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(CNN)Phylicia Rashad says she was misquoted. She says she wasn't being dismissive of the women who've accused Bill Cosby of sexual assault when she came to the comedian's defense in an online interview. "I am a woman. I would never do that," she said on ABC's "World News Tonight With David Muir" on Wednesday. 'Forget these women' Rashad played Clair Huxtable, Bill Cosby's TV wife, on the groundbreaking NBC sitcom "The Cosby Show." Cosby's now been accused of harassing, drugging and sexually assaulting multiple women. And in an interview with Showbiz 411, Rashad said she never saw any indication of the behavior that the women have attributed to Cosby. "Forget these women," Rashad is quoted as telling the outlet. "What you're seeing is the destruction of a legacy. And I think it's orchestrated. I don't know why or who's doing it, but it's the legacy. And it's a legacy that is so important to the culture." Fast forward to Wednesday night. Rashad says the Showbiz 411 piece didn't accurately reflect what she said -- especially the "forget these women" part. "That was a misquote. That is not what I said," Rashad said. "What I said is, 'this is not about the women. This is about something else. This is about the obliteration of legacy.' " In a Wednesday post, Roger Friedman, the columnist who wrote the Showbiz 411 article, denied that he misquoted Rashad, but wrote that he understands how her words were taken out of context. "She didn't mean for it to be taken the way it was, and I should have punctuated. There was NEVER the meaning in 'Forget those women' that she was saying to actually forget or dismiss then." He continued, "She meant, 'those women aside' -- as in, she's not talking about that, she's talking about Cosby's legacy being destroyed. It was conversational. Somehow this got twisted. I am really sorry if the way I presented it made it seem like either one of us was forgetting anyone." Allred calls Rashad out . In coming to the defense of her TV husband, Rashad has now waded into a controversy that continues to dog Cosby. More than 20 women have come forward with claims, and a defamation lawsuit has been filed against Cosby. On Wednesday, attorney Gloria Allred brought out three more women -- Linda Kirkpatrick, Lynn Neal and a woman who chose to be identified only as Kacey -- who say they were sexually assaulted by the comedian after being drugged by him. While introducing the women, Allred addressed Rashad's statements to Showbiz 411. "Phylicia, you should be supporting these women rather than joining Cosby's paid 'attack dogs' who are trying to undermine them in any way that they can," Allred said. Cosby stays mum . And Cosby? He's maintaining his silence -- as he's done while his reputation suffers. He was in Kitchener, Ontario, on Wednesday night for a standup appearance. A few dozen protestors rallied outside, but the show went on without a hitch. Larger protests are planned for Thursday night's shows. After his set, Cosby released a statement thanking attendees. "I would like to personally thank you for giving me the opportunity to bring laughter back into your lives tonight," he said. Also, I would like to applaud all of you and give you a standing ovation for respecting yourselves, the theatre (Centre In The Square) and the event organizers that produced a spectacular show for the Kitchener Community." CNN's Eliott C. McLaughlin, Lisa Respers France and Todd Leopold contributed to this report from Atlanta, and Paula Newton from Ontario.

Writer says he did not misquote Phylicia Rashad but that her comment is misunderstood . She says she wasn't being dismissive of the women who've accused Bill Cosby of sexual assault . Cosby doesn't address the allegations during standup act .

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By . Daniel Martin, Whitehall Correspondent and Kerry Mcdermott . PUBLISHED: . 05:09 EST, 25 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 09:21 EST, 25 August 2012 . Support: Mr Shapps has backed controversial proposals for a third runway at Heathrow . A Tory minister risks stoking Coalition tensions after signalling support for a third runway at Heathrow. Grant Shapps, a housing and planning minister, said Britain must consider building the runway if it is to remain a ‘great trading nation’. David Cameron promised not to build a third runway before the election in a bid to attract green voters from the Lib Dems. But in recent months the Tories have been wavering - fearing the decision could have hurt the British economy. The Lib Dems remain vociferously opposed. In an interview with The Telegraph, Mr Shapps said ‘all options’ for expanding airport capacity in the South East need to be examined to help kick-start the economy. The minister is the first to speak out publicly on the issue. Chancellor George Osborne is also thought to share this view. With the economy flatlining, business leaders are calling for either the expansion of Heathrow or for a new airport east of London. His comments raise the prospect the Tories could abandon their opposition to a third runway as part of the 2015 manifesto. Mr Shapps, an amateur pilot, said: ‘As a great trading nation we need to have sufficient numbers of ports to get people and goods in and out. ‘I back the Chancellor’s position to the hilt when he said in the Budget we clearly need to review the airport capacity in the South East. ‘All the options need to be considered while being mindful of our election manifesto.’ The minister, who is tipped for promotion in David Cameron's forthcoming reshuffle, is understood to be among a growing number of senior Tories who believe the PM should perform a public U-turn on the third runway. 'Untenable' position: It has been suggested Transport Secretary Justine Greening could be moved from her post due to her stance on the runway . Meanwhile Conservative sources have suggested Transport Secretary Justine Greening could lose her post in the planned September reshuffle because of her long-held opposition to the expansion at Heathrow. Senior party members said that, with George Osborne now in favour of the plans, Ms Greening's stance on the third runway meant she would not be able to remain in position as Transport Secretary. However the suggestion was dismissed by others who pointed out that opposing the runway was Government policy. Mr Cameron said last month that Government policy would not be changing, but Richard Wellings, head of transport at the Institute of Economic Affairs, said Ms Greening's position was 'untenable'. 'It's a problem having her as Transport Secretary with such a local interest in the issue; given her critical views on Heathrow expansion, it would make sense to replace her,' he told the Financial Times. Ms Greening came to prominence campaigning as a backbencher in her Putney constituency as one of the main opponents of the third runway. The plans for expansion were ardently opposed by people living around the airport, particularly in the village of Sipson, which would be wiped out if the plans were given the green light. Expansion: The village of Sipson, pictured above with Heathrow Airport in the background, would be built over if plans for a third runway were to go ahead . A consultation on airport capacity in the South East has twice been delayed as a result of Government infighting. Earlier this month Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, accused the Government of 'pussy-footing around' on the issue of London's airport crisis. Housing Minister Mr Shapps also indicated in the interview that he is opposed to possible Treasury proposals to further deregulate the planning system. Sources at the Treasury have indicated that they would consider looking again at the National Planning Policy Framework, and possibly allowing building on the green belt. Mr Shapps said there is no need to build on the green belt. 'We're not short of schemes to get housing built, we just need to get out there, roll our sleeves up and get developments going,' he said. 'It's not the case that we'll never need to do another piece of planning reform. But let's concentrate on what we've got. 'We've got nearly half a million planning applications ready or nearly ready.'

Grant Shapps says Britain must consider building the runway if it is to remain a 'great trading nation' PM David Cameron promised not to build the third runway - which Lib Dems vociferously oppose . Senior Tories including Chancellor George Osborne are said be calling for a U-turn on the plans .

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Washington (CNN) -- President Barack Obama will formally nominate James Comey, a top Justice Department official during the Bush administration, to head the FBI, a White House official said on Thursday. The announcement is expected at a White House ceremony on Friday. If confirmed by the Senate, Comey would replace Robert Mueller, who is leaving in September after leading the bureau for 12 years. Comey is a former prosecutor who worked in New York and Virginia, where his caseload included terrorism, organized crime and fraud. Comey served as a deputy attorney general during the Bush administration, a role for which he has received both praise and criticism from outside groups. Comey testified to a Senate committee in 2007 that he considered resigning his high-profile position over a disagreement three years earlier about the National Security Agency's domestic surveillance program. Government officials had told CNN that Comey had "vigorously opposed" aspects of the warrantless wiretapping program and refused to sign off on its continued use. The program was eventually reauthorized. The White House official pointed to the incident as an illustration of Comey's character. The official said in a statement that he was "one of our nation's most skilled and respected national security and law enforcement professionals" who has demonstrated "toughness, integrity and principle." The appointment comes as the Obama administration wrestles with new controversy surrounding NSA surveillance involving phone records and e-mail. Human rights groups have criticized Comey's alleged support of other controversial Bush-era national security policies such as indefinite detention and detainee treatment programs like waterboarding. CNN first confirmed in May the president's plans to nominate Comey, but at the time White House officials refused to confirm that the president had made a selection in his search for a new leader of the FBI. Since leaving government, Comey has worked in executive positions at defense contractor Lockheed Martin and the financial management firm Bridgewater and Associates. Currently he works in academia as a senior research scholar and Hertog Fellow in National Security Law at Columbia Law School. Mueller officially started the FBI job days before the 9/11 terror attacks and later saw the agency through terrorism and other high-profile cases. Mueller's term had been set to expire in September 2011 -- per the 10 years that FBI directors typically serve -- but, at Obama's request, Congress approved a two-year extension. He's now scheduled to step down in September.

James Comey to be nominated on Friday, official says . Comey was a top Justice Department official during the Bush administration . Appointment comes as Obama administration deals with national security leak fallout . Robert Mueller is leaving in September after 12 years leading FBI .

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By . Deni Kirkova . PUBLISHED: . 11:50 EST, 23 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:54 EST, 23 June 2013 . Regency costumed guests arrived in their dozens at the carriage house for dinner during the Pride and Prejudice Ball at Chatsworth House in Derbyshire yesterday. Celebrating the 200 years since the publication of Jane Austen's famed novel of the same name, the Pride and Prejudice ball at the stately home, believed to be the inspiration for Pemberley, Mr Darcy's residence, staged a costume evening to remember. With capacity for 100 or more, the . vast majority of Austen fans turned out in full Georgian costume - a key . point of the ball, though the fancy dress wasn't compulsory. Tickets were £65 per head. A champagne reception in the Painted Hall was followed by . a a tour of the North . Wing, a grand five course dinner. Regency costumed guests arrive for the Pride and Prejudice Ball at Chatsworth House yesterday . Afterwards guests were invited to take part in period dancing following a demonstration . by professional Jane Austen Dancers. Attendees yesterday surely enjoyed themselves more than Elizabeth . Bennet, who meets Mr Darcy for the first time at a similar event and . takes an early dislike to him. Chatsworth House is believed to be the . inspiration for Pemberley, the residence of the novel's romantic hero . Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy as Austen is known to have visited the home in . 1811 while staying at the Rutland Arms in Bakewell while penning the . masterpiece. She wrote the novel: 'The . eye was instantly caught by Pemberley House, situated on the opposite . side of the valley into which the road into some abruptness wound. 'It . was a large, handsome, stone building standing well on rising ground, . and backed by a ridge of high woody hills; and in front, a stream of . some natural importance was swelled into greater, but without any . artificial appearance. Its banks were neither formal, nor falsely . adorned.' A costumed couple walk hand in hand in the grounds where the 2005 Pride and Prejudice film was created . Regency costumed guests participate in the Pride and Prejudice ball enjoying a glass of champagne at the welcome reception . A regal looking woman with porcelain skin is captured in a moment of thought (l) as ladies walk peacefully together through the grounds (r) The beauty look mas mastered to a tee, with ladies sporting choker necklaces and pretty up-dos that were popular in the Georgian era . Siting down for the grand five-course dinner, the couple gaze into each other's eyes in the impossibly romantic setting . Canapés . Smoked salmon and caviar on buckwheat blinis . Soft boiled quails eggs on toasted brioche . Goat's cheese and pickled beetroot on sour dough toast . Free range ham hock tartlet grape chutney . Starter . Chicken ballotine, mini pigeon and leek pie, chicken consommé . Fish course . Trout fillet beurre blanc en brioche croute . Main course . Chatsworth estate lamb noisette, fried sweet breads, broad beans and peas, potato and lambs tongue tian . Dessert . Lemon and raspberry assiette (little lemon tart, honey comb, chilled lemon & raspberry soufflé, lemon and raspberry posset) Homemade petit fours . Chocolate bonbons, orange and rose water Turkish delight, pistachio macaroons . From across a candlelit table, the couple are captured in a romantic cinch. The lady's hairstyle is notably beautifully braided . The stately homes has been the seat of the . Dukes of Devonshire since 1549 and is mentioned in Pride and Prejudice . as one of the stately homes that Elizabeth Bennet visits before arriving at . Pemberley. Chatsworth also featured in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice movie starring Kiera Knightley. Chatsworth, one of England’s greatest country . estates, provided the perfect setting to launch the Peak District estate's Georgian Summer . of events (27 July - 29 August), all of . which are free to visitors with a house and garden ticket, celebrating the bicentennial anniversary of Austen's novel. An . exhibition in the New Gallery looks at Chatsworth in the time of Pride . and Prejudice and compares it to Pemberley, featuring a display of . Georgian era items as well as those of Mr Darcy from the 2005 film. Georgian . themed events in the garden will take place every Saturday including Sing Live, where singers perform . in the garden dressed in Pride and Prejudice costumes. Guests watch a display of regency dancing during the Pride and Prejudice Ball in the painted hall (l) and a costumed guest arrives (r) The regency dancing provided some much-needed guidance for some guests unfamiliar with the moves of the 1800s . Like a scene from the film itself, the party have all clearly made an effort to look the part and fit in with the theme of the evening yesterday . Ladies clad in immaculately suited attire attempt to master the dance style of the Jane Austen era . An older lady drapes pearls around her exquisite hair style to match with her earrings and necklace .

Up to 100 Austen fans paid £65 for tickets to attend the dinner and dance yesterday . Chatsworth House is believed to be the inspiration for Pemberley, Mr. Darcy's residence . The stately home also featured in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice movie starring Kiera Knightley and Matthew Macfayden .

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The body of Alice Gross was found wrapped in plastic and buried under logs in the river Brent . Former Met police officers have expressed concern that the senseless murder of 14-year-old Alice Gross bears disturbing parallels with two other unsolved cases from the same area. This week, Alice's body was found wrapped in plastic and buried under logs in a West London river. The murder investigation has a prime suspect, Arnis Zalkalns, a convicted murderer from Latvia, who vanished from his home in west London, days after Alice went missing. But former Met Office police officers are worried about the striking similarities between Alice's murder and two unsolved cases from the London borough of Ealing. In April 1999, a 19-year-old student, Elizabeth Chau, left Thames Valley University and was caught on CCTV walking home along the Uxbridge Road near Ealing police station. She was never seen again. Her sister, Bich, has never given up hope of being reunited with her sibling. She said: 'We want Liz to know that we love her and miss her very much.' Nine months later, in January 2000, Lola Shenkoya, 27, an American-born computer graduate, got off a bus outside Burger King station near Ealing Broadway station. She too disappeared without trace. Both instances occurred within a few hundred yards of the spot where Alice went missing on August 28. Scroll down for video . Vital forensic leads may have been lost for ever after it took police more than a month to find Alice's body . Lola Shenkoya (left) and Elizabeth Chau (right) both went missing in similar circumstances within a few hundred yards of where Alice went missing on August 28 - neither have ever been found . And the case has struck a chord with former officers who were involved in the incidents of the missing women. The victims all went missing at busy times of the day and their disappearances went unnoticed by members of the public. They told Tom Harper, of the Independent: 'The odds against three girls disappearing or being murdered in such a small area of London, even over a 14-year period, are astronomical. 'Stranger murders on lone young females walking in the street during the day by a man unknown to them are extremely rare occurrences in the UK. 'The vast majority of victims are known to their attackers and any such cases always become big news stories. There are only ever two or three a year nationally, if that. 'Whoever killed these girls showed considerable coolness, sophistication in avoiding being seen during the act, and avoiding capture. 'The killings took place out of sight and sound of the public, as did the subsequent disposal of the bodies. This latter aspect takes considerable planning and coolness on the part of the attacker, raising the question of whether there was more than one attacker. 'All the above circumstances are extremely rare in any case of murder, let alone in such a small area of London.' Alice's body was recovered from the River Brent in west London on Wednesday, a month after she vanished . Former Met Officers said the disappearance of Latvian builder Arnis Zalkalns made him the prime suspect in the inquiry in to Alice's murder . The Met said Chau and Shenkoya were strongly suspected to have been murdered by Andrezej Kanowski, a convicted rapist and murderer from Poland who died in 2009. Kanowski, known as 'The Beast', was questioned in 2004 but the Met never found any hard evidence against him. But officers who were involved in the murder inquiries disputed that claim, although they accepted he was a 'good suspect'. Elsewhere, former Met Officers told the Independent that the disappearance of Latvian Zalkalns made him the prime suspect in the inquiry. The source was also concerned at the delays in contacting Latvian police over Zalkalns' whereabouts, although the police dispute any such delays. Privately, several retired detectives are shocked it took the Met five days to launch a murder inquiry into Alice's disappearance. One said: 'It was an unacceptable delay. A 14-year-old girl should have been classed a high-risk missing person and the murder inquiry should have started after 24 hours - particularly when the police realised her phone was not working.' Vital forensic leads may have been lost for ever after it took police more than a month to find Alice's body. The Met faces questions over the time it took to find Alice's body in shallow water just yards from where her rucksack was found . Aerial shot reveals how close Alice's body was found to her rucksack and where police had earlier searched . In the hours after Alice's body was found, her family said in a statement: 'We have been left completely devastated by the recent developments and it is difficult to comprehend that our sweet and beautiful daughter was the victim of a terrible crime. 'Why anyone would want to hurt her is something that we are struggling to come to terms with. 'Alice was a loving and much loved daughter and sister, a quirky live spark of a girl, beautiful inside and out. She was a funny companion, a loyal friend, both passionate and compassionate, and so talented with a bright future ahead of her. She brought so much joy to our family and those who knew her. 'We still don't know who is responsible for this crime and we ask that people continue to help the police by giving them information that could help bring the perpetrator to justice.'

Ex Met officers concern at similarity of two unsolved cases from same area . Alice Gross's body was found wrapped in plastic and buried in river Brent . Former officers say case has disturbing parallels with two other cases . Elizabeth Chau, a 19-year-old student went missing in April 1999 . Nine months later, Lola Shenkoya also disappeared without trace . The victims all went missing at busy times of the day and went unnoticed . Former officers also expressed shock by delay in launching murder inquiry . Has meant vital forensic leads may have been lost for ever . Said that Latvian Arnis Zalkalns' disappearance made him the prime suspect .

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By . Rosie Taylor . Last updated at 1:53 AM on 13th February 2012 . Wind turbines are a ‘public menace’, the chairman of the National Trust chairman has said. Sir Simon Jenkins dismissed wind as the ‘least efficient’ renewable power. The honest admission is surprising coming from the the head of the charity, as it champions green energy as part of its conservation work. ‘We are doing masses of renewables but wind is probably the least efficient and wrecks the countryside,’ he said. The National Trust is concerned about the impact of 220m (721ft) turbines on the environment and on views of the Bristol Channel . ‘Broadly speaking, the National Trust is deeply sceptical of this form of renewable energy.’ While the National Trust officially continues to support ‘a major increase in the UK’s renewable energy generation’, it is fighting several plans for wind farms, including one to erect a massive 417 wind turbines in the Bristol Channel. The trust is concerned about the impact of the 220m (721ft) turbines on the environment and on views of the coastline. Ed Davey boasted that Britain had 'a lot to be proud of' after the world's biggest offshore farm opened . It is also disputing the Duke of Gloucester’s plans to build four 415ft turbines on his Barnwell Manor Estate in Northamptonshire. The trust remains committed to its target to cut energy use by 50 per cent by 2020, but Sir Simon told the Daily Telegraph this would largely be achieved through water power and biomass boilers, making the most of the acres of rivers and woodlands under its ownership. The revelation could be a major a blow to the Coalition government, which has recently come to blows with the Trust over plans to reform planning law. Last week Ed Davey, who replaced Chris Huhne as Energy and Climate Change secretary, boasted that Britain had ‘a lot to be proud of’ after the world’s biggest offshore farm – consisting of 102 turbines - opened off the Cumbrian coast. Up to 32,000 wind turbines could be built in England and Wales over the next 40 years to meet government targets. But last month it emerged that wind farms in Scotland were paid nearly £300,000 in the first five days of this year to close down because it was too windy. Four turbine operators shared the controversial ‘constraint payments’ because they produced more energy than the National Grid could handle. Last year 17 wind farm operators were paid £7m to shut down on 40 occasions between January and September.

Trust says it will cuts its energy use with water power and biomass boilers .

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(CNN) -- Halle Berry has a hefty new expense. The Oscar-winning actress has to pay over $16,000 in child support each month to her ex, Gabriel Aubry, to provide for their 6-year-old daughter Nahla, the Los Angeles Superior Court ordered. Berry's monthly bill will remain in effect until Nahla turns 19 or graduates high school, whichever occurs first, according to court documents obtained by CNN. The settlement came on May 30, at the end of lengthy child support legal battle. The court also ordered Berry to pay $115,000 retroactively in child support, as well as to cover her ex-boyfriend's legal fees, which amount to $300,000. The "X-Men: Days of Future Past" star is fully responsible for Nahla's tuition, while both parents will divide health care costs. Berry and the Canadian model met in 2005 and split in spring 2010 and have since been entangled in bitter custody and child support litigation. Tensions erupted in a physical altercation between Aubry and Berry's husband, Olivier Martinez, on Thanksgiving Day 2012, when Aubry came to Berry's home to drop off then 4-year-old Nahla. Berry and Aubry's legal battles also include Berry seeking to relocate their daughter to France, and Nahla's nanny filing a restraining order against Aubry. Since their custody dispute came to an end in spring 2011, both parents have shared equal custody of Nahla. Nahla is Aubry's only child. Berry is a mother of two. She gave birth to a son with Martinez in October of last year.

Halle Berry must pay Gabriel Aubry $16,000 a month in child support, a court rules . Berry and Aubry have a 6-year-old daughter, Nahla . The settlement comes after a lengthy legal battle .

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By . Sean Poulter . PUBLISHED: . 18:53 EST, 21 March 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 04:11 EST, 25 March 2012 . Hot food bought from bakeries and supermarkets is to become more costly thanks to George Osborne's Budget, it emerged today. The Chancellor has decided that VAT at 20 per cent should be added to all hot takeaway food, not just products sold by fast food chains. This means that at the Greggs bakery chain 18p will be added to the price of a 90p hot sausage roll and 30p to a £1.49 pasty. The revelation came as millions of pensioners counted the cost of Mr Osborne's £3.5billion tax grab. The Chancellor has decided that VAT at 20 per cent should be added to all hot takeaway food, not just products sold by fast food chains . The 'takeaway  tax' means the price of a £5 hot rotisserie chicken at a supermarket will rise by a £1. Mr Osborne said the extension was among a number that were necessary to end anomalies. His decision will raise an extra £125million this year and £350million a year by 2016. George Osborne said the extension was among a number that were necessary to end anomalies . The Government insists the new regime will simplify the tax rules surrounding take-out food. However, a guidance note issued by Whitehall suggests it may fuel confusion. The note states that 20 per cent VAT will have to be added to all hot food, including rotisserie chicken, pies, pasties, toasted sandwiches and other products which are ‘above the ambient air temperature at the time they are provided to the customer’. This means anything that is hotter than the surrounding air temperature when it is handed over at the till should carry VAT. However, the same note to retailers states that a shop can sell a selection of cold sausage rolls, pasties or cooked chicken, which are below the surrounding air temperature, without applying the sales tax. But the main focus of the Budget has been the so-called 'granny tax'. The Treasury was taken aback by the strength of the backlash against Mr Osborne’s decision to freeze or axe tax allowances to be able to raise threshold at which workers start paying income tax. The . tax raid, described privately by some Tory MPs as a serious political . mistake, overshadowed other measures in the Chancellor’s widely trailed . statement. So strong was the reaction that Mr Osborne was forced to go on a charm offensive this morning to explain his position. He toured television and radio studios . to defend his reforms against accusations he was penalising millions of . pensioners while some of the country’s richest people would enjoy a cut . in taxes. He said: 'We’ve tried to spread the . burden as fairly as possible across the income deciles. We’ve definitely . focused our efforts on the top 10 per cent and the richest 10 per cent . have had more loss as a percentage of income as well as absolute . amounts. 'Inevitably when you are saving . welfare, you affect people in receipt of welfare. But it is improving . their work incentives as well. We are trying to sort out a welfare . system where it didn’t pay to work.’ Other VAT changes announced by the . Chancellor will see the sales tax applied to sports drinks in the same . way that it is already charged on sugary fizzy drinks. In . future self-storage firms, which effectively rent secured rooms for . people to store their belongings, will have to add VAT to their service . charges. At the same time, hairdressers who rent a chair in a salon will have to pay VAT on the fee, which will be passed on to customers in the form of more expensive cuts. The new regime comes into effect in October. Audrey Fearing, VAT partner at Ernst & Young, warned: ‘Consumers can expect to see the cost of some of their favourite hot pies, pasties and the like jump by 20 per cent.’ Greggs condemned the move, saying: ‘We . do not believe that our freshly baked savoury products should be . subject to VAT and we will be making strong representation to the . Government regarding the proposed changes.’ Among . the changes buried in the Budget smallprint is the decision that VAT is . also to be added to the cost of alterations, such as extensions, to . listed buildings including churches. Treasury documents suggested that . at least some of this increased cost to churches would be offset by . improvements in government grants. Greggs . reported profits of more than £50million in both 2010 and 2011. The . results were due in part to a rapid expansion that has seen the bakery . chain increase its number of stores. It now boasts nearly 1,500 outlets . in the UK – more than McDonalds. There are plans for the figure to reach . 2,000. In 2009, a study found that annual sales of pies nationwide had reached £941million. The Chancellor made a series  of bold statements during his Budget address. Here, JAMES SLACK  examines whether he was giving the public the full . picture. Claim: Cutting the top tax rate from . 50p to 45p will cost only £100million. ‘The new taxes I’ve introduced on . the rich today directly raise five times that amount.’ Reality: The actual cost of cutting the top rate of tax to 45p is . £3billion. The Chancellor assumes he will get £2.9billion of this  back . from people who – because of the high rate – currently avoid paying all . the tax they owe. Labour says it is a huge gamble to assume that the tax . cut will make people change their behaviour. If less than £2.9billion . is recovered, the central claim – that, overall, the wealthy will pay . five times more than the cost of cutting the 50p rate – collapses. Experts say that it is inevitable the wealthy will find ways of seeking . to avoid his two new taxes, on expensive properties registered overseas. Claim: 'Some would have been tempted . to spend the windfall (from the transfer of £28billion of assets from . the Royal Mail pension fund to the Exchequer). I do not propose to . spend it. Instead, I have used it to pay off debt.' Reality: A disingenuous statement. The pension fund may have £28billion . of assets – but it also has crippling historic liabilities of around . £37.5billion. In effect, Mr Osborne has saddled the country with an . extra £9.5billion of future debt. In a sleight of hand, only the assets . of the fund are included in the  Treasury accounts. The liabilities – to . be met by future generations – are not. Claim: ‘Over time we will simplify the . tax system for pensioners by doing away with the complexity of the . additional age-related allowances...It is a major simplification. It . saves money. And no pensioner will lose in cash terms.’ Reality: Pensioners will consider these weasel words. Age-related tax . allowances will be frozen – and stopped altogether for anyone turning 65 . after April 5, 2013. This means that, every year, they will lose their . value in real – rather than cash – terms.  An estimated 4.41million . people will be worse off, by an average of £83, in real terms in . 2013-14. People turning 65 next year will lose up to £322. Claim: ‘We have...scrapped the last Government’s fuel duty escalator of . annual above-  inflation rises, regardless of the oil price – and are . today confirming the fair fuel stabiliser. Government has eased the . burden on motorists by £4.5billion at a time when money is very short.’ Reality: The Freight Transport Association says the stabiliser is a . ‘damp squib’ as it only serves to prevent prices falling too low, not . soaring too high. It stops way short of demands for a proper stabiliser . which means duty would fall when the price of oil rises, and vice versa. The increase in fuel prices since 2010 has put on an extra £14.46 for . petrol and £17.60 for diesel each time drivers fill an  average tank. Claim: ‘We’re publishing our plans today to remove loopholes and . anomalies (in VAT), but we keep the broad exemptions on food, children’s . clothes, printed books and newspapers.’ Reality: From now on, VAT will start  applying to hot food bought in . supermarkets,  such as roasted chickens, sausage rolls bought from . bakeries and sports drinks, along with  holiday caravans, and the rental . of hairdressers’ chairs.  There will be further VAT rise of over . £350million a year starting on October 1, 2012.

At Greggs the move will add 18p to a 90p sausage roll and 30p to a pasty . The price of a £5 hot rotisserie chicken at a supermarket will rise by a £1 . Move will raise an extra £125million this year and £350million a year by 2016 . Duty on a pint of beer will go up by 3p and a bottle of wine by 11p .

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By . Harriet Arkell . PUBLISHED: . 07:46 EST, 9 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 12:06 EST, 9 September 2013 . A devoted father was jailed today for trying to turn his son into a star racing driver - by staging a £600,000 tax fiddle to pay for his cars. Financial advisor Michael Jones, 60, carried out a complex tax fraud to fund his son's dream of becoming the next Lewis Hamilton. A court heard Jones had spent a fortune paying for his son Nicholas, 23, to race across Europe, running up 'enormous debts' and even remortgaging the family home for £400,000 before he embarked on the tax fiddle. Michael Jones, 60, was jailed today after admitting a tax scam designed to help his son Nicholas Jones, 23, pictured, in his dream of becoming a racing car driver . Prosecutor Roger Griffiths said: 'His son had a burning ambition to become a racing driver and he was a much-loved son who was loyally supported by his father. 'But it meant the taxpayer was funding the sporting ambition.' Jones made bogus tax claims on lucrative advertising deals which he claimed his son had landed.  He also claimed his son had been given gifts of sponsorship from a dozen businesses backing his racing dream. But Cardiff Crown Court heard that these did not exist - and Jones used his financial expertise to defraud the taxpayer of £140,625 in a scam involving £600,000. Jones, of Castleton, near Cardiff, was jailed after he admitted making false statements, transferring criminal property and evasion of VAT. Jones was sentenced to 32 months in prison after he admitted cheating HM Revenue and Customs. Nick Jones, 23, was previously cleared of acting with his father to defraud the Revenue to fund his career . Judge Patrick Curran QC said: 'Your son’s burning ambition to be a racing driver was as much yours as it was his. 'Your motive was to assist your son's career and you had financial problems as a result of trying to support him. 'You designed a fraud, employing your expertise as an accountant and you involved others in it. 'Your son was in ignorance of the criminal nature of your scheme and he was duped by his own father.' The court heard how Jones got his son interested in racing after taking him go-karting at the age of three. Nicholas started racing karts before moving onto Mini Coopers and in 2009 he won the Welsh Sports and Saloon Car Champion. Nicholas studied at Silverstone Motorsport Academy and travelled to Belgium to take part in the Renault Sport Clio Cup. His son was also taken to court charged with being part of the swindle. The aspiring racer told the court he had no idea his father was fiddling cash from the taxman to support his ambition to become a driving star, and was cleared after telling a jury: 'If I had known I would not have done it.' Michael Jones was jailed for 32 months at Cardiff Crown Court today after admitting his tax evasion scam . Michael Jones invited 12 companies, most of them local, to purchase advertising on the website and race cars of Nick Jones Racing Ltd (NJR), of which he was company secretary. The advertising did not materialise, but the participating companies falsely reclaimed the VAT.  The directors and sole traders were also personally reimbursed with a gift of 'tax-free' money. Jones profited himself by falsifying the company accounts.  He failed to show the real income of the business, and when sponsors made payments to NJR, the money was often quickly transferred to his personal bank accounts within 24 hours. As a result, he defrauded the HMRC out of £140,625. Zoe Ellerbeck from the HMRC said: 'Michael Jones operated a scheme where he directly encouraged clients of his accountancy business, J&R Business Services Ltd, to advertise with NJR in order to commit VAT fraud. 'He also deliberately misrepresented NJR’s income to pocket tax that should have been paid to HMRC.' She added: 'We are investing more resources than ever into tackling tax fraud and will not hesitate to investigate those who cheat the system and other law abiding people.'

Michael Jones, 60, lied to HMRC about profits to fund his son's racing dream . Jones, from Castleton, Cardiff, made a profit by falsifying company accounts . He wanted to help his only child, Nick Jones, 23, become motor-racing star . Jones Sr jailed today for 32 months at Cardiff Crown Court after admitting making false statements, transferring criminal property and VAT evasion .

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(CNN) -- A bill that would keep sealed some photos and documents from the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting investigation passed overwhelmingly in the Connecticut legislature early Wednesday. The new legislation blocks public disclosure of any visual images depicting those who died in the shooting on grounds that release of the images would "constitute an unwarranted invasion of the personal privacy of the victim or the victim's surviving family members," according to the bill. The bill passed in the state Senate just after 1:30 a.m., with 33 senators voting in favor of the bill and two voting against. It passed in the state House at 2 a.m. on a vote of 130 in favor, and two against. Lawmakers were working late hours to clear legislation before scheduled adjournment this week. The bill would prevent any graphic visual evidence of slain individuals from being released even through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) filings. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy supports the measure and is expected to sign it later this week, said deputy press secretary David Bednarz. Newtown school district to get $1.3 million from Education Department . All 911 recordings will still be publicly available, as well as audio recordings of first-responders, fire fighters and police. However, any audio recordings with graphic descriptions of a victims' bodies will be redacted. A task force will also be established to "consider and make recommendations regarding the balance between victim privacy under the Freedom of Information Act and the public's right to know," the bill says. An earlier draft of the bill limited the new legislation specifically to the Newtown case. However, the final draft passed Wednesday was expanded to include all homicide victims in Connecticut. "My goal with this legislation was to provide some measure of protection for the families affected by the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School. But the fact is, all families have a right to grieve in private. Those who lose loved ones to violence have a right to protect themselves against further anguish," Malloy said in a statement. State Senate Minority Leader John McKinney represents the Newtown area and was a chief proponent of the bill. He commended the families of Newtown victims for speaking out in support of the measure. "The families have shown tremendous courage in coming to the Capitol and publicly asking the legislature to protect their privacy rights with respect to the graphic evidence and crime scene photographs of their murdered children and loved ones," said McKinney, a Republican. The new law drew concern from others who feared the bill would limit freedom of information and hamper future investigations. State Sen. Ed Meyer, one of two senators who voted against the bill, noted that the Newtown crimes were committed on public property and the photos and recordings were taken by public officers. "The suppression of horrific crimes committed on public property and recorded by public officials is not consistent with a free and open society," Meyer, a Democrat, wrote in a statement. Sandy Hook task force recommends demolition and rebuilding . Meyer, a father of six and grandfather of 13, said he identifies greatly with the sadness that Newtown families feel, but believes that withholding certain pieces of evidence from the public will have long-term negative effects. "The more we understand about our ugliness, the better chance we have to overcome that ugliness. Suppression of horrific conduct, as this bill dictates, invites history to repeat itself," Meyer said. McKinney noted that while he has been a strong advocate of freedom-of-information laws, he was "unapologetic" about supporting the efforts of Newtown families to keep gruesome photos and details from public view. The final bill required extensive compromise from both, requiring all members of Connecticut's General Assembly "to balance deeply held beliefs and important public policy values," the governor said. Malloy commended the legislators "on coming to an agreement that respects the privacy of grieving families." All future FOIA requests will go through the Freedom of Information Commission in Connecticut. Commission members will now have to weigh whether to publicly disclose images based on this new law, said Brett R. Cody, spokesman for McKinney. Requests for evidence will continue to be considered carefully, but "when privacy rights of victims and their families outweigh freedom of information, those privacy rights will be protected," said Cody. The passage of the bill comes just under seven months after a lone gunman opened fire at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown. After fatally shooting his mother at home, Adam Lanza killed 20 children and six educators before taking his own life. Newtown shooting details revealed in newly released documents .

The bill would prevent release of any graphic visuals of slain individuals . The original bill was designed specifically to protect families of the Newtown shooting victims . The final draft was expanded to include all homicide victims in Connecticut . 20 children and 6 educators died in the December shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary .

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A newborn baby has died after its mother allegedly doused it in a flammable liquid, set it alight and left it burning in a road. Witnesses say 22-year-old Hyphernkemberly Dorvilier got out of her car and stopped in the middle of Simontown Road in Pemberton Township, New Jersey, on Friday night and burned the child alive. Medics rushed to the scene and airlifted the young child, which was still alive and breathing when they arrived, to St Christopher's Hospital in Philadelphia with severe burns. Scroll down for videos . Scene: Witnesses say 22-year-old mother got out of her car and stopped in the middle of Simontown Road in Pemberton Township, New Jersey, on Friday night and burned the child alive . Accused: Hyphernkemberly Dorvilier has been charged with murdering her newborn baby. Her bail has been set at $50,000 . However the baby succumbed to its injuries a short time later. Emergency services were called to the scene after residents described a 'commotion' inside a nearby home before the horrific act . The woman, who witnesses say lit the child on fire, was taken to Deborah Hospital, in Brown Mills, New Jersey according toNBC Philadelphia. She was then arrested after her condition stabilized. Neighbor Dave Joseph, 45, told Bucks County Courier Times the woman said she was burning dog feces and said she had a calm demeanor. Mr Joseph's wife then notice what was really going on and screamed. The woman then tried to flee but residents stopped her. He said: 'It was just mind-boggling. It was a nightmare even if you have a strong heart. Hopefully she'll pay for it.' Response: Medics rushed to the scene and airlifted the young child to St Christopher's Hospital in Philadelphia with severe burns. It succumbed to its injuries a short time later . A statement by the Burlington County Prosecutors read: 'Burlington County Prosecutor Robert D. Bernardi and Pemberton Township Police Chief David H. Jantas announced today that a Pemberton Township woman has been charged with killing her newborn baby by setting her ablaze last night on Simontown Road. 'Hyphernkemberly Dorvilier, age 22, of Rutgers Avenue in Pemberton Township, was charged with one count of Murder. Bail was set at $500,000 by the Hon. Jeanne T. Covert, J.S.C. 'Dorvilier was lodged in the Burlington County Corrections and Work Release Center in Pemberton Township. 'Officers from the Pemberton Township Police Department were dispatched to Simontown Road just before 11 p.m. yesterday after a resident called to report the fire in the roadway. 'At approximately 11:15 p.m., the baby was airlifted to Saint Christopher’s Hospital in Philadelphia and was reported to be alive and breathing at that time. The baby died approximately two hours later. 'The investigation revealed that the infant had been doused with an accelerant prior to being set ablaze. Dorvilier was taken into custody at the scene. 'An autopsy will be performed by Burlington County Medical Examiner Dr. Ian Hood. 'The details of the baby's birth are being investigated. The investigation is being conducted by detectives from the Pemberton Township Police Department and the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office.'

Young child was found burning alive in Pemberton Township, New Jersey . Medics rushed to the scene and airlifted child to a Philadelphia hospital . However the newborn succumbed to its injuries a short time later . Hyphernkemberly Dorvilier, 22, has been charged with murdering the child . One resident said the woman told them she was burning 'dog feces' She has since been arrested as Burlington County Prosecutors investigate .

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School pupils were given soft toy penises and vaginas by a Swiss education ministry project,  sparking a referendum in the Alpine country. The initiative was the brainchild of a group of parents in the northern city of Basel that led the demand for schools to drop the 'Sexbox' education kits. The kits, which were to teach kids from primary school upwards about sex, were eventually banned after widespread protest, but the campaigners now want a country-wide ban on sex education for children under nine. A Swiss education ministry project that involved pupils being given soft toy penises and vaginas has sparked outrage. The vote was ordered after campaigners gathered more than the 100,000 signatures of voters required to put their measure to the public for approval. The campaign coalition - whose goal is the 'protection against sexualisation in kindergartens and primary schools' - handed in its petition in December and the government is now obliged to set a date for a vote. Referendums are the bedrock of Switzerland's system of direct democracy, with voters called out several times a year to voice their opinion on a host of issues at local through to federal level. Some of the iterms in the 'sexbox'. Now parents are voting on the future of sex education for children . The sexbox kits included accessories such as soft-toy penises, which the parents' group said was tantamount to handing out pornography to children . The measure stipulates that sex education is the business of a child's parents and not the school system. While it would allow classes on avoiding the risk of sexual abuse, it would ban sex education for anyone below the age of nine, while such lessons would be optional for children up to the age of 12. For older children, compulsory lessons would be permitted, but they would be required to be given by biology teachers and focus on 'reproduction and human development'. No pupil would be required to follow a class that strayed beyond the basically biological to address such themes as the social aspects of sexuality. The sexbox kits included accessories such as soft-toy penises, which the parents' group said was tantamount to handing out pornography to children, who needed protecting against sexualisations at a young age.

Parents horrified after primary school pupils were given the plush genitalia . The 'sexboxes' were distributed by a parents group in Basel . Uproar has sparked a huge debate and referendum in Switzerland .

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Ready or not America, Nina Davuluri is the new girl next door. That's how the 24-year-old Indian-American woman sees herself, she explained to CNN's Erin Burnett on Wednesday, three days after being crowned Miss America. "I have always viewed Miss America as the girl next door," Davuluri said. "But the girl next door is evolving, as the diversity of America evolves. She's not who she was 10 years ago, and she's not going to be the same person come 10 years down the road." The fact that her win Sunday spurred a torrent of racist reactions online -- many along the lines that she doesn't represent what the United States is -- didn't surprise Davuluri. She'd experienced it on a smaller scale when she became the first Miss New York of Indian descent. Davuluri sees it as her mission to tackle such stereotypes head on. It's why the daughter of two Indian-born parents has a pageant platform of "celebrating diversity through cultural competence." "I wanted to be the first Indian Miss America, to be that symbol of a new face for the organization," she said Wednesday. "And to let younger girls know that regardless of race, their socioeconomic status, their religion that anyone can become not only Miss America, but anything." Still, it would be understandable if Davuluri was taken aback by tweets claiming she wasn't sufficiently American or was a terrorist. Yet she's been more heartened by all those that rallied around her. "For one negative tweet, I received dozens of positive tweets and support from not only Indians, but the American people across the country and ... the world for that matter," the Fayetteville, New York, native said. "It's been such an honor." And while some criticize the pageant circuit for putting looks above all else, Davuluri said she's thankful it helped her earn $25,000 in scholarships to study cognitive science at the University of Michigan. She will have another $60,000 to apply to her medical school tuition -- $50,000 from her Miss America win and $10,000 from Miss New York. This is all part of the more than $45 million in cash and scholarships the pageant organization gives out. Yes, Davuluri admits, good looks are a part of the equation. Contestants do strut around in swimsuits, after all, and they are judged as they walk in evening gowns. Davuluri says "that's reality," as is the 10-minute interview with judges that people don't see on TV. And Davuluri couldn't be happier with the reality she's now living -- as a groundbreaker, and a talking point, in a country addressing its cultural diversity. As she says: "I am living my American dream." Miss America, Julie Chen and the beauty of choice . Opinion: A thank-you note to a new kind of Miss America .

Nina Davuluri, a first generation Indian-American, was crowned Miss America . Some reacted on Twitter by calling her not sufficiently American or a terrorist . She says her win shows how what defines "the girl next door" is evolving . "I am living my American dream," Davuluri says .

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Stacey Rambold, 54, was originally sentenced to just 30 days for allegedly grooming a troubled 14-year-old student for sex . A Montana teacher who admitted to raping a troubled 14-year-old student who later committed suicide has been given just 30 days in jail after a judge ruled that the girl was more mature than her age and 'just as in control' of the relationship as the teacher. Cherice Morales' furious mother stormed out of the courtroom Monday after Judge Todd Baugh handed down the sentence, which was less than 1percent of the 10 years prosecutors had demanded. Attorneys for Stacey Dean Rambold, 54, said the teacher has lost his job, his license, his house and his wife and suffered the 'scarlet letter of the Internet' as a result of the allegations. Defense lawyer Jay Lansing said his client had been punished enough for his crime. Judge Baugh, 66, - who said he disagreed with the decision to prosecute Rambold after he was kicked out of sex offender treatment program - announced last week that he is running for re-election and is thus far unopposed. The Billings Gazette reports that Rambold was arrested in 2008 after police and administrators at Billings Senior High School learned that he had targeted 14-year-old Cherice, a troubled freshman at the school, and groomed her for sex. The school district had warned Rambold four years earlier to avoid touching or being alone with female students, it was later revealed. The district paid Cherice's mother $96,000 as part of a wrongful death settlement. The teacher, who was then 49, was charged with three counts of sexual intercourse without consent and prosecutors allege he had an ongoing sexual relationship with the girl. Just before her 17th birthday and while the case on still pending, Cherice Morales killed herself . Warning: It was later revealed that administrators at Billings Senior High School, pictured, had warned Rambold not to touch female students or be alone with them back in 2004 . Just before her 17th birthday and while the case on still pending, Cherice killed herself. The girl's mother, Auliea Hanlon, says that Rambold's sexual abuse was a 'major factor' in her daughter's suicide. The Gazette reports that with the girl's death, prosecutors were forced to defer prosecution. They agreed to dismiss the case if Rambold admitted to one count of rape and agreed to enter a three-stage sex offender treatment program. In December, prosecutors revived the case and re-filed charges after they learned that the teacher had been kicked out of the program for having unsupervised visits with minors. Rambold's defense lawyer said those minors were his family members.The attorney said Rambold was attending another treatment program and was considered a low risk to re-offend. Rambold, 54, faces another 10 years in prison after the Attorney General's Office filed an appeal on Friday . Her fault? Judge Todd Baugh ruled that Cherice was 'older than her chronological age' and that in listening to the girl's police interviews, he came to believe that she was in control of the relationship with her teacher . Judge Baugh seemed to agree. He said that the former teacher's violations at the sex offender treatment program were not enough to warrant prosecution. He also said that when he reviewed taped police interviews with Cherice and concluded that even though she was 35 years younger than Rambold and clearly troubled, she was 'as much in control of the situation' as the teacher, the Gazette reported. Judge Baugh also said that Cherice was 'older than her chronological age' - which mitigated Rambold's crimes. Ms Hanlon, Cherice's mother, stormed out of the courtroom when the judge handed down the ruling and shouted 'You people suck!' at the judge. Montana District Court Judge G. Todd Baugh announced on Monday that Cherice Morales seemed just as responsible for a sexual relationship with her teacher Stacey Dean Rambold as the teacher was - even though Cherice was troubled and only 14 at the time. He also pronounced that the girl, who killed herself two years later, appeared to be 'older than her chronological age.' Baugh, 66, is running for a fifth term overseeing cases in Montana's 13th Judicial District. He has been on the bench since 1986. He announced on August 21 that he is running for re-election. So far, he is running unopposed. He recently told KULR-TV: 'When I was younger I thought, "By golly, by the time I get to be 66, I'll be way old and ready to retire," but then I discovered when I got here that I’m not.' If re-elected in 2014, he would serve another six-year term. He ran unopposed in 2008 and 2002, state elections records show. He is the son of NFL Hall of Fame quarterback 'Slingin'' Sammy Baugh. Baugh did not return a call from MailOnline seeking comment on the case.

Cherice Morales was a troubled 14-year-old high school freshman when teacher Stacey Dean Rambold, then 49, groomed her for sex . Cherice killed herself while the case was pending and her mother says the sex abuse by the teacher was 'a major factor' in her suicide . Rambold entered a sex offender treatment program, but was kicked out after having unsupervised visits with minors . Judge Todd Baugh disagreed with the prosecution of Rambold and handed out a 30 day sentence . Prosecutors had asked for 10 years . Judge, 66, announced he is running for re-election and is so far unopposed .

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Justice Anthony Kennedy was among the first of his colleagues to arrive Wednesday at the U.S. Supreme Court. His chambers lit up several hours before the last-day release of monumental rulings on same-sex marriage. There was little doubt that later that morning, this quietly powerful justice would be having a major say in the legal, political, and social path of gay rights moving forward. And at precisely 10 a.m., Kennedy kicked off the public session with his eloquent majority ruling striking down a key part of a federal law that blocks a range of benefits for legally married gay and lesbian couples. The Defense of Marriage Act "humiliates tens of thousands of children now being raised by same-sex couples," he said. "The law in question makes it even more difficult for the children to understand the integrity and closeness of their own family and its concord with other families in their community and in their daily lives." What's next for gay rights movement? It was vintage Kennedy -- a mix of sweeping rhetoric mixed with practical legal and social considerations. "If Bill Clinton was 'the first black president,' Anthony Kennedy has now firmly secured his place in history as 'the first gay justice,'" said Michael Dorf, a law professor at Cornell University and a former Kennedy law clerk. "Justice Kennedy makes clear that he not only accepts, but welcomes the task of writing majestic opinions affirming the dignity of gay persons and couples." By the Numbers: Same-sex marriage . Kennedy, a moderate-conservative, is in many ways the "power broker" on the court. He shared the role of a "swing vote" with fellow centrist Sandra Day O'Connor before she retired seven years ago. "The basic principle is, it's Justice Kennedy's world and you just live in it," said Thomas Goldstein, a private attorney who publishes the well-read SCOTUSblog.com. "Justice O'Connor, having been the most powerful woman in the world, handed the keys to him on her way out the door and said, 'Have fun.' And he took up that invitation." The thinking goes that with four solid conservatives aligned on the right and four liberals on the left, Kennedy is the man in the middle, often able to cast the deciding vote in contentious cases, assuring his views of the law prevail. Kennedy has crafted a powerful, if hard to define, judicial legacy -- seemingly in the forefront of every major ruling during his tenure. As an unapologetic "swing" vote, he was the key behind-the-scenes architect of the 2000 Bush v. Gore drama, and a 1992 opinion upholding abortion rights. He has written majority decisions upholding rights to homosexual couples, underage killers, and foreign fighters held by the U.S. military in the war on terror. That was true this past term in several other hot-button cases in which he played a key role by: . • Writing the majority opinion allowing for the continued but limited use of race in the college admissions process, yet making it harder for institutions to use such policies to achieve diversity. • Siding with his fellow conservatives to strike down a key section of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, weakening federal oversight of states and counties with a past history of discrimination of minority voters at the polls. • Concluding criminal suspects can be subjected to a police DNA test after arrest but before trial and conviction. • Blocking a lawsuit by privacy advocates challenging the federal government's sweeping electronic eavesdropping on suspected foreign terrorists and spies. Kennedy was in the majority 91% of the time in the court's 78 argued cases this term, more than any justice. In divided cases -- where there was no unanimity -- he was on the winning side 83%, again tops on the court. Sometimes he sides with his more liberal colleagues, as he did in the Defense of Marriage Act case, but he is mostly a reliable conservative vote, especially on business and regulation disputes. That unpredictability has long made liberals and conservatives equally nervous, but many on the right are more outspoken in their disappointment in the Ronald Reagan nominee, who turns 77 in July. "Kennedy's style as the 'man in the middle' is often as a 'justice in a muddle,'" said Douglas Kmiec, a law professor at Pepperdine University and a former lawyer in the Reagan and Bush administrations. "He writes cryptically ... suggesting a standard of his own making that is not fully developed." Despite the rhetoric, Kennedy's moderating force has generally benefited his conservative colleagues. Of the 23 divided 5-4 cases this term -- including the two marriage cases as well as voting rights -- Kennedy was in the majority 20 times, according to SCOTUSblog.com, again higher than anyone on the nine-member bench. Only on six decisions did he side with the four left-leaning justices: Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor, and Elena Kagan. But it was his majority opinion in the DOMA case that could have ripple effects for years to come. "Although Justice Kennedy's opinion explicitly states that it is confined to same-sex marriages that have been recognized by states, it contains reasoning and language that will certainly be used, in later cases, to argue that legal recognition of same-sex marriage by all states is constitutionally required," said University of Notre Dame law professor Richard W. Garnett, a past clerk to former Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist. "Almost certainly, and fairly soon, that argument will be presented squarely to the court." What about us, ask other gay couples . Within the marbled halls of the high court, Kennedy is personally respected by his colleagues, both for the power he wields and for his courtly, low-key manner. But professionally, justices on the losing side of a big case can often be unsparing in their criticism of Kennedy and his legal reasoning. Justice Antonin Scalia on Wednesday called Kennedy's analysis in the DOMA case "jaw dropping" and an assertion of "judicial supremacy" that "envisions the Supreme Court standing (or rather enthroned) at the apex of government." And this from a close friend -- Scalia and Kennedy joined the court a year apart, were born the same year, and live on the same street. The Sacramento, California, native joined the high court in 1988, the third choice of President Reagan after more conservative nominees Robert Bork and Douglas Ginsburg flamed out. And along with O'Connor for almost two decades, the two native Westerners carved out a jumpy place in the center. Less driven by practical concerns than O'Connor was, Kennedy has striven for a loftier sense of the law's impact on society. "He has brought to the bench a combination of a very scholarly, erudite, academic bent," said Brad Berenson, a friend and former law clerk to Kennedy, "and a very practical bent he had developed while practicing law on his own." Kennedy himself acknowledged the unique role he played for decades on the court. "There is a loneliness" to his job, he once told CNN. For now, Kennedy, like his eight colleagues, will retreat from the public spotlight. He has some vacation time ahead, mixed with his annual overseas teaching gig in Austria in two weeks. Then, come the first Monday October, Kennedy is expected back in his familiar seat, just to the left of Chief Justice John Roberts on the bench. But clearly he is the man in the middle, and the man that in many ways shapes the direction of a divided court.

Kennedy wrote majority opinion striking down parts of Defense of Marriage Act . Kennedy and former Justice Sandra Day O'Connor were the court's centrists . When O'Connor stepped down seven years ago, she "handed the keys" to Kennedy . With four conservatives to the right and four liberals to the left, Kennedy is squarely in middle .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 17:24 EST, 9 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 17:57 EST, 9 January 2014 . A new study released Thursday revealed that nearly 70 percent of American adults experience eye strain caused by computers, tablets and smartphones. The vision council reported their findings, which also found that half of adults don't know they can reduce the discomfort, at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Sufferers can start to experience the nagging back pain, blurred vision and headaches just two hours into using a device and research has begun to suggest that exposure to some types of digital screen light may lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. Up close and personal: A study released Thursday reveled that 70 percent of Americans suffer from digital eye strain caused by looking at electronic device screens for two or more hours. The study was presented by the Vision Council at the Consumer Electronics Show 2014 Ipictured) in Las Vegas . 'The eye is not equipped to look at digital screens for extended periods of time,' said Justin Bazan, OD, optometrist and medical adviser to The Vision Council. 'These experiences might be common, but they are not normal.' But common they are. The Vision Council found that many Americans average 6 to 9 hours per day in front of digital devices. They also discovered that the percentage of adults spending 10 or more hours per day staring at devices rose 4 percent from last year. 'Focusing on objects at an . intermediate distance – like a computer or smartphone – ultimately . fatigues the eyes' focusing system and causes strain,' Bazan said. That fatigue means digital eye strain. According . to the Vision Council, 'eye care providers are noting a steady rise in . the number of patients with screen-related eye strain.' While . aches and pains and possibility of more serious issues seem like a good . reason to pick up a paperback instead of an e-reader, there are ways to . cut down the effects of digital strain. Eye yai yai: The study found that adult Americans spend a great deal of their day in front of digital devices. Four percent more respondees said they spent 10+ hours in front of screens than did thje year before . The Vision Council breaks down the the percentage of their respondees who used various digital devices daily . Ways to reduce strain include: positioning screens at arm's length, holding handheld devices below eye-level to elminate glare, and taking short breaks from looking at screens as often as possible. There are also optics-based solutions in development that could ease the problem. 'Digital eye strain has become a large concern for the vision community,' said Ed Greene, CEO of The Vision Council. 'Fortunately, the optical industry has made great strides in the past year to develop lens technologies that can best address the causes of digital eye strain. 'Like other glasses we rely on to read and see clearly, computer glasses are transforming the way we look at computer and hand-held device screens.'

A study released Thursday at the Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas in revealed just how common digital eye strain really is . The Vision Council led the study and says over half of adults don't know there are ways to ease the discomfort .

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(CNN) -- What do they have to be ashamed of? Several years ago, I caught one of my kids sneaking out of the house. Like any mom, I was more than a little mad and demanded an explanation. "But Mom, I wasn't doing anything wrong -- I was just hanging out with my friends," was the response I got, but I knew better. The truth is that if you don't have anything to be ashamed of, you have no reason to be sneaking around. This election season, special interests are sneaking around trying to influence voters by funding the attack ads you see on TV. With the help of a recent court ruling, they can do it all anonymously. It's hard not to think it's because they have something to be ashamed of. In January, the Supreme Court gave corporations, unions and special interest groups the power to influence elections in an unlimited and anonymous way. In an unprecedented move, the court, the same majority who decried an activist court when they were nominees, legislated from the bench and overturned years of previous case law, striking down longstanding limitations on campaign spending from special interests in the case of Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. Before Citizens United, corporations and unions could not spend money to run ads expressly advocating one candidate over another. Now they can. But what is worse, they can anonymously donate millions of dollars to "nonprofit" groups, which buy the ads without having to disclose who truly paid for them. The ruling essentially opened the barn door to anonymous, unlimited corporate donations to sway voters. Americans have a lot to be frustrated about right now with our economy, and I know many are anxiously awaiting their opportunity to weigh in on the country's future by voting on November 2. The idea that special interests are trying to secretly buy this election should make their blood boil. Although every member of Congress should be trying to stop this, that is not the case. Republicans have blocked legislation that would help bring these donors to light. A bill offered by Sen. Chuck Schumer, which I co-sponsored, would have forced corporations and unions that want to spend money on campaign ads to be transparent with the public about their political contributions and their donors, while also banning political spending from foreign entities. But each time the bill has received a vote, Republicans have made sure it failed. This bill wouldn't favor one side or the other: From the most conservative groups to the most liberal, any special interest group spending money on campaign ads would have to be honest about where their funding comes from so voters know whose interest they really represent. Republicans spend a lot of time decrying activist court decisions, yet when it comes to overturning campaign limits and disclosure rules for special interests, they seem to have changed their minds. The reality is that special interests are trying to buy our government this cycle, and Republicans think that's OK. Well, I don't. My position is simple: If you are for someone or something, you should be willing to say it out loud. The voters deserve to know. Right now, these shadowy organizations are refusing to produce a list of their donors, and that's something voters need to consider in November. My rule of thumb is, if I can't find out who's paying for the ad, I don't believe it. When my teenager tried to pull a fast one on me, I said if you're not willing to own up to it, how do I know you're not doing something wrong? This election cycle, special interests are trying to get away with buying this election without being held accountable. Until they are more forthcoming with where the money is coming from, how can voters believe a word they say? The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Sen. Claire McCaskill.

Corporations, unions, special interest groups can fund campaign advertising anonymously . Sen. Claire McCaskill, a Democrat, says special interests seek to buy votes by funding attack ads . Republicans opposed bill to force disclosure of donors' names and amounts, she writes . The rule of thumb is, McCaskill says, if you can't find out who's paying for the ad, don't believe it .

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By . Alex Greig . PUBLISHED: . 23:35 EST, 18 November 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 17:00 EST, 22 December 2013 . The parents of a teenager who committed suicide on July 17 have filed a claim against their city for negligence after police failed to follow up the boy's social media post stating his intention to kill himself. Matthew Cline was a 17-year-old high school football player when he shot himself in the head at home with a gun belonging to his parents. His parents say that on July 16, their son posted on social media site iFunny: 'My name is Matthew Cline. This will be my last post on ifunny as I will be committing suicide tonight.' Cry for help: Matthew Cline posted his intention to commit suicide on a social networking site . They allege the police knew about the post and had the Clines' address but did not send a car to the home or telephone the Clines to make them aware of the post. On the evening of July 16, high school student Ana Gutierrez, 17, some 300 miles away from Matthew Cline in Los Banos, saw his iFunny post and became concerned. She did some sleuthing and managed to locate Cline's Facebook profile. To her surprise, he accepted her friend request immediately and she was able to discover that he lived in Huntington Beach and attended Liberty Christian School. Records show Gutierrez called the Huntington Beach Police Department at 12:22am July 17. She told an officer about Matthew Cline's iFunny posting and emailed police screenshots of the post and his Facebook account. Officers found the correct Matthew Cline on their database as well as his address and his father Bill Cline's cell phone number. Hidden: Matthew Cline's suicide came as a shock to his family, who didn't know anything was amiss . According to the Courthouse News, a police report states that officers attempted to call William Cline two or three times. The Clines say they never received any calls. Approximately 20 hours after Gutierrez called the Huntingdon Beach Police Department, Matthew Cline committed suicide. 'Bottom line is he reached out for help and somebody did everything in her power to help,' Matthew's mother Kathy Cline told the Orange County Register. 'It was a failure by the adults. That's the saddest thing. A knock on the door and Matt would be alive. We could have got him help.' According to Courthouse News, the claim states that officers responding to Matthew Cline's suicide 'immediately recognized' him as the teenager who made the iFunny post. Matthew Cline's parents claim that an officer questioned Cline's sister about the post while they were out of earshot. Their world: The Clines believe their son Matthew (seen here with his mother Kathy) would still be with them today if police had followed up on his social media post . The Orange County Register reports that the Clines' neighbor Kasha Buhman said the officer 'came up to [Matthew Cline's sister] Jackie and I stayed close by, because she was by herself and her parents weren't there,' Buhman said. 'He asked, ‘Do you know if your brother ever went on an app called iFunny?' and asked if she had the password to his phone.' The Clines had no idea their sporty son was troubled, and say that knowing about the iFunny post would have prevented their son's death. 'We just wanted a chance,' Bill Cline told the Orange County Register. 'He was our world.' Sportsman: The athletic teen was a talented footballer with a 'great attitude' Lieutenant Mitchell O'Brien says there is no procedure for handling social media post such as Matthew Cline's. 'We get calls all the time and we follow up on what we can follow up on, but we can't follow up all the time,' O'Brien told the Orange County Register. 'We take threats of suicide very seriously … but it really comes down to, do we have a call for service and do we have a place to go? It's a judgment call.' The Clines allege negligence, civil rights violations and are seeking damages for severe emotional distress and loss of companionship as well as expected loss of their son's future income. According to the Courthouse News, the claim is seeking damages of more than $10,000. Claims of this nature are usually precursors to lawsuits. The Clines are grateful to Ana Gutierrez for doing everything in her power to help their son, but Gutierrez herself struggles with what happened to the boy she tried to save. For support on suicide matters call the National Suicide Prevention Helpine on 1-800-273-8255 or go to www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Matthew Cline, 17, posted about his intention to kill himself on July 16 on site iFunny . Ana Gutierrez, 17, saw the post and tracked down Cline's details . She passed on the information to police . Cline's parents claim that if police had followed up on the call, their son would still be alive . Matthew Cline shot himself in the head on July 17 . The Clines have filed a claim against the city for negligence .

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She epitomised regal elegance last night in a tiara and jewels. But today Queen Elizabeth opted for a less opulent look as she attended a service at St George's chapel at Windsor Castle. Her Majesty, 87, wore a pretty paisley print dress under a peach coat. As usual, she showcased her attention to detail when it comes to colour co-ordination wearing a hat that matched the shade of her coat. She accessorised with her trademark pearls, black handbag and a jewel brooch. Royal duties continue: Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh arriving for a visit to commemorate the RCO's 150th anniversary at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle . Busy: The night before they had welcomed President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina Coyne to an elaborate state banquet . Changing style: Last night the Queen dressed to impress with a tiara and emerald necklace while today she wore her usual pearls and a hat . Warm welcome: The pair were greeted by Dean of Windsor David Conner on their arrival . Prince Philip joined his wife at the recital by the Royal College of Organists to commemorate their 150th anniversary. The evening before, the couple had been dressed up in formal attire as they welcomed President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina Coyne to a state banquet in Windsor. The Queen had worn the spectacular Grand Duchess Vladimir of Russia's tiara and a stunning emerald necklace for the historic occasion. If the elderly couple had a late night, they showed no signs of it today as they resumed their royal duties. Show must go on: The couple didn't show any signs of a late night as they took their seats . Guests watch a screen showing British concert organist Thomas Trotter giving a recital . Historic: The royals were shown a manuscript dating back to 1750 by Royal College of Organists Director of Academic Development, Andrew McCrea . Music to their ears: The Queen and the Duke said they enjoyed the performance . The Duke of Edinburgh, 92, raised a smile from his wife as they took their seats for the service after being greeted by Dean of Windsor David Conner. The RCO, of which the Queen is the patron, has more than 2,000 members and is involved in the training and support of church organists across the UK. The recital was held in the castle's gothic 15th century St George's chapel. The Queen and The Duke visibly enjoyed themselves during the 45-minute long organ recital which included numbers by Bach and Peter Hurford, exchanging smiles throughout. They were later introduced to the organist, Thomas Trotter. The Queen told him that he had played 'very well', while the Duke asked about Mr Trotter's forthcoming concerts. The Queen gave a speech during last night's banquet that was attended by a number of royals and dignitaries . The state banquet was a lavish affair . The Royal party also inspected the chapel's 18th century organ which was commissioned by King George III. A Buckingham Palace source said: 'I think she's here quite often. She knows the chapel well.' The afternoon event was attended by more than 200 people, including representatives from the world of organ music and choral recital. A video screen was even erected to allow the Royal party to observe the organist's footwork. The president of the Royal College of Organists, Catherine Ennis, said: 'We are very grateful that Her Majesty the Queen, our patron - accompanied by The Duke of Edinburgh, has consented to be present today to crown our anniversary celebrations. 'We hope that we can share our 150th anniversary celebrations with everyone with an interest in organ and choral music, whether through playing the organ, directing or singing in a choir, or through simple enjoyment of the music.'

Queen Elizabeth and Duke of Edinburgh attended organ recital . Event in Windsor came day after state banquet . Monarch wore peach outfit with matching hat .

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Atlanta (CNN) -- A Georgia judge Friday dismissed an emergency motion filed by the ex-wife of music mogul Usher Raymond seeking temporary custody of their son. The judge ruled that even though the 5-year-old child was injured in a swimming pool accident this week, it was not an emergency or crisis situation requiring that Usher's two children be taken from him. The child, Usher Raymond V, remains hospitalized but is doing "much better," his mother posted on Twitter. "What happened here was an awful accident and... I'm not certain that had any single person been at the poolside that one person could have done any better than Ms. Oden. And Ms. Oden did impress me as a capable caregiver," Fulton County Superior Court Judge John Goger said, referring to the boy's aunt, Rena Oden, who was caring for the child at the time of the accident. "Based on the evidence I heard, not one person could have done any better than Ms. Oden," the judge added. The judge then addressed Usher's ex-wife, Tameka Foster Raymond: "Your standards for caregivers are rather high," Goger said, pointing out that most people have been watched by a grandmother or aunt. The judge instructed Usher to keep his ex-wife informed about his whereabouts and who's taking care of their two children. At Friday's emergency custody hearing in Atlanta, Usher, as he is known in his career as a singer and actor, testified that he waited an hour to inform his ex-wife that their son had nearly drowned in a swimming pool accident because "the first thing to do was to respond to the emergency... My son was hysterical and in the back of an ambulance." His ex-wife testified earlier that she does not trust the childcare of Raymond's aunt who was present when their son fell into the pool. Foster Raymond also said Usher does not keep her informed about who is taking of their children or the doings in the children's lives. "They come home with bags of medicine. I don't know why or what illness or who's taking them to the doctor... he doesn't confer with me regarding anything, nothing," she told the court. Foster Raymond became extremely emotional after the 911 call made by Usher's aunt was played in court. "I don't know if my son is going to have a brain defect. I don't know if his heart is operating correctly. I don't know if my son's going to be 100% the boy he was before this incident," Foster Raymond said. Foster Raymond said Usher's aunt is incapable of keeping up with the two children. In reference to their other son jumping into the pool to help Usher V, Foster Raymond testified: "He can't even swim, he was trying to save his brother. That's chaos, that is chaos, that's chaos." She kept repeating "that's chaos" as she wiped her eyes, and the judge told her to get off the stand. Usher testified he's notified Foster Raymond on several occasions about changes to the children's caregivers, contrary to her earlier claims. He also said he's scheduled to be in Atlanta for the remainder of August. The children's activities are outlined in a weekly e-mail, according to Usher. He said he tells Foster Raymond about doctors' visits, summer camps, or travel, including the aliases used to book hotel rooms, in the rare event he travels with the kids. When one attorney tried asking why Usher doesn't update Foster Raymond on his travel plans, the judge jumped in: "An emergency means life and death -- that these kids are in danger and need to be somewhere else." The judge told the attorney to move on with her questions. At another point in testimony, the aunt took the stand. Oden said she's disabled because of her back, but she can swim and attends therapy sessions in water. The aunt also said she knows CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, though she needs to be recertified. When asked by Foster Raymond's attorney if she can pick up more than 25 pounds, Oden said: "Sometimes, it just depends on how my back is feeling. "I know how to take care of children," Oden added. Five-year-old Usher Raymond V is recovering from Monday's accident at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Hospital, according to the lawyer for Foster Raymond. A breathing tube inserted after the accident has since been removed, attorney Angela Kinley told CNN. Usher, won primary custody of the couple's two children, Usher V and 4-year-old Naviyd, last year after a bitter court fight in which Foster Raymond accused the singer of being an absentee father. Foster Raymond filed in May for a custody modification. That case hadn't been heard by the time the swimming pool accident happened Monday, so Foster Raymond filed Tuesday for an emergency hearing on the matter. Timeline: Raymond v. Raymond . Usher's former stepson, also Foster Raymond's son, died in a watercraft accident on a north Georgia lake last year. CNN's Alan Duke reported from Los Angeles, and Rich Philiips reported from Atlanta. Michael Martinez wrote from Los Angeles, and Melissa Gray contributed in Atlanta.

NEW: Judge says babysitting aunt is "a capable caregiver" NEW: Judge tells Usher's ex-wife that her caregiving standards "are rather high" NEW: "That's chaos, that is chaos, that's chaos," ex-wife sobs about near drowning . NEW: "I know how to take care of children," Usher's aunt tells court .

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By . Laurie Whitwell . Follow @@lauriewhitwell . Those Selhurst Park tears were as much for conceding a 3-0 lead to effectively end Liverpool’s title hopes as for the realisation that an opportunity this golden may not come again soon. Steven Gerrard will urge his team-mates to ‘go again’ before the start of next season but that task will be made more difficult by the certainty that their rivals will ‘come again’. Liverpool had appeared like the irresistible force, possessing enough momentum from swashbuckling football and the memories of Hillsborough to sweep to their first league crown in 24 years. VIDEO Scroll down to watch Rodgers admit Liverpool's title chances has slipped away . Devastated: Luis Suarez showed his emotions after Liverpool squandered a 3-0 lead against Crystal Palace . Tears: One Liverpool fan appeared to burst into tears long after the final whistle at Selhurst Park on Monday . Let's go again: Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will have a tough job lifting his team-mates next season . Manuel Pellegrini was grappling with the finer points of the Manchester City machine, Jose Mourinho was bemoaning his dearth of quality centre-forwards, and Manchester United were plummeting downwards without the jet-pack that is Sir Alex Ferguson. It was Liverpool who had the sense of an unstoppable team building to a climax. But Chelsea’s double decker halted the procession, then Tony Pulis’s Black & Decker chopped it to a stand-still. If City beat Aston Villa on Wednesday night, as seems certain, Liverpool will have missed a glorious chance to finally re-emerge as England’s best. They may well be better next season for the experience. But you can be assured that so will all their title competitors. Chopped down: Yannick Bolasie celebrates with goalscorer Dwight Gayle following Palace's equaliser . City will improve their defence with Porto centre-back Eliaquim Mangala a likely arrival, while Pellegrini will have a greater grasp on this league having shorn his nearly-man tag. Chelsea will get a top class striker, with Diego Costa set to provide the spike to Mourinho’s weapon, often so blunt this season. United will spend big under Louis Van Gaal, and surely be a huge improvement on this campaign. Wanted: Man City are expected to improve their defence with the signing of Porto's Eliaquim Mangala (left) Top class: Atletico Madrid striker Diego Costa looks set to provide the spike to Mourinho's weapon at Chelsea . Changes: Manchester United will spend big under Louis van Gall and surely improve on this campaign . Arsenal will once again consolidate and, should Aaron Ramsey and Theo Walcott be fit for the campaign, prove challengers again. Even Everton, with Roberto Martinez a year wiser, and Tottenham, under a new head coach, will spend money to improve. Liverpool are back among the big boys but they might well rue not picking them off this season, when they all looked that little bit smaller. Back among the big boys: Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers and his side will rue letting the title slip .

Brendan Rodgers' team conceded a 3-0 lead to Crystal Palace on Monday night . Draw at Selhurst Park effectively ended Liverpool's title dream . Premier League rivals will look to improve next season .

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By . Sam Greenhill . PUBLISHED: . 04:56 EST, 5 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:16 EST, 7 October 2013 . Jimmy Savile’s victims could be offered as little as £1,500 each in compensation by the BBC. The paltry sum is the lowest of the seven tiers of payments to victims of the DJ and presenter proposed by the corporation. It is about the same amount as the BBC’s director general is paid in a single day. The £1,500 payment would be made to those who suffered a ‘minor assault’ at the hands of the paedophile, who preyed on youngsters in his dressing room and backstage. Paedophile DJ Jimmy Savile's BBC premises victims may be paid as little as £1,500 in compensation . The highest payment – only £40,000 – would go to those who were raped by Savile. One of his victims, who did not want to be named, described the BBC proposal as ‘pathetic’, adding: ‘Their top bosses get that kind of money in a few hours and they think it will compensate for a lifetime of psychological trauma? Put another couple of noughts on the end, people might be satisfied.’ Savile, who died in October 2011 aged 84, attacked hundreds of children he met at the BBC and at hospitals, charity events and schools. Police believe the Top of the Pops and Jim’ll Fix It presenter attacked at least 1,300 people over the course of 54 years. A year after his reign of terror was exposed the NSPCC children’s charity is still taking calls from people he targeted. Scotland Yard says Savile spent ‘every waking minute’ thinking about abusing children, and used his celebrity status to that end. Victims of Savile have attacked the BBC's offer of compensation, arguing the £1,500 figure is about the same amount as the BBC¿s director general, Lord Hall, is paid in a single day . About 135 victims have launched legal proceedings against the BBC, the NHS, the now-defunct Duncroft school for girls in Surrey, and Savile’s £4.3million estate. The estate has been frozen in light of the allegations. Lawyers for all sides are due to meet in a High Court hearing on October 21 to discuss the compensation proposals. Under the BBC scheme, victims could be paid 25 per cent extra if Savile repeated the abuse, and another 25 per cent if it led to lifelong trauma, it is understood. If the BBC’s proposals are accepted, it means the broadcaster and hospitals that failed to stop the serial predator could get away with relatively low compensation payouts. They feared the scandal would cost them millions of pounds, but it seems likely they are facing a combined compensation bill of only two or three million pounds. But the meagre amounts have split opinion among victims, with some branding them an insult, and others saying no amount would compensate for what Savile did. One victim told the Mail: ‘Whether it is £100 or £100,000, it doesn’t matter to me – the point is to get an acknowledgment they did wrong. ‘So many people knew what Savile was like but nobody stopped him. There were dozens of chances for them, but they let him go on attacking children until he was an old man. Jimmy Savile is dead, and this is the only way to get back at him.’ Victims said it was shocking it had taken so long to expose the DJ’s predatory behaviour, and believe senior managers who missed opportunities to stop him should be named and shamed. The NSPCC said publicity surrounding the Savile case had also led to a more general surge in the number of child victims of sexual abuse making contact with them. The number of referrals the NSPCC helpline has made to police and social services was up by 84 per cent in June and July compared with the same period in 2012. The BBC’s director general, Lord Hall, who took up his post in the spring, is paid a salary of £450,000 a year, according to the BBC Trust. A BBC spokesman said: ‘The parties remain in discussions. It would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this stage.’

At least 450 people abused by the paedophile DJ on BBC premises . Corporation proposing seven tiers of compensation pay-outs . The lowest, for 'minor assaults', is proposed at £1,500 . The highest, for those raped on BBC grounds, is £40,000 .

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By . Paul Thompson . PUBLISHED: . 16:45 EST, 2 September 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 09:26 EST, 3 September 2012 . Fall From Grace: Erica DePalo, 33, is the reigning 'Teach of the Year' in Essex County, New Jersey . A New Jersey 'Teacher of the Year' is under arrest over claims she had a summer affair with a teenage student. Erica DePalo, 33, romanced a 15-year-old West Orange High School pupil from mid-June until just a week ago, according to police. The honors English teacher is Essex County's reigning top teacher for the 2011-12 school year. But she now faces first- and second-degree aggravated sexual assault charges, as well as a claim for endangering the welfare of a child. The single woman from the town of Montclair is being held at a northern New Jersey lock-up in lieu of $100,000 bail. 'I don’t have any children,' DePalo remarked after winning her award, 'and I always say that I don’t have any children to go home and take care of. 'But every morning and every day that I go to school I have 110 children that are very near-and-dear to my heart.' 'The district has taken strong action by . suspending the employee immediately and indefinitely,' Superintendent . James O'Neill noted in a statement, adding that he plans to 'cooperate . with the prosecutor's office in every way.' Sacked: DePalo has been suspended indefinitely from her post as an honors English teacher after allegedly carrying on an affair with one the students in her class . The allegations belie DePalo's pedigree. She graduated from Villanova - a Roman-Catholic college in Philadelphia - with an English degree, before continuing her studies at New York University's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, where she earned her master's in Liberal Studies. Officials made counselors available at the high school following the arrest. DePalo, who also reportedly coached the school's junior varsity tennis squad, has worked at West Orange High School since 2003. She earned the top-teacher honor as part of the state Department of Education’s 'New Jersey Teacher of the Year' program. 'I am merely a representative of all the hardworking dedicated teachers, especially those with whom I work at West Orange High School,' she said after winning the award, according to The Record of Bergen County. She praised her colleagues as 'teachers who are committed to their students, who consistently advocate for their students, and who exceedingly go above and beyond their everyday duties and job descriptions.' Her lawyer refused to comment.

English teacher sacked from New Jersey school .

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By . Helen Lawson . PUBLISHED: . 11:49 EST, 22 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 14:09 EST, 22 March 2013 . The parents of a boy who allegedly died from scurvy appeared in court today accused of child neglect. Dylan Seabridge, eight, died suddenly at home from the illness, which is linked to a deficiency of vitamin C, in December 2011. Julie Seabridge, 45, and her husband Glynn Seabridge, 46, indicated to Swansea Crown Court that they will be pleading not guilty in a trial later this year. Glynn and Julie Seabridge, pictured outside Swansea Crown Court, are charged with child neglect after their son Dylan died of scurvy . Jim Davies, defending Mr Seabridge, . said: 'Because the allegation is an unusual one we will have to identify . experts who work in a very unusual field. 'It will take some research to identify suitable experts to instruct.' The couple, from Crymych, Pembrokeshire, were released on unconditional bail today to face trial later this year . Scurvy used to affect anyone who was at sea longer than perishable fruits and vegetables could be stored. They would begin to suffer when they could not get enough vitamin C - vital for the body as it needs it to make collagen, a type of protein found in many different types of tissue, such as skin, blood vessels, bones and cartilage. Without vitamin C, collagen can't be replaced and the different types of tissue break down. Signs of the condition included muscle and joint pain, fatigue, red dots on the skin, and bleeding and swelling of the gums, which can lead to teeth falling out. In 1753 A Royal Navy Scottish surgeon, James Lind, realised that citrus fruits - which have large amounts of vitamin C - could combat the condition and published a study on it. Modern treatment involves taking vitamin C supplements and eating food that's high in vitamin C. No formal plea was entered and the pair from Crymych, Pembrokeshire, were released on unconditional bail. The pair arrived, both sporting hats and clutching each other's hands. Both carried walking sticks and wore thick coats. Scurvy was at one time common among sailors deprived of fresh fruit and vegetables while at sea. But it is almost unheard of due to modern diets and health care . Symptoms of scurvy are lethargy, spots on the skin, spongy gums and bleeding from the nose. Treatment involves taking vitamin C supplements and eating food that's high in vitamin C. This should quickly reverse the harmful symptoms of scurvy, the NHS says. Foods such as cabbage, grapefruit, sweet potatoes, lemons, broccoli, limes and tomatoes are all good sources of the essential vitamin. An inquest into Dylan's death has been opened and adjourned. Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons.

Dylan Seabridge died suddenly at home from the illness in December 2011 . His parents Julie and Glynn Seabridge appeared at Swansea Crown Court . They will go on trial later this year to face child neglect charges .

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By . Larisa Brown . PUBLISHED: . 05:00 EST, 13 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 07:03 EST, 13 January 2013 . The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have advertised for a servant to attend to the Royal household when the couple become parents this summer. And while in days gone by the housekeeper was employed merely to clean and maintain the home, this newly available role demands the fulfillment of extra duties - including those traditionally undertaken by a valet, personal assistant, cook and even a chauffeur. In a job description more appropriate to Downton Abbey, the assistant at Kensington Palce must polish silverware and glassware, remain loyal, and ensure 'all areas of the residence are cleaned and maintained to a high standard at all times'. Housekeeper: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have advertised for a servant to help them in their new role as parents . It comes after St James' Palace has consistently stressed the couple prefer to keep their entourage as small as possible, making it clear Kate has no plans to employ a dresser or lady-in-waiting and that the couple largely to do their own cooking and shopping. It is also thought the couple plan to break with royal tradition by not employing a full-time nanny when their baby is born later this year. Instead, the successful candidate for the post will undertake various errands, including the preparation of basic meals, in-house laundry, driving, as well as caring and exercising dogs. The internal job advertisement at Buckingham Palace asks for someone: 'To provide a high standard of housekeeping for TRH (their royal highnesses) The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.' As reported by the Sunday Express: 'Main duties include: ensuring all areas of the residence are cleaned and maintained to a high standard at all times. 'Caring for and maintaining TRH personal clothing, cleaning silver-ware and glassware and in-house laundry.' Royal role: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's new orderly driving Kate to St Andrew's School in Pangbourne in November . The post-holder must have a valid UK driving licence and 'discretion, loyalty and reliability are paramount'. The position demands an average of 37 hours a week, to be worked 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday - with the flexibility to work more hours if necessary. A royal insider expressed concerns as to the sheer number of tasks expected to be fulfilled by one person. The insider told the Sunday Express: 'It is unheard of for one person to be asked to perform so many duties. 'Clearly the Duke and Duchess are going to get their money's worth out of whoever gets the job. 'The advert states that they’ll be required to work extra hours and you can bet your life they will.' The source said about 15 people have applied for the job so far. Earlier this month the couple employed their first orderly, seconding a young Fijian-born corporal from the Parachute Regiment. Kate and William are expected to move into their new family home at Kensington Palace, pictured, in late summer or early autumn, after a £1 million renovation project . His . role involves chauffeuring, logistics and even organising Prince . William’s wardrobe. Kate and William are expected to move into their new family home at Kensington Palace in late summer or early autumn. About £1 million is being spent . renovating the lavish four-storey, 20-room Apartment 1A – which comes . complete with its own private walled garden. It was formerly lived in by Princess Margaret.  The cost of the renovations will be met by a mix of public grants and contributions from the Royal Family’s own fortune. The accommodation, which has been uninhabited since the death of the Queen’s sister in 2002, includes a dining room, drawing room, Lord Snowdon’s former study, Princess Margaret’s garden room, extensive staff quarters and a nursery.

Job description includes polishing silverware and glassware . Successful candidate must be 'discrete, loyal and reliable' Position is internal job advertisement for housekeeper at Kensington Palace . Kate and William expected to move into new flat in late summer or autumn .

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By . Associated Press . and Daily Mail Reporter . Joan Rivers has refused to apologize to the three women who were held captive in a basement for nearly a decade after joking at their expense - and has hurled even more insults at them. The comedienne caused outrage on Wednesday when she compared her daughter's guest room with the captivity the women experienced at the home of Ariel Castro. 'Those women in the basement in Cleveland had more space,' she quipped on the Today show. And later, after the women's lawyers branded her comments hurtful, Rivers said the women really shouldn't be complaining. Scroll down for video . Poor taste: Joan Rivers, pictured with her daughter on the Today show, sparked outrage when she made a joke at the expense of the Cleveland kidnap victims - but she has refused to apologize . 'They got to live rent free for more than a decade,' she defiantly told TMZ. 'One . of them has a book deal. Neither are in a psych ward. They're ok. I bet . you within three years one of them will be on Dancing with the Stars.' The 80-year-old sharp-tongued television host brushed off her joke as she spoke to a local paper in Cleveland. There is nothing to apologize for,' she told the Cleveland Plain Dealer. 'I know what those girls went through. It was a little stupid joke. There is nothing to apologize for. Anger: Attorneys for Amanda Berry, 27 (left), and Gina DeJesus, 24, (right) called the comments 'hurtful' House of horrors: Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight were held captive at this Cleveland home . 'I made a joke. That's what I do. Calm down. Calm f***ing down. I'm a comedienne. They're free, so let’s move on.' A . Wednesday statement from attorneys for Amanda Berry and Gina DeJesus . had called Rivers' earlier remark about their captivity hurtful and . shocking. The attorneys say the women have endured painful media attention and the comment is 'a new low' that warrants an apology. On Thursday, Today show host Willie Geist - who had gasped alongside his fellow hosts when Rivers made the quip earlier in the week - said they did not condone what she had said. 'We regret her comment was made on our air - deeply and truly,' he said. 'I hope our reactions in real time show that way we felt about her attempted joke... We obviously didn't find it funny and we didn't approve of it.' Cleveland Captives . Rivers' publicist hasn't responded to messages seeking comment. Amanda . Berry, 27, Gina DeJesus, 24, . and Michelle Knight, 33, were held captive at Castro's Cleveland home . after being kidnapped from the streets of Cleveland between 2002 and . 2004. Knight, Amanda Berry and DeJesus escaped when Berry pushed out a door and yelled for help. She . told a police dispatcher in a dramatic 911 call: 'Help me. I'm Amanda . Berry. I've been kidnapped, and I've been missing for 10 years, and I'm, . I'm here, I'm free now.' Castro pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison. He hanged himself on September 3, just weeks into his sentence. The women were household names in Cleveland for years as missing persons, and . their discovery electrified a community accustomed to bleaker outcomes.

Comedienne quipped on Wednesday that 'those women in the basement in Cleveland had more space' than she did while filming new reality show . Lawyers for two of the women branded the comments hurtful . But Rivers has reportedly refused to apologize - telling the women to lighten up and take a joke . Today show hosts said on Thursday that they did not condone the 'joke'

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By . Kerry Mcqueeney . PUBLISHED: . 04:07 EST, 23 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:11 EST, 23 August 2012 . Numbers of a British seabird have fallen so low that experts fear the breed could soon become the first victim of climate change. One breeding colony of the Kittiwake in Scotland is now extinct and others are predicted to disappear within three years, according to wildlife experts. The sea bird, one of the most abundant in the world, is disappearing at an 'alarming' rate, the Royal Protection for the Society of Birds (RSPB) said. End of the road? Experts say the Kittiwake sea bird could face extinction in Scotland within three years . Conservationists say the decline is down to alterations to the marine environment brought on by climate change, with the North Sea's food chain being 'profoundly affected'. The population of Kittiwake has more than halved in the UK since the mid-1980s and the breeding numbers in Scotland have declined by almost two-thirds. The far north of Scotland has seen some of the steepest declines, particularly in Shetland and Orkney where about one fifth of the UK Kittiwake population return to breed each year. However, in just over a decade, experts have recorded a massive 82 per cent decline in breeding pairs at Orkney's 'seabird cities'. Counts undertaken by the RSPB and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) also revealed populations on the Orkney mainland fell from nearly 11,000 pairs in 2000 to under 2,000 this year. Kittiwakes failed to return to the 'once-bursting' cliff colony of Orkney's Mull Head this year - and cliffs at Costa Head Birsay held less than 200 breeding pars. Some of the steepest declines have been in the far north of Scotland, particularly in Orkney (pictured) Three other colonies are 'hanging on by a thread; with fewer than 90 nests each - indicating potential local extinction within the next three years. Doug . Gilbert, RSPB Scotland Head of Reserves Ecology, said: 'The counts this . year are deeply shocking, especially the loss of kittiwakes at Mull . Head. We know that kittiwakes in other parts of Orkney are equally . affected, and to think of Orkney without thriving colonies of these . fantastic birds is a sad prospect. The Kittiwake is a medium-sized gull with a small yellow bill and a dark eye, a grey back but with a white underside . It feeds on fish, shrimps and worms. In flight, its black-tipped wings look as though they are 'dipped in ink' In the breeding season, this coastal gull can be found in seabird colonies around the UK . In late summer and autumn it can be . seen flying past offshore, or collecting at roosts, while it spends the . winter months out at sea . The best time to see them is on breeding grounds in spring and summer . Source: RSPB . 'It . now appears undeniable that the declines in kittiwake and other . seabirds are being driven by changes in the marine environment related . to climate change. The food chain of the North Sea is being profoundly . affected, and seabirds, at the top of the chain, are suffering. 'Everyone with an interest in our seas and their health should be paying attention to this. 'Seabirds . remain largely unprotected at sea and have been marginalised in the . identification of new Marine Protected Areas- this obvious gap needs to . be filled if Scotland is going to prove it is serious about protecting . threatened wildlife.' Most of the breeding kittiwakes - 1,134 pairs - were found at RSPB Scotland's Marwick Head nature reserve, but these numbers were 75 per cent lower than in 1999, when 5,400 pairs were nesting. The Sumburgh Head nature reserve in Shetland also reported a poor year, with only a few chicks hatching. However, a kittiwake colony at Troup Head on the Moray Firth experienced its best season in years with more than 500 chicks fledging. Meanwhile, a colony in Aberdeenshire which had been described as being in 'freefall' has seen a halt in the long-term decline of Kittiwake numbers. Experts have been encouraged by the number of chicks in recent years. The RSPB said a fuller picture of this year's seabird breeding season will be available in the autumn.

Scotland's 'seabird cities' in Orkney see a 'staggering' 82 per cent decline in breeding pairs over last decade . Orkney population fell from 11,000 pairs in 2000 to under 2,000 this year . Experts say altered marine environment related to climate is to blame, with the North Sea's food chain profoundly affected .

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Rory McIlroy, the world's No 1 golfer, experienced an awkward moment when he went to watch Ulster take on Connacht in a rugby match on Friday. The Ulster supporter was in the middle of a television interview with the BBC when the Neil Diamond song 'Sweet Caroline' was played over the public address system at half-time. McIlroy responded by smiling sheepishly, looking down at the ground and exclaiming 'Oh dear'. VIDEO Scroll down to see Wozniacki smash a 200 yard drive at her first attempt . Rory McIlroy was in attendance for Ulster's PRO12 rugby match against Connacht on Boxing Day . Ulster fan McIlroy was paraded at half-time after the golfer won two majors including The Open . McIlroy endured an awkward moment 'Sweet Caroline' was played during his half-time TV interview at Ulster . The Ulster fans sang the song in a light-hearted reminder towards McIlroy's former fiancee Caroline Wozniacki . The Northern Irishman broke off his engagement to former world number one tennis player Caroline Wozniacki in May, the same week as he won the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. McIlroy went on to score a rare title hat-trick later in the season, reeling off three straight victories in the British Open at Royal Liverpool, the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational in Ohio and the U.S. PGA Championship in Kentucky. The 25-year-old is having some time off before returning to competitive golf in the new year. 'I'm in my off-season so I can enjoy myself, enjoy my Christmas dinner and have a few drinks,' said McIlroy with a big grin. McIlroy (right) ended his relationship to the tennis star in May before winning the BMW PGA Championship . In May, McIlroy looks crestfallen as he faces the media for the first time since splitting up from Wozniacki . Wozniacki had announced their engagement earlier in the year via her Twitter account . As for the match itself, the hosts got back to winning ways in the Guinness PRO12 and moved up one place to fourth but they were made to scrap every inch of the way against Connacht. Pat Lam's visitors could have even snatched their first win in Belfast since 1960, but a tight and fairly dire affair ended 13-10 in the hosts' favour. The entire game on a wet and cold night saw just two tries, with Ulster winger Craig Gilroy getting over in the first half and then Connacht second row Aly Muldowney crashing over in the second 40 minutes. Ulster had led 10-3 at the break, but the westerners came back and, although they made off with a losing bonus point, will be rightly disappointed at not getting more from this one in a game which saw both sides missing front-line Ireland players who had been rested. The result halted Ulster's losing run of having been beaten in three of their previous four games, and got Neil Doak's men back on track towards their aim of making the play-offs - even though the performance was well short of where it should have been. As well as winning two majors, McIlroy (centre) played a key role for Europe as they retained the Ryder Cup . Tennis star Wozniacki ended the year as world No 8 following her split from McIlroy .

Rory McIlroy was in attendance for Ulster's PRO12 match against Connacht . Golf star and Ulster fan was paraded in front of the fans at half-time . During his TV interview 'Sweet Caroline' was inadvertently played . McIlroy was engaged to ex-fiancee and tennis star Caroline Wozniacki before ending their relationship in May .

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(CNN) -- A line of widely scattered strong storms brought tornadoes to Colorado and Minnesota on Thursday and damaging high winds as far south as Texas. Three tornadoes stuck Minnesota. One hit near rural St. James. Kholby Martin, a storm chaser with KDR Media, said it was a couple of hundred yards wide but it wasn't fully condensed. Officials said no one was hurt, nor was there any structural damage. Two tornadoes touched down in Colorado. There was still a possibility of tornadoes in south central Minnesota and central Iowa on Thursday night. Dallas County in Texas saw an hourlong tornado warning Thursday afternoon as the system moved through, bringing winds of up to 70 mph, the National Weather Service said. Students at Southern Methodist University were told to shelter in place. That was followed by a flash flood warning for several counties in the area through the early evening hours. CNN affiliate WFAA reported that five boys were rescued from a creek after fast-moving waters moved in. Emergency responders found the boys clinging to whatever they could find along the shore, the station said. There was wind damage around the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. In one neighborhood in west Dallas, residents told WFAA that when the storm hit they saw debris flying through the air and heard transformers popping. Deborah Drake came home to find the glass in an entrance door to her home shattered by some of that debris. "You just heard this noise (like a train whistle) then it just shook the house," said a neighbor who was helping her clean up broken glass. "I ran in the bathroom and got in the bathtub." Some areas of South Dakota near Harrisburg were pelted by quarter-size hail, according to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls. Winds were blowing as fast as 50 mph. On Friday, strong storms will probably strike from Arkansas to Indiana, with rain in the Midwest, South and Northeast as the system moves east. That blustery, wet weather could affect as many as 14 million people, CNN meteorologist Sherri Pugh said. Saturday should bring more rain for those areas, too. Mobile, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida, will also get wet as 1 to 3 inches of rain is forecast. The area has been dealing with recent heavy rains, so the risk is high in those areas for flash flooding, and there's been a flash flood watch issued. Tired of reading about rain? Sorry, there's more. Rain will begin drenching the Pacific Northwest on Thursday, with the system moving to the Northern Rockies on Friday and Saturday.

NEW: Five tornadoes touch down in Colorado and Minnesota . Storm chaser sees one hit near St. James, Minnesota, but there is no damage . Storms will hit Arkansas to Indiana on Friday, with rain continuing into Saturday .

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Brazilian-born rapper, Yuri Santos, 23, who uses the stage name, Aggro Santos, at Chichester Magistrate's court . Former I’m A Celebrity contestant Aggro Santos raped two girls, one aged just 16, when he took them back to his hotel room after performing at gigs, a court has heard. The 23-year-old Brazilian-born rapper is accused of forcing one of the victims to have sex with him after he performed at the opening of Club Soho in Yeovil, Somerset, on September 25 2010. He is then accused of raping a 16-year-old girl last year after the University of Chichester summer ball while friend and co-defendant Tyrelle Ritchie forced her to perform oral sex on him. Chichester Crown Court was told that in the Yeovil incident the victim and a friend had gone to the club opening to see Santos perform. Afterwards, as they waited in the car park, the victim asked Santos, who was in a 4x4 type car, for his photograph on behalf of her friend who was 'obsessed by him'. In a video-taped interview shown to the jury, the victim, in her 20s, said: 'I shouted "Aggro, here let’s have a picture". 'He said "Do you want better? Jump on in".' 'There were other girls but he asked us, so we did.' She described how they went back to the Yeovil Court Hotel where she had consensual sex with Santos’s manager while her friend went to another room with the rapper. She said that a few minutes later the pair returned and Santos tried to initiate sex with her. She said: 'He got up, I thought he was just being a boy, really immature. 'He got his penis out, waving it about. I thought he was just being an idiot, at first I was just laughing at him.' Having described the star as well-endowed, she added: 'I started mocking him. I said "Does it p*** you off that your manager gets more female attention than you do?".' Aggro Santos at Chichester Crown Court, West Sussex, on charges of raping two women . Accused: The former I'm A Celebrity contestant on his mobile phone nearby the court . She said he then swore at her before pushing her on to the bed and raping her in front of the friend and manager. She said: 'I just went crazy and managed to get him off me and wanted to get out of the room. 'He got in front of me, I said he was sick. 'He kept repeating "I have been blessed, I have been blessed by Jesus".' She added: 'At that point I was really scared, I realised how powerful he was.' In the second incident, which happened in Chichester, West Sussex, on May 7 last year, Santos had performed at the university’s summer ball when his crew invited the victim, her sister, who was a student at the university, and two friends to a backstage room for drinks. Isobel Ascherson, prosecuting, said the group were then invited to an after-show party at the Ship Hotel and they agreed to go. Miss Ascherson said the 16-year-old then had consensual sex with Santos in his hotel bathroom while her sister had consensual sex with 21-year-old Ritchie in another room. She said the victim then accused Santos of forcing her to have sex for a second time at the same time as Ritchie forced her to perform oral sex on him. Miss Ascherson said the girl managed to escape from the pair and she was found in 'a state of extreme distress' by her sister. She said the sister went back into the hotel and confronted the defendants, causing a commotion which led to the police being called and Santos being arrested. Kimberly Wyatt, former Pussycat Dolls singer, featured in Santos's debut single, Candy, which shot to number five in the UK charts in 2010 . Miss Ascherson said the victim of the Yeovil incident only reported the allegation there after she read reports that Santos had been arrested for rape following the Chichester incident. She said: 'She felt guilty she hadn’t reported it before and came forward.' Miss Ascherson said all of the girls involved in the two incidents had consumed 'considerable' amounts of alcohol on the nights concerned. She said Santos denied there was any sexual contact with the victim in Yeovil and said the girl in the Chichester incident initiated the sexual activity with him and Ritchie. She added that Ritchie told police that the 16-year-old had consensually performed oral sex on him. Santos, who is charged under his real name Yuri Santos, of Tooting, south west London, denies two counts of rape. Ritchie, of Lambeth, south east London, denies one count of oral rape. Santos’s debut single, Candy, featuring former Pussycat Dolls singer Kimberly Wyatt, shot to number five in the UK charts in 2010. But he became more popularly known by his appearance in the 2010 series of ITV’s reality game show I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in which he reached the final six. Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Aggro Santos, 23, 'raped' one girl after she asked for a picture of him following his performance at a club in Somerset . He 'raped' his second victim, aged 16, while co-defendant Tyrelle Ritchie 'forced her to perform oral sex on him' after a university summer ball . 'I have been blessed. I have been blessed by Jesus': Santos, according to one of his victims .

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(Rollingstone.com) -- In an interview with BBC 6 Music, Beach Boys mastermind Brian Wilson hinted that the group may reunite in the studio to celebrate their 50th anniversary. "I'm considering it," he said. According to Wilson, nothing is holding him back aside from a reluctance to reconnect with his old partners. "I just don't know if I want to be around those guys, you know? They're zany guys. They're crazy." Wilson has not collaborated with his former bandmates since he co-produced "Stars and Stripes Volume One," a 1996 album featuring country versions of their hit songs. Photos: The Greatest Momagers and Dadagers in the Business . Though it remains to be seen whether or not Wilson will record new material with the band, the Beach Boys will be coming together to put the finishing touches on "Smile," the band's never-released follow-up to their 1966 masterwork "Pet Sounds." The group will be offering input on the album's track listing, which was never firmly established as the record was never completed as originally planned. Copyright © 2010 Rolling Stone.

Wilson hinted that the group may reunite in the studio to celebrate their 50th anniversary . The Beach Boys will be coming together to put the finishing touches on "Smile" "Smile" is the band's never-released follow-up to their 1966 masterwork "Pet Sounds"

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The family of a flight MH17 crash victim has condemned Sky News reporter Colin Brazier who was filmed live on air rifling through victims’ possessions – branding the footage 'sick.' In a live broadcast, which has so . far sparked 110 Ofcom complaints, the presenter was shown . picking items – including a set of keys and a toothbrush – out of the . open luggage before saying: ‘We really shouldn’t be doing this, I . suppose.’ Speaking from the family home in Leicester, Richard Mayne’s older brother Thomas, 24, branded it 'sick' adding: 'I think it's totally out of order. It's not on.' This evening Prime Minister David Cameron also condemned the reporter's actions branding it 'completely inappropriate'. The Leeds University student was one of ten Britons to die when the Malaysia Airlines jet crashed in Ukraine on Thursday. Scroll down for video . The brother of flight MH17 crash victim Richard Mayne (pictured right with his two brothers Thomas, left, and William, centre) has condemned Sky News reporter Colin Brazier . Apology: Sky News reporter Colin Brazier apologised after rifling through a case at the scene of the crash . Mr Mayne said: 'It’s sick and the worst example of news journalism which is sensationalising an appalling human tragedy. 'It's . really hard for us at the moment. The magnitude of it all and the way . it happened. You don't think this sort of stuff happens to you. 'We . just want Richard to come home now, so we can say goodbye properly. We . want to lay him in peace, see him one last time and give him a good send . off. 'On behalf of our family, I totally denounce the practice of Sky reporters looking through the victims’ possessions. 'I . really hope Richard's stuff isn't part of that but it's really not on. For all the families involved, they really should not be doing it. 'My mum and dad have had so much to cope with over the past few days as it is. They're sick of it.' The . report has so far sparked 110 complaints with television watchdog . Ofcom, amid growing anger over the desecration of the crash site and . allegations of looting by pro-Russian rebels. Twitter users criticised Brazier yesterday and again today after he was back on television reporting - despite the backlash. One . Twitter user asked 'Why is Colin Brazier still on my telly?' This afternoon Mr Cameron told the Commons: 'Having watched . some of this absolutely harrowing coverage, there are moments when it's . quite clear that people are leafing through personal belongings and . suitcases in a way that's just completely inappropriate. 'That has mostly been the separatists . that have been doing that but there have been occasions I think when . mistakes have been made by members of the press. 'I think people have to understand . that this is effectively a murder scene but also a scene where there are . people's loved ones who they are desperately worried about and want to . know whether they will be able to be brought home and people should . behave in an appropriate way.' Sky News reporter Colin Brazier was reporting from Donetsk this morning despite a row breaking out over footage of him sifting through personal belongings among the wreckage of Flight MH17 . The report has so far sparked 110 complaints with television watchdog Ofcom, amid growing anger over the desecration of the crash site and allegations of looting by pro-Russian rebels . Brazier's actions has also sparked a furious response on social media - with one Twitter user asking 'Why is Colin Brazier still on my telly?', while others appeared to defend the veteran reporter . Scene of the crash: Brazier has come under flack for his latest dispatch from the scene in eastern Ukraine . 'Inappropriate': Viewers blasted the broadcast as Brazier lifted up items one by one including keys and a flask . Live on air: The reporter, currently based in eastern Ukraine, censored himself saying 'we shouldn't do this' Sky News received complaints from viewers as Twitter users urging people to complain to Ofcom . Meanwhile BBC radio presenter Shelagh Fogarty . said: ‘Sky!! Get your reporter to STOP rummaging thru the belongings at . #mH17 crash site. “We shouldn’t really be doing this” NO S**T Sherlock . !! Those items are essentially sacred things now for the relatives. Just . appalling.’ Media professor Joe Watson called it a ‘horrible moment for journalism’. A . post by Joey Blower added: ‘Colin Brazier has interfered with a crime . scene in the most distasteful manner. It must be investigated fully.’ Ofcom said there had been 110 complaints, relating to coverage on Sky News on 20 July from 12pm and throughout the day. A spokesman added: 'These are being assessed. A decision has not been made yet as to whether there will be an investigation.' Sky . News has refused to say whether disciplinary action would be taken . against the veteran reporter, or whether there are any plans for him to . return. In a statement they added: ‘Today whilst presenting from the site of . the MH17 air crash, Colin Brazier reflected on the human tragedy of the . event and showed audiences the content of one of the victims’ bags. Colin immediately recognised that this was inappropriate and said so on . air. ‘Both Colin and Sky . News apologise profusely for any offence caused.’ Brazier later gave a . moving account of coming across scores of human remains at the site. He . said: ‘I’ve been walking around, coming across body parts all the time, . many of them charred beyond recognition. Men, women and children, . indeterminate frankly, you can’t tell. Very often you are looking at . charred spines, that’s all that’s left. ‘It is a truly macabre, horrific situation. There is a degree of anarchy and lawlessness.’ Several . witnesses have reported seeing armed separatists rifling through . possessions at the crash site and pocketing valuables, including . electronic equipment. Ukraine . has also accused members of pro-Russian militia of stealing credit . cards and has warned families of those who died to cancel their loved . ones’ accounts. Anton Gerashchenko, a government official in Kiev, said: . ‘I have received information that terrorist death-hunters were . collecting not only cash and jewellery of the dead passengers but also . credit cards. My humble request to the relatives of the victims is to . freeze their credit cards, so that they won’t lose their assets to . terrorists.’ The crash scene . was still not sealed off properly yesterday. Reporters continued to . traipse over fields, while local residents wandered around like . tourists. Emotional: Families have issued pleas to officials on the site to return their loved ones' personal effects . Recovery: Identifiable bodies have been placed in refrigerated trains but belongings remain strewn about . Political: After three days of negotiations, Russia has agreed to hand over the black box and bodies . Some respectfully left flowers beside the broken suitcases and smashed computers that littered the landscape. Many of the piles of possessions seen on Saturday, looted by officials on both sides of the conflict, had been moved again. Among . the small mementos of lives snuffed out were biographies of former . football managers Kevin Keegan, Ron Atkinson and Brian Clough, laying . beside a main road. There was speculation they could have belonged to . the Newcastle United fans John Adler, 63 and Liam Sweeney, 28, who were . killed in the disaster. Elsewhere . in the fields of wildflowers and rippling corn, sitting incongruously . among aeroplane parts and electrical innards, were heartbreaking little . pieces of evidence of the child victims aboard Flight MH17. A . girl’s ‘Secret Diary’ could be seen next to a tiny silver bracelet . glinting in the sun and a packet of unopened Haribo sweets.

Colin Brazier, reporting from the scene, rummaged through victim's suitcase . Held up toothbrush and keys before saying: 'we shouldn't be doing this' Sparked outrage on Twitter - viewers calling for Mr Brazier to be disciplined . One of the victim's families has since branded the footage 'sick' David Cameron condemned him too saying it was 'completely inappropriate'

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More than one fifth of the UK's workers will be having their office Christmas party at some point this week. But a new poll reveals that those getting drunk with colleagues would be wise to think ahead and pack a change of clothes... just in case. Almost one in six of us (15 per cent) admit to not having made it home after their office party. It all started so innocently: Almost one in six of us (15 per cent) admit to not having made it home after their office party (file photo) The YouGov research, commissioned for the Hotels.com . mobile app shows that more than a million people (1,070,518) have turned up to . work the next day wearing the same clothes as the day before – doing . the work ‘walk of shame’ after the staff Christmas party. Whilst easy to believe that younger team members will be the ones to . party into the early hours, the study has revealed that Brits are in . fact a nation of ‘Older-Indulgers’ with 45-54 year old Christmas party . goers  almost twice as likely to have committed  the office walk of . shame compared to the national average (5 per cent compared to 3 per cent). Results also reveal . that as many as 750,000 Brits have slept in the office on the night of . their Christmas party, with 45-54 year old men over twice as likely to . have done so compared to the overall national average (5 per cent vs. 2 per cent). But grabbing a night’s sleep in the office is very much a last resort. Roughly a . third said they would be likely to book a suitably priced hotel room if . they could find one quickly and easily. Don't get caught out: More than one in 10 of those surveyed have opted to stay in a hotel room after a staff Christmas party (file photo) More than one in 10 of those . surveyed (11 per cent) have opted to stay in a hotel room after a staff Christmas . party as it is cheaper than travelling home late at night, and six per cent know a . colleague who has booked a hotel room intending  to spend the night . with a co-worker. With a number of hotel rooms in cities like London . and Glasgow available for as little as £40, it comes . as no surprise that many opt to get a good night’s rest than take a taxi . home. Apps like Hotels.com help you find a bed close to wherever you happen to be partying, and use of the app soars between seven and 10 p.m. when people start preparing for a heavy night. Alison Couper from Hotels.com said: 'In the current economic . climate it’s no surprise that so many of us intend to let our hair down . at the work Christmas party, to sleep off the excitement of the night . before and tackle the "morning after" in the office.'

One million have come into work day after Christmas party wearing the same clothes as night before . 45-54 year olds almost twice as likely to have done so than the national average .

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By . Matt Barlow . Follow @@Matt_Barlow_DM . Steven Gerrard has never been one for a sugar coating. When he was about to win his 100th cap, he was asked to rate his own international career and gave himself a six before, after a pause, upping it to a seven. All at sixes and sevens; it sums up 21st Century England, Gerrard’s generation, and they were much the same on Thursday night. They fared no better in the winter chill of Sao Paulo than in the jungle sweat-box of Manaus. There was in fact less to admire in terms of flair and attacking promise than against Italy. If Roy Hodgson’s team deserve credit for hauling themselves back into the game they were naïve to let it slip again and remain painfully fragile at the back against decent teams. Outdone: Luis Suarez beats Liverpool team-mate to the ball in Sao Paulo . Looking back: Gerrard and Phil Jagielka can only watch as Suarez's header loops beyond Joe Hart . Gerrard must take his share of . responsibility as the deepest midfielder — the man who missed his tackle . in midfield as Luis Suarez opened the scoring and the man under the . long ball which somehow made its way to Suarez for the winner. The man . who makes the tactical calls on the field. If he hoped the World Cup might help erase the agony of Liverpool’s title slip he appears likely to be disappointed. After . surviving the early Uruguayan assault, England were beaten by a simple . long ball down the middle and a very good finish from a very good . finisher, who somehow escaped the attentions of everyone. In . Brazil, England have lost two games they ought to have taken points . from and, despite flickers of progress, Group D is proving just too . tough. At the heart of all this, the 34-year-old skipper is finding it hard to either influence the game or protect his defence. More . World Cup heartache; he might be glad it will be his last. By now . Gerrard knows the routine. There are no excuses and no hiding places, as . he says himself. He can be . his own harshest critic and he is a valuable voice on the state of the . nation as England face up to the prospect of their first three-game . World Cup finals since their first, when the tournament was last in . Brazil in 1950. Calm down: Referee Carlos Velasco Carballo speaks with Gerrard after a foul by Raheem Sterling . Tough times: Gerrard was disappointing for England against Uruguay . VIDEO Uruguay elated as England sit on the brink . In this . twilight of his career, Gerrard talks with the gravitas of an England . captain. These days he carries himself like an England captain, chest . out, full of pride. He may . not be a world-class player any more but he has quality. Few could have . produced the cross from the right when he whipped the ball towards . Daniel Sturridge. Gerrard . has always addressed the ball with style, whether he be shooting or . spraying passes. He no longer gets to take all the set-pieces but he can . strike a dead-ball, as he did with the free-kick from which Wayne . Rooney headed against the bar. It . is his defensive acumen which can be questioned, particularly in this . deeper midfield position where he has settled with club and country over . the last 18 months. Gerrard refers to it as the ‘controlling role’ but he has not been able to exert much control against Italy or Uruguay. Against . the Italian midfield pass masters he could not get a grip of the game . and there were similarities last night against an intense and highly . motivated Uruguayan team. Watching brief: Gerrard looks on as Egidio Arevalo clears the ball in acrobatic fashion . Holding on: Gerrard tussles with Edinson Cavani as England struggled to thwart Uruguay . As . England trailed 1-0 with 20 minutes to go, frustration tore through . Gerrard and he was booked for a late and heavy challenge on Cristian . Rodriguez. He was bounced . off the ball by Suarez early in the game, allowing Uruguay to counter . quickly. It was a reminder that he lacks a defensive instinct. The . priority was to ensure Suarez did not escape beyond him with the ball . but he tried to win it, got out-muscled and England were exposed. It was not easy. Uruguay’s . movement and tempo were excellent. They were inspired by Suarez and the . tactical tweak by coach Oscar Tabarez to play Nicolas Lodeiro behind . the strikers, which kept Gerrard and Jordan Henderson occupied. Gerrard’s conversion is not complete. Perhaps it never will be. His instinct is to play freely and fairly, not to stop others. Strong in the challenge: Gerrard goes in hard on Cristian Rodgriguez in Sao Paulo . Harsh lesson: Gerrard and Gary Cahill trudge off at half-time after a punishing first-half . The . Barclays Premier League does not cultivate these footballers. The . speed, physical nature and rapid turnover of possession means the . all-action heroes thrive — like a young Gerrard, Frank Lampard or Yaya . Toure. None of which means . he should not be in that role. This will be his last World Cup, maybe . his final major tournament. But if he calls it a day, is there anyone . better? Fabio Capello, . hailing from Italy where these qualities are cherished, always trusted . Gareth Barry, but there is no going back to Barry or Michael Carrick and . there is no young heir apparent. Jack Wilshere has lots to prove. The empty cupboard might prompt Hodgson  to plead with Gerrard to stay on as the Euro 2016 campaign gets rolling. It has been a soft-spot in the team for some time. Gerrard has helped to mask it. At times he looks comfortable in there but often he does not, especially against fluent teams like Italy and Uruguay. It has been laid bare. It is another six. Pause. Perhaps even a five.

Steven Gerrard made his 113th appearance for England, just two behind David Beckham, the most-capped player . In this twilight of his career, he talks with the gravitas of an England captain . This will be his last World Cup, maybe his final major tournament but if he calls it a day, who steps into that role?

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(CNN)The videos taken by citizens of Paris during Wednesday's attack on the offices of Charlie Hebdo indicate significant training on the part of terrorists. Here are some things any military professional would observe: . • The uniform: All the attackers are uniform in appearance. All have vests capable of holding multiple magazines of ammunition for their weapons, and perhaps grenades. Additionally, they are all wearing what appear to be heavy coats. That could indicate either body armor or possibly suicide vests underneath to be detonated if captured. Some experts are suggesting "they came to kill, not to die," but those of us with experience in these kinds of encounters might suggest they came to kill until they are trapped -- then they will willingly die if they can kill more by detonating a suicide vest as a last resort. • Use of weapons: The terrorists were wielding AK-47s, according to police spokesman Xavier Castaing, but at least one of them also appeared to have a military 3-point sling attached to the weapon (the white strap going over the shoulder). These slings are used in close-in attacks. The driver does not appear to have this strap, which allows for freedom in the car. The attackers appear to be good marksmen, as evidenced by the tight shot of a group of bullets that riddled the windshield of a French police car, shown in several photographs at the scene. Additionally, the attackers have their weapons on semi-automatic (single shot) versus full automatic. Many terrorists use what U.S. soldiers derisively call the "pray and spray" method. That is, they point their weapons on full automatic, scream a religious slogan and let loose with a stream of bullets -- most of which don't hit the targets. These terrorists appear well-trained, with aimed fire, single shots and controlled targeting. • Fire and maneuver: These terrorists appear to have been trained in movement techniques: They use cover (parked automobiles, or an open car door) and aim fire while their terrorist "buddy" maneuvers to a new firing location. At that point, the moving terrorist aims and fires, while the previously covering terrorist moves to join him. • Reconnaissance: The attack occurred at noon in busy Paris, yet there was no traffic on the side streets where the citizens' filming took place. Additionally, initial reports indicate that an editors' meeting was occurring at that time, with all the subjects in one room. That indicates there was intelligence, route planning and then individual requirements for the members of the terrorist team. • Speed: They moved fast, knew where they are going, did their job, and then they were gone. Again, that's indicative of rehearsals but also single-mindedness of mission. • Selection of target: This was a follow-on attack. The offices of Charlie Hebdo had been previously firebombed, but that attack was not successful. Much like the initial World Trade Center bombing in 1993 that was followed by the 2001 attack, these terrorists were again going after the same target. Usually, terrorists film their attacks for future information operations and social media use. They may have had terrorist videographers in specific locations for that purpose during this attack as well. Those videos may appear in the future, but until then French citizens posting YouTube videos contribute to the terrorists' information campaign. In the next few hours and days, other countries of Europe -- especially Germany and Italy -- will be interested in sharing information from this attack, as they face similar threats from Muslim extremists. France, the European Union and Interpol will share information, and given the ability of the terrorists to move freely through Europe, this passing of information will be critical. The passport-free Schengen Area allows for movement through 26 countries in Europe on the motorways and autobahns, so while initially this is an attack on France, these terrorists are a threat to all of Europe.

Videos show speed, preparation by terrorists in Paris attack, Mark Hertling says . Attack's timing indicates intelligence and route planning on part of terror team, Hertling says . Hertling calls it a follow-on attack after earlier firebombing on Charlie Hebdo failed .

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It has brought her derision from all angles and built up debts of more than £1million. But it seems Gwyneth Paltrow is not ready to give up on her lifestyle website Goop just yet. The firm, which started out as the actress’ personal blog on how to live a ‘whole and healed life’, is set to launch its own range of clothing and beauty products to turn around its flagging fortunes. Paltrow, 42, has hired American lawyer Lisa Gersh to heal the brand’s image following years of negative publicity. Gwyneth Paltrow, 42, has hired American lawyer Lisa Gersh to heal the image of her website, Goop,  following years of negative publicity . Critics have mocked Miss Paltrow’s tendency to champion expensive products such as £46 homemade fishfingers, £3,000 wardrobe essentials and a £15,000-a-week holiday in her favourite French chateau. Now, as well as giving its 150,000 subscribers tips on fashion, food and décor, it will offer them the chance to buy Goop-branded merchandise. Miss Gersh, who is now Goop’s chief executive, told the Sunday Times: ‘The good stuff, the lifestyle advice and the travel tips, will still be there. But we will be selling our own Goop brand of clothing and beauty products online. ‘This is a chance to develop a massive new type of e-commerce company that was just not possible when I started out in the 1990s.’ 'Conscious uncoupling': Gwyneth coined the term when she announced her separation from Chris Martin on the site - to much mockery . Miss Paltrow has stiff competition in the celebrity lifestyle market. American actress Blake Lively, 27, recently started her own blog, Preserve, and took a dig at the Oscar-winning star in a recent interview, saying: ‘I’m not trying to show you the perfect life or the aspirational life. It’s real life. It’s not about me.’ Actress Jessica Alba, 33, is also moving into the lifestyle market and accused Paltrow of ‘catering only to the rich’. Critics have mocked Miss Paltrow’s tendency to champion expensive products such as £46 homemade fishfingers, £3,000 wardrobe essentials and a £15,000-a-week holiday in her favourite French chateau . Now, as well as giving its 150,000 subscribers tips on fashion, food and décor, it will offer them the chance to buy Goop-branded merchandise . And last month, American cookery author Martha Stewart, 73, said Miss Paltrow ‘just needs to be quiet’ about home economics, adding: ‘If she were confident in her acting she wouldn’t be trying to be Martha Stewart.’ Last week, financial reports revealed Goop has built up huge debts and falling shareholders’ funds, with a deficit of £177,788 in 2012 increasing to £523,200 last year. The firm said its directors ‘are of the opinion that predicted profits will provide sufficient resources to enable the company to continue trading in the foreseeable future’. In March, Miss Paltrow announced her separation from her husband Chris Martin. She and the Coldplay singer – who have two children Apple, 10, and Moses, eight - have ‘consciously uncoupled’, she said.

Paltrow, 42, has hired American lawyer Lisa Gersh to heal the brand’s image . Critics have mocked Miss Paltrow’s for championing expensive products . Now readers of the site will have chance to buy Goop branded merchandise .

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Britain’s first mobile ‘drunk tank’ has been launched to treat intoxicated revellers at Christmas - and help ease the strain on the NHS and police. The Alcohol Recovery Centre (ARC) is a state-of-the-art medical facility to take care of drunkards instead of them being sent to A&E or police cells. Ten of the 65ft vehicles will be rolled out across the country at no cost to the taxpayer, and the first of them was unveiled in Bristol yesterday. Scroll down for video . Team effort: Britain’s first mobile ‘drunk tank’ has been revealed in Bristol to treat intoxicated revellers at Christmas . Providing assistance: Paramedic Joanna Bates in the new Alcohol Recovery Centre, a state-of-the-art, 65ft long vehicle . Inside: The Alcohol Recovery Centre is a medical facility to take care of drunkards instead of them being sent to A&E or police cells . Here to help: Paramedic . Aimee Hearn paramedic with a heart monitor and defibulator in the new Alcohol Recovery Centre . Bed: The £5.5million scheme has been funded by a grant from the National Licensed Trade Association and an initiative called Barcode . Entrance: Ten of the vehicles will be rolled out across the UK at no cost to the taxpayer, and the first of them was unveiled in Bristol yesterday . The £5.5million scheme has been funded by a grant from the National Licensed Trade Association (NTLA), and an initiative called Barcode. Tomorrow, the first of the 10 ARCs will be launched in Bristol city centre in time for the last Friday before Christmas. The ARC can treat 11 people with eight beds, three ‘restraint’ bucket seats with straps and two showers. It comes with medical drips, oxygen, blood testing equipment that can send results to hospitals, a sluice room and pump system for the worst patients. Demonstrating equipment: Peter Brown, resilience officer for South West Ambulance Service, in the new Alcohol Recovery Centre . Well-equipped: The ARC can treat 11 people with eight beds, three ‘restraint’ bucket seats with straps and two showers . Seats: The lorry will be rolled out on December 18, 19, 20, 27 and 31, before returning to the East Midlands for upgrades in January . Bathroom and main area: It comes with medical drips, oxygen and blood testing equipment that can send results instantly to hospitals . Paramedics on hand: The ARC also has a sluice room and pump system for the most severe patients . Needing help: A woman drinker sits on the pavement in Bristol in this file photograph from 2005 . It is part of a multi-partnership between Avon and Somerset police, South West Ambulance Service, Bristol City Council, NHS Bristol CCC, NLTA, and University Hospitals Bristol NHS Trust. Andy Bishop, managing director of the NLTA, said: 'I am delighted to be involved with this pioneering national scheme that will have a profound effect on the licensed trade and in turn reduce the pressure of anti-social drinking on the emergency service. 'Although we look forward to seeing the success of the project across the UK, our aim is that, through education, there will be no need for such assistance in our society.' Vicky Titterton, an operations officer for South West Ambulance Service, said: ‘It’s brilliant. 'Obviously lots of companies will have Christmas parties. People shouldn’t be getting into this state though. Everyone is entitled to have fun but everyone has to be aware of their safety.’ The self-sustaining lorry will be rolled out on December 18, 19, 20, 27 and 31, before returning to the East Midlands for upgrades in January.

Alcohol Recovery Centre can take care of drunkards instead of them being sent to A&E or police cells . Ten of 65ft vehicles will be rolled out across the country and the first of them was unveiled in Bristol . ARC can treat 11 people with eight beds, three ‘restraint’ bucket seats with straps and two showers .

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By . Deborah Arthurs and Bianca London . PUBLISHED: . 07:35 EST, 13 September 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:55 EST, 13 September 2013 . Her baby is not yet two months old. But last night as the Duchess of Cambridge made her first appearance on the red carpet since she gave birth, she showed the world she was ready to cast off her dressing gown and step back into the spotlight. She is, after all, the new jewel in the Royal family's crown, partly behind their sharp rise in global popularity. And certainly worth a designer frock or two. The frock of last night - a gold, floor-length sequin gown from Jenny Packham's current collection worth around £2,500 - was certainly a showstopper. Dazzling Duchess: Kate arriving at the inaugural Tusk Conservation Awards at the Royal Society in London . Her shoes - the £484 Vamp style from Jimmy Choo - were about as far from the standard issue ballet pump favoured by the yummy mummy Sloane set as they come. She accessorised with diamond drop earrings and a diamond bracelet, which was reportedly a wedding gift from Prince Charles. The message she was sending out was clear: I am a glamorous woman who can do it all: Be a mother, a fashion icon, a charitable ambassador, and a wife. Oh yes - and I can be slim, polished, beautiful and cheerful while I'm doing it. As far as we know, Kate may well have been furiously pumping milk for George moments before she stepped out the door. She might have been in agony from overfull breasts as George's feeding times slipped by. And she may have suffered the very real fear that one of her breast pads might slip loose on the red carpet. Perfect in Packham: Kate's sleeveless . gown flattered her already-slender post-baby body. The high neck and . draped back added another layer of dimension and dram . All of these things can be issues for new mothers and, at less than two months in, it's rare for a mother to feel entirely comfortable about slipping back into her old role. But whatever she may have been feeling under that newly tanned, line-free, smiling face of hers - maybe the fear that a mewling baby might wake her every hour during the night when she got home - she let none of it show. Here we look at the detail that went into Kate's debut red carpet look. HAIR . While last week some picky observers . mentioned her hair was lacklustre, . last night her newly tinted chestnut locks looked like something straight . out of a L'Oreal ad. Her hair looked to have been tinted and cut ahead of the event, likely by her trusted stylist Amanda Cook Tucker. Amanda is the hair stylist who arrived at the . hospital with an assistant to give Kate perfect glossy locks for her grand departure after giving birth to George in July. Frock star: New mother Kate chose a dazzling gown by British designer Jenny Packham for the event . Natural beauty: The Duchess wore her hair loose around her shoulders, with understated make-up save for her dramatic smoky eyes . Amanda Cook Tucker, 50, . often styles Kate's hair at home and has been cutting William and . Harry's hair for years - since they were children, in fact. Amanda Cook Tucker has been . Kate's hairdresser since the couple visited the Far East on a Diamond . Jubilee Visit in September last year. The stylist was credited with . giving Kate heat-proof hair that defied the humid Asian weather. Amanda (L) is the hair stylist who arrived at the hospital with an assistant to give Kate perfect glossy locks for her grand departure after giving birth to George in July . Bad hair day: Kate had been criticised for her unusually lacklustre locks when she stepped out in Anglesey recently . Amanda and Kate are said to have become close, the stylist is known for her discretion and has always kept a . low profile. Her ex-husband Neville Tucker also has Royal connections: his . Knightsbridge salon held the Royal Warrant from 1980 to 1994 and he . worked closely with the Queen’s longest-serving hairdresser, Charles . Martyn. Kate added to her dazzling look with diamond drop earrings and a diamond bracelet. The bejewelled bangle is said to have been a wedding gift from Prince Charles. The Duchess accessorised her gorgeous dress with a pair of diamond drop earrings and matching bracelet . SHOES . She was once criticised by shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood for her fondness for a demure LK Bennett heel. 'Why . can't she be more "princessy", he railed. And last night, with her . spectacular silver Jimmy Choo heels (she won't be wearing Nicholas . Kirkwood any time soon, we're guessing) Kate proved she could dress to . impress as well as any Royal. Dressy: The Duchess wore her trusty silver crackled leather shoes by Jimmy Choo, which retail for £484 . But Kirkwood should note . that this was not the first time Kate has worn designer shoes - in fact, she often steps out at red carpet events in the dazzling £484 heels. The Duchess wore the . sparkly Jimmy Choos for a red carpet appearance in L.A. last . year, when she paired them with a lilac Alexander McQueen gown. She slipped them on again in May the same year at Claridge's . hotel in Mayfair for a meeting of the Thirty Club, whose members are . some of the most powerful men and women in advertising and the media. Deja-vu? The Duchess has stepped out in the dazzling shoes many times before, usually at high-profile red carpet events and premieres . Careful: She was sure to slightly pull up the front of the Packham gown to avoid disaster as she took the stairs in the floor length gown and towering heels . BCBGMAXAZRIA Sleeveless Split Neck Open Back Sequin Gown £320.52 . Little Mistress Embellished Maxi Dress with Twist Neck, £80.00, ASOS . Designer light brown embellished drape front maxi dress , £120, Debenhams . Barratts Diamante Trim Strappy Heeled Sandals, £40 . Karen Millen Asymethric sandals, £110, Debenhams . Miss KG Gertrude, £52, Debenhams . Arctic Stretch Bracelet, £6.50, Topshop . Oasis Mixed Rhinestone Bracelets, £14, asos . Crystal Navette Bracelet by Vivien J, £75, notonthehighstreet.com .

Kate attended a gala dinner for the Tusk foundation . Baby George, born on 22 July, is just seven weeks old . Wore floor-length sequined dress by Jenny Packham . Also chose Packham for first outfit upon leaving hospital . Shoes were £475 Vamp Jimmy Choos she has worn before . Hair freshly cut and tinted a new glossy chestnut . Make-up expertly applied, looked to have had an all-over spray tan .

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Eight-year-old Laney Brown will never see Christmas again. Her doctors say leukemia will take her soon. Laney loves music. Loves to dance, loves Taylor Swift, loves Christmas carols. As her dying wishes, she asked to meet the country superstar and for some people to come by her house for a night of caroling, CNN affiliate WFMZ reported. On Friday -- her birthday -- Laney and Swift video chatted through FaceTime, a software application that allows callers to see each other on Apple products. Saturday night the singers came. At first it was hundreds of people, then thousands. Then it was 10,000. They came to her home in West Reading, Pennsylvania, and even though she was too weak to go to the window, she heard the wonderful music. "I can hear you now!!! Love you!" she said through a photo her family posted to a Team Laney Facebook page showing the girl, two thumbs up despite a breathing mask, lying in bed. Laney was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia seven months ago. Last week doctors told her family that she has 70% cancer cells in her blood. She came home from the hospital on Thursday and said she wanted to hear Christmas carols. So two days later people came from all over. Her dance team was there to honor her through one last number. Even Santa showed up. Many of them held back tears. "I can't even express how I feel," Krysta Rebe, who has a daughter Laney's age, told WFMZ. It was only an hour of singing, but it lifted the spirits of everyone who jammed the block outside the Browns' home. On Facebook one woman wrote that she had seen and taken part in a miracle. "As much as I want that miracle to be saving the life of an 8-year-old little girl, Laney, the miracle was an 8-year-old little girl teaching an entire community, town, city and the whole country the true meaning of Christmas," Marianne Franken wrote. Laney's parents issued a statement Thursday thanking the public for its support and asking for privacy in the difficult days ahead.

Laney Brown, 8, has leukemia and doctors say she will die soon . She asked to meet singer Taylor Swift and to hear Christmas carolers at her home . On Friday she had a video chat with Swift . Saturday night, for one hour, people packed the street and serenaded her .

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By . Reuters Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 00:11 EST, 31 March 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 05:00 EST, 31 March 2013 . A second group has pulled its money from a pooled $1.2 million reward offered during a manhunt for a renegade former California policeman who died in a fiery standoff, a Los Angeles television station said. The Peace Officers Research Association of California withdrew the $50,000 it pledged for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Christopher Dorner, KNBC said. An official for the association, which represents 64,000 police union members, told the television station on Friday that the conditions for the reward had not been met because Dorner was not arrested. Withdrawal: The Peace Officers Research Association of California withdrew the $50,000 it pledged for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Christopher Dorner . On Monday, the city of Riverside, California, pulled its $100,000 contribution to the reward pool for similar reasons. It said its offer was contingent on Dorner's capture. Dorner had been fired from the Los Angeles Police Department and was accused of killing four people in a vendetta against police. He shot and killed himself in a burning cabin in the mountains above Los Angeles during a standoff with police on February 12. TK . Dozens of groups and municipalities pledged money for the reward during the intense nine-day manhunt, and a payout announcement is expected in mid-April. At least three people have submitted claims for the reward. Karen and Jim Reynolds called police after Dorner tied them up in their Big Bear Lake condominium and fled in their SUV shortly before his death. Dorner crashed their SUV and carjacked a pickup truck from another man, Rick Heltebrake, who also called authorities, and has submitted a reward claim. Dead: Dorner shot and killed himself in a burning cabin in the mountains above Los Angeles during a standoff with police on February 12 . Dozens of groups and municipalities pledged money for the reward during the intense nine-day manhunt, and a payout announcement is expected in mid-April .

The Peace Officers Research Association of California withdrew the $50,000 it pledged for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Christopher Dorner . Dorner shot and killed himself in a burning cabin in the mountains above Los Angeles during a standoff with police on February 12 .

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By . David Mccormack . A photograph of a young mother breastfeeding at her recent graduation ceremony has provoked a storm of online debate and once again brought the contentious issue to the fore. Despite getting pregnant in her last year at college, Karlesha Thurman, 25, stayed in school and completed her accounting degree. At her graduation from Long Beach State University in California last month, she brought along her three-month-old daughter Aaliyah. A photo of Karlesha Thurman, 25, breastfeeding at her graduation from Long Beach State University in California last month has provoked a storm of online debate and once again brought the contentious issue to the fore . After the ceremony, Karlesha was proudly showing off her daughter to friends when Aaliyah became hungry. Still dressed in her cap and gown, Karlesha decided to feed her baby and a friend, who thought it cool, asked if they could take a picture. A couple of days ago she posted the photo on the Facebook page, Black Women Do Breastfeed, to support a woman who wrote of getting dirty looks while nursing in public. ‘I did it to show it’s natural, it’s normal, there’s nothing wrong with it,’ Karlesha told Today. Despite getting pregnant in her last year at college, Karlesha Thurman, 25, remained in school and secured an accounting degree, she graduated from Long Beach State University in California last month . Karlesha posted the photo on the Facebook page, Black Women Do Breastfeed, to support a woman who wrote of getting dirty looks while nursing in public . 'It’s not disgusting, it’s not a bad thing, it’s not a negative thing. It’s the best thing for my daughter. More people should do it,' she added. Though Karlesha has since deleted her photo, the Facebook group decided to share the photo as part of their efforts to try and normalize breast-feeding in public. ‘Congratulations, mama!!!! Giving her daughter more gifts than one! Isn't this beautiful?! #normalizebreastfeeding,’ read the caption. As the photo spread, the Facebook page – and Karlesha - received a lot of support. 'Congratulations to the mom for graduating & putting your baby 1st,' Michelle Spruill wrote on the group’s Facebook page. Karlesha brought along her three-month-old daughter Aaliyah to her graduation last month . 'I breast-fed all 3 of my babies. I didn't let my babies starve because of how it would make someone else feel. Good job!' As well as support, the photo also drew some negative comments as well. Some people though it was inappropriate and that she should have covered up. 'Maybe I still have sleep in my eyes but did U just see a pic of a chick really breastfeeding during middle of her graduation?' tweeted Moderate. Karlesha, however, has no regrets. ‘I was proud of the fact that not only did I graduate but that I got to share the moment with the one person who is the most important to me and that is my daughter,’ she told Today.

Despite getting pregnant in her last year at college, Karlesha Thurman, 25, remained in school and secured an accounting degree . At her graduation from Long Beach State . University in California last month, Karlesha brought along her . three-month-old daughter Aaliyah . Karlesha posted a photo of her feeding her daughter on the Facebook page Black Women Do Breastfeed . Photo has generated a variety of opinions, many people support her, but others saying it was inappropriate and that she should have covered up .

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Israel has been accused of promoting racial segregation by introducing 'Palestinian-only buses' from today after complaints were apparently made by settlers that mixed buses are a security risk. The Transport Ministry said the two new bus lines, which will run between the occupied West Bank and Israel, is an improvement in the service but rights groups described the move as racist. The left-wing Haaretz daily newspaper reported the ministry opened the lines after Jewish settlers complained of the dangers of having Palestinians on regular buses. A soldier walks in front of a bus destroyed in a suicide bomb attack in 2003. Jewish settlers apparently complained to officials that mixed buses were a 'security risk' The buses, operated by the Afikim company, have been introduced for the thousands of Palestinians who travel between the West Bank and Israel for work. Jessica Montell, director of the B'Tselem rights group, said on Army Radio: 'Creating separate bus lines for Israeli Jews and Palestinians is a revolting plan. 'This is simply racism. Such a plan cannot be justified with claims of security needs or overcrowding.' The new lines have been advertised in Palestinian villages, according to Ynet. The Transport Ministry said the move will 'improve public transport services for Palestinian workers entering Israel' and replace pirate buses charging them 'exorbitant prices'. 'The Ministry of Transport has not issued any instruction or prohibition that prevents Palestinian workers from travelling on public transport in Israel nor in Judea and Samaria,' it said, referring to the West Bank. 'Furthermore, the Ministry of Transport is not authorised to prevent any passenger from using public transport services.' Rights groups, however, voiced concern that Israeli police at checkpoints in the West Bank would remove Palestinian passengers from regular bus lines and order them to use the new ones. Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said all Palestinians returning to the West Bank would be searched for stolen property, describing this as a routine Israeli precaution. An Israeli soldier views the identification cards of a Palestinian doctor at a check point. Rights groups have voiced concern that Israeli police will remove Palestinian passengers from regular bus lines at check points . He said he did not know whether and how this might affect Palestinian travel on regular buses. Herzl Ben-Zvi, mayor of the Karnei Shomron settlement, said the new lines 'answer the needs of all passengers - Palestinians and settlers' because they would relieve overcrowding on buses in the area. But a driver told Ynetthat that Palestinians will be 'asked to board their own buses'. He added: 'Obviously, everyone will start screaming "apartheid" and "racism" now. 'This really . doesn’t feel right, and maybe (the ministry) should find a different . solution, but the situation right now is impossible.' Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East war and maintains a network of roadblocks in the territory. Palestinians seek the West Bank, along with the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem, for a future state - a claim supported by most world powers, which view the settlements as illegal.

Settlers apparently complained that mixed buses were a security risk . Two bus lines will transfer Palestinian labourers from West Bank to Israel . Rights groups have accused Israel's Ministry of Transport of racism . But officials say the buses will ease pressure on the transport network .

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Juventus eased to a 3-1 win at relegation-threatened Cagliari on Thursday to ensure they ended the year at the top of the Serie A standings. Early goals from Carlos Tevez and Arturo Vidal gave Juventus a comfortable lead in the opening 15 minutes, and Fernando Llorente sealed the victory shortly after halftime. Luca Rossettini bagged a consolation goal for Cagliari. Carlos Tevez gave Juventus the lead in the fourth minute after the Cagliari keeper could only parry an effort . Tevez (left) wheels away after scoring as team-mate Giorgio Chiellini joins in the celebrations . Arturo Vidal celebrates after extending Max Allegri's side's advantage after 15 minutes . Fernando Llorente celebrates wildly after putting Juventus 3-0 up shortly after half time . Juventus moved four points ahead of second-place Roma, who host AC Milan on Saturday. Cagliari, the only Serie A side without a home win this season, remained in the bottom three. The match, which was part of the final round of fixtures before the winter break, was brought forward because Juventus plays Napoli in the rearranged Italian Supercup on Monday. After seeing their advantage cut to one point last weekend with a second successive draw, Juventus' determination to end the year on a high received the perfect start when Cagliari goalkeeper Alessio Cragno could only parry Giorgio Chiellini's effort and Tevez was on hand to tap the ball in, less than four minutes in. Tevez is congratulated by his team-mates after setting Juventus on their way to a comfortable victory . Cagliari pulled a goal back midway through the second half as Luca Rossettini headed home . Juventus boss Max Allegri barks instructions to his players during the routine victory . Cagliari supporters set off a flare during their side's defeat by league leaders Juventus . More poor defending saw Juventus double their advantage as Cagliari failed to deal with a cross and the ball came out to Vidal, who curled a magnificent strike into the far corner from just outside the box. Llorente extended Juve's lead six minutes after the break when he gathered Andrea Pirlo's lofted pass with his back to goal, swiveled, and fired under Cragno's body. Cagliari hadn't scored for three matches but managed to in the 65th minute, as Rossettini headed home Andrea Cossu's free kick.

Carlos Tevez opened the scoring for Juventus in the fourth minute . Arturo Vidal added a second little more than 10 minutes later . Fernando Llorente sealed the win shortly after half time . Cagliari scored a consolation midway through the second half . Juventus are now four points ahead of Roma, who play on Saturday .

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By . Martha De Lacey . PUBLISHED: . 04:48 EST, 26 August 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:21 EST, 26 August 2013 . Why should Jesus be the only one having all the fun turning water into wine? Well, maybe he doesn't have to be. A new DIY hooch-making kit enables you to turn all of your favourite juices into alcoholic tipples using only a powder. Make your own hooch using Alcoholic Alchemy's Spike Your Juice which allows you to turn any juice into an alcopop . Turn all your favourite juices into homemade alcopops using Alcoholic Alchemy's 'magic' hooch-making powder . Alcoholic Alchemy's make-our-own-alcopop kit Spike Your Juice, available on Firebox.com, allows you to brew hooch in just 48 hours using naturally sweetened fruit juice and an air-locked plastic bottle. Just sprinkle the 'magic' powder into the juice - high-sugar varieties such as grape, cranberry or pomegranate work best - pop in the plug and wait. The minimum time for fermentation is 48 hours, but the longer you leave the juice to brew the more potent your drink will become - to a maximum of 14 per cent alcohol. The minimum time for fermentation is 48 hours, but the longer you leave the juice to brew the more potent your drink will become - to a maximum of 14 per cent alcohol . The only requirements for making the hooch are that the juice have a minimum sugar content of 20g, be unrefrigerated, not artificially sweetened and non-filtered. The requirements for buying the powder be that you are over 18 years old.

Spike Your Juice is a DIY hooch-making kit from Alcoholic Alchemy . Leave powder in air-locked bottle of juice for at least 48 hours . The longer you leave juice, the more potent it will be - to a maximum 14% . Available from Firebox for £12.99 .

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By . Sara Malm . A sprawling Cotswolds estate has been put on the marked for a jaw-dropping £30million - making it the most expensive country home currently for sale in the UK. The Abbotswood Estate in Gloustershire boasts a ten-bedroom Grade II listed main house and 13 additional buildings – as well as 1,800 ewes roaming its hills. The estate offers the perfect setting for hidden hedonism, and has been described as the perfect choice for someone who wishes to entertain while looking for privacy. Manor home: Abbotswood Estate in the Costwolds has been put up for sale for £30million - making it the most expensive country home currently for sale in the UK . Spacious: The main house on Abbotswood Estate, which is Grade II listed, is 24 times the size of the typical new build in England . Space to entertain: The principal home boasts huge drawing and dining rooms as well as ten bedrooms and six bathrooms . The principal home is 24 times the . size of the typical new build in England and as well as the bedrooms . also boasts six bathrooms and several dining and drawing rooms. Its surrounding gardens were designed by the Edwin Lutyens, who is regarded as one of Britain's finest landscape architects. On . top of the manor house, there are two entrance lodges, 11 farmhouses . and cottages and planning consent for four further homes. The additional houses currently earn the owner almost £50,000 a year from rent. The . £30million price tag is around £10 million more than Little Rollright, a . Cotswold village for sale eight miles away and considerably more than . the £16 million paid for Shakenhurst earlier this year. Sweet dreams: One of the bedrooms in the Grade II listed home, which is set within parks and farmland dating back as far as 1253 . Opportunity for hidden hedonism: The estate has been described as the perfect home for a person who 'wishes to entertain' while still enjoying a certain level of privacy . Exquisite surroundings: Abbotswood Estate's gardens were designed by the Edwin Lutyens, who is regarded as one of Britain's finest architects . Riverside view: River Dikler, which runs through the estate, offers wild brown trout fishing for the outdoorsy, and the surrounding land is dedicated to organic farming . A midsummer night's dream: As well as the rich history of the estate, the river and the size of the additional properties makes Abbotswood Estate unique . Nearby neighbours include Prince Charles, who has his Highgrove Estate, Princess Anne, who has the Gatcombe Estate. Running . through the estate is the River Dikler, which offers wild brown trout . fishing. There is also the potential for a pheasant or partridge shoot. The land is currently registered as organic and a mixture of arable and livestock with a flock of 1,800 ewes. Its . surrounding parks and farmland dates back as far as 1253 and the estate . also has a 45,000 square foot of modern farm buildings. Clive Hopkins, from Knight Frank, today described the property as being a ‘classic case of location, location, location’. He . said: ‘It is right in the heart of the Cotswolds and is very private. You cannot see the main home unless you are on the estate but it is . still easily accessible. Entertainment central: When the surroundings bore, the several drawing rooms can be utilised, such as the pool room with a gigantic snooker table . Royal neighbours: Prince Charles's Highgrove Estate is nearby, as well as Gatcombe Estate, which belongs to Princess Anne . Mischief managed: As well as the main house, the estate comes with two entrance lodges, 11 farmhouses and cottages and planning consent for four further homes . Located in Gloucestershire, the Abbotswood Estate is described as being in one of the finest settings for a home in the Cotswolds . The additional homes on the estate currently earn the owner almost £50,000 a year from rent, and there are 45,000sq. ft. of modern farm buildings . Rolling hills: The iconic Cotswolds lansdcape surround the £30million Gloustershire estate . A walk in the park: The main house is not visible from outside the estate, but is described as 'easily accessible' Mr Hopkins added: ‘The quality and . size of the rooms are not something you would expect, it is . extraordinary - a bit like a tardis. ‘The gardens are amazing and it is rare for a Cotswolds house to have a river flowing through it. ‘Overall . it is a unique estate which offers somebody the opportunity to put . their own stamp on it. The estate is now for sale after its owner, a . private American gentleman, passed away. ‘The . family have now decided to sell it. It would suit someone who wanted to . entertain but also someone who was looking for privacy.’

The Abbotswood Estate in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, has been put on the market for £30million . The main house boasts boasts ten bedrooms and six bathrooms as well as several drawing and dining rooms . The estate includes two entrance lodges, 11 farmhouses and cottages, and 45,000sq.ft. of farm buildings .

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Internationally renowned Australian author Colleen McCullough has died at the age of 77 after an impressive 40 years of writing. McCullough, best loved for her immensely popular novel The Thorn Birds, died in Norfolk Island Hospital on Thursday afternoon after enduring a string of health problems. The best-selling author penned 24 novels and a biography, earning McCullough a global reputation and inspiring a portrait that was a finalist for the 2007 Archibald Prize. Australian author Colleen McCullough has died aged 77, on Norfolk Island . McCullough was born in Wellington, NSW, and worked as a teacher, librarian, and journalist before entering the field of medicine and working as a neuroscientist in the United States. She studied neurophysiology at the University of Sydney, and would go on to establish a department for the field at the university, running it for five years, reported The Australian. Her work was of such a high calibre that she was invited to run the research laboratory in the medical school at Yale University. After the publication of The Thorn Birds in 1977, McCullough turned to writing fulltime, moving to the isolated Norfolk Island, where she met and married her husband Ric Robinson. The success of The Thorn Birds, whose book rights were worth a cool $1.9 million for the paperback alone, evolved into a mini-series adaptation of the novel starring Richard Chamberlain, Bryan Brown and Rachel Ward. The author has penned 24 novels and a biography over her 40-year writing career . Before turning to writing full-time, McCullough worked as a librarian, teacher, and journalist . Colleen McCullough's The Thorn Birds was made into a mini series after selling 30 million copies . The novel, which sold more than 30 million copies worldwide, is set on a sheep station in the Australian outback, and details the struggle of a young priest who is torn between his desire for the woman he loves and his clerical calling. Mel Gibson and Piper Laurie starred in a film adaptation of another of McCullough's books, Tim. McCullough also wrote many other well-known books including An Indecent Obsession, Morgan's Run, The Touch, and the Masters of Rome series. The series, which involved extensive research, won her praise from ancient history scholars and book lovers alike. 'Nobody had ever written a big book about Caesar, ever,' she told news.com.au at the time of it's publication. McCullough's first novel, Tim, was made into a movie starring Australian actor Mel Gibson . McCullough at a book signing in Canada after enjoying immense success with her novels . 'I soon found out why, because the research was so fearsome. I thought, oh, good,' McCullough said. In 2000 she was awarded the Scanno Prize for literature in Italy, despite some literary critics panning her accessible books as low-brow writing. Her 2008 novel The Independence of Miss Mary Bennett was a reinterpretation of Jane Austen's classic Pride and Prejudice, garnering controversy among some literary circles. The president of the Jane Austen Society of Australia, Susannah Fullerton, said that McCullough's portrayal of Elizabeth Bennett as weak, and Mr Darcy as 'savage' made her 'shudder'. McCullough published her final novel, Bittersweet, which was set in the 1920's and 30's, in 2013. HarperCollins publishing director Shona Martyn said that McCullough was a 'less colourful place' without her. 'Ever quick-witted and direct, we looked forward to her visits from Norfolk Island and the arrival of each new manuscript delivered in hard copy in custom-made maroon manuscript boxes inscribed with her name,' Ms Martyn told SBS.

The NSW-born author was best known for her work The Thorn Birds . She penned 24 novels and a biography over her 40-year career . She worked as a teacher, librarian, and journalist before entering medicine . McCullough was invited to run the research laboratory at Yale University . The Thorn Birds was adapted into a mini-series with Richard Chamberlain . Her first novel, Tim, was also made into a film starring Mel Gibson . The Thorn Birds sold over 30 million copies worldwide .

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By . David Mccormack . and Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 01:56 EST, 6 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 05:27 EST, 6 January 2014 . The bikini barista who angered local residents after fat-shaming a customer on the business' Facebook page is facing a boycott. Meghan Calavan, who owns the self-styled ‘sexy sailor coffee shop’ Sips Ahoy, has been accused of cyber-bullying after calling Jesseka Cladek from Anacortes, Washington, a 'fat b****' online. Now a Facebook page encouraging a boycott against the small business has been created, with more than 6,200 likes. Retaliation: After Meghan Calavan wrote a series of nasty posts on her Sips Ahoy Facebook page about a customer's weight, angry locals set up this Facebook page calling for a boycott of the racy coffee shop . Meghan Calavan, right, is the owner of the self-styled 'sexy sailor coffee shop' Sips Ahoy, she and her staff have been accused of cyber-bullying Jesseka Cladek, left . 'I beg people please stay away from the coffee stand and don't resort yourself to stooping to their immature level by sending them hate messages,' creators of the Boycott 'sips ahoy' Facebook page have written. 'This page is for the community and public comments for you to speak up about bullying. And to let the public know that it won't be tolerated in our town ... Please treat others as you would want to be treated.' Its stated aim is to put the coffee . kiosk out of business and it has posted screen grabs of the original . comments made by Meghan. ‘I've . never had to be scared for my life or ever thought someone wish I were . dead,’ wrote Jesseka on the Boycott Sips Ahoy page. Many posts call for the coffee shop's imminent closure, accusing it of cyberbullying. ‘I . made this page to close Sips Ahoy down. We don't want this place of . business in our small town,’ the administrator states in the About . section of the new Facebook page. 'Keep calm and boycott Sips Ahoy': A Facebook page established to fight cyber-bullying (pictured) has attracted more than 6,000 likes . Jesseka Cladek, right, says that Meghan responded by posting a series of vulgar and hateful comments referencing her weight and appearance . The drama allegedly began before . Christmas when someone - believed to be a friend or relative of Jesseka - . posted a nasty comment on the stand's Facebook page. Jesseka . says that Meghan responded by posting a series of vulgar and hateful . comments referencing the women's weight and appearance. Meghan . also reportedly criticized Jesseka's appearance, calling her ‘fat,’ advising her to ‘save world hunger by shooting yourself’ and telling . another commenter that ‘the world would be a better place if [Cladek] . died.’ ‘What if I was unstable and actually did kill myself?’ Jesseka asked King5. ‘Words have an impact on people.’ The Sips Ahoy Facebook page has since been taken down. As news of the incident has spread in the small town of 16,000 people, Meghan and her family have become the target of threats and even violence. Meghan has admitted that she and her staff are now scared and that she is sorry for getting involved in the dispute . Sips Ahoy is a coffee shop in Anacortes, Washington, where the baristas serve customers while wearing bikinis . She lives with her father, Kelly, and their home was recently egged and his vehicle dented. One poster on the Boycott Sips Ahoy page even suggested that someone should put urine or gasoline in a super soaker and burn the coffee stand down. Meghan told King5 that she and her staff are scared and that she is sorry for getting involved in the dispute. 'I stuck up for myself in an immature manner, I know,' she told King5. Police say the dent in the Calavans' car means the incident could become a felony investigation. They have advised everyone involved to stop and take a deep breath before someone gets hurt. Meghan has said she is sorry for her part and claims she's learned an important lesson, while Jesseka has asked for everyone to stop the negative comments and actions. Family unit: Meghan Calavan pictured with her child and her father, Kelly .

Meghan Calavan owns the self-styled 'sexy sailor coffee shop' Sips Ahoy in Anacortes, Washington . She has angered local residents after posting cruel comments on the business' Facebook page about a customer's size . The Sips Ahoy Facebook page has been taken down, but Boycott Sips Ahoy has launched and quickly amassed more than 6,200 followers .

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By . William Turvill . PUBLISHED: . 05:41 EST, 18 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 18:33 EST, 18 October 2013 . The nearest connection Manchester might have with a desert is probably the pop group Oasis. But a shop in the city’s Moss Side area has started selling camel milk – and its customers cannot get enough of its healthy properties. It is believed to be the most similar animal milk to the human  breast variety and is rich in insulin. Lyaket Hassan began importing camel milk - which he sells for £6 a pint - after a customer asked for some . Selling for £6 a pint, the milk – which . comes  in one-pint containers – is imported from a camel farm in Holland . by shopkeeper Lyaket Hassan. He began stocking the drink after a regular customer came in asking for it. And since he started importing it to his Jumbo Express shop in Moss Side, Manchester, he has seen the drink's popularity soar. He now has a core group of customers who come to buy the rare milk, which is sold frozen, from him every week. A traditional drink in Middle Eastern countries, camel milk is becoming increasingly popular as a health supplement or replacement for cow's milk. Promoted by the American-based Camel Milk Association, it is believed to be the most similar animal milk to human breast milk. It is also a rich source of insulin, making it popular with diabetes sufferers. The corner shop, in Moss Side, Manchester, wants to find a way of selling the milk, from the Netherlands, for less than £5 a pint . Mr Lyaket, 42, who has run his shop for eight years with business partner Anjum Aslam, said: 'We started stocking it a few months ago when a few people came in asking for it - up until then I knew nothing about it. 'We want to find a cheaper way so we can offer it for under five pounds a pint. 'Unfortunately there's not many local camels around here.' Camel milk can be drunk by some people with lactose intolerance . Camel milk, which is said to be closer to human milk than any other milk, has a number of health benefits for those who choose to drink it. It is rich is vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins B and C, and iron. The drink also has antibacterial and antiviral properties. Further, the milk is a rich source of insulin, making it a great treatment option for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes sufferers. According to the Camel Milk Association, a month-long study showed that people with Type 1 diabetes who drank almost a pint daily improved their blood glucose levels. Camel milk is also a good source of protein, and can often even be drunk by people with lactose intolerance. Currently, it may not be the most popular milk in the world, but it does offer benefits that cow and goat milks do not - including lower cholesterol levels. Traditionally popular in the Middle . East, the milk has become popular in the Netherlands and Belgium in . recent years where it is generally sold in organic shops.

Shopkeeper Lyaket Hassan imports milk from camel farm in Netherlands . Shop in Moss Side, Manchester, now has regular camel milk customers . Traditional Middle Eastern drink has become increasingly popular .

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(CNN) -- Fort Hood, Texas, is -- for all intents and purposes -- a city. With as many as 30,000 residents, it has all the trappings of an American metropolis: malls, softball fields, subdivisions and as many as nine schools. But in other ways, Fort Hood is like no American city. It is a transition point for troops who have served overseas, soldiers who have seen the worst that war has to offer and are returning to life at home. At least 13 people were killed and 30 wounded in shootings on the post Thursday, officials said. The alleged gunman, identified as Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, 39, was wounded. Some of those killed or wounded were at the Readiness Center, a soldier's last stop before deployment, said Army Lt. Gen. Bob Cone. It is also one of the first places a soldier goes after returning from war. Officials: Gunman opens fire at Fort Hood . Lt. Gen. Russel Honore, who served at Fort Hood in the late 1990s, said the nearly eight years of war in Afghanistan and Iraq have created difficulties for the U.S. armed forces. "This is a very complex situation, a situation we have not dealt with in the Army before. We have never been at war this long before in modern history," he said. "And many of these soldiers have been deployed multiple times, so this has put a lot of stress on these soldiers and their families. "One of the biggest things on re-entry that the Readiness Center does is to help those soldiers cope with being back home and dealing with the extremes of [post-traumatic stress disorder]," Honore said. It is also where soldiers "do everything from finalizing your next of kin, inspect your immunization record, as well as make a will," he said. Fort Hood is the largest U.S. military installation in the world by size, and on any given day, it is home to 25,000 to 30,000 people, according to an Army spokesman at the Pentagon. The post also houses the families of service members and other civilians. iReport.com: Are you there? Send pics, video . "Some of these soldiers have lost some of their closest friends, seen some of the horrific things associated with warfare including these roadside bombs," Honore said. "They've seen and experienced -- many of them -- some very horrific events." Services and programs offered on the post range from helping troops who are leaving the armed services find employment or pursue education to helping soldiers deal with combat-related illnesses like post-traumatic stress disorder. One such program, called the Warrior Stress Reset Program, is "designed to help address those common and normal reactions to war experiences," says a military Web site. "It is well documented that participation in a major conflict ... has a way of leaving its mark on the psyche of our soldiers," the Web site reads. The program lasts three weeks and provides counseling and treatment. U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas, said the post has a robust support system for families of deployed troops, which would help troops and civilians there handle Thursday's violence. "The people who are there will surround the families and take care of them, the ones who have had loved ones who were killed," she said. The Army's 1st Cavalry Division and elements of the 4th Infantry Division, as well as the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment and the 13th Corps Support Command, are based at Fort Hood. Fort Hood measures about 340 square miles across and is approximately 160 miles south of Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. CNN's Barbara Starr, Adam Levine, Mike Mount and Chris Lawrence contributed to this report.

General says ongoing wars have put stress on troops and their families . Fort Hood is largest U.S. military installation in the world by size . On any given day, there can be at least 25,000 to 30,000 people . It is also a transition point for troops returning to civilian life .

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Two obsessed Oregon Ducks football fans plunged into the end zone of holy matrimony in front of the Rose Bowl Thursday morning. Lisa DeFluri and Steve Twomey traded a bridal gown and tuxedo for Oregon jerseys adorned with "8," the number worn by the Ducks' 2014 Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, Marcus Mariota. "We're not traditional, we love football and love the Ducks," Lisa told CNN. "And it's a Heisman year." The couple had plans for a wedding on the beach at Santa Cruz, Steve said, "but this randomly came up and sounded much better." The ceremony took place in front of the looming Rose Bowl in Pasadena, where the 25-year-old Eugene residents' beloved Ducks would play the Florida State Seminoles that evening in one of two first-ever NCAA Division I semifinal championship football games. The giddy bride and groom stood next to a card table piled with tailgate treats while Steve's stepfather, Randy Miles, presided. "There's no coincidence these (wedding) rings are shaped in 'O' for Oregon," quipped the minister, who got his ordination online. Tailgaters whooped when the couple, sweethearts since seventh grade, kissed. "I feel like I will want a divorce if they lose, but I feel like we will win," Lisa deadpanned. "She's the sarcastic one," said Steve. The couple are both school teachers and attended Western Washington University, but they bleed Oregon green and yellow. "We grew up loving the Ducks," Steve explained. "I just thought they had really cool helmets when I was in like fourth grade," Lisa confessed. Never mind an altar and flowers, these newlyweds stood on asphalt, and nearby a decorative football wedged between chips and salsa read "2015 Rose Bowl Steve & Lisa Just Married."

Lisa DeFluri and Steve Twomey wear Oregon jerseys as they exchange vows . "We're not traditional, we love football and love the Ducks," Lisa says . Chips and salsa spread proclaimed their nuptials and the 2015 Rose Bowl . Oregon and Florida State play in the NCAA Division I semifinals Thursday .

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Roy Hodgson told his young England players in a post-training pep talk on Wednesday that they must seize their big chance at the World Cup. England’s head coach pointedly took Luke Shaw, Raheem Sterling and Ross Barkley aside for individual conversations lasting several minutes at the end of their hour-long session. VIDEO Scroll down to watch England goalkeepers training in Portugal . Meanwhile, on terra firma: Raheem Sterling grapples with Leighton Baines at England's pre-World Cup training camp in Portugal as Rickie Lambert watches on . Talking tactics: Roy Hodgson talks with Sterling and gives him instructions . Shaw thing: Hodgson gives instructions to Luke Shaw during training . Fitness first: England players during the training session at the Vale Do Lobo Resort . Running men: England stars Adam Lallana, Danny Welbeck, Ross Barkley, James Milner and Steven Gerrard . Stretching the point: Wayne Rooney controls the ball as Raheem Sterling looks on . In good spirits: Rooney shares a joke with Sterling and coach Gary Neville . Time out: Rooney and Gerrard relax and have a discussion during the session . Shaw (18), Sterling (19) and Barkley . (20) are the youngest members of the squad and he was keen to stress . that they are heading to the World Cup on merit. Sterling . was the outstanding player during Wednesday's open training session, . but Hodgson wants to make sure the young England players are fully . prepared. The head coach . said: ‘They should be pleased they are here, but they shouldn’t feel . over-awed by the occasion because they have done well and deserve their . place. ‘It was just to tell . them they are here on merit. I haven’t detected any nerves at all. There . was a feeling of relief because they realised this year my choice . wasn’t easy. Master mind: Manager Hodgson talks to the players during the training session . Putting it into practice: Hodgson gave his players a demonstration during the session in Portugal . ‘There has been a great feeling of enthusiasm and let’s get started on this adventure we have all been looking forward to. ‘If . you want to have a chat with a player, it leads nicely into it, rather . than asking someone after dinner to come and speak to you, which is more . formal.’ Hodgson has . thrown a protective cloak around his players after criticism of his . selection of Manchester United pair Chris Smalling and Phil Jones. Former . Manchester United captain Roy Keane was scathing about the pair after . Hodgson called them into his 23-man World Cup squad. Keane . claimed the pair ‘have gone backwards’ at United and questioned the . wisdom of taking them to football’s biggest tournament. Putting the work in: Gerrard and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are put through their paces . Eyes on the prize: Gerrard arrives at training and keeps focused at all times . Getting his point across: Hodgson talks tactics with Danny Welbeck . Fully involved: Hodgson takes a hands-on role in pre-World Cup training . Hodgson . added: ‘I work on the simple basis that everyone has an opinion. If you . are a TV pundit you are required to give your opinion and I don’t . expect everyone’s opinions to fall in with mine. If you say to me, has . it been a great year for Manchester United and have Phil Jones and . Smalling been stars then of course they haven’t. ‘But . as far as I am concerned they are England players because they have . been England players through my two years and any games in particular . that Smalling has played —he has played more than Jones — he has . certainly never let me down.’ Hodgson . also approved of Jack Wilshere’s decision to speak with Paul Scholes . over his criticism of the Arsenal midfielder’s development. Wilshere . tracked Scholes down through England assistant coach Gary Neville after . he claimed the Arsenal FA Cup winner had failed to develop. Hodgson added: ‘I’m always pleased and impressed when players handle those moments in the right way. Safe hands: Goalkeeper Joe Hart and Ben Foster test each other during training in Portugal . When . he had a (Twitter) row with Kevin Pietersen that was at the other end . of the scale . . . but it’s not going to decide if we have a good World . Cup or not. If Jack answers criticism well or badly, it’s what he does . on the field that matters.’ England . return home at the weekend before they convene at St George’s Park on . Monday to prepare for a farewell friendly against Peru at Wembley next . week. On Wednesday the . players wore three distinctive blue sweat patches as Hodgson’s sports . science team monitored their body temperature with a new technique. Three . sports scientists from Loughborough University have been flown out to . Portugal to take samples of the players’ sweat as they prepare for the . humid conditions of Manaus, where England play their first group game on . June 14 against Italy. They . are working with the Arsenal nutritionist James Collins during the . World Cup. Collins, who has previously worked with British Olympic . teams, monitors diet and food supplements, as well as electrolyte . recovery and matchday preparation. All together now: England players stand in a huddle ahead of training . Ready to go: The training pitch is ready for the England players to get down to business in Portugal . Hodgson . added: ‘Up to now the work has been very sports science and fitness . orientated. They are being analysed in terms of the extra heat we tried . to generate and it is part of our process which Dave Reddin and his team . have started.’ England’s . players were also introduced to team psychiatrist Steve Peters on . Tuesday for the first time since he was appointed by the FA. Hodgson . added: ‘I asked him to present himself to us and he did that in a very . entertaining and informative way. The players were very attentive. Sitting behind them watching them listen suggested they were interested. ‘He . is an entertaining man. He just told us all the things he’s done in . life. It’s quite amazing. I don’t know how old he is but to do all the . things he’s done in life he must be about 150.’ On . Wednesday Everton defender John Stones, who is on standby for the . squad, missed the session after tweaking his knee. And Jones, who is . recovering from a shoulder injury, should be able to take part in . contact training later this week.

All 23 members of Hodgson's squad take part in training in Portugal . Sterling, Shaw and Barkley given advice by England manager . Players such as Wayne Rooney stick to personalised training regimes . Sterling the outstanding player during the session . Stand-by defender John Stones only player to miss out after tweaking his knee on Tuesday . Phil Jones takes part in non-contact part of training as he recovers from shoulder injury . Rooney and Daniel Sturridge sit out second half of session . England training in Portugal before returning home ahead of Peru friendly on May 30 at Wembley . Three Lions kick off their World Cup campaign against Italy on June 14 in Manaus .

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By . Derek Lawrenson . The biggest event in the women’s game was some place to make your professional debut but Stephanie Meadow coped so well at the US Open last month she finished third behind Michelle Wie and world No 1 Stacy Lewis to earn a six-figure cheque. Now the 22-year-old from Royal Portrush gets to play her second tournament, starting at the Buckinghamshire on Thursday, alongside England’s equally precocious talent Charley Hull at the start of what might prove quite a professional rivalry. The pair are among the star attractions at the ISPS Handa European Masters, the first of two events in England — the other is the Ricoh British Open at Royal Birkdale next week — that provide an ideal showcase for some of the exciting young talents in the European game. Hopeful: Stephanie Meadow of Northern Ireland lines up a putt at ht Women's US Open . American action: Meadow of Northern Ireland plays her tee shot at second holin Pinehurst, North Carolina . Hull and Meadow were in the same victorious Curtis Cup team in 2012, where the latter secured the winning point. ‘It’s great to see what Charley’s been doing and hopefully we can put on a bit of a show,’ said Meadow. ‘Just to be a pro is really exciting at the moment and I take a lot of confidence from what I did at the US Open. But equally, you have  to ground yourself again and remember to do all your drills.  The reaction to Pinehurst has been great but it’s time to concentrate on a new tournament.’ Meanwhile, at the French Open, Meadow’s fellow Portrush native Graeme McDowell is targeting a successful defence of his title to boost his Ryder Cup standing. McDowell is 16th in the table with only the top nine qualifying automatically, but knows a lot of points are on offer at Le Golf National in Versailles, where the Ryder Cup will be staged in 2018. He said: ‘Hopefully, with a big effort this summer, I can get on  to the team for Gleneagles.’ One to watch: Meadow willl be a star attraction at the ISPS Handa European Masters in England .

Meadow will play in her second tournament on Thursday . The 22-year-old is out to impress after her debut at the US Open . The competition will be followed by the British Open at Royal Birkdale .

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Baby Gammy has had an eventful first 12 months. The Down syndrome baby, who was abandoned in Thailand by his Australian surrogate parents, found himself at the centre of a media storm earlier this year. But on Tuesday - his first birthday - Gammy is a happy, healthy little boy who lives in a new house with his loving family and likes playing with his older brother and sister. Scroll down for video . Gammy celebrates his first birthday on Tuesday, after being the centre of an international scandal this year . Gammy pictures with his Thai surrogate mother Pattaramon 'Goy' Chanbua during a trip to the beach . Gammy is a happy, healthy little boy who lives in a new house with his loving family . They live in a comfortable house paid for using part of the $250,000 raised for the family through public donations, which has new furniture, a television set, and plenty of kids' toys. And apart from a few minor hospital visits the family lives a normal life, even going on trips to the beach together. Peter Baines, founder of the charity handling Gammy's medical and living expenses, said the family had been doing well since moving into their new home in October. 'Gammy's had some health issues and that's not to be unexpected, but they're certainly in a better space then they would have been,' said Mr Baines, of Hands Across The Water. 'He had a repeat of a lung infection and spent a few days in hospital. 'Nothing as severe as what it was the first time and certainly it was treated a lot quicker and recovery was a lot better than what it was.' The charity handling Gammy's medical and living expenses said Gammy loved playing with his siblings . And apart from a few minor hospital visits the family lives a normal life, going on trips to the beach together . Mr Baines added that Gammy loved playing with his siblings. 'He's just a healthy, happy boy who loves interacting with his brother and he's got a beautiful personality about him,' he said. 'It's not right he be defined by health issues, or what happened to him, or the fact that he's got Down syndrome. 'He's getting fat like a little one-year-old should, now he's over the worst of his health issues.' Earlier this year Gammy's Thai surrogate mother Pattaramon 'Goy' Chanbua and Gammy found themselves at the centre of an international row over the ethics and legality of surrogacy when it emerged Gammy's Australian parents David and Wendy Farnell abandoned him in Thailand but took home his healthy twin sister Pipah. Gammy has an ongoing lung condition which sees him need hospital treatment from time to time . Baby Gammy and his mother Pattharamon 'Goy' Janbua moved into a new house in October . Almost half of the $250,00 raised was spent on the three-bedroom house, where the pair will live with Goy's husband, grandparents and two other children, 100km south of Bangkok . Mr Baines said 21-year-old Goy – who has looked after Gammy since his Australian parents left him – was also coping well after an intense year. 'She's really good, she's in a good space, and I've always said when you look at her level of education and her life and you look at what she's had to deal with I think she's dealt with it remarkably well,' he said. Mr Baines said that of the $250,000 raised for Gammy, about half of the money was spent on the family's new three-bedroom house. There is $120,000 left over to cover the one-year-old's future medical and living expenses . Before moving into the new home Gammy was in hospital for six days due to a lung infection . Goy and Gammy pose with Nom Manochantr, general manager of Hands Across The Water in Thailand . The family needed a new home because their previous one-bedroom unit (pictured) was too run-down for Gammy, who still suffers from a lung condition . The family plans to do some alterations at the front of their new house to set up a noodle shop, similar to the one they used to run at Goy's grandparents nearby house (pictured) Child protection officials in Western Australia are still conducting an 'extensive and rigorous' assessment into the welfare of Gammy's twin sister Pipah, pictured with David and Wendy Farnell . Mr Baines said the family needed a new home because their previous one-bedroom unit was too run-down for Gammy, who still suffers from a lung condition. Earlier this year Goy and Gammy found themselves at the centre of an international row over the ethics and legality of surrogacy when it emerged Gammy's Australian parents the Farnells abandoned him in Thailand but took home his healthy twin sister Pipah. The house for Gammy's family was purchased and is being held under a trust in the name of Hands Across The Water, which is managing the family's money on behalf of Goy. Gammy, Goy, and Goy's husband, grandparents and two other children moved into the home earlier in the year. The house is in the same neighbourhood as the family's previous residence, in an industrial area about 100km south of Bangkok, where they also ran a small shop selling salads and noodles. Hands Across The Water founder Peter Baines visited the family earlier this month to assess their situation and needs. Pictured: Goy and her three children . Mr Baines described Gammy as: 'a strong little boy who certainly appears healthy and full of life' Mr Baines said: 'we anticipate the original donated funds being sufficient to see Gammy into early adulthood' Earlier in the year, Hands Across The Water administered $20,000 towards Gammy's medical costs, including moving him from a public to a private hospital, when he was suffering from a lung infection .

Thai surrogate baby Gammy celebrates his first birthday on Tuesday . He is a happy boy who loves playing with his older brother and sister . Earlier this year he was abandoned by his Australian parents and found himself at the centre of a media storm .

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By . Becky Evans . PUBLISHED: . 04:13 EST, 7 January 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:51 EST, 7 January 2013 . Colin Gregg, 71, back at his Gosforth home after his arrest on suspicion of child sex abuse . The former co-owner of national bakery chain Greggs has been arrested on suspicion of child sex abuse. Colin Gregg, 71, son of Greggs' founder Jack, was questioned by police on Saturday over alleged sexual abuse of a child in the 1960s. Police raided his luxury farmhouse in Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, and seized two mobile phones and a laptop. Mr Gregg and his brother Ian transformed the family bakery business from a single shop in Newcastle into a chain of more than 1,000 stores. He spent more than 30 years as non-executive director before retiring, while his brother worked as chairman. A spokeswoman for Northumbria Police . said: 'A 71-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of sexual . assault and has been released on police bail.' Married father-of-three Mr Gregg, who reportedly has shares worth at least £5.5million in the company, also ran its charity, the North East Children's Cancer Run in the 1980s. He worked as a social worker and teacher and later was employed as headteacher at King's School in Tynemouth, Newcastle. One of Mr Gregg's neighbours told The Sun: 'Everyone here is nice. He and his wife are churchgoers.' Mr Gregg co-owned the business along with brothers Ian and Colin, sister Gay and mother Elise, when his father died in 1964. A spokesman for the company told The Sun that he was no longer on the board. He added: 'It would therefore be wholly inappropriate for us to comment on this matter.' Police searched Mr Gregg's farmhouse in Gosforth, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and took two mobiles and a laptop . Colin Gregg helped transform the bakery into a national chain after the death of his father in 1964 . Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons.

The former non-executive director of Greggs was arrested on Saturday . Police seized mobile phones and a laptop from his Gosforth home . He was questioned over alleged sexual abuse of a child in the 1960s . The former teacher and headmaster has been released on police bail .

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From being able to order taxis to choosing seats on a plane, there is no doubt that Smartphone apps are revolutionising the way we travel. And it seems that the luxury travel market is no exception. In fact, providing you have a spare £25,000, hiring a superyacht is little more than a click away. Naia: Wealthy holidaymakers can hire the Naia superyacht for £415,000-a-week. The 241.5ft vessel has 22 crew members and can accommodate 12 guests in its eight cabins . Axioma: Luxury yachts for charter tend to range from 25 metres to over 90 metres and brokers Yachting Partners International offer vessels that cost between £25,000 and £750,000-a-week to hire . Naia: The YPI Selection app lets users to find the location of their nearest vessel which they can then charter online . A new Smartphone app aimed at ultra-high net worth individuals allows users to find the location of the nearest vessel which they can then charter online. The app, called YPI Selection, has been created one of the world’s leading yacht brokers Yachting Partners International. It also provides a wealth of information on luxury yachting including popular holiday destinations, specifications of the yachts themselves and the process of chartering. A new app created by luxury yacht brokering company Yachting Partners International also allows users to search for their nearest superyacht and hire the vessel immediately online. Naia: Executives at Yachting Partners International say that holidaying at sea offers the 'last real place of privacy anywhere in the world' Naia: Many superyachts now feature air-conditioned gyms, swimming pools and hot tubs as standard features . Naia: The app, called YPI Selection, has been created one of the world’s leading yacht brokers Yachting Partners International . The app features the world's first live interactive dedicated yacht search, called 'Yachts Around Me'. It allows users to find out more about the yachts they see around them or yachts they specifically want to find out more about. As well as showing their searched yacht's actual real-time location, users benefit from photo galleries and yacht details together with a key indicating whether it is available for charter or for sale. The APP which works on smart phones and tablets, is free to download. Axioma: Yachts come with the owner’s own personal professional crew and chefs, watersports toys including jet skis and water skis, diving equipment and in some cases even mini submarines and helicopters . Axioma: Charterers tend to charter yachts in the Caribbean in the Winter and the Mediterranean in Summer, although many are now exploring newer areas like South America, Polynesia, New Zealand and Antarctica . Axioma: On-board facilities often include cinema rooms, fully equipped gyms, saunas, Jacuzzis, games rooms, sundecks and swimming pools . Axioma: Those wanting to hire the 236.2ft Axioma yacht will to pay £415,000-a-week. The vessel comes with 20 crew . However, those who will be able to make full use of the facilities may be slightly more limited. The cheapest yachts featured on the site cost £25,000 to hire for a single week, while the most expensive cost £750,000. However yachts come with the owner’s own personal professional crew and chefs, watersports toys including jet skis and water skis, diving equipment and in some cases even mini submarines and helicopters. On-board facilities often include cinema rooms, fully equipped gyms, saunas, Jacuzzis, games rooms, sundecks and swimming pools. Eleonora: Those wanting to charter Eleonora for a week will have to splash out £50,000-a-week . Eleonora: The 162.4ft superyacht comes with seven crew members and can accommodate eight guests in its four cabins . Eleonora: Charterers decide what food, wine and champagne they want on-board in addition to their favourite meals, while also agreeing with the vessel’s captain where they want to go during their charter . Charterers decide what food, wine and champagne they want on-board in addition to their favourite meals, while also agreeing with the vessel’s captain where they want to go during their charter. Explaining the appeal of holidaying on a superyacht, YPI’s Commercial and Marketing Director Mark Duncan suggest the sea is the last real place of privacy anywhere in the world. Clients, he added, are treated to all the luxury of an exclusive hotel, but with a change in view every day and the chance to explore coastlines and islands untouched by humans. ‘For many people chartering a luxury yacht instead of a private island or boutique hotel is a journey into the unknown. Naia: The cheapest yachts featured on the site cost £25,000 to hire for a single week, while the most expensive cost £750,000 . Naia: The YPI Selection app provides a wealth of information on luxury yachting including popular holiday destinations, specifications of the yachts themselves and the process of chartering . Naia: The app also includes features such as interviews with yacht designers and a beginner’s guide to yachting, together with recommended itineraries and photo galleries . ‘Many can only compare it to holidaying on a cruise ship. Well, the similarities really begin and end with the fact that both vessels float. ‘Compared to a cruise ship, chartering a luxury yacht means you have the whole yacht to yourself. You decide where you want to go and when. You decide what you want to see and do with your guests. You decide what you want to eat and drink and when. ‘The whole experience is entirely created around you and your guests whether that your family and children or your best buddies. Ultimately it’s not just a way to travel – it’s a whole bespoke, luxurious experience. And it’s one we encourage as many people as possible to experience and savour even just once in their lives.’ Naia: YPI executives claim that chartering a superyacht is 'not just a way to travel – it’s a whole bespoke, luxurious experience' One former client of the company said: ‘It’s like having the most exclusive holiday resort just for yourself, with the chefs creating menus based around whatever you like, serving them at whatever time of day or night you want. And with a yacht, you get to wake up to a new view every single morning.’ YPI CEO, Philippe Hetland Brault said: ‘We started from the principle that an App has to be useful and practical but also fun. ‘It occurred to me that yacht owners and yacht charterers often like to be able to find out more about the brand, the age and sizes of those yachts that are around them when they are moored or sailing nearby. ‘We know of many yacht lovers who already use websites and Apps to identify yachts around them, however these sources tend to mix yachts with hundreds of small boats and even merchant ships. So we decided to develop an App purely for yachting with the most comprehensive data available and the very best photography.’ Luxury yachts for charter tend to range from 25 metres to over 90 metres. Charterers tend to charter yachts in the Caribbean in the Winter and the Mediterranean in Summer, although many are now exploring newer areas like South America, Polynesia, New Zealand and Antarctica.

Luxury broker Yachting Partners International have created the new app . It provides information on yachting destinations and yacht specifications . Cheapest yachts featured on the site cost £25,000 to hire for a single week . On-board facilities often include cinemas, gyms, saunas and jacuzzis .

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Mecca, Saudi Arabian (CNN) -- A teenager and three elderly people in Saudi Arabia for the hajj pilgrimage have died of the H1N1 flu virus, the Saudi Health Ministry said. The victims of the virus were a 17-year-old Nigerian female and a Sudanese man, an Indian man and a Moroccan woman who each were 75 years old. "These cases were discovered too late," said Dr. Khaled Al-Marghalani, the ministry spokesman. "Some were old, and the others had pre-existing chronic conditions." Al-Marghalani said the Sudanese man initially went to a doctor who treated him, but not for H1N1. "So when his doctor sent him to the hospital, and he was treated for H1N1, it was too late," he said. The annual pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is required of Muslims at least once in their lives, and millions of people around the globe make the trek to attend. This year, the hajj begins Wednesday, and many pilgrims have been arriving days and weeks ahead of the event, which coincides with flu season. When Arab health ministers met in Cairo, Egypt, a few months back, it looked like several groups might even be banned from this year's event because of the flu. They were children under 12, adults over 65, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses. The Saudis didn't ban anybody from coming and left the responsibility to the pilgrims' countries of origin. In effect, officials issued guidelines only for people at risk. Two days ago, Saudi Arabia's health minister, Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, gathered representatives to discuss efforts to detect the ailment. "It would be nice to have more time to prepare [for the possibility of H1N1 spreading in Saudi Arabia] ahead of the hajj, but I am very satisfied with all the measures taken and have great confidence," he said before the meeting. Al-Marghalani said the "safe weapon" for the kinds of H1N1 cases that resulted in the deaths is Tamiflu, the drug used to fight influenza. "If we lose Tamiflu, we will lose the war. But Tamiflu is only effective in the first 48 hours of when the symptoms appear," he said.

Virus kills teenager, three elderly people on hajj pilgrimage . Arab ministers considered barring some groups from this year's event . Saudis left responsibility to pilgrims' countries of origin .

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Claims that Jeremy Clarkson’s ‘offensive’ Falklands number plate was a coincidence were crumbling yesterday as it emerged a second ‘joke’ plate was found in the same car. The controversial Top Gear presenter – along with co-hosts James May and Richard Hammond, and their crew – had to flee Argentina last week after locals were angered by the ‘H982 FKL’ plates, an apparent reference to the 1982 Falklands War. The BBC insisted they had not even realised the meaning behind the Porsche 928GT’s plates until three days into filming. They were removed when locals complained. Scroll down for video . Jeremy Clarkson and fellow presenters Richard Hammond (left) and James May (right) were forced to flee Argentina last week after their convoy was attacked by locals furious over Clarkson's number plate . However, that defence was undermined yesterday by the fact that a set of plates saying BE11 END had been found inside the sports car, which has been abandoned by the crew along with other vehicles. A spokesman for the BBC has admitted the second set had been planned for a sequence in the show, but were not used. And yesterday the dealer who sold the Porsche to the BBC complete with its original H982 FKL plates admitted the show’s staff knew the car’s registration number before they completed its purchase. In another twist, an Argentine judge is now reportedly considering whether to begin a criminal inquiry into unauthorised ‘plate changing’ on the vehicle – after it was found with the registration HI VAE. The offence carries a jail sentence of up to three years. The anger was sparked by the H982 FKL plate, which locals say was a reference to the 1982 Falklands War . The Porsche was sold to the BBC by classic car specialist Mark Waring, 54, of Cheam, Surrey, through his dealership Rennsport Classics Ltd. He had advertised it with the plates masked. Asked about how interested the BBC were in the number plate, Mr Waring said: ‘I’m not prepared to discuss that.’ But he denied claims he had been gagged, saying he never discussed any clients. Asked whether he suspected the Top Gear team were delighted when they discovered the Falklands reference in the car’s plates, Mr Waring said: ‘I wasn’t aware it was Top Gear buying the car, just the BBC.’ Argentinian Police have now revealed they have found another set of offensive number plates in the car . It emerged last night that Top Gear had sent one of its mechanics to inspect the car – and that a researcher went to pay for the car, meaning the team had ample opportunity to spot the ‘Falklands’ plate. But executive producer of the show Andy Wilman insisted all were surprised when its significance was pointed out on the internet three days into filming in Argentina last month. Mr Wilman also suggested he would refuse to answer to the Argentine legal system if charged over using fake plates on the car, saying he had feared for his life and they had no choice than to switch. The new number plate revelation came when local police searched the car Top Gear left behind after the show’s 29-strong crew crossed into Chile on Thursday last week. Jeremy Clarkson flew back to Britain from Chile after the incident and has since claimed the number plates' apparent reference to the Falklands War was a coincidence . But an official in Argentina claims the new plates show the presenters were planning to 'provoke' locals . The car's seller said he was contacted by Top Gear, who told him to forward any media enquiries to them . The cars were attacked near the Argentine city of Ushuaia after pictures of the number plate emerged online . The cars (pictured during filming) have since been impounded by the Argentinian police, who are investigating whether any offence was committed when the plates were switched . The anger the plates have generated in Argentina is the latest scandal to hit Jeremy Clarkson and the BBC .

Number plates spelling out 'BE11 END' found in car which sparked anger . Discovery throws into doubt Clarkson's claim 'Falklands' plate were fluke . Car dealer who sold car to Top Gear says he has been contacted by show . Top Gear team forced to flee Argentina last week after anger over plates . Clarkson has insisted plates' reference to Falklands War was coincidence . MP says any BBC cover-up to protect Clarkson would be 'unforgivable'

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By . Simon Jones for the Daily Mail . Sunderland are making a move for Costa Rica World Cup defender Oscar Duarte. The 25-year-old plays for Club Brugge in Belgium and grabbed headlines in Brazil after becoming the first Costa Rican to be sent off in a World Cup following two yellow cards against Greece. Duarte scored against Uruguay in their shock Group D victory and has already scored for Brugge in the league this season. World Cup: Oscar Duarte (top right) impressed for Costa Rica in Brazil . Manager Gus Poyet wants the Nicaragua-born defender to add extra mobility but his goal contribution will also be welcomed. Sunderland remain in talks with Liverpool over a deal for striker Fabio Borini but the transfer may yet be another loan despite the clubs agreeing a £14m fee. While Borini is happy to play for Sunderland this season the Italian forward is reluctant to make the move permanent. Reinforcements: Gus Poyet is still looking to strengthen his Sunderland side before the new season . Reluctant: Although Fabio Borini is happy to move to Sunderland the Italisn forward would prefer a loan .

Sunderland are moving for Oscar Duarte . Defender currently plays for Club Brugge . He impressed while playing for Costa Rica at the World Cup . Gus Poyet also wants to tie up Fabio Borini deal .

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More questions: Jack Straw wants Ed Miliband to investigate Unite . Former home secretary Jack Straw has urged Ed Miliband to take action over fresh evidence that Unite union officials attempted to rig the vote in the selection of a Labour party candidate. Mr Straw said Mr Miliband ‘should actively consider re-opening the investigation’ into the selection process at the Falkirk constituency. Mr Straw spoke out after emails were published that suggested Unite and its official Stephen Deans were instrumental in thwarting Labour’s initial investigation into the vote-rigging claims. Mr Deans, who resigned from his job at the Grangemouth refinery on Monday after being accused of spending a quarter of his working day on union issues, is chairman of the Labour Party in Falkirk. The scandal erupted after four members of the Kane family complained that they had been signed up as party members without their knowledge. At the time, Mr Deans was trying to get Karie Murphy – a close friend of Unite boss Len McCluskey – selected as the Labour candidate. The party held an internal investigation but Unite was cleared of wrongdoing in September when the Kanes retracted their evidence. A police investigation was also dropped. However, emails printed by the Sunday Times suggest that Unite officials were instrumental in ensuring that the evidence was withdrawn. In one message, dated July 30, Unite executive Howard Beckett said Mr Deans would arrange for the retractions to be signed by the Kane family. Mr Deans is related to a member of the family. In a separate email sent on the same day, Mr Deans said he was ‘happy’ with the statements drawn up by Unite ‘and can get this to the Kane family and get it posted tonight’. Last night, Labour sources said they could not act against Mr Deans because Mr Miliband had not seen the full cache of emails but Mr Straw suggested that the party investigation should be reopened. Under pressure: Ed Miliband is being urged to re-investigate the claims of vote rigging by Unite union . He told the BBC’s Daily Politics programme that there was ‘a sufficient case presented by the Sunday Times for there to be further questions that will need to be dealt with’. He suggested that Unite’s grandstanding over Mr Dean’s fate led to the threat by Grangemouth owners Ineos to close the plant last week – a threat lifted after Unite boss Len McCluskey dropped opposition to a company rescue plan. 'Catastrophic tactics': Unite boss Len McCluskey . Mr Straw accused Mr McCluskey of ‘catastrophic tactics’ and said: ‘To be blunt about it, my analysis is that Len McCluskey downwards put internal union Unite politics before the interests of their members at the Grangemouth plant.’ Eric Joyce, the MP for Falkirk who resigned from Labour after a brawl in a House of Commons bar, said Mr Miliband was frightened of Unite, Labour’s biggest paymaster. He said: ‘The Labour Party is effectively keeping Deans in place, and I think it’s to some degree because of a substantial amount of fear inside the Labour Party of the Unite leadership.’ Mr Joyce said Unite was a ‘very great threat’ to the Labour party. ‘Unite came along and interfered with witnesses, and the inquiry was stopped in Falkirk,’ he said. ‘I think the Labour party should re-open the inquiry.’ But Andrew Murray, Unite’s chief of staff, said Mr Joyce had given a ‘wrong reading’ of the emails. He said that there was ‘no evidence’ that ‘anything untoward’ had taken place. Mr McCluskey said: ‘We are witnessing a witch-hunt against Unite and Stevie Deans. 'The published material I have seen shows no basis for reopening the Falkirk wound.’ But in a letter to Mr Miliband, Tory MP Bob Neill wrote: ‘People in Britain deserve to know whether or not you will be strong enough to stand up to Len McCluskey and Unite. 'If you do not, they will draw their own conclusions as to your fitness to lead the country.’

Jack Straw urge Ed Miliband to follow up fresh evidence over rigging . Emails suggest Unite thwarted initial investigation into claims . Labour sources say Miliband cannot act until he has seen all emails .

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By . Sean Gallagher for MailOnline . Sunderland defender Santiago Vergini believes fellow Argentine Ricky Alvarez will be a quality addition to the side following his deadline day move from Inter Milan. Vergini is familiar with Alvarez after playing with him during his youth days at Velez Sarsfield and says the forward, on loan for the season from Inter Milan, will produce the goods for Sunderland. He told the club's official website: 'He is technically very good, he has great physical potential and he can get up and down the field so I believe he will bring a lot to the team. Confidence: Santiago Vergini is confident Ricky Alvarez will be a success at Sunderland . 'Both for the club and the squad it is great that a player like Ricky will come here as it brings a lot of prestige. 'I imagine that he is a player that the fans will really take to and I think that he really is capable of doing great things.' As well as Alvarez Sunderland also signed Liverpool defender Sebastian Coates on a season-long loan as Gus Poyet's side look to build on their encouraging end to last season.

Vergini says his fellow Argentine Ricky Alvarez will be a great addition to the Sunderland squad . Alvarez joined the club on a season-long loan from Inter on deadline day . The pair played together during their youth days at Velez Sarsfield .

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(CNN) -- Stocks on key Asian exchanges dropped modestly early Monday on what is likely to be an eventful day in world markets, following Standard and Poor's downgrade of the U.S. credit rating. In early Tokyo trading, the Nikkei index fell 124 points, or 1.3%. South Korea's KOSPI index slipped 1.6%. In Australia, the All Ordinaries index lost 0.7%. The Shanghai composite started 0.8% lower. Hong Kong's Hang Seng index tumbled 2.6% at the open. Similarly, U.S. stock futures fell around 1.7% in early electronic trading Sunday. The futures were the first U.S. gauge of investor sentiment following Friday night's downgrade, removing the United States' AAA status for the first time. They give an indication of how investors will react when regular-hours U.S. trading begins at 9:30 a.m. ET Monday. Besides the U.S. downgrade, investors are concerned about the debt crisis in some European nations, though actions on the part of the G7 and the European Central Bank Sunday helped to allay some of those fears. Financial representatives of leading industrial nations said they are committed to taking "all necessary measures to support financial stability and growth in a spirit of close cooperation and confidence." They welcomed the "decisive actions taken in the U.S. and Europe" and "the additional policy measures announced by Italy and Spain to strengthen fiscal discipline and underpin the recovery in economic activity and job creation." "We are committed to taking coordinated action where needed, to ensuring liquidity, and to supporting financial market functioning, financial stability and economic growth," G7 finance ministers and central bank governors said in a Sunday night statement. Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner had been expected to take part in a conference call with representatives of the other G7 nations to discuss the downgraded U.S. credit rating, a G7 official told CNN. The G7 nations are the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Canada and the United States. Similarly, the European Central Bank made a bid to calm markets Sunday. It said it would implement a bond-purchase program and welcomed announcements by Italy and Spain on new measures meant to reduce their deficits. It told the governments of those countries that a "decisive and swift implementation" of reforms is "essential." The move represents an escalation in the official response to Europe's debt crisis, which is now more than a year old and until recently was contained to smaller economies like Greece, Ireland and Portugal. International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde cheered the announcements. "I welcome the statements from the European Central Bank, from the leaders of Germany and France as well as from the G7, and their renewed commitment to take all necessary action in a coordinated way to ensure stability and liquidity in the financial markets. This cooperation will contribute to maintaining confidence and spurring global economic growth," she said in a statement. Middle Eastern markets, the first to open since the downgrade, were sharply lower on Sunday. Israel's market temporarily halted trading at one point and finished down more than 6%, while the Dubai Financial Market General Index fell 3.7%. The General Index on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange was down more than 2.5%, while in Saudi Arabia, the Tadawul All-Share Index dropped nearly 5.5% in trading Saturday. U.S. officials are talking to a "wide range of investors" about the downgrade by the credit agency to try to "mitigate" any short-term negative impact from Friday's announcement, a Treasury official told CNN. Top Standard & Poor's officials said Sunday that the downgraded credit rating for the United States was both a call for political consensus on significant deficit reduction and a warning of possible further credit problems down the road. "We have a negative outlook on the rating and that means that we think the risks currently on the rating are to the downside," said David Beers, the S&P global head of sovereign ratings, on "Fox News Sunday." However, Beers said markets were reacting to the debt crises in some European countries and fears of a global economic slump, rather than the U.S. credit downgrade alone. John Chambers, the S&P head of sovereign ratings, told ABC's "This Week" program Saturday that it could take years for the United States to return to AAA status. "Well, if history is a guide, it could take a while," Chambers said. "We've had five governments that lost their AAA that got it back. The amount of time that it took for those five range from nine years to 18 years, so it takes a while." The agency's concerns "are centered on the political side and on the fiscal side," Chambers said. "So it would take a stabilization of the debt as a share of the economy and eventual decline," he said. "And it would take, I think, more ability to reach consensus in Washington than what we're observing now." Both Beers and Bill Miller, chairman and chief investment officer at Legg Mason Capital Management, told the Fox program that they don't expect the U.S. downgrade to cause a spike in interest rates, one of the possible results of the higher risk now attached to U.S. debt. "I don't think we'll pay more in interest," Miller said, calling the downgrade more of a symbolic event than an economic event. However, he warned of continuing market volatility in coming days driven by uncertainty. Rating agencies such as S&P, Moody's and Fitch analyze risk and give debt a grade that is supposed to reflect the borrower's ability to repay its loans. The safest bets are stamped AAA. That's where the U.S. debt has stood for years. Moody's first assigned the United States an AAA rating in 1917. Fitch and Moody's, the other two main credit ratings agencies, maintained the AAA rating for the United States after last week's debt deal, though Moody's lowered its outlook on U.S. debt to "negative." A negative outlook indicates the possibility that Moody's could downgrade the country's sovereign credit rating within a year or two. U.S. Treasury officials received S&P's analysis Friday afternoon and alerted the agency to an error that inflated U.S. deficits by $2 trillion, said an administration official, who was not authorized to speak for attribution. The agency acknowledged the mistake, but said it was sticking with its decision. The administration official called it "a facts-be-damned decision ... Their analysis was way off, but they wouldn't budge." Saturday, Gene Sperling, director of Obama's National Economic Council, criticized S&P's call. "The magnitude of their error and the amateurism it displayed, combined with their willingness to simply change on the spot their lead rationale in their press release once the error was pointed out, was breathtaking. It smacked of an institution starting with a conclusion and shaping any arguments to fit it," he said. But Beers defended his agency's move on Sunday, telling the Fox program: "The underlying debt burden of the U.S. government is rising and will continue to rise over the next decade." CNN's Tom Cohen, Kyung Lah and Mark Meinero contributed to this report.

Losses are modest in Tokyo, Seoul, Sydney and Shanghai . Investors are weighing both the downgrade and the European debt crisis . G7 leaders say they are committed to taking "all necessary measures" U.S. stock futures tumble around 1.7% in early electronic trading .

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Alexandria, Virginia (CNN) -- Sen. Rand Paul said this week that he would vote in favor of going to war with ISIS, but his father, former Rep. Ron Paul, made it clear Friday night that he sharply opposes further U.S. involvement in the Mideast region. Speaking at a libertarian-leaning conference, Ron Paul slammed the "bipartisan support" among congressional lawmakers for "rubber-stamping what President Obama wants" in the fight against the militant group. More broadly, he suggested that Senate Republicans aren't that different from their Democratic counterparts. Some people think "if the Republicans take over the Senate this year, that will hamstring the president and everything's going to be OK," he said at the Liberty Political Action Conference in Alexandra, Virginia. "That's a joke." "It wouldn't be OK because they all believe in the same thing, they believe in the federal reserve and they believe in the war. They believe in the spending and the intervention overseas," he said. Obama's proposed plan includes expanded air strikes against ISIS and arming and training Syrian rebels who are also fighting off the threat. Congress has not voted specifically to authorize air strikes against ISIS, but Rand Paul has said he would vote in favor of doing so. The Kentucky Republican has long been more moderate than his father, a former Texas congressman who ran for president three times and has strong support among the libertarian base. Still, Rand Paul has largely opposed foreign interventions in the past, and his decision to support air strikes has been viewed as more hawkish than his previous stances. The Senate on Thursday passed legislation that would also approve the arming and training of Syrian rebels . But Rand Paul was one of 12 Republicans who voted against the legislation, saying he feared the weapons would end up in the wrong hands. He launched into a lengthy Senate floor speech Thursday against the plan, blasting "barnacled enablers" for pushing a policy that he believes would be ineffective. Ron Paul never mentioned his son, who spoke the previous night on the same stage, during his remarks about foreign policy. The former congressman, however, said that the family got together the previous night to have "strategy meeting." "I'm going to reveal some secrets to you," Ron Paul told the audience, cheekily hinting that he was going to talk about Rand Paul's likely presidential bid in 2016. But the former congressman jokingly went on to list a number of mundane family matters, such as when's the next golf game and details about a family wedding. "We did have some very, very serious discussions," he went on to say. "And of course some very important things too about what the family's doing and that is the truth. The issues are very, very important to all of us, and yet the family is pretty important to us too."

Ron Paul slams "bipartisan support" in Washington for war against ISIS . His son, Rand Paul, has said he would vote for air strikes . However, Rand Paul did not vote this week for another part of the plan to fight ISIS .

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(CNN) -- The decomposed body found this weekend in a Louisiana bayou was identified Monday as that of a teacher missing for three months, the New Orleans Police Department said. The statement said Terrilynn Monette, who was last seen March 2, was identified through dental records. The death was ruled a drowning, and there were no signs of trauma to the body, police said. On Saturday, a diver with the Slidell Police Department who was volunteering to dive the waterways in the search for Monette found her Honda Accord in the bayou. 'I'm in shock' Monette's mother, Toni Enclade, told CNN earlier that she had been notified a body was found. "To know that she could have possibly been there for three months," she said, overcome with emotion. Enclade said she does not know when she will be given a final answer. "I can't even begin to go there right now," she said. "I'm in shock. I can't believe this. I just can't believe this." Monette, 26, was last seen leaving Parlay's Dream Lounge in New Orleans, where she had been celebrating with friends her nomination for a "Teacher of the Year" award. Authorities have focused a large part of their search efforts on the waterways because Monette would have had to drive across the bayou to get from the bar to her home. A tireless search . In mid-March, an independent search and rescue team from Texas volunteer to comb the lagoons and waterways. Family and friends of Monette put up a billboard in New Orleans and created a Facebook page, "We Love You Terrilynn Monette," to help generate tips in the search for her. The diver who found the car and body, Slidell Police Officer Mark Michaud, has been "working closely with the Monette family" because of his expertise in diving recoveries, police Detective Daniel Seuzeneau said. When Monette, of Long Beach, California, learned of the "teachNOLA" program, which sends educators to New Orleans to teach in impoverished areas, she packed her bags and headed to Louisiana. "I always wanted to be a teacher, and what better place to teach than New Orleans, where passionate teachers are needed most?" she said in a 2011 video obtained by CNN affiliate WDSU. In her first year of teaching second grade at Woodland West Elementary School, Monette turned one of the lowest-performing classes into one of the highest achieving. It earned her a "Teacher of the Year" nomination in her school district. CNN's Scott Thompson and Don Lemon contributed to this report.

Police have told Terrilynn Monette's mother they found the car and a body, she says . A police diver has found a car with a body inside believed to be Monette, police say . Monette, 26, was last seen March 2 leaving a New Orleans bar . She was celebrating with friends a "Teacher of the Year" nomination .

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World rugby chiefs must not abandon 'history and tradition' in favour of staging Six Nations matches in the USA, according to former Scotland captain Alastair Kellock. Glasgow lock Kellock captained the Barbarians to a thrilling 40-36 Twickenham defeat to Australia on Saturday, showing his Test class despite being overlooked for Scotland's autumn campaign. International Rugby Board chief executive Brett Gosper said he would welcome Six Nations action being staged in America, following the sell-out Chicago clash between New Zealand and the USA. Alastair Kellock (above) warned rugby bosses not to abandon the traditions of the game in taking it abroad . Kellock (left) was captain of the Barbarians in the 40-36 defeat to Australia at Twickenham on Saturday . After upholding long-standing rugby values as the Barbarians pushed Australia to the limit in London, Kellock warned against the sport making too many changes too soon owing to its growing financial benefits. 'The game is changing; it's becoming more commercial, which is a good thing,' Kellock told Press Association Sport. 'It's getting more viewers in from all over the world. 'The history and the tradition of playing Six Nations matches at the Millennium Stadium or playing at Murrayfield, to give just two examples, is also very strong. 'So whatever happens I'm lucky enough not to have to make those decisions! 'But we need to remember the history and tradition of our game, and that's what we showed at the weekend against Australia. IRB chief executive Brett Gosper (second left) suggested future six nations games could be held in the USA . Rugby's growth in the USA was underlined by New Zealand taking on the Eagles in Chicago on Saturday . 'I believe you've got to wait and see how the game with the All Blacks goes over there, the pick-up and the noise after it. 'And then it's important to drip-feed it. 'Let's not try and run and talk about Six Nations games over there until we've taken a few steps forward and talked about some more exhibition and friendly matches.' New Zealand dispatched the USA 74-6 at Chicago's Soldier Field on Saturday, the All Blacks stopping off en route to their northern hemisphere tour. The Kiwis took on the Eagles in America for the first time since 1980, underlining rugby's growth in the US, leading IRB boss Gosper to call for Six Nations chiefs to consider staging a match stateside. Sonny Bill Williams (left) in action for New Zealand as they beat the United States  74-6 in Chicago . New Zealand perform the Haka in front of a packed crowd at Chicago's Soldier Field stadium on Saturday . 'I know Premiership Rugby are talking about bringing some big club games to the States and why not some internationals like the Six Nations?' Gosper told the Daily Telegraph. 'If that fits in with the Six Nations' vision of their tournament that would be certainly interesting from a developmental point of view in the United States. 'It is up to the Six Nations as to where they want to play their games but again I think that would be a terrific thing for the game.' Kellock, meanwhile, hailed the All Blacks for helping the global game's growth, but reiterated his desire for caution on radical changes to tradition. 'It's brilliant the All Blacks went to America,' said Kellock. 'You want this great game to be seen by as many people as possible. Former Scotland captain Kellock was the first Scottish captain of the Barbarians in 21 years . Australia led the Barbarians by 18 points at one point on Saturday, before the margin was cut down to four . 'If we can take the game to places where it's not strong, and grow it, that's brilliant. 'But we still can't get ahead of ourselves with any of this.' Scotland's first Barbarians captain for 21 years said he was proud head coach John Kirwan's side did not fold under extreme Australia pressure on Saturday. 'I thought Australia were outstanding from 45 to 65 minutes,' he said. 'They claimed an 18-point lead but we whittled it back down to four and were in control at the end. 'Even though we lost we were over the moon with the performance and the attitude shown. 'To be asked to play was a huge honour, but to lead the team out was extremely special.'

International Rugby Board's Brett Gosper mentioned staging games in USA . Alastair Kellock worried rugby tradition would be lost for financial gain . Kellock captained Barbarians in 40-36 loss to Australia on Saturday .

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Sergey Gordeev was a straight A pupil but shot dead his teacher and a police officer at his school . A student gunman has killed a policeman and teacher after holding more than 20 students hostage in a school near Moscow. The 'straight-A' 16 year old Sergey Gordeev sparked a nationwide security alert amid initial fears his attack at his school near Moscow was a terrorist incident linked to the Winter Olympics which open on Friday. He held 24 pupils hostage for almost an hour, and gunned down his teacher Andrei Kirillov, a married father with two small children, apparently in revenge for unusually poor marks in geography or biology. He also shot and killed married policeman Sergei Bushuev, 38, as he fired a volley of 11 shots at officers surrounding the school. Special forces troops were used to detain him after his father urged him to put down his weapon. The armed pupil and teacher previously had a conflict over his marks. This could have prevented the boy leaving school with a 'gold' medal, say sources at the school. A dramatic text message from a girl in Gordeev's class to her mother during the terrifying siege read: 'A machine gun. We are at school. He is shooting. 'Mama, aaaa-aa-aa. Save me! Its not a joke. Mama. Its awful. He's gone mad. We are hostages on floor 1, room 2.' Gordeev earlier brandished two rifles to as he overpowered the security man at School Number 263 on the outskirts of Moscow in what was initially seen as a terrorist attack. Soon it became clear it was a disgruntled pupil who had seized his father's guns to gain revenge on his mild-mannered teacher. The rest of the school was evacuated as police ordered the boy's father to call him on his mobile and demand he spares his classmates' lives. One teenage girl said: 'He shot the teacher in the stomach. Then he wanted to make sure that he was dead, so he fired another 'insurance' shot to the head.' The father - believed to be a law enforcement officer - then donned a bullet-proof jacket and negotiated with his son the lay down the guns and surrender. The move was seen as saving Russia from a school massacre. Scroll down for video . Terrified: A girl is hugged by her relative as she is evacuated from her school north of Moscow . Evacuated: Pupils are escorted by a policeman out of their school north of Moscow . Children are evacuated out of the school north of Moscow where a student gunman opened fire . Andrei . Polipchuk, police spokesman, said: 'All the students are alive, nobody . is injured. The attacker is arrested, he is identified. 'He is a student of this very school.' Reports say the boy's father was involved in persuading him to give himself up and prevent a school massacre. 'The father of the boy immediately came to the school,' said a local official. A man stands near a window with bullet holes at a high school in Russia where a student killed a police officer and a teacher . A security service member uses a metal detector near the building of a high school where a student shot his teacher and police officer . A man films on a camera as he stands near a window with bullet holes at the school north of Moscow . Pupils leave their school after a fellow student shot a policeman and teacher dead this morning . Safe: Pupils are led out of the school where a 16-year-old boy shot dead a policeman and teacher . Police gather outside the school north of Moscow where a student went on the rampage with a rifle shooting dead a policeman and teacher . Pictured: The hostage-taker has been named as Sergey Gordeev (pictured) who was a student at the school . A gunman is believed to have shot and killed a police officer and teacher at this school in Moscow . Police outside the school in Moscow where a gunman took a class of children hostage . 'Sergei Gordeyev was a straight-A student,' said a spokesman for the Investigative Committee, equivalent of the FBI. 'It appears that he had an emotional breakdown.' Fellow students said he accused the teacher of giving him low marks so threatening his chance to get a 'gold medal' for academic performance. 'He persuaded the boy to put down his arms and to let the children go.' Psychologists are now working with the released children. The dead policeman was named as Sergei Bushuev. He died in an ambulance at the scene. A second wounded officer was rushed to Sklifosovsky hospital in Moscow. Ambulances and police are waiting outside the school on the outskirts of Moscow . Another policeman was shot and injured. 'The person who took 20 people and a teacher hostage is a student in the upper classes at the same school. 'He has been neutralised and all the students have been freed,' Interior Ministry spokesman Andrei Pilipchuk said on state TV. 'One . policeman was fatally wounded during the operation and died in hospital . and a teacher at School No. 263 was also killed,' he said. The shooting sent dozens of students scurrying out the school while a police helicopter landed in a snow-covered field outside. It . came with Russia in the global spotlight four days before it hosts the . 2014 Winter Olympics in the Black Sea resort city of Sochi. A woman and child walk outside the school where a teacher and police officer were shot by an armed student . Police officers enter a Moscow school with a teacher where two people were killed by a student this morning .

Pupil held students and a teacher hostage in a biology classroom . He was detained after killing a policeman and teacher . The hostage-taker named as Sergey Gordeev, believed to be 16 . Believed the pupil and teacher previously had a conflict over his marks .

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By . Damien Gayle . PUBLISHED: . 13:03 EST, 27 December 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 04:23 EST, 28 December 2012 . A forest-owning German aristocrat is to reintroduce bison into the wild in Western Europe for the first time in over 250 years. Prince Richard of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg is set to introduce a herd of eight European bison to his 32,124-acre forest in North Rhine-Westphalia. If the 79-year-old prince's plan works, Germany will be the first country west of Poland where animals, also known as wisent, will live in the wild once again. Massive: European bison, also known as wisent, stand up to 6.5ft tall and can weigh up to a ton. Now a German aristocrat has hatched an audacious plan to reintroduce them to the wild on his country estate . However, there are fears the reintroduction of the wild, giant animals, which grow up to 6.5ft tall and weigh up to a ton, will scare away tourists and pose a hazard to hikers. Nearly a decade in gestation, Prince Richard's plan is set to enter its critical phase after he was given final approval from the state Environment Ministry in Dusseldorf just before Christmas, Der Spiegel reports. His 50sq/mile estate - roughly half the size of Manhattan - surrounds the city of Bad Berleburg and extends across many of the foothills of the Rothaar Mountains. It is already home to about 300 wild sheep, 400 red deer, 600 wild boar and so many roe deer his seven groundsmen have given up trying to count them. A wisent calf eats a carrot: Prince Richard of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg is set to introduce a herd to his forest in North Rhine-Westphalia . Now over the next few days workers will drive into Prince Richard's forest and take down the fence around an enclosure where his eight bison have been acclimatising to the environment since 2010. Once that is done, the enormous bull, five cows and two calves will be free to roam. They will be the first of their species to wander wild in Germany since 1746. But questions have been raised about the possible impact of the mammoth creatures. They will roam wherever the leader takes them, even along major roads and through nearby villages. Officials and residents of Bad Berleburg, a city of some 20,000 people, have been largely in support of the plan, which they hope will bring tourists back following the decline of the German health spa industry. European bison were hunted to extinction in the wild in Western Europe centuries ago, but they lived on in Eastern Europe until a poacher killed the last wild specimen in the Caucasus in 1927. That would have been the end of this close relative of the more famous American bison, which is roughly as big, if it wasn't for the few animals that survived in zoos. All of the roughly 3,000 wisents alive today are the descendants of only about a dozen original animals. However, residents of the High Sauerland region, just on the other side of the Rothaar Mountains, fear that the animals could wreck tourism, damage forests, and even interbreed with dairy herds. Despite the backing of such an august individual as Prince Richard, the plan also met with scepticism from officialdom, with the state Environment Ministry putting together a long list of concerns that took scientists from four universities more than four years to answer. Forestry economists eventually agreed that the bison herd could even be useful to forests, since they would keep ecologically valuable areas free from undergrowth - a task currently performed by forest workers. And a doctoral candidate at the University of Siegen, Philip Schmitz, conducted a study which finally showed the flighty bison, despite their imposing size, posed little threat to humans. After enlisting volunteers to approach the animals, he found they were far more likely to simply run away than make an attempt to charge people walking across their territory. This map shows the location of Schmallenburg and the forest where the bison will be set loose . The wisents of Bad Berleburg will never become a truly wild herd, because their numbers are too small, nevertheless this is the first time since 1746 that wisent will roam unchecked through a German forest. Because their numbers are small, they will only stand a chance of survival if humans intervene carefully in their lives. Rigorous family planning will be needed, because inbreeding will result if fresh genes are not introduced. The leaders of the herd will also be tracked via GPS transmitters to limit their territory to roughly 40sq/km - about a third of Prince Richard's estate. Their winter feeding area, where they are supplied silage by forestry workers, will serve as their home and they are not expected to stray far since, as the prince says, 'they're incredibly lazy animals'.

German aristocrat to reintroduce herd of eight to his private forest . They will be the first to wander in the wild in Germany since 1746 .

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By . Alasdair Glennie . PUBLISHED: . 20:48 EST, 18 February 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 06:37 EST, 26 February 2013 . The few BBC presenters who did make it to work yesterday found themselves running a vicious Twitter gauntlet. Dozens of militant unionists organised a ‘scabwatch’ to hurl abuse at those who chose not to strike. Lucy Hockings was targeted for doing a live piece to camera, while presenter Jon Sopel and deputy political editor James Landale were slated for reporting live on the Prime Minister’s trip to Mumbai. Even weather presenter Carol Kirkwood fell foul of the tweets. Strike action: BBC staff in Birmingham on the picket line outside BBC Birmingham in The Mailbox . Under fire: Deputy political editor James Landale, left, and even weather presenter Carol Kirkwood, right, fell foul of the tweets . The NUJ action meant viewers expecting to watch Bill Turnbull and Susanna Reid on BBC Breakfast were greeted by Gavin Grey instead. The freelance journalist presented a short news summary between repeats of daytime shows and bulletins on BBC1 at regular intervals throughout the day. A former regional ITV presenter, Mr Grey was used as a back-up newsreader in a 2010 BBC strike. This time he found himself targeted by angry unionists who subjected him to a torrent of online abuse. Peter Middleman, the north-west secretary of the Public and Commercial Services Union, wrote: ‘Only a special breed of scab would do it on live TV. Step forward Gavin Grey, grabbing 30 pieces of silver.’ Donnacha DeLong, who describes himself as an ‘anarchist, NUJ activist, freelance journalist, social media journalist and new media consultant’ added: ‘Gavin Grey – scabbing again #bbcstrike #NUJ.’ Later in the day he tweeted a direct message of support to Newsnight economics editor Paul Mason – also on the picket line – saying: ‘Solidarity forever.’ Guy Walters added: ‘Gavin Grey, the newsreader the BBC use when there’s a strike. He’s probably the only Tory in the entire corporation.’ Daniel Giblin – who describes himself online as a ‘part time freedom fighter’ – wrote: ‘Carol Kirkwood breaks the strike again! Live on tv for all to see #turnitoff.’ However, one rarely-seen presenter did surprisingly well out of the strikes. Ghanaian Komla Dumor, 40, usually presents on BBC World Service radio programmes, as well as BBC World News on TV. He received a warm welcome from UK viewers when he was drafted into the BBC News Channel. Andrew Pelling said: ‘Komla Dumor is great. Please let’s have him on @BBCNewsnight.’ Another, called Marianne, said: ‘I like this Komla Dumor newscaster on #bbcnews atm.’ A third user wrote: ‘I do enjoy all the new faces on a BBC strike day.’

Dozens of unionists organised a 'scabwatch' and abused non-strikers . Repeats replaced some shows cancelled due to the strike . The action was called by the NUJ in protest at compulsory redundancies .

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Sound of music: Actor Billy 22, can now hear 'the smallest noises' after implant . A revolutionary magnetic implant has restored the hearing of a young actor who went deaf in one ear at the age of 17 – and gives new hope to the thousands of Britons who cannot benefit from traditional hearing aids. Aspiring TV and theatre star Billy Coughlin, 22, from Hall Green, Birmingham, had the groundbreaking procedure at Heartlands Hospital, Birmingham, in March and says: ‘I can now hear the smallest noises, like footsteps. ‘It sounds silly but these are things I’ve not been able to hear for five  or six years. I finally feel I’m my normal self again.’ The new device is the bone anchored hearing aid (BAHA) Attract, and it replaces the older version of the BAHA. While the traditional implant uses a metal screw that is embedded in the patient’s head and channels  vibrations to the inner ear, the Attract involves a small magnetic disc being inserted beneath the  skin behind the ear. This allows an electronic sound processor – the size of the bluetooth hands-free mobile phone earpiece – to be attached or removed as needed. When the receiver is not worn, the implant is completely invisible. Billy lost most of the hearing in  his left ear after developing an infection of the inner ear bones called mastoiditis. He has full hearing in his right ear. After struggling with his hearing, he was referred to surgeon Matthew Trotter at the hospital’s ENT clinic earlier this year. Billy trialled the device using a headband to attach it behind the  ear. Then, a month after surgery to implant the magnetic disc, a sound receiver was fitted, giving him full hearing again. Mr Trotter explains: ‘How we treat hearing loss depends on the physical cause of the problem. ‘BAHAs are suitable for patients who have problems with the outer and middle parts of the ear, usually due to infections or previous surgery. In these people, using a normal hearing aid in the ear canal won’t help because the transmitted sounds won’t reach the inner ear. ‘It’s important to note these are  not cochlear implants, which are  for yet another group of patients  – those with hearing loss due to problem in the inner ear. ‘BAHAs basically involve a titanium alloy peg being screwed into the skull behind the ear, so part of it pokes through the skin. In a similar way to a dental implant, the surrounding bone integrates with the screw, making it very secure and not removable. ‘The screw transmits sounds picked up by the receiver directly into the inner ear, bypassing the outer parts. But patients are left with a metal screw sticking out  of the head behind the ear, which is visible when the receiver is removed – to swim, for instance. ‘This alone puts many off, but  it also takes a lot of care and special cleaning on a daily basis to avoid infection. ‘The great thing about this new implant is there is no screw poking out. The receiver attaches to a small magnet under the skin so when  it’s removed, the head looks completely normal.’ The implant is attached during a 40-minute procedure under general anaesthetic. The surgeon cuts a 2in semi-circular flap behind the ear and the implant is drilled about half an inch into the bone beneath. The magnet is attached to the screw and the flap is the stitched back into place. Mr Trotter adds: ‘The skin heals in a fortnight, and the bone knits with the screw within a month. At this point it is stable, and we give the patient their receiver.’ Approximately 1,500 patients  with hearing loss who will potentially benefit from a bone-anchored hearing aid are diagnosed each year in the UK. Up to half of these could benefit from the Attract device. Mr Trotter hopes the Attract will be adopted throughout the NHS. He says: ‘Not every case is suitable due to the subtle differences in the causes of hearing loss, but it’s worth discussing the option of the Attract with your consultant should you be referred for a BAHA.’ Billy, who has had roles in Doctors on BBC1 and ITVs Peak Practice, had been offered an old-style BAHA but turned it down as he felt a visible screw would affect his chances of success at auditions. He says: ‘After the operation there was a bit of pain but I only needed a couple of paracetamol. ‘The moment they switched it on was a shock. Being able to hear  everything perfectly was distracting at first. But now when I take it off, it’s as if someone has stuck  cotton wool in my ear. Having it on feels normal.’

Billy Coughlin has had his hearing restored thanks to implant . The 22-year-old aspiring actor has been deaf in one ear since 17 . The new bone anchored magnetic implant is inserted beneath skin . An electronic sound processor can then be be attached when needed .

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(CNN) -- It's no bloody, foot-stomping battle to the death, but a legal fight befitting a mighty dinosaur is playing out on two continents as Mongolia's president tries to block the sale of a nearly complete skeleton of a 24-foot-long dinosaur that roamed Central Asia 80 million years ago. Despite a Texas judge's order barring the sale at the behest of Mongolian President Elbegdorj Tsakhia, a Dallas-based auction house on Sunday unloaded the rare skeleton of a Tarbosaurus bataar -- also known as Tyrannosaurus bataar -- to an undisclosed buyer for $1,052,500 at an auction in New York. An attorney for Mongolia tried to stop the sale, standing up and waving a cell phone with the Texas judge waiting on the other side, but auction officials declined to stop the sale and escorted the lawyer outside. "This is a once-in-a-generation dinosaur and collectors definitely responded to both its rarity and its fierce beauty," David Herskowitz of Heritage Auctions said in a statement after the sale. "A dino like this is rare to come across in any condition, let alone one as pristine as this." The dispute is the latest in a series of battles between national governments and private collectors over cultural artifacts, including rare fossils. Governments such as Mongolia's are concerned about maintaining control over fossil and cultural relics while scientists worry about such items disappearing into private collections. "At stake are the heritage, history and culture of a sovereign nation," attorneys for Tsakhia said in a filing asking for the restraining order. Tsakhia had sought to stop the auction, saying it would be illegal to sell the fossil if it had been recovered from his country. While Heritage Auctions didn't say where the fossil had been unearthed, paleontologist Lawrence Witmer of Ohio University said it is almost certainly Mongolian. Most if not all of the examples of the species recovered so far have come from a single geological formation in Mongolia called the Nemegt Formation. "From what any of us can tell from the photographs on the auction site, the specimen is a typical Nemegt Tarbosaurus from Mongolia," he said. Although Heritage Auctions went ahead with the sale, it is describing it as contingent on a resolution of the Texas court case. "We respect the various opinions on the subject and wish to protect the legal rights of all parties involved," Heritage Auctions President Greg Rohan said in a statement Sunday. "We have legal assurances from our reputable consignors that the specimen was obtained legally. As far as we know, the Mongolian government has not produced any evidence that the piece originated in its territory, but the final determination will be up to the American legal system," he said. In legal filings, Tsakhia's attorneys cited media reports in which Herskowitz was quoted as saying the skeleton had been recovered in the Gobi Desert, a part of which lies within Mongolia. The filing also cited dinosaur experts who believe the specimen, which is 75% complete, probably came from Mongolia. It had been stored in England until it was brought to the United States last year, according to Heritage Auctions. Tarbosaurus bataar was similar to, but slightly smaller than, the better-known Tyrannosaurus rex. Like its North American counterpart, the dinosaur was a dominant carnivore that lived in the Cretaceous period. While the auction house referred to it as a Tyrannosaurus, most scientists consider the name Tarbosaurus to now be correct, Witmer said. While separate species, the two were "very closely related," he said. Many paleontologists disapprove of the sale of fossils, saying museums are often unable to afford the frequently high prices at auction, according to the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. The group also says that placing important specimens in private collections beyond the reach of researchers and the public could harm scientific inquiry and dampen the enthusiasm of children to pursue careers in science.

NEW: Auctioned fossil is almost certainly from Mongolia, paleontologist says . Sunday's $1 million sale of a Tarbosaurus bataar skeleton is contingent on court case . Mongolia's president says selling his country's fossils is illegal . Sales of fossils, other relics have long been controversial .

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By . Eddie Wrenn and David Wilkes . PUBLISHED: . 08:37 EST, 8 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 13:55 EST, 2 January 2013 . At first, the funeral procession looks like that of any other much-loved relative, adorned with flower arrangements spelling out 'dad' and 'uncle'. But the final one gives some hint that this is not a usual funeral: for the '240DC' is believed to be a knowing wink to notorious London gangster Charlie Richardson's favoured method of torture - electrocuting the bodies of those who had crossed him. Many gangsters from the past reared their heads to pay their respects to the man who was once one of the most feared criminals in the capital, whose empire embraced fraud, gambling, protection . rackets - and torture. Put to rest: Charlie was the leader of the Richardson gang (also known as the Torture gang) from Camberwell . Torture reference: The funeral cortege arrives at Honor Oak Crematorium in south London today . Gangster: 'Mad' Frankie Fraser, 88 (middle) - who has spent 42 years of his life in jail, has been certified insane three times, and was a feared member of the Richardson gang, Sixties rivals of the Krays - attends the funeral . 'Mad' Frankie Fraser, Kray associate Chris Lambrianou, and Charlie's brother Eddie Richardson were seen, along with many 'of the great and the good' of the 1960s. Mad Frankie, so-called for his preference for pulling teeth with pliers, made his way into the Camberwell New Cemetery. Chris Lambrianou, convicted for his involvement of the 1967 murder of Jack ‘The Hat’ McVitie, also came to pay his respects. Lambrianoi was convicted for his role . in disposing of the body, spending more than 15 years in prison and . finding God while he was inside. Eddie Richardson was there - but witnesses say he did not enter the church. The brothers are believed to have . fallen out several years ago over money, and Eddie said he had not . spoken to his brother since then. Also there: Frankie Frasier (left) and reformed Krays associate Chris Lambrianou (right) - convicted of murder in 1967 - both attended the service . Mourning: Charlie's brother Eddie Richardson (right) in attendance, although sources say he did not enter the church. Another unidentified guest is pictured (left) Funeral: The tributes left at the graveside following the burial of Charlie Richardson . Also present was Charlie's wife Ronnie, . wrapped in a fur-lined shawl, watching as the procession made its way to . the cemetery, guided by the same funeral director who presided over . Jade Goody's funeral in 2009. Charlie Richardson died last month - . the 78-year-old heavy smoker finally succumbing to blood poisoning . following gall bladder complaints. His funeral procession, bedecked in flowers as it slowly drove down the A20, remembered him as a 'dad', and an 'uncle'. But the legends that surround him paint a very different picture. He was arrested on . the day England won the World Cup in 1966. His trial heard he was . alleged to have used iron bars, pliers and electrodes on anyone who . crossed him. Notoriety: Richardson, pictured in 2007, was thought to have earned millions through his notorious gang's operations but left an estate worth just £21,000 . The . Camberwell-born crime lord was found guilty of fraud, extortion, assault . and grievous bodily harm, and was jailed for 25 years. Together with his brother Eddie, he was as infamous as Ronnie and Reggie Kray and ‘Mad’ Frankie Fraser. Known . as the ‘Torture Gang’, their trademark was pinning victims to the floor . with six-inch nails and removing their fingers and toes with bolt . cutters. The Richardson Gang . were also known for torturing enemies at their scrap metal yard by . attaching electrodes to their nipples and genitals and delivering . electric shocks, having already placed them in baths of water to make . the electricity more potent. The . gang would frequently carry out mock trials for victims, before . administering punishments including whippings, cigarette burning and . teeth being pulled out by gang member 'Mad' Frankie Fraser. They were then made to clean up their own blood. The . brutal method of trial by kangaroo court and subsequent torture was . said to be known as 'taking a shirt from Charlie', as Richardson would . often give victims a clean shirt in which to return home afterwards. The coffin was carried into the chapel to the strains of Stand by Me by Ben E King. The service included a poem by his second wife, Ronnie, which said: ‘Many have judged him over the years, some good, some bad and said they feared. ‘But they never knew this incredible man. A legend, a father – not gangland!’ Mourners left the chapel to the sound of My Way by Frank Sinatra. Afterwards, one said: ‘There’s not many of them left now. The Krays are dead and now Charlie. Frankie’s about the only one still going. It’s a changing world.’ Following his release from prison in 1984, Richardson sought to become a legitimate businessman, wrote his autobiography My Manor and had a cameo in a film of his life. Pallbearers, believed to be Charlie's grandsons, carry the coffin into the church in New Camberwell . A pallbearer carries a portrait of Charlie into the church while (right) Charlie's wife Ronnie watches procedings . In loving memory: The programme carried the phrase - 'In celebration of Charlie's life looking back in gratitude and love' Charlie . was two years older than his brother Eddie and six years older than . their youngest sibling, Alan. He and Eddie turned to a life of crime when the departure . of their father left their family penniless. Eddie Richardson, speaking just after . his brother's death, said: ‘I haven’t spoken to him in years so I am . not the best person to . speak to about his death. But he will be missed by his six children. ‘I can’t say he was a good father, but he was a father. He leaves a big family behind him. ‘Members of his family were with him in hospital. I’m sure they will be upset and disappointed, losing a dad is difficult.' ‘I lost count of how many grandchildren he had. ‘It . came as a surprise to some, but not to me. He had been ill for years . and has suffered with breathing problems – emphysema – for a long time . due to smoking.' He also refused to get medical treatment for his stomach pain . because he was scared of doctors, despite suffering in agony for weeks. His . close friend David Fraser, son of Richardson Gang enforcer “Mad” Frankie Fraser, said: 'He kept putting off going to the doctors. 'When he finally went, he was admitted to hospital and never came out.' Tribute: A floral tribute to the former gangster pictured in one of the hearses used in his funeral procession . Mourning: Pallbearers take Richardson's coffin in to the South London church for the start of his funeral ceremony . He died in the arms of his wife, Ronnie. Mr . Fraser, who spent time in prison with the ex-gang leader, added that . his death came as a shock as he had been expecting to meet him for lunch . this week. 'He was in pain for a few weeks. Ronnie kept saying: "You have got to go to the doctor," but he was a typical man.' Farewell to a gangster: Last minute preparations are made to the vehicles before the procession sets off . Crime lords: Charlie Richardson (left) and brother Eddie's trademark was said to be nailing victims to the floor before removing their toes with bolt cutters . Renowned: Charlie Richardson (2nd right) along with brother Eddie (3rd right, holding face) dabbled in torture, protection and drug dealing in the 60s . Richardson always insisted the torture stories were just a myth and were simply used to help convict his gang. He . added: ‘If you can find anyone who says they got nailed to the floor by . us or got their toes cut off I will give you £10,000 for each one. 'We were fitted up. I never touched a single toe. I did 18 years for nothing.’ The . Richardsons, along with 'Mad' Frankie Fraser and George Cornell, were . the main rivals of twin brothers Ronald "Ronnie" Kray and Reginald . "Reggie" Kray during the 1950s and '60s. The . two rival sets of brothers controlled London, operating through armed . robberies, arson, protection rackets, assaults and torture, with the . Krays based in East London and the Richardson gang from South London, . also entrenched in the West End. Their turf war began after a brawl during a Christmas party at the Astor Club in December 1965. It . was here that George Cornell, insulted Ronnie Kray, calling him a ‘fat . poof’ after first meeting the Krays while in Shepton Mallet Prison. Shortly . after the incident Cornell was seen walking down Whitechapel Road . shouting: 'Where's that fat w*****?' referring to Ronnie Kray. Ronnie Kray showed up at the Blind beggar pub where Cornell was drinking, and shot Cornell through the head at close range. In . March 1966 a gun battle took place in a club called Mr Smiths in Rushey . Green with the Richardson gang going there with the intentions of . wiping out the Krays. However . there was only one member of the Kray gang present. He was shot dead. Frankie Fraser , a good friend of the Richardsons was shot in the hip . and Eddie was shot in the backside. They . were taken to hospital and on their release they were charged with . affray and sentenced to 5 years in prison. Frankie Fraser was originally . charged with the murder of Dickie Hart but was found not guilty. Other . notable characters in the Richardson gang included the notorious hit . man Jimmy Moody, Roy Hall (who operated the electric generator), Albert . Longman, and Tommy Clark. Moody . was the main enforcer for the Richardsons, but also did 'freelance . work' for the Krays and became one of the most feared criminals to . emerge from the London underworld. A . further member of the gang, Harry Beard, is known for frequently . urinating on a collector of protection money, who was twice warned by . the Richardsons after he pocketed the money.Another . infamous killing at the time was that of Jack "The Hat" McVitie, a . minor member of the Kray’s gang, killed by Reggie Kray, in a move that . eventually led to their convictions.

Charlie Richardson died in September aged 78 following a gall bladder complaint . Gangland names from 1960s - 'Mad' Frankie Fraser, Chris Lambrianou, Eddie Richardson - turn out to pay their respects . Flowers on the vehicles spell out 'Dad' and 'Uncle' '240DC' is said to be a chilling reference to Charlie's preferred torture method: electricity .

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Craig Whyte is facing jail after a second warrant for the arrest of the former Rangers owner was issued by a High Court judge. The businessman, already wanted by Police Scotland for questioning concerning his 2011 takeover of the club, was due to appear at the Royal Courts of Justice in London where Ticketus are pursuing a separate action over his role in the Ibrox meltdown. Mr Justice Newey charged Whyte with contempt of court after he failed to appear for the hearing – with a custodial order of 28 days attached to the warrant. Craig Whyte (centre) is facing jail after a High Court judge issued an arrest warrant for him . Earlier this week the Motherwell-born financier vowed to surrender to police and assist officers investigating the Rangers takeover, saying: ‘I will return to Britain at the beginning of December and hand myself in for questioning.’ If he does come back, Whyte will now be arrested and faces a potential four-week custodial sentence. Following the hearing a spokeswoman for Ticketus said: ‘Today’s court hearing is part of Ticketus’ continued activity to enforce its judgement of April 2013 for damages of £17.7million plus interest and costs against Craig Whyte as it looks to recover funds for its investors. ‘This reflects the total amount Ticketus invested through the ticket purchase agreement it entered into with Rangers Football Club under Craig Whyte’s ownership. Whyte watching Rangers play at Ibrox in 2011 and (right) meeting fans before a game . Whyte was due in court as part of Ticketus' damages case against the former Rangers owner . ‘Ticketus confirms that the court today issued a warrant for Craig Whyte’s arrest, having previously issued a suspended committal order on 29 September returnable today after finding Craig Whyte to be guilty of contempt of court.’ The warrant is separate to that issued last week in relation to Whyte’s takeover of Rangers. Four other men – three of whom worked for the club’s administrators Duff and Phelps - appeared in court this week over the allegedly fraudulent takeover. All four were granted bail ahead of a future hearing. Meanwhile, the war of words between Rangers Football Board chairman Sandy Easdale and former director Dave King continued on Thursday. King claims Easdale sought assurances he wouldn’t be forced out of Ibrox if the South African-based businessman’s consortium gained power last month. ‘The truth is, when I spoke to Sandy on my recent trip to Scotland his main concern was whether, after investment by our consortium, he would still be able to stay involved with the club,’ claimed King. Controversial billionaire Mike Ashley has shown a strong interest in taking over the Ibrox club . ‘He indicated that Mike Ashley would look after him if he assisted Ashley in protecting his commercial rights. ‘The new investment proposed by Paul (Murray), George (Letham) and I was seen as a threat to Sports Direct’s desire to extend its influence over the Rangers brand in all its forms. ‘After discussions with Paul and George I confirmed by email to Sandy that we had no immediate intention to remove him or his brother from board involvement at Rangers. ‘This concession was clearly not enough to gain his support and the board approved the inferior offer presented by Ashley. ‘Furthermore, in my meeting with the Rangers board, I confirmed that I could give proof of funds within 24 hours of the board accepting our proposal in principle. I was never asked to do this.’ Whyte has said that he will return to Britain in early December and hand himself over to the authorities . Easdale, who claimed on Wednesday he was ‘tired of Mr King’s antics’, refuted that claim through a statement from spokesman Jack Irvine which read: ‘There has been no discussion between Mr Easdale with Mr King on the matters mentioned in his latest statement. ‘If Mr King has any proof of such a conversation and when and where they took place he should produce it. ‘If he is suggesting any improper conduct or motive he should make his position clear. ‘Anybody who knows Mr Easdale would find it risible that he would have adopted such a subservient tone with Mr King.’ Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Craig Whyte was due to appear in Royal Courts of Justice in London . He was charged with contempt of court after failing to appear . An arrest warrant has been issued by the High Court judge . Whyte said he will return to Britain at the beginning of December .

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LONDON, England (CNN) -- Part-nationalized British banking group RBS announced massive losses for 2008, totaling £24.1 billion ($34.7 billion) on Thursday. The results are the worst in British corporate history. RBS's loss exceeded the previous record set by Vodafone in 2006 by more than £10 million ($14.2 million). "Last year was undeniably tough and a worsening economic environment means that 2009 will present significant challenges in all of our markets," said Philip Hampton, RBS chairman. "The path to recovery will be neither smooth nor straight." The results were not quite as bad as had been expected, said CNN business anchor Charles Hodson, and they caused RBS shares to rise 25.5 percent by close of play Thursday. "This is a watershed," Hodson said. "RBS hopes this is a positive turning point ... that now this is where the recovery begins, with the old regime being laid to rest." Watch as CNN's Charles Hodson analyses RBS results » . Hodson added: "RBS will hope this is as bad as it gets. But there's a body of thought that says it's badly positioned." The 2008 financial report from RBS includes a three- to five-year restructuring plan that will focus the group's business in the United Kingdom, with more limited global operations. The plan includes changes in management, isolation of toxic assets, and selling or closing "non-core" businesses. Last October, RBS was one of three major banks the British Treasury pumped $63 billion into to keep liquid. The other two financial institutions were HBOS and Lloyds TSB. The bailout saw the government take a 70 percent stake in RBS, making the government the bank's largest shareholder and effectively nationalizing the company. "We have moved purposefully to take major decisions that are necessary to restructure the group," said Stephen Hester, RBS group chief executive. "We are charting a path to standalone strength and with it the goal of justifying the support of the UK government and all our shareholders." In January, the government announced the Asset Protection Scheme -- an effort to help British banks caught up in the global financial crisis. The Treasury revealed details of the plan Thursday. The plan has a number of facets benefiting the bank and the government. Under the plan, the British government will insure £325 billion in RBS assets. RBS must pay a "participation fee" of £6.5 billion to the Treasury and bear 19.5 billion of any loss -- a sort of deductible. In addition, RBS will promise to lend £25 billion this year -- £9 billion for mortgage lending and £16 billion to businesses. That commitment is key for the government, which has been urging banks to increase lending. The government will also inject an extra £13 billion in capital -- a move that will raise the government's stake in RBS to 80 percent. RBS must now start restructuring and cutting costs, and layoffs are likely. "We're going to see a much slimmer bank, a much smaller balance sheet, several billion dollars' worth of costs taken out, and hopefully that will guarantee them a future," Hodson said. The Royal Bank of Scotland is one of Britain's oldest banks. It was founded in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1727 and branched out to England in 1874. After winning a takeover battle for British bank NatWest in 2000, RBS set its sights on Dutch bank ABN-AMRO. Two years ago, RBS bought ABN-AMRO as part of a consortium with Santander and Fortis, paying $15 billion for its share out of a total of $75 billion. ABN-AMRO was the source of big write-downs for RBS, leading to the government bailout in October. Former RBS Chairman Tom McKillop recently admitted publicly that buying ABN-AMRO was a mistake. Earlier this month, former RBS Chief Executive Fred Goodwin told members of the British Parliament he was sorry for the bank's part in the global financial crisis. Watch consternation at Goodwin's £16 million pension » . "There is a profound, unqualified apology for all of the stress that has been caused," Goodwin said. But he said the troubles at the bank were not all due to him. "It's just too simple if you want to blame it all on me," Goodwin said. "If you want to blame it all on me and close the book now, that'll get the job done very quickly, but it does not go anywhere close to the cause of all of this." Goodwin, 50, faced scrutiny Thursday over his annual pension of 650,000 pounds ($933,000) following RBS's announcement. British Chancellor of the Exchequer Alistair Darling urged Goodwin to give up his pension, telling the BBC that "these excesses" cannot be justified.

British banking group RBS posts huge losses for 2008, totaling $34.7 billion . Results are worst in British corporate history . RBS was one of three major banks British Treasury pumped $63 billion into .

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By . Associated Press . A TV producer is seeking teenagers as young as 13 who like to make their own rules and 'party like a rock star' to participate in a reality television series about their lives. A Los Angeles-based casting company, Metal Flowers Media, placed a notice about the series 'My Teen Life' in Backstage, a publication widely followed by entertainment professionals for job leads. The company said producers of 'The Real Housewives of New York City' are looking for boys and girls ages 13 to 18 to cast. 'Parents, teachers and the haters are always in your business, but it's your life and you live it how you want to,' the ad said. 'If you're a modern-day teenage rebel with a hardcore lifestyle, we want to hear your story.' Wild: A television producer is seeking young teens who have a wild lifestyle and do what they want for a show similar to Buckwild (pictured). Psychologists called the show 'a poor idea' The casting notice had an advertisement attached that includes this message: '(expletive) parents. They're old and don't know (expletive). It's 4:20 and time for your friend Molly to tell your story.' Molly is the name of a synthetic drug popular with many young fans of electronic dance music. An employee at Metal Flowers Media said last Friday the company had wrapped casting for the proposed series. Ad for 'My Teen Life' The person, . who declined to give her name, said Metal Flowers isn't involved with . the show's production and the project now was out of the casting . company's hands. She didn't provide casting details and she didn't know the production company behind the idea. Metal Flowers isn't customarily informed if a pilot it has cast is picked up as a series and was unaware of its status, she said. There is no . such series in the works at Shed Media US, which produces 'The Real . Housewives of New York City,' said Jon Marcus, the company's senior vice . president of development. It's possible that someone who once worked at 'Real Housewives' is involved, but he said he was unaware of the project. New show: The producers of 'The Real Housewives of New York City' (the cast is pictured) are looking for boys and girls ages 13 to 18 to cast for the new show, 'My Teen Life', according to an ad . Shed has . produced a range of unscripted series including 'Hollywood Exes' and . 'Basketball Wives' on VH1, 'SuperNanny' on ABC and 'Bethenny Ever After' on Bravo. Posting: The ad appeared in Backstage, which gives entertainment industry job leads . Similarly, the Metal Flowers Media . website lists more than 100 programs that it has helped find . participants, including 'Naked & Afraid' on Discovery, 'Top Guns' on . History, '1000 Ways to Die' on Spike and 'Storage Wars' on A&E. Bravo said it hasn't commissioned 'My Teen Life' or any series like it. There's certainly a market for television about young people behaving badly, as MTV learned with the success of 'Buckwild,' a series about hard-living West Virginia residents that ended abruptly last year following the death of a cast member. 'I think parents will be incensed at this kind of thing,' said Stanley Goldstein, a psychologist from Middletown, New York, and author of 'Troubled Children/Troubled Parents: The Way Out'. Many young people - and perhaps their parents - would not have the insight to understand what being put in such a television spotlight could mean for their lives, he said. Producers would at least face questions about a series if it glamorizes drug and alcohol use by underage participants. It sounds like producers are setting themselves up for a lawsuit, Goldstein said. 'It's a poor idea,' he said. 'It doesn't show great sophistication. But then again, a lot of television doesn't.'

LA casting company placed an ad in Backstage magazine asking for boys and girls aged 13 to 18 to apply to the show, 'My Teen Life' It asked for 'modern-day teenage rebel[s] with a hardcore lifestyle'

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Thousands of amateur and professional photographers slipped into their wetsuits and came face-to-face with extreme danger in the pursuit of the best underwater photograph of the year. From an open-mouthed shark to the wreckage of a ship, the spectacular photographs taken from the depths of the sea baffle the imagination and show nature at its most spectacular. Jaws: Sam Cahir won first prize in the wide angle category with this spectacular image of the moment a mako shark opens its jaws and swims towards his camera off the coast of Australia . Best in Show: This unusual look at nature was selected as the best photograph in any category. Hamid Rad took the image looking at the sky in New Guinea . Golden seabed: Thousands of entries mean the competition boasts a spectacular range of photographs. Here, a cloud of tadpoles float in the golden Campbell River in British Columbia, Canada . Graceful: This group of mantra rays were captured in a peaceful moment by an amateur photographer. Some of the winning entries include human subjects, such as the diver who is following in their path . Hamid Rad won best in show with his . portrait of a fish-eye view of the world. The picture, taken in New . Guinea, won the reefscapes category and was selected as the best overall . shot in this year's competition. Thousands . of photographers from 15 countries entered into the seven categories- . compact cameras, divers, animal portraits, animal behaviour, reefscapes, . surfs and sharks. 15 per . cent of proceeds from the entries are donated to marine conservation . projects. More than £50,000 worth of prizes have been awarded to group . finalists and winners. The . competition, in its seventh year, is part of a series of underwater . imaging events and has become one of the biggest and most prestigious in . the world. Whirlpool: A diver on the seabed in Cabo, New Mexico, works next to a huge shoal of fish who swirl around each other . Swimming with sharks: You could be forgiven for thinking this image was photoshopped. A model darts through the water with a white shark n the Philippines . Technicolor: In contrast to many of the moody pictures, this atmospheric scene shows the colour of sea creatures to their fullest . Backdrop: The dramatic surroundings in these pictures make the subject stand out. Thousands of small fish make way for a larger species (left), while a shipwreck in Eliat, Israel, plays second fiddle to a seahorse . Taking the plunge: The winning picture in the surf category was taken in New South Wales . Lone diver: This finalist in the divers category shows the brilliant blue of the clear Tenerife sea . Deep blue sea: Photographs in the animal portrait category show underwater creatures in great detail . Spectacular reef: A wave breaking in the Red Sea makes for a jaw dropping backdrop to the stunning coral reef . Close up: From the bulbous eyes of this tiny goby fish to its fluorescent lips, this image shows the benefits of compact photography . Watery depths: A large fish is encircled by a shoal of thousands off the coast of Eden Rock in Grand Cayman . Exploring the depths: These three deep sea divers light the water around them in a dramatic portrait of light and dark . Sticking together: A trio of pelicans dunk their heads in the water in New South Wales (left) while hundreds of fish in a shoal (right) move as a pack . Ominous: This mean-looking barracuda leads the way in a sinister image that won the bronze award in the novice category . Aquatic dancing: Two seahorses embrace in a mating ritual in Singer Island, Florida. This photograph won bronze in the animal behaviour category . Mirror image: The aptly named guitar shark looks like the rockstar of the marine world in this image taken off the coast of Sao Tome, Africa, which was a finalist in the sharks category . Fluorescent: Some of the vibrant neon colours found in the depths of the sea look like they belong at a rave . Following the leader: A group of sharks circle a bay in the Caribbean . Wide-eyed: This close-up of a seal captures the vulnerability of the animal . What lies beneath: A shark off the Faial Islands, Azores, skims the surface of the water with its fin . Devil is in the detail: Some images show just the silhouette of an animal, like these silhouettes of sharks in Indonesia (left). Others aim to capture every part of marine wildlife, like this colourful squid in the Philippines (right) The good, the bad and the ugly: This bulbous bobtail squid glows in the dark . Dramatic: Entries range from this fish with a crustacean in its mouth (left) to a diver reaching towards the light in a dark cave in Croatia (right) Mythical: A woman superhero floats in a swimming pool holding a chandelier in this unusual image that seems out of place in the competition . Silhouette: The outline of free diver Natalia Avseenko (left) and a close-up of a tiny octopus (right) in Bali were placed in the final line-up .

Spectacular images are the finalists and winners of DEEP Indonesia International Competition . Hamid Rad won best in show for his imaginative fish-eye view of nature taken in New Guinea . Seven categories including reefscapes, sharks, surfs, animal portrait and divers . Thousands of entries were submitted from fifteen countries .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . A Michigan jail inmate just a month away from release faces even more time behind bars after his girlfriend was caught trying to smuggle heroin to him in a Folgers coffee can. Christopher Obermiller, who was doing time for having sex with a 14-year-old girl, claims he never asked girlfriend Tara Shupback to bring him smack, only coffee. She did it to 'screw him' after he began exchanging letters with another woman, he told police. 'She probably thought I needed heroin . because she knew I used to be a heroin addict,' said Obermiller, 24, according to court documents. Busted: Inmate Christopher Obermiller (left) says he asked girlfriend Tara Shupback (right) for coffee at the Bay County Jail, Michigan, but she instead delivered heroin to him inside a Folgers can to frame him out of jealously . Contraband: Jail staff noticed that Shupback's Folgers can, similar to the one pictured here, was no longer vacuum packed and had instead been resealed with glue . He has been in Bay County Jail since May after he was arrested for violating his probation from a 2012 conviction for criminal sexual conduct. Shupback claims Obermiller had begged her to smuggle drugs for him, according to the Bay City Times. She told investigators he once asked her to try putting the narcotic Suboxone in her letters to him. 'He's been bugging me the whole time he's been in jail,' Shupback, 22, told police. She was busted Monday when she dropped off a plastic can of Folgers for Obermiller containing a hypodermic needle and a small plastic package with heroin. Jail employees noticed the can was no longer vacuum-sealed and had glue around the rim, Captain Troy Stewart told MailOnline. Delivery girl: Shupback claims her jailed boyfriend had begged her to smuggle drugs for him in prison, once even asking her to send the narcotic Subxone inside a letter . Junkie: Obermiller says he was only going after his caffeine fix but admits he's a former heroin addict . Even if the can did contain coffee, family members are not allowed to bring food in for inmates. Coffee and other treats must be purchased directly from the jail, the captain added. Obermiller pleaded guilty in 2011 to a felony charge for having sex with a 14-year-old girl he met online. At the time, his attorney claimed the girl had told Obermiller she was 16, which is the age of consent in Michigan. He was sentenced to three years probation in 2012. He was sent to Bay County Jail in May for violating the conditions of his release, according to Troy. Obermiller faces up to 10 more years in prison on the drug charge.

Chistopher Obermiller, 22, says he only asked Tara Shupback for coffee, but she framed him out of jealously . Shupback wanted payback after he began exchanging letters with another woman, he claims . He was due to be released next month after a probation violation on a felony charge for having sex with a 14-year-old girl he met online .

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By . Associated Press . The highest-ranking U.S. military officer killed in combat since the Vietnam War was buried with full honors Thursday at Arlington National Cemetery in a ceremony attended by his family and platoons of fellow warriors. Maj. Gen. Harold J. Greene was killed Aug. 5 when a gunman believed to be an Afghan soldier opened fire at a military academy near Kabul. During the ceremony, Greene's adult son tightly clasped the hands of his mother and sister as soldiers folded the flag that had draped his father's casket. While the U.S. Army Band played 'America the Beautiful,' Army First Lt. Matthew Greene handed a tissue to his mother, who dabbed at her eyes. The 55-year-old two-star general went to Afghanistan in January. It was his first deployment to a war zone. Scroll down for video . Goodbye dad: Amelia Greene kneels down to kiss the casket of her father, Army Maj. Gen. Harold Greene, during a burial service at Arlington National Cemetery . Sticking together: Retired Col. Susan Myers, right, is comforted by her children, 1st Lt. Matthew Greene, second from right, and Amelia Greene, during a burial service for her husband . Full honors: A casket team of the 3rd US Infantry Regiment proceeds during the burial service of US Army Major General Harold Greene . We salute you: Greene became the first US general killed in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan after being slain by a gunman that opened fire at the Marshal Fahim National Defense University . My dad: Army 1st Lt. Matthew Greene, kisses the casket of his father He is the highest-ranking U.S. military officer to be killed in America's post-9/11 wars . Greene, who was from Schenectady, New York, assigned to the Combined Security Transition Command, was killed after his unit was attacked in Afghanistan . His burial included several ceremonial touches in deference to his rank. A riderless horse accompanied the caisson that carried Greene's casket to his gravesite. The hundreds of people who gathered on a mild, breezy afternoon at Arlington were startled by a 13-cannon salute and again, later, by three rifle volleys. U.S. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno presented the flag that had covered Greene's casket to his widow, Susan Myers, a retired Army colonel. He then handed three more flags that had . touched the casket to Greene's son; his daughter, Amelia; and his . father, also named Harold. Pageantry: A caisson from the Army's Old Guard carries the casket of US Army Major General Harold Greene, during funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery i . Greene was killed when a gunman dressed as an Afghan soldier turned on ISAF troops, wounding about 15 including a German general and two Afghan generals . Final farewell: Retired Col. Susan Myers, right, stands with her daughter Amelia Greene and salutes as the casket of her husband, Army Maj. Gen. Harold Greene, is carried by an honor guard . Members of the Army's Old Guard fold an US flag that was draped on the casket of US Army Major General Harold Greene . The Last Post: A bugler plays taps during funeral services for US Army Major General Harold Greene. He was shot dead at a training center in Kabul in an attack that left more than a dozen others wounded, including a senior German officer. He was the highest ranking US Army officer killed in combat since the Vietnam War . Following the ceremony, Myers placed a rose on Greene's casket and patted it as her son touched her back. Matthew, wearing his dress uniform, knelt by the casket, and then Amelia bent over and kissed it, supported by her brother. The burial was preceded by a chapel service that was closed to reporters. Lt. Col. Juanita Chang, an Army public affairs officer, said the 650-seat chapel at Arlington was filled beyond capacity. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel attended and met with the family. Dozens of general officers also attended, and some could not find seats, Chang said. A lifetime of love: Susan Myers places a flower on the casket of her husband . Susan Myers (R) salutes as The Army's Old Guard carries the casket of her husband . Retired Col. Susan Myers, right, clutches a flag presented to her during a burial service for her husband as son Army 1st Lt. Matthew Greene watches . Friends and family of Army Maj. Gen. Harold Greene gather for his burial service . Matthew Greene had the crowd laughing as he told stories about his father, Chang said, and Amelia Greene spoke about her father's love of New England sports. She was inspired by his optimism about the Boston Red Sox, who went the first 45 years of his life without winning the World Series. The Red Sox have since won three titles, and the family will attend a game at Fenway Park on Saturday and be honored after the 5th inning, Chang said. Greene, known as Harry, spent most of 34-year Army career developing, building and supplying soldiers with equipment and technology. Born in Boston and raised in New England and upstate New York, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army Corps of Engineers in 1980 after graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno, right, presents a flag to retired Col. Susan Myers, during a burial service for her husband . A casket team of the 3rd US Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) folds the US national flag over the coffin . Thank you for your service: Wife of deceased US Army Major General Harold Greene, retired Colonel Susan Myers salutes beside family and friends in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery . He later earned a Ph.D. in engineering from the University of Southern California. In 2009-2011, he served as deputy commanding general of the Army's Research, Development and Engineering Command and senior commander of the Natick Soldier System Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Aberdeen, Maryland. During that tour he gained the rank of brigadier general, and at his promotion ceremony in December 2009 he was lauded for his leadership skills and ability to inspire those around him. 'In every job I had we got things done that I think made our Army better, and it was done by other people,' Greene said at the promotion ceremony, according to the Albany Times Union. 'All I did was try to pull people in the right direction and they went out and did great things.' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

A service featuring full military honors was held for Maj. Gen. Harold J. Greene at Arlington National Cemetery on Thursday . Major Greene was shot by an Afghan military policeman in an ambush on two weeks ago . He was the highest-ranking Army officer to die in Afghanistan . His killer was hiding in a bathroom waiting for Greene and 20 other military personnel .

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(CNN) -- The backup of boats and barges on a low-water section of the Mississippi River increased Tuesday even as the 11-mile stretch reopened on a limited basis, the U.S. Coast Guard said. New Orleans-based Coast Guard spokesman Ryan Tippets confirmed to CNN that five southbound vessels were able to pass near Greenville, Mississippi, Tuesday afternoon and evening. A limited number of northbound vessels with a draft of no more than 9 feet were being allowed to travel overnight into Wednesday. The stretch was closed Monday to most vessel traffic because of low water levels, idling 97 boats and barges, according to the Coast Guard. That number swelled to nearly 115 on Tuesday, Tippets said. This same area near Greenville, which sees about 50 vessels pass on an average day, has been closed "intermittently" since August 12, when a vessel ran aground, said Tippets. The Army Corps of Engineers has been dredging in the area to deepen the channel and help navigation. A historic drought and excessive heat have reduced water levels and scorched wide sections of the U.S. Midwest. Flooding last year may have worsened the situation on the Mississippi by leaving deposits of silt and debris in areas that would normally be clear. We are "working to minimize the delay as much as possible and to get these vessels moving," Tippets said.

Low water levels have affected traffic on Mississippi River . Bottleneck has developed near Greenville, Mississippi .

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(CNN) -- The French Senate voted late Monday to criminalize any public denial of what new legislation calls the Ottoman Empire's genocide of Armenians, triggering fresh condemnation from modern Turkey. Relations between France and Turkey have already deteriorated since the National Assembly -- the lower house of the French parliament -- voted to approve the bill in December. The Turkish government called Monday's vote "an example of irresponsibility" and vowed to "express our reaction against it in every platform." It is already illegal in France to deny the Holocaust of World War II, a crime punishable by a year in prison and a fine of 45,000 euros ($58,500). The same punishment would be used under the Armenian legislation. Monday night's 127-86 vote sends the legislation to French President Nicolas Sarkozy, who has indicated he would sign it. Armenia's government hailed the vote, saying France "reaffirmed its pivotal role as a genuine defender of universal human values." But Turkey, one of France's NATO allies, called it "an entirely unfortunate step for French politics." "Politicization of the understanding of justice and history through other people's past and damaging freedom of expression in a tactless manner are first and foremost a loss for France," it in a statement on the vote. "It is obvious that the interpretation of historical events cannot be determined by the attitude of French politicians who see in themselves the right to judge other nations on the basis of one-sided views and declare a judgment on a serious allegation of crime such as genocide, thereby ignoring the principles of international law." The statement added, "Turkey is determined to take every step required against this unjust action, which disregards basic human values and public conscience." The Turkish-Armenian controversy over the killings that took place last century has reverberated wherever diaspora communities representing both groups exist. Armenian groups and many scholars argue that Turks committed genocide starting in 1915, when more than a million ethnic Armenians were massacred in the waning days of the Ottoman Empire. Turkey officially denies that a genocide took place, saying hundreds of thousands of Armenian Christians and Turkish Muslims died in intercommunal violence around the bloody battlefields of World War I. Before the vote, Sen. Herve Marseille, one of the bill's supporters, argued that since France already recognizes the Ottoman-era killings as genocide, the same standard that applies to Holocaust denial should apply to the Armenian case. "When we contest the Jewish genocide, we can be punished," Marseille said. "And up until now, when we contest the Armenian genocide, there is no punishment. So we can't have a legal punishment for one and not for the other. Everyone is equal in front of the law." But Sen. Jacques Mézard, who opposed the legislation, said freedom of expression was at stake. "It calls into question historical and scientific research. Tomorrow will there be a question of a Vendée genocide?" he asked, referring to a revolt against the French revolutionary government in 1793. "Will we put the Spanish and the United States in the stocks for the massacre of Native Americans? We must reject this text and consign it to history books." After December's vote in the National Assembly, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused France of committing its own "genocide" during its war against Algerian independence in the 1950s and 1960s. Erdogan announced that Turkey was reviewing its ties with France. Ankara recalled its ambassador to Paris for consultations, canceled bilateral visits and wouldn't cooperate with France in joint projects within the European Union. The French Foreign Ministry shot back at Erdogan's comments, saying France "assumes with clarity and transparency its duty to remember the tragedies that have marked its history." And Sarkozy has said that his country doesn't need an OK from another nation to develop its policies. In addition to being NATO allies, Turkey and France have trade ties valued at $13.5 billion, according to Turkish statistics. The genocide debate is also a source of tension between Turkey and the United States, another NATO ally. The White House, for example, annually beats back efforts in Congress to pass a resolution that would formally recognize the 1915 massacre of Armenians as genocide.

NEW: Turkey calls the vote "first and foremost a loss for France" Armenia praises the vote and thanks the French . The French Senate approved the controversial legislation 127-86 . Turkey expressed anger over the bill when it passed the National Assembly in December .

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By . Associated Press and Steve Nolan . PUBLISHED: . 03:59 EST, 29 October 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 04:57 EST, 29 October 2013 . New pictures have been released of a prisoner who has been granted parole after almost two decades behind bars for killing her former pimp. Sara Kruzan was just 17 when she was told she would die in prison for the 1994 shooting of George Gilbert Howard in a Riverside motel room. But she will walk free after the Californian Governor Jerry Brown decided on Friday not to contest a state parole board decision to let her leave jail. Now and then: Sara Kruzan, pictured in July, left, and as a teenager, right, will walk free from jail after almost two decades behind bars . She had contended that he sexually abused her and had groomed her since she was 11 to work for him as a child prostitute. Her case became a high-profile example used by state Sen. Leland Yee, D-San Francisco, who sought to soften harsh life sentences for juveniles. 'It is justice long overdue,' Yee told the Los Angeles Times. He called Kruzan's case the 'perfect example of adults who failed her, of society failing her. 'You had a predator who stalked her, raped her, forced her into prostitution, and there was no one around.' Prisoner: Earlier pictures show Sara Kruzan during her time in prison . Kruzan's case garnered widespread publicity in 2010 after Human Rights Watch posted a six-minute interview with her on YouTube. The year culminated with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger commuting her sentence to 25-years-to-life with the possibility of parole on his last full day in office. Schwarzenegger said he still considered . her guilty of first-degree murder, but he sympathized with her defense . that the man she killed had sexually abused her and served as her pimp . for years. Clemency: Former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger commuted her sentence to 25-years-to-life with the possibility of parole on his last full day in office . 'Given Ms. Kruzan's age at the time of the murder, and considering the significant abuse she suffered at his hands, I believe Ms. Kruzan's sentence is excessive,' the governor wrote in his commutation message, 'it is apparent that Ms. Kruzan suffered significant abuse starting at a vulnerable age.' This January, a Riverside judge further reduced her first-degree murder conviction to second degree, making her immediately eligible for release. Approved: Governor Jerry Brown has decided to allow freedom to a woman who received a life sentence when she was a teen for killing her former pimp . Yee's legislation to allow new sentencing hearings for juveniles sent to prison for life without parole became law in January. In September, Brown signed a second bill requiring parole boards to give special consideration to juveniles tried as adults who have served at least 15 years of lengthy sentences. Advocates estimate there are more than 1,000 prisoners already eligible for parole hearings under that new law. Brown's decision on Kruzan's case came nearly two weeks before the deadline for his action, Westrup said. The parole board was expected to act on the decision on Monday. Kruzan is housed at the Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla. Her aunt told the Associated Press she wasn't surprised by the governor's action. 'I just wondered why it took so long,' Ann Rogen of Riverside said.

Sara Kruzan says she was forced into prostitution at the age of 13 . She shot and killed her pimp George Gilbert Howard three years later . In 1995 she was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without parole . In 2011, she was granted clemency by then-Governor Schwarzenegger who commuted her sentence to 25 years with the possibility of parole . A parole board reduced her sentence to 15 years, plus four years, in January 2013 effectively freeing her .

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By . Joshua Gardner . A 27-year-old delusional former soldier with PTSD was in police custody Tuesday afternoon after shooting himself during a police standoff in Knoxville, Tennessee. Authorities say David Eugene Smith called area police to tell them that he was the man on the news accused of killing three people in Lakeland, Florida--including his own sister--and fleeing. According to Knox County Chief Deputy Sheriff Eddie Biggs, Smith said he wanted to die at the hands of law enforcement. Standoff: Knox County SWAT members engage in a standoff with triple homicide suspect David Eugene Smith at a Days Inn Tuesday in Knoxville . Called police himself: Authorities say Smith called area police to turn himself in after news of his alleged triple murder and subsequent flight from the Lakeland, Florida scene of the crime broke. A sheriff's deputy said he wanted to die at the hands of police . Self-inflicted: Police say the 27-year-old 'delusional' former soldier shot himself during the standoff before he was dragged away in unknown condition . 'We hope and pray that we don't have a rampage': Police hunting for David Eugene Smith (in earlier police photo) feared he was a big risk to whatever community he ended up fleeing to . SWAT members surrounded the Knox County motel where Smith was staying on Tuesday. At some point Smith fired shots, including one at himself. He was wounded and taken into custody, though the extent of his injuries were unknown. Biggs says the SWAT officers did not fire. According to WFTS, the suspect was living in the Lakeland crime scene where the bodies of Danyala 'Diamond' Smith, 31, Ni'kosi Williams, 25, and Miranda Mims, 28 were discovered Monday evening by one of the victims' 14-year-old daughter. On Facebook, Diamond Smith listed her spouse as fellow victim Miranda Mims. A frantic manhunt had been underway for  Smith as police feared the armed and mentally ill man could strike again in the worst way. 'We hope and pray that we don't have a rampage,' said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. Police were . first tipped off to the grisly scene left behind at the Florida . residence by the 14-year-old daughter of one of the victims. The girl returned home Monday night after having been away for the weekend at an ROTC event. Victims: Police say Smith's sister Danyala (right) was among the victims. Also slain was the woman who Danyala identifies as her wife on Facebook, Miranda Mims . Tragic: Ni'kosi Williams (right) was also shot and killed in the Lakeland home and his father told authorities he was friends with Danyala Smith and Miranda Mims (left) She then found her mother dead and her commander reported the shocking crime to authorities, police say. Police say Smith is delusional and has a previous record for drug and weapon offenses as well as a mental hygiene arrest. He reportedly posted to Facebook the message 'my adulterous wife, you know better' despite not actually being married. 'We fear for the community': Smith has a history of PTSD and mental illness and police called him 'exceptionally dangerous' but say he was 'compliant' while being hauled away. He'd been living with two of the victims for months prior to the slaying . 'We've got to locate this fellow because he is absolutely dangerous,' said Sheriff Judd at a news conference. Smith was believed to be driving a beige 2002 Mercury Sable with Florida tags 708MDB. He is described as being of Native American descent and has black hair and dark eyes. Police originally believed he may have been headed toward family in Texas or to Chattanooga, Tennessee where he knows a former classmate.

Police say David Eugene Smith gunned down three people in a Lakeland, Florida home including his sister . A 14-year-old who lives at the home had been away during the killing and returned to find her mother there dead among the victims . The 27-year-old shot himself during the police standoff in Knoxville, Tennessee and was dragged away in unknown condition . The victims included Smith's sister Danyala Smith, the woman she calls her wife Miranda Mims and their friend Ni'kosi Williams .

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Manchester United fans will be hoping Robin van Persie is . smiling through all of this season - and he certainly hasn't got off to a bad . start. The Dutch hitman posted a snap to his Instagram account of . him and wife Bouchra, who did a Gareth Bale-style heart for the camera. Van Persie will link up with his World Cup manager Louis van . Gaal when he returns to United's pre-season training. All smiles: Robin van Persie looks in jubilant mood during his holiday with wife Bouchra . Close bond: Louis van Gaal has given his fellow countryman an extended break after the World Cup . And one Old Trafford icon believes the new manager will hand . his compatriot the captain's armband. Paul Scholes has earmarked Van Perise's fellow striker . Rooney for the role, but believes Van Gaal will stick with Van Persie. He said: 'I think he [Van Gaal] will give it [the . captaincy] to Robin [Van Persie]. He’s had a lot of experience with him from . Holland. He knows him well, knows him as a player, but personally I would . probably go for Rooney. 'He’s always struck me as the type who could be a captain . and now is the perfect time to give him the responsibility I know he is capable . of taking. And the same goes for England. With both teams, there is not an . outstanding candidate for the role.' Prediction: Paul Scholes believes Van Persie will be handed the captain's armband ahead of Wayne Rooney . VIDEO Van Gaal shares his thoughts on the United squad .

Robin van Persie has been afforded extra time off after World Cup exploits . The Man United striker helped Holland advance to the semi-finals in Brazil . Dutchman is in the running to become Manchester United's next captain .

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A stunning late, long-range strike by Johann Gudmundsson earned 10-man Charlton a 1-1 draw against Cardiff in a pulsating clash at The Valley. Tom Adeyemi gave the visitors an early lead before Callum Harriott was shown a red card for a high tackle on Craig Noone. Charlton felt the visitors should also have been reduced for 10 men, but Sean Morrison was shown just a yellow after he pulled down George Tucudean when through on goal. However Charlton kept fighting and Gudmundsson levelled two minutes before full-time. Johann Gudmundsson celebrates in front of the Charlton fans after scoring a late equaliser . It was a slow start from Charlton as Cardiff snapped into the early tackles and denied them any time on the ball. The pressure soon told and home goalkeeper Neil Etheridge had to act swiftly to gather a Peter Whittingham corner just as Kenwyne Jones was about to pounce. The opening goal arrived on 11 minutes. Aron Gunnarsson launched a long throw into the box and Sean Morrison rose well and flicked on at the near post before Adeyemi placed his header expertly beyond Etheridge. Just two minutes later and the same tactic almost worked again. Gunnarsson's throw into the danger zone was half-cleared and Adeyemi fizzed a right-footed half-volley narrowly over from 20-yards. The Addicks pressed forward but rarely troubled David Marshall in the Cardiff goal. Harriott, Charlton's pacey winger, had some joy down the right against Declan John but when he wriggled free and powered towards the box his cross was well intercepted by Ben Turner. Callum Harriott protests his innocence after being shown a red card for his tackle on Craig Noone . Charlton: Etheridge, Solly, Ben Haim, Bikey, Gomez, Gudmundsson, Buyens, Jackson, Harriott, Cousins, Tucudean. Subs: Wilson, Bulot, Vetokele, Onyewu, Fox, Pope, Ahearne-Grant. Cardiff: Marshall, Brayford, Sean Morrison, Turner, John, Gunnarsson, Adeyemi, Whittingham, Noone, Le Fondre, Jones. Subs: Da Silva, Connolly, Ralls, Moore, Harris, Ecuele Manga, Macheda. Referee: Mick Russell (Hertfordshire) It was Harriott's final contribution. On 32 minutes his ill-timed tackle on Noone was late and high. Noone crumpled to the floor in agony and referee Mick Russell quickly flashed his red card. Charlton responded well and created their best chance of the game on 38 minutes. Yoni Buyens played a clever ball into the box and Charlton's Romanian striker George Tucudean fired in a powerful near post volley that Marshall was forced to beat away for a corner. The hosts created the first opening of the second half on 52 minutes. Buyens picked-out Gudmundsson in the box who turned well but shot straight at Marshall. Charlton, playing with 10-men, continued to press. The impressive Gudmundsson whipped in a corner and Tucudean's near post flick rattled the outside of Marshall's post. Peter Whittingham holds off Charlton's Jordan Cousins during a strong first half for Cardiff . Then came the controversy. On 63 minutes Morrison, the Cardiff defender, hauled down Tucudean who was through on goal. This crowd chanted for a red but the referee issued a relieved looking Morrison a yellow. To add to the agony, Gudmundsson cracked the post from the resultant free kick. Marshall then denied Gudmundsson with a fine save on 70 minutes before Morrison cleared off the line after Tucudean's close-range flick from Jordan Cousin's shot had beaten Marshall. However Charlton gave it one last push and with two minutes left were rewarded. Gudmundsson picked up the ball 30-yards out and for once Cardiff's defence failed to get tight. The Icelander took aim and lashed home a superb left-footed effort into the top corner. And it could have been even worse for Cardiff had Igor Vetokele not skied an effort way over the bar when he was clean through on goal with the very last kick of the game. Russell Slade looks on as his Cardiff side relinquished a lead against 10 men on Boxing Day .

Tom Adeyemi puts Cardiff City ahead in 12th minute at The Valley . Charlton reduced to 10 men when Callum Harriott is sent off after half hour . Johann Gudmundsson equalises with two minutes to play .

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(CNN) -- The Drug Enforcement Administration is investigating the company that owned the plane that crashed this week, killing music star Jenni Rivera and six others, the agency said Friday. Court records that surfaced after Sunday's fatal crash revealed that the aviation company, Starwood Management, had two planes authorities seized this year. The company remains under investigation, DEA spokeswoman Lisa Webb Johnson said. Read more: Jenni Rivera's remains returned to family . The planes in question were seized in February in Arizona and in September in Texas. The DEA declined to give further details, citing the ongoing investigation. Some indications of why the planes were seized became known through court records. Read more: Jenni Rivera's plane plunged from 28,000 feet, Mexican official says . Insurance firms QBE and Commerce & Industry Insurance Co. filed suits this year seeking to rescind contracts with Starwood Management, alleging falsehoods. The lawsuits against Starwood focus on the man who signed the insurance paperwork on its behalf, Ed Nunez. Nunez is also known as Christian Esquino, the insurance companies allege, a businessman with a criminal record that includes falsifying airplane records. The DEA confirmed Friday the link between Starwood and Esquino. In another court action, Starwood distances itself from Esquino and denies he is the owner. Starwood had one plane, a Hawker 700, confiscated by U.S. marshals acting on behalf of the DEA in September once it landed in McAllen, Texas, after arriving from Mexico, according to one of the insurance company lawsuits. Read more: Rivera crash puts spotlight on charter jet safety . In February, marshals seized a Starwood Gulfstream G-1159A in Tucson, Arizona, that lawsuit said. Starwood or its representatives have not responded to repeated requests for comments about the plane that crashed with Rivera or the DEA investigations. Rivera was a Mexican-American star with a rising cross-border appeal. She sang traditional Mexican ballads and was nominated for a Latin Grammy Award in 2002 in the category of best banda album. Born in Long Beach, California, to Mexican immigrant parents, Rivera, 43, released her debut album in 1999. In October, People en Espanol named Rivera to its list of the 25 most powerful women. The singer was also known for her tumultuous personal life. She was a single mom at age 15, was married three times and the mother of five, her website said. Rivera's "I Love Jenni" reality show began airing on Telemundo's mun2 network last year.

The company that owns the plane that crashed, killing Jenni Rivera, faces DEA probe . Authorities confiscated two of firm's planes this year, court records show . DEA spokeswoman confirms the investigation is ongoing .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 10:29 EST, 24 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 10:41 EST, 24 December 2013 . A natural cave discovered near the source of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami contains the footprints of past gigantic waves dating up to 7,500 years ago. Experts say that the Indonesian cave, which is close to where the earthquake hit, could help them predict when the next tsunami is likely to occur. And according to the research, the next disaster could be centuries, if not decades away. The findings provide the longest and most detailed timeline for tsunamis that have taken place off the far western tip of Sumatra island in Aceh province. A guide stands inside a cave which scientists said reveals history of ancient tsunamis . The province is where 100 foot waves triggered by a magnitude 9.1 earthquake on December 26, 2004, killing 230,000 people in several countries. The limestone cave, located within a couple hundred yards of the coast near Banda Aceh, is about three feet above knee-high tide and protected from storms and wind. Only huge waves that inundate the coastal area are able to gush inside. In 2011 researchers uncovered seabed sand deposits that were swept into the cave over thousands of years and neatly layered between bat droppings like a geological cake. The cave was discovered near the source of 2004's massive earthquake-spawned tsunami . The Indonesian cave contains the footprints of past gigantic waves dating up to 7,500 years ago . Radiocarbon analysis of materials, including clamshells and the remains of microscopic organisms, provided evidence of 11 tsunamis before 2004. The disasters were by no means evenly spaced, said lead researcher Charles Rubin from the Earth Observatory of Singapore. The last one occurred about 2,800 years ago, but there were four others in the 500 years before that. And it is possible there were others. Researchers know, for instance, that there were two mammoth earthquakes in the region around 1393 and 1450. The cave provides a rare natural record suggesting future generations living in the coastal area must stay prepared because disasters can occur in relatively short bursts or after long lulls . Mr Rubin said a big tsunami could have carried away evidence of other events through erosion. The scientists are still working to determine the size of the waves that entered the cave. Mr Rubin said: 'The take-home message is perhaps that the 2004 event doesn't mean it won't happen for another 500 years. 'We did see them clustered together closer in time. I wouldn't put out a warning that we're going to have an earthquake, but it shows that the timing is really variable.' The quake that triggered the 2004 tsunami surprised scientists because the fault that unleashed the megathrust temblor had been quiet for hundreds of years. And since the last big earthquake had struck more than 500 years earlier, there was no surviving oral history that could have helped people understand the risk. Since 2004, much research has been done to try to learn about the area's past by examining sand deposits, uplifted coral and GPS data. Katrin Monecke, a geosciences professor at Wellesley College in Massachusetts has been following the research. She said: 'The findings are very significant. 'The sand sheets in the cave cover a very long time span and give an excellent idea about earthquake frequency.'

Natural discovery provides record of past tsunamis dating 7,500 years . The cave could also help to predict when next disaster will occur . 'Significant' findings made near the site of 2004's Boxing Day tsunami .

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(CNN) -- Roberto Castro enjoyed an impressive debut at the Players Championship, carding a nine-under-par round of 63 to tie the course record at TPC Sawgrass and top the leaderboard after day one of the $9.5 million tournament. Yet to record a PGA Tour win in his six-year career, the American equaled the record set by golf icons Fred Couples and Greg Norman to lead two-time major winner Rory McIlroy and 2007 Masters champion Zach Johnson by three shots. "Tiger Woods (didn't) play till this afternoon," Castro told the Tour's official website after a round which included seven birdies and an eagle at the second hole. "So I'm sure some people were looking for something interesting to watch. "The last two weeks I've hit the ball nicely, the scores just haven't shown it. A couple of rounds, especially in the last two weeks, could have been low. They weren't even remotely low on the scorecard, but had a couple of quality shots." Playing alongside Castro was compatriot Jason Bohn, who suggested the 27-year-old's round could have been even better. "It was a clinic," said Bohn, who was four under at the end of Thursday's play. "It was beautiful. I've never seen a 63 shot like that. "You see guys chip in or hole a bunker shot; but he shot 63 and it could've been two or three shots lower." McIlroy enjoyed his best ever day at the event, having missed the cut and failed to break par on his three previous trips to Ponte Vedra Beach. The world No. 2 was part of a stellar threesome which also included recently crowned Masters champion Adam Scott -- playing for the first time since his Augusta triumph -- and 12-time PGA winner Steve Stricker. "I think when you get all three guys playing well in a group, you sort of feed off one another," said McIlroy. "It was a good group to be a part of." Scott, who won the Players in 2004, was satisfied with his opening round of 69. "I was a little surprised when I teed off that someone was five under already," explained the Australian. "I thought it might play a little tougher than that. But it was ideal. "There wasn't even a breath of wind hardly on the front nine. The greens seemed pretty receptive, too, so if you were in the fairway you could attack." A slip up at the 18th dashed world No. 1 Tiger Woods' hopes of carding a first bogey-free round at the Players. The 14-time major winner carded six birdies during his round of 67, one stroke off his career best score at the event. "I felt like I hit the ball good enough, but more importantly, I missed the ball in all the correct spots," said Woods, who is looking to win the tournament for the second time. "I left myself some easy up and downs, and I was able to convert those up and downs."

Roberto Castro leads Players Championship after record-equaling opening round . The American shot a nine-under-par 63 to lead the field by three shots . Rory McIlroy and Zach Johnson tied for second place on six under . Tiger Woods bogeys the 18th to sit tied for fourth on five under .

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By . Sarah Michael for Daily Mail Australia . An animal welfare group has created a moving video featuring Australian children pleading with McDonald's to stop using cage eggs. Animals Australia put a call out to kids to upload a video message encouraging McDonald's to switch to free range eggs, and compiled some of the best entries to make a short video. 'Hi, my name's Maple, I don't want chickens to be in cages because I want them to be free and happy,' one young girl says. Scroll down for video . Animals Australia put a call out to Australian kids to upload a video message encouraging McDonald's to switch to free range eggs . 'Chickens have feelings too,' another young boy says. Two other boys then chime in, telling the camera: 'Chickens need to flap and stretch their wings… but battery hens can't'. A boy dressed up in a waistcoat and glasses then points to a drawing on a chalkboard and says: 'It would be much better if they were happy in the grass.' McDonald's uses 91 million cage eggs per year in Australia but does not use cage eggs in the UK or Europe, and is phasing them out in New Zealand. Animals Australia campaign director Lyn White said the organisation had been in discussion with McDonald's Australia about phasing out caged eggs for seven years. A boy dressed up in a waistcoat and glasses and points to a drawing on a chalkboard then says: 'It would be much better if they were happy in the grass.' 'Until now, we had refrained from publicly identifying their failure to meet their global guiding principles on animal welfare in hoping that through consultation they would match commitments made in other countries,' Ms White said. 'As they have failed to move on this issue, based on not having enough public feedback to warrant a transition, it was appropriate to start ensuring that they did.' Ms White added that she hoped McDonald's would recognise the 'commercial benefits of positively responding to a plea from Australian kids'. 'A significant number of McDonald's' customer base is children, children who love animals, and who don't accept that hens should be kept in cages,' she said. McDonald's uses 91 million cage eggs per year in Australia but does not use cage eggs in the UK or Europe and is phasing them out in New Zealand . 'It seems that children themselves understand that you cannot have "Happy Meals" if animals are suffering.' A McDonald's spokeswoman said the company is exploring a move to cage-free eggs but it was not a straight-forward decision. 'We are working through a number of issues with our suppliers, including the fact that there are not currently enough available cage-free eggs in Australia to meet our needs,' she said in a statement. 'This means that change will progress over time. For example, as a first step we are looking at converting to cage-free eggs for our omelettes in McCafé.' Animals Australia campaign director Lyn White said the organisation had been in discussion with McDonald's Australia about phasing out caged eggs for seven years . The spokeswoman added that McDonald's had to consider the impact any decisions it made would have on Australian farmers. 'We take very seriously our responsibility to ensure that the animals in our supply chain are properly cared for,' she said. 'All of our animal health and welfare standards meet or exceed all Australian requirements.'

Animals Australia asked kids to upload a video message encouraging McDonald's to switch to free range eggs . McDonald's uses 91 million cage eggs per year in Australia . The fast food giant said it was exploring a move to cage-free eggs, but was stuck on issues relating to its suppliers .

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By . Adam Shergold . PUBLISHED: . 09:28 EST, 19 November 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 09:29 EST, 19 November 2012 . FIFA faced another crisis today after allegations the winning bid team for the 2022 World Cup finals secretly offered $1million (£630,000) to the son of one of its executive committee members. The successful Qatar bid team entered into talks with Samson Adamu, 26, the son of the executive committee (exco) member Amos Adamu for a sponsorship deal months before his father was due to vote on the bid, according to documents obtained by the Sunday Times. It is believed that the cash was to be used to fund a lavish . gala dinner just before the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa, despite the . event costing a fraction of the sum. 'Sponsorship': Qatar 2022 bid deputy chief Ali Al-Thawadi is accused of paying $1m to the son of a FIFA executive committee member in exchange for a vote in favour of his bid . Ali al-Thawadi, the deputy chief executive of the Qatar bid, reportedly brokered a proposed deal just six months before his country won the race to host the 2022 finals. However, the proposals did not go ahead. World Cup bidders are banned from offering any incentives to the 24 exco members or their relatives. FIFA - football's world governing body - said it would 'immediately' ask its chief ethics investigator Michael Garcia to investigate the reports. Entrepreneur Samson Adamu spoke at the June 2010 dinner in Johannesburg, assuring a star-studded crowd of African football legends, that his companies had 'no commercial affiliates.' His father Amos was among 300 eminent guests at the free event, who enjoyed a three-course dinner and traditional African music 'to celebrate the achievement of our past football heroes.' It took place on the eve of the 2010 World Cup finals, the first to be held in Africa. However, the Sunday Times claimed to have unearthed documents which suggest that al-Thawadi offered to pay Samson a seven-figure sum to host the dinner and a workshop. It is believed the events cost no more than $220,000 (£138,000). Illegal funds: The payment was made to Samson Adamu, the son of FIFA executive committee member Amos (pictured left) in the build-up to the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa . It came at a critical stage of the bidding process for the 2022 finals, in which the Arab state faced tough competition from the United States, South Korea, Japan and Australia. In a statement, the Qatar 2022 Bid Committee confirmed that there were discussions and an  agreement drafted but they did not pursue involvement in the ‘African Legends Dinner' and no agreement was signed or payments made. They stated: 'Upon due consideration being given to all the circumstances of this particular case - and especially to the relevant FIFA rules relating to the obligations of bid committees - a decision was taken by the Qatar 2022 Bid Committee not to pursue any involvement in the African Legends Dinner.' They add that no member of the Bid Committee attended the dinner. In December 2010, Qatar was surprisingly named as the host for the finals, despite their national team's poor record in international football and concerns that matches would be played in temperatures approaching 50C. Fourteen of the exco members voted for the tiny country in spite of these fears, though the bid has been dogged by allegations of bribery ever since. The Qatar bid committee spent considerably more than the other candidates and FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke admitted in a leaked email that Qatar had 'bought the WC [World Cup]'. He later explained his comments by saying he was referring to the amount of money spent on marketing the bid. Grand designs: The proposed Al-Rayyan football stadium in Doha, one of the venues planned for the 2022 Qatar World Cup . Amos Adamu was also secretly filmed in September 2010 offering to sell his vote for the 2018 World Cup, which went to Russia, for an £800,000 payment into a personal bank account. He claimed he would use it to build football pitches in his native Nigeria. Adamu was also filmed saying that his bid for the 2022 finals was not for sale because it was going to Qatar. As a result, he was sacked from the executive committee, stripped of his World Cup vote and banned from football for three years. Samson Adamu and al-Thawadi first met at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) congress in the Angolan capital of Luanda in January 2010, which was sponsored by Qatar. Five days later, al-Thawadi emailed Adamu asking him for the name of his 'personal company' in order to send him a 'contract and scope of work'. Shortly afterwards, al-Thawadi sent him a draft agreement for the 'Legends of African Football - Gala Dinner - Sponsorship.' Masterplan: The Al-Sharmal stadium in Doha - Qatar's win in December 2010, after beating off stiff competition from the US, Japan, Korea and Australia, stunned the football world . The document states that Qatar would pay Samson's company $1million for 'sponsorship rights' to the dinner and a workshop for African journalists. The draft agreement is between Kinetic Sports Association, a Swiss company that Adamu planned to create, and a 'private institution' in Qatar. It goes on to say this 'institution' was 'bidding to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup... and wishes to acquire certain exclusive rights in connection with the events in order to promote its bid to host the competition.' One of the proposed signatories on this agreement was Qatar bid chief Sheikh bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. After securing the blessing of CAF, Adamu was advised by his Swiss lawyer Daniel Magerle to channel the money through a Swiss bank account to 'add a lot of additional credibility' to the event. However, attempts to create a secretive bank account in the Kinetic name were scuppered by bank UBS, who were wary of the plans. Magerle claimed the deal had fallen through and a planned meeting in London to finalise the agreement had never happened. In attendance: David Dein (left), the former Arsenal chairman and International President of England's failed 2018 World Cup bid, and Lennart Johansson, former President of UEFA, attended the African legends dinner . Adamu sub-contracted the organising of the party to a South African events company called Champions Tours. They were reportedly angered by his complete lack of organisation, with running orders and table plans not confirmed until the last minute. It was attended by six FIFA exco members, CAF executive committee members, the president of UEFA, the European governing body, Lennart Johansson, and David Dein, the former Arsenal chairman. On the original plans for the July 8 dinner, a table had been reserved for the Qatar 2022 bid team, but they didn't show up. FIFA said the documents would be passed on to its top investigator before they decide what action, if any, to take against the Qatar bid. A FIFA spokesman said: 'After receiving these documents, FIFA has immediately forwarded them to Michael J Garcia, Independent ethics committee chairman of the investigatory branch. 'It will be for Michael Garcia to analyse the documents and decide on any potential next steps.'

Qatar bid team allegedly paid Samson Adamu, son of Amos Adamu, $1m (£630,000) to stage a lavish gala dinner in exchange for a vote . Dinner was held on the eve of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa . It was six months before vote on 2022 hosts // Cost fraction of $1m donation . Qatar saw off competition from US, Australia, Korea and Japan to win . FIFA promises to 'immediately' investigate latest embarrassing allegation .

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One's smaller than a bag of sugar and the other's as heavy as a full-grown woman - but that hasn't stopped these two pets becoming best friends. Digby the tiny chihuahua, who weighs less than 1lb, was close to death when he was rescued from between two rubbish bins outside a block of flats in north London. But since being taken to an RSPCA centre he has a new reason to survive - in the form of nine-stone Neapolitan Mastiff Nero. Little and large: Nero the nine-stone Neapolitan Mastiff has become best friends with Digby the tiny chihuahua after the 1lb pup was rescued from between two bins at a block of flats in north London . The pair have become inseparable at the centre in Southridge, Hertfordshire, despite giant Nero eating the weight of four Digbys in dog food every day. Centre manager Anna White said: 'It was as if the little fellow took on Nero as his personal minder. 'Poor Digby had to be rescued once by the RSPCA and it seems like he is taking precautions to make sure nothing can happen to him again.' Digby was found severely dehydrated and cowering between two bins on Monday night. The RSPCA is appealing for information in a bid to trace his owner. Digby was found severely dehydrated and cowering between two bins - but now has his new friend for shelter . Unless an owner comes forward, Digby will be available for rehoming in the next few days. Natalie Ditchfield, RSPCA animal collection officer, said: 'It is so lovely to see he is safe and happy. 'When I first came across Digby he was frozen and shaking and had just been left to die. He's really tiny - small enough to fit in the palm of my hand. 'He seemed to come out of his shell as soon as we arrived at Southridge and spotted Nero. It really is a love story.'

Five-week-old Digby was found near death outside flats in north London . He was taken to RSCPA kennels - where he befriended nine-stone Nero . The huge Neapolitan Mastiff eats the weight of four Digbys every day .

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 15:52 EST, 30 August 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 06:13 EST, 31 August 2012 . Kelly Rutherford was seen back at work on the New York set of hit show Gossip Girl on Thursday. Her real life of late has echoed the trials and tribulations suffered by some of the characters as it emerged that she lost 'residential custody' of her young children. The 43-year-old Gossip Girl actress who plays Blake Lively's mother in the show is said to be . 'devastated' after a judge ruled her five-year-old son and . three-year-old daughter should remain with their father in France, where he . currently resides. And now it has been revealed the judge gave custody to her ex-husband Daniel Giersch as it was his opinion that she had repeatedly tried to cut her ex-husband out their children's lives. The show must go on: Actress Kelly Rutherford returned to work on the set of Gossip Girl in New York, after it emerged that the judge felt she was 'attempting to cut father Daniel Giersch out of their children's lives' The judge says Giersch - who lives in France - did facilitate the relationship, according to TMZ. Meanwhile, Rutherford refused to put . Daniel's name on their daughter's birth certificate, despite repeated . requests to do so from the court. The judge wrote: 'Even while under the . scrutiny of an extended trial, Kelly still has declined to demonstrate . the level of commitment to facilitating the relationship that would be . required of a residential parent in a relocation situation.' Under the arrangement, U.S.-based . Rutherford will get the children 50 per cent of the time - but they will . live and go to school in France. Rutherford was fighting the 37-year-old German businessman in family court to bring her children back to the U.S. Happier times: Kelly Rutherford with son and then-husband Daniel Giersch in March, 2007 . TMZ previously reported Giersch is unable to return to the U.S. because his visa has been revoked as of April this year. High society role: Rutherford stars as Serena's (Blake Lively) mother Lily van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl . According to the website, the judge . ruled Rutherford will be allowed a flexible visitation schedule so that . she may spend time with her children when travel and work arrangements . allow. According to . the ruling, she will be permitted to see their five-year-old son and . three-year-old daughter 50 per cent of the time. However Rutherford, who married Giersch back in 2006 and divorced him in 2010, plans to appeal the ruling. Rutherford’s lawyer’s attempted to . depose Giersch, a German businessman, about his visa, back in 2010 but . at the time the judge ruled in favor of Giersch, noting that the risk of . him being deported and taking the children to Germany was 'very low.' It's unclear when Giersch took the children to France and how long Rutherford expected the visit to last. It makes for another disappointing . legal row for Rutherford, who in April was sued by a private eye . claiming he was hired to spy on Giersch. According to court documents obtained . by TMZ, the actress engaged the services of Edward Banach to spy on her . ex back in April 2010 'in relation to certain issues regarding child . custody and other matters'. Handover: Rutherford, right, takes her daughter from Giersch's arms in April 2010 . The website reports the pair went . through a messy divorce, with issues of 'restraining orders and . allegations of child endangerment'. Banach alleges he spent months snooping on Giersch's ex, which left Rutherford with a whopping bill of $86,249.85. Working mom: Rutherford was all smiles in June 2010 when out and about with her brood . However, he alleges he only got paid $28,214.35, leaving bills of around $58,000 unpaid. Now, Banach - who was sub-contracted . through a now-defunct security company - is suing the business along . with Rutherford to get the remaining $58,000. According to TMZ, at the height of . their legal disputes, Rutherford admitted she hired a private . investigator to prove Giersch  'did not properly secure the pool and . play areas at his home,' which she alleges endangered the couple's young . son. The warring pair also previously argued over . 'potty-training' their son and the actress’s ex claimed he was never . notified of the birth, and instead read about it in online reports. He put out a statement soon after the . birth that said: 'I was never informed by Kelly about the birth of our . daughter, nor was I invited to attend. 'In fact, I found out about it . through Internet reports like everyone else. Although this sickens me, I . am of course overjoyed that our baby was born healthy. 'I would’ve wanted nothing more than . to hold our newborn daughter for a few moments, and I only seek to . co-parent both our children responsibly and with love.' Rutherford’s publicist Jill Fritzo . countered: 'The doctors advised that no one be in the birthing room; . [Daniel] was notified when [Helena] was born and was immediately invited . to come see her.' The Gossip Girl star was previously married to Carlos Tarajano for seven months, before their union dissolved in January 2002. A representative for the actress has not responded to MailOnline's request for comment. Rutherford . saw mainstream success after nearly ten years in showbusiness thanks to . her role as call girl Megan Lewis in television drama Melrose Place for three years beginning in 1996. Showbiz roundup! Lindsay in the clear, Kyra's Possession & Oprah's still on top .

Actress, 43, lost residential custody of her young children after ruling French court . Rutherford will have to travel to France to see them . Ex-husband argued revocation of U.S. visa would make it difficult for him to see children . Rutherford will appeal decision which permits her to see son, five, and daughter, tree, 50 per cent of the time .

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London (CNN) -- They are two of Europe's premier art destinations, filled with treasures amassed over centuries. Now the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg is presenting a "mini-museum" inside the Prado Museum in Madrid, showcasing paintings by Velazquez, Titian and Caravaggio, as well as ancient gold artifacts from Siberia. "The Hermitage in the Prado" is the second part of an exhibition exchange -- initiated as part of Spain-Russia Dual Year 2011, dedicated to promoting and strengthening the economic, political, cultural and scientific ties between the two nations -- that saw the Prado exhibiting precious items from its own extensive collection in the State Hermitage Museum in February 2011. "It was really the finest show that's ever come out of the Prado and it reflected the idea of our museum, as it were, nestling inside theirs," said Gabriele Finaldi, Deputy Director of the Prado Museum and curator of the exhibition. Now some 180 items from the Hermitage's world-class collection are nestling inside the many galleries of the Prado, ranging from archaeological pieces all the way to modern masterpieces by Kazimir Malevich. But, Finaldi said, this isn't a typical touring exhibition. "You've got to remember that the Hermitage has not been visited by many Spaniards and it's still far away and it's still mysterious and exotic and we wanted the public to experience something of the special character of it, which is of course a palace as well as a museum," said Finaldi. Special furniture and ornaments typical to the Hermitage, such as granite vases, were brought in to decorate the galleries to make it look more like the Russian museum, whose collection was begun by the Empress Catherine the Great. In a statement to the press in November, Mikhail Piotrovsky, director of the Hermitage, said: "With this exhibition, we wanted to tell the story of our museum and its collection and the history of the Tsars." In addition to the objects collected by the voracious Catherine the Great are ornate Scythian gold objects from the collection of earlier Tsar, Peter the Great. "Never before has there been an exhibition like this, from and about the Hermitage, abroad," Piotrovsky continued. Aside from both having world-class collections, Finaldi points out that they have something else in common -- both have their origins as royal collections. "One can think of Catherine the Great in Russia and Charles the Fourth here in Spain, who collected with a real passion, because they were personally interested but also because they knew it brought glory to the monarchy and to the country," said Finaldi. "They're also the two extremes of Europe, the Hermitage at the very top end and the Prado at the bottom end, so they're the two extremes of Europe coming together, showing things that are on one level very similar and on another level, very different," he finished.

State Hermitage Museum displays items from its collection at the Prado Museum in Spain . Exhibition is part of a cultural exchange program between Spain and Russia . "The Hermitage in the Prado" show includes fine art paintings and ancient Siberian artifacts . Institutions share similarities: Both originally royal collections, both at "extremes" of Europe .

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By . Associated Press and Daily Mail Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 18:27 EST, 8 October 2012 . | . UPDATED: . 05:03 EST, 9 October 2012 . A wife who saw her husband killed by Mexican drug cartels as they jet-skied together on the Texas border has spoken of her relief after a crime boss was arrested over the murder. Tiffany Hartley was with her husband David Hartley on Lake Falcon when he was shot in the back of the head in 2010 by a gang who approached them in boats. Police in Mexico on Saturday rounded up the drug cartel boss believed to be responsible for the killing Salvador Alfonso Martinez Escobedo, a Zetas cartel leader is known as 'Commander Squirrel.' He has been linked to numerous crimes, such as the escape of 151 prisoners in 2010 from a jail in the city of Nuevo Laredo and the recent flight of 131 prisoners in the city of Piedras Negras. Scroll down for video . Squirrel: Salvador Alfonso Martinez Escobedo, a Zetas cartel leader, was arrested on Saturday . Tragedy: David Hartley, left, was shot and killed as he was exploring Falcon Lake with his wife Tiffany, right . Escobedo was also wanted for his alleged role in the September 2010 killing of David Hartley on Falcon Lake, which straddles the U.S.-Mexico border. The Mexican Navy said in a statement: 'Squirrel is credited with being the mastermind of the deaths of 72 undocumented migrants in San Fernando. '[He] is the alleged perpetrator of the narco graves found in Tamaulipas state, with more than 200 bodies and the execution of more than 50 people by his own hand in different parts of the republic, [as well as] the murder of David Hartley, an American citizen killed at Falcon Dam on September 30, 2010.' Grief: Tiffany Hartley, speaking from her La Salle, Colorado home on Monday, said she hoped that Escobedo could lead authorities to her husband's remains . When asked if she had confidence that Mexican authorities arrested the man responsible for her husband's death, Tiffany Hartley said: 'It's really hard to really feel like this is going to be the final, but at the same time we're very hopeful that it will because we want some closure as a family.' She said she was hoping for more details on how Martinez might be linked to her husband's death and also for information on where her husband's remains are so the family can move forward. 'But that's what we're really looking for is: What is his link to David and does he know where David's body is?' said Hartley, who lives in La Salle, Colorado. She told cops that they had been riding jet skis to take photos of an old church on the Mexican side of the lake when her husband was shot in the back of the head. In memoriam: Tiffany Hartley and family members lay a wreath near the site of her husband's murder in this 2010 photo . Couple: David and Tiffany Hartley were high school sweethearts, and had been married for eight years when tragedy struck in 2010 . She said that the couple - who had been high school sweethearts and married for eight years – were fired upon by pirates in three speed boats. Mrs Hartley said she could not pull her husband on to her jet ski and had to leave him lying face down in the water as she fled the gunshots. Mr Hartley's body was never found. Remembering David: Mr Hartley was honored in a large memorial service on October 5, 2010 in McAllen, Texas . Ordeal: Mrs Hartley said she could not pull her husband on to her jet ski and had to leave him lying face down in the water as she fled the gunshots . The investigation into Mr Hartley's . death was a dealt a blow in October of 2010 when Mexico's lead . investigator, Rolando Flores, was decapitated. Mr Flores's severed head was delivered in a suitcase to a military post near the border with Texas.Falcon Lake has been the scene of drug-related violence for years. Escobedo is also accused of murder in that case. Vergara said Martinez was captured in Nuevo Laredo, across from Laredo, Texas. He was shown to reporters on Monday. In custody: Mexican authorities had posted a $1million reward for the capture of Martinez, a Zetas drug cartel leader . The navy said Martinez is also a suspect in dozens of killings of people who were buried in mass graves at the same site of the 2010 massacre of migrants. Nearly 200 bodies were discovered in April 2011 in the town of San Fernando, close to the U.S. border. Those two crimes have been the most fatalities since Mexico's federal government launched an armed offensive against drug traffickers in December 2006. Mexican authorities had posted a $1million reward for Martinez. Watch video here .

Zetas cartel leader Salvador Alfonso Martinez Escobedo arrested on Saturday . Believed to be linked to numerous crimes, including the murder of American David Hartley in September 2010 . Hartley was jet skiing with his wife Tiffany when he was shot and killed on Falcon Lake .

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By . Paul Milligan . PUBLISHED: . 10:57 EST, 18 June 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 11:03 EST, 18 June 2013 . Senior members of the German government have warned EU member states that German car makers could scale back or scrap production plans in their countries unless they support weakened carbon emissions rules, according to diplomatic sources. With EU governments and lawmakers aiming to finalise the rules next week, which most of the 27 member states back, Germany has stepped up the pressure on them to water down limits on vehicle emissions to protect the country's mighty car industry, particularly luxury makers such as BMW and Daimler. The sources added that some calls warning EU member states of possible consequences have come from members of Chancellor Angela Merkel's office. German automakers like BMW (pictured here) could scale back production plans in the UK, France and Italy unless they support weakened carbon emissions rules . One EU diplomat said Berlin had reminded Lisbon of Portugal's 78 billion euro ($100 billion) euro zone bailout, which was heavily financed by Germany, in its bid to convince the country to drop its opposition to softer limits. 'They have tried everything at the highest level to pressure member states, in particular countries in the bailout club, to support their proposals," said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity. 'Germany seems hell-bent on pressing its interests. Even countries that are generally pro-German feel that they are going too far.' A German government source denied that Berlin had put particular pressure on countries that have received EU financial aid, and said its aim was to protect jobs in the EU auto sector. Most EU governments are backing the current legislation on car emissions, putting the Germans at odds with other countries in Europe . 'Our strategy is to focus on France, Britain and Italy as the big car producing countries, and on the countries which have important supply industries,' the source said. They should all be together in this fight. We should not drive jobs out of Europe at a moment of high unemployment.' Germany's position is backed by a handful of central European countries with domestic auto production, but France, Britain and Italy are opposed, EU sources say. The proposal from the European Commission, the EU's executive, would set a goal of 95 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre (g/km) as an average for all new vehicles sold in Europe from 2020. Each manufacturer is assigned an individual target to take account of the nature of their fleet and their record of past cuts. But making less-polluting cars is costly and restricts profit margins, which is why major German manufacturers want to delay the stricter rules. Germany wants the emissions targets reduced to protect luxury makers such as BMW and Daimler . The legal changes demanded by Berlin would allow luxury makers to continue selling more powerful - and profitable - models in Europe after 2020, when the new EU emission limits will take effect. Under the plan, car makers would be allowed to carry over credits to pollute that were accrued before the new rules kick in. Known as supercredits, these permits are earned if manufacturers make some very low emissions vehicles, such as electric cars, which German firms are making to meet a separate national target. The problem is that if they manage to hold on to a glut of supercredits, they can carry on making higher emissions models, and emissions levels will fail to meet the 2020 95 g/km target. Germany and its carmakers say the flexibility they want is essential for spurring innovation, but critics say the changes amount to major loopholes in the rules. An EU source said the German proposal would delay achievement of the 95 g/km target until 2023 for those carmakers who made use of the accrued credits. The United States has agreed fuel efficiency standards, though they lag Europe, while China, where smog has stirred social unrest, is increasingly aware of the implications of vehicle emissions for air pollution. In 2008, after dire predictions of factory closures and mass job losses, the European Union agreed a limit of 130 g/km to be phased in between 2012 and 2015.

Germany's luxury carmakers struggling to meet targets . Berlin pressuring member states to weaken rules . Most EU governments back the current legislation .

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By . Simon Tomlinson . PUBLISHED: . 05:24 EST, 5 December 2013 . | . UPDATED: . 15:40 EST, 5 December 2013 . Brothels, sex shops and lap dancing clubs have been raided by more than 200 police in a major crackdown on organised crime in central London. Officers made 29 arrests as part of an undercover operation to root out drugs, prostitution and people trafficking in Soho. Around a dozen women who were found in . squalid rooms after apparently being brought into the country for . prostitution were taken to safe locations for questioning. Scroll down for video and an interactive map . Crime hotspot: Women, believed to be sex workers, cover their faces as they wait to be questioned by police during a major crackdown on drugs, prostitution and human trafficking in Soho, London . Swooping in: Two hundred Metropolitan Police officers raided several premises in Soho as part of an 18-month undercover operation . Commander Alison Newcomb said: 'This part of London (Soho) has been almost a constant feature as a crime hotspot for the Metropolitan Police' Questioned: A woman is interviewed by a police officer during the raids on sex-themed businesses in Soho . During the 18-month investigation, detectives found evidence linking drug . dealers and stolen goods to a number of properties . including 22 brothels, three sex shops, two lap dancing clubs and a cab company. The premises were targeted by officers in riot vans, supported by a police helicopter and sniffer dogs, from 9pm last night. They seized class A drugs, cash and stolen smartphones. More . arrests were made this morning and officers are still searching over 20 . addresses, including the homes of many of the suspects. Taken away: Police officers make an arrest as part of a crackdown on drugs and human trafficking in Soho . Suspect: A man is arrested as part of the operation, but it has not been revealed what alleged offence he is being held on suspicion of committing . Major investigation: Detectives found evidence linking drug dealers and those buying stolen goods to a number of properties including a cab company, brothels, clubs and sex shops in the area . Commander Alison Newcomb of Westminster Police told The Evening Standard: . 'Yes, its edginess is why some people come here, but when they do come . here we want them to be safe, not to be robbed, and enjoy their night . out.' People are 146 times more likely to be robbed in Soho than in the rest of the UK. Cdr Newcomb said: . 'These operations have given us a much clearer intelligence picture and . evidence of connections between criminals and crime types that were . happening in Soho, from street drug dealers to links with human . traffickers. Investigation: A woman believed to be an . employee of a business advertising massages covers her face (left), . while (right) a police officer waits in the entrance of a premises . Targeted: More than 200 officers raided brothels, sex shops and lap dancing clubs in the area . Held: An officer handcuffs a man (left) outside one of the locations while another (left) leads a woman away . 'This . part of London has been almost a constant feature as a crime hotspot for . the Met so we have used a range of specialist officers, skills and . policing tactics to make this a hostile area for criminals to try and . operate in.' The Metropolitan Police will now apply for closure orders to shut down premises linked to serious crime. Click on this interactive map to see evidence gathered during the operation . Officers from the Met Police and the UK Border Agency were accompanied by sniffer dogs during the raids . Gathering evidence: An officer leaves a location with a sniffer dog (left), while others search a premises (right) Cdr . Newcomb said: 'The next step will be to work to close a number of the . brothels where we have evidence of very serious crimes happening, . including rape and human trafficking. 'Financial . investigators will now follow the money trail and will go where the . evidence takes them, unpicking if there are broader criminal networks . involved. 'We will continue . to do all we can to make this a hostile environment for criminals to . try and operate in. The next phase of this operation is already in the . planning.' Crackdown: During the 18-month investigation, detectives linked drug dealers and stolen goods to a number of properties including 22 brothels, three sex shops, two lap dancing clubs and a cab company . Decisive action: Police will now apply for closure orders to shut down premises linked to serious crime . Councillor Philippa Roe, Leader of . Westminster City Council, said: 'The night time economy is a cornerstone . of the West End's success and, as part of the West End Partnership, . Westminster City Council works to promote the area as a safe place for . law abiding people to live and do business. 'Drugs, . theft, handling stolen goods and human trafficking have no part in that . which is why Westminster City Council stands shoulder to shoulder with . the Metropolitan Police Service in Operation Demontere. 'Together, . we're sending the clear message that the insidious tentacles of the . criminal underworld will not be allowed to spread through Soho unchecked . and unchallenged. 'Tonight's raids struck a significant . blow against the criminal infrastructure. Now, however, we want to be . just as clear that Westminster City Council is ready to help any . vulnerable woman - themselves victims of crime, trapped in a way of life . where they have little or no control. For us, their safety is . paramount.' Financial investigators will now follow the money trail to see if there are wider criminal networks involved . Codenamed Demontere, the operation has been months in the planning using evidence gathered by undercover officers and other policing tactics to target those people using various businesses as a front for handling stolen goods. Previously, operations - codenamed Jolt and Rense - have taken place since May 2012, using a range of policing tactics and specialist officers from across the Met, to tackle the drugs market in Soho. To date, as part of these operations, 73 drug dealers and users have been arrested, being jailed for over 170 years in total, or have anti-social behaviour orders in place against them. Sorry we are unable to accept comments for legal reasons.

More than 200 police in riot vans swooped on premises in Soho, London . 29 people arrested as part of 18-month operation to tackle organised crime . A dozen women found in squalid rooms have been taken to safe locations . Officers seized class A drugs, cash and stolen mobile phones from clubs .

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There we were thinking this was an all-new Arsenal. Here was a match which, for much of it, appeared to build on that 2-0 away win at Manchester City in January. The renaissance Arsenal team seems solid, workmanlike and ready to hit teams on the counter. With Mesut Ozil orchestrating, Olivier Giroud turning into a warrior-like centre forward who can hold the ball up superbly, and the speed and skill of Alexis Sanchez and Danny Welbeck wide, they are perfectly equipped to play this type of game. And with Francis Coquelin’s importance growing with every game, there seemed to be a solidity about Arsenal which has rarely been evident in the past. It is, however, something of a mirage, an illusion. They might appear more robust but their fragility seems to haunt them, hanging around like an un-exorcised spirit. Santi Cazorla puts Arsenal into the lead from the penalty spot to score his seventh Premier League goal of the season . The Spanish midfielder celebrates after sending Julian Speroni the wrong way to put the Gunners a goal up at Selhurst Park . Danny Welbeck is brought down by Papa Souare for the penalty but his challenge appeared to be just outside the box . Olivier Giroud pokes home from close range to make it 2-0 in first half stoppage time, somewhat against the run of play . Giroud is congratulated by Danny Welbeck after scoring his 50th goal for Arsenal, following a Julian Speroni save . Welbeck looked to be just offside during the build-up to Giroud's strike at Selhurst Park . Glenn Murray stabs home from close range following a goalmouth scramble to give Palace a sniff of a point, but it came too late . Alexis Sanchez celebrates Arsenal's victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in his pants with his teammates . Arsenal were in control of this game. They were defending well. The clock was ticking on and three minutes of injury time had been play when Shola Ameobi met a corner at the far post. Amidst the confusion – a ricochet off Tomas Rosicky, a bounce off Per Mertesacker – Wilfried Zaha drove in shot which David Ospina parried and in snuck substitute Glenn Murray to prod home a goal. Still, it was no more than a consolation. Barely enough time remained for Arsenal to kick off. Yet within the remaining 90 seconds, Arsenal demonstrated sufficient vulnerability to ruin their new image. Yannick Bolasie went tearing down the left and swung in a cross. Ospina came diving out to punch away and missed the ball completely. At the far post lurked Murray waiting to head home. He met the ball cleanly and yet hit the post with the ball rebounding into the hands of the fortunate and relieved Ospina. That last kick – or head – of the game should have seen Arsenal forfeit two points. And even though it didn’t, it was enough to suggest that old habits die hard. If Arsenal have truly changed, then maybe they could yet enjoy a sustained run in the Champions League and approach an FA Cup tie at Old Trafford with confidence. The final two minutes on injury time yesterday suggested otherwise. ‘We can learn from every game and I believe the players know that they switched off a little bit early,’ said Arsene Wenger ruefully. ‘Certainly they thought it was done. In the Premier League it is never done. And when that header went off the post, we were a bit fortunate.’ Crystal Palace were doughty opponents yesterday. They absolutely make the most of what they have. The return of Mile Jedinak from winning the Asian Cup with Australia adds more fortitude to an already hard-working midfield. The pace of Dwight Gayle and Wilfried Zaha and later Bolasie was always a threat. CRYSTAL PALACE (4-3-2-1): Speroni 6; Ward 6.5, Dann 6.5, Delaney 6.5, Souare 6; Ledley 6.5 (Ameobi 79 mins), Puncheon 7, Mutch 6.5; Zaha 6.5, Gayle 6.5 (Murray 79), Campbell 6 (Bolasie 57, 7) Subs not used: Hangeland, Hennessey, Jedinak, Kelly . Goal: Murray . Booked: Mutch . ARSENAL (4-3-2-1): Ospina 6.5; Chambers 6.5, Mertesacker 7, Koscielny 7, Monreal 6.5; Coquelin 7, Cazorla 7; Sanchez 7 (Gabriel 89), Ozil 7 (Rosicky 76), Welbeck 7 (Gibbs 76); Giroud 7.5 . Subs not used: Szczesny, Wilshere, Walcott, Bellerin. Goals: Cazorla (pen), Giroud . Booked: Coquelin, Giroud, Chambers . Referee: Mark Clattenburg 5.5 . MOM: Giroud . Attendance: 24, 721 . Olivier Giroud started and finished the move for Arsenal's second goal. The strike came from a lovely Alexis Sanchez pass to Danny Welbeck, whose shot was parried into the path of Giroud. For more stats, pitch maps and analysis see our brilliant MATCH ZONE . Scott Dann (left) and Damien Delaney argue with referee Mark Clattenburg after the penalty was awarded, but it was a clear foul . Cazorla made no mistake from the penalty spot in the eighth minute, converting from 12 yards for the sixth time this season . Speroni goes the wrong way as Cazorla keeps his cool from the penalty spot to put the Gunners into an early lead . Cazorla is congratulated by his team-mates as Arsenal looked to pick up an eighth win in nine games . ‘That’s probably the best we’ve played since I’ve been manager,’ said Pardew. ‘The one that hit the post and goes in the keeper’s hands summed our day up really. I actually though the spin of the ball was going to take it into the net when it came off the post. It could have gone anywhere. It wasn’t to be. There was some great team play, some great individual moments and probably the best players were on our team, but we’ve lost.’ Arsenal were presented with an unexpected foothold in the game with a penalty on 8 minutes. Palace were aggrieved but perhaps only to spare the blushes of Pape Souare. Only last week Alan Pardew was warning that it would take the Senegalese left back time to adjust to the speed and intensity of the Premier League. He was miles off the pace on seven minutes, mis-controlling the ball and then lunging at Danny Welbeck as the Arsenal player chased the ball down ruthlessly. Palace’s complaint was that initial contact occurred outside the box – though Souare planted his foot on the line of the penalty area and his leg appeared to follow through into the box as he felled Welbeck. ‘It’s a mistake and he should better but the call is tough on us as it looked as if the incident happened outside the box,’ said Pardew. ‘he just got caught out and dwelled ion it and he’ll need to learn from that.’ Though it took several replays to ascertain the truth, on this occasion the instincts of the referee and his assistant were correct. Santi Cazorla took the spot kick, swept it confidently to his right and celebrated enthusiastically in front of the Palace fans. Thereafter, Palace played rather well but it was turning into a scrappy, physical game with little direction until Arsenal extended their lead on 43 minutes. This time Palace had legitimate cause for complaint. Wilfried Zaha skips past Nacho Monreal in the opening moments, and the England winger caused his full back plenty of problems . Zaha attempts to put a cross in as he provided Crystal Palace's major creative outlet in the early stages at Selhurst Park . Olivier Giroud holds the ball up under pressure from Palace defender Dann, but the Arsenal striker was starved of ball in the first half . Laurent Koscielny halts the run of Jason Puncheon with a well-timed tackle as Palace struggled to create clear-cut chances . ‘It’s a mistake and he should better but the call is tough on us as it looked as if the incident happened outside the box,’ said Pardew. ‘he just got caught out and dwelled ion it and he’ll need to learn from that.’ Though it took several replays to ascertain the truth, on this occasion the instincts of the referee and his assistant were correct. Santi Cazorla took the spot kick, swept it confidently to his right and celebrated enthusiastically in front of the Palace fans. Thereafter, Palace played rather well but it was turning into a scrappy, physical game with little direction until Arsenal extended their lead on 43 minutes. This time Palace had legitimate cause for complaint. Alexis Sanchez leads an Arsenal break. The Chilean played a brilliant pass to Danny Welbeck in the build-up to Arsenal's second goal . Sanchez (right) tracks back to help his full back Monreal deal with Zaha, as Crystal Palace responded well to going behind . Delaney's despairing dive can't stop the ball reaching Giroud, who tapped home to extend the Arsenal lead before the break . Giroud celebrates with Cazorla and full back Calum Chambers after doubling Arsenal's advantage shortly before half time . Giroud's goal came against the run of play, with Palace causing Arsenal plenty of problems without hitting the target in the first 45 minutes . Though the ball from Alexis Sanchez for Welbeck was utterly sublime, the effect was ruined somewhat by Welbeck starting his run a fraction early and ending up in an offside position - just – as the ball was played. He shot, Julian Speroni parried and Giroud, who has been superb holding the ball up in the build up, followed up from close range to score his 50th for the club. ‘The second goal is offside,’ said Pardew. ‘And that should be made that call. I had more problems with the second goal than the first. It’s just before half time and you have to get that call right.’ Palace were much brighter in the second half. Monreal was required to block a Zaha strike amidst a chaotic goal-mouth scramble. Souare showed his attacking qualities with a delightful cross which Gayle met and headed wide. Their efforts were ultimately in vain. But they came mightily close to exposing Arsenal. Mesut Ozil is tackled by Puncheon as Arsenal kept up their good form to move back into the Champions League places . Welbeck, who was involved in both Arsenal goals, breaks past the bearded Joe Ledley as Arsenal attempted to close the game out . Francis Coquelin, who has been a crucial part of Arsenal's recent form, takes a tumble after jumping with Jordan Mutch . Per Mertesacker heads away from Jordan Mutch with Chambers watching on, but for all their pressure Palace rarely tested David Ospina . Arsene Wenger throws his arms up in frustration during a performance that wasn't always convincing, but earned his side three points . Cazorla carries the ball away from Puncheon as Arsenal put in a disciplined, if unspectacular, performance to go third in the league .

Santi Cazorla puts Arsenal in front on eight minutes after Danny Welbeck was brought down in the box . Olivier Giroud makes it 2-0 in first half stoppage time after Speroni had saved a Welbeck shot . Crystal Palace showed fight and dominated for spells, but didn't manage a shot on target until the 83rd minute . Glenn Murray pulls a goal back for the hosts deep into stoppage time .

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(CNN) -- A bored U.S. marshal using Google connected an alleged scam artist arrested this year under an alias to a lawyer who disappeared decades ago before he was indicted on federal fraud charges. The suspect in a fake charity scam that stole millions in donations intended for Navy veterans is also wanted by the FBI for questioning in a spy case, federal officials said. When U.S. marshals arrested "Bobby Thompson" five months ago, they said they knew he was using a fake name. He's been held in the Cuyahoga County, Ohio, jail since then. "We always knew there was a reason that 'Thompson' signed his name as 'Mr. X' and did not want to be identified," U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott said Monday. "We now know why." His real name John Donald Cody, who graduated from Harvard Law School in 1972, served as a captain in the U.S. Army's military intelligence unit, worked as a lawyer in Arizona and speaks "many, many different foreign languages," Elliott said. Cody, now 65, disappeared in 1984 as IRS agents were investigating him in a case that led to his indictment in 1987 on four counts, including making false statements to an investment brokerage firm, taking stolen funds across state lines and lying on a loan application, according to court documents. But time and technology caught up with Cody when Elliott opened his web browser and began a series of Google searches. "I happened to be a little bored that Friday afternoon," Elliott said Monday. "Thank goodness for Google." He searched for cold-case fraud fugitives with ties to military, he said. Google images yielded a 1969 photo of a man with a pompadour hairstyle in a military uniform and several later photos of the same man with a similar haircut, he said. Both Cody and Thompson favored the pompadour, he said. "In our profession, one and one always equals two, and I believe man is always a creature of habit, no matter what identity he takes," Elliott said. He also found an FBI wanted flyer for a cold-case fraud fugitive wanted since 1987. It was from 1987 when the FBI began searching for Cody. Since Cody fled before he was arrested, the FBI had no fingerprints to compare to Thompson. But the military did, and they matched, Elliott said. The "Thompson" case drew a lot of attention in May when "Thompson" was arrested in Oregon after a two-year nationwide manhunt during which he was placed on the list of "America's Most Wanted" fugitives. Investigators found almost $1 million in a storage unit the arrest. Cody allegedly founded a fake charity -- the U.S. Navy Veterans Association -- through which he collected nearly $2 million from donors in 41 states in a telemarketing scam between 2005 and 2010, authorities said. While the government acknowledged a possible connection between Cody and a FBI espionage investigation, no other details have been disclosed. CNN's Carol Cratty contributed to this report.

"Bobby Thompson" is John Donald Cody, a fugitive Arizona lawyer, officials say . Cody, now 65, disappeared in 1984 as IRS agents were investigating him for fraud . Cody allegedly founded a fake charity that stole $2 million intended for veterans . "Thank goodness for Google," U.S. marshal says .

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It wasn't quite Oprah Winfrey vs Lance Armstrong, but in his first interview since news of his positive test for cocaine, UFC champion Jon Jones apologised for the 'embarrassing situation' and insisted he is not a drug addict. Jones failed a routine test on December 4, a month before he made an eighth successful defence of his light-heavyweight title against Daniel Cormier. The results of the test were released three days after his victory before Jones checked himself into rehab and was later fined $25,000 (£16,520) by the UFC. UFC light heavyweight champion spoke to Fox Sports 1 in his first interview since failing a drug test . Jon Jones tested positive for cocaine a month before he fought Daniel Cormier in Las Vegas . The 27-year-old spoke for the first time during a 13-minute interview with Fox Sports 1. 'I'm not here to make excuses for what happened,' he said. 'A coward would sit here and try to come up with an elaborate reason or try to blame something. I'm not going to blame my friends or pressure. 'I did it at a party; I messed up. It wasn't a mistake because I consciously did it.' Jones admitted it wasn't the first time he had dabbled in the drug. 'I've dibbed and dabbed in my fair share of partying, lets say,' he said. 'The drug was introduced to me in college. It's not my thing, I don't know what came over me. 'The whole situation has been really embarrassing. 'I had to explain to so many people that I'm not a cocaine addict and not even a frequent user. 'I got caught with my pants down.' Jones is the UFC's light-heavyweight champion and the promotion's pound-for-pound No 1 fighter . Jones admitted that the day of the test had been 'nerve-wracking' because he knew he was likely to fail the test. But having told nobody about his fears, and having heard nothing about it by the time he weighed in for his fight, thought it might not have been picked up. Jones was at home with his family in Alberqurque when UFC president Dana White called with the news. 'My mum was one of the first people I called,' he said. 'It went better than I thought it would, she was very supportive. She said she didn't care about my athletic career and being a celebrity, she cared about me. She asked how big an issue it was and I told her it wasn't a problem.' Jones then entered rehab but was criticised for appearing to stay for just 24 hours. 'Going to rehab was a collective decision between me and my business parters,' he explained. 'I did a 24-hour evaluation where I spoke to three doctors for about seven hours. We spoke about drugs and the role it played in my life. 'They came to the conclusion that I didn't need to be an in patient. 'They put me in an out patient house and I stayed there the next day with a bunch of addicts. Jones outpointed his rival Cormier earlier this month to make an eighth successful defence of his belt . 'The counsellor sat me down and said he believed I made a big mistake and that I didn't need to live here with us. 'They test me on a weekly basis and our counselling sessions will be once, twice, even three times a week. 'When I went to rehab I was willing to stay there as long as I needed to be.' Jones concluded the interview by insisting that he would learn from the experience. 'I'm not going to sit here and say I'll never have a drink again or enjoy life,' he said. 'I think there are a lot of people out there who can relate to me. 'The important thing is to learn that when we fall down to get back up and not beat yourself up about it. 'My message to my fans is that I'm really sorry for maybe betraying their belief and letting them down. 'I've let myself down, my family, my team, the UFC and my fans.'

UFC light heavyweight  champion Jon Jones failed a drug test in December . Jones tested positive for cocaine and was later fined $25,000 . Jones was allowed to defend his title against Daniel Cormier this month . He inflicted a first defeat on his rival to retain his belt . Jones admits: 'I messed up. It wasn't a mistake as I consciously did it.'

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By . Daily Mail Reporter . and Ryan Gorman . and Associated Press Reporter . PUBLISHED: . 15:00 EST, 11 January 2014 . | . UPDATED: . 10:47 EST, 12 January 2014 . A massive chemical spill in West Virginia has led to multiple hospitalizations and a tap water ban for hundreds of thousands of people. More than 300,000 people have been left without running water and four have been hospitalized after a potentially toxic foaming agent used in the coal preparation process spilled earlier this week into the Charleston public water system. Residents were told to not bathe, brush . their teeth or wash their clothes with tap water after 4-Methylcyclohexane Methanol leaked from a storage tank into the Elk River and the water supply of the mostly rural state's largest city. A total of 32 people sought treatment at local hospitals after coming down with symptoms of having been poisoned, four of them were admitted for further treatment, a state spokesperson said. Their conditions have not been disclosed. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . A common sight: Locals line up to fill containers of water at an emergency distribution center set up at Poca High School in Poca, West Virginia . Desperate measures: A city worker distributes water at a local store Friday in Charleston, West Virginia . Shuttered: Restaurants and stores in Charleston, W.Va. are closed Saturday following Thursday's chemical spill . By the truckload: A fireman from the Poca Volunteer Fire Department unloads water from a tractor trailer Saturday at Poca High School in Poca, West Virginia . 'We're just not sure exactly how long it's going to take before it's acceptable to lift the do-not-drink ban, West Virgina Gov Earl Tombin told CNN Friday night. The chemical's concentration in the local water supply was lower Friday, but not to the point officials felt safe allowing people to drink the water again - and Charleston's mayor didn't mince words in voicing his displeasure. 'It's caused us more problems than you could ever imagine,' he told CNN. 'It's a prison from which we would like to be released.' The ban has forced schools, offices, restaurants, hotels and other businesses to shutter, but hospitals have remained busy. Beware: More than 300,000 people have been told to indefinitely avoid drinking or even touching tap water following Thursday's chemical spill in Charleston, West Virgina . Contaminated: Authorities have advised people not to drink bathe or even wash their clothes with the contaminated water . Fill 'er up: People stand in line to fill water jugs with uncontaminated water following the spill . FEMA: The federal government sent 75 trucks - each carrying 18,500 liters of water - as well as bottled water to help provide water for those in need . So far, nearly 700 people have called the . state's poison control hotline complaining of symptoms of exposure to . the chemical. Those symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, . headaches, skin irritation or rashes. Federal authorities began investigating how the foaming agent escaped a chemical plant and seeped into the Elk River. Just how much of the chemical leaked into the river was not yet known. Freedom Industries President Gary Southern has apologized for the toxic spill. 'We'd like to start by sincerely apologizing to the people in the affected counties of West Virginia,' he said. 'We are very, very sorry for the disruptions to everybody's daily life this incident has caused.' Officials are working with Freedom Industries to determine how much can be in the water without it posing harm to residents, said West Virginia American Water president Jeff McIntyre. 'We don't know that the water's not safe. But I can't say that it is safe,' Mr McIntyre said Friday. For now, there is no way to treat the tainted water aside from flushing the system until it's in low-enough concentrations to be safe, a process that could take days. 'Yeah, I understand that stuff can happen,' local Jeff Bonham - who also works in the chemical industry - said. 'I don't think it's going to get him out of legal liability. OSHA is the one they're going to have to answer to.' Officials and experts said the chemical, even in its most concentrated form, isn't deadly. 'We have mitigated the risk, we believe, in terms of further material leaving this facility,' Mr Southern added, acknowledging he had no idea how much of the chemical had leaked out of the storage tank. President Barack Obama issued an emergency declaration for the state on Friday, ordering federal aid as residents raced to stores to stock up on bags of ice and crates of bottled water. FEMA is sending 75 trucks - each carrying 18,500 liters of water - were expected to start arriving Friday evening. Panic: Grocery store shelves in South Charleston, West Virginia are stripped bare of bottled water . after authorities warned residents' tap water was no longer safe to drink following a chemical spill . Stocked up: Charleston resident Niru Parikshak loads up the back of her car with bottled water on Thursday . The accident unfolded on the Elk River in . Charleston, West Virginia's capital and largest city, just upriver from . the state's largest water treatment plant. It forced Governor Earl Ray Tomblin to . declare a state of emergency for nine counties as 300,000 residents were left without water. Health officials have advised residents to use tap water only for flushing toilets and fighting fires. 'West Virginians in the affected . service areas are urged not to use tap water for drinking, cooking, . washing or bathing,' Gov. Earl Tomblin said in a statement. 'Right now, our . priorities are our hospitals, nursing homes and schools.' A spokesperson with West Virginia American Water told WSAZ they are carrying out water quality testing every hour to figure out the level of concentration in the water. But she added that the company is unsure how much of the chemical seeped into the water, and said there is no timetable for when the water will be safe to use. Emergency workers were transporting water to distribution centers in the affected counties, according to the Charleston Gazette. Warning: Jimmy Gianato, director of WVA Homeland Security, speaks about the contamination . with (from left) WVA Water President Jeff McIntyre, WVA National Guard . Adj. Gen. James Hoyer and Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin . Following the chemical spill in the Elk River on Thursday, residents have been told not to use tap water for drinking, bathing or cooking, and were warned that boiling it does not remove the chemicals. The West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources said symptoms include: severe burning in throat, severe eye irritation, non-stop vomiting, trouble breathing or severe skin irritation such as skin blistering, WSAZ reported. The company is unsure how much of the chemical - which is used in the coal preparation process - seeped into the water, and said there is no timetable for when it will be safe to use. Local media showed pictures of residents lining up at stores for bottled water, and shelves emptied of their supplies. At a Kroger supermarket in suburban Kanawha City, a Charleston police officer stood guard as shoppers stocked up on bottled water. 'People have been grabbing it like . crazy,' Kerstin Halstead told the newspaper as she loaded two cases of . water into her SUV. 'Some people were getting - well, they could have . shared more.' Dr. Rahul Gupta, health officer for the Kanawha-Charleston and the Putnam . County Health Departments, ordered the closure of all restaurants and . schools receiving water from the West Virginia American Water company. Schools . would be shut on Friday across many counties, including Boone, Cabell, . Clay, Jackson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Pocahontas and Putnam, the West . Virginia Department of Education said on its website. Desperate: . Tanaz Rahin and her mother Farri Rahin of Charleston drove across town . to find water following the chemical spill on the Elk River that . compromised the public water supply to eight counties on Thursday . Concern: Laura John of Charleston also drove across town to South Charleston to find water . Tomblin's spokeswoman, Amy Shuler Goodwin, said she did not know when the ban would be lifted. The spill originated with Freedom Industries, a Charleston company, according to Laura Jordan, external affairs manager for West Virginia American Water. It occurred above the intake of the Kanawha Valley water treatment plant in Charleston, which serves 100,000 homes and businesses, or 250,000 to 300,000 people, Ms Jordan said. 'It could be potentially harmful if swallowed and could potentially cause skin and eye irritation,' she added. Pollution: A chemical spill along the Elk River in Charleston, West Virginia has triggered a tap water ban for up to 300,000 people . Clean up: A worker throws a boom into the Elk River Thursday, after the spill of chemical used in the preparation of coal . The West Virginia Department of Environment Protection got a report of a strange odor on Thursday morning and visited the Freedom Industries site, where they found a leaking storage unit, Shuler Goodwin said. The company is working with state and federal authorities to get residents access to bottled water, and water distribution sites will be announced through local media, said Ms Jordan. Freedom Industries' website says it is a producer of specialty chemicals for the mining, steel and cement industries.

Foaming agent used in coal preparation accidentally spilled into the Elk River in Charleston on Thursday . As many as 300,000 people in the state have been hit with a tap water ban . People are lining up for clean water donated by FEMA and other agencies . Nearly 700 people claim to have symptoms of exposure to tainted water, four have been hospitalized . The company responsible for the spill has apologized as one official calls the ban 'a prison from which we'd like to be released' The water company said there is no timetable for when the water can be used again . President Obama has ordered federal aid for the state, and the National Guard is to mobilize at an air base at Charleston's Yeager Airport .

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(CNN) -- He's gone from being a backup dancer to the biggest thing in Asian pop culture, an actor and singer who has sold millions of albums. The 27-year-old South Korean has even faced down U.S. comedian Steven Colbert in a spoof dance-off. The comedy skit came about after Rain placed higher than him in Time Magazine's 2008 online poll of the 100 Most Influential People. As well as a sense of humor and dance moves that shook Colbert out of his satirical posture to praise, Rain is also known as one of the hardest working men in the entertainment business. Rain, real name Jung Ji-hoon, broke into the notoriously tough world of South Korean show business with JYP Entertainment when he was just 18 years old. He made his first mark in Hollywood last year with a role in "Speed Racer" appearing alongside Christina Ricci and Matthew Fox. As a singer with five albums to his name, he's faced thousands of screaming fans at concerts across the world, and recently he faced your questions. Watch the show and find out what makes Rain tick.

Korean pop culture sensation will be on Talk Asia later this month . 27-year-old has gone from backup dancer to appearing in Hollywood films . Rain will be appearing with answers to your questions .

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A fire near the fuel tanks at Boston Logan International Airport was quickly extinguished Tuesday, but the incident halted refueling operations and caused flight departure delays. There were no injuries -- save for some serious headaches for some air travelers. The underground airport fueling system remained shut down Tuesday evening, meaning planes could not be refueled in Boston. The fire near the "Fuel Farm" broke out at about 5 p.m. and was under control within a half hour, according to the Massachusetts Port Authority, which operates the airport. Ed Freni, director of aviation at Logan, told CNN that 15% of departing flights were delayed or canceled, and that 75% of flights departing after the fire had to schedule a fuel stop at another airport. Freni says a handful of long-haul international flights are stranded in Boston tonight. The airport did not know when repairs would be completed. The cause of the fire was under investigation, said port authority spokesman Richard Walsh. Passengers were advised to check with their airlines on their flight status. Power outage bottlenecks ticketing systems, delays flights .

Fire breaks out near Boston airport fuel farm . Flights delayed, fueling system temporarily halted . Fire under investigation .

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(CNN) -- "No ma'am ... I will not register my weapons." These passionate words from a former Marine sparked an insatiable conversation on CNN.com. Since Joshua Boston posted an open letter to U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-California, dismissing stricter gun control, on CNN iReport, his commentary has received more than 1 million views, almost 30,000 comments and even a response from Feinstein's office. But one response stood out from the rest -- a reaction from another former Marine addressed directly to Boston. Nicolas DiOrio called Boston's letter an "embarrassment to those who've served." The two views on gun control were as different as the photos adorning the letters, Boston wielding a firearm and DiOrio pointing a video camera. Prompted by the firestorm of discussion the two have sparked, we interviewed both men with the same set of questions to further explain their opposing views on gun control. Read their responses and judge their arguments for yourself: . 1. What do you think our founding fathers meant by the right "to keep and bear arms" mentioned in the Second Amendment? Boston: They had just fought a war against a government that had overstepped its boundaries. You can only come to the conclusion that they put it there for us to have the same ability to do that in the future should the need arise. They use the terms people, militia and arms specifically. They differentiate between the United States, the states and the people elsewhere. I think they use the term arms because they mean any weapons that we might have to bear in such a situation. DiOrio: I think that because we had a much smaller military at the time, it was more of an allowance that people could have weapons or muskets to raise a militia to defend the country from outside invasion. But in today's world, we have a much larger military and the weapons that are available are much more dangerous than the weapons of that time. I would think that the founding fathers would not make as broad of an allowance of individual possession of firearms if they knew what the state of firearms was today. 2. What if a new bill about banning assault weapons passes, say Sen. Dianne Feinstein's bill? What would it mean for America? Boston: It's going to open a door that we, or our descendants, are going to deplore. It's saying it's OK to take away guns away based on the actions of a few. The next time somebody goes up the tower at the University of Texas Austin shooting people with a deer rifle, it will show our willingness to give away hunting rifles. And after the next Virginia Tech, handguns are going to be taken away. These shootings have happened before; they just don't have the same emotional weight as this shooting had. DiOrio: I don't think it would really harm gun owners as they think it would. They would still have access to all sorts of hunting weapons and rifles. The bill only seeks to ban assault weapons. Unless we had a bill like the one passed in Australia in 1996, a retroactive ban, we would still have all these weapons out there. Unless such a ban is instituted, it will probably not be as effective as we hope. Nevertheless, I do support any step taken in limiting assault weapons. 3. What's the biggest misconception that you think people have about your stance on guns? Boston: There's a few of them. They think I'm paranoid. I'm not. I just learned early on that you have to expect the worst while hoping for the best. Expecting that the best is going to happen when hard times show up you won't be prepared and you will fail. People assume because I own guns that I'm not educated or that I don't know how to think for myself. I own guns because I'm educated to the dangers and the reality of the world that we live in. I accept the reality that we live in and I don't accept that the police will always be there for me. I own guns because I'm very much attached to reality. DiOrio: I think, based on what I've read, people just have the perception that I think that gun owners are evil or don't care about gun violence. I realize that's not true, but I just think that people are very eager to talk about their rights but not always so eager to talk about collective responsibility and safety. Also, I want to set straight that I don't think Josh Boston is a disgrace at all. I just think that his letter could have been more sensitive to the issues. I respect him and his service; I wasn't trying to personally attack him. 4. What should the U.S. do to keep guns out of the wrong hands (like criminals)? Boston: Criminals are going to do what they want to do. We have to accept that. We can make all the laws that we want, but it's not going to stop [people] from breaking them. We have laws to prevent that from happening. Just as keeping drugs out of peoples' hands doesn't solve the drug war, gun control is not going to keep guns out of peoples' hands. The majority of crime is committed with illegally acquired weapons in the first place. What we can do is remove the restriction levels for law-abiding citizens who want to defend themselves. This idea of a gun-free zone has never stopped a shooting. People never walk up to a school and say, 'This is a gun-free zone, so I'm going to go shoot somewhere else.' It's never happened. DiOrio: We need to enforce background checks, not just at commercial retailers but also at gun shows. We need to limit the sale of dangerous weapons to people who have no record of criminal history. We need to perhaps consider enacting some kind of mental screening or wellness testing before people are allowed to purchase weapons as well. It might offend people because it would infringe upon their rights, but we need to consider if that would outweigh the benefits brought to society by not allowing weapons to go into the hands of the mentally ill. 5. Why were there so many mass shootings in 2012 (Aurora, Colorado, Oak Creek, Wisconsin, and Newtown, Connecticut)? What do you think is to blame? Boston: Humanity. We as a species have faults and we still have wars with each other. I can still hear atrocities happening around the globe. ... It's not because of a simple object that propels a projectile. It's because of us. We refuse to look at the root of the issue because it scares us. We give into fear and play to our emotions and we move to outlaw something that is not a cause, but just a means. I'm not a psychiatrist. I couldn't tell you why there are so many. There's a deeper problem here. These kinds of things, and not just mass shootings, happen all over the globe; it's not a problem specific to America. DiOrio: Based upon just what I've read on the shootings, it appears that at least a couple of them are mentally disturbed in some way and they had access to these weapons. When the Assault Weapons Ban expired, people were allowed to purchase them again. When the mentally ill have access to them, it's inevitable that these tragedies are going to happen. It's very sad to me that not even Aurora took us to these discussions. It took the murder of 20 children before we were again willing to look at our gun laws and wonder whether or not we should make changes. Who do you think had the better answers, Boston or DiOrio? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Former Marine says he will not register his guns even if a federal law is passed . Marine's open letter goes viral online; draws fiery responses from CNN commenters . Another former Marine responds to Joshua Boston's letter with a countering view . CNN asks both men the same questions to explain their opposing views .

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