the reclusive state's leader, Kim Jong Un. Cars enter Sony Pictures Entertainment headquarters in Culver City, California. A cybersecurity expert has raised the possibility that the cyberattack on Sony Pictures was not the work of North Korea . A North Korean spokesperson said 'wait and see' on Monday when asked if Pyongyang was involved in the attack on Sony just a month before its planned release of The Interview, staring James Franco and Seth Rogan . North Korea routinely refers to the United States and South Korea as hostile forces. But cybersecurity expert Hemanshu Nigam told the Hollywood Reporter that he finds it hard to believe that North Korea is the perpetrator and instead thinks it is more probable that it was the actions of an  employee or ex-employee with administrative access privileges. For the studio — which has laid off hundreds of employees over the past year in an effort to contain costs — the possibility of a disgruntled employee wreaking havoc is very real. 'If terabytes of data left the Sony networks, their network detection systems would have noticed easily,' explains Nigam. 'It would also take months for a hacker to figure out the topography of the Sony networks to know where critical assets are stored and to have access to the decryption keys needed to open up the screeners that have been leaked.' Culprit? Sony is currently investigating whether someone acting on behalf of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, possibly from China, was responsible for hacking their computer system . In addition, he says, 'Hackers don't use such things as Hushmail, Dropbox and Facebook when they want to engage in what amounts to criminal activity. Real hackers know that these sites collect access logs, IP addresses and work with law enforcement. It is possible that North Korean-sponsored hackers were working with someone on the inside. But it is more likely a ruse to shift blame, knowing the distaste the North Korean regime has for Sony Pictures.' Sony Pictures' computer system went down last Monday after the cyber attack. Before . screens went dark, they displayed a red skull and the phrase . 'Hacked By #GOP,' which reportedly stands for Guardians of . Peace. The hackers also warned they . would release 'secrets' stolen from Sony. The data released so far from the apparently leaked documents has already been damaging - it revealed all the top executives at Sony Pictures Entertainment are white and male, raising questions about control of Hollywood's film output. A spreadsheet said to show the salaries of 6,000 Sony Pictures employees, including top executives, reveals that of 17 earning $1million or more a year, just two are not white and just one is a woman. The list was leaked to a reporter at news and pop culture site Fusion. Sony workers reportedly saw a message appear on computer screens saying 'Hacked by #GOP', understood to be the initials of a group called Guardians of Peace - although some believe North Korea was involved . Kevin Roose, reporting for Fusion, who was sent a link to the data by an anonymous source, said: 'When I sorted the list by 'annual rate,' I noticed something notable: a stark homogeneity among the people earning the most. 'Based on the spreadsheet ... the employees of Sony Pictures with the highest annual rates appear to be nearly entirely white men.' Amy B. Pascal, co-chair of Sony Pictures Entertainment and chairman of SPE's Motion Picture Group, is the only woman among the top 17 most-highly paid executives. Minority of one: Co-Chairman of Sony Pictures Entertainment Amy Pascal, the only woman earning more than $1million a year at the company, and chief executive officer of Sony Entertainment Michael Lynton . She earns £3million a year, according to the spreadsheet, joint highest on the list, along with Sony Entertainment CEO Michael Lynton. Buzzfeed reviewed almost 40GB of leaked internal data and reported it included 'employee criminal background checks, salary negotiations, and doctors' letters explaining the medical rationale for leaves of absence.' It reported the files also included a script for an unreleased pilot written by Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan as well as 'email exchanges with employees regarding specific medical treatments they are undergoing, while one disciplinary letter details a manager's romantic relationship and business travel history with a subordinate.' It even details the leaked information includes an email about the breastfeeding diet of a senior executive. Technology news site Re/code reported that Sony and security . consultants were investigating whether someone acting on behalf . of North Korea, possibly from China, was responsible. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Saturday . that Sony Pictures was investigating every possibility, adding . that no link to North Korea has been uncovered. North Korea complained to the United Nations in June about . the film starring Seth Rogen and James Franco, accusing the . United States of sponsoring terrorism and committing an act of . war by allowing production of the movie. Leaked: Five of Sony's movies including the hotly anticipated remake of Annie have been illegally shared online in recent days . The Interview is due to be released on December 25 in the United States and Canada. It is a comedy about a CIA attempt to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The Pyongyang government denounced the film as 'undisguised sponsoring of terrorism, as well as an act of war' in a letter to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. 'I personally don't care if (the movie's) disrespectful to . Kim because he's evil. But that's not the intent,' Rogen posted . on Twitter on Sunday. 'North Korea has produced tons of . propaganda films that portray America's destruction.' In addition to Annie, starring Jamie Foxx, which is due to hit theaters on December 19, Brad Pitt's critically acclaimed World War Two movie, Fury, is also being openly traded and downloaded online. By Sunday morning, Fury, which is still playing in theaters, had been downloaded 1.2 million times and Annie had been downloaded 206,000 times from unique IP addresses, according to Variety. Other Sony movies being downloaded include Mr. Turner, Still Alice and To Write Love on Her Arms. Culver City, California-based Sony Pictures said in a statement yesterday that it is continuing 'to work through issues related to what was clearly a cyber attack last week. 'The company has restored a number of important services to ensure ongoing business continuity and is working closely with law enforcement officials to investigate the matter.' Along with the FBI, Sony has brought in forensic experts from the Mandiant division of FireEye, a Silicon Valley cybersecurity company, according to a source familiar with the case who did not want to be named because the companies have not yet announced the arrangement. Mandiant helps companies determine the extent of breaches and repair damages. The firm has worked on other high-profile computer breaches, including one at retailer Target last year.

The hacking attack saw five major new films leaked alongside studio and personnel secrets which included the salaries of staff and personal emails . The leak has been extremely costly - and embarrassing - for Sony . Studio laid off hundreds of employees over past year to contain costs . Cyber expert: Theorizes an employee or ex-employee with administrative access privileges is a more likely suspect .

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We've all heard that age-old adage that travel broadens the mind - but does it really? While today it's common practice to take that gap-year abroad, exploring new places and putting off university for 12 additional months, a survey found that the majority didn't believe this year off had helped them positively develop as a person. In fact, more than a third of respondents even admitted that they struggled to make the transition from carefree lifestyle to a nine-to-five work mentality. Does a year abroad really broaden your horizons? New research of 1,000 UK backpackers says no! Student shipping specialist, 1StopShip, conducted the research, finding that 60 per cent of those surveyed didn't believe that their time away had been particularly beneficial. Twenty eight per cent, however, did believe they'd changed for the better - but quickly reverted back to their old attitude when they arrived back on British soil. To add more salt to the wound, 29 per cent of people questioned confessed to growing sick of their backpacking buddy’s endless stories and 12 per cent stated that their friends returned with a false sense of superiority. And those who are planning to travel post-university before joining the working world? Well, you may want to reconsider. Though gap years have become increasingly popular, 60 per cent of those surveyed didn't think it had been all that beneficial to their personal development . Many felt that the travelling and partying made it more difficult to transition into a nine-to-five lifestyle . Thirty four per cent admitted that they struggled with transitioning into a nine-to-five lifestyle. Fourteen per cent admitted their stint overseas left them dreading work and feeling unprepared and 23 per cent still felt unsettled once they had landed their first job upon return. It seems as though those concerns are also reflected by employers. Nineteen per cent said that their current boss viewed their time spent travelling as a negative, while 14 per cent struggled to get a job due to their lack of experience compared to non-travelling counterparts. But 39 per cent did view their experiences abroad as a positive on their CV. Ian Brown, from 1StopShip, commented: 'While the research may seem a little damning when it comes to taking a gap year, we know from our customers – a good proportion of whom are young people, recent school leavers or graduates – that there can be huge benefits too. When it came to employers, 19% felt that their current boss viewed their time abroad as a 'negative' 'We would advise anyone looking to genuinely enrich themselves, or make a positive impression on prospective employers to consider incorporating both work and travel, such as teaching or temping overseas; this can ensure you acquire new skills, whilst also experiencing a new culture and seeing new places.' Emily Moult, a former Leeds Metropolitan University student who spent a year teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) in France, agrees. She said: 'I reflect fondly on my year teaching abroad and think of it as a serious life-changing experience. 'Not only did I get to see new places, but I was also able to improve my language skills and gain a whole host of new skills, all of which helped me enormously when it came to getting a full-time job.'

Majority of respondents felt that the year hadn't been particularly beneficial . 60% believe a gap year did not help them develop positively as a person . More than one third admitted they struggled to transition to 9-to-5 lifestyle . Survey: 1,000 UK backpackers who spent more than 6 months travelling .

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The controversial 'hands up, don't shoot' protest by St Louis Rams players has been praised by an organisation representing the city's black police officers, it has been revealed. Five players made the gesture at Missouri's Edward Jones Dome on Sunday following the decision not to indict police officer Darren Wilson over the death of unarmed teen Michael Brown. Their actions, in a game against the Oakland Raiders, were branded 'tasteless, offensive and inflammatory' by the St Louis Police Officers Association, which demanded a 'very public apology' from the team. But today it has been revealed that their view was not necessarily shared by all of the city's law-enforcement community. Scroll down for video . St Louis Rams wide receiver Stedman Bailey (12), wide receiver Tavon Austin (11), tight end Jared Cook (89), wide receiver Chris Givens (13) and wide receiver Kenny Britt (81) put their hands up to show support for Michael Brown before Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders at the Edward Jones Dome . The players made the gesture at Missouri's Edward Jones Dome on Sunday following the decision not to indict police officer Darren Wilson over the death of unarmed teen Michael Brown (pictured) The Ethical Society of Police, which describes itself as the 'primary voice of African-American police officers in St Louis', does not have a problem with the gesture. A statement posted on its Facebook page, said it 'completely supports the actions of the St. Louis Rams football players in which they showed support for the family of Michael Brown by entering the stadium with their hands up.' 'We think that their actions were commendable and that they should not be ridiculed, disciplined or punished for taking a stand on this very important issue which is of great concern around the world and especially in the community where these players work.' CNN reports that the group has about 220 members from the St. Louis police force and that St Louis Police Offices Association has yet to respond to requests for comment. The NFL players who made the 'hands up, don't shoot' gesture in solidarity with Ferguson protesters will not be fined nor disciplined for their actions, it has been reported. Kenny Britt (pictured) raises his hands in the air at the game. The meaning of the gesture has been disputed following contradictory witness accounts, some of which claim Michael Brown did not have his hands up . The five St Louis Rams footballers performed the now-famous sign on the field before the team's game against the Oakland Raiders at Missouri's Edward Jones Dome on Sunday. Following the gesture, officials from the St Louis County Police Association - the police union for the area including riot-stricken Ferguson - demanded that the players be punished by their superiors. The team later denied claims that it had issued an apology to the organisation. It has since been revealed that the NFL will not take disciplinary action against the players: wide receivers Stedman Bailey,Tavon Austin, Chris Givens and Kenny Britt, and tight end, Jared Cook. The 'hands up, don't shoot' gesture was a reference to witness accounts of Ferguson officer Darren Wilson's fatal shooting of Michael Brown,on August 9. Some protesters claim the unarmed black 18-year-old was raising his hands in surrender when he was shot 12 times by Wilson. However, the accounts have been disputed. It comes as people have been taking to streets of more than 170 U.S. cities in protest against a grand jury's recent decision to not indict Mr Wilson in the fatal shooting. Symbolic: The gesture - a reference to witness accounts of Michael Brown's fatal shooting on August 9 - made another appearance after Mason (left) scored a touchdown and was congratulated by Britt (right) Shooting: Officer Darren Wilson (left) shot dead 18-year-old Michael Brown (right) in Ferguson on August 9 . After making the gesture on Sunday, wide receiver Bailey said he and his teammates decided to raise their hands in the air shortly before the game, and intended it to be something positive. A Rams spokesman said on Sunday that the team was not aware the gesture had been planned before the game against the Oakland Raiders. On Sunday, wide receivers Tavon Austin and Kenny Britt came out together first, with the move obscured by a smoke machine in the upper reaches of the stadium. Stedman Bailey, Jared Cook and Chris Givens - all of whom are black - then came out and stood together with arms raised. After Tre Mason scored on an 8-yard run to make it 45-0 in the fourth quarter, the gesture made another appearance when he and Britt raised their hands together. Rams won the game with a final score of 52-0.

Five players made on-field gesture before game against Oakland Raiders . Actions branded 'tasteless' by the St Louis Police Officers Association . But group representing black officers 'completely supports' the gesture . Ethical Society of Police in St Louis says 'actions were commendable' 'Hands up' gesture came after decision not to indict police officer Darren Wilson over the death of unarmed teen Michael Brown .

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Further grisly details have come out in court at the trial of a Florida mother accused of stabbing and choking her neighbor to death before hacking the victim's body into pieces and cooking them on her stove in a brutal, premeditated murder. A medical examiner has now revealed that the head and torso of limousine driver James Sheaffer was never found, and that only 56 of his 206 bones were recovered following his slaying in April 2013. Angela Stoldt, 42, of Deltona, sat motionless this week at her first-degree murder trial as details of the killing were laid out for the jury. It was also revealed that, after boiling some of the body parts in her kitchen - including a foot, a leg and both arms - Stoldt allegedly had her two teenage children help dump the remains in different spots around Volusia County, telling them she had hit a deer with her car. The prosecution say Stoldt drugged her neighbor Sheaffer before driving him to Osteen Cemetery in Deltona, stabbing him in both eyes with an ice pick, and choking him with a cord. Gruesome: Angela Stoldt, 42, of Deltona, sat motionless in court this week as the jury was told the details of her alleged murder of neighbor James Sheaffer, following a dispute about money . Gruesome murder: Angela Stoldt, 42 (left), allegedly stabbed neighbor James Sheaffer, 36 (right), with an ice pick, strangled him and then tried to dispose of his body by hacking it to pieces and cooking the remains . Crime scene: Stoldt got into an argument with Sheaffer while sitting in her car at the Osteen Cemetery in Deltona in April 2013 . Prosecutors said they will not be seeking the death penalty in Stoldt's case. In September, Stold's attorney filed a motion claiming self defense under Florida's controversial 'stand your ground' law, but Judge Randell Rowe III rejected the motion. Court documents obtained by Daytona News-Journal previously showed Sheaffer, a married father of three, had asked Stoldt to act as the payee on his Social Security disability benefits, but the 36-year-old kept overdrawing their joint account. The limo driver also wanted Stoldt to ask her father for a $4,000 loan. On the morning of April 3, 2013, Stoldt, with her two children in tow, picked up her neighbor from his work at Blue Diamond Limousines and drove to her home on Horseshoe Terrace, where the two drank vodka and peach schnapps cocktails. But according to court filings, the mother of two spiked her neighbor's beverage with a prescription pain medication, which she had stolen from her father knowing that it causes drowsiness, especially when mixed with alcohol. Stoldt then allegedly loaded the drugged man into her car and drove to the Osteen Cemetery after dropping the kids off at her parents'. Husband and father: Sheaffer, who was married with three kids, was stabbed in the eye and then strangled; police were never able to locate all of his remains . While Stoldt had previously claimed Sheaffer 'came at her and said that he was going to kill Ms. Stoldt as well as her children', according to her strand-your-ground, Prosecutor Ryan Will told the jury she had planned to kill Sheaffer all along. She reached to the backseat for the ice pick and stabbed Sheaffer in the right eye. She then grabbed a cord with two handles and used it to strangle Sheaffer by wrapping it tightly around his neck, Will said. After the man stopped moving, the mother grabbed the ice pick again and drove it through Sheaffer's left eye. She then wrapped the man's head in Saran Wrap to keep him from bleeding all over the car interior. The News-Journal reported that Stoldt had bought the plastic, as well as rubber gloves, from Wal-Mart just hours before the killing. She then drove home, with Sheaffer's corpse propped up in the passenger seat, the ice pick still protruding from his face. Will said Stoldt then drove to her home and parked in the garage, where she cut up Sheaffer's body using a knife and a saw. She then moved the body parts one by one into her kitchen. Life and death situation: Stoldt's attorney filed a motion claiming that the woman was in fear for her life because Sheaffer was threatening to kill her and her two children . 'She took him into the house piece by piece. ... The very same house she shares with her two teenage children and she cooked him in her oven and stove. She started with the oven but when the smoke and smell became unbearable she realized that she might get caught,' Will told the court. Thats when Stoldt allegedly began boiling some parts on the stove. Sheaffer's head and torso were not found, testified Dr. Marie Herrmann, the medical examiner for Volusia County. However a soup pot was recovered that contained Sheaffer's thigh bone, knee cap and some soft tissue, Hermann testified. Stoldt dumped other mutilated body parts in trash bags and disposed of them with the help of her teenage son, who was led to believe that they were getting rid of a deer his mother had killed with her car the night before. To cover up the murder, Miss Stoldt then buried her neighbor's cellphone and driver’s license in different parks, and got rid of the pots and pans used to boil human flesh. When Stoldt's daughter, who is now 16 years old, asked her about the foul smell lingering in the house, the 42-year-old woman initially lied that a rat had gotten trapped inside the oven. But she eventually came clean to the girl, telling her that she had drugged and killed James Sheaffer after he threatened to kill her. However, it was not until three weeks later that Angela Stoldt confessed to the rest of her family, prompting her sister to call 911 on April 21 because she was afraid the distraught, sleep-deprived woman might commit suicide. In the course of her questioning, Miss Stoldt spoke without hesitation of her attempts to dispose of her neighbor's corpse. 'Thursday is when I was cooking him. Friday is when I was dumping him,' she was quoted as saying. The woman showed little remorse for her actions, telling police she believed at the time Sheaffer was going to ruin her life. ‘I’m sorry, but I put Jimmie where he belonged, in my opinion at the time,’ she told detectives. Ms Stoldt eventually led sheriff's deputies to various locations around Volusia County to help recover James Sheaffer's remains, but officials said they were never able to locate all of Sheaffer's body parts. Confrontation: Sheaffer, a limo driver, allegedly attacked Stoldt while sitting in her car and would not let go of her until she wrapped a cord around his neck . Investigators who canvassed Sheaffer’s Deltona neighborhood looking for the missing man before Stoldt’s confession had talked to the woman on more than one occasion. She acknowledged being friends with Sheaffer and said she handled some of his financial affairs for him. She told investigators that she last saw Sheaffer on April 5 and 15, even though family members hadn’t seen him since April 2. The investigation took a turn April 20 when Stoldt’s sister called 911 saying that the mother of two was acting suicidal and had admitted to killing James Sheaffer. The caller told the Sheriff’s office that Stoldt was hugging her children and saying goodbye. ‘Why’s she hugging her kids goodbye?’ the emergency dispatcher asked. ‘Because she came to the house and she told my parents that she committed a crime and that she’s being investigated for it,’ the woman’s sister replied. Ms Stoldt initially declined to talk to investigators and was taken in for a mental health evaluation. But officials were able to obtain a search warrant to enter her house, where they came upon evidence indicating a crime had been committed there. A short time later, Angela Stoldt confessed to stabbing and strangling Sheaffer, and then disposing of his body. Stoldt then led investigators to a location where human remains were recovered. Ms Stoldt is being held without bail.

Angela Stoldt, 42, confessed to killing limo driver James Sheaffer, 36, in April 2013 by stabbing him in the face and strangling him with a cord . She then dismembered the slain man with a hacksaw and knife and tried to dispose of remains by cooking some of them in pots . Stoldt's lawyer claimed in September that she killed Sheaffer in self-defense because he attacked her and threatened to kill her . The prosecution say it was premeditated and followed a money dispute . Only 56 of Sheaffer's 206 bones were recovered . Police never found his head or torso . Stoldt's sister turned her into police .

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A Sydney man who allegedly claimed he was a member of Islamic State before threatening to behead a police officer says the whole thing has been 'blown out of proportion'. Lamin Savage, 24, is accused of calling Granville police station in Sydney's west in September and threatening to cut off the head of an officer who had arrested him for driving offences two months earlier. Police say Savage claimed to be a member of the Islamic State when he made the call. A man has been accused of threatening to behead a police officer (generic police photo shown) But on Wednesday the 24-year-old interrupted his bail application and told the Supreme Court that 'things have been blown out of proportion'. 'I just made a phone call to the cop shop to make a complaint,' Savage said while appearing via audio visual link in prison greens. 'It is just distressing. I don't want my family drawn in on this.' The refugee from Sierra Leone made the comments after his mother Bintu Savage gave evidence that she could supervise her son if he was released on bail and could post the $400 as surety. The court heard Savage had been diagnosed with a borderline intellectual disability. He allegedly claimed to be part of the Islamic State. In this photo Iraqi military armoured trucks pass next to a building painted in the colors of the Islamic State flag as they take up position in Iraq . Although the crown consented to him being released on bail, Justice Helen Wilson said it was a 'very serious offence'. She will hand down her decision at a later date. In denying him bail at Parramatta Local a court earlier this year, Magistrate Margaret McGlynn said the facts before the court were 'of great concern'. 'The latest charges fit info a disturbing pattern of escalating threats,' Ms McGlynn said in September. Savage, who has been charged with using a carriage service to threaten to kill and three driving offences, is expected to face a local court hearing in March. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Lamin Savage, 24, is accused of calling a Sydney police station in September . He allegedly threatened to cut off the head of an officer . The officer had arrested him for driving offences two months earlier . He also allegedly claimed to be a member of Islamic State . He has been charged with using a carriage service to threaten to kill and three driving offences .

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There are renewed calls for a federal ICAC as Australia slips out of the world's top 10 nations known for their squeaky clean public sectors. Transparency International says Australia has fallen for the third straight year in its global Corruption Perceptions Index, dropping from an impressive ranking of seven in 2012 to 11 in 2014. Australia slipped out of the top 10 for just the second time in the index's 20-year history. Transparency International Australia director Professor A.J. Brown said the drop was 'of great concern' The annual index measures expert and business opinion of public sector corruption across 175 countries. 'This is a real and significant drop which is of great concern,' Transparency International Australia director Professor A.J. Brown told reporters in Sydney. He said the results indicated a concern about the effectiveness of corruption fighting bodies like the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption that recently exposed alleged rorting of donations laws by Liberal MPs. 'There are questions as to whether the ICAC has the right prosecution follow-up powers,' he said. 'Our assessment is that it's not simply a question of more scandals ... the slide shows growing concern about the adequacy of responses to corruption risks, especially at the federal level.' Prof Brown said Australia's position would get worse if no action was taken on introducing a federal anti-corruption body. Major scandals this year included the prosecutions of Reserve Bank note-printing subsidiaries, allegations of widespread union corruption and the ICAC's probe into alleged systemic rorting of political donation laws by Liberal NSW MPs. The ICAC said in November former state Labor ministers Eddie Obeid and Ian Macdonald would be prosecuted over adverse corruption findings. Denmark and New Zealand were ranked as the top two cleanest countries in the world, while North Korea and Somalia were perceived to be most corrupt. The release of the list comes after ICAC said in November former state Labor ministers Eddie Obeid and Ian Macdonald would be prosecuted over adverse corruption findings .

The list of 175 countries is compiled by Transparency International . It measures expert and business opinion of public sector corruption . Australia has dropped from seventh place in 2012 to 11th in 2014 . North Korea and Somalia were perceived as the most corrupt countries .

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In the battle of the heartwarming Christmas adverts, one airline has gone all out to deliver festive cheer. Canadian airline WestJet delivered its own Christmas miracle by sending Santa Claus to the Dominican Republic and spread some joy in the Caribbean. WestJet employees and volunteers headed to a small community and placed a surprise sleigh placed in the middle of town. WestJet surprised residents of Nuevo Renacer, Dominican Republic with a gigantic sleigh in the town centre . During the day, community members all had a chance to communicate to Santa via the sleigh’s video screen and tell him what they wanted for Christmas this year. Requests were as diverse as a new engine for a man’s motorbike taxi business to a skateboard to a horse. The next morning, the volunteers headed out shopping to gather all of the items on the community’s list. WestJet then invited everyone down to the beach for a Christmas party for a surprise - everything that they had asked for in personalised blue waterproof bins. Except for the horse, which was hand-delivered by Santa himself. They even brought in snow for the kids to play in, marking the first time that most of the Nuevo Renacer community had ever seen it. And if those heart-warming acts weren’t enough to get you choked up, WestJet assured that tears would flow by unveiling one final surprise for the poor coastal residents: a brand new community playground. After the community left their holiday gift wishes for Santa, they were all called to the beach the following day . WestJet volunteers had gone shopping and collected all of the items on the community's list . 'In this community, they have to drive 20 minutes and actually pay to use a playground, so by introducing a playground, it really does create a safe environment for them to play in,' Corey Evans, Sponsorship, Community Investment and Experiential Marketing Manager at WestJet explained. Corey also spoke about the company's decision to take this year's Christmas Miracle abroad. 'We chose to shoot the video this year in the Dominican Republic because we’d been working with our partners, Live Different, there since 2012,' he said. 'We’ve really gotten to know the residents, so over the years of working with them, we’ve really just identified their core values to be similar to ours.' The airline workers surprised the community members on the beach with everything from a new motorbike engine to a washing machine to a horse . WestJet is a low-cost Canadian carrier, travelling to the United States, the Caribbean and Europe. It was founded in 1996 and is currently the second-largest Canadian airline behind Air Canada. The brand is also known for it's emotional Christmas adverts, with this year's Christmas Miracle marking the third in the trilogy. 'This was really the last chapter in the Blue Santa trilogy,' Corey added. And if that weren't enough, WestJet also surprised the town with a brand new playground set . But don't fret - that doesn't mean that WestJet is abandoning their tear-jerking holiday adverts forever. 'If our guests feel that it’s something they’d like to see again next year, we’ll certainly put our heads together and see what we can come up with.' Last year, WestJet set up a video booth where travellers could tell Santa their holiday gift wishes in real-time. From there, travellers boarded their flights from Hamilton and Toronto, Ontario, and by the time they landed at their destination, special gifts were waiting to greet them at baggage claim. In 2012, the airline staged a gigantic holiday flash mob at the Calgary International Airport before a sold out flight to Toronto.

Airline debuts 'Spirit of Giving' advert, bringing gifts to the Caribbean . WestJet employees tricked residents into sharing their holiday gift lists . Volunteers then threw a community party, bringing presents and snow .

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It is one of London's most iconic venues, but Southbank's Oxo Tower restaurant has been voted to have the 'most disappointing cooking' in the 2015 edition of Harden's London Restaurants guide. And Hammersmith's much-loved River Cafe didn't fare much better, dubbed an 'overcrowded' and 'impersonal place' where 'uneventful' dishes come at 'merciless prices'. While celebrity favourite Chiltern Firehouse - frequented by Cara Delevingne and Lindsay Lohan - may be an 'amazing' room, the Hardenʼs survey found the food at Andre Balazsʼs hotel where 'poseurs and paparazzi abound' actually 'meh'. Scroll down for video . The Ledbury in Notting Hill was named London's best restaurant after coming first in the Top Gastronomic Experience, Highest Rated Restaurant (Food) and Highest Rated Restaurant (Overall) lists . Cara Delevingne and Lindsay Lohan have been seen at Chiltern Firehouse. The food at the restaurant was described as 'meh' by the guide's reporters . But it's not all doom and gloom in the capital's dining scene. The Ledbury in Notting Hill was named London's best restaurant after coming first in the Top Gastronomic Experience, Highest Rated Restaurant (Food) and Highest Rated Restaurant (Overall) lists. Neighbourhood restaurant Chez Bruce in Wandsworth Common was – for the 10th year running – voted Londonʼs Favourite Restaurant, marking an incredible double for restaurateur Nigel Platts-Marin who is also the backer of The Ledbury. Simon Roganʼs relaunch of Claridgeʼs dining room – Fera at Claridgeʼs – didn't go unnoticed, claiming the accolade for being the highest rated newcomer of the year. £85+ . 1. The Ledbury, Notting Hill . 2. Rasoi, Chelsea . 3. Pied à Terre, Fitzrovia . 4. Le Gavroche, Mayfair . 5 One-O-One, Knightsbridge . £65-£84 . 1. The Five Fields, Chelsea . 2. Hedone, Chiswick . 3. Chez Bruce, Wandsworth Common . 4. Zuma, Knightsbridge . 5. HKK, Broadgate West, East London . £50-£64 . 1. Sushi Tetsu, Clerkenwell . 2. Moro, Exmouth Market . 3. Dinings, Marylebone . 4. Sukho Fine Thai Cuisine, Fulham . 5. Gauthier Soho, Soho . £40-£49 . 1. Sushi-Say, Willesden Green . 2. Lamberts, Balham . 3. Jin Kichi, Hampstead . 4. Brawn, Bethnal Green . 5. Donostia, Marylebone . £39 or less . 1. Pitt Cue Co, Carnaby Street . 2. Ragam, Fitzrovia . 3. Mangal 1, Dalston . 4. Santa Maria, Ealing . 5. Silk Road, Camberwell . The restaurant also placed fourth in the overall rankings for food, service and ambience, winning high praise for its 'phenomenal' meals – which are 'so different' to the usual dining scene – and 'gloriously attentive' service. Gymkhana had a great year as Harden's reporters heaped praise on the modern Indian eaterie. The yearling is already Londonʼs 12th most talked about restaurant thanks to its 'sensationally subtle' cuisine. £85+ . 1. The Ledbury, Notting Hill . 2. Bubbledogs, Fitzrovia . 3. Le Gavroche, Mayfair . 4. Fera at Claridgeʼs, . 5. Pied à Terre, Fitzrovia . £65-£84 . 1. The Five Fields, Chelsea . 2. The Goring Hotel, Victoria . 3. Chez Bruce, Wandsworth Common . 4. Scottʼs, Mayfair . 5. Galvin La Chapelle, Spitalfields . £50-£64 . 1. Sushi Tetsu, Clerkenwell . 2. Clos Maggiore, Covent Garden . 3. LʼAventure, St John's Wood . 4. Randall & Aubin, Soho . 5. J Sheekey Oyster Bar, West End . £40-£49 . 1. Lamberts, Balham . 2. Donostia, Marble Arch . 3. Brawn, Bethnall Green . 4. Sushi-Say. Willesden Green . 5. José, Bermondsey . £39 or less . 1. Carom at Meza, Soho . 2. The Begging Bowl, Peckham . 3. Pitt Cue Co, Carnaby Street . 4. Paradise Hampstead, South End Green . 5. Meat Mission, Hoxton Market . Celeb favourite Chiltern Firehouse was deemed a place where 'poseurs and paparazzi abound' Gordon Ramsey's Royal Hospital Road restaurant in Chelsea is back in the Top Gastronomic Experience list . After his disappearance from the Top 10 gastronomic experience list last year, Gordon Ramsay mounted something of a comeback. His flagship Royal Hospital Road restaurant (helmed by Clare Smyth)has returned to the list. The Anchor & Hope in Waterloo nabbed top stop for the ninth year in the Best Bar/Pub Food list with reviewers heaping praise on the 'convivial' South Bank boozer – with its 'hearty' but 'superbly precise' British cooking. By contrast, appearing on the Most Disappointing Cooking list for the first time is Ollie Dabbousʼs eponymous flagship, Dabbous in Fitzrovia. It appears alongside Marcus Wareingʼs relaunched Marcus at the Berkeley and Heston Blumenthalʼs hotel dining room, Dinner at the Mandarin Oriental. Gymkhana had a great year as Harden's reporters heaped praise on its 'sensationally subtle' cuisine . 1. The Ledbury, Notting Hill . 2. Le Gavroche, Mayfair . 3. Dinner, Knightsbridge . 4. Chez Bruce, Wandsworth Common . 5. Pollen Street Social, Soho . 6. Pied à Terre, . 7. Royal Hospital Road restaurant, Chelsea . 8. The Square, Mayfair . 9. Marcus, Knightsbridge . 10. Medlar, Chelsea . 1. The Anchor & Hope, Waterloo . 2. Bull & Last, Hampstead . 3. Harwood Arms, Fulham . 4. The Jugged Hare, City of London . 5. Canton Arms, Vauxhall . 6. The Gun, Docklands . 7. Ladbroke Arms, Notting Hill . 8. Pig & Butcher, Angel . 9. Truscott Arms, Maida Vale . 10.Thomas Cubitt, Belgravia . Once again Oxo Tower retains its unenviable status as the home of Londonʼs Most Disappointing Cooking with Harden's reporters saying the 'lazy' tourist trap remains 'as awful as ever' But for the first time in 15 years it has escaped a double on the 'lists of shame' giving up the crown to The River Cafe which had the dubious honour of appearing on top of the Most Overpriced Restaurant List. The 24th edition of Harden's London Restaurants also recorded the highest ever rate of net new restaurant openings in the capital, with a whopping 148 new eateries popping up in the last year. The figure for closings, 47, was the lowest this millennium, resulting in net openings this year of 101 – nearly a third higher than the previous record of 75 (noted in the guide's 2006 edition). 1. Oxo Tower Restaurant, South Bank . 2. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Mandarin Oriental, Knightsbridge . 3. Colbert, Sloane Square . 4. The Ivy, West End . 5. Royal Hospital Road Restaurant, Chelsea . 6. Le Gavroche, Mayfair . 7. Balthazar, Covent Garden . 8. Marcus, Knightsbridge . 9. Alain Ducasse, Dorchester, Park Lane . 10. Dabbous, Fitzrovia . 1. The River Café, Hammersmith . 2. Oxo Tower Restaurant, South Bank . 3. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Mandarin Oriental, Knightsbridge . 4. Royal Hospital Road Restaurant, Chelsea . 5. Marcus, Knightsbridge . 6. Alain Ducasse, Dorchester, Park Lane . 7. Le Gavroche, Mayfair . 8. Cut, Dorchester, Park Lane . 9. Balthazar, Covent Garden . 10. Pollen Street Social, Soho . The guide's co-founder, Peter Harden said: 'This exceptional level of growth is a fabulous achievement for the capital, but raises questions about its sustainability. 'It underlines London's continued emergence as the greatest restaurant city on the planet, but – in the 24 years in which we have tracked openings – such highpoints have also often heralded more competitive times ahead.' The guide collated scores from more than 65,000 reviews posted by over 6,000 'ordinary diners' to compile the rankings. Hardenʼs London Restaurants 2015 (£12.99) is out now in Waterstoneʼs and Amazon.com, and from www.hardens.com.

Results out in 24th edition of Harden's London Restaurants guide . The Ledbury in Notting Hill crowned London's best restaurant . Hammersmith's The River Cafe is London's most overpriced eatery .

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Video has surfaced of a violent brawl at last week’s Stereosonic festival in Sydney, which saw one man knocked unconscious amid a flurry of punches from a group of men. The footage shows about 20 well-built men throwing punches in the mosh pit of the stage at the Sydney Showgrounds. Security guards in high visibility shirts can be seen failing to stop the wild brawl, while surrounding punters barely bat an eyelid at the man who is lying unconscious, continuing to dance around him. Video has surfaced of a violent brawl at last week’s Stereosonic festival, which saw a man in blue shorts knocked unconscious amid a flurry of punches . Richard Calugay, who watched the fight first hand, told Daily Mail Australia it started with pushing. ‘Someone pushed me in the back and the whole crowd started backing up. One of the guys king hit the guy in a blue shorts and knocked him out, and then it was on’ he said. ‘The guy was knocked out cold. I saw him get carried away by his mates, and we left the stage at that point, but I heard the fight kept on going afterwards.’ Mr Calugay said security were simply outnumbered at the event. ‘I think the security were reluctant to get involved because of the size of the guys and the amount of people around. They were outnumbered and didn’t think it was worth the risk.’ Security guards in high-vis shirts can be seen failing to apprehend the wild brawl . The surrounding punters barely bat an eyelid at the man who is lying unconscious, continuing to dance around him . Stereosonic is an annual music festival with events in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. This year saw more than 81,000 revellers attend the Sydney festival . Mr Calugay said he believes the type and the number of festival-goers set the scene for a brawl. ‘I think Stereosonic is a very alpha-male festival. There are a lot of big guys in there, and when you mix that with a crowd of that size, you have a recipe for violence.’ He said he saw other fights throughout the day that weren’t filmed. The clip has received hundreds of thousands of views since being uploaded. NSW police said they were disappointed with the large number of revellers found in possession of prohibited drugs at the music festival on the weekend. There were 196 people found in possession of prohibited drugs at the festival, including MDMA, cocaine, cannabis, GHB and Ketamine. Stereosonic is an annual festival that takes place in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. More that 81,000 revellers attended the festival in Sydney this year.

A video has surfaced of a wild brawl at Stereosonic festival last weekend . The footage shows about 20 men throwing punches in the mosh pit . One man is seen lying unconscious, ignored by other partygoers . Security guards appear to stand on the sidelines of the brawl .

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A Russian businessman who erected a garden fence that looks just like the gate that surrounded the Buchenwald concentration camp has denied he is anti-Semitic. Nestor Lavrov, 53, commissioned the fence because he liked the design after seeing the images online and claims he had not realised the historical context of the words 'Jedem Das Seine'. Lavrov claims he did not realise that the image he had seen was actually of gates put up in 1937 around one of the Nazi's first concentration camps in Buchenwald, near the central German town of Weimar. He said: 'I didn't know what the words Jedem Das Seine meant, but I looked it up and found it meant "To each his own". 'I like the phrase because this is my garden and it's for me and that's why I used it.' 'I didn't know what the words meant': A Russian businessman who erected this garden fence that looks just like the gate that surrounded the Buchenwald concentration camp has denied he is anti-Semitic . Nestor Lavrov claims he did not realise that the design he had seen online was actually of gates put up around one of the first Nazi concentration camps in Buchenwald, near the German town of Weima (above) The phrase has been an idiomatic German expression for centuries and, among other examples, appears in the title of a composition by Johann Sebastian Bach. It was not uncommon for the Nazis to put propaganda slogans over their concentration camps of which the most famous was Arbeit Macht Frei (work makes you free) that was put above the gates in concentration camps like Dachau and Sachsenhausen. Local officials in Russia have declined to act despite being made aware of the fact that the fence has been put up in the Istrinsky District in western Russia's Moscow Oblast region. A spokesman for authorities said: 'He put the sign up on his own property and because he insists it is not anti-Semitic, there is nothing that can be done.' The businessman is not the first to use the expression and then claim they did not know its historical context. Walk to freedom: Inmates of the German concentration camp Buchenwald near Weimar, Germany, march to receive treatment at an American hospital after the camp is liberated in April 1945 . Several modern advertising campaigns in the German language, including ads for Nokia, REWE grocery stores, Burger King, and Merkur Bank have been marred by controversy after using the phrase Jedem das Seine or Jedem den Seinen. An ExxonMobil advert campaign in January 2009 also touted Tchibo coffee drinks at the company's Esso stores with the slogan 'Jedem den Seinen!' The adverts were withdrawn after protest from the Central Council of Jews in Germany, although a company spokesman said its advertising contractor had been unaware of the proverb's association with Nazism. In March 2009, a student group associated with the Christian Democratic Union used the slogan for an education campaign in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany, but later withdrew it due to public outcry.

Nestor Lavrov commissioned fence after seeing gate design on website . Jedem Das Seine is a German idiom which means 'To each his own' Appeared on gates one of Nazi's first death camps in Buchenwald . Mr Lavrov claims he had no idea of historical context of the words .

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A teenage rape victim fought back tears in court as the man who killed her six-year-old brother who tried to defend her was jailed for 110 years. Amber Andujar, 14, was defiant in the New Jersey courtroom where Osvaldo Rivera, 35, was given the sentence for a catalog of crimes including murder, attempted murder and aggravated sexual assault. Rivera sliced open the throat of Dominick Andujar, six, who tried to stop the attack after he broke into their home in Camden, New Jersey in September 2012. Scroll down for video . Survivor: Amber Andujar, 14, fought back tears in a New Jersey courtroom Thursday as her rapist was jailed for 110 years. Osvaldo Rivera, 35, killed her six-year-old brother and slashed her throat during an attack two years ago. She still bears the scars . Guilty: Rivera, pictured left in a police mugshot and right in a local news report, was given a 110-year sentence. He had rejected an earlier plea bargain which would have seen him jailed for 65 years if he pleaded guilty . Heroic: Dominick Andujar, pictured above, tried to stop Rivera during the attack, but was killed . 'Forever our hero: Dominick's mother, Debbie, lays a wreath on the grave of Dominick . Jailed: Rivera, pictured above weeping at a 2012 hearing, was convicted of crimes including murder, attempted murder and aggravated sexual assault. He showed no emotion at the sentencing this week . Together: Dominick and his sister pose for a family photograph . He was raping Amber, then 12, in a downstairs living room while holding a knife to her throat when Dominick intervened. She tried to escape after he attacked, but Rivera also slashed her throat - though she survived. Speaking in court, Amber was close to tears as she confronted Rivera, the Courier Post reported. She said: 'Today I stand here as a survivor. Even though he took a part of me away, in the end, you did not win.' Rivera, bound with a chain round his waist and wearing a deep red shirt, did not speak or show any sign of emotion at the hearing, according to NJ.com. He had earlier been offered a 65-year sentence in exchange for an admission of guilt, but he instead pleaded not guilty, and has denied involvement in the crime. His sentence means he will not be eligible for parole for 91 years. See more family reaction at The Courier Post . Family: Dominick's mother Debbie (right) spoke on behalf of the family at the time of the Thursday hearing. Amber, left, is seen with her eight-year-old cousin Sean and another family member . Memorial: Amber wore a picture of Dominick, labelled 'My Lil Hero' on the back of her jacket at the hearing . Rivera fled the scene of the attack after killing Dominick. Amber was later seen running through the neighborhood, screaming for help while bleeding from the throat. Emergency responders said the cuts were so deep they could see Amber's vocal cords. She later helped officers track down her rapist by telling them he was known by the nickname Popeye and lived in a Camden apartment. Police tracked him down to an apartment in the city and found him hiding between an upturned mattress and the wall. Response: Police cars gather around the house where the rape and murder took place . Capture: Rivera was found hiding behind a mattress in a home in Camden after the attack . Outside the hearing, the Andujar spoke of their grief, and said Rivera's lengthy sentences gives them some solace. Tiarra, one of Dominick's sisters, said: 'Grown men wouldn't do what Dominick did that day. 'He's our soldier and will forever be in our hearts until the day we die.' His mother, Debbie Burgos, said: '[Rivera] is a coward, a big coward that does not take responsibility for what he did. He knows what he did. '[Dominick was] A little six-year-old boy, a baby just preparing to go to school. Two days before he was going to start school we were preparing for a funeral.'

Amber Andujar, 14, appeared in New Jersey courtroom to face her attacker . Osvaldo Rivera, 35, sentenced for murder and sexual assault in 2012 attack . Broke into home in Camden, New Jersey, and raped Amber at knifepoint . Dominick Andujar, six, tried to intervene but Rivera slashed his throat .

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Brazilian police solved a gangland execution after stopping a teenager for speeding, and discovering horrific footage of the killing on his mobile phone. Motorist Levon Valencia Puga, 16, was found to have no driving licence and was driving a car that did not belong to him, and as a result police decided to arrest him and take him in for questioning. But back at the police station when they checked his mobile phone, they found a video which showed the shocking execution of another teenager who was killed for apparently being a snitch. Scroll down for video . Horrific: Footage police found on a mobile phone shows Marcos Vinicius Caixeta Monteiro being executed, with one of the suspects filmed stamping on his head . Shocking: The teenager tried desperately to get away but was gunned down as he fled . The killing took place in a remote area on the outskirts of the municipality of Goiania . Executed: The boy is shot at point-blank range in the head . The shocking video shows teenager Marcos Vinicius Caixeta Monteiro, 18, in the back of a car with three other men. The car has been identified as Monteiro's own vehicle, and he had apparently been forced into the back by the trio who are then seen driving to a remote area on the outskirts of the municipality of Goiania, in the central Brazilian state of Goias. The teenager looks extremely worried after the trio tell him he is going to die because he is a snitch, and had given information to police that led to a criminal being arrested. When the car stops, he climbs out and tries to run away from the vehicle off-camera before three shots ring out. Cold-blooded: The clip shows a hand gun being loaded with bullets . Scared: Monteiro looks extremely worried as the men tell him that he is going to die for being a snitch . The video then shows one of the three men walking up to the young man lying on the ground, who is clutching his head, and stamping on him repeatedly. They then reload the gun before a second man shoots him point-blank range in the head, with at least one of the bullets missing and thudding into the earth. They then walk back to the car, discussing everything calmly as if nothing has happened. Puga is heard on the video saying: 'Go with God'. A police spokesman confirmed the arrest and said they were still trying to identify and arrest the other two men shown in the video. Local police chief Kleyton Manoel Dias said: 'One of the most shocking things about this case is that the arrested driver really didn't seem bothered when the video was discovered. He was completely calm and described what happened, and gave all the detail we wanted without showing any emotion at all.' The family of the dead teenager meanwhile said they wanted justice and added: 'He did not deserve to die like this.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Police found shocking footage on the mobile of Levon Valencia Puga . The 16-year-old had been pulled over for speeding by police in Brazil . They found footage on his phone of another teenager being executed . The clip showed a teen being shot in the head at point blank range . The suspects involved told him he was being killed for being a snitch .

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A new pop-up store in Manhattan will sell its products for the price of a post to any social media account. The Velcro Brand Holiday Hackshop has declared Monday, December 15, its 'Social Currency Day,' when customers can pay for select items with 'retweets, posts and more' in which the brand is mentioned. Though the company is still determining exactly what they will be 'selling' based on stock, a representative told MailOnline the products will be worth around $5 each. Welcome to the Hackshop! Velcro Brand is hoping to get more followers on social media sites by running a holiday pop-up shop in lower Manhattan where customers are encouraged to post about their experience . Will you Tweet for these? On Monday, December 15, customers can pay for select Velcro Brand products by posting to social media sites like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter . Items customers can potentially buy include garland ties, holiday decor wrap and adhesive fabric strips. To further encourage social media activity, the store is offering daily giveaways for customers who post about it on Instagram, with prizes like eBooks, one-night stays at resorts and kitchen appliances. The shop will also be offering free gift wrapping and photos with Santa, DIY craft stations and special events throughout its run. The boutique, which is located at 199 Lafayette Street in New York's trendy Soho neighborhood, will be open every day through December 19 from 8 am to 8 pm. Enter to win! The brand is giving away a prize every day to one lucky winner who posts about the brand on Instagram . This is made of what? All of the decor at the pop-up shop - including these lamps - was made using Velcro Brand products. Velcro, which was invented in 1948, is hoping to shed its image as a product strictly for fastening, according to the company's publicist. To ramp up its efforts, Velcro Brand recently enlisted HGTV star Sabrina Soto as its spokesperson for the next two years. Though the product has been a household fixture since it was introduced commercially in the 1950s, the company didn't launch its first e-store until earlier this year.

The Velcro Brand Holiday Hackshop has declared Monday December 15 its 'Social Currency Day' Products, which usually cost $5 apiece, can be purchased with retweets and posts that mention the Velcro brand . Items customers can buy include garland ties, holiday decor wrap and adhesive fabric strips .

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Britain saw its coldest evening since last winter's cold snap as temperatures plunged to -5C (23F) overnight, with more freezing temperatures forecast for today. Forecasters said temperatures are likely to remain cold this week, with a chance snow could fall in parts of the North and South West by Friday as Britain is set to become even colder. However evidence of the mild weather of the last few months, which has put 2014 on course to be the warmest ever, still remain after daffodils were spotted growing in the UK and grapes were seen on the vine as winter officially started. Scroll down for video . A heavy frost was seen in the Lake District this morning after the coldest temperatures since last winter were recorded overnight in Cumbria . There were snowy scenes along the River Brathay in Cumbria today as walkers braced themselves for more cold and possible snow on Friday . Despite temperatures plunging to below zero in Scotland this week, grapes were found growing on the side of a house in Edinburgh. While in Lincolnshire the official start of winter was marked by a daffodil blooming in a garden. The mercury plunged to -5.1C (22.6F) in Shap in Cumbria last night - the coldest temperature of this year's autumn and winter season, which officially started on December 1. It was even colder than in Scotland, which saw -4.1C recorded in Aboyne, a village on the edge if the Scottish highlands, overnight, and saw walkers enjoy the first deep snow of winter in the Cairngorms in the east Highlands yesterday. Elsewhere in the country extra blankets and hats were needed to deal with the cold snap, with -2.6C (27F) recorded in Bala in North Wales and -1.3C (30F) in Okehampton in West Devon overnight. London was substantially warmer, with temperatures of around 2.5C overnight, with similar expected this evening. However Thursday night is expected to be even colder for much of the country, and forecasters said there was a 'slim chance' snow could fall in parts of the Pennines and North Wales by the end of this week. There is also a possibility of wintry showers in exposed areas of the south as the mercury is expected to dip to as low as -2C (28F) during the day in Bristol on Friday. And a minimum temperature of -5C (23F) is forecast for the Oxfordshire village of Benson overnight, according to the Met Office. As the mercury plunged to -2C in Scotland, grapes were spotted growing on the side of a house where philosopher Thomas Carlyle once lived . Mike Williamson said he was shocked to discover grapes, which he planted 15 years ago, were growing up the side of his Edinburgh home . In Lincolnshire Marilyn Fenn found a daffodil blooming in her garden three months earlier and just after the official start of winter for the UK . Temperatures fell on Tuesday night after a warm weekend which saw giant cobwebs emerge in fields across Jersey. Warm temperatures on Saturday led to millions of spiders taking advantage of the mild conditions to move from one place to another using huge gossamer webs . Environmentalists said the appearance of the large webs was 'incredibly rare' and had been spun by millions of money spiders on Saturday . Nicola Maxey, a forecaster for the Met Office, said: 'On higher ground in the South there's a chance that we might see some sleet, and a slim chance of snow on Friday.' Cloudy and breezy weather is forecast today, with a chance of showers throughout the day as a weak weather front moves across the country. Tomorrow is expected to be much more cloudy and grey, with a chance of showers in the South East and Midlands which may turn to sleet by Friday. Ms Maxey added: 'These showers could turn a bit wintry in exposed areas such as in Newcastle and the Pennines, but accumulations are unlikely. There is also a risk of fog patches.' After a heavy frost there were snowy scenes this morning as photographers beat the cold temperatures and wrapped up warm in Cumbria . Last night's cold snap made way for clear and calm skies this morning and a stunning early morning sunrise over River Brathay in Cumbria . As Cumbria is bracing itself for temperatures well below freezing, the heavy frost this morning was reflected in Elterwater in the Lake District . Picture postcard scenes of snow covered trees were seen in the Lake District after Shap in Cumbria recorded winter's coldest temperature . However traces of the mild months of 2014 remain after Mike Williamson discovered huge bunches of white grapes flourishing on the side of his Edinburgh home, where Thomas Carlyle lived in the 1820s. Mr Williamson planted the grapes 15 years ago and only discovered they were growing when a window cleaner visited the home he shares with his wife Hil, 64, this week. He said: 'We do have grapes on it every year as the wall is south facing and there is good soil so it grows very well especially in this beautiful year we've had. The grapevines are mostly just in our garden for decoration and, I must admit, we don't really pay too much attention to it.' Experts said the appearance of the grapes was unusual, but can be explained following our warm summer and unseasonably mild autumn. A car in the Peak District was covered with frost this morning and motorists are being warned to be careful as more cold weather is expected . The cold snap made for clear skies and picturesque sunrises in the Peak District, but people are being warned to brace themselves tonight . Gritters were out on the A66 Trans Pennine route tonight as temperatures are expected to dip further, making driving conditions dangerous . In Lincolnshire, where temperatures have also plunged this week, grandmother Marilyn Fenn spotted a lone daffodil growing in her garden in Woodhall Spa. The daffodil, traditionally seen in Spring, has appeared three months early despite the freezing temperatures of this week. Others have also reported seeing snowdrops in their garden, which also usually appear in spring. This year is set to be the warmest on record after every month so far except August was warmer than the average. Warm temperatures at the weekend also saw thousands of spider webs cover the countryside in Jersey. As unseasonably high temperatures of hit 16C money spiders spun thousands of webs - called gossamers - to migrate from one place to another. Local environmentalist Mike Stentiford said is was extremely rare to see the webs appear over such a wide area. Last night's freezing night in the Peak District made for pink skies as the son rose and fields covered with frost as winter gets off to a cold start . Thursday is expected to be a particularly wet day, with cooler temperatures meaning showers could turn into sleet and light snow showers . People in Cumbria (left) are to prepare for another freezing evening tonight, while sheep were in frosty fields near Roseberry Topping, a hill on the border between North Yorkshire and Redcar and Cleveland (right), where temperatures dropped to -2C overnight on Tuesday . He said: 'It is just literally squillions of tiny money spiders and it is their way of moving from one place to another. We normally get it in one or two fields but it seemed to me that the whole of the island was absolutely covered with it. It was absolutely amazing.' However a cold December could threaten that record, as forecasters say frost is expected this week. Friday is expected to be a wetter and windier day, with stronger winds forecast for the North West. In the South East milder conditions are expected, with temperatures back to the average for December. Walkers in the Cairngorms, dubbed the snowiest place in Britain in a recent Met Office survey, enjoyed the first snow of winter yesterday as they trudged through deep snow, leading to hopes of a white Christmas for the UK this year. People in Edinburgh woke up to a crisp morning and a pretty sun rise from Arthur's Seat to Edinburgh Castle after the mercury plunged to -4C . The sunrise in Edinburgh this morning created a perfect silhouette for Edinburgh's skyline as people woke after a freezing cold night . In Leeds light frost covered Roundhay Park this morning after the mercury plunged to below zero overnight and another cold night is forecast . A supply vessel moved past Aberdeen Harbour this morning, the only movement among the clear skies of a freezing early morning . People in Aberdeen this morning woke up to a bright red sunrise, accompanied by freezing temperatures as the mercury is set to fall . The snow in Scotland led to warnings being issued by police about the dangers of driving on the A939 in the Cairngorms because of the recent snow and ice. And with forecasts of snow for the rest of England, comes a warning about the dangers and health risks of plunging temperatures. The onset of the colder weather has led Public Health England to think about their health during the cold snap - 25,000 extra people usually die in England during winter, with the elderly particularly vulnerable. The sunrise over Aberdeen harbour showed clear skies as earlier risers walked their dogs and caught the sight along the coast this morning . Aberdeen is set to become even colder as the Cairngorms saw the first snow of winter yesterday, and temperatures plunged to -4C overnight . A recent study by the Met Office found that snow has fallen 38 times in the last 52 years - meaning we can expect around half of our Christmases to be 'white.' However the traditional festive image of trees dusted in white, is more likely to be confined to Christmas cards. Snow settling on the ground is much rarer, and has happened just four times in the last 51 years. Commuters will also be hopeful that the Christmas season will not be a repeat of last year, when parts of England were drenched by heavy rain - leaving large parts of the Somerset Levels submerged for months.

Coldest temperatures since last year were recorded last night as the mercury plunged to -5.1C in Cumbria . Throughout the country temperatures hovered around freezing or just below, while in London 2.5C was recorded . Forecasters predict snow could fall by end of the week with temperatures to plummet overnight on Thursday . But grapes and daffodils have been spotted growing around the UK, following unseasonably warm autumn . This year is on course to be the warmest ever after every month except August was above average temperature .

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The defendant (pictured outside Blackfriars Crown Court today), from north London, denies one charge of stalking and one charge of sexual assault . A television personality was sent sinister emails about the murder of Jill Dando from a stalker who later gave her a 'sloppy kiss' outside the O2 arena, a court heard today. The woman received hundreds of messages from the man, with some referring to domestic abuse and Ms Dando's murder. Other messages suggested she leave her husband to marry him and have his child. The woman, who is a household name but cannot be named for legal reason, was subjected to a campaign of harassment over social media and email for more than a year during which the man, who also cannot be named, claimed they were having a 'cyber affair'. The trial at Blackfriars Crown Court today heard how the harassment even saw the defendant visit the TV studios where the woman worked to deliver gifts. It culminated in him kissing her at a public event. Max Hardy, prosecuting, said: 'This case concerns obsessive behaviour on the part of the defendant directed towards a television presenter. 'This obsessive behaviour manifested itself in the defendant's use of the social network site Twitter, in email communications and attending at her workplace and written communication to her address. 'That behaviour went far beyond the respectful enthusiasm of a fan. 'He caused her significant alarm or distress that had a substantial effect on her day-to-day life.' The court heard how the defendant began contacting the celebrity about her programmes and she replied out of courtesy, although the messages then became increasingly personal. The presenter, who is in her 40s, made a statement to police in December last year, shortly before the man was arrested. Mr Hardy said: 'She recalled the first communication from him being a tweet sent in January 2012. 'She had just been on television and the tweet was saying "you look lovely I simply have to say so".' She began receiving emails to her work address, again replying to the messages out of respect for her fans. The messages took another turn in February 2012, when the man began speaking about his personal issues and invited her to go the David Hockney exhibition at the Royal Academy in London. In the March of the same year, his messages took a sinister turn with an email referring to a segment on Claire's Law, which was brought in to help victims of violent domestic abuse. He also attached the first chapters of his autobiography and his mobile number asking for her to call him. She stopped replying to the messages, but days later, on March 15, he wrote to her again with the chilling reference to murdered presenter Jill Dando. Mr Hardy said: 'The email contained a transcript purporting to be a telephone call from someone called Sue and he referred to the discovery that Jill Dando, the TV presenter, had been murdered.' The Crimewatch presenter was shot dead, aged 37, outside her home in Fulham, west London, in April 1999. Mr Hardy continued: '[He wrote] 'I hope that wan't too freaky a start to the day, don't let it be s***e, that's like a one-in-a-million thing anyway. (sic)' The email was passed on to the station's security and he was blocked from emailing any of its email address. Blackfriars Crown Court (pictured) heard how the woman was subjected to a campaign of harassment over social media and email for more than a year during which the man claimed they were having a 'cyber affair' However, he continued to message her through third parties, the court heard. Another email, sent in March 2012, described his love for her and blamed a co-presenter for being blocked from the email system. Mr Hardy said: '[The email] is a declaration of love and adoration for her and suggests that she divorces her husband, marries him and they could have a child together.' He carried on contacting the woman saying they were having a 'cyber affair' and invited her to use an anonymous messaging system. The court heard that although the harassment began in early 2012, he stands charged with the crimes from November that year, when stalking became a criminal offence. Jurors were told the alleged stalker was not accused of threatening violence against the celebrity, although his obsessive communication caused her 'serious alarm or distress'. The court also heard how in December 2012, he visited the TV studios where she worked to deliver hand-warmers and a Christmas card and letter, but was turned away. The celebrity chose to go to the police after the defendant approached her at an event at the O2 and kissed her, jurors were told. Mr Hardy said: 'He thrust a copy of a programme into her hands and asked her for an autograph then, in her words, "landed a sloppy wet kiss on my cheek". 'She tried to shrug it off but over time decided to take it to the police. 'That's what prompted her to install further security measures and alter her activities.' The alleged stalker, from north London, denies one charge of stalking and one charge of sexual assault. The trial continues. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Television personality subjected to campaign of harassment, court heard . Woman, a household name, bombarded with emails and online messages . Man allegedly gave her a 'sloppy kiss' during an event outside the O2 arena . The accused, from London, denies a charge of stalking and sexual assault .

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A judge is issuing an arrest warrant for a 77-year-old Utah man who police say was sunbathing nude in his backyard next to a Mormon church parking lot. Court records show the $5,000 cash-only warrant was issued Tuesday after Myron Lee Kipp failed to show up at a court hearing in his lewdness case. Kipp has pleaded not guilty to seven misdemeanor counts of lewdness, four involving a child. According to a probable cause statement, police were called to Kipp's home on March 5 after witnesses saw him sunbathing naked in his backyard. According to public records, Kipp owns a home on East 200 N Road, next to the Farmington Chapel Mormon church . Not suitable for church: An arrest warrant has been issued to a Utah man who was charged with lewdness for sunbathing nude in his backyard, in view of adults and children standing in an adjacent church parking lot . Those witnesses included three adults and four children standing in the adjacent parking lot of the chapel. Kipp was allegedly visible since he had a chain link fence with no privacy slats. When police confronted Kipp, he told an officer 'he was sun bathing and that it was his property and he could do it if he wanted,' the record states. That's when police forced Kipp to dress, arrested him and took him to jail. Defense attorney William Albright didn't immediately return a message seeking comment. The view: Above, Kipp's backyard is seen backing up to the church parking lot. He allegedly told responding officers that it was his property and he could sunbathe 'if he wanted' On the run? The arrest warrant was issued Tuesday after 77-year-old  Myron Kipp failed to appear in court. Above, a view of the man's address in Farmington, according to public records .

A judge in Farmington, Utah has issued an arrest warrant for 77-year-old Myron Kipp when he failed to show up in court for the lewdness case . According to police, three adults and four children standing in their church parking lot saw Kipp sunbathing naked in his backyard on March 5 . When confronted by officers, Kipp said: 'it was his property and he could do it if he wanted'

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Hüseyin Burak Tuzer sees the sights everyday that holidaymakers usually only dream of, paragliding along the coast of 'paradise.' The 28-year-old spends his days soaring in the skies above Fethiye and Oludeniz in Turkey and photographing the spectacular views - now, bringing a few lucky tourists in tow. His 'true love' has led him to a role at Sky Sports Paragliding, the oldest paragliding school in the country. Scroll down for video . Paraglider Hüseyin Burak Tuzer sees the sights from a vantage point that tourists have only dreamt about - until now that is! Hüseyin, who works with Sky Sports Paragliding, takes adventurous tourists into the clouds to experience the Turkish coast like never before . Hüseyin said: 'I was six years old when I had my first tandem paragliding with my older brother, Murat Tuzer who was and still is a real role model for me. 'He has around a thousand free fall experiences. 'He has been a professional paraglider and instructor for more than twenty-five years. The 28-year-old spends his days soaring in the skies above Fethiye and Oludeniz in Turkey and photographing the stunning views . Huseyin was just six years old when he went on his first tandem-paragliding ride with his older brother . Huseyin offers tourists the opportunity to take once in a lifetime selfies high above the mountain ranges and clear blue waters . 'I spent my childhood looking at his photographs of parachuting and paragliding. 'I did my first solo paragliding flight when I was sixteen. 'It's a true love and passion for me. 'I spent my childhood looking at photographs of parachuting and paragliding,' says Huseyin of his inspiration . Even on cloudy days, Huseyin's incredible photographs make fantastic keepsakes . Huseyin encourages the tourists he takes up into the sky to take photos of anything they want - including their hands (right) The photographs that Huseyin has taken have been posted on social media and he has about 4,500 followers on Instagram . 'My photography and flying is my calling, my profession.' The photographs Hüseyin has taken have been posted to social media and he has 4,500 followers on Instagram. 'I'm living through what I have always dreamt about,' he added. 'I'm living through what I have always dreamt about,' the man says of his breathtaking lifestyle . With arms wide open! Visitors often spread their arms like an eagle when taking a sky-high snap . 'I don't photograph subjects,' Huseyin insists. 'I photograph the way that they make me feel' 'I don't photograph subjects; I photograph the way they make me feel. 'I have around four thousand tandem and solo paragliding flights. 'Each and every single one I enjoyed to the end.' Loads of experience! Huseyin estimates that he has done about 4,000 tandem and solo paragliding flights in total . The best part of his unorthodox job? 'I have made many friends from different countries all around the world,' he says . He said: 'Thanks to my tandem flights I have made many friends from different countries all around the world. 'In Ölüdeniz-Fethiye, Turkey, it is doubtless one of the paradises on Earth for both regular sea and sun lovers as well as paragliders.' Hüseyin flies every day for eight months and has a break during November and April, the winter months in Turkey, but he prefers to spend his time travelling and exploring. He recently spent four months in Nepal, where he flew over Pokhara Lakeside hundreds of times. Turkey is a 'paradise on Earth for both regular sea and sun lovers, as well as paragliders,' he says . Hüseyin flies every day for eight months and has a break during November and April. On his time off, he often travels himself . Whether photographed at sunset (left) or mid-day (right), the resulting photographs are simply stunning . 'I hope to become a source of inspiration for someone someday,' Huseyin says. 'Only then I can consider that my mission is accomplished' 'My latest adventure abroad was to travel to Nepal,' he said. 'I had spent four amazing months in Nepal and flew over Pokhara Lakeside for more than 300 times.' 'With the wind under my wings and the lenses of my camera, I am just hoping to become a source of inspiration for someone someday,' Hüseyin added. 'Only then I can consider that my mission is accomplished.'

Everyday Hüseyin Burak Tuzer sees breathtaking sky-high views that most tourists only dream of . Now, the adventurous paraglider is taking visitors up with him for once in a life time views of the Turkish coast . Once in the air, he also snaps photos of his tandem-flight partner, snapping incredibly unique 'selfies'

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Floyd Mayweather, who earns over £60million per year, has been named as the highest-paid athlete by American business magazine Forbes. The unbeaten American boxer, who has recently showed off his wealth in a series of posts on Twitter, is the world's richest sports star having earned £66m in 2014 following fights against Canelo Alvarez and Marcos Maidana. Real Madrid star Gareth Bale, signed by the European giants in the summer of 2013, is the highest-earning Brit in the list following his £80m switch to the Spanish capital. Unbeaten American boxer Floyd Mayweather has been named the highest-paid athlete by Forbes . Mayweather has recently showed off his wealth on social media having earned over £60million from two fights . Real Madrid star Gareth Bale, pictured against Liverpool on Tuesday, is the highest-earning Brit on the list . Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, Bale's Real Madrid team-mate, is second on the list having earned over £50m . Ronaldo, one of the world's biggest sporting names, made over £17m from endorsements alone . F1 star Lewis Hamilton is the top-earning Englishman in the list in nineteenth place with earnings of £20m. However, only three women are named on Forbes' top 100 list and all three are tennis stars. Maria Sharapova is 34th with earnings of just over £15m, Li Na - who was forced to retire through injury in September - is 41st with earnings of £14.8million while World No 1 Serena Williams earned £13.85million in 2014 and is 55th in the table. Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova, pictured with Mayweather, are two of three women in the top 100 . Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo - Bale's team-mate at the Bernabeu - is second on the list having raked in just over £50million after his Champions League success last term. The Portugal international's endorsements with Nike, Samsung and Toyota, amongst others, reportedly earned the 29-year-old £17million this year. Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi is fourth. Tiger Woods and Roger Federer, two of this century's biggest sporting names, have made the vast majority of their money this year through endorsements, not winnings. Golf star Tiger Woods and Tenbnis champion Roger Federer made most of their money from endorsements . Basketball stars LeBron James and Kobe Bryant are third and fifth in the list respectively whilst NFL star Matt Ryan, Rafael Nadal and Phil Mickelson complete the top ten. Fifteen football stars feature on the list, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar and Manchester United pair Wayne Rooney and Radamel Falcao. Luis Suarez, who joined Barcelona in the summer, was named the 100th highest-paid athlete following a stellar season for Liverpool as the frontman's goals helped the Reds finish second in the Premier League and earned him the Football Writers' Association's Player of the Year award.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi make the top five highest-paid athletes in latest Forbes list . Gareth Bale is the leading Brit while Lewis Hamilton is the highest-paid Englishman in nineteenth place . Fifteen footballers are named including Luis Suarez and Wayne Rooney . Only three women - tennis stars Maria Sharapova, Serena Wiliams and Li Na - make the top 100 .

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The winner of the Miss World pageant has addressed the historic Oxford Union debating chamber to tearfully clarify that beauty queens cannot save the planet. Megan Young, who was crowned Miss World 2013, became tearful as she addressed some of the sharpest minds in student academics to defend pageants against critics of the industry who say they demean women. She told the prestigious union, which has hosted Nelson Mandela, Albert Einstein, Mother Teresa, and the Dalai Lama: 'People are saying you're Miss World you should save the world, and to be honest, we can't really save the world as a whole, we're doing it part by part. We're not Superman. We're human too. Megan Young (pictured), who was crowned Miss World 2013, became tearful as she addressed some of the sharpest minds in student academics to defend pageants against critics of the industry at the Oxford Union . She addressed the historic Oxford Union debating chamber to say that it was hard, but that beauty queens cannot save the planet . Ms Young, who was crowned when she represented the country of her mother's birth, the Philippines, was helped at the debate by competitors for the Miss World 2014 title - including Miss England, Carina Tyrrell, who is a final year medicine student at Cambridge University. Before the discussion, Tyrrell defended the competition from criticism that women are judged more on their looks rather than their brains. 'You are surrounded by women who represent their countries. These are role models, they are role models to young women and role models to society.' Before she spoke to the crowd, Miss Young and this year's contestants were given a tour of the University's centuries-old buildings, where some of the world's most celebrated scientists, writers and academic minds have studied. Miss Young and this year's contestants were given a tour of the University's centuries-old buildings, where some of the world's most celebrated scientists, writers and academic minds have studied . Miss Young was helped at the debate by competitors for the Miss World 2014 title - including Miss England, Carina Tyrrell (pictured), who is a final year medicine student at Cambridge University . Tyrrell defended the competition from criticism that women are judged more on their looks rather than their brains.' You are surrounded by women who represent their countries. These are role models' But Miss Young admitted she was feeling nervous about her speech in the chambers. 'I'm a bit nervous, of course we're in the Oxford University and we'll be with the Oxford Union, so for me to just step into this campus and be in this area where very famous people) have been, it's an honour and I'm just very excited and nervous at the same time.' Once the tour was finished Miss Young and the Miss World contestants made their way to the Oxford Union, where they were also joined by the 1953 winner Denise Perrier. Miss South Africa and Miss United States then delivered speeches before a busy Union. Once the tour was finished Miss Young and the Miss World contestants made their way to the Oxford Union, to field questions . After the speeches the Miss World contestants and students left the Union. But some were left feeling flat by the level of debate . 'Miss World allows women the chance to represent their countries. It allows us the chance to lead. Miss World is not a celebrity, she is an ambassador. She tells women all around the world again that it's okay to have an opinion. She makes changes happen. She identifies problems and she finds solutions. She changes the world,' said Miss United States, Elizabeth Safrit. The contestants then fielded questions from students and Miss Young became quite emotional as she recalled what the hardest part of being Miss World has been. 'And what... it hurts really, it really does hurt and sometimes you just can't help but cry. I'm sorry I'm getting really emotional because you know I've been through so many countries and it's just so difficult seeing them in this position and you know people are saying you're Miss World you should save the world, and to be honest, we can't really save the world as a whole, we're doing it part by part. We're not Superman. We're human too.' Getting some tips: This year's contestants meet the current Miss World as the competition returns to London . After the debate the Miss World contestants and students left the Union. But some were left feeling flat by the level of debate. Oxford University student, Kate Welsh, said: 'I was a bit disappointed that it didn't have more of a debate, wasn't formed throughout the evening, perhaps, on the kind of moral issues behind having what's still fundamentally a beauty pageant. 'And having women from such privileged backgrounds being supposedly representative of their countries,' said'All of us here just came to prove that it's a lot more than just pretty faces behind us. Whether it's a story or here for a reason, for a personal reason.'

Miss World Megan Young, tearfully told union she couldn't save the world . Some of the sharpest minds in student academics watched her defend pageants against critics of the industry who say they demean women . The prestigious debating chamber has hosted Nelson Mandela, Albert Einstein, Mother Teresa, and the Dalai Lama .

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A group of pranksters' comedy 'gangsta' sketch went horribly wrong after police mistook their toy guns for real ones. The four men had been filming a stunt in Enfield, London, for their Intagram and You Tube pages which involved two of the group brandishing the fake guns before holding them to their friend's neck. But the joke quickly backfired after a member of the public mistook the toys for real weapons and reported them to police. The camera was still rolling when armed officers arrive shouting at them to 'Drop the gun, drop the gun.' The group of pranksters hold the fake guns to their friend's neck as part of their comedy 'gangsta' stunt . But the sketch quickly becomes very real for the four men after police are called and order them to lie on the ground and surrender their weapons . The friends attempt to explain they are filming and the guns were fake but the officer forces them to lie down on the ground and surrender their weapons. He can then be heard reporting to a back up team saying: 'Four recovered - at least two firearms.' Police confirmed that armed officers had attended and arrested the group who were later released without charge. The three minute clip has now been viewed almost 300,000 times since it was added on November 30. One of the stunt men, who posted the clip on YouTube on November 30, wrote: ''We was filming a short sketch for my Instagram page, using plastic toy guns as props. A member of public must of saw us and called the police. The video has split opinion online over the police's response. Lauren Cassinia wrote on the YouTube video's comments: 'That was excessive. They dropped their guns as soon as they were asked to and everyone but the cameraman got on the floor when asked. 'There was no need for the language either. All it would have taken was a quick check once they'd been handcuffed and it would have been so much less violent. But then it's understandable for the police to be scared since they don't have guns.' But Gustaf Smythe-Richards added that: 'Guns aren't toys.' YouTube user MadSaltySkills wrote: 'In America they would of got shot with no question asked lol.' Dale Of Hope added: 'In the cops defense... If they treated every situation with exposed firearms as 'they're probably just filming', we'd have a lot of dead people on our hands. So I'm glad they took the 'better safe than sorry' route.' 'Rightly so. Especially with all the stuff going on over in the states. 'We should have been more responsible. Definitely pooped myself a bit tho haha! 'Let this a lesson to everyone, don't play with plastic guns in public.' (sic). Possession of imitation and toy firearms can in certain circumstances amount to a criminal offence. The four men, all in their late twenties and early thirties, were arrested on November 29 at around 2pm. Another member of the group posted on Instagram: 'What a mad day... can't lie tho I was shook and fully nearly lost my life if I held the gun any longer I was a goner. 'All for me and my boys filmin a robbery sketch for Insta.' (sic) A spokeswoman for London Metropolitan Police said without officers knowing if the guns were real or fake they had to follow protocol. 'Four men aged 27, 28, 30 and 30 were arrested at the scene and taken to an east London police Station,' she added. 'Two imitation firearms were recovered at the scene. 'All suspects were interviewed and provided the same account. They explained that they were using the imitation guns to make a film. 'The suspects showed remorse and were later released with no further action being taken.' The four men, all in their late twenties and early thirties, were arrested on November 29 at around 2pm . One of the members of the stunt later warned people on his Instagram account not to play with plastic guns in public .

Four jokers were using toy guns for a comedy sketch in Enfield, London . A member of the public saw and believed the stunt calling the police . Armed officers arrive and order them to lie down and surrender weapons . The group are arrested but later released without charge .

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While opposition leader Bill Shorten continues to criticise the Abbott government's policies, he was unable to reveal how his party plans on dealing with Australia's economic challenges. Mr Shorten declined to go into specifics, in an interview on Wednesday night with Leigh Sales on ABC's 7.30 program, saying he couldn't provide 'a three-word slogan' just yet. Despite this, he reiterated his one solution for the nation as: 'go for growth' but failed to further elaborate. Although he admits there is an 'appetite' among Australians to hear some of Labor's policies, he was adamant they were not going to be unveiled until 2015. He further agreed with Sales when she said the 'jury's still out' on him and his policies, saying 'if there was an election next Saturday, then you might be right'. Scroll down for video . Bill Shorten admits there is an 'appetite' among Australians to hear some of Labor's policies but was adamant that they were not going to be unveiled until 2015 . Mr Shorten was quick to address the current government's wrongdoings, saying its budget has problems. But when Sales questioned how the opposition leader planned on addressing some of these issue, he did not express any specifics. 'I just can't give you a three-word slogan,' he told Sales. 'In good time before the next election, we'll detail all of our policies. I know you're not going to be particularly surprised if I don't reveal our full election manifesto tonight.' While opposition leader Bill Shorten (left) continues to criticise the policies of the current government - run by Prime Minister Tony Abbott (right) - he was unable to reveal how his party plans on dealing with Australia's economic challenges . When Sales put it to Mr Shorten this may cause uncertainty among Australians on their alternative prime minister, he responded: . 'Well our challenge - if there was an election next Saturday, then you might be right, but there isn't. I would like there to be an election sooner than three years. I don't think this country can afford three years of Tony Abbott.' He continued to say his party is working hard on its policies which will be announced throughout 2015.

Opposition leader Bill Shorten was unable to reveal how his party was going to deal with Australia's economic challenges . He told Leigh Sales on ABC's 7.30 program he will unveil his party's policies next year . Mr Shorten was quick to criticise the Abbott government's wrongdoings .

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If this technology firm's office is anything to go by, workplaces of the future will be cleaner and greener. Decos’ headquarters in the Netherlands looks like something from a sci-fi film and is entirely paperless - even down to the toilets. Energy is supplied by nearby wind farms, its fleet consists of dozens of electric vehicles and employees use apps and 'shower toilets'. The office (pictured) was built for Noordwijk-based technology firm Decos by Inbo Architects. Decos said it is so committed to environmentally sustainability it has removed all paper from its office - even toilet roll . The building was designed by Inbo Architects. Decos said it is so committed to environmentally sustainability that it has removed all paper from its office. The minutes for meetings are taken and organised using Decos’ own Minute app, available for free from the Apple app store. Shower toilets are a cross between a traditional toilet and a bidet. They are fitted with an integrated nozzle in the basin of a traditional-looking toilet. The shower function is started by pressing a button on the side of the basin. The nozzle extends and sprays warm water. A dryer function is then used to remove the water. Decos has installed Aqua Clean shower toilets from German-based Gerberit. All contracts are signed using e-signatures and documents are never printed. Business cards are banned, and any post is returned as Decos demands only digital communication. Even toilet paper and tissues are forbidden. Instead, its 60 employees use Geberit Aqua Clean ‘shower toilets’. Shower toilets are a cross between a traditional toilet and a bidet. An integrated shower function is started by pressing a button, and a nozzle extends that sprays warm water. A dryer function is then used to remove the water. Energy for the building is supplied using a nearby wind turbine park, and all new company cars are electric or hybrid. The building covers 29,900 square feet (2,500 square metres) and cost €2.84 million (£2.2 million) to complete. Instead, Decos 60 employees use Geberit Aqua Clean ‘shower toilets’ (pictured). An integrated shower function is started by pressing a button, and a nozzle extends that sprays warm water. A dryer function is then used to remove the water . Its futuristic design was inspired by Star Wars (a sandcrawler is pictured), and is said to have been designed to resemble a 'meteorite in an alien moon landscape' The company’s paperless commitment means it saves more than 16 trees per year – equivalent to a tonne of paper. The company is now turning its attention to building robots, developing machine learning products, and launching new collaboration tools to help other companies digitalise and go paperless . ‘The building is designed as a meteorite in an alien moon landscape, as a symbol for our creativity and innovative strength,’ said the firm. ‘[It has] slanting walls, because we do not need cabinets. We work at flex-stations in open office gardens with glass partitions.’ The company’s paperless commitment means that Decos saves more than 16 trees per year - equivalent to a tonne of paper. The company is now turning its attention to building robots, developing machine learning products, and launching new collaboration tools to help other companies digitalise and go paperless. ‘We don’t miss paper at all,’ Minute managing director Roel Noort said. ‘Not only have we implemented technology services that replace all need for paper, but, in doing so, we’ve actually increased the efficiency, organisation, and sustainability of our company.’ Energy for the building is supplied using a nearby wind turbine park, and all new company cars are electric or hybrid. The building covers 29,900 square feet (2,500 square metres) and cost €2.84 million (£2.2 million) The building has slanting walls, because the firm said it doesn't need cabinets, and employees work at flex-stations in open office gardens with glass partitions (pictured)

The office was built for Noordwijk-based technology firm Decos . Firm has removed all paper such as letters, files and even toilet roll . Instead, employees use apps, digital signatures and 'shower toilets' Its futuristic design was inspired by structures in Star Wars . Building is powered by energy from wind farms, and its fleet is electric .

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There is no doubting the skill and craftsmanship of his artwork. But Simon Beck’s masterpieces aren’t created with a paintbrush or easel. Instead, the 56-year-old’s canvases are the sprawling ski slopes of the Alps, and he creates his intricate patterns by running in snowshoes across the snow. Scroll down for video . Simon Beck has spent the past decade decorating the mountain range with his spectacular artworks, which can measure up to 100m x 100m – the size of two football pitches . The artist has spent the past decade decorating the mountain range with his spectacular artworks, which can measure up to 100m x 100m – the size of six football pitches. It means that Mr Beck can cover a total of more than 25 miles during each piece of work. Each image takes up to 12 hours to design and make, with Simon currently produces about 30 snow drawing each year. His work has also led him to publish a book of his designs, inspired an underwear range, and seen him branch out into etching drawings on beaches. Each image takes up to 11 hours to design and make, with Simon currently produces about 30 snow drawing each year . His work has also led Simon to publish a book of his designs, inspired an underwear range, and seen him branch out into etching drawings on beaches . The artist favours a level site with a depth of about nine inches of powdery snow to make sure his art looks best in photographs, which he takes from either an aircraft, summit or a ski lift . His most intricate designs include the Koch snowflake, a Sierpinski triangle as well as abstract cubes and spirals. He uses an orienteering compass to create the perfect geometric designs. Each pattern is crafted by Mr Beck alone in the skiing town of Les Arcs, in the French Alps, where he lives during winter. Mr Beck, went to Millfield School and studied engineering at Oxford university. In 1974 he won the British Orienteering Championships. He has spent most of his adult life working as a freelance orienteering mapmaker and has now created around 175 designs after ploughing his first at Christmas in 2004. His most intricate designs include the Koch snowflake, a Sierpinski triangle as well as abstract cubes and spirals. He uses an orienteering compass to create the perfect geometric designs . Mr Beck, who studied Engineering Science at Oxford University, said many of his patterns can equal the effort needed to climb halfway up Mont Blanc . His work has proved so popular that New Zealand clothes label Icebreaker launched The Art of Nature Simon Beck Collection – a range of undergarments inspired by his designs. He uses what he describes as a 'kind of reverse orienteering' to plot his intricate paths before walking along the route in a pair of snowshoes. Most of Mr Beck's patterns are crafted in the skiing town of Les Arcs, in the French Alps, where he lives during winter . He said: 'The main reason for making them was because I can no longer run properly due to problems with my feet, so plodding about on level snow is the least painful way of getting exercise. Mr Beck said many of his patterns can equal the effort needed to climb halfway up Mont Blanc. He first plans out the pattern on graph paper, then surveys the site and judges where the major points of the design should be, and starts at one of those points. From the centre he calculates the distance to the other points and walks out and back from the centre using either pace counting or a measuring tape to determine the number of steps he needs to take. The artist favours a level site with a depth of about nine inches of powdery snow to make sure his art looks best in photographs, which he takes from either an aircraft, summit or a ski lift. The designs only last until the next heavy snowfall. He added: 'I usually keep at it until I get too tired, using a headlamp if it gets dark first. It takes typically until I can't go on, but that can depend. 'The setting-out serves as the warm-up then the real training is completing the design. Once this second stage is started, I put on my personal stereo.' The artist from Bracknell, Berkshire added: 'Most of the time I travel round the Alps and hike up mountains, aiming to be on the summit at sunset for good photos. ‘My feet are in a bad way but if I can keep my weight off the front of my feet things are not too bad. 'Often I am copying designs I have found, like crop circles or well-known mathematical figures, or repeating designs I have made earlier but failed to get good photos of. 'Some designs I am commissioned to do require a lot of study as to the best way to create it, and this process can take several hours. ‘The main danger is having a minor accident skiing down at night after I have finished drawing. ‘Or running out of steam, if you push yourself too hard at the end of it. It is quite frightening how quickly you can run out of steam.’ More of Mr Beck's work can be seen on his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/snowart8848 .

British artist Simon Beck, 56, spends 11 hours creating his masterpieces . Each piece measures up to 100m x 100m – the size of two football pitches . Simon has created around 175 designs after ploughing his first in 2004 . His work has inspired an underwear range and he also works on beaches .

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A domestic worker in South Africa is just two rounds away from wining the prestigious Masterchef title, while raising awareness of the 'forgotten army' of servants working in the nation's homes. Siphokazi Mdlankomo, 39, from Cape Town, is one of the favourites to win the competition after judges quickly recognised her ability to cook and balance flavours. Ms Mdlankomo, who is known as Sipho' on the show will take on a former advertising executive, a train driving assistant  and a life skills lecturer in the show's semi-final. Scroll down for video . Siphokazi Mdlankomo, pictured, has reached the semi-finals of the South African Masterchef competition . The domestic worker, centre, has amazed the show's judges and received massive support from the public . According to South African television station DSTV: 'Sipho, a domestic worker from Cape Town, is the embodiment of the popular adage that “dynamite comes in small packages”. This pint-sized cook is out to prove that domestic workers are not second-class citizens; that their role in South African households should be held in equal regard to any other profession out there. 'On her first day in boot camp, Sipho had to think on her feet when her original plan of making a consommé didn’t work out – but she kept her cool and made a beautiful aioli to accompany her perfectly pan-fried angelfish. 'On Day 2, she displayed an impressive skills base once again by making a succulent parma wrapped chicken breast with cauliflower mash and Provencale sauce. The judges quickly noticed that Siphokazi’s talents lie in her vast knowledge of different cooking styles – from classic to modern – coupled with the ability to combine and balance flavours effortlessly.' In South Africa, one in six working women are in domestic service and many of those are black people working in white households. The judges have been wowed by some of her creations, pictured, and her ability to balance delicate flavours . Speaking in advance of her latest challenge on Thursday, Ms Mdlankomo said: 'Being a domestic worker is just like any other job, which you should be proud of doing. It is a profession from which you earn your income. There are many domestic workers out there, who like me, have hidden secrets, talents and passion. No job should prevent you from following your dream.' According to The Guardian, Ms Mdlankomo has been with her employer Liz Andreasen for the past nine years. Ingrid Engelbrecht, a spokeswoman for Masterchef SA, said: 'People have loved her from the start. It’s an inspirational story. 'Many people have domestic workers who are considered part of the family, but domestic workers have never been showcased on television. 'Siphokazi’s story is the same as millions in South Africa who are raising a family and cooking for a family along with their own. Many people have been thrilled to see her on TV and doing so well.'

Siphokazi MdLankomo, 39, has reached the semi-final of Masterchef . The domestic worker from Cape Town is tipped to make the final . She said she is proud of her job and wants to be an inspiration to others . She added: 'There are others like me with hidden talents and passion'

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This is the shocking scene that confronted a student when he discovered a car windscreen smashed to pieces by a swan. University of Hull undergraduate Tim Barrass, 20, was on his way to morning lectures when he noticed the car had been damaged. The windscreen was smashed and had buckled slightly and there was a prostrate swan lying next to it on the pavement. University of Hull undergraduate Tim Barrass was on his way into lectures when he noticed his neighbour's car had been damaged - and spotted a swan lying next to it . Mr Barrass immediately called the RSPCA who soon arrived at the scene and took the swan to a rescue centre, but so far vets have been unable to work out how the swan managed to smash into the car. They believe the swan could have collapsed mid-flight  - or may even have flown straight into the windshield. The black Renault Clio was parked on a residential street in the student area of the city. Mr Barrass, a third-year History student, told student newspaper The Tab: 'I'd only been awake for ten minutes so I rubbed my eyes to double check it [the swan] was real. 'I presumed it was dead, but then it started honking and that's when I noticed the car next to it with the windscreen smashed in. Mr Barrass said his friend Vicky Price was gutted it shattered her windscreen. He said: 'It could have thought it was a river and when it's coming down, it must be pretty hard for a big bird like that to stop. 'It must have been a pretty hard impact, it was a big thing too. I know you get birds flying into windows but it shouldn't have hit a car. 'When I saw the damage I went round ringing on all the houses to see whose car it was because the owner might have thought someone had vandalised their car. 'When I realised it was Vicky's car, I told her. She was gutted.' He added: 'She lives on the next street over but parked on our road because there were no spaces. 'She said the windscreen is a total right off - it's just bad luck.' RSPCA vets put the swan down because its injuries were so severe- they have not been able to find out out if the bird fell or flew into the car (pictured are the RSPCA headquarters in Horsham, West Sussex) 'Trying to be Sherlock I deduced it must have fallen onto the car and bounced off.' An RSPCA spokesman said: 'We were called to an incident in Hull where an adult swan had fallen from the sky and crashed in to a car windscreen on Tuesday morning.' The swan's chest injuries were so severe vets were unable to find the original reason for the swan's collapse. The representative added: 'Sadly the injuries the swan sustained in the fall were very severe and on vets advice he was put to sleep. 'It is a mystery as to why this happened and the only thing we can put it down to is exhaustion.' The Queen's swan keeper said the may have mistaken the wet road for a river in the sun's early morning glint. Professor Chris Perrins, who has been Her Majesty's Warden of the Swans since 1993, said: 'Especially in dawn and dusk they mistake the wet road for a river and try and land on it. 'At this time of year when the sun's low and the roads are wet the RSPCA and swan rescuers get called out quite regularly to roads where they have crashed. 'They shouldn't fly into cars but it can happen.' As the first person to be the Warden of the Swans he has met the Queen several times and is in charge of the annual Swan Upping, where the birds are counted in a census. The former Oxford researcher added: 'They are at the top end of the limits for a flying bird they can only take off really slowly and they don't have much ability for sudden manoeuvres. 'When the sun's coming up or going down and it's wet, the road can have a glint. That's my bet for what happened.' Mr Barass, who shares his home with five other students, added: 'I rang my flatmates after the RPSCA, they don't usually get out of bed until ten but they woke up straight away when they got the phone call from me. 'They saw the photo and thought it was totally bizarre.'

Student Tim Barrass on his way to morning lectures when he spotted swan . Bird appears to have fallen from sky and smashed into car with force . Mr Barrass initially thought the swan was dead - until it started honking . But injuries were so severe RSPCA vets decided to put the bird down .

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Sir Alex Ferguson was a keen spectator as the second day of the Ryder Cup got into full swing. The former football manager and proud Scot cheered Europe on as they looked to extend their 5-3 advantage over USA. Sir Alex, famous for his motivational abilities during 26 hugely successful years in charge of Manchester United, was called in by Europe captain Paul McGinley to gee up his troops with an inspired pep talk. Sir Alex Ferguson (right) watches on during the morning fourballs at Gleneagles . The former football manager gave an inspirational speech to Europe's players before the start of the Ryder Cup . In a more sombre setting Sir Alex Ferguson (left) attended the funeral of Sandy Busby with Sir Bobby Charlton . World no.1 Rory McIlroy revealed the 72-year-old told the players how to deal with expectation and to embrace the favourites tag. Sir Alex showed up at Gleneagles a day after attending the funeral of Sandy Busby, son of legendary former Manchester United boss Sir Matt Busby. The 76-year-old passed away on Monday evening.

Keen golf fan Sir Alex Ferguson attended day two of the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles . Europe captain Paul McGinley asked the former Manchester United boss to give a motivational pep talk earlier in the week . Europe looking to build on their 5-3 lead over USA . His appearance comes a day after attending the funeral of Sandy Busby, son of legendary Manchester United boss Sir Matt Busby .

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the Lib Dem Business Secretary attacked the Tories’ economic plans, which involve slicing another £24billion from public spending . Vince Cable has publicly denounced George Osborne’s plans to slash the budget deficit within four years, and urged his party to oppose ‘brutal’ spending cuts. In an extraordinary intervention which puts further strain on the Coalition, the Lib Dem Business Secretary attacked the Tories’ economic plans, which involve slicing another £24billion from public spending during the next Parliament. He claimed whichever party is in power next year will have to raise taxes, and even said he agreed with Labour that the next government should borrow more. Mr Cable said he ‘did not recognise’ the Chancellor’s plan to eliminate the deficit and run a surplus by 2018-19. He also said: ‘We do have differences in emphasis. The Tories would like to cut spending rather more brutally than we think is necessary or desirable.’ His attack came as his party’s leader Nick Clegg shunned the Autumn Statement yesterday. In a highly unusual move, the Deputy Prime Minister chose to stay away – and instead flew 300 miles to Penzance to talk to locals about flood defences. Senior Lib Dems have warned him that he needs to distance himself from the Tories in the run up to the General Election – though Mr Clegg insisted his decision was not a snub. Mr Cable confirmed he had asked the Office for Budget Responsibility to map out a different forecast for the Lib Dems which contained fewer spending cuts. He added ‘all parties will have to increase taxation whether they say so or not’. On eliminating the deficit, he told LBC Radio: ‘I’m not sure I recognise the figures and the dates you are talking about. The budget deficit also includes borrowing for capital investment. ‘We think if there are good capital investments … for infrastructure and the government earns a proper return for the taxpayer, we should invest in it.’ Asked if this meant he agreed with Labour’s Ed Balls, he replied: ‘We do agree with them on that particular issue, and we differ from the Tories.’ Government sources said Mr Cable had ‘erupted’ yesterday morning and told fellow Lib Dems, including Chief Treasury Secretary Danny Alexander, that they had not signed up to the Conservatives’ spending plans beyond the general election. Mr Cable said he ‘did not recognise’ Chancellor George Osborne’s (pictured) plan to eliminate the deficit and run a surplus by 2018-19. On air, Mr Cable said the Lib Dems were committed to the deficit reduction plans until May. He denied he had ordered his civil servants not to co-operate with Treasury officials. Tory backbencher Andrew Rosindell said: ‘I don’t think any sensible person believes borrowing more money is the right approach for the country.’ Mr Alexander also distanced himself, saying: ‘It’s not the job of the Office for Budget Responsibility to set out the differences between parties.’ Mr Clegg said his decision to stay away from the Chancellor’s speech was ‘not a snub’, but ‘a nice change to get out of the Westminster bubble and say what this Autumn Statement means to people’.

Vince Cable's attack on Tories will further strain Coalition relations . He agreed with Labour about borrowing and tax cuts . Meanwhile, Clegg shunned Autumn statement yesterday .

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After a week of wild weather experienced throughout the country, Victorian residents have taken to social media to mock the overturned lawn chairs and rattling windows caused by two minor earthquakes felt in Melbourne. After two people were struck by lightning in Sydney as ferocious storms swept through NSW, Victorians had their own spate of natural phenomena, dubbed by locals as '#MelbourneQuake2014'. The underwhelming experience of the 3.2 magnitude earthquake just after 6am on Thursday prompted social media users to declare a 'We will rebuild' campaign, posting pictures of minor inconveniences caused by the quake. Scroll down for video . The underwhelming experience of the 3.2 magnitude earthquake just after 6am on Thursday prompted social media users to declare a 'We will rebuild' campaign . After two people were struck by lightning in Sydney as ferocious storms swept through NSW, Victorians had their own spate of natural phenomena, dubbed by locals as '#MelbourneQuake2014' Geoscience Australia seismologists confirmed that the quake struck the Melbourne suburbs of Pakenham and Berwick, 56 kilometers from the CBD, with some residents woken up by the shake, but many more residents reported thinking the earthquake was thunder. Many residents living right in the epicentre reported sleeping through the incident or barely registering that a seismological current was running through their suburb. One resident posted a picture on Facebook of an overturned lawn chair with the caption 'we will rebuild', with other users accusing friends' movements for making the ground shake, or suggesting the quake was caused by a resident sending out 'good vibes'. Other social media users suggested that the rumble may have been a result of locals sexual activity, 'rocking beds' and 'shaking the suburb'. Social media users were quick to claim that they had 'been part of Quake Wake 2014', posting sarcastic comments about 'living through' the Thursday morning earthquake . Many residents living right in the epicentre reported sleeping through the incident or barely registering that a seismological current was running through their suburb . An 'I survived the Berwick earthquake' Facebook page was reportedly started, using a photograph of an overturned lawn chair captured in a similarly minor earthquake from 2012 . Social media users were quick to claim that they had 'been part of Quake Wake 2014', posting sarcastic comments about 'living through' the Thursday morning earthquake. 'Horrific tales of lattes being spilt in Pakenham, stay strong Melbourne we'll get through this together' said one Twitter user. An 'I survived the Berwick earthquake' Facebook page was reportedly started, using a photograph of an overturned lawn chair captured in a similarly minor earthquake from 2012. Duty seismologist Marco Naldomi from Geoscience Australia said that there had been in excess of 700 reports from those living around the epicentre, but that no one had been hurt or recorded any property breakages. 'There have been no reports of damage, but people have reported couches shaking or chairs falling over,' Mr Naldomi said. 'Some residents reported hearing a bang or a loud rumble, of windows rattling, but given the population in the area it's not surprising that we've had so many reports.' The interest in the quake continued with social media users in New Zealand ridiculing the minor earthquake, commenting that Australians complaining about earthquakes was akin to Kiwi's complaining of heat waves. 'Where were you when the earthquake hit!? You know, the one that happened the day after that other one,' asked one social media user . Victorian residents have flocked to social media to mock the overturned lawn chairs and rattling windows caused by two minor earthquakes felt in Melbourne . On Wednesday morning Victoria experienced another earthquake, hitting the Gippsland suburb of Korumburra, which the seismologist said experiences quakes much more frequently. 'Where were you when the earthquake hit!? You know, the one that happened the day after that other one,' asked one social media user. Mr Naldomi said that the area of Pakenham does not often experience earthquakes, with only eight on record including the quake on Thursday morning. 'Earthquakes happen along faultlines, cracks in the earth's crust. That stress is released every now and then in form of earthquake along weaker part of faultlines,' Mr Nadomi said . 'The immediate area outside the epicentre is very seismically quiet, and today's earthquake was the largest on record,' Mr Naldomi said. 'Earthquakes happen along faultlines, cracks in the earth's crust. That stress is released every now and then in form of earthquake along weaker part of faultlines,' he said. 'From this we could infer that that there may well be a faultlines in the area but that it is minor, outside of the ring of fire in the state's south which is a much larger faultline.' 'There are much more active faultlines in the Gipsland area, but it's unlikely the two earthquakes are related.' Lightning strikes at Sydney Harbour on Wednesday afternoon as a severe thunderstorm warning is issued for a number of areas across New South Wales . Firefighters finally put out the fire about 9pm, almost three hours after it started . Earlier in the week, two people were struck by lightning as severe thunderstorms swept through Sydney causing flight chaos and traffic delays. Luckily only minor cases, a man in his 20s was hit by lightning in Hazelbrook, in the Blue Mountains while another person was struck in Cabramatta in Sydney's southwest, said an ambulance spokeswoman. The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe thunderstorm warning on Wednesday afternoon for areas near Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park and Richmond. The bureau warned the storm was moving towards the north east and was forecast to hit Hornsby, Sydney city, the Harbour Bridge and the northern beaches. The New South Wales capital was plunged into darkness by 5.30pm but by 7pm the worse of the storm seemed to have passed although at least 13,000 homes in the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Southern Highlands and Western Sydney regions were still without power. The fire broke out just after 6.30pm on Wednesday after being struck by lightning . Dark smoke is seen billowing over the inner-city of Sydney, covering the Harbour Bridge from view . Firefighters evacuated 40 units near the substations as they waited for the power to be shut off . The commute home for many Sydneysiders was thrown into disarray with ferries stranded as they were unable to dock and traffic was brought to a standstill on the Harbour Bridge. One driver described the scene on the bridge as a 'car park'. Lightning also wreaked havoc in Pyrmont - in Sydney's inner-city - with an electrical substation catching alight after it was hit. Large amounts of dark smoke was seen billowing out of the building just after 6.30pm, but it has since been extinguished. It took 20 firefighters around two hours to put out the fire and while authorities aren't sure what caused it, they think it may have been due to lightning. The fire proved tricky for firefighters who were prevented from using water to extinguish the substation blaze as it had about 11,000 volts of electricity running through it, Superintendent Ian Krimmer said. Storms stopped traffic on the Harbour Bridge as the east coast was pelted by wild weather . Lightning strikes were seen all over Sydney as the skies fell dark across the city . In this picture, a lightning strike looks to just miss a playing flying over the city . NSW SES is currently working at Mittagong, in the Southern Highlands of NSW, where 40 requests for assistance have been received after the area was flooded with 30mm of rain in only 20 minutes . Social media users captured images of storm clouds rolling in and lighting strikes in the distance . Captured footage of a lightning strike hitting Sydney during Wednesday's storm . This one struck near the inner-city near Sydney Harbour Bridge . Instead, they worked to protect surrounding buildings, which included a five-level residential block, until the energy provider isolated power to the site. Fire and Rescue NSW evacuated 40 units as they waited for the power to be shut off, fortunately there were no reports of injury. Emergency crews have received more than 80 phone calls about fallen trees and power lines by across the Sydney area, sending out more than 80 fire trucks and 300 firefighters to various jobs. NSW SES is currently working at Mittagong, in the Southern Highlands of NSW, where 40 requests for assistance have been received after the area was flooded with 30mm of rain in only 20 minutes. According to Live Traffic NSW, five roads were flooded by 6pm, including the Great Western Highway Springwood, Old Windsor Road and Seven Hills Road. Train services were closed on the T1 Western Line between Richmond and Clarendon, 'due to lightning strikes at Clarendon affecting signalling,' Transport NSW stated. Fire and Rescue NSW had received more than 50 phone calls about fallen trees and power lines by 5:30pm . Large amounts of dark smoke was spotted billowing out of a building at Pyrmont in Sydney's centre during the storm, after lightning struck an electrical sub station and sparked a fire . Social media users instantly took to sharing photographs of the storm's affect in their area . Buses operated as a replacement service between stations, however heavy traffic in the Richmond area caused delays. There was also heavy traffic delays in Strathfield due to flooding. The storms also caused some delays to flights out of Sydney Airport with Qantas and Virgin confirming that its domestic and international runways had been closed since 5.15pm. Qantas said about 10 flights had been affected, some by up to two hours. By 7pm, a Virgin spokeswoman said its flights had returned to normal with the runways reopening. Social media users instantly took to sharing photographs of the storm's affect in their area. Further south in Mildura in Victoria, residents posted photos of hail the size of a 20-cent piece pelting the town. The Bureau of Meteorology predicted large hail stones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding, at around 5pm for the areas of Gosford, Sydney, Wollongong, Nowra, Armidale and Orange. By 6:40pm, the Bureau of Meteorology had cancelled their severe storm warning. NSW Rural Fire Service shared this photo of the number of lightning strikes that have struck across the state . The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted large hail stones, damaging winds and heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding, for the areas of Gosford, Sydney, Wollongong, Nowra, Armidale and Orange .

A minor earthquake was recorded on Thursday morning in the Melbourne suburbs of Pakenham and Berwick, 56 kilometeres outside the CBD . The 3.2 magnitude earthquake was the second in two days, with a 3.4 magnitude earthquake in Gippsland on Wednesday . Social media users were quick to dub the experience #Melbournequake2014, posting photos of minor inconveniences such as overturned lawn chairs and spilled coffee . A 'we will rebuild' campaign started on Twitter, with many users tweeting that they had 'lived through' or were 'multiple earthquake survivors' Geoscience Australia said there had been over 700 reports of the earthquake from residents but no damage .

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A series of moving portraits show both sides of living with disabilities in India. British photographer Graeme Robertson travelled to Rajasthan with Sightsavers, a charity that helps visually impaired people to carry on with their lives as independently as possible. He photographed several blind or partially-sighted people living in the Indian state for the Put Us in the Picture campaign - Sightsavers' policy campaign to influence the UK Government's foreign aid policy. The campaign wants to make people aware that although people with disabilities have the same needs and rights to health, education and employment as others, they are one of the most excluded groups in society, particularly in the poorest countries of the world. A series of moving portraits show difficulty that people like Sankarlal (left) and Dallu (right) have with living with disabilities in India. The photos are part of Sightsavers charity's Put Us in the Picture campaign. It wants disabled people included in all UK international aid programmes . They want the Department For International Development to make sure people with disabilities participate in, and benefit from, all international development programmes. Some of the people that Graeme photographed have benefitted from one of the Sightsaver's inclusion projects. The projects help people to rebuild their lives in many ways, including giving advice on how to apply for loans and disability support from the government, training for work that doesn't require full sight and also general building of confidence. But the campaign also covered the plight of those who have so far received no help and the heartbreaking isolation that this can cause, with people wholly dependent on the charity of families. Read on to hear the stories of some of those who took part in the project. Shyam: . Shyam, 36, has been visually impaired for the past 15 years. He said: 'I wasn't born blind, but became blind later. The doctor said I have glaucoma and the cornea can't be repaired. I can see black, white, yellow. I can make out colours from a distance. I can see the moon but not the stars.' He says he is treated with pity and contempt by other people, with many laughing if they see him stumble in the street. He adds that sometimes, 'people spread thorns on the street so it hurts more.' Shyam, 36, has been visually impaired for the past 15 years. He is treated with pity and contempt by other people, with many laughing if they see him stumble in the street. He adds that sometimes, 'people spread thorns on the street so it hurts more.' He continues: 'In all families, even my own, people think you're useless. In society, if you have no money and no work you're considered a burden and people won't talk to you.' Shyam has dreams to start a business, get a small house and have a wife and family of his own but his poor eyesight is preventing that from happening. He said: 'In this village there is no opportunity. If I had money I would go to the city. I can do any job. I cook for myself and clean the house so why can't I work? 'I would like to have kids but the community doesn't believe in marriage if you're not working and earning.' Sankarlal: . Sankarlal's sight began to deteriorate in his early teens, as a result of cataracts in both eyes and by the time he was 14 he was completely blind, and treatment to fix the problem was unsuccessful. He married his now-wife Gomati and had three children, but was frustrated few job opportunities were available to him. He said: 'I used to sit inside the house and my wife used to go to work and support me.' Sankarlal's life changed when he joined a group funded by Sightsavers for people with disabilities . Their purpose is empowerment – informing people of their rights and supporting them to gain skills and employment. Sankarlal's sight began to deteriorate in his early teens, as a result of cataracts in both eyes and by the time he was 14 he was completely blind, and treatment to fix the problem was unsuccessful. An organisation funded by Sightsavers helped him to apply for a loan to start his own business . The organisation helped him to apply for a loan to start his own business, which started off as a mobile shop on a bicycle. It then expanded to a building next to his house that sells larger products like vegetables and pulses and has a refrigerator for cold drinks. He said: 'Now I earn myself. Before people thought I was unproductive, they pitied me, but now I stand on my own legs. 'My family think I am one of them and can do what they do.' Sankarlal: . Sankarlal, a 60-year-old man from the Rajasthan district of Bikaner lost his sight in 1984 after someone threw acid into his face. He said: 'I have lived two lives. But it's okay, it happens. Many people are blind from birth. I could, at least, see for 30 years.' Following the attack, his disability and appearance meant he was ashamed to leave the house. Sankarlal, a 60-year-old man from the Rajasthan district of Bikaner lost his sight in 1984 after someone threw acid into his face. Times were tough until they received support from a government self-employment scheme for people with disabilities, which allowed him and his family to open a shop in their home . He used to tend buffalo, whose milk he would sell to a cooperative dairy, but had to give this up, so his son, Hansraj, supported the family by running a rented shop. Times were tough until they received support from a government self-employment scheme for people with disabilities, which allowed them to open a shop in their home. Nowadays, the whole family – Sankarlal, his wife Chawlidevi, Hansraj and his wife, and their two children aged 10 and 12 – help to run the store. Anuradha: . Anuradha, who's now 32, was only one year old when she fell into a fire, badly burning her hands and face. For a few years she was unaware of having any disability, but when she started school she noticed people would stare at her and it affected her confidence. 'I felt ugly,' she says. 'When people asked what happened I didn't know what to say.' A few decades passed and Anuradha was still suffering from a lack of confidence. Anuradha, who's now 32, was only one year old when she fell into a fire, badly burning her hands and face. She saw an advert for a disabled people's organisation by chance and is now her division's leader . She'd left her husband, and was trying to support her two children (son Raj, 10, and five-year-old daughter Mohita) by working as a teacher, but was barely getting by. She saw an advert by chance in a newspaper about a meeting of the local DPO (disabled people's organisation) and was curious to find out more. When she attended, she met 'brothers and sisters, people like me,' and realised that, like them, she could do things for herself and others. 'I got to know I could get a pension and travel pass.' From these small steps Anuradha's confidence grew and she now has a job as leader of the DPO. Dallu: . Dallu, who's 28, lost her sight after contracting smallpox at the age of seven. She lives with her father and other family members – because they worry about her getting hurt, she rarely goes out. She said: 'Because of my blindness, when I move around even inside the house sometimes I fall or hit the wall.' She now only goes out a couple of times a year. Dallu, who's 28, lost her sight after contracting smallpox at the age of seven. She lives with her father and other family members – because they worry about her getting hurt, she rarely goes out . Although she's married, Dallu doesn't see her husband. Her mother used to look after her, but died two years ago. She'd love to be able to do things for herself, like filling a bucket of water to take a shower, but says her family have to do it for her. She said: 'I can't do anything and I don't want to do anything. If you put the cot there and tell me to sit there I will do it. 'I'd like to go out and be in the community but I just feel like it can't happen.' To find out more go to sightsavers.net .

Series of moving portraits show difficulty of living with disabilities in India . Photos are part of Sightsavers charity's Put Us in the Picture campaign . It wants disabled people included in all UK international aid programmes .

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Two U.S. Army recruiters are facing charges of unlawful sex with a minor after, police say, the two had a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old they met while recruiting at a Florida high school. Christopher Glenn Doner, 30, and John Back, 33, reportedly met the girl earlier this year while recruiting at Harmony High School, the Orlando Sentinel reports. The two had both been in sexual relationships with the girl for several months, at the same time, and both asked her to stop seeing the other one but she did not, Twis Lizasuain, sheriff's spokeswoman, told the newspaper. Relationship: Christopher Glenn Doner, 30, (left) and John Back, 33, (right) are accused of having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old they met while recruiting at a Florida high school . Both men are married with children. Doner and Back frequently visited high schools to recruit students to join the military. Neither are permitted to recruit anymore. The victim's mother contacted authorities after she found text messages on the 17-year-old's phone from the two army recruiters, according to FOX Orlando. Doner: Doner (above) was arrested Tuesday and charged with 10 counts of unlawful sex with a minor; he posted bail Wednesday and was released . Harmony: The recruiters met the teen while recruiting at Harmony High School (above) earlier this year . Investigators say the sexual encounters never occurred on the school's campus, but occurred in a home, a hotel, and in the teen's car, FOX reports. The victim reportedly told investigators the relationship was consensual. Doner was questioned by authorities in November and admitted that his relationship with the teen was wrong and said he would end it, according to WKMG. Doner was arrested Tuesday and charged with 10 counts of unlawful sex with a minor; he posted bail and was released Wednesday. Detectives are working with investigators in Michigan to track down Back who relocated earlier this week. Back will face two counts of unlawful sex with a minor and will be extradited to Florida because of the felony warrant, WKMG reports. Back is aware of the charges.

Christopher Glenn Doner, 30, and John Back, 33, are facing charges for having sex with a girl they met while recruiting at a high school . The men were in a sexual relationship with the girl, at the same time, for several months and both asked the girl to stop seeing the other one . Authorities are trying to track down Back who moved to Michigan earlier this week .

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As the entire country is in mourning for the tragic loss of Phillip Hughes, their hearts are also going out to young bowler Sean Abbott who attended today's funeral for the much-loved cricketer. Possibly the biggest day of the young cricketer's life, the 22-year-old was surrounded by his cricketing family at the Macksville Recreational Centre in Macksville in northern NSW on Wednesday. Wearing a navy blue suit and dark sunglasses, he was accompanied by his girlfriend, Brier Neil, who did not leave her grief-stricken partner's side throughout the heart-wrenching service. Scroll down for video . Possibly the biggest day of Abbott's life, the 22-year-old was surrounded by his cricketing family at the Macksville Recreational Centre . Abbott's girlfriend, Brier Neil, did not leave her grief-stricken partner's side throughout the service . Abbott has received overhwelming love and support during the past eight days since the tragedy . Abbott was the unfortunate player who delivered the bouncer that struck Hughes in the neck during the Sheffield Shield clash at the Sydney Cricket Ground last Tuesday. The 22-year-old has received overwhelming support from the entire cricket community including Hughes' own family who told Daily Mail Australia the day before the funeral on Tuesday that they were looking forward to seeing Abbott and embracing him with open arms. A family member expressed the empathy they felt Abbott's unbearable situation . 'We can't wait to see Sean Abbott tomorrow and give him a big kiss and hug,' the family member told Daily Mail Australia at the time. 'We just want to tell him it was freak accident and he cannot think he had anything to do with it. 'No one is blaming him. We want to hug him and tell him that everything is okay.' United in arms: The devastated look on Abbott's face says it all - pictured right . Former Australian Test star Dean Jones greets grief-striken Sean Abbott on Wednesday . Possibly the biggest day of the young cricketer's life . The courageous young man returned to training on Tuesday with his New South Wales Blues team mates today who rallied around the player at a training session at the SCG. 'It's the whole squad that really needs everyone's support,' a spokeswoman for Cricket NSW told Daily Mail Australia. 'We want to keep supporting them as a group there were a lot of Phillip's friends in the team,' she said. Late last week, friends and mentors at the Baulkham Hills Cricket Club, the north-western Sydney institution where Abbott discovered his talent for cricketas a young boy, joined countless Australians in rallying around the up-and-coming-cricketer. When one of 'Sabs's' team-mates dropped a crucial catch as a youngster, he was always the good sportsman who would pat them on the back and reassure them it would be OK, they said. A distraught Abbott leaves St Vincent's hospital in Sydney after the news of Hughes' passing . The courageous young man returned to training on Tuesday with his New South Wales Blues team mates today who rallied around the player at a training session at the SCG . Ian Chatman, who managed Abbott's junior team for about eight years and witnessed his first century, told Daily Mail Australia he was a grounded young man who was 'loved by everyone, and still is.' 'He was really loved by his team-mates, and he cared about them as well,' said Mr Chatman, who said Abbott would be 'devastated' by Tuesday's events. 'He was always making sure that you know, if someone dropped a catch, he'd be over there patting them on the back saying, "Don't worry about it, it's okay".' Hughes' sister Megan and Australian skipper Michael Clarke both consoled the devastated cricketer in the immediate aftermath of his friend's death. And they were far from alone. Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Opposition Leader Bill Shorten both spoke in support of the struggling cricketer. Former Australian national Test captain Adam Gilchrist tweeted: 'May those footprints in the sand now support another young man in need. #SeanAbbott'.

All eyes were on bowler Sean Abbott at Phillip Hughes' funeral . The 22-year-old wore dark sunglasses and a navy blue suit . His girlfriend, Brier Neil, did not leave his side throughout the service . Hughes family was expected to meet with Abbott while he was in town . Family said the day before the service that they would embrace him . Courageous young man returned to training with team mates on Tuesday .

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An Iranian photographer has captured the desperate lives of South Asian labourers who travel to Dubai in the hope of building a future for their families - but find only squalor, low wages and backbreaking work in stifling heat. Farhad Berahman's pictures were taken in Sonapur, the unofficial name for a work camp on the outskirts of Dubai, located far away from the luxury, soaring skyscrapers and vast wealth that the United Arab Emirates city is renowned for. 'Sonapur' - ironically, the name means 'City of Gold' in Hindi - is home to more than 150,000 workers, mostly from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and China. Scroll down for video . An Iranian photographer has captured the harsh lives endured by the migrant workers building Dubai's ever-growing skyline. Pictured is a huge dirty kitchen at the Sonapur camp where many of them live. The gas pipelines were built by the labourers and not subject to safety laws . Unhygeinic: A man guts fish in filthy conditions in a Sonapur kitchen . Misery: Farhad explains that several workers have their passports seized at the airport, and are forced to work extremely long hours in blistering heat for very little pay. Sonapur is now home for more than 150,000 workers, mostly from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and China . Grim living standards: Jahangir, 27, from Bangladesh, has worked as a cleaner for the past four years. He earns 800 AED (£139) a month and sends 500 AED (£87) to his family. He uses the rest of the money for rent and food . Soaring: Thirty years ago, almost all of Dubai was a desert but it has become one of the main trade hubs and tourist destinations in the region . Thirty years ago, almost all of Dubai was a desert but it has grown rapidly become one of the main commercial hubs and tourist destinations in the region. The photographer has visited Dubai many times and has watched it grow in size and wealth. The 33-year-old says there is an unspoken understanding that there are three different classes of people in Dubai - the Emiratis, the expats and, at the bottom, the labourers who built the city. Farhad explains that several workers have their passports seized at the airport and are forced to work extremely long hours in blistering heat for very little pay. They are taken to Sonapur - which is not on the map - so they can be better controlled by employers. He spoke to one labourer called Jahangir from Bangladesh. The 27-year-old has worked as a cleaner for the past four years and earns 800 AED (£139) a month and sends 500 AED (£87) to his family. He is forced to survive on what little remains. Left, traders display their wares at Sonapur. Right, workers are forced to clean themselves using spartan sanitation . Labourers seek to make extra cash at the weekends by setting up food stalls and trading with fellow migrants . Improvised fun: Labourers enjoying a game called Carrom, similar to billiards, which they built themselves . Gruelling: The labourers usually work 14 hours where in summer the temperature goes over 50C. Western tourists are told not to stay outside more than five minutes . Every evening, the hundreds of thousands of young men who build the city are driven to vast concrete wastelands to work . These labourers are working on luxurious boats in a shipyard in Jaddaf. These boats are used mostly for tourism and can fetch $3,755,000 . Farhad explains: 'People come to this land to make their future and benefit from the huge investments in construction and oil. 'There are many luxurious hotels and world-renowned structures which labourers have built over recent years. 'The employer usually takes their passport as soon as they arrive at Dubai airport and they are all sent to Sonapur. 'The labourers usually work 14 hours where in summer the temperature goes over 50C. 'Conversely, it is usually advised for western tourists not to stay outside for more than five minutes in summer. 'According to the government's laws, work places should close down during this kind of temperature in order not to harm labourers and their health, but the government often does not even announce the right weather temperature.' Harrowing: Their accommodation is cramped, filthy, sweltering and often overrun with vermin. Yet many can't leave . The secret vegetable market within Sonapur is a cheap place for labourers to provide themselves with vegetable and fruits . When Farhad arrived he saw dozens of men sitting around the courtyard on broken furniture, cooking in dirty kitchens and stray animals skulking around. He added: 'The rooms are 12ft by 12ft with six beds and accommodate six to eight people. Food is usually cooked using gas cylinders in terrible condition. 'One of the Chinese workers stopped me, took me to his room and showed me a sign he had written on some wood. It read: 'Dear Boss I am working in your company already 1 year, my contract was expired but I cannot get my salary all 4 month less. I must go China soon, please pay for my money.' Pleading: A Chinese worker has written a message for his employer begging them to pay him and let him go home . Makeshift: Using a broken mirror and stationed next to a bin, a barber sets up shop . Muslim labourers during their evening prayer. Farhad believes that the stories of labourers are extremely important . Shahroukh, who enjoys a better standard of living than other workers, gets ready before heading out to work at a decoration company . The expats who enjoy high incomes will likely never experience the dark side of Dubai, where the labourers' suffering is hidden from the media. Farhad says he was so moved after seeing it for himself that he decided to create the photo series. He said: 'I did not try to get permission since these areas are restricted to the public and I was sure I would be unsuccessful since the UAE does not wish to show this aspect of their country. 'So, I took pictures at night when it was much easier to hide from security. As soon as I started meeting labourers and getting to know them, I realised they were scared of me. 'After a while one of the labourers who could speak English told Farhad they were afraid he was from the government. Devotion: Labourers heading back to their rooms after evening prayer. The mosque inside Sonapur is one of the few well-maintained buildings . Ali Sadam, 24, has been working as cleaner for the past two years and lives with five roommates in Sonapur . He added: 'Most of the time I slept in my car and waited until it got dark so I could do my work.' In spite of his efforts, the photographer was arrested by security and questioned. 'I pretended to be a lost tourist and the security wanted to report me to the police since the labourers' area is forbidden to photograph.' They let him go. The Iranian photographer hopes that this series will make people think twice about what goes on around them, and if they are moved by the suffering they might be encouraged to do something to help. 'I think treating humans so cruelly is against their human rights and yet it still exists around us,' he said. 'I can't tell anyone what to think of the images, but I believe they speak for themselves.'

Photographer Farhad Berahman's striking photos document the lives of South Asian labourers who travel to Dubai . They live in squalid conditions, work in searing heat and often cannot leave as their employers keep their passports .

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A British businessman who escaped jail by fleeing Dubai after having an affair with a married mother has returned to the country to try and get the conviction quashed, MailOnline can reveal. Brian Clark was convicted in Dubai Misdemeanours Court in 2009 of having illicit sex with Marnie Pearce. Ms Pearce, a 46-year-old British mother-of-two, was convicted of adultery in the strictly Islamic United Arab Emirates when her husband Ihab El Labban accused her of cheating on him. She was jailed for three months and lost custody of her two sons in a notorious case that made headlines around the world. Scroll down for video . Jailed: Marnie Pearce made headlines around the world when she was jailed for adultery after allegedly having an affair with Brian Clark in Dubai. She then lost custody of her two sons . Counter claim: Ms Pearce claims that her husband, Ihab El Labban, above, made up the adultery claim to win custody. She then went on to allege that it was HE who was having the affair . In an ironic twist, Ms Marnie's husband then moved in with the American woman she said HE was having an affair with - but escaped scot-free. And in the latest development in the six-year saga, oil-worker Mr Clark is trying to get the case quashed because more than five years have passed since the original conviction. His lawyer Yousuf Hammad told Dubai Misdemeanours Court: 'My client is a married man and a father and lives a happy and stable life. His family depends on him. 'He was sentenced in absentia more than five years ago. We ask the court to dismiss the case due to time lapse.' Ms Pearce was embroiled in a lengthy, bitter and eventually futile battle with her husband to keep her children. The pair married in a dream wedding in the Seychelles in 1999 but not long after their sons Laith, now 13, and Zaid, 10, were born, the marriage fell apart. According to Ms Pearce, a former florist and teaching assistant, they split acrimoniously after she discovered he had been having an affair with American former actress Tonya Thompson, 52. The U.S. businesswoman met Mr El Labban, 47, while visiting Dubai in 2007. His wife said she threw him out after discovering a love letter from Miss Thompson. But her nightmare began in March 2008 when Mr El Labban told police it was she who was having an affair. Anguish: Ms Pearce was caught on video handing over the boys after going on the run for a month with them . Adultery is a criminal offence in the UAE and Ms Pearce contends her estranged husband hurled accusations in a bid to win sole custody of their children. Police who raided her family home found her having tea with Mr Clark, the brother of Ms Pearce's friend, who was visiting Dubai. Despite her claims the friendship was innocent and she had only met Mr Clark three times, officers seized five used condoms and emails. The condoms bearing her DNA (although Mr Clark was never tested) were enough to seal her conviction in November 2008, although she maintained they were planted by Mr El Labban, a former executive with pharmaceuticals firm Procter & Gamble. She appealed and had the sentence reduced to three months in February 2009. Crucially though, she lost custody of her sons. She went on the run for a month to enjoy a few last precious moments with her children, but then handed over the sobbing boys in heartrending scenes outside Dubai criminal courts and gave herself in. 'I was searched and most of my personal items were confiscated,' she said on her release. 'I had to beg the woman guard to let me keep five photos of the children. 'I was strip-searched. I felt so humiliated.' During her time in prison, she shared cells with murderers and prostitutes and lost nearly a stone. The thought of seeing her boys again kept her going. 'Speaking to them on the phone kept me sane,' she said at the time. 'Yet at one point, Ihab wouldn't let me. It was torture.' She insisted: 'I have done nothing wrong. I am a good mother and while my ex-husband would not hurt a hair on the children's heads, what he is doing is wrong. Love quadrangle: Mr El Labban married Tonya Thompson in 2010 and has set up home with her in Florida . 'I never had an affair. This all feels unreal. I knew I would be going to prison and just wanted four weeks with my babies so I could spend as much time with them as possible and so they would know I never intended to leave them.' Mr El Labban, meanwhile, contended: 'I am the victim in this. Marnie has done horrible things.' She was eventually released and her compulsory deportation order waived so she could stay in Dubai and have access to the children. Mr El Labban, in the meantime, married Miss Thompson in 2010 and moved in with her in Orlando - but not before bringing a civil lawsuit claiming emotional and psychological damage and being awarded £3,500 compensation from Ms Pearce. In the latest twist, Mr Clark is pushing to get the case thrown out. Mr Hammad told the court: 'The defence will not discuss the details of the crime considering it is more than five years old. 'We are seeking to have the legal action halted against the defendant and have the case dropped. My client's family is waiting for him.' Just why he is seeking to face justice after all this time is unclear.

Brian Clark was convicted five years ago in UAE of having illicit sex . His lover Marnie Pearce, 46-year-old British mother-of-two, was jailed for three months for adultery after going on the run for a month with her sons . They were taken away and now live with her former husband - she claims that he made up the accusations to get custody of the boys . Ihab El Labban then took up with American woman HE was allegedly having an affair with in case that made headlines across the world . Clark fled UAE before sentence but is now back trying to clear his name .

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A nuclear power plant in Ukraine suffered a technical error which caused a drop in electricity supplies in the war-torn country, it emerged today. The plant's operator announced on Monday that a problem had occurred with a power-generating unit at the site. But Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk provoked further concern today when he referred to the incident during a Cabinet meeting. Nearly 30 years on, Ukraine still struggles to deal with legacy of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster which caused thousands of deaths. Scroll down for video . Nuclear fault: The Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant is the largest in Europe and suffered an accident earlier this week, according to premier Arseniy Yatsenyuk . Volodymyr Demchyshyn, the energy minister, said a short circuit at a power-generating unit in the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant (NPP) plant led to a drop in electricity production. But he insisted that the fault posed no danger and the plant would return to running as normal on Friday. 'There is no threat ... there are no problems with the . reactors,' he said, adding that the accident affected the power output system and 'in no way' was linked to . power production itself. In Vienna, the International Atomic Energy Agency said it . had no immediate comment on the report. Under an international . convention, adopted after the 1986 Chernobyl accident in what . was then Soviet Ukraine, a country should notify the IAEA of any . nuclear accident that can impact other countries. The explosion and fire at the Chernobyl power plant, the world's worst nuclear accident, was caused by human error and a series of blasts sent a cloud of radioactive dust billowing across northern and western Europe. Volodymyr Demchyshyn, Ukraine's energy minister, briefed the media on the accident during a news conference, insisting everything at the plant will be back to normal on Friday . Ukraine, Belarus and Russia, have estimated the death toll at only a few thousand as a result of the explosion while the environmental group Greenpeace says the accident will eventually cause up to 93,000 extra cancer deaths worldwide. Interfax news agency said a 1,000-megawatt reactor was housed in the bloc at Zaporizhzhya where last Friday's accident occurred. Mr Demchyshyn said the affected bloc had been provisionally disconnected from the electro-energy system though its reactor continued to work normally. 'Its power output is not being used. I think that the problem will be resolved by Friday,' he said. The accident has had an impact on Ukraine's energy system, but Mr Demchyshyn said he would ask the major industrial consumers to impose a 'voluntary restriction' in energy consumption. Ukraine produced more than 60 million tonnes of coal last year, making it self-sufficient in electricity and coal. Separatist fighting in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions since June has halted production at 66 coal mines, however, leaving Ukrainian power plants without enough raw materials.

Plant operator announced short circuit in power-generating unit at the site . Led to drop in electricity supplies, but minster insists it posed no danger . Ukraine still struggles to deal with legacy of Chernobyl nearly 30 years on .

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A man has been shot in the leg and arrested because he was unable to load £185,000 of stolen cash onto his motorbike during a bank robbery getaway. CCTV footage shows the man in Huludao, China, trying to load the bag of cash weighing 13 stone onto the back of his motorbike after holding up a security guard at gunpoint. However, he visibly struggles to carry and lift the bag - which contained 1.77million Chinese Yuan - around £175,000. Scroll down for video . CCTV camera footage shows the man dragging the heavy bag of cash across the ground towards his parked motorbike . Another picture, taken from a different camera, shows the security guard dragging the heavy bag of cash through the bank's revolving doors just prior to when he was held up by the robber . The camera footage shows the robber, who was not named, ambushing a security guard who was carrying the bag of cash through the bank's revolving doors, Sky News reported. Using a replica gun, he manages to scare the guard away before taking the bag and starting to drag it across the carpark to a waiting motorbike. However, another camera reveals him struggling to even lift the bag, let alone balance it on top of the fragile-looking motorbike. It is then he was surrounded by police, shot in the leg and arrested. He later told police: 'I hate myself for doing that. How could I do such a thing? 'I will treat my parents and my wife kindly if one day I'm let out of prison.' The bank robber pictured in his hospital bed where he was taken after being shot in the leg during the failed heist . During a filmed interview from his hospital bed, the man admits guilt at having tried to rob the bank .

Bank robbery foiled after thief is unable to make off with bag of cash . He was shot and arrested because he couldn't fit the loot on his motorbike . CCTV camera footage shows him struggling to lift the large bag . Afterwards he said he would behave should he ever be released from jail .

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Fernando Alonso's relationship with Lewis Hamilton appears to be back to full strength after behind-the-scenes footage emerged of the pair embracing following the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi. Alonso left McLaren under a cloud at the end of the 2007 campaign after falling out with the British team and Hamilton as they battled for the title in the Briton's debut year. But Alonso, who will re-join McLaren next season after ending his five-year relationship with Ferrari, congratulated Hamilton, his father Anthony and girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger in the Mercedes motorhome following the Briton's world championship triumph in the desert. Fernando Alonso congratulates Lewis Hamilton after the Briton sealed this year's F1 title in Abu Dhabi . Alonso kisses Nicole Scherzinger in the Mercedes motorhome after Hamilton clinched the championship . Hamilton poses with Rihanna and his girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger in London earlier this week . Hamilton won the final race of the season to beat Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg to the Formula One crown and join Alonso as a double world champion. Alonso and Hamilton are seen entering into a conversation during the brief video before his popstar girlfriend Nicole pays tribute to Alonso's beard. The McLaren hierarchy will meet on Thursday to discuss the identity of Alonso's team-mate next season with Danish driver Kevin Magnussen likely to be retained in favour of Jenson Button. Hamilton crosses the start-finish line to win the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and seal his second Formula One title . And Hamilton believes Alonso will be better prepared to work under McLaren boss Ron Dennis after his acrimonious exit from the team seven years ago. 'It is an interesting decision with the team, but I wish him all the best,' said Hamilton. 'Fernando has grown a huge amount over the years, both as a driver and maturity wise as well. 'And, having the experience previously with Ron, he will definitely have a much better handle on it and won't be in a tricky situation like last time.'

Alonso paid Brit Hamilton a surprise visit in the Mercedes motorhome . The former McLaren team-mates embraced following Hamilton's victory . Alonso also congratulated Anthony Hamilton and Nicole Scherzinger . He will re-join McLaren next term after ending his relationship with Ferrari .

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Just days after the FBI urged members of the military to clear their social media accounts of anything that might draw attention to them for fear of an ISIS attack in the homeland, one very important members of the armed forces has gone out and ignored their request. Medal of Honor winner Dakota Meyer, who served in the Marines for four years, has used both his Twitter and Facebook to taunt members of ISIS, calling them 'cowards.' And now, many around the country are applauding his actions. Scroll down for video . Standing strong: Medal of Honor winner Dakota Meyer has ignored the FBI's request to not taunt ISIS on social media . Proud soldier: Meyer served for four years in the Marines . Won't back down: On Twitter, Meyer invited ISIS members to his book club . 'When I start having to change my life because I'm worried about something that could happen to me, that means terrorism is winning," he told ABC News. 'That means terrorism is working.' He then added, 'I refuse to let these idealistic, radical bullies change the way that I live.' FBI officials had released this warning on Monday in fear there may be a copycat attack in the United States similar to the one that happened this past October in Canada, when two soldiers were killed in two separate incidents by young men who claimed they were ISIS followers in the span of just one week. Meyer does not seem to be concerned though, posting his first amusing threat to Twitter on Tuesday, which showed him smoking a pipe and reading a Marine handbook. 'Wonder if any ISIS members want to drop by and join my book club,' wrote Meyer. He also wrote on Tuesday, in a post on the website Scout, 'If ISIS is using social media to track me, that's a dream come true in my book. These guys are a bunch of bullies that just prey on the weak.' 'I can't travel over there anymore now that I'm out of the Marine Corps, so having them come to me would help out a lot. ISIS targeting the U.S. military is like a sheep targeting a lion. Hopefully one of these a**holes actually shows up. They'll definitely get more than they want at my place!' He then closed by saying, 'I'll take the responsibility to be the liaison for the military. I live in Columbia, Kentucky—oops, is that too much information? Oh well.' They won't win: Meyer also said if he backs down that would mean 'terrorism is winning' American hero: Meyer received his medal for repeatedly entering a kill zone in Afghanistan and saving 36 troops . Meyer was awarded the Medal of Honor in 2011 after repeatedly charging into a kill zone during a 2009 ambush in Kunar Province, Afghanistan in search of four of his missing soldiers. He was able to rescue 36 troops and kill eight Taliban attackers despite being shot in the arms. He was not however able to save his four fellow soldiers and friends who he went in search of, though he did make sure to go back and carry each of their bodies to safety. 'Because of your humble example, our kids — especially back in Columbia, Kentucky, in small towns all across America — they’ll know that no matter who you are or where you come from, you can do great things as a citizen and as a member of the American family,' said President Obama at his ceremony.

Dakota Meyer, a Medal of Honor winner, has taken to social media to write amusing taunts to members of ISIS . In one Twitter post he invites ISIS members to his book club, and on Facebook he labels them 'cowards' This just days after the FBI urged military members to be careful on social media for fear of an attack on the homeland . Meyer says he refuses to back down because that would mean 'terrorism is winning' Meyer was awarded the Medal of Honor for returning to kill zone in Afghanistan repeatedly in 2009 and saving 36 troops when he was just 21 .

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A pair of Burmese migrant workers have been charged in connection with the brutal murder of two British tourists at a luxury Thai beach resort. David Miller, 24, and Hannah Witheridge, 23, were found mutilated on Sairee beach on the after attending a party on the island of Koh Tao in September. Autopsies showed both had suffered severe head wounds and Witheridge had been raped, before their bodies were discovered near the resort known for world-class scuba diving. Scroll down for video . Hannah Witheridge and David Miller were brutally murdered on the island of Koh Tao in Thailand this summer . Burmese migrant workers Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Htun, both 21,  have been charged with the murders. They claim they were tortured by Thai police before they confessed to the crime. The pair were working in the country illegally . Burmese bar workers Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Htun, who were working in the country illegally, have now been charged by Thai prosecutors with with conspiracy to murder, conspiracy to rape and robbery, according to deputy police chief spokesman Colonel Kissana Phathanacharoen. Neither man appeared at the Provincial Court on the island of Ko Samui and they will have an opportunity to enter a plea at the next hearing, he added. They are also entitled to request bail at any time, he said. Police claimed the men confessed to the killings in October, adding that the DNA evidence matched that of the two suspects. Prosecutors have said other evidence includes close-circuit television footage linking the two to the crime. But there has been international concern about the way the case has been handled by the Thai authorities. The pair, both 21, have admitted they were drinking beer and playing guitar near the scene where Witheridge from Great Yarmouth and Miller from Jersey were found on September. They could be sentenced to die by lethal injection if they are convicted. The backpackers' bodies were found in the surf on Sairee Beach (pictured) in the early hours of the morning . But they claim that their initial confessions were extracted by beatings and threats and it was reported that a Burmese embassy official later formally retracted their statements to police. Amnesty International has called for an investigation into the allegations, citing a lawyer from the Burmese embassy legal team who said he had been told that police had beaten one suspect and 'threatened him with electrocution.' The Foreign Office has also expressed concern to Thai authorities about whether the investigation was conducted properly and British detectives also flew to the country to observe and assist the Thai investigators with the case, last month. Along with the torture allegations, police have also been criticised for failing to secure the crime scene and releasing several names and pictures of suspects who turned out to be innocent. They were also condemned after they paraded Lin and Htun in front of cameras shortly after the had made their confessions. A lawyer for the pair also said key witnesses are too afraid to come forward, hampering his clients' defence as they prepare to enter a plea. 'This case is not fair,' Nakhon Chomphuchat, head of their Thai legal team told the AFP. 'They were migrant workers so witnesses do not dare to testify (for the defence). 'We have many disadvantages ... we still have not seen the prosecutors' evidence, we just have to fight as best as we can,' he added. Royal Thai Police Major General Suwat Jaengyodsuk defended the investigation before the country's Human Rights Commission yesterday, according the Bangkok Post. Insisting the DNA tests and arrests had been handled by the book he said there had been no torture at any time during the investigation, the paper reported. Witheridge, a student at the University of Essex, was described by her family as 'a beautiful, intelligent, loving young woman who poured joy into the lives of all who knew her'. Mr Miller finished studying civil and structural engineering at Leeds University in June, where he was on course to achieve a first-class degree. His family said he was a 'hard-working, bright and conscientious' young man who would be 'sorely, sorely missed.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

David Miller and Hannah Witheridge murdered on Koh Tao on Sept. 15 . Migrant workers Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Htun have been charged . Thai police claim they confessed and their DNA was found at the scene . Lin and Htun claim they were beaten before admitting to the crime . Neither man attended court to hear the charges against them .

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Manchester City's players have plenty of reasons to smile after their 4-1 win against Sunderland on Wednesday night but they were in far more sombre mood ahead of kick-off at the Stadium of Light. In another of their popular Christmas videos, the club's media department challenged six of Manuel Pellegrini's first-team to avoid laughing during funny YouTube clips . David Silva, Pablo Zabaleta, Eliaquim Mangala, Aleksandar Kolarov, Martin Demichelis and Edin Dzeko agreed to take part, with mixed results to say the least. Manchester City defender Pablo Zabaleta was one of six players to take part in the YouTube challenge . Striker Edin Dzeko struggles to compose himself before being shown four funny videos . Summer signing Eliaquim Mangala also showed his sense of humour by taking part in the festive video . City's stars took turns to sit in front of a laptop and watch a quartet of hilarious clips posted on the internet's most popular video-sharing site. Dzeko didn't get off to a good start, finding it difficult to compose himself before the play button had even been clicked. And the Bosnian striker didn't last much longer, eventually letting out a giggle towards the end of the first baby-themed clip as Zabaleta also bowed out early on in the competition. The second video, a clip showing a baby chuckling at sheets of paper being torn, failed to claim any victims but the straight faces didn't last long. Argentine defender Zabaleta can't stop himself from laughing at a clip of a baby pulling a stern face . Martin Demichelis eventually cracked up when shown a video of a man hurling himself into a wall . Another hilarious baby clip meant Spanish midfielder David Silva bowed out at the final video . Demichelis couldn't stop himself laughing at a man inexplicably launching himself into a wall, while Silva and Mangala cracked when shown a baby attempting a Kung Fu impression. That left Kolarov, famed for his hard exterior after his not-so-festive rendition of Jingle Bills two years ago, as the winner. After being informed that he'd completed the challenge and that the clips were the best City's media team could find, the defender responded: 'This one? Not for me. Where is my present?' That could well be the easiest victory a City player has this season. Aleksandar Kolarov was left unimpressed with the videos and easily stopped himself from laughing .

Six Manchester City players took part in the Christmas challenge . Manuel Pellegrini's men were shown four hilarious YouTube clips . Edin Dzeko among those to laugh at the first hurdle . City celebrated a 4-1 victory at Sunderland on Wednesday night .

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Ever get the feeling someone’s trying to make a monkey out of you? By the dejected look on Bili the chimpanzee’s face he thinks Tesco are doing just that – after they stopped selling discount bananas to his sanctuary. Fortunately for the 33-year-old chimp, Jan Garen, who runs the Wales Ape and Monkey Sanctuary in Abercave, near Swansea, took a more proactive approach to the problem. Scroll down for video . The monkeys at Wales Ape and Monkey Sanctuary, in Abercrave, near Swansea, appeared unimpressed by Tesco's decision to cancel its supply of waste food to the centre. However, it has now changed its mind . Mrs Garen used to drive to Tesco to buy cut-price waste fruit, vegetables and other produce, until last September staff abruptly told her the special deal was over. She wrote to the store manager asking for an explanation. But when none came she posted the letter on Facebook. It said: ‘It was very disappointing to be told that Tesco will no longer support the sanctuary. I have telephoned and left a message for you but having heard nothing I am writing instead.’ As she waited weeks for an answer, thousands read her post – and many threatened to boycott Tesco. Tesco said it had changed its policy on supplying waste food and didn't want the monkeys to become ill . She was eventually told the supermarket had changed its rules because it didn’t want the monkeys to become ill from eating out-of-date food. She said: ‘There is no way we would feed the monkeys anything we thought might put their health at risk.’ Tesco has insisted that it can no longer provide eggs, yoghurts and other fresh foods. But it has relented on discounted fruit and veg – and a steady supply is back on the menu again. The fruit, veg and other fresh waste food is given to the 90 monkeys and apes who live at the sanctuary . The ape sanctuary spends about £5,000 a year on waste food from the supermarket for the monkeys . The ape sanctuary has bought waste food from Tesco at 10 per cent of the retail price for several years . However, the supermarket giant said it would continue to supply fruit and veg, but not eggs and yoghurts . .

Ape and Monkey Sanctuary regularly bought cheap waste food from Tesco . Used waste fruit and veg to feed 90 monkeys at sanctuary near Swansea . But Tesco stopped delivery over concerns monkeys could get ill from food . Supermarket giant has now confirmed it will continue to provide to centre .

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Yesterday we brought you what we thought were the most awkward Christmas photos of all time, but overnight, more snaps have surfaced of families grimacing in seasonal attire. As families start sending out their Christmas cards, many - like Tony and Cherie Blair earlier this week - will have opted for the personal touch, printing seasonal snaps featuring loved ones, children and pets. But as the former Prime Minister and his barrister wife's annual greeting proves, festive portraits have the potential to inspire more ha ha ha's than ho ho ho. These pictures show the cringe-inducing lengths some parents will go to produce the ultimate holiday greeting even if that means stripping off, cuddling bizarre pets, dressing in matching tartan or even donning PVC. One family even braved the winter chill to strip down and show off their brand new hot tub. Scroll down for video . As families start sending out their Christmas cards, many will have opted for the personal touch, printing seasonal snaps featuring loved ones, children and pets. These pictures show the cringe-inducing lengths some parents will go to produce the ultimate holiday greeting even if that means stripping off, cuddling bizarre pets or dressing in matching tartan and PVC. This family braved the winter chill to strip down and show off their brand new hot tub . One father dresses up as his own baby (left) while another little one is decorated in a straitjacket of fairy lights (right) Resembling a snap from an office party, this family strip off for a naughty festive portrait . Bad Santas with a black eye, matching Christmas jumpers and dad naked by the dinner table, these photographs are definitely on the naughty list. There are a few turkeys in this festive photo album as the most wonderful time of the year is captured in all its awkward glory. Some went even further, dropping the swimming trunks and bikinis, favouring a fig leaf - instead of mistletoe - to cover their modesty in saucy family shot. One family attempted to pose as Santa and his reindeer but just ended up looking like a disjointed human centipede. While others demonstrated that pets such as budgies, a duck and birds of prey and are always risky props. Others covered up in the retro-styled Christmas jumpers that are all the rage at the moment but some of these festive frights are more suited to Halloween. A pair of playfighting siblings are captured mid-scrap in an angelic studio-style setting . Two none-the-wiser sisters perch next to a sinister-looking Santa Claus . This Father Christmas appears to be dozing off as the baby on his knee looks worried . The pole seems the ideal spot to capture that wholesome family photo (left), meanwhile one member of the family on the right has decided she's having none of it . This toddler dressed as a gingerbread man is pulling her angriest face but still looks adorable . Although even the worst woollen wear can't match one family's own tie-dye fashion disaster. They at least took the trouble to co-ordinate their clobber. One dad decided to ruin his relative's festive memories by secretly getting his kit off just before he said cheese. The smile on children's faces at Christmas often makes the months of work that parents put in to finding the perfect present all worth it. But instead their kid's terrible tantrums and tears have been turned into cherished memories in these pics. One naughty boy was even wrapped up in Christmas lights as a punishment - Santa surely didn't visit him that year. Even old Mr Claus himself has been risking the sack with a few creepy pictures. Some people go all-out when it comes to dressing up, like this family of festive presents . A greetings card from a loved-up couple (left) and a pair of siblings who seem to have the holiday mixed up (right) One little girl knows how to get her own way when it comes to sharing, as proven in this family shot . These children are wondering why on earth mum and dad brought them to see Father Christmas - clearly not fans . This family ditched the Christmas sweaters and opted for just a fig leaf to cover their modesty . St. Nicks were snapped letting beards slip, dozing after a few too many sherries and one bad Santa even boasted a black eye. This album of awkwardness certainly proves the saying you can 'pick your friends but you can't pick your family' is true. Nothing looks quite as uncomfortable as matching outfits, except, of course, when just one member of the family decides to just dispense with clothes altogether. But perhaps it's worth treasuring these photos, as next time you feel a little embarrassed about being in a family snap at Christmas, you will remember it could be a lot worse. Awkwardfamilyphotos.com has been top of the tree for priceless family memories since it was set-up by childhood friends Mike Bender and Doug Chernack. Share your awkward Christmas family photos! Send us your name, location and picture to femail@mailonline.co.uk . Awkwardfamilyphotos.com has been top of the tree for priceless memories since the site was set-up by Mike Bender and Doug Chernack . Something's roasting by an open fire but it's not chestnuts... A father-of-two sheds his clothes in this funny family Christmas shot . Mum goes for a PVC santa outfit complete with garter belt, left, while, right, proud parents showcase their children's swimming talents . Dad, put it away! You can tell who likes to sleep naked in this family photo where all members - bar one - are wearing pyjamas . These children are not too happy to be meeting Father Christmas. One little girl sulks while another bursts into tears . This family attempts to resemble Santa and his reindeer but proves that just because you can photoshop your snaps doesn't mean you should . Spot the odd pet out: This dog's owners are absolutely quackers about budgies and birds - even insisting the duck look straight at the camera . It may be true that owners and their dogs look alike - but dress the same too? It's still not clear where the doll fits in in this surreal tableau . Who's game? Welcome to the house where children cuddle dachshunds while their mullet-haired parents show off the family's birds of prey . Tartan army: This family captures the moment when each member is a head taller than the other - and willing to wear a red plaid nightie . The strangest Father Christmas jumpers, left, and the most forced Christmas smiles (or grimaces), right, we've ever seen . Forced into red onesies and wearing glasses that time and taste forgot - who can blame the children for their stony expressions?

Tony and Cherie Blair's annual Christmas greeting has been ridiculed since being unveiled this week . But they're not the only ones, as old photos show other families' ill-judged snaps over the years . Pictures from the Awkward Family Photos blog feature bizarre poses, weird pets and misguided nudity .

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Shot and killed: Tamir Rice, 12, who was holding an airsoft pistol in a park in Cleveland, Ohio . St Louis County Police is mired in fresh killer cop controversy after a post on the force's official facebook page appeared to blame a 12-year-old black boy for the police shooting that killed him. Tamir Rice was playing with a toy gun when he was shot dead by a white officer in Cleveland last week. The tragic incident further fueled the anger and protests that have raged in the wake first of a Grand Jury's failure to indict Ferguson officer Darren Wilson for the shooting of Michael Brown and, now, a second Grand Jury's failure to indict the NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo for his fatal chokehold arrest of Eric Garner. Today, the St Louis force has been slammed for the posting titled, 'Kids will be Kids?' which warned parents, 'Your children should have rules for a toy gun that mirror the rules for a real gun.' Scroll down for video . Weapon: Tamir Rice was captured on CCTV with an airsoft pistol which had no orange muzzle guard . 'Gun': The airsoft replica of a Colt handgun which was taken from Tamir Rice after he was shot . Official account: This was the message posted by Officer Dilks on St Louis County Police's official Twitter today . lengthy: The Facebook posting by the officer which has now been deleted. It said was not about 'whether it was a justified shooting' but was accused of 'victim blaming' The Facebook posting which was tweeted on the department's official feed continued, 'Warn them that these 'toys' do look like real guns and could result in getting the police called on them. The police may get called to respond to a 'child with a gun'…If the type of gun is in question by the witness the Police will respond as though it is a real gun.' The post read by many as victim-blaming went onto provide 'tips' for how a child should behave in such a situation. 'Do not run away. They need to no longer have the gun in their hands, throw it away from them. They need to comply with officers instructions. They may be ordered to lie down on the ground.' Within minutes of tweeting this posting at 7.59am the St Louis County Police City of Fenton Precinct department whose officer wrote the post was facing demands to have their twitter account closed down. Critics dammed the post as 'heartless' and 'victim blaming' and described the officers as 'psychopaths.' Later in the day Chief Jon Belmar used the same page to apologize for the post. 'The post conveyed the message that my officers respond to calls involving a child with a gun with indiscretion and little regard for life,' he admitted. 'The intention of the post was to inform citizens about the potential danger of airsoft or pellet guns resembling real guns. 'However, the post was a misguided communication strategy and was offensive to many people. 'As Chief of Police, I apologize to Tamir’s family and anyone who was offended by the post. 'While the post did not originate from the Chief’s Office and I was unaware of its presence prior to its release, I realize the message was insensitive to Tamir’s family and the sorrow they are currently experiencing.' But the Fenton officer who wrote the post has defended his actions. Neighborhood cop Aaron Dilks said 'I too was a kid, and I would have done the same thing as Tamir Rice did. Officer Aaron Dilks, who used the official St Louis County Police Twitter and Facebook accounts to post on the shooting of Tamir Rice . Profuse apology: Chief Jon Belmar used Facebook to repudiate the earlier post and admit that it suggested his officers do not care about young lives . Mourned: 12-year-old Tamir Rice was buried yesterday after being shot by officers last weekend . Fatal moment: CCTV shows the 12-year-old reaching towards the airsoft gun in his waistband . 'I was allowed to go play with guns and have BB guns - we didn't have Airsofts at the time. The point of 'kids will be kids' is that's what kids will do… . 'The point of putting [the post] out was to educate and make sure something like this doesn't happen in the city of Fenton or in our area.' As for Rice, Dilks added, 'It's a tragedy. It's a shame that a child got shot. I guess that's all I should probably say about it.' The post has now been removed from the facebook page and the link deleted from the force's official twitter feed. A spokesman for St Louis County Police disowned the posting and described it as unauthorized. The force was preparing to issue a statement at time of writing.

Officer from St Louis County police posted on Twitter and Facebook about death of unarmed Cleveland, Ohio, boy shot and killed by officers . Tamir Rice had airsoft pistol in his waistband when police answered 911 call and shot him within two seconds of arriving . Officer Aaron Dilks posted 'warning' on official St Louis County Police Facebook page and Twitter account telling parents of dangers of airsoft . He was accused of 'victim blaming'  and posting was deleted by St Louis County Police . Force was first to investigate officer Darren Wilson over death of Michael Brown and has been involved in policing protests after shooting . Police chief apologizes for message and says he is praying for Tamar . He admits: 'The post conveyed the message that my officers respond to calls involving a child with a gun with indiscretion and little regard for life.'

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Now this is a man who loves his job! A plumber from Dundee has become an overnight sensation thanks to a hilarious video - filmed by his co-worker - which catches him in the middle of an epic dance sequence. Mark Topen was caught showing off his moves to a Robert Miles song - when he should have been working. The 52-year-old plumber spoke to the Evening Telegraph after the video hit the Internet on Thursday, saying: 'I'll admit that it was a bit embarrassing at first, but I suppose that is what is funny about it and I can see that now. 'It's not something I would do all the time because it can be disrespectful to do it in people's homes but this house was empty. 'I definitely think that it helps that I have a character where I can get away with it. A Dundee plumber has become an overnight sensation after a co-worker recorded him dancing on the job . 'Sometimes the job can be stressful, so it’s good to take the pressure off if you can.' In the amusing footage, Mark, known to his friends as Toby, really gives it his all - even performing an impressive spin at one point. Still, becoming something of a local celebrity has all been a bit 'unbelievable.' He said: 'It’s been amazing and I have received so many calls and texts from people telling me they have seen it online. Mark Topen was understandably embarrassed upon learning he'd been discovered, but soon laughed it off . 'In one day I had over 100 people text me to say they’ve seen the video and couldn’t help but laugh. 'I have been stopped by people in KFC and McDonalds, asking for an autograph which is quite surreal. 'It’s good to know that people are laughing with me and not at me. 'My wife works at the Meganni Franklyn salon on Clepington Road and said that everyone in there has found it funny.'

Mark Topen caught on camera by his coworkers while dancing at a job site . The 52-year-old plumber showed off many impressive moves - even a spin . Upon discovering he'd been recorded, Mark simply laughed it off .

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Former England footballer Michael Owen has been inundated with critical messages after starring in a 'sexist' new car ad. In the ad, which was made on behalf of his local car dealership, Owen, who is married to childhood sweetheart Louise Bonsall, compares women to luxury cars and goes on to boast about the 'dozens' of Jaguars he owns. 'You've got to go for looks to start with,' said the star in the clip, before adding: 'Then you look inside. It's probably similar to girls isn't it? Awkward! In the new advert former footballer Michael Owen compares women to luxury cars . 'The look attracts you to start with and then you get to know them a bit more, I think it's the same with cars.' Andrew North, a director at Alexanders Prestige, the dealership behind the ad, defended Owen's statement when contacted by MailOnline. 'I think it's a fair comparison,' said Mr North. 'You are attracted to the outside but ultimately, it's what's on the inside that counts and that's what he was trying to say. 'We actually filmed three hours of footage so that was just a very small part of it.' The cringe-making video, which is set to a classical soundtrack, begins with Owen, 34, standing in the middle of the garage surveying the cars around him. During the two-minute ad, he goes on to make several more gasp-worthy claims. What a stunner: Michael films in front of his new Range Rover, hopefully Alexanders Prestige offered him some sort of a discount . It's a done deal: Michael shakes hands with car dealer Andrew North after receiving his new Range Rover . 'I've owned quite a variety of cars over the years,' he says. 'My first car being a Rover coupe, [I then] progressed to a BMW, Aston Martin, Ferrari and Range Rovers. It's great to come back home so to speak. 'I had a deal with Jaguar for a long time as well, so probably had a dozen Jaguars and a few others.' He continued: 'You know, you grow with cars I was never going to get a Ferrari at 18 or something. You wait until you've earned your stripes so to speak.' Owen - who was once reported to have a net worth of £40million - was clearly unaware that for most, the stumbling block to Jaguar ownership is not being too young but being unable to afford the £170,000 price tag. Not content with that, Owen added: 'In football there is a hierarchy so if you go in with a nicer car than someone who has played a 100 games and played for his country then you'll be quickly slapped down and told to sell it. Alan Patridge? Many have compared former England star Michael's punditry to the fictional character Alan Partridge . Star striker: Michael Owen celebrates a goal during the the 2002 World Cup . 'You have to grow your car organically as I say with how you're doing on the football pitch.' Defending his star, Mr North added: 'Michael was a pleasure to work with. We have known him for years and he have previously worked with him and his family through the equestrian side of the business. 'He was very happy to take part in the advert and we will be working with him again.' 'I met the chaps Andy and Alex [of Alexanders Prestige],' added Owen, 'and we've done a bit of business in the horsey world as well and obviously they picked a really nice one for me. 'I've driven Range Rovers before but it's probably eight, 10 years ago so the new model is lovely and I can't wait to put some miles on it.' When he's not promoting car dealerships, Owen - who during his career enjoyed stints at Liverpool, Real Madrid and Manchester United - works as a footballing pundit but has seen his efforts compared to Alan Partridge. Chaps chatting: Michael chats to Andrew North one of the directors of the company . Away you go: At the end of the advert Michael got to drive off in his brand new Range Rover .

Former England footballer has been inundated with criticism over ad . Has been likened to Alan Partridge over 'sexist gaffe' by Twitter users . Owen makes awkward boasts about having owned dozens of Jaguars .

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No sooner has the pressure eased on one captain than it is being felt by another. The news that Alastair Cook will miss Sunday’s fourth one-day international in Colombo because of over-rate indiscretions has paved the way for Eoin Morgan to take the reins. Since Morgan is without a half-century in 15 one-day innings, the timing may not be ideal. But coach Peter Moores is hoping his temporary promotion will act as a ‘catalyst’ for a player who will need to be at his impish best if England are to have any chance of challenging for the World Cup next year. Eoin Morgan is on a wretched run of form but will captain England in Colombo on Sunday . Morgan’s latest failure, out for a single as he hooked a short ball from Angelo Mathews straight to deep backward square leg during England’s restorative five-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Hambantota on Wednesday night, felt like the act of a player wondering where his next score is coming from. Morgan trudges off after being dismissed for one in the third ODI against Sri Lanka . But England regard him as crucial to their gameplan of scoring heavily in the last 20 overs of an innings. And no player in the current squad has made more than his six centuries in the format. ‘He’ll be very disappointed that he hasn’t yet managed to impact on the series,’ said Moores. ‘He’s a top-flight one-day player. Maybe the captaincy will be a nice catalyst for him, and allow him to take his mind off himself and just go out and play.’ The travails of Cook, who was suspended for one game after twice failing in the last 12 months to keep his bowlers up with the required rate – against India at Cardiff in August and now in Hambantota – have masked Morgan’s own struggles. And Morgan’s have been the more surprising. A naturally gifted striker of the ball, with an eye for the improbable, he has looked recently like a magician shorn of his wand. Moores said: ‘The frustration for him will be how he’s got out a couple of times. You don’t go away from your basics. You do the things you know have worked in the past. You’ve got to believe in yourself. Maybe the captaincy can be a healthy distraction.’ There is frustration, too, that Cook has been forced out of a game having just presided over a victory that has unexpectedly dragged England back into this seven-match series. And while’s Cook’s 34 from 42 balls had a familiar air about it – getting in, then getting out, with Moeen Ali apparently playing a different game at the other end – Moores insisted his under-fire captain had been ‘timing it beautifully’. Morgan will take the reins as Alastair Cook (left) is banned for slow over rates in Hambantota . Morgan and Cook in 2014 (ODI innings . Alastair Cook . Matches: 17 Runs: 470 High score: 56 . Average: 29.37 Strike rate: 71.97 . Hundreds: 0 Fifties: 1 . Eoin Morgan . Matches: 18 Runs: 489 High score: 106 . Average: 27.16 Strike rate: 81.63 . Hundreds: 1 Fifties: 2 . The trick now will be to ensure that the Hambantota result is not a one-off, and Sri Lanka are expected to be boosted on Sunday by the return of the vastly experienced Mahela Jayawardene, who missed Wednesday’s match because it was his young daughter’s birthday. But Moores spoke of laughter on the team bus after the game – rare enough on this tour to merit a mention – and of the opportunity created for others by Cook’s enforced absence. Alex Hales will open with Ali after being given a chance last night at No 3 at the expense of Ian Bell, and the vacant slot in the line-up could be taken by James Taylor, the Nottinghamshire batsman who was one of the stars of the new Royal London One-Day Cup last summer. The England coach confirmed that Cook would resume the captaincy for the fifth game of this series, which dealt with the mischievous suggestion that the tourists may stumble across a successful formula without him. But, as Moores said: ‘We’re still trying to identify our best team.’ The awkward truth is that it may not include the man earmarked to lead England at the World Cup.

Alastair Cook suspended for fourth ODI against Sri Lanka . Eoin Morgan will captain England despite his poor run of form . Irishman hasn't scored a ton in his past 15 ODI innings .

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A 43-year-old mother has died in a house fire in Mount Helen, near Ballarat. Police originally feared the woman and her son and daughter, both 21, had died in the blaze but they have been safely located, the Ballarat Courier reported. A neighbour said she heard a 'whooshing' noise like a firecracker and a loud explosion before the fire started at about 1.30am on Friday. Two women and a man feared dead in house fire at Mount Helen, Victoria . Next-door neighbour Margaret Bell witnessed the explosion and called 000. 'I got up to grab a drink of water and I went back to bed,' Ms Bell told Daily Mail Australia. 'Then I heard a noise, you know how when a firecracker goes off it makes that whooshing sort of a noise, then that stopped and I heard a big explosion.' Ms Bell got out of bed and looked out her window to see the house in flames so she called the fire service. She added that the family had moved to Mount Helen from Ballarat just over one week ago. 'I'd spoken to the lady and her son, she was telling me a bit about herself,' she said. A body has reportedly been found but not identified and a mother, 43, and her son and daughter, both 21, are still unaccounted for . 'They'd moved out here because it's nice and quiet out here. 'It's really sad to think they might have been in the house.' Detective senior sergeant Dave Hermit said two dogs were found dead at the property. The fire took 20 firefighters 90 minutes to bring under control, and the house was completely destroyed. Country Fire Authority operations officer Kade Dowie said investigators believed the family were in the process of moving into the home. 'Investigations are continuing but the story from the neighbours is that they'd only recently moved in, as in last weekend,' Mr Dowie told Daily Mail Australia. Mr Dowie said the scene was handed over to the police forensics and arson squad on Friday morning but crews struggled to access inside the property. 'The intensity of the fire caused the ceiling and roof to collapse, which is causing difficulty with extinguishing and accessing,' he said. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

Body of mother, aged 43, found after house fire at Mount Helen in Victoria . Her son and daughter, both aged 21, have been accounted for . The family were in the process of moving into the home, neighbours said . Witnesses say they heard an explosion about 1.30am and called police . CFA firefighters extinguished the flames but the house was destroyed .

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A white man who was the police chief in a small South Carolina town has finally been charged with murder in the 2011 shooting death of an unarmed black man after being denied a 'stand your ground' defense. Richard Combs worked in Eutawville when 54-year-old Bernard Bailey, a retired corrections officer, came to the Town Hall to complain about a ticket his daughter had received over a broken taillight in May 2011. Following an argument, Combs issued Bailey an obstruction of justice warrant, and Bailey stormed out of the building. Bailey got into his truck in the parking lot and began backing up as Combs opened the driver's door of the pick-up. Indicted: Former Eutawville police chief Richard Combs (left) shot 54-year-old Bernard Bailey twice in the chest and once in the shoulder after Bailey entered town hall with a ticket complaint . Richard Combs, the former police chief and sole officer in the small town of Eutawville, listens in court with his lawyer John O'Leary on Thursday December 4, 2014, in Orangeburg, South Carolina, as he is charged . Scene: Bailey walked into the parking lot of the Town Hall after Combs served him with an arrest warrant and the two briefly fought at Bailey's truck before Combs started firing in May 2011 . The chief told investigators he felt his safety was threatened and began firing his gun. Combs fatally shot Bailey twice in the chest and once in the shoulder. After a delayed investigation, a grand jury indicted Combs on Wednesday, the same day a New York grand jury refused to indict an officer in the chokehold death of an unarmed black man. It's more than a week after a grand jury refused to indict an officer in the death of unarmed Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. Combs' lawyer maintain the officer feared for his life. Prosecutors say he was the aggressor. Investigation: Family and friends of Bernard Bailey say the investigation into his death dragged on too long . Crime scene: Combs' lawyer maintain the officer feared for his life. Prosecutors say he was the aggressor . The indictment against Combs says the former police chief 'unlawfully used deadly force ... shooting and killing Bernard Bailey, when deadly force was not necessary,' during the confrontation, according to The Times and Democrat. 'There was no need for Mr. Combs to act as he did on May 2, 2011, when Mr. Bailey refused service, as Mr. Combs expected would happen,' the order stated. 'Mr. Combs should have allowed Mr. Bailey to leave and enlisted the assistance of other officers or serve the warrant at court as originally planned.' Combs was placed on administrative leave after the shooting. He was eventually fired. If found guilty, Combs faces up to 10 years in prison. Beareaved: Dorris and Briana Bailey, the wife and daughter of the victim, were awarded $400,000 in a wrongful death lawsuit earlier this year . Eutawville's population is just over 300 people. About one-third of the population are black. Friends and family of Bailey - a Walmart manager - have complained that the investigation into his death dragged on too long. In October 2012, the family filed their own lawsuit naming Combs, the town, and the police department in a wrongful death case, according to ABC News 4. Earlier this year they received $400,000 from the town as part of the settlement.

Former Eutawville Police Chief Richard Combs indicted over the shooting death of Bernard Bailey, 54, in May 2011 . Bailey went to the Town Hall to dispute a ticket and Combs served him with an arrest warrant for obstruction of justice . Bailey tried to leave, got into his pick-up in the parking lot and backed out . Combs opened the truck's door and the two fought . Combs then shot Bailey three times . He faces 10 years in prison .

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South Africa captain Jean de Villiers says he is hopeful of being fit for the World Cup in England in September after having reconstructive surgery on his left knee on Thursday. De Villiers, 33, dislocated his kneecap in the 12-6 defeat by Wales in Cardiff on Saturday and early estimates suggested he would be out of action for at least eight months. 'The procedure went well but at this stage it is difficult to determine an exact return in terms of time frame,' team doctor Craig Roberts said in a statement. Jean de Villiers is hopeful of being fit for the World Cup following reconstructive surgery on his left knee . De Villiers dislocated his kneecap in the 12-6 defeat by Wales in Cardiff on Saturday . 'The use of an artificial graft should speed up his rehabilitation and hopefully increase his chances of making a successful return.' De Villiers said his sights were set on getting back in time for the World Cup. 'My focus will now be on the arrival of our third child in the coming days,' he added. 'Thereafter it will be about recovering as soon as possible so I can start with my rehabilitation. I will do everything in my power to get to England.' The 33-year-old is hoping the use of an artificial graft will speed up his rehabilitation .

Jean de Villiers dislocated his kneecap against Wales on Saturday . De Villiers looked set to be out for eight months . South Africa captain aiming for World Cup return next year .

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Jenson Button is feeling 'really comfortable' over his future no matter which way the dice may fall at McLaren. A decision from the team as to whether Button or Kevin Magnussen will partner the returning Fernando Alonso next year is likely to be announced on Friday. It follows a board meeting on Thursday involving Group CEO Ron Dennis and two other primary shareholders in TAG co-owner Mansour Ojjeh and Mahmood Hashim Al Kooheji, CEO of Mumtalakat, Bahrain's sovereign wealth fund. VIDEO Scroll down for Mark Blundell: I would choose to have Alonso and Button . McLaren drivers Jenson Button (left) and Kevin Magnussen address the crowds at Edinburgh on Thursday . Button and Magnussen are vying to partner former Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso at McLaren in 2015 . Dennis has kept everyone waiting on tenterhooks for an announcement as he has opted to evaluate every aspect of his two drivers and take on board opinions, even though the final decision is his alone. It is understood Magnussen will get the nod, with Button switching to sportscars and a crack at the World Endurance Championship where good friends and two other former Formula One drivers in Mark Webber and Anthony Davidson currently ply their trade. Davidson even became a world champion in his own right last month when he and Toyota team-mate Sebastien Buemi, another ex-F1 driver, claimed the WEC crown. Such a move would represent a good step for Button, even though he would love an additional year at McLaren working alongside Alonso. The 34-year-old Englishman appeared in good spirits as he entertained the crowds in Scotland on Thursday . Fernando Alonso pays tribute to his Ferrari team in Abu Dhabi after ending his stay with the Italian outfit . 'It's a weird time,' said Button speaking at a Johnnie Walker 'responsible drinking' event in Edinburgh. 'It's the end of the season, we haven't got a race for many months, and I have had time to reflect on many things. 'The great thing is I've had my family and my mates round, so there have been a lot of people to talk to about it, to discuss. 'It's been an important week, but a really good week. I'm now really comfortable, and whatever happens I will have a great year next year. 'New challenges are exciting, whether it's in Formula One with McLaren alongside an exciting team-mate, or whether it's elsewhere. 'So I'm good, but I just want to get it done. I want to hear the decision - as we all do - so we can all move on in whatever direction.' Button speaks to the assembled media about his future . Button can understand McLaren pursuing a big name such as Alonso in light of Honda's arrival as power-unit supplier after a seven-year absence from F1, and their desire for a marquee name. But he feels it a pity McLaren could not keep faith with himself and Magnussen given the rapport he has developed with the young Dane. Button added: 'I've spent some time with Kevin over the past couple of days, and it's been really nice doing that. 'This situation has been difficult for both of us, but we've shown over the last couple of days that we work so well together. 'It's such a shame we won't be working together in the future in terms of being team-mates. 'But we're both very grown up about the situation and we'll both deal with it whichever way it goes.' Button does have irons in the fire, and whilst nothing is signed as he awaits Dennis' decision, he is looking forward to the future. 'There are options, but nothing set in stone yet,' added Button. 'What I can say is I'll definitely be racing next year, and in a series I'll be very excited to race in, so there's no worry of me not racing next year. 'If it's a new challenge it will be exciting, if it's in Formula One it will be very exciting as well because that will be a new challenge with Honda.' VIDEO Driving for Ferrari 'a unique experience' - Vettel .

Button keen to hear whether he will be racing for McLaren in 2015 . British team had board meeting on Thursday to discuss whether Button or Kevin Magnussen will partner Fernando Alonso next season . Button will call time on his 15-year career if McLaren do not offer him deal . He's explored other options including the World Endurance Championship .

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Nikola Zigic has rejoined Birmingham City five months after leaving the club. The 6ft 8in striker has been granted a work permit and has signed until the end of the season to provide Gary Rowett with another attacking option. Zigic, whose contract worth £65,000 per week was a burden as Birmingham struggled last season, left in July but remains popular with club staff and is now on vastly reduced terms. Nikola Zigic, pictured scoring against Stoke City, has resigned for Birmingham City . The Serbian striker left Birmingham at the end of last season after his contract expired at the club . Zigic cost £6million when he signed from Valencia in 2010 and was on wages of £65,000 a week . Age: 34 . Clubs: AIK Backa Topola (1998-2002), Mornar (2001-02), FK Kolubara (2002-03), Spartak Subotica (2003), Red Star Belgrade (2003-07), Racing Santander (2006-07), Valencia (2007-10), Birmingham City (2010-14, 2014-) Club appearances: 470 . Club goals: 241 . Birmingham appearances: 148 . Birmingham goals: 36 . Serbia caps: 57 . International goals: 20 . The 34-year-old, originally signed for £6million from Valencia in 2010, will not be available for Saturday’s Championship match at Blackpool, however, as he needs to attain a working visa. He will fly to his native Serbia on Thursday to have his application processed in Belgrade. This can take up to a week. It is hoped he will be available for the Championship match against Reading at St Andrew's on December 13. Zigic, part of the 2011 League Cup-winning side, had been training with Birmingham since November and the club are delighted he has re-signed. Director Panos Pavlakis said: 'We welcome him back home. We know how happy he is to be here again and enthusiastic about making a contribution.' Rowett had said previously: 'I think he will bring something different to us, that’s what we are looking at - we want different players in the building and not similar players to what we have got.' Zigic, scoring against Ipswich Town, has returned to his native Serbia in order to get a work permit .

Nikola Zigic has scored 36 goals in 148 appearances for Birmingham City . The Serbian striker has resigned for the club until the end of season . He was released in July but will return to squad once he gets work permit .

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For the first time in recent memory, the sack race is a non-starter. Those Premier League bosses who looked a dead cert for the chop at the tail end of the last season have done enough to survive so far. Sam Allardyce, wanted out by West Ham fans for the majority of the past year, has seen a miraculous turnaround at Upton Park, with his happy Hammers sitting fifth. Paul Lambert, despite a good start to the campaign, has overseen another Villa slide but remains in the hot seat and was even given a brand-spanking new four-year deal in September. Chris Hughton was sacked on December 6, 2010 despite leading Newcastle to the Premier League . Paul Lambert (left) is still under pressure, but Alan Pardew has recovered well at Newcastle . Newcastle fans imploring the club to sack the manager earlier in the season . Alan Irvine at West Brom hangs on, while Alan Pardew fought through the calls for his head at the start of the campaign to guide Newcastle to five Premier League wins in a row. Ian Porterfield was sacked as Chelsea boss on February 15, 1993; the longest time between the season starting and a sacking in top flight history . If those hanging by a thread keep hold of their jobs by Monday, it will be the first time since 1996 that the Premier League has reached this stage of the season without a sacking. Chris Hughton lost his job at Newcastle, somewhat surprisingly, on December 6, 2010, just months after he guided them back to the Premier League from the second tier. A weekend survival would cast memories back 18 years, when Roy McFarland was axed as Bolton boss on January 2, 1996. Happy New Year, Roy. The record for the longest season of bosses clinging on for dear life is 1992-93. Chelsea held fire until after they exchanged Valentine's Day gifts with Ian Porterfield before getting rid on February 15, 1993. Irvine and Leicester's Nigel Pearson lead the sack race with the bookies, and both will want to get to Christmas without their P45s. West Brom sit in 16th place with just three wins all season, and Irvine's side travel to Hull City on Saturday, with their man at the helm Steve Bruce also in the danger zone with just one win in 13 games this term. Newly promoted Leicester go to Aston Villa on Sunday, with the fans just starting to turn against Pearson during the difficult winter period. The axe could be about to fall... 2-1 Alan Irvine . 3-1 Nigel Pearson . 7-1 Steve Bruce . 8-1 Harry Redknapp . 8-1 Paul Lambert . 12-1 Neil Warnock . 15-1 Brendan Rodgers . 20-1 Gus Poyet . 20-1 Mauricio Pochettino . 20-1 Manuel Pellegrini . 25-1 Sean Dyche . 33-1 Arsene Wenger . 50-1 Garry Monk . 50-1 Alan Pardew . (Odds courtesy of Coral) Could Brendan Rodgers be the first high-profile boss to depart the Premier League . West Brom boss Alan Irvine has called on fans to show their support rather than booing during games . Leicester manager Nigel Pearson positions himself in the stands, where he is surrounded by supporters .

If the Premier League doesn't have a sacking by Monday it will be the longest start to the season without a cull since 1996 . Chris Hughton was sacked on December 6, 2010 from Newcastle . Before him, Roy McFarland was sacked as Bolton boss on January 2, 1996 . 1992-93 saw the longest period without a sacking; Ian Porterfield wasn't axed by Chelsea until February 15, 1993 . Alan Irvine, Nigel Pearson and Paul Lambert are all under pressure .

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Spain is steadily becoming a nation of 'ghost towns' - with empty apartment blocks, streets and weed-filled gardens where bustling communities were supposed to move. Entire housing estates built during the country's boom years have been left abandoned, bricked up and now on sale for almost half their original price. One such settlement is Sesena, dubbed the Manhattan of Madrid for its towering apartments and proximity to the capital, where 30,000 people were due to live. Loneliness of the long-distance ruuner: A jogger in the shadows runs past empty apartment blocks in Sesena, a 45-minute drive south of Madrid, where 30,000 people were due to live . Of the 13,000 homes due to be built, only 5,100 were completed - most of them now uninhabited and the Spaniards who bought them as investments now competing to offload them for huge losses. Spain's housing market crash and economic implosion have turned what was supposed to become a vibrant suburban paradise for young Spanish couples and their children into one of the most visible monuments of the country's boom gone bust. Such modern-day ghost towns have become a familiar part of the Spanish landscape, abandoned shells left to slowly decay. The number of foreclosure proceedings skyrocketed during the economic crisis. Barren plains: Landscaped areas, which were due to be built on, lie . vacant on the outskirts of ghost town Sesena as the Spanish housing . crisis continues to take its hold . Nearly 530,000 were granted by courts from 2008 through September of 2011, most to banks taking homes, housing developments and vast tracts of land for residential and commercial real estate projects that may never become reality. The banks were ordered this month by the recently elected centre-right government to set aside billions of additional euros to cover these toxic real estate assets valued at 175billion euro just as Spain teeters on the edge of what could be a lengthy recession. Spain now has more than 5million people (22.9 per cent of its residents) out of work - and recent growth data suggests the situation is only going to get worse. The country's economy shrank, by 0.3 per cent, for the first time in two years in the fourth quarter of 2011. Economists believe it is the start of what could be a prolonged slump as Madrid implements harsh austerity measures to deflate a massive budget deficit. The country already has the highest unemployment figure in Europe. RBS economist Nick Matthews said: 'Some countries in the eurozone may just avoid a recession, but that may be more difficult for Spain. 'Given the need for fiscal consolidation in the country and the pressure that puts on domestic demand, it’s going to be very difficult for Spain to avoid recession.' Economic output in the 17-nation single currency area fell 0.3 per cent in the fourth quarter from the third, official data showed yesterday as the sovereign debt crisis crushed a recovery and looked set to push the bloc in to a mild recession. The Italian economy joined Belgium, Greece and Portugal in formal recession having already shrunk in the third quarter of 2011. Purchasing data from Markit for January showed a slight improvement for the Spanish manufacturing and services industries, but it may not be enough for an economy that has been in recession or close to stagnation for almost five years. Spain had been growing at an above-average rate since the country entered into the eurozone monetary union 12 years ago, but the boom was largely due to the housing expansion fuelled by cheap loans and has been struggling since the 2007 crash. Experts say the government's new provisions for real estate holdings will almost certainly prompt the banks to sell holdings at firesale prices, forcing property values down much more than the 22 per cent that they have dropped since the financial crisis hit Europe in 2008. In Sesena and other ghost developments around Spain, some banks are already trying to unload finished apartments at discounts of up to 50 per cent of their original prices. But that is hurting untold numbers of Spaniards who invested savings and took out big loans to buy property they thought they would be able to sell for more money or rent. Satellite cities that never ended up with populations are not Spain's only problem. Around Madrid and across the country, there are vast subdivisions carved out of farmland complete with paved roads and streetlights but only weeds where houses were supposed to be built. Half-built apartment buildings stand idle in suburbs rich and poor. With unemployment at a eurozone high of 23 per cent, there are simply fewer buyers - and young Spaniards are increasingly trying to find work abroad. In December alone, sales were down 25.3 per cent compared to the same month in 2010, the government reported last Friday. 'This is the problem: Who is going to buy these homes?' said Jose Luis Alvarez Arce, head of the economics department at the University of Navara. It could take years for the banks to clean up their assets and relieve a growing credit crunch affecting individuals and businesses, some of whom never got caught up in the Spanish real estate craze in which most citizens bought real estate as an alternative to savings accounts, investment funds and retirement plans. The boom and bust has been so profound that the impact is changing the Spanish mentality about real estate, said Fernando Encinar, head of research at Spain's most popular real estate website, Idealista.com. Younger Spaniards, he said, for the first time do not believe parents who have told them for decades that they should always buy instead of rent and treat real estate as an investment that will never go bad. The age-old saying in Spain that prices never go down or not for long 'is now broken', Encinar said. No neighbours: One resident of Sesena bought a three-bedroom apartment with a terrace for 185,000 euro but is now stuck in a city that has no public transport or even a pharmacy . 'We're starting to see people who must sell with losses they would have never accepted in the past,' Encinar said. 'And some of these homes are never going to be sold.' Spain's development ministry estimates there are 687,000 unsold new homes for sale. Other studies put the number as high as 1.6million in the nation of 47million, where 80 per cent of the population already lives in owned homes, a rate much higher than nations like France, Germany, Italy and the United States. There is no government figure for used homes for sale, but estimates range into the millions. The value that the banks put on the property just isn't real,' Alvarez said. 'And as a result the banks don't trust each other, they aren't lending to each other and if they don't lend to each other there's no credit for Spaniards.' Juan Carlos Caballero bought his three-bedroom Sesena apartment with a terrace overlooking the residents' pool in 2008 for 185,000 euro after his retired father jumped into the real estate action to buy the same style of apartment at a lower pre-construction price. Landlord's nightmare: A chauffeur who bought a property in Sesena has dropped his rental value by a third but said finding anybody to move in 'like winning the lottery' Father and son were both convinced housing prices would continue to rise as they had since the mid-1990s. They now are stuck with homes in a development that does not have a pharmacy or good public transport to Madrid. The only pizza restaurant is open just three nights a week and on Saturday afternoon when there are enough clients to justify operating, and the roast chicken takeaway only opens Friday nights and Saturday afternoons. Apartment blocks have ground floor commercial space for small businesses so people can walk to buy whatever they need. But most units are sealed by brick walls scrawled with cell phone numbers of owners offering to sell or rent them. Tough decisions: Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy is having to implement massive budget cuts to save the country from bankruptcy . The 33-year-old Caballero, an unemployed chauffeur, last rented his apartment for 750 euro a month two years ago, and is now asking just 500 euro per month. Similar apartments are being offered at 375 euro monthly, but he is asking for more because his is in immaculate condition with new furniture and appliances. His father, Jesus, is offering his apartment for sale at 108,000 euro, meaning he stands to lose tens of thousands of euros in a bid for retirement cash now that he's reached age 67. But banks selling foreclosed property in Sesena have smaller apartments listed as low as  65,000 euro. 'Selling or renting now is like winning the lottery,' said the younger Caballero, who lives with his parents and shells out 500  euro of his 700 euro monthly unemployment cheque to pay his mortgage and other apartment costs. In the town of Yebes more than an hour's drive from Madrid, 9,000 apartments and small houses were supposed to be built in a bucolic country setting next to a high-speed train station so workers could get downtown in less than 20 minutes. But only 1,500 were finished before developers went broke, 3,000 people live there instead of the projected 30,000 and government officials never launched the train service. 'The station is built, the trains are bought but they never started running,' said Mayor Joaquin Ormazabal. The 240,000 euro home he bought would now sell for about half the price. The population in Yebes is increasing somewhat as banks sell off foreclosed properties at low prices, but Ormazabal said it could be decades if ever before the rest of the land is developed. 'Nothing's going to happen until the Spanish economy comes back,' he said. 'Right now no one is thinking about building anything in Spain.' Carlos Velazquez, Sesena's mayor, said the development fiasco has one positive side: Spanish real estate speculators aren't snapping up apartments any more in his town. Those that are buying 'are people who are going to come here to live, pay their taxes and want the place to be nice for their children.'

Spain has highest jobless rate in Europe with 22.9% unemployed . Sesena, dubbed Manhattan of Madrid, supposed to have 30,000 residents . But only 5,100 of 13,000 homes built... and prices now HALF original value .

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Japanese technology giant Honda unveiled their first robot nearly 30 years ago. While innovative for its time, the model, dubbed E0, was little more than a pair of metal legs and could take five seconds to complete a single step. Since then the robot has come a long way - undergoing a series of developments and redesigns that have made it slicker, faster and more robust. And this week Honda showcased its latest offering: a talking, smiling robot friend named Asimo that can play football, climb the stairs - and even pour you a drink. Scroll down for video . From slow to slick: The E0 robot, left, unveiled in 1986, could take up to five minutes to complete a single step. Since then, Honda have released a series of redesigns - culminating in the latest Asimo, pictured right . Honda's humanoid robot, ascends a staircase as it makes its UK debut at the WIRED Conference in London . New look: In 1991, Honda added some colour to their robot when they unveiled the 'E4' (left). Two years later, arms were added to create the P1 (centre). While the P3, debuted in 1997, looks a lot more like the Asimo . Asimo – which stands for Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility – is eventually intended to help people in various situations of need, such as the elderly, or those in disaster zones. The latest version of the robot made its UK debut at the WIRED conference in London on Thursday, during a demonstration that showed off his skills with both balls and drinks. He is 'a little bit of a show-off', according to Vikki Hood, of Honda Motor Europe, who helped Asimo showcase his remarkable range of talents. Asimo has 34 motors to help him perform different types of human movement – such as tilting, balancing and navigating – including a sensor in his wrist which tells him to release a grip. Using the visual information captured by the two cameras in its head, Asimo can detect the movement of multiple objects, assessing distance and direction. Standing at 4.3 feet (1.3 metres) the gentle-handed robot can also hold a soft paper cup to pour liquid without squashing it. It can also predict the direction a person will walk and instantly take an alternate path to avoid a collision. 'He absolutely loves the audience response to what he can do.' Honda began the project in 1986, when they created the E0 robot, which had no torso and took up to 5 seconds to complete a single step. In comparison, the new ASIMO can run at up to 9km an hour. Asimo has 34 motors to help him perform different types of human movement – such as tilting, balancing and navigating – including a sensor in his wrist which tells him to release a grip. It can even recognise the faces and voices of multiple people speaking simultaneously. Using the visual information captured by the two cameras in its head, Asimo can detect the movement of multiple objects, assessing distance and direction. Its human-like hands can open a bottle, pour a drink and carry goods while also expressing sign language. Standing at 4.3 feet (1.3 metres) the gentle-handed robot can also hold a soft paper cup to pour liquid without squashing it. During the demonstration, Asimo climbed stairs, ran in a circle and switched from running, walking and hopping without stopping - something his predecessor could not do. On the head son! Asimo can even kick a football using his updated physique . It can also predict the direction a person will walk and instantly take an alternate path to avoid a collision. Smiley-faced Asimo speaks English and Japanese and can carry a tray, push a cart and even play football. It is also equipped with technology that enables it to maintain its balance even if its gently pushed or pulled. 34 motors allow Asimo to move, and dance, like a human . The robot is powered by a 51.8v lithium ion (Li-ION) battery and can operate for approximately 40 minutes on a single charge. Parts of the technology developed by Honda for the Asimo project have been used to help clean-up efforts at the stricken Japanese nuclear plant Fukushima, but in the humanoid robot, upgrades have focused on making Asimo better understand the world around himself. Without giving any time targets for when he might actually be available for domestic use, Hood admitted 'we still have a long way to go before introducing Asimo into the home – we do not put a fixed time line on it'. Engineers are working on improving his physical capabilities, his dexterity and his ability to lift weight so that he can be helpful in the home. Hood said: 'There is still a lot of work that needs to be done around people's acceptance of robots and identifying what their role in society will be. 'For us as a Japanese company, and looking at Japan where it has an ageing population, we see Asimo as perhaps helping to look after your elderly parents who live with you, helping your children with their homework and also helping with the daily chores.' She did not rule out that Asimo might one day be available from an electronic shop alongside other domestic appliances. He is 'a little bit of a show-off', according to Vikki Hood, of Honda Motor Europe, who helped Asimo showcase his skills. Earlier the year, Satoshi Shigemi, chief engineer, Asmio, said: 'For the first time in Europe, Honda is demonstrating the all-new Asimo- the latest generation of Honda's remarkable research into humanoid robotics. 'Previous generations of Asimo have demonstrated incredible fluidity and speed of movements. 'The all-new Asimo takes this mobility, task performing ability and interaction with people to the next level and moves Honda one step closer to its ultimate goal of developing a robot that can be a helper to people in need.' Honda said that Asimo is still in development and there are no existing plans to commercialise the robot.

Japanese technology giant Honda unveiled first robot nearly 30 years ago . This week, it showcased Asimo - a robot that can climb stars and dance . Latest model can also pour drinks and communicate with sign language . It is eventually intended to help elderly or those in disaster zones .

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Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour has backed Thierry Henry to replace Arsene Wenger as manager at the Emirates one day. The Frenchman’s future is uncertain after he left New York Red Bulls at the end of the MLS season and has been linked with a return to Arsenal in a coaching capacity and Parlour has backed him to take the top job in the future. Henry is Arsenal’s record goalscorer and Wenger is keen to add him to Arsenal’s backroom team. Thierry Henry has left New York Red Bulls and could return to Arsenal in a coaching capacity . Henry is Arsenal's all-time record goalscorer with 228 goals for the club . Parlour told talkSPORT: ‘I think he will definitely get involved with Arsenal. I certainly believe, one day, if he really wants to be a manager, he will be manager of Arsenal. ‘He was such an intelligent player. Arsene Wenger used to have a meeting on a Monday with the players after a game and Thierry would always have his say. He would make some great points, not just about forwards, but about defending and how we defend as a team. ‘He always had that charisma to be a manager. And look at his name around the world. People would want to play for him and he would attract big players.’ Arsene Wenger is keen to add Henry to his backroom team . Ray Parlour believes that Henry is a future Arsenal manager .

Thierry Henry could return to Arsenal in a coaching capacity . Wenger is keen to add the striker to his backroom team . Arsenal announced he was New York Red Bulls on Monday . Henry has not yet revealed his future plans after leaving New York .

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Mile Jedinak admits it is becoming difficult for Crystal Palace players to come to terms with recent refereeing decisions which have gone against the club. The Eagles' skipper was sent off in the 3-1 reverse to Sunderland on Monday night after seeing his side have two legitimate penalty claims turned away by referee Phil Dowd. Santiago Vergini was lucky to avoid conceding a first-minute penalty when he brought down Fraizer Campbell, with Patrick van Aanholt tangling with Wilfried Zaha in what could have been easily given as a spot-kick. VIDEO: Scroll down for Neil Warnock's views on his side's penalty claims on Monday night . Mile Jedinak (left) was shown a second yellow card for a challenge on Jordi Gomez late in the match . Jedinak is sent off by referee Phil Dowd for his second bookable offence of the night . The Crystal Palace skipper leaves the pitch at Selhurst Park on what was a miserable night for the home night . As it turned out neither were given and Steven Fletcher put the Black Cats ahead before the break and, despite Palace drawing level courtesy of a Wes Brown own goal, Jordi Gomez and Fletcher struck either side of Jedinak's red card to seal a second Barclays Premier League win of the campaign. 'I think we gave them two soft goals,' said Jedinak. 'Apart from that I thought we were really good. 'I think they (the penalty claims) were both pretty clear to be honest with you, so, there's not a lot I'm going to comment on in that sense, but he (Dowd) made both decisions and we have taken the brunt of them. It was unfortunate - both times. Fraizer Campbell goes down under a challenge by Santiago Vergini but the home side did not get a penalty . Neil Warnock was unhappy with the decision not to award a penalty and made his feelings known to Dowd . 'It's disappointing when you don't receive the decisions and particularly so early on, particularly when you're on top. You're not going to cry over that, but when they are that obvious it's a little bit difficult.' The defeat saw Palace drop to 17th in the table, with only a better goal record keeping Neil Warnock's side outside of the relegation zone. The 65-year-old revealed after the match that Jedinak had apologised for his sending off and labelled the two bookings as 'silly' - with the Australia midfielder now ruled out of Saturday's trip to Manchester United. 'He (Dowd) decided to give me a yellow on the first one which for whatever reason, the second one I got caught in him it looked like he was right behind me and he's deemed it a yellow card,' Jedinak added. 'I've got to accept that now, I'm disappointed within myself to be missing the game and not being a part (of it) with the boys on Saturday. Sunderland manager Gus Poyet (left) congratulates two-goal hero Steven Fletcher after the Black Cats victory . 'We've got a game in five days' time, everybody has got to be ready and prepared. It's an opportunity for somebody else to step in and whoever is fit and available to be ready and I think the boys are going to give a good account of themselves. I have no doubt about that.' The win at Selhurst Park was Sunderland's second of the season and manager Gus Poyet will be hoping the result banishes the embarrassment of an 8-0 thrashing at Southampton two weeks ago. Gomez grabbed his first league goal for the Wearsiders since his summer move from Wigan and the Spaniard is hoping to build on the victory when they welcome Everton to the Stadium of Light on Sunday. 'It's a very good result for us,' he said. 'It was much needed and it's an important three points on the board. I'm very happy to get my goal but more so with the team performance and final result. 'We're now looking forward to playing at home on Sunday in front of the fans, turn in another performance and get another three points. 'Our fans were brilliant. It has been tough for them lately after the last two results but they backed us in their numbers and they deserve to enjoy this result, they are very important for us and did us proud here.' One downside on the evening for Sunderland was a shoulder injury suffered by Van Aanholt during his challenge with Zaha. The former Chelsea full-back was taken straight to hospital and Poyet confirmed after the match that the Dutchman had suffered a dislocation.

Mile Jedinak was sent off by referee Phil Dowd for two bookable offences during Crystal Palace's 3-1 home loss to Sunderland on Monday night . The defeat saw Palace drop to 17th in the Premier League table . Sunderland won on a Monday for the first time since April 2002 . Eagles boss Neil Warnock revealed after the match that Jedinak had apologised for his sending off during the game . Australia midfielder Jedinak is now ruled out of Saturday's trip to Manchester United .

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Actor Larry Lamb claims the GOPO supplement has banished the surging pain he felt in his knees and hips when running . Determined to stay fit and healthy, actor Larry Lamb turned to running. Entering his sixth decade, the star of EastEnders and Gavin and Stacey fame, laced up his trainers once more. Having suffered painful back ache in his younger years, the now 67-year-old has for the last decade religiously performed half-an-hour of stomach crunches every day to ensure his core was taught to relieve any strain on his back. But at the age of 60, with his back pain 'well and truly under control', he began to suffer twinges and burning sensations surging through his knees and hips. Refusing to give in to the pain. he experimented to try and ease his discomfort. Despite shelling out for proper running shoes and enduring daily doses of raw cod liver oil, the pain persisted. It wasn't until Larry happened upon an article outlining a new drug-free supplement, that he found his answer. GOPO is a supplement, containing a unique part of a rose hip, which helps tackle joint pain. It claims to be the only product of its kind to contain a high level of GOPO - a key component of the rose hip, which is thought to play a valuable role in the care of joints and joint tissues. And the supplement contains high levels of vitamin C, which is thought to boost the immune system and help the body form collagen, which aids joints. Larry told MailOnline: 'It has changed my life. I have to say, it's just incredible.' Around 26 million people across the UK suffer back pain, with many more afflicted by joint inflammation and damage. A recent survey found 90 per cent of people suffering back pain rely on paracetamol to ease their agony. It comes as another piece of research, published in The Lancet, concluded the painkiller is no better than a placebo at speeding recovery. It has prompted experts to call for a change in the advice given, to consider whether it is appropriate to recommend paracetamol as a treatment for back pain. Scroll down for video . Having been active throughout his life to combat back pain, when he took up running again in his early 60s, Larry started to suffer sharp pain in his knees and hips. 'In my early 60s I started to notice problems with my hips – just the occasional twinge here and there – and like most, I ignored the pains and got on with it,' he said. 'However, my left foot, back and knees also started to give me gyp - especially my back, which was becoming increasingly painful and stiff. I've always lived a very active life and I put my aches and pains down to my age and the travelling I do for work.' Larry recently toured around Europe and Tunisia for a Channel 5 programme exploring and telling the story of the birth of the Roman Republic. The 67-year-old star of Gavin and Stacey took up running again in his early 60s determined to stay fit and healthy. But for the first time in his life he was struck by niggling joint ache . Larry, who played Archie Mitchell in Eastenders, told MailOnline that after trying proper running shoes and various supplements, including daily doses of raw cod liver oil,  he discovered GOPO, made from rosehip . Determined not to slow down, the father-of-four, who revealed he does stomach crunches for an half-an-hour every day to keep his abs in shape, said he realised he needed to invest more time and care looking after himself. After buying hi-tech running shoes, but still suffering the pain, he turned to various supplements. He said: 'I'm conscientious about my health, as an older father (his youngest daughters are 11 and 15) it is your job to run around after your children even if your body is telling you otherwise. 'I've never been one for extreme sports, but I did start running six years ago in a bid to look after myself a bit better. 'However, I had to put it to one side as my knees worsened and the pain became unbearable.It was a pain I have never felt before. Larry said the rose hip supplement has 'changed my life' and since taking it he has suffered no pain at all . 'It dawned on me that a hip or joint replacement at my age was a possibility, but it was something I desperately wanted to avoid.' The 67-year-old first tried cod liver oil, taking it in its raw form, but admitted: 'there's no charm in cod liver oil'. But after reading an article by Arlene Phillips, a past judge on Strictly Come Dancing, Larry said he learned of the supplement GOPO. The clinically-proven supplement is specially cultivated from natural rose hip. It also claims to be the only product of its kind to contain high levels of GOPO - the key rose hip component which is thought to play a valuable role in the care of joints and joint tissues. Larry said: 'It has changed my life. I have to say, it's just incredible.' Since starting the supplement three months ago, he said he has not felt one twinge or shooting pain, 'not even one', he added. 'I started taking GOPO after hearing that rose hip works wonders for joint pain – and I can honestly say I have never felt better. 'Within six weeks I noticed a difference, and it definitely helped me scramble across the Roman Ruins. 'Not only has GOPO eradicated the pain I had in my hips and knees, it has also improved my overall wellbeing; I now feel ready to take on my next physical challenge. 'Now my joints are so supple, if I didn't have two left feet, I'd put my name down for Strictly Come Dancing!' And his are sentiments backed up by the professionals. Dr Rod Hughes, consultant rheumatologist at St Peter's Hospital in Surrey, said drug-free alternatives to painkillers are effective in treating back pain. He told MailOnline: 'There is a large body of evidence supporting the use of GOPO - a compound derived from rose hip - in musculoskeletal conditions, with research indicating that it can effectively relieve acute exacerbations of chronic back pain. 'The natural anti-inflammatory properties of GOPO make it a viable replacement to paracetamol in cases of non-specific lower back pain, without the risk of harmful side effects.' GOPO Joint Health is the only product of its kind to contain GOPO - a key component of the rose hip, which is thought to ease joint pain . GOPO is made from 100 per cent specially cultivated natural rose hip. It is the only product of its kind to contain a high level of GOPO - a key component of the rose hip, which is thought to play a valuable role in the care of joints and joint tissues. Rosehip contains a high concentration of Vitamin C - 50 per cent more than oranges. It makes rose hip very effective at boosting the immune system, is commonly used to help treat colds. Vitamin C is also essential for the normal collagen formation, needed to promote health bones and cartilage. It contains powerful antioxidants which act to combat free radicals in the body, which trigger damage to the hips, joints and other areas of the body. The herbal medication is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. It contains polyphenols and anthocyanins, which are thought to ease joint inflammation and prevent joint damage. GOPO was discovered more than 20 years ago in Denmark, and significant levels can only be gathered if the rose hips are dried using a special patented process. It has been available in Denmark for 10 years, and this year was launched in the UK. A pack of 120 5g tablets costs £17.99. Patients take four a day. And Professor Andrew Moore, a leading researcher in pain at the Churchill Hospital in Oxford, added: 'Paracetamol is far from an innocuous drug. 'There may be some patients who will benefit from its use, but they will be very few in number. 'Risk of harm will outweigh the benefit for those patients who are not getting pain relief.' Osteopath at Physical Balance Hampshire, Ian Harrison, added that GOPO helps reduce swelling, which causes joint pain. He said: 'While there are all sorts of back problems, pain is always the common denominator - if people can manage their pain, it will help them keep moving and that is key to breaking the back pain cycle. 'GOPO works to reduce swelling and the pain associated with it. 'We see a lot of patients with back pain but in many instances it may only be mild pain or it could be a reoccurring problem that could be self-managed. 'People should always check serious problems with a healthcare professional, but there are steps they can take on their own to avoid falling into the back pain trap.' A study published in The Lancet found paracetamol is no better than placebo in the treatment of low-back pain . A recent study published in The Lancet concluded that paracetamol is no better than a placebo at speeding recovery. The research questioned the universal endorsement of paracetamol as the first choice painkiller for low-back pain. Low-back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. National clinical guidelines universally recommend the painkiller as the first choice analgesic. The Paracetamol for Low-Back Pain study (PACE) randomly assigned 1,652 people, with an average age of 45 and suffering acute low-back pain, to receive four weeks of paracetamol. One group was assigned a regular dose, three times a day, another took the drug as needed, while a third group received a placebo. All participants were followed up after three months. No difference in the length of time it took participants to recover was found between the three groups. The study authors, said: 'Paracetamol also had no effect on short-term pain levels, disability, function, sleep quality, or quality of life.' Dr Christopher Williams, from the George Institute for Global Health at the University of Sydney, in Australia, said: 'Simple analgesics such as paracetamol might not be of primary importance in the management of acute lower back pain. 'The results suggest we need to reconsider the universal recommendation to provide paracetamol as a first-line treatment for low-back pain, although understanding why paracetamol works for other pain states but not low-back pain would help direct future treatments.'

Supplement GOPO contains rose hip which helps ease joint pain . Actor Larry Lamb told MailOnline the capsules have 'changed my life' Father-of-four began suffering hip and knee pain when he started running . Keen to stay fit and healthy, 67-year-old was eager to exercise regularly . But suffered painful twinges and a burning sensation he'd never had before . After taking GOPO for three months he claims he's not had any pain at all . He told MailOnline: 'It really is incredible. It's changed my life'

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Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock is set to escape further punishment from the FA following his rant after Monday night's defeat by Sunderland. The south London club were denied a clear penalty inside the opening 25 seconds after Santiago Vergini fouled Fraizer Campbell in the box. Warnock was furious with the decision and let his feeling be known after the clash saying: 'I think everyone knows it's a penalty, the referee says he hasn't seen it, but he is in a great position. Fraizer Campbell is brought down by Santiago Vergini but Phil Dowd didn't give Crystal Palace a penalty . Warnock complains to Dowd but the Palace manager will not be punished for his post-match outburst . 'I think the only chance we have of getting a penalty at the moment is somebody picking the ball up and throwing it at the referee. It's so disappointing when you've played so well. 'Even with the second (penalty appeal) one with Wilfried Zaha. It might be on the edge of the box but they have given a goal kick. It bewilders me. 'We are going to Old Trafford on Saturday, we won't get many decisions there I suppose? On another night, major decisions change games - and in the last couple of weeks we've had major decisions go against us. Mile Jedinak was shown a second yellow card for this foul on Jordi Gomez as Palace finished with ten men . Jordi Gomez fires home for Sunderland as Gus Poyet's team beat Palace at Selhurst Park . 'I said to the fourth official: "How does it feel when you see you've made a mistake." He said: "It hurts." So there will be one or two people hurting tonight. 'They (the decisions) get you the points, the assault on Julian Speroni at West Brom when we were 2-0 up and cruising, and Zaha's penalty there. Tonight, you won't get a clearer penalty than that, the defender's just taken his legs. 'You can see it clearly, they should be simple decisions for top class (referees), we are talking about the Premier League - the best in the world - so I don't understand it. Warnock is already facing an FA charge for his comments about referees after defeat to Chelsea last month . 'It's no good speaking to Mike Riley or anything is it? We were told we should appeal more, but I can't see appealing anymore making a difference, can you?' The FA have been made aware of the comments, but it is understood Warnock will not face disciplinary action. He is already facing an FA charge following comments made about referee Craig Pawson following the defeat to Chelsea last month.

Crystal Palace were denied a penalty for foul on Fraizer Campbell . Warnock says refereeing decisions are costing his side points . Crystal Palace boss already facing FA charge for previous comments .

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The start of the ski season is about to get underway. But if you thought all the action happened out on the slopes, you can think again. For a minority of super-rich holiday makers, the real entertainment is to be found back in the palatial chalets that dot the world’s most exclusive resorts. Scroll down for video . A week at the sprawling nine-bedroom Swiss chalet owned by billionaire businessman Sir Richard Branson will set you back an eye-watering £112,000-a-week . The stunning accommodation on offer at rental company Ultimate Luxury Chalets feature swimming pools, saunas, cinemas, hot tubs and even nightclubs. Other include wine cellars, state of the art spas and fully-equipped gyms. But if you want to hire the most exclusive properties at destinations including Verbier in Switzerland and Val D’Isere in France, you’ll need to be among the world’s highest earners. A week at the sprawling nine-bedroom Swiss chalet owned by billionaire businessman Sir Richard Branson will set you back an eye-watering £112,000-a-week. Chalet N, located in the Austrian ski resort of Lech, is said to ‘set the benchmark for true Alpine over-indulgence’ One of the most impressive properties in the ski chalet rental market worldwide, it is an opulent chalet that comes complete with a team of chefs and butlers . As well as its own spa and ‘wellness centre’, Chalet N features massage beds, a private hair stylist, steam showers, indoor swimming pool, a library, dual outdoor hot tubs, its own bar and a billiard room . Situated on a quiet road just 250m from the main ski lifts and backing onto one of the returning pistes, The Lodge is in a perfect location for the slopes. Guests are attended to by a team of 12 staff. The property features a mini ice rink, indoor swimming pool, outdoor Jacuzzis and a luxury spa. The Lodge can accommodate up to 18 adults in nine bedrooms and up to six children and young adults in a specially designed bunkroom. Chalet N, located in the Austrian ski resort of Lech, is said to ‘set the benchmark for true Alpine over-indulgence’. Sir Richard Branson's luxurious Swiss Chalet features swimming pools, saunas, cinemas, hot tubs and even discos . Guests at The Lodge chalet are attended to by a team of 12 staff, while the property features a mini ice rink, indoor swimming pool, outdoor Jacuzzis and a luxury spa . Undoubtedly one of the most impressive properties in the ski chalet rental market worldwide, it is an opulent chalet that comes complete with a team of chefs and butlers. As well as its own spa and ‘wellness centre’, it features massage beds, a private hair stylist, steam showers, indoor swimming pool, a library, dual outdoor hot tubs, its own bar and a billiard room. The property costs up to £384,000-a-week to hire. The Edelweiss chalet in the Courchevel 1850 resort is a towering eight-bedroom property that has become one of the most sought after Alpine retreats. The Edelweiss chalet in the Courchevel 1850 resort is a towering eight-bedroom property that has become one of the most sought after Alpine retreats . Able to sleep 16 people, the Edelweiss chalet was only built in 2012 and is located next to the Bellecote piste. Guests will need to splash more than £400,000-a-week for a seven night stay . The £79,000-per-week Marco Polo chalet in Val D’Isere is described as offering guests ‘700sq meters of Alpine chic’ It features a vast balcony complete with panoramic views of La Face piste, a bbq and outdoor heated seating . Able to sleep 16 people, it was only built in 2012 and is located next to the Bellecote piste. Each bedroom has its own en suite bathroom and the two master suites measure 100sq meters each and come complete with private dressing rooms. Its spa area takes up a whole floor and includes a state of the art gym, a double massage room and a swimming pool. There is a 50m² ski room opening directly onto the Bellecote piste, while the chalet is so big it even has a lift to take guests between floors. Zermatt Peak, situated in the Swiss resort of Zermatt, is said to ‘set a new precedent in luxury chalet accommodation’ The 4.5 metre floor to ceiling windows in the lounge offer spectacular views, while the interiors ‘ooze style, luxury and panache’ The Courchevel 1850 resort also features the stunning six-floor Le Petit Palais chalet . Guests can use the beauty salon and sprawling spa, with the chalet costing £188,000 for a seven-night stay . On the ground floor there is a 130sq meter nightclub with a DJ booth, dancefloor and bar, which can fit 100 people. The chalet costs a staggering £431,000-a-week to rent. The Marco Polo chalet in Val D’Isere is described as offering guests ‘700sq meters of Alpine chic’. The property can accommodate 12 guests in its six en suite bedrooms. It features a vast balcony complete with panoramic views of La Face piste, a bbq and outdoor heated seating. The price is not surprisingly out of the reach of many Val D’Isere visitors, costing £79,000 per week. Zermatt Peak, situated in the Swiss resort of Zermatt, is said to ‘set a new precedent in luxury chalet accommodation’. Sleeping 18 people, the Chalet Truffe Blance in Verbier, Switzerland, is referred to as a ‘vision of grandeur and elegance’ Based on an 17th century Italian residence, it spreads over 3,000sq meters, while its spa is said to have been inspired a the Roman Empire. It also has a 15m indoor pool . The 4.5 metre floor to ceiling windows in the lounge offer spectacular views, while the interiors ‘ooze style, luxury and panache’. It features its own masseuse, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. It also has a cinema, library and and a private chef. It can accommodate up to 15 guests and comes at a cost of up to £113,000 for seven night’s hire. The Courchevel 1850 resort also features the stunning six-floor Le Petit Palais chalet. It has a total of seven bedrooms and again includes its own nightclub and cinema room, while the master suite measures 855sq ft, and takes up an entire floor of the property. Guests can also use the beauty salon and sprawling spa and costs £188,000 for a seven night stay. Sleeping 18 people, the Chalet Truffe Blance in Verbier, Switzerland, is referred to as a ‘vision of grandeur and elegance’. Based on an 17th century Italian residence, it spreads over 3,000sq meters, while its spa is said to have been inspired a the Roman Empire. It also has a 15m indoor pool. An exotic Turkish hammam displays extravagant domes derived from the Ottoman architecture. Surrounding the hammam, pool and relaxation area are nine treatment rooms, a Finnish sauna, 20-seat home cinema, sushi and vodka bar, private nightclub and pool table. The wine cellar has underwater windows looking out into the pool. But such luxury does not come cheap, and guests will need to spend up to £172,000 per week to hire the property. www.ultimateluxurychalets.com .

The Edelweiss chalet in Courchevel is the world's most expensive chalet . It costs a staggering £431,000-a-week to hire and has its own nightclub . A seven-night stay at Sir Richard Branson's Swiss chalet costs £112,000 . The luxury chalets features swimming pools, saunas, and private chefs .

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There is clear scientific evidence that the benefits of circumcision outweigh the risks, a landmark report has declared. A debate has long raged over the ethics of the procedure - and some men believe it has affected their sexual function or satisfaction. But U.S. officials have now said the medical evidence supports having the procedure. The announcement came in new long-awaited draft guidelines released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This is the first time the U.S. Government has released such a report on circumcision, where the foreskin around the tip of the penis is cut away. Guidelines: U.S. medical experts have declared there is now clear medical evidence to support circumcision . While the guidelines stop short of telling parents to get their newborn sons circumcised, they are very clear on the health advantages. 'That is a personal decision that may involve religious or cultural preferences', said the CDC's Dr. Jonathan Mermin, who oversees the agency's programs on HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. The procedure is done because germs can grow underneath the foreskin. CDC officials say circumcision can lower a man's risk of sexually-transmitted diseases, penile cancer and even urinary tract infections. The new guidelines are the result of seven years of work, after a cluster of influential studies in Africa indicated circumcision might help stop spread of the AIDS virus. 'The benefits of male circumcision have become more and more clear over the last ten years,' said Dr Aaron Tobian, a Johns Hopkins University researcher involved in one of the African studies. But the guidelines are important, because the rates of newborn male circumcision have been dropping, he added. In the new guidelines, the CDC says there is now strong evidence that male circumcision can: . Studies have not shown that circumcision will reduce an HIV-infected man's chances of spreading the AIDS virus to women. And research has not found circumcision to be a help in stopping spread of HIV during gay sex. The guidelines say circumcision is safer for newborns and infants than for older males, noting the complication rate rises from 0.5 per cent in newborns to nine per cent in children ages one to nine. Minor bleeding and pain are the most common problems, experts say. CDC officials are recommending doctors tell parents of baby boys of the benefits and risks of circumcision - but does not detail how that information should be presented. Because circumcision can be beneficial to men as well, the CDC says information about the procedure also should be given to sexually active uncircumcised men - especially men considered to be at higher risk of catching HIV, the report says. However the guidelines, which the public will be able to comment on for the next 40 days, are likely to draw intense opposition from anti-circumcision advocacy groups. 'This is a passionate issue for them and they feel strongly that circumcision is wrong,' said Dr Douglas Diekema, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington. The thinking on circumcision has swung wildly over the years. While it has been practiced by Jews and Muslims for thousands of years, it didn't become common in the U.S. until the 20th century. Controversial: The new guidelines, which state how the procedure can cut risk for HIV, STDs and penile cancer, are expected to draw intense opposition from anti-circumcision advocacy groups . By one estimate, only 25 per cent of U.S. male newborns were circumcised in 1900. It gradually became the cultural norm, and in the 1950s and 1960s surpassed 80 per cent. But then the trend reversed. This was partly to do with changing demographics, as the U.S. population grew to include larger numbers of Mexican-Americans and other ethnic groups that didn't traditionally circumcise their children. Also, opposition to the procedure grew from advocates who decried the pain, bleeding and risk of infections to newborns, the Associated Press reports. Their message was aided by the Internet and by the neutral stance of physicians groups - including, for a time, the American Academy of Pediatrics. By 2010 the newborn circumcision rate was down to about 58 per cent, according to one CDC estimate. But even as the circumcision rate dropped, more medical evidence came in supporting it - particularly three rigorous and influential studies in Africa that looked at the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases in circumcised and uncircumcised men and their partners.

Brief procedure involves cutting away the foreskin around tip of the penis . Officials say it can lower a male's risk of sexually-transmitted diseases, penile cancer and even urinary tract infections . New guidelines released by U.S. Centers for Disease Control prevention . Expected to draw opposition from anti-circumcision advocacy groups . Cut a man's risk of getting HIV from an infected female partner by 50 to 60 per cent. Reduce their risk of genital herpes and certain strains of human papillomavirus by 30 per cent or more. Lower the odds of urinary tract infections during infancy, and cancer of the penis in adulthood.

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Beach baby: Kate did take George with her on holiday to Mustique in January . The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are facing a public backlash for going on a second honeymoon without seven-month-old Prince George. The couple have flown to an exclusive resort on the Maldives, leaving their baby with Carole and Michael Middleton – plus his own security detail – at their Berkshire mansion. But the decision sparked a storm on social networking sites Mumsnet and Twitter. Critics said they were wrong to leave the young Prince for so long, while others were concerned about the extravagance of their stay only a few weeks after the whole family, including George, went to Mustique. The couple arrived at Cheval Blanc Randheli on Noonu Atoll, on Thursday for a week-long break. Packages there, including flights, can cost £6,799 a person. Some people questioned how Prince William, already condemned for boar hunting in Spain last month, was able to take time off from his ten-week agriculture management course at Cambridge University. One mother, who uses the blog name louloutheshames, posted on Mumsnet: ‘Seriously? Think this might turn public opinion against them .  .  . seems its just one long holiday for the D and D of Cambridge.’ Another blogger called crazy spaniel remarked: ‘Well they need a holiday – him to recover from the shooting holiday in Spain a couple of weeks ago, and her to recover from the Mustique holiday last month. I think she may even have put on a posh frock and “worked” for a couple of hours in between. No wonder they’re exhausted.’ Katienan wrote: ‘I like them but am shocked by this, just makes me think they are the same old royals .  .  . Can’t imagine choosing to be so far from my baby for so long,’ while another contributor said: ‘These two really p*** me off. 'Life’s one long holiday’. Frogwatcher42 added the ‘arrogant’ couple might ‘finally break the royal family’. Paradise: Hotel Cheval Blanc in the Maldives where the royal couple are enjoying a romantic break . However the couple also had some support. One mother of two said: ‘If the baby is in good hands, why not? He is first [grandson] for doting GPs [grandparents] and probably has a very competent nanny. If I could afford a holiday every few weeks without the baby, I’d take them too.’ Others said ‘each to their own’. Next month the Royal couple embark on a three-week tour of New Zealand and Australia – this time accompanied by George. Kensington Palace have declined to comment on a private holiday. YES says Karren Brady . Businesswoman and mother of two . As a mother she has been branded selfish, uncaring, shameful and unusual. What nonsense. The Duchess is none of those things. And, quite frankly, I believe she has made totally the right decision. When my daughter was seven months old I took her on holiday to America. I had more luggage than a family of ten, what with sterilisers, bottles, formula, nappies, every possible piece of medical equipment I might remotely require plus clothes, sun creams, prams, car seats, sun umbrellas and a selection of toys. She screamed the whole way there, so much so that I contemplated drinking my own body weight in red wine. The time difference played havoc with her body clock, and mine, and I found I’d left certain toys at home she wanted. It was possibly the most stressful week of my life. The truth is travelling with a baby, especially when aeroplanes are involved, is rarely a pleasant experience. 'You can only have a good time in the Maldives if you like the person you are with as, other than swim, sunbathe and eat, there is nothing to do' Kate, we are told, wants to spend . quality time with her husband, and I admire this because marriage, like . children, is a lifetime commitment and you have to work at being good at . it. And trust me, . I’ve been to the Maldives, and you can only have a good time if you like . the person you are with as, other than swim, sunbathe and eat, there is . nothing to do. The Duchess is being far from selfish. She has left her child with its loving and doting grandparents; she hasn’t dropped him off at Battersea Dogs Home. Nor is she uncaring – she has made a decision that her son is better off in his usual routine than being dragged to a small island in the heat. 'Kate is now a member of the Royal Family, and while their ways may seem formal to her, she has embraced them wholly and willingly' The truth is that as a predominantly . stay-at-home mum she spends many hours of quality time with her son, and . probably far less quality time with her busy husband. And while it’s probably true that, as one of the thoroughly  middle-class Middletons, her natural instinct may have been to rarely let her baby son out of her sight during his formative years, the fact is that Kate no longer resides among her own class. She is now a member of the Royal Family, and while their ways may seem formal to her, she has embraced them wholly and willingly. In the long term, George will benefit from her decision to make her marriage a priority because, as children will tell you, they are far happier in a household where both parents love each other than in a household where they do not. And this is a household where even a blind man can see there is much love. We also forget that Kate and William are young, newly wed, new parents and face a lifetime dedicated to public service, so we know that it’s not easy for them to avoid the media. We also know what happened the last time they went on holiday. Is it any wonder they have had to take over a whole island to ensure they get some privacy? My daughter will soon turn 18; she has no recollection of the nightmare trip to America. In the years between then and now there have been many business trips on which she has not accompanied me. My advice to Kate? Don’t let guilt hold you back. Fast forward to when George is 18. So, he didn’t go to the Maldives with you, and probably missed many other official trips besides. But he will have your strengths, your independence and will have benefited massively from the loving home you and his father are providing. In fact, he will be just fine. And who knows, maybe Kate and William are working on a little Princess! NO says Anne Atkins . Writer, Broadcaster and mother of five . When our second child was a few weeks old I accepted a weekend’s work with a theatre company. Wanting  to be professional, I left my baby at home. As soon as I arrived I realised my mistake. A child of that age will sleep through anything, she wouldn’t have been any trouble and someone would have cuddled her if she’d woken while I was working. Her breastfeeding never fully recovered, and she was the only one  of our children  who needed bottles before she was weaned. This was something she minded very much when  I told her years later. Of course parents need time to themselves. When ours were young we would spend one evening  a week alone. But let’s face it: Kate and Wills are not going to be alone. If I was to be surrounded by security men, press officers and so on, I’d include a nanny or two and take my baby too. We have an odd trait in Northern Europe that  I call generational apartheid. Unlike those in more relaxed southern climes, we behave as if we really  don’t like our children. The couple arrived at Cheval Blanc Randheli (pictured) on Noonu Atoll, on Thursday for a week-long break. Packages there, including fights, can cost £6,799 a person . We park them with babysitters, send them upstairs when we have friends round. I sometimes wonder why  the British have children at all, we complain so much when they’re home for the holidays. And much as I love and admire the Queen, no reign is entirely without error, and I suspect hers perhaps came when her children were very young. For instance, leaving the young Charles and Anne behind when she went to Australia for two months. How did they cope, knowing their mother’s subjects came before they did? At school, I had a wonderful history teacher, Margaret Chamberlain. She often challenged our thinking, and  one day criticised Elizabeth I for not continuing the Tudor line. We leapt  to Good Queen Bess’s defence: she  was far too busy being a brilliant monarch. ‘But providing an heir,’  Mrs Chamberlain said, ‘is part of being a good monarch. By leaving no clear succession, she let her people down.’ Raising the next generation of Royals was part of Elizabeth II’s job. Considering the chaos they went on to make of their own relationships, this was perhaps not her finest hour. After that weekend without my baby, I never did it again. I took them all over the place: breastfeeding during  a lecture I gave, or over dinner after Question Time. Our youngest visited the Richard and Judy studio at three days old. I was far happier, and like  to think they were too. Of course Prince George’s grandparents are competent: that’s  not the point. How will the parents  feel if anything goes wrong and they can’t comfort him? Come on Kate! Your middle-class, nurturing family gave us more confidence than the Windsors. We don’t need you to be grand and cool. Take your babies (and nannies) with you next time, and enjoy yourself even more.

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have flown to a resort on the Maldives . They left baby George with Carole and Michael Middleton in Berkshire . Critics said they were wrong to leave the young Prince for so long . Others were more concerned about the extravagance of their stay . The whole family, including George, went to Mustique just a few weeks ago .

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A cash-strapped mother-of-four has revealed that she is planning to fund Christmas by selling her breast milk. Rebecca Hudson, 26, from Manchester, appeared on This Morning and revealed that she has so far made £3,700. The entrepreneurial mother came up with the idea after realising that she was producing more milk than her youngest child Milly, now one, needed. Scroll down for video . Entrepreneurial: Rebecca Hudson, 26, from Manchester is selling her own breast milk . She sells the milk for £12.50 a bottle and has amassed a devoted group of eight clients, among them a bodybuilder. The Manchester mother also admitted that some clients purchase the milk to use for 'sexual purposes'. 'What they do with the milk is up to them,' she said. 'I'm not going to discriminate. There's no difference for anyone who wants to use the milk, from a bodybuilder to someone who wants to use it sexually.' She also used her appearance on the ITV flagship show to hit out at those who say drinking breast milk is revolting, saying that drinking the substance is completely 'natural'. Selling well: Ms Hudson says she has so far made £3,700 and has eight devoted clients . Not bothered: Ms Hudson says she has no problem with people using the milk for 'sexual purposes' 'Some think drinking breast milk is disgusting,' Ms Hudson explained. 'That's their problem. It's natural and full of vitamins.' She also revealed how much she makes from her unusual business. 'For a 5oz bottle, I would make £12.50,' she told a clearly impressed Philip Schofield. 'So for a usual pop can, that would be £27.50. I've made over £3,000. The exact figure is around £3,700 or something.' Ms Hudson isn't the first person to make a profit from breast milk. Mommy Milk Creations was set up by mother-of-three Allicia Mogavero earlier this year and uses the substance to make jewellery. Each piece is made by hand and takes up to five hours to create. Ms Mogavero then sells the jewels for $160 (£97) each. So popular has the company become, Ms Mogavero has a 12-month waiting list. Mothers can also pay to have their own breast milk used in the jewellery. Money-making: Another mother, Allicia Mogavero, has also hit on a novel way of monetising milk - jewellery . Expensive: Ms Mogavero sells her creations for $160 (£97) each and has a 12-month waiting list .

Rebecca Hudson, 26, from Manchester has made £3,700 so far . Has eight regular customers including a bodybuilder . Says some clients buy the milk to use for 'sexual purposes' Began selling milk after producing more than baby daughter could drink .

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A prostitute has told a court of the moment her 'boyfriend' - and father of her child - shot dead a client, who was the grandson of Henry Ford. Dijana Kilic took the stand as the key witness connecting Danyell Thomas, 36, to the murder of John Dahlinger, 56, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in October last year. She told the jury at Kent County Circuit Court yesterday that Thomas - who also acted as her pimp - broke into her client's home, fired a shot and later confessed to shooting the victim in the head. Thomas denies murdering father-of-two Mr Dahlinger after he was unable to pay for Ms Kilic's services. Prostitute Dijana Kilic testified against her former pimp Danyell Thompson as part of her plea agreement . Danyell Thomas enters the courtroom on the third day of his trial in Grand Rapids, Michigan . John Dahlinger was found dead by his longtime fiancee Melanie Yanchuk at their Grand Rapids condo . If convicted, Thomas faces life in prison without parole for felony murder, conspiracy to commit armed robbery and felony use of a firearm. She described the 'sexless' encounters with Mr Dahlinger that led to his death, reported Michigan Live. 'I wasn't really thinking that day,' she said. 'I didn't really believe he'd come in with a gun.' Jurors heard Ms Kilic met businessman Mr Dahlinger, in the fall of 2013 when she saw him smoke crack in a group at a Northeast Side trailer park - and then again on October 8 after he contacted her through an ad online. Ms Kilic said he paid her nearly $1,000 for her time when they met at a hotel on 28th Street - but all they did was talk and use drugs. She admitted trying to slip a drug in his drink, but he did not pass out. In court, Ms Yanchuk wept as said she far as she knew Dahlinger, a father-of-two, did not use drugs or prostitutes . Danyell Thomas, left, is accused of murdering Dahlinger in October 2013. He was allegedly shot after he could not pay prostitute Dijana Kilic, right, after she performed a strip tease at his home . And when she met him a second time on October 16 - the night Mr Dahlinger died - it was Thomas who drove her home afterwards. This time, she gave him heroin with the hope he would pass out, but as she modeled underwear for him, he asked her to perform a sex act with a friend while he watched. She said she refused. During the encounter, she exchanged numerous text messages with the accused, who asked her repeatedly if Mr Dahlinger had money - indicating the pair planned to rob Mr Dahlinger and anyone else at the property. The texts allegedly sent from Ms Kilic suggest that Mr Dahlinger was waiting for one of his sons to bring money. And many of the messages from Thomas ended with the phrase 'FTP 2014' - which Ms Kilic said meant 'F*** the police'. She said Thomas then came in with a gun and pointed it at both her and at Mr Dahlinger. She claims she ran out of the room and the heard a single gunshot after Mr Dahlinger said the words: 'I didn't do anything'. As they drove home, she told the court Thomas confessed to the shooting, but said it was accidental. They then visited the Gun Lake Casino in Wayland in a bid to establish an alibi for the time of Mr Dahlinger's death. Ms Kilic told the court she began working as a stripper at the age of 20 and later stepped up to prostitution . She gave details about text messages exchanged between her and Thomas on the night Mr Dahligher died . In the messages shown to the court, the accused asked her repeatedly if Mr Dahlinger had money - indicating the pair planned to rob the businessman . The pair were arrested two weeks later and Ms Kilic's fingerprints were found all over the scene of the crime. Despite Thomas's please, Ms Kilic co-operated with the police and accepted a plea deal - which led to Thomas being charged with felony murder. After pleading guilty to armed robbery, she was sentenced to one year in prison - but only spent a few months in Kent County Jail, and agreed to testify against Thomas. She helped police officers recover a .357 magnum allegedly belonging to Thomas from a river - which was linked to bullet fragments recovered at the scene. As part of the plea agreement, her testimony cannot be used against her. The court heard she began working as a stripper at 20 and later moved to prostitution using a website where she would meet up with men. She insists she never had sexual intercourse with her client - even though her adverts claim she was 'very open minded' and 'aimed to please'. She said Thomas, who she lived with in North Wyoming, was OK with her sex work under those conditions. According to the Kent County Prosecutor's Office, part of the plea also deal included allowing Ms Kilic, a Bosnian immigrant, to stay in the country. Soon after the homicide, Ms Kilic found she was pregnant by Thomas and gave birth to his son. Barb Bechtel comforts John Dahlinger's son Mike during Danyell Thomas's murder trial yesterday . The victim's fiancee Melanie Yanchuk, center, sits with Mike Dahlinger in the courtroom . Mr Dahlinger's late father has always claimed he was the illegitimate son of Henry Ford following an alleged affair the car manufacturer had with his young secretary. The victim's mother, Barbara Dahlinger - who was married to John Sr. - has previously confirmed the claim. 'Yes, my husband was the illegitimate son of Henry Ford,' she told Detroit News. 'So what if it's true? Everybody knew it back then. 'I lived it. My son lived it. And there's nothing to be gained by rehashing all this again. The Ford Motor Co. owes us nothing.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Admitted prostitute Dijana Kilic took the stand as a key witness connecting Danyell Thompson to the murder of John Dahlinger . Mr Dahlinger was shot dead in his Grand Rapids, Michigan, home last year . Court heard Ms Kilic's 'boyfriend' and pimp shot him and confessed to her . She accepted a plea deal in exchange for testifying for the prosecution . As part of the deal, her testimony cannot be used against her . If convicted, Thomas faces life prison without parole for felony murder, conspiracy to commit armed robbery and felony use of a firearm .

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An airport employee was allegedly assaulted by a man with his backpack Tuesday morning. The incident took place at 6:22am at a security checkpoint inside Boston's Logan International Airport, Massachusetts State Police said. The 74-year-old victim - who has not been publicly identified by authorities - talked to 53-year-old Eric S. Brandhorst as he kneeled on the ground, state police said in a release. Brandhorst's backpack 'was too large to fit inside a guide rack for appropriately-sized carry-on luggage,' it stated. Confrontation: Eric Brandhorst allegedly assaulted an airport worker after she told him his backpack was too big and pointed out a place where he could check it instead . Assault: State police say this photo shows Brandhorst walking away after striking the 74-year-old woman . The woman indicated a place where Brandhorst could check his backpack instead after he got on his feet, Massachusetts State Police said. 'Suddenly, and with no further conversation, the approximately 6-foot, 200-pound [Brandhorst] swung the backpack with both hands from his right shoulder into the left side of the victim’s face, knocking her down,' the release said. Nearby Trooper Dana Cresta saw the assault took place and got Brandhorst down on the ground, according to Massachusetts State Police. Brandhorst faces assault and battery with a dangerous weapon on a person age 60 or older charges, the release said. He reportedly said he had been 'aggravated' and 'made a mistake' while speaking to state police at his booking. Both the woman's left eye and left side or her face were bruised, and she told authorities she had hip, knee and shoulder pain, Massachusetts State Police said. Massport firefighters looked at the woman before she was taken to a hospital. Stopped: Nearby Trooper Dana Cresta saw the assault took place and got Brandhorst down on the ground .

The alleged assault took place at 6:22am at a security checkpoint inside Boston's Logan International Airport . Eric Brandhorst allegedly hit the woman with his backpack after she indicated a place where he could check it . Both the woman's left eye and left side of her face were bruised, and she told authorities she had hip, knee and shoulder pain .

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Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock has been fined £9,000 by the Football Association following post-match comments about referee Craig Pawson after the 2-1 home Barclays Premier League defeat by Chelsea on October 18. The Eagles boss, 65, had said referee Craig Pawson was 'influenced' by Chelsea players in the decision to send off Damien Delaney for a second yellow card. Warnock denied the charge and had requested a personal hearing, which was held on Wednesday. Crystal Palace boss Neil Warnock has received a £9,000 fine and warned about his future conduct . Warnock was left fuming with Premier League official Craig Pawson after the Chelsea match . Referee Pawson was criticised by Warnock for sending off Palace centre back Damien Delaney . A statement from the FA read: 'Following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today [Wednesday 5 November 2014], Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock has been find £9,000 for misconduct in relation to post-match media comments. 'Warnock was charged following media comments he made after the game against Chelsea on 18 October 2014 which The FA alleged implied the match referee was motivated by bias; and/or brought the game into disrepute. 'The charge, which Warnock denied at a personal hearing, was found proven and he was also warned as to his future conduct.' Referee Pawson (second right) showed Delaney a red card during Palace's home match against Chelsea . Speaking ahead of Palace's match against Sunderland, Warnock accepted he would have to change the way he handled himself in the media. 'I don't think I can change the way things are. I have to change myself,' said Warnock, who would go on to lament some decisions he felt went against his side in the subsequent defeat by the Black Cats on Monday night. 'At the moment I have to change to adhere to instructions that are currently with the Premier League. Whether that is detrimental to the press or not, I don't know, but I have to change - they are not going to change for me.'

Crystal Palace boss Neil Warnock was unhappy with referee Craig Pawson after his side's 2-1 defeat against Chelsea in October . Warnock felt Chelsea players had say in Damien Delaney's sending off . The 65-year-old has accepted he has to change in order to avoid disciplinary action .

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Wales manager Chris Coleman feels his players have 'grown up' after going top of their European Championship qualifying group. Coleman's side held talented Bosnia and Herzegovina to a goalless draw at the Cardiff City Stadium on Friday night to make it four points from two games as Belgium and Israel won their first games elsewhere in Group B. Wales now welcome Cyprus to Cardiff on Monday night and Coleman says it will have been a productive camp if they win that game and make it seven points from nine. Wales manager Chris Coleman reacts from the sidelines at the Cardiff City Stadium . Wales forward Gareth Bale races past Bosnia's Miralem Pjanic at Cardiff City Stadium . 'These players have grown up,' Coleman said about a team missing influential midfielders Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen through injury but who almost grabbed a winner through Gareth Bale in the final seconds. 'They're not scared of it, they've accepted the compliment of being called the 'golden generation'. 'That's a huge compliment, I've told them they've got to earn it and they knew the pressure going into the game. 'There was a big crowd for a reason but they didn't disappoint. If we beat Cyprus I think it will have been a productive camp.' Over 30,000 turned up on the night as fans appeared to fall in love with their team again after several years where apathy has reigned in Welsh football. They saw Wales having to hold on for long periods as the Bosnians dominated midfield and goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was forced to produce several outstanding saves to prevent the hosts from falling behind. But Wales rallied at the end and Bale - who was brilliantly denied by Stoke's Bosnian goalkeeper Asmir Begovic - Hal Robson-Kanu and Ashley Williams all had late chances to score. 'Gareth's chance was Scotland all over again, when he scored that fantastic late winner,' Coleman said, recalling a World Cup qualifier two years ago. Wales' Simon Church (centre) and Bosnia and Herzegovina's Toni Sunjic (left) battle for the ball . Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey dives to make a save from Bosnia and Herzegovina's Haris Medunjanin . 'I thought he would get a chance but I didn't expect it to be from the same place, but it was a great save. 'We had other chances and it was a good point and a great performance. 'We had to ride our luck a little bit because they're a good team. 'You know against teams like that you have to do that because they have enough quality when they're on their game to hurt anybody. 'We had to stand up to the challenge and we matched them. Wayne pulled off some great saves and we had some chances at their end. 'They kicked us, we kicked them and it was a good old-fashioned international match. 'We never played our best football but we dug deep. In terms of putting it on the line, I felt our players didn't have anything more to give.' Coleman felt Bosnia midfielder Miralem Pjanic was fortunate to stay on the field after picking up a first-half booking for felling Jonathan Williams. Moments later Pjanic fouled Williams again but he escaped with only a lecture from the Russian referee Vladislav Bezborodov. 'We thought he could have been sent off,' Coleman said. 'On another day maybe, because he kicked him again seconds after the first challenge. Bosnia and Herzegovina's striker Edin Dzeko (R) runs with the ball during the Euro 2016 qualifier . Wales defender Ashley Williams (2nd left) went close with a header in the second half . 'It was a shame because he's a fantastic player, when you look at him from afar he's good but when you see him close he's even better.' Bosnia coach Safet Susic said he was not disappointed with a point and insisted everything was all to play for in the group. 'The game was as I expected. It was a difficult game,' Susic said. 'We came here to get three points and we took some risks. 'The score is not bad for either team because they are our direct opponents for second place. 'But I think the best players on the pitch were the two goalkeepers.'

Wales drew 0-0 with Bosnia in European Championship qualifying tie . Ashley Williams frustrated after wasting one of his side's best chances . Gareth Bale's shot was brilliantly saved by Asmir Begovic at the end . Manager Chris Coleman pleased with the development of his player .

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