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Commuters without signal at London Underground stations will be updated on the score of World Cup matches this summer. TFL and ESPNFC teamed up to deliver football updates, news, results and scores, to be displayed at more than 140 stations across the capital. On the board: TFL and ESPNFC have teamed up to provide updates for the London Underground . On time: England fans back in the country can keep up-to-date with the scores if they are traveling . The service on the Tube will start on June 12, when hosts Brazil take on Croatia, and will continue until July 14, the day after the final. The entire Central line, Northern line, Bakerloo line and Jubilee line will be covered. With matches in Brazil kicking off in the afternoon and evening, fans will be able to stay up to date during rush hour and on their way home from a night out. In addition, each morning ESPNFC will deliver recap news and results from overnight, and provide all the latest news from Brazil through the day. Covered: The service on the Tube will start on June 12, when hosts Brazil take on Croatia, and will continue until July 14 . Former England international John Barnes said: 'This is a great way to keep fans up to date during the big games. There will be plenty of people who have to travel while matches are being played, or may have missed the results from matches the night before -- ESPN FC is ensuring they won't miss out. 'There are often debates about the use of technology in football, but I think everyone will agree this is a good one.'

TFL will deliver football news, results and scores during the World Cup . It will be displayed at more than 140 stations across the capital . The service on the Tube will start on June 12 and will continue until July 14 .

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A documentary it certainly is not, but a new television show is discussing the highs and lows of British history using a cast of drunk historians. The controversial series, named Drunk History, begins tonight on Comedy Central and is sure to divide viewers. A runaway web series success in the US, the show features comedians getting very drunk and telling their own version of a true historical story. The UK version of the hit US web series, Drunk History, airs tonight and stars Rob Beckett (pictured) For the first episode, Rob Beckett and Kerry Howard boozily narrate tales from the reigns of Henry VIII and Queen Victoria. The liquored-up series, originally produced by Will Ferrell and Adam McKay in the US, will be hosted by Jimmy Carr and feature an ever-changing cast of actors and comedians. The series will travel across the country to present these the stories in almost every UK city. As the comedians narrate the tales they are most passionate about, a host of other well-known actors, celebrities and other comedians will act out the new, blurry versions of history. The Comedy Central series features comedians recounting historical tales - after getting blindly drunk . This week, Rob Beckett takes on the story of how Henry the VII met his future wife, Anne of Cleves . Rob narrates his own newly-revised version of the story, which is then acted out by other comedians . In tonight's episode, Beckett - after knocking back three pints of strong lager, eight whiskies and six shots of Sambuca - settles in to tell the tale of when King Henry VIII met Anne of Cleves. 'We all know King Henry VIII was an absolute nightmare with women, but his decision to marry Anne of Cleves was an absolute shocker,' he begins, tripping over his own words. 'So King Henry VII is like, 'Cromwell, mate, I need some help. I need a new wife. I haven't had the best luck, you know what I mean?'' Before beginning tonight's story, Rob knocked back 3 pints of lager, 8 whiskies and 6 shots of Sambuca . The liquored-up series was first developed by comedy legendy, Will Ferrell, and Adam McKay . The British series, hosted by Jimmy Carr, will tour the nation, recounting tales in almost every UK city . 'And Cromwell is like, "Henry! I've found one for you. Germany. Fit bird."' It all goes downhill from there. Comedy Central describes the show as: 'The bits you missed in history class, as told by drunk comedians.'

The UK version of Drunk History airs tonight on Comedy Central at 10pm . The web series success, produced by Will Ferrell, first began in the US . Tonight, Rob Beckett offers a less historical, boozy tale of Henry the VIII .

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The Christmas Tinner, pictured, from GAME is made up of nine layers including a scrambled egg starter, turkey dinner, and Christmas pudding . With gamers admitting they’d give up Christmas dinner to avoid having to stop playing, one store has invented an entire festive feast in a tin. Dubbed 'Christmas Tinner', the nausea-inducing concoction comprises of nine layers of food - ranging from a starter to a pudding. The top layer is made of scrambled egg and bacon and this sits above a layer of fruity mincemeat. The middle layers combine turkey and potatoes, roast carrots and other trimmings before being finished off by a layer of Christmas pudding. It has been created by retailer GAME, with designer Chris Godfrey and costs £1.99. The launch comes after the gaming retailer found almost half (43 per cent) of gamers in the UK intend to spend the majority of the holidays on their consoles. It also said the tin saves on the washing up and there is even a ‘Without Sprouts’ version that uses broccoli instead. The full nine layers, from top to bottom, include scrambled egg and bacon, two mince pies, turkey and potatoes, gravy, bread sauce, cranberry sauce, Brussels sprouts with stuffing - or broccoli with stuffing - roast carrots and parsnips and Christmas pudding, . All the food is sealed in gelatine before being added to the tin one at a time. The Christmas Tinner has been trialled in the Basingstoke store, and the firm said it plans to sell it in stores across the country if there is enough demand. Research from Domino’s Pizza recently found that gamers will do anything in order to carrying on playing. Almost half of male gamers admitted they have turned down sex to continue playing, while a fifth of female gamers said they’d missed weddings and hen dos. The layers (top to bottom) include scrambled egg and bacon, mince pies, turkey and potatoes, gravy, bread sauce, cranberry sauce, Brussels sprouts with stuffing, roast carrots and parsnips and Christmas pudding. All the food is sealed in gelatine before being added to the tin . As a hot alternative to the Christmas . Tinner, Firebox is selling the Christmas Dinner HotCan that contains a . turkey casserole with vegetables, chipolatas, stuffing balls and . cranberry jelly. Users simply pierce the can, which kickstarts an exothermic reaction to warm the meal to around 60 degrees celsius. The 400g tin takes 12 minutes to cook. More disgustingly, one in seven gamers confessed to relieving themselves in an empty drinks bottle to avoid having to leave the room - with gamers in Birmingham among the worst offenders. As a hot alternative to the Christmas Tinner, Firebox is selling the Christmas Dinner HotCan that contains a turkey casserole with vegetables, chipolatas, stuffing balls and cranberry jelly. HotCans consist of a can of food surrounded by an outer shell, with a water sachet and processed granular limestone in between. Customers pierce the rim of the can and this sachet, which causes the water to flow into the limestone. This triggers a natural heat-producing reaction which warms up the food to between 60 and 70 degrees celsius. The 400g tin then takes 12 minutes to cook and the chemical reaction means user don't even need a cooker or microwave.

The 'Christmas Tinner' is made up of nine layers of traditional festive food . There is a scrambled egg starter and turkey dinner with trimmings . The bottom layer is Christmas pudding and it even comes with mince pies . It was created by retailer GAME with designer Chris Godfrey and costs £1.99 .

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It was unusually calm in the city of Donetsk today, as government troops and separatists observed a ‘Day of Silence’ after weeks of bitter fighting. But, amid the shaky ceasefire, there was a stark reminder that a truce in war-ravaged eastern Ukraine is still a long way off. As both sides prepared to hold a 24-hour ceasefire, intense shelling could be heard echoing around the Kuibishevskiy district of Donetsk, killing residents and shattering people's homes. A woman surveys the damage in her flat after it was destroyed by shelling the night before a planned ceasefire in eastern Ukraine . A resident stands next to his home in the Kuibishevskiy district of Donetsk, where the shelling took place on the eve of the 'day of silence' The stricken area, which was blasted by shells and fire, is controlled by pro-Russian fighters . Another resident makes his way through the rubble of his home, after it was destroyed in the attack . Despite the successful ceasefire, the scenes of chaos provide residents with a stark reminder that a truce in war-ravaged eastern Ukraine is still a long way off . The night-time shelling came just hours before a temporary truce between both sides, which has sparked hopes of further peace talks and eased tensions. Today, residents attempted to deal with the aftermath of the attack, scouring the debris and picking apart the rubble of what used to be their homes. Some residents lay dead amid the chaos. Fighting in the past few weeks has been intense around the international airport in the city of Donetsk, the main separatist stronghold. The rebels are trying to wrest the ruins of the airport from government control, in the latest stage of the war waged by pro-Moscow separatists in Ukraine's east. Kiev's military said troops had recorded six violations by the rebels during the ceasefire, while six Ukrainian soldiers had been killed in the 24 hours before the truce came into force. Today, Russia also resumed shipments of natural gas to Ukraine, despite it being shut off for six months over a dispute over price. Residents get to work clearing up the debris from the overnight attack. It came hours before a ceasefire . Fighting in the past few weeks has been intense around the international airport in the city of Donetsk, the main separatist stronghold . The rebels are trying to wrest the ruins of the airport from government control, in the latest stage of the war waged by pro-Moscow separatists in Ukraine's east . Kiev's military said troops had recorded six violations by the rebels and six Ukrainian soldiers had been killed in the 24 hours before the truce came into force . 'We have declared a Day of Silence three times in the past. This is the fourth time. One hundred and ninety-two people have been killed since September 5,' army chief of staff Viktor Muzhenko told journalists in Kiev. In Donetsk, rebel leader Alexander Zakharchenko said he had ordered his forces to cease firing from 10am. They were told only to respond if they were attacked  first. The so-called 'day of silence' comes after a ceasefire in September, which has been regularly breached. Talks by a 'contact group' in Minsk in early September led to a 12-point blueprint for peace. The United Nations says more than 4,300 people have been killed in eight months of conflict and thousands of homes have been destroyed . This building was damaged overnight by the shelling by pro-Russian separatists in Avdiivka, Donetsk . The rebels are trying to wrest the ruins of the airport from government control, in the latest stage of the war waged by pro-Moscow separatists in Ukraine's east . A separatist rebel fighter smokes a cigarette at a check-point during the 'day of silence' But, since then, separatists have defied Kiev by holding elections for officials. Ukraine also accuses Russia of sending more troops and weapons to aid the rebels. Moscow, which denies its troops are fighting in Ukraine, says Ukraine has violated the Minsk deal by continuing to fight. The United Nations says more than 4,300 people have been killed in eight months of conflict which began after a Russian-backed president was ousted by street protests in February. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said a meeting of the contact group was planned, but that an easing of tensions in eastern Ukraine was still 'a long way off'.

Troops and separatists observed ceasefire after weeks of bitter fighting . Truce came into force at 10am and could lead to further peace talks . But, hours before, shelling in Kuibishevskiy destroyed residents' homes . Military said troops recorded six violations by the rebels during 'silence' Six Ukrainian soldiers were killed in the 24 hours before the truce started .

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By . Becky Evans . PUBLISHED: . 12:06 EST, 10 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:06 EST, 10 February 2013 . Fly-tippers dumped a caravan filled with household rubbish at one of the country's most beautiful nature reserves. Park rangers at Cotswold Water Park said today it was one of the 'worst incidents' they had seen after they were confronted with mounds of litter and the crushed vehicle. The caravan had been split in two, spilling sacks full of waste, gas canisters, toys and an old scooter  into the reserve. The crushed caravan was filled with scooters, rubbish and white goods and dumped at Cotswold Water Park . The waste was discovered by locals on Tuesday at Waterhay car park near Ashton Keynes, Wiltshire. The entrance to the car park was blocked by the intact bottom half of the vehicle and the top half was dumped inside. The fly-tippers destroyed the height barriers at the entrance to the car park by towing the overflowing vehicle. The bungling fly-tippers then realised they had blocked their escape route so had to saw down the gate posts to clear a space to drive through. A spokesperson for the Cotswold Water Park (CWP) Trust described the incident as 'one of the worst' in the area's history. The wheels of the caravan are only just visible beneath the mound of toys, duvets and even gas canisters . Cotswold Water Park was created over the last 50 years and is a significant area for wildlife . They said: 'With incidents of fly . tipping on the increase, one of the worst recorded incidents here in the . Cotswold Water Park took place this week at a car park managed by the . CWP Trust. 'Waterhay Car Park is a popular starting . point for birdwatchers, horse riders, cyclists and walkers accessing the . Thames path and the many lakes in the area.' The spokesperson added that Wiltshire Police had been informed. The Trust said it took 24 hours to clear the wreckage and needed the help of the ranger team, local farmers Richard Rummings, Nick and Chris Freeth and local mechanic Matt Freeth, . The team were also able to fix the height and entrance barriers to reopen the car park. Fly-tippers destroyed the height barrier at the car park entrance when they towed the caravan in . The car park before fly-tippers destroyed the barriers on Tuesday. It took 24 hours to clear the mess . The Cotswold Water Park is an area of . 40 square miles in the catchment area of the Upper Thames, set across . the countryside of Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and West Oxfordshire. Attracting more than 500,000 visitors a . year, it is home to a variety of watery wildlife - including ducks, . water voles, otters, dragonflies, and bats. There are now more than 150 lakes with 100km of footpaths and cycle routes winding their way around the picturesque scenery. The landscape in the park is constantly changing and in fifty years it will be the largest inland wetland in Europe.

The vehicle had been towed and dumped at Cotswold Water Park . Rangers said it was one of the 'worst incidents' they had seen . The caravan had split in two, spilling rubbish, gas canisters and toys . It took 24 hours to clear and Wiltshire Police have been informed .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 17:21 EST, 26 May 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 01:44 EST, 27 May 2013 . Spirit Airlines forced six passengers off a flight last week because stewardesses were reportedly 'intimidated' when they heard the group speaking Russian. The passengers, from San Diego, were on their way to an anniversary party in Las Vegas when they were told to leave shortly after taking their seats. A steward demanded that they leave, saying that the travelers had ignored requests to lower their voices. Scroll down for video . Insult: Sana Bitman and her husband Dmitri (left) along with another four passengers were kicked off a Spirit Airlines flight allegedly for speaking Russian . No fly zone: These three passengers, from San Diego, were also kicked off the flight because a stewardess allegedly found them 'intimidating' The group told News 10 that they did not hear requests to keep the noise down. One of the passengers Sana Bitman, who was kicked off the flight with her husband Dmitry, told the TV station: 'He [the steward] just said, ''This row needs to get up and leave now.'' It was humiliating to be treated that way.' Among the passengers who were removed from the flight were a business owner, teacher and accountant. The group said that they were later told by a Spirit Airlines employee that flight attendants had been intimidated when they heard the foreign language. Outrage: One of the passengers managed to film the Spirit Airlines employee who allegedly told them their use of Russian was 'intimidating' Grounded: The passengers missed their party and now plan to sue Spirit Airlines . The airline contends that the party had not listened to requests for them to keep quiet. In a statement to MailOnline, Spirit Airlines said: 'We are conducting a complete review and reaching out to the customers. 'Our preliminary review shows that the customers were asked to deplane for loud and disruptive behavior.' The passengers now plan to sue the airline.

Group from San Diego were on their way to Las Vegas for anniversary party . Spirit Airlines says passengers were 'loud and disruptive'

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(CNN) -- Real Madrid have reduced Barcelona's lead at the top of the Spanish Primera Liga to three points after coming from behind to win 2-1 at Almeria on Thursday. Madrid, looking to bounce back following their defeat in "El Clasico", suffered a poor start and fell behind in the 14th minute. Kalu Uche broke down the right and his low cross was met by the unmarked Albert Crusat at the far post. And the home side nearly doubled their advantage just seven minutes later when Domingo Cisma's free-kick was superbly saved by Iker Casillas. However, the visitors drew level in the 27th minute thanks to a moment of superb skill from Cristiano Ronaldo. The $125 million man burst past two defenders, fooled a third with one of his trademark stepovers and fird home a shot into the far corner for his 19th league goal of the season. From then on, Real were the better side. Veteran midfielder Guti struck the post from the edge of the area before Rafael Van der Vaart put the rebound wide. And the winning goal came in the 69th minute when Van der Vaart collected Gonzalo Higuain's pass before firing home a low shot into the bottom corner. Madrid should have added to their lead, but Ronaldo was denied by goalkeeper Diego Alves while Karim Benzema and Mahamadou Diarra also missed good chances.

Real Madrid reduce Barcelona's lead at the top of the Primera Liga to three points . Madrid come from behind to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Almeria . Cristiano Ronaldo scores a stunning goal to bring Madrid back into the game .

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(CNN) -- Less than six weeks after President Hugo Chavez's death, Venezuelans will head to the polls Sunday to pick a new leader. It will be the second time in just over six months that voters in the south American country have cast ballots in a presidential election. Chavez, who ruled Venezuela for 14 years, celebrated a triumphant re-election victory in October. After his death on March 5, authorities announced new elections to select his successor. Who's running to replace Chavez? Nicolas Maduro, 50, is a candidate for the United Socialist Party of Venezuela. Henrique Capriles Radonski, 40, represents a coalition of opposition parties. Maduro started his career as a bus driver in Caracas, rose through the ranks as a union leader and eventually became part of Chavez's inner circle. He has been the interim leader since Chavez's death, and served as vice president and foreign minister in his administration. Capriles is the former governor of Miranda state. He lost to Chavez in October's presidential vote, coming within 10 percentage points of the longtime leader. It was a significant gap, but the closest any opposition candidate ever came to defeating Chavez during his rule. Maduro has pledged to continue Chavez's plan to build "21st century socialism." Capriles says he pushing a more moderate approach, promising to continue social programs and improve the country's economy. READ MORE: Maduro: From bus driver to presidential candidate . READ MORE: Capriles' second chance to defeat 'Chavismo' What are the key issues at stake? Crime, inflation and food shortages are key problems on the minds of many in the nation. But heated rhetoric on the campaign trail has focused more on personal attacks between the candidates and sparring over the legacy of Chavez. No matter who wins, the question of what will happen in Venezuela without Chavez at the helm looms large over the elections. How many people are expected to cast ballots? More than 18.9 million Venezuelans are registered to vote in the presidential election. Venezuela's National Electoral Council estimates that more than 100,000 Venezuelans will vote abroad at diplomatic offices in 88 countries. There are more than 37,681 Venezuelans registered to vote in the United States, according to government figures. Who will be watching? In addition to representatives from national organizations serving as observers, Venezuela's National Electoral Council says 170 foreigners have been invited to witness the elections. The international group includes delegations from the Union of South American Nations and the Atlanta-based Carter Center. READ MORE: Chavez's impact on Venezuela lauded at funeral . READ MORE: What's next? Chavez's death leaves many questions . READ MORE: Hugo Chavez's death draws sympathy, anger .

Maduro, Capriles will square off in Sunday's presidential vote . The election comes less than six weeks after the death of Chavez . More than 18.9 million Venezuelans are registered to vote . The economy and crime are key issues at stake .

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(CNN) -- A patient isolated in a California hospital after possible Ebola exposure does not have the virus, testing revealed. The unidentified patient, who had recently traveled to West Africa, was isolated at the Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center during the testing. "We're happy to report that we've heard from the Centers for Disease Control that the test result is negative," Dr. Ron Chapman of the California Department of Public Health told reporters Thursday night. The patient was considered "low-risk," and tests were being conducted out of "an abundance of caution," the public health department said. The CDC tested the patient's blood samples to determine whether the Ebola virus was present. The hospital said all necessary precautions were being taken to safeguard other patients and staff while the testing was carried out. There are no confirmed cases of Ebola in the state, the agency said in a statement Wednesday. 'Miraculous day' On Thursday, Dr. Kent Brantly became the second of two American missionaries infected with the virus when working with Ebola patients in Liberia to be discharged from Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. The other, Nancy Writebol, was released Tuesday and has decided to not make public comments, according to the hospital. But Brantly gave a news conference in which he gave thanks for their recovery. "Today is a miraculous day," Brantly said. "I am thrilled to be alive, to be well and to be reunited with my family." Emory's staff is confident that the American patients' discharges from hospital pose "no public health threat," said Dr. Bruce Ribner, director of Emory's Infectious Disease Unit. The pair were the first humans to receive an experimental Ebola drug called ZMapp, which may have saved their lives. What happens when you survive Ebola? External bleeding . The Ebola virus causes viral hemorrhagic fever, which refers to a group of viruses that affect multiple organ systems in the body and are often accompanied by bleeding. Early symptoms include sudden onset of fever, weakness, muscle pain, headaches and a sore throat. They later progress to vomiting, diarrhea, impaired kidney and liver function -- and sometimes internal and external bleeding. The virus spreads through contact with organs and bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, urine and other secretions of infected people. Earlier this month, a patient with a high fever and gastrointestinal symptoms was admitted to Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City for Ebola testing, but tested negative. He had recently traveled to a country in West Africa where Ebola has been reported, the hospital said in a statement. More than 1,350 people have died in the West African Ebola outbreak since the first cases drew attention in March, the WHO said Wednesday. Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea have been at the center of the outbreak, with a dozen cases also confirmed in Nigeria. CNN's Laura Ly and Josh Levs contributed to this report.

Tests confirm a patient isolated in a Sacramento hospital is not infected with Ebola . The patient, who has not been identified, had recently traveled to West Africa . Health authorities said the testing was done out of an abundance of caution . Two Americans infected while working with Ebola patients in Liberia have recovered .

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Radamel Falcao has been left out in the cold frequently by Louis van Gaal during his start to life at Manchester United. However the 28-year-old has been fortunate enough to live in some fine locations around the globe including Colombia, Porto and Monaco. Surely he knew the climate would be slightly different in England. It seems Falcao isn't deterred by the cold climate in Manchester, as the 28-year-old enjoyed a snowball fight with his wife Lorelei Taron and daughter on Thursday in a video posted on Taron's Instagram account. Manchester United striker Radamel Falcao enjoys a snowball fight with his wife Lorelei Taron and his daughter . The Colombia international launches a snowball at his wife, who was holding the camera to shoot the video . The Colombia international has endured a difficult time at Old Trafford following a big money loan move from Monaco. He has managed just three goals in 13 Premier League appearances and failed to impress in United's goalless FA Cup draw with minnows Cambridge United last Friday evening. Van Gaal has only twice played the 28-year-old for a full 90minutes, leading so-called super agent Mendes to suggest his player would have been better off under the former regime of Ferguson who retired following the 2013-14 season, . Manchester United defender Marcos Rojo and his family show off their snowman they built on Thursday . The 28-year-old also tried to get his daughter to join in the snowball fight as he enjoyed some down time . Falcao launches a snowball up in the air to see if his daughter would catch it during their fun in the snow . Fellow South American team-mate Marcos Rojo also took his family out to enjoy the snow. The Argentina defender posted on his Instagram a picture of a snowman he built with his family on Thursday. Falcao and Rojo will hope to have an impact at Old Trafford on Saturday, as Manchester United host Leicester City in the Premier League, looking to avenge the 5-3 loss in the reverse fixture in September. Colombia international Falcao has managed only three goals since arriving on an expensive loan deal . Radamel Falcao endured another miserable night in front of goal in United's 0-0 FA Cup draw with Cambridge . Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has only played Falcao for a full 90 minutes twice .

Radamel Falcao moved to Manchester United on loan during the summer . The Colombian has not lived up to expectations with just three goals . Manchester United host Leicester City in the Premier League on Saturday .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 14:34 EST, 3 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 14:51 EST, 3 December 2013 . Police are hunting for two young female suspects after a massive early-morning brawl broke out in a Victoria's Secret in a Maryland mall on Black Friday. A 17-year-old shopper told Anne Arundel County Police that a woman 'poked her in the eye' in Annapolis Mall, sparking a massive melee that was caught on camera by a fellow shopper. The footage shows the girl standing in the middle of the Black Friday crowd and speaking to another woman, whom she told police she had never seen before. Scroll down for video . Fight! A teenager throws a defensive punch after apparently being hit by a fellow shopper in Victoria's Secret in Annapolis Mall in Maryland on Black Friday. Police are now hunting for two suspects . Attack: Shocked shoppers look on as two women (one in white, left) launch themselves at the girl . Suddenly, the woman apparently punches her - causing the teen to swipe back. There is no indication what prompts the fight. Then, with the help of a female friend, the alleged attacker launches herself at the bewildered teenager and begins throwing punches in the crowded store. The footage, taken by Gary Patrick, shows how the girl is then pushed to the ground with the two suspects on top of her, while other shoppers can do nothing but gasp and watch. The teenager told police that the suspect was hitting her in the head, according to a statement released by the department. Violent: The teenager is pushed to the ground as the two suspects (one wearing a green hoodie) attack . Do you know her? Eventually staff break up the fight. One of the suspects is pictured left . Eventually, two male store workers pull the girls apart - until one launches herself back at the teenager, apparently hitting her once more as she lies on the ground. They were split up once more and police were called to the scene at 1.05am. The victim gave her account to cops, claiming the two suspects had approached and assaulted her. So far, the suspects have not been caught. They are two black females; one was wearing gold earrings with red hair highlights, while the other was wearing a white sweatshirt, as seen in the video. The investigation is ongoing and is being conducted by the Southern District Detectives. Anyone with information is asked to call 410-222-1965. Scene: The fight broke out in a Victoria's Secret in Maryland early Friday morning (file picture) It was by no means the only fight caught on camera on Black Friday, which is typically the busiest day of the year as shoppers battle to get their hands on cut-price items. In one particularly shocking incident, a woman in Philadelphia was filmed apparently using a stun gun on a fellow shopper as they fought.

Three girls filmed in punch up in crowded Maryland store in the early hours of Black Friday .

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Police say they are growing increasingly concerned for a man who was reported missing after he failed to return home from watching a football match in a pub. Colin Pine, 55, from Washington in Tyne and Wear, went out to watch the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle and Sunderland on Sunday. He was last seen in the Swan pub in Felling, Gateshead and it is believed he spoke to his wife around 6pm to say he was going to get the bus home. Colin Pine, from Washington Tyne and Wear, who went missing on Sunday evening after going to watch the Tyne-Wear derby at a pub in Gateshead . It is thought he left the pub at 9pm but after he failed to return, he was reported missing in the early hours of Monday morning. Officers think he either caught a bus from the Heworth area of Gateshead to go home to Washington or he may have attempted to walk. Today, police stepped up their search for Mr Pine and were seen scouring Albany Park, close to his home in Washington. They also used police horses and a helicopter while they carried out their search. Today officers from Northumbria Police were seen scouring Albany Park near to Mr Pine's home in Washington, Tyne and Wear . Police believe Mr Pine either got on a bus in the Heworth area of Gateshead or attempted to walk home back to Washington . Sunderland Area Command Superintendent Ged Noble said: 'At this stage it's believed he either got on a bus from the Heworth area to head home to Washington, or he walked from The Swan public house, so our focus at this time spans across the two areas of Gateshead and Washington. 'We're extremely concerned for Mr Pine's welfare, and obviously his family are desperate to hear from him. 'This is distressing at any time of year, but so close to Christmas makes it particularly difficult. 'I'd appeal for anyone who saw Mr Pine in the surrounding areas of The Swan, on public transport or walking between this area and Washington, as well as in his own local area around Albany, to get in touch. 'No matter how insignificant you may think the information is, it could prove vital in piecing together Mr Pine's movements." A map showing the pub in Gateshead where Mr Pine was last seen and his home address in Albany, Washington . The Swan pub in the Felling area of Gateshead where Mr Pine had been watching Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle and Sunderland . Officers are checking CCTV in the area and have spoken with a number of witnesses who were in the pub on Sunday. Mr Pine is described as five foot, six inches tall and of stocky build. He was last seen wearing a black fleece, a navy blue t-shirt, blue jeans and black walking boots. Anyone who sees him or who knows of his whereabouts is asked to contact Northumbria Police on 101.

Colin Pine went out to watch a football match in a pub on Sunday afternoon . The 55-year-old was last seen in the Swan pub in Felling, Gateshead . Believed he had called his wife to say he would be getting the bus home . But failed to return to his house in Washington, Tyne and Wear . Police say they are growing increasingly concerned for Mr Pine's welfare . Today officers were seen scouring a park close to his home .

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BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) -- The U.S. military coalition in Iraq confirmed Tuesday that a business jet -- not a U.S. military aircraft -- was recently forced down in Iran due to an airspace violation. A Falcon business jet is shown in an undated file photo. "The airplane is now being confirmed as a light transport plane with no Americans onboard," Multi-National Forces-Iraq said in a statement issued Tuesday. "From what we have been seeing, it was a Falcon business jet. We have accounted for all our aircraft and none are missing." The U.S. coalition in Iraq had no information on who owned the aircraft, stressing that it was not a registered American plane. Iran's semi-official Fars News Agency initially reported that five American military officials were on board the U.S. aircraft. But other Iranian media reports -- quoting Iranian officials -- said the aircraft was Hungarian and no Americans were on the plane. Iranian officials told Iran's state-run Arabic language channel Al-Alam that the incident happened a week ago and that the plane was carrying humanitarian workers. Fars later changed its Farsi language report, citing other Iranian and Arab media as saying the plane was not an American aircraft . Fars also initially reported that aircraft, which it called a "Falcon fighter," entered Iranian airspace at a low altitude from Turkey to avoid radar detection, despite repeated warnings by the Islamic Republic Air Force. It said the plane also carried three civilians. Washington is monitoring the reports, but White House spokeswoman Dana Perino said "as far as we know (they are) totally bogus." U.S. National Security Council Spokesman Gordon Johndroe also said there is no indication that the reports are accurate. "We're looking into the various and conflicting reports coming from the Iranian 'news' agencies, but do not have any information at this time that would lead us to believe they are correct," he said. Fars said the aircraft, which was en route to Afghanistan, was forced to land at an Iranian airport that it did not name. Fars reported that the eight people aboard were released "after daylong interrogations" that revealed the aircraft had "unintentionally" violated Iran's airspace. Fars said the aircraft was later allowed to continue on to Afghanistan. Two top U.S. military officials told CNN's Barbara Starr that no U.S. military aircraft has been forced down. The U.S. military has an F-16 Fighting Falcon, but it is a one-seat jet fighter aircraft that is used by the U.S. Air Force for air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The Dassault Falcon is a European-made private passenger business jet that resembles a Lear jet. It can seat a crew of two and as many as 10 passengers. It's used for passenger transport, but also has military uses. CNN's Saad Abedine in Baghdad, Iraq; Shirzad Bozorgmehr in Tehran, Iran; Caroline Faraj in Dubai; and Mike Mount in Washington contributed to this report .

NEW: Iran now says aircraft was forced down a week ago . There were no Americans on board the aircraft, U.S. says . Iranians say they forced down plane after it violated Iranian airspace . Iran had claimed aircraft was a U.S. "Falcon fighter"

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(WIred) -- Have you been wondering if that new 4G smartphone you purchased is really getting 4G speeds? Wonder no longer. RootMetrics performed an extensive study to determine how each network's 4G speeds are holding up to their claims. The testing was performed across the Seattle area. Their findings showed that Verizon's LTE network performed at a 100 percent data-success rate. Its average data speeds were between four and 14.5 times faster than competitors, and average upload speeds were between 4.7 and 49.3 times faster. The phone models tested included the HTC Thunderbolt (Verizon), HTC Inspire (AT&T), HTC Evo (Sprint) and Samsung Galaxy S (T-Mobile). RootMetrics' CEO Paul Griff said that the smartphone model and its hardware had very little to do with 4G performance -- that performance is almost all network related. Wired has previously broken down what each carrier means by 4G, and what speeds should be expected from each service. Verizon's LTE network promises speeds of 5-12 Mbps down and 1-5 Mbps up; AT&T's HSPA+ network should provide 6 Mbps down (and they plan to upgrade to LTE in 2011); Sprint's WiMax technology promises an average of 3-6 Mbps down and 0.6-1.4 Mbps up; and T-Mobile's HSPA+ is supposed to provide 5-10 Mbps down. AT&T has reportedly been capping 4G speeds on Android handsets, but this has not been definitively verified. Over in Oakland, California, the folks at TechnoBuffalo decided to perform a 4G speed test of their own using the HTC Inspire and Thunderbolt. Using SpeedTest.net's services and the phones' Wi-Fi hotspot modes, they discovered median speeds of 8.85 Mbps down and 3.68 up on Verizon's LTE network, and 2.16 Mbps down and .16 up on AT&T's HSPA+ service -- on par with RootMetrics' results. RootMetrics was careful to point out that merely achieving high data speeds doesn't mean much unless it happens on a regular basis, though. It found that Verizon's 4G download speeds were greater than 10 Mbps about 90 percent of the time, and their upload speeds were between 5 and 10 Mbps 100 percent of the time. And Verizon's average upload speeds were faster than every other carrier's average download speeds by 37 percent. A graph of how often each 4G service achieved a certain range of download speeds (from 0-500 Kbps to greater than 10 Mbps) shows Verizon dominating the high end, AT&T spending most of its time in the lower half, and Sprint and T-Mobile's services ranging widely throughout. How will AT&T and T-Mobile's recently announced merger affect their 4G services? That's yet to be seen. "Our results stand alone and provide interesting context around consumer data experience for both carrier's networks in the Seattle area," said a representative from RootMetrics. Until it is known how and if the two carriers will combine their networks, it's difficult to say how the merger will affect their future 4G service. But it's safe to say, unless it's LTE, it won't hold a candle to Verizon's network. Subscribe to WIRED magazine for less than $1 an issue and get a FREE GIFT! Click here! Copyright 2010 Wired.com.

RootMetrics performed a study to determine how each network's 4G speeds are holding up . Findings showed Verizon's LTE network performed at a 100 percent data-success rate . Verizon's average upload speeds were faster than every other carrier's average download speeds .

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(CNN) -- The climate change crisis is upon us. The world's leading climate scientists agree that time is rapidly running out and that urgent steps are needed in the next 10 years to dramatically reduce our carbon emissions. But exchanging global warming for nuclear meltdown is not the answer. From a purely practical standpoint — and ignoring for a moment nuclear power's other showstoppers such as cost, unmanaged nuclear waste, atomic weapons proliferation and catastrophic accident — there simply isn't time to choose nuclear power. There are faster, affordable alternatives, including energy efficiency and renewable energy installations such as wind farms and solar arrays that can be completed in months to a few years. The average construction time for a new nuclear power reactor is close to 10 years. A 2003 Massachusetts Institute of Technology study concluded that more than two new reactors would have to start operating somewhere in the world every month over the next 50 years to displace a significant amount of carbon-emitting fossil-fuel generation. Such a fantasy does not pass the reality check in corporate boardrooms or on Wall Street where nuclear power has been soundly rejected. The exorbitant costs and unpredictably long completion time -- a reactor at Watts Bar in Tennessee, for example, was "under construction" for 23 years and may be connected to the grid by 2015 -- make nuclear power an unappealing, even reckless, business choice for corporations and shareholders. Construction costs for a new reactor are predicted to top at least $15 billion, assuming the project remains on budget, which those under way in France and Finland have demonstrably failed to do. Meanwhile, since 2008, the world market cost of solar photovoltaic modules has fallen by 80%. In the U.S., the four reactors currently under already-behind-schedule construction in Georgia and South Carolina would never have begun without fleecing ratepayers in advance through a surcharge on their electricity bills. This cost is shouldered by ratepayers even if the reactor they are paying for is never completed. Government support does not sweeten the pill. Constellation Energy abandoned its application for a new reactor in Maryland after being offered a federal loan of just under $8 billion, a burden that would likely have been shouldered at least in part by taxpayers. Constellation pulled out because it was unwilling to risk $880 million of its own money in federal financing charges. Advocates of allegedly "new" designs such as the sodium-cooled integral fast reactor (IFR) touted in "Pandora's Promise" are reaching back into the atomic dark ages. Previous incarnations of this design have suffered fires, leaks and disastrous economics. For example, Monju in Japan, cost $10.11 billion and generated just one hour of electricity before closing. The "new" IFR design is decades away, economically unappealing, proliferation risky, and its safety claims are unproven. The IFR cannot magically eat nuclear waste for lunch as some claim. Theoretically, it can gradually reduce the amount of the more dangerous isotopes in the waste, but the process comes at very high costs with marginal benefits and would take hundreds of years. Energy efficiency measures and renewable energy, which have been marginalized by decades of disproportionate federal handouts to the nuclear sector, are the real answer. They can be deployed fast, far more cheaply and safely, are more practical in rural, developing countries, and are more effective in displacing carbon than nuclear power. Germany has stepped in where the United States failed to lead, well on the way to a 100% renewable energy economy by 2050, with a revitalized supply chain and 380,000 jobs in the renewable energy sector compared with 30,000 in nuclear. Nuclear France, meanwhile, must import electricity in winter and during summer droughts and heat waves. The ongoing nuclear crisis in Japan in the aftermath of the triple reactor meltdowns at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear complex serves as a permanent reminder of the unacceptable risks posed by the current fleet of nuclear plants. Given the latency period between exposure even to "low" doses of radiation and the manifestation of disease, we may not know the true health effects of the Fukushima nuclear disaster for decades. The experience of the 1986 Chernobyl reactor accident demonstrates that negative health effects can last generations, cause immense suffering and trigger other fatal and non-fatal illnesses as well as birth defects. Even the routine radioactive releases from nuclear power plants can prove fatal. Studies in Germany and France found elevated rates of leukemia among children living near nuclear power plants. The situation at Fukushima remains perilous and could still become orders of magnitude worse. A technology that has the capacity to poison human resources and render vast areas unfit for habitation for decades, even centuries, cannot be endorsed by environmentalists and runs contrary to the best interests of humanity. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Linda Gunter and Kevin Kamps.

Authors: There isn't time to choose nuclear power as a way to stop climate change . Wall Street rejects nuclear power plants for being costly and time consuming, say authors . Beyond Nuclear's Linda Gunter and Kevin Kamps say advanced nuclear technology is risky .

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Israeli troops have shot dead a 17-year-old Palestinian boy who was throwing stones at drivers in the occupied West Bank. The army said soldiers had fired warning shots before opening fire on a group when they persisted hurling the stones at Israeli civilians near the Tapuah settlement, south of Nablus. Palestinian security officials said the stones had been thrown at military vehicles. They said that a 19-year-old had also been wounded in the same incident. WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT . The brother of a teenager shot dead in West Bank weeps over the body Rafidya Hospital in the city of Nablus . A Palestinian security official told AP that he believed a second boy was hurt. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to discuss the incident with the media. The military said it was investigating the incident. Israel and Palestine have suffered generations of fighting and tensions, which spilled over last summer in a 50-day war. More than 2,100 Palestinians and 72 Israelis were killed in the fighting, which disrupted the lives of millions of people. Palestinians mourn over the body of a 17-year-old Palestinian who was shot dead by Israeli troops during a stone-throwing incident near the Tapuah settlement . A boy weeps as he awaits to see the body of his brother shot dead in West Bank in a stone throwing incident . Violence began to spiral with the kidnapping and deaths of three Israeli teenagers, allegedly by Hamas. This was followed by a suspected revenge killing of 16-year-old Palestinian youth by Israeli extremists. Israel and Hamas agreed to an open-ended cease-fire largely brokered by Egypt later in August - but tensions between Israel and Palestinians remained high, and spiked last month. Israeli soldiers evacuate the body of the 17-year-old Palestinian who was shot dead by Israeli troops . Violent demonstrations led Israel in November to restrict Muslim access to a holy site in Jerusalem that includes the al-Aqsa mosque - the third most sacred place in Islam, . It is also home to the ancient Hebrew Temple Mount - the holiest place in Judaism. With the crackdown came a fresh round of deadly Palestinian attacks. According to AFP statistics, around 20 Palestinians have been killed by the army in the West Bank since June. Israeli soldiers carry the teenager's body to a Palestinian Ambulance near the West Bank city of Nablus . The Israeli army said soldiers had fired warning shots before opening fire on a group throwing stones at Israeli civilians. Palestinian security officials said the stones had been thrown at military vehicles . According to AFP statistics, around 20 Palestinians have been killed by the army in the West Bank since June .

Army said soldiers fired warning shots before opening fire on the group . Palestinian security officials said stones were thrown at military vehicles . They said that a 19-year-old had also been wounded in the same incident .

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By . Mark Prigg . PUBLISHED: . 07:17 EST, 28 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 15:52 EST, 28 December 2012 . Asthe supposed end of the world passed, Nasa engineers took a photo of the sun – and were stunned to find it appeared to be winking at them. The image, which actually reveals sunspots caused by intense magnetic activity, was taken on December 22, just a few minutes after  the Mayan doomsday prophecy proved to be wrong. Taken by Nasa’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, it has echoes of the famous image from the 1902 French film A Trip To The Moon, which is regarded as the first  science fiction movie. The sun appears to 'wink' as the time many believed a Mayan prophecy claimed the world would end passed . Planetary wink: A still from the 1902 French film A Trip To The Moon showing the face of the moon . A NASA spokesperson said: 'Despite reports of an ancient Maya prophecy, a mysterious planet on a collision course with Earth, or a reverse in Earth's rotation, we're still here.' The Mayan connection 'was a misconception from the very beginning," says Dr. John Carlson, director of the Center for Archaeoastronomy. 'The Maya calendar did not end on Dec. 21, 2012, and there were no Maya prophecies foretelling the end of the world on that date.' The mesmerising pictures, taken by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory Satellite or SDO, show the energy thrown off by the sun in wavelengths invisible to the human eye such as X-rays and ultraviolet light. It has allowed us new understanding of how the star works. Another of SDO's pictures of the sun, captured on 28th December, revealing magnetic activity which can cause problems on Earth .

Eruptions of magnetic activity on the solar surface appear to make the sun 'wink' as the time many believed the world would end passed . Comes after Nasa was forced to issue two videos explaining the Maya prophecies were a misconception .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 10:50 EST, 15 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 07:32 EST, 16 September 2012 . QPR defender Anton Ferdinand sparked a row today as he snubbed Chelsea's John Terry and Ashley Cole at the pre-match handshake at the Barclays Premier League clash. It was the first time that Ferdinand and Terry have met on a football field since the former England captain's race trial in July. Terry was found not guilty of using a racial slur against Ferdinand in the corresponding fixture last October, but remains the subject of a Football Association investigation over charges that he denies. Scroll down for video . Confrontation: Queens Park Rangers' English defender Anton Ferdinand avoids shaking hands today with Chelsea's defender John Terry . Blanked: Anton Ferdinand keeps moving along the Chelsea line as Terry leaves his hand dangling . Grim-faced: John Terry stares at Ferdinand as the QPR player passes the Chelsea captain at Loftus Road . The QPR defender rejected the offer of his two rivals' outstretched hands before the game at Loftus Road. No other QPR player appeared to ignore Terry or Cole, who testified as a . character witness for his England team-mate at the trial. Terry, who remains the subject of a . Football Association investigation over the charges that he denies, had . been a doubt for the Loftus Road clash but recovered from an ankle injury sustained on England duty. QPR fans then started singing derogatory chants at the Chelsea captain and Cole, who were jeered every time they touched the ball during the London derby. Ignored: Ferdinand snubbed Ashley Cole, who appeared as a character witness for Terry . The handshakes had been abandoned in advance of the previous two encounters between the clubs. QPR manager Mark Hughes branded the handshake row 'ridiculous' on Friday and called for the ritual to be axed. 'Is this the best way to do it? I think it’s open to debate,' he said. 'Maybe something could be done after the match. 'The lead-up to the game has been ridiculous and everyone has been focusing on this one moment just prior to the game. Bad blood: Terry and Ferdinand clashed last season in the same fixture at Loftus Road . Leaving court: Anton Ferdinand in a cab after the hearing at Westminster magistrates court where John Terry was cleared of racial abuse . Cleared: Terry was found not guilty Friday of racially abusing rival footballer Anton Ferdinand . 'When I saw the list of questions I . was likely going to answer (at his press conference) there was nine on . the handshake and one on Hillsborough. Ridiculous.' Terry was cleared of a racially aggravated public order offence during the clash with QPR which was broadcast to millions of people. A court heard the 31-year-old allegedly called  Ferdinand a 'f****** black c***'. The prosecution said he his words came in response to taunts about his alleged affair with a team-mate's ex-girlfriend. Wesminster magistrates were told that Terry told Ferdinand to 'f*** off" and also called him a "f****** k*******' as the pair exchanged insults. It is not the first time Terry has been involved in a handshake row. Wayne Bridge snubbed the former England captain following allegations of an affair with the Manchester City defender's former partner. And Luis Suarez refused Manchester United's Patrice Evra's offer of a handshake, despite the Liverpool forward being found guilty by the Football Association of racially abusing him earlier in the season. Previous: The Premier League has been hit with handshake controversy before, namely between Wayne Bridge and terry, and Luis Suarez and Patrice Evra .

QPR fans start chanting against Terry and Cole .

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(CNN) -- Sherri Shepherd is ready for a new "view." In Monday's pre-recorded episode of ABC's "The View," Shepherd was both optimistic and emotional. "The View" co-host announced in June she would be leaving the show after seven seasons. In her final farewell, which Sherri admitted was loaded in the teleprompter, Shepherd got ahead of the headlines and joked about the state of her personal life. With son Jeffrey sitting by her side, Shepherd said, "When I joined the view seven years ago Jeffrey was 2 years old and I was going through a very public divorce. Now my son is 9 years old and I'm going through another very public divorce. Let's just say I'm happy that Barbara Walters and Bill Geddes were better at picking co-hosts for this show than I was at choosing my husbands." On a more positive note, Shepherd emphasized that her time on the show was "a dream come true." "I'm so extremely and profoundly grateful. This has been one of the best seven years of my life," Shepherd reflected. "I didn't want to take this job. ... I have to say my boss Barbara Walters pushed me. I cried in my dressing room for three years saying, 'What am I doing on this table? I don't know what I'm doing!' " "Look, this table is just not going to be the same without you," said co-host Whoopi Goldberg. Goldberg is the only current host who will return for Season 18, but she will be joined by returning host Rosie O'Donnell. It won't be long until fans can see Sherri back in the spotlight. Shepherd will make her Broadway debut as Cinderella's wicked stepmother come September. A new, retooled season of "The View" begins in September.

Sherri Shepherd said an emotional goodbye to "The View" She co-hosted the daytime talk show for the last seven years . Shepherd will next appear on Broadway in "Cinderella"

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By . Associated Press Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 20:08 EST, 7 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 07:17 EST, 8 March 2014 . Depositions in the sexual assault case of a Missouri teenager who claimed she was raped by a school friend show contradictions in statements between the girl and her mother. The special prosecutor in the case released depositions on Friday of Daisy Coleman and her mother, Melinda, taken in July 2012. In more than 100 pages of testimony, the Colemans described the night in January 2012 when Daisy, who was 14 at the time, claims she was raped. Ordeal: Daisy Coleman claims she was raped by a high school student when she was 14 . Contradictions: Newly released documents appear to suggest Melinda Coleman and her daughter gave differing statements to police . Jackson County prosecuting attorney Jean Peters Baker served as special prosecutor after Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice asked for someone else to review the evidence amid questions about why he dropped charges against the alleged attacker. Accused: Matt Barnett was named by Daisy as her attacker. Charges were dropped . The testimony describes how Daisy and a female friend had been drinking before asking Matt Barnett, then 17, to pick them up after they sneaked out of Daisy's home. Daisy claimed Barnett took her to his house, plied her with alcohol and raped her when she blacked out. Mrs Coleman found her daughter shivering on the front porch at about 5am the next day. According to the depositions released on Friday, Mrs Coleman told Rice that Daisy had been less than truthful on some things in her deposition and attributed that to the girl's embarrassment over the ordeal. For example, Rice at one point had asked Daisy about an incident in which she burned the name of a boy into her skin. Mrs Coleman said that it was Barnett's name; Daisy said in her deposition that it was another boy's name. At one point, the mother suggested that the contradictions would likely keep the case out of a courtroom. 'I don't think that you probably can try this case now. I think there's been too many lies,' she said, according to the newly released documents. The Colemans and their supporters later claimed Rice dropped a felony assault charge against Barnett because of insensitivity, prosecutorial ambivalence and political pressure from the boy's grandfather, a retired state trooper and four-term state legislator. Mrs Coleman told The Associated Press on Friday that she hadn't seen the depositions, which she claimed Rice had denied even existed, and she didn't believe some of what was purported to be in them. Claims: Daisy alleged that Barnett took her to his house and gave her alcohol before assaulting her . 'Quite frankly, Robert Rice is a liar and I wouldn't be surprised if he put that in there himself,' Mrs Coleman said. Daisy's story made headlines nationwide after The Kansas City Star published a 4,000-word article in October detailing the girl's claims against Barnett. The AP generally doesn't name the victims of sexual assault but it is naming Daisy because she and her mother granted public interviews. In January, Barnett pleaded guilty to misdemeanor child endangerment after Baker concluded there wasn't enough evidence for a felony conviction. Barnett has not denied the two had sex, but has insisted that it was consensual. Robert Sundell, an attorney who initially represented Barnett after he was charged, said on Friday he was glad the documents were released. 'If all of the records and all of the evidence were made public, I think it would be pretty easy for anyone to recognize why the case didn't go forward,' he said.

100 pages of depositions are released, detailing mother and daughter's statements about high-profile case . Daisy accused Matt Barnett, 17, of getting her drunk before raping her in 2012 . Melinda Coleman, who claims her daughter's case was thrown out because of political pressure, says she doesn't believe the content of the newly released reports .

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President Obama's decision to target militants from ISIS -- which is now calling itself the "Islamic State" or "IS" -- operating in Iraq comes as a huge relief to the Iranians. Officials in Tehran have been panic stricken since ISIS forces overran the northern Iraqi city of Mosul on June 10. All political factions in Tehran would like to see ISIS suffer and its latest advances rolled back. At the same time, contradictory statements made in Tehran make it clear that the Iranian authorities are divided about the implications of the American military's return to Iraq. The moderates, the group of people associated with President Hassan Rouhani's presidential administration, are nudging toward an open admission that American military operations in Iraq compliment Tehran's policy goals. The hawks in Tehran, however, remain reluctant to publicly admit to any shared interests with Washington. Still, overall, Iran and the US are clearly going in the same direction in Iraq, at least while the fight against ISIS rages on. At first, there was nothing but silence in Tehran as U.S. F-18s on Friday began to target ISIS militants. The silence was more than revealing. In the corridors of power in Tehran, where no opportunity is missed to condemn American foreign policy at every turn, the silence was tantamount to a roaring approval of Washington's intervention. On Monday, the moderate faction of President Rouhani took a step to formally spell out its backing for American airstrikes. Not only was Tehran approving but is evidently looking to expand the campaign against "IS" and began touting a joint Iranian-American effort in doing so. Mohammad Sadr, a deputy to Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, told an Iranian newspaper "Iranian-American cooperation against [IS] is possible and achievable." This was the first time since the U.S .airstrikes began that a senior Iranian official has spoken in such terms. It is easy to dismiss Sadr as bureaucrat whose words carry little weight in Tehran. But his statement was clearly carefully formulated and was hardly a fluke. And given his stature inside the Iranian system his words must be seen as a peek into the internal policy debate in Tehran about the situation in Iraq and Iran's options. Some kind of -- at least tacit -- cooperation with Washington is one of those options being studied. Politically, it is already happening. Tehran and Washington don't just agree on the need for airstrikes against ISIS. They are also in agreement that Iraq above all needs a new political leadership and that Prime Minister Maliki has to go. Since Monday's developments in Baghdad and the nomination of a new premier by Iraq's President Fouad Massmoum, Iran's reaction has been one of approval of the turn of events. Maliki's fate . Today, Ali Shamkhani, the head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, gave his unequivocal approval for a new prime minister to take over in Baghdad. No more Iranian dithering on the fate of Maliki it seems. The fact is that Shamkhani was himself heavily involved in recent weeks to seek out an alternative to Maliki, including a trip he made to Iraq in late July to consult with various Iraqi political circles. The Americans were quicker to recognize Maliki to be at the heart of Iraq's malaise but the Iranians have finally come around to the same conclusion. And this matters a lot given Tehran's immense leverage within Iraq's Shia but also Kurdish political factions. For Shia Iran, the fight against the extremists from the Islamic State is a critical threat. Tehran desperately wants to keep Iraq intact as a nation state. It is particularly adamantly opposed to Iraqi Kurdistan seceding as Iraqi Kurds have been threatening to do. And in this equation, Maliki had become an unbearable burden for Iranian policy. The Kurdish leadership that Tehran is so hard trying to cultivate and steer away from an independence bid want Maliki gone. And Maliki's woeful management of the Iraqi military's response to the newly declared "Islamic State" made the Iranians just wonder what he was good for. There are reports the Iranian military is engaged in supporting Kurdish Peshmerga forces against ISIS militants. If true, this goes to show the depth of Iranian anxieties about the "Islamic State's" rise in Iraq. Who's in driver's seat? As far as the U.S. role in combating the Islamic State is concerned, the Iranian debate is likely to remain split between the moderates and the hawks. The moderates like to focus on the practical challenge at hand in Iraq and ways that Tehran and Washington can collaborate. They are comfortable with limited tactical cooperation if that is all that can come out of it. And, they readily admit that the neutralization of ISIS needs an American military involvement. The hawks, immersed in a historic cloak of hostility to the U.S., cannot yet bear to admit to this reality even if they cannot fail to see its inevitability. But all the recent trends suggest that the moderate viewpoint in Tehran has the upper hand on the policy question of Iraq and how Iran can best serve its interests. And President Rouhani seems eager these days to battle it out with his hawkish critics. On the question of the need for Iran to negotiate and cooperate with the U.S. on its nuclear program, he told his detractors this week to go "to hell." Time will show if Rouhani and his moderate wing can continue to sit in the driver's seat on the question of Iraq.

Alex Vatanka writes that Tehran is relieved by the U.S. decision to strike ISIS . Political hawks in Iran are avoiding admitting shared goals with the U.S., he says . But Vatanka says both agree on the need for airstrikes and new leadership in Iraq . Recent trends suggest that Tehran's moderates have the upper hand, he suggests .

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(CNN) -- Comedian and impersonator Fred Travalena died Sunday afternoon after a seven-year battle with cancer. He was 66. Comedian Fred Travalena had a 40-year career in show business. Travalena -- known as "The Man of a Thousand Faces" -- died at home in Encino, California, surrounded by family, according to his publicist. He was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2002 and prostate cancer in 2003. Following five years' remission, the lymphoma returned in 2008. "Since that time, he has been in and out of treatment, consisting of chemotherapy, surgery and radiation," spokesman Roger Neal said. During Travalena's 40-year career, he entertained audiences with impressions of celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Bob Hope. He was a regular on the "Tonight Show," with Johnny Carson. Travalena is survived by his wife of 39 years, Lois; sons Fred IV and Cory; daughter-in-law, Kelly; and a granddaughter. Private services will be held this week, with a public memorial service to be announced later.

Travalena known as "The Man of a Thousand Faces" Comedian had battled non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and prostate cancer . Travalena was a regular on the "Tonight Show"

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By . Joe Ridge . Follow @@JoeRidge87 . Phil Neville has described the reaction to his first co-commentary experience as 'brutal' after returning home from the World Cup to discuss his Manchester United future. The former United, Everton and England utility man made his debut on the microphone during England's 2-1 defeat by Italy on June 14, with his performance resulting in 445 complaints made to the BBC. Writing in his BBC Sport column, Neville said: 'It was straight after the game that I found out the reaction to it all. I went on social media and it was pretty brutal. Under fire: Neville (right) was criticised for his commentary on England vs Italy . Back to the day job? Neville coached at Manchester United last season but his future is unclear . 'I understand why - it was an England game, late on a Saturday night back home, and emotions were running high. And, doing that job, I am there to be shot at.' He added: 'The content of what I was saying was fine, it was just the tone of my voice that was the problem. 'I played it back the next day and it did not sound like it was me commentating. I was trying to be somebody I wasn't, and I knew I could do better than that.' Neville, who co-commentated in a further three games for the BBC at the World Cup as well as regularly appearing as a studio guest, says he was delighted to see his former Everton team-mate Tim Cahill score one of the goals of the tournament in Australia's 3-2 defeat by Holland. He added: 'Tim has probably been my . closest friend for the past eight years and we still speak pretty much . every other day even though he lives in New York now. 'To see him score a goal like that was . brilliant. I spoke to him after the game and he was on cloud nine. It . will go down as one of the great World Cup goals of all-time and I am so . pleased for him.' Volley good show: Cahill fires home his wonderstrike against Holland in the group stage . Old friends: Neville and Cahill spent seven years at Goodison Park together from 2005 and 2012 . Neville has returned home to find out whether he still has a coaching role at United following the appointment of Louis van Gaal as manager. The 37-year-old was taken back to Old Trafford by former United boss David Moyes last summer and remained as a coach during Ryan Giggs' spell in caretaker charge towards the end of last season. It remains unclear whether his coaching future lies at Manchester United or not.

Phil Neville co-commentated on four World Cup games for the BBC . BBC received 445 complaints regarding his debut in England vs Italy . Neville says criticism he received was 'brutal' Neville has returned to England to discuss future as Man United coach .

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Cairo (CNN) -- Egyptian protesters threw tomatoes and shoes at U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's motorcade Sunday and shouted, "Monica, Monica, Monica" as she left the newly reopened U.S. Consulate in Alexandria. Clinton said she was in the city to answer critics who believe Washington has taken sides in Egyptian politics. There were already vocal protesters at the start of her visit to the consulate, forcing the ceremony to be moved inside. "I want to be clear that the United States is not in the business, in Egypt, of choosing winners and losers, even if we could, which, of course, we cannot," Clinton said at the ceremony to reopen the consulate, which was closed in 1993 because of budget constraints. Son of kidnapped American: Dad didn't know of danger . "I have come to Alexandria to reaffirm the strong support of the United States for the Egyptian people and for their democratic future." The protesters threw the tomatoes, shoes and a water bottle as the staff walked to their vans after the ceremony and riot police had to hold back the crowd. A tomato hit an Egyptian official in the face. Clinton's van was around the corner from the protesters, and a senior State Department official said her car was not hit. The chants of "Monica" refer to Monica Lewinsky, the White House intern who had an affair with Clinton's husband, former President Bill Clinton. Earlier Sunday, Clinton held a closed-door meeting with the head of Egypt's military leadership, Field Marshal Mohamed Hussein Tantawi, whose military council is in a political tug of war with new President Mohamed Morsy. Opinion: Does U.S. matter anymore in Egypt and Israel? Egypt's military leaders took control of the government after a popular uprising toppled former President Hosni Mubarak in February 2011, promising to hand over control after elections. But after this year's elections, the military council issued a decree stripping the presidency of much of its power. And more than two weeks after Morsy took office, the country remains in the throes of domestic political chaos. The president has no Cabinet and the country has no parliament. Clinton met with Morsy on Saturday and urged him to assert the "full authority" of his office. She stressed that it is up to the Egyptian people to shape the country's political future, but also said the United States would work "to support the military's return to a purely national security role." Clinton and Tantawi, who met for just over an hour Sunday, discussed the political transition and the military ruling council's ongoing dialogue with Morsy, said a senior State Department official, who described the meeting on condition of anonymity. Later Sunday, in meetings with representatives from civil society groups and Christian leaders, Clinton addressed concerns from some who have been skeptical of the United States' neutrality in Egypt's political transition, another senior State Department official said. "There has been some suspicion, some assertion, and we heard some of that today, that somehow the U.S. has put its finger on the scale in favor of one side or another in this transition," the official said. "And she wanted in very, very clear terms, particularly with the Christian group this morning, to dispel that notion and to make clear that only Egyptians can choose their leaders, that we have not supported any candidate, any party, and we will not." As she left the country Sunday night, Clinton said her two days of meetings showed her the Egyptian people "have legitimate concerns, and I will be honest and say they have legitimate fears about their future." Egypt's fragile economy has been a top item on Clinton's agenda during the trip. The secretary of state also met with business entrepreneurs affiliated with Flat6Labs, an organization that provides seed money, mentoring and work space to small Egyptian companies to help them realize their concepts. "Thanks to all of you for being willing to take a risk," she said. Clinton aides said the secretary of state wanted to visit Cairo early after Morsy's swearing-in to show that the Obama administration wants to help the new government improve Egypt's economy. In meetings with Morsy and Tantawi, Clinton discussed a U.S. economic package that would relieve as much as $1 billion in Egyptian debt and help foster innovation, growth and job creation, officials said. She also said the United States is ready to make available $250 million in loan guarantees to Egyptian businesses. Tantawi told Clinton that what Egyptians need most now is help getting the economy back on track, one senior State Department official said. Egypt's military is the foundation of the modern state, having overthrown the country's monarchy in 1952. Tantawi, a 76-year-old career infantry officer, fought in Egypt's 1956, 1967 and 1973 wars with Israel. The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, which Tantawi heads, currently wields legislative power, having ordered the dissolution of parliament after the country's highest court ruled that it had been elected under invalid laws. Morsy tried to call it back into session after he was sworn in, but the court reaffirmed its decision, so the military council retains lawmaking powers until a new parliament is sworn in near the end of the year. In the presidential election, Morsy edged out Ahmed Shafik -- the last prime minister under Mubarak -- winning nearly 52% of the votes cast. He resigned from the Muslim Brotherhood and its Freedom and Justice Party shortly after the results were announced, in an apparent effort to send a message that he will represent all Egyptians.

Protesters pelt Clinton's motorcade with tomatoes and shoes . Clinton was not hit, but an Egyptian official was . Clinton discusses Egypt's political transition with the head of Egypt's military leadership . A day earlier, she met President Morsy and urged him to assert his authority .

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(CNN) -- Chris Christie got to the point immediately. The embattled New Jersey governor, who's seriously considering a 2016 run for the White House, began his State of the State address on Tuesday by pledging to cooperate with multiple investigations into controversies that are threatening to complicate his political future. Opinion: We need the full truth from Chris Christie . He didn't specifically mention suggestions that top aides orchestrated traffic gridlock near the country's busiest bridge last year in an alleged case of political payback, but noted that "mistakes were clearly made." His usual swagger gone, Christie continued: "And as a result, we let down the people we are entrusted to serve. I know our citizens deserve better. Much better. I am the governor and I am ultimately responsible for all that happens on my watch - both good and bad." Christie: 'Mistakes were clearly made' A Republican in a state dominated by Democrats, Christie then moved on. He used the rest of the 45-minute address before state legislators in Trenton to push his legislative agenda and tout his accomplishments. He threaded through his entire speech pitches for his bipartisan efforts, making a plea for those efforts to continue. So, how'd he do? Addressing the controversy early was the right move, experts and analysts said. NJ Democrat lawmaker on traffic scandal: 'I do think laws have been broken' CNN Chief National Correspondent John King: "He did exactly what he needed to do by getting to it first. His trademark is being blunt and direct. His brand, his trademark, is damaged right now. He's trying to get the tarnish off it. This was a first page in the next chapter of Chris Christie. We don't know where that chapter is going." CNN Chief Political Analyst Gloria Borger: "He got it out of the way early, he said what he needed to say." But Borger also said she believes "a line of argument against Chris Christie has been established with the public. That he is petty, that his administration was vengeful. If he wants to reverse that narrative, he does have to get something done in a bipartisan way and he has to get this story over with and it doesn't look like it's going to end any time soon." Borger also observed Christie's turn-of-phrase. "He said that 'mistakes were made,' not that he made the mistakes." Borger added that Democrats in New Jersey "now believe they have an opening (against Christie) and they're going right through it." CNN Political Analyst John Avlon: "He needed to address the elephant in the room right off the top, and he did. He was contrite -- mistakes were made. Pay careful attention to the word 'appropriate' -- he'll cooperate with all 'appropriate' inquiries. I don't think he's going to try to turn over private e-mails." CNN Political Analyst Ana Navarro: "I think it was very smart of him to address it right off the bat. He knew all of us were watching those first few minutes. Then he could go on to talk about filling potholes in New Jersey. But he captured our attention with those first few sentences." But also in those first few sentences was a phrase that surprised CNN Political Commentator Ryan Lizza: "Mistakes were made." "Every politician, every pundit knows that that is a phrase, at the very least, from the Iran-Contra scandal, and it's basically been mocked as this passive voice and way of pretending to take responsibility for something when you're not," Lizza said. Feds investigate Christie's use of Sandy relief funds . CNN Chief National Correspondent Jake Tapper and CNN's Halimah Abdullah contributed to this report.

N.J. Gov. Chris Christie's State of the State address garnered national attention . Christie tackled head-on a controversy that suggests political payback by aides . John King: "He did exactly what he needed to do by getting to it first" Ryan Lizza: Christie used phrase associated with past scandal that has been mocked .

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By . Bianca London . After three 'reem' years . of vajazzles, make-ups and break-ups on TOWIE, Sam Faiers left the ITV2 show that rocketed her to fame in April. Since then, she has been snapped up by countless beauty brands, seen Minnie's Boutique - the shop she owns with her sister - become a success and even landed herself a top modelling contract. FEMAIL caught up with Sam to find out . her beauty secrets, summer style tips and plans for the future - which . is most certainly looking bright. Scroll down for video . New identity? Sam Faiers, who found fame on TOWIE, has just released her debut fragrance and penned her name as 'Samantha' on the bottle . The 23-year-old's most recent project has seen her launch her debut fragrance, La Bella, and she's keen to be taken more seriously. Speaking about her new perfume, which has vanilla and caramel tones, she told MailOnline: 'I was a real girly girl growing up and my fragrance reflects that. I had an image of how I wanted it to look and I was involved in every step of creating it so it is everything I dreamed of.' Sam, as she has always been known, has also made a bold statement with her debut fragrance. 'I was always known as "Sam from TOWIE and Big Brother" and as much as I've been happy with that, I also really love classy and elegant stuff so I have written "By Samantha" on the bottle. It sounds nicer,' she explained. While her The Only Way Is Essex friends are living it up in Marbella, Sam reveals that she won't be joining the party. Dream come true: Speaking about her new perfume, which is full of vanilla and caramel tones, she told MailOnline: 'I had an image of how I wanted it to look and I was involved in every step of creating it so it is everything I dreamed of' 'This summer I have lots of holidays planned. I might go to Marbella to visit my nan and grandad but I definitely won't be going to any crazy parties. I am also heading to Ibiza with Joey and the girls and to Spain with Billie and her baby. 'I am also planning on going to Dubai with the family and Joey and I want to go on an exotic holiday really far away when we have time in our busy schedules,' she said of her and her boyfriend's plans. Sharing her summer style tips, Sam said: 'I think you can be more daring on holiday. I'm loving pastel colours, crop tops and little dainty pieces of jewellery.' Sweet smell of success: Sam debuts her La Bella fragrance in Manchester, the latest of her many beauty and fashion projects . Chiming in on Bobby Norris and Harry Derbidge's questionable half thong swimming trunks that have shocked the nation, Sam said: 'How hysterical are those! I didn't think it was actually a thing and I would never like to see Joey wearing one but they can half get away with it and, you know, only in TOWIE hey!'. When it comes to beachside beauty, Sam says she loves to keep in natural and 'doesn't wear a scrap of make-up' in the day and loves to 'scruff her hair into a bun'. With a manic schedule, Sam says she hasn't had time to work out 'as much as she'd like to' but says that when she does exercise, she focuses on toning and not cardio. 'I don't have a lot of weight to shed so I just do lots of lunges, squats and use kettle bells,' she explained. As for the future, Sam says she has 'loads of things' going on. She told us: 'I have lots of exciting things planned with my modelling agency, Elite, for the summer, and have been talking to some TV companies but I'll make sure I choose the right thing for me.' Shaking up her style: Sam, pictured, left, last week, and, right, when she joined TOWIE three years ago, has had a style overhaul and become quite the fashion icon .

Star, 23, unveils debut fragrance, La Bella, which costs £24.50 . Has added 'by Samantha' to bottle to represent elegance . Will be working on modelling projects this summer . May fly to Marbella but not for 'crazy partying' She and boyfriend Joey Essex want to go on an 'exotic' holiday .

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(CNN) -- Researchers in Tanzania have chemically reproduced the stench of smelly feet in an innovative new approach to combat the spread of malaria in the country. The scientific team at Tanzania's Ifakara Health Institute has developed a potent serum -- similar to that of human foot odor -- to lure and kill mosquitoes, which can carry malaria and other diseases. Four times more powerful in attracting mosquitoes than natural human odor, the synthetic smell is now being used in a pioneering research program aimed at killing mosquitoes outdoors using a "mosquito landing box." "The goal is to eliminate malaria," said scientific researcher, Fredros Okumu, who is developing the technology. "We are going to do this by tackling the transmission of disease outside the house." Mosquitoes are lured inside the boxes by the synthetic odor, which is dispersed by a solar-powered fan. Once inside, the insects are either trapped or poisoned and left to die. "We know mosquitoes don't see people, they smell them." Okumu said. "Substances we emit when we sweat, such as lactic acid, act as a signal to mosquitoes ... The aim here was to produce a mixture that would mimic a human being." The result, said Okumu, was a chemical blend that "smelt just like dirty socks." "If you came to our lab when the research was being done, you would have thought that someone had just come off a soccer field," he admitted. Okumu, who is currently completing a PhD from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, in England, plans to develop the mosquito landing boxes over the next two years, thanks to a $775,000 joint grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the not-for profit organization Grand Challenges Canada. "This is a great example of an African innovator, with an African innovation, tackling an African problem," said Dr Peter Singer, CEO of Grand Challenges Canada. "Malaria kills about 800,000 people a year, mostly children, in Africa. At the moment existing technologies, such as bed nets and sprays, tend to repel mosquitoes inside the home. "This technology attracts mosquitoes outside the home to kill them, and could be complimentary to what is there now," Singer continued. Working closely with villagers in remote communities where malaria is endemic, Okumu is aiming to produce a practical and sustainable technology that will be easy to run and operate. Okumu is keen to explore further cost-saving measures in order cement the mosquito boxes as part of everyday Tanzanian life. Ideas include using the boxes' solar-panel technology to supply energy to people's homes and substituting the costly chemical mosquito lure with actual foot odor collected from specially designed cotton pads placed in people's socks. "We hope at the end of the two years we will be able to tell the world this is a good strategy to use and start involving industry and more communities and villages," said Okumu. The prevalence of malaria in Tanzania has decreased in the last 10 years and Okumu has seen rates in his region dramatically decline from 40% in 1997 to around 7% today. "We are sure that the reduced rates are due to the improved delivery of bed nets, drugs, insecticides and living standards," said Okumu. "But malaria is not going to disappear using these existing methods." Okumu says he hopes to see his boxes used across the region before existing methods become less effective. "Mosquitoes can modify their behavior quite rapidly to deal with the added deterrents of sprays and bed nets," he said. "For example, instead of going into houses to bite people, mosquitoes are now starting to wait to bite people outside," he said. For Okumu, this is a personal as well as a scientific venture. Born in western Kenya, malaria has been apart of Okumu's life for as long as he can remember. "All the places I have lived have been malaria zones. When I was growing up I had malaria at least twice every year," he said. He continued: "Malaria has claimed so many lives and diseases like this are one of the biggest blocks to our social and economic development."

Scientists have chemically reproduced the pungent smell of foot odor . The chemical mixture is four times more powerful in attracting mosquitoes than natural odor . The synthetic smell is being used in a new initiative to kill mosquitoes in the open air . "The goal is to eliminate malaria" says researcher Fredros Okumu .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . UPDATED: . 12:57 EST, 28 September 2011 . The scale of customers' anger at High Street banks was revealed today as it was announced that the banks receive 10,000 complaints every day. The number of complaints has risen by the three per cent since last year thanks to the scandal of mis-sold Payment Protection Insurance. Barclays is the UK's most complained-about bank, with more than 250,000 new disputes recorded in the first half of this year. Banks: The FSA reports that customers file 10,000 complaints a day . Following closely behind Barclays' 251,563 complaints were Lloyds TSB with 181,907 and Santander with 168,888, according to the Financial Services Authority. The bank says that a large number of complaints were connected to PPI, an issue which has affected the whole sector. According to the FSA, more than half a million complaints were received about PPI - over a quarter of the total 1,852,284 recorded bank complaints. The insurance, which looks set to become the UK's biggest ever mis-selling scandal, covers debt repayments if the holder is unable to work due to an accident or illness, or if they lose their job. In May, the banking industry dropped its legal challenge over whether new FSA rules on PPI mis-selling claims could be applied retrospectively. This means more than three million people are in line for compensation, with firms facing a total bill of up to £9billion. Only half of all complaints in the first half of 2011 were upheld. Firms do not have to report complaints that are resolved to the customer's satisfaction by the close of business the day after the complaint was made. High Street: Lending to small businesses has risen while it remains stable for larger companies . Despite the rise in complaints, it has also been reported that banks lent more to households and small businesses this summer. But the Government's financial watchdog says that banks must strengthen their balance sheets to avoid damaging the economy in a future crisis. Lenders said there was a slight increase in the availability of credit to households in the third quarter of 2011, according to a survey by the Bank of England. Credit conditions for large and medium-sized businesses were stable, while there was a slight increase for small companies. But banks warned 'adverse wholesale funding conditions', most likely to be caused by the eurozone debt crisis, might constrain their ability to offer loans in the future. And small businesses are also facing tighter lending conditions in the form of covenants and collateral requirements. Unrest in Greece: Eurozone turbulence could force banks to boost balance sheets . Financial markets have . come under increasing strain in recent months after banks became less . willing to lend to one another because of fears about exposure to Greek . debt. And the eurozone . debt problem has created a crisis of confidence among investors, reducing . the amount of money they have pumped into financial markets. According to the Financial Policy Committee, eurozone debt fears have also made it harder for banks to hoard cash to prepare for the shocks ahead without choking off lending to households and firms. In its first meeting in June, the FPC said banks should build up cash levels when earnings are strong - but today admitted this may not always be possible given increasing risks to the economy. The latest quarterly update from the FPC, set up to oversee the country's financial stability in the wake of the credit crunch, comes after the IMF warned the eurozone debt crisis had added £260billion to the risk exposure of EU banks. But there was good news for the housing market, as the Bank of England survey revealed that demand for prime mortgages - those which are viewed by banks as relatively safe - has increased for the first time since 2009, while demand for buy-to-let mortgages also showed a 'substantial' rise.

Barclays most complained about with more than 250,000 disputes recorded in first half of year . Banks struggling to increase cash reserves as recommended .

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By . Wills Robinson . Magistrates were left stunned when a cannabis user said he was 'too busy' to come into court for sentencing and shouted through the door: 'I'll be two minutes.' Steven Holford said 'sorry guys', when he eventually entered the courtroom at Telford Magistrates', but a legal adviser said his arrogance was 'utterly disrespectful'. The relaxed 27-year old, dressed in a hoodie and jeans, was due to be sentenced for possession of high-grade cannabis when he made the rude remarks . Rude: The legal adviser at Telford Magistrates' Court told drug user Stephen Holford, 27, he was 'utterly disrespectful' after claiming he was too busy to enter the courtroom . Legal advisor Kerry Nickless told him: 'When you are called into court you do not open the door and say two minutes, you come straight into court. It is extremely disrespectful.' The court heard police found 1.94 grams of high-grade cannabis at Holford's home in Madeley, Telford, Shropshire, in January this year. Prosecutor Miss Sara Beddow said officers also found a set of weighing scales after searching the house. She said: 'He told police he purchased a quarter of the cannabis each week for £50 and used the scales to divide it equally into a gram a day.' Holford represented himself in court and pleaded guilty to possession of a class B drug. Stash: The court heard police found 1.94 grams of high-grade cannabis at Holford's home in Madeley, Telford, Shropshire, in January this year (file picture) When asked if he had anything to say in his defence he replied: 'I just had it there to smoke, like.' He was fined £175 and ordered to pay costs of £85 and a victim surcharge of £25. Holford added: 'I'm not going to be able to pay it now, I get paid fortnightly. 'What about the other stuff that got taken off me? They took £200 off me. I could've paid today if they gave it me back.' Holford was advised to take the matter up with West Mercia Police before being told he was free to leave court. He turned to the bench and said 'thank you guys' before leaving the courtroom. Disrespectful: When Holford was told he was free to go, he turned to the bench and said 'thanks guys'

Steven Holford, 27, said he was busy when called through to be sentenced . Legal adviser at Telford Magistrates' Court criticised his rude remarks . When he eventually arrived in the courtroom, he calmly said 'sorry guys' Said he could not pay £175 fine because police had taken £200 from him . When he left the courtroom, he turned to the bench and said 'thanks guys'

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By . Matt Chorley, Mailonline Political Editor and Rebecca Evans . PUBLISHED: . 07:03 EST, 29 July 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 03:22 EST, 30 July 2013 . Now let’s see... you’re running the country while the PM is away and keen to get some good publicity after taking a recent hammering. So why not ditch the official Jaguar and meet the people on the commute into work? Better not to join the hordes on the sweaty Tube, the river bus is much nicer on a lovely summer morning, even if it is more expensive. And, gosh, how lucky, a photographer just happens to be there to record your ‘impromptu’ trip as you swig coffee, chat to fellow commuters and exchange loving glances with your wife... All smiles: Nick Clegg and wife Miriam Durantez Gonzalez gaze at each other during a half hour boat trip to work this morning . Floating voter? The Cleggs chat with another commuter yesterday . Lonely at the top: With David Cameron still on holiday in Portugal, Mr Clegg is the most senior government minister in Westminster . At least in his open-neck shirt and expensive suit, Nick Clegg looked more at ease than David Cameron did on Friday as he attempted the casual look on holiday in Portugal with wife Samantha. The Deputy Prime Minister and his wife Miriam, a lawyer, were returning to work yesterday after their own break in Spain. It was the first time Mr Clegg has used the river bus for the half-hour commute from his home in Putney, South-West London, to his Westminster office. But his ministerial car still had to make the trip, to carry paperwork for the Liberal Democrat leader, who, Downing Street insists, is not running things as Mr Cameron ‘remains in charge’ – even on holiday. On Wednesday Mr Clegg is expected to host the second of his new monthly press conferences, taking questions from journalists on any topic. By contrast Mr Cameron has faced criticism for not holding the 'take all-comers' press conferences which became routine under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. Stepping out: The Cleggs were seen walking in the sunshine this morning while other commuters braved traffic jams and over-heated public transport . Rested: The couple have just returned from a week in Spain, where Miriam's family are from . As millions of people battled through . traffic jams or the crush on trains and buses, Mr Clegg looked relaxed . as he boarded the boat from his family home in Putney to Westminster. During the half hour river journey the Cleggs enjoyed coffee from Costa – notably snubbing Starbucks which has faced criticism for its low tax bill in Britain. Downing Street has repeatedly stressed that Mr Cameron 'remains in charge' wherever he is in the world. But Mr Clegg has encouraged the idea that senior ministers 'hold the fort' when the PM is taking a break. The two men faced criticism after it emerged they would both be out of the country at the same time.

Couple return to work in London after week-long holiday in Spain . Deputy PM is most senior minister in Westminster while Cameron is away . Prime Minister is in Portugal with wife Samantha and 3 children .

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YUSUFIYA, Iraq (CNN) -- Female suicide bombers, who often slip through security checkpoints untouched because of cultural norms, are taking a more deadly toll than ever across Iraq. A female suicide bomber struck northeast of Baghdad on Sunday, killing 16. But the U.S. Army has created a solution with "Daughters of Iraq," a program that trains Iraqi women to find female suicide bombers. Women carried out eight bombings in all of 2007, according to the U.S. military. Halfway through 2008, the number of female suicide bombers is 20. A suicide attack carried out by a woman on Sunday in Baquba killed at least 16 people and wounded another 40. "Daughters of Iraq" is a spinoff of "Sons of Iraq," which employs Iraqi men to run checkpoints and is credited with taking much of the steam out of the insurgency. The goal of the women's program is twofold: to protect against female suicide bombers, and to provide much-needed income to Iraqi women with few chances for employment. In the town of Yusufiya, southwest of Baghdad, some 30 women are being trained to search other females at security checkpoints -- something men are forbidden to do under Iraqi cultural norms. In mid-May, a female suicide bomber killed an Iraqi army officer in this town. "When he came out to meet her to help her with a problem she was having, she detonated the vest and killed him and injured some of his soldiers," said Michael Starz, a U.S. Army captain. The women will work two or three days a month, making up to $300, an Iraqi military officer explained to applicants. In a community, where families struggle to survive, that's good money. Watch how "Daughters of Iraq" works » . The women come from small farming communities. Many of them are widows with numerous children and almost no income. Such is the story of Fawzia, who has six children to support. Her husband was shot to death when his car broke down. "I am ready (to work) as long as it helps me financially," she said. "I have five children in school." Having women work in this tradition-bound society is a social revolution, according to Fatima, a volunteer leader, told CNN's Jill Dougherty. "Many women would like to do it but their parents would not agree because it's a rural society and it's shameful for girls to go outside the home."

Halfway through 2008, the number of female suicide bombers is 20 . "Daughters of Iraq" trains Iraqi women to find female suicide bombers . Women will work two or three days a month, making up to $300 .

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Miami (CNN) -- The death of Trayvon Martin is an undeniable tragedy. People are outraged, and rightly so, because a young, unarmed teenager lost his life. The incident has brought Florida's "stand your ground" law into sharp focus in the center of a media and legal firestorm. The shooting of Martin was not something that the Florida Legislature anticipated would happen when it enacted the law in 2005. When the law was pushed through the legislature, its supporters, including the National Rifle Association, proclaimed it as necessary to give law-abiding citizens the ability to protect themselves. The law expanded an individual's legal right to use force, including deadly force, in self-defense. And it allows it in any place, not just in one's home, without fear of civil or criminal consequences when the individual has a "reasonable" fear of death or great bodily harm. The National Rifle Association lobbied hard for the law in Florida, which passed the House and Senate with almost no opposition. Based on its resounding success in Florida, the NRA lobbied for similar legislation in many other states. The vast majority of these acts also passed. One cannot entirely fault the NRA for supporting the bill. Simply put, it's good for business. As people are encouraged to purchase and use firearms to protect themselves, presumably more guns are purchased and more individuals join the association. However, it's becoming increasingly clear that the ramifications of the law are murky. In hindsight, it's easy to say the Florida Legislature should have been troubled by the law when it was introduced in the state. And that more attention should have been paid to law enforcement officers and prosecutors who strongly opposed it. Now, these people's fears have proved to be well-founded. For police and prosecutors, the law causes confusion as to when prosecution is appropriate. The statute has led to many nonprosecutions after investigations -- it is hard to find that a person did not act in self-defense when the person that was being defended against cannot refute the allegations, i.e., dead men don't talk. Many blame the present lack of prosecution in the Martin case on the law. George Zimmerman's belief in his right to use a firearm in self-defense against Martin is difficult to dispute. And legally, the police cannot simply arrest and prosecute him for Martin's death. So the question remains: Is the law working for the residents of Florida and other states? The answer depends on your perspective. More cases result in no prosecution because of the law, and the law has led to a variety of wins for defendants on motions to dismiss before a trial by jury. Potential defendants and their attorneys undoubtedly see this as a positive change and certainly there are instances where the use of force in self-defense is warranted. But this expanded right to self-defense comes at a price -- more individuals are likely to use deadly force because they feel protected by the law, and more innocent people who may have been in the wrong place at the wrong time are likely to die or be seriously injured as a result. Trayvon Martin's death highlights the potential deficiencies and problematic aspects of the law. Let's hope it will force the Florida Legislature and legal system to face these difficult gray areas in what perhaps seemed like a straightforward law when it was passed. Regardless of how the facts of the Martin case play out, lawmakers and the public that elects them should consider whether the law is a benefit to all citizens. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Zachary L. Weaver.

Florida's 'stand your ground' law permit citizens to use force in self-defense . Zachary Weaver: National Rifle Association had reasons to support the law . Weaver: Law officers who opposed the measure should have gotten more attention . He says given the tragegy of Trayvon Martin, we need to reconsider the law .

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By . Jo Macfarlane . PUBLISHED: . 19:19 EST, 5 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 19:20 EST, 5 January 2013 . E number which can cause hyperactivity in children is still being found in common medicines . Children are being exposed to banned artificial food colourings that can trigger hyperactivity –because they are still in medicines prescribed by GPs. The damaging E numbers are no longer in most sweets, but the restrictions do not extend to many medicines designed for children. Drugs which include the substances include banana-flavoured penicillin to treat infections and an antibiotic which contains a red food colouring. Under EU law, all products containing the additives must carry a health warning because of their links to hyperactivity and attention problems. But although they are banned in the US, Australia and across Europe, the UK’s Food Standards Agency implemented a voluntary ban only in 2008 that asked the industry to remove the additives. Most have complied, but many medicines still use them. Gem Durham, from Birmingham, discovered the additives in banana-flavoured liquid penicillin prescribed to daughter Elizabeth, three, to treat a throat infection. Mrs Durham, 34, said: ‘As soon as Elizabeth started taking it she was dancing around and singing silly songs. There was no talking to her and she was incapable of listening to instruction. ‘I read the packet and saw it contained the bright yellow colour E104 Quinine. I phoned the GP and asked for an alternative, but it contained E124 Ponceau 4R red colouring. ‘If sweet manufacturers can use natural colourings, why can’t the pharmaceutical industry? A child needs to rest if they’re ill, not effectively be drugged up twice.’ A spokeswoman for the FSA  said: ‘The agency encourages manufacturers to work towards finding alternatives to these colours.’

Drugs such as banana-flavoured penicillin can contain them . UK's food watchdog only implemented voluntary ban . Most complied but some still put them in medicines .

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PHOENIX, Arizona (CNN) -- A man toting an assault rifle was among a dozen protesters carrying weapons while demonstrating outside President Obama's speech to veterans on Monday, but no laws were broken. It was the second instance in recent days in which weapons have been seen near presidential events. A man is shown legally carrying a rifle at a protest against President Obama on Monday in Phoenix, Arizona. Video from the protest in Phoenix, Arizona, shows the man standing with other protesters, with the rifle slung over his right shoulder. Phoenix police said authorities monitored about a dozen people carrying weapons while peacefully demonstrating. "It was a group interested in exercising the right to bear arms," police spokesman Sgt. Andy Hill said. Arizona law has nothing in the books regulating assault rifles, and only requires permits for carrying concealed weapons. So despite the man's proximity to the president, there were no charges or arrests to be made. Hill said officers explained the law to some people who were upset about the presence of weapons at the protest. Watch the rifle being legally carried at rally » . "I come from another state where 'open carry' is legal, but no one does it, so the police don't really know about it and they harass people, arrest people falsely," the man, who wasn't identified, said in an interview aired by CNN affiliate KNVX. "I think that people need to get out and do it more so that they get kind of conditioned to it." Gun-toting protesters have demonstrated around the president before. Last week, a man protesting outside Obama's town hall meeting in New Hampshire had a gun strapped to his thigh. That state also doesn't require a license for open carry. U.S. Secret Service spokesman Ed Donovan acknowledged the incidents in New Hampshire and Arizona, but said he was not aware of any other recent events where protesters attended with open weapons. He said there was no indication that anyone had organized the incidents. Asked whether the individuals carrying weapons jeopardized the safety of the president, Donovan said, "Of course not." The individuals would never have gotten in close proximity to the president, regardless of any state laws on openly carrying weapons, he said. A venue is considered a federal site when the Secret Service is protecting the president and weapons are not allowed on a federal site, he added. In both instances, the men carrying weapons were outside the venues where Obama was speaking. "We pay attention to this obviously ... to someone with a firearm when they open carry even when they are within state law," Donovan said. "We work with our law enforcement counterparts to make sure laws and regulations in their states are enforced." CNN's Carol Cratty contributed to this report.

Video shows man with an assault rifle slung over his shoulder at Phoenix protest . Arizona law has nothing in the books regulating assault rifles . Secret Service: Man considered no threat to president, who was nearby . Man carrying rifle: "I think that people need to get out and do it more"

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A few days ago, the first reviews began to trickle in for the comedy The Interview, which depicts a shambolic attempt to assassinate the North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un. Unfortunately, they were less than enthusiastic. One critic called it a ‘non-stop sledgehammer … bereft of satiric zing’, while the Hollywood industry paper Variety called it an ‘alleged satire that’s about as funny as a communist food shortage’. Even the film’s makers probably imagined that having earned back its budget from its target audience of American teenagers, their picture would soon disappear into well-deserved obscurity. Climb-down: Randall Park as North Korean tyrant Kim Jong-un in The Interview, which has been pulled from release after Sony Pictures was hacked and confidential material leaked across the Internet . Terrorists:Kim Jong-un and his wife Ri Sol-ju remembered the three year anniversary of the death of Kim Jong-il. If North Korea was to launch a cyber attack it could bring the West to its knees in 15 minutes . How wrong they were. For it now seems certain that The Interview will go down in history not as an indictment of Hollywood’s obsession with the lowest common denominator, but as a chilling symbol of the future of international conflict. When, two days ago, the film’s parent company Sony announced it was cancelling its Christmas Day release, the decision was widely seen as an abject surrender to foreign pressure. All week, North Korean hackers have been leaking secrets found in Sony’s emails, from insider gossip about the star Angelina Jolie to the script of the next James Bond film. In an attempt to shore up wavering cinema chains who were uncertain as to whether to screen the film, Barack Obama recommended that ‘people go to the movies’. But as pressure mounted, it became clear Sony’s American bosses lacked the courage to stand up to Kim Jong-un’s cyber bullies. And when the hackers issued a terrifying warning to American audiences, telling them to ‘remember September 11, 2001’, Sony simply lost its nerve. Thus, The Interview has vanished from the schedules, and it seems unlikely it will ever return. In the meantime, Hollywood figures have been queuing up to denounce Sony’s decision as an awful setback for free speech. ‘Today, the U.S. succumbed to an unprecedented attack on our most cherished bedrock principle,’ said the director Judd Apatow. The actor Rob Lowe went further: If Sony had been in charge of the Allied war effort in World War II, he said, then the Nazis would have won. In many ways the story could hardly be a better metaphor for American foreign policy in the past few years. After almost a decade of reckless, ham-fisted over-stretch under George W. Bush — typified by this month’s appalling revelations about the CIA’s torture programme — the U.S. has turned inwards. Obama’s policy in Syria and Ukraine has been a shambles, his attitude to Russia is dithering and pusillanimous, and he seems entirely bereft of ideas about how to fight back against the jihadists of Islamic State. Lending support: Rob Lowe  said that if Sony had been in charge of the Allied war effort in the Second World War then the Nazis would have won . In this context, therefore, Sony’s surrender to the North Koreans merely looks like more of the same. But I think there is another dimension to this story — one that should frighten every man, woman and child in the Western world. For years, military experts have been warning that our expectations of warfare are dangerously outmoded. We still think of war as something that happens on a foreign battlefield, fought out between professional armies with tanks and guns. But for more than a century, the front line has been moving closer and closer to the ordinary British household. From the horrors of the Blitz to the pub bombings of the IRA, our illusions of living in an island fortress have been brutally dispelled. Cyber warfare is merely the latest frightening development in the history of human conflict — a threat to British society that could have potentially devastating consequences for millions of families. We cannot say, though, that we were not warned. As long ago as the spring of 2010, the former White House counter-terrorism chief Richard Clarke, who worked for the Reagan, Clinton and Bush administrations, published a book warning that the West might have lost the new cyber war before it had even officially started. As Mr Clarke pointed out, the Russians, the Chinese and the North Koreans had already recruited legions of hackers, while Iran even boasts of having the world’s largest cyber army. In his book Cyber War, he paints a petrifying scenario. If the Russians or North Koreans launch an all-out cyber attack, he suggests, then they could effectively bring Western society to its knees within just 15 minutes because we are so utterly dependent on electronics, which run everything from nuclear power stations to our bedside alarm clocks. With bugs and viruses racing through computer systems, the military and the police might be paralysed. Trains could crash, pipelines explode, the financial markets risk going into meltdown, the National Grid might crash, hospitals could fall dark, cash dispensers might go dead and ordinary life might come grinding to a halt. Last year, the People’s Liberation Army’s Shanghai-based cyber unit was caught hacking into major American corporations such as the nuclear power company Westinghouse Electric and the United States Steel Corporation. Workers remove a poster-banner for The Interview from a billboard in Hollywood, California, on Thursday after Sony announced it was cancelling the movie's Christmas release due to a terrorist threat . In Britain, the head of MI5 and the director-general of GCHQ sent a letter to the bosses of all the FTSE 350 companies stating that cyber attacks against UK companies are causing significant damage to their reputations and revenues. ‘It scares me to death,’ one military insider told the Economist. ‘The destructive potential is so great.’ It sounds like the stuff of science fiction. But all military technology sounded futuristic once, from tanks and atom bombs to drones and satellites. And some countries are already all too aware of the costs of losing a cyber war. In the spring of 2007, Russian hackers paralysed government computers in the little republic of Estonia, a member of Nato and the European Union. It was a classic example of imperialist bullying, carried out not with tanks and gunboats, but with computer worms and viruses. Seven years on, British and American military planners are still studying the Estonian attacks for clues to the future of cyber warfare. Even if you rarely use a computer, the dangers of a Russian or North Korean cyber attack can hardly be exaggerated. A future in which hospitals risk being paralysed, the railways grinding to a halt, supermarkets running out of food and police computer systems collapsing is not one to be taken lightly. Of course, the leaking of Hollywood secrets and James Bond scripts is not in the same league. But if the North Koreans can beat a giant corporation such as Sony, then who is to say they cannot take down Britain’s public services, too? As the furore over The Interview has shown, the West is clearly on the back foot. The former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich, remarked this week: ‘No one should kid themselves. With the Sony collapse, America has lost its first cyber war. This is a very, very dangerous precedent.’ I think he is right. I believe the struggle over The Interview is just the start. And I suspect the shock troops in any future world war will not be blood-streaked men in battle fatigues, but pale-faced computer geeks, hunched intently over their keyboards. In the years after the fall of the Soviet Union, we in the West were too busy congratulating ourselves on our victory to grasp that a new and potentially even deadlier challenge lay ahead. Too complacent, too confident in our mastery of the old technology, we failed to realise that war itself was changing. From Moscow to Pyongyang, the West faces implacable adversaries, equipped with the new digital weapons of the 21st century. If you want to see the battlefield of the future, just look around your living room.

If the Russians or North Koreans launch an all-out cyber attack they could effectively bring Western society to its knees within just 15 minutes .

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By . Tim Shipman and Kirsty Walker . PUBLISHED: . 19:00 EST, 9 April 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 02:54 EST, 10 April 2012 . David Cameron will pay a historic visit to Burma this week – the first by a Western leader since decades of military rule ended last year. The Prime Minister will signal Britain’s support for the political thaw in the former colony by meeting with Nobel Prize winner and opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi, 66. Miss Suu Kyi, who spent 15 of the past 22 years locked up by the former junta, won a seat in parliament for the first time in by-elections a week ago, seen by the Foreign Office as a step in the right direction for the repressive regime. First meeting: Prime Minister David Cameron, left, is making a first . visit in decades by a Western leader to Burma. He will meet former . Burma opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi during the trip . Mr Cameron will also meet reformist president Thein Sein, who sanctioned elections in which Miss Suu Kyi’s party, the National League for Democracy, won 43 of the 44 available seats. His visit follows confidence-building visits by Foreign Secretary William Hague, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell. The Prime Minister is expected to tell Burma’s rulers that Britain will argue for economic sanctions on the country to be gradually lifted – but only if they continue their transition to a democracy. Important meeting: Mr Cameron will meet reformist president Thein Sein, . who sanctioned elections in which Miss Suu Kyi's party won the majority . of seats . The country is now run by a nominally civilian government, but it is heavily stacked with former military personnel, many of whom are opposed to further liberalisation. Downing Street had hoped to keep the visit secret until Mr  Cameron’s arrival but information was released yesterday by the Burmese Government and the NLD. The trip will cap a week-long trade mission to the Far East in which the Prime Minister will try to get his premiership back on track. Changing times: National League for Democracy supporters cheer during a political rally ahead of the recent parliamentary elections . Mr Cameron, who is being  accompanied by 35 British leaders, will today look to boost trade  during talks in Japan with Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda. He will announce new Japanese investment deals, including one with Nissan worth more than £200million, creating almost 1,500 new jobs in the UK and safeguarding thousands more. Mr Cameron said: ‘Nissan’s  investment in the UK is a huge vote of confidence in the skills and  flexibility of our workforce.’

Prime Minister will signal Britain’s support for political thaw in former colony . Miss Suu Kyi spent 15 of the past 22 years locked up by the former junta .

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(CNN) -- Americans' clicking fingers must be sore. Analysts have begun providing their final tallies for Cyber Monday sales, which found that people piled more in their virtual shopping carts than ever before. Monday was the highest-grossing online shopping day in U.S. history, with spending reaching $1.25 billion, according to market research firm comScore. That's up 22% from the previous record, which was last year's Cyber Monday. Online shopping for the month of November has hit $15 billion, a 15% increase compared to last year, comScore says. Discounting efforts by some online retailers, including Amazon.com and Apple, in the hopes of bringing some of the mall's Black Friday magic to the Web appear to have paid off. With a 26% jump over last year, the day after Thanksgiving saw the highest increase in spending compared to 2010 than any other period in November, according to comScore. However, online spending on Cyber Monday still outpaced Black Friday by a healthy margin, the research says. Even without significantly slashing prices, some retailers saw a jump in customers coming to their websites on Monday. For example, Sony saw a dramatic increase in traffic and sales on Monday. Sony Electronics President Phil Molyneux said many Americans may have overcome some concerns about the struggling economy. "There's a pent-up demand from consumers," Molyneux told a roomful of reporters in San Francisco on Tuesday. "There's a demand, and consumers need to feel that they can spend again." They seem to be feeling it, and their digital wallets are feeling lighter.

ComScore: Cyber Monday was the biggest U.S. online shopping day ever . Consumers spent $1.25 billion on Monday, the research says . Some retailers saw a Cyber Monday spike even without offering big discounts .

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Carl Chang, 26, has been jailed for four years after a single drop of blood left as he broke into a home in Maidstone lead forensic teams to him . A single drop of blood left at the scene of the crime helped cops nail a serial burglar. Carl Chang was in the process of breaking into a home in Maidstone, Kent, on June 27 last year, when he got a tiny nick on his hand as he smashed a kitchen window to sneak in. The lone drop of blood was spotted by forensics officers, who were called to the scene within hours of the offence taking place, in which cash and jewellery were stolen. Despite Chang, 26, cleaning the window and various doors with cleaning fluid in a bid to get rid of his fingerprints and any traces he had been there, he didn't notice to single drop of his blood on the kitchen doorstep by the smashed window. The serial crook, who had only recently been released from jail after serving time for another burglary, was arrested after cops traced his DNA to previous break-ins in the Kent area. When he was arrested at his home in Orpington, Kent, on July 9 last year he lunged at officers in a desperate bid to get away, but was jailed for four years at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday after pleading guilty to burglary. A spokesman for Kent Police said this week: 'A burglar has been jailed for four years after a drop of his blood was detected on the doorstep of a home in Maidstone. 'Kent Police matched Carl Chang's DNA to a small blood stain, following a break-in last year. 'Chang smashed a kitchen window to enter the property on 27 June 2014. The 26-year-old stole cash and jewellery before fleeing the scene.' He added: 'After the victim alerted police, crime scene investigators attended the address and detected a fresh drop of blood on a step directly outside the point of entry. 'The blood sample was sent off for forensic analysis and was later identified as a match for Chang. Maidstone Crown Court heard Chang is a prolific burglar who was out on licence for another break-in when he raided the Kent home last year, making off with jewellery and cash . 'Inside the property Chang had used cleaning fluid, in an attempt to remove further evidence of his offending.' Detective Constable Natalie Sammells said: 'At the time of the offence Chang had been on license, following his release from prison for another burglary. 'He is clearly a prolific burglar, whose offending has caused a great deal of distress to the victims, not only through the loss of their personal property, but the invasion of their private space. 'We will continue to pursue all forensic techniques available to gather evidence to bring offenders like Chang to justice and I'm pleased that another repeat offender is behind bars and unable to commit any further crimes.'

Carl Chang, 26, cut his hand while breaking kitchen window during raid . Climbed into Maindstone home last year and stole cash and jewellery . He was jailed for four years after court heard he is a prolific offender .

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An icebound convoy in Alaska is in nearly the same position it was a day ago, despite efforts to extricate it from the ice so it can deliver fuel to the capital, nearly 100 miles away. Because of strong currents from the Bering Sea and thick ice, the vessels moved through 56 miles of the sea Tuesday, but made minimal progress Tuesday, only advancing 50 feet. Its progress is being aided by a 2.5-pound drone, which flies overhead and sends information to scientists on shore. When the Russian tanker Renda – which is carrying 1.3million gallons of fuel for Nome – arrives at its destination, it will still have to face a 25-foot pressure ridge that is blocking the entrance to the harbour. Partners in ice: The Russian vessel moved only 53 feet Tuesday after advancing 50 miles the day before . Tricky maneuvering: Shifting ice, described as dynamic ice, has slowed the progress of the paired vessels, which moved forward 53 feet, but then back 50 . World of white: The US Coast Guard the cutter Healy, left, breaks ice around the Russian tanker Renda . The camera-equipped drone looks like a smoke detector with wings and legs. It glides on 20-minute missions ranging from 10 feet to 320 feet above the ice, and its images can be instantly viewed on a tablet-type computer screen. It has sent back images that are being analysed at the University of Anchorage, where researchers hope to guide the ships on the most successful route. Once the ships make it to Nome, the other obstacle awaiting them is a 25-foot ice ridge. Though it extends well down into the ocean, geophysicists say the ice won’t prevent the 370-foot tanker from delivering the much-needed fuel, though it won’t be able to dock. The tanker is equipped with a hose more than a mile long for offloading and the icebreaker is creating a path for the tanker in ice that is up to three feet thick. If successful, the shipment would mark the first time petroleum products have been delivered by sea to a Western Alaska community in winter. Jason Evans, chairman of Sitnasuak Native Corporation, the company arranging the delivery, said the mission remains challenging. 'I think there continues to be a lot of pressure on the ice, so when they break the ice it wants to immediately squeeze together, or the broken ice wants to shoot back into the hole they just made,' he said Tuesday. Slow and unsteady: During the winter months, the ice is around three feet thick. The ships must also fight the strong currents of the Bering Sea . Careful monitoring: Bill Walker, with the University of Alaska in Fairbanks, gathers aerial photos and video of daily ice conditions in preparation for the planned fuel transfer from the Russian tanker . Shifting ice, described as dynamic ice, has slowed the progress of the paired vessels. The ice tends to close in, cutting off the path between the two ships. When that happens, the icebreaker doubles back and makes a relief cut to take pressure off the tanker and open a pathway. 'I think they continue to do well with the circumstances,' Mr Evans said. He said the tanker and the icebreaker were expected to go through a large section of thinner ice and then encounter thicker ice again near Nome. Without the gasoline delivery, Nome could run short of fuel before a barge delivery becomes possible in late spring. Clearing the way: The Russian tanker Renda moves slowly through the cracked sea ice in a path made by the Coast Guard icebreaker the Healy . Slow going: The Coast Guard icebreaker Healy leads the way for the Russian tanker the Renda . Stuck: Ice flows about a foot thick have trapped the Renda, forcing the Healy to turn around the free the tanker before they can move forward . A massive storm prevented the town of 3,500 on the northwestern coast of Alaska from receiving its last delivery of supplies before it was socked in by the unspeakable winter cold. The town could run out of the fuel it needs to heat and power homes, vehicles, hospitals and schools. If the mission is successful, it will be the first time petroleum products have been delivered by sea to a Western Alaska community in winter. The Coast Guard said the Russian tanker came upon ice about a foot thick very early Friday near Nunivak Island, a large island in the eastern Bering Sea. Last chance: The tanker is carrying 1.3 million gallons of fuel that could not make it to Nome before winter because of a massive storm . Much needed supplies: If the tanker doesn't reach Nome this winter, the village might run out of supplies . Surrounded: The Renda, which is a 350-foot tanker, can steam through sea ice on its own, as long as it's not too thick . The Coast Guard icebreaker should have no problem getting through the ice even if it becomes several feet thick, said Coast Guard Petty Officer First Class David Mosley. 'In the worst-case scenario, it might stop and back up and ram their way through the pressure ridges, where it gets really thick,' he said. However, conditions are so cold that the ice quickly freezes around the tanker, requiring the Healy to back up and free it. Additionally, maneuvering is a problem. The tanker must stay close enough to its Coast Guard escort that the lanes through the ice freeze back over. However, that distance puts the two vessels at risk of slamming into each other. This means that progress is exceptionally slow during the long, dark nights, which last most of the day close to the Article Circle. Long way: The ships encountered the ice near Nanivak Island, about 300 miles from its destination of Nome Alaska .

Drone photographs ship's position and sending images to researchers . Russian tanker Renda moved 50 miles Monday but only 50 feet Tuesday .

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South African Oscar-winner Charlize Theron, and Idris Elba led the tributes to Nelson Mandela on Thursday night just hours after the Royal premiere of Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. Charlize, 38, said: 'My thoughts and love go out to the Mandela family. Rest . in Peace Madiba. You will be missed, but your impact on this world will . live forever,' adding: 'There will never be words to say what I'm . feeling right now. I am saddened to the depths of my soul. Truly.' Naomi Campbell, 43, told MailOnline, 'Nelson has stood as a figure of strength, hope, freedom, selflessness and love, and I join everyone across the world in mourning his passing. 'However, he was much more than just a figurehead to me - he was my mentor, my honorary grandfather, my Tata. Since meeting him in 1993, he's guided me and gave me a reason for being in the tough times of my life. He changed my perception of the world.' Scroll down for video . Tender: South African Oscar winner Charlize Theron shares a moment with Nelson Mandela on March 11, 2004, in Johannesburg, South Africa . Premiere: The Duchess of Cambridge meeting movie mogul Harvey Weinstein tonight at the London premiere of his film, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom . Royal seal of approval: Producer Harvey Weinstein greets Mandela stars Idris Elba and Naomie Harris and director Justin Chadwick at the Royal premiere of Mandela: London Walk to Freedom in London tonight . On-screen portrayal: Idris as the late leader in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom . So close: Naomi Campbell, seen hugging Nelson in 1998 (along with Kate Moss, Mia Farrow and Christy Turlington), said he taught her how to look at the world differently . The supermodel added, 'It will take time to come to terms with his absence, but I know his energy and impact will forever be in the core of my spirit. 'My heart goes out to the entire . Mandela family - Mama Graca, Mama Winnie, Zindzi, Malengani, Josina and . the rest of the family.' The Wire star Idris, . 41, who was informed at the premiere of Mandela's passing said: 'What an . honor it was to step into the shoes of Nelson Mandela and portray a man . who defied odds, broke down barriers, and championed human rights . before the eyes of the world. My thoughts and prayers are with his . family.' Morgan Freeman, who played the South . African leader in the 2009 film Invictus, also paid tribute to . Mandela, describing him as 'a saint to many, a hero to all who treasure . liberty, freedom and the dignity of humankind'. The 76-year-old actor . – who some mistakenly posted a picture of next to tweets paying tribute . to Mandela - added: 'As we remember his triumphs, let us, in his . memory, not just reflect on how far we've come, but on how far we have . to go. 'Madiba may no longer be with us, but his journey continues on . with me and with all of us.' Mr . Weinstein, 61, who produced the movie starring Brits Idris and Skyfall star . Naomie Harris, told MailOnline: 'One of the privileges of making movies . is having the opportunity to immortalize those who have made a profound . impact on humanity. 'We count ourselves unspeakably . fortunate to have been immersed in Nelson Mandela’s story and legacy. It’s been an honor to have been granted such proximity to a man who will . go down as one of history’s greatest freedom fighters and advocates for . justice.' Sad: South African-born Charlize Theron paid tribute to Mandela . Star: Charlize Theron adds to her message to Mandela family . Tribute: Rihanna posted a picture of Mandela . The producer was joined by stars across the world, including Idris himself in paying tribute to the great leader. The . Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and two of Mr Mandela's daughters, Zindzi . and Zenani, were watching the movie when news of the former South . African President's death broke. The Duke and Duchess were . discreetly informed by aides during the screening. And actor Idris Elba, who plays the former . South African president, was in tears as producer Anant Singh announced the news to a . stunned audience after the credits had rolled - followed by a two minute silence. Speaking in the foyer of London's Leicester Square . Odeon, a sombre Duke of Cambridge, with his wife by his side,  said: 'I . just wanted to say it's extremely sad and tragic news. On-screen portrayal: Morgan Freeman played Mandela in 2009 movie Invictus . Paying tribute: Morgan also posted a touching tribute message on his Facebook page . Grieving: Celebrities paid their respects to Nelson Mandela on Twitter tonight . 'We were just reminded what an . extraordinary and inspiring man Nelson Mandela was. "My thoughts and . prayers are with him and his family. It's very sad.' Mr . Mandela's daughter Zindzi, 55, has been promoting the movie at . screenings in New York and last month attended a special screening at . the White House in Washington DC. She looked overcome as she was ushered . out of the premiere, according to onlookers. Touching tributes: Tennis star Serena Williams posted a series of tweets dedicated to Nelson Mandela . Mr Weinstein added: 'I have had the . privilege of spending time with President Mandela and I can say his . sense of humor was as great as his optimism. 'We are deeply saddened by his loss; our hearts go out to his family and the entire South African nation.' The Weinstein Company immediately . scrapped a star-studded party planned for the Royal premiere as guests . were described as walking out of the screening in shock and silence. Mandela with the late Michael Jackson in 1996 . Celeb outpouring: Kim Kardashian also took to Twitter to pay respects, as well as a host of other names from the entertainment world . Meanwhile, celebrities across the world were quick to pay their tributes to Mandela. Superstar Rihanna posted a picture of Mandela on her Instagram account, with the message: 'One of the greatest men who's ever lived!!! #Legend We will never forget the things this man has taught us, and we will never truly comprehend the level of strength that it took for him to endure many of his years!! Thank you #Mandela.' Honour: Oprah Winfrey was one of the stars who was first to tweet her respects to the late leader . Former friends: Oprah had interviewed Mandela on more than one occasion . Taking to Twitter: Music legend Cher, 67, also shared her thoughts . David Beckham took to his Facebook account to post a picture of . himself with the former South African President and anti-apartheid . revolutionary. The sportsman, who met the legendary figure in 2003 before the . then-England captain played in a friendly fixture against South Africa, captioned the image with a simple: 'Thank you.' Beckham also posted a longer tribute to . Mandela shortly beforehand and admitted it was an 'honour' to have met . such a 'courageous human being'. He wrote on his Facebook page: 'My . heart goes out to the people in South Africa and Mr Mandela's family. We have lost a true gentleman and a courageous human being. It was truly . an honor to have known a man who had genuine love for so many people. Rest in peace (sic)' Paying tribute: David Beckham posted an image of himself and Mandela on his Facebook page before writing a lengthy tribute message . Back in the day: David's wife Victoria met Mandela with the Spice Girls back in 1997, with members of the group all taking to Twitter to pay their respects . Cuddling up: Victoria smiled widely as she was given the opportunity to meet Mandela . David's wife Victoria met Mandela along with her . fellow Spice Girls bandmates – Emma Bunton, Geri Halliwell, Mel B and . Mel C – in 1997 when he jokingly declared: 'These are my heroes.' Emma . led the girl group's tributes to the great man last night, writing on . Twitter: 'RIP Nelson Mandela. What a legacy he has left behind. I had . the honour of meeting him and his spirit was unlike any other.' Mel C . tweeted: 'I always feel strange acknowledging somebody's passing on . twitter but I have to say I am honoured to have met the great Nelson . Mandela #RIP (sic)' Queen guitarist Brian May, a founding ambassador of Nelson Mandela's 46664 charity, assisting those infected or affected by HIV/Aids, said: "Very sad to hear of Madiba's passing. 'We (Queen, along with Dave Stewart, and the Corrs) were privileged to spend some days and nights with him at his game park retreat, while we were organising the first 46664 concert for Aids at Green Point Stadium in Cape Town. They were life-changing days, with quiet time and talks around a camp fire at night, which we will remember till we die. 'Mandela was the most inspiring man of his generation. His message, by example, was the power of forgiveness. He showed us that it's possible to act after great injustice with no thought of revenge. He was light, funny, enormously generous, and, quietly, the greatest example to the world that a man can be.' While some messages were short, others from celebrities were more detailed. Actor Ryan Phillippe recalled meeting Nelson Mandela with his daughter Ava over ten years ago. The 39-year-old actor wrote: 'The privilege of spending a small amount of private time w/ Mr. Mandela as he held my baby daughter, is a highlight of my life. Mandela was bouncing Ava, then two yrs old, on his knee & called her, “future leader”. I couldn’t believe it in that moment. I still can’t.' Legend: Lennox Lewis, seen here with Mandela in 2001, was quick to pay his respects . 'Blueprint of dignity': Lennox also posted a moving tribute message on his website . More outpouring of love: From Justin Timberlake to Goldie Hawn . Heartfelt: The tweets continued to roll in as news spread of the leader's passing .

Oscar winner Charlize says: 'There will never be words to say what I'm feeling right now, I'm saddened to the depths of my soul' Idris - winning plaudits for playing Mandela - said: 'What an honor it was to  portray a man who defied odds, broke down . barriers, and championed human rights before the eyes of the world' Morgan Freeman, who played Mandela in 2009 film Invictus, described him as: 'A hero who treasure liberty, freedom and the dignity of humankind' David Beckham, the Kardashians, Rihanna, Kerry Washington and Cher were among other stars paying their respects . Producer Anant Singh announced news of Mandela's death to shocked crowd at Royal premiere . Movie mogul Harvey called it an 'honour' to make the biopic based on Mandela's biography . Naomi Campbell tells MailOnline, 'Nelson has stood as a figure of strength, hope, freedom, selflessness and love'

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President Barack Obama will nominate Bob McDonald -- a West Point graduate and former CEO of Procter & Gamble -- to head the Department of Veterans Affairs, a White House official told CNN on Sunday. McDonald would take over a troubled department. The VA, a massive bureaucracy with more than 300,000 full-time employees, is under fire as it deals with allegations of alarming shortcomings at its medical facilities. The controversy, as CNN first reported, involves delayed care with potentially fatal consequences in possibly dozens of cases. Eric Shinseki stepped down as head of the department in May after Republicans, Democrats and veterans' advocacy groups joined together in calling for his resignation. Obama went before reporters to make the announcement after meeting with Shinseki, saying the retired Army general told him "the VA needs new leadership" to address widespread issues. McDonald's mix of business experience and personal ties to the military and veteran community -- his father also served in World War II -- is unusual for the position but may be just what the White House is looking for. A statement from the White House touted McDonald's 33 years at P&G and described his as the "perfect person to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs during this important time." "At P&G, he oversaw more than 120,000 employees, with operations around the world, selling products in more than 180 countries, in more than 2.5 million stores, reaching more than 5 billion customers," the statement reads. McDonald was also recognized for his leadership, twice named as the best company for leaders by Chief Executive Magazine and being named No. 1 in Hay Group's Best Companies for Leadership Study, which annually analyzes over 2,200 companies around the world. In the Army, McDonald served as a captain, primarily in the 82nd Airborne Division and received the meritorious service medal. He received a bachelor's degree in engineering from West Point and an MBA from the University of Utah. McDonald will leave his home in Cincinnati, where P&G is based, to start the complex process of untangling the VA's many problems. "This is definitely a surprising pick. McDonald is not a name that was on anyone's radar over the last few weeks," Paul Rieckhoff, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America CEO and founder, said in a statement. "His branding background may prove helpful, because there are few organizations in America with a worse reputation with its customers than the VA right now. "He's been away from the military for quite a while and will have to move quickly to show he is committed to and understands the post-9/11 generation of veterans. We look forward to hearing from him soon and working together to support our vets," said Rieckhoff. It remains to be seen what kind of reception McDonald will receive on Capitol Hill, but members of Congress are adamant that change is needed. "Bob McDonald is a good man, a veteran, and a strong leader with decades of experience in the private sector. With those traits, he's the kind of person who is capable of implementing the kind of dramatic systemic change that is badly needed and long overdue at the VA," said House Speaker John Boehner. Rep. Jeff Miller of Florida, chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, said in a statement to CNN that if McDonald is confirmed by the Senate, he would inherit a department "under a specter of corruption that may very well surpass anything in the history of American government." "He'll need to root out the culture of dishonesty and fraud that has taken hold within the department and is contributing to all of its most pressing challenges. Quite simply, those who created the VA scandal will need to be purged from the system," Miller said. Sen. Bernie Sanders, the independent from Vermont and chairman of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, echoed those sentiments. "The VA needs significantly improved transparency and accountability, and it needs an increased number of doctors, nurses and other medical staff so that all eligible veterans get high-quality health care in a timely manner," Sanders said in a statement to CNN. "I look forward to meeting with Mr. McDonald next week in order to ascertain his views on these important issues." Since Shinseki's resignation, the White House has deepened its investigation into what went wrong at the agency. On Friday, a White House report said the agency's health care system is in need of complete overhaul because of unresponsive leadership and a "corrosive culture" that affects the delivery of medical care. The report was prepared by Rob Nabors, who is Obama's deputy chief of staff and who the President dispatched to assess the situation at the troubled agency. "It is clear that there are significant and chronic systemic failures that must be addressed by the leadership at VA," the reports reads. "The department must take swift and appropriate accountability actions," the report said. "There must be a recognition of how true accountability works." 'Corrosive culture,' weak leadership cripple VA, report says .

Bob McDonald is a "surprising pick," says the head of an advocacy group . McDonald is a West Point graduate and former CEO of Procter & Gamble . The VA is under fire as it deals with allegations of delayed care at its medical facilities . Eric Shinseki stepped down as head of the department in May under bipartisan pressure .

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(CNN) -- Beijing blasted a Chinese dissident's Nobel Peace Prize win Friday, calling the decision to award Liu Xiaobo the honor "blasphemy." Ma Zhaoxu, a spokesman for China's foreign ministry, said the award is supposed to be given to those who "promote national harmony, international friendship" and work toward peace. Liu is serving an 11-year prison term after being sentenced in 2009 for inciting subversion of state power. He is the co-author of Charter 08, a call for political reform and human rights, and was an adviser to the student protesters at Tiananmen Square in 1989. "Liu Xiaobo is a convicted criminal sentenced to jail by Chinese justice. His acts are in complete contradiction to the purpose of the Nobel Peace Prize," Ma said. The selection of Liu was made by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, whose president said the dissident won for his "long and nonviolent struggle for fundamental human rights in China." However, Ma said that while China and Norway have recently had "good relations," the committee's decision would harm future dealings between the two countries. The Nobel Committee stood by its choice and said it had expected China to react strongly. "We have a very strong tradition of awarding the prize to human rights activists of many different kinds," Geir Lundestad, director of the Nobel Institute, told CNN. The institute assists the committee in selecting the prize each year. Lundestad cited German pacifist and journalist Carl von Ossietsky in 1935, Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel in 1986, Myanmar pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi in 1991 and Iranian campaigner Shirin Ebadi in 2003 as examples of human rights activists who have won the prize. "This is a tradition we are very proud of, and this is a tradition for which the Norwegian Nobel Committee has received much applause," Lundestad said. "We felt that if we were serious about this tradition, we did have to come to terms with the question of China in this perspective, and this is what we then did this year." China's strongly worded response came in stark contrast to glowing reaction from around the world. Pu Zhiqiang, a human rights lawyer who is Liu's friend, said the prize indicates that Liu will have a huge impact. "I doubt the Nobel will help Xiaobo right this moment, but in the long run, it will leave a legacy that is sure to help bring democratic reform and freedom to China, that will far outlast Liu's life," Pu said. "Awarding the Peace Prize to him is the international community's recognition of the increasing voices among the Chinese people in pushing China towards political, legal and constitutional reforms," said the Dalai Lama, who won the prize in 1989. "I believe in the years ahead, future generations of Chinese will be able to enjoy the fruits of the efforts that the current Chinese citizens are making towards responsible governance."

The award will harm relations between China and Norway, spokesman says . Spokesman for foreign ministry says Liu Xiaobo's actions contradict the purpose of award . The award is supposed to "promote national harmony," he says .

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BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) -- At least 20 people were killed and 30 wounded in a double suicide bombing Thursday in northern Iraq, an Iraqi Interior Ministry official said. Houses are left in ruins earlier this week after truck bombings in the northern Iraqi village of al-Khazna. Two suicide bombers with explosive vests carried out the attack at a cafe in Sinjar, a town west of Mosul. Later Thursday, two people were killed and 13 were wounded in a motorcycle bombing in a predominantly Shiite neighborhood of southern Baghdad, an Interior Ministry official said. In Sinjar, many townspeople are members of the Yazidi minority, an ancient religious sect that has been the target of previous attacks in Iraq. In August 2007, More than 400 people died and at least 300 were injured when suicide truck bombers struck predominantly Yazidi villages, a series of attacks that rank among the deadliest in Iraq's ongoing violence. The Yazidi sect is a mainly Kurdish minority, an ancient group that worships seven angels, in the form of peacocks, who its followers believe are subordinate to the supreme god who created the universe. Thursday's attack is at least the second this week apparently targeting ethnic minorities in northern Iraq. On Monday, two truck bombs destroyed 32 homes, killing 30 people and burying others in the rubble, officials said. The bombs targeted al-Khazna village, which is inhabited by a Shiite Shabak ethnic group. The village is an area disputed between Kurds and Arabs. CNN's Yousif Bassil in Baghdad contributed to this report.

At least 20 people killed and 30 wounded in double suicide blast west of Mosul, Iraq . Many in town are part of Yazidi religious sect, mainly Kurdish minority . Attack at least second this week appearing to target ethnic minorities in northern Iraq . Thirty people killed earlier this week in village with Shiite Shabak ethnic group .

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By . Amanda Williams . PUBLISHED: . 08:59 EST, 18 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 04:26 EST, 19 December 2012 . Lee Wilkinson arrives at Newcastle Crown Court where he admitted biting off another man's finger at a children's nativity play . A father who admitted biting off another man's finger at a children's nativity play was yesterday told a jail sentence is 'almost inevitable.' Lee Wilkinson, 40, launched the attack on Michael Dent last December at Harton Primary School, South Shields, South Tyneside, following a feud between the men. It is believed Mr Wilkinson had started a relationship with Mr Dent's wife while the couple had split. The offshore worker, of Fulwell Avenue, South Shields, pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court yesterday to unlawful wounding and a separate public order offence in relation to a run-in last Christmas Eve. He will be sentenced on January 25 and was granted bail. Judge Simon Hickey said: 'Custody is almost inevitable.' Mr Dent was not in court for the brief hearing yesterday. Wilkinson was originally charged with more serious offences but Neil Pallister, prosecuting, said the pleas to these lesser counts were acceptable. 'There is somewhat a complex background to the case,' he said. 'It is accepted that Mr Dent has too been cautioned in respect of assaults on the defendant Mr Wilkinson. Obviously matters came to a head at the nativity play a year ago.' Further details of the fight last December 6 were not opened in court. Lee Wilkinson (pictured left at an earlier hearing) was in a relationship with Michael Dent's (right) ex wife . Harton Primary School in South Shields where Mr Dent had been watching his child's school nativity play when the fight erupted . After the attack last year, Mr Dent told reporters he had an on-going feud with Wilkinson over a woman. Wilkinson had been in a relationship with Mr Dent's ex-wife, and trouble boiled over at the nativity play. Mr Dent said: 'I went to the school to see my child in the nursery's nativity.' It was not thought that any children witnessed the blood-shed, as the fight happened while they were preparing for the nativity play elsewhere in the school. Mr Dent said he lost the tip of the little finger on his left hand.

Lee Wilkinson, 40, bit off Michael Dent's finger at Harton Primary School, South Shields, last year . The offshore worker has pleaded guilty and will be sentenced in January .

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Police searching for missing mother-of-four Samantha Henderson have found a body in a lake. Miss Henderson, 25, vanished from Corfe Castle, Dorset, last week. The body, believed to be that of the young mother, was today found in Ham Common lake, near Poole - eight miles from where she disappeared. Scroll down for video . Detectives searching for missing mother-of-four Samantha Henderson (pictured) have found a body in a lake . Police divers were seen searching one of the lakes yesterday as the hunt for Miss Henderson continued . Tragic: A body was pulled from Ham Common lake earlier today but it is yet to be identified . Her boyfriend Dominic Isom, 27, has already appeared before a judge accused of her murder and has been remanded in custody. Miss Henderson was reported missing shortly after 8am on Thursday morning last week - nearly 18 hours after she was last seen collecting her children from Corfe Castle Primary School at around 3pm. Detective Inspector Neil Devoto, who is leading the inquiry, said: 'Family liaison officers have updated Samantha's family with today's development. 'Clearly, this is a very difficult time for the whole family and they have requested privacy. Her children are being cared for by relatives. 'I would like to thank the public for all their help during this investigation and their patience and understanding, in particular the communities in the Corfe Castle and Hamworthy area who have seen a great deal of police activity over the last week. 'I am still keen to hear from anyone who saw Samantha's blue Peugeot 307 estate car with the registration HV04 ZFM being driven in the Lake Pier and South Haven Close areas between 3pm on January 21 and 5pm on January 23 to contact me in confidence. Sighting: Detectives searching for 25-year-old Samantha Henderson from Corfe Castle, Dorset, released this CCTV footage of her the day she disappeared. In it, she is seen shopping in The Sweet Shoppe . Search: Police are continuing searches at the edge of woodland next to the A351 at Norden, in Dorset . Major crime officers and forensics experts have combed allotments, outbuildings in the area as well as the missing mother's home . 'I am urging anyone who saw anything suspicious in this area between the relevant times to get in touch.' The scene remains cordoned off while forensic investigators carry out their examinations, with searches still taking place off the A351 near Corfe Castle. The Dorset coroner has also been informed of the discovery and formal identification is yet to take place. Following the young mother's disappearance, police helicopters scoured the area, with 35 major crime officers and forensics experts combing allotments, outbuildings and the missing mother's home. Detectives seized Miss Henderson's blue Peugeot 307 from her home on Monday night and asked the public to help trace the car's movements – especially between 3pm on Wednesday and 10.25am on Thursday. Dorset Police said she was a 'prolific phone user' but that her mobile had not been found. Appeal: Detectives still want the public's help trace her car's (pictured) movements – especially between 3pm on Wednesday and 10.25am on Thursday . Hunt: Detectives scoured the town of Corfe Castle, Dorset, where she was last seen a week ago . Isom, of Halves Cottages, Corfe Castle, appeared at Winchester Crown Court today where he denied Ms Henderson's murder. He will face trial later this year. He is charged with murdering her on January 21 - the day she was last seen alive. Miss Henderson, who has children aged six, four, two and one, was reported missing at 8.43am on January 22. On Monday, police released CCTV showing the missing mother on the day she vanished. She can be seen in the footage moving animatedly around the shop wearing a pink jumper or coat and light blue jeans. Her long blonde hair is tied up in a ponytail. She appears to buy cigarettes from behind the counter while chatting to the shopkeeper and hesitates at the till as she enters her pin number before leaving the shop. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Police searching for a missing mother-of-four have found a body in a lake . Samantha Henderson was last seen in Corfe Castle, Dorset, nine days ago . The body was found in Ham Common lake - eight miles from her home . Her boyfriend Dominic Isom was charged with her murder earlier this week .

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Is obesity a disability or a self-inflicted condition triggered by a lack of willpower and overeating? And should people who are overweight be protected by the same discrimination laws that were put in place to shield those who are wheel-chair bound, people with learning difficulties, hearing and visual impairments or those with autism spectrum disorders? A landmark test case being brought before judges at the European Court of Justice today has sparked a vigorous debate on the issue. The result of it may mean British companies will have to treat obese workers as 'disabled', making allowances for their size by providing larger seats and parking spaces closer to the office. A landmark test case is being brought before judges at the European Court of Justice today by Karsten Kaltoft, pictured, which could result in obesity being classed as a disability for employers in the UK . Mr Kaltoft was sacked by his local authority in Denmark for being unable to perform his duties as a childminder because of his 25 stone size . Karsten Kaltoft is taking action after he was sacked by his local authority in Denmark for being unable to perform his duties as a childminder, due to his size. The council, Billund Kommune, claimed the 25 stone childminder was so fat that he required help from a colleague to tie up children's shoelaces. If successful in redefining obesity as a disability, Mr Kaltoft's lawyers could force widespread changes in the way bosses deal with staff. Currently in the UK the law is clear, the Equality Act 2010 refrained from classing obesity as a disability. Instead the Government definition is that a person is 'disabled under the Equality Act 2010, if they have a physical or mental impairment that has a 'substantial' and 'long-term' negative effect on a person's ability to do normal daily activities.' However for many people living with a disability, they self-define themselves as such, basing their disability more on the barriers society puts in the way of them leading the life they wish. For someone bound to a wheelchair steps to a cinema or restaurant, can provide a barrier and as a result a person is likely to class themselves as disabled. Debating the issue on today's Good Morning Britain, writer and broadcaster Carole Malone and journalist Ursula Hirschkorn, explored both sides of the issue. Ms Hirschkorn said: 'I am not sure it (obesity) should be treated as a disabilty. 'But what he is trying to say is if you are going to have anti-discrimination laws, they need to be universal. 'Should it distinguish between what employees you are going to protect and those you are not going to protect? Journalist Ursula Hirschkorn (left) and broadcaster and writer Carole Malone (right) debated this issue on today's Good Morning Britain . 'It is not about saying if I am fat I am disabled, rather it is about if I can't do my job because I am fat, I deserve the same protection as someone who can't do their job because they are disabled, or pregnant.' But journalist and writer Ms Malone argued obesity is not a disability, rather a self-inflicted condition brought on by people who cannot resist the urge to eat. When asked whether people should be protected by anti-discrimination laws because they are obese, she said: 'Not in the case of people who self-inflict their disability. 'In the case of this Danish guy, he was 25st. All he needed to do was eat less doughnuts and less Danish pastries and he would have been able to bend down and tie the children's shoe laces. Ms Malone argued in '95 per cent of cases' obesity is self-inflicted 'by people lacking discipline and self-control' 'But because he didn't, he couldn't. And clearly is literally not fit enough to look after those kids. 'If you can't bend down to tie your shoe lace you can't help them if they fall down, you can't react quickly enough if something happens. 'That man was clearly not suited to that job.' Challenging Ms Malone's suggestion that 'obesity is self-inflicted in 95 per cent of cases', Ms Hirschkorn branded the statement 'unfair'. She said: 'At the end of the day if you are completely drunk and take a dive into a shallow swimming pool and end up disabled, that is self-inflicted. 'I am not saying that person should not be protected but equally you don't know why people become fat, the vast majority of people become fat because they have psychological issues or health problems.' Ms Malone responded: 'That is simply not true. We are both, I would say, a bit overweight (to which Ms Hirschkorn agreed). There is no disability, no psychological problem, I am overweight. 'The majority of people who are overweight have psychological problems, no they don't. The majority of people who are overweight have no discipline and no self-control.' She added: 'The Equality Act 2010 ruled that obesity is not a disability. 'What is going to happen if this court ruling happens, it is going to punish people who are overweight because employers will not employ fat people, or people they think might get fat. 'Why should you get special treatment if you have abused your body knowingly - that is what a lot of obese people do. 'People generally get fat, in 95 per cent of cases, because they eat too much.' Disability charity Scope asked users and supporters for their views on the debate, via Twitter and Facebook, yesterday. The overwhelming response from members of the public was that obesity should not be classed as a disability.

Landmark test case will be heard at European Court of Justice today . Danish childminder Karsten Kaltoft was sacked by his local authority for being unable to perform his duties because he was too fat . Sparked debate over whether obesity should be defined as a disability . If successful in redefining obesity as a disability, case could force huge change in the way bosses deal with staff across the EU including in the UK . Experts argued the subject out on today's Good Morning Britain on ITV . Disability charity Scope asked users and supporters their views via Twitter and Facebook - and the overwhelming response was no .

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By . Paul Donnelley . A police crackdown on burglary in the Northeast has resulted in more than 400 arrests and sentences totalling 100 years being handed down. Northumbria Police launched Operation Soundwave in July last year in a bid to tackle opportunist crime. The measures have had some success with burglaries in Newcastle down 4 per cent on the same period last year. Partners in crime: Sarah Bunting and Kirk Watson broke into a nightclub intending to steal alcohol but were caught in the venue's loading bay. Watson had been sentenced for breaking into another club last year . Among those now behind bars are Sarah Bunting, 30, and Kirk Watson, 29, both of Howe Street, Gateshead. On January 7, they broke into Digital nightclub in Times Square via a rear door and stole spirits, liqueurs and beer with a value totalling more than £1,500. The incompetent thieves were quickly apprehended in the club’s service area. Pleading guilty to burglary at Newcastle Magistrates’ Court two days later, they were both sentenced to 44 weeks’ imprisonment. Watson had not long been out of jail after being sentenced for stealing spirits from Beyond Bar, in the Gate, in Newcastle city centre on April 17. He was jailed for four months to run consecutively, as a previous suspended sentence was activated, resulting in an eight-month prison sentence in total. Crime scene: Bunting and Watson broke into Digital nightclub via a rear door and stole spirits, liqueurs and beer with a value totalling more than £1,500. The incompetent thieves were quickly apprehended in the club's service area . Salvatore Musumeci, of Trentham Avenue in Newcastle, was jailed for 12 months on December 11, 2013 for various burglaries . Former waiter Salvatore Musumeci of Trentham Avenue, Byker, Newcastle, was jailed for 12 months on December 11, 2013 after pleading guilty to a burglary a month earlier and three other similar offences. Musumeci, 44, told police that he became a heroin addict after losing his job at Francesca’s, in Jesmond. He was caught after taxi driver Kenneth Davidson saw Debra Dunthorne in distress when she found a burglar in her home in Benton, Newcastle. Mr Davidson rang the police on his mobile and then chased after the man, giving a running commentary on his phone. When he caught up with Musumeci, Mr Davidson sat on him until police arrived to make an arrest. Judge Guy Whitburn QC, at Newcastle Crown Court, said: “I award Mr Davidson £200 out of the public purse for his public-spirited actions in helping Miss Dunthorne and in restraining the defendant until the police arrived.” Behind bars: Patrick Jobson (left), 26, of Eastern Way, Newcastle, was jailed for two years on January 27; Richard Hunter (right), 28, of Bentinck Terrace in Newcastle, was sentenced to 29 months on February 12 . Jailbirds: Brian Hunter (left), 38, of New Bridge Street, Newcastle, was sent to prison for two years and five months on December 20, 2013; Kevin Lawson, 23, of Shipley Street in Newcastle, was jailed for six years and six months on February 11 . Porridge: Gary Beaton (left), 21, of Church Walk House, Newcastle, was jailed for two years on February 20; James Connelly, (right) 25, of Weldon Crescent, Newcastle, received a sentence of 18 months on February 7 . Criminals: Christopher Cragen (left), 28, of City Road, Newcastle, was jailed for 18 months on January 31; Steven Burr (right), 32, of Wilbury Place, Newcastle, was sentenced to  39 months on January 8 . Newcastle Chief Inspector David Felton said: ‘Since last July dozens of people have been put behind bars, receiving sentences totalling 100 years. ‘That’s a significant amount of time and every time we put a burglar before the courts and they get jailed, it makes Newcastle a safer place for law-abiding residents. ‘We’re well aware the impact burglary has on residents and communities and that’s why we continue to focus on tackling those bringing misery to our communities. ‘I hope the fact these offenders are spending 100 years behind bars reassures people we take it extremely seriously. Burglars can be sure there will be no let-up – efforts are continuing to target suspects to prevent offences from taking place.’ Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird added: ‘This operation shows the terrific commitment Northumbria Police has to tackling house burglaries and reducing crime.’ Behind bars: Robert Nicholson (left), 32, of Carrville Road in North Tyneside, was jailed for seven years and six months on January 27 for a robbery in North Tyneside and a burglary in Newcastle; John Simon (right), 31, of Bentinck Terrace, Newcastle, was sent to prison for two years and eight months on March 3 . Wrong 'uns: Bradley Kilpatrick (left), 20, of Linbridge Drive, Newcastle, was sent for two years to a young offenders' institute on December 13, 2013; Colin Morrison (right), 19, Baxterwood Grove, Newcastle, was also sent to a young offenders institute on February 20 where he will serve 17 months . Prisoners: Gary Wilson (left), 36, City Road, Newcastle, was jailed for six months on February 27; Robert Thompson (righ), 36, of Ravensworth Street in Wallsend, was jailed for six years and four months on January 27 for a robbery in North Tyneside and a burglary in Newcastle .

Northumbria Police Force launched Operation Soundwave last July . Burglaries have fallen four per cent on same period last year . Repeat offenders sent to prison for opportunist crimes .

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A senior Iranian naval official said Iran is sending warships toward U.S. maritime borders to send a message -- a move a U.S. defense official characterized as an announcement, not a deployment. "Iran's military fleet is approaching the United States' maritime borders, and this move has a message," Adm. Afshin Rezayee Haddad said, the semiofficial Fars news agency reported Saturday. The plan, according to Fars, is a response to the United States beefing up its naval presence in the Persian Gulf. The U.S. 5th Fleet is based in Bahrain. Haddad said the Iranian fleet was approaching the Atlantic Ocean "via the waters near South Africa," a claim that has not been confirmed. A U.S. military official told CNN there was no operational information to support the claim. "They do send some ships from time to time to the Gulf of Aden for unilateral counter piracy operations. In theory, a couple of ships could go there and then off south down towards the cape," the official said. "Announcement not deployment" It's not the first time Iran has made such a threat, a U.S. defense official said. "It's important to understand that, at this point, we have an announcement not a deployment. They've stated this aspiration before," said the defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. In 2011, Iran twice announced plans to send ships toward the U.S. maritime borders. "Freedom of the seas doesn't just apply to fish. It applies to all maritime nations, all navies, everywhere -- so long as they understand the responsibilities which come with that freedom," the defense official said. "So if they chose to send their ships to the Atlantic, I'm sure they won't be surprised to find many, many others already there." The Iranian navy is the smallest of its military forces, according to GlobalSecurity.org, which tracks defense and intelligence issues.

Iran's move is meant as a message, a senior Iranian naval official says . There is no operational info to support the claim, a U.S. military official says . "We have an announcement, not a deployment," a U.S. defense official says . In 2011, Iran twice announced plans to send ships toward the U.S. maritime borders .

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Far-right politician Marine Le Pen has fractured her spine after falling into an empty swimming pool in France, it emerged tonight. News of the 44-year-old's 'rather serious' accident will send shockwaves around nationalist groups, not just in France but across Europe. Le Pen, who is leader of the National Front (FN), is one of the most high-profile right-wing politicians on the continent, with her hardline anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim agenda regularly winning a huge number of votes at elections. Family politics: Marine Le Pen, with her father Jean-Marie Le Pen, who she succeeded as leader of the Front National . A poll in May showed that the current president, Francois Hollande, would lose to her if France were to vote tomorrow. Miss Le Pen has been capitalising recently on growing discontent in over economic gloom, record unemployment levels and President Hollande's personal unpopularity. News of her accident was broken by her notorious father, the convicted racist and anti-Semite Jean Marie Le Pen, who was runner-up in the French presidential elections of 2002. Explaining his daughter's absence from an FN meeting in Limoges today, Le Pen senior said: 'Marine could not come because she was the victim of a rather serious accident that prevented her from moving. She fell into an empty pool and got a fracture of the spine.' A statement released by the FN said Le Pen had a fracture of the sacral - the triangle-shaped bone at the bottom of the spine. It is a particularly painful condition which severely limits movement and may require surgery to put right. Le Pen's accident happened a week ago but, said the FN, she was determined it would not stop her fulfilling future engagements. Modernising influence: Marine Le Pen is a pivotal force in French politics after moving her party's image away from extremism and racism . The FN, which was founded by her father, is the third largest political force in France, and has been led by Le Pen since January 2011. Since then she has attempted to modernise its image for extremism, and for intimidating Jews, Muslims, and those from racial minorities. In recent weeks she has been at the forefront of the campaign to prevent gay marriage in France, and has also been a fierce critic of Francois Hollande's Socialist government. She wants to severely reduce immigration to France, reinstate capital punishment, and withdraw from the European Union. Like her father, Le Pen's energy and enthusiasm has come to personify the FN - something which could now be put at risk by her accident.

Marine Le Pen is leader of France's far-right Front National party . Father Jean Marie Le Pen was runner-up in presidential elections of 2002 . Their party is one of the most successful right-wing movements in Europe . Poll showed she would beat President Hollande if France voted tomorrow .

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Barcelona boss Luis Enrique is full of praise for his players after their 9-0 aggregate win against Elche in the Copa del Rey. He told the club's official website: 'I have to compliment them all on their attitude. When you've got a tie virtually won, it's not easy to maintain the intensity levels that are necessary, but they did.' Having aleady beaten Elche 5-0 at the Camp Nou, the Catalan side went on to score four more goals in the second leg of the tie on January 15, and booked a quarter-final clash with Atletico Madrid later this month. Barcelona boss Luis Enrique was pleased with his side's efforts after the win over Elche in the Copa del Rey . Enrique rested key names against Elche such as Neymar and Lionel Messi, and included six Barcelona B players in his squad. However, Neymar and Messi are expected to return to the starting line-up for Barcelona's next game in La Liga against Deportivo La Coruna. Barcelona are currently second in the league table with 41 points, a point behind Real Madrid, who have played a game less. Barcelona players are pictured training ahead of their next La Liga game with Deportivo La Coruna . Barcelona forward Lionel Messi arrives for a training session at the Sports Center FC Barcelona . Barcelona's German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen stretches during the training session . Along with Messi, Brazil star Neymar was rested for the Elche game on January 15 . Enrique, who replaced Gerardo Martino as Barcelona chief in May last year, is under huge pressure to succeed at the Camp Nou. He recently faced allegations about a fallout with Messi after the striker was benched during Barcelona's 1-0 defeat to  Real Sociedad. But Enrique and Messi have since denied reports of a rift between them. Elche's defender Sergio Pelegrin (right) battles for the ball with Barcelona's striker Munir El Haddadi . Barcelona's French defender Jeremy Mathieu (third right) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring . Elche's defender Eduardo Albacar (right) battles for the ball with Barcelona's  Adama Traore . Fernando Torres (left) scored two goals to send Atletico Madrid into the quarter-finals against Barcelona .

Luis Enrique has been buoyed by Barcelona's performance over Elche . Barcelona ran out 9-0 winners on aggregate in the Copa del Rey . Enrique's side will face Atletico Madrid in the next round . The Catalan club are currently second in La Liga .

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By . Laurie Whitwell . UPDATED: . 17:04 EST, 30 October 2011 . Former astronaut Edgar Mitchell has reluctantly given back the space camera he brought home from his 1971 Apollo 14 moon mission, rather than face a federal lawsuit over its ownership. The 81-year-old argued the data acquisition camera was a gift from NASA, and earlier this year - four decades after taking it to space - he tried to auction it through the British firm Bonhams. NASA says the camera is U.S. government property and sued Mr Mitchell to get it back after learning in March the device was up for sale. Camera battle: NASA forced Apollo 14 astronaut Edgar Mitchell to hand over the camera which took this picture of him on the moon in 1971 . Legal wrangle: Mr Mitchell said the 16mm motion picture camera was a gift from NASA and had put it up for auction with a guide price of $80,000 . His for forty years: Mr Mitchell, 81, argued the camera would have been space junk otherwise . In papers filed Thursday, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Miami stated Mr Mitchell, the sixth man to walk on the moon, will 'relinquish all claims of ownership, legal title, or dominion' of the 16mm motion picture camera. Mr Mitchell agreed to allow Bonhams' New York auction house, where the  camera was consigned for sale last June, to release the artifact to the government. Bonhams had estimated the camera's value at $60,000 to $80,000. Once returned to NASA, the space agency will pass it on to the National Air and Space Museum in Washington for display within 60 days. Both sides will pay their own legal expenses. A judge was expected to sign off on the settlement in the coming days. Mitchell’s attorney Armen R. Vartian said his client decided the settlement was the best way to resolve a conflict with NASA. 'I think both sides saw the lawsuit as something that should not continue,' he added. Mr Mitchell is one of 12 humans to have walked on the moon. He later received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The . data acquisition cameras (DAC), measuring six inches, by four inches by . two inches, were taken into space to record engineering data and lunar . surface imagery. This particular camera was one of two that went to the moon's surface on the Apollo 14 mission, which Mr Mitchell piloted. It shot the final five minutes of the lunar module, named Antares, landing on the moon. Moon mission: Edgar Mitchell, pictured, was the sixth person the walk on the moon and spent nine hours working on the lunar surface . Historic: Mr Mitchell pictured working with a Hasselblad camera, not the one he took, before his mission with Alan Shepard and Stuart Roosa . During the mission, Mr Mitchell and Alan Shepard spent hours collecting nearly 100 pounds of lunar samples. They also demonstrated that astronauts could walk long distances safely, covering about two miles on one expedition. Mr Shepard's attempt at swatting a golf ball on the moon can be viewed on the internet. The mission plan called for the DACs to . be left in Antares to save weight aboard the command module, the capsule . that would return the two moonwalkers and pilot Stu Roosa to Earth. But Mr Mitchell saved the camera and . brought it back to Earth along with various other spacesuit and . spacecraft hardware the team chose to keep as mementos. The . camera remained in Mr Mitchell's possession for 40 years but when he . tried to sell it, NASA issued a legal suit demanding back the 'exclusive . property of the United States'. Public viewing: Once returned to NASA, the space agency will pass it on to the National Air and Space Museum in Washington for display within 60 days . Mr Mitchell countered by referring to a practice in the 1970s that allowed the Apollo astronauts to keep equipment that had not been intended to return from the moon, so long as the items did not exceed weight limitations and were approved by management. Mr Mitchell argued that if he had not brought it home, the camera would still be space junk, unwanted by NASA. The government has won out, though, despite never making clear what distinguished the camera from other Apollo-returned hardware. Since his retirement, Mr Mitchell has devoted much of his life to exploring the mind, physics, the possibility of space aliens and ways of linking religion with scientific fact.

Edgar Mitchell hands over 16mm motion picture camera . The 81-year-old had kept it for 40 years . Claimed device instead of dumping it after Apollo 14 . He was sixth man to walk on the moon .

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By . Becky Evans . PUBLISHED: . 08:30 EST, 19 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:45 EST, 19 March 2013 . A grandmother who is 'trapped in World War Two' after a police car ploughed into her garden plans to sue the Metropolitan Police. The family of Eileen Lee, 76, said she now crouches on the ground with her hands over her head when she hears a loud noise and repeatedly shouts: 'Run for cover, the bombs are dropping'. They say she has suffered recurring flashbacks of bomb attacks since the police car hit her fence in Kirkdale, Sydenham, south London. The family of Eileen Lee, pictured with dog Coco, say she has been 'trapped in World War Two' since the crash and they are now suing the Metropolitan Police . The police car was about to set off in pursuit of a motorcyclist when it overturned and hit the pensioner's fence . The grandmother-of-two survived a Second World War bomb as a child that destroyed her family's Bromley home. Her daughter Maxine, 49, says her mother, who was only three and four years old during The Blitz, has been thrown into a 1940s time warp. She said she was fine before the crash on August 22, last year, but has since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress and spent Christmas in a psychiatric ward at Bethlem Royal Hospital in Beckenham. Ms Lee said the trauma has left her mother 'just wanting to die'. The grandmother believed the noise of the crash was the sound of bombs . Post-traumatic stress disorder is a disabling anxiety disorder triggered by a traumatic experience that can range from a single incident to chronic stress, such as warfare. Stressful or frightening events such as serious road accidents, terrorist attacks, military combat, assaults or natural disasters can cause PTSD. Symptoms of sufferers can include nightmares or flashbacks to the traumatic event or problems sleeping or concentrating that affect daily life. The disorder may develop almost immediately or take weeks, months or years to take hold. Patients are commonly treated with supportive therapies, including antipsychotics, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and psychotherapy. The NHS says that PTSD affects up to 30 per cent of people who experience a traumatic event. Ten per cent of women and five per cent of men will be affected at some point in their life. She said: 'Her mental health has further deteriorated on a massive scale. 'She's terrible. I haven't got a mum any more. I've lost her. Since that night she doesn't go out, she doesn't dress. 'It's very, very sad that our united family has come to this.' The police car was about to pursue a motorbike on her road but crashed and overturned into her garden. The pensioner was watching television and had let her Pomeranian dog Coco into the back garden minutes earlier. Ms Lee said: 'Any loud bangs, any noise outside, she's just petrified. She still doesn't sleep.' She said her mother is now extremely depressed, according to her daughter, and has suicidal thoughts. The family say they have struggled to find a lawyer to represent them as they were denied legal aid, which they blamed on upcoming cutbacks. But they have now secured a lawyer who will represent the family on a 'no win no fee' basis although they have not yet filed a writ. Ms Lee said: 'I consider that my mum's plight is a matter of major public concern.' A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: 'A thorough investigation is taking place and it has not yet concluded so it will be inappropriate for us to discuss it at this time.'

Eileen Lee suffered post-traumatic stress after the police car crash . Family say the grandmother is now 'trapped in World War Two' Pensioner survived bomb attack that destroyed family home in war .

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By . Emily Davies . PUBLISHED: . 07:09 EST, 17 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 03:26 EST, 18 March 2013 . Danny Boyle nearly quit as artistic director of the London 2012 Olympics on multiple occasions due to rows over penny pinching, it has been revealed. He has also threatened to resign in order to get his own way, he has said in a new book which delves into Boyle's experience of last year's Games. Boyle said he became 'unbelievably unpleasant' in meetings with Locog and refused to work from their 'bland corporate' offices in Canary Wharf. Danny Boyle nearly resigned over frustration with penny pinching by Locog, a new book (pictured right) reveals . In Danny Boyle: Creating Wonder - in conversation with Amy Raphael, it is revealed that despite running up costs of £27million for the opening ceremony, the Oscar-winning director said one of the main causes for disputes with organisers was over costs. He became riled after organisers tried to sell volunteers their ceremony costumes, rather than allowing them to keep the outfits as souvenirs. He said: 'Of course, Locog decided to ditch the tradition in favour of selling the costumes to the volunteers. I said they must be joking. 'We won in the end, and they took them home without having to pay.' Despite running up a bill of £27million for the opening ceremony, Boyle said the biggest clash with Locog was over costs . Boyle clashed with organisers after they tried to sell volunteers their costumes, rather than letting them keep the outfits as a memento . Boyle was also riled when the . organisers made the 'ridiculous' proposal of providing one drum for . every five drummers due to budget constraints. 'I . wasn't asking for high-quality drums. Just the kind you see guys . playing outside Liverpool Lime Street or McDonalds...We decided to use . plastic drums,' he said. Boyle . also admitted his threats of resigning were 'useful' in getting his own . way. Organisers initially wanted the Olympic cauldron to be on the . roof, but Boyle demanded the structure be fixed to the stadium floor. But . throwing his weight about did not always work for Boyle. One of his . greatest triumphs of the ceremony was persuading the Queen to take part . in a comical film with James Bond actor Daniel Craig. Boyle . lamented that his original plan to use a Paul Farley poem in the scene . was vetoed because it ends with the line: 'Jesus, I'm the f****** . Queen!' He said: 'For some reason the powers that be weren't keen.' The line: 'Jesus, I'm the f****** Queen!' was omitted from the clip featuring Daniel Craig and the Queen . The threat of resignation was 'useful' to help Boyle get his own way, he said in a new book about his experience of the Games . After ground-to-air missiles were deployed on buildings in east London close to the Olympic stadium the 56-year-old director said he came 'close to walking away'. Similar moral quandries also led artist Damian Hirst and scriptwriter Frank Cottrel-Boyce to threaten resignation from their roles as part of the Games. The two were appalled after details emerged of a £7million sponsorship deal with Dow chemicals, the firm linked to a company involved in the Bhopal gas disaster in India which killed 15,000 people. Hirst pulled out of designing a fabric wrap for the stadium, which was set to transform the venue into a Hanging Garden covered in ivy. But Hirst did subsequently provide other works for the closing ceremony. Danny Boyle nearly quit over the positioning of surface-to-air missiles on the roof of Fred Wigg Tower in Leytonstone . The deployment of ground to air missiles was cause for concern for artistic director Danny Boyle .

Boyle nearly quit when 200 drums were provided for 1,000 drummers . He spoke up for volunteers after Locog tried to make them pay for costumes . Queen persuaded to take part but original plan vetoed by 'powers that be' Damien Hirst and Frank Cottrel-Boyce also came close to quitting the Games . Danny Boyle: Creating Wonder - in conversation with Amy Raphael published by Faber and Faber will be released on April 4.

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(CNN) -- Last week the U.N.'s senior official for extrajudicial executions, Philip Alston, argued in a critical report and remarks delivered in Geneva, Switzerland, that the United States should explain the legal rationale for the CIA's campaign of drone strikes in northwest Pakistan, which he characterized as "a vaguely defined license to kill" that has created "a major accountability vacuum." Alston is also urging the Obama administration to disclose the number of civilians killed in the drone strikes. That is a controversial matter among the Pakistani public, less than a tenth of whom support the strikes, because of their perceived high civilian death rate. The drones' latest important victim is Mustafa Abu al-Yazid, an Egyptian founding member of al-Qaeda who served as the group's number three and was in charge of overseeing the group's plots, recruitment, fundraising and internal security. While Yazid's death is doubtless a blow to the terrorist group, al-Qaeda seems to have a stash of number threes waiting in the wings. At least eight men who have held that slot since 2001 have since ended up in jail or dead. Yazid joins three other number threes who have met their fates at the wrong end of Hellfire missiles: Muhammad Atef, Hamza Rabia and Abu Laith al-Libi. Yazid was not the only casualty from the drone strike that killed him: Reports say his wife, three daughters and a grandchild also died in the May attack in the mountainous Pakistani tribal agency of North Waziristan, a reminder that militant leaders are not the only ones to be felled by drones. According to our count, the drones program in Pakistan has reportedly killed at least 976 people since 2004, of whom approximately two-thirds were described as militants or suspected militants in reliable press accounts, indicating that a third of the victims were not militants. The Obama administration has already authorized 90 drone strikes in and around Pakistan's Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), double the number the Bush administration authorized in its two terms in office. The accuracy of the drone strikes has improved even as the pace of the program has increased over the past two years. In 2008, the first year the drones program picked up speed in Pakistan, an average of only 43 percent of the fatalities from the strikes were reported to be militants or suspected militants. In 2009, that figure shot up to 62 percent, and so far in 2010 it stands at 87 percent, suggesting that the nonmilitant death rate from drone strikes has dropped to around 10 percent this year, according to our database. Overall, since Barack Obama took office, his administration's drone strikes in Pakistan have killed an average of 71 percent militants, compared with the Bush administration's 55 percent, according to reliable media accounts. The Obama administration drone strikes also seem to be having more success eliminating militant leaders, as at least 13 have been confirmed killed in drone attacks since Obama was inaugurated in January 2009, compared with 16 during the Bush administration's five years of authorizing drone strikes in Pakistan. This increase in accuracy targeting both high-level and lower-level al-Qaeda and Taliban members appears to stem from the CIA's use of smaller missiles and increased cooperation with the United States' Pakistani counterparts who, despite public protests about violations of their national sovereignty by the drone strikes, have quietly been sharing vital intelligence. An unnamed U.S. official commented, "You need guys on the ground to tell you who they [the targets] are and that isn't coming from some white guy running around the FATA." After 26 strikes in the Pakistani tribal region of South Waziristan during the first 10 months of 2009, they halted after the start of Pakistan's military ground operations there in mid-October 2009, another indicator of U.S.-Pakistan cooperation about the drones program. As Pakistan gears up for operations in North Waziristan -- the last redoubt for a militant mélange that includes the Haqqani network, various factions of the Afghan and Pakistani Taliban and al-Qaeda -- the United States has fired more drone strikes than ever into this region: 37 of 2010's 39 reported strikes have hit targets in North Waziristan. So far no drone strikes appear to have targeted Osama bin Laden, who occasionally releases audiotapes taunting the United States as he did a few weeks after the alleged botched Christmas Day attempt by an al Qaeda affiliate to blow up a Northwest Airlines passenger jet over Detroit, but who otherwise has vanished into the wilds of the Afghan-Pakistan border region. And al Qaeda's number two official, Ayman al-Zawahiri, who was last targeted by a drone strike in January 2006, has since then proven equally elusive. The criticism of the drone program by the United Nations official Philip Alston seems to have had little impact on the Obama administration, which is plowing ahead with drone strikes in Pakistan's tribal regions on the grounds that they are "effective, exact and essential." The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the authors. The New America Foundation drones database is available here.

U.S. drone warfare claims life of al Qaeda's number 3 leader, the 8th person to hold that position . Co-authors say data shows drone strikes getting more accurate, killing fewer civilians . They say Obama has stepped up drone war in northwest Pakistan . U.N. official has asked U.S. to explain the legal rationale for the drone attacks .

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PUBLISHED: . 10:55 EST, 16 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 13:58 EST, 16 August 2013 . A 12-year-old girl barred from playing football for her school because of her gender is fighting back with the help of a civil liberties group. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is throwing its weight behind the case of Makhaela Jenkins whose local authority claims it is not being sexist because there are other sports girls can do instead of football. Makhaela already plays youth football in the Baltimore area, south east of Columbus, Ohio, but is not allowed to join the active roster for her school team because of her gender. Barred: Youth footballer Makhaela Jenkins, 12, is fighting an Ohio district policy that bans her from playing football for her school . The district's policy is that only boys can participate in football games and contact drills. According to Fox 28 Columbus, the ACLU has written to the school and labelled its principles as being old-fashioned. Jennifer Martinez Atzberger, ACLU of Ohio senior staff attorney, quoted by the news service, said: 'This school is using outdated and untrue stereotypes about gender to decide who participates in athletics.' She added: 'Federal courts in Ohio have made it clear since the 1970’s that if a girl wants to play football, and there is not an equivalent team for girls, she must be allowed to try out for the boys' team.' Makhaela, who has been playing mixed youth football for some time and has earned her place in the team, is popular with the coach and has earned the blessing of her family, also has the law on her side, Atzberger pointed out to Fox 28. The ACLU member highlighted a similar 1974 case, Clinton v. Nagy, in which a family won a District Court case when their 12-year-old daughter was also stopped from playing football on a municipal team because of her sex. Full Contact: Makhaela Jenkins has been playing youth football but her school will not allow her to play for its team. The school district says it offers girls other non-contact sports to take part in. Pictured, a tackle between New England Patriots and the Baltimore Ravens during the 2013 AFC Championship game . The letter was sent yesterday to Liberty Union-Thurston School District. Quoted in a Fox News article, the district's superintendent Paul Mathews claims their policy does not infringe any gender-related violations because the district offers other, non-contact sports for girls. 'We have opportunities for girls, but those opportunities do not include contact sports,' he told Fox News. The school district's board members have not yet publicly responded to the ACLU's letter, the news service said.

Makhaela Jenkins plays youth football but her school has barred her from games because of her gender . The Thurston District, Ohio, says it is not violating the law because there are other sports on offer for girls that are non-contact . The American Civil Liberties Union says the district's policy is out-dated, unacceptable and is unlawful .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 17:17 EST, 1 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 18:46 EST, 1 May 2012 . The two Bronx men who lost their wives, daughters and other family members in a deadly crash on Sunday which claimed seven lives visited the site yesterday at 12.30pm - exactly 24 hours after the fatal crash occurred. Ramon Rosario was joined by Juan Gonzalez as both men summoned up the strength to see the place their families met their end in a wooded area of the Bronx Zoo. Mr Rosario, whose wife Maria Nunez, 35, and daughters Niely, seven, and Marly Rosario, three, perished in the crash, told the New york Post: 'I know what happened, but I wanted to see how it happened.' Grieving: The two Bronx men - Ramon Rosario, left, and Juan Gonzalez - who lost their wives, young daughters and in-laws in a deadly crash Sunday somehow summoned the courage to visit the site yesterday . Juan Gonzalez lost his wife Maria Gonzalez, 45, and daughter Jazlyn, ten. He said: 'The family is destroyed right now. We lost three generations. 'We wanted to see how they lost their lives and also what the city is doing for protection [along the highway]. It’s not secure.' Another victim: Marly Rosario, three, was one of the seven killed on Sunday . Maria Nunez and Gonzalez were sisters. Their parents Jacob Nunez, 85, and Ana Julia Martinez, 81,were also killed in the crash. Seven other relatives of the crash victims joined them as they made their grim pilgrimage to the crash site. According to the Post, Rosario and Gonzalez studied skid marks on the roadway and scuffs in a two-foot concrete curb that served as the launching point for the vehicle. As the two men cautiously leaned over the guardrail to peer down at where their family took their last breaths. Traffic slowed to take in the grieving family, with some shouting messages of support from the windows. The van is believed to have been speeding when it crashed, crossing two lanes of traffic and going over the railing. Police believe it was traveling at 68mph in a 40mph zone. Relatives said another family member could have perished as Maria Gonzalez's son Jeury, 12, was supposed to be in the car to go to baseball practice but was not ready in time. The boy was said to be inconsolable and telling relatives he wishes he had been in the car. Jazlyn was looking forward to receiving her first communion this Saturday at St Raymond’s Church in The Bronx. 'We had her outfit ready, but now we plan on burying her in her first communion dress,' said Simon Torres, 53, the girl’s uncle. Family: Juan Gonzlez, centre rear, is grief stricken after his wife Maria, 45, second from left, died when she drove off the freeway. Daughter Jocelyn, centre front, also died. The family are pictured at the high school graduation of son Jonel, 18, far right . Sisters Niely, 7, and Marly Rosario, 3, also died in the back seat of the SUV . Grandparents: Ana Julia Martinez, 81, and her 85-year-old husband Jacob Nunez died in the horrific crash . Yesterday morning, in an emotional interview with the New York Daily News, Mr Gonzalez said he was 'destroyed' by the news, crying: 'I don't want to live anymore,' he said. Mr Gonzalez, a livery cab driver, . shared a home not far from the crash site with his wife, a maintenance . worker at Fordham University. The Daily News reports the couple was working to pay for college for their 18-year-old son, Jonel. Mr Gonzalez said the family had been to church earlier in the day. The newspaper reports relatives said . her sister, Maria Nunez, worked for a school bus company in the Bronx . and had three daughters. Tragic: The wreckage of the minivan lies in the grounds of New York's Bronx zoo. Seven people inside the van died after it fell 59ft from a freeway on Sunday . Police and emergency workers investigated the Bronx crash, which looks to be the deadliest in New York in the past year . Investigation: The car crashed into a non-public, heavily wooded area of the zoo and was not near any visitors or exhibits . Rescue work: Multiple emergency teams worked together to salvage clues from the scene . Police say Jacob Nunez and Ana Julia . Martinez were staying with Maria Gonzalez at her home in the Bronx while . visiting from the Dominican Republic. According to the News, the elders had a total of 13 children, six of whom lived in the U.S.; seven remain in Santo Domingo. They are believed to have arrived on Thursday for a two-month stay. Their son, Ignacio Nunez, 64, lost two sisters, his parents and three nieces. 'The injuries were quite horrific. In 30 years I've seen something like this once or twice.' -EMS deputy chief Howard Sickles . 'I went to the hospital. They’re all dead,' he told the Daily News. 'I don’t know how to feel,' he said. 'I feel very, very bad.' The family of seven died after their minivan plummeted 59ft from the Bronx River Parkway. Police say Mrs Gonzalez was at the wheel of a white 2004 Honda Pilot when it vaulted off an overpass. A police source told MailOnline all . seven of the victims had to be extracted from the crashed vehicle and . were pronounced dead at the scene. According to a police report, the van . was headed south Sunday afternoon around 12:30pm on the Bronx River . Parkway, a highway in the north of the city. Seven people- including three children- are confirmed dead after a van crashed off the Bronx River Parkway overpass near the Bronx Zoo . Area: The minivan crashed into the grounds of Bronx Zoo . The vehicle then bounced off the median, crossed all southbound lanes over to the guardrail and fell 59ft. The car landed in a heavily-overgrown area of the Zoo grounds, which made the recovery difficult for emergency workers. No criminality is suspected. One fire fighter suffered minor injuries sustained on the scene. 'It’s terrible, just carnage. The passengers didn’t stand a chance,' an unidentified fire department source told The New York Post. Police . say Jacob Nunez and Ana Julia Martinez were staying with Maria Gonzalez . at her home in the Bronx while visiting from the Dominican Republic. The nearly Bronx Zoo, which is the largest metropolitan zoo in the world, is run by the Wildlife Conservation Society. A representative for the Conservation Society told NY1 . that the crash did not take place 'anywhere near the Bronx Zoo's . exhibits or visitors'. The injuries were quite horrific,' EMS Deputy Chief Howard Sickles told DNA Info. 'In . 30 years I've seen something like this once or twice. Everybody was . taken aback by it because everybody has a relative, everybody knows a . child and everybody has a grandparent. ... It's very upsetting.' The southbound side of the highway was closed Sunday afternoon while police investigated. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. said that he will be ordering a safety examination by the relevant authorities in light of the accident. This is the worst crash New York has seen in over a year, since 14 people died in a bus crash on Interstate 95 headed back from Mohegan Sun casino to Chinatown. A similar- though non-fatal- accident occurred at the same spot last June when an SUV bounced off the guard rail and fell off the overpass. In that incident, two people inside the car were injured but there were no deaths. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this tragic time,' Mayor Michael Bloomberg said in a statement.

Juan Gonzalez says his family went to church shortly before the Sunday crash . Driver was his wife, 45-year-old Maria Gonzalez . Parents, sister, daughter and nieces, aged three to 85, died in the crash . All seven passengers had to be extracted from the car and were pronounced dead at the scene .

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By . Chris Brooke . PUBLISHED: . 04:28 EST, 23 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 19:40 EST, 23 November 2012 . Caring: Shannon was a 'loving and absolutely fantastic daughter' A teenager who had been prescribed a contraceptive pill to clear up her acne died after suffering a blood clot, an inquest heard yesterday. Hours before her death, Shannon Deakin, 16, had gone to an out-of-hours surgery with ‘knife-like’ pains in her thigh. She saw a newly-qualified locum GP, Dr Karim Mohammed, who excluded deep vein thrombosis as a cause and gave her antibiotics instead. He told Shannon to see her family doctor within two days if she wasn’t feeling better, but she died 12 hours later. An inquest was told the midwifery student had been prescribed the oral contraceptive Dianette by her GP. The pill is known to carry a higher risk of developing blood clots compared to similar pills. Shannon had been taking the Pill for a month before coming off it four weeks before she died on December 4 last year. A post-mortem examination showed she died from a pulmonary embolism caused by a blood clot moving from her leg to her chest, which the pathologist described as ‘extremely rare’. Consultant haematologist Dr Rhona Maclean told the hearing that the risk of Shannon developing a thrombosis from taking  Dianette was ‘very low’. But she said: ‘It would be at its highest in the first six months of taking the Pill.’ During the month Shannon was taking Dianette, the risk of having a thrombosis was estimated to be ‘15 to 25 in every 100,000’. Her GP had prescribed the Pill after the teenager complained of acne on her back, chest and face. The inquest at Sheffield was told Dr Mohammed was on call at the walk-in clinic in Barnsley Hospital when Shannon came in complaining of pain from her abdomen to her groin. Dianette: Women taking a contraceptive pill are more likely to develop blood clots . Because she had been on the Pill for only a short time, he did not ask any further questions and excluded DVT from his diagnosis. ‘I explained it was highly unlikely that it was a clot and my findings were more of an infection or muscular pain,’ he said. Shannon later collapsed on the sofa of her home in Hoyland, South Yorkshire. Her father Bryan, 58, tried to revive her but she was declared dead in hospital. Her mother, Susan, 43, said: ‘She was a very caring person, very  outgoing, loving, an absolutely  fantastic daughter and had such generosity towards everyone else. ‘She wanted a career as a midwife and wanted children. You couldn’t ask for a better daughter.’ Dr James Gray, who carried  out an independent review, said because Shannon had been off the Pill for four weeks the risk associated with Dianette was likely to  be ‘very small’. He said: ‘It is known to be slightly higher risk than other pills, but in Shannon’s case we have no known risk factors.’ Commenting on the locum doctor’s treatment, he said: ‘It may have been prudent to arrange a scan that day but I do not believe the overall assessment was in itself unreasonable.’ Asked if he had taken into account all known risk factors for DVT, Dr Gray replied: ‘I remain unconvinced that is the case.’ The hearing continues. Risks: Women are more at risk of a blood clot if they smoke, are overweight or have diabetes . Dianette, which has the medical name cyproterone acetate, works by suppressing the action of testosterone on the body's tissues.It is also used as a hormone therapy in men undergoing sex change treatment, as well as in tackling early onset puberty. The NHS website said Dianette is only used to treat acne when previous treatments have not been successful. Women are more at risk of a blot clot if they smoke, have polycystic ovary syndrome, are seriously overweight, recently had a baby, have high blood pressure or diabetes or conditions such as Crohn's disease. The NHS warns women taking the pill to be wary of signs including migraines for the first time, pain or swelling in legs, stabbing pain when they breathe, pain in the chest or sudden changes to eyesight or hearing.

Shannon Deakin stopped taking the Dianette pill four weeks before her death . GP thought it was an infection and gave her antibiotics but she died 12 hours later . Devastated mother Susan said her daughter was a 'loving, outgoing, girl'

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By . Richard Shears . Last updated at 10:14 AM on 1st January 2012 . Kim Jong-Il's estranged playboy son has made a secret visit to North Korea using a false passport to pay respects to his father, it was revealed today. Kim Jong-Nam, 40, flew from the Chinese territory of Macau direct to Pyongyang, according to a report in Japan. With his 27-year-old half-brother, Kim Jong-Un - who is now supreme commander of everything in North Korea - he stood beside their father's body and paid their respects before the older man returned to Macau. Respects: Kim Jong-Nam, left, the playboy son of the former North Korean leader, made a secret visit to pay respects with Kim Jong-Un - the new Supreme leader . Mourning: Thousands of North Korean people pay their respects during the National Memorial Service at Kim Il Sung Square . Dead: Kim Jong-Il who died of a heart attack last month aged 69 . In order not to draw attention to himself or raise controversy about why he was not appointed to take his father's place, he did not even attend Kim Jong-Il's state funeral on December 28. It is not known whether any animosity arose between the half-brothers, who were at the centre of rumours in 2009 suggesting that people around Jong-Un had tried to assassinate his older brother in Macau. Sources in North Korea said the plan to assassinate Jong-Nam was foiled after Beijing heard about it and spirited Jong-Nam away from Macau to a safe place. According to the respected Japanese daily newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun, Jong-Nam took immediate steps to fly to Pyongyang from Macau, where he usually lives, on December 17 after learning of his father's death that day. He used a passport under the false . identity of Kim Chol and avoided travelling via Beijing which would have . drawn attention to his visit. Grief: Mourners surround Kim Jong-Ils coffin during his funeral procession through the streets of Pyongyang, North Korea . Funeral: Kim Jong-Un, the dictator's successor (to the left of the hearse) walks beside the convoy carrying his father's body . North Korea vowed to stage an all-out drive for prosperity as it unites behind new leader Kim Jong-Un, ushering in 2012 with promises to resolve food shortages, bolster its military and defend Kim Jong Il's young son 'unto death'. The pledge in North Korea's annual New Year's message, released by the official Korean Central News Agency, comes as the country enters a new era. The message said: 'Glorify this year 2012 as a year of proud victory, a year when an era of prosperity is unfolding. 'The whole Party, the entire army and all the people should possess a firm conviction that they will become human bulwarks and human shields in defending Kim Jong Un unto death.' North Korea said it would boost its military, and boasted that it was 'at the epochal point of opening the gates of a thriving country', with parts of Pyongyang 'turned into socialist fairylands'. The message also acknowledged the country's food crisis, saying 'the food problem is a burning issue'. Pyongyang had been in talks with the United States on food aid, but they stopped because of Kim Jong Il's death. He did not attend the state funeral because he did not want to give rise to arguments about 'why the third (son) should become the successor,' a source told the paper. The paper said it had been told that Kim Jong-Nam 'pulled out of the succession race several years ago by himself, saying he had no interest in politics.' He has lived abroad for many years and has been seen in Macau, Singapore and Beijing, after apparently falling out of favour with his father for trying to enter Japan on a false passport in 2001. There was unhappiness in Pyongyang, too, about reports that he was spending most of his time playing roulette in the casinos of Macau. As his health failed, Dear Leader Kim Jong-Il decided it was his youngest son from another marriage who should continue the dynasty. Jong-Un has been named 'the great successor' and supreme commander of the military following his father's death at the age of 69 from a heart attack. Last week a South Korean news agency reported that Jong-Nam had been 'placed under Chinese protection' amid speculation that another assassination attempt might be made against him to stamp out continuing controversy surrounding him. Jong-Nam has dismissed talk of a death plot against him, saying they are 'a farce'.

Kim Jong-Nam, 40, avoided his father's funeral to avoid speculation about why he was not the new ruler . North Korea promise New Year drive for prosperity .

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By . Tom Kelly . PUBLISHED: . 07:29 EST, 8 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 20:01 EST, 8 March 2013 . Sold stories: Former Surrey PC Alan Tierney admitted two counts of misconduct in public office . A policeman and a prison officer yesterday pleaded guilty to selling stories about a celebrity and a high-profile inmate to The Sun. Former Surrey PC Alan  Tierney admitted two counts of misconduct in public office after telling the paper about the arrest of Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood for beating up his girlfriend, and that of former England captain John Terry’s mother for shoplifting. Prison officer Richard  Trunkfield, 31, of Moulton,  Northamptonshire, pleaded guilty to the same offence for  selling information to journalists about a prisoner. A second ex-policeman, who cannot be named for legal  reasons, also pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office. Another public official, who again cannot be named, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit misconduct in public office  during the hearings at the Old Bailey. Tierney and Trunkfield were arrested as part of Operation Elveden, which was set up to investigate allegations of newspapers paying police officers and public officials for information. Tierney, 40, of Hayling Island, Hampshire, sold the newspaper details about Sue Terry and Sue Poole, the mother and mother-in-law of Premier League star Terry, being arrested on suspicion of shoplifting in Surrey in 2009. The women both accepted cautions over the incident. Alan Tierney also sold information about the arrest of John Terry's mother and mother-in-law . He also sold details about the arrest of guitarist Wood, 65, on suspicion of assaulting his  Russian lover Ekaterina Ivanova during a drunken brawl. Wood also accepted a caution. Tierney, who was paid £1,750 by the newspaper, will be sentenced later this month. Mr Justice Fulford warned him that ‘all options remain open’. Court: Rebekah Brooks arrives yesterday arriving in at the Old Bailey yesterday in relation to a separate case . Trunkfield, a former prison operational support officer at HMP Woodhill, in Milton  Keynes, Buckinghamshire, admitted leaking information about a prisoner to The Sun in 2009. He was paid £3,350 for the revelations, the court heard. Former News International chief executive Rebekah Brooks, 44, also appeared at the Old Bailey yesterday in relation to a separate case. The matter was adjourned until next month. Past News of the World editor and government spin doctor Andy Coulson appeared in the dock as well, in connection with an alleged conspiracy to bribe public officials for information. The 45-year-old is accused with former News of the World royal correspondent Clive Goodman of requesting and authorising  payments to public officials in exchange for information. The information referred to is believed to include a royal phone directory known as the ‘Green Book’. The pair face two counts of  conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office – one from between August 31, 2002 and January 31, 2003, and the other dating from between January 31 and June 3, 2005. Their case was adjourned until next month. In a separate hearing, Sun chief reporter John Kay, 69, from north-west London, entered a not guilty plea to conspiracy to commit misconduct in public office. Ex-Surrey police officer Alan Tierney admitted leaking a story that Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood, left, allegedly assaulted his then girlfriend Ekaterina Ivanova, right, in December 2009 . Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons.

Alan Tierney sold information about arrest of John Terry's mother Sue . Tierney also sold information about arrest of Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood . Prison officer Richard Trunkfield admitted leaking high profile inmate details . Tierney and Trunkfield were arrested under Operation Elveden .

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(CNN) -- A Georgia youth football coach who made disparaging comments on Facebook about ethnic groups and women wants to continue coaching and hopes people accept his apology, his attorney said Wednesday. Frank Samuelson, who coached 10-year-old athletes at the Brookwood Football Association in suburban Atlanta, made an apology Tuesday night to members of the association. But some parents were unmoved. "Frank Samuelson, by name, is a racist," said Joseph Clark, who said he is taking his son out of the program in the upscale area in Gwinnett County. The coach should have stepped down, Clark added. Blake Fleming, a parent of a player in the association, told HLN Wednesday night that he heard complaints from other parents earlier this fall and sent complaints to officials. The postings stayed up and there was no immediate action, he said. Samuelson eventually resigned from the association board after the comments went public. Attorney Chris McClurg, who said he also has been Samuelson's friend for about five years, said the coach made a public apology and "is a nice guy" who made "insensitive" remarks. The coach said in a statement the comments were meant for friends and in some cases he was responding to comments. The coach described south Asians as "Red Dots" and Hispanics as "Beaners," according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, which said he mocked other ethnic groups and women. Samuelson told the newspaper one posting represented inside jokes between friends: "How to solve illegal immigration: Arrest the 30+ million illegals that are here first. Have them build a huge brick wall across the border [those guys do great brick work], and make them build it from the Mexican side of the border. Mount 50 calibre machine guns across the top and shoot anyone trying to climb over." According to the newspaper, another posting, also with spelling errors, read: "I was dining in an Asian buffet today [big surpise], and I heard this morning how Asian students are suppodely so much smarter than American kids. My personal observation is that those fishheads still eat with chopsticks. It took Western ingenuity to invent the fork. I'm just saying. ... they a'int that friggin' smart." The coach's Facebook page was not visible to the public Wednesday and McClurg would not release its contents. He would not comment on specific allegations in the Journal-Constitution report, but said that his client acknowledged making inappropriate remarks. "He wants to move on," said McClurg, indicating Samuelson was not available for comment Wednesday. Samuelson told CNN affiliate WSB in a statement that the "things I remarked about were meant to be humorous or at least thought provoking in front of the eyes of my friends who make up a variety of different people ... it was meant to either respond to some of my friend's posts or poke at them in turn." CNN affiliates WSB and WXIA broadcast video from Tuesday night's meeting, including Samuelson's apology and Clark's comments. "If there is somebody offended by it I definitely apologize from the bottom of my heart," the coach told WSB, adding some of the posts were "locker room talk" among friends. And he said, many of his postings, were taken out of context. After Samuelson's speech to the association, a large number of those in the crowd stood and applauded. "All you need to know is that 90 percent of the audience stood up and gave him a standing ovation," McClurg told HLN. Samuelson hopes to continue coaching at Brookwood next year, McClurg said. "Frank is loved by all those kids," the attorney said. The association on Tuesday night passed a new bylaw that gave board members the power to "expel from the membership" anyone whose activities are considered detrimental, according to the Journal-Constitution. A message left with the Brookwood board president was not immediately returned Wednesday. CNN's Phil Gast and HLN's Lisa Camp contributed to this report.

Georgia youth football coach apologizes for Facebook postings . Posts disparage ethnic groups and women . Coach says they were taken out of context . Some parents don't think he should be allowed to continue coaching .

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By . Dan Bloom . Jeremy Clarkson claims the BBC has put him on his final warning for 'appearing' to use the n-word in unaired Top Gear footage - and he will be sacked if he ever makes an offensive remark again. The 54-year-old admitted 'not even the angel Gabriel' could survive after the threat - especially not a presenter renowned for controversy. And despite begging for forgiveness less than two days ago for the clip of him saying the nursery rhyme Eeny Meeny Miny Mo, Clarkson also claimed the Corporation had forced him to apologise and he did not want to. Scroll down for video . Apology: Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson said he had made . every effort to make sure he did not use the racist slur in a video less than two days ago - but has now said the apology was the BBC's idea and he didn't want to . Warning: The presenter, pictured apologising, said he is now on his final warning from the Corporation . Mr Clarkson, shown filming for Top Gear, when it is alleged he used the n-word - a claim he denies . Writing in his weekly column in The Sun, the presenter compared the apology to saying sorry for starting the Syrian civil war because they were both things he had not done. 'I've been told by the BBC that if I make one more offensive remark, anywhere, at any time, I will be sacked,' he wrote. 'And even the angel Gabriel would struggle to survive with that hanging over his head. 'It's inevitable that one day, someone, somewhere will say that I've offended them, and that will be that.' He also wrote: 'Happily, the BBC had a plan. Unfortunately, it wasn't a very good one. 'An apology is a good idea if you've just spilled some beer down someone's shirt...But saying sorry for using the most racist word of them all, and hoping the story would die down as a result?' The pressure to apologise even went against the advice of his own lawyer, he claimed. A solemn-looking Jeremy Clarkson said the item was recorded a 'couple of years ago' and said he 'did everything in my power to make sure that that version did not appear in the programme that was transmitted' Eventually, he said, he agreed to say sorry and insisted that when he did, he meant it from the heart. In his weekly column the presenter added he had 'become Hitler' and was being attacked by people calling for him to join sex offender Max Clifford in jail. The star became embroiled in controversy after unaired footage of him using the nursery rhyme to compare two sports cars was leaked to the media. Historically the rhyme was 'Eeny meeny miny mo, catch a n***** by his toe', and Clarkson said he 'mumbled' in two takes to avoid using the racist term - which made it sound like he was saying it. In the third, which was broadcast, he said the word 'teacher' instead. An online petition calling for the BBC presenter to be sacked has reached more than 1,000 signatures. Intervention: Deputy Labour leader . Harriet Harman (left) has called for the BBC to sack Clarkson over his . so-called use of the 'N-word' but Education Secretary Michael Gove (right) has . urged him to be kept . Labour figures including deputy leader Harriet Harman also demanded he should be sacked. 'Anybody who uses the N-word in public or private in whatever context has no place in the British Broadcasting Corporation,' she wrote on Twitter. And Labour MP Chris Bryant wrote: 'Clarkson announces he has one last chance. He's been in that saloon so long now he must be hammered.' But Education Secretary Michael Gove urged the BBC not to axe Clarkson because he had been 'clear in his apology'. And the Prime Minister appeared to agree. Mr Cameron's official spokesman said: 'He does . share the Education Secretary's view: it is absolutely right that there . has been an apology.' Pressed on whether he also shared the . view he should keep his job, he replied: 'His view is that in terms of . actions and the like, that's for the BBC.' Denial: The BBC presenter's first tweet immediately after the storm broke earlier this week . Row: Former newspaper editor Piers Morgan has tweeted regularly about a man who is often his nemesis . In his video apology - which he said took hours to complete because he could not remember his Twitter password - Clarkson said he 'did everything in my power to not use that word'. He added he was now 'begging your forgiveness for the fact that obviously my efforts weren't quite good enough'. 'I was mortified by this, horrified. It is a word I loathe,' he said. Controversy: The Top Gear presenter is regularly accused of being offensive . The BBC previously said it had 'left him in no doubt about how seriously we view this'. The claims come days after the motoring show's producer apologised for broadcasting a 'light-hearted' joke by Clarkson that sparked a complaint of racism. An episode filmed in Burma and Thailand featured a scene in which the presenters built a bridge over the River Kwai, and as an Asian man walked over it Clarkson said: 'That is a proud moment, but there's a slope on it.' Somi Guha, an actress who complained to the BBC, said the use of the word 'slope' was an example of 'casual racism' and 'gross misconduct'. In recent years Clarkson has been cleared of breaching the broadcasting code by watchdog Ofcom after comparing a Japanese car to people with growths on their faces. He previously faced a storm of protest from mental health charities after he branded people who throw themselves under trains as 'selfish' and was forced to apologise for telling BBC1's The One Show that striking workers should be shot. The motoring show has also faced complaints from Indian and Mexican politicians over remarks made about their countries while filming on location. A BBC spokesman told MailOnline today: 'We have nothing to add to the statement issued on Thursday.' That statement said: 'Jeremy Clarkson has set out the background to this regrettable episode. 'We have made it absolutely clear to him, the standards the BBC expects on air and off. 'We have left him in no doubt about how seriously we view this.' 'Ordinarily I don't respond to newspaper allegations, but on this occasion I feel I must make an exception. 'A couple of years ago I recorded an item for Top Gear, in which I quoted the rhyme Eeny, Meeny, Miny Moe. 'Now, of course, I was well aware that in the best known version of this rhyme, there is a racist expression that I was extremely keen to avoid. 'The full rushes show that I did three takes. 'In two I mumbled where the offensive word would normally occur and in the third, I replaced it all together with the word "teacher". 'Now when I viewed this footage, several weeks later, I realised that in one of the mumbled versions, if you listen very carefully with the sound turned right up, it did appear that I'd actually used the word I was trying to obscure. 'I was mortified by this, horrified, it is a word I loathe. 'And I did everything in my power to make sure that that version did not appear in the programme that was transmitted. 'In fact, I have here the note I sent at the time to the production office. 'And it says, "I didn't use the n-word here but I've just listened through my headphones and it sounds like I did. Is there another take that we could use?" 'Please be assured I did everything in my power to not use that word. 'And as I'm sitting here begging your forgiveness for that fact that obviously my efforts weren't quite good enough. 'Thank you.'

He said he will be dropped if he makes a remark 'anywhere, at any time' Presenter with long history of stirring controversy said it is unavoidable . Top Gear host 'begged' for forgiveness for appearing to use racist word . Today he also said apology was BBC's idea and 'it wasn't a very good' one . More than 1,000 sign sacking petition as Michael Gove and PM defend him .

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Arsenal travel to Swansea in Sunday's 4pm kick-off, and star forward Alexis Sanchez is confident of bringing three points back to the capital. Sanchez, who has scored consecutive braces in his last two Premier League matches, took to Twitter on Saturday night to reassure Arsenal fans that they have every reason to feel positive in the lead-up to the match. 'Going to sleep!' he tweeted. 'Tomorrow those 3 points are coming to London!!! #GUNNERS'. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Sportsmail Premier League Preview: Swansea vs Arsenal . Alexis Sanchez (second left) posted this picture on Twitter, alongside a confident message ahead of the game . Sanchez trained at London Colney on Saturday ahead of travelling to Swansea with his team-mates . The Chilean forward posted a picture with the confident tweet, showing himself alongside Wojciech Szczesny, Hector Bellerin, Aaron Ramsey, Damien Martinez, Jack Wilshere, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. A win for Arsene Wenger's side will take them above West Ham and back into the top four in the Premier League. Wilshere is available for the game against Garry Monk's side, after missing the last two matches through illness. Mikel Arteta has been ruled out (hamstring), but Theo Walcott could make his first start for 11 months. The home side will be without Jonjo Shelvey, serving his second suspension of the season after being sent off in the Swans' draw at Everton. Jack Wilshere (left) goes in for a tackle on Kieran Gibbs in training on Saturday . Sanchez (left) battles with Thomas Rosicky during training at London Colney prior to the Swansea match .

Arsenal play Swansea at the Liberty Stadium on Sunday afternoon . Alexis Sanchez tweeted that the '3 points are coming to London' Sanchez is in form, having scored four goals in his last two league games . Arsenal can rise above West Ham to fourth with a win .

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By . Becky Evans . PUBLISHED: . 11:28 EST, 25 April 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:17 EST, 25 April 2013 . Car headlights that make rain 'invisible' for drivers are under development and could save lives on the roads, engineers say. Developers hope their brainchild will reduce the number of accidents by improving visibility for motorists in treacherous conditions so they can effectively see through rain. The high-tech lights are programmed to detect water droplets and 'dis-illuminate' them as they fall. Scroll down for video . Developers say the smart headlights that can make rain almost invisible could save lives on the roads . The system uses a camera to track the . motion of raindrops and snowflakes and then applies a computer . algorithm to predict where those particles will fall a few milliseconds . later. The light . projection system then deactivates the light beams that would otherwise . illuminate the rain drops and cause a glare for the driver. At . low speeds, their system could eliminate 70 to 80 per cent of visible . rain during a heavy storm, while losing only 5 or 6 per cent of the . light from the headlamp. The system is less accurate the faster the car travels. It means the driver is less distracted and can focus on the road. The 'See Through Rain' technology works like a projector rather than a traditional single bulb headlight found in today's cars. Currently when a beam shines on a dark road during a downpour, it illuminates raindrops which can distract a driver. The new technology relies on a digital camera to establish a drop's location. Software then predicts where that drop will fall within the driver's field of view and light rays from the headlight that would usually illuminate it are turned off for an 'imperceptible fraction of a second'. Intel engineers say the system would eliminate up to 80 per cent of visible rain during a heavy storm . Components of the new system, which include a camera, projector and beamsplitter . This reduces the glare and leaves only the beams of light which travel uninterrupted between the falling rain, snow or hail. John Tomkins, an engineer at technology . firm Intel, said: 'Even though the light is slightly diminished from the . headlight (when some rays are switched off), it is being diminished . from the areas that would otherwise be distracting to the driver. 'When you eliminate the reflection from the rain, then you are able to see through the rain and see the road much more clearly. 'I would hope this could save lives on the roads though obviously the rain is still hitting your windscreen.' In the worst thunder storm, a motorist in a car travelling at around 20mph would notice a 70% improvement in visibility using the prototype developed by Intel and Carnegie Mellon University, in Pittsburgh, USA. The system becomes less accurate at faster speeds but creators say it would still have a marked improvement on visibility. Developers hope the technology could be fitted in cars within a decade. The research has been developed by Intel and academics at Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science.

Develops say the 'see through rain' technology will help make driving safer . Intel engineers say headlights could be in cars within decade . Lights detect water droplets and 'dis-illuminate' them as they fall . Lights work as a projector rather than traditional single bulb .

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Moscow (CNN) -- The Bolshoi Ballet says the allegations swirling around one of its dancers -- that he choreographed an attack to blind the artistic director -- are "absurd." Even an alleged confession in the case does nothing to convince the cast and crew that Pavel Dmitrichenko could be behind the attack that severely burned and nearly blinded Sergei Filin, the Bolshoi employees said in an open letter Wednesday. "Unfortunately, the history of our country and our society knows many examples" when results were achieved by "illegal methods, and evidence and proof often turned out to be a fiction," the letter said. The group called for an independent commission to probe the attack. Moscow police struck back, saying its "investigators do their job honestly." Ballet 'villain' arrested: Story in 4 Acts . The plot laid out by authorities pits Dmitrichenko as the central villain, lashing out against Filin -- a man who often cast Dmitrichencko as the villain in productions. What neither side disputes: Someone threw sulfuric acid into Filin's face in January as he entered his Moscow apartment. Police say Dmitrichenko had two co-conspirators, one of whom threw the acid. Local newspapers had quoted ballet members as saying Dmitrichenko was angry because he thought Filin was stifling the career of Anzhelina Vorontsova -- Dmitrichenko's girlfriend. "For everyone who knows Pavel Dmitrichenko, even the idea that he could be the mastermind and the customer of the crime committed in such a brutal form, is absurd," the Bolshoi's cast and crew said in their letter. "Having known Pavel personally for many years, we are convinced that despite his notorious temper, his hot-headedness and his straightforwardness, he is a very decent and sympathetic person who is always ready to extend a helping hand." The members added they are convinced "that the fundamental disagreements with Sergei Filin about his artistic and personnel policy in the ballet could not go beyond the law. We believe that the investigation's findings are too rushed, the evidence seems unconvincing and we view Pavel's testimony, which was later changed, as given under pressure." Dmitrichenko and his two alleged accomplices are being held until the police investigation is over. It may take at least six months for Filin to recover from the burns. Doctors performed a skin graft on him, and, after a second eye surgery, were able to save his sight. Filin is "coming through the toughest period of his life," the ballet said. "We hope that the true reasons and circumstances of this crime would be established." Police said the investigation is still ongoing, and preliminary results will be reported to the ballet and to the public. Last week, police declared their case was solved with Dmitrichenko's confession. "I organized this attack but not to the extent that it happened," the dancer is heard saying in a video released by police. Russia's RIA Novosti news agency reported that before the attack, Filin suffered months of intimidation, including threatening phone calls, someone slashing his tires, and someone attempting to hack his Facebook page. CNN's Alla Eshchenko reported from Moscow; CNN's Josh Levs reported from Atlanta. CNN's Alan Duke contributed to this report.

The Bolshoi Ballet cast and crew issue an open letter standing by the plot's alleged mastermind . The letter suggests illegal methods in obtaining Pavel Dmitrichenko's confession . Police say their investigators are acting honestly . The ballet wants an independent commission to investigate .

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By . Meghan Keneally . The frosty relationship between the late Senator Ted Kennedy's first wife and his widow has apparently improved over time. A new report in the National Enquirer claims that the famed Democrat's widow Vicki has tried comforting her predecessor Joan over the past few years after the surprise death of Joan's eldest daughter. Ted, the younger brother of former President John F Kennedy, had three children with Joan, and their eldest Kara died from an unexpected heart attack in 2011, two years after her father succumbed to a brain tumor. Easing the tensions: Senator Ted Kennedy's first wife Joan (left, front) and second wife Vicki (right, back) reportedly did not get along during his life but Vicki has supposedly tried to become closer (the two women pictured at Kennedy's sister Eunice's funeral two weeks before his death in 2009) Final year: Senator Ted Kennedy (pictured in August 2008 at the Democratic National Convention) was diagnosed with a brain tumor three months earlier . Family: He and his first wife Joan (pictured in 1991, nearly a decade after their divorce) had three children together- Kara (left), Patrick (second from left) and Ted Jr (center) 'Their animosity toward each other was evident at his funeral rites, but in the years since, Vicki has reached out to Joan,' an unidentified friend told The National Enquirer. 'Vicki's been concerned that Joan might fall off the wagon again and has repeatedly checked on her.' Joan, 77, has had a history of alcohol abuse and both been arrested for drunk driving on a number of occasions and sent to court-mandated rehabilitation programs. She was married to Kennedy for 24 years before they divorced in 1982. Kennedy married Vicki- nearly 20 years his junior- in 1992, and while the longtime Massachusetts senator was alive, the two women did not reportedly get along. Coming together: Vicki is seen in the front row during her husband's funeral in August 2009, with her stepdaughter Kara standing directly behind her and Kara's brother then-Congressman Patrick Kennedy behind . Keeping to their corners: There were reports that Vicki and Joan (pictured with her son Patrick at the Boston service following Ted's death) were kept away from each other at the Senator's funeral . Kara's sudden heart attack following her . daily work out in Washington D.C. on September 16, 2011, came as a blow . to the family that was still recovering from the loss of their last . patriarch. Time and joint grief for the children that Vicki treated as her own once she married Kennedy have apparently helped soothe the earlier tensions between the two women. 'Vicki will no doubt see Joan this summer and together they'll mourn Ted on the fifth anniversary of his passing,' the anonymous friend told The Enquirer. 'You have to think Teddy would be happy that they're friends and he'd be looking down, smiling.' His family also has some good news to celebrate, as another one of their own has decided to enter the family business. After . Joan and Ted's youngest son Patrick stepped down from Congress shortly . after his father's death, their second child Ted Jr just recently . announced that he hope to enter politics on the state-wide level. Unexpected: Kara Kennedy, seen left in April 2011 with her two children by her side, suffered a fatal heart attack five months after this photo was taken while at a gym . Watching out for Joan: A friend has revealed that Vicki has reached out to her husband's first wife (seen back center following her daughter's casket) after Kara's death because there were fears that Joan would start drinking again . The 52-year-old former healthcare lawyer is running for a seat in the Connecticut state senate. 'I've always thought my brother could be a really powerful leader, I'm not just talking elected-office sense, but leadership sense,' Patrick said about his brother before Ted Jr made his official campaign announcement. 'He's just got such a tremendous personal story. I've always thought he'd be a very compelling political figure because he's integrated work with public policy with his own personal experience.'

Ted Kennedy's widow Vicki has reportedly reached out to his first wife Joan after the sudden death of her daughter Kara . Joan and Ted's daughter died of a heart attack in 2011- two years after the death of the longtime Senator . Friends have said that Vicki was fearful that Joan, who has a history of alcohol abuse, would start drinking . The five-year anniversary of Ted Kennedy's death is this August .

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Leo . Waddell was one of the young people who started taking hormone blockers . on the Tavistock and Portman clinic’s trial at the age of just 12. The . schoolboy, who began life as Lily, has favoured boy’s clothes over . dresses and frills since he was a toddler and at the age of nine told . his mother:  ‘I don’t want to be a girl any more.’ He admitted that  if he had been forced to continue living as a girl, ‘I would probably kill myself’. Transformation: Leo Waddell, who was born Lily, poses with his mother Hayley . Leo . described being referred to the gender identity development service in . 2001 as ‘amazing’ because he was finally able to start living his life. Initially . ‘Lily’s’ mother Hayley, pictured above with her son, thought her . desire to act like a boy would be something she would grow out of, but . as she got older and continued to reject all things feminine she . realised this wasn’t the case. At the age of 11 she allowed Lily to change her name by deed poll to Leo. But Leo, from Lowestoft, Suffolk, recalled how  even with his family’s understanding, he still struggled. He . said: ‘School was tough. It was normal until year six, but then when I . got my name changed they wouldn’t call me Leo for about three months, . and then when they started calling me Leo they still wouldn’t call me . “he”, they carried on calling me “she”.’ His . mother added: ‘Especially where we come from there was a lot of . ignorance surrounding gender dysphoria because no one had heard of it – . not the doctor, not the schools, not even social services.’ Monthly shots: The children are injected with Gonapeptyl, which costs £82 a time .

Leo Waddell took part in controversial hormone blocker trial aged 12 . He was born Lily, and favoured boy's clothes from when he was a toddler . Leo says he would have considered suicide if forced to continue as a girl .

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Jerusalem (CNN) -- Israel has identified six military personnel who are missing after an Israeli helicopter crashed in Romania Monday during a joint military exercise. According to Israel Defense Forces, the Israelis included: Lt. Col. Avner Goldman, Lt. Col. Daniel Shipenbauer, Maj. Yahel Keshet, Maj. Lior Shai, Lt. Nir Lakrif and Sgt. 1st Class Oren Cohen. IDF said the aircraft was carrying four pilots, two mechanics and a member of the Romanian Air Force. The Israeli CH-53 helicopter went down about 3:20 p.m. (8:20 a.m. ET) Monday, the Romanian Defense ministry said in a statement. Search-and-rescue operations began immediately, using a Romanian medical helicopter and two Israeli helicopters, the statement said. The wreckage was found a few hours later in the Fundata-Zarnesti area, near Brasov in central Romania, the defense ministry said. The crash site was in a remote area at an altitude of more than 2,000 meters (about 6,560 feet) in the mountains, according to the ministry. Fog prevented helicopters from flying to the site Monday night. Defense Minister Gabriel Oprea has ordered a commission to the site to investigate the crash, the ministry said. The exercises, scheduled from July 18 through Thursday, are aimed at training low-altitude aircraft crews in search-and-rescue operations and medical evacuations, according to the statement. A CH-53 helicopter made an emergency landing July 18 after experiencing technical problems, the defense ministry said. The problem was fixed, and it took off and landed safely. Journalist Cosmin Stan contributed to this report.

The crash occurred during a joint exercise, the Romanian Defense ministry says . 1 Romanian service member and 6 Israelis were on board . The Israeli crew includes four pilots and two mechanics .

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By . Freya Noble . and Candace Sutton . The five members of the Van Den Hende family who tragically lost their lives in the fatal MH17 flight will be laid to rest in Australia. Hans, 48, his wife Shaliza Dewa, 45, and their children Piers, 15, Marnix, 12 and Margaux, 8, lived in Australia for just five years and were on their way home from a holiday in Europe when the plane went down. There was uncertainty surrounding where the final resting place of the family would be, as Hans' was from the Netherlands, Shaliza was Malaysian but they had put down roots in Australia. They had been based in the Victorian town of Eynesbury for the past three years, and had formed close-knit bonds in the community where their children attended school and played in local sports teams. Mum Shaliza, daughter Margaux, Dad Hans, elder son Piers, and younger son Marnix will be buried all together in Australia once their bodies are recovered from the MH17 crash site . Hans' sister told News Corp Australia the family would be buried in the country that they had made their home and were so happy in. 'We have agreed that they will be buried all together in Australia', Franka Van Den Hende said. She also revealed she had been contacted directly by the Prime Minister and Governor-General and greatly appreciated their support. The family had been on a trip to Europe where they had 'just had a wonderful holiday going back to where they had met in the UK during their PhD studies, to my brother's home country the Netherlands and their family, and a week with my sister and their family in Denmark', Ms Van Den Hende said. Shaliza, pictured with daughter Margaux, was born in Malaysia and it was uncertain where the family would be laid to rest . Tributes poured in for the much-loved family during a memorial held in the community last week, which more than 500 people attended. Many of the children's friends took the microphone to express their shock and dismay at the tragedy. Close friend of the family Tanya Wilmott organised the ceremony, and told Daily Mail Australia the loss of the family was 'a difficult thing to comprehend'. Ms Willmott said she got to know Shaliza because their children were around the same age and all went to the same school, ICA Melton College in nearby Caroline Springs. When the school closed suddenly, the two families transferred their kids to Bacchus Marsh College. Tributes for the family poured in at a memorial service held in their hometown of Eynesbury in Victoria last week . She also revealed last week she did not think Australia would be the family's final resting place, as they had family on Hans' side in the Netherlands and on Shaliza's side in Malaysia. 'She was just a beautiful person, so down to earth you would almost call her Australian,' Ms Willmott said. 'Shaliza really took to the Australian lifestyle. It sounds like a cliché but it was a positive experience meeting this family. They touched people and you didn't forget them.' Their neat weatherboard home 50 kilometres west of Melbourne is still full of their belongings, and members of the community have been at a loss on how to grieve for the family as the house lies empty and their bodies are yet to be returned. The Van Den Hendes never made it home from a family holiday in Europe visiting Hans' family .

Five family members were killed when plane went down in Ukraine . Father Hans was from the Netherlands while mother Shaliza was Malaysian . There was uncertainty where they and their three children would be buried . Hans' sister revealed they will be laid to rest together in Australia .

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It didn't take long Monday for speculation to ramp up online over the timing of the Boston Marathon bombings, which came on Patriots Day, a Masschusetts state holiday commemorating the opening battles of the American Revolutionary War. The American uprising against the British in Lexington, Massachusetts, was on April 19, 1775, but Patriots Day is celebrated in Massachusetts and Maine on the third Monday in April, falling this year on April 15. "It's a day that celebrates the free and fiercely independent spirit that this great American city of Boston has reflected from the earliest days of our nation," President Obama said Monday, a few hours after a pair of bombs rocked the finish line of the Boston Marathon, killing at least three and injuring dozens more. For many New Englanders, it is a day of pride that comes with historical re-enactments, the Boston Marathon, baseball and a day off for schools and government employees. It's now a day that will go down in history along with other violent U.S. incidents in April, including the 1993 FBI siege of David Koresh's compound in Waco, Texas, the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, a mass shooting at Columbine High School in 1999 and the Virginia Tech massacre in 2007. Only the Waco siege and the Oklahoma City bombing actually occurred on April 19, the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Still, to many following developments in Boston online, the proximity of Monday's attack to the April 19 anniversaries was enough to suggest an act of domestic terrorism. "Obviously, nobody knows anything yet," Esquire magazine's Charles Pierce said, "but I would caution folks jumping to conclusions about foreign terrorism to remember that this is the official Patriots Day holiday in Massachusetts ... and that the actual date (April 19) was of some significance to, among other people, Tim McVeigh, because he fancied himself a waterer of the tree of liberty and the like." McVeigh and Oklahoma City bombing co-conspirator Terry Nichols were associated with the extreme right-wing and militant Patriot Movement, which rejects the legitimacy of the federal government and law enforcement. Adherents sometimes form armed militia groups and claim the right to armed self-defense against what they believe to be an oppressive government. McVeigh said he targeted the Federal Building in Oklahoma City to avenge the raid on Waco. Despite commonly held beliefs, it's unclear whether the Columbine shooters timed that attack to mark either Adolf Hitler's birthday or the Waco incident. Time Washington correspondent Alex Altman also noted Patriots Day's "significance" to the "militia movement" in a tweet that was shared 507 times. He also mentioned the Oklahoma City bombing anniversary. In a subsequent tweet, he clarified that "OKC was on Apr. 19, anniversary of the Battles of Lexington & Concord, which are celebrated in Mass as Patriots Day." But is there really something about this time of the year that makes domestic terrorism more prevalent? "I have seen nothing to suggest that anything about April itself makes people violent," Robert Blaskiewicz, who runs the blog Skeptical Humanities, said in a 2011 interview with CNN about the 20-year anniversary of the siege of the Waco compound. "That said, the reason why we see certain types of political violence in mid- to late April is because of a few unhappy coincidences: that Waco happened to fall on the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the first battles in a war against a tyrannical oppressor. "For many people who labor under the idea that the federal government is a tyrannical foreign oppressor like the British monarchy, Waco symbolizes a war of a government against its people." In the mythology that has grown up around Waco and Oklahoma City among self-identified patriots, he said "the 19th has become a sort of high holiday for those who think that they live under the thumb of a tyranny." But, as the injury count continues to rise in Boston, the prevailing sentiment is sorrow and solidarity. "Don't know what to say. Everyone who grew up in and around Boston has been at the finish line on Patriots Day. Could have been any of us," tweeted Frank Dale, digital editor for ESPN's "Mike And Mike in the Morning" show. President Obama offered a nod to the city's strength. "Boston is a tough and resilient town, so are its people," he said. "I'm supremely confident that Bostonians will pull together, take care of each other, and move forward as one proud city. "And, as they do, the American people will be with them every single step of the way."

Patriots Day in Massachusetts commemorates opening battles of American Revolution on April 19 . Boston Marathon is always held on Patriots Day, which falls on third Monday in April . April 19 is anniversary of 1993 FBI siege of Waco compound, 1995 Oklahoma City bombing . Expert: April 19 is a "high holiday" for those who think they live "under the thumb" of tyranny .

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By . Jonathan O'Callaghan . Dryland ecosystems such as deserts play a more important role in the global carbon cycle than previously thought, research has revealed. And one of the biggest contributors, responsible for a huge spike in the amount of CO2 absorbed in 2011, is located in Australia. The findings suggest that the Australian Outback, when exposed to increased rainfall and in turn grows more vegetation, could become a giant 'carbon sink' and might even be a major driver for global carbon absorption. Research suggests that the Australian savannah (pictured) played a major role in the global absorption of carbon in 2011. Other vast carbon sinks in the Southern Hemisphere also had an effect, but Australia was said to be the major driver . However, researchers warn it is not a complete solution to the problems caused by man-made climate change. Montana State University faculty member Ben Poulter and his collaborators explained their findings in the journal Nature. El . Niño refers to a set of conditions when the surface of the sea in an . area along the Equator in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean becomes . hotter than usual. The . average water temperature in that area is typically between 1 and 3°C . (approximately 2 and 5°F) warmer than normal during this event. This . has the effect of adding huge amounts of heat and moisture into the . atmosphere, ultimately affecting patterns of air pressure and rainfall . across the Pacific and globally. Strong El Niño events occur every 20 years or so, but researchers recently said this could drop to 10 years thanks to global warming. At the opposite end of the scale, La Niña is the climatological counterpart to El Niño. La Niña refers to periods when sea-surface temperatures around the Equator are cooler than normal. This has a similar affect on air pressure and rainfall because it suppresses how much heat and moisture enters the atmosphere. They urged global ecologists to include the emerging role of dryland ecosystems in their research. 'Our study found that natural events in Australia were largely responsible for this anomaly,' Poulter said, referring to the spike in 2011. 'La Niña-driven rainfall during 2010 and 2011, as well as the 30-year greening up of its deserts and other drylands contributed to significant changes across the globe.' The team realised that the world's land carbon sinks in 2011 seemed to be absorbing an unusually large amount of carbon, Poulter said. Carbon dioxide moves constantly between land, oceans, vegetation and the atmosphere. When one of those absorbs more carbon dioxide than it releases, it's referred to as a carbon sink. Poulter and his collaborators investigated the phenomena with a variety of data sets and modeling approaches. They eventually discovered surprising interactions between climate extremes and desert greening that increased in importance over the past 30 years. Further study showed that the dryland systems in the Southern Hemisphere, specifically Australia, had particularly high productivity in response to increased La Niña-phase rainfall. In particular, the sink in Australia would have been aided by the 2010 to 2011 La Niña. After years of drought, the huge amount of rain would have given the Australian savannah a boost in plant growth, and thus carbon absorption. Philippe . Ciais, co-author and senior scientist at the Climate and Environment . Sciences Laboratory in (LSCE), said the team was 'surprised' that there . was no evidence of a similar event occuring in the past 30 years. This . suggested that the recent greening of drylands was responsible for some of the changes seen in carbon cycle dynamics. This world map shows global temperature anomalies in 2008 compared to the 1950 to 1980 baseline period. Large areas of the central and eastern Pacific Ocean were cooler than the long-term average, linked to a La Niña episode that began in 2007 . The authors discovered that certain ecosystems had become more sensitive to precipitation from 1982 to 1996 and 1997 to 2011. This seems to have been due to the greening of desert vegetation. The process led to a four-fold increase in net carbon uptake to precipitation over the past 30 years. 'Novel responses of the biosphere have been predicted to occur following human activities that have caused unprecedented changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, climate and land cover,' Poulter continued. 'Our study provides new evidence that interactions among these human activities are now also impacting dryland biomes. 'These findings have global implications that should be considered in monitoring networks and Earth system models.' But the large 2011 land carbon uptake is not expected to lead to long-term increases in ecosystem carbon accumulation, according to the researchers. 'Dryland systems have high rates of carbon turnover compared to other biomes,' Ciais said. 'We can expect the carbon to be quickly respired or consumed in wildfires, already partly reflected by the high atmospheric carbon dioxide growth rate in 2012.' Poulter and his colleagues will now be investigating the role of fire and invasive species in dryland systems to further understand the mechanisms for dryland greening and the consequences this will have on the carbon cycle.

New research suggests deserts could have a bigger role in climate change . And the scientists say the Australian savannah is a major driver . The study looked into what caused the 2011 CO2 absorption spike . It was found to be the greening of drylands caused by La Niña . They say their findings should be included in models of Earth's climate .

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(CNN) -- Nine people were killed and 25 injured Thursday in twin blasts in eastern Iraq, health officials said. The attacks took place in Wasit as thousands of worshipers jammed the streets to attend festivals marking Ashura, the most important holy day on the Shiite Muslim calendar. Ashura commemorates the death of Imam Hussein, grandson of the Prophet Mohammed. Both blasts targeted a procession tent. During Ashura, pilgrims often set up tents to distribute water and food to passersby. The tents also give fellow pilgrims a place to rest, mourn, chant and pray before they march to Karbala, the holy shrine of Imam Hussein. Wasit is about 100 miles (161 kilometers) southeast of Baghdad. The explosions are the latest in a spate of attacks apparently targeting Shiite Muslims during this holy week. On Wednesday, four coordinated blasts killed 10 people in Baquba, police said. Those explosions targeted a series of Shiite processions. Imam Hussein's death was one of the events that helped create the schism between Sunni and Shiite Islam, the two main Muslim religious movements. He was killed in Karbala during battle in 680 A.D.

The latest attacks took place on Ashura, the most important holy day on the Shiite calendar . At least six blasts have targeted Shiite Muslims in Iraq over the past two days . Dozens have been injured in those explosions .

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By . Alex Greig . PUBLISHED: . 14:14 EST, 10 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 14:14 EST, 10 August 2013 . The IRS agent in charge of the Exempt Organizations Office in Cincinnati at a time when political groups were targeted for extra scrutiny has just received a promotion. Cindy Thomas, a 35-year IRS veteran, has been appointed to the senior technical adviser team for the Director of Exempt Organizations. The position became available after Sharon Light, who worked closely with Lois Lerner, left the organization. She was the sixth senior IRS official to leave since the scandal broke three months ago. New job: Cindy Thomas, pictured, was . the program manager of the IRS tax-exempt organizations determinations division and has now been promoted to the senior technical adviser team . Light left the job to take up a position with the American Cancer Society. Lerner is the embattled former head of the IRS Exemptions Office who has been called upon to testify before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. She is on administrative leave from the organization while investigations are ongoing, according to various media reports. Testify: Lois Lerner (pictured) who headed the division that oversees exempt organizations invoked the Fifth Amendment before Congress recently when questioned about IRS practices . Kenneth Corbin, who has taken up Lerner's position, wrote in an email to employees: . 'Cindy brings a strong background in EO Determinations and the history of the organization,' 'And, since she is located in Cincinnati, she will provide a voice for the process and challenges faced in determinations work.' According to a Fox News report, Thomas was the person in charge of IRS workers who dragged their feet on tax-exemption approvals. 'When an application for tax exempt status comes into the IRS, agents have 270 days to work through that application. If the application is not processed within those 270 days it automatically triggers flags in the system. 'So who in the chain of command would have received all these flags? The answer, according to the IRS directory, is one woman in Cincinnati, Cindy Thomas, the Program Manager of the Tax Exempt Division,' reported Fox News. Chain of command: Fox News created this graphic to show that Thomas was in charge of employees who sent probing letters to political groups . Death and taxes: The IRS has come under scrutiny over the past three months since it was revealed the organization may unfairly target political groups applying for tax exemptions . But the question of whether there was any type of political motivation for the IRS tax exemptions department's Be On The Lookout list has not yet been answered. According to Congressman Elijah Cummings, transcripts of an interview with an anonymous IRS manager who describes himself as a 'conservative Republican' reveal that the IRS agent told Congressional investigators he had initiated the targeted reviews without any instruction from the White House, and that they weren't politically motivated. On August 7, Representative Darrell Issa, the chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, requested documents, including emails between staff at the IRS and the Federal Electoral Commission, about the 'inappropriate coordination' of tax-exempt applications of various groups. So far, Cindy Thomas has not been called to appear before Congress. Share what you think . The comments below have not been moderated. ABritAbroad, . Monroe NC, United States, . 1 month ago . Just one more Obama crime to be automatically pardoned when the next pres takes over. Resident, . somewhere in America, . 1 month ago . Heliflyer, Burlington;....." Don't be disingenuous.501c (4) definitions permit community service organizations to be involved with politics. And the define educational activities as qualifying.".....Disengenuous!! Look in a mirror! You're trying to convince me that instead of a political organization nearly solely devoted to getting far right wing candidates elected...the Tea Party is actually a humanitarian organization dedicated to education and philosophy! Tell it to the navies, because it is the biggest load of collops I've ever heard. You can't possibly believe it yourself, but you can get uneducated southern right wingers to because of their ignorance. Don't even try it on educated liberals. 501c (4) allows "Community Service Organizations" to claim status even though they have some political focus. It does not allow PRIMARILY political organizations that claim nebulous community action tax exempt status. Bottom line is you have to convince the IRS, and they are laughing at you . jr23, . cape coral fl usa, . 1 month ago . the court ruled that the 501c4 were legal but the IRS is well known to not foll the rulings until forced to. and if you want to see waste in tax exempt org look at the 990s that the charities must file and disclose the enormous salaries and benefits of the many top people and some how little is spent on the intended beneficiaries or the tremendous fundraising costs . Heliflyer, . Burlington, . 1 month ago . The Tea Party is NOT a "Community Service Organization" under the definitions of the 501c tax code in any way shape or matter. They offer no community service whatsoever....... - Resident, somewhere in America, 8/11/13 15:46 . Come now, Resident. Don't be so disingenuous. "under the definitions of the 501c tax code"? 501c (4) definitions permit community service organizations to be involved with politics. And the define educational activities as qualifying. The Tea Party has certainly been involved in trying to educate Americans about the dangers of liberals. They are as entitled to their status as much as any liberal, left wing group is theirs. That having been said. None, save pure charities, should be allowed tax exempt status. american girl, . dallas tx, . 1 month ago . Good! She's doing what she's paid to do.... That is, to ensure that no one or, groups gets TAX exemptions to use for political matters....Why should the taxpayers fund people's tricks & propaganda, to keep fellow citizens down?? Exactly, that is what this current administration is doing.....keeping American citizens down, by normalizing bad and good is now evil..... glteam, . Ipswich, United Kingdom, . 1 month ago . So she takes Sharon Light's job, who's left the IRS Exemptions Office to take a position at the American Cancer Society, which is of course is one of the largest tax exempt organizations in the US and which would have come under the jurisdiction of the very IRS office under scandal that she just left. No conflict of interest there, eh??? K-Girl, . K-ansas, United States, . 1 month ago . Why didn't this article bring up the fact that they were targeting the TeaParty groups? pat, . USA, . 1 month ago . Anyone else notice that someone at the Mail is scrubbing posted comments critical of the president of the USA? Not all, they keep just enough to hide the fact. Larry P., . Miami Florida, United States, . 1 month ago . Why not in all of my years of working I have seen people that do the worst and least amount of work get promoted so it dosen't surprise me just because she is involved in a scandal. It always seems to be the people that do the best job and work the hardest they get the shaft. flip, . falcon, United States, . 1 month ago . Will that answers a lot of questions...............OMG..................One more for the Obama white house.......... The views expressed in the contents above are those of our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of MailOnline. We are no longer accepting comments on this article.

Cindy Thomas has been promoted to the senior technical team for the Director of Exempt Organizations . Thomas was in charge of the Exempt Organizations Office in Cincinnati when political groups were targeted for extra scrutiny . Thomas is filling a role left vacant when a sixth senior IRS staff member quit recently . She has not been called to testify to Congress on the issue .

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By . Ryan Gorman . A homeless man hospitalized in Brazil after a random attack has a best friend in his dog who waited eight days in the hospital parking lot until being able to see him. Lauri da Costa, of Passo Fundo, staggered to a hospital after being smashed in the face with a rock only to be told he had melanoma on his face that had to be operated on immediately. His dog Seco stayed outside in the parking lot, likely expecting him to return soon. His owner instead was inside eight days until they were reunited. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Good dog!: Seco waited outside the hospital for owner da Costa for eight days while he recovered . Seco sat patiently out front of the hospital waiting for da Silva to emerge, but he didn’t, according to a local news report translated by The Dodo. The man was hospitalized while waiting to have the surgery – hours turned into days and days into more than a week. Staff eventually began feeding Seco and giving him water while the loyal pooch waited for da Costa. His owner was still recovering from surgery when the pair were reunited for a few minutes. Pure joy: Seco and da costa couldn't have been happier to see each other . The dog jumped around wagging its tail and smelling da Silva, almost in disbelief it finally saw him again. Seco licked da Costa’s face and jumped into his lap while furiously wagging his tail. The bandaged, recovering man flashed several smiles at his loyal companion. The man will not be discharged for some time, according to the report, but Seco has resumed waiting for his owner – proving he is man’s best friend.

Lauri da Costa was hospitalized eight days while dog Seco waited outside for him . The homeless man was smashed in the face with a rock but was diagnosed with melanoma while receiving treatment .

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Dubai (CNN) -- In a Dubai café, patrons sip camel-milk lattes, camel-ccinos and shakes made with camel milk. The newly opened Cafe2Go is one of the first to put camel milk on its menu and it seems to be passing the taste test with intrigued customers. "I'm surprised because I was thinking it was tasting really different from the normal milk, but ... it's really nice," said customer Nadia Rizk. "I thought it would be weird when I tried it, but it's just like everything else," said another, Sal Hobbi. It is the latest sign of a boom in camel-milk products in the United Arab Emirates. A few years ago, Al-Nassma became the first company in the country to produce camel-milk chocolate. "It tastes really nice," said Martin Van Almsick, general manager of Al Nassma Chocolate. "And the thing is, you don't have to be an expert to notice. This is a great chocolate, everybody can tell." Camel milk has been a staple for Bedouins for centuries, but it has never before been produced in scale or used commercially in this way. For Emiratis, it is a way of combining local pride with a healthy option. Camel milk is lower in fat and higher in Vitamin C than cow's milk, according to scientists. "In the milk are all the vitamins, all the minerals, fat, carbohydrates, that you need for daily life," said Ulrich Wernery, scientific director of the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory. Also on Inside the Middle East: Saudi foodies ditch fast food for fine dining . And it's not just being used in coffee and chocolate. There's also camel-milk cheese and "Camelicious" -- bottled camel milk sold in supermarkets and sometimes flavored with date or chocolate. They are produced by "Emirates Industry for Camel Milk and Products," one of the world's first large-scale camel milk farms, based in the desert outside Dubai. "We are using the camel milk, and our grandfathers using the camel milk, for many years," said Mutasher Al Badry, its manager. "It is not new to us, and it was in our culture to have the milk, and the camel milk products as well," he added. "We are converting the culture to commercial." The farm has thousands of camels, each producing around six liters of milk a day, but demand is so high they are struggling to keep up. Farm manager Peter Nagy says that to produce milk, it's important to keep the animals happy . "That's the whole idea, that's the whole concept," he said. "To keep animals quiet, happy. And then, they will produce milk for us." See also: Dubai diners flock to eat new 'camel burger' Both Emirates Industry for Camel Milk and Products and Al Nassma Chocolate receive funding from Dubai's ruling sheikhs, who say they are motivated as much by the desire to promote a healthy product as by profit. In future, they hope, it will be on sale way beyond the shores of the United Arab Emirates. "We are planning to be a global leader, and also we are planning to be a reference for the world in the camel industry," said Al Badry.

Camel milk is used in lattes, milkshakes, chocolate and cheese in Dubai . Bedouins have drunk camel milk for centuries, but commercial production is new . "Camelicious" bottled milk is produced at a huge farm on the outskirts of Dubai .

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Federal authorities accuse a 35-year-old Florida man of hacking into accounts on computers and other devices belonging to more than 50 people, including entertainers Scarlett Johansson, Christina Aguilera, Mila Kunis, Simone Harouche and Renee Olstead, officials announced Wednesday. Christopher Chaney of Jacksonville, Florida, was indicted on charges of accessing protected computers without authorization, damaging protected computers, wiretapping and aggravated identity theft, officials said. "Unfortunately, Mr. Chaney was able to access nude photos of some of the celebrities and some of them were uploaded on the Internet," U.S. Attorney Andre Birotte Jr. said. A recently circulated nude photo of Johannsson is part of the investigation, he said. Chaney allegedly "also took financial information, movie scripts and conversations that the celebrities believed to be private," Birotte told reporters. Chaney allegedly was able to access passwords by monitoring social media and other online sites that the celebrities used, said Steven Martinez, assistant director in charge of the FBI's Los Angeles field office. "You may have selected a password that's meaningful to you that you may disclose online with friends," Martinez said. "Your pet's name or whatever. That's a clue to a hacker, to start there." The suspect used several aliases such as "trainreqsuckswhat," "anonygrrl," and "jaxjaguars911," authorities said in a news release. Chaney also allegedly used public sources to mine data about his victims, which included both males and females, all associated with the entertainment industry, authorities said. Authorities allege that once Chaney hacked into a celebrity's e-mail account, he would use the contact lists to find other celebrities' e-mail accounts. This allowed him to add new victims, authorities charge. Chaney made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Jacksonville, Florida, on Wednesday afternoon, and was released on a $10,000 unsecured bond with the conditions that he can't use any computer or other device with Internet access and he can't have any controlled substances or excessive use of alcohol, said Laura Eimiller, an FBI spokeswoman in Los Angeles. Chaney's next court appearance will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday for an identity hearing in the same courthouse, Eimiller said. Chaney has been indicted on with nine counts of computer hacking for gain, eight counts of aggravated identify theft, and nine counts of illegal wiretapping, Birotte said. If convicted of the 26 counts, Chaney would face a maximum of 121 years in federal prison, Birotte said. The aggravated identity theft charge alone carries a mandatory two-year prison sentence, he added. Chaney allegedly also set his victims' accounts to automatically forward their e-mails to his account, Birotte said. This allegedly allowed Chaney to continue to receive celebrities' e-mails even after a password was reset, authorities said. Authorities allege that Chaney distributed photos of the celebrities that he obtained illegally and offered them to various celebrity blog sites. Some of the illegally obtained files, including private photographs, were ultimately posted online "as a result of Chaney's alleged activities," authorities said in a statement. The FBI's Los Angeles office said he was arrested as part of "Operation Hackerazzi," which looked into computer intrusions targeting individuals associated with the entertainment industry. Martinez said authorities have coined a word to describe hackers of celebrities' e-mail accounts: hackerazzi. "The paparazzi is always chasing them down, and now you have a virtual way of doing it by looking at posts they put on social media sites," Martinez said, explaining the term. Investigators don't have a motive for Chaney's alleged offenses. "Motive is always a question in criminal cases and we don't know and we don't care" in this case, Birotte said, adding he is confident of the hacking evidence against Chaney. The first real case of a celebrity hacking attack was in 2005, when hackers logged into Paris Hilton's phone and stole photos of her, according to Mikko Hypponen, chief research officer at the F-Secure computer security company. Those hackers reportedly were able to break into Hilton's phone by correctly guessing the not-so-secret answer to her security question, which was "tinkerbell," the name of her pet Chihuahua. In August, rapper Kreayshawn wrote on her blog that her Twitter account was hacked when naked photos of her showed up there. In March, Vanessa Hudgens of "High School Musical" underwent a similar ordeal after photos were reportedly stolen from her Gmail account. And in December, police in Germany alleged two young men had used computer-hacking skills to gain access to the e-mail accounts and photos of more than 50 celebrities, according to Britain's The Telegraph, including the likes of Lady Gaga and Ke$ha. In the wake of the latest celebrity hacking allegations, some have started to assume celebrity photo leaks are the newest front in the so-called "hacktivist" wars, waged by big-name hacking rings such as Anonymous and LulzSec. Those groups have claimed responsibility for taking down bank and government websites. But security experts said connections between celebrity hackers and groups such as Anonymous are thin or nonexistent. "It's obviously to gain media exposure, right?" said Kevin Mitnick, a hacker turned security consultant and author of "Ghost in the Wires." "It's like everyone is trying to one-up Anonymous and one-up LulzSec. So somehow celebrities are becoming a target."

Christopher Chaney makes first court appearance; he's released on $10,000 bond . Among more than 50 victims are Scarlett Johansson and Christina Aguilera . Authorities accuse Chaney of hacking into personal e-mail accounts and other devices . He is charged with 26 counts involving computer hacking, identity theft and wiretapping .

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By . Chris Richards . PUBLISHED: . 04:13 EST, 17 June 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 04:14 EST, 17 June 2012 . The BBC is facing an angry backlash over its decision not to screen the unveiling of the RAF Bomber ­Command Memorial on its flagship channel next week. While the Queen will be honouring the 55,000 Bomber Boys who gave their lives for the ­country, BBC1 will be showing repeats of Cash In The Attic and Bargain Hunt. The family of the late Bee Gee Robin Gibb, who led the campaign to raise £6million for the largest memorial to be built in London for 200 years, said: 'This is a disgrace.' The BBC’s decision comes just two weeks after it came under fire for its coverage of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Thames river pageant. Under fire: The Bomber Command Association is surprised by the BBC's decision not to show the unveiling of the Bomber Command Memorial on BBC1 . The corporation will show live coverage of the unveiling of the Bomber Command Memorial on digital channel BBC News, instead of on BBC1 or BBC2, which will be showing live tennis from Wimbledon during the 35-minute service. Air Commodore Andrew Lambert, a former air defence chief who commanded forces in Iraq, told the Sunday Express: 'I am lost for words. 'We are living in a fool’s paradise if we forget, or worse, ignore, the courage and sacrifice of 55,000 of the best and bravest of their generation. 'The BBC should question their real motives.' Defence minister Gerald Howarth said: 'It would be extremely disappointing if there wasn’t full and comprehensive media coverage of this national event.' Concerned: Defence minister Gerald Howarth said it would be 'extremely disappointing' if the ceremony did not receive 'full and comprehensive media coverage' The BBC claimed the Bomber Command Association was happy with its plans. However, the association’s financial director Jim Dooley said: 'This is a real surprise. 'We were told it was going to be broadcast live and it is a huge disappointment to discover that this does not mean the BBC’s main channel but rather a news channel usually watched by far fewer people. 'This is an active choice by the BBC for reasons which I dare not speculate about.' The family of Robin Gibb also also angry. Mr Gibb, who died from cancer last month, said his involvement with the project was his 'proudest achievement'. His son RJ Gibb told the Sunday Express: 'This is a disgrace. 'My whole family is astounded, my mother thinks it’s an outrage. Anger: The family of the late Bee Gee, Robin Gibb, who led the campaign to raise £6 million for the memorial said he would be 'very sad' at the BBC's decision were he alive . 'The corporation has really reached a new low. 'The 55,000 men who paid the ultimate sacrifice fighting Hitler’s war machine were all volunteers. 'The spirit should live not only in the hearts and minds of those who lost them personally but also in the hearts and minds of the rest of us, who are still benefiting from the freedom from tyranny they helped to ensure. 'My father would be very sad indeed today if he were alive to hear this news. 'We urge the BBC to amend its plans and give this important event the respect it deserves by airing it live on its main channel, BBC1.' The unveiling will take place in Green Park, London, at midday on June 28. Seven thousand veterans and their partners, many of whom are in their 90s and infirm will be travelling to the ceremony, some from as far afield as Australia. The Queen and eight members of the Royal Family will also be present at the event, which will feature a fly-over by one of the world’s two remaining . Lancaster bombers. A BBC spokesman told the newspaper: 'We are aware of the significance of this story, both for the ­veterans and for our audiences. 'The midday service is being filmed for later inclusion in a special programme Bomber Command: A Tribute on BBC2 at 5pm. 'The BBC News Channel is also currently planning to carry the service live at midday. 'The Bomber Command Association are happy with our plans and have been working closely with us.'

Cash In The Attic and Bargain Hunt will be aired on BBC1 instead . Ceremony will only be screened live on little-watched BBC News channel . Veterans say decision is a 'huge disappointment'

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A satanic group which planned to hold a black mass at Harvard University has been forced to take the event off-campus after thousands signed a petition against the service. The Harvard Extension Cultural Studies Club originally planned to hold the event, conducted by the Satantic Temple of New York, in the basement of the school's Memorial Hall on Monday. The student group dropped sponsorship of the event it was scheduled to happen though, following protests from Catholics on campus and in Boston. Scroll down for video . Making themselves heard: Catholics on campus and in Boston found the idea of a black mass offensive and staged demonstrations against it Monday evening . The Satanic Temple of New York, which was performing the black mass reenactment, took the event off-campus when the cultural studies club dropped sponsorship. Above, a picture of the group Monday night . Many outlets reported that the event had been cancelled completely, because the temple couldn't find an off-campus location to host the service. But they eventually worked out a deal with the Hong Kong restaurant on Harvard Square and posted on their Facebook page that the event would take place 'within the hour' around 10:30pm. Change of location: The event was reportedly moved to the Hong Kong restaurant in Harvard Square . Original location: The mass was originally supposed to be held in the basement of Memorial Hall, but had to move with the sponsoring student group dropped out . Last week, the cultural studies club caused controversial when they announced plans to host a historical re-enactment of a black mass. Controversial: Satanic Temple, a Satanist group that attracted attention earlier this year after it proposed the placement of a seven-foot tall statue of Satan (pictured) next to an existing Ten Commandments monument in Oklahoma . It said the event was intended to be educational and would be preceded by a lecture on the history and origins of the black mass, a ritual that parodies the Catholic mass, in which bread and wine are consecrated and consumed. The re-enactment was set to be performed by the Satanic Temple, a Satanist group that attracted attention earlier this year after it proposed the placement of a seven-foot tall statue of Satan next to an existing Ten Commandments monument in Oklahoma. 'Our purpose is not to denigrate any . religion or faith, which would be repugnant to our educational purposes, . but instead to learn and experience the history of different cultural . practices,' the club said. The . announcement sparked outrage across campus and even in Boston proper, . with the Archdiocese issuing a statement saying the activity 'places . participants dangerously close to destructive works of evil'. Harvard . President Drew Faust even condemned the event as 'abhorrent', but said . the university would not cancel the service so as to protect freedom of . speech. 'Vigorous and open . discussion and debate are essential to the pursuit of knowledge, and we . must uphold these values even in the face of controversy,' President . Faust said in a statement Monday. 'Freedom . of expression, as Justice [Oliver Wendell] Holmes famously said long . ago, protects not only free thought for those who agree with us but . freedom for the thought that we hate,' she added. But many on campus were not pleased with Faust's decision to let the service go on. Rhodes . scholar Aurora Griffin started a petition and eventually got over . 60,000 signatures from students, alumni and faculty in support of . banning the service from campus. Offended: Rhodes Schoar Aurora Griffin started a petition to get the service banned from campus . 'I am ashamed that my university is allowing such a hateful event to happen under the auspices of "education"' Griffin, the former president of Harvard's Catholic Student Association, told the Boston Globe. The Archdiocese protested the event by holding a Eucharistic procession Monday night, culminating in a holy hour at St Paul's Church which was attended by President Faust. The Catholic Action League of Massachusetts held their own demonstration with a 'Rosary of Reparation' event outside Memorial Hall - where the black mass was originally set to take place. Demonstration: Hundreds of Catholics protested the event by holding a Eucharistic procession to St Paul's Church Monday evening for a holy hour . Show of solidarity: The procession culminated in a holy hour at St Paul's Church and was attended by President Faust . 'It is unimaginable that Harvard would have permitted such an obscene parody of the sacred rites of another religion,' C.J. Doyle, the league's executive director, said in a statement earlier Monday. 'Anti- Catholicism, however, remains a respectable prejudice.' However, the student group that originally sponsored the event thinks it has been misinterpreted. 'We are disappointed by the self-righteousness of those who conspire to silence others simply because they claim offense,' The Harvard Extension Cultural Studies Club said in a statement Monday night. 'It is also profoundly disturbing to see an entity erroneously labeled as a hate group because people do not share their faith or take the time to understand their beliefs or the meanings behind their rituals.'

The Harvard Extension Cultural Studies Club planned to host a satanic black mass reenactment on campus Monday night . The club dropped sponsorship of the event when Catholic groups on campus and in Boston expressed outrage . The archdiocese held a Eucharistic procession in protest, culminating in a holy hour mass at St Paul's Church . Even Harvard President Drew Faust called the event 'abhorrent' but said she would allow it to take place on campus for free speech purposes . The Satantic Temple of New York was to put on the event, but had to find a different location off-campus when the Harvard club dropped out . The Hong Kong restaurant in Harvard Square reportedly allowed the group to meet there .

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(CNN) -- A new poll this week claims the thing people most want to see in an airport is a cinema. Not automated, super-fast security checks, not complimentary Michelin-star dining options, not even Star Trek-style transporters to your destination (presumably those questioned could have chosen anything?). No, it seems people are resigned to the fact that airports must be endured rather than enjoyed, and a good movie is the most we can even wish for, let alone expect. Kudos to Hong Kong, Seoul and Singapore, which all have cinemas in their international airports already. Flight comparison site Skyscanner asked 10,000 people what they would most like to see in an airport. Responses ranged "from a gym to a beach," the site said. Nearly half chose cinemas as their top airport wish, followed by "sleep pods" (36%) and a library (32%). Other items included a park, a pool and a "vanity area." But who has time for all these activities? Can you have fun in an airport? Aren't airports most often sites of flustered, sweaty travelers rushing between gates, or tense mothers squawking at their children to "sit still!" or irate latecomers having melt downs? Perhaps these enjoyable amenities would make us all arrive earlier and feel happier. No doubt frequent flyers spending several hours each month wondering what to do between Dallas/Fort Worth and Heathrow would appreciate the distraction. Hong Kong International Airport was the first airport to have an IMAX cinema within. It's a behemoth 358-seater with a 22-meter-high screen. But despite being open to the general public, not just fliers, up to 40% of the audience are airport and airline staff, says Kathe Lin, deputy marketing manager at UA Cinema Circuit, which operates the IMAX in Hong Kong. And anecdotal evidence from travelers suggests the place is rarely full, or even close to it. Singapore's Changi airport has two cinemas, only accessible to passengers, but they are relatively modest at 13 seats and 55 seats. Korea's Incheon International Airport was built with a specific audience in mind: "We opened a theater at the airport to target the massive number of hallyu (Korean Wave) fans who come to the airport," says a CGV Theaters representative. These include local residents as well as international travelers who flock to see their favorite K-Pop artists and Korean movie stars as they travel through the airport. CGV is catering to an eager crowd, but the spokesperson admits days are usually pretty quiet. Do we want what we say we want? The evidence seems to suggest that despite the professed wishes of cinema-deprived travelers, where airport cinemas exist already, people aren't really that bothered. Figure in the amount of space a cinema takes up, the logistics, the cost, the maintenance and other bits and pieces that go into managing the space, and it's probably just as well most airports concentrate on other things. What do you think? Would you use an airport cinema if you had the time? Tell us below .

Nearly half of those surveyed say they would like a cinema in airports . But where airport cinemas already exist, few people reportedly use them . Hong Kong International Airport's IMAX cinema is the biggest in the city .

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(CNN) -- A federal agency is examining what caused the Dallas Cowboys' practice facility to collapse on Saturday, paralyzing a scout and injuring 11 others. An aerial view of the scene shows the Dallas Cowboys logo amid the ruins of the indoor practice facility. "We're trying to determine if there were any violations, or determine the cause," said Elizabeth Todd, spokeswoman for Region 6 of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA investigators will be interviewing witnesses and looking for identifiable hazards, she said. The procedure is routine and implies no wrongdoing, Todd said. OSHA has six months to finish its investigation. Meanwhile, the CEO of a company that makes similar buildings says he believes fewer people would have been injured if the Cowboys' facility had been supported by air rather than a metal frame. About 70 people -- including players, coaches, staff and media -- were inside the metal-framed structure for a rookie mini-camp practice when a line of heavy thunderstorms hit the dome. Video from the incident shows the lights swinging violently from the dome's ceiling seconds before the ceiling crashes to the ground. Players and coaches rushed to help those trapped. "It was as if someone took a stick pin and hit a balloon," said photographer Arnold Payne, who was shooting the practice for CNN affiliate WFAA-TV. Watch Payne describe being inside when structure collapsed » . Scouting assistant Rich Behm, 33, suffered a severed spinal cord and is paralyzed from the waist down, the team said. He underwent surgery Saturday. "Rich is a courageous member of our family and someone for whom we care deeply. We ask for all friends and fans of the Dallas Cowboys to join us in embracing him and his family with their thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time," team owner Jerry Jones said. Watch the roof collapse on players, coaches » . Special teams coach Joe DeCamillis fractured a cervical vertebra, and assistant trainer Greg Gaither had two broken bones in his leg, the team said. Gaither had successful surgery Saturday, and DeCamillis was scheduled to undergo surgery Monday, the team said. According to the National Weather Service in Fort Worth, "a microburst impacted the Valley Ranch area," where the Cowboys practice. A microburst is a "small, intense downdraft which results in a localized area of strong thunderstorm winds," the weather service said. Though winds near the ground were estimated near 70 mph, winds are generally more fierce farther from the ground, and microbursts can have winds in excess of 100 mph, the weather service said. "Therefore, it is quite possible that winds greater than 70 mph affected the upper portions of the damaged structures," the service said. The Cowboys' attorney, Levi McCathern II, was in meetings at Valley Ranch on Monday morning and could not be immediately reached. Elizabeth Criswell, a paralegal with his firm, said OSHA's involvement was standard procedure and that the Cowboys would issue a press release at a later time. Summit Structures of Allentown, Pennsylvania, and Cover-All Building Systems of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, which built the dome, referred all questions to a Boston, Massachusetts, public relations firm. The firm released a statement from Nathan Stobbe, Summit's president, who said he was in Texas working with officials to "assess this severe weather event." The statement quoted the National Weather Service description of a microburst. It further said the facility was constructed in 2003. A new roof was installed on the building during a 2008 upgrade, the statement said. "We understand there is a great deal of concern and curiosity about what happened on Saturday, but rather than speculate, we are focused on being part of the effort to find answers and assist the team," Stobbe's statement concluded. Mariellen Burns of Regan Communications in Boston did not immediately respond to a follow-up e-mail inquiring what wind speeds the building was engineered to sustain. At least three of Summit's competitors say their buildings can withstand winds of 140 mph or higher. Donato Fraioli, the CEO of Air Structures American Technologies Inc., said the air-supported structure his company built for the Miami Dolphins can withstand winds up to 140 mph. However, Fraioli said, several media outlets, including CNN, have been erroneously reporting that the Cowboys' structure was supported by air. The Cowboys' facility was supported by a metal frame, which is why so many people were hurt, he said. Fraioli, who has 47 years of experience in air- and metal-supported structures, said his company has built air-supported structures in some of the most troublesome climates in the nation, including facilities for the New York Giants, New York Jets, Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, Chicago Bears, Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles. His company also has constructed metal-frame buildings -- generally for industrial applications and to accommodate aircraft -- and he has found that many football teams, both college and pro, are opting for air-supported structures because they are cheaper and safer. "The worst that could happen if it had a failure of any sort ... the fabric would fall over the interior players," he said, adding that repairing an air-supported structure generally entails patching and re-inflating it, as opposed to reconstructing a metal frame. Not only are the air-supported buildings safer in the event of a collapse, he said, but they're safer during practice as well. "There are no steel beams to run into or any aluminum frames to run into," he said. Metal frames also leave more room for construction and engineering error. "I just think you have that many more nuts and bolts and components that could easily be erected with error," he said. "Why have it, just for the reason of what happened in Dallas? Why take the risk?" CNN's Matt Smith contributed to this report.

NEW: Cowboys' attorney's office says OSHA involvement standard procedure . Facility's manufacturers point to weather reports of a "microburst" in statement . Competitor says there might have been fewer injuries in an air-supported dome . Special teams coach scheduled to undergo surgery for fractured spine Monday .

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By . James Nye and Victoria Wellman . PUBLISHED: . 16:22 EST, 19 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 16:29 EST, 19 September 2012 . A Colorado man has won $7million after suing a Denver supermarket chain and food manufacturer on the grounds that their microwave popcorn gave him a chronic lung condition known as 'popcorn lung'. Wayne Watson, 59, from Centennial, was diagnosed with respiratory issues in 2007 and was told by doctors that someone who ate as much microwave popcorn as he did might well be in danger of inhaling hazardous vapours from the butter flavouring, diacetyl. During the trial that began September 4, Mr Watson and his attorney argued that the supermarket that supported his self-confessed three-bag-a-day popcorn habit, should have provided a health warning on the packaging. Scroll Down for Video . Verdict: Wayne Watson of Centennial, Colorado has won a $7 million verdict in the so-called 'popcorn lung' case after he contracted a respiratory condition from the butter flavouring of microwave popcorn . 'Who would ever reasonably think that popping popcorn in your own home, no matter how its packaged or processed would all of a sudden turn into an agent for toxic lung disease,' said Watson. But lawyers for the supermarket chain responded saying they 'might have well have warned that there are aliens popping out of the bags because there’s just as much support for that.' Mr. Watson said he had no idea that his three-a-day consumption of microwaveable popcorn could ever lead to a chronic lung condition . Talking about his love of popcorn before . he became sick and unable to walk long distances over four years ago . and originally filed his suit, Watson was enthusiastic. 'You would get that woof! That little woof when you opened it,' said Watson. 'And you breathe it in.' Indeed, it is that breathing action that Watson claims is the cause of his current illness and is the reason why he is suing King Soopers. Watson alleges that the butter flavouring in the microwave popcorn contains chemicals that vaporise when heated, and that inhaling this causes the severe damage to the respiratory system. He accuses the defendants of making and selling an unsafe product and of failing to warn consumers about the alleged dangers. Mr. Watson walks with his wife outside the federal court in Denver (left) while he is interviewed with Dr. Cecile Rose (right) who is backing up his claims . Wayne Watson claims King Soopers supermarket should have made it clear on their packaging that the butter flavouring of their popcorn contains the compound diacetyl, which in large quantities can be hazardous to a person's health . Watson's doctor at National JEwish Hospital in Denver is a key witness in the case for his legal team. '(I asked) was he exposed to or was he around a lot of popcorn? And his jaw dropped and he asked me how I would possibly know that about him,' Dr. Ceclie Rose said to CBS 4. Countering his claim, lawyers for King Soopers contend that it was in fact Watson's career selling carpet cleaning fluid that led to his lung condition and not the microwaveable popcorn. They even stated that Watson has misled the court on his daily consumption of popcorn. In 2009, Ronald Kuiper, a 69-year-old retired butter flavour mixer was awarded a $7.5 million settlement just prior to dying of heart and lung failure in March of that year. Kuiper worked at the American Pop Corn Co., in the 1990s, mixing artificial flavoring for 'butter flavor' products. In 2006 he was diagnosed with a condition called 'popcorn lung' , after working at the plant for 26 years.

Wayne Watson, 59, said he contracted the chronic condition 'popcorn lung' in 2007 because of the dangerous butter flavouring in microwave popcorn . During the trial that began September 4 his attorney argued a warning should have placed on the packet . Watson claims to have had a three-pack-a-day popcorn habit . He now can't walk long distances and says his health has been severely affected .

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Beijing (CNN) -- Three Chinese airlines received "false bomb threats" on Wednesday that caused disruption to five different domestic flights destined for the southern city of Shenzhen, state-run media reported. Shenzhen Airlines said on its official microblog account that it had received multiple threats that lead it to reroute two flights and delay another. A flight to Shenzhen operated by Juneyao Airlines returned to Shanghai, its point of departure, so that the plane, passengers and baggage could all be checked following a threat, the state-run news agency Xinhua reported. The flight eventually took off using a different plane, the news agency said. China Eastern Airlines received a threat regarding its flight from the northern city of Lanzhou to Shenzhen, via the central city of Xi'an, Xinhua reported. The flight was subsequently cleared for takeoff, it said. According to China Eastern's website, the flight's departure from Xi'an to Shenzhen was delayed by more than two hours. Shenzhen Airlines said that a flight from the eastern city of Nanjing returned to its point of departure, a flight from Xi'an changed course to land in the southwestern city of Guilin, and a flight from Beijing departed late after police talked to passengers. Police are now investigating the case, according to Xinhua and Shenzhen Airlines. Asked for further comment on the threats, Shenzhen Airlines directed inquiries to the individual airports where the threats were received. CNN's Feng Ke contributed to this report.

NEW: Police are investigating the threats to three Chinese airlines . Five different flights to the southern city of Shenzhen are affected . Two flights are rerouted and three are delayed . The state-run news agency says the airlines received "false bomb threats"

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London (CNN) -- The mother of a victim of one of Britain's most notorious killers died Saturday, a day after police said they were investigating a possible clue to where her child was buried nearly 50 years ago. Winnie Johnson, whose 12-year-old son Keith Bennett went missing in 1964 in northern England, had spent the long decades since seeking first to find, and then to give a proper burial to, her murdered child. But her death after serious illness has come before that hope could be realized. Ian Brady, who was jailed for life in 1966 for three other child murders committed with the help of his partner Myra Hindley, admitted killing the boy in 1987 but has never disclosed the whereabouts of his body. The other four victims were buried on Saddleworth Moor, a lonely upland expanse in the Pennine hills, near Manchester, but repeated searches have never uncovered Keith's remains. Brady, known as the "Moors Murderer," remains in a secure psychiatric unit. A statement on the family's website, Searching for Keith, confirmed that Johnson, a "much-loved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother," had died at age 78. "Winnie fought tirelessly for decades to find Keith and give him a Christian burial," it said. "Although this was not possible during her lifetime, we, her family, intend to continue this fight now for her and for Keith. We hope that the authorities and the public will support us in this." Police revealed Friday that they were investigating claims that Brady may recently have given details of the burial spot to one of his longtime visitors, in a sealed letter to be passed to Johnson after Brady's death. The information came to light when a documentary filmmaker interviewed a woman who has been acting as Brady's mental health adviser, the Press Association news agency reported. Martin Bottomley, head of Greater Manchester Police's cold case review team, cautioned Friday against leaping to conclusions but said police were taking the possibility Brady had written such a letter seriously. "We do not know if this is true or simply a ruse, but we clearly have a duty to investigate such information on behalf of Keith's family," he said in a statement. "Since Keith was so cruelly taken away all those years ago, our thoughts have always been with his family as they try to come to terms with what happened. All they want is to finally be able to lay Keith to rest." A 49-year-old woman was arrested in South Wales on Thursday on suspicion of preventing the burial of a body without lawful exercise, and has been released on bail pending further inquiries, the police statement said. Documents have also been seized from the address and are being examined, police said. Brady and Hindley were taken by police to Saddleworth Moor to look for the bodies of Bennett and another victim, 16-year-old Pauline Reade, after they admitted those killings in 1987, the Press Association said. However, only Reade's remains were found. The lawyer who represented Johnson, John Ainley, said it was a "heartbreaking situation" that she had died without ever learning where her son was buried. "Over the years and in all our personal meetings, Winnie has insisted Brady is the only person who could put her mind at rest and give her the chance to give Keith a decent burial before she passed on," he said, according to a statement from the law firm. "She was convinced Brady knew where her son was buried and she told me she wanted the search to continue to find Keith." Johnson is quoted on the Searching for Keith website as saying: "My greatest hope in this life from the day he left is to have him home, I now accept he is not alive but I still believe I have the right as his mother to give him a Christian burial." CNN's Susannah Palk contributed to this report.

NEW: Mother's death before she could find her son's body is "heartbreaking," lawyer says . Winnie Johnson died the day after a new lead in her son's case was revealed . 12-year-old Keith Bennett was a victim of notorious killer Ian Brady in 1964 . Brady admitted Keith's murder in 1987 but has not revealed the location of the body .

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Fukushima, Japan (CNN) -- This is my first time visiting one of the most dangerous places on earth. The devastated Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant is isolated from the rest of Japan by police checkpoints, security fences, and barricades. We ride on a bus with a handful of journalists into the highly contaminated "red zone" -- the area closest to the plant. It remains a desolate wasteland three years after the meltdown, when Fukushima residents had just hours to grab their belongings and leave. They still haven't come back and likely won't be able to for a very, very long time. The only people regularly allowed into the red zone these days are workers with face masks and protective gear. We pass them as they labor in heavy clothing, braving the heat along the roadside, filling black bags with contaminated soil. Dead fields, once full of crops, are now filled with endless rows of those black bags. What makes this part of Fukushima such a frightening place is that you can't actually see the danger lurking everywhere. Radioactive water is leaking, soil is contaminated, and workers must brave dangerous conditions as they try to slowly and painstakingly take the power plant apart -- a process expected to take decades. Impact underestimated? The true scope of the contamination is a subject of debate, with a research team from Fukushima University recently releasing a study that claims the plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) grossly underestimated the amount of radioactive poison cesium-137 released into the environment. Exposure can heighten the risk of cancer. The team's report says cesium spewed into the air then fell into the water. TEPCO acknowledges it's impossible to know for sure how much cesium was released, but the company based its estimate on their best information. Contaminated fish is a huge concern, considering seafood is a staple of the Japanese diet. Researchers told me they don't believe the risk extends far beyond Japan and the North Pacific Ocean, even though small traces of radioactive ocean water have been detected as far away as Canada. The amounts detected so far are not high enough to cause any harm to humans. Conditions inside the Fukushima plant, though, are extremely dangerous. I had to wear layers of protective gear and a Geiger counter, to detect radiation. My shoes were wrapped in plastic to prevent spreading any radiation from contaminated floors. The plant has thousands of times more radiation than was in the bomb dropped on Hiroshima. Outside, I saw the mangled metal piled up near buildings along the coast that bore the brunt of the 2011 tsunami. It sent a 50-foot wall of water crashing into the power plant. Inside, I watched workers remove a fuel rod in reactor 4. It is slow, grueling work in a reactor that is fully intact. Reactors 1, 2, and 3 melted down and the extensive damage there makes the process even more difficult. It will take decades and billions of dollars to make this place safe again. I saw the control room where workers scribbled notes on the walls after the power went out. The protective gear I was wearing got increasingly hot and uncomfortable as sweat poured down my back and condensation clouded the view through my visor. I can only imagine what it's like for the workers who wear this gear everyday while they work tirelessly to contain this slow-burning disaster. After leaving Fukushima Daiichi, I felt great relief as I was scanned for radiation exposure and none was detected. But as I rode on the bus out of the red zone, I also felt great sadness for the tens of thousands of people who once lived there. I imagined how powerless I would feel if it was my house or business sitting empty and falling into disrepair, not knowing if it would ever be safe to go home again. INTERACTIVE: How Fukushima changed world's attitudes to nuclear power .

CNN's Will Ripley visited the devastated Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant . The only people regularly allowed in the red zone are workers in protective gear . Conditions inside the Fukushima plant are extremely dangerous . It will take decades to make the place safe again .

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San Francisco, California (CNN) -- Just after Apple CEO Steve Jobs debuted the next version of his company's iPhone to the world, the tech luminary had a bit of technical trouble. "Well jeez," Jobs said, struggling to get the spanking new iPhone 4 to do much of anything without a connection to a Wi-Fi network. The technical faux pas came during Jobs' keynote address at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco, California. At one point, Jobs turned toward the audience and seemed to ask a question of one of his technical directors: "Got any suggestions?" he asked. "Verizon!" shouted an audience member, in reference to the fact that AT&T, the sole cellular network that carriers the Apple iPhone, gets notoriously bad reception in San Francisco. Many tech bloggers and writers have called for Apple to open the iPhone to other networks, including Verizon Wireless. That didn't happen on Monday. The new iPhone will remain an AT&T-only device. It goes on sale on June 24 to AT&T customers for $199 or $299, depending on the amount of storage. Any AT&T customer eligible for a phone upgrade this year can get the iPhone 4 on its debut date at those subsidized prices, Jobs said. After the event, tech industry analysts warned against reading too much into the network glitches during Jobs' presentation. But, if nothing else, they do symbolize the growing frustration some phone consumers have over the lack of choice among wireless carriers. In a recent interview, for instance, Kevin Tofel, a blogger in the GigaOm network, said it is smartest for consumers to pick a wireless carrier first, rather than get the coolest phone. Otherwise, they're buying an "expensive brick," he said. Analysts said Jobs was having trouble connecting to a Wi-Fi network during his presentation, not AT&T's troubled 3G network. "It's Wi-Fi," said Carolina Milanesi, research director for mobile devices at Gartner. "You had so many people in there using Wi-Fi. I didn't read too much into it." Of AT&T, she laughed and said, "It's not always their fault." Van Baker, research vice-president for Gartner, said the "Verizon!" comment from the audience was "totally unfair ... because it's not going over the 3G network." Jobs eventually resolved the issue himself. In a joking yet stern tone, he asked reporters and conference attendees to stop using Wi-Fi networks so that he could finish the presentation. Some 570 Wi-Fi stations were clogging up the connection he needed to complete the presentation, he said. If the attendees didn't comply, he said, he would simply not be able to show off the rest of the iPhone 4's new features, including its higher-resolution screen, improved camera and video chat functionality -- which, by the way, is only available over Wi-Fi.

Apple CEO Steve Jobs has internet trouble during a presentation . Jobs was debuting the iPhone 4 at an event in San Francisco . Wi-Fi troubles stop his presentation at one point . Jobs asks conference attendees to get off network so he can continue .

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Nearly three million children in Syria are absent from the classroom as the devastating effects of the civil war take their toll on the country's education system, a new report today revealed. A fifth of schools have been bombed, damaged, transformed into shelters and military barracks, as war rages into its fourth year, Unicef said. Nearly half of Syria's school-age children have been prevented from studying, the UN children's agency said. Unicef: A new report by the UN's children's agency has revealed nearly three million Syrian children are absent from the classroom as the civil war takes its toll on youngsters, leaving them unable to go to school. This group of children are pictured today playing in the town of Azaz, near the Syrian-Turkish border . Vast change: Prior to the civil war, primary school enrollment had been almost universal for a generation, the report states. Literacy rates were more than 90 per cent and the country was investing five per cent of its annual GDP on national learning . Scarred: Hamida Lasseko, Unicef's deputy representative in Syria's capital Damascus, said: 'When one says that it is the worst place to be as a child, in Syria, for now, I would agree. Children are missing from education, they are out of school. Children have the hidden wounds, and these wounds form scars' The majority of the 2.3million Syrian . children who should be in classes remain within the country's borders . but are unable to attend school as education and health services have . collapsed. The new report, titled Under Siege: The Devastating Impact On Children Of Three Years Of Conflict In Syria, shows the wide-reaching effects of the conflict and the impact it is having on the country's youngest victims. In total, 40 per cent of all school-age children in Syria are out of school, the report said. Agency officials in Geneva said another 300,000 Syrian children are out of school in Lebanon, along with 93,000 in Jordan, 78,000 in Turkey, 26,000 in Iraq and 4,000 in Egypt. Prior to the civil war, primary school enrollment had been almost universal for a generation, the report states. Literacy rates were more than 90 per cent and the country was investing five per cent of its annual GDP on national learning. But during the course of the conflict, that investment has been all but wiped out. Many . teachers no longer turn up for work as nearly a fifth of the country's . schools have been destroyed, damaged, turned into shelters, or taken . over by armed groups and forces. 'When one says that it is the worst place to be as a child, in Syria, for now, I would agree,' said Hamida Lasseko, Unicef's deputy representative in Syria's capital Damascus. 'Children are missing from education, they are out of school. Children have the hidden wounds, and these wounds form scars.' Report: The study reveals 40 per cent of all school-age Syrian children are unable to go to school as nearly a fifth of all classrooms have been bombed and damaged or transformed into shelters or military barracks. These children are pictured in the doorway of their tent shelter, in the Bab Al Salame camp for internally displaced persons, near the border with Turkey . Support: Unicef has estimated that two million children affected by the fighting are in need of psychological support or treatment . The report states: '"I used to want to be a teacher,' Hassan, said as he tended to a fire outside his family's tent in . Lenanon's Beka'a valley. 'But where are the schools to learn or teach in . now?' 'Shaza, 15, used to live in Aleppo. She said: "Many buildings, including schools, were attacked and burned down. Children were not allowed to walk outside freely since many snipers weres shooting every day. Security was getting worse day by day, and violence was part of our daily life."' Unicef estimates two million children affected by the fighting are in need of psychological support or treatment. For Syrian children living in refugee camps, the chance to learn is scarce. Half of all refugee school-age youngsters are not in school. Children . fight for spaces in classes in their new home, while families struggle . to cover the cost of school books, tuition and transport. Children struggle to understand classes in languages they are not familiar with. But . many families face the hurdle of not having the correct papers to . enroll their children in schools in countries that have become their new . homes. Poor diets are also having an impact, leaving children struggling to concentrate as they battle extreme hunger. Thousands . have lost limbs, parents, teachers, schools, homes and virtually every . aspect of their childhood, according to agency officials. And . they are the ones lucky enough to be alive. More than 10,000 children . have been killed in the violence, the agency said, and 1.2 million are . now refugees living in camps and overwhelmed neighbouring communities . where clean water, food and other basic items are scarce. Overall, the number of children suffering from the civil war has more than doubled to 5.5 million in the past 12 months alone, Unicef said. Many are forced to grow up fast. One in 10 refugee child is now working, the agency estimates, while one in five Syrian girls in Jordan is forced into early marriage. The report, reveals that by the end of January this year, 37,498 Syrian children had been born as refugees. A Unicef blog states: 'Every child touched by this conflict has experienced things no child should.'Fear has become as way of life and the past three years has left too many with deep developmental and emotional scars. 'The children of Syria cannot afford . another year of conflict. The coming months are our last chance to save a . generation that will otherwise be lost. 'They need our support to . grow, learn and develop the skills that will rebuild their war-ravaged . country and restore its diverse and multicultural society.' More than six million people have been displaced within the country, meaning a third of all Syrian children are no longer living in their own homes or communities. Refugees: Syrian children attending a Unicef supported tented school at Kawergosik Refugee Camp in Iraq. But for those living in camps, it is just as hard to attend classes. Half of school-age children in refugee camps are absent from school, as parents face barriers, including securing their children places .

Unicef publishes new report Under Siege: The Devastating Impact On Children Of Three Years Of Conflict In Syria . It reveals nearly three million children are absent from the classroom . A fifth of schools have been bombed, damaged or transformed into shelters or military barracks . 40 per cent of Syrian school-age children are out of school .

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By . Martin Robinson . PUBLISHED: . 04:52 EST, 28 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 07:53 EST, 28 November 2012 . More than 100,000 children aged between six and 11 have visited pro-anorexia websites that encourage people to compete against eachother in deadly starvation games, a study has found. There are at least 500 of these 'gruesome' sites, which encourage vulnerable young women to barely eat and just drink coffee, smoke and take diet pills to look like a 'goddess'. Using the phrase 'starving for perfection' they say users should eat no more than 500 calories a day - the recommended level is 2,000 for women and 2,500 for men. Scandal: Hundreds of sites like this one exist - the post cannot be shown and is one of many showing how people can use techniques to become dangerously thin . Message: Negative imagery painted with words like these are looked at by 500,000 people per year, a study has found . They also include 'thinspiration' sections with images of super-slim women, including Fearne Cotton, Katy Holmes and Sarah Harding, and in the last year 500,000 girls have admitted visiting them, and one in five were aged between six and 11. University Campus Suffolk in Ipswich has carried out research into the issue and found than many of these websites are set up by people with anorexia and other eating disorders. 'It starts with an individual who wants to share their experience and as they get a following they set themselves up as almost Goddess-like,' researcher Dr Emma Bond, senior lecturer in childhood and youth studies said. 'When I started this research last January I came across a website set up by a girl who was disgusted with herself because she had put on a few pounds at Christmas. She planned to fast for three days and regain control. Pictures: Images like these (Fearne Cotton left and Sarah Harding's torso right) are used as 'thinspiration' for people using these pro-anorexic sites . 'In under two hours, she had 36 followers saying things like "You’re wonderful, you’re an inspiration to me, I’m only fasting because of you".' Some of the people are even posting pictures of themselves in very few clothes on thousands of blogs and on social media like Twitter. Official figures show that one in 200 women and one in 2,000 men have anorexia – which means they starve themselves or exercise excessively to stay slim – although some experts believe the true number is much higher. Around eight per cent of women and one per cent of men develop bulimia at some point. They binge on excessive amounts of food then make themselves sick or use laxatives to stop gaining weight. Many sufferers of eating disorders hide their problem from family and friends by pretending they have already eaten to avoid meals and wearing baggy clothes to conceal their skeletal shape. Doctors believe that anorexia or bulimia is more common in people who are perfectionists, tend to worry a lot or are often depressed. Dangerous: The internet is awash with these very basic sites and they are designed to make people with eating disorders feel part of a group and compete against eachother . Although experts blame society’s ‘size zero’ obsession for the recent surge in cases, it can be triggered by stressful events such as a death in the family, bullying at school or parents getting divorced. Dr Bond said: 'Girls are posting images of themselves and are then approached by people who want to sell them on porn sites because there is a market for "skinny porn".  But the girls are  unaware they are being looked at for sexual gratification. 'To a vulnerable teenager they appear lovely, pretty and attractive and give a sense of belonging. But they have a gruesome side too.' Her study is called: 'Virtually Anorexic – Where’s the harm?' and was backed by the Nominet Trust and charity b-eat.

More than 500,000 - mainly teenage girls -  are visiting these sites every year . One in five are aged between six and 11, study finds . 500 websites offer 'thinspiration' and encourage people to starve themselves . Expert Emma Bond: 'To a vulnerable teenager sites offer sense of belonging'

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . No longer on the rise: Baguettes are falling out of favour compared to hamburgers in France . The hamburger is threatening to overtake the baguette as France’s staple sandwich. Three-quarters of traditional French restaurants now sell hamburgers and nearly half of all sandwiches sold in France last year were burgers, up from one in nine in 2000 and one in seven in 2007 according to research by marketing firm Gira Conseil. The market is dominated by fast food chains such as McDonald’s, for which France represents the second largest market in the world after the US. The report also revealed that the French are the second-biggest  consumers of pizza in the world, after the Americans. Last year it emerged that the market share taken by the traditional sit-down restaurant, historically a sacrosanct part of the French way of life, had been beaten by la restauration rapide (fast food) for the first time – partly because meal breaks have fallen from almost 90 minutes in 1975 to less than half an hour today. Last year a quarter of the 970 million burgers eaten in France were sold in traditional restaurants. Bernard Boutboul, Gira’s director, said the study found that '75 per cent of traditional French restaurants offer at least one hamburger on their menu' and that in a third of these cases burgers were out-selling entrecotes, other grilled meat or fish dishes. Mouth-watering? The humble hamburger is booming as the length of French meals is cut short . The sales of burgers in traditional restaurants have rocketed by 40 percent in the last two years, Mr Boutboul said. 'La restauration rapide' (fast food) swiped 54 per cent of the market in 2012 for a turnover of 34 billion euros (£29 billion) - a huge jump from 2011, when fast food only claimed 40 per cent of overall market share. The rise was attributed to shorter meal breaks in France  and the growing range of new products on the market, not just sandwiches but thematicoutlets offering salads, bagels or kebabs.

Almost half of all sandwiches sold in France last year were hamburgers . That compares to just one in nine in 2000, according to a marketing firm . The French eat 970 million burgers a year, a quarter in sit-down restaurants .

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A senior Sun journalist was cleared yesterday of paying a corrupt tax official to get secrets from the Government’s Budget. Clodagh Hartley, 40, was accused of handing over £17,000 in exchange for leaks from Alistair Darling’s Budget in 2010 and embarrassing information about revenue officials and government waste. But yesterday the former Whitehall editor was acquitted of corrupting public officials after telling jurors she was just ‘doing her job’ getting stories that were in the public interest and exposing Whitehall ‘spin’. Journalist Clodagh Hartley, pictured, was acquitted of corrupting public officials at the Old Bailey yesterday . The mother of two is the first Sun journalist charged under Scotland Yard’s Operation Elveden, the investigation into alleged cash payments to public officials for stories, to be cleared. She maintained that her source, Jonathan Hall was a ‘whistleblower’ at HMRC where he worked as chief of the law enforcement desk. But it can now be revealed that Hall, 43, had previously pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office after receiving £17,475 over more than three years from The Sun for sensitive information on Alistair Darling’s final Budget in 2010 and stories on celebrities. The ‘greedy’ civil servant used the account of his girlfriend Marta Bukarewicz, 45, to hide most of the payments, but she was cleared of any wrongdoing. Miss Hartley sobbed in the dock yesterday, saying ‘thank you’, as she was cleared of paying out ‘easy money for lazy journalism’. She was arrested in 2012 after police were handed emails, texts and payment records containing evidence that Hall fed her stories between 2008 and 2011. Her three week trial at the Old Bailey heard that in March 2010 Hall was paid £750 for a double-page spread about policy decisions relating to the Budget and the Government’s deficit reduction plans. He was also paid £500 for a story in December 2009 about celebrities including Kelly Brook being paid as part of a £1.3 million taxpayer-funded TV campaign publicising the Government website Directgov. Jonathan Hall will be sentenced on February 6 after earlier pleading guilty to misconduct in public office . Prosecutor Zoe Johnson, QC, told jurors: ‘This is not a trial involving whistleblowing in a noble cause. It is a case in which Hall, the HMRC press officer, was motivated by greed and Miss Hartley, the journalist, was motivated by acquiring the next big scoop or exclusive.’ But Alexandra Healy QC, defending, said: ‘What it amounts to is she is on trial for that criminal offence for doing her job. ‘She made no secret of what she was doing. ‘Miss Hartley admits she requested that her employers paid money to Jonathan Hall and makes no secret of what she is doing. ‘We have to look at Miss Hartley’s actions on basis of the factual circumstances at the time and how political journalism has operated for years.’ During her trial, the journalist hit out at News International’s decision to hand over vast swathes of data to police comprising journalists’ confidential sources. She said it never occurred to her that she was doing anything illegal. The reporter, who had stints as The Sun’s Los Angeles correspondent as well as consumer affairs editor, said she wrote the Budget article because it was important for readers to get the story before it was subjected to ‘spin’. She argued other articles about a £1.3m campaign to promote a government department and the £24m cost of moving a schools authority from London to Coventry were in the public interest. She also said she wanted to expose the double standards amongst civil servants in Whitehall, where the culture of spin made it difficult to get to the truth. Former Mirror editor and media commentator Roy Greenslade, who gave evidence in her defence, insisted that leaks were the ‘lifeblood’ of political journalism in Britain. Jurors learnt that a series of articles supposedly based on confidential information bought by Hartley were irrelevant to the case. One article, ‘£20bn Black Hole Cheers’, printed on 26 March, 2010, was written two days after Labour’s 2010 Budget and contained nothing confidential. Another article uncovered by detectives was not even written by Hartley. Richard Lester, head of security at HMRC, admitted his department did not even looked into the supposedly damaging leaks at the time they were published. Hall, who joined HMRC in 2009, received more than £4,000 directly from News International between April 2008 and May 2010. A further £13,000 was channelled into his girlfriend’s account between June 2010 and July 2011. Miss Bukarewicz, who denied profiting £845 from the alleged scam, said Miss Hartley had suggested the arrangement to Hall because he was a ‘protected source’ and it was ‘standard practice at the Sun’. But after nearly two days of deliberations, the jury cleared her and Miss Bukarewicz of conspiracy to commit misconduct in public office. Yesterday Miss Hartley left court in tears. She has said she does not plan to return to journalism. Hall will be sentenced on February 6. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Clodagh Hartley was accused of handing over £17,000 to a civil servant . She was acquitted at the Old Bailey of corrupting public officials . She was the first journalist to face trial under Operation Elveden . Ms Hartley maintained that her source, Jonathan Hall, was a whistle blower . Hall pleaded guilty to a charge of misconduct in public office . He will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on February 6, 2015 .

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By . Katie Nicholl . PUBLISHED: . 17:19 EST, 25 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 08:55 EST, 26 August 2012 . The controversy over the leaked pictures of Prince Harry naked in Las Vegas has focused fresh  attention on the role of the two police protection officers who were in charge of him at the time. The Mail on Sunday can reveal that one of the Prince’s most long-serving protection officers, who has worked for the Royal Family since 1995, was in charge of Harry’s security. The round-the-clock protection officer accompanied the Prince to Vegas and was photographed with Harry at the Wet Republic pool party at the MGM hotel. A close rapport: Harry and his favourite protection officer, who was on duty in Vegas when the prince was pictured naked, cheer on . England at a rugby match in France during the 2007 world cup . The bodyguard, who wore sunglasses and a straw hat, was pictured surrounded by girls in bikinis, but he was in fact on duty. Together . with another  colleague, the protection officer, who is one of the . Metropolitan Police’s elite SO14 team, was also in charge of the Prince . when he was partying in the private suite at the exclusive Wynn Hotel, . where the naked pictures were taken. A . source told this newspaper that, since their return, both protection . officers are likely to have been questioned over what happened in Las . Vegas. At Clarence House, . the official residence of Prince Harry and the Prince of Wales, there . are concerns that the young Royal and his chief protection officer have . become overly friendly. Harry always requests his favourite protection officer for overseas trips and the two men have a close rapport. Prince William is also said to get along well with the amiable officer, who was a guest at last year’s Royal Wedding. The . officer, who is in his early 40s and married with a young daughter, . gets on well with the Princes’ friends and usually accompanies Harry . when he goes away on holiday. The prince who can't stop partying: Harry, in hat and sunglasses, amid a gaggle of young women during his long weekend in Las Vegas . Prince Harry frolics around in Las Vegas wearing a 'Let's Go Wild' singlet which he borrowed off a female partygoer . On . his Facebook page, which has now been deleted, he has posted a series . of pictures of himself with Harry, who he refers to as ‘Spike’. In . one he is photographed on Everest waving a Union Jack flag during the . Walking with the Wounded expedition that Harry took part in earlier this . year. In another, he . is on holiday in the Okavenga Delta in Botswana with Prince Harry. In . the picture the officer, who is stripped to the waist, is fishing. One of his friends posted the comment: ‘Hard at work – again.’ A source said: ‘Harry and his protection officer get along very well. 'If Harry has a boring event he’ll take any protection officer, but when it comes to parties and going away he wants his No 1 man with him because he is very much one of the boys.’ Neither of the SO14 protection officers who were with Harry in Las Vegas are expected to face disciplinary action. Despite the pictures being deeply embarrassing for the Royal Family, Harry was at no point in any danger. Bernard Hogan-Howe, the  Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, has said it was not  the job of the royal protection officers to oversee the Prince’s behaviour. ‘Royal protection officers are there to protect him for security reasons, they are not there to regulate his life,’ Mr Hogan-Howe said. It was, however, unusual that the protection officers did not vet Harry’s guests. There were at least 15 girls  at the private party in the  hotel suite who Harry did not know. It is, say friends,  customary for party guests to hand over their digital cameras and mobile phones. ‘On some occasions the  protection officers will ask to delete any potentially  compromising pictures in order to protect the prince,’ says one of Harry’s entourage. ‘The rule is “lots of fun but no pictures”.’

Long-serving bodyguard is 'very much one of the boys’ Pictured wearing straw hat surrounded by girls in bikinis while on duty . Has posted pictures of himself with Harry on Facebook . Has 'close rapport' with the prince who he refers to as 'Spike'

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(CNN) -- Thanks to a crop of how-to dating shows, such as Bravo's "The Millionaire Matchmaker" and VH1's "Tough Love," more people are reaching out to matchmakers, making an age-old art fashionable again. Back in 19th-century Russia -- around the time of "Fiddler on the Roof" -- women dreaded visits from the village matchmaker and longed to choose their own men. Today, real-life dating experts are in high demand. "Millionaire Matchmaker" star Patti Stanger says her off-screen business, Millionaire's Club International, is growing just as fast as her TV series, which, in its third season premiere, increased viewership by 30 percent, according to Nielsen Media Research. It's great having more clients, Stanger said, though there's more dross to sort through. "We're on the map, everyone knows the brand, but it takes 30 to 45 guys until we find a real guy," she said. "Crazy people come in [out of] the woodwork." And while certain aspects of her club have been sensationalized for TV -- like having millionaires pick their dates out of a room full of men or women looking to date them -- Stanger tells it like it is, whether or not the cameras are rolling. "I'll tell [clients] off. I'll say, 'You want to be 80 [and alone] in the nursing home?' " "Tough Love" features Steve Ward, chief executive officer at Master Matchmakers, a matchmaking service his mother JoAnn Ward -- who also appears on the show -- founded more than 20 years ago. On the show, Ward works closely with single women who he says "need an objective third party to give them constructive feedback that can help them find what they're looking for." There are many people looking for answers, especially young people with nowhere else to turn, Ward said. About half of the 20,000 people who applied to be on his new spin-off "Tough Love Couples" were younger than 21, he said. Hiring a matchmaker can be pricey. Some services charge thousands of dollars for one-on-one consultations. However, many matchmakers will list you in their database for a smaller fee. The success of the shows has rubbed off on the matchmaking industry. Despite her general dislike for "The Millionaire Matchmaker," Janis Spindel said the Bravo hit, which debuted in 2008, is somewhat responsible for spiking interest and boosting her client base. Her company, Janis Spindel Serious Matchmaking, has seen a 41 percent increase since these programs found a place on cable TV. One client, a former bachelor from Austin, Texas, contacted Spindel after his daughter inadvertently introduced him to "The Millionaire Matchmaker." "His teenage daughter was watching it in the living room, and when he walked in, he heard what the show was about and took interest in the art of matchmaking," Spindel said. Samantha Daniels of Samantha's Table, a bicoastal matchmaking service, said she has also watched her business boom since matchmaking shows first appeared on TV. "Miss Match," a romantic dramedy based on Daniels' life as a matrimonial attorney turned matchmaker, aired on NBC in 2003. Whether it aired about six years too soon, or just settled in to an unfortunate time slot, the series was canceled after one season because of disappointing ratings. Despite "Miss Match's" missed mark, Daniels plans to give TV another shot. She's is in the planning stages of her own reality show to teach women to be better daters. "Putting that show on the air and going forward with more shows on the air, people are coming to understand what the business is more," Daniels said. "A lot of people will say ... 'You do that in real life? I want someone to do that for me.' " Jan Yager, author of "125 Ways to Meet the Love of Your Life," said fear is the main reason people are reluctant to contact matchmakers, and she's glad that reality matchmaking shows are doing their part to ease that fear. Yager, who met her husband of 25 years through the personals, said it's important to get past the stigma that comes with hiring a matchmaker. Some people have an "if it happens, it happens" attitude when it comes to finding love, she said. "But did you get to [be successful at work] because 'if it happens, it happens'? Didn't you have to plan and put time into it? Think about it." In addition to educating viewers about how to find love and sustain healthy relationships, matchmaking shows have helped to eliminate the stigma often associated with hiring a matchmaker, said Stanger, who met her fiancé through her own service. "Now it's not taboo to hire a matchmaker." she said.

Nielsen Media Research: "Millionaire Matchmaker" season 3 ratings show up season 2's . Matchmaker Janis Spindel's business up 41 percent since matchmaking shows hit TV . About half of the 20,000 who applied to be on "Tough Love Couples" were younger than 21 .

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By . Richard Spillett . PUBLISHED: . 13:15 EST, 13 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 13:15 EST, 13 March 2014 . A mysterious golden eagle with bells on its feet has been spotted by a group of cyclists in Wales. The huge bird, which is exceptionally rare in the UK, appeared tame and even allowed some of the group touch it. Experts insist the creature must have escaped from a sanctuary, but police in the area say they have not received reports from any sanctuaries or bird parks. Cyclists spotted a golden eagle perched near the cycle path on the Llanllwni Mountain in Carmarthenshire, Wales . The bird allowed mountain biker Jason Mulvey to touch and stroke it . The cyclists were cycling along a trail in the Llanllwni Mountain in Carmarthenshire when they came across the eagle. Mountain cyclists Nikki Channon and her husband Jason Mulvey said the massive bird was not distressed by group's presence and even let them stroke it. She added: 'It is obviously tame and lost but could cause damage or take local lambs if it gets very hungry. 'It is also huge and so could easily frighten the public - it allowed us to come very close. 'No doubt someone is very anxious to have lost this bird.' Cyclists Nikki Channon and husband Jason Mulvey said they are sure someone must be missing the bird . Golden eagles are now extremely rare in Britain and usually keep to remote mountains and hills . The cyclists are worried the lost bird may attack farm animals in the area if it is not returned to its owner . A spokesman for the RSPB said the birds were once common across Britain's mountains and hills, but are now mostly found at bird parks and zoos. He added: 'This bird is likely to be an escapee rather than a wild golden eagle. 'They are commonly kept as falconer’s birds or in bird of prey centres so this one is likely to have got away from its owner.' The spokesman added that golden eagles were once found in upland areas in many parts of the UK. 'However, persecution pushed these birds to extinction in England and Wales by 1850. 'They are now almost entirely restricted to Scotland. Sadly, the persecution of golden eagles and other birds of prey continues to this day.' Dyfed Powys Police say they have received no reports of a missing eagle meaning the bird's owner remains a mystery . The estimated 440 pairs of eagles living in the UK are thought to be confined to Scotland are extremely rare in Wales .

Mountain bikers were shocked to see the huge predator of the Llanllwni Mountain in Carmarthenshire . The rare bird, which usually only lives in the Scottish Highland, even allowed some of group to touch it . RSPB say the beast, which had bells on its feet, must be an escapee from a nearby sanctuary or bird park . But police in Carmarthenshire, Wales say owner has yet to come forward and report it missing .

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By . Claudia Joseph . PUBLISHED: . 05:28 EST, 30 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:35 EST, 30 October 2013 . A dressmaker made famous by appearing on TV's Big Fat Gypsy Weddings is being sued for sacking the head designer at her boutique. Thelma Madine paid Leanne Phillips £400 a week to design dresses for Nico Bridal Company, based in Liverpool, and praised her for taking the business 'to another level'. But last December, she fired the 31-year-old after six years, allegedly after a row at the shop. Sued: Thelma Madine, who found fame on Big Fat Gypsy Weddings, is facing a claim for unfair dismissal from her former head designer . Sacked: Leanne Phillips was fired from Nico Bridal Company last December after working there for six years . Ms Madine, 61, makes wedding and christening dresses aimed at young women and girls from the traveller community. She was featured on Channel 4's reality TV show Big Fat Gypsy Weddings, and went on to star in her own spin-off, Thelma's Gypsy Girls. Ms . Phillips also featured in the show as one of Ms Madine's closest . associates - but on December 6 last year, she was sacked from Nico. She is now suing her former boss for unfair dismissal at an employment tribunal which will take place next Monday. Collaborators: Ms Phillips, left, and Ms Madine, right, posing with a dress made of hair . In her claim, Ms Phillips alleges . her boss sacked her after a row, then attempted to gather further . evidence against her by quizzing other employees. She . also claims the workplace was ‘unstructured’ when it came to . disciplinary matters, and that attempts to appeal her boss's decision . were ignored. The . disciplinary hearing against her was chaired by Ms Madine, Ms Phillips . claims, even though she herself was the complainant too. The former . designer also says that Ms Madine was often at the centre of 'heated . arguments' at the business, which never led to disciplinary action . against anyone else. Ms Phillips is demanding £1,200 in back pay which she says she is owed, and also wants to be reinstated to her old job. Fame: Ms Madine, 61, spent time in prison before achieving celebrity on Channel 4 . Responding to the claims in an . official tribunal court document, Ms Madine admitted that no formal . disciplinary policy existed but claimed she felt intimidated during the . row, which was apparently sparked when the employee asked for a day off. Ms Phillips apparently screamed 'you horrible b****' at the manager and kept interrupting a discussion between her mother, who also worked at the company, and Ms Madine, according to the document. Ms . Madine said that she only consulted Ms Phillips' colleagues in order to . obtain evidence about the argument, and added that those co-workers freely . volunteered information about previous alleged wrongdoing. She added that she had . conducted a lengthy investigation into the issue, and said she . had not withheld any information from Ms Phillips. An appeal was apparently heard by a solicitor independent of the firm, who concluded that Ms Madine was right to fire Ms Phillips and it would be 'untenable' for the latter to return to the firm. The boss denied that there was 'a culture of arguments involving shouting, swearing and intimidation' at the business. Extravagant: One of the over-the-top wedding dresses featured in Big Fat Gypsy Weddings . Praise: Ms Madine once described Ms Phillips as 'full of imaginative ideas and passion' as an employee . 'I totally deny any wrongdoing,' Ms Phillips said. 'I believe I was unfairly treated after a long and loyal service. 'It has been really hard to come to terms with. My job at Nico was my life and losing it was heartbreaking. 'It . came at completely the wrong time, as I was recently engaged and . planning my own wedding. I had never been out of work since leaving . school and found unbearable the thought of signing on benefits a few . weeks before Christmas. 'After . Christmas, I started job-hunting - I even applied for a job at a hotel, . but my fiancé and family were upset that I was wasting my talents so . they encouraged me to set up my own business. 'I . can't wait until the tribunal is over and I can put that part of my . life behind me. I am looking forward to designing and making my own . dresses for the travelling community and building a future for myself . and my family.' She has now set up a competing design company, Leanne Alexandra, which also makes dresses for travellers. Wacky: A palm tree dress and a pineapple dress worn by participants in the Channel 4 show . Boutique: Ms Madine employed Ms Phillips at this Nico Bridal Shop in Liverpool . Ms Madine effusively praised Ms Phillips in her autobiography, Tales Of The Gypsy Dressmaker, which was published last year. She . wrote: 'Leanne is now the head designer at Nico and is starting to . oversee parts of the process that I had to do, which is great, because . it means that I can concentrate on other parts of the business. 'I . used to feel that every one of my dresses was like my baby and that no . one could do them as well as me - I am a bit of a control freak! - but I . know now that the future of Nico is in Leanne's hands. 'Since she started working for me, Leanne has taken Nico to another level. 'And I have to admit that she reminds me of me at her age, full of imaginative ideas and passion for the task in hand.' Ms . Madine, a mother of three, started sewing 18 years ago after the . breakdown of her marriage, and began by selling dresses at a market . stall in Liverpool. Despite . serving four months in jail for benefit fraud, an experience which she . said she 'thoroughly enjoyed', her business has apparently thrived since . she found TV fame. Ms Madine was unavailable for comment on the upcoming employment tribunal.

Thelma Madine, 61, employed Leanne Phillips, 31, as head designer at Nico Bridal Company in Liverpool . She praised her for taking firm 'to another level' in her autobiography . But now Phillips is suing after being fired from the company last December . The pair apparently argued at work when Phillips and her mother asked for a day off leading to a fierce argument . Madine rose to fame on Big Fat Gypsy Weddings then starred in spin-off .

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By . Richard Hartley-parkinson . PUBLISHED: . 09:11 EST, 17 May 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 11:50 EST, 17 May 2012 . On trial: Daniel Pytlarz is accused of sexually assaulting 18 female clients, including a former employee of Sir Paul McCartney . A masseur groped a woman as she lay naked at his clinic then offered her a loyalty card when the ordeal was over, a court heard today. Daniel Pytlarz, 34, left his victim fearing she would be raped after he ordered her to strip off her underwear at his upmarket spa in St John's Wood, North London, it was claimed. The woman, who cannot be named, visited for her first ever massage after booking discounted treatment through a health and beauty website, Southwark Crown Court was told. Giving evidence, she told jurors she had visited the clinic in March last year. She said she had been asked to undress by the masseur and had taken her clothes off but left her bra and underpants on before Pytlarz asked her to remove them. 'I was a bit surprised,' she added. 'I was not sure why I had to take my undergarments off but as I had never had a massage before I just thought, "OK, this is what is supposed to happen".' But she began to fear for her safety after Pytlarz groped her while she was lying naked on the massage table, the court heard. 'I was actually thinking I hope I get out of this,' she said. 'I wear glasses, I could not see properly and I was naked and did not know how I could get to the door and get my clothes and up the stairs before he got to the door. 'I have a bad back and I thought if I try and get off the bed then my back is going to go and it is all going to be terrible. 'I thought I was going to be raped.' Ordeal: The woman, whose new husband had booked a massage for her birthday in November 2010, said she had asked Pytlarz for a deep full-body massage but 'completely froze' when he touched her intimately . When Pytlarz stopped and asked her if she wanted it to continue she said, 'No, thank you'. She said: 'I got dressed and went upstairs. 'He said he hoped I had not minded what had happened because I seemed very tense and then he gave me a loyalty card. Cancelled appointment: When Sir Paul McCartney's aide told him about the alleged assault he immediately cancelled his and wife Nancy Shevell's appointment with Pytlarz . 'I just said, "OK, thanks", and then left.' Pytlarz is also said to have sexually assaulted two lawyers who attended his spa together in January 2011. Both had also booked treatment through the Wahanda.com health and beauty website. One said she and her friend had made the appointments as 'something nice' for them to do together before a meal with their boyfriends. She told jurors that after Pytlarz had touched her intimately while massaging her legs, she had wanted to alert her friend but had been surrounded by the masseur and a female employee. The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said: 'I wanted to say something to warn her but they were both standing there so I just said, "Enjoy your massage, I will see you later".' Her friend added: 'I do not remember specifics I just remember two very poignant moments of the massage that have stayed with me. 'He was massaging up and down my calf and the bottom of my leg and then up my thigh. 'I've had my legs massaged before and usually people stop at the top of your legs - a good couple of inches from your bikini line or where your pants start. 'That was not the case here.' Among his other victims - of which there are believed to be 18 in total - Pytlarz is said to have targeted a former employee of Sir Paul McCartney, who claimed he touched her intimately when he gave her a free massage at his clinic in December 2009. It happened the day before he was due to give a massage to the ex-Beatle and his girlfriend Nancy Shevell, who is now his wife, at home in Cavendish Avenue, less than half a mile from the masseur's clinic. When the employee told Sir Paul what had happened he cancelled the appointment, jurors have been told. Pytlarz, from St John's Wood, denies seven counts of assault by penetration and 14 counts of sexual assault. All the offences are alleged to have taken place between March 2009 and September 2011. The trial continues. Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons.

Daniel Pytlarz, 34, also accused of sexually assaulting two lawyers at spa . Among his 18 alleged victims was a former employee of Sir Paul McCartney .

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By . Chris Greenwood . PUBLISHED: . 05:23 EST, 9 March 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 13:54 EST, 10 March 2014 . The father of a young woman allegedly harassed by the so-called Wolf of Shenfield is suspected of arranging for him to be shot as a ‘punishment’. Lee Victory, 51, was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder City trader Robin Clark after police raided his home. He worked at the same brokers that Mr Clark left shortly after a complaint about his treatment of Mr Victory’s daughter Danielle, 23. Lee Victory, 51, who has reportedly been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder stockbroker Robin Clark, dubbed the Wolf of Shenfield. Clark left brokerage BGC after a complaint over his treatment of Victory's daughter Danielle Victory, 23. He is pictured with her . At . the time she worked on the Euro desk at brokers BGC, which was headed . by Mr Clark. He earned millions as a senior managing director. It is understood that Miss Victory was at the centre of several complaints that Mr Clark made sexual comments towards her. Mr Clark is accused of promising the junior broker ‘the world’ and asking if she would sleep with him. Rumours also swirled around the brokerage firm that he tried to take a photograph up her skirt at a glamorous charity dinner. He worked at the same brokers that Mr Clark left shortly after a complaint about his treatment of Mr Victory's daughter Danielle, 23 (pictured) Mr . Victory, who is originally from London’s East End and now lives in Essex, is a . veteran employee at BGC and friend of president Shaun Lynn. His daughter has left BGC since the controversy over her alleged harassment and joined a recruitment firm in Essex. Mr . Clark landed a new £400,000-a-year job at another City firm but has . been plagued by financial problems, which sparked a fire sale of his . assets. It is understood Mr . Victory, who has a keen interest in cage fighting, was away in Dubai on . business when Mr Clark was shot shortly before 6am on January 24. The . twice-divorced father-of-four was getting out of his car at Shenfield . rail station, Essex, when a gunman in a balaclava confronted him. His daughter has left BGC since the controversy over her alleged harassment and joined a recruitment firm in Essex . Mr Clark was shot in the top of his thigh with a sawn-off shotgun. The pellets blasted away a fist-sized chunk of flesh and narrowly missed a vital artery . Police believe Mr Clark was deliberately targeted, although he has said he had 'no idea why someone would want to hurt me like this' At the time, sources revealed officers were investigating the possibility that Mr Clark was attacked by a love rival or over a financial dispute . Mr . Clark was shot in the top of his thigh with a sawn-off shotgun. The . pellets blasted away a fist-sized chunk of flesh and narrowly missed a . vital artery. The victim - nicknamed after The Wolf of Wall Street film starring Leonardo DiCaprio - spent a month in hospital. He . was treated in hospital under armed guard and surgeons said the bullet, . which entered his right leg six inches above his knee, missed arteries . by millimetres. Police . believe Mr Clark was deliberately targeted, although he has said he had . ‘no idea why someone would want to hurt me like this’. Investigators . at British Transport Police suspect whoever pulled the trigger was a . contract hit man. They have released Mr Victory on bail. At . the time, sources revealed officers were investigating the possibility . that Mr Clark was attacked by a love rival or over a financial dispute. A man arrested in connection with the shooting of Robin Clark, 44 (pictured), at Shenfield station in January, was allegedly upset with Mr Clark after the trader made sexual comments to his daughter . Police reportedly arrested Lee Victory, 51, yesterday on suspicion of conspiracy to murder . Mr Clark was shot once in the thigh outside Shenfield station with a sawn-off shotgun in January . One . source said: ‘It’s clear that the gunman meant the shot to be a . punishment rather than to kill. It’s some kind of revenge attack.’ When . Mr Clark returned to work at City of London broker RP Martin he was . surprised by colleagues wearing balaclavas and waving fake guns. They shouted ‘bang’ at him causing Mr Clark to violently reel away from his ‘attackers’, ripping the stitches out of his wounds. The . bad taste prank left him requiring further hospital treatment but he . later described it as a ‘well meaning’ way of welcoming him back. He said: ‘Some of the guys thought it was a way to defuse the tension on my return to work. My colleagues have been brilliant.’ Mr . Clark was compared to Jordan Belfort, the main character in hit movie . The Wolf of Wall Street, because of his flashy lifestyle. But . he moved out of his £2.2million five-bedroom house in Ingatestone, near . Shenfield, last year and started renting it out after running into . debt. Friends said the broker had been suffering money worries in recent years, and was saddled with debts. Last . year a county court judgment was filed against him for debts of . £14,653, and he was director of several companies that were shut while . owing money. A police spokesman said: ‘A 51-year-old man from Essex has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder. ‘He has since been interviewed and released on police bail pending further enquiries.’ Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Robin Clark, 44, shot at Shenfield railway station, Essex, in January . Lee Victory, 51, arrested yesterday on suspicion of conspiracy to murder . Mr Victory worked for BGC Partners where Mr Clark also worked . Mr Clark left the firm after allegedly harassing Mr Victory's daughter . It is claimed Mr Clark made sexual comments to Danielle Victory, 23 . Mr Victory was questioned under caution and released on bail .

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Claws the monster lobster won't ever be catch of the day - because he is too big for the cooking pot. The two-and-a-half foot crustacean was hauled out of the sea near Lyme Regis, Dorset and is believed to be at least 60 years old. Now he is being looked after at the town's aquarium for the summer before he returns to the sea. Claws the lobster was caught in Lyme Bay off the Dorset coast but is too big and old to become a meal . The lobster's crushing claw is 'abnormally large', according to owner Max Gollop . Owner Max Gollop said the lobster was rare because of its age and size and its abnormally large crushing claw. 'I haven't seen many that big,' he said. 'The crushing claw is especially big. 'Fishermen get paid for the weight when selling lobsters but over a certain limit that doesn't apply because the meat is too tough. Instead of the cooking pot, Claws's summer destination is the Lyme Regis Aquarium . Children are 'in awe' of Claws's size, according to his owner Max Gollop . 'You can say he was saved by his size. 'He'll stay with us at the aquarium for summer then in September we'll release him back into the sea.' He added: 'The kids are in awe of him'.

Two-and-a-half foot crustacean was hauled out of sea near Lyme Regis . His size and age mean he won't end up on a plate but will stay at aquarium .

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By . Emine Sinmaz . PUBLISHED: . 12:20 EST, 12 June 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 15:13 EST, 12 June 2012 . A manhunt is underway after a spurned lover forced his ex-girlfriend to tie her daughter to a chair and watch as he fatally shot the young woman in the head. Roy Parmley, of Lapel, Indiana, broke into the home of Terri Wiles, 53, and her 31-year-old daughter last Friday, just two days after the mother ended their two-year relationship. When the two women arrived at the property, they found Parmley waiting for them, brandishing shotguns, according to the Herald Bulletin. Murdered: Amanda Wiles, left, 31, was shot dead by Roy Parmley, right, 53, after her mother ended their two-year relationship with him . His had smashed his way in through a patio door and his hands were covered in blood. The 53-year-old forced his ex-girlfriend to use duct tape to tie Amanda Raquel Wiles to a chair in the kitchen, according to the affidavit filed at Madison County Court. Parmley then bound his ex-girlfriend to a chair and told her that he would ‘take something away from her that she loved more than him,’ and shot Amanda Wiles in the head with a shotgun. The suspect fled the property on foot after telling Terri Wiles that he was going to kill himself. The horrified mother was able to free herself and called 911. ‘This is possibly a result of a relationship where one person decided they didn't want the relationship anymore,’ Madison County Sheriff Ron Richardson told WRTV. An warrant has been issued for Parmley's arrest on charges of murder, burglary resulting in bodily injury, and two counts of criminal confinement. Tragedy: Parmley told Terri Wiles that he was going to 'take something away from her that she loved more than him,' before shooting Amanda, pictured . Tortured: Terri Wiles was forced to watch as her 31-year-old daughter was fatally shot in the head by her ex-boyfriend . Unhinged: Parmley¿s sister, Brenda Shaffer, said Parmley had been unstable since losing his father and wife to different illnesses . He is yet to be found and is believed to be suicidal, and armed and dangerous. 'We're using ATVs, golf carts. We had a helicopter here from state police early this morning, canines from other departments,' Richardson told the station on Saturday. Ryan Edwards, Amanda Wiles' boyfriend, told the Herald Bulletin that he had received a distressing call from her in the week before her tragic death. He told how his on-off girlfriend said she wanted him to attend her funeral, adding: ‘I just want you to know I love you very, very much. If anything ever happens to me, I want you to know I love you from the bottom of my heart.’ Edwards told the newspaper that the disconcerting conversation led him to believe that Parmley, an alcoholic known for his impulsive behaviour, had been threatening her for some time. 'Why would she say all that stuff out of the blue?' he said. 'Deep down, she knew Roy was crazy.' Heartbroken: Ryan Edwards has been lamenting the loss of his girlfriend Amanda Wiles on Facebook . Warning signs: Ryan Edwards, left, said he received a disconcerting phone call from his girlfriend Amanda Wiles, right, in the week before she was tragically murdered . Mourning: Ryan Edwards posted this tribute to his girlfriend on Sunday, saying how much he loved and missed her . Edwards’ Facebook page has since been flooded with tributes to Amanda Wiles. ‘I love you very much Ma,’ he posted on Sunday. ‘I will always miss your beautiful face and I look forward to when we meet again in the house that God had made for us.’ Edwards also told how Parmley was unhinged, . recounting how he was often struck by fits of jealousy and how he once . shot a rabbit in their garden to pieces for no reason. Parmley’s sister, Brenda Shaffer, said Parmley had been unstable since losing his father and wife to different illnesses. 'We love our brother, and we’re very sorry that this disease, which I believe, destroyed lives,' she said. 'Right now we don’t know if he’s dead or alive,' she said. Spurned: 'This is possibly a result of a relationship where one person decided they didn't want the relationship anymore,' Madison County Sheriff Ron Richardson said . Pictured: The home of Terri and Amanda Wiles and the site of the fatal shooting .

Terri Wiles, 53, had ended her two-year relationship with Ron Parmley, 53, just two days before he killed her daughter . The suspect fled the scene on foot and is considered to be armed and dangerous .

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Newlyweds Stacie and Edgar Cobos got more than they bargained during a game drive on their Serengeti Safari Camp in Northern Tanzania. The honeymooners, from Washington DC, were on a game drive when a cheetah got a little too close for comfort - jumping on the car and peering through the open sunroof. The couple had been happily observing the family of cheetahs when the big cats decided to use the car as a perch so they could get a better view of their surroundings. But one cheetah became more interested in the contents of the car than the surrounding plains, peering through the sunroof and, at one moment, looking like it may even try to get inside. As Edgar Cobos stayed stock still looking at the animal from the back seat, the big cat looked right back, before appearing to lose interest. Scroll down for video . Too close for comfort? One cheetah even popped his head into the vehicle through the sunroof . Edgar Cobos remained calm and cool while the gigantic cat lounged just inches from his head . The heart-stopping moment came as the newlyweds were enjoying a safari camp experience with The Luxury Safari Company. The trip involves travelling through the Serengeti with a mobile camp of just six tents, following the migration and wildlife movement around the Serengeti. Guests have the opportunity to camp and dine under the stars of the Kuka Hills in the North Eastern Serengeti, while always being positioned in an exceptional wildlife area. The nature of the safari means holidaymakers can venture further away from other tourists and often get much closer to the animals. The cats perched atop the car, enjoying a better view of the surrounding Northern Tanzania plains . The Serengeti has long been famed as one of the most beautiful, wild-life rich areas of Africa . Stumbling upon cheetah is nothing out of the ordinary in the Serengeti, which has long been famed as one of the most beautiful, wildlife-rich areas of Africa. In the North West region of Tanzania, it shares an invisible border with Kenya's Masai Mara, spanning 30,000 sq km. Aside from cheetah-spotting, wildebeest are also frequently seen, particularly during the country's annual wildebeest migration, which lasts for approximately 8-9 months of the year. Newlyweds Stacie and Edgar Cobos were visited by some friendly cheetah during their Serengeti Safari Camp . The Serengeti Safari Camp, which the couple booked, is a six-tent mobile camp that follows animal migration . The Luxury Safari Company's camp also boasts a living room tent, as well as library and bar area . Each of the six sleeping tents also has an en-suite bathroom in the rear . Aside from cheetah, another commonly spotted animal is wildebeest during their annual migration . Rose Hipwood, founder of The Luxury Safari Company said, 'Tourism drives conservation in Africa. 'If it wasn't for tourists, much of the land would have been taken over and the animals wiped out - it seems these cheetah have found another way that the tourists protecting them can help them!' Stays at Serengeti Safari Camp in Tanzania start at £2,643 for four nights, all inclusive, including flights from the UK.

Washington, DC newlyweds were surprised by some large feline visitors . During their Serengeti Safari Camp, two giant cheetah climbed atop the car . The giant cats perched on the vehicle, even poking in through the sunroof .

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(CNN) -- World No.1 Caroline Wozniacki came through her opener against Nadia Petrova at the WTA Qatar Open after a string of seeded players crashed out Wednesday. Wozniacki, fresh from her triumph in Dubai, had little trouble against 2006 champion Petrova, running out a 6-3 6-2 winner in their second round match. "It's great to start off with a win and continue with my good form after Dubai," the Dane told the official WTA website. She secured a single break in the opener to move ahead and three breaks of service in the second. Her victory sets up a quarterfinal clash against Italian Flavia Pennetta at the Khalifa Tennis and Squash Complex. Penetta's compatriot and third seed Francesca Schiavone became the biggest casualty yet as she was beaten 7-5 6-3 by China's Peng Shuai. Schiavone, the reigning French Open champion, complained of tiredness after her defeat. Fourth-seeded Li Na, the Australian Open finalist, crashed to a 6-2 6-1 loss to Czech Klara Zakopalova, while eighth seed Shahar Peer of Israel was thrashed 6-1 6-0 by France's Marion Bartoli. "She gave me no chance," said Peer, who had beaten two-time grand slam champion Svetlana Kuznetsova in the first round. "I have won seven out of nine times against her in the past, but today she was simply too good." Second seed and World No.3 Vera Zvonareva also avoided an upset as she swept aside Dominika Cibulkova 6-1 6-2 in the final match of the day. Russian Zvonareva showed no signs of a recent niggling shoulder injury to stay on course for a final clash with Wozniacki.

Caroline Wozniacki continues winning streak by beating Nadia Petrova in Qatar . Dane comes to Doha off the back of her Dubai Open success . Third seed and French Open champion Francesca Schiavone loses to Peng Shuai . Second seed Vera Zvonareva reaches quarterfinals by beating Dominika Cibulkova .

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(CNN) -- Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill should be sick of each other by now. And if they weren't really friends off screen, they probably would be. After filming the surprisingly successful "21 Jump Street" and reteaming for the June 13 follow-up, "22 Jump Street," the two actors have put in countless hours filming and doing press for their projects, the kind of time that could strain any professional relationship. But as Tatum told CNN at the "22 Jump Street" premiere on Tuesday, these two got "lucky." "It doesn't always work out like this," Tatum, 34, said. "Sometimes you take a movie because you like someone's work, and then you get to work with them and you don't actually enjoy working with them. And we just got really lucky." In the "Jump Street" movies, the pair play former high school foes who become friends after being partnered as police officers. The concept is a spin on the '80s TV series of the same name, and, like in the TV show, Hill's Schmidt and Tatum's Jenko are at first sent to work undercover in a high school. The resulting comedy, "21 Jump Street," was released in March 2012 to critical praise and box office success, proving that Tatum could do more than just sub as a heartthrob. "21 Jump Street" was such a hit that it wasn't long before a sequel was announced, and by most accounts, "22 Jump Street" is just as funny as the first. What works so well in the film, which sees the pair's undercover cops head to work on a college campus, is what cements the duo's bond off-screen: a raunchy, daring sense of humor. For example, the "X-rated" bet that they made before the opening of "21 Jump Street" -- wherein Hill promised to "kiss the tip" of a certain part of Tatum's anatomy through his underwear if they reached $35 million that first weekend -- is exactly the kind of off-the-wall camaraderie that comes across on screen. "For this kind of movie," Hill observed at the premiere, "the friendship translates into what the movie's about, which is kind of rad." CNN's Topher Gauk-Roger contributed to this report.

Channing Tatum says he and Jonah Hill got "lucky" with their friendship . The two off-screen friends bring their bond to "22 Jump Street" The comedy sequel opens on June 13 .

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A six-month old baby girl has died from meningococcal disease in Adelaide and four other people have been diagnosed with the infection this month. A one-year-old, two-year-old, and two women in their 40s have been identified as the other four SA patients battling the disease. South Australia Health has issued a public health warning after the tragic death on Monday and a spike in cases of meningococcal, including 16 so far in 2014, compared to 17 at the same time last year. A six-month-old baby girl has died from meningococcal disease. This photograph show a baby with a meningococcal septicaemia rash . Chief Public Health Officer Dr Stephen Christley said that 'meningococcal infection numbers tend to be higher when there are more respiratory infections around, such as influenza'. Dr Stephen Christley, Chief Public Health Officer for South Australia Health, issued a warning about meningococcal disease on Thursday . 'As we have experienced increased numbers of cases in the past few weeks we're asking the general public to be aware of the symptoms of meningococcal disease and seek medical advice if necessary,' Dr Christley said. Around 10 per cent of the population carry the meningococcus bacteria around in the nose and throat of but it is usually harmless. Dr Christley issued a reminder on the symptoms, stating they 'may include fever, headache, vomiting, stiff neck and sore muscles, followed in some cases by a rash of red and purple spots'. 'Babies or young children with meningococcal infection may also be fretful, refuse feeds or be difficult to wake,' he added. People who are particularly at risk in SA will be given antibiotic chemoprophylaxis as a preventative measure. Meningococcal bacteria can cause meningitis, an infection of the membranes covering the spinal cord and brain, and septicaemia, an infection in the bloodstream . The infection can develop quickly and lead to serious illness or even death. Early diagnosis and emergency treatment with antibiotics are vital. Across Australia, over 250 cases of meningococcal disease are diagnosed each year. Most most cases are seen in infants, young children, teenagers and young adults but people of any age can be infected. Symptons 'may include fever, headache, vomiting, stiff neck and sore muscles, followed in some cases by a rash of red and purple spots' The infection can develop quickly and lead to serious illness or even death . In August, Daily Mail Australia revealed how a Sunshine Coast toddler, who was just 13 months old when he contracted the disease and spent two and a half weeks in a coma fighting for his life, has taken his first ever steps after doctors fit him with a new set of prosthetic legs. Brave little meningococcal survivor Finn Smith, now 22 months old, had to have both feet and one of his hands amputated after they were badly affected by bruising. Last month he went to his final fitting at Sunshine Orthopaedic Services in Nambour where prosthetist Dewet Heyns gave Finn his 'click clicks' - the nickname the toddler has given his new legs because of the clicking noise they make when he puts them on. On November 22 last year Sunshine Coast toddler Finn Smith was raced to hospital he was given antibiotics to fight the meningococcal, but all of his internal organs had shut down and he went into a coma for two and a half weeks . Finn Smith has made a remarkable recovery and now has new legs . Finn's mother Sarah Smith said she had to hold back tears as she watched him take his first steps forward with the aid of a walking frame. 'It just gives me that hope that he'll be able to do everything he would have been able to do before the illness,' Ms Smith said. Finn's new legs mark an important step in his recovery journey, but it has been a long nine months for his parents Sarah and Jason Smith. On the night of November 21 last year, Finn had been up all night with flu-like symptoms and every once in a while he would get the shakes. Finn calls the legs his 'click clicks' because of the clicking noise they make when he puts them on . The couple had an on-call doctor visit at 1am, who diagnosed him with a viral infection and told them to get him antibiotics in the morning. The next day during a car trip to Brisbane, they noticed three bruise-like dots on his forehead. They raced to the nearest hospital, which was seven minutes away at Redcliffe, and when they arrived Finn was admitted straight away. 'Within half an hour he was pretty much unrecognisable,' Ms Smith told Daily Mail Australia. Finn was crying tears of blood, blood was coming out of his mouth and his body had puffed up. 'The meningococcal had done its incubation time the night before,' she added. 'You don't know until the spots come out and once the rash comes out the damage is done - your little boy is fighting for his life.'

Baby girl died on Monday in Adelaide, SA . A one-year-old, two-year-old, and two women in their 40s are also battling the disease . SA Health have issued a warning after a spike in cases .