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By . Emily Davies . Attack: The words of Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, will be felt acutely by Ian Duncan Smith . Coalition austerity measures are a disgrace that have left people facing hunger and destitution, according to the country’s most senior Roman Catholic. Vincent Nichols said the Government had destroyed even the ‘basic safety net’ in welfare and the system had become ‘punitive’ toward those who did not understand it. ‘People do understand that we do need to tighten our belts and be much more responsible and careful in public expenditure,’ said the archbishop. ‘But I think what is happening is two things: one is that the basic safety net that was there to guarantee that people would not be left in hunger or in destitution has actually been torn apart. It no longer exists and that is a real, real dramatic crisis. 'And the second is that, in this context, the administration of social assistance, I am told, has become more and more punitive. ‘So if applicants don’t get it right then they have to wait for ten days, for two weeks with nothing – with nothing. For a country of our affluence, that quite frankly is a disgrace.’ His comments to the Daily Telegraph came as he prepared for a consistory in Rome at which he will receive a red cardinal’s hat. He is one of 19 clerics chosen by Pope Francis to be elevated to the highest rank of Roman Catholic clergy. It grants him a place in the conclave that will elect the next pope. As Archbishop of Westminster, he is the head of the Roman Catholic Church in England and Wales. His attack will be felt acutely by the Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith, who is a practising Roman Catholic. In December, the Tory minister accused Church of England bishops of unfairly criticising his reforms. The Church had launched a campaign of billboards bearing the slogan ‘Britain Isn’t Eating’. Hitting back: Work and Pensions Secretary Ian Duncan Smith has previously admonished members of the clergy for criticising his welfare reforms . But Mr Duncan Smith rejected the campaign in a letter, which was leaked to the media. He wrote: ‘I strongly refute this claim and would politely ask you to stop scaremongering in this way. ‘I understand that a feature of your business model must require you to continuously achieve publicity, but I’m concerned that you are now seeking to do this by making your political opposition to welfare reform overtly clear.’ Archbishop Nichols has spoken out in the past on issues such as lack of compassion in the Health Service and the negative impacts of social networking site Facebook. He attacked David Cameron’s Big Society push, which he said was failing, and last year condemned the Government for its ‘shameful’ response to the conflict in Syria. In 2012, he criticised the Prime Minister for supporting same-sex marriage and described the proposals as undemocratic as well as Orwellian.

Vincent Nichols, the Arhbishop of Westminster, attacked austerity . He said people who cannot understand the system are being punished . Follows attacks from Church of England Bishops last year .

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By . Kieran Corcoran . A 'psychotic' killer who butchered a mother and son and was freed from Broadmoor hospital after just seven years has uploaded a video of himself sipping expensive whisky and flaunting his watch collection. Gregory Davis, 35, stabbed Dorothy Rogers 31 times, then chased her fleeing son, 19-year-old Michael, to a children's playground and disembowelled him. Davis - who has claimed he thought the world was an unreal game he could only escape by killing - planned the attacks in his diary before carrying them out in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, in 2003. Boasting: Gregory Davis, 35, uploaded a video to YouTube showing off his watch - which has been valued at as much as £25,000 . Sipping whisky: Davis was also pictured drinking spirits in the video. He has since tried to mount of a defence of his attacks by emailing the victims' local paper . A court heard that he was gripped by a 'psychotic episode' at the time, and Davis was allowed to plead guilty to manslaughter with diminished responsibility, and was sent to a high-security hospital rather than prison. Davis was released in 2011 leaving the family of his victims disgusted after persuading a mental health tribunal he was well enough to be given a conditional discharge. The conditions were lifted earlier this year and since then Davis has been taking advantage of his new-found freedoms. He posted a video on YouTube showing off a glitzy watch collection and swigging the pricey drink. Victims: Michael Rogers, left, and Dorothy Rogers, right, were both killed by Davis in frenzied and brutal knife attacks in 2003 . In the video, which has now been taken down, he flashes his collection - with one Patek Phillipe thought to be worth around £25,000 and makes a show of drinking the spirit. Davis tried to join a trip to Thailand with luxury watch collectors but they were 'horrified' when security checks revealed Davis's disturbing past. The flashy display has left many wondering where he gets the cash for his ostentatious spending. A former friend of Davis's victims said: 'The thought that Greg Davis is drinking alcohol again and spending thousands indulging his passion for watches is disgusting. Killer: Davis is pictured above in his police mugshot from the time of his sentencing . 'He should never have been freed after such an horrendous crime.' In a lengthy email sent this month to the victims' local newspaper, Davis mounts a 1,600 word defence of the killings, barely pausing to express any remorse for their deaths. He claims he thought the world was a video game emanating from a blue orb on the back of his head, and the only way he could escape this 'unreality' was to commit horrific crimes. He said: 'I thought that nothing was real in the world expect [sic] me and that I had created the world as a game to test myself. 'I believed this information was emanating from a blue orb in the back of my head and I had to do what it was telling me. 'I was convinced through the delusion that I had to be the opposite sort of person to how I had always been in order to break out of the unreality of the world I though I was trapped in. 'Since in my life I had always been a law-abiding, polite and kind person up to that point, I was deluded into believing that I had to do terrible things like killing people.' He adds: 'Of course the terrible acts I committed will never be healed for the victims' families and I live with part of me destroyed by what I did. 'All I can do is try to live as good a life as possible and make a positive difference where I can.'

Killer Gregory Davis, 35, uploaded video of him flashing wealth . Stabbed Dorothy Rogers, 48, and disembowelled her son Michael, 19, in 2003 . Court heard he was gripped by 'psychotic episode'during the attack . He pleaded guilty to manslaughter with diminished responsibility . Was released in 2011 and has had last conditions of bail lifted . Friend of victims says it is 'disgusting' that he has been freed at all .

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In different circumstances, Steven Naismith’s national anthem of choice might have been the Land of My Fathers, rather than Flower of Scotland. The talented Everton forward has emerged as a key tenet of Scotland manager Gordon Strachan’s squad. Yet, with his father having been born in Wales, he had options when it came to his allegiance as a youngster. All very topical given the issue which has dominated the build-up to Friday’s Euro 2016 qualifier between Scotland and Republic of Ireland. Scotland's Steven Naismith says he could have played for Wales as his father was born there . Aiden McGeady and James McCarthy are Scots playing for Ireland. James Morrison, Russell Martin and Chris Martin are Englishmen playing for Scotland. Born and reared in Ayrshire, however, there was never any genuine prospect of Naismith accepting the invitation to become the Scotsman who played for Wales. ‘I was playing for Scotland Under-19s and my father was born in Wales, so I could have played for them — but it wasn’t something that crossed my mind,’ revealed the 28-year-old. ‘I was enjoying playing for the Under-19s and growing up it never crossed my mind that I could play for Wales. It was probably brought to my attention by them chancing their arm and thinking it might be an opportunity. ‘I always thought about playing at Hampden. But don’t get me wrong – everybody’s circumstances are different. ‘If there’s a chance for somebody to have an international career and maybe go to a major tournament, would you give that up just because you weren’t born in that country? ‘Everybody’s different and so are their circumstances. I was fortunate that I had played for Scotland since I was 17 and everybody knew about that. Shaun Maloney (left) celebrates with team-mates Naismith and Ikechi Anya in the game with Poland . ‘And I knew if I did well for my club and the international team, I would progress.’ It helped that there was no pressure from his father to have a change of heart. ‘My Dad sees himself as Scottish,’ Naismith explained. ‘He was born in Wales but he was only there for a few weeks so there wasn’t anything to debate.’ For others, the decision was less cut and dried. The furore over McGeady and McCarthy has provided the main backdrop to a game dominated by intricate sub-plots and side shows. Both players were entitled to play for Ireland by virtue of a grandparent. McCarthy, it should be said, was also ignored by the SFA for some time — a fact which can hardly be overlooked by prospective boo boys. Aiden McGeady qualifies to play for Ireland through his grandparent . Most of the English-born players in the Scotland squad are also eligible under the grandparent rule. Were the decision his, Naismith would draw the line at parents. ‘Those are the rules so if it can improve your team, and it has improved our team, we’re happy about it,’ he continued. ‘I personally think there should be a cut- off — not distant relatives. But those are the rules at the moment and every country in the world is doing it so I don’t think there’s any point in debating it. We wouldn’t have too many complaints about it.’ Asked if having a Scottish or Irish grandparent is simply too tenuous, the former Rangers player nodded. ‘I think it could get changed a bit to, maybe use the word, tighten it up a bit,’ he said. ‘That’s my view personally. Then again, who am I?’ The subject is never likely to arise in an Everton dressing room where some of his closest colleagues play for the Republic. Seamus Coleman will be detailed to mark Scotland dangerman Ikechi Anya and, in a sobering assessment for those who think home advantage will be enough to beat the Irish, Naismith says of his club-mate: ‘For me, he’s the best right-back in Europe. ‘He’s probably the most down-to-earth guy I’ve ever met in football and it’s great to see how he’s just going to be a superstar. Seamus Coleman will be the man tasked with the challenge of marking Ikechi Anya . ‘Nothing fazes him. He just goes about his business. He does everything exactly the same as when he was back in Sligo. That’s a fantastic quality to have. ‘He gets everything he deserves because he is such a fantastic player. He is so humble and works very hard to get where he is. ‘Darron Gibson (in midfield) shouldn’t be underestimated, either. They’re definitely quality players and they are going to be a threat.’ The likelihood is that Martin O’Neill will line up with a 4-1-4-1 formation geared towards throttling the life out of Scotland’s 4-2-3-1. The former Celtic manager’s emphasis on set-pieces is also familiar enough to supporters in this country. Yet Naismith sees no benefit in dwelling on what Ireland will do. Buoyed by the performances in the opening three qualifiers, the striker says Scotland now have the luxury of concentrating on their own abilities. ‘Scotland is in a fantastic position at the moment,’ he said. ‘What’s going on is really enjoyable for everyone in the squad and that’s showing in our performances. ‘The manager will highlight what Ireland’s positives and weaknesses are. But it’s mainly what we’re going to do and that’s the way it should be. ‘It’s the hardest group and we’ll need to be great all the way to get through, but we’re capable of it.’ Highlighted by Scotland legend Graeme Souness as a ‘proper lad’ who mixes quality with a ferocious work ethic, Naismith was flattered by the remarks. Yet he knows, and accepts, there is one area of his game – identified by Souness as Scotland’s achillies heel - he needs to improve. Four goals in 31 caps for his country is an improvement on Steven Fletcher’s one in 16. In comparison with Robbie Keane’s 65 goals for Ireland, however, it’s small beer. ‘On the goalscoring, all the forwards are at fault,’ Naismith acknowledged. ‘I don’t have a good scoring record for Scotland and think I should do better. ‘Fletch is probably the same and I’m sure Shaun Maloney has said he should score more. ‘In this day and age, it’s not about one guy scoring. ‘On the other hand, if we make it to the major tournament and Fletch hasn’t scored a single goal, I won’t care as long we’re there. I don’t think he’d care, either.’

Steven Naismith's father was born in Wales and the forward could have played for them . Naismith says he never considered playing for Wales . Ireland face Scotland in the Euro 2016 qualifier at Celtic Park .

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The Fairtrade scheme is not helping the poorest workers it was set up to support, a damning investigation has found. Fairtrade goods, which include bananas, coffee and chocolate, generate . annual UK sales of £1.78billion. Farmers signing up to the scheme must . agree to meet social, labour and environmental standards set by . Fairtrade International. But research by the University of London’s School of Oriental and . African Studies has found that on Fairtrade farms in Uganda and . Ethiopia, profits failed to trickle down to much of the workforce. Damning: A report said the Fairtrade scheme was not always helping the workers that needed it most . The Government-sponsored report claimed the scheme, established more than 20 years ago, has not effectively improved the lives of the poorest people. It even concluded that wages on non-certified farms were actually higher than for those growing Fairtrade products. Researchers also found evidence of ‘widespread use’ of child labour – . with some workers as young as ten – when doing checks on 1,500 Fairtrade . workers. One of the report’s authors, University of London economics professor Christopher Cramer, said: ‘Wages in other comparable areas and among comparable employers producing the same crops but where there was no Fairtrade certification were usually higher and working conditions better. ‘In our research sites, Fairtrade has not been an effective mechanism for improving the lives of wage workers, the poorest rural people.’ The study found that some social projects funded through Fairtrade were found not to provide equal benefit to all. In one example, modern toilets funded through the scheme were reserved for managers, while poor workers did not have access to proper facilities. Child labour: The report examined farming under Fairtrade in Ethiopia (pictured) and Uganda . Meanwhile, when workers aged over 14 years were interviewed, ‘a very large proportion of them said they had been working since the age of 10, or even earlier’, the report said. ‘What is clear... is that very significant numbers of young, school-age children are having to work for wages in the production of agricultural export crops, including Fairtrade-certified commodities.’ The authors attacked a ‘combination of idealism and naivety’ to explain why Fairtrade did not reach the poorest people. ‘One possibility is that Fairtrade producer organisations are always established in significantly poorer, more marginalised areas where an accumulation of disadvantages means smallholder farmers are unable to pay even the paltry wages offered by smallholders in other areas without Fairtrade producer organisations,’ the report said. ‘Fairtrade attempts to support and subsidise co-operative groups of ‘smallholder’ producers on the remarkably naïve assumption that the benefits of this support are distributed evenly amongst the group. This assumption about egalitarian distribution is unwarranted.’ Fairtrade International said in a statement that the report was ‘unfair and generalised’. A spokesman said:  ‘In several places it compares wages and working conditions of workers in areas where small-scale Fairtrade-certified tea and coffee farmers were present with those on large-scale plantations in the same regions,” it said in a statement. Study: Farmers in Bako, central Ethiopia. Fairtrade International said the study was too generalised . ‘The report itself identifies farm size, scale and integration into global trade chains as major factors influencing conditions for wage workers, but then its conclusions appear to be based on unfair and distorted comparisons between farms and organisations of dramatically different size, nature and means. ‘When comparisons are based more on like-for-like situations, such as the study’s own analysis of Ugandan coffee in small scale coffee production set-ups, it finds key areas where workers in areas with Fairtrade-certified farmer organisations in fact had better conditions compared with those in non-certified, such as free meals, overtime payments and loans and wage advances for workers. ‘This is in sharp contrast to the more generalised conclusions being presented by the School of Oriental and African Studies team.’ Fairtrade was founded by overseas development and consumer groups including Oxfam and the Women’s Institute - and has grown into one of the world’s most trusted ethical schemes. It is involved with 1.24 million farmers and workers around the world, and the Fairtrade Foundation contributes to the funding of schools, health clinics and sanitation projects. Farmers joining the scheme must agree to meet social, labour and environmental standards. Fairtrade products are not only popular with individual consumers but also served by Starbucks, the House of Commons and airline Virgin Atlantic.

Scheme began 20 years ago and generates £1.78bn a year in UK sales . But government-sponsored research found faults in Uganda and Ethiopia . They found widespread use of child labour with some workers aged just 10 . Wages on some non-Fairtrade farms were actually higher than on others . Fairtrade International insisted the report was 'unfair and generalised'

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Alvaro Negredo has been named in Valencia's squad for the first time since breaking his foot before his loan move from Manchester City. The Spanish forward could now make his long-awaited debut for the club against regional rival Elche at Mestalla Stadium on Saturday. 29-year-old Negredo scored 23 goals in 48 games as Manchester City won the Premier League and Capital One Cup last season. Alvaro Negredo poses during his unveiling as a Valencia player last month . The Spanish forward has not played for Valencia after breaking his foot in a pre-season game in July . But the former Sevilla man has been sidelined since breaking his right foot in one of City's pre-season games in July. Negredo is currently at Valencia on a one-year loan deal that includes an obligatory purchase clause at the end of the deal. The La Liga club are currently sitting fourth in the division, five points off leaders Barcelona after eight games. Negredo celebrates with the Capital One Cup after helping City to the trophy last season .

Negredo in Valencia squad for the first time since breaking his foot . The forward was injured in a Manchester City pre-season game in July . Made the switch to the Mestalla on an initial one-year loan in September .

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By . Luke Salkeld . PUBLISHED: . 18:11 EST, 14 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 01:49 EST, 15 August 2013 . Joan Edwards’s solicitors yesterday tried to clear themselves of any blame over the spinster’s bequest to the nation finding its way into party coffers. West Country solicitors Davis Wood initially refused to comment on the case for reasons of ‘client confidentiality’ but then produced an ambiguous statement. It said: ‘At the time of the instructions received from the late Miss Edwards, the solicitor specifically checked with Miss Edwards about the unusual nature of her proposed bequest and it was confirmed by Miss Edwards at the time of her instructions that her estate was to be left to whichever political party formed the Government at the date of her death.’ Peter Wood, partner at Davis Wood Solicitors, the firm which drew up Joan Edwards's will in 2001 . This statement again failed to provide any evidence that Miss Edwards intended to make a generous gift to the Tories and Lib Dems. Richard Roberts, who chairs the Law Society’s wills and equity committee, said: ‘Wills are construed extremely tightly and I have now seen a copy of Miss Edwards’s will. It does say quite specifically “for whichever government” . . . it does not say “for which political party shall form the government”. ‘If that’s what Miss Edwards intended, the solicitors writing the will should have said that. They didn’t.’ Asked if the verbal clarification secured by the executors trumped what was written down, Mr Roberts said: ‘No. The will is crystal-clear on the face of it. ‘Solicitors who prepare wills know . perfectly well they have to avoid ambiguity. It is regrettable but it . appears they did not actually interpret her instructions clearly.’ Miss . Edwards died last year and had no husband or children. Her will was . drawn up by the Bristol-based firm run by experienced partners James . Davis and Peter Wood. On Tuesday afternoon, after obtaining a copy of . the will, the Mail rang Davis Wood and was put through to Mr Wood. He . declined to comment, on the basis of ‘confidentiality’, so the Mail . emailed a series of questions asking who was responsible for . interpreting the will as meaning she wanted her money to go to . ‘political parties’. Miss Edwards died last year and had no husband or children . Mr Wood again declined to comment, citing the same professional reason. The political parties, on the other hand, had no such qualms. By late afternoon, as the buck was being passed frantically around Whitehall, a consensus was emerging that it must surely be all the fault of the executors. Former midwife Joan Edwards dedicated her life to public service and then left £520,000 as a gift to the nation when she died. Here is how the Government could put her money to use within her beloved NHS: . Sources at the Lib Dems and the Tories were actively briefing against the small West Country firm. Both parties maintained the first they had heard of Joan Edwards was when the solicitors phoned up with the welcome news she had left them some money. The Lib Dems insisted: ‘The decision to give the money to political parties was taken solely by the executors of the will.’ A Tory spokesman added: ‘The solicitors for the deceased informed the Conservative Party that it was a beneficiary of the will.’ By yesterday morning, heavyweights on all sides of the political spectrum were urging that the money be repaid, and by 11am, the Lib Dems and Tories had announced they were giving up their windfalls. The will was drafted on September 17, 2001, without mentioning political parties at all. Instead, it stated she wanted her money to go to ‘whichever government is in office at the date of my death for the government in their absolute discretion to use as they may think fit’. Edward Fraser, a wills specialist at London solicitors Colemans CTTS, added: ‘It seems to be very ambiguous and unusual how it was drafted by the solicitor. It is very woolly. ‘I would not have approached it like this. If she gave these instructions, they should have been crystalised in a “letter of wishes”, so her executors had proper guidance.’ The Mail asked Davis Wood solicitors whether anything had been put in writing at the time, among a series of further questions yesterday, but has yet to receive a reply.

Davis Wood Solicitors drew up Joan Edwards's will in 2001 . Lib Dem and Tory sources were actively briefing against the firm today . The firm initially refused to comment then issued ambiguous statement .

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By . Stephanie Darrall . UPDATED: . 11:00 EST, 8 October 2011 . Desperate: Michael Hill carried out a terrifying £20,000 armed robbery after he was kicked out of university for failing to pay his tuition fees. He was jailed for three years . A student who could not afford to pay his tuition fees carried out a terrifying £20,000 armed robbery, a court heard. Michael Hill, 25, was kicked off his course at Salford University after he was left unable to pay tuition fees when a loan he applied for failed to materialise. In thousands of pounds worth of debt, and evicted from his student accommodation, Hill got a bus to a Co-op store, where he had previously worked, and carried out the raid armed with a knife. The court heard that on August 26 . after wandering around Manchester with his rucksack containing his few . belongings and £6 cash, he got a bus to Astley, Wigan, and carried out . the raid. Just after 10pm Hill, who had his . face covered by a scarf, produced a knife, which he had since working at . a DIY store, and demanded staff open the safe. He pushed a security guard over and . grabbed hold of the store manager and claimed there was a bomb in a bag . on the garage forecourt outside. Managing to escape the store with £20,000, Hill was quickly caught . when a passing motorist saw him being pursued by a security guard and . pulled in front of him, knocking him to the ground. He told officers 'It was the biggest mistake of my life' and . explained he had been at Salford University but 'was kicked off the . course due to issues about him not paying his fees'. Andrew . Downie, prosecuting said Hill had been working part time but . due to lack of business that job fell through. He said he was then thrown out of his . student accommodation because he could not pay his rent and he amassed . considerable debts with his bank and family and friends . He slept at friends' addresses before ending up sleeping rough in Manchester. Big mistake: Hill managed to escape the store with £20,000 but was quickly caught when a passing motorist saw him being pursued by a security guard and pulled in front of him, knocking him to the ground . Hill said: 'I had hit rock bottom and . for the last couple of days had been contemplating committing a robbery . to gain cash to solve my debt problems. 'I could not go back to family and friends as I would seem like a leech and a failure.' Hill was jailed for three years after he pleaded guilty to robbery at Liverpool Crown Court. Judge John Phipps said . that carrying out the robbery had been 'no way of dealing with debt . problems', but he was prepared to accept he was remorseful. William Swalwell, defending, said that Hill has an impeccable record and is being supported by family and friends. A large number of testimonials spoke about his honesty and how out of character his behaviour had been. He had received a letter threatening legal action about the unpaid university fees and had been left feeling desperate.

Michael Hill, 25, was kicked off his course at Salford University when a loan he applied for failed to materialise . His part time job fell through, and he was evicted from his student accommodation . He carried out a raid with a knife and claimed there was a bomb in a bag . on the garage forecourt outside.

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . UPDATED: . 23:34 EST, 31 October 2011 . The parents of Milly Dowler have warned that people of 'ordinary means' will no longer be able to defend themselves in court as a result of the Government's plans to reform no win, no fee agreements. The Dowlers, who used the no win, no fee system to obtain a multi-million pound settlement over the hacking of the murdered schoolgirl's phone, were among signatories of a letter published in the Guardian criticising the reforms. Christopher Jefferies, the former landlord of Joanna Yeates who was defamed by a number of tabloid newspapers during her murder inquiry, also signed the letter, released today as the Government's Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill is debated in the Commons. Bob and Sally Dowler are against the Government's plans to reform no win, no fee agreements . The letter says: 'We are all ordinary citizens who found ourselves in a position of needing to obtain justice by taking or defending civil claims against powerful corporations or wealthy individuals. 'We would not have been in a position to do this without recourse to a 'no win, no fee' agreement with a lawyer willing to represent us on that basis. As was made clear to each of us at the beginning of our cases, we were liable for tens if not hundreds of thousands of pounds if we lost. 'Without access to a conditional fee agreement (CFA), which protected us from this risk, we would not have been able even to embark on the legal journey.' Justice Secretary Kenneth Clarke is planning to reform the no win no fee legal scheme amid fears of a compensation culture. Under the current system, claimants are not obliged to pay anything if they lose a case, providing no incentive not to sue and giving people a perverse incentive to ramp up their claims, the Ministry of Justice has said. However, under the new proposals the winning claimant's fees will be paid from the pot of damages they receive, not by the defendant. Robert Murat, the original suspect in the case of missing Madeleine McCann, is another who is against the reforms . It is hoped the move will give claimants a more vested interest in what they pay their lawyers and reduce costs in the system. Legal aid to victims of domestic violence will also be cut as part of the changes, with people only qualifying for assistance if they have reported the abuse to police. Labour MP Helen Goodman yesterday told the Commons that tens of thousands of women will 'suffer in silence' as a result, claiming that in most cases, victims only alert the authorities after 20 episodes of violence in the home. The letter, co-ordinated by media campaign Hacked Off, is also signed by Robert Murat, who sued British media organisations for libel in the wake of the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, Mary-Ellen Field, Zoe Margolis, Nigel Short and Hardeep Singh. All have used CFAs to seek justice in the courts. The letter goes on to say: 'We would like to voice our dismay at the CFA reform proposals in the legal aid, sentencing and punishment of offenders bill, which effectively remove the opportunity of people of ordinary means to seek redress when they have been libelled or intruded upon, or where they need to defend a libel claim. We do not believe this is fair or just. 'While there is a case for amending the way they function in practice, the current drafting of the bill will deny access to justice to people like us in the future. 'Tom Brake MP has tabled an amendment this week which would exclude privacy and defamation cases from the proposed CFA reforms with no extra cost to the public purse, and we call upon MPs to support that amendment and for the Government to discuss with those of us who have been through this experience how access to justice can be preserved for those who come after us.'

The Dowlers used no win no fee to gain multi-million hacking settlement from News of the World .

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PUBLISHED: . 02:58 EST, 14 June 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 03:01 EST, 14 June 2012 . Oxfam is calling for an increase in the minimum wage to protect low-income workers from a 'perfect storm' of benefit cuts, rising living standards and a lack of jobs. The charity called for the rise as part of a package of measures ahead of today's publication of official figures which they predicted would show an increase in the number of working people in poverty. Already six in every 10 of the 7.9 million working-age adults in poverty are not from jobless households, it said, because austerity measures are 'disproportionately impacting' the low-paid. Pay rise: Oxfam is calling for an increase in the minimum wage to protect low-income workers . Thousands more than last year are turning to food banks and other charity facilities as average earnings have shrunk 4.4 per cent, the report noted, while pay of FTSE 100 company directors rose 49 per cent. Improving that rate requires actions such as reversing cuts to working tax credits and reducing the amount of the new Universal Credit people lose when starting a job, from 65 per cent to 55 per cent. Oxfam's director of UK poverty Chris . Johnes said: 'Despite the Government's rhetoric about making work pay, . having a job is no longer necessarily enough to lift someone out of . poverty. Hard-pressed: More working-age adults in poverty now live in working households than in workless ones . 'More working-age adults in poverty now live in working households than in workless ones. 'The Government is justifying huge cuts to welfare support for people on low incomes by saying this will incentivise work, but there simply aren't enough decent jobs available.' 'We need to see income being distributed more fairly if we are to make any impact on reducing levels of poverty. 'If we carry on down this path, the UK will return to levels of inequality not seen since Victorian times.' A DWP spokesman said: 'Over the last decade vast sums of money have been poured into the benefits system in an attempt to address poverty - £150 billion was spent on tax credits alone between 2004 and 2010. 'This approach has failed, with the UK likely to miss its own 2010 child poverty targets. 'We need to address the root causes of poverty including worklessness. 'The universal credit will replace a complex mess of benefits and tax credits and make work pay. It is estimated that universal credit could lift 350,000 children and 550,000 adults out of poverty.'

Charity claims austerity measures are hitting the poor the hardest . 'If we carry on down this path, the UK will return to levels of inequality not seen since Victorian times'

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By . Ted Thornhill . A thank you letter written by slaves from the Amistad Rebellion in 1841 to former President John Quincy Adams, who defended them in court and helped set them free, has been published. The letter was released by the Amistad Research Center at Tulane University to mark the 175th anniversary of the rebellion. Adams was 74 when he decided to represent 53 Africans and prevent them from being sold into slavery by Spain. Artefact: The Amistad Research Center at Tulane University has released a letter from freed rebellion slaves to former President John Quincy Adams . Ally: Adams stood up for the Amistad slaves in front of the Supreme Court in Connecticut, which ruled that they were free to return to Africa . The letter contains messages from four of the 53. One wrote: ‘Dear friend, we write this to you because you plead with the Great Court to make us free and now we are free and joyful we thank the Great God. ‘We will tell all our friends about you and we will say to them Mr. Adams is a great man and he plead for us and how very glad we be and our friends will love you very much because you was a very good man and oh how joyful we shall be.’ The Freedom Schooner Amistad, a near-replica of the ship that sparked the 19th century evolt, flies Sierra Leonean and American flags as it sails into port in central Freetown, Sierra Leone, in 2007 . Hit film: Steven Spielberg told the story of the Amistad rebellion in his 1997 movie, starring Morgan Freeman (left) and Djimon Hounsou (right) The Africans had been kidnapped in Sierra Leone and were heading by ship in 1839 to Spain via Cuba when they decided to make a bid for freedom. After switching ships in Cuba to La Amistad, a slave called Cinque led an uprising on July 1 against their captors. Several were killed in the ensuing violence. The ship then crashed in Long Island, where they were jailed. A US court eventually set them free. Another said: ‘Wicked people want to make us slaves but the great God who has made all things raise up friends for Mendi people he give us Mr. Adams that he may make me free.’ The Africans had been kidnapped in Sierra Leone and were heading by ship in 1839 to Spain via Cuba when they decided to make a bid for freedom. After switching ships in Cuba to La Amistad, a slave called Cinque led an uprising on July 1 against their captors. Several were killed in the ensuing violence. The ship then crashed in Long Island and the Africans placed in custody. Spain laid claim to them, desperate to put them back in chains and the U.S government accused them of piracy and murder. But Adams stood up for them at court in Connecticut, which ruled that they were free to return to Africa. Tragically, some died while awaiting trial and many of them perished on the journey home. The slaves’ story was told on the big screen in the hit 1997 Spielberg movie Amistad, starring Morgan Freeman, Djimon Hounsou and Anthony Hopkins. Farmington. May 5th 1841. Mr John Q. Adams . Dear Friend . We thank you very much because you make us free & because you love all Mendi people. They give you money for Mendi people & you say you will not take it, because you love Mendi people. We love you very much & we will pray for you when we rise up in the morning & when we lie down at night. We hope the Lord will love you very much & take you up to heaven when you die. We pray for all the good people who make us free. Wicked people want to make us slaves but the great God who has made all things raise up friends for Mendi people he give us Mr. Adams that he may make me free & all Mendi people free. Mr. Adams we write our names for you. Kali. Mr. Adams . Dear friend, we write this to you because you plead with the Great Court to make us free and now we are free and joyful we thank the Great God. I hope God will bless you dear friend. Mendi people will remember you when we go to our own country & we will tell all our friends about you and we will say to them Mr. Adams is a great man and he plead for us and how very glad we be and our friends will love you very much because you was a very good man and oh how joyful we shall be. We hope the great God will send down His Holy Spirit upon you and have mercy upon you & that our dear savior Jesus Christ will bless you & give you a new heart & this because you plead for us. We give you good love. Kinna. Dear Friend . I desire to write you a letter because you be so kind to poor Mendi people. Dear Friend I called you my Father because you set us free. Mendi people thank you very much and we will pray for you every day & night that God will keep you from danger. Dear Sir who make you to become great President over America people God – God make everything. He make men to do good and love one another. Your friend Foole. Mr Adams We write our names for you in this Bible that you may remember Mendi people. Some cannot write so we write for them. Kali, Cinqui, Cici, Kinna, Faliama, Barma, Tagino, Batu . Transcribed by Slate.com .

1841 thank you note from Amistad rebellion slaves to former president John Quincy Adams released . They were charged with murder and piracy, but Adams successfully defended them in court and secured their release . The slaves rebelled against their captors on the ship La Amistad in 1839, off the coast of Cuba . The ship ran aground in Long Island several months later and the men on board taken into custody . Spain wanted them back in shackles, but they were eventually set free and allowed to sail home to Sierra Leone . One African describes John Quincy Adams as a 'great man' in the letter .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter and Associated Press . PUBLISHED: . 19:23 EST, 9 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:32 EST, 9 April 2013 . A teen military recruit was shot and killed by her recruiter after she rushed to help him when he threatened to commit suicide, it has been revealed. Police say that Staff Sgt Adam Arndt, . 31, shot himself at his Germantown, Maryland, home on Monday morning, . but not before he gunned high school student Michelle Miller, 17. Miller's father, Kevin Miller, told . The Associated Press that he had never met Arndt, but that . his daughter had seemed 'a little smitten with this guy.' Tragedy: Michelle Miller was shot dead by her recruiter, Staff Sgt Adam Arndt, after she rushed to be with him because he had threatened to kill himself . He said that his daughter left their home on Sunday night, telling her parents that she had to help 'a friend' in her platoon who was suicidal. Mr Miller exchanged several texts with his daughter after she left, but she wouldn't say where she was. He said she later stopped responding to his calls and text messages. But she did send texts to her friends - messages like 'I love you' and 'goodbye.' Fighting tears, Mr Miller told ABCNews.com: 'He shot her. She went to help him and he shot her for it.' Miss Miller was a senior at Rockville . High School, where she took advanced classes and played soccer and . lacrosse. She was heading to Arizona State University in the fall. Her father told ABC: 'She had a lot of . things going on. She was all set to go to boot camp in June, go to . initial training and then in January go to Arizona, but it's all over.' Watch video here . Scene of the crime: The bodies of Miller and Ardnt were found inside his Germantown, Maryland, home on Monday morning . Arndt was a nine-year veteran who had served overseas, the Army said on Tuesday. Miss Miller met him about four or five months ago as he signed her up to enter the Army Reserves, which she had joined to earn money for college. Kevin Miller said his daughter left their Rockville home on Sunday night, saying somebody in her platoon was suicidal. He said she stopped responding to his calls and text messages. Army recruiters are barred from . fraternizing with recruits, a restriction that includes dating, inviting . recruits to their homes or having any kind of personal relationship . that would place undue influence on a recruit, said Kathleen Welker, a . spokeswoman for the U.S. Army Recruiting Command. Gone too soon: Miller met Ardnt about four or five months ago as he signed her up to enter the Army Reserves, which she had joined to earn money for college . Arndt, a native of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, joined the Army in October 2003. He was deployed to Turkey from September 2009 to September 2010, and his decorations include a medal for service in the global war on terrorism. He has also served in Korea and Germany, according to personnel records released by the Army. He was working as a human resources specialist before he was detailed in January 2011 to the recruiting office in Columbia, Maryland, Welker said. Such assignments typically last three years, after which soldiers can decide whether to become permanent recruiters or return to their previous occupations. His duties would have included visiting schools, Welker said, although it was not clear on Tuesday whether he had visited Miss Miller's school prior to recruiting her. The investigation remains active and is focused on 'determining how these two people died,' said Capt. Paul Starks, a Montgomery County police spokesman. Dana Tofig, a county schools spokesman, said military recruiters routinely visit the county's schools. The school system's focus, he said, was helping those who knew Miller. Grief counselors were visiting her classmates on Tuesday. Kevin Miller said his daughter was excited to join the military. He said: 'She had her life taken away from her on one fell swoop.' Rising star: Miss Miller was a senior at Rockville High School, where she took advanced classes and played soccer and lacrosse. She was heading to Arizona State University in the fall .

Michelle Miller, 17, shot dead by recruiter Adam Ardnt on Monday morning at his home in Germantown, Maryland . She had joined the Army reserves to help her pay for college . Miss Miller was a standout student and athlete at Rockville High School .

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By . Associated Press . and Alexandra Klausner . PUBLISHED: . 00:41 EST, 19 February 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 03:48 EST, 19 February 2014 . Nestle is voluntarily recalling two of its Hot Pockets products as part of a larger meat recall. The food maker said on Tuesday that it is recalling an unspecified number . of 'Philly Steak' and its 'Croissant Crust Philly Steak and Cheese' Hot . Pockets in certain sizes. Nestle says the products may have been affected by a meat recall by Rancho Feeding Corp. that was announced last week. Do you have this type of Hot Pocket in your freezer? Nestle announced that all customers with the Philly cheese steak meal should return it . 'The reason is due to the recall announced last week by Rancho Feeding Corporation which affects many companies,' Nestle said in an announcement on its website, reports The Bangor Daily News. Rancho is recalling more than 8.7 million pounds of beef products after . regulators said that it processed diseased and unhealthy animals without . a full inspection. The USDA says the products were unfit for human . consumption. No illnesses have been reported. Nestle says a small quantity of meat from Rancho was used at a California production facility that makes Hot Pockets. If you have any of the recalled Hot Pockets, Nestle warns customers not to consume them but to return them to the store for a full refund. Those with the Hot Pockets can call the company customer service line at 800-392-4057. Philly cheese steak with a croissant crust was also recalled because it might contain 'diseased' animals . The Rancho Feeding Corp in Petaluma, California recalled 8.7 pounds of beef products .

The food maker said on Tuesday that it is recalling an unspecified number . of 'Philly Steak' and its 'Croissant Crust Philly Steak and Cheese' Hot . Pockets . 'The reason is due to the recall . announced last week by Rancho Feeding Corporation which affects many . companies,' Nestle said in an announcement on its website . No illnesses have been reported .

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A Texas school district is arming its teachers for the new school year. Argyle Independent School District is placing warning signs outside its four schools saying staff may use 'whatever force is necessary' to protect their students. The public will not be allowed to know which teachers, or how many, are armed with concealed pistols, but they have had to pass tests and training courses. Scroll down for video . Warning: All four schools in Texas' Argyle district will arm its teachers with guns for the new school year . The signs outside the schools read: 'Attention. Please be aware that the staff at Argyle ISD are armed and may use whatever force is necessary to protect our students.' The plan is coming into action after a vote in January, and follows 'a comprehensive evaluation of District's safety, security and emergency response politics' after 'the unfortunate and tragic situations that occurred in multiple American schools over the last several years,' a release obtained by the New York Daily News states. Any armed teacher will have to have a handgun licence, as well as pass an interview, psychological exam and a firearms and emergency response training course. 'I think if a tragedy does occur, lives can be saved by guns being in the right hands, and I think the teachers here might be able to stop something like that and life can be saved,' parent Lacey Fenoglio told CW33. Aftermath: Hilltop Elementary School, where staff will now carry guns in the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy . The four schools in the district where guns will now be in the hands of teachers are Hilltop Elementary, Argyle Intermediate School, Argyle Middle School and Argyle High School. Argyle is the latest in a string of districts to arm its teachers or increase security in schools in the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy in 2012. Schools in Shamrock and Levelland districts, also in Texas, adopted the policy of handing guns to staff last year. Harrold Independent School District in north-central Texas voted to take it up after a shooting in Virginia back in 2007. At least eight states have passed laws allowing schools to arm their teachers since the Sandy Hook massacre - which left 20 children and six adults dead at the Newtown, Connecticut elementary school. As well as in Texas, certain employees at schools in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Tennessee are allowed to carry weapons on school grounds. In Texas, at least 78 of the 1,024 school districts have decided to use the plan - whereas just one did before Sandy Hook. Although just seven of these have put it into action to date - by sending their staff to train as 'marshals' - the Wall Street Journal reports. Others have opted to instead increase school police presence or rely on the local authorities. This news comes as America is still reeling after a nine-year-old girl shot dead her shooting instructor with an Uzi submachine gun when he told her to go 'full auto'. The incident at Bullets and Burgers shooting range in White Hills, Arizona, left 39-year-old Charles Vacca dead.

Argyle Independent School District becomes latest to put law into force . Teachers will carry concealed pistols in all four district schools . Must go through tests and a training course before they can be armed . Six other districts do the same, while at least 78 have adopted it in principle .

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By . Chris Pleasance . Compared to the multi-million pound super-yachts favoured by the likes of Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich and F1 presenter Eddie Jordan, this humble fishing vessel may not look like much. However for former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney, it hold precious memories of happy days with his first wife Linda before she tragically died on cancer. Now he has made the heartbreaking decision to sell the vessel after a meeting with his children Stella, Heather and Mary. Sir Paul McCartney is selling his 52ft converted fishing boat Barnaby Rudge anonymously for £60,000 . The modest vessel is where McCartney spent time with first wife Linda before she died of cancer . According to a family friend the singer decided to part with the boat because it holds painful memories . The boat, named Barnaby Rudge after a Charles Dickens character, is being sold for £60,000 in Rye near McCartney's private recording studio. According to a family friend, the adverts don't mention its connection with the pop star, saying only that the boat has an 'interesting history'. Speaking to the Sunday Express, family friend Eric Green said: 'He has decided to make the break with the past and move on. Paul McCartney married Linda Eastman in 1969 (pictured the same year, left) before the Beatles split up. The duo then formed pop group Wings which won several Grammy awards (right) The couple enjoyed a happy marriage until Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995 . After a three-year battle with the disease, Linda died in 1993 on the couple's ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona . In happier times the couple spent a lot of time on the boat, and at this farmhouse in Mull of Kintyre, Scotland . 'Paul no longer uses the boat because it has memories he does not want to dwell on because of the cruel way Linda was taken from him through cancer.' A spokesman for McCartney said all proceeds from the sale would be donated to Oxfam. Paul McCartney married Linda Eastman in March 1969 and the couple became virtually inseparable, often holidaying on their farm in the remote Mull of Kintyre, Scotland. McCartney adopted Linda's daughter Heather and the couple had three more children, Stella, Mary and James.Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995 and died just three years later.

Paul McCartney is selling 52ft converted fishing boat Barnaby Rudge . He is selling it anonymously for £60,000 and giving profit to charity . Boat is where he spent a lot of time with first wife Linda Eastman . Decided to part with it because it holds too many painful memories .

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By . Mark Duell . A mother of two feared she would need an emergency operation to save her sight after she suffered a horrendous allergic reaction on her face - allegedly to Piz Buin sun cream. Marie Goldie, 37, of Glasgow, who was on holiday with her partner and two teenage children in Tenerife, Spain, was taken to hospital days after she started using Piz Buin 1 Day Long. Doctors at a hospital in Playa de las Américas feared the catering worker’s reaction was so bad she would require an emergency operation - but steroid injections eventually brought it under control. Allergic reaction: Marie Goldie, 37, of Glasgow, who was on holiday with her partner and two teenage children in Tenerife, Spain, was taken to hospital days after she started using Piz Buin 1 Day Long . But Miss Goldie said she was furious when Johnson & Johnson, the makers of the popular sun lotion, offered her only a £5 refund following her ordeal she claimed was caused by using the product. She said: ‘I thought my time was up. I have never suffered anything like that before. I first used the cream on Wednesday. By Thursday I had a rash which the local pharmacist said was prickly heat. ‘By Friday, one eye had swollen over. But by Saturday I couldn't see at all. I go abroad every year on holiday with the family. The previous few years I've been to the Dominican Republic and Turkey. ‘(They were) far hotter than Tenerife, which was only 23C when I was there. The only thing that was different was the sun cream I used. It was the first time I had used Piz Buin.’ Doctors gave Miss Goldie - who was abroad earlier this month with partner Russell, 40, and children Kieran, 13 and Nicole, 19 - four steroid injections and antihistamines over the course of a day. She claimed medical staff discharged her after saying she would need to pay for her own treatment because her travel insurance would not cover the treatment an allergic reaction. Miss Goldie added: ‘Luckily my condition had already begun to calm down after the injections and I was only left with a doctor's bill of around €100. It could have been much worse.’ After leaving hospital, medical staff gave her strict instructions to avoid sunlight, sugary and fatty foods, and she spent the next week trying to get home earlier than planned. Unhappy: Miss Goldie was furious when Johnson & Johnson, the manufacturers of the popular sun lotion, offered her just a £5 refund following her ordeal she claimed was caused by using the product . She said: ‘The holiday was ruined and we were just desperate to get home. I spent the next week in my room trying to get cheap flights, to no avail. ‘I also looked up Piz Buin on the internet and couldn't believe how many people were complaining about allergic reactions. I'm convinced using the cream caused the reaction.’ Last week, the sun cream featured on . the BBC's Watchdog show after producers were inundated with . health complaints about it. Leading . dermatologist Dr Ian White, of St John's Institute of Dermatology in London, said two of the cream's ingredients could be the reason . for the severe reactions he had seen. He . said his organisation had demanded urgent action into the safety of one . of the chemicals used in Piz Buin, C30-38 Olefin/Isopropyl Maleate MA . Copolymer, two years ago. He also claimed that one in 10 of the patients he now sees were allergic to another active ingredient in the cream - Methylisothiazolinone. Since Marie arrived back in Britian last Saturday, her GP confirmed she suffered an allergic reaction, and further tests were planned to see if Piz Buin was behind this reaction. A Johnson & Johnson spokesman said: ‘The safety of our products is our first priority. ‘All ingredients in our products are reviewed by experts and all our final formulations are assessed for safety and efficacy, including the potential for skin irritation and toxicity caused by sun exposure. 'In principle nearly every substance or product in our daily life may cause irritation in some people with a particular sensitivity. ‘This applies to the ingredients of all cosmetic and personal care products, and includes those ingredients in Piz Buin 1 Day Long - C30-38 Olefin/Isopropyl Maleate MA Copolymer and Methylisothiazolinone. ‘We have received some consumer complaints that Piz Buin 1 Day Long Day Long has led to skin irritation or rashes. Compared to the number of people using the product across the UK and Ireland, the number of reported incidents is small - approximately 0.01 per cent of sales. ‘Since the Watchdog report was broadcasted we have been contacted by a number of consumers, and we are currently investigating their complaints. ‘We have provided Ms Goldie with a questionnaire and requested that she return the product to us so that we can investigate her complaint. We have offered her a refund or replacement for the product.’

Marie Goldie, 37, was on holiday with partner and children in Tenerife . Was taken to hospital days after she started using Piz Buin 1 Day Long . Doctors feared severe reaction would require an emergency operation . But steroid injections brought catering worker's condition under control . Sun-cream featured on BBC Watchdog last week after health complaints . Johnson & Johnson says it's investigating complaints since show aired .

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By . Sarah Griffiths . Many people have wondered why animals tend to avoid grazing on land near high voltage electricity pylons and power cables. And now scientists believe they have solved the mystery by finding that flashing UV light that is undetectable to humans probably scares creatures including reindeer away. Power lines give off ultraviolet light as irregular flashes at insulators and as a ‘standing corona’ - a halo of gas - along the cables that can be seen by birds and some mammals. The subject of animals being forced to avoid cables because they are frightened is particularly controversial in Scandinavian countries because of demands that power lines should be located away from wild and semi-domesticated reindeer (pictured) Scientists are not sure why some animals can see ultraviolet light and others can't. It is thought that some use it to see in the dark as well as spotting potential mates or predators. Reindeer for example see UV light and it helps them spot polar bears that appear to be incredibly well camouflaged in white snow. Bees and other insects use their UV vision to see colours and patterns on plants. Rodents use it to follow trails of urine, but they are not sure what pets use it for. Experts also question why human eyes filter out UV light. Some think it could be to protect the delicate retina, but other animals that live for a long time and see UV do not have damaged eyes. Other scientists consider that the human eye is best suited to seeing detailed images in low levels of light, whereas other creatures that see UV tend to see in less detail. It is thought that reindeer see the UV range as the Arctic is rich in UV light and it might even help them spot polar bears. A recent study found that around 35 species of animals, including cats and dogs, can see light that humans cannot. Scientists from University College London (UCL), Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UIT The Arctic University of Norway and the University of Oslo in Norway investigated the phenomenon to investigate whether pylons have detrimental effects on populations of reindeer. The mystery of mammals and birds avoiding high voltage power lines has been recognised for some time but had puzzled scientists because suspended cables are neither a barrier to wildlife nor are regularly associated with humans. The subject of animals being forced to avoid cables is particularly controversial in Scandinavian countries because of demands that power lines should be located away from wild and semi-domesticated reindeer - the latter herded by indigenous Saami people who depend on the animals. Populations of wild reindeer in Norway can sometimes fragment because they ‘cannot’ roam freely because of power lines, leading to the creation of 23 distinct herds in southern Norway, The Independent reported. Professor Glen Jeffery of UCL, said: ‘New information about animal vision along with the characteristics of power lines, provides strong evidence that the avoidance may be linked with animals’ ability to detect ultraviolet flashing on power lines that humans cannot see and which they find frightening.’ By choosing to avoid power lines, animals such as reindeer face disruption of migration and substantial loss of grazing land. This can affect the growth and genetic variability of populations. For reindeer in particular it influences the wellbeing of herds and of herders who rely on the animals for their livelihoods, cultural identity and food, the experts said. The effect may be more pronounced in snowy areas where the ultraviolet light is reflected and scattered by snow, they explained. In dark Arctic winters, the team argues, power lines do not appear to reindeer merely as impassive, grey structures but rather as lines of flashing lights stretching across the terrain. High voltage power cables can cause a build-up of ionised gas that means they have a ultraviolet glow as well as occasional bursts of light. Power companies work hard to stop such bursts because they cause power leakage, but it is almost impossible to eliminate them. Scientists think that the UV filter in the human eye means that we can see more accurately than without it. Humans can see in such detail because we have dense colour-sensitive cells (cones) in the retina (pictured) that convert light to create detailed images in dim conditions . British researchers found that a whole plethora of mammals, including dogs, cats, hedgehogs and ferrets can see in UV, giving them a better view at night among other benefits. It was previously thought that only a handful of mammals could see ultraviolet light, but the new study could help scientists shed some light on why pets behave the way they do. Ron Douglas, a biologist at City University London, in England told LiveScience: ‘Nobody ever thought these animals could see in ultraviolet, but in fact, they do.’ Light is made up of a spectrum of colours and humans can see from red to violet, whereas many animals, such as bees, fish, reptiles and amphibians can see ultraviolet wavelengths invisible to humans. A number of mammals including bats, reindeer and some mice and moles are already known to see in ultraviolet, but scientists are not sure why some animals have it and others, as well as humans, do not. The lens of the human eye blocks ultraviolet light, but in some animals UV can reach the retina and the light is converted into nerve signals, which travel to the brain and are processed. To explore which animals possess the capability to see ultraviolet light, the researchers obtained eyes from a wide array of mammals that had died in zoos, vets, science labs or slaughterhouses. They measured how much light got through each animal’s eye to the retina. Scientists found that many of the animals, including cats, dogs, hedgehogs, ferrets and okapi, have lenses that let some ultraviolet light though, suggesting that they can see well in the dark. Scientists already know that bees and other insects use their UV vision to see colours and patterns on plants, while rodents use it to follow trails of urine, but they are not sure what pets use it for.

Scientists from University College London found that the UV flashes can cause the fragmentation of reindeer populations in Norway . The light cannot be seen by humans but is believed to break up herds of wild reindeer that are frightened of glowing power lines .

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By . Lucy Crossley . PUBLISHED: . 08:58 EST, 28 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 14:20 EST, 28 November 2013 . Police are hunting thieves who stole a stretch of historic pavement worth thousands of pounds after setting up fake roadworks. Posing as workmen, the suspects pulled off the brazen theft by using stolen barriers and roadworks signs to cordon off a large area of paving, before taking the 72ft stretch of Yorkshire stone slabs. Police said the stones, which were taken from the historic centre of Rochester, Kent, were worth at least £7,000. Missing: Thieves set up fake roadworks in order to steal historic paving stones worth £7,000 in Rochester, Kent . Medway councillor Phil Filmer said: 'This appears to be a brazen operation to make it . look genuine. 'It would have taken time and effort to set up and work in . this way. 'It could be very difficult for the council to replace the missing . slabs with matching Yorkstone as it is difficult to get hold of. 'I would ask any resident who may have seen what was going on to contact the police as soon as possible.' The slabs were removed from St Margaret’s Street, which runs into the . historic heart of Rochester, next to the famous cathedral and . castle. Before: How St Margaret's Street appeared before the thieves stole the paving slabs . After: Barriers and roadsigns have been put up along the historic walkway, hiding the stolen paving slabs . The yellow sandstone blocks, which traditionally come from Yorkshire, . are highly sought after for their durability and colour, and have been . used in construction for centuries. A 35-year-old man from Chatham was arrested on suspicion of theft, and released on bail until January. Medway Council and Kent Police have appealed for witnesses who may have seen anything suspicious when the stones were removed on Friday, November 22. It was not known how long the thieves had been working at the site. Appeal: Medway Council and Kent Police have asked witnesses who may have seen anything suspicious to come forward . Locals took to Twitter to express shock and bemusement at the outrageous theft. Petitia Wiles tweeted: 'Can you believe it? Someone has stolen the pavement in Rochester, £7000 York slabs gone and no one saw anything.' A council spokesperson said: 'Although police have arrested one person in relation to the theft, they have yet to recover any of the paving slabs. 'We are hopeful they will recover them and we will be able to put them back in place, without having to spend taxpayers’ money on new ones.' Valued: The yellow sandstone blocks, which traditionally come from Yorkshire, are highly sought after for their durability and colour .

Suspects used stolen barriers to cordon off stretch of pavement . Valuable Yorkshire stones taken from historic Rochester, Kent . Man has been arrested and released on bail over alleged theft .

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A man in an inflatable bubble was rescued by the coast guard 70 nautical miles East of St. Augustine on Saturday morning in a bizarre attempt to run to Bermuda from Florida. Reza Baluchi was found in an inflatable hydro bubble on Wednesday, but waved coast guard officers off, saying he was determined to make the 1,033-mile journey himself. But three days later he was too exhausted to carry on - so had to be rescued. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Strange traveler: The Coast Guard rescued Reza Baluchi from his Hydro Bubble 70 miles away from St. Augustine, Florida on Saturday . Helicopter rescue: Once all of the aircrew arrived, a rescue swimmer got Baluchi from his inflatable raft and into a helicopter where he was later evaluated by medical crews and found to be uninjured . Philanthropist: Reza Baluchi is both a daredevil and philanthropist dedicated to achieving great feats and  raising money and awareness for impoverished children in the process . When rescuers first discovered him on Wednesday, he was disoriented and asking for directions to Bermuda. His bubble contraption was filled with protein bars and bottled water - though he had claimed before leaving he would mostly survive by fishing. The Coast Guard were worried straight away by Baluchi's state of exhaustion and lack of supplies, so asked him to end his mission. He refused, so they continued to monitor him until he activated his Personal Locating Beacon on Saturday morning. When the call came, an HC-130 airplane and a MH-60 helicopter were dispatched to his rescue along with a rescue ship. Once all of the aircrew arrived, a rescue swimmer got Baluchi from his inflatable raft and into a helicopter where he was later evaluated by medical crews. He was not injured. According to Baluchi's website Runwithreza.org, he was on a mission to travel from Florida to Bermuda to prove that the Bermuda Triangle is not dangerous. On the site he says: 'Everyone wants to know how Reza Baluchi will be successful in his travel to through the Bermuda triangle. Reza is so confident that he will succeed in this trip because he has carefully articulated every detail it takes to survive.' Avid runner: Reza Baluchi once ran 135 miles nonstop from Death Valley, California to Mt. Whitney,California . Long Journey: Reza Baluchi was attempting to travel 1,033 miles from Florida to Bermuda . Baluchi claims he designed his Hydro Pod specifically to take him on his journey across the ocean - though it was never going to be a walk in the park. He said: 'Being inside the Hydro Pod is not going to be a walk in the park; it will be very hot and humid. One can easily dehydrate quickly and lose breath. 'Reza has devised this Hydro Pod to prevent physical difficulties. But not anyone can use without being mentally and physically fit. Being mentally fit is the main component to be able to survive a long journey in the Hydro Pod.' In 2013, Reza tested his Hydro Pod by taking it out from Newport Beach to Catalina Island with apparently great success. Reza next wanted cross the Bermuda Triangle because of the stories of shipwrecks and plane crashed linked to the area. The Bermuda Triangle, also known as the Devil's Triangle, is a region in the western part of the Atlantic in which an imaginary line is drawn from Miami to Bermuda to Puerto Rico. Vessels have mysteriously disappeared on the journey but mostly in the journey from Florida to Puerto Rico. On his website, Baluchi describes how the avenger plane Flight 19 took off from the Florida Naval Base in 1945 and never returned after crossing that threshold. 'Reza is aware of the accidents that could happen to him including death. The Bermuda Triangle is one of the deadliest stretches of ocean on Earth. Call him "crazy" but likes to roll the dice,' he says on his site. Reza Baluchi is still alive and unharmed but whether or not he will attempt his journey once again across the Devil's Triangle is a mystery. 1.The distance between Miami, Fl to Bermuda is approximately 1,033 miles one way. 2. The Hydro Pod is made of 3mm thick of plastic. 3. Inside the Hydro Pod it will reach up 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 4. Reza is an excellent fisherman and he will be catching his food on a daily basis. There be will some days that he will not be able to catch fish. So he will he survive on his own made up protein bars. 5  He will need to manually pump his Hydro Pod for one hour to ensure that it will stay afloat. 6. At night the Hydro Pod will have a light emitting from the bottom to help with the travel. 7. Reza will rest in the early hours of the morning when the sea is calmest . 8. On a daily basis 400,000 ships sail through the Bermuda without harm or loss . 9.The frame is designed by Mr. Reza Baluchi. 10. A typical day will be, Reza will be sleeping from 6am-9am, will wake up to start running until his body becomes too hot, he will then jump into the sea to cool himself off with a leash strapped to his leg connected to the bubble. 11.He will sleep on a hammock that will be inside the bubble. 12. He will have tracking device on him so that his team is aware of his position at all times. 13. Reza is doing this dangerous journey to raise money for children in need and to give inspire     those that have lost hope for a better future. Also to raise awareness for his Non-Profit Organization called Plant Unity. Plant Unity is a charity devoted to kids that are in need of basic living necessities. For example, clothes, medical and financial help and also to teach them healthy living skills. Plant Unity slogan is 'Children are like roots of a tree – I like to nourish the roots and help them grow.' Text quoted from source: http://runwithreza.org/bermuda.php .

U.S. Citizen Reza Baluchi was saved by the coast guard from an inflatable bubble on Saturday 70 miles from St. Augustine Florida . When first discovered on Wednesday, he was disoriented and asking for directions to Bermuda but he refused to end his journey . His bubble was stocked with water bottles and protein bars . He was uninjured . According to Baluchi's website Runwithreza.org, he was on a mission to travel from Florida to Bermuda to raise money for charity . He previously ran 135 miles nonstop from Death Valley, California to Mt. Whitney,California . Baluchi built a plastic Hydro Pod to help him travel across the Bermuda Triangle where ships have been known to disappear mysteriously . 'The Bermuda Triangle is one of the deadliest stretches of ocean on Earth. Call him "crazy" but likes to roll the dice,' the adventurer writes on his site . Baluchi said he his attempting his travels to raise money for impoverished children .

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By . Keith Gladdis and Imtiaz Hussain . PUBLISHED: . 08:35 EST, 29 April 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 16:26 EST, 1 May 2012 . A British aid worker was found beheaded and riddled with bullets on a roadside in Pakistan yesterday because his kidnappers have not been paid the ransom they demanded. Khalil Dale, 60, was taken at gunpoint in January while he was working with the Red Cross in the south-west city of Quetta. His head and body were discovered wrapped in a plastic bag with a note addressed to the chief of police, which read: 'This is the body of Khalil who we have slaughtered for not paying a ransom amount'. Scroll down for video . Experienced: Dale had worked for the ICRC and the British Red Cross in Somalia, Afghanistan and Iraq before coming to Pakistan . Local police said the Pakistani Taliban had claimed responsibility. David Cameron last night described . the killing of Mr Dale, a Muslim convert who was also known as Ken, as a . ‘shocking and merciless act’. The Prime Minister said: ‘I was . deeply saddened to hear today about the  brutal murder of Khalil Dale – a . man who was killed whilst providing humanitarian support to others. ‘This was a shocking and merciless . act, carried out by people with no respect for human life and the rule . of law. Khalil Dale has dedicated many years of his life to helping some . of the most vulnerable people in the world and my thoughts today are . with his friends and family.’ Tragic: Pakistani police officials carry the covered body along a street in Quetta . The health programme manager from . Dumfries, Scotland, was travelling home from a school in the troubled . Baluchistan province in a clearly marked Red Cross vehicle when he was . stopped and kidnapped. He had been working in the country for a year after postings in Somalia, Afghanistan and Iraq. Friends said Mr Dale – who started . his career as a nurse at Dumfries and Galloway Infirmary – had been . planning to travel to Australia to marry his partner Anne, who he is . believed to have met while working abroad. He had previously returned to Scotland to look after his mother, Margaret, who died in 2007. Foreign Secretary William Hague said . he learned of the death ‘with great sadness’, adding that ‘tireless . efforts’ had been made to secure Mr Dale’s release. Mr Hague said: ‘I utterly condemn the . kidnapping and killing of Mr Dale, and send my deepest condolences to . his family and loved ones. This was a senseless and cruel act.’ Mr Dale’s brother Ian, who lives in . New Zealand, travelled to Pakistan ten days after he was taken to try to . secure his release. At the time he said police had identified the group . involved. Brutal: ¿A sharp knife was used to sever his head from the body,¿ said the doctor who first examined him . Speaking earlier this year to appeal . for his release, Mr Dale’s step-niece, Justine Barber, 41, described him . as an honourable man doing an honest job. She said: ‘He is a lovely man whose lifelong ambition has been to serve those less fortunate.’ Friends of Mr Dale last night described him as ‘an absolutely lovely guy’ who had devoted his life to caring for others. Mr Dale's step-niece, Justine Barber . Retired nurse Sheila Howat, a former . colleague, said: ‘It’s dreadful what has happened to him, really awful. The world has lost someone who really cared for others. ‘I think the circumstances are absolutely barbaric and disgraceful. He did not deserve that end to his life. ‘I knew him as Ken, and he was an absolutely lovely person, devoted to caring for others less fortunate than himself. ‘He spent time in war-torn countries where help was needed and people were desperate, and that was Ken’s goal in life.’ She plans to contact other friends of . Mr Dale to arrange a memorial service in Dumfries where he was a member . of Friends of the Earth and the Coalition for Peace and Justice. Mr Dale – who was born in York and was fluent in Arabic and Swahili – had been no stranger to danger. On previous assignments with the Red Cross, he had been imprisoned and tortured and robbed at gunpoint. In 1994, he was awarded an MBE for his humanitarian work in some of the world’s hot spots. A Red Cross spokesman said it ‘condemns in the strongest possible terms this barbaric act’. He added: ‘We are devastated. Khalil . was a trusted and very experienced staff member who significantly . contributed to the humanitarian cause.’ Police said Mr Dale’s body was found . in an orchard near Quetta. Police chief Ahsan Mahboob verified details and wording of the note on . his body. Honoured: Mr Dale after being awarded the MBE at Buckingham Palace with his brother Ian and Ian's wife Janet and friend Andrea .

Police discovered Khalil Dale's head and body wrapped in plastic in the southwestern city of Quetta . Note on body said he had been 'slaughtered for not paying a ransom amount' ICRC condemned death as a 'barbaric act' Pro-Taliban militants are active in the province where he was killed . 'I utterly condemn the kidnapping and killing of Mr Dale,' said William Hague .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 21:09 EST, 27 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:57 EST, 28 December 2013 . Feeling down: Men feel less attractive if their partner takes the oral contraceptive, a study claims . It has been blamed for altering women’s moods – but it seems the Pill also has an impact on their male partners. Men feel less attractive if their wife or girlfriend takes the oral contraceptive, a study claims. British and Dutch researchers studied 14 women who were on the Pill, then stopped taking it. They were asked how attractive they felt – and their partners were asked how they saw them. The men were also asked how they rated their own looks. The team found being on the Pill made no difference to how a woman saw herself. However, the men felt more attracted to women when they were not on the Pill, which is taken by three million Britons. The researchers say this could be because the treatment stops hormonal fluctuations that make a woman particularly fertile at certain times in a monthly cycle. At these times, said Kelly Cobey, of Stirling University, women display subtle cues, such as clear skin and flirty behaviour, that men respond to subconsciously by feeling attracted to them. So why did a partner on the Pill make men feel less attractive? The scientists said men’s sense of their own appeal is based on their partner’s looks. Differing perspectives: Alternatively, being on the Pill makes no difference to how a woman sees herself . When women are off the Pill, men are more attracted to them. As a result, they get an ego boost that makes them feel good about themselves, they suggest. In the journal Biological Psychology, Dr Cobey said the results should not affect use of the Pill, but said ‘subtle psychological effects’ may have been overlooked.

Men feel less attractive if their partner takes oral contraceptive, study claims . Alternatively, the Pill makes no difference to how women see themselves .

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By . Julian Robinson . A coroner has blasted medics for "serious, repeated and systemic failures" which led to the death of a pensioner from kidney failure. Stewart Maltby, 64, was not given any fluids for 14 hours after a string of delays in his treatment - including a four hour wait for an ambulance to take him to hospital. An inquest at Nottingham Council House on Tuesday heard how a catalogue of errors by 36 medical staff contributed to Mr Maltby's death on November 7, 2012. Stewart Maltby, 64, died from kidney failure after he was not given any fluids for 14 hours after a string of delays in his treatment . Two days before he died, his GP Dr John Porter visited him at his home in Farnsfield, Nottinghamshire, after he complained of being dehydrated and suffering from diarrhoea. Dr Porter called East Midlands Ambulance Service at 1.53pm on November 5 and told the operator Mr Maltby, who had previously suffered a stroke, required IV fluids when he arrived at hospital. But the ambulance failed to arrive so the GP dialled 999 saying it was an emergency but the ailing pensioner was not picked up until 6.19pm because of a mistake by the dispatcher logging the call properly. When he finally arrived at the Queen's Medical Centre (QMC) in Nottingham, he was taken to a ward but further delays meant he did not have fluids until 3.50am the next day. Kidney failure happens when the kidneys encounter difficulty removing salt, water and waste products from the bloodstream. When this occurs, waste products will accumulate and can reach dangerous levels and cause an imbalance in the blood's chemical makeup. Acute renal failure can come on within days or even a matter of hours. Symptoms include tiredness, passing only a small amount of urine or urine being discoloured. Acute failure can be fatal and requires treatment. One course of treatment is to ensure that the correct fluids are introduced to the body and ensuring the amount of salts and minerals remain at the correct levels while the kidneys recover. Even when he was given IV fluids he . was not given the correct dose which meant he received just two litres . within 24 hours instead of the recommended five litres. Mr Maltby died the next day on November 7 after suffering kidney failure. Both the QMC and East Midlands Ambulance Service have apologised to the family. Recording . a narrative verdict, Assistant Coroner Jane Gillespie condemned medical . staff who treated Mr Maltby - branding them "oblivious" to his care . needs. She said: "These . failures were far-reaching and impacted on all aspects of his care, from . basic observations and recordings, to a delay in the escalation of his . care and a failure to review his condition by an appropriately senior . doctor when necessary. "All the while, Mr Maltby's condition continued to deteriorate and those caring for him were oblivious to the same. "During . the period of his admission, there were several missed opportunities . when the correct treatment plan could and should have been pursued. "I find that had this been so, the outcome may have been different." Speaking after the inquest, Mr Maltby's family blasted the medics who failed to care for their father. A . statement read: "It is clear that the initial reply from the ambulance . service to our complaint about the delayed response to the call for an . ambulance that they were 'very busy' was simply paying lip service to . their initial failings in this unfortunate and distressing series of . events. "In his short and tragic time at the QMC, Stewart was dealt with by around 36 people. Queen's Medical Centre where Stewart Maltby was being treated before his death due to kidney failure . "Some . were clearly shown by the inquest to be hard-working, dedicated . individuals struggling in a highly-pressured environment with little . support from management despite direct and repeated requests for . additional assistance. "Stewart was a character who made us laugh with his mischievous sense of humour. "He . spent a lot of time caring for others, often to his own detriment. Eighteen months on he is still very much missed by us all." Peter . Homa, chief executive of Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, . said: "We extend our condolences and reiterate our unreserved apologies . to Mr Maltby's family for the failings in our care and for letting them . and their father down so badly. "The absence of regular clinical . observations, handovers between staff and failure to administer fluids . appropriately meant Mr Maltby's rapidly deteriorating condition was not . acted upon as it should have been. "We have learnt from this sad and tragic case and made changes to improve safety and outcomes for our future patients." A . spokesman from the ambulance service added: "The service we provided to . Mr Maltby fell short of the high standard our patients should expect, . and we are very sorry about that. "We have since initiated a number of . changes and issued guidance to all control staff to ensure that the same . error can't be made when entering bookings in future."

Stewart Maltby waited four hours for ambulance to take him to hospital . Catalogue of errors at hospital led to further delay in treatment . The Nottinghamshire 64-year-old was without vital fluids for 14 hours . Coroner blasts 'repeated and systemic failures' in his care at Queen's Medical Centre . Hospital and ambulance service both apologise to distraught family .

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By . Larisa Brown . PUBLISHED: . 07:27 EST, 10 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 09:25 EST, 10 October 2012 . While a blanket of mist shrouded parts of Britain's countryside this morning, autumnal light elsewhere captured the spectacular display of the season's vivid colours. An early morning cold snap delivered beautiful scenes of a misty dawn during sunrise across parks in the country - a sign the bitter chill of winter is not too far away. And the season's crimson and gold colours of turning leaves spectacularly framed the historic 17th century Sudbury Hall in Derbyshire. Autumn colours frame the historic 17th century Sudbury Hall near, Sudbury, Derbyshire . Dog walkers in the autumn mist during sunrise at Hollow Pond in East London this morning . A Red Deer stag roars in the early morning light in Richmond Park, London, as autumn sees the start of the 'Rutting' season . Dog . walkers were pictured meandering in the autumn mist at dawn break at Hollow Pond in East London this morning. Meanwhile, 300 yards out to sea off the coast of Northumberland at . Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, a sculpture of a man and woman was pictured during sun rise. The giant bronze figures standing on the new breakwater and looking out to sea, with birds seen flying in the horizon, created a striking image. Elsewhere a Red Deer stag roared in the early morning light in Richmond Park, London - a sign of the start of the autumn 'Rutting' season. During the season stags can be heard roaring and barking in an attempt to attract females known as bucks. The larger males can also be seen clashing antlers with rival males. During the 'Rutting' season large Red Deer stags can be heard roaring and barking in an attempt to attract females known as bucks. The larger males can also be seen clashing antlers with rival males . A Canada Goose rests on the lake in the mist as it was chilly in London this morning . Shrouded in mist: Geese fly across the lake creating a picturesque image in the morning light . The Met Office said Britain has been experiencing ‘very autumnal weather’ with places today seeing some cloud and patches of mist and fog. Dan Williams, spokesman for the Met Office, said: ‘It is quite murky over a lot of areas and we are expecting a fair bit of cloud today. ‘Tonight we are expecting a band of rain to move up to through the south west of England over into western areas, with heavy rain and weather warnings  out for tomorrow for the western parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland.’ The sun rises over the giant sculpture of a man and woman situated 300 yards out to sea off the coast of Northumberland at Newbiggin-by-the-Sea . Two bronze figures - a man and a woman - standing on the new breakwater and looking out to sea at the sun rise . On Friday there is another set of . weather warnings for eastern and northern Scotland and as high as 80mm . of rain is expected on higher ground. Mr Williams added: ‘Over the next few . days we won’t be experiencing the fairly cold frosty nights and below . freezing temperatures that we have seen already. ‘Temperatures could drop as low as 2 . or 3 degrees but during the day it will be 14-16 degrees, with temperatures a bit . cooler at the weekend. ‘We will stay with the autumnal theme over . the weekend with some light showers, it will be a bit breezy and there will be some bright spells – . a typical autumnal mix.'

Early morning mist shrouds swathes of Britain's countryside as breathtaking scenes of sun rise captured elsewhere . Forecasters predict 'typical autumnal mix' of weather over next few days with showers, sun, wind and cloud . Weather warnings out for rain in some places with as high as 80mm of rain predicted on higher ground .

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By . Sadie Whitelocks . Last updated at 5:38 PM on 30th January 2012 . A teenager who was planning her own funeral is enjoying a new lease of life thanks to a life-saving double lung transplant. Casey Blunstone,16, was told by doctors that she had just days to live as cystic fibrosis had caused her lung function to drop to dangerous levels. For the past ten years she had been confined to hospital as a result of her debilitating condition and operated on twenty times. Casey Blunstone was given just days to live but is now looking forward to a bright future following a life-saving double lung transplant . She was top of the transplant list for her height, age group and blood type but no suitable donor could be found and her family launched an appeal. And with days left news came that a match had been located and Casey, from Walgherton, Cheshire East, underwent a ten-hour transplant procedure at Great Ormond Street Hospital, in London. She . is now looking forward to a bright future and medics expect a full recovery. Her mother Gaynor, 48, said that the family were overjoyed when a match was discovered. She said: 'We were really desperate at this stage. 'It was a nerve-wracking wait to find out whether we had a match because the live donor was no longer an option. 'But we were told the lungs were in pristine condition.' Road to recovery: For the past ten years Casey had been confined to hospital . Casey was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when she was four-weeks-old. The disease affects the internal organs, especially the lungs and digestive system, causing them to become clogged with thick, sticky mucus. She previously had to spend 20 . hours-a-day hooked up to a ventilation machine at Crewe’s Leighton . Hospital. But it was when her lung function fell to a dangerous 16 per cent that she was admitted to Great Ormond Street Hospital and medics located a suitable donor. She said: 'When I found out that my transplant could go ahead I was just overwhelmed. 'I have been waiting so long for a donor that I was in shock at first because I didn’t think it was going to happen.' The teenager is now appealing for others to join the donor register so that more lives can be saved. She added: 'The first thing I thought after my operation was that I want people to keep donating their organs. 'I have been really poorly, but I was given another chance at life and that is all I want for those who are still suffering.' Over four days she managed to recruit more than 300 people to . join the Organ Donation Register and is now set to become an . advocate of Live Life Then Give Life - a national donor charity. Her brother Tom, 25, described how he had been inspired by her efforts. He said: 'She has been ill all of her life and it has been hard work for . her. But she just keeps going and has always stayed positive.' She is now hoping to join her friends at school full-time after years of missing classes. Cystic fibrosis is a common inherited disease causing recurrent chest infections, poor growth and related health problems, such as diabetes and infertility. It affects over 8,500 children and young adults in the UK, where five babies are born with the condition every week.

Teenager underwent 20 operations during her 10-year hospital stay . Suitable donor found when Casey had just days to live .

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By . Claire Bates . PUBLISHED: . 07:49 EST, 12 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:19 EST, 12 February 2013 . Mr Cargill ripped up his Do Not Resuscitate Order after speaking to his family and lawyer . A cancer patient said he was left feeling terrified after a hospital doctor issued him with a Do Not Resuscitate order. Alan Cargill was being treated for cancer of the inner chest wall and a blood clot at the University Hospital of North Durham. During his stay a doctor approached him and told him he wouldn't be revived if he took a turn for the worse. The 69-year-old said: 'I had reacted badly to chemotherapy and I also had a blood clot so they admitted me to hospital. 'This doctor came to see me and informed me that I wouldn't be brought around again if anything happened. I would just be left.' Mr Cargill from Durham, said the doctor gave him a form prominently marked Do Not Resuscitate and walked away. The former haulage boss said the experience had really frightened him. He said: 'He terrified me, to be truthful. It is bad craic for something like that to happen when you are that ill. 'It is stamped all over with Do Not Resuscitate. Apparently, you are supposed to carry it round with you.' Mr Cargill was also concerned that the matter was raised with him without any other member of his family being present. A few days later Mr Cargill was discharged and allowed home where he discussed the Do Not Resuscitate order with his family. He was so concerned that Mr Cargill decided to raise the matter with his solicitor. He said: 'I talked to my solicitor and asked him, could they do that? He told me they can't.' After taking legal advice Mr Cargill contacted the hospital, confirmed that he did not wish the order to apply to him and then tore up the document. Despite the shock of being issued with a Do Not Resuscitate order, Mr Cargill has nothing but praise for hospital staff. 'I have no complaints about the medical care. It couldn't have been better.' The widowed grandfather, who has two grown-up daughters, has decided not to have any more treatment for his cancer for the time being. But last night he joked: 'I have every intention of living as long as possible. I have just bought a new car!' The University Hospital of North Durham where the order was issued . Do Not Resuscitate, or DNR orders are . increasingly being used in the NHS when it is thought that the benefits . of resuscitation are outweighed by the negative effects. The presence of a DNR order on a patients file means that medical staff are not required to resuscitate a patient if their heart stops or if they stop breathing. Katherine Murphy, Chief Executive of The Patients Association, said: 'The use of DNR orders is understandably a sensitive and deeply distressing issue. 'Sadly, there have been far too many cases where healthcare professionals have failed to facilitate proper conversations with relatives and patients about how, when and why a DNR order may be used. 'Hospitals need to look carefully at their procedures to ensure there are open discussions around end of life care involving both patients and relatives.' Guidelines from the British Medical Association state that DNR orders should only be issued after discussion with patients or their family. A spokesman for County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust said: 'We are sorry to hear about this complaint, and would welcome contact via the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALs), and the opportunity to meet with the complainant to discuss their concerns. 'Resuscitation decision making is a complex process. County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust has a comprehensive policy that describes the process that we expect staff to follow when supporting patients and their families during this difficult time. This policy is based upon regional best practice.'

Alan Cargill, 69, was being treated for cancer and a blood clot at the University Hospital of North Durham . A doctor told him he wouldn't be revived if he took a turn for the worse . He said he was given a Do Not Resuscitate order despite no family member being present .

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By . John Drayton . Lionel Messi has been getting over his World Cup final heartache with a sun-soaked holiday in Italy with his girlfriend Antonella Roccuzzo. Messi's Argentina side were beaten by Germany earlier this month as Mario Gotze scored the extra-time winner to send the South Americans away empty handed. The 27-year-old looked to banish the World Cup woe as he and his partner were joined by friends as they relaxed and soaked up the sun on their luxury vessel off the shores of Ponza. VIDEO Scroll down for Wags of Barcelona's star players centre stage at fashion event . All aboard: Lionel Messi's Italian getaway continues on to Ponza, where he is seen with his girlfriend Antonella Roccuzzo . And the couple turned up the heat when they were spotted flashing quite a bit of flesh during their time on the water. The Barcelona forward proudly put his washboard abs on display as he relaxed on the deck in just a pair of little white swimming shorts. And, not to be outdone, his girlfriend Antonella inadvertently gave a full view of her shapely derriere when a gust of sea breeze blew her patterned kaftan up. Cheeky! Antonella inadvertently flashes her pert bottom as she prepares to dine . Thankfully for the brunette beauty, her dignity was protected by her white bikini, which she wore under her kaftan as she prepared to dine. Last week, Messi and Antonella were seen sailing around the picturesque island of Capri with their their 20-month-old son Thiago. They were joined on board the yacht by family members as they made the most of the footballer's free time. Relaxation: Lionel has been enjoying some time out after playing for Argentina at the Brazil World Cup . VIDEO All Star XI: Lionel Messi . Antonella has stood by her man's side throughout the World Cup, proudly supporting him as he was awarded the Golden Ball for the 2014 tournament's best player. Yet in spite of his many sporting accolades, Messi insists his biggest achievement in life is his son Thiago. He previously told Catalan newspaper El Periodico: 'He has changed my life and he is the most important thing. 'In the past, I would get home and continue as if I was still outside and if things were not going well, I would shut myself away. Now I get home, see my son and I get over everything. Thiago has changed me more than all my Balon d'Or.' Sail away: Last week, Lionel and Antonella were seen sailing around the island of Capri .

Lionel Messi holidays with girlfriend Antonella Roccuzzo in Italy . Messi and his Argentina side were beaten by Germany in the World Cup final .

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PUBLISHED: . 12:09 EST, 18 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:53 EST, 18 March 2013 . Researchers have unveiled the nearest thing yet to a real-life transformer - a human sized robot that can walk, climb walls and even turn into a tank to move across tough terrain. The Carnegie Mellon University Highly Intelligent Mobile Platform, or . CHIMP, is designed to primarily move like a tank using tracks to cover . tough terrain. However, when it needs to, it can simply stand up - and even use . built in 'claws' to climbs ladders, scale buildings and even hold a . car's steering wheel. The latest entrant to DARPA's $2m Robotics Challenge is a four-limbed robot with near-human strength and the dexterity to climb ladders or use tools . Like a chimpanzee, each extremity is equipped with a manipulator that enables it to grasp objects . Its developer say it can: . Move across tough terrain like a tank . Stand up to access higher objects . Climb walls using 'claws' Climbs ladders . Use claws to operate power tools . Open valves and control steering wheels . Its normal mode of locomotion will be much like that of a tank, with the tracks of all four limbs on the ground, the team says. This configuration would offer a particular advantage when moving over debris and rough terrain. But CHIMP also can move on the treads . of just two limbs when needed, such as when it must use one or more . limbs to open a valve, or to operate power tools. CHIMP will be able to perform complex, physically challenging tasks through supervised autonomy. A remote, human operator will make . high-level commands controlling the robot’s path and actions, while the . robot’s on-board intelligence prevents collisions, maintains stability . and otherwise keeps the robot from harm. The robot also will be pre-programmed . to execute tasks such as grasping a tool, stepping on a ladder rung or . turning a steering wheel without step-by-step direction from the human . controller, circumventing the lag between command and execution. 'Humans provide high-level control, . while the robot provides low-level reflexes and self-protective . behaviors,' said Tony Stentz, NREC director and Tartan Rescue Team . leader. 'This enables CHIMP to be highly capable without the complexity associated with a fully autonomous robot. The CMU Highly Intelligent Mobile Platform (CHIMP) from Carnegie Mellon University uses mounted tracks on each triple-jointed limb to move like a tank over roads . As well as tracks, the Chimp robot has triple-fingered manipulators to climb up ladders, remove debris, or even turn a steering wheel . 'This type of robot has tremendous potential,' he said. The robot will compete in the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) Robotics Challenge, in which robots will have human-like capabilities to respond to calamities such as the 2011 Fukushima nuclear plant disaster. Climbing ladders and driving vehicles are among the obstacles robots will face in environments engineered for people. The NREC entry, Tartan Rescue Team, is one of seven selected by DARPA for DRC Track A, in which each team will develop its own hardware and software. CHIMP is designed with static stability; it won’t fall down even if it experiences a computer glitch or power failure. 'When we walk or stand, our brains are actively controlling our balance all of the time,' Stentz said. 'This dynamic balance makes people nimble and enables them to run.' When necessary, however, the operator can control CHIMP’s individual joints, enabling it to adapt its motion to particular circumstances or extricate itself from tight spots. 'In a pinch, it can do anything,' Stentz said. The robot can move like a tank over roads and rough ground, but can rise up onto two tracks to use the triple-fingered manipulators to climb up ladders, remove debris, or even turn a steering wheel .

Carnegie Mellon University Highly Intelligent Mobile Platform, or . CHIMP, is designed to move like a tank using tracks to cover . tough terrain . If terrain is too tough, it can simply stand up - and even use . built in 'claws' to climbs ladders, scale buildings and even hold a . car's steering wheel .

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By . Ben Todd . Last updated at 11:16 AM on 29th December 2011 . With her mane of long blonde hair, winsome smile and passing resemblance to Jennifer Aniston, she may not exactly be a dead ringer for her famous grandfather. But as she looks forward to sharing the stage with Sir Bruce Forsyth at the Royal Albert Hall to celebrate his 70 years in showbiz, it is clear Sophie Purdie has inherited the entertainer’s famous drive and singing talent. And the 20-year-old beauty lifted the lid on the secrets of Sir Brucie’s longevity after joining ‘granddad’ for a duet on his latest album. Generation game: Sophie Purdie, pictured, inspired Sir Bruce who has asked her to sing with him on his forthcoming album . Miss Purdie told the Mail that Sir . Bruce - who began his showbusiness career in 1942 aged 14 - remains a . perfectionist at the age of 83. She revealed: 'I think he must have some OCD [Obsessive Compulsive Disorder] or something about wanting to get things right. 'He’s always worrying about stuff and wanting to get it right – and I think I get that from him as well. 'I think that goes in his favour. I like to be slightly organised – but I’m not as bad as him. 'I don’t think he is [OCD] at home. That’s his relaxation period. He’s very like that at work – but not when . he’s at home. There, he likes to be relaxed.' Younger days: Sophie with her grandfather Sir Bruce . Married three times, Strictly Come . Dancing host Sir Bruce has six children, nine grandchildren and an . ever-expanding brood of great-grandchildren. Miss Purdie’s mother, Julie Forsyth, . is no stranger to showbusiness herself. She was in the 1970s pop group . Guys ‘N’ Dolls who appeared regularly on Top of the Pops. Julie is one of three daughters Sir Bruce had with his first wife Penny Calvet, who is also a singer. Sophie's mother Julie, pictured was a pop singer in the 1970s . After Penny, Sir Bruce married his . Generation Game hostess Anthea Redfearn. Twenty-eight years ago, he then . wed former Miss World Wilnelia Merced, whom Miss Purdie calls 'an . absolute saint….amazing,’ adding: ‘she’s kept us altogether really.' Despite the wealth of talent in the family, Sir Bruce was stunned to discover his granddaughter’s voice. Miss Purdie said: ‘It must have been a . couple of years ago that I was getting demos together and my voice was . starting to mature a bit. ‘Then we were round his house and we . put it on and he couldn’t believe how mature I had got. He just . remembered me as a little kid singing. And he thought: "Oh, blimey. She . can sing".' Nevertheless, Miss Purdie never . imagined Sir Bruce would ask her to duet on his new album, These Are My . Favourites. The pair sing together on the Charlie Chaplin favourite, . Smile. She admitted: 'I was walking down the . road and he phoned me and asked me out of the blue. And I said: "Oh my . God, of course I will." I couldn’t believe it. 'I was very honoured. I never thought it would happen. I never expected it at all. 'And I got a really good, really positive reaction. And that has given me a boost of confidence. He was lost for words…' Now she’s looking forward to showcasing their duet for an audience at the Royal Albert Hall in May. Miss Purdie also told how despite the . passing of the years, Sir Bruce continues to lead the way for the family . when it comes to exercise. Asked whether he continues to follow . his renowned Tibetan exercise, she said: 'He does. He really does. He . gets up so early. Whenever we stay around, we always get up later than . him. 'He gets up at 6am every day and . starts his exercises. Then he has some porridge in the morning. He’s . already done so much stuff by the time we wake up.' Miss Purdie grew up between Holland – . where her mother Julie and father Dominic Grant often worked – and . England. She is, though, now settled in Ramsgate, Kent, and has been . dating artist Matthew Penn for 18 months. Miss Purdie started singing publicly when she was 16 when her father had a 'sore throat' and could not take to the stage. 'My parents have been singers in Holland so I did tour with them and that’s how I’ve sort of got into it really. 'My dad had a bad sore throat and they . needed to fill some time in. So I was backstage helping.and mum said: . ‘Quickly, help me. Get on.' 'So I rushed on stage and I suddenly . realised I had the [showbusiness] bug. So, now I’m sucked in that’s . really it for me. I really love it.' Many have commented on Miss Purdie’s . resemblance to Jennifer Aniston, but she said: ‘People keep saying this . [Aniston] but I don’t see it. I guess it’s just the hair. But my . favourite programme is Friends.’ Talking of her evergreen grandfather, she continued: ‘I completely forget that he’s 83 really. I just completely forget. 'To be honest I don’t see him as a famous celebrity because he is just granddad. 'I know that might sound strange but all the family just think of him as granddad really. 'I never would have thought he did what he did because he just seemed so normal. 'He is a very warm, homely granddad. He has had a massive role in my life.'

Sir Bruce Forsyth, 83, has asked 20-year-old Sophie Purdie to sing with him . Pair will also perform at a concert at Royal Albert Hall in May to celebrate his 70 years in showbusiness .

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A group of young YouTubers is revolutionizing the toy industry and raking in millions of dollars in profits in the process. According to industry experts, at a time when toy sales have hit a long-term period of stagnation - profits have remained at $22 billion for a number of years - children who review the latest and greatest creations on YouTube are wielding increasing influence over the industry, thanks to their incredible viewing figures and ability to sell almost any toy around. Some of the world's biggest toy makers have begun courting YouTube's most popular child stars in the hopes that they will be able to better connect with a generation that views the online video shows as much - if not more - than they do the most popular shows on TV. Scroll down for video . Mini millionaire: According to Business Insider, eight-year-old Evan earns more than $1.3m from his YouTube channels . Family business: Evan (L) and his younger sister Jillian both make videos for the YouTube channel . 'Kids trust other kids more so than they would an adult,' says Marc Rosenberg, a Chicago-based toy consultant. Leading the pack of pint-sized YouTube personalities is eight-year-old Evan, who started his first YouTube channel three years ago along with his father Jared. Three YouTube channels later and Evan - whose younger sister Jillian also appears in his videos - has amassed more than 1 billion views and boasts nearly 1 million subscribers for his main toy review channel alone. EvanTubeHD, which features special effects created by his dad, who runs a video production company full-time, is known for telling kids how to play with toys. Evan speaks directly to them, offering his thoughts and opinions on each plaything. The youngster appears completely confident in front of the camera, giving just a few occasional reminders of his young age. In a review of Angry Birds Space Softee Dough playset, Evan apologized for a noticeable lisp throughout the recording, saying: 'Sorry if I'm talking a little funny today because I just lost my tooth.' According to Business Insider, Evan's three YouTube channels - which include his main toy review channel, a gaming channel and a vlogging channel - currently make the young star more than $1.3 million dollars each year. Behind Evan are a few other young YouTube prodigies. Most of the children are identified by first name because their parents don't want to risk their safety. Beauty guru: In addition to her toy reviews, 11-year-old Emma, who stars alongside her siblings on YouTube channel KittiesMama, also does costume and make-up tutorials . Siblings Noah, 14, Jonah, 12, and Emma, 11 star in KittiesMama, which has nearly 400 million views. The online reality show, which is made with the help of the trio's parents, chronicles the kids' daily lives, including birthday parties, shopping trips and extra curricular activites. They also review toys and beauty lover Emma shows kids howto dress up like their favorite toys. Gracie Hunter, 11, pairs up with her mother, Melissa, in 'Mommy and Gracie,' which has close to 90 million views. Gracie, an enthusiastic and energetic redhead, searches for hard-to-find dolls with her mom. They've even traveled to Canada from their New Jersey home in order to find a rare Monster High doll. RadioJH Audrey, which is run by 11-year-old toy fan Audrey, has over 60 million views. The youngster has found herself particularly popular with tweens and offers slightly more 'mature' reviews of her toys - frequently throwing in words like 'cool' and 'awesome' into her videos. Mother and daughter: Grace and her mother Melissa search for rare dolls and travel across the country in order to find them . Money makers: The pair have never revealed just how much profit their YouTube channel generates but the two are estimated to be among the top earners . She also streaks her bobbed hair in a rainbow of colors and wears big jewelry and studded tees. Audrey's trademark: reviewing mystery toy bags that are sold at places like Toys R Us. Julie Krueger, industry director of retail at Google, which owns YouTube, says the channels have 'huge followings of fans' and many of the world's biggest toy manufacturers have noticed. In fact, Canada-based toy company Spin Master says Evan's reviews helped boost sales of its Spy Gear toys 65 percent this year. The private company declined to disclose sales numbers. From playtime to profits: Evan's younger sister Jillian (pictured with their mother) is started to bring in her own viewers, thanks to her reviews of the latest girls' toys . 'It gives the item more widespread exposure,' says Jim Silver, editor-in-chief and CEO of TTPM.com, a toy review website. Toy makers regularly send the young reviewers products - and some have even inked paid marketing deals with them and their parents. Spin Master hired Evan to appear in a TV ad for its latest Spy Gear toys, Anki, which makes robotic toy cars, teamed up with Evan and KittiesMama for reviews on a race car, while WowWee is working with 'Mommy and Gracie' on promotional videos for Elektrokidz collectible dolls. Stay in school: The KittiesMama channel documents almost every aspect of the children's lives, including back-to-school supply shopping . The parents and companies have all declined to disclose financial terms, however most of the parents, who also declined to say how much ad revenue the channels make, have quit their jobs in order to focus on the booming homemade businesses. But Mr Rosenberg says kids 'risk crossing the line of trust' with their audience when deals are made with toy makers. For their part, the toy brands say that they're careful to preserve the kids' voices. Spin Master's chief marketing officer, Krista DiBeradino, says it tries to maintain 'the authenticity intended with each relationship.' Parents also say they try to maintain authenticity. Jason, the father behind RadioJH, says the channel is doing so well with ad revenue that he doesn't focus on partnerships, while Jennifer, the mother behind KittiesMamma, says she'd only partner with brands that her kids enjoy. Tween queen: 11-year-old Audrey appeals to a slightly older audience and often reviews toys that are aimed at more mature fans . Melissa Hunter of 'Mommy and Gracie' says her family will only accept deals to benefit children's charities. 'We aren't just faces for hire,' she says. Evan's dad, Jared, says he works with partners that resonate with the audience and that he invests any money that the channels make toward his children's futures. 'It's kind of surreal,' he says of his family's YouTube success, while Evan added: 'I didn't think it would turn out like this when I first made the channel. I thought I would just get four views.'

Children's toy reviews have become some of YouTube's most-watched videos . Eight-year-old Evan of channel EvanTubeHD earns over $1.3m a year .

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She’s known for her love of fast cars as host of BBC's Formula One coverage, but even Suzi Perry was impressed when called in to start up the four mighty engines of Britain’s largest cruise ship, P&O Cruises’ Britannia, for the first time. When working to full capacity, Britannia’s four engines will generate 62.4 Megawatts or 84,000 horsepower - equivalent to the power generated by 168 'supercars', or 1,000 normal family cars. '[It is] a little bit more horsepower than I'm used to... 84,000, it's incredible!' Perry said after turning the engines over. 'When I first came into the dock I couldn't believe how big it is.' The 141,000 ton ship will cruise at a speed of 22 knots when it hits the water in March next year. The boat is being built at the Fincantieri’s Monfalcone shipyard near Trieste in Italy. Britannia will launch in March 2015, before her maiden season which will see the ship sail from Southampton to the Mediterranean, the Norwegian Fjords, the Canary Islands and the Baltic Sea. The ship, which will also offer a range of short breaks and a round Britain cruise, will then transfer to the Caribbean for the winter season, sailing a range of 15 night fly/cruise itineraries from Barbados. It's so big: BBC Formula One host Perry marvelled at the size and power of the engines . Start me up! Suzi Perry switches on the engines of the UK's biggest cruise ship, Britannia, for the first time . Guided tour: Captain Paul Brown gives the F1 presenter a guided tour of the engine room of the ship . Perry was treated to a tour of the ship and its engine room with Captain Paul Brown, and the video of her visit gives an idea of the size and capacity of this enormous ship. P&O Cruises is launching a national campaign to discover what or who people across the country believe embodies the spirit of modern Britain. The most popular suggestions received via twitter and Facebook will be incorporated into two pieces of artwork which will be installed on Britannia.

Suzi Perry started engines of P&O's Britannia, Britain’s largest cruise ship . Britannia’s four engines are powerful as 168 supercars or 1,000 normal cars . The 141,000 ton ship will hits the water in March 2015 .

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A heavily pregnant woman pleaded with her cage fighter ex-boyfriend not to kill their unborn baby as he stabbed her in the stomach five times, a jury heard. Lauren Oliver said she was convinced her child was dead after Nicholas Leaning, 28, launched a frenzied attack to prevent her proving he was the father. Miss Oliver told of the ordeal in video evidence played to Hull Crown Court. She said: 'I knew it was him and I knew what he was going for. He was trying to kill the baby. Lauren Oliver (left) said her ex Nicholas Leaning (right) stabbed in her in the stomach while she was pregnant . 'It was like he was enjoying it because he was smiling... I pleaded with him not to kill me and my baby.' The court heard Leaning and Miss Oliver had been in a 'great' relationship for around two years before she discovered he had rekindled a relationship with his ex-partner Lindsay Coombs. The pair split in November last year - but Miss Oliver then discovered she was pregnant with his child. She claimed he made repeated instructions to her to abort the baby, but she refused. She said: 'I went to see Lindsay and she showed me pictures and messages and everything to prove they were together. 'We found out he had been with us both all along. I found out I was pregnant, and when I told him he told me to I had to go and get an abortion, but I didn't want to. 'He was nice at first saying "it's not right", but when I said I couldn't go through with it, he got mad. He said he would kick it kick it out of me if he had to. 'He said I had to get rid of it but when I wouldn't, he said he didn't want anything to do with it.' Champion: Nick Leaning (left) pictured at a recent fight. He denies attempted murder and the trial continues . Miss Oliver said she demanded a DNA test, but Leaning refused. She was 34 weeks pregnant and in the doorway of her home in Belton, North Lincolnshire, when the alleged attack took place. The stabbing led to an emergency caesarean and the premature birth of her baby, who cannot be identified for legal reasons. She said: 'He knew exactly what time I would be back - he knows my routine like clockwork. 'When I got back I unlocked the door and I was just about to open it when I felt someone jumping up on me from behind. Miss Oliver said she was convinced Leaning (pictured) had killed their unborn child . 'I looked down and I clocked the trainers straight away. I knew they were his as we had been in a relationship for 18 months and he lived at my house. 'I felt a stab in my stomach and I tried to push him off. He stabbed me five times. I felt a massive gush of blood between my legs and I thought my baby was dead. Miss Oliver claimed Leaning was wearing a mask he used while training as a cage fighter during the alleged attack, as well as a dark hoodie, blue jeans and a black and red baseball cap. She said: 'He wore all his clothes that he used to wear. I used to wash his clothes when he was working as a chimney sweep. All I could see was his eyes staring at me. 'The first stab took me down. I bent forward and then he pushed me and he was standing over the top of me. 'He was trying to get the knife in as many times as he could. I was shouting "someone help me please", and "Nick please stop it". 'Eventually he got up and ran away. It's just sick.' Simon Waley, prosecuting, said yesterday: 'When the defendant learned of the pregnancy he had tried to persuade her to have an abortion and when she said she didn't want to, he became angry and said he didn't want to have anything to do with the child. 'He began to indicate to others that the child wasn't his and he hadn't been sleeping with Lauren for some time. 'Lauren and Lindsay had been in touch with each other and had been on friendly terms and arranged a DNA test to determine who was the father. 'He said he would not participate in such a test so Lindsay said she would allow DNA from their child to be used.' He added: 'She was thrown in through the front doorway and fell to the floor. Aftermath: The stabbing led to an emergency caesarean and the premature birth of Miss Oliver's baby . 'She landed on her knees just inside the door and she was pushed onto her back and she curled up into a ball trying to protect her stomach area. 'She could heard grunting as further blows were made to her stomach area. She realised now she was being stabbed. 'She was screaming, shouting his name and begging him to stop. 'He seemed almost to be smiling before stabbing her for the fifth time. He then fled from the scene.' Following the alleged attack, Mr Waley said Lauren got up and tried to follow him before screaming for help. The court heard Lauren was taken to nearby Scunthorpe District Hospital where it was confirmed she had five stab wounds to her abdomen. She underwent emergency surgery and a caesarean section to deliver her baby six weeks early. Mr Waley said 'astonishing that the baby was not harmed'. When giving a description of her attacker to police, the prosecutor said that Lauren told them he was wearing a mask - the type Leaning wore while training as a cage fighter. The court heard that Leaning was arrested around an hour after the incident at his home address in Scunthorpe. Mr Waley said that he gave a number of conflicting accounts as to his whereabouts on the morning, as well as allegedly getting his father to provide him with a false alibi. During police questioning, Leaning finally admitted being at Lauren's property where he said she had shouted at him and 'came at him with a knife'. Mr Waley added: 'It's absurd that a 34-week pregnant Lauren launched an attack on her cage fighter ex-boyfriend and then went on to stab herself and her unborn baby five times in an act of spite against the defendant.' Leaning denies attempted murder, attempted child destruction and wounding with intent. The trial continues. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Lauren Oliver said Nicholas Leaning attacked her at Scunthorpe home . She discovered she was pregnant after they split and wanted DNA test . But Leaning, 28, 'wanted to prevent her from proving he was the father' 'He was trying to kill the baby', she said. 'It was like he was enjoying it' He denies attempted murder, attempted child destruction and wounding . Stabbing led to an emergency caesarean and the premature birth of baby .

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By . James Nye . Result: Jason Omar Griffith, looks on after a guilty verdict was read during his murder trial at the Regional Justice Center on Thursday, May 22, 2014, in Las Vegas . A former Las Vegas Strip performer was found guilty Thursday of second-degree murder for killing and dismembering his dancer ex-girlfriend in a closely watched case that offered a lurid glimpse behind the scenes of the Sin City stage community. Jason Omar Griffith sat motionless as the verdict was read in Clark County District Court, but blew a kiss to his mother, Charlene Davis, as he was handcuffed to be taken to jail. Defense attorney Abel Yanez characterized Griffith's reaction as 'numb. Not upset, not happy.' The jury deliberated for about 14 hours over two days after hearing nine days of testimony about the strangulation death of Deborah Flores Narvaez during a December 12, 2010, argument at Griffith's home. Flores' sister Celeste Flores Narvaez sobbed into her mother's shoulder as the verdict was read. She had said she wanted Griffith to be convicted of first-degree murder. The family left the courthouse without speaking with reporters. Griffith's defense attorneys said they will appeal, and Yanez added that his client was not the person the killing suggested he was. Goodbye mom: Jason Omar Griffith, (center), blows a kiss to his mother before being lead away and after a guilty verdict was read during his murder trial at the Regional Justice Center on Thursday, May 22, 2014, in Las Vegas . Prosecutor Marc DiGiacomo said he respected the verdict and understood it was difficult for jurors to decide guilt in domestic violence cases. He also said he expected Griffith to receive the maximum 10 years to life in prison at sentencing July 23. 'You don't get to dismember a body and not serve life in prison,' DiGiacomo said. Griffith could also get a definite 10- to 25-year sentence. He could have faced up to life in prison without parole for first-degree murder. Deborah Flores' disappearance in mid-December 2010 drew intense attention for almost a month before Griffith's housemate, Louis Colombo, led police to her dismembered remains in tubs of concrete in a vacant house. Prison: Jason Omar Griffith, (right), is comforted by his attorney Jeff Banks after a guilty verdict was read during his murder trial at the Regional Justice Center on Thursday, May 22, 2014, in Las Vegas . The trial was a tale of sex, lies, betrayal and violence between two passionate and ambitious Las Vegas Strip dancers. Griffith spent four days testifying that Flores' death was self-defense. He said he grabbed her from behind with his arms around her neck when he thought she was reaching for a purse that may have contained a gun. No weapon was found. He said he panicked afterward and asked Colombo to help dispose of the body. DiGiacomo derided Griffith's self-defense claim as a fabrication and said he did nothing to resuscitate Flores. Griffith, 35, is originally from Brooklyn, New York. He went by the name 'Blu' as a performer in the Cirque du Soleil show 'Love,' based on Beatles music at The Mirage resort. Accused: Griffith, pictured in court last week, has been found guilty of the murder of Deborah Flores Narvaez . Horrific: The dismembered body of dancer Deborah Flores Narvaez was found encased in concrete in 2011 . He testified that he juggled girlfriends and sexual acquaintances before and after he met Flores at a football halftime show in November 2009. Flores, who went by Debbie, moved to Las Vegas from Maryland. She worked her way from go-go club work to a stage role in the racy 'Fantasy' revue at the Luxor. Evidence showed that by the time they became intimate in early 2010, Flores thought their relationship was monogamous. But Griffith was meeting several women for casual sex and pursuing Agnes Roux, a performer in the Cirque show 'Zumanity' at the New York-New York hotel. Griffith testified that his relationship with Flores had movie-style 'Fatal Attraction' characteristics. He said she stalked, threatened, harassed and assaulted him when he tried to limit their time together, and that no one took him seriously despite more than a dozen calls to police for help. Relief: Celeste Flores Narvaez, (second right), sister of Deborah Flores Narvaez, is comforted after a guilty verdict was read during the murder trial at the Regional Justice Center on Thursday . Prosecutor Michelle Fleck said Griffith fanned Flores' anger by deceiving her about his sexual relationships, pulling away after accompanying her to an abortion clinic in May, then resuming their intimacy about the time of her 31st birthday in early July. The two continued an off-and-on relationship until her death. Flores had a temper, and several of Griffith's friends and co-workers testified that she became violent when she was angry - drawing stares and sometimes security officers during outbursts in public places. Roux testified that she broke up with Griffith after learning that he was sleeping with other Cirque dancers. End of the ordeal: Celeste Flores Narvaez, sister of Deborah Flores Narvaez, reacts after a guilty verdict was read during the trial of Jason Omar Griffith . She said she told Griffith in early December 2010 they couldn't be together if he was still seeing Flores. On the witness stand, Griffith testified the fatal argument developed after Flores told him she was pregnant for the second time in about six months and wanted another abortion. He said it escalated after Flores demanded he quit seeing Roux and devote his full attention to her. Flores' arm hit his face, Griffith said, as she reached past him toward her purse. Griffith said he grabbed her from behind, fell backward to the floor and held tightly until she stopped struggling. Colombo testified he helped entomb and move the remains. He received immunity from prosecution before leading police to the tubs of concrete on Jan. 8, 2011. Griffith was the one who sawed Flores' legs from her torso, Colombo said. Griffith said it was Colombo.

Jason Omar Griffith found guilty of second-degree murder of his girlfriend, Deborah Flores Narvaez in December, 2010 . The dancer's dismembered body was discovered in several cement tubs weeks later . 35-year-old Griffith said he was acting in self-defense and that he feared victim was reaching for a gun . Flores' sister Celeste Flores Narvaez sobbed into her mother's shoulder as the verdict was read . Cirque du Soleil dancer, Griffith, will be sentenced on July 23 . Murder was motivated by Flores' posessive nature and Griffith's insistence on having casual relationships .

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By . Associated Press . and Daily Mail Reporter . New York state has the most segregated public schools in the nation, with many black and Latino students attending schools with virtually no white classmates, according to a report released Wednesday. The report by the Civil Rights Project at the University of California at Los Angeles looks at enrollment trends from 1989 to 2010. In New York City, the largest school system in the U.S. with 1.1 million pupils, the study notes that many of the charter schools created over the last dozen years are among the least diverse of all, with less than 1 per cent white enrollment at 73 per cent of charter schools. There's also a marked difference at the city's nine specialized schools, designed to prepare students for college. Anyone living New York City can attend these schools, but they must get a high score on a standardized exam administered in the eighth grade. Alike: A new report by the Civil Rights Project revealed that New York State's public schools are the most segregated in the nation. Above a chart showing the uniformity in race at public schools . At elite Stuyvesant High School in lower Manhattan, just seven black students and 21 Latino students were admitted this year compared to the 164 white students and 680 Asian students. It was the same story at Bronx Science, which admitted 557 Asian students, 252 white students, 50 Latinos and 18 black students, according to data reported in Dropout Nation. 'To create a whole new system that's even worse than what you've got really takes some effort,' said Gary Orfield, co-director of the Civil Rights Project and an author of the report. He and his fellow researchers say segregation has the effect of concentrating black and Latino students in schools with high ratios of poor students compared with the statewide average. Black and Latino students who attend schools that are integrated by race and income level perform significantly better than their peers in segregated schools, the authors note. The study suggests that New York's segregation is largely due to housing patterns but that it could be mitigated through policies intended to promote diversity. Separation: Manhattan's Stuyvesant High School is one of the most segregated schools in New York state, with just 8 black students admitted to the college preparatory this year. Above, students leave the lower Manhattan campus on March 25 . Elite: Stuyvesant High School is one of New York City's nine specialized schools. Any New York City resident can attend the school, but they must secure a high score on an eighth grade placement exam . 'In the 30 years I have been researching schools, New York state has consistently been one of the most segregated states in the nation — no Southern state comes close to New York,' Orfield said. Other states with highly segregated schools include Illinois, Michigan and California, according to the Civil Rights Project. In New York, about half of the state's public school students were from low-income families in 2010, the report says, but the typical black or Latino student attended a school where close to 70 per cent of classmates were low-income. The typical white student went to a school where just 30 per cent of classmates were low-income. 'For New York to have a favorable multiracial future both socially and economically, it is absolutely urgent that its leaders and citizens understand both the values of diversity and the harms of inequality,' the study's authors say. New York City Department of Education spokesman Devon Puglia did not address the findings of the report, but said, 'We believe in diverse classrooms in which students interact and grow through personal relationships with those of different backgrounds.' In this Dec. 3, 2013 file photo, Adofo Muhammad, center, principal of Bedford Academy High School, teaches 10th and 11th graders in his Global Studies class in the Brooklyn Borough of New York . State Education Commissioner John King called the findings troubling and added, 'The department has supported over the years various initiatives aimed at improving school integration and school socioeconomic integration, but there's clearly a lot of work that needs to be done — not just in New York but around the country.' The report, which used U.S. Department of Education statistics, also noted increasing segregation in upstate cities including Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse. In the Syracuse metropolitan area, the report says, the number of black students increased by 4 per cent between 1989 and 2010, but black isolation increased dramatically. In 1989 the typical black student went to a school that was one-third black, but in 2010 the typical black student went to a school that was nearly half black. Pedro Noguera, a New York University education professor, said it's disturbing that policy makers have focused so little on racial integration in recent years. Desegregation: Institutionalized segregation in America's schools became illegal with the Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education. Above, Linda Brown attends her new, majority-white, school in September 1954 . 'We've been talking about reforming schools in New York and elsewhere. This issue was never addressed,' Noguera said. He added, 'When you concentrate the neediest kids together in under-resourced schools they tend not to do very well.' The UCLA report recommends that state and local education agencies develop policies aimed at reducing racial isolation and promoting diverse schools. The report suggests voluntary desegregation programs in upstate cities like Rochester, where low-income populations are surrounded by more affluent communities. In New York City, Orfield said, a system of unscreened 'choice' schools would foster more diversity than the current New York City high school choice system, which sees entrance tests at top schools excluding most black and Latino students. 'If you just offer choice, the people with the best information will get into the best schools,' he said. Requel Russell-George, the mother of two students at Public School 169 in the Bronx, which has about 75 per cent black and 19 per cent Latino students, said she feels the school is 'excellent' but she would like to see more diversity. 'I do feel that it would be great for our children and other children to be exposed to other cultures,' Russell-George said. 'You're more knowledgeable and things are not mysterious to you as you get older.'

The segregation is most prominent in New York City charter schools where white students account for just 1 per cent of enrollment . There is also a growing disparity in the Upstate New York cities of Syracuse, Buffalo and Rochester . The researchers suggest lawmakers push policies to allow students to chose which schools they wish to attend, without placement exams . In New York City, students can chose which school they go to but must get a certain score on an 8th grade exam to attend college preparatory schools . Dropout Nation reports that just seven black students were admitted to elite Stuyvesant High School this year .

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By . Anna Hodgekiss . PUBLISHED: . 09:29 EST, 5 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 14:00 EST, 5 March 2014 . A devastated mother has described the moment she smothered her son who was suffering from a terminal genetic disease. Heather Pratten's son Nigel Goodman had Huntington's disease - a condition which had also killed his father Kenneth. While his brother Philip also suffered with the condition, Nigel had never come to terms with his diagnosis, Heather said. Heather Pratten's son Nigel Goodman had advanced Huntington's disease. She helped him take his own life by smothering him after he took a heroin overdose . Speaking on ITV's This Morning, she explained how on his 42nd birthday, Nigel had tried to take his life with a massive heroin overdose. Lying next to him and seeing him struggling to breathe as the drug took hold, she took a pillow and suffocated him to relieve his suffering. She told hosts Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield: 'I thought "this has to end". I couldn't take it any longer. I put a pillow over his face. When I took it away, he was gone.' Although she was arrested and charged, an autopsy concluded her actions would not have changed Nigel's fate. She was initially charged with murder, but eventually pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting suicide.A judge later ruled during her hearing in October 2000 that the case was an 'exceptional circumstance' and she was given a conditional discharge. Nigel had never come to terms with his diagnosis, his mother said. On his 47th birthday he tried to take his own life . Heather has campaigned for a change in the . law ever since Nigel's death in March 2000. Her story features . in an emotive new book: Assisted Dying: Who Makes The Final Decision?, published tomorrow. Huntington's disease is an incurable disease caused by an inherited faulty gene. This gene produces a protein called Huntingtin. It's not known how, but the gene causes widespread damage to the nerve cells in the brain, causing a range of symptoms. Sufferers can exhibit emotional and mental changes such as mood swings, clumsiness, lack of motivation, aggression and depression which, in the early stages, can often be written off as simple personality traits. Later, they develop physical problems such as the shakes or nervous tics, then weight loss and muscle weakness which leaves the patient unable to swallow, speak or move. Every sufferer has a different rate of deterioration, but it is a fatal condition. Heather, who had five children, says she knew to be aware of the disease because her husband Kenneth had also suffered from it. The couple had married in 1955 and had five ­children – Nigel, Philip, Stephen, Tina and Deborah – and raised them in Hornchurch, East London. Then in his thirties, Kenneth became absent minded, would leave taps on and cigarettes lit in strange places, recalls Heather. 'It turned out his father had also had Huntington's, but his mother had never told him. We were told he had died of a nervous breakdown.' Kenneth died at the age of 44 of a heart attack - and Heather began to worry if the devastating disease would present itself in any of her children. A judge later ruled during Heather's hearing that the case was an exceptional circumstance and she was given a conditional discharge . 'I told them not to have children in case they passed it on and to make the best of their lives.' Her son Philip was diagnosed in his 30s and was accepting of the condition, she says. 'He was never very independently minded and we found him a place in one of the best care homes in the country for Huntington's - he really settled there.' Philip later died, aged 48, having been confined to a wheelchair. But for his brother Nigel, things were very different - and Heather says she clearly remembers the day she realised he too had the disease. Huntington's . is an incurable disease caused by an inherited faulty gene, which produces a protein called Huntingtin. It's not known how, but the gene . causes widespread damage to the nerve cells in the brain, causing a . range of symptoms. Sufferers can exhibit emotional and mental . changes such as mood swings, clumsiness, lack of motivation, aggression . and depression which, in the early stages, can often be written off as . simple personality traits. Later, they develop physical problems . such as the shakes or nervous tics, then weight loss and muscle weakness . which leaves the patient unable to swallow, speak or move. Every . sufferer has a different rate of deterioration, but it is a fatal . condition. Huntingdon's is estimated to affect around 8,000 people in the . UK. In adults the symptoms usually appear between 35 and 50, although . until a blood test was introduced around 20 years ago, it was very . difficult to diagnose it at an early stage. She told This Morning: 'Nigel loved to draw cards and I would always receive a hand-drawn birthday and Christmas card. 'Then one day he got me a shop-bought card - and I just knew. He couldn't draw any more. He had Huntington's.' Unlike Philip, Nigel wanted to shut himself off from the world, preferring to stay in his flat. 'He then said he wouldn't live with the disease, he was going away to Scotland and not to contact him. 'I was very worried as I knew he was having difficulty getting on trains. 'I kept phoning and phoning him and finally he picked up and just said, "help me, I'm scared". 'I went to see him and he'd been trying to starve himself and had bought vodka to try and keep himself unconscious. 'He wanted me to buy him more vodka. Instead, I called an ambulance - he was furious.' Then on Nigel's 42nd birthday, Heather went to his flat to take him out. 'We went out, but then he said he wanted to go back to the flat. I saw no reason not to.' Back home, Nigel turned to his mother and said: 'My friends have got me what I needed.' He left the room and came back holding a small pack of heroin and a syringe. 'It was the day he had chosen to die,' says Heather. 'He said he'd already tried to take his life twice in front of a train, but could only think of the driver. 'He'd also thought of hanging himself. 'I saw the heroin and thought "that is the best way for him to go". The pair then lay down, Nigel took the drug and they lay there chatting, she recalls. Despair: Heather told hosts Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield she couldn't take Nigel's suffering any more. 'I put a pillow over his face. When I took it away, he was gone' 'Then we fell asleep and when I woke up, I could tell he was nearly gone. His face was white, his lips were blue and he was barely breathing. 'I thought "this has to end". I couldn't take it any longer. I put a pillow over his face. When I took it away, he was gone.' Heather spent half an hour with Nigel before calling the police and explaining everything that had happened. 'It's not something I could keep inside,' she told Holly and Philip. 'I knew I could get 14 years but at that point, I was just worried about my family.' Strong: Heather has campaigned for a change in the law ever since Nigel's death. Her story features in an emotive new book . She was conditionally discharged for a year. Judge Graham Boal told her: 'Your story is one that would move the hardest of hearts.' Since then, Heather has campaigned for dignity in dying and a chance to the law. Her story features . in an emotive new book. Assisted Dying: Who Makes The Final Decision?, published tomorrow. She told This Morning: 'There must be safeguards in place for terminally ill, mentally competent people. 'We are really lacking in compassion for people who are suffering.' Heather is a patron of Dignity In Dying. For more information about Huntington’s disease, visit hda.org.uk. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org .

Heather Pratten's son Nigel Goodman, 42, had Huntington's disease . Condition also affected his father Kenneth and brother Philip . On his 42nd birthday, Nigel tried to take his life with a heroin overdose . His mother was with him and could see he was slipping away . Decided to relieve him of his distress by placing a pillow over his face . Said: 'I thought "his suffering has to end". I couldn't take it any longer' She was later charged with murder but was given conditional discharge . Has since campaigned for dignity for the dying .

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By . Leesa Smith For Daily Mail Australia . Sidelined Essendon coach James Hird says he was threatened and pressured into accepting responsibility for the AFL club's supplements program, and disagreed with the Bombers' decision to self report. Hird claims he was at odds with Essendon's decision to request both the AFL and Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority investigate the club over doping allegations. Speaking for the first time about the allegations, Hird told the Federal Court he did not believe the club had done anything wrong, but agreed to toe the club line. 'I was asked by the Essendon Football Club not to shirk the issue,' Hird told the court on Monday. 'I was told it would be better for the club if we went along this path.' Scroll down for video . James Hird (left and with his wife Tania right) speaks out for the first time about the supplements allegations . James Hird claims his that then AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou (pictured) had tipped off Essendon about a pending ASADA investigation the day before the club went public but Demetriou denies the claims . Hird denied the club reported its 2012 supplements program to the AFL and ASADA. Hird said that he disagreed with repeated public statements by club officials that the club had self-reported to the anti-doping authority. ‘I do not believe the club proactively invited ASADA to investigate these matters,’ he told the court on Tuesday. ‘I don't believe the club agreed to self report.’ ASADA:Its legislation allows it to conduct joint investigations and share information with the AFL about Essendon's "derelict governance"'Possible governance and management issues were the very thing which prompted senior Essendon officials to approach ASADA,' Tom Howe QC said. Essendon football club:Argues ASADA should not have given information to the AFL which was used to fine the Bombers and bar them from the 2013 finals for bringing the game into disrepute'The prejudice to the players will effectively rebound to the prejudice of the employer and effectively destroy the business,' Neil Young QC said. Suspended coach James Hird:Hird attacked senior managers at Essendon and the AFL, saying he was threatened and induced into toeing the company line'I was told by the club, by David Evans and Ian Robson, that we should co-operate with ASADA and with the AFL, because if we co-operated it would go well for our players,' he said. 34 past and present Bombers players:It would be an injustice if doping findings were made against them based on the 'unlawful' investigation, David Grace QC said. Hird said former AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou and chief operating officer Gillon McLachlan told then Essendon chairman David Evans that the club had been guilty of doping and should self report. ‘He (Mr McLachlan) said it would go better for the club if we came forward in a proactive way,’ Hird said. ‘It was on their advice we came forward.’ However, Demetriou has denied pre-warning the club. Hird said he did not believe the Bombers had done anything wrong, but agreed to toe the club line, having been asked ‘not to shirk the issue’. He said he only signed a deed of settlement with the AFL, which held him partly to blame and resulted in his 12-month suspension, after ‘threats and inducements’ were made. Hird and Essendon are claiming the AFL and Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority's joint investigation was unlawful and say the resultant show cause notices, alleging doping by 34 players, should be thrown out. But ASADA says its probe was legal, and to suggest otherwise would be 'nonsense on stilts'. At a February 2013 press conference Hird said he took full responsibility for what had happened in Essendon's football department in 2012. The club and Hird signed deeds of settlement with the AFL in August 2013, which resulted in the club being fined, thrown out of the finals and Hird's 12-month suspension. 'I was told by the club, by David Evans (left) and Ian Robson (right), that we should co-operate with ASADA and with the AFL, because if we co-operated it would go well for our players': James Hird . Hird said he only signed the deed, which held him partly to blame, under duress. 'There were threats and inducements to get me to sign that deed,' he told the court. Hird repeated his allegation that then AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou had tipped off the club about a pending ASADA investigation the day before Essendon went public at the press conference. Hird said the AFL made it clear to Essendon it was in the club's best interest to self report, with then AFL chief operating officer Gillon McLachlan - now the CEO - making the case. 'Gillon McLachlan said to us it was his belief that the Essendon Football Club had taken performance enhancing drugs,' Hird said. 'I disagreed with what they said. I said "I don't think that is true".' Hird said he was told to participate in the investigation by the club's then chairman David Evans and CEO Ian Robson. 'I was told by the club, by David Evans and Ian Robson, that we should co-operate with ASADA and with the AFL, because if we co-operated it would go well for our players. 'The players are the most important thing and I followed David Evans' and Ian Robson's lead.' Court clerks delivering documents to the Federal Court before the Australian Sports Anti Doping Authority inquiry into Essendon's supplement program . Essendon's lawyer Neil Young QC said ASADA should not have given information to the league which was used to accuse the Bombers of bringing the game into disrepute. He said the process was unlawful and could crush the club. 'The prejudice to the players will effectively rebound to the prejudice of the employer and effectively destroy the business,' Mr Young said. But ASADA counsel Tom Howe QC said Essendon's 'seriously derelict' and 'toxic' governance and management were a major part of the investigation. 'Possible governance and management issues were the very thing which prompted senior Essendon officials to approach ASADA,' he said. Mr Howe said ASADA was not prohibited from conducting a joint investigation and if the court ruled against it, it would compromise the body's stated aims. 'Indeed the expression 'nonsense on stilts' comes to mind,' Mr Howe said. David Grace QC, on behalf of the players, said it would be a grave injustice if findings were made against his clients on the basis of the 'unlawful' joint investigation.

Sidelined Essendon coach James Hird says he was pressured into accepting responsibility for the AFL club's supplements program . This is the first time Hird has spoken out about the allegations . Hird and Essendon are claiming the AFL and Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority's joint investigation was unlawful . They claim the case alleging doping by 34 players should be thrown out . Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority says claim is 'nonsense on stilts'

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By . Lizzie Parry . Weight-loss surgery - including gastric bands - helps to 're-wire' the brain, leaving people less interested in food, a study has found. Scientists in the U.S. examined MRI scans of patients who chose various different methods to shed the pounds. They discovered the brain reacts differently to images of food once the weight has been lost, depending on the method used. The study, carried out at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, compared those who lost weight after bariatric surgery, and those who opted for more conventional dieting methods. A new study carried out by scientists in the U.S. has found that weight loss surgery, like gastric band operations (file picture), help to 're-wire' the brain, leaving people less interested food . Following their weight loss, when confronted with images of pizza and other appetising food, scientists noticed the brains of the dieters were more active in the medical prefrontal cortex - the part of the brain known to regulate emotion and evaluate how we feel. The new study suggests that food means more to those who lose weight by changing their behaviour - i.e. reducing the number of calories they take in every day, and by increasing the exercise levels. On the other hand, people who undergo laparoscopic banding surgery appear to be more 'disconnected' from hunger pangs. 'They're not as interested in eating,' said lead author Amanda Bruce, psychologist at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Kansas School of Medicine. 'They're not as motivated by food.' The study, which was published in the journal Obesity, is the first to assess changes in the brain associated with different methods of weight loss. Sixteen people who lost weight via dieting and 15 who had undergone bariatric surgery took part in the new research. They were of similar age, education level, and importantly had similar BMI's - body mass indices. 'A huge strength of this paper is that the people in the two different groups were a match on the weight that they had lost,' Ms Bruce said, reported futurity.org. The results showed the bariatric participants lost about 9.3 per cent of their body weight, while their dieting peers shed 10.8 per cent. The study compared brain scans of 16 people who underwent bariatric surgery with those of 15 people who lost weight through dieting and more conventional methods. Two scans were taken, before and after weight loss, and each time a person was shown pictures of appeal foods including pizza . Each participant was then given an MRI scan and scientists studied their brain activation levels as they looked at pictures of food. They were tested before and after losing weight. Dr Bruce said she expected to see differences between the groups' brain activity, but the differences recorded were not those she had anticipated. 'The brain area that showed greater change in activation for the diet participants is an area that is associated with attentional processing, salience, how much you value something,' she said. 'When people are working hard to lose weight, they’re still really focused in on food stimuli. 'They’re thinking about food a lot. That’s one of the challenges. They’re often thinking about the foods they maybe shouldn’t eat. They’re still very motivated by these food stimuli. They’re focused on them.' Meanwhile the bariatric surgery participants were not as bothered by food. Their second set of scans, carried out after they lost weight, showed decreased activity in the medial prefrontal cortex. The study notes that evidence 'supports the notion that surgical weight loss patients undergo a 'forced' dietary restriction in avoiding discomfort that renders food cues to be less rewarding and less salient'.

Scientists in the U.S. examined brain scans of 16 people who lost weight after bariatric surgery and 15 people who shed the pounds through dieting . They found those who had gastric bands showed less interest in food presented before them after their operation . Food is found to mean more to people who lost weight by watching their calorie intake and increasing exercise .

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Lassy Chiwayo has been recalled to South Africa for 'health reasons' but several South African newspapers have reported he was found wandering naked in the streets . South Africa's consul-general in China has been recalled after he was allegedly found wandering the streets naked. Lassy Chiwayo, a veteran politician who spent time in prison with Nelson Mandela, has had his contract in Shanghai terminated and is back in Pretoria. The South African foreign office says he was recalled due to 'health reasons', but several newspapers have reported that Mr Chiwayo was found wandering naked near his home three months ago. According to Sunday World, his nude walks were a regular occurrence. A source said: 'He would disappear for days without trace and he would be found walking around naked.' Mr Chiwayo was also reported to have assaulted South Africa's ambassador to China Bheki Langa at an official function in Beijing. The 44-year-old has denied he was recalled saying it is 'general practice' for envoys to be reassigned. He dismissed the naked wandering stories and insisted his relationship with Dr Langa was 'healthy and cordial'.'All that you are saying is news to me,' he told the Sunday World. 'I don't have any health challenges that need intervention from the department.' It is the latest in a series of misfortunes to hit Mr Chiwayo, an engaged father-of-three. Last month, a fire gutted his home in Nelspruit in a suspected arson attack which destroyed a Porsche, a quad bike and £22,000-worth of Persian rugs. Mr Chiwayo denied that he was recalled saying his move back to South Africa was 'general practice' During his tenure as major of the Mbombela municipality in Mpumalanga he was hospitalised three times with stress and was constantly at war with the chairman of the African National Congress. His mental fragility was reportedly induced by the assassination of a fellow politician he was shot dead as he was poised to expose a corruption scandal in 2009. Clayson Monyela, a spokesman for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), confirmed to the Daily Telegraph that Mr Chiwayo had been recalled 'for health reasons'. 'He is receiving assistance from the department,' Mr Monyela said.

Lassy Chiwayo has had his contract in Shanghai terminated . Nude walks reported to be a 'regular occurrence' in commercial capital . Also claims he assaulted South African ambassador at function in Beijing . Mr Chiwayo denies the claims and said his recall is 'general practice'

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By . Sadie Whitelocks . PUBLISHED: . 11:01 EST, 25 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 14:24 EST, 25 June 2013 . A teenager has opened up about the rejection and stigma she faced after being diagnosed with HIV in sixth grade, aged 12. Paige Rawl, 18, from Indianapolis, Indiana, told the indystar.com that she confided in a best friend about her situation but two weeks later the news had spread around school. As a result she was subjected to cruel taunts, and even her soccer coach crudely joked that she would be able to score more goals on the pitch because the opposition would be 'afraid' to touch her. Difficult times: Paige Rawl from Indianapolis, Indiana, has opened up about the rejection and stigma she faced after being diagnosed with HIV in sixth grade . Recalling some of the other encounters . that still haunt her today, she said: 'I had a note left on my lockers . saying "no AIDS at this school". 'And I went from having tons of friends to hardly having any.' The . formerly upbeat teenager, who enjoyed playing soccer, participating in . show choir and cheerleading, decided to quit school in eighth grade to . escape the constant name-calling. She continued her studies by being home schooled but found that not being social made her miserable. 'There is no certain face to HIV... This is the type of . disease that doesn't discriminate' In a bid to get her confidence . back she decided to enroll at a different school for the ninth grade onward and from there . 'things started to get better'. She found that her peers and staff were supportive which gave her the strength to speak out and share her story. Miss . Rawl tested positive for HIV when she was 12 years old. She learned . that she had had it from birth and contracted it from her mother. Her father also passed away in 2001 of an AIDS-related illness but it wasn't established when or how he contracted the disease. Today . Miss Rawl is determined to combat the negativity surrounding HIV and . AIDS, which she says stems from a 'lack of education and just the . ignorance of people'. All-rounder: Miss Rawl (pictured right with a friend) is a keen cheerleader and soccer player as well as being a HIV and AIDS activist . The young activist has traveled around the . country, sharing her knowledge with teens and adults. At  14 she became . the youngest educator through the American Red Cross. 'I tell . people, "HIV does not define who I am,"' she said. 'There is no certain . face to HIV. This is the type of disease that doesn't discriminate.' Miss Rawl's story will be covered in the October 2013 issue of Seventeen magazine as part of its Pretty Amazing contest. Four other young women who are making an impact in their communities will also feature. In addition to being recognized by Seventeen, the teen is also working on a book. She plans to study molecular biology in the fall at Ball State University in hopes of becoming an HIV and AIDS drug researcher.

Paige Rawl from Indianapolis, Indiana, contracted the virus from her mother and tested positive aged 12 . The young HIV and AIDS activist, who is set to start university this fall, has traveled around the . country sharing her knowledge with teens and adults .

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By . Fiona Roberts . Last updated at 10:48 PM on 28th June 2011 . One of Michelle Bachmann's former chiefs of staff launched a scathing attack on his old boss today, claiming she was 'decidedly' not ready to be president. Ron Carey, who worked for Mrs Bachmann last year, described her offices as 'wildly out of control' and criticised her for a lack of leadership experience. It came as the 55-year-old attempted to mend her increasingly gaffe-prone reputation in a television interview this morning - only to make another historical mistake by claiming John Quincy Adams was a Founding Father. Under fire: Michele Bachmann at a meeting in Raymond, New Hampshire, today, as her former chief of staff attacked for a lack of leadership experience . In fact, he was just nine-years-old at the time of the Declaration of Independence. And yesterday, the Republican made another embarrassing gaffe,when she inadvertently compared herself to serial killer John Wayne instead of the actor. In an article for the Des Moines . Register, Mr Carey, who worked for Mrs Bachmann for several months last . year, says his former boss doesn't have the leadership experience needed . to be president. Attack: Ron Carey said his former boss Michele Bachmann was 'decidedly' not ready to be president . He conceded she had 'great oratory skills', but added: 'She is not prepared to assume the White House in 2013.' Mr Carey, who served as chairman of the Minnesota Republican Party from 2005 to 2009, says he knows Mrs Bachmann 'very well'. But he believes she offers no challenge to fellow candidate Tim Pawlenty, for whom Mr Carey also worked. He was particularly scathing about Mrs . Bachmann's managerial skills. He wrote: 'The Bachmann campaign and . congressional offices I inherited were wildly out of control. 'Stacks upon stacks of . unopened contributions filled the campaign office while thousands of . communications from citizens waited for an answer . 'If she is unable, or unwilling, to handle the basic duties of a campaign or congressional office, how could she possibly manage the magnitude of the presidency?' Today she was out on the campaign trail again at a meeting in Raymond, New Hampshire. She formally launched her presidential bid yesterday, from her hometown of Waterloo, in Iowa. Gaffe-prone: Michele Bachmann launched her presidential campaign in Iowa yesterday, but is already attracting criticisms for her inaccuracies . She . tore into President Obama as she sought to capitalise on a sudden surge . in poll ratings, which have put her ahead with fellow candidate Mitt . Romney. Rising star: Michelle Bachmann waves to crowds with her husband, Marcus, after she officially launched her presidential campaign in Waterloo, Iowa . Strong support: Mrs Bachmann's address, at a mansion in Waterloo, won her rapturous applause - but today she was criticised by a former aide . The Minnesota congresswoman has won support from many in the Tea Party for her hardline opinions on abortion and gay marriage, but she has also attracted criticism for her inaccuracies. According to Politifact.com,a political fact-checking service, Mrs Bachmann's record for inaccuracy is worse than all the other Republican candidates. Yesterday she told Fox News: 'Well what I . want them to know is just like, John Wayne was from Waterloo, Iowa. That's the kind of spirit that I have too,’ she told Fox News. On the road: Republican presidential candidate Michele Bachmann greets a young fan at a campaign meeting in Raymond, New Hampshire . Unfortunately for Mrs Bachmann, that John Wayne is in fact John Wayne Gacy, also known as the 'Killer Clown', who was executed in 1894 for raping and murdering more than 30 boys and young men. He was born in Chicago, but later moved to Waterloo where he began his crime spree. Although the actor of the same name is originally from Iowa, he was in fact born in Winterset - more than 150 miles away. Politifact.com, a political fact-checking service, examined 24 of Michele Bachmann's recent statements for their accuracy. It found just one to be fully true and 17 to be false - more than any other Republican candidate whose statements have been vigorously vetted. They include: . The claim: 'The farm is my father-in-law's farm. It's not my husband and my farm. It's my father-in-law's farm. And my husband and I have never gotten a penny of money from the farm.' (Fox News Sunday) The facts: In personal financial disclosure reports produced by members of Congress each year, Mrs Bachmann said she holds an interest in a family farm in Independence, Wisconsin, with her share worth between $100,000 and $250,000. The farm, which was owned by her father-in-law, produced income for Mrs Bachmann of at least $32,500 and as much as $105,000 from 2006 to 2009, according to the reports she filed for that period. The farm also received federal crop and disaster subsidies, according to a database maintained by the Environmental Working Group. From 1995 to 2010, the farm was given $259,332 in federal payments. When asked about the subsidies and her income from the farm late last year, a spokesman for Bachmann said only that she wasn't involved in decisions about the running of the farm. Yesterday she said her husband became a trustee of the farm because his father had dementia before he died two years ago, and he now 'oversees the legal entity'. She insisted she and her husband receive no farm income, despite the forms reporting it. The claim: 'If you look at one of our Founding Fathers, John Quincy Adams, that's absolutely true. He was a very young boy when he was with his father serving essentially as his father's secretary. 'He tirelessly worked throughout his life to make sure that we did in fact one day eradicate slavery.' (Good Morning America) The facts: John Quincy Adams was not a Founding Father. He was nine-years-old when the Declaration of Independence was made and 20 when the Constitution was adopted . His father, John Adams, was a Revolutionary War figure and an architect of the declaration - and therefore a Founding Father. Both father and son became president. Mrs Bachmann was defending her earlier, inaccurate remark that the Founding Fathers had devoted themselves to ending slavery. John Quincy Adams, president from 1825 to 1829, privately called slavery a 'great and foul stain', but largely sidestepped the issue in office, according to The Reader's Companion to the American Presidency. He tried to avoid antagonising the South, while reasoning that his push for a stronger central government would hasten slavery's end over time. The claim: 'Well what I want them to know is, just like John Wayne was from Waterloo, Iowa, that's the kind of spirit that I have, too.' (Fox News) The facts: Wayne the actor was born in Winterset, Iowa, nearly three hours away, and moved to California in his childhood. John Wayne Gacy, convicted of killing 33 men and boys, was born in Chicago, moved to Waterloo to work in his father-in-law's chicken restaurants and first ran afoul of the law there, sentenced to 10 years for sodomy. He began his killing spree after his release, and his return to Illinois. Bachmann told CNN on Tuesday her comments 'were just misspeaking' and that her main intent was to show she identified with Wayne's patriotism. The claim: 'Overnight we are hearing that potentially 10 to 30,000 people could have been killed in the strike.' (She was criticising Mr Obama in May for the 'foolish' U.S. intervention in Libya, and citing what she said were reports of a civilian death toll from a NATO strike as high as 30,000)The facts: The U.S. ambassador to Libya, Gene Cretz, said in late April that U.S. officials have seen reports that 10,000 to 30,000 people may have died in Gaddafi's crackdown on protesters and the fighting between rebels and pro-government forces, but it is hard to know if that is true. He was speaking about all casualties of the conflict; no one has attributed such a death toll to NATO bombing alone, much less to a single strike. The claim: 'It's ironic and sad that the president released all of the oil from the strategic oil reserve... There's only a limited amount of oil that we have in the strategic oil reserve. It's there for emergencies.' (CBS's Face the Nation) The facts: Mr Obama did not empty all the oil from the strategic reserve, as Bachmann said. He approved the release of 30 million barrels, about 4 per cent of the 727 million barrels stored in salt caverns along the Texas and Louisiana coasts. It's true that the U.S. normally taps the reserve for more dire emergencies than exist today, and that exposes Obama to criticism that he acted for political gain. But the reserve has never been fuller; it held 707 million barrels when last tapped, after hurricanes in 2008. The claim: 'That's the number of new drilling permits under the Obama administration since they came into office' (comment  to a conservative conference in Iowa in March) The facts: The Obama administration issued more than 200 new drilling permits before the Gulf oil spill alone. Over the past year, since new safety standards were imposed, the administration has issued more than 60 shallow-water drilling permits. Since the deep water moratorium was lifted in October, nine new wells have been approved.

Former chief of staff says Michele Bachmann lacks leadership experience . Republican tries to make up for her historical gaffes - only to make another one .

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By . Steve Keating, Reuters . Agnieszka Radwanska tamed Venus Williams 6-4 6-2 to win the Rogers Cup in Montreal on Sunday, the third seeded Pole setting herself up as a player to watch at the US Open. It was the first win of the season for Radwanska but provides a timely jolt of confidence going into Flushing Meadows and the year’s final grand slam with 11 of her 14 career titles having come on hard courts. Williams, a twice US Open champion, will also be buoyed by her performance in Montreal with a projected return on Monday to the world rankings top 20 for the first time since March 2013. VIDEO Scroll down for highlights . Winner: Agnieszka Radwanska (above) defeated Venus Williams 6-4 6-2 in the Rogers Cup final . Favourite place: 11 of Radwanska's 14 career titles having come on hard courts . VIDEO WTA Montreal: Radwanska v Williams highlights . The tournament also pushed Williams past the $30million in career earnings, joining an elite club that includes her sister Serena and Maria Sharapova. After a grinding three-set win over top ranked sister Serena in Saturday’s semi-finals, the 34-year-old American appeared to have little left against an energetic and focused opponent almost 10 years her junior. Radwanska took control early on a sunny centre court, breaking Williams twice to race in front 4-1. Williams would break back but the Pole would not buckle and easily took the opening set. The world number five opened the second set with another deflating break to quickly put the pressure on Williams and then broke the dejected American again to go up 5-2 before holding serve and finishing off the match with an emphatic ace. Happy ending: Radwanska poses with Williams (right) after winning the final at the Rogers Cup . Big earner: The tournament pushed Williams (above) past the $30million mark in career earnings .

Agnieszka Radwanska beats Venus Williams 6-4 6-2 to win Rogers Cup . Radwanska wins final grand slam of 2014 .

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By . Jenny Hope Medical Correspondent . PUBLISHED: . 12:49 EST, 11 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:49 EST, 11 November 2013 . Thousands of workers suffering from arthritis are being forced into early retirement because of their condition, say poll findings . Thousands of workers suffering from arthritis are being forced into early retirement because of their condition, say poll findings. Up to half a million may have had to give up work in their 50s as growing pain and disability take their toll. A survey found almost one in five of those still employed have had to change the way they work as a result, with one in 10 curbing their hours. One in 10 osteoarthritis sufferers aged 55 and over say it has affected their work, with two thirds quitting. Around eight million people have osteoarthritis, which affects the joints, particularly the knees. Osteoarthritis researcher Professor Philip Conaghan, from the University of Leeds, said: ‘One of the key issues that this survey highlights is the massive negative impact of osteoarthritis on people in work. ‘With a rapidly ageing population and financial imperatives for us to stay in the work force longer, the consequences will include much more personal anguish and even greater economic burden on society. ‘We need to understand the osteoarthritis treatment strategies that will maintain people in their jobs.’ In the poll of 700 sufferers aged 55 and over, one third had to give up a sport or hobby they really enjoyed. One in 20 had to forego holidays and playing with the grandchildren because of their symptoms, says the survey by knee and lower back pain therapy company AposTherapy. Ed Butler, UK clinical lead at AposTherapy, said: ‘As well as the individuals who suffer, there is also the greater impact on society as a whole to consider. A survey found almost one in five osteoarthritis sufferers still employed have had to change the way they work as a result, with one in 10 curbing their hours (image shows X-ray of arthritic knees) In 2008, there was an estimated cost of £10 billion on the economy due to people being forced into permanent retirement because of either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. ‘It is worrying that such a high proportion of osteoarthritis sufferers are giving up careers they have most likely dedicated a significant amount of their life to. ‘Whilst osteoarthritis can be extremely painful, it does not mean sufferers have to put a stop to doing the things they love.’

One in five sufferers who are still employed have changed how they work . One in ten say they have had to reduce the number of hours they work . Eight million people in the UK are thought to have osteoarthritis .

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By . Ruth Styles . PUBLISHED: . 09:43 EST, 6 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 04:06 EST, 7 June 2013 . At 41, super stylist Rachel Zoe remains enviably fresh-faced with clear, perfect skin and no wrinkles in sight. But unlike fellow LA celebrities such as Joan Rivers, Zoe claims her secret isn't Botox: instead, she says, it's a simple de-puffing eye pad that costs just £25. Skyn ICELAND's Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gel pads contain hydrolised elastin, a substance that is believed to have an instant toning and firming effect on the delicate skin under the eyes. Top tip: Super stylist Rachael Zoe says that the caffeine infused patches give you an 'instant eye lift' Fresh-faced: The 41-year-old mother of one is famous for her youthful looks and remains wrinkle-free . The pads are also infused with acetyl hexapeptide, which is said to have a similar effect to a low dose of Botox, and ginkgo biloba leaf extract, a natural ingredient thought to reduce puffiness. 'Like a caffeine jolt to the face, they top my list as a must-have beauty necessity, achieving the effect of an instant eye lift in minutes' revealed a clearly impressed Zoe. She added: '[They're] perfectly sized if you're on the go.' Zoe isn't the only A-lister to have revealed a liking for the cooling gel pads. The ever-youthful Gwyneth Paltrow, 40, is also said to be a fan as is fresh-faced starlet, Rachel Bilson, 31. Fans: Actresses Rachel Bilson and Gwyneth Paltrow are also thought to love the de-puffing pads . A-list favourite: Skyn ICELAND's Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels, £25, have become popular with celebrities . Bilson, who is currently starring in hit TV series, Hart of Dixie, has made no secret of her preference for a simpler skincare routine. Instead of plumping for Creme de la Mer and other expensive treats, her products of choice tend to be low key and she has previously confessed using Vaseline to remove eye make-up. 'It just works really well — especially when you're removing eye makeup — and it's gentle on my skin,' she told Cosmopolitan USA. Her new favourite, Skyn ICELAND, prides itself on natural, paraben-free formulations all of which are designed to target tired, stressed skin. Although founder Sarah Kugelman isn't Icelandic herself, all the ingredients used are sourced from the Nordic country, which is said to be the purest, most pollution-free place on the planet.

Skyn ICELAND Hydro Cool pads have a firming, de-puffing effect . Other celebrities to use them include Rachel Bilson and Gwyneth Paltrow . The US naturals brand is aimed at stressed, tired skin .

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By . Hugo Duncan . George Osborne received a boost today after figures showed output towards the end of the month close to pre-crisis levels . The longest economic downturn for more than 100 years is finally over, experts said last night. Figures today reveal that output at the end of last month was ‘incredibly close’ to the pre-crisis level of 2008 after a storming start to the year. Jack Meaning, an economist at the influential National Institute of Economic and Social Research think-tank, was confident that nine days into May, output will have surpassed the pre-crash high. ‘By now we will have breached the pre-recession peak,’ he said  last night. The growth spurt at the start of 2014 means the recession is finally over, in a major boost to George Osborne just a year before the General Election. This week the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said the Chancellor has been ‘proven right’ in his decision to stick to his austerity plans in the face of opposition from Labour, the unions and other Left-wing critics. The vote of confidence from one of the world’s leading watchdogs came as research group Markit suggested British firms are hiring 100,000 new staff a month – equal to 1.2million a year. But the recovery has triggered speculation that the Bank of England will be forced to raise interest rates before the end of the year, having held them at an all-time low of 0.5 per cent since 2009. ‘Record low interest rates are no longer necessary,’ said Rob Wood, a former economist at the central bank who now works at Berenberg Bank. ‘The economy is growing  rapidly and, if anything, is picking  up pace.’ Gross Domestic Product – the total size of the economy – dropped by 7.2 per cent in what has been dubbed the Great Recession of 2008 and 2009 under the last Labour government. But figures from the Office for National Statistics suggest output was still 0.6 per below the pre-recession peak at the end of the first quarter in March this year. The National Institute, which is releasing the GDP figures today, is expected to say the economy grew strongly in April, leaving output within 0.1 per cent of the level reached before the crisis. ‘Growth seems to have become entrenched in the UK,’ said  Mr Meaning. The outlook is  pretty robust.’ The Bank of England pegged interest rates at 0.5 per cent again yesterday despite the economy improving . The think-tank predicts growth of 2.9 per cent this year and 2.4 per cent next year – up from February’s  predictions of 2.5 per cent and  2.1 per cent. Unemployment, which has fallen from 7.9 per cent a year ago to 6.9 per cent today, is expected to drop to 6.3 per cent this year and 6 per cent by 2016. However, the National Institute said GDP per capita – the size of the economy as a proportion of the population – will not surpass its pre-crisis peak before 2017. Mr Osborne has declared that ‘Britain is coming back’ but warned that the recovery cannot be taken  for granted. The Bank of England pegged rates at 0.5 per cent again yesterday. But speculation is mounting that the monetary policy committee will be forced to act on rates before too long to cool the housing market and stop the wider economy overheating. The National Institute is not expecting borrowing costs to rise until the second quarter of next year. However the pound has soared to close to $1.70 against the US dollar – up 14 per cent in less than a year – on expectations of an early rate rise. Alex Edwards, an expert at the online currency transfer provider UKForex, said: ‘Markets are increasingly pricing in  a rate hike as early as December  or January.’ George Osborne was under mounting pressure to rein in his controversial Help to Buy mortgage scheme last night. MPs on the Commons Treasury committee warned that it risks fuelling an overheating  housing market. Andrew Tyrie, the committee’s Tory chairman, said there was a ‘risk that the primary effect of the scheme, at least in the short-to-medium term, could be to raise house prices.’ Mr Osborne insists the scheme is helping those who cannot afford a deposit to achieve their dreams of home ownership. But, in a highly unusual move, three former chancellors – Lord Lawson, Lord Lamont and Alistair Darling – joined forces to warn the scheme could create a ‘bubble’. Lord Lamont said: ‘Demand can be increased quickly through measures like Help to Buy but  supply can only be increased slowly. My concern is it will become even harder for young people to buy a home.’

Figures show economic output last month nearly at pre-crisis levels . News will be a boost for George Osborne ahead of 2015 general election . Recovery triggers speculation that Bank of England will raise interest rates .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . An Australian film company has halted preproduction of its upcoming film 'Deep Water' because of eerie similarities the plot has to the disappearance of Malaysian Airlines flight 370. The action horror feature, from Arclight Films, tells the story of a China-bound flight that mysteriously crashes in a remote stretch of ocean. The survivors then have to fend off hungry sharks as 'the plane is starting to sink into a bottomless abyss.' 'Out of sensitivity to the Malaysia flight situation, we've decided to put it on pause for now,' Arclight Films managing director Gary Hamilton told The Hollywood Reporter Monday. Tragedy: The Malaysian Airlines flight has been missing for two weeks now (stock image of a Malaysian Airlines plane) but we now know its final destination was the Indian Ocean . The news comes as Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak told a press conference new analysis suggested the flight ended in the southern Indian Ocean, and that all those on board are now dead. The creepily similar film plot had been promoted with the tagline: 'Survivors of a plane crash face terror beyond reckoning as the plane is starting to sink into a bottomless abyss and soon discover they're surrounded by the deadliest natural born killers on earth.' It's not the first time Alister Grierson, the film's director, has had a project scuppered by real-life disasters. Two weeks before the 2011 release of his best known film Sanctum, about an underwater cave diving expedition gone wrong, Australia was hit by disastrous floods. The Queensland-based filmmaker said he couldn't deny the strange timing between his project and the real-life drama of MH3L0. But despite saying it was 'mysterious,' he insists that his film is vastly different. Cinematic coincidences: Australian filmmaker Alister Grierson is directing Deep Water, pictured at Tropfest LA in 2012 . Flashback film: (L - R) Alister Grierson, James Cameron and Andrew Wight on the set of Sanctum in 2011 . Sanctum scares: A scene from Alister Grierson's underwater thriller . On Sunday, before it was confirmed . the plane crashed into the Indian Ocean, he told MailOnline: 'The . similarities and timing is interesting and I can see why anecdotally the . two things link up, it's a tricky thing. 'But . in simple terms, Deep Water is about an accident that happens on an . airplane which goes down in the ocean, and the survivors trying to stay . alive afterwards. 'It's . more complicated than that as there are villains and sharks, but it's a . fun action/adventure with thrills and spills and scares.' Grierson . and Australian company Arclight Films began pre-production on Deep . Water at Village Roadshow Studios in Queensland weeks before the . real-life incident. It is . unclear when preproduction will resume on the film, but it will be at . least two years before the movie makes it to cinemas. Grierson's . first big budget feature Sanctum - produced by Avatar filmmaker James . Cameron - was two weeks out from release when Queensland and Northern . New South Wales were hit by devastating floods in 2011. Grief: A relative of one of the Chinese passengers aboard the Malaysia Airlines, MH370 collapses in grief after being told of the latest news in Beijing, China, Monday . Tears: A relative of passengers on Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 cries as he walks out of a hotel hall at after hearing the news that the plane plunged into Indian Ocean and that none on board survived . 'The floods came through and destroyed whole areas, with people losing their lives,' he said. 'We had this weird situation where we were about to release a film where there's flooding and people drown. It was strange territory.' Grierson said Deep Water was likely to be a co-production with China, who also worked with the same Australian crew on kitsch shark thriller Bait with Sharni Vinson and Julian McMahon. 'We've nicknamed it Bait 2 because there's a lot of the same crew and even themes, but it's a stand alone story,' he said of Deep Water. Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 vanished from civilian radar screens less than an hour after take-off from Kuala Lumpur for Beijing with 239 people on board on March 8. No confirmed sighting of the plane has been made since, but much debris has been found in remote waters off Australia which might be part of the missing plane. Relatives of passengers in Beijing had been called to a hotel near the airport to hear the prime minister's press conference Monday, and some 50 of them gathered there. Afterward, they filed out of a conference room in heart-wrenching grief.

The action horror film, from Arclight Films, tells the story of a China-bound flight that mysteriously crashes in a remote stretch of ocean . The survivors then have to fend off killer sharks as 'the plane is starting to sink into a bottomless abyss' 'Out of sensitivity to the Malaysia flight situation, we've decided to put it on pause for now,' managing director Gary Hamilton said Monday . The news comes as Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak said new analysis suggests the flight ended in the southern Indian Ocean, and that all those on board are now dead .

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By . Rob Cooper . PUBLISHED: . 09:19 EST, 8 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:31 EST, 8 July 2013 . David Cameron has fuelled speculation that Wimbledon champion Andy Murray will be awarded a knighthood, saying: 'I can’t think of anyone who deserves one more.' The Prime Minister, who watched Murray become the first British player to win Wimbledon since 1936, said that the tennis star had 'lifted the spirits of the whole country'. Downing Street sources indicated last . the Government would pass Murray's name to the Honours Committee because he . had matched the achievement of cyclist Bradley Wiggins, who was knighted . for winning the Tour de France – Britain’s first victory in the event’s . 100-year history. History maker: Andy Murray sits next to a statue of Fred Perry, the last British player to win Wimbledon back in 1936 . Delight: Andy Murray is interviewed today after his dramatic straight sets win over Novak Djokovic on Centre Court yesterday . Murray beat Serbian world Number One Novak Djokovic on Centre Court yesterday 6-4 7-5 6-4 in sweltering conditions to end the country's 77-year wait for a homegrown male winner. The 26-year-old said that he wasn't sure he deserved to become 'Sir Andy' but he admitted the title would be a 'nice thing to have'. Murray was awarded an OBE in the New . Year’s honours list for services to tennis after he won Olympic gold and . triumphed at the US Open last October. It . is usual for public figures to wait for four years before being given a . higher honour. But senior government sources said that was ‘not a hard . and fast rule’. Honour: Prime Minister David Cameron, pictured today on This Morning, was asked if Andy Murray should receive a knighthood and he replied: 'I can't think of anyone who deserves one more' Cameron, who watched the final from the Royal Box, said: 'It was a fantastic day for Andy Murray, for British tennis and for Britain. 'I think he lifted the spirits of the whole country. We were wondering yesterday morning "Do we dare to dream that this is possible?" and he proved absolutely that it was.' Questioned about whether he deserved a knighthood, Murray said: 'I think it’s a nice thing to have or be offered. '“I think just because everyone’s waited for such a long time for this, . that’s probably why it’ll be suggested, but I don’t know if it merits . that. I don’t know.' The Queen sent a private message of congratulations to the triumphant Scot yesterday after his Wimbledon win. History: Britain's Andy Murray kisses the winner's trophy after beating Serbia's Novak Djokovic in the men's singles final of Wimbledon, the first Briton to take the title in 77 years . Sheer relief: Andy Murray collapses to his knees after beating Novak Djokovic in three straight sets . A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: ‘I . can confirm that the Queen has sent a private message to Andy Murray . following his Wimbledon victory.’ Sources close to Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, another keen tennis player, said he would also back a knighthood. A senior No 10 source said: ‘This is a major achievement. It’s the first British win for 77 years. ‘If . you look at what happened with Bradley Wiggins, it’s a fairly safe bet . that Andy Murray is going to be recommended for a knighthood.’ Andy . Roddick, former world tennis No 1, tweeted: ‘Pretty sure @andy_murray . might have to change his twitter name to @sirandymurray . . . Well . played and deserved!’ The . nomination will be passed to the Sports Honours Committee, which give . its recommendations to the main Honours Committee, chaired by Sir Bob . Kerslake, the head of the civil service. Winner: Andy Murray, left, poses with the Wimbledon trophy alongside his opponent Novak Djokovic . Adulation: An overcome Murray covers his face as the crowd roars its approval . Sportsmanship and glory: Murray is congratulated by Novak Djokovic of Serbia after their hard-fought battle . Prime Minister David Cameron was at the match and is believed to support plans to knight Murray .

Prime Minister said Andy Murray 'lifted the spirits of the whole country' Tennis star admits knighthood would be a 'nice thing to have' Murray was given a private message of congratulations from the Queen after winning final against Novak Djokovic . He was awarded an OBE after winning Olympic gold last year .

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By . Mario Ledwith . Last updated at 10:21 AM on 6th January 2012 . Damages claim: Bus driver Robert Young outside his home yesterday . A ‘chronically obese’ bus driver is suing his bosses for £75,000 after injuring his back when his chair collapsed during a tea-break. Robert Young claimed to have suffered ‘whiplash-style’ injuries when the combined table and chair unit ‘shot backwards’, throwing him and a colleague on to the concrete floor. The driver launched a legal action against Lothian Buses, claiming the incident had left him feeling suicidal. The 54-year-old also claimed to have suffered chronic back pain after the incident, requiring painkilling steroid injections and physiotherapy. But lawyers for Lothian Buses rubbished Mr Young’s allegations. They claimed he was already suffering from back pain before the fall and disputed that the injuries necessitated his long absences from work. They said he already had a poor attendance record before the incident. The accident happened at a Lothian Buses depot canteen on May 6, 2010. After his fall, Mr Young did not work for two months. He returned on July 19, 2010 but only stayed for four days, taking sick leave from July 23 until October 4. The driver, from Prestonpans, East Lothian, then ‘worked normally without reporting difficulties and built up to full shifts’. Lothian Buses’ lawyers claimed Mr Young had other health issues that were not related to the supposed injuries suffered from the fall. They said he was ‘chronically obese and a non-insulin dependent diabetic’. Lothian buses' lawyers said Mr Young had health issues that were not related to the supposed injuries suffered from the fall . In court documents, Mr Young’s legal representatives claimed that the fall had left him with psychological problems. They said he now suffered from ‘occasional suicidal ideation’, depression, low moods and difficulty with concentrating. As well as the whiplash-style spinal injury, the lawyers said he suffered soft tissue damage to his left elbow and right thigh. Mr Young confirmed the case was ‘on-going’ yesterday but refused to comment on the details of his compensation claim. Ian Craig, managing director of Lothian Buses, said: ‘It is our policy not to comment on legal matters.’ It is unclear if Mr Young is still employed by Lothian Buses. Lothian Buses is the largest provider of bus services in Edinburgh. The company is the only publicly owned transport operator in Scotland, the City of Edinburgh Council being the main shareholder. It employs more than 1,000 people and has a fleet of almost 650 buses – including 30 that provide open-top tours of Edinburgh. Lothian Buses is the largest provider of bus services in Edinburgh and the only publicly owned transport operator in Scotland . Mr Young’s compensation case is one of a number of claims launched against the bus operator recently. George . Fyall, 62, fractured his finger and injured his foot when a bus driver . ‘slammed on the brakes’ and threw him to the floor as he was leaving the . bus on the North Bridge in Edinburgh on November 19, 2010. Mr Fyall, of Kirkcaldy in Fife, subsequently launched a claim for negligence, seeking £50,000 in damages. His lawyers said he was on the top deck and, as he walked to the front of the bus to climb down the stairs, the driver, William Brown, braked suddenly, throwing Mr Fyall to the floor. Lothian Buses has admitted liability. In November last year, the bus company was forced to pay compensation to a Chinese university student who broke her pelvis, arm and collarbone after being hit by a bus while cycling. Dongmin Yan sued for £500,000 after spending six months in hospital due to the severity of her injuries. The 38-year-old University of Edinburgh student, who now lives in Gorgie, was hit by the bus at Crewe Toll roundabout. Firemen had to free her after she was dragged underneath the bus and her lungs collapsed. Lothian Buses settled for an undisclosed fee.

Driver launched a legal action against Lothian Buses, claiming the incident had left him feeling suicidal . Bus company has rubbished the allegations .

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By . Matt Chorley . and Tamara Cohen . David Cameron claimed it had been a 'good day' for his Europe policy after former Tory Chancellor Nigel Lawson dramatically called for Britain to leave the EU. The explosive intervention threatened to destroy Tory unity around the Prime Minister's pledge to hold an in-out referendum if he wins the 2015 general election. But Mr Cameron brushed aside fears the issue could hijack his next two years in power, insisting only he was willing to give voters a say on severing ties with Brussels. David Cameron, pictured today, insisted it had been a 'good day' for his referendum pledge . Lord Lawson of Blaby, 81, described . the EU as ‘a bureaucratic monstrosity’ and said leaving ‘would . substantially outweigh the costs’. 'The case for exit is clear,' he . said. Margaret Thatcher’s longest-serving Chancellor pledged . to vote No in any referendum . on membership, in a move that piles further pressure on Mr Cameron, . emboldening Tory Eurosceptics and threatening the stability of the . coalition. But Mr Cameron played down the threat to his position. He told a press conference: 'I think it has been a good day for the pledge that I have made that, if re-elected, I will hold an in/out referendum so that everybody can have not just a voice about Britain's future in Europe but also have a vote about Britain's future in Europe. 'I welcome the attention that has been placed on this key pledge that I have made. Only a Conservative Government, only the Conservatives of the major parties, are making this promise. 'I want to give people a choice not between the status quo and leaving the EU. I want to give people a choice between Britain remaining in a reformed EU or leaving that EU. That is the choice that people want and there is only one way to get it and that is by supporting the Conservatives at the next election.' 'Bureaucratic monstrosity': Lord Lawson says the EU has served its purpose and Britain should now withdraw . The Prime Minister will use this week's Queen's Speech to react to the rise of the UK Independence Party, which won more than 140 council seats in last week's local elections. He had hoped the promise to renegotiate a new deal with Brussels, followed by a referendum by 2017, would placate Eurosceptics in his party. Mr Cameron would campaign to stay in the EU. But Lord Lawson ridiculed the plan as 'inconsequential', with Britain 'consistently outvoted' by countries in the Eurozone. He said the nature of the EU had 'fundamentally change' since the creation of the single currency. 'That is why, while I voted “in” in 1975, I shall be voting “out” in 2017,' he wrote in The Times. While there would be ‘some economic cost’ from leaving the EU single . market, Lord Lawson went on, ‘in my judgment the economic gains would . substantially outweigh the costs.’ He called the EU ‘an institution that has achieved its historic purpose . and is now past its sell-by date’ and said British industry should focus . on the developing world. Mr Cameron is resisting pressure to hold a referendum next spring in . which voters would be asked if they supported a looser relationship with . Brussels. In January David Cameron set out his detailed timetable for staging a historic referendum on Britain's membership of the EU. He received plaudits in January when he promised that if he is still Prime Minister after the 2015 general election, he would seek a 'fresh settlement' with the EU before putting it to the people in a referendum. But he made clear that he thought Britain was better off in the EU. Lord Lawson likened the idea of renegotiating terms with Brussels to similar talks held by Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson 40 years ago. 'The changes that Wilson was able to negotiate were so trivial that I doubt if anyone today can remember what they were. But he was able to secure a 2-1 majority for the “in” vote in the 1975 referendum. 'I have no doubt that any changes that Mr Cameron — or, for that matter, Ed Miliband — is able to secure will be equally inconsequential'. In recent weeks the rise of UKIP has . startled the political establishment, culminating in dramatic gains in . last week's council elections in which Mr Farage's party took almost one . in four votes. Today Mr . Farage seized on Lord Lawson's article, saying it 'legitimises the UKIP . position and exposes serious divisions in the Tory Party'. But Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg . said Tory policy on Europe should not be shaped by a knee-jerk response . to the threat posed by UKIP. 'I . know the Conservatives are struggling to work out how to deal with UKIP . and they keep now changing their minds: one minute they want to be in . the European Union, now senior Conservatives like Nigel Lawson say they . want to go out,' he told ITV's Daybreak. 'I . think we need to transform the European Union to make it more . transparent more efficient, more democratic where we can, but not turn . our backs on it because doing so would make us less safe and less . prosperous.' UKIP leader Nigel Farage said Lord Lawson's . intervention 'legitimises' his own calls for exit from the EU while Lib . Dem leader Nick Clegg said the Tories were 'struggling' to cope with the . rise of UKIP . Mr Clegg warned that leaving the EU 'would jeopardise up to three million jobs in this country'. Senior Tory backbenchers want Mr . Cameron to deliver on his hint last week that he could bring forward . legislation on staging a referendum before 2015. British must do more to understand Europe, a senior Brussels commissioner has suggested. Trade commissioner Karel de Gucht said UK politicians did not need to 'love' the EU, but needed to get to know it better. 'It’s really amazing how little a lot of British politicians know about Europe,' he told The Independent. 'You need decision on the basis of facts and figures and arguments, not on the basis of myths. Why don’t people tell the truth about the EU. 'They should get better acquainted with it. We don’t want you to love Europe, love should be kept for personal relationships. But look at your own interests and ‘de-dramatise’ all this.' He warned British leaders against a 'blame game' with Brussels for the UK's problems. The Prime Minister said: ‘I think we need to demonstrate absolutely that we are serious about this referendum. ‘Anything we can to do to strengthen that offer I am prepared to consider.’ But without the support of Lib Dems in a Commons vote, it is almost certain to be defeated. Former Tory minister Sir Gerald Howarth said Mr Cameron faces a 'big challenge'. 'If those changes that he can secure are ‘inconsequential’, in the words of Lord Lawson, then clearly that will leave us with only one option, which is to leave,' he told BBC Radio 4. 'And I think the challenge for our European partners - that’s actually a rather bigger challenge for them than it is for us - is to come up with some substantial changes that will meet the aspirations of the British people who are becoming increasingly more eurosceptic.' A . Downing Street spokesman said: 'The PM has always been clear: we need a . Europe that is more open, more competitive, and more flexible; a Europe . that wakes up to the modern world of competition. In short, Europe has . to reform. 'But . our continued membership must have the consent of the British people, . which is why the PM has set out a clear timetable on this issue.' Both Labour and the Lib Dems are opposed to Mr Cameron's idea of a referendum, arguing it would create uncertainty and risk jobs. But Labour leader Ed Miliband is under pressure from senior backbenchers to back the idea of giving voters a say. Keith Vaz, Labour chairman of the home affairs select committee, said on Twitter: 'An in/out referendum before the next election would clear the air. We could actually hold it on the day of the next general election.' It comes as one of the euro’s most prominent cheerleaders has called for . the single currency to be scrapped. Senior Labour MP Keith Vaz backed the idea of an early referendum to 'clear the air' Rethink: Oskar Lafontaine, who was Germany's finance minister when the euro was adopted has called for the currency to be broken up so that southern Europe can recover from economic crisis . Former German finance minister . Oskar Lafontaine warned the current course is ‘leading to disaster’ and . the ‘situation is worsening from month to month’. He said crisis-hit countries in southern Europe, including France, will . be ‘forced by their current misery to fight back against German hegemony . sooner or later’. It marks a stunning U-turn for the Left-wing . politician, Germany’s finance minister when the euro was launched in . 1999. Critics labelled him Europe’s most dangerous man after he called for the . ‘end of the nation state’ in favour of a ‘united Europe’ in 1998. But . the euro crisis has caused Mr Lafontaine to change his tune. Awakening: Mr Lafontaine said that German Chancellor Angela Merkel would 'awake from her self-righteous slumber' once troubled eurozone countries forced through a change in policy at Germany's expense . The 69-year-old former minister says the single currency must be broken . up to allow bailed-out countries, including Greece, Portugal, Spain and . Cyprus, to recover. He said: ‘The economic situation is worsening from month to month and . unemployment has reached a level that puts democratic structures ever . more in doubt.’ He added that Chancellor Angela Merkel ‘will awake from her . self-righteous slumber’ when the troubled countries unite, forcing . policy changes at Germany’s expense. In a final admission that the single currency had failed, Mr Lafontaine . said: ‘Hopes that the creation of the euro would force rational economic . behaviour on all sides were in vain.’

Lord Lawson says benefits of exit outweigh 'marginal' costs . Says EU has served its purpose: 'The case for exit is clear' Dramatic intervention will embolden Tories putting pressure on Cameron . UKIP's Nigel Farage says Lawson 'exposes serious divisions' in Tory party . Deputy PM Nick Clegg warns against 'running after' UKIP votes . Tory MPs say the British people are 'increasingly more Eurosceptic'

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 14:57 EST, 23 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 15:04 EST, 23 May 2012 . Everyone gets the odd bump or bruise from time to time. But while most of us can shrug them off with little thought, Lucy Pratt fears the worst. The 25-year-old is battling a rare and progressive condition that is turning her into a human statue. 'I try not to think about the future': Lucy Pratt is battling a rare and progressive condition which is turning her muscle into bone, slowly transforming her into a human statue . It causes her muscles to turn to bone and even the slightest knock can accelerate this extra growth and freeze her into place. Her neck is already locked into position and she can't move her head. She has restricted movement in her jaw and is unable to raise her arms above her head. Large, painful ribbons of bone have also formed across her back. Now, she faces a race against time to find a cure before she becomes locked in her own skeleton. Lucy, who is originally from Stourbridge, West Midlands, but now lives in London, said: 'It's a progressive condition so it's only going to get worse. 'I try not to think about the future. There's no point in thinking like that. My biggest fear though is it going into my legs. I don't want to be in a wheelchair. I really like having my independence.' Came on suddenly: Lucy aged three. Most sufferers with her condition are diagnosed when toddlers, but she did not show any symptoms until her teens . The condition, fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), makes even the simplest of everyday tasks difficult. Lucy is unable to drive, struggles to get dressed and even brush her hair. It is so rare, only about 45 people in the UK have been diagnosed with it. Sufferers are usually diagnosed as toddlers, but amazingly, Lucy didn't show any symptoms until she was 15. She said: 'I had been absolutely fine but one day I fell over. A huge lump appeared on my back. It was right across my shoulder blade. 'The swelling was the size of my palm and very red. It was hot and extremely painful. I couldn't lie on it or put any pressure on it.' Extremely rare: Lucy aged 14, a year before she first noticed symptoms when she fell over one day and a huge lump appeared on her back . When it didn't go down after a few days, her worried mum took her to the hospital. Doctors feared she had cancer and took a biopsy but it came back clear. They put her on a course of steroids to help reduce the swelling and she was kept in hospital. However, lumps developed at the back of Lucy's neck and the other side of her back. She was then diagnosed with necrotising proliferative myositis, a rare disease where muscle fibers and skin become inflamed and damaged. Medics were just about to give her treatment when a consultant stopped them. Lucy said: 'He asked me to take off my socks. I thought it was a really strange question. 'He looked at my toes and said I had fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva.' The consultant noticed Lucy's big toe was shorter than her second toe, which is a classic sign of FOP. X-rays and further tests confirmed the diagnosis. Lucy said: 'It's so rare, hardly any of the doctors had heard of it. I was just lucky he had come across it before. 'He told me the one thing I should never do is look it up on the internet but when someone tells you not to do something, you do it. 'I was terrified when I read what might happen to me, but then I thought I had to get on with it. 'I could feel the lumps growing. We didn't know what to do. I would nearly pass out because the pain was so bad.' Her parents Nick and Sheryll sought out a specialist who warned them Lucy should avoid most things children her age enjoy, like sports. But brave Lucy was determined her condition was not going to hold her back and she sat her GCSEs in hospital, achieving six A*s and two As. She went on to complete her A Levels before securing a place at Oxford University to study Physiological Sciences. 'Incredibly determined': Lucy with her mother, Sheryll Hadley, who is the chairman of the charity FOP Action UK. She says she is proud of her daughter's positive attitude to the condition . Despite facing a daily struggle, Lucy has a full-time job with a bio-medical science publishing company. She said: 'There are a lot of things I can't do but I don't like to see it like that. 'I'd like children in the future but doctors have said there's a 50/50 chance the child will have FOP. I hope by the time I have children there might a be a cure.' Lucy's mum, Sheryll Hadley, 54, who is the chairman of the charity FOP Action UK, says she is proud of her daughter's positive attitude. 'She looks at what she can do and what she's achieved. She is just incredibly determined. She's always been that way.' Six years ago, researchers discovered the gene that causes FOP and the compound that halts bone growth. At present, there is no Government funding available so FOP Action UK needs to raise £120,000 by the end of the year to allow this research to continue. Professor Paul Wordsworth, an expert in FOP from Oxford University, said: 'FOP is one of the most debilitating conditions I have to deal with. 'Essentially, sufferers become covered in an external shell of bone. They can become like statues. 'Isolating the gene was a fantastic breakthrough and we are now at the stage where we are looking to hold clinical trials. 'If we can find something that works and switches the bone formation off then it is possible that we have a drug that could stop the disease spreading any further for Lucy and other patients.' For more information on the condition, visit www.fopaction.co.uk .

Lucy Pratt's neck has already seized up and she can't move arms over head . Race against time for cure before she is covered in an 'external shell of bone' 'My biggest fear is it going into my legs. I don't want to be in a wheelchair'

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By . Paul Hirst, Press Association . Daniel Sturridge insists he will not buckle under the pressure of being England's World Cup number nine. Sturridge underlined his status as one of Europe's most promising strikers last season when he scored 21 goals in the Barclays Premier League. The 24-year-old's career has blossomed since he moved to Anfield, where he formed a lethal partnership with top scorer Luis Suarez, but he is yet to repeat that kind of form on the international stage. Sturridge will be the spearhead of England's attack this summer, just as Alan Shearer and Sir Bobby Charlton were when they wore the famous number nine shirt on their back. VIDEO Scroll down to see Daniel Sturridge and Danny Welbeck talking about England . International: Daniel Sturridge (centre) in action for England against Denmark earlier this year . Lethal: Sturridge (right) formed a deadly partnership with Luis Suarez (left) this season . The former Chelsea man only has 10 caps but he is relaxed about leading the line for England in Brazil. 'I don't feel any pressure in terms of the task ahead because I feel that we have prepared for this,' said Sturridge, whose three England goals have come against San Marino, Montenegro and Denmark. 'I am excited by it all. When you are young you always want these moments. This is my first World Cup. It's about just embracing it all, not about feeling any pressure to do something amazing. 'I just have to play my normal game.' Injury prevented Sturridge from playing alongside Wayne Rooney for a chunk of last season. But Roy Hodgson will hope the pair hit it off in Friday's friendly versus Peru, and the two other warm-up games that follow against Ecuador and Honduras. Partners: Sturridge (left) says that he is confident that he can work well with Wayne Rooney (right) Debutant: This will be Sturridge's first World Cup and he says he is looking forward to it . Another option for Hodgson is to play Rooney and Sturridge alongside Manchester United's Danny Welbeck in a three-man attack. Many England fans remain indifferent about Welbeck despite his record of eight goals in 21 England games. The forward, who has been deployed in midfield for much of United's last two seasons, thinks the World Cup could be place where he proves he deserves to be recognised as a top-class striker. 'I just want to prove myself to me and to the world,' Welbeck said. 'I want to show everyone what I can do. Going into the World Cup is a massive stage and I can't wait to do that.' Welbeck had a stop-start season with United last year, but he still found the net 11 times - a significant improvement on the two he scored the year before. Welbeck looked in good shape during England's open training session in Vale do Lobo on Wednesday. Better: Danny Welbeck (left) improved greatly on his goal tally this season, scoring 11 times overall . International: Welbeck (left) is seen as a key part of Roy Hodgson's (right) plans . Much to his dismay, Rooney was made to sit out the final part of that session as Hodgson does not want to take any risks with the United striker, who ended the season with a groin injury. Welbeck thinks his United team-mate is champing at the bit to return to action. He said: 'Wayne is a great player for club and country. He is fit and raring to go and we all know what he can produce on the big stages so I am really excited to see him and what he can do for England in a World Cup.' Welbeck, who scored against Sweden in Euro 2012, is looking forward to getting the warm-up games out of the way so he can taste World Cup football for the first time. 'The training sessions have been good,' said Welbeck, who made his England debut against Ghana in March 2011. 'Everyone is really excited and they want to make sure they are ready for the World Cup.' Team: Welbeck (second left) has played a very sefless role for Manchester United this season .

Sturridge did well for Liverpool but is yet to replicate that form for England . Liverpool forward scored 21 Premier League goals this season . Danny Welbeck says he wants to prove what he can do . The pair could lead the line with Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney .

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By . Bianca London . A talented make-up artist has become an online star - by filming herself transforming into well known film and TV characters. Sitting in front of a mirror, Elsa Rhae Pageler morphs into characters from the likes of V for Vendetta and Star Wars with a few strokes of carefully applied make-up. She has also created striking similarities to other famous faces such as Master Chief from the game Halo and Captain Planet from the American animated environmentalist TV show. Scroll down for video . What a transformation! Sitting in front of a mirror, Elsa Rhae Pageler morphs into comic characters such as The Scorpion using make-up . That's clever! The talented make-up artist has become an online star - by filming herself transforming into famous characters like The Grinch . Elsa, from Overland Park in Kansas, USA, spends up to three hours painstakingly applying make-up for her transformations. The first character she created was from Avatar after taking a make-up class at university and learning how to draw the design. Incredible: Her designs are so good, she has got thousands of followers on YouTube. Here she is as Captain Planet from the American animated environmentalist TV show . Wow! Elsa often spends up to three hours painstakingly applying make-up for her transformations into characters from TV and film. Here she is the Master Chief from the game Halo . Eye spy: Elsa has painted an incredibly realistic eye onto her hand to transform herself into Eye See You from Sylvester Stallone's film . Terrifying: The first character she created was from Avatar after taking a make-up class at university and learning how to draw the design and now she transforms herself into the likes of filmstars such as Baraka . Au natural: Elsa, 23, pictured without any of her quirky make-up on, has a huge online following . Realistic: She often spends up to three hours on the more complex designs, such as this incredible White Walker look . Say cheese! Here, she has kept her face natural but created an amazingly detailed smile . Intricate: Elsa, pictured as Star Wars character Darth Maul, loves trying to scare her dog with her crazy make-up . Is that the same girl? Elsa learned her skills at a class and has become so good at it, you can barely recognise her when she's in character. Here, she is the character from hit film V for Vendetta . That must have taken a few hours! 'When I'm done painting sometimes I go downstairs and try to scare my dog - but he's got too smart and never falls for it,' she said of her hobby . Elsa, 23, has a huge following on the web where she posts stop motion videos to teach others how to replicate her designs. She said: 'My first complete transformation was Avatar - I did it for Halloween after watching videos online. 'My faces usually take anywhere from 30 minutes up to three hours to complete. Intricate: Some of her designs are more scary than others, here she is trying out the Sugar Skull look - traditional folk art from Southern Mexico used to celebrate Day of the Dead . Tricks of the trade: She said: 'I enjoy making stop motion footage of my faces - people seem to love them' Get the look: Elsa, pictured as Quan Chi, a character in the Mortal Kombat series, shows her fan base how to achieve her look with make-up . Artist: Elsa, pictured as the Giving Tree, . said that after her first few attempts, she decided to start making . videos of herself creating the designs in order to show people they are . real . 'When I'm done painting sometimes I go downstairs and try to scare my dog - but he's got too smart and never falls for it. 'After my first few I decided to start making videos of me creating the designs in order to show people they are real. 'I then started to take a more creative approach to the videos and now I enjoy making stop motion footage of my faces - people seem to love them.' Realistic: Elsa shows off her transformation into Sub Zero, a video game character from the Mortal Kombat series and one of the original characters in the first Mortal Kombat game in 1992 . Skills: Elsa uses a mirror to complete her transformation and even paints her eyelashes when she turns herself into this Face on Face design .

Elsa Rhae Pageler morphs into characters from TV shows and films . Takes between 30 minutes and three hours to complete makeover . Shares skills with online fan base .

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By . James Rush . PUBLISHED: . 06:49 EST, 30 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:14 EST, 30 May 2013 . Jehovah Pembele, also known as Giovani, was found in the Grand Union Canal near his home after he was left to play in the street for two-and-a-half minutes, an inquest has heard . A two-year-old boy died after falling into a canal when his father left him to play with friends in the street for two minutes, an inquest heard. Jehovah Pembele was found floating face down in the water 100 yards from his home. His father Fernando Kutati, 34, said at the time that he left him so he could check Team GB's Olympic football match against Cameroon on July 28 last year. When he returned two-and-a-half minutes later he found his son's bike upturned in the road, sparking a frantic search for the child which involved 20 friends. Jehovah - known as Giovani - was found 30 minutes later under floating leaves in the Grand Union Canal near his home in Far Cotton, Northamptonshire. His father sobbed as he recalled the moment police found his son floating in the canal at the inquest at Northampton County Hall yesterday. The dad-of-four said: 'It was a normal Saturday. The neighbours' children went to play with Giovani. 'I told the older ones to look after him, that I was coming back out. I was only in the house for two-and-a-half minutes. I called the police and walked down towards the canal. 'I saw a little boy coming towards me. He said he had found Giovani. A policeman was there trying to give him mouth-to mouth. 'The policeman was crying, we cried together.' Jehovah was found under floating leaves in the Grand Union Canal (pictured) near his home in Northamptonshire . Speaking at the time, Mr . Kutati said he had been watching Team GB play Cameroon in the Olympics . football for less than five minutes. He said: 'The football was on. It was Cameroon and Great Britain playing. When I came out he was gone. 'Giovanni was a good, good boy. When I would walk with him to the shops he would not leave my side. 'He . was just two years old. Now I will never see my son again. It was a hot . day. There were lots of people and children playing outside. 'We are desperate for information about how this could have happened.' Paramedics rushed to the scene but despite trying to revive the child he died the following day at Leicester Royal Infirmary. A frantic search was sparked after Jehovah's father returned and found his son's bike upturned in the road . Although doctors managed to restart Giovani's heart, his major organs had already failed. Pathologist Dr Roger Malcomson told the inquest he could not be sure whether Giovani had drowned, as he also had hypothermia. 'I saw a little boy coming towards me. He said he had found Giovani. A policeman was there trying to give him mouth-to mouth. The policeman was crying, we cried together' - Fernando Kutati . Giovani was initially treated at Northampton General Hospital, before being transferred to Leicester Royal Infirmary (LRI) for a process called extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, which provides oxygen to blood in patients with failing hearts and lungs. Dr Raghu Ramajah, who treated Giovani at the LRI, told the inquest: 'His heart started beating again, but his organs had already failed. 'We had treated him for almost every organ you could think of.' Recording a verdict of accidental death, Coroner Anne Pember said: 'I would say that he was playing near his home and wandered off and sadly he was found face down in the nearby canal.' Addressing the family, she added: 'I'm very very sorry for your loss.'

Jehovah Pembele was found face down in canal 100 yards from his home . Father told inquest how he left him with friends for two-and-a-half minutes . He was found 30 minutes later under floating leaves in Grand Union Canal .

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By . Hugo Gye . PUBLISHED: . 09:20 EST, 26 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:07 EST, 26 March 2013 . A married couple have been arrested after apparently pulling a gun on two motorists during a road rage punch-up. Bradley and Christy Turner were carrying a toddler in the back of their car when they started fighting with a pair of young men in an incident which was caught on camera. Josh Berry and Nathan Brotzman claim they were acting in self-defence as they knocked Mr Turner to the ground, but he retaliated by waving a gun at them after his wife handed it to him. The victims tried to escape, but Mr Turner fired in their direction and his bullets hit a nearby home. Scroll down to watch the video . Horror: Bradley Turner brandishes a handgun during a road rage fight with two other drivers . Beatdown: Mr Turner was reacting to being knocked over in a fistfight . Attack: The gunman holding his weapon as he bleeds from the mouth . The fight in Newport, South Carolina on Sunday afternoon seems to have begun when the young men's Chevrolet truck cut off the Turners' Toyota SUV in a nearby town. The couple followed the other drivers for 25 miles, the victims claim, before both cars pulled up outside a house in Newport. While the video footage mostly shows Mr Berry and Mr Brotzman attacking Mr Turner, they insist that he threw the first punch. 'When he walked up, I just looked at him - he said a couple of words, threw a punch, and it was on like Donkey Kong,' Mr Berry told WCTI. 'He assaulted both of us first before we ever landed a hit. It was complete self-defence.' Fighting back: Josh Berry and Nathan Brotzman hit Mr Turner in retaliation for the initial punch . Violence: But the course of the fight soon turned against the motorists . Punch-up: The Turners had a toddler sitting in their car throughout the fight . After Mr Turner was knocked to the floor, his wife can be seen in the video giving him a handgun, which he brandished at the two motorists. 'She's got the gun, hands it to him and her facial expression is completely calm,' Mr Berry continued. 'Even when he racks the gun, accidentally discharges, her face doesn't even flinch. 'She doesn't even blink. He discharged the weapon and left.' According to local police, Mr Turner then fired at Mr Berry's truck and hit a nearby house. They also said that there was a toddler in the couple's car throughout the confrontation, but the child was not hurt in the incident. Road rage: The two young men were caught on camera knocking the 40-year-old to the ground . Defence: Mrs Turner gave her husband a handgun when the fight was going badly for him . Rampage: The 40-year-old waved the gun at the other men and apparently fired it at their truck . Arrest: The husband and wife have been charged with a variety of assault and weapons charges . Mr Turner, 40, handed himself in to deputies yesterday, and was charged with discharging a weapon into property, counts of assault by pointing a gun, going armed to the terror of the people, injury to personal property, and assault. His 30-year-old wife was charged with two counts of assault by pointing with a gun. Mr Berry told WCTI that he and his friend were not responsible for the incident, and insisted that they did no more than they had to stay safe. 'If you're in that predicament, what are you going to do? You don't know,' he said. 'It's the heat of the moment. Your adrenaline is going, you're not going to think right, and we defended ourselves.'

Bradley and Christy Turner cut off by two men then followed them home . Men knocked Mr Turner to the ground so wife handed him a gun . Couple charged with assault after fight is caught on camera .

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Disturbing footage has emerged showing two teenagers punching a 51-year-old man on a subway, before prying open the carriage doors and attempting to throw him out - all while the train is moving. The video, which has been circulating on social media, shows the two teenagers fighting with the older man on a Baltimore subway train. Other passengers scramble out of the way as the teenagers rain blows on the man's head and body. Scroll down for video . Fight: The video, which has been circulating on social media, shows the two teenagers fighting with the older man . Attack: Things take an even nastier turn when one of the teenagers prises open the subway door and tries to drag the man towards them . Assault: Other passengers scramble out of the way as the teenagers rain blows on the man's head and body . Terrifying: The disturbing footage of the three men fighting is taken while the Baltimore train is moving . For his part, the 51-year-old man seems undeterred, despite the fact he is outnumbered, and keeps punching back at the two younger guys. But things take an even nastier turn, when one of the teenagers prises open the subway door and tries to drag the man towards them. The teenager appears to be calling for help to get the doors fully open, as onlookers shout at him to stop. A girl is heard repeatedly shouting 'no' and calling for the teens to 'chill out'. The older man pulls back with his shirt ripped and the teen pushes the doors back closed again. The fight then continues briefly before the train pulls into a subway station and the teenagers with their gang of friends gets off and walks away. The 51-year-old man seems undeterred and keeps punching back at the two younger guys . Even after nearly being thrown off the moving subway train the 51-year-old continues to fight his attackers . A girl is heard repeatedly shouting 'no' and calling for the teens to 'chill out'. The older man pulls back with his shirt ripped and the teen pushes the doors back closed again . The fight then continues briefly before the train pulls into a subway station and the teenagers with their gang of friends gets off and walks away .

The two teens are punching 51-year-old man on a Baltimore subway train . One pries open the carriage doors and attempts to throw the older man out . Onlookers call for teenager to stop and he lets go of doors and backs away . But fight continues until next subway stop when teens and friends get off .

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By . Associated Press . For the first time, U.S. public schools are projected this fall to have more minority students than non-Hispanic whites, a shift largely fueled by growth in the number of Hispanic children partially due to workers migrating from Mexico and other countries to work on mushroom farms. The changing demographics of American education are apparent inside Jane Cornell's summer school classroom, where giggling grade-schoolers mostly come from homes where Spanish is the primary language. The sign outside the classroom reads 'Welcome' and 'Bienvenidos' in polished handwriting. Non-Hispanic white students are still expected to be the largest racial group in the public schools this year at 49.8 percent. But according to the National Center for Education Statistics, minority students, when added together, will now make up the majority. Minorities will become majority: According to the National Center for Education Statistics, minority students, when added together, will now make up the majority . Higher birth rate: U.S. public schools are projected this fall to have more minority students enrolled than white, a shift largely fueled by growth in the numbers of Hispanic children . Added up: White students are still expected to be the largest racial group in the public schools this year at 49.8 percent but there are more minorities in schools in general when added together . About one-quarter of the minority students are Hispanic, 15 percent are black and 5 percent are Asian and Pacific Islanders. Biracial students and Native Americans make up an even smaller share of the minority student population. The shift brings new academic realities, such as the need for more English language instruction, and cultural ones, such as changing school lunch menus to reflect students' tastes. But it also brings up some complex societal questions that often fall to school systems to address, including issues of immigration, poverty, diversity and inequity. The result, at times, is racial tension. In Louisiana in July, Jefferson Parish public school administrators reached an agreement with the federal government to end an investigation into discrimination against English language learners. In May, police had to be called to help break up a fight between Hispanic and black students in at a school in Streamwood, Illinois, a Chicago suburb, after a racially-based lunchroom brawl got out of control. Learning in action: School District Superintendent Barry Tomasetti meeting with young students in teacher Jane Cornell's summer school class at Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center in Pennsylvania . Issues of race and ethnicity in schools also can be more subtle. In Pennsylvania's Kennett Consolidated School District, Superintendent Barry Tomasetti described parents who opt to send their kids to private schools in Delaware after touring diverse classrooms. Other families, he said, seek out the district's diverse schools 'because they realize it's not a homogenous world out there.' The changes in the district from mostly middle-to-upper class white to about 40 percent Hispanic was in part driven by workers migrating from Mexico and other countries to work the mushroom farms. 'We like our diversity,' Tomasetti said, even as he acknowledged the cost. He has had to hire English language instructors and translators for parent-teacher conferences. He has cobbled money together to provide summer school for many young English language learners who need extra reading and math support. 'Our expectation is all of our kids succeed,' he said. The new majority-minority status of America's schools mirrors a change that is coming for the nation as a whole. The Census Bureau estimates that the country's population also will have more minorities than whites for the first time in 2043, a result of higher birth rates among Hispanics and a stagnating or declining birth rate among blacks, whites and Asians. Moving towards success: Recent high school graduate Christian Cordova-Pedroza as he speaks during an interview with The Associated Press at Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center . In class: Teacher Jane Cornell working with young students on their storytelling skills during summer school at Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center . Even as the population becomes more diverse, schools are becoming more racially divided, reflecting U.S. housing patterns. The disparities are evident even in the youngest of black, Hispanic and Native American children, who on average enter kindergarten academically behind their white and Asian peers. They are more likely to attend failing schools and face harsher school discipline. Later, they have lower standardized test scores, on average, fewer opportunities to take advanced classes, and are less likely to graduate. As the school age population has become more nonwhite, it's also become poorer, said Patricia Gandara, co-director of the Civil Rights Project at UCLA who serves on President Barack Obama's advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. Roughly one-quarter of Hispanics and African-Americans live below the poverty line — meaning a family of four has nearly 24,000 in annual income — and some of the poorest of Hispanic children are dealing with the instability of being in the country illegally or with a parent who is, Gandara said. Focusing on teacher preparation and stronger curriculum is 'not going to get us anywhere unless we pay attention to the really basic needs of these children, things like nutrition and health and safety, and the instability of the homes,' she said. This transformation in school goes beyond just educating the children. Educators said their parents also must feel comfortable and accepted in schools. Sharpening minds: This photo taken July 21, 2014 shows young students in Jane Cornell's summer school class line put to sharpen pencils at Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center . New leadership: Consolidated School District Superintendent Barry Tomasetti listening during an interview with The Associated Press at Mary D. Lang Kindergarten Center .

Non-Hispanic white students are still expected to be the largest racial group in the public schools this year at 49.8 percent . According to the National Center for . Education Statistics, minority students, when added together, will now . make up the majority . The shift brings new academic realities, . such as the need for more English language instruction and cultural . ones . It brings up complex societal . questions that often fall to school systems to address, including issues . of immigration, poverty, diversity and inequity .

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By . Richard Sharpe . PUBLISHED: . 06:19 EST, 4 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 11:34 EST, 5 November 2012 . Asda is leading the way among the major supermarkets in tough economic times by offering Christmas dinner for as little as £2.47 per person. A Christmas food prices survey saw the Walmart subsidiary chain ahead of Morrisons at £2.49, Aldi at £3.04 and Sainsbury's at £4.32. With families across Britain already suffering thanks to increasing gas bills and petrol costs, the cheap option may prove tempting. Deals: Families will be able to enjoy a cheap Christmas dinner if they want, thanks to Asda, Morrisons and Co . Three 550g turkey breast joints with Lincolnshire style stuffing will cost customers just £3 each from Asda. Along with mince pies, Christmas pudding, potatoes, stuffing, parsnips, carrots, and, of course, Brussels sprouts, the total cost is £14.84 for a meal which serves six. Some customers are already starting to . prepare by purchasing products in advance, spreading the cost of . Christmas over the weeks beforehand. By purchasing cheaper goods now, they . will not be hit with a big bill during the festive period - as long as . the products bought have long enough sell-by dates. Richard Dodd, from the British Retail Consortium, told the Sunday Express: 'A third of all groceries in supermarkets are on offer, competition for Christmas customers is intense and Christmas shopping is starting now.' But despite supermarkets slashing prices . in the hope of attracting customers with a value option Christmas . dinner, the average amount spent on a meal for up to six people will be . £93. The price of Brussels sprouts, report . the Sunday Times, has risen 42% from last year, while in Sainsbury's a . pack of six mince pies, which cost £1 last year, now is £1.65. Poor supplies thanks to wet weather mean more food is being sourced from overseas, which can contribute to rising prices. ASDA (family of six) MORRISONS (eight) ALDI (six) SAINSBURY'S (one) 3x Chosen by you turkey breast joints with Lincolnshire style stuffing £9.00 (1.65kg) Whole basted British turkey £9.00 (2.6-3.8kg) Oakhurst basted whole British turkey £9.99  (3.6-4.8kg) Bernard Matthews easy roast turkey breast £2.50 (450g) SmartPrice British potatoes £0.99 (2.5kg) Maris Piper potatoes £1.00 (1kg) Four seasons Maris Piper British roasting potatoes £0.85 (1kg) Potatoes £0.15p (100g) SmartPrice saga & onion stuffing mix £0.15 (85g) M Savers sage & onion stuffing £0.15 (85g) Chosen by you frozen button sprouts £1.00 (1kg) M Savers Brussels sprouts £0.75 (1kg) Four seasons button Brussel sprouts £0.99 (1kg) Brussels sprouts £0.25 (100g) Chosen by you frozen parsnips £0.97 (680g) M Savers parsnips £0.70 (850g) Parsnips £0.17 (100g) Smartprice mince pies £0.75 (packet of 6) M Savers mince pies £0.60 (2 packets of 6) Smartprice Christmas pudding £0.98 (454g) M Savers Christmas pudding £1.70 (for two) Specially selected Christmas pudding £3.79 (454g) Sainsbury's basics Christmas pudding £0.98p (454g) Freshly frozen baby carrots £1.00 (1kg) M Savers carrots £0.55 (1kg) Carrots £0.75 (1kg) Carrots £0.09 (100g) M Savers cranberry sauce £0.50 (85g) Ashfield farm bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages £1.89 (240g) Sainsbury's basics gravy granules £0.18 (170g) M Savers brandy butter £1.00 (200g) Icing-topped fruit cake £3.40 (900g) Total cost: £14.84 . Total cost: £19.95 . Total cost: £18.26 . Total cost: £.4.32 . Cost per person: £2.47 . Cost per person: £2.49 . Cost per person £3.04 . Cost per person £4.32 . Some shoppers have turned away from their usual stores to do their shop - with many using budget chains like Lidl. The amount of new customers more accustomed to luxury goods who shop there now had has forced the store to produce a range of deluxe products. Nick Nairn, the youngest Scottish chef to win a Michelin star, has been employed to come-up with a Christmas menu based on the Lidl range. They are set to take on the upmarket likes of Marks and Spencer, Waitrose and Sainsbury's - at a fraction of the cost. Lidl said that it had greatly expanded its luxury range 'due to customer demand.' The budget chain says Christmas would not be the same for the middle classes without 'affordable luxury'. So Nairn - who has cooked for The Queen - has produced recipes that include reindeer, lobsters, goose, pheasant and partridges. Christmas favourite: Brussels sprouts have risen 42% in price from last year - but will still fly off the shelves . 'This year we have expended our deluxe range due to customer demand,' said a spokesman for Lidl. 'It is a reflection of our growing customer base. 'They seem to be going down well with customers - where else can you get a lobster for the price we sell at? It is luxury at affordable prices and Nick has worked with that for this year's festive guide.' As mentioned earlier, people are already beginning to make their Christmas preparations with sales of puddings up 62 per cent from a similar time last year. Mince pie sales are up 32 per cent and Christmas chocolate selection boxes are up 42 per cent. These figures come from Waitrose but are likely to be replicated across other stores, which are also stocking Christmas foods and giving away festive carrier bags. On sale: Christmas puddings are being snapped up weeks in advance - last year they were hot property . The increase in sales seems to have been driven by retailers starting their Christmas sales push earlier than ever. Tesco began selling Christmas-themed confectionary as early as August 29, sparking something of a backlash. Separately, advertising watchdogs have received complaints from parents unhappy that early marketing is encouraging children to pester them far in advance of December 25. Waitrose began selling Christmas lines on September 24, which was not long after many families had returned from their summer holidays.

Supermarket giant cheaper than Morrisons, Aldi and Sainsbury's . But average price of Christmas dinner will be £93 per household .

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By . James Gordon . For most kids having a magician do some tricks, perhaps a clown make everyone laugh or even an outdoor pool party is enough to celebrate their birthday. However, children in Oklahoma are sharing their special day with aligators at a special pool party. The idea was dreamed up by staff at the Safari's Sanctuary in Broken Arrow, as part of their Zoo To You scheme. Scroll down for video... See you later: An Oklahoma zoo is under fire after it has emerged they are hosting alligator pool parties . Children are allowed to play with the animals as part of the Zoo To You program which sees the exotic creatures brought into people's homes . The zoo has come in for some criticism because the animals mouth is taped shut and they are dragged around by children on a leash . As part of the plan, the charity aims to teach children about some of the animals in the zoo, but it does so by bringing some of its most dangerous creatures including alligators. 'Our Zoo 2 You program is a great venue to talk to people about why we rescue, what these animals need to survive, costs, housing and climate needs.... while showing youngsters,' said a spokesperson at the zoo. Safari's Sanctuary says: 'The animals have always been in captivity, and don't know how to hunt for food. Plus, their mouths are taped shut.' 'They're banded; they have no strength,' Safari Sanctuary Lori Ensign-Scroggins told News 9. 'They weren't blessed with strength in opening, just in clamping down.' Although the pool parties are supervised, the idea has angered and caused concern for many . Lori Ensign-Scroggins from the zoo said the practice is safe for kids and beasts, but the Wildlife Department said the American Alligator should not be transported . Some of the favorites are an American alligator and a South American Caiman, especially since kids get to swim with them . The pool parties help to raise money for the zoo which is a charity . They're also rinsed and bathed before and after an event. The water is also tested to make sure it's not over chlorinated or harmful to the animal. 'We always have one staff member tending to every animal,' she said. Despite the zoo's best intentions, the response has been met with anger and concern from worried parents and animal lovers. 'I think you should have a certain responsibility to give these animals a lifestyle that is as close to natural as possible and this doesn't seem like that. They should be in a sanctuary not a swimming pool with their mouths taped shut,' said Laura Gann-Hodd of Morris, OKlahoma. Misty Richardson of Tulsa also had similar thoughts: ' I thought what these people were doing for these animals was awesome. Now after seeing this, they are just exploiting these animals. Taping their mouths shut to swim with kids is nothing short of animal cruelty. I hope all those animals get moved to a real sanctuary with people who'll only have the animals best interests at heart.' Others have sprung to the zoos defence saying that children enjoy the experience which is made safe by the zoo's volunteers. While animal sanctuaries with the right paperwork and permits, can take other animals off the property where they're permitted . The zoo says that Zoo 2 you is the charity's fun, educational way to bring some animals to children's birthday parties allowing them to interact and play while educating on the real needs of the animals . Once the party is over, the animals are returned to the Safari Sanctuary in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma . In addition to rescuing all kinds of exotic animals, Safari's Sanctuary also takes animals on the road . The Safari Santuary say that as a charity and animal rescue center they constantly need funding. The alligator pool parties are simply are creative way of pulling in much needed cash to the organisation which houses more than 200 animals - many of which would have been destroyed were it not for the zoo's intervention. Owner Lori Ensign-Scroggins said they have reptiles, birds, tortoise and baby donkeys but the favorites are an American alligator and a South American Caiman, especially since kids get to swim with them. 'It's an awesome experience,' Ms Ensign-Scroggins said. 'The kids have the goggles on and end up floating underneath it, touching it, the kids will swim the way the gators swim and try to race it across the pool.' Animal sanctuaries with the right paperwork and permits are allowed to take animals off the property where they're permitted but the rules are less clear about moving American alligators from one location to another. Safari's Sanctuary says the animals have always been in captivity, and don't know how to hunt for food. Plus, their mouths are taped shut . They're also rinsed and bathed before and after an event. The water is also tested to make sure it's not over chlorinated or harmful to the animal .

Safari Sanctuary in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma holds the parties to raise money for their charity . Children are supervised throughout the event however some believe it is a form of cruelty to the alligators .

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By . Ashley Collman . PUBLISHED: . 01:05 EST, 15 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:58 EST, 15 October 2013 . A promising George Washington University medical student told police he killed his best friend after catching him having an affair with his girlfriend. 24-year-old Rahul Gupta was charged with second-degree murder in relation to the stabbing death of his best friend and Georgetown law student Mark Waugh early Sunday morning in Silver Springs, Virginia. According to police, Gupta, his 23-year-old girlfriend, Waugh and one other had spent Saturday out celebrating Gupta's birthday. Best friends: Rahul Gupta (right) told police that he killed his best friend, Mark Waugh (left), after catching him having an affair with his girlfriend . Dark turn: Gupta, his girlfriend, Waugh and another spent Saturday night out celebrating Gupta's birthday. The first three later returned to the girlfriend's apartment where they continued to drink shots. Waugh was found dead at 3:30am Sunday morning . After drinking, Gupta and Waugh returned to Gupta's girlfriend's apartment in Silver Springs where the three continued drinking shots of alcohol. Neighbors later reported hearing loud noises coming from the apartment, like people were moving furniture. Shortly before 3:30am Sunday morning, police responded to a 911 call made by the girlfriend. When they arrived on the scene, police reported hearing movements and yelling inside but no one answered the door when they knocked. Trouble in paradise: Gupta told police that he caught Waugh and his girlfriend cheating and that's why he killed him. Above, two pictures of Gupta with a girlfriend uploaded to his Facebook within the last year . Police opened the locked door and the girlfriend approached the officers with blood on her and said: 'I don't know what happened. Can you tell me?' Officers noted seeing blood on the walls of the kitchen and living area and Gupta lying on the floor, covered in blood. They asked Gupta if he was hurt but he said: 'I don't think so'. When they asked him what had happened, he replied: 'I walked in on my girlfriend cheating on me. My girl and my buddy were cheating. My girl was cheating with my buddy. I walked in on them cheating and I killed my buddy.' Officers found Waugh lying on the floor unresponsive and he was pronounced dead. He was covered in blood with 'multiple cutting and defense-type injuries to his body'. Police say a knife was used in the attack. Who to believe? While Gupta says he was woken up by his girlfriend yelling, the girlfriend told police she was woken up by Gupta's yelling. She says she found him kneeling next to a bleeding Waugh and he told her to call police. Above, a picture of Waugh . Gupta and his girlfriend have a differing account of what happened before police were called. Gupta told police officers that he was woken up by his girlfriend yelling. It's uncertain whether he actually saw something going on, but he told officers that he thought Waugh and his girlfriend were in a relationship behind his back and that Waugh had tried to harm him and his family. At police headquarters, Gupta admitted that he made a mistake, but added: 'He tried to kill me, though'. Defense? While being questioned by police, Gupta admitted that he made a mistake but also said that Waugh tried to kill him . But the girlfriend says Gupta woke her up and not the other way around. She says she doesn't remember anything after having the last shots back at the apartment but that she was later woken up by Gupta yelling and telling her to call 911. That's when she woke up and saw him kneeling next to Waugh who was bleeding heavily. As of Monday, Gupta was being held at the Montgomery County Jail on $2million bond. The Gazette spoke to Nancy Waugh, the victim's mother, yesterday who said she was still in shock and couldn't believe what had happened. She said her son and Gupta had been best friends ever since they met attending Langley High School in McLean, Virignia. Close: Both Waugh's mother and Gupta's father expressed shock after hearing about the killing. Waugh's mother Nancy says the two were best friends ever since they met attending Langley High School . 'It's very hard right now,' Mrs Waugh said. Full of promise: After graduating Magna Cum Laude from James Madison University, Waugh spent a year teaching debate in South Korea. He had just started his first year at law school at Georgetown . WJLA was able to speak with Gupta's father over the phone who said he was 'saddened' and 'very surprised' by Waugh's death and his son's subsequent arrest. Waugh had graduated Magna Cum Laude from James Madison University in May 2012, and went on to spend the following year in Daegu, South Korea teaching debate. This fall, Waugh had started his first year of law school at Georgetown, and was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa honors society. Gupta had a similarly bright future. He earned his undergraduate degree from George Washington University and was back at the school studying to become a doctor. He also earned a master's degree in physiology from Georgetown. Fellow Langley High School-alumnus David Barton spoke about both men in The Breeze - James Madison University's student newspaper. He remembers both men for being extremely intelligent in their respective fields, Waugh in liberal arts and Gupta with science and math. 'It's very shocking when something like this happens when you know each person involved,' Barton told The Breeze. 'You think that - how can people you think to be rational have something like this take place. You just hope that the situation could have de-escalated'. Smart: Gupta was similarly accomplished. He got his undergraduate degree from George Washington University where he was last studying to become a doctor. He also got a master's degree in physiology from Georgetown .

Rahul Gupta, 24, spent Saturday night celebrating his birthday with his girlfriend, best friend Mark Waugh and one other . Gupta and Waugh later returned to the girlfriend's apartment where the three continued to drink shots . Around 3:30am, police were called to the residence and found Waugh unconscious, covered in blood . Gupta told police that he walked in on his girlfriend cheating with Waugh and 'killed my buddy' But Gupta's girlfriend says she was woken up by Gupta yelling at her to call police, while he knelt over a heavily-bleeding Waugh . Gupta has been charged with second-degree murder and was being held Monday at the Montgomery County Jail on $2million bond .

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By . Amanda Williams . A woman has been stopped by police for aparently breastfeeding her baby while riding a moped. The young mother was allegedly driving through the streets of Yuzhou, China when she was pulled over. Officers said she was weaving through traffic while holding her 18-month-old son on her lap as he breastfed, and they pulled her over before she had an accident . A woman has been stopped by police for breastfeeding her baby while weaving her moped through the streets of a town in the Hunan province, China . Witnesses have claimed they saw the mother begin to breastfeed the child while keeping a hand on the handlebars. Breitbart reports that police were concerned she was risking her life, her son's life and the lives of all the other road users. They added that if she carried on they would take her bike away. In June 2008, Catherine Donkers, 29, was accused of child endangerment for trying to breastfeed her daughter while driving from Detroit to Pittsburgh. She was also apparently driving without a licence. The young mother was allegedly driving through the streets of Yuzhou, China, in Hunan Province (pictured) when she was pulled over . In her defence she said using a mobile phone caused far more distraction than 'nursing a child' while driving. And in 2009 a  drunken mother . was breast-feeding her five-month-old baby at the wheel when she almost . crashed into a police car. The . teenager was so drunk she could not provide a roadside breath test and . was arrested at the scene in the Australian town of Alice Springs.

Officers said she was weaving through traffic while holding son . Driving through the streets of Yuzhou, Chin, when pulled over . She allegedly held on to son with one hand, and bike with other .

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By . Anna Edwards . PUBLISHED: . 13:08 EST, 21 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 03:09 EST, 22 November 2012 . Irene Mullinger, 81, is now claiming unfair dismissal and age related discrimination . An 81-year-old checkout worker is suing DIY giant B&Q for unfair dismissal, claiming she was sacked for being too old. Dedicated Irene Mullenger had worked at B&Q for almost a 25 years and had planned to continue in the role that she loved, saying that she is not ready to sit at home and 'vegetate'. But the widow was left devastated after bosses at the company, which made £161m profit last year, forced her to leave after unfairly changing her shift pattern, she claims. She is now claiming unfair dismissal . and age related discrimination - making her one of the oldest employees . in Britain ever to do so. Mrs Mullenger claims bosses at the store in Bletchley, Buckinghamshire, changed her . shift patterns to hours and days she would not be able to work. She was originally contracted to work 12 hours a week and for the past ten years had worked mornings only on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Friday. But she claims she was asked to work every other weekend, perform early and late shifts and be available for work five days out of seven on a four week rota basis. Mrs Mullenger claims this was indirect age discrimination because she is being asked to work hours most people her age would not usually be able to work. She is also exempt from working Sundays . as a 'protected shop worker' but the new shifts put to her stated she . would have to work a minimum of every other weekend. Because she has been employed by the . same employer continuously since before 26 August 1994 she is a . protected shop worker - which means she can opt out of working Sundays. She alleges she was told that if she did not agree to the new terms of her working shifts she would be sacked. Irene Mullenger had worked at B&Q for almost a quarter of a century and had planned to carry on for many more years in the job she loved . After failed negotiations with management, Mrs Mullenger was dismissed in August. She contacted legal firm Regents Solicitors who issued the claim on October 30 giving B&Q 28 days to respond - they are yet to do so. The claim form reads: ‘It was put to her that if she was not prepared to agree to these changes the Respondent would move to terminate her employment’. Mrs Mullenger, of Great Brickhill, Buckinghamshire, said she was devastated at no longer having the job she believes has helped keep her going. She said: 'I loved working there and I miss it badly. I’m worried I’ll vegetate if I sit at home doing nothing. 'It’s strange not working. Bosses at the company, which made £161m profit last year, forced her to leave after unfairly changing her shift pattern, she claims . 'I’ve worked all my life, for 64 years, and spent more than 30 years with the civil service before I joined B&Q. 'I wasn’t ready to be retired. I’m still fit and healthy and I had planned to carry on working for as long as I could. 'I always said I’d stop when I got too tired to carry on. But the fact is that I’m not tired yet.' Lawyer Daniel Valentine, from Manchester, said: 'I think what the company did to Mrs Mullenger was absolutely awful. 'She gave her all to B&Q for almost 25 years and she did not deserve to be treated in such a way. 'They are asking her to work hours people her age are usually unable to work. 'She feels they have unfairly changed her shift patterns and discriminating against her because of her age. 'The way she has been treated is utterly shocking.' A spokesman for B&Q said: 'B&Q is proud of its track record on employing older people, almost 30 per cent of our 33,000 employees are over 50 years old and our oldest employee is 89 years old. 'We would never comment on an individual case and as this is an ongoing legal process it is not appropriate to comment further.'

Irene Mullenger had worked for B&Q for nearly 25 years when they allegedly demanded she work shifts she could not do . Pensioner says she wanted to continue working and is not 'tired' of her role . B&Q say they are proud of their track record of employing older people .

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By . Mark Duell . PUBLISHED: . 12:56 EST, 5 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:03 EST, 5 February 2013 . A father and physiotherapist who led a double life with two wives 7,000 miles apart has been jailed. NHS worker Alexander Sarte, 45, of Ramsgate, Kent, was highly regarded in caring for the elderly at Kent and Canterbury Hospital in Canterbury, Kent - but has now been exposed as a bigamist. His wife Donna McGowan decided to end their stormy seven-year marriage, and it emerged Sarte was playing the doting husband in Kent while still married to Naemi Gomez in his native Philippines. Workplace: NHS worker Alexander Sarte, 45, was highly regarded in his work caring for the elderly at Kent and Canterbury Hospital (pictured) in Canterbury, Kent - but has been exposed as a bigamist . He always smoothed over questions about his previous life when speaking to his second wife Mrs McGownan - mother of their two children, now aged four and seven, Canterbury Crown Court heard. But when Mrs McGownan started divorce proceedings, officials in the Philippines told her that her husband had married Ms Gomez in 1998 - and they were still legally wed. A shocked Mrs McGownan reported Sarte to police who charged him with bigamy. Sarte admitted the offence and was jailed for eight months last Thursday. Judge Nigel Van Der Bijl told him he had been ‘deceitful and dishonest’ and caused significant upset to Mrs McGownan and their two children. Sarte claimed to be single when he successfully applied for a work visa after arriving in the UK in 2003, the court heard. He met his second wife as they worked as health care workers in Broadstairs, Kent, and they married in 2005 - two months before his work visa ran out. Hearing: Sarte admitted the offence at Canterbury Crown Court (pictured) and was jailed for eight months . He told Mrs McGownanhe he had children with a woman in the Philippines - but never said he was previously married. He also told police he had married Mrs McGownan ‘for love’ and not to get a resident's visa. But she said he was a ‘controlling’ husband who emotionally abused her and treated her like a child during their tempestuous seven-year marriage. 'There has to be a whiff that this might have been a marriage of convenience to allow him to remain in the UK. But this marriage last seven years and they have two children' Martin Bowyer, defending . ‘There has to be a whiff that this might have been a marriage of convenience to allow him to remain in the UK,’ Martin Bowyer, defending, said. ‘But this marriage last seven years and they have two children, now aged four and seven. Although he accepts it wasn't always a happy marriage it was nonetheless a marriage. He doesn't accept everything that Donna has said.’ He added that the Philippines was a Catholic country where divorces are ‘extremely difficult’ to obtain compared to the UK and carried ‘considerable cultural shame’. He said: ‘Since coming to the UK he has always worked within the NHS service caring for the elderly and is an intelligent man.’

Alexander Sarte, 45, of Ramsgate, worked at Kent and Canterbury Hospital . His wife Donna McGowan decided to end their stormy seven-year marriage . It emerged Sarte was still married to Naemi Gomez in his native Philippines . Judge: Bigamy was 'deceitful and dishonest' and caused significant upset .

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By . Jonathan Block . A college student who more than two years ago suffered massive brain injuries in a horrific car crash and was in a coma has made an amazing recovery and is back to playing basketball again and attending college.The recovery made by Sam Schmid, 23, of Tucson, Arizona has been described as a 'Christmas miracle' by his mother. On October 19, 2011, Schmid, who was a junior at the University of Arizona at the time, was involved in a five-car collision.He was returning home from coaching the basketball team at a Catholic school he had attended. A van hit the Jeep Schmid was in, sending it flying through the air and hitting a light pole, before coming to rest on its side. Scroll down for video . Sam Schmid, shortly after he arrived at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix in October 2011. After more than two years of extensive rehabilitation, Schmid, now 23, made a 'miraculous' recovery and was released last month . Schmid during a recent interview. After the accident, paramedics initially declared him dead before he started moving slightly . Schmid during his recovery at Barrow with his mother, Susan Regan. Regan called his recovery 'a godsend' and credits God with having a major role in Schmid's recovery . Emergency medical personnel declared him dead at the scene before he started to exhibit some movement.At the hospital, his doctors brought up organ donation with his parents and even brought up taking Schmid off of life support since he was in a coma. And then, in December 2011, Schmid woke up and was able to talk.And after more than two years of treatment at the Center for Transitional Neuro Rehabilitation at Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Schmid walked out of the facility last month.'I am surprised at the end result,' Schmid told ABC News. 'I was willing to comply with all the help at Barrow and my recovery is based on the hard work I did.'When Schmid arrived at Barrow, he was using a walker, had trouble speaking and had difficulty swallowing. Schmid (left), his mother (center) and a Barrow employee (right) at Schmid's 'graduation' from rehabilitation in April. When he arrived at Barrow, he had difficulty speaking and swallowing . Schmid during his rehabilitation at Barrow. It took him more than two years to be well enough to leave . Schmidt has recovered so well, he is able to play basketball and has returned to his studies at the University of Arizona . 'I would describe it as a fragile state physically and emotionally,' Barrow neuropsychologist Kristi Husk told ABC News. But the 'boot camp”-like intensity of rehabilitation inspired Schmid, who volunteering at a gym for the disabled while undergoing rehab and worked at the hospital mail room and library. One person who never doubted Schmid's ability to recovery was neurosurgeon Dr. Robert Spetzler, who said that while others had 'reasonable' reasons to think Schmid was brain dead, he had a 'hunch' he would make it.'There was plenty wrong -- he had a hemorrhage, an aneurysm and a stroke from the part of the aneurysm,' Spetzler said in 2011. 'But he didn't have a blood clot in the most vital part of his brain, which we know he can't recover from. And he didn't have a massive stroke that would predict no chance of a useful existence.'An MRI was ordered of Schmid's brain to see if important areas of the brain had turned dark, an indication of brain death. It contained encouraging news. And the evening the MRI results came in, Schmid was able to follow doctor commands such as holding up two fingers. Sam's mother, Susan Regan, now looks back and calls his recovery 'a godsend.''Sam is as he is today as a result of their driving him to succeed. He gets better every day,' she said. 'I do think of it as a miracle. He was so close to death and came back. I do believe God has a huge part in this.'

Sam Schmid, 23, was a junior at the University of Arizona in October 2011 when he was involved in a five-car collision that almost killed him . He was in a coma for about two months before he woke up shortly before Christmas . Doctors had discussed the possibility of donating his organs with his parents before Schmid came out of coma . Schmid's recovery at the Barrow Neurological Institute took two years as he left the facility last month . He has returned to college and is playing basketball again . His mother calls his recovery 'a godsend' and says God had a huge part in Schmid's rehabilitation .

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By . Peter Allen In Paris . At least 70 people were arrested at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris during violent protests against Francois Hollande as he commemorated France’s war dead. The disturbing scenes are a massive humiliation to the 59-year-old Socialist president, who is by far the most unpopular head of state in his country’s recent history. Armistice Day is a public holiday in France, and traditionally a time for solemn reflection as the country unites to remember the end of World War I, and those who have died in other conflicts. President Francois Hollande (centre) was booed as he laid a wreath during the Armistice Day ceremony . It was a humiliation for the president, who the most unpopular head of state in France's recent history . Trouble: Demonstrators held signs saying 'Hollande resign', as the president attended an Armistice Day service . But today the centre piece of the commemorations – the head of state laying wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – turned into an unruly farce. As millions watched live TV broadcasts, protestors started booing and then shouted ‘Hollande resign!’ There were also chants about Hollande being in charge of a left wing ‘dictatorship’ in which unpopular laws were being passed without consultation with ordinary people. Fighting then broke out on the Champs Elysee as armed police tried to arrest those responsible for the disturbances. It was then that Hollande and his fellow ministers were rushed away in a waiting limousine, accompanied by police sirens and whistles. The protests turned the usually respectful ceremony into a farce. Pictured: Hollande shakes hands with veterans . Hollande (right) and fellow ministers were rushed away in a waiting limousine when fighting broke out at the Champs Elysee . ‘The atmosphere was extremely ugly,’ said one onlooker. ‘There were a lot of people showing a great deal of . disrespect for the president. This is unheard of on Armistice Day.’ Among those protesting were so-called ‘Red Hats’, a group of activists from Brittany who are furious at the number of factories closing down, particularly in the agricultural sector. One onlooker said the scenes of 'disrespect for the president' were 'unheard of on Armistice Day' Unemployment and the cost of living have spiralled since Hollande came to power last year, yet he is still threatening tax rises and other punitive measures. Many French are particularly angry about a proposed ‘eco-tax’, which has been suspended following outbreaks of violence at the end of October. Conservatives from a group angry at the Socialists’ same-sex marriage bill which was enacted this year were also out in force in Paris today. Supporters of the far-right National Front were also demonstrating, along with those who are opposed to their anti-immigration and anti-Europe views. Many blame Hollande’s failing policies for the rise of extremism within France. There were further ugly Armistice Day scenes in the southern town of Chateaurenard, near Avignon, when MP Bernard Reynes, of the an opposition UMP party, was stabbed three times in the back as he took part in commemorations. Two people, including a knifeman, have been arrested. Hollande has further November 11th public duties to attend to today, and security has been stepped up around him.

Francois Hollande booed as he laid wreath at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier . Arrests came during protests at ceremony and calls of 'Hollande resign!' Socialist president most unpopular head of state in France's recent history .

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By . Daniel Martin . PUBLISHED: . 18:37 EST, 16 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 18:48 EST, 16 October 2013 . David Cameron wants select committees to investigate whether The Guardian broke the law by printing information leaked by Edward Snowden . David Cameron backed calls for a full parliamentary inquiry into whether the Guardian’s publication of leaked national secrets has put state security at risk. The Prime Minister encouraged MPs on select committees to investigate whether the paper had broken the law or done harm to our security by printing information leaked by US whistleblower Edward Snowden. And yesterday the chairman of one of them, Keith Vaz, said his home affairs committee would be investigating the Guardian’s conduct. Former defence secretary Liam Fox accused the Guardian of ‘reckless and politically dangerous’ behaviour which may have made Britain more vulnerable to attack. And last night, pressure on the paper increased still further after Tory backbencher Julian Smith was granted a Parliamentary debate in Westminster Hall next Tuesday over the publishing of the top-secret documents. Julian Smith, who earlier this week . wrote to Scotland Yard urging them to conduct an inquiry into the . Guardian, said: ‘I look forward to laying out the reasons why I believe . that the Guardian has crossed the line between responsible journalism . and seriously risking our national security and the lives of those who . seek to protect us.' The Prime Minister said that in agreeing to dispose of information it had obtained from the former US National Security Agency employee, the newspaper effectively accepted its involvement in putting national security at risk. Mr Cameron said: ‘I think the plain fact is that what has . happened has damaged national security, and in many ways the Guardian . themselves admitted that when they agreed, when asked politely by my . national security adviser and Cabinet Secretary (Sir Jeremy Heywood) to . destroy the files they had, they went ahead and destroyed those files. ‘So they know that what they are dealing with is dangerous for national security.’ He was responding to a question from Dr Fox, who said: ‘Can we have a full and transparent assessment about whether the Guardian’s involvement in the Snowden affair has damaged Britain’s national security?’ Pictured: The Guardian's London office. The newspaper is facing increased pressure over its publication of the leaked information . Mr Cameron replied: ‘I think it’s up to select committees in this house if they want to examine this issue and make further recommendations.’ Last week the head of MI5, Andrew Parker, said the Guardian had handed a gift to terrorists. Later in the day, Dr Fox wrote to the chairmen of five Commons select committees urging them to carry out an investigation into the Guardian’s ‘reckless and potentially dangerous’ conduct.The letter was sent to Keith Vaz of the home affairs committee, Sir Malcolm Rifkind (intelligence and security), John Arbuthnot (defence), Richard Ottaway (foreign affairs) and Sir Alan Beith, chairman of the liaison select committee. He wrote: ‘A free press does not mean the freedom to make the UK, its people or its allies more vulnerable to serious organised crime or terrorism. ‘I am writing to formally request, as both a Member of Parliament and a former Security of State for Defence, that your committee considers the elements of the Guardian’s involvement in, and publication of, the Snowden leaks. David Cameron said the publication had 'damaged national security' and Liam Fox (right) has written to the chairmen of five select committees to ask them to investigate . ‘I would like you to determine whether the vulnerability of the people of Britain, our security services or those of our allies have been impaired by what I believe to be reckless and potentially dangerous behaviour.’ Last week the head of MI5 , Andrew Parker, said the publication of the stolen top-secret documents had handed a ‘gift’ to terrorists and had caused huge ‘harm’ to the capability of Britain’s intelligence services. Security officials say the exposé amounts to a ‘guide book’, advising terrorists on the best way to avoid detection when plotting an atrocity. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has also criticised the paper, saying technical details about the operations of spies should not be published in newspapers. But his Liberal Democrat colleague Business Secretary Vince Cable expressed concerns about the level of scrutiny the newspaper was now facing, saying it had performed ‘a very considerable public service’.

David Cameron has encouraged select committees to investigate the paper . Wants to investigate whether paper broke the law or harmed national security by publishing information leaked by Edward Snowden . Liam Fox accused the Guardian of ‘reckless and politically dangerous’

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By . Lizzie Edmonds . Two teenage boys have been jailed for beating a man into a coma because they 'didn’t value his life'. Kane Price, 15, and Ashley Farrow, 17, used a wooden chair leg to beat their victim before leaving him for dead. Homeless Vladimirs Kazlausks, 54, was sleeping in a shopping centre underpass in Newport, South Wales, when the two boys launched their brutal attack - which left him close to death and blind in one eye. The attack mirrored a disturbing scene from cult movie A Clockwork Orange, which was banned for 27 years. Thugs: Kane Price (left) and Ashley Farrow were today sentenced for their part in a savage and premeditated attack on a sleeping homeless man, Vladimir Kazlausks . Horrific: Vladimir Kazlausks, pictured, was beaten into a coma by the two thugs, who also blinded him in one eye . Price and Farrow tried to put the blame on each other for the vicious attack on May 8. But they were both found unanimously guilty of grievous bodily harm by a jury in November. Price, a schoolboy at the time of the attack, was sent to a young offenders institute for seven-and-a-half years. Farrow, who is now 18, was sent to a young offenders institute for six years. Cardiff Crown Court heard how Mr Kazlausks was discovered unconscious and 'soaked' in his own blood. He was in a coma for a week, but miraculously survived despite suffering multiple fractures to his face and eye sockets. The . two boys were spotted on CCTV at the time of the attack and their . tracksuit trousers and shoes were found to be spattered with blood. The court heard the pair, both from Newport, South Wales, fled after the senseless attack and later met with up with friends. Young: The baby-faced boys - Price left and Farrow right - attacked the vulnerable man while he slept in an underpass, the court heard . Prosecutor Michael Jones said: 'It was a brutal and gratuitous attack by two young boys on a vulnerable homeless man. 'With repeated use of a wooden chair leg they tried to kill him and left him for dead. They didn’t value his life.'Farrow told one friend they had done something big. 'Price then said: “I have killed someone - it was mental”. He said he had attacked a man in the head with some wood and that after that he stopped making noises. 'He said it was a crackhead asleep on the floor. They were boasting about what they had done.' Judge Robert Jay took the unusual step . of naming and shaming Price and Farrow because of the ferocity of their . late-night attack at Cardiff Crown Court today. Following an application from members of . the press, Mr Justice Jay decided to lift the Section 39 Order on . Price - which had prevented the media from revealing his identity. Although . previously being granted anonymity during his trial, Farrow turned 18 . late last month - meaning reporting restrictions no longer applied to . him. Violent: The attack by the two teenage boys mirrored a scene in the 1971 film 'A Clockwork Orange', pictured . Despite mitigation from defence . counsels, Mr Justice Jay said he regarded both youths as 'dangerous' and . would be 'imposing extended sentences'. Sentencing, Judge . Jay told the two young boys: 'You treated your victim as beneath . contempt - both show a worrying complete lack of human empathy. 'You both know what you did that evening - although you are continuing to deny it. 'The victim was completely helpless and couldn’t have found himself in a more exposed position. 'You both regarded him as easy game but the law treats everyone as being equally deserving of respect and dignity. 'What happened is a wooden implement was picked up and the victim was savagely beaten around the head with it. In the 1971 film A Clockwork Orange a young gang beat a tramp senseless for singing drunkenly in an underpass. The film was later banned by its director Stanley Kubrick because there were fears it encouraged gratuitous copycat attacks. After . being released from intensive care a week after the attack Mr Kazlausks . said he wished he was dead and felt his life was 'finished'. 'We cannot be sure how many times he was struck but it was probably not the 40 times you, Kane Price, boasted to your friends. 'The victim was left for dead, you thought he might be dead and he certainly might’ve died.' Blood from Mr Kazlausks was found on a shoe of the eldest boy, while eyewitnesses said they saw the youngest with blood on his face and tracksuit top sleeve afterwards. They tried to explain away those damning bits of evidence by saying they were only mere observers to what their friend had done and were too 'shocked' and 'frightened' to intervene. However, Judge Mr Justice Jay said forensic evidence showed that the younger of the two boys - Price - was the ringleader and had been the one who hit Mr Kazlausks over the head with a wooden table leg. He added: 'I am also satisfied that that this attack was not a spur of the moment (decision). 'Ashley Farrow, although your involvement was lesser, everything points to this being committed to this enterprise. Kane Price..... you lied to the jury on a truly epic scale.' The court ruled that both teenagers will . only be eligible for parole after two-thirds of their detention had . passed. And in order for them to be released on licence, the pair would . have to prove they were no longer a danger to the public.

Kane Price, 15, and Ashley Farrow, 17, attacked victim with chair leg . Left homeless Vladimirs Kazlausks, 54, for dead in underpass . Man beaten into a coma following brutal attack in Newport, South Wales . Price jailed for seven-and-a-half years and Farrow six . Attack mirrored violent scene from cult movie A Clockwork Orange .

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By . Katherine Faulkner and Rebecca Evans . Last updated at 8:20 AM on 1st February 2012 . They are the words everyone dreads hearing from their doctor ... and the fact they are delivered over the phone can only compound the trauma. Yet last night it emerged that many patients are being told they have cancer in a phone call rather than a face-to-face meeting. It seems that the traditional practice of a doctor breaking the news in person is becoming a thing of the past. Queen's Hospital, part of the Burton Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust. Staff have been reminded that telling a patient they have cancer on the phone is 'inappropriate' Stephen Coupe, founder of Cancer . Relief UK, said the development was outrageous. ‘It is a scandal that so . many cancer patients are being given their diagnosis in this way,’ he . added. ‘We have had many calls from families who are upset about this.’ Yesterday, staff at one NHS trust were officially rebuked for telling patients they had cancer over the phone. Jim Morrison, chairman of Burton . Hospitals in Staffordshire, told the trust’s directors he had been . shocked such a warning was needed. But on internet support forums, dozens of cancer patients said the same thing had happened to them. The phone call incident was the subject of one of 82 complaints made to the trust between October and December 2011 (posed) One man said he had complained after his wife was given the news in this way. ‘She was on her own in the house – no . one else with her,’ he wrote on the Macmillan Cancer Support forum. ‘It . just beggars belief – do they not do this in training to be a doctor, . how to break bad news to patients?’ Dozens of patients then replied to his . message, saying they had had the same experience. They said being given . the news by phone was ‘pitiful’. Incredibly, one man said his wife had been told to pass him the message that he had cancer by a doctor who called them at home. Another woman spoke of the agony of . being at home with her two-year-old daughter when she was told that she . had an aggressive form of  skin cancer. ‘When she went off the phone, I just . broke down in tears,’ she wrote. ‘I had to phone my dad to come and get . my daughter.’ A second woman said being told of her cancer over the . phone was  the worst moment of her whole life. ‘She added: ‘I spent four hours crying alone until my husband came home.’ Many said telling patients they had . cancer over the phone was insensitive and should be banned. ‘It’s not . like you are phoning to see if you’ve passed your GCSEs,’ one said. ‘I wonder how someone who is mentally fragile, already depressed, vulnerable and alone would cope.’ One patient said he was shocked when a . doctor told him over the phone that ‘it would be a miracle if he didn’t . have cancer’. At this point, he said, they had not even received the . results of his biopsy. One woman said she ‘always knew this . wouldn’t be an easy journey’ but said it had been made much more . difficult by the fact that no one had spoken to her face to face. A spokesman for Macmillan said a . cancer diagnosis was the most devastating news that can be received from . a doctor and that the news should always be given face to face to . ensure the patient is properly supported. Martin Ledwick, of Cancer Research UK, . said: ‘You cannot guarantee the patient will have friends and family . around them to help support them.’ For more information about cancer and to speak to Cancer . Research UK's cancer information nurses call freephone 0808 800 4040, or visit www.cancerhelp.org.uk .

Staff at NHS Trust rebuked for breaking bad news to patients over the phone . One man said his wife had been told to pass on the message when a doctor called at his home .

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By . Ashley Collman . PUBLISHED: . 23:07 EST, 17 February 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 12:57 EST, 18 February 2014 . Watch your back, Meier! American NHL referee Brad Meier is now despised in Russia for ruling a goal in Team USA's favor during Saturday's game against the home team . Angry Russians today gathered at the American Embassy in Moscow to make apparent death threats against the US hockey referee who they blame for their country’s thrilling hockey loss to the states at the weekend. Although the fans insist the threats to boil Brad Meir and render his flesh into soap are light-hearted, it reflects growing anger in the country at the decision to have an American referee adjudicate the crucial match. Russian coach Zinetula Bilyaletdinov believes the game would have ended differently if Meier hadn't disallowed a Russian goal late in the game that would have put them in the lead. 'The referee made a mistake of course, it would have been more effective to have a different judge,' Bilyaletdinov said. The score was 2-2 when a Russian player Fedor Tyutin hit the puck into the goal, but the score came into contention when American goaltender Jonathan Quick pointed out that the net was off its base. After reviewing footage, Meier and Swedish referee Marcus Vinnerborg agreed that the net was off its base before the score and the goal couldn't be counted. The crowd of more than 11,000 at Bolshoi Ice Dome, populated with home country fans including President Vladimir Putin, erupted in anger at the call. 'It was definitely a goal,' Russian player Alex Ovechkin said. 'The goalie touched the net so the net moved. The referee had to see it. [Meier] should have given [Quick] two minutes.' Asked whether more neutral referees should be chosen for the Olympics, Bilyaletdinov said: 'We don't appoint the referees, a board of referees appoints them, so we can only take the situation as a given.' The U.S. went on to win the match thanks to T.J. Oshie scoring four times in the shootout. Jumping the gun: Russia celebrates a goal in the third period, but the score was eventually disallowed because the net was displaced . Advance: The U.S. team went on to win the match against Russia 3-2 and will compete in the quarterfinals in two days . Still in the running: The Russians are still in the tournament but will have to fight it out with Finland to stay in medal contention in a match tomorrow . The International Ice Hockey Federation later defended Meier's decision saying the rulings made by the two referees 'was the correct call and that the proper procedure had been followed with regards to the video review'. That hasn't stopped Russians from voicing their anger online and in public protests in Moscow. Many Russians fans have posted pictures of Meier on Twitter, with comments like 'Remember the face of the a**h***' and 'We will not forget this face'. The threats were more direct in Moscow on Monday when Russians fans gathered outside the American Embassy to protest Meier's call. Demonstration: Russian fans even went so far to protest Meier outside the American embassy in Moscow after Saturday's game . Some of the fans participated in a Russian sports tradition of shredding soap, which is meant to symbolize killing someone and rendering their fat to make soap. The other interpretation is the soap used on a noose in a hanging. While that sounds like a death threat, the fans insist it is light-hearted. 'Please don't take it as a death threat,' Dmitry Chesnokov, writer for Puck Daddy, told Yahoo Sports. The Russians have not yet been knocked out of the tournament. They are scheduled to go up against Finland Tuesday and team USA will compete in the quarterfinals the day after.

Brad Meier disallowed a goal that would have but the Russian team in the lead . The crowd of more than 11,000 at Bolshoi Ice Dome erupted in anger over the call . 'The referee made a mistake,' Russian coach Zinetula Bilyaletdinov said . Protesters gathered outside the American Embassy in Moscow on Monday to voice their outage . Russia is still in the tournament but will have to beat Finland tomorrow to remain in the running for a medal . Team USA 's next game will be in the quarterfinals on Wednesday .

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By . Laura Clark . Children with TVs in their bedrooms and their own mobile phones suffer significant falls in reading achievement, a major international study showed yesterday. Research among 4,000 pupils in England has linked ownership of TVs, DVD players and phone handsets to markedly lower scores in reading tests. Two thirds of 10-year-olds have been given their own TVs, with similar proportions owning DVD players and mobile phones. Research among 4,000 pupils in England found children with TVs in their bedrooms and their own mobile phones suffer significant falls in reading achievement . But youngsters who owned these gadgets lost on average at least 20 marks in a reading test given to children in 45 countries and provinces. In contrast, owning a musical instrument was associated with a 30-mark boost in results. A linked study found that teenagers who spend hours on social networking sites do significantly worse in science and maths tests. The trends emerged in international research charting the performance of 10-year-olds in reading and 10 and 14-year-olds in maths and science. Pupils in English primary schools improved their standing in global rankings of reading achievement, rising from 15th place in 2006 to 11th - a gain attributed to back-to-basics 'phonics' teaching. But the number of weak readers remained high, with more than twice as many 10-year-olds 'stuck at a very basic level' compared with the US. Youngsters who owned a television in their bedroom lost on average at least 20 marks in a reading test given to children in 45 countries and provinces . And England tumbled down a world science league of dozens of countries and failed to improve in maths. Ten-year-olds slipped from 7th place to 15th in science after being leapfrogged by several nations including Hungary and the Czech and Slovak republics, while flatlining in maths, in 9th place. Performance by 14-year-olds in both maths and science also stalled. Our teenagers were ranked tenth and ninth respectively. East Asian countries including South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan dominated the upper reaches of the tables. As well reporting achievement in key . subjects, the studies paint a picture of the home and school environment . in each country using detailed questionnaires given to pupils and . teachers at the time of tests. More . than one in six English teenagers are being taught in maths or science . classes that are severely disrupted by classroom troublemakers. The research linked ownership of TVs, DVD players and phone handsets to markedly lower scores in reading tests . Responses from teachers revealed how 17 per cent of 14-year-olds are taught in classes where disruption affects lessons 'a lot'. Teachers also said pupils' failure to get enough sleep at night affected significant numbers of lessons. A minority suffered a lack of basic nutrition, which also impaired teaching. It also emerged that more than a quarter of primary pupils and one in 10 secondary pupils reported being 'hit or hurt' for example by kicking or shoving within the last month. And tens of thousands of pupils - up to eight per cent - are taught in secondary schools not considered by their teachers to be 'safe and orderly'. The studies were conducted by the National Foundation for Educational Research in England, and overseen by academics in the US and Netherlands. Part of the research asked pupils whether they had mobile phones, TVs or DVDs of their own. The answers were compared with their performance in reading tests, where the average mark internationally was 500, and the highest 571. 'There was a negative association between achievement on the PIRLS tests and ownership of the following items - your own mobile phone, your own television and your own DVD player,' the study said. 'In each case, pupils who reported possessing the item obtained, on average, a lower mean score (by more than 20 scale points) than those who did not possess the item. 'Conversely, the 76 per cent of pupils who owned their own musical instrument scored an average of 31 scale points more than those who did not.' Pupils with their own DVD player, for example, scored 542, against 569 among those who didn't. It also emerged that one in five 10-year-olds spends at least three hours a day watching TV and DVDs. And 13 per cent of 14-year-olds reported using social networking sites for four hours or more on a normal school day. There was evidence that performance in science and maths declined as time spent on the sites increased. Education Minister Elizabeth Truss welcomed news that more children were reading for pleasure than in 2006, when the study was last carried out. But she warned of a 'long tail' of under-achievement in reading. 'Our lowest performers are stuck at a very basic level, only able to find and reproduce information with explicit guidance,' she said. A sharper focus on phonics in schools would boost results further, she said.

Two thirds of 10-year-olds have been given their own TVs and mobiles . Research among 4,000 pupils in England has linked them to markedly lower scores in reading tests .

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By . Joshua Gardner . Dramatic dash cam footage shows the terrifying moment a woman's Toyota pickup violently veers into another woman's car on a California freeway last weekend. Police are now investigating whether Stephanie Pontarolo, 33, was after rogue highway justice when her truck smashed into 21-year-old dental assistant Kelsey Shakespeare's car on Saturday. If it does turn out to be a case of road rage, Pontarolo is likely now kicking herself with the one foot she didn't injure after her truck--not Shakespeare's Volkswagen--flipped completely over in the collision. Renegade highway justice? Dramatic dash cam footage shows the shocking collision between a Toyota pickup and a Volkswagen Jetta on a San Diego freeway last Saturday in what police are now saying could potentially be an act of road rage . Unlikely standoff? Stephanie Pontarolo, 33 (left), was behind the wheel of the truck that smashed into the Volkswagen driven by 21-year-old Kelsey Shakespeare (right) at nearly a 90-degree angle . In addition to her foot, Pontarolo suffered lacerations on her face and arm while Shakespeare complained of back pain, according to a California Highway Patrol news release. The driver whose dash cam caught the shocking episode told police that the altercation began when Shakespeare cut off Pontarolo on I-8 in San Diego, reports KTLA. In the tense seconds that are subsequently caught on camera, the green pickup truck speeds up beside the Jetta before ramming it at a nearly 90 degree angle. Just before the incident: Some reports have suggested the the incident began when Shakespeare cut off Pontarolo in her truck . Many dangers: A few tense seconds later and the truck is nearly perpendicular to Shakespeare's car as a tanker truck speeds down the freeway behind them . Moments later, both cars have miraculously veered into the highway shoulder and avoided oncoming traffic. But the damage hasn't all been done . Flipping out: In an ironic twist--if she was in fact acting out of rage--it's Pontarolo's truck that flips over in a cloud of dust as Shakespeare's car keeps all four wheels on the ground . Both vehicles swerve across lanes of traffic and onto the shoulder where Pontarolo's truck flips completely over while Shakespeare's car keeps all four tires on the ground. A tanker truck was just behind the collision in the far right lane and narrowly avoided smashing into the vehicles, notes KTLA. According to KSWB, CHP at first called the incident an accidental collision. However, if they discover that Pontarolo is at fault and was out for revenge, she could be headed for the courtroom. 'If it is determined through our investigation that there was an intentional act to harm another person, this incident would not be treated as a collision and separate charges would follow,' reads the CHP news release. If that happens, California Highway Patrol authorities say Pontarolo could face charges as serious attempted murder. A California Highway Patrol statement reveals that Pontarolo (seen at left in a preview meth-related arrest photo) suffered lacerations on her foot, face and arm while Shakespeare complained of back pain following the crash . Flipping off: The shocked other drivers must keep moving past the collision, which the dash cam driver claims involved an 'obscene finger gesture'

San Diego police are investigating whether Stephanie Pontarolo, 33, intentionally crashed her truck into a car driven by Kelsey Shakespeare, 21, on Saturday . Shocking dash cam footage taken by a third driver shows Pontarolo's car smash Shakespeare's at nearly a 90 degree angle . At least one witness claims Shakespeare initially cut Pontarolo off and that an 'obscene finger gesture' was involved in the incident . If charged with intentionally causing the accident, Pontarolo could face an attempted murder rap .

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By . Sam Webb . A man has been killed and another injured after a £250 million building collapse in an exclusive part of central London this afternoon. The worker, believed to be in his 30s, was killed in the accident at the former U.S. Navy building, in Grosvenor Square, Mayfair. A spokesman from London Fire Brigade said a mini-digger on the second floor of the six-floor building fell to the floor below. The victim was confirmed dead by emergency medics at the scene. The two men had fallen from the second floor to the first floor. Victim: A man has been killed and another injured after a building collapse in Grosvenor Square, an exclusive part of central London, this afternoon . Emergency services at the scene of the accident in Grosvenor Square in Mayfair. The building is being converted into luxury flats . A construction worker, who did not want to be named, said the man who died was from Lithuania. London Ambulance Service, London's Air Ambulance and London Fire Brigade were at the scene. A police spokesman added: 'At least one other person has been injured. The Health and Safety Executive has been informed. 'Road closures remain in place. Officers are also advising anyone who was planning to attend a demonstration in the area from 18:00hrs today that it may not be possible to attend the pre-arranged location.' A private ambulance taking the body away earlier today . Loss: A private ambulance arrives at the scene . Police are advising motorists and the public to avoid the Grosvenor Square area following the collapse . London Ambulance Service, London's Air Ambulance and London Fire Brigade were sent to the scene . The victim was confirmed dead by emergency medics at the scene. The two men had fallen from the second floor to the first floor . McGee, the contractor responsible for the site, is liaising with the workers¿ families . A general view of the site in Grosvenor Square in Mayfair, central London, were the partial collapse occurred. It was formerly the U.S. Naval Building . Grosvenor Square, in London's Mayfair, is the site of a number of embassies, including the American Embassy, which has a significant presence there . It is believed the demonstration is related to the current unrest in Ukraine. Receptionist Salima Cherrad, 26, told Sky News: 'We saw a helicopter here in Grosvenor Square and we assumed it was something that happened with the guys and the scaffolding. 'There were lots of them who came out of the building at the same time and they were all gathering at one spot in the square.' A spokesman from the London Ambulance Service said: 'We were called at 15.43 to Grosvenor Square to reports of an accident. 'We sent three ambulance crews, three single responders in cars, the Dangerous Area Response Team, London's Air Ambulance and two ambulance officers. 'Sadly one person, a man, was pronounced dead at the scene by Air Ambulance doctors. 'A second patient, a man, was treated for minor injuries and was taken to University College Hospital.' The building, which is close to the U.S Embassy, was sold in 2007 for £250m . and the new owners planned to turn it into 41 residential apartments. The Abu Dhabi Investment Corporation and property developer Finchatton . then bought the building for the same amount in April 2013, with . planning permission to convert the building into 31 luxury apartments. Declan Sherry, chief executive of site contractor McGee, said: 'At approximately 4pm today, an incident occurred on the construction site at 20 Grosvenor Square which required an ambulance to be called for two workers who were taken to hospital. 'McGee, the contractor responsible for the site, is liaising with the workers’ families. We cannot, therefore, release any further details at this time.' Property prices in Grosvenor Square have increased by a staggering 310 per cent since 2000, making it the most expensive square in London. A police spokesman said: 'At least one other person has been injured. The Health and Safety Executive has been informed' A mini-digger fell from the second floor to the first. File picture .

The man, believed to be in his 30s, was killed when a mini-digger fell . He was working on the conversion of the former U.S. Navy building . Another man was treated for minor injuries from the accident . Police, London Fire Brigade and London's Air Ambulance at the scene . The building is being converted into luxury apartments .

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By . James Chapman . David Cameron said he would step down as Prime Minister if he could not guaranteed an EU referendum . David Cameron has suggested he would resign if he fails to deliver his pledge to hold a referendum on Britain’s membership after the next general election. He accepted voters were ‘sceptical’ about his promise but insisted: ‘I would not continue as Prime Minister unless it can be absolutely guaranteed this referendum will go ahead on an in-out basis.’ Mr Cameron last night also made clear that a referendum is a ‘deal breaker’ in any future coalition negotiations – insisting it could not be ditched if he were to fail to win an outright majority and seek a new power-sharing deal with Nick Clegg. ‘This is a guaranteed part of our plan... I can’t make it any clearer than that,’ he said. ‘This is a totally key part of our plan.’ The US-style 'telephone town hall' events have been quietly organised for Downing Street by PR firm inHouse Communications. V . oters are emailed asking if they would like to join a conference call with the Prime Minister. Last night's was the second time Mr Cameron has deployed the new campaign tactic. Mr Cameron has pledged to hold a referendum on Britain’s future in Europe by the end of 2017 if he remains in Downing Street, whether or not he succeeds in negotiating substantial changes in our relationship with Brussels. But he made it clear he wants to see changes to the EU’s fundamental treaties ahead of the vote in 2017. ‘I’m giving myself some time to negotiate these changes – two years after the election to fix this renegotiation,’ he told a conference call with handpicked members of the public. ‘But people can absolutely be guaranteed that if I am Prime Minister after the next election, that referendum will take place.’ His remarks come amid a growing focus on the EU ahead of next month’s elections to the European Parliament. Polls suggest Ukip are on course to win. Boris Johnson yesterday attacked the ‘continual deceit’ that Britain can control immigration while remaining members of an EU with an unrestrained right to free movement. The London Mayor said voters realised the Government was ‘not doing anything’ about ‘completely untramelled’ migration from the Continent. His intervention came as Ed Miliband’s policy guru warned Labour risks losing support to Ukip because it has become too ‘middle class’ and needs to address concerns about immigration and welfare. Boris Johnson yesterday attacked the 'continual deceit' that Britain can control immigration while remaining members of an EU with an unrestrained right to free movement . Lord Glasman, a policy adviser elevated to the House of Lords by the Labour leader, warned the support of the working classes had ‘died’ in 2010 and the rise of Nigel Farage’s party was eating into his party’s ‘heartlands’. His blunt message came as another poll suggested Ukip is on course to win the European elections on May 22, which Mr Farage has claimed will trigger a ‘political earthquake’ in Britain. Mr Johnson said Tories ‘shouldn’t be talking about what other parties are going to do about the EU’, but should focus on it being the only major party offering voters a referendum on Britain’s future in Europe. He also told Total Politics magazine that significant reforms to the right to free movement were needed to win back trust. Mr Cameron has suggested changes to the rules will be among his demands in a proposed renegotiation of Britain’s relationship with Brussels ahead of a referendum in 2017. ‘We are living in cloud cuckoo land,’ Mr Johnson said. ‘One of the reasons people are so angry about immigration... it’s the continual deceit that we can somehow solve this problem whilst remaining members of the EU. They can see there’s a massive incoherence in the argument.’

PM suggested he would resign if he fails to deliver referendum pledge . Would be a 'deal breaker' in any future coalition negotiations, he added . 'This is a guaranteed part of our plan... I can’t make it any clearer,' he said .

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By . Laura Topham . Erin Boag defied those who criticised her for dancing while pregnant saying: it's 'good exercise'. She added: 'What do people expect us to do, just sit at home resting all day?' When Erin Boag , star of Strictly Come . Dancing, took to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall at 22 weeks pregnant . in December, she thought nothing of her protruding bump. Her mind was only on delivering the . stunning routines with partner Anton du Beke that have thrilled viewers . for the past ten years. But the audience was not equally unfazed by her dancing ‘in her condition’. One angry fan even rang the venue afterwards to complain – saying they may not have bought a ticket had they known. For in spite of increasing evidence of the benefits of exercising while pregnant – and that ‘putting your feet up’ is an unhealthy thing to do – it remains a controversial subject. ‘The complaint didn’t bother me – I laughed more than anything else,’ says Erin, 39. Now 36 weeks pregnant and due at the end of the month, she is still going to the gym. ‘There’s nothing wrong with dancing while pregnant; it’s good exercise. What do people expect us to do, just sit at home resting all day? ‘I’ve not performed since but still work out and teach dancing – I dance belly to belly with the students to show how it’s done. 'I do get looked at a lot in the gym when I walk in and when I’m working out – especially now I’m really big with only four weeks to go. 'But I think if a lady can work out when pregnant, then good on her. Exercising brings many benefits – like an easier recovery after birth – and I’ll do whatever I can to make things easier.’ As well as speeding recovery after labour, exercising while pregnant is good for the baby; recent research has suggested it can boost brain development, strengthen blood vessels and protect from diabetes. Meanwhile, many pregnant women – and their babies – suffer health problems due to excess weight: obesity in pregnancy can trigger pre-eclampsia, diabetes, and even cause foetal abnormalities. Around half of all mothers-to-be are now overweight or dangerously obese. Erin, who lives in Kingston,  Surrey, with her husband Peter O’Dowd, 48, dropped out of Strictly last May as she wanted to conceive. Erin Boag with her dancing partner Strictly's Anton du Beke. Erin is now 36 weeks pregnant and due at the end of the month but she is still going to the gym . ‘Time was ticking on and I wanted to have a baby – I was already 38 and didn’t want to push it too far. I knew Strictly would be too much if I was pregnant as it is very, very strenuous, and seven days a week, seven hours a day.’ The New Zealand-born dancer conceived naturally within months, but suffered extreme morning sickness – which only swimming eased. ‘From six to 15 weeks I was so sick I didn’t want to see the light of day. Then at 16 weeks a nurse suggested I try swimming, despite being sick, so I dragged myself to the pool and I felt much better. I swam four or five times a week until the nausea went away at 21 weeks.’ She then returned to her regular gym sessions for an hour four or five times a week. Erin pictured left with Vince Cable and right with Strictly Come Dancing presenter Len Goodman . ‘In the past couple of weeks I’ve had to slow down as my body is getting tired – it’s like ploughing through mud. So I now walk on the treadmill, go on the cross trainer and bike, plus do a few light weights. I don’t push myself and I don’t run now as your body releases a hormone to soften the joints so you have to be careful.’ Erin’s exercise regime has the approval of her doctors. ‘I asked my consultant if it was OK to exercise and he said absolutely yes; your body will tell you when to stop, so just listen to your body.’ This advice echoes that of Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Dr Clive Spence-Jones, who recently said: ‘There is no evidence that exercise during pregnancy can damage the baby or cause complications. ‘A large round-up of studies in 2010 came to this conclusion – the trials reviewed included vigorous non-contact exercise such as swimming, static cycling and floor-exercise programmes. The growing baby is surrounded by fluid in the womb that keeps it well insulated from movement outside.’ The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommends moderate exercise such as brisk walking, jogging or cycling, three times a week. Vigorous exercise should be undertaken with caution as the resting heart rate increases during pregnancy. Erin with Anton Du Beke. The pair have a show booked for just seven weeks after the baby's birth . Erin says: ‘I went for a 36-week scan and everything is perfect – there’s a little too much fluid around the baby but doctors aren’t concerned and my blood pressure is fantastic.’ Once the baby is born Erin will be heading straight back to the dancefloor – and the gym – as she and Anton have a show booked just seven weeks after the birth. ‘It gives me a target. I’ve put on two stone and none of my clothes fit: my thighs are like tree trunks, my boobs are huge and my bum… I’m not looking backwards in the mirror until the baby is born. 'The doctors don’t seem concerned but in my profession it’s difficult to come to terms with – my career depends on my fitness and weight. I’m being careful about what I eat and will work very hard once the baby’s born. 'People may criticise but that’s my living – so the baby will be in a pushchair as I go running. ‘But right now it’s all about the baby’s health. I’m really excited and can’t wait to meet the little bundle.’

Danced at 22 weeks pregnant and received call from fan complaining . Erin, from New Zealand, now 36 weeks pregnant - but still going to the gym . 'There's nothing wrong with dancing while pregnant,' she said . Dancer, 39, has show planned for seven weeks after baby's birth .

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By . Caroline Mcguire for MailOnline . An ex-gang member who was expelled from school for attempting to kill a fellow pupil has spoken out about the dangers of teen violence and warned that parents need to start taking more responsibility for their children's behaviour. Tracey Miller, 36, spent much of her teens living a life of crime on the streets of south London, where she grew up and still lives. But several years ago, the mother-of-two got her life back on track and started to work as a mentor for other troubled youths. She went on to co-write a play about the issue and has now released a memoir going into detail about her life of crime in an attempt to deters others from following suit, appearing on This Morning today to tell her story and explaining how easy it is to end up in a gang. Tracey Miller talking about her time in a gang on This Morning . Tracey's destructive attitude started early on, when she was expelled from her senior school after attempting to stab another girl in her class. She was 13 years old and living with her manic-depressive mother three siblings in West Norwood, while her father was facing life in prison. She said: 'The first time I picked up a knife there was a character at home and he was a paedophile. 'I was too scared to tell my mum as she's a manic depressive and she might have killed him. 'Seeing as my dad was incarcerated, there would have been no one else to look after me if I had told her and she had tried to kill him. 'One day I overheard that this man had touched another family member, so I took a knife and put it under my pillow at night.' So the knife was already in her possession when an incident happened with a friend at school that caused tempers to flare. She said: 'People don't understand that when you have a parent who's a manic depressive, it can be quite embarrassing. 'I had taken a friend home and my mum went through a manic episode while she was there. 'This girl went back to school and told everyone and I thought, 'I want to kill her.' 'So I took the knife to school with me and tried to stab her, but the people in my class stopped me, they all jumped on me. 'After that I was expelled.' 'The next school I was sent to was a tough school - it has closed down now. 'They'd already heard of me there because of the knife incident, so I thought I'd carry on with with this reputation. I never intentionally set out to be that character but once I had people at school that took my lead I carried on with it - I got an adrenaline rush from it.' 'It goes to show that children are a by-product of their environment and parents need to be aware of that and take it seriously.' Tracey's behaviour went downhill fast at her new school, she became involved in a gang that would regularly rob local businesses like off licences and even ice cream vans. The situation got so unsafe that she ended up sleeping next to a hand gun every night for protection. But as dangerous as their crimes were, Tracey maintains that gang life nowadays is far more out-of-control. A scene during the Brixton riots in 1995 showing looted shops in Brixton Road . She said: 'The guys I got together with, we targeted businesses. 'A situation like a lady going home from work, doing something like putting a knife against her through and mugging her - hell no, we had morals. 'My generation of gangs set the trend for 'licking it.' 'We'd go into a business, try and get the cash and then get out as quick as we could with no violence. 'Now kids have taken it to a whole new level - with initiations.' The final straw came when she was shot with a sawn-off shotgun during the Brixton Riots in 1995. She said: 'It was the Brixton riots, they were looting the area I was standing in and as we were running, a guy turned and opened fire. 'He had a sawn-off shotgun and it was like the sky just lit up. 'I rolled under a car but it was too late - I'd been shot. Tracey revisits the place where she was shot during the Brixton Riots in 1981 . 'When the crowd dispersed I got up and started to walk away and that's when the pain hit me - it felt like my leg had been torn off and I just collapsed. 'I've still till got ball-bearings lodged in my body. 'The effects of that combined with me getting into a relationship with a man led to me eventually taking an overdose and just losing the momentum for being naughty, that was the change.' Tracey also fell pregnant, prompting her to turn her life around completely. She has spent several years now mentoring troubled young people in various areas of London and also visits Young Offenders Unit in her role. This week she has brought out a her memoirs, called Sour, in a an effort to try and use her story to prevent other people following a similar path. She said: 'There's two ways of looking at it - if I hadn't done that then I couldn't mentor the people that I do now, but equally I could have done something better with my life like be a brain surgeon maybe. 'I'd rather I hadn't done what I did, but it is what it is. 'I don't want sympathy, this is just a story that I felt needed to be told. 'This is to convince other youngsters to come out and tell their story, or to convince them to change their paths. 'People need to be told that there are no grey areas in life, it's black or white - you know what's right or wrong. 'As for parents - they are your children. So if your kids are coming back with stuff that you know you haven't given them, inspect their rooms, look through their phones, connect with them.'

Tracey Miller, 36, first owned a knife at the age of 13 . By 15 years old, she was sleeping with a gun next to her bed . She changed her ways after being shot during the Brixton Riots in 1995 .

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By . Associated Press . The recordings of frustrated emergency responders have been released showing the havoc that the George Washington Bridge closure wreaked in Fort Lee, New Jersey after Governor Chris Christie’s aides plotted retribution against a political enemy. Responders who were searching for quick routes to get an ambulance to an elderly woman in distress and police to the hunt for a missing boy frantically tried to find quicker routes to the emergencies but were stuck in unmoving traffic like thousands of residents. 'Fort Lee traffic is a nightmare,' one dispatcher is heard saying in the call that came as police responded to the report of a missing 4-year-old boy. Target: Hours of emergency dispatcher calls were released Friday showing how responders had to deal with unimaginable traffic on the George Washington Bridge (pictured in January) About 10 minutes later, someone tried to ascertain the scope of the gridlock as responders tried to get to the scene on September 9. 'It's backed up, probably, all the way into Cliffside,' he said, meaning the neighboring town of Cliffside Park. That same day, someone in Fort Lee called for an ambulance but a dispatcher had to be creative on the spot in issuing directions to deal with the traffic jam that came as a result of lane closures on the GW Bridge into New York City. 'The George Washington Bridge is totally gridlocked,' a dispatcher said, giving alternate directions to a driver to help circumvent the traffic. Hours of similar dispatch tapes were released Friday that span the week in September when traffic jams clogged streets and trapped motorists in their cars for hours. A 91-year-old woman died at her Fort Lee . home while the gridlock was at its height, but family members have said . they don't believe the traffic was a factor in her death. Plot: New Jersey Governor Chris Christie's chief of staff Bridget Kelly (seen at right with him on September 12, 2013 as the lane closures were in effect) allegedly planned the 'traffic study' to get back at the mayor of Fort Lee for not endorsing Christie . An Associated Press review of dispatch tapes and call logs and interviews from neighboring towns shows the traffic jams appeared not to lead to anyone's death or seriously compromise their medical care. The missing 4-year-old was also found safe. The 911 records, obtained over several weeks through public records requests, included reports of chest pains, traffic collisions, false fire alarms and a dead goose in a parking lot. And dispatchers not only had to deal with the usual phalanx of calls for medical help. 'We're getting calls from irate motorists,' one dispatcher said. In each call, dispatchers and first responders voiced frustration and exasperation as streets that normally carry heavy amounts of traffic during the morning rush hour turned into virtual parking lots. 'Lemoine is packed. Fletcher's packed,' a responder radioed in about streets near the George Washington Bridge in Fort Lee. Co-conspirator: Other documents released earlier this week show that David Wildstein, Christie's number 2 at the Port Authority who helped approve the closures with Kelly, joked about the traffic and didn't take it seriously . Officials said response times were doubled or quadrupled because of the traffic. The traffic jams occurred from September 9 to 13, and have led to dozens of people being subpoenaed. Those summoned include many in Christie's inner circle, his re-election commission and the state Republican party. At least four people have lost their jobs because of the traffic jams, which were believed to be aimed at Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich after he did not endorse Christie for re-election. Christie has apologized for the lane closures and said he was 'embarrassed and humiliated' by a former aide who called for the shutdown. The governor also has said he was not involved and had no knowledge of the lane closures beforehand. The U.S. Attorney for New Jersey and the state legislature continue to investigate. Town officials have said the traffic jams caused unnecessary delays for first responders.

Emergency dispatch calls have been released showing how responders struggled to help ambulances get to critical situations . A missing 4-year-old boy and dying elderly woman were among the emergency situations that were nearly impossible to reach . Traffic caused by George Washington Bridge closures orchestrated by Governor Chris Christie's aides who sought political revenge .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 10:21 EST, 14 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 09:48 EST, 16 September 2013 . Julian Assange begged Benedict Cumberbatch not to accept the lead role in the new WikiLeaks film, the actor has revealed. The Australian activist wrote a 10-page email to Cumberbatch the day before the star began filming The Fifth Estate, in which he stars as Assange, in January. 'It was a very considered, thorough, charming and intelligent account of why he thought this was morally wrong for me to be part of something he thought was going to be damaging in real terms – not just to perceptions but to the reality of the outcome for himself, the actor said. Scroll down for video . Benedict Cumberbatch as Julian Assange in the new film about the WikiLeaks founder, The Fifth Estate. The actor says Assange tried to persuade him to reject the role . 'He characterised himself as a political refugee, and with [Chelsea, formerly Bradley] Manning awaiting trial, and other supporters of WikiLeaks who have been detained or might be awaiting detention, and the organisation itself – all of that being under threat if I took part in this film', he told the Guardian. Assange has been outspoken in his opposition to the film, which he has described as a 'massive propaganda attack' on him and his organisation. The movie is based on two books, by the German technology activist Daniel Domscheit-Berg and by Luke Harding and David Leigh of the Guardian, former collaborators with whom the Australian has now fallen out. But Cumberbatch, who said he made repeated unsuccessful requests to meet Assange before beginning filming, has defended the project, saying the film 'shows his ideas and integrity and self-sacrifice'. The actor admitted he thought twice when he received the email because 'I'm a human being'. He wrestled with his reply for four hours before telling Assange the movie would portray his deeds as being nothing but positive and that he would give as 'much complexity and understanding' of Assange in the role as he could. Assange wrote a 10-page email to Cumberbatch, saying the film was not right on moral grounds while soldier Bradley Manning was awaiting trial for releasing restricted documents . He did admit to partly taking on the role because 'I'm a vain actor'  - but insisted he was not 'acting in a moral vacuum'. Asked about Manning – who was sentenced last month to 35 years in prison for leaking documents to WikiLeaks, after which she announced she wished to live as a woman – Cumberbatch said he was not convinced that the army private should be granted the presidential pardon for which she has now appealed, on grounds she took and broke an oath. While alarmed by the revelations of state surveillance disclosed by the whistleblower Edward Snowden, the actor admitted he was also ambivalent about disclosing secrets. 'If they are saving lives, how can we say that's less important than civil liberties? You don't have any civil liberties if you're dead.'

Activist sent long email to actor asking him to snub part on moral grounds . Cumberbatch says film is important and reflects Assange's 'self-sacrifice'

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Scotland flanker Blair Cowan insists the Dark Blues' narrow loss to New Zealand proves Vern Cotter's men are on the verge of something 'special'. A sold-out BT Murrayfield crowd thought they were witnessing history on Saturday as the Scots pushed the world champion All Blacks close. Skipper Greig Laidlaw fluffed a penalty 13 minutes from time which would have put the hosts on course for their very first win against the Kiwis after 109 years of trying. Scotland flanker Blair Cowan (right) feels the full force of Sonny Bill Williams's tackle at Murrayfield . But with that let off, Steve Hansen's Southern Hemisphere giants romped down to the pitch and grabbed what proved to be the winning try when Jeremy Thursh found a rare gap in the Scottish defence to seal a 24-16 win. It was cruel luck for Scotland but having shipped 100 points and 13 tries in their previous two encounters against New Zealand, the evidence of progress under Kiwi coach Cotter is clear to see. It was also the first time the Dark Blues had come within 10 points of the All Blacks since losing the 1991 World Cup third-place play-off. Greig Laidlaw missed a late penalty that would have given Scotland the lead with 10 minutes remaining . Now London Irish back-rower Cowan believes that with another World Cup around the corner next year, Scotland can start dreaming of another run to the latter stages. They have one final chance to hone their game plan before the RBS 6 Nations gets under way in February when they take on Tonga at Kilmarnock's Rugby Park on Saturday but Cowan insists there is no holding back Cotter's side. He said: 'You have got to be real about it, it was still a loss on Saturday. If you are going to accept defeats then you may as well give up there. All Blacks lock Jeremy Thrush crossed for a try soon after to seal New Zealand's narrow victory . 'We are bitterly disappointed with the loss but there are a lot of positives we can build on. It's not a negative loss if you want to put it that way. 'There is a sense that something is growing in this squad. It's very special and perfectly-timed with the Six Nations and World Cup coming up. 'But as quickly as things are built, they can be dismantled. 'We have to stay clear-headed and keep progressing. We have a big game next week against Tonga, so we have to get back to work quickly. 'We feel we are heading towards something special. We are a team on the up. New Zealand-born flanker Cowan admitted it was an emotional experience facing the haka last Saturday . 'The unity amongst the squad and the sense that we are going somewhere is amazing.' Saturday's match pulled at Cowan's heart strings. Born and raised in the small town of Upper Hutt, near Wellington, the 28-year-old turned his back on his hopes of ever pulling on an All Black jersey during the summer when he was called up to represent the land of his Argyll-born mother Joan. In the days before the second autumn Test with New Zealand, he spoke about how tough it would be to stare down the haka while wearing a Scotland shirt. But Cowan revealed he worked hard all week in the build-up focusing his mind not to let the emotions take over. 'There were all sorts of things gong through my head before the kick-off,' he said. 'It was an amazing experience for me - a lot of pride in myself for getting to where I am now. 'As I watched the haka, it was a bit of home coming at me and it was something I will cherish for the rest of my life. 'But once the game kicked-off I never let the emotions take off. It was big for me personally and I had a lot of family there too, so it was something I was clear about all week. 'I just tried to remember all the jobs I had to do. You do want to use some of the emotion but as soon as your mind lets the emotion take over is when you start making silly mistakes.'

Scotland pushed New Zealand close before losing 24-16 at Murrayfield . Greig Laidlaw fluffed a penalty 13 minutes from time which would have put the hosts on course for their very first win against the Kiwis in 109 years . Scotland take on Tonga at Kilmarnock's Rugby Park on Saturday .

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Francis Benali's incredible journey of 1,178,937 steps ended in emotional fashion at St Mary's. And in fitting fashion, it was the Southampton faithful who cheered him on as he completed his 1,000 mile run. In three weeks, the 45-year-old stopped off at all 20 Barclays Premier League grounds in his bid to raise money for Cancer Research. Francis Benali completed a 1,000 mile charity run in aid of Cancer Research . 'Every step has been worth it to come home. This is home,' Benali said at half-time during Southampton's 4-0 romp against Newcastle. 'The pain and discomfort I've experienced on this challenge has been quite often and quite difficult and tough, but I've had my wife and children and my support team have been absolutely increible. They've kept me going. 'The pain that I've experienced is nothing 9compared to) anyone goes through to see a loved one either suffering from cancer or dying from cancer, so I want to help try and help bring an end to cancer. The former Southampton defender completed his journey at St Mary's Stadium . Saints fans greeted him after his incredible journey around every Premier League ground . 'Football has been my life but there is life after football. This has been an incredible experience. And I hope to spend some time and look back on it and reflect upon it one day. And I'm sure I'll look back on it with great affection.' Matthew Le Tissier was among the former team-mates who welcomed Benali to St Mary's, with Lawrie McMenemy also in attendance. Francis Benali ran 1,000 miles in 21 days to every Premier League club, covering between 45 and 50 miles a day for Cancer Research UK. To find out more information visit www.benalisbigrun.co.uk. To donate text 'BIGR55 £amount' to 70070 (For example, 'BIGR55 £10'). Or you can donate via Just Giving, the link can be found at www.benalisbigrun.co.uk.

Former Southampton defender ran 1,000 miles in aid of Cancer Research . Completed the run round every Premier League ground at St Mary's .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 18:09 EST, 19 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:49 EST, 20 June 2013 . Software king-turned-fugitive John McAfee has a penchant for big bottoms and snorting 'bath salts' through a straw in his underpants. That's according to a bizarre new video the millionaire has posted on his blog, where he plays the part not of Silicon Valley tech genius but a Hugh Hefner-esque hero in his playboy bunny element. Titled, 'The McAfee Guide to Uninstalling McAfee Antivirus,' the eccentric 4:26 minute clip shows the 67-year-old, who last year was on the run from police over a murder in Central America, slamming the software empire he founded in various states of undress. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Weird video: Software king-turned-fugitive John McAfee, pictured center, has a penchant for big bottoms and snorting 'bath salts' through a straw in his underpants . He starts out reading a selection of the 'volumes' of letters he claims to still receive, despite selling the business 15 years ago, asking how to uninstall the software. One of which colorfully bemoans how the software inhibits his pornography downloading. 'I have no idea,' he declares in a red silk robe before he sets a bill on fire to light a cigarette. McAfee then asks a geeky glasses-wearing fellow to explain to viewers how to rid themselves of the software he's in the past called 'too annoying' to use. Back up: McAfee pulls a woman's rear into his lap during the video as others touch and kiss him . Bath salts: The eccentric millionaire is undresses by his harem . Meanwhile, the millionaire busies himself with a group of big busted, big bootied women. When the lab tech 'Bartholomew' talks about 'backing up,' McAfee gropes the sizable bottom of one of his 'bunnies' pulling her rear towards his lap as others touch, stroke and kiss him. Using an elaborate straw, he then inhales a mountain of white powder labelled 'bath salts' before sucking the tow of one of his ladies. Then he gets to business, lambasting the software company he created in the 1980s, which is now owned by Intel. Drugs: He then uses an elaborate straw to snort a white powder labelled 'bath salts' Toe-sucking: McAfee indulges in some toe-sucking in the odd video that he uploaded to his blog on Wednesday . 'Fifteen years ago, I had some beautiful software and they took it over. I don't know what they did,' he explains. 'It was like the time I hired that Bangkok prostitute to do my taxes while I f***ed my accountant. It was just like that.' McAfee then takes the uninstalling of the software into his own hands. 'I know what to do, I know exactly what to do,' he says, before grabbing a hand gun and shooting at his laptop screen. How to uninstall: McAfee then takes the uninstalling of the software into his own hands . Bang: He fires a gun at his computer screen to get rid of the anti-virus software he created .

Software king John McAfee uploaded a video to his blog on Wednesday showing him being groped by big busted women and snorting 'bath salts' In the clip he rants about how annoying the McAfee anti-virus software he created has become and fired a gun at his computer screen to 'uninstall' it . The eccentric millionaire, 67, was last year was on the run from police over a murder in Central America .

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By . Joshua Gardner . PUBLISHED: . 00:48 EST, 20 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 02:15 EST, 20 November 2013 . Nearly thirty years of New York City’s street art history was wiped out overnight Monday when a warehouse that was once the city’s graffiti Mecca was completely painted over. Known as 5 Pointz and referred to lovingly as the United Nations of Graffiti, the Long Island City Queens warehouse was the most impressive and beloved of the few remaining spots in the city where aerosol-wielding artists could legally do their work. The covert move came after a struggle between graffiti lovers and the building’s owner Jerry Wolkoff, whose plan to raze the landmark to build luxury condos was approved in October. But Wolkoff’s decision to paint over the painstaking work of some 1,500 artists at night and without attempting to preserve anything at all leaves 5Pointz supporters angry and puzzled. Then and now: A building that was known around the world as the graffiti Mecca of New York City was quietly painted over Monday night by the building's owner who plans to build condos . The final blow against the internationally known, unmistakable building visible right off Queens’ elevated 7 line train came earlier this month when a judge denied an effort by graffiti artists to stop the planned demolition. The building’s fate had been all but sealed since October when Wolkoff, who has owned the warehouse since 1971—and actually gave the first okay that led to the creation of 5 Pointz—had his plans to knock it down in favor of profitable condos in the burgeoning Queens enclave approved. ‘This is the biggest rag and disrespect in the history of graffiti,’ a tearful Marie Cecile Flaguel, a spokeswoman for the group behind 5Pointz told the New York Times. ‘He’s painted over the work of at least 1,500 artists.’ Erased history: Seen easily from the city's busy 7 line train, the so-called United Nations of Graffiti had hosted the works of artists from around the world over nearly 30 years and had become a landmark of sorts in the borough of Queens . Humane: Jerry Wolkoff, who owns the Long Island City building says he painted over the graffiti covertly and instead of just tearing down the building because it was the 'humane' thing and would limit confrontations with graffiti lovers . 'I cried this morning': Wolkoff, who actually gave the first okay that allowed the building to become graffiti Mecca 5Pointz, says he loved the place but not enough to preserve it . Flaguel was one of many who fought to preserve 5 Pointz after Wolkoff’s plans were revealed. ‘It’s like David and Goliath,’ the spokeswoman said in June. ‘What the landlord doesn’t understand is that 5Pointz is a brand and an icon, and if he knocks it down it will be missed.’ Now, that grieving process has begun. Supporters of the iconic spot gathered Tuesday and made plans for a candlelight vigil. Endangered species: 5Pointz was one of the last, the largest, and most iconic place in New York where graffiti artists can legally practice their art . Jerry Wolkoff purchased the complex, made up of mostly abandoned buildings at the time, that makes up 5 Pointz in 1971. He leased space to a company that first produced record player accessories, then eight tracks, then CD cases before moving out in the early 90s, reports the New York Times. Wolkoff then filled the void by renting studio space out to artists for a few hundred dollars per month. He says a man at the time asked him if graffiti artists he knew could use the warehouse as a canvas. He agreed and the open air art space began to flourish as Wolkoff allowed them to use more of the warehouse's exterior. In 2002, the by then iconic walls of Wolkoff's building became an official art space as a graffiti artist named Meres One took over the operation as curator and named it 5Pointz. In the years since its humble inception, 5Pointz had become a international destination. It had become a graffiti museum of sorts attracted tourists from around the world eager to see the unique spectacle. Meres One brought in a rotating lineup of artists from areas as far as Spain, France, and Australia to add their vision to 5Pointz's history. A particularly striking likeness of murdered rapper Biggie Smalls, an unmissable sight from the elevated 7 train, was actually painted by a New Zealand artist. Graffiti has piled atop graffiti at 5Pointz and no one disputes the ephemeral nature of the art form. But Wolkoff's take on the perpetual battle of the old versus the new spells the true end of 5Pointz. Wolkoff's plan to put 2 million square feet of luxury condos was okayed by city planners in October and attempts to halt 5Pointz's demolition were struck down in court earlier this month. 'It’s time for me to put something else there,' Wolkoff told the Times, before launching into a pitch for Manhattan-adjacent development before its even begun. 'I can get you to 53rd and Fifth in 12 minutes!' One such supporter, who gave his name as Just, just stared at the newly white walls for hours. ‘Heartbreaking. This is not just about graffiti — it’s about the unity of people who met here from all over the world. That’s what really hurts.’ Wolkoff told the Times that painting over the graffiti on the 200,000 square foot warehouse was the ‘humane’ thing to do, but admits he also did so at night to avoid confrontation. ‘I am telling you, I did not like what they did — I loved what they did,’ said Wolkoff. ‘I cried this morning, I swear to you.’ Progress? The area will soon become home to a proposed 2 million square foot development . Destination: A roster of thousands of the world's most dedicated street artists would visit 5Pointz each year to place their work, legally, among the best in the game . Wolkoff’s approved proposal laid out plans to erect two million square feet of development in a trendy area where luxury one bedroom apartments easily stretch toward $4,000 per month. Wolkoff says his love of the artists for whom he ‘had nothing but admiration’ prompted the overnight whitewashing. ‘The last thing I want is for any of them to get arrested,’ he said. Over the years, 5 Pointz had become an international destination for street artists in addition to its home grown fans. Controlled chaos: More than a spot for graffiti, 5POintz actually had a curator and a rotating roster of visiting artists . Outgunned: Graffiti artists only just this month lost a legal fight to preserve 5Pointz as an historic landmark . Jerry Wolkoff, who has owned the building since 1971, was granted permission to move forward with his 2 million square foot development in trendy Long Island City, Queens back in October . While the battle to save the building was still being waged, British graffiti icon Banksy showed his support in a final message to New York at the tail end of his recent high profile stay in the city. ‘Save 5Pointz,’ he wrote. Unfortunately for graffiti lovers, that message went unheeded by those who wield the wrecking balls. The end of the 5Pointz era will take an agonizing three or four months as the building that once hosted a thousand artists a year is slowly demolished. Wolkoff says there will be a 60-foot wall near the proposed towers in where graffiti artists may continue to paint. Mourning: Graffiti lovers gathered Tuesday to mourn the loss of their New York City Mecca and to plan a vigil . Some people left handwritten notes atop the whitewash paint on Tuesday. Heartbreaking. This is not just about graffiti ¿ it¿s about the unity of people who met here from all over the world. That¿s what really hurts¿ said one mourner . Consolation prize: Over the next several months, 5 Pointz will be torn down and luxury condo towers will be put in its place. The owner says a 60 foot wall will be put in place on which street artists may continue to paint . End of an era: A street artist known as Guess1 works on a memorial mural on Tuesday .

5 Pointz, a warehouse in Long Island City, Queens known as the United Nations of Graffiti for its international renown is now a plain white building . Street artists had recently lost a legal fight to preserve the spot where thousands had left their marks legally over nearly 30 years . Building owner Jerry Wolkoff says he loved the graffiti and though he'll be tearing down the building, he painted over it first as the 'humane' thing to do .

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By . James Chapman, Political Editor . PUBLISHED: . 18:39 EST, 23 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:34 EST, 24 April 2013 . Concerns: Schools minister Elizabeth Truss claims half of all stay-at-home mothers want to work . Half of all stay-at-home mothers want to go out to work and the government is right to target tax breaks at working women, the education minister said last night. Elizabeth Truss said two-earner families were ‘now the norm’ and said she was concerned mothers were ‘made to feel guilty’ when they had no choice but to go out to work for financial reasons. Miss Truss, a 37-year-old mother-of-two, said Margaret Thatcher was ‘the original working mum’ and would support the Government’s efforts to enable more women to go into work by helping with the cost of childcare. ‘I think it is a problem where 50 per cent of stay-at-home mums say that they want to go out to work and can’t afford the childcare,’ she told the BBC’s Newsnight programme. ‘Two-thirds of mums in Britain go out to work - for economic reasons, and this is a trend across the world. Dual income families are now the norm. ‘I’m very concerned those mums are made to feel guilty about a choice they don’t really have. In a country like France, with very high quality early education, parents do feel less guilty, it’s more of a normal thing.’ Some Tory MPs and a new pressure group, Mothers at Home Matter, have criticised the Government’s policies on tax and childcare and risk the ‘cohesion of society’ by undermining the one earner family. Last month’s Budget confirmed the Government’s plans to reduce child benefit from families with a single earner on £50,000, and axe it altogether for those with one on £60,000. Two earner couples who each earn just under those thresholds will be able to keep on claiming. While the Government has set out plans to offer tax breaks worth £1,200 per child for working couples, to come into effect from 2015, a long-promised tax break for marriage, which would benefit both single and dual earner families, has yet to materialise. Juggling act: MissTruss said many mothers were 'made to feel guilty' when they had no choice but to go out to work for financial reasons . Miss Truss insisted the Government was . not discriminating against stay-at-home mothers by reducing child . benefit for the top 15 per cent of earners. ‘What we’re saying is, why should someone who works at Tesco on a shift, why should they pay to support people who are very well off? That’s not right. What we’re doing is we are targeting resources on where it is needed most,’ she said. The minister said Baroness Thatcher was ‘the original working mum and she introduced independent taxation for women which was a massive reform in its day’. ‘Rather than saying married women should be taxed according to their husband’s income, [she] actually said women’s income is valuable in itself. And that was a major change. She was very supportive. Margaret Thatcher pictured with her children Mark and Carol in 1959. Miss Truss described the late former Prime Minister as 'the original working mum' ‘It is obviously true that having a higher maternal employment rate does help a country’s GDP. That’s a decision Germany made when they had one of the lowest maternal employment rates. They were educating a lot of women and finding that they were dropping out of the labour force simply because the school day was half as long as in Britain such that they were not able to go out to work. Germany has now changed its system.’ Miss Truss repeated her criticism of pre-school education in Britain, insisting more nurseries should adopt the more formal French model where children have structured sessions led by a graduate-level teacher.

Elizabeth Truss said half of all stay-at-home mothers want to go out to work . Mother-of-two Truss said Margaret Thatcher was the 'original working mum' Mothers 'made to . feel guilty' when they had no choice but to go out to work .

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By . Jonathan O'Callaghan . Flies appear to 'think' before they act, and - like humans - they take longer to make trickier decisions, a study has found. Scientists admitted to being surprised by the discovery, which indicates that even insects show signs of intelligence. Gathering information before deciding on a course of action was previously thought to be the preserve of only highly evolved species, such as monkeys and humans. Scientists have shown that flies 'think before they act'. The research was carried out by tasking flies with picking between two similar odours, and it was found they thought longer when the decision was harder. Here is shown one of the fruit flies in one of the chambers . In a series of tests, the researchers asked fruit flies to distinguish between ever closer concentrations of an odour they were trained to avoid. When the concentrations were very different and easy to tell apart, the flies acted quickly to move to the end of a chamber furthest away from the strongest smell. But when they were very close and difficult to distinguish, the flies took much longer to make a decision, and made more mistakes. Instead of responding impulsively, they seemed to accumulate information, weighing up what their smell sense was telling them before committing to a choice. Professor Gero Miessenbock, from Oxford University’s Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour, said: 'Freedom of action from automatic impulses is considered a hallmark of cognition or intelligence. 'What our findings show is that fruit flies have a surprising mental capacity that has previously been unrecognised.' The researchers, whose findings appear in the journal Science, showed that a gene called FoxP was involved in the decision-making process in the fly’s brain. The gene was active in a small set of around 200 nerve cells. Lead author Dr Shamik DasGupta, also from Oxford University, said: 'Before a decision is made, brain circuits collect information like a bucket collects water. 'Once the accumulated information has risen to a certain level, the decision is triggered. 'When FoxP is defective, either the flow of information into the bucket is reduced to a trickle, or the bucket has sprung a leak.' Flies with a mutation in FoxP took longer than normal flies to make decisions when odours were difficult to distinguish. Like a human paralysed by a difficult choice, they became indecisive. Mathematical . models developed to describe the mechanisms of decision-making in . humans and other primates matched the behaviour seen in the fruit flies, . the scientists found. Fruit flies have one FoxP gene, while humans have four related FoxP genes. Human FoxP1 and FoxP2 have previously been associated with language and mental development. The genes are also linked to the ability to learn fine sequential movements, such as playing the piano. Flies with a mutation in their one FoxP gene, which is linked with the ability to learn fine sequential movements such as playing the piano (stock image pictured), took longer than normal to make decisions when they were presented with odours that were difficult to distinguish . 'We don’t know why this gene pops up in such diverse mental processes as language, decision-making and motor learning,' Professor Miesenbock said. 'One feature common to all of these processes is that they unfold over time. 'FoxP may be important for wiring the capacity to produce and process temporal sequences in the brain.' He added: 'FoxP is not a "language gene", a "decision-making gene", even a "temporal-processing" or "intelligence gene". 'Any such description would in all likelihood be wrong. 'What FoxP does give us is a tool to understand the brain circuits involved in these processes. 'It has already led us to a site in the brain that is important in decision-making.'

Researchers tasked fruit flies with discerning between similar odours . And the study at Oxford University found them to be indecisive . When faced with a tough decision they took longer to deliberate, like us . The research shows a gene called FoxP is responsible for decision making . This gene is also linked to fine movements like playing the piano .

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By . Sarah Michael . When David Burder saw a two-man V8 chainsaw on display in New Zealand a few years ago his first thought was: 'I can make a better one'. So the self-confessed rev-head from Whitlands in rural northeast Victoria built his own one-man chainsaw, powered by a V8 engine salvaged from a 1979 Holden Commodore. Mr Burder, 56, is putting his 330kg monster chainsaw on show at the Fieldays agricultural technology expo in Hamilton, New Zealand this week. Scroll down for video . David Burder, from Whitlands in rural northeast Victoria, built a 330kg V8 chainsaw . The chainsaw is on display at the Fieldays agricultural technology expo in Hamilton, New Zealand . His creation is so powerful it can cut through a 600mm diameter hardwood log in 2.5 seconds. Mr Burder, who owns a wood splitter business in Whitlands, spent a year building the chainsaw in his spare time just for fun. 'I'm a bit of a V8 nut, a rev-head you might say,' he told MailOnline. 'It's just a great toy. My motto is "He who has best toy wins". Blokes will understand.' The 56-year-old self-confessed rev-head spent a year building the chainsaw in his spare time just for fun . The chainsaw is so powerful it can cut through a 600mm diameter hardwood log in 2.5 seconds . Engine: 1979 Holden 253ci (4.2L) V8Carburetor: Four-barrel QuadrajetIgnition: ElectronicExhausts:  Four into one three-inch collectorsGearbox: 1.1 ratio right angle driveHarvester bar: 43 inchHarvester chain: 3/4 pitchWeight: 330kgSize: 2.6m length x .9m width x 1.5m heightFuel: 91 octane petrol . Most of the components were designed and made by Mr Burder or sourced through suppliers he uses for his business. The most difficult part was finding a suitable gearbox, which he eventually imported specially from Germany. Mr Burder said he had never seen anyone else make a one-man V8 chainsaw, and that his was safer than the two-man machines that are popular in the US. 'It's on a couple of little wheels so you can wheel it round and one person can use it quite safely,' he said. 'If you see the one Americans use, two people have got to pick them up and drop them on the log. If you tripped over all hell could break loose.' The machine is powered by a V8 engine salvaged from a 1979 Holden Commodore . Mr Burder's son Jared, 25, pictured using the one-man V8 chainsaw . The Fieldays expo has over 900 exhibitions but Mr Burder said his show always draws a big audience. 'We get an enormous crowd hanging around and it makes a lot of sawdust,' he said. 'They're just mind-boggled. They sit there with their minds open and a big grin on their face.' A YouTube video of his chainsaw on display has received almost 1.5 million views since it was posted in October last year. A YouTube video of his chainsaw on display has received almost 1.5 million views since it was posted in October last year .

David Burder, from Whitlands in Victoria, has built a one-man V8 chainsaw . It is powered by an engine salvaged from a 1979 Holden Commodore . Chainsaw can cut through a 600mm diameter hardwood log in 2.5 seconds . Mr Burder, a self-confessed rev-head, built it in a year during his spare time .

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A man complaining of chest and back pains was found to have an acupuncture needle that had been lodged in his gut for 40 years. Xu Long, 60, from the city of Jiujiang in south-eastern China's Jiangxi Province, had been treated with acupuncture while serving in the military in 1974 to cure stomach ache. He said: 'The only time I ever had acupuncture was while in the army. 'I recall I had an ongoing stomach ache at the time which hurt for two days and two nights. Scroll down for video . Xu Long, 60, had gone to his doctor complaining of chest and back pains. Both he and doctors were stunned when they found an acupuncture needle that had been lodged in his gut for 40 years . Xu said the only time he'd ever had acupuncture was in 1974, when suffering stomach ache . 'The army doctor offered to perform acupuncture on me and it worked. The pain stopped immediately.' But Xu now believes that one of the needles had actually broken in half. Xu said: 'At first, I didn't feel anything, my stomach pain had gone and all was good. 'But over the years I began to feel increasing discomfort in my back and in my chest. 'Every time I went to a doctor they said it was just old age.' Eventually the pain became so bad doctors decided to X-ray him. Xu said: 'They told me there was a foreign body in my stomach and I just panicked thinking it was cancer. 'You can imagine my shock and relief when they told me it was the acupuncture needle.' Doctor Ye Lin, who carried out the surgery to remove the 3cm-long needle, said: 'It was really quite a surprise for all of us. 'The needle which was stuck in his intestines had turned black and was very thick because of decades of oxidation.' The doctors added that the needle had probably been working its way through the man's body as he moved, pushing it slowly to different positions before finally being identified 40 years later. Xu said: 'Luckily, it's now out and my pains have completely gone. And I don't have cancer so I'm a winner all round.' Xu said: 'They told me there was a foreign body in my stomach and I just panicked thinking it was cancer.'You can imagine my shock and relief when they told me it was the acupuncture needle (circled) He now believes that one of the needles had actually broken in half. He said: 'Over the years I began to feel increasing discomfort in my back and in my chest, but doctors just said it was old age'

Xu Long, 60, had been given acupuncture for stomach pain in 1974 . As time went on, he began to suffer from chest and back pain . Doctors blamed it on old age, but he eventually had scans done . Revealed a 'foreign' body, which turned out to be an acupuncture needle .

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By . Alex Greig . Karl Rove has reiterated comments about Hillary Clinton's health that drew ire from her husband Bill Clinton last week. The GOP strategist appeared on Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace on Sunday speaking about the recent speculation that Hillary Clinton may have suffered a traumatic brain injury after a fall at home in 2012 while she was suffering a stomach virus. He began by giving an oddly forensic and lengthy description of Clinton's movements in 2012 at the time she was ill. Scroll down for video . Unhealthy fixation: Karl Rove has repeatedly questioned whether or not Hillary Clinton suffered a traumatic brain injury in 2012 . 'I’m not questioning her health,' he said, although he appeared to be doing just that. 'What I’m questioning is whether or not it’s a done deal that she’s running, and she would not be human if she did not take this into consideration.' Host Chris Wallace asked Rove flat out - does he, in fact, have doubts about Hillary Clinton's health? 'No, no, no, I don't,' he said, saying that the point of his recent remarks about Clinton's health was to raise questions about whether the former secretary of state is guaranteed to run in 2016. Rove's fixation with Clinton's health was kicked off last week when he said that 'we need to know what's up' with Clinton's health and whether or not she suffered a traumatic brain injury in 2012. Bill Clinton ridiculed Rove's speculation at his wife's fitness to run. '100 per cent': Representatives for the former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (seen May 16) say she is in vigorous health . Fit to run: Rove says Clinton's health problems in 2012 may have been more serious than first thought, and that he is not questioning her health, but merely whether or not she'll run in 2016 . 'First, they said she faked her concussion and now they say she is auditioning for her part on The Walking Dead,' Bill Clinton said at the Peter G. Peterson Foundation’s 2014 Fiscal Summit. 'I must be in really tough shape because she is still quicker than I am.' Rove said, 'I love being lectured by Bill Clinton that this is off-limits: "You can’t talk about her health. You can’t talk about her age." Let’s remember this is a guy who ran for reelection by savaging Bob Dole. [He] looked like Methuselah in the Clinton TV ads,' indicating that, as host Chris Wallace hypothesized, Rove's speculation is merely a political play. Despite his own stated confidence in Hillary Clinton's health and fitness to run, Rove maintained that the American public needs answers. 'Let’s be clear: She is going to have to cough up these medical records and describe this, if this was that serious,' Rove said. Dick and Lynn Cheney also appeared on the panel and Cheney, who suffered his own health problems while vice president gave his take on the issue. 'I think any presidential candidate or vice presidential candidate is going to have to answer questions about their health,' he said. 'I wouldn’t want to pre-judge Mrs. Clinton’s health. I don’t know about it.' A doctor believes the glasses Hillary Clinton wore last year may have been the type used to treat double vision common to severe head trauma . A prominent New York ophthalmologist said in an interview yesterday that a special pair of glasses worn by Clinton are the type used to treat the double vision sometimes caused by severe head trauma. In an interview with Fox News, Dr. Marc Werner said the glasses had a Fresnel prism. 'In order to see one object, your eyes need to be pointed in the same . direction. If your eyes are misaligned, one way to optically align them . is to put a prism ... on your glasses,' he said. The comments fueled speculation by Rove about her time in the hospital in December 2012. She was reportedly fighting a stomach virus when she fell at home, hit her head, and suffered a concussion. A blood clot was later found behind her right ear. According to Werner, the severe head trauma may have caused double vision. 'Any issue which raises intracranial pressure can damage one of the . nerves which moves the eye around, and if it damages one of the nerves, . your eyes will be misaligned -- maybe temporarily, maybe more . permanently,' he said. Rover has argued that Clinton's health may be an issue if she runs for the presidency in 2016. 'This was a serious deal. She basically was out of action,' the former George W. Bush administration adviser said . Tuesday. 'She spends over a month fighting this. ...And they're not . particularly forthcoming.' Dr. Marc Werner said he knew the glasses corrected double vision because they had a Fresnel prism . Clinton's reps have defended her, saying she's at '100 per cent.' Former president and husband Bill Clinton went so far as to say there was 'nothing' to the health issue. Dr. Werner said if he was given access to her medical records he would want to see imaging studies. 'I would like to know what the results of any imaging studies were . and the cause of why someone needed Fresnel,' he said. 'There are . lots of different causes, anything from Myasthenia to Multiple Sclerosis . to maybe a blood clot, these are all possible causes, but all we know . is that she was using a Fresnel prism and therefore had double vision.'

Karl Rove has again questioned Hillary Clinton's health . He appeared on Fox News Sunday with Christopher Wallace and denied that he was questioning her health . 'No, no, no, I don't,' he said, in response to whether he had doubts about Clinton's health . Rove said his recent speculation about Clinton's run of ill-health in 2012 is to determine whether or not she intends to run for president in 2016 . He said that the American public needs answers, 'Let’s be clear: She is going to have to cough up these medical records and describe this, if this was that serious' Clinton's reps says she is '100 per cent' Husband Bill Clinton has ridiculed the GOP's attempts to cast doubt on his wife's health . 'First, they said she faked her concussion and now they say she is auditioning for her part on The Walking Dead,' he said .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . UPDATED: . 11:47 EST, 16 February 2012 . It costs the same as a terraced house in Manchester, an Aston Martin Coupe - or even a year's salary for five newly-qualified nurses. A property in one of London's most exclusive areas is being rented out during the Olympic Games - for £100,000 a week. Even for Mayfair - a district inhabited by the super-rich - the rate being asked for is staggering. It is the equivalent of almost £10 a minute and is 150 per cent higher than its usual going rate of £40,000 a week. Staggering: The property (interior pictured) in Brick Street, Mayfair, could make history by ushering in the era of the six-figure weekly rental . Cashing in: It could become the most expensive rental deal in London's property history . If anyone is willing to pay the extraordinary sum, the property in Brick Street, Mayfair, will make history by ushering in the era of the six-figure weekly rental. It will become the most expensive rental deal in London’s property history, beating the £75,000 a week which Sol Campbell, the former Spurs and Arsenal defender, is asking for to rent his townhouse in Chelsea during the Games. Earlier this month it emerged how . London landlords are evicting tenants to cash in on the Olympic Games by . charging tourists a fortune to stay in the properties close to the . competition. Homes . in the east London boroughs where many events are to be held are . fetching between five and 15 times their typical rates as properties are . re-branded as short-term Olympic lets. Some . landlords are also apparently enforcing expensive 'penalty' clauses for . tenants who want to remain during the gathering of the world's top . athletes. With rent controls almost non-existent . in Britain, some Londoners believe the looming increase . in housing costs will leave them with no choice but to leave the city . for the summer. Accommodation crunch: Some Londoners believe the looming increase in housing costs will leave them with no choice but to leave the city during the Games . The . Olympic Village will house some 22,000 athletes along with 6,000 coaches . and officials, but countless tourists, athletes' families, journalists and . sponsors will be left to jostle with 7.8 million residents for places to . sleep. Some residents are even planning to rent out their gardens to campers during the Games - which start on July 27 - because they are expecting the accommodation crunch to be so severe. The immaculate three-storey Brick Street house, which is usually let at £40,000 a week by estate agents Knight Frank, has seven bedrooms, two dressing rooms, seven bathrooms and three reception rooms. Should the tenants get bored during the Games they will be able to entertain themselves with facilities including a cinema, games room, bar, gym, swimming pool, solarium and steam and sauna room. It is understood there have already been viewings of the property and its owner is considering an offer for a two-week Olympic let. Meanwhile Savills estate agents are in the process of agreeing a deal in the region of £40,000 a week for a six bedroom penthouse overlooking Hyde Park. Its usual going rate for a long let is £25,000 a week. The £35 million property has five reception rooms, two kitchens (one at either end of the property, presumably to save the bother of walking its considerable length each time you want a cup of tea) and six bedroom suites including a master bedroom with matching his and hers bathrooms and dressing rooms. There is also a library, a screening room, a massage room, a fully equipped gym, a spa room, six terraces and a roof garden. Mark Tunstall of Savills said: 'The tenants for this sort of property are generally from the ex-Soviet bloc — Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine — with a smattering from the Middle East.'

Rate is 150 per cent higher than usual . It could become the most expensive rental deal in London . Fears it could usher in an era of six-figure weekly rentals .

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By . Katy Winter . PUBLISHED: . 03:40 EST, 11 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 20:47 EST, 11 October 2013 . A woman who lost more than 21 stone through weight loss surgery says saggy skin left by the NHS-funded procedure has turned her life into a nightmare. Natalie White, 48, is demanding NHS bosses fund more surgery to remove the excess skin from her stomach, arms and legs after she shrunk from 35 stone to 13st 11lb following a sleeve gastrectomy. She said: 'In the summer, it’s a nightmare. The skin rubs and leaves rashes all over my stomach. Natalie, pictured before her dramatic weight loss, was told she was dangerously over weight and her organs were at risk of failing . On her wedding day (L) Natalie weighed almost 30 stone, today (r) she weighs an incredible 13 stone 11lb . 'I still get comments in the street about my appearance, which is something I was hoping would stop after I lost weight.' Natalie, who had her operation in July 2011, is being supported by husband Terry, 48, who also had an NHS operation in June 2012 to lose 11 stone. Natalie said: 'The NHS keep moving the goalposts. They say my body mass index number needs to be below 25 to approve the funding, but my BMI is steady at 29. 'Considering that my BMI used to be nearly 80, you would think there would be room for flexibility.' Natalie, of Harwich, Essex, hopes to be classed as an exceptional case and plans to persuade decision-makers at the NHS North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group to sit down with her for a face-to-face meeting. Natalie, pictured this year, now has a BMI of 29, but the NHS say it must be below 25 for her to be considered for skin removal surgery . 'I need several operations, including an apronectomy to remove the skin on my stomach. My GP has told me that to pay for everything myself would cost between £25,000 and £35,000. 'There’s no way we can afford that. It’s absolutely ridiculous. 'If only they could see me, to see the state I’m in, they would feel differently about the situation.' Natalie’s weight steadily rose since childhood when she began comfort-eating to combat loneliness and anxiety. In her teenage years she became a heavy drinker. By the time she was in her mid-30s, her weight had ballooned dangerously to 35 stone. She attempted to shed the weight through dieting and exercise, but when she married Terry in June 2007, she still weighed 28 stone. By 2010, Natalie was effectively housebound and a visiting GP told her she needed to lose weight urgently. Natalie and Terry on their wedding day, (left) when Terry weighed 25 stone and Natalie weighed nearly 30 stone. Between them the couple have now shed over 30 stone (right) Natalie said: 'The doctor told me that unless something changed, my organs would start to fail. 'He referred me to the NHS, but after the application I was told I needed to go to Colchester hospital and make the case personally.' Terry said: 'Me and Natalie had to sit in front of a panel of six managers and basically beg them to approve the surgery. 'Natalie was in a wheelchair, and terrified because she wasn’t used to being out of the house. It was a difficult experience for her - she felt quite humiliated.' Terry now a healthy 13st 7lb, is Natalie's full time carer as years of obesity have left her with a series of health problems . In July 2011, surgeons carried out Natalie’s sleeve gastrectomy surgery. Over the next year, through a baby food diet and an incremental exercise regime, she lost a staggering 15 stone. Natalie said: 'All I could manage at first was pacing in the hallway, but eventually I could start walking outside and riding my bike. 'The weight came off really quickly at first before stabilising at my current weight. I feel like a completely new person. Then, in June 2012, Terry was approved for a gastric bypass after a doctor judged his obesity to be causing chronic back and leg pain. He went from 25 stone to 13st 7lb. Between them, the couple have lost more than 30 stone. Years of obesity have left Natalie with a series of health problems and unable to work. Terry, who is diabetic, acts as her full-time carer. Terry said: 'We’re able to do things together now like day trips which we couldn’t do before. We’ve been brought much closer together. 'We just have one more hurdle to get over, and that’s persuading the NHS to remove Natalie’s saggy skin. 'It’s difficult for me to see how much she’s struggling with it.' Natalie is currently waiting to see whether she will be classed as an exceptional case by the North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group. Natalie, pictured on her wedding day in 2007, weighing nearly 30 stone, is arguing that the huge amount of weight she has lost means she should be considered as a special case for the surgery . A spokesman for NHS North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group said: 'To protect a patient’s privacy, we won’t comment on the circumstances in this case. However, we do always have to make sure that taxpayers’ money we spend is only used for health needs. 'We have to have a way of assessing that, so we have a policy which looks at the BMI of the patient and whether they are severely limited in what they can do because of the condition. 'If a patient is assessed as not having medical needs in this way, then their doctor can still argue on their behalf that they have other “exceptional” care needs. 'This appeal is tested by the Clinical Commissioning Group, which funds any treatment, according to whether the patient is significantly different from others with a similar issue, and whether that patient would benefit significantly more than others.'

Natalie lost over 21st, dropping from 35st to 13st 11lb after surgery . Her husband Terry lost over 11st after also undergoing a gastric bypass . Now campaigning for Natalie to have her excess skin removed on the NHS . Her BMI is currently 29 - above the BMI of 25 required for NHS surgery . Natalie, of Harwich, Essex, hopes to be classed as an exceptional case .

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By . Sara Malm . PUBLISHED: . 05:39 EST, 5 July 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:50 EST, 5 July 2012 . A university student was stabbed to death after argument with religious vigilantes who attacked him for walking with his fiancee. Three bearded men approached Ahmed Hussein Eid and his partner when they were walking in a park in Suez, Egypt and demanded they go their separate ways because they were not married, security officials said. An argument broke out which ended with one of the men fatally stabbing the engineering student in his left thigh. He was taken to Ismailia University Hospital but later died of his injuries. Supporters of Mohamed Morsi celebrate in front of his picture after he was declared president, but now civil rights groups are reporting worrying changes in social structure which they claim has come as a result of Morsi's victory . A group calling themselves 'Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice Authority' posted on Facebook that they were responsible for the murder. The entry read that the young man had been standing with a woman and had been adviced not to do so, Egypt Independent reported. The post on the page of the organisation, which is a vigilante religious police seeking out those whom they deem to be violating Sharia, said the student insulted them which is why they attacked him with a knife. The June 25 attack has alarmed Egyptians concerned that with an Islamist president in office, vigilante groups are feeling emboldened to enforce strict Islamic mores on the streets. The attack happened in a quiet park which is a favorite spot for young couples in Suez, according to security officials. Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice which originated in Saudi Arabia . It has not been specified what enraged the three men, who arrived at the scene on a motorbike, but the initial testimony of the girlfriend said the men told the couple they should not be together because they were not married and must immediately leave and go their separate ways. An argument followed and one of the three men stabbed 20-year-old Eid in the upper left thigh, near his genitals. Suez . has a strong Islamist movement and voted heavily in favor of Mohamed . Morsi in the June 16-17 presidential runoff against Ahmed Shafiq,the . last prime minister to serve under Mubarak. The killing took place one day after Morsi was declared the winner. Suez Islamic groups have denied their involvement in the attack and the leading party Muslim Brotherhood has condemned it. The spokesperson for the Muslim . Brotherhood, Mahmud Ghazlan, said: 'We condemn these acts, for they have . nothing to do with Islam and we repudiate them and their perpetrator’ However, secular activists say Islamists are trying to impose their will on communities outside Cairo. Moderate Muslims along with liberal . and women's groups now worry that Mohammed Morsi's presidency will . eradicate what is left of Egypt's secular traditions and change the . social fabric of the mainly Muslim nation. Some . activists say Islamists already are flexing their muscles in areas . outside Cairo and other main cities, taking advantage of the absence of . civil society groups and lack of security in the areas. They . cite reports of efforts to persuade drivers of communal minibuses to . segregate male and female passengers and women's hairdressing salons . being told to get rid of male employees or  close. Women celebrating Muslim Brotherhood's victory through Mohamed Morsi. There have been reports of women wearing full veils attacking non-veiled women on public transport . 'A lot of minibuses now play Quranic . recitations on their radios instead of loud popular music as it is . custom,' said Ali Higris, a student from Maasarah, a working-class . suburb south of Cairo. 'If Islamists are to try and take over . the streets and enforce their version of Islam, they will do it in . rural areas, at least initially,' Yara Sallam from Nazra, a women's . rights group, said. Civil . rights groups say they have sent teams to investigate the Suez killing . and establish whether Islamists were behind the attacks. On . the same day ad the attack on Eid, two musicians were murdered as they . were traveling home after performing in a wedding in the Nile Delta . province of Sharqiyah, officials said. Radical Muslims consider music "haram" - prohibited - as a distraction from religious duties. Two . ultraconservative Muslims known as Salafis were arrested, but officials . said it was not clear if the killings were religiously motivated. There is no government legislation in place which states that women need to cover their hair . Thousands of residents of Abu Kibeer, . the victims' hometown, protested the killings, cutting off roads and . disrupting train services by sitting on the rails. They also destroyed the local offices of a charity they suspected the culprits belonged to and torched the home of one suspect. Some . activists believe that the Brotherhood is at least quietly condoning . nonviolent activity designed to bring the country more in alignment with . Islam's teachings - a founding goal of the 84-year-old fundamentalist . movement. ‘They may not be involved but they are . turning a blind eye to what their low and middle rank members do on the . streets,’ said Nehad Abul-Omsan of the Egyptian Center for Women's . Rights. ‘What they do is . like test balloons for their leaders. If society stands up to what they . do, then they know it is not time yet to Islamize. 'If . people accept it, then they ask them to do more. What we need is a . clear and public commitment to freedoms by the leaders of Islamic . groups.’ About 100 . activists, political parties and non-governmental groups have issued a . statement calling on Morsi to protect women against what it said was . growing incidents of harassment, particularly against those not wearing . the Muslim veil. Fully veiled women are also harassing . women not wearing a veil or wearing colorful ones while traveling on the . women-only train cars of Cairo's busy subway, according to activists . monitoring women's rights. Egypt . has for more than 40 years been preoccupied with dealing with the . threat posed by radicals seeking to create an Islamic state in the . country. Mubarak, backed by the U.S., used that threat to maintain tight control over the country. Morsi, . 60, has not mentioned implementing Islam's Shariah law since he . narrowly won the presidential race but civil rights activists and . secular groups fear the Brotherhood and its allies are closer than ever . to realising the dream of an Islamic government in Egypt and are looking . to Morsi to make it happen. Morsi has promised a new dawn for Egypt, and his party has condemned the attack on the young student .

Ahmed Hussein Eid was attacked by three men who deemed it violated good Islamic practice for him to walk alongside his fiancee . An Islamist vigilante organisation called Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice Authority have taken responsibility for the attack . Civil rights groups in Egypt are worried about the effects the recent victory by Muslim Brotherhood's Mohamed Morsi in the presidential elections are having on the secular society. Women's rights organisations report of harassment of non-veil wearing women and gender separated buses .

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By . William Cook . PUBLISHED: . 07:40 EST, 12 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 07:58 EST, 12 November 2012 . A farmer whose land was littered with rotting animal carcasses has been banned from keeping dogs for ten years, after his collies were found feeding on decomposing remains. Leon Henry Smith, 62, had twice before been banned from keeping sheep or cattle due to the appalling conditions on his farm near Okehampton, Devon. Animal welfare officers found the 13 sheepdogs feeding on a rotting pig carcass in squalid conditions in 2011, but he was given the chance to improve conditions for the dogs after the judge at Exeter Crown Court deferred sentencing. Squalid: Animal welfare inspectors found the collie dogs caked in mud and fighting over a dead pig (circled) However, Smith's case was brought back to court after Devon County Council’s Trading Standards Team and DEFRA veterinary officers found fresh evidence of neglect. Regular visits by animal welfare . officers, under the instruction of the court, had shown no significant . improvements being made to the standard of the dogs' care. Officers . advised Smith to provide fresh water, clean up their enclosure and . concrete the area to provide a suitable dry environment, but the court . heard they continued to be housed in appalling conditions in . rubbish-strewn and muddy makeshift kennels with little protection from . the weather. Inhumane: The shivering dogs were feeding on rotting pig carcasses when animal welfare officials found them . Last chance: The court had deferred sentencing to allow owner Leon Smith to improve conditions for the dogs . One dog was suffering with a skin condition which Smith refused refer to a vet. Police also discovered three dogs confined overnight in a parked van with a sheep carcass crawling with maggots. Two were locked in cramped cages without food or water. Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Communities, said: 'The court gave Mr Smith the opportunity to demonstrate that he could comply with the requirements of animal welfare legislation and achieve the necessary standards of care. 'Despite being advised by our Trading Standards Officers and local vets on how to achieve this, he has failed to do so. 'The conditions his animals were kept in fall well below acceptable welfare standards, and Mr Smith’s failure to address this left us no alternative but to bring this case back to court. 'Banning him from keeping dogs for the next ten years sends a clear message to those who do not meet basic animal welfare needs, and we will continue to take all necessary action to ensure that these acceptable standards of animal care are met.' Fresh evidence: Officers later found dogs in cramped cages in the back of a van without food or water . The Council’s Trading Standards Team launched their initial investigation into Smith in February 2011. Visiting his land at Meldon they found his dogs feeding on the body of a dead pig that had been left in their enclosure, while more pig carcases were found among piles of rubbish and broken machinery. Several other carcasses were subsequently found at the site, including the remains of a dead sheep in a horse box. Serial neglect: Smith had been banned from keeping sheep or cattle on two previous occasions . Livestock carcasses are legally required to be disposed of in an approved and safe manner to prevent the spread of disease to animals and humans. Appearing at Exeter Crown Court in May, Smith pleaded guilty to two charges under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and six charges under the Animal By-Products (England) Regulations 2005. At another hearing on November 9 he also pleaded guilty to two further animal by-products offences, relating to sheep and other carcass remains found on his land at Meldon during an inspection on 19 April 2012. These, along with the judges concerns about Smith’s general disregard to the welfare of animals, were taken into consideration in sentencing. He was banned for ten years from keeping dogs and ordered to pay an £800 fine and £500 in costs.

Collies discovered feeding on rotting pig carcass in February 2011 . Farm near Okehampton, Devon, littered with decomposing animals . Court had given Leon Henry Smith, 62, opportunity to improve conditions . Officials found fresh evidence of neglect, including dogs locked in van . Smith banned from keeping dogs for ten years and fined £1300 total .

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A bird with a broken wing has a hero in Tennessee who designed a prosthetic one to help her maintain her balance after a botched wing amputation. Freya the American kestrel came to the Chattanooga Nature Center a year ago from another center in Nashville. Taylor Berry of the Nature center saw the movie Dolphin Tale about a bottlenose dolphin who was given prosthesis to replace a tail lost in a carb trap, reports The Times Free Press. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . New wing: Freya the bird got a new prosthetic limb to help her balance after a botched amputation wounded her . Concern: 'The amputation was poorly done,' said Tish Gailmard (pictured) , the nature center's director of wildlife' who helped find someone to make a stump guard for Freya . The film inspired Berry and he wondered whether or not a prosthetic could be made for Freya who had trouble balancing due to her injury. 'We were talking about how she was kind of off-balance because of her wing,' he said. None of the caretakers at the wildlife center know the history of the amputation but they are able to recognize how terribly done it is. 'The amputation was poorly done,' said Tish Gailmard, the nature center's director of wildlife. Gailmard's husband knows someone at Fillauer Orthotics and Prosthetics Inc. a Chattanooga company that makes prosthesis for humans. When Gailmard inquired as to whether they'd be interested in making a prosthetic they were flying with excitement at the opportunity. 'They were all over it,' Gailmard said. 'They put her in a patient room and treated her like a regular patient.' Where a wing once extended was just bone jutting out that sometime bled. Fillauer engineer Steve Edwards changed all that when he attached a prosthesis made from thermoformable composite. Duo: Tish Gailmard, the director of wildlife for Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center in Chattanooga, Tenn., works with Freya,  an American Kestrel that recently received a custom made prosthetic . Its lightweight material that has the strength of carbon fiber but is malleable when heated up. It took Edwards just two tried to make. 'Just trying to help out, and it's rewarding, too,' he said. 'I like the challenge of these things.' Filhauer said this isn't his first time making an animal prosthetic. He once made a hoof for a little girl's pet donkey. Gailmard is so appreciative for his work on Freya's stump guard. 'It probably weighs a tenth of an ounce. It's protecting her stump, and it's also restoring her balance,' she said. 'I'm so incredibly appreciative to Fillauer. They have just gone way above and beyond.'

Freya the American kestrel came to the Chattanooga Nature Center a year ago from another center in Nashville with an amputated wing . 'The amputation was poorly done,' said Tish Gailmard, the nature center's director of wildlife . Gailmard's asked Fillauer Orthotics and Prosthetics Inc. a Chattanooga company that makes prosthesis for humans to make one for Freya .

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By . Matt Chorley, Mailonline Political Editor . PUBLISHED: . 05:13 EST, 3 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 05:25 EST, 3 March 2014 . Poor children must learn how to behave in an ‘alien middle class world’ to help them get on in life, a government adviser has suggested. Working class families are urged to watch plays, visit museums and try middle class food, restaurants and shops to broaden their child’s life experience. Peter Brant, head of policy at the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission, warned talented children from poorer backgrounds were not applying to university because they were worried about ‘fitting in’. Performance in exams is not the only thing holding working class children back, argues Peter Brant . The dominance of the middle classes in political life has been condemned by former Prime Minister Sir John Major. Education Secretary Michael Gove has vowed to narrow the attainment gap, insisting that some state schools are now better than private schools. But Mr Brant warned that it can be ‘incredibly difficult’ for working class children to ‘culturally fit into middle class lifestyle and jobs’. He said this was not just about academic achievement but the way children think and approach social situations. Writing in a post on the commission’s blog, he said: ‘It seems likely that worries about “not fitting in” will be one reason why highly able children from less well-off backgrounds are less likely to apply to the most selective universities. ‘It probably contributes to a lack of . confidence amongst those who are upwardly mobile as they struggle to . adapt to their new social environment with detrimental impact on their . ability to reach their potential. ‘And . the lack of effective networks and advice to help navigate this new . alien “middle class world” probably make it more difficult to translate . high attainment into success in the professional jobs market.’ Education Secretary Michael Gove insist he is reforming the school system so that the opportunities that wealthy children have are more equally spread . He highlighted barriers to children from less well-off backgrounds being able to achieve their potential, including a lack of shared cultural experiences  such as watching plays and taking up hobbies, and a lack of ‘cultural reference points’. The working classes also have different attitudes towards people and relationships’, including more ‘subtext, nuance and casualness’ in middle class relationships. The working and middle class also enjoy different food, restaurants, and clothes, he said. The middle classes are also able to draw on informal careers advice or role models, with working class children unable to tap into advice to break into the professional jobs market. Mr Brant warned that the problem can be unappreciated by policy makers - who mostly come from middle class professional backgrounds. ‘This often means that debate can all too easily assume that if educational inequalities can be reduced and aspirations of young people from working class backgrounds raised then that alone will be enough to tackle the problem.’ The governmant has come under pressure to adress the problem of wokring class children struggling to break into top jobs. Last year Sir John said he was appalled that 'every single sphere of British influence' was dominated by people who went to private school or who are from the 'affluent middle class'. In response Education Secretary Mr Gove said he was 'reforming the school system so that the opportunities that wealthy children have are more equally spread'. He once accused Labour leader Ed Miliband of being an intellectual socialist who collects ‘working class experiences as others might collect stamps’.

Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission warns of fears of 'fitting in' Efforts to tackle performance in exams overlook social barriers . Middle class children have more cultural experiences and careers advice .

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By . Matt Chorley, Mailonline Political Editor . PUBLISHED: . 08:37 EST, 10 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:20 EST, 10 June 2013 . Questions: Senior minister Ken Clarke has been summoned to the Commons to answer questions about the Bilderberg Group, of which he is an elected member . Ken Clarke today dismissed conspiracy theories  about the secretive Bilderberg Group conference as 'absolute nonsense'. And in a thinly-veiled swipe at Commons Speaker John Bercow, he said he could not believe he had been dragged to the Commons to comment on an event held by a private organisation. The senior minister attended the Bilderberg meeting with David Cameron and George Osborne last week, but Downing Street has refused to give any information about who they met or what was discussed. Labour figures including Ed Balls and Lord Mandelson also attended. Today Mr Clarke was called to the Commons to explain what happened at the four-day conference, after Mr Cameron once promised to lead the 'most open and transparent government in the world'. Mr Bercow granted an urgent question from Labour MP Michael Meacher about the impact of the conference on government policy. But in a reference to the internet conspiracy theories, Mr Clarke joked that if Mr Meacher 'finds something deeply disturbing abut this, might I suggest he finds a different group of people to exchange tweets with'. Mr Clarke, minister without portfolio, is an elected member of the steering group which governs the the Bilderberg group. In a dismissive statement to MPs, he said it was the 'first occasion for me as I have never previously answered a question in the House of Commons about a private organisation for which the government has no responsibility'. He insisted that everyone who attended the conference did so as an individual and not representing any organisaton. 'We go there for the chance of having an off-the-record, informal discussion with the range of people you described, who are indeed distinguished but who are not remotely interested in getting together to decide anything. 'I always find it greatly adds to the depths of my understanding of what is being talked about and contemplated in parts of the States and Europe as well.' And in a direct swipe at Mr Meacher he added: 'With the greatest respect, . this is total, utter nonsense, and I would not normally regard you as . the sort of person who would be taken in by this sort of rubbish.' But Mr Meacher, an environment minister in Tony Blair's government, insisted there was something amiss. 'It is said by some, and indeed by you, that Bilderberg is a conspiracy - of course it's not a conspiracy. 'But at the same time 130 of the world's top decision-makers don't travel thousands of miles simply for a cosy chat. 'They have come here in order to concert their plans to deal with a particularly awkward stage in western capitalism and as such we, the public, are entitled to ask some questions and to hold them to account.' Refusal: David Cameron and George Osborne both attended the meeting in Watford last week but will not say who they met or what aspects of government policy were discussed . Cunning plan: American protestor and Radio DJ Alex Jones sailed a protest barge right through the security zone at the Bilderberg group meeting, which attracts controversy every year . Disruption: Alex Jones protesting from his barge, challenging security measures surrounding the event . Famous for being shrouded in secrecy, . the Bilderberg conference took place in Britain for the first time . since 1998 and conspiracy theorists believe this is where leaders plot . world domination. In an . extraordinary clash on live TV yesterday, US radio host Alex Jones was . branded an 'idiot' by BBC presenter Andrew Neil after ranting about the . conference and the American government 'disappearing people'. The huge police operation drafted in to . monitor the four-day event in Watford, which has previously attracted mass . demonstrations, could cost the British taxpayer as much as £2million or . more, it has been claimed. Mr Cameron attended on Friday night, and took part in a discussion about 'domestic and global economic issues'. He . was invited as Prime Minister of the host country but today Downing . Street refused to give any details of the people he met or any . discussions which related to government policy. 'It was a private meeting,' the PM's official spokesman said. 'He attended Bilderberg on Friday. I don't have any more to add to that.' Justifying the meeting on Friday, Number 10 said Mr Cameron thought it was an opportunity to discuss economic issues with senior ministers, business people and academics.' Mr Jones, who floated a barge along a canal near the conference at the weekend, appeared on BBC1's Sunday Politics to discuss the event. But he launched into a noisy rant about the . theories available on his website about the U.S. government . ‘disappearing people’, which led to him eventually being cut off by Mr . Neil, 64. Confrontation: U.S. radio host Alex Jones . (right) was on BBC One’s Sunday Politics with Andrew Neil (left) to . discuss the secretive Bilderberg Conference, which has been taking place . over the past week near Watford . Mr Neil told him: 'You (Mr Jones) are the worst person I've ever interviewed. David (Aaronovitch), thank you for being with us. It's gone half past 11. You're watching the Sunday Politics.' The . presenter then added: ‘We have an idiot on the programme today’, before . using hand gestures to indicate that Mr Jones had lost his mind, as the . American continued to shout at him off camera. Mr . Jones had said: ‘Hey listen, I'm here to warn people, you keep telling . me to shut up. This isn't a game. Our government, the US, is building . Fema (Federal Emergency Management Agency) camps. ‘We . have an NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act) where they disappear . people now. You have this arrest for public safety, life in prison. It's . basically off with their heads, disappear them. Mr Cameron has made great play of his commitment to be more open about who he meets. In 2010 he promised: 'We want to be the most open and transparent government in the world.' Downing Street was forced to deny that Mr Cameron's decision to attend this evening ran counter to his pledge. The . spokesman added: 'The Prime Minister has always been clear about the . importance of transparency, which is why this Government has taken  a . number of steps in terms of publishing more data, more information and . making details of meetings available. 'We . publish far more information on meetings than previous governments. The . Prime Minister regularly has meetings with key ministers from other . countries and with business people and others as part of his job. 'That doesn't mean that he is not determined to lead the most transparent government.' Controversy: Protesters gathered to at vehicles arriving at the conference in protest at its secretive nature . 'Outrageous': The huge police operation drafted in to monitor the four-day event, which has previously attracted mass demonstrations, could cost the British taxpayer as much as £2million or more, it has been claimed . Sweep: Police are seen to be doing security checks in bushes outside the hotel grounds . Since its inception in 1954, Bilderberg  has held annual gatherings of 120-150 invited political leaders and experts from industry, finance, academia and the media, designed to 'foster dialogue between Europe and North America'. The group describes the conference as 'a forum for informal, off-the-record discussions about megatrends and the major issues facing the world' and states that the private nature of the meeting allows participants to 'listen, reflect and gather insights' without being bound by the conventions of office or by pre-agreed public positions. There is no detailed agenda, no resolutions are proposed, no votes are taken, and no policy statements are issued. Several . cars with blacked-out windows entered the gates of the Grove Hotel, . near Watford, in Hertfordshire, were seen arriving the secretive meeting. Some were heckled by crowds of protestors outside. It . is thought billionaire executives from multinational companies such as . Amazon and Google, high-ranking political figures and even members of royal families were among the 130 or . so attendees.

Commons Speaker John Bercow grants urgent question . Meeting in Watford also attended by David Cameron and George Osborne . No.10 refused to give details of the Prime Minister's 'private meeting' Attendees include politicians, top business executives and royalty . Heavily-guarded event is the focus of conspiracy theorists . U.S. radio host Alex Jones was branded an 'idiot' on BBC's Sunday Politics .

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By . Mark Prigg . Health sensors and devices can get better if rival companies work together, Samsung has claimed as it revealed a new smart wristband. The Korean giant revealed a plan to allow manufacturers to use the same core components - much like the mobile phone market. It also revealed an online service to track the data - just days before Apple is expected to reveal its 'Healthbook' app for the iPhone. Last night, Samsung revealed a new smart wristband and announced plans to let manufacturers use the same core components - much like the mobile phone market. Ram Fish, Vice President of Digital Health for Samsung is pictured displaying the Simband . Although a full set of features has not been released, Samsung said the gadget would read: . heart rate . blood flow . respiration . galvanic skin response . hydration . gas and glucose concentrations blood . substances carried in the surrounding air . 'There is a tremendous opportunity at the intersection of health and technology,' said Young Sohn, president and chief strategy officer for Samsung Electronics’ Device Solutions. 'This is the single greatest opportunity of our generation. 'This is a big enough challenge—we cannot do it alone, we have to do it with partners.' Samsung expects to make 'beta' test versions of its Simband wristband and SAMI data service later this year. It has been partnering with scientists from the University of California, San Francisco and other institutions to test its devices and offer suggestions. The system would also include ways to exchange and analyze data. Samsung believes that could help detect heart problems and other medical conditions sooner. Third-party app developers could also tap that data, with a user's permission, to recommend exercise and diets, for instance. Samsung presented its vision for wearable devices at a San Francisco event ahead of next week's developers conference by rival Apple. There is widespread speculation that Apple has been working on wearable devices, and its products tend to use proprietary technologies. However, an open system would be a departure for Samsung as well. Its Gear wristwatches and fitness devices currently work only with Samsung phones. Smartwatches from Sony and other manufacturers tend to work with a wider range of Android phones. The Simband sensor module is packed with sensors, and Samsung hopes other manufacturers with use the same components . Young Sohn, Samsung's president and chief strategy officer, described the Gear devices as a second-generation product. The first generation consisted of fitness-tracking apps downloaded on smartphones. Future devices, he said, would be able to collect more vital signs and send you to a doctor before you get symptoms. Set to be called Healthbook the app is expected to be included in a new version of Apple's iOS software that will launch alongside its health-tracking wristband. He compared them to cars embedded with sensors to warn you of low air pressure and other troubles. Samsung is also trying to improve usability by allowing users to recharge the Simband while wearing it. With current devices, users typically have to remove their devices for recharging every few days.

Simband wristband an online service set to launch this year . Comes as Apple is believe to be preparing a 'healthbook' app which could launch next week . Apple also believed to be developing iWatch with built in health sensors .

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Real Madrid were all smiles on Wednesday night as they headed back to Spain with three invaluable Champions League points after a fright night in Bulgaria. The European champions beat Ludogorets 2-1 and Instagram posts from goalkeeper Iker Casillas and forward James Rodriguez showed the players in good spirits on their journey home. The match in Sofia was far from an easy ride for Real as they went a goal down after six minutes thanks to Nascimento da Costa. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Ancelotti: Played fast and applied pressure against Ludogorets . Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and James Rodriguez (left to right) celebrate Real Madrid's win over Ludogorets . From there Madrid were in relative control and, despite World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo missing a penalty, he scored another and Karim Benzema netted the winner. Rodriguez, signed from Monaco for £63million in the summer, posted a picture on Instagram with team-mates Toni Kroos and Luka Modric following the match. The photograph, posted to his 4.8 million followers, was accompanied by the caption, 'After an important victory, it's time to go back to Madrid.' Not one to miss out on a celebratory photograph, veteran goalkeeper Casillas also posted on Instagram, alongside centre-back Sergio Ramos. Sergio Ramos (left) and Iker Casillas (right) looked relax on the plane home, from Bulgaria to Spain . Casillas' caption cited the fact that Wednesday's game marked his 142nd Champions League appearance, as well as the message, 'Back in Madrid with 3 points more in our locker'. Real have a 100 per cent win record in their title defence, beating Basle with ease in their first Group B match. Liverpool are Madrid's next European opponents, as the champions travel to Anfield for a much-anticipated Champions League return to Merseyside. After a brief scare, Karim Benzema's goal secured a 2-1 win for Real Madrid in Bulgaria . Cristiano Ronaldo (left) equalised from the penalty spot, after missing one earlier in the match .

Bulgarian minnows Ludogorets went 1-0 up against Real Madrid early on . Despite a penalty miss from Cristiano Ronaldo, Madrid went on to win 2-1 . James Rodgriguez posted a photo of himself with Toni Kroos and Luka Modric on the bus home after the win . Iker Casillas also posted on Instagram, looking relaxed on the plane .

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By . Wills Robinson . Mary, Lady Soames, 91, died peacefully at her west London home yesterday evening surrounded by her family, after a short illness . Winston Churchill's last surviving daughter, Mary, Lady Soames, has died at the age of 91. She passed away peacefully at her west London home yesterday evening surrounded by her family, after a short illness. She was the youngest of the five children of the wartime prime minister and his wife Clementine. One of her sons, the Conservative MP Nicholas Soames, said: 'She was a truly remarkable and extraordinary woman, who led a very distinguished life.' Mary Churchill worked for the Red Cross and the Women's Voluntary Service from 1939 to 1941, and joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service with whom she served in London, Belgium and Germany in mixed anti-aircraft batteries, rising to the rank of Junior Commander (equivalent to Captain). She also accompanied her father as aide-de-camp on several of his overseas journeys, including his post-VE trip to Potsdam, where he met with US president Harry S Truman and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin. She married the Conservative politician Christopher Soames (later Baron Soames) in 1947 and they had five children - Nicholas, Emma, Jeremy, Charlotte and Rupert. Lady Soames served many public organisations, such as the International Churchill Society, as a Patron; Church Army and Churchill Houses; and chaired the Royal National Theatre. She was Patron of the National Benevolent Fund for the Aged. She is pictured with her father at her wedding at St. Margaret's Church, London in 1947 . She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her public service, particularly in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, and was appointed a Lady Companion of the Order of the Garter in 2005. She wrote an acclaimed biography of her mother, Clementine Churchill, in 1979, which won a Wolfson Prize, and her own memoirs. Mr Soames said: 'She was not just a wonderful mother to whom we were all devoted, but the head and heart of our family after our father died, and will be greatly missed. 'She was a distinguished writer and led a distinguished life, with her service in the War, and is part of that generation which is passing. 'This is extraordinary timing - just before the anniversary of the Normandy landings, Churchill's last surviving child dies. It is the great swing of history.' She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her public service, particularly in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, and was appointed a Lady Companion of the Order of the Garter in 2005 .

Lady Soames died at her west London home after a short illness . One of her sons MP Nicholas Soames said she was a 'remarkable woman' She worked for the Red Cross and Women's Voluntary Service . Also accompanied her father on several overseas journeys .

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By . Dan Bloom . A BBC reporter has been attacked live on air by an 'angry Israeli' as he reported from the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip. Feras Khatib was speaking from the Israeli city of Ashkelon this morning when without warning he was hurled sideways by an unidentified assailant. Colleagues of the BBC Arabic correspondent restrained the man and pulled him out of shot as Mr Khatib regained his composure, continuing to speak within just one second. Scroll down for video . Attacked: Feras Khatib (left) was speaking from Ashkelon when he was attacked by an 'angry Israeli' (right) The attacker soon left and was not arrested, while the reporter - who was speaking Arabic during his broadcast at 10.30am British time - was unharmed. The incident highlights the level of tension in Israel as international outrage builds over the two-week war which has so far killed more than 600 Palestinians and 29 Israelis. Gaza's Health Ministry says at least 609 Palestinians have been killed in the territory, while the U.N. office of humanitarian affairs estimates at least three quarters were civilians, Reuters reported. An Israeli soldier was killed today in fighting in southern Gaza, raising the number of Israeli troops confirmed dead to 27. Two Israeli civilians also have been killed. Mr Khatib was wearing a prominent blue flak jacket with 'press' printed across it when he was attacked. Prominent: Mr Khatib was wearing a blue jacket with 'press' printed on it and speaking Arabic in the broadcast . Force: The man entered the shot suddenly and shoved the reporter out of the way, but he soon continued . He has not been the only journalist to come under the pressure of the renewed conflict live on air. On Sunday Al Jazeera correspondent Wael Al-Dahdouh, who was won awards for his coverage, was overcome by emotion in the middle of a broadcast about Palestinians killed by Israeli jet fighters. Breaking off his account mid-sentence, he began to weep before walking out of view of the camera. A BBC spokesman told MailOnline: 'While reporting live from inside the Israeli city of Ashkelon this morning BBC Arabic reporter Feras Khatib was manhandled by an angry Israeli. 'Feras was unharmed and will continue reporting as normal.' Mr Khatib, an Arab Israeli citizen, came to the Corporation over a year ago from Sky News Arabia after studying global media in London, the spokesman added. Off camera: Mr Khatib's voice could be heard continuing to report as colleagues restrained the attacker . Aftermath: The camera then panned left to show Mr Khatib - who kept a wary eye on his colleagues out of shot .

Feras Khatib was speaking from Ashkelon near border of Israel and Gaza . Without warning he was hurled sideways by an unidentified assailant . He paused for just one second before continuing to talk off-camera . Fighting has killed more than 600 Palestinians and 29 Israelis in two weeks .

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Japan’s Ayako Uehara mastered the windy conditions at Royal Birkdale to lead after the opening round of the Ricoh Women’s British Open on Thursday. Uehara recovered from a bogey on her first hole to fire five birdies in an opening four-under-par 68, finishing one shot ahead of American Mo Martin. Test: England's Charley Hull plays second shot out of the rough on the first hole . Martin birdied three of the last five holes to return a 69, with compatriots Mina Harigae and Morgan Pressel and Australian Sarah Kemp another shot back on two under. World No 1 and defending champion Stacy Lewis returned a 71 matched by England’s Holly Clyburn as only nine players broke par and more than a dozen took more than 80. Scotland’s Kylie Walker birdied the last for an 82 which started with a quintuple bogey nine on the first. US Women’s Open champion Michelle Wie could only manage a three-over-par 75 featuring five bogeys and two birdies. Focused: England's Charley Hull lines up her putt on the ninth green . 'I definitely felt like my tempo was a little bit off,' Wie said. 'I just didn’t hit good shots today but it’s a long way until Sunday. It could have been a lot worse.' Solheim Cup star Charley Hull returned a 73 while 50-year-old Laura Davies finished double bogey, bogey, birdie in a 75.Uehara was pleased with her opening round and believes improved putting was the key to her success. 'I had many good birdie chances but I couldn’t make it,' she said. 'But this week, so good, so I have confidence right now.' Tough going: US Women's Open champion Michelle Wie could only manage a three-over-par 75 . Testing: Defending champion Stacy Lewis hits her second shot on the 18th hole . Kemp had not played the famous Southport course, which will host the Open Championship in 2017, before and admitted she was pleased that the weather was kind. 'I think it’s one of the hardest golf courses I’ve ever played,' she said. 'We were lucky today with the weather. It wasn’t as windy. But I played yesterday, a practice round, and it was pretty windy. 'It’s quite tight and it’s so intimidating off the tee. There are a lot of shots where you can’t see the ball land and when you get up there, the fairway looks about 10 yards wide, so it’s definitely up there with the top five hardest golf courses I’ve ever played. But, one of the best golf courses I’ve ever played, too.'

Japan's Ayako Uehara leads after opening round 68 . World No 1 and defending champion Lewis carded a 71 . Solheim Cup star Hull returned a 73 and Wie a 75 .

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By . Tim Shipman . and Colin Fernandez . and Richard Hartley-parkinson . Updated: . 12:41 GMT, 6 January 2012 . Labour frontbencher Diane Abbott was threatened with the sack yesterday after she was accused of making racist comments. The Shadow Minister for Public Health dived disastrously into the Stephen  Lawrence debate – claiming that ‘white people love playing divide and rule’ with the black population. Miss Abbott, the first black woman MP, was later forced to apologise for the comments posted on Twitter. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . An unrepentant Abbott takes a call from Labour leader Ed Miliband who tells her to say sorry or she’s fired . But Miss Abbott hit back saying criticism of black leaders was effectively playing into the hands of whites. ‘I understand the cultural point you are making,’ she told Miss Adewunmi. ‘But . you are playing into a “divide and rule” agenda. White people love . playing “divide and rule”. We should not play their game.’ Abbott's comment about 'divide and rule' caused a Twitter storm and led to calls for her resignation . The full conversation between Diane Abbott and freelance journalist, Bim Adewunmi following the sentencing of Stephen Lawrence's killers . Miss Abbott responded, saying that her comment had been 'taken out of context' She then accused white people of peddling a ‘tactic as old as colonialism’. Miss . Abbott immediately faced calls to resign. Tory MP Nadhim Zahawi said if . a white politician had made similar comments about blacks they would . have had to quit. Sophy Ridge: Can you understand the consternation that your tweet has created? Diane Abbott: Well I was actually referring to the nature of 19th century European colonialism, but that's a bit much to go into 140 characters . SR: But if you look at it out of context, saying 'white people love to divide and rule' is a pretty controversial remark if people don't see it in context. Do you accept that it was not a wise thing to put out there? DA: I think the tweet was taken out of context and some people have interpreted it maliciously . SR: Well, explain to us then, and for our viewers who are talking about this and there's a lot of Twitter activity going on, explain to us what you actually meant by it . Abbott's phone had started ringing and, indicating to Miss Ridge, she said 'Can I just...' before walking off camera. ‘It is . outrageous,’ he said. ‘If this was reversed I guarantee you a white . politician would have to resign their frontbench  position or be sacked . and I think she should do the honourable thing and go. To hold views . that white people play games of divide and rule is  blatantly racist.’ Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg dismissed her comments as ‘stupid and crass generalisation’. But . Miss Abbott, who has a  history of making racially-charged statements, . initially refused to back down. In a Twitter message and a brief TV . interview she insisted her words had been ‘taken out of context’. The . unrepentant MP even sought to claim she was talking about the ‘nature of . 19th century European colonialism’ rather than modern Britain. But . while she was on camera, she took a phone call from Mr Miliband, who . told her she had let down both him and the Labour Party and he demanded . that she make a public apology. Minutes . later she issued a new statement saying: ‘I understand people have . interpreted my comments as making generalisations about white people. I . do not believe in doing that. I apologise for any offence caused.’ A . Labour Party spokesman said it was ‘wrong’ to make such ‘sweeping . generalisations’ while Shadow Business Secretary Chuka Umunna said: ‘The . contents of the tweet were clearly unacceptable’ A . senior Labour source said: ‘If we thought she really believed what was . in the tweet, she would be off the front bench, but she doesn’t and she . has apologised. Ed made it clear that unless she apologised she would . have been fired.’ Marc . Wadsworth, an executive at black newspaper The Voice said: ‘She could . have phrased what she said better by saying that some white leaders have . played divide and rule.’ Miss . Abbott’s views on race issues have upset the Labour leadership before. In 1988 she told a black studies conference in Philadelphia that ‘the . British invented racism’. And in 1996 she attacked her local hospital for employing ‘blonde, blue-eyed’ Finnish nurses. The . daughter of West Indian migrants, she escaped her working class roots . through an education at Harrow County Grammar School, where she acted in . a play opposite Michael Portillo, the ex-Tory MP who ended up as her . sparring partner on BBC1’s This Week show. Tory MP Nadhim Zahawi took to Twitter to say that Abbott should resign or be sacked by Ed Miliband . Former shadow minister Paul Goodman also called for Abbott to stand down or face the consequences . Duncan Bannatyne said that he believes Diane Abbott's displayed a lack of common sense . How empire builders used divide and rule . Today's Twitter storm is the latest in a number of blunders made by the MP who positioned herself as an anti-racism campaigner, once claiming that Britain had 'invented racism'. In 2010 Abbott called David Cameron and Nick Clegg 'two posh white boys', sparking claims of racism on the BBC's internet message boards. One wrote: 'I am sure that if a posh white person sat on this programme and mentioned a colour comment like that, there would be uproar.' The same year, she was criticised . over remarks she made on BBC's This Week over her decision to send her . son James to a private school. Andrew Neil quoted her saying that 'West Indian mums will go to the wall for their children'. Mr Neil responded by asking: 'So black mums love their kids more than white mums, do they?' Furious Abbott said: 'I have said everything I am going to say about where I send my son to school.' Previously, Abbott face accusations of racism suggesting that the 'blonde blue-eyed Finnish girls' working in her local hospital were unsuitable as nurses because they had 'never met a black person before'. Abbott has positioned herself as an anti-racism campaigner and once claimed that Britain had 'invented racism'. The latest row follows a previous race controversy on the same show, fronted by Andrew Neil, last year, after he compared Abbott to a chocolate HobNob biscuit.

Abbott walks off mid-interview to take phone call in which she received 'severe dressing down from Ed Miliband' Shadow minister claims comments were 'taken out of context' and remains defiant until Labour leader steps in - only then does she delete the tweet . Tory MP Nadhim Zahawi calls for Abbott to quit or Ed Miliband to sack her . George Galloway wades into the row to DEFEND the Labour politician . Nick Clegg says Abbott's comments were 'stupid and crass' Labour spokesman says party disagrees with the tweets . Abbott apologises 'for any offence caused'

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By . Associated Press . A married father-of-three who was trying to dig around a 6,000lb boulder in his yard became pinned under the rock and died on Monday. Paul Comeau Jr, 47, had been working on extricating the boulder over several months in his yard in Raymond, New Hampshire, police said. He was digging around the rock in an attempt to free it. While he was working on it on Monday, the boulder became dislodged, causing him to be pinned between it and the wall of a ditch. Scroll down for video . Paul Comeau Jr, 47, had been working on extricating the boulder over several months in his yard (pictured) in Raymond, New Hampshire . His wife came home and could not locate him so called his phone and found it in the home which was unusual. She then discovered her husband in the back yard, according to WMUR. First responders discovered Comeau was not conscious and was not breathing. A tow truck was needed to lift the boulder off him. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Mr Comeau leaves behind his wife and three children. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Paul Comeau Jr had been working on extricating the boulder over several months in his yard in Raymond, New Hampshire . He was declared dead at the scene after first responders discovered Comeau was not conscious and was not breathing .

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By . Tom Gardner . PUBLISHED: . 11:09 EST, 24 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:17 EST, 24 June 2013 . There can be few offices in the world which could be worse places to work. But spending much of his professional life wading waist-deep in unimaginably foul-smelling sewage water is all in a day's work for Rob Smith. The hardy 64-year-old is chief flusher for London's sewage network, whose role is the spend days surrounded by rats and vomit-inducing smells as he clears blockages of congealed lard and faeces. Tough day at the office: Rob Smith is in contention of the prize of having worst job in Britain - hacking out man-size 'fatbergs' from London's sewers . And despite what you'd imagine, he . believes he has the best job in Britain - hacking out huge ‘fatbergs’ from the clogged waterways. But Rob, who has been in the job for an incredible 20 years, has grown to love his smelly livelihood. He said: 'At the end of the day, someone’s go to do it. Why not take pride in it?' 'I’m very proud to be a sewer man.' To . maintain his social life - and relationship with his wife and family - . he makes sure to shower regularly and ‘avoid people with sensitive . noses’. Disgusting: Rob Smith has called the dank sewers under London his office for the past 20 years . Craned in: Rob Smith is lowered into the sewers under the streets of London to begin his shift shoveling 'fatbergs' Going down: Rob Smith, chief Flusher for London's sewage network, heads for the disgusting depths of the Sewer under Northumberland Avenue . His travels through . the ageing Victorian network has seen him come across everything from . half a Mini Cooper to a live hand-grenade. The biggest ‘fatberg’ he has encountered was found near Savoy Gardens. It was the size of a man and took two days to break down. For one week a month he is on call 24-hours a day and if a blockage occurs he must drop everything and enter the sewer. He says the network smells different depending on what time you go in and can sometimes smell ‘nice’. Disgusting: Rob Smith gets kitted up, left, as he prepares to venture into the dank sewers under London . Strong stomach: Rob Smith must have developed quite a strong stomach having spent the past 20 years working in the sewers . 'In . a normal sewer the smell changes during the course of the day. If you . go into most sewers during the early hours of the morning, predominately . it’s bath water, shower water and it’s quite fragrant. 'That, . of course, lessens during the course of the day and then you get the . same thing in the evening when people are getting ready to go out.' Despite all the high-tech equipment available, Rob maintains his ultimate safety weapon is his sensitive nose. Dirty work: Rob Smith has performed the vital job of trying to keep London's sewers clear of blockages . Rob, from Little Wakering, Essex, said: 'We have to be very aware of our sense of smell. If I have a cold and I can’t smell then, strictly speaking, I shouldn’t go into a confined space because smell is a key component of keeping yourself safe. 'The monitors will pick up most things but your smell and your hearing tells you the other bits that you need to be 100 per cent safe.' Thames Water is planning to combat the threat of ‘fatbergs’ by taking fat and oils directly from restaurants and build-ups in drains to power Britain’s biggest sewage works. Hard day's work: Rob Smith, 64, emerges from the depth after carrying out what has to be one of the most unpleasant jobs in the country . The grease will be fed into what will be the world’s largest fat-fuelled power station at Beckton in east London. The plant will be able to produce 130 Gigawatt hours a year of renewable electricity - enough to run 39,000 average-sized homes. Piers Clark, commercial director for Thames Water, said: 'This project is a win-win: renewable power, hedged from the price fluctuations of the non-renewable mainstream power markets, and helping tackle the ongoing operational problem of ‘fatbergs’ in sewers.'

Rob Smith is chief flusher for London's sewage network . The 64-year-old, from Little Wakering, Essex, clears blockages from drains . He says he loves his job - despite the unimaginably horrible smells .

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By . Lucy Waterlow . After decades of male dominance, women are finally making in-roads as racing car drivers. This July, Susie Wolff will be the first woman to take part in a Formula 1 Grand Prix for 22 years as she will test drive cars in her role as a development driver for Williams Martini Racing. And now another female driver is making history as it has been announced that British born Katherine Legge has been selected as a driver for Amlin's Formula E motor racing team. Driving force: Katherine Legge has been selected as a driver for Amlin's Formula E motor racing team . Fast female: The 33-year-old said she's looking forward to speeding through the streets . Katherine, 33, from Surrey, is the first female driver in the Formula E Championship, a new initiative from the FIA which was established in 2012. She said: 'For me this is a really exciting opportunity. The car is fantastic, it looks amazing and it will be very quick. 'Racing through the streets of the world's leading cities will be an incredible experience and I think it's a great chance to bring racing to the people. We will be driving in their cities on their streets.' The Formula E cars look similar to their Formula 1 cousins but the engine, power train and power supply are unique. Driven: Katherine is an experienced IndyCar racer . New series: The Formula E cars look similar to their Formula 1 cousins but are electric . Formula E cars accelerate from 0-100km/h in under three seconds and will reach speeds of up to 225km/h. The fundamental difference is that these cars are powered by a battery and represent the cutting edge of electric vehicle technology. The research and development supporting the Championship has the potential to radically change transport systems around the world, particularly in urban areas, where air pollution caused by fossil fuels is a serious concern. Serious about winning: Katherine has raced in several developmental open-wheel series in Britain, including Formula Three, Formula Renault and Formula Ford . Cutting edge technology: Formula E cars accelerate from 0-100km/h in under three seconds and will reach speeds of up to 225km/h . Amlin's team, based in Donnington, are led by team principal Mark Preston and are currently preparing for their first race in this new Championship, which will begin in Beijing on 13th September. 'Formula E will be a very exciting and demanding Championship and I think it brings an interesting new dimension to the sport. This is as much about strategy as it is about driving fast - it's playing Chess at 220 km/h, said Mark. CEO of Amlin, Charles Philipps, said he was 'very excited' about the championship and said Katherine has been selected to drive as a a serious podium contender. He said: 'We are serious about racing and serious about winning.' Katherine has been race car driving for years and is a seasoned competitor in the IndyCar series in the U.S. She has raced in several developmental open-wheel series in Britain, including Formula Three, Formula Renault and Formula Ford. In . 2005 she was given RACER Magazine's 'Most Promising Road Racer of The . Year' award - previous winners include Kimi Räikkönen, Jenson Button and . Cristiano da Matta. So could Katharine's career in Formula E lead to become a champion of Formula 1? She has already been behind the wheel of an F1 car having test driven for the Minardi team at Vallelunga near Rome in 2005. Another Brit making history: Susie Wolff is a development driver for the Williams F1 team and will take part in July's Silverstone Grand Prix . One of the team: Susie with her teammates Valtteri Bottas, Felipe Massa and Felipe Nasr . But as Susie Wolff has discovered, breaking into F1 driving isn't easy. Many doubt whether women are physically capable of dealing with the G-forces encountered when F1 driving while former British racing driver Sir Stirling Moss told the BBC in April that he doesn't think women have the 'mental aptitude to race hard, wheel-to-wheel.' Women like Susie and Katherine inevitably have to deal with sexism in the male dominated sport. 'I've lost count of the amount of times I've been asked, "Do you have a lipstick holder in your car?",' Susie told the Daily Express last week. She added: 'It's got easier to deal with over time. There will always be comments no matter what you do. You'll always have those that are for you and those that are against you... It's hard for their (men's) egos to cope with a girl beating them.' But with more women taking to the track, men might have to start getting used to it.

Katherine, 33, from Surrey, will drive for Amlin's Formula E team . Previously taken part in IndyCar series and test driven F1 vehicle . She said: 'This is a really exciting opportunity' Brit Susie Wolff also making history as F1 test driver .

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By . Associated Press . PUBLISHED: . 15:58 EST, 26 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 16:25 EST, 26 November 2013 . A man who has been the Kansas City Chiefs' mascot for more than two decades was in stable condition after being seriously injured this weekend while rehearsing a zip line routine at Arrowhead Stadium. Dan Meers, of Missouri, who is married with three children, was injured due to apparent human error, his attorney said today. The 46-year-old, who has played the KC Wolf since the mascot's inception in 1989, was seriously injured Saturday while practicing for Sunday's game against the San Diego Chargers in Kansas City, Mo. Kansas City Chiefs mascot KC Wolf, aka Dan Meers, rides on a zip line before an NFL football game against the San Diego Chargers, in Kansas City, Missouri on September 13 . No description of Meers' specific injuries was available, but a longtime friend said Meers suffered a serious back injury. 'The injuries appear to be related to the manner in which a third-party company secured the riggings,' his attorney, Tim Dollar, said. 'However, an investigation is pending.' Kansas City Chiefs spokesman Ted Crews acknowledged Meers' injury on Monday but declined to give details about the accident or his condition. Dan Meers has played the KC Wolf since the mascot's inception in 1989 . While Meers doesn't perform the zip line routine every game, Dollar said, he was scheduled to do a slight variation of an entrance he'd done earlier this season. Being the mascot is a full-time job that involves making community appearances on a daily basis, Dollar said. Meers is part of a close-knit church community that's helping the family, Dollar said. 'They recognize the need to preserve evidence so that it can be investigated and prevent this thing from happening again,' Dollar said. 'Therefore it was necessary to hire counsel to take over that role while they attend to Dan.' Meers is listed as an executive committee member of the Newark, Del.-based Mascot Hall of Fame. According to its website, Meers previously performed as Fredbird, the St. Louis Cardinals' mascot, and the University of Missouri's mascot Truman the Tiger. 'Dan is one of the greatest guys on the Earth,' said Rod Handley, a Lee's Summit minister who has known Meers for 24 years. 'He has a beaming smile always on his face. He's one unbelievable guy.' Handley said Meers is a board member for Handley's ministry, Character That Counts. About 25 friends and church members were at the hospital Sunday when Meers had back surgery, Handley said. 'These are not minor injuries,' Handley said. 'This is very serious.' Kansas City Chiefs mascot KC Wolf hangs upside down from a cable over the field on September 15 . City Chiefs mascot KC Wolf entertains the crowd during the Kansas City Chiefs 31-7 victory over the New York Giants at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on September 29 .

Dan Meers suffered a serious back injury after 'human error' caused him to fall from a zip line . Meers has been the mascot since 1989 . An investigation is pending over the incident .

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By . Olivia Williams . PUBLISHED: . 07:13 EST, 22 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 08:38 EST, 22 August 2013 . For £170 per-night you can enjoy the novelty of staying in the world's smallest hotel. A double room measuring just eight-foot by ten-foot wide is the only room Central Hotel, which fits neatly onto the floor above Copenhagen's Central Cafe. With just five indoor seats, the Central Café can also claim to be Copenhagen's smallest coffee shop. Copenhagen's smallest coffee shop has now opened the world's smallest hotel, with only one tiny double room above it . Owner Leif Thingtved said the small but perfectly formed hotel room is booked all summer . Every corner of the pint-sized room has been used for storage after the owner renovated the empty building . There's room at the top - but only just, with the eight-foot by ten-foot twin room upstairs . Equipped with a TV and iPhone docking station this en-suite room has just enough space to swing a cat in - but not much more. There is also a picture of legendary . British comedian Ronnie Barker - not because he stayed there but because . the owner of the hotel is a huge fan. Owner Leif Thingtved explained how . the quirky little hotel located in the city's trendy Stronget district . may be small but is booked out from August to September. 'This is certainly the hottest spot in Copenhagen,' he said. 'No matter how much you pay for a room you don't really want to sit inside it all night - you want to go out. The en-suite bathroom has been cleverly tucked into a corner of the room, which only opened for business in June but has already welcomed a stream of curious visitors . Mr Thingtved, who also runs the coffee shop downstairs, says the building is a 'little crazy but looking good' The owners are great fans of Ronnie Barker, whose picture hangs inside the hotel in Copenhagen's trendy Stronget district . 'The double bed is a Swedish design known as Hestens and the duvet is a Geismar; it's made of goose feathers.' The historically decorated room has a . mixture of finely-polished wooden beams and furniture, retro bedside . lamps and a padded door for extra sound-proofing. According to Leif, the small iPhone . dock, complete with iPhone and the TV tucked away behind a pull-down . wooden panel adds modernity to the room, as does the urban view from the . window of the street below. From 1905 until the Second World War, the building was a shoe repairer's with the first floor added in 1920. It was then a goldsmith's and cafe before being empty for two years until the present owners took over. Despite its diminutive appearance from the outside the room comes with bathroom, flat screen and mini bar . The historic building began life as a shoe repairer's in 1905 with the upper story added on in 1920 . The cafe downstairs is similarly miniature with space for only five indoor seats, but it does not seem to put the customers off . Leif has owned the building and has run the coffee shop downstairs since 2010. 'It was always part of the plan to have a hotel room upstairs,' he said. 'We opened back in June and August is already fully booked. 'This building is little crazy but it's looking good.'

World's smallest hotel has opened in Copenhagen, with only one tiny bedroom above the city's smallest coffee shop . Despite its diminutive appearance the room comes with bathroom, flat screen and mini bar . It is decorated with a large picture of Ronnie Barker as the owners are fans .

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