The Scot, 22, was a game and 18-16 down against Denmark's Anna Thea Madsen before winning 17-21 21-18 21-19. Second seed Gilmour will meet Spain's Carolina Marin in the final after the top seed beat Line Kjaersfeldt 23-21 21-15 in La Roche Sur Yon, France. In the men's singles, England's Rajiv Ouseph took a second successive bronze medal after losing his semi-final. Ouseph, the silver medallist in 2014, was beaten 21-11 21-16 by last year's champion and top seed Jan O Jorgensen of Denmark. On reaching the final, Gilmour said: "I feel happy, feel relief, I feel excited, tired - all of those things. I am just delighted. "Remaining calm on court, not getting ahead of myself, not thinking too much was the key."

Summary: Kirsty Gilmour staged a stirring comeback to seal a place in Sunday's final of the European Championships.


The Slovenia-born 27-year-old won 7-6 (7-4) 6-3 in the clay-court Open Citta Della Disfada final in Barletta, Italy. Bedene won the Verrazzano Open in France last week, and now has three titles to his name on the secondary ATP Challenger Tour in 2017. He is on a 10-match unbeaten run, and is forecast to rise from 76th in the rankings to around 69th. The clay-court specialist has now won 17 of his last 18 matches, with the only defeat coming on hard courts at the Miami Masters.

Summary: British number four Aljaz Bedene beat Portugal's Gastao Elias to win his second tournament in a row.


Reports say the Turkish Airlines flight, flying from Bangkok to Istanbul, made an emergency landing after crew spotted a message on a toilet mirror written in lipstick. The message reportedly warned that there was a bomb in the cargo hold. The plane landed safely at the Indira Gandhi International airport and all the 148 passengers were evacuated. "There was a bomb threat to the Turkish Airlines flight and therefore they decided to land it in New Delhi," an official from the federal Central Industrial Security Forces told the Reuters news agency. Local media have said that operations at the airport are operating normally, apart from the bay where the plane has been taken. Investigations are continuing.

Summary: Police have searched an airliner at India's Delhi airport after a bomb threat, officials say.


The biker collided with a white Fiat Doblo van at Keppel Gate on the A18 Mountain Road, north of Douglas at about 19:15 BST on Thursday. The BMW PR motorcycle rider, believed to be from the UK, was heading towards Douglas and the van was travelling towards Ramsey. Police said the crash happened in "near perfect conditions" and appealed for witnesses to come forward. The biker was pronounced dead at the scene and the driver and passenger of the van were shaken but uninjured, police said. The road was closed for investigations to take place.

Summary: A motorcyclist has been killed in a crash on the Isle of Man.


The force wants to knock down its current 42-year-old building in Aykley Heads, which it said was too expensive to run and not "fit for purpose". New homes are planned for the current site and the new three-storey HQ would be next door. The force is applying for planning permission and if granted wants the new building to be open by 2014. The force is holding roadshows throughout the county over the next few weeks to explain the plans. Peter Thompson, the chairman of Durham Police Authority, said: "The present headquarters dates back to 1969. "It is no longer considered fit for purpose, with extremely high running and maintenance costs, coupled with the fact it does not lend itself to modern working conditions. "The new building will represent a considerable saving to the police authority, at a time when every penny spent is being scrutinised and must be justified."

Summary: Durham Police has said a new £14m headquarters would save the force money in the long-run.


The 28-year-old posted a photograph of her ring finger with a heart-shaped jewel on it. The caption with it reads: "He gave me his heart on Valentine's Day, and I said YES!" She has been going out with the actor and model Taylor Kinney, 33, since 2011, after they met on the set of her video for You and I. She had used social media on Saturday to say that she was "ready for my Valentine" and it seems he didn't disappoint. In December, Gaga told the American DJ Howard Stern that she knew "Kinney is the right guy." It's been a busy time for the singer she recently sang on stage at the Grammys and announced last week that she's been invited to perform at the Oscars. Follow @BBCNewsbeat on Twitter, BBCNewsbeat on Instagram and Radio1Newsbeat on YouTube

Summary: Lady Gaga has taken to Instagram to announce that she is now engaged to long-term boyfriend Taylor Kinney.


The 24-year-old victim was one of two people attacked as they sat in Salt Hill Park, Slough, after being approached by three men. He suffered life-threatening injuries in the assault on 10 July and died in hospital on Monday. Two people have been arrested and released while inquiries continue. Another was released without charge. Thames Valley Police said a post-mortem examination and formal identification of the victim will now take place. Det Ch Insp Andy Shearwood said: "We have launched a murder investigation after the victim, who was assaulted three weeks ago, sadly died. "Detectives have been working to piece together the circumstances of what happened." The other victim, also aged 24, was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries and has since been discharged.

Summary: A murder investigation has started after a man was stabbed while sitting on a skate ramp.


Conlan produced a dominant display against the Italian to earn a unanimous points decision. The 23-year-old will take on Britain's Qais Ashfaq in the final on Saturday. It will be a rematch after they fought in the Commonwealth Games final in Glasgow last year, with Conlan prevailing to win the goal medal. Conlan progressed to the European final after beating Maietta on a score of 30-27, 29-28, 29-28. His quarter-final win over Denmark's Frederick Jensen guaranteed a place at the World Championships in Qatar in October. Conlan won silver in the flyweight division at the 2013 European tests. The Belfast man's team-mate Dean Walsh had to be content with a bronze medal after losing his light-welterweight semi-final to Vitaly Dunaytsev. A third Irish boxer, light-heavyweight Joe Ward, beat Hrvoje Sep of Croatia and remains on course to regain the European title he won four years ago.

Summary: Belfast bantamweight Michael Conlan will fight for gold at the European Championships after a semi-final win over Francesco Maietta in Bulgaria.


Formal extradition requests were submitted on Wednesday, the Swiss Federal Office of Justice (FOJ) said. The seven top Fifa executives arrested in Zurich are among 14 Fifa officials indicted on charges of "rampant, systemic, and deep-rooted" corruption. The charges follow a major inquiry by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation. The FOJ said Zurich police, acting on its behalf, would give the seven Fifa officials a hearing over the extradition requests. The officials and their lawyers would have 14 days to respond to the request, which could be extended "if sufficient grounds exist", the FOJ statement said. After that, the FOJ would give its decision "within a few weeks", but that warned any ruling could be challenged in both the federal criminal court and the federal supreme court.

Summary: The United States has asked Switzerland to extradite seven Fifa officials arrested on corruption charges in May, the Swiss authorities say.


The 24-year-old former Arsenal player has been playing in Russia since September 2014 for FC Ufa. He made eight appearances last season and was sent off twice. One of his red cards came for he made an offensive gesture towards Spartak Moscow supporters after he believed he had been the victim of racist abuse. Spartak did not receive any disciplinary action, while the player was given a two-game suspension. In April 2016, his contract was ended by mutual consent. Arsenal Tula won promotion back to the Russian Premier League and have three points from two matches.

Summary: Ghanaian midfielder Emmanuel Frimpong has signed a two-year deal with Russian Premier League club Arsenal Tula.


So the BBC asked residents of the commercial capital, Lagos, what they thought was best about living in Africa's most populous nation and what they wanted the rest of the world to know about Nigeria. Here are their 10 favourite things. Readers can join the debate on Twitter using the hashtag #NaijaIsGr8. Emeka Iluchukwu, visual artist: Okocha Jude, businessman: Vanessa Iloenyosi, brand executive: Abayomi Usim, TV producer: Alesta Wilcox, chartered accountant: Paul Oseh, graphic designer: Damian Nzeka, teacher: Donatus Ezeji, IT specialist: Iluore Loueth, fashion designer: Orji Micah, builder: Damula Daramola, banker: Moses Onyibe, mobile photo trader: Chinedu Ugochukwu, businessman: Akpofure Tony Tegar, hotelier: Stanley Osiaku, trader: Chukwuma Nwana, beauty salon general manager: Sarah Okagbue, trainer: Uche Nzeka, broadcaster: Join the debate on Twitter using the hashtag #NaijaIsGr8 to @BBCAfrica and on the BBC Africa Facebook page.

Summary: Nigerians often complain about the negative portrayal of their country in the international media which often focuses on corruption and violence.


Singer Michelle John left from the competition, after she came last in the public vote on Saturday night's show. Her exit means that either Mo Adeniran, Into The Ark or Jamie Miller will be crowned the winner on Sunday night's show. Find out more about them here. It also means that either Jennifer Hudson, or Tom Jones will be this year's winning coach. Before leaving Michelle said she was proud of her achievements on the show, and said: "I might not have won but I'm a winner".

Summary: The final act has been eliminated from The Voice, and the final three contestants have been confirmed.


Philip Riddiford-Bell, 32, admitted three sex offence charges at a Hull Crown Court hearing on 7 March. He was also made the subject of an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order when he was sentenced earlier at the same court. Co-defendant Aimee Esnee, 30, of Cedars, Weeton, was handed a six-month jail term suspended for two years. Riddiford-Bell, of Skerne Road, Driffield, pleaded guilty to possessing extreme pornography, and possessing and distributing indecent images of children. He was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life. Esnee admitted to one charge of possessing indecent images of children at a court hearing on 11 May. She was also told she must register as a sex offender for seven years, was fined Â£1,000 and a seven-year sexual harm prevention order was made.

Summary: A tutor who sent indecent images of children to his lover has been jailed for three years.


After his extradition, he appeared in court in New York, where he pleaded not guilty. He was among seven officials from world football's governing body, Fifa, who were arrested in Switzerland in May. He is accused of taking bribes worth millions of dollars from sports marketing companies in connection with the Copa America and Copa do Brasil. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison. The Swiss authorities say he was accompanied by US police officers on a flight from Zurich to New York. The US has indicted a total of 14 current and former Fifa officials and associates on charges of "rampant, systemic, and deep-rooted" corruption following a major inquiry by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Fifa's President, Sepp Blatter, has always denied any wrongdoing - but in September, he too was made the subject of a Swiss criminal investigation, launched alongside the US inquiry.

Summary: The former head of Brazilian football, Jose Maria Marin, has been extradited to the US to face corruption charges.


The blaze broke out at Carbogen Amcis Ltd, Clayton, a mile away from Manchester City's Etihad Stadium on Sunday. A huge plume of smoke could be seen rising from the firm's Clayton Lane unit, which develops and produces pharmaceuticals. The Environment Agency said the foam has caused "minimal impact" to water. About 50 firefighters fought the blaze through the night as it spread to a pallet, containers and a warehouse. Residents living within a two-mile radius were asked to keep their doors and windows closed and stay indoors by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.

Summary: A 30m (98ft) wall of foam which appeared along a canal after a major chemical fire is being investigated.


They say Ms Szydlo was travelling in a government convoy when a private Fiat drove into her limousine, causing it to hit a tree in the town of Oswiecim. The 53-year-old leader is in "good condition", but she is being flown to Warsaw for checks, officials say. In November, Ms Szydlo's motorcade was involved in an accident in Israel. She was not injured. Polish President Andrzej Duda and Defence Minister Antoni Macierewicz have also been involved in recent car accidents, though without injury. In Friday's crash, the limousine's driver and an officer from the Government Protection Office (BOR) were also injured. A police investigation is now under way. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mariusz Blaszczak called an urgent meeting with top BOR officials to discuss the situation.

Summary: Polish PM Beata Szydlo has suffered minor injuries in a car accident in the south of the country, officials say.


Commonwealth champion Davies knocked one tenth of a second off her previous best to take gold in the 50m backstroke in a time of 26.24 seconds. Renshaw won the 100m breaststroke with a British record time of 1:05.22. Davies and Renshaw then joined Loughborough team-mates Rachael Kelly and Sophie Smith to win the 4x100m medley relay title. Welsh record holder Jemma Lowe won the 100m butterfly, while Joe Elwood added the men's 100m backstroke title to the gold he won over 50m on Friday. Elwood, who won in lifetime best 52.22 seconds, said: "My legs became really heavy in the second half and my arms had to work really hard to keep them from sinking. "I definitely wasn't expecting two golds and given how tough that was, I am absolutely delighted." City of Manchester's Sam Horrocks took the 200m butterfly title and Lawrence Palmer won 50m breaststroke gold.

Summary: Georgia Davies and Molly Renshaw broke British records at the ASA's winter meet in Sheffield.


Keith Walker, 36, a father of three, from Tir na Ri Road, Clondalkin died. And another man was shot in the arm at Shelerin Road, Clonsilla at about 18:00 local time. His injuries are not life-threatening. The men were members of a pigeon club who were meeting in the yard at the time. Police believe Mr Walker was not the killer's target and was shot in a case of mistaken identity. People living in the area suggested that the shooting was reportedly carried out by a gunman dressed as a woman. A 32-year-old man was arrested in County Meath on Saturday morning. On Saturday evening, two more men, aged 36 and 38, were also arrested. Police have also searched a number of homes in Dublin.

Summary: Police have arrested two more men in the Republic of Ireland over a fatal shooting in Dublin on Friday.


A man fled from the Launceston Steam Railway, in Cornwall, with hundreds of pounds at around 16:10 BST on Sunday, Devon and Cornwall Police said. The elderly female shop assistant was described as "shocked, but unhurt" and a police officer was assaulted and taken to hospital. A man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and assault with intent. The 41-year-old, from Launceston, remains in police custody. The officer was taken to Derriford Hospital with head and leg injuries but has since been released from hospital.

Summary: A man has been arrested in connection with a knifepoint robbery at a steam railway booking office.


Mae'r Heddlu hefyd wedi cadarnhau bod y corff a wnaethpwyd dod o hyd iddo ddydd Sadwrn bellach wedi cael ei adnabod fel Ms Kearns. Roedd Ms Kearns wedi bod ar goll ers 7 Mai. Bydd ei phartner Anthony James Bird yn mynd o flaen Llys ynadon Llandudno ddydd Llun wedi'i gyhuddo o lofruddiaeth. Dywedodd y Prif Arolygydd Neil Harrison: "Fe allai gadarnhau mai corff Tracy Kearns, oedd wedi bod ar goll gafodd ei ddarganfod ddydd Sadwrn. "Mae ein meddyliau ni gyd gyda theulu a ffrindiau Tracy yn ystod y cyfnod anodd yma. "Mae ei phartner Anthony James Bird, 48 oed o Fae Cinmel wedi ei gyhuddo o lofruddio Tracy Kearns a bydd yn ymddangos o flaen Llys ynadon yn Llandudno ddydd Llun. "Rwy'n ymwybodol o'r effaith mae'r digwyddiad wedi ei gael yn lleol a hoffwn ddiolch i gymuned Bae Cinmel am eu hamynedd a chefnogaeth dros y pum niwrnod diwethaf."

Summary: Mae Heddlu'r Gogledd wedi cadarnhau bod dyn 48 oed o Fae Cinmel ger y Rhyl, wedi'i gyhuddo o lofruddio ei bartner Tracy Kearns.


Storms Desmond, Eva, Frank and Gertrude all caused major issues in the area, as did a severe but unnamed storm on 27 January. Hawick, Jedburgh, Newcastleton and Peebles were hit by severe flooding. The full cost of repairing all the damage has yet to be calculated but the council will get support under the Bellwin Scheme to deal with it. However, the local authority will have to come up with 0.2% of their net revenue budget as a contribution - which translates to £508,000. A report to members of the council's executive committee outlined the 240 pieces of work - 114 classed as major - which will have to be undertaken to put things right. It does not include further works which might be necessary once bridges are examined below the water level.

Summary: Borders councillors have been told the financial impact of a succession of severe winter storms on the region.


The White House said the pledge shows "the critical role that businesses must play in reducing the national gender pay gap." The pledge was part of the first United State of Women Summit, hosted by the White House. The 28 signatories include Pepsi, Amazon, Deloitte and Salesforce. Each of the companies has agreed to undertake an organisation-wide analysis of their salary policies, to review hiring and promotion practices, and to include equal pay efforts in other equality initiatives. A spokesperson for Pepsi said signing the pledge was part of the company's commitment to "end unconscious bias and create an inclusive environment where women are hired, developed professionally, and promoted into leadership positions."

Summary: More than two dozen companies have signed a pledge to address gender inequality in the workplace by regularly reviewing their own policies.


Swansea council has made summer charges apply all year round as it looks to deal with £80m of savings in the coming years. It means winter charges at some beach and foreshore car parks will treble. The council said car parks "have to pay their own way and be sustainable" and changes will avoid a summer rates rise. Car parks at Clyne, Southend, Bracelet Bay, Caswell Bay, Caswell Hill, Langland Bay, Sketty Lane, The Baths and Knab Rock all had a winter charge of 50p for an hour, but that will increase to the summer charge of £1.50. Car parks at Port Eynon and Horton were free in the winter, but they will now cost £1.50 for an hour. Blue badge concessions also face price hikes, while coach parking fees remain unchanged.

Summary: Visitors to some of Swansea's beaches now have to pay full price for parking over the winter months after cheaper rates were scrapped.


Officers were called to the Coral bookmakers in Grange Road, Jarrow, at 17:46 GMT and the fourth person was released after three hours at 20:44. A 39-year-old man has been arrested and a firearm was seized by officers. Northumbria Police said shots that were heard during the incident were from a police-issue "less lethal weapon" that was used but no one was injured. Dame Vera Baird, PCC for Northumbria, tweeted: "All hostages free as Jarrow siege ends. "Told: he had loaded sawn-off, but arrested without police use of firearms. Well done and glad all safe."

Summary: Four hostages being held inside a bookmakers by a man with a firearm have been freed, police have said.


He became the third Italian manager to win the Premier League title with an astonishing victory in the 2015-16 season. The 65-year-old is included alongside former Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti and ex-Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini. The FIGC promotes the efforts of Italians working within football. The nine other new inductees were: Giuseppe Bergomi (Italian player) Paulo Roberto Falcao (Foreign player) Silvio Berlusconi (Italian director) Graziano Cesari (Italian referee) Paolo Rossi (Italian veteran) Melania Gabbiadini (Female Italian player) Posthumous Awards: Nils Liedholm (Swedish former AC Milan player) Giulio Campanati (football referee and Italian entrepreneur) Cesare Maldini (Italian player)

Summary: Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri has been inducted into the Italian Football Federation's Hall of Fame.


A total of £138.6bn has been borrowed so far this year, including £20bn in August, latest figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) show. This is higher than mortgage lending for the whole of 2010 (£133.8bn) and the whole of 2011 (£138.3bn). The CML said lending was "enjoying its best spell since 2008". Activity has been driven, in part, by homeowners remortgaging to secure a low rate, fearing that the Bank of England will increase interest rates in the coming months. Mortgage lending in August was 12% higher than in August last year, when new rules were slowing the application process. The total was 8% lower than in July - as is often the case as people head off on summer holidays. The CML represents banks, building societies and other lenders who together undertake around 95% of all residential mortgage lending in the UK.

Summary: UK mortgage lending in the first eight months of the year has exceeded annual lending as a whole during the credit crunch.


Robinson, 42, will start in June after holding a similar post with Australia. He succeeds Stephen Park, now performance director with British Cycling and will lead the bid for medals at the 2020 Tokyo Games. "I feel immensely privileged to be given the opportunity to lead such a successful team into Tokyo 2020 and beyond," Robinson said. Robinson, who has more than 30 years experience in the sport as a competitor and coach, led Australia's Paralympic sailors to the top of the medal table at Rio 2016. He will work alongside recently-appointed director of racing Ian Walker.

Summary: British Sailing have named Mark Robinson as their new Olympic performance manager.


The Swans are in talks with Swansea council over planning issues and could eventually buy the stadium outright from the local authority. But Huw Jenkins said it could take four to five months to work through the conditions before the club can "weigh up our options". Expansion plans were approved by councillors in January 2014. Jenkins was questioned at a meeting of the Swansea City Supporters Trust. "There are many options open to us and we are working closely with the council to find a solution that suits all parties," he said. "Our main objective is to make sure our team is competitive on the pitch," he added. "We all know there is more funding coming into the Premier League next season. "We have to make sure we're part of that and that will allow us to address issues and move forward."

Summary: Plans to expand the Liberty Stadium could cost Swansea City more than £50m, the club's chairman has revealed.


The former England captain died in January aged 77 after a short illness. Heyhoe Flint played in 22 Tests and 23 one-day internationals, and became the first woman to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2010. The announcement came at Lord's where the launch of this summer's Women's World Cup in England took place. The hosts will play India at Derby in the first match of the tournament on 24 June. Baroness Heyhoe Flint, as she became in 2011, was vice-president of her beloved Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, and captained England to victory at the inaugural World Cup in 1973 - an event only made possible after she persuaded her friend and fellow Wolves devotee Sir Jack Hayward to sponsor the tournament.

Summary: An annual award for the best female cricketer will be named after the late Rachael Heyhoe Flint, the International Cricket Council has announced.


The 43-year-old, believed to be from St Helens, collided with a Yamaha on Rivington Road, near Belmont, on Sunday afternoon. He was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital, but died from his injuries. The motorcyclist suffered facial injuries and was taken to Salford Royal for treatment. The road was closed for three hours following the crash. Lancashire Constabulary's Sgt Claire Pearson said officers were "trying to establish how this collision occurred" and appealed to anyone who witnessed it to get in touch.

Summary: A cyclist has been killed in a collision with a motorbike in Lancashire.


Police were sent to Brae Hill Park at about 02:00 BST on Sunday after reports of a fight, and found the injured man when they arrived. The 50-year-old was given first aid by officers until an ambulance arrived and took him to hospital. A man in his 40s was arrested at the scene and a car has been taken away for forensic examination. Det Sgt Kenneth Leckey said: "Our enquiries are ongoing to determine the circumstances that has led to this very serious incident and I would appeal to anyone with any information which could assist us with our enquiries to contact CID at Musgrave on 101."

Summary: A man is critically ill with head and leg injuries after an incident in the Ballysillan area of north Belfast.


Steve Rotheram tweeted thanks to the Alpha Taxi driver who drove 30 miles to search for the two girls and his two nieces after the concert bombing. He said: "I am forever grateful to that person". Twenty-two people, including some children, were killed and 59 injured in the Manchester Arena attack. Rotheram described how his daughters saw people "with blood on their faces" and witnessed "huge panic" in the city. He said: "While I've got huge relief this morning my girls are safe, there will be parents waking up without children and unfortunately children waking up without parents this morning because of this horrendous act." The Liverpool City Region mayor also praised the "spirit" of local people and the "spontaneous acts of great kindness by ordinary people in Manchester to perfect strangers".

Summary: The Liverpool city mayor has spoken of his "huge relief" after a taxi driver found his daughters in the aftermath of the Manchester suicide attack.


A woman was injured when six cars collided before 09:00 near the road's Munlochy junction, north of Inverness. Two cars were involved in the second incident near the scene of the first accident. One of the cars caught fire but no-one was hurt. The accidents shut the southbound carriageway for several hours. Fire crews from Dingwall, Beauly and Inverness, along with ambulance crews and police, were sent to the scenes of the accidents. Two women trapped in the wreckage of two cars were freed by firefighters. A spokesman for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: "Thankfully no-one involved in the incidents was seriously injured." Earlier, at about 07:20, firefighters from Inverness and Nairn were called to a collision between a car and a van on the A96 at Delnies, near Nairn. A man was hurt in the crash. The road was closed after the incident, but has now reopened.

Summary: Eights cars were caught up in two crashes that happened within minutes of each other on the same stretch of the A9 in the Highlands.


The MV Glenachulish, which was built in Troon by the Ailsa Shipbuilding Company, operates on the oldest crossing from the mainland to Skye. The Chicago Stock Yard Kilty Band, one of America's longest established pipe bands, is to play at the celebration. In 1921 the band was set up by brothers Robert and James Sim. The pair had served with Scottish regiments during World War I and their family was originally from Aberdeen. Between April and October, the Glenachulish makes a short crossing of the Kylerhea Straits between Glenelg on the mainland and Kylerhea on Skye. A car ferry has crossed the straits since 1934. The service has been run by Skye Ferry since 2007. The community-owned company was set up after long-time ferryman Roddy MacLeod retired. Last year, Glenelg hosted a party to mark Mars rover Curiosity's arrival at its namesake on the Red Planet.

Summary: A celebration is being held in Glenelg on Thursday to mark the 45th anniversary of what is thought to be the last ferry of its kind.


Media playback is not supported on this device The Newtownards cyclist, defending the title he won last year, gained a lap with only seven remaining. He held on to finish behind Russian Ivan Kovalev. It was a third World Championship medal for Irivine, who was 12th in the individual pursuit qualifying earlier on Thursday. He won silver in the pursuit last year but was well back after clocking 4:26.525, while Ireland team-mate Ryan Mullen was fourth in 4:22.419. Irvine will take part in the points race on Friday. After his double medal success at last year's World Championships in Belarus, Irvine won gold in the points race at the World Cup in Manchester in November.

Summary: Ireland's Martyn Irvine won a silver medal in the men's 15km scratch race at the World Track Cycling Championships in Cali, Colombia.


Ray Jones, 50, was a passenger on the Kawasaki motorbike when it was involved in a collision with a red Volvo C70 on the B4246 at Blaenavon on Saturday. In a tribute, her family said she was always "full of life, love and happiness". The male Volvo driver, 46, from Blaenavon, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. The man who was driving the motorbike was taken to Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny with minor injuries but has since been released. A statement from Mrs Jones' family said: "Ray was the rock of her family, always full of life, love and happiness. "She was loved by all as a wonderful daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandma and friend."

Summary: A pillion motorbike rider who died following a crash with a car in Torfaen has been named.


The man, now in his 40s, met one of the accused, Gary Cooke through another boy, Mold Crown Court heard on Friday. The jury watched a recording of a police video in which he said the boy told him about about a place where they could drink alcohol and watch videos. Mr Cooke and six co-defendants are on trial and deny a range of sex offences. The defendants are accused of abusing boys aged 10 to 15 in the 1970s and 80s. The man said he was given alcohol by Mr Cooke and shown adult films before being sexually assaulted. He claims he was abused by all the defendants and others whose names he could not remember. "They pimped us out really," he said, "I was passed around different people." The defendants deny all charges and the trial continues.

Summary: A man was "pimped out" by a Wrexham paedophile ring in the 1980s, a jury has been told.


Assel Al-Essaie, 23, died in hospital after being shot in the chest in Daniel Hill, Walkley, on 18 February. Those bailed included a 22-year-old man, arrested on suspicion of murder, and a boy, aged 16, held on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder. A 57-year-old woman, arrested on suspicion of assisting offenders, was also bailed. A 30-year-old man arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder was released earlier. South Yorkshire Police is still appealing for witnesses to the shooting, which took place at around 13:35 GMT. Officers are keen for people who may have seen a grey/silver Volkswagen Golf R, registration plate PJ10 OJU, a black Mercedes C class car with the registration plate LP66 RUH or a white Mercedes C class car with the registration plate NU15 PZF to contact them.

Summary: Three people arrested in connection with a fatal shooting in Sheffield have been released on bail.


Downing Street said the Amstrad founder would be touring the country, championing enterprise and encouraging firms to take on more apprentices. Lord Sugar previously held a similar role under Gordon Brown's Labour government. Last year he said he was quitting Labour because of his "disillusionment" with the party. The businessman said he was "delighted" at his latest appointment, adding that "not enough of our young people know about apprenticeships and what they offer, and too few feel empowered to set up their own business". Skills Minister Nick Boles said Lord Sugar had "huge credibility among young people".

Summary: Apprentice star Lord Sugar has been appointed as the government's enterprise tsar.


In some parts of Russia, including St Petersburg, the mistake immediately blocked access to the site on Friday. But the state communications regulator says access has now been restored. VKontakte has 200 million registered users. Last year it was used heavily by opponents of President Vladimir Putin. A spokesman for the state regulator Roskomnadzor said Friday's incident was "a human error". Last November a controversial law took effect which blacklists websites considered harmful to children. The law allows the government to take sites offline without a trial. The authorities say the goal is to protect minors from websites featuring sexual abuse of children, offering details about how to commit suicide, encouraging users to take drugs and sites that solicit children for pornography. Critics see it as another attempt by President Putin to exercise control over the population and stifle opposition.

Summary: Russian officials say the country's most popular social network, VKontakte, was mistakenly put on a blacklist of banned websites, but the error has now been fixed.


It is not clear what caused the death of Abubakar Audu, who is from President Muhammadu Buhari's APC party. The BBC's Chris Ewokor says the 68-year-old was believed to have received the most votes at the time of his death. The result for the weekend's election has not been declared following reports of irregularities. Mr Audu has been buried on Monday according to Islamic rites in his hometown Ogbonicha. Our correspondent says that Mr Audu had been accused of stealing funds when he had previously served as Kogi state governor, something which he denied.

Summary: A governorship candidate for Kogi state in central Nigeria has died while the votes were being counted.


Armed police targeted the property at Aspen Walk in Twinbrook in the early hours of Wednesday after a 41-year-old man was shot in the leg. The victim is in a serious condition after the attack at Glasvey Drive. Two men, aged 25 and 35, were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after armed officers and a police helicopter were deployed. The suspects remain in police custody and officers remain at the property at Aspen Walk where they have been carrying out searches. A Police Service of Northern Ireland detective said: "A motive for this attack has not yet been established. "I would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone with any information that would assist with our investigation to contact detectives in Lisburn police station." Photographs taken at the scene by photographer Kevin Scott show the raid on the house.

Summary: This is the dramatic moment when a police officer held a gun to a man's head in a raid at west Belfast house.


The collision involving a black BMW happened on the A836, near the A99 junction and the Seaview Hotel, at about 23:40 on Friday.. Police Scotland said: "Very sadly, a man in his thirties was struck by a car and died at the scene as a result of his injuries." The road was closed for several hours for investigation work but later re-opened. No details of the man's identity were released. Officers are liaising with his next of kin.

Summary: A pedestrian has died after being struck by a car in John O' Groats.


The eight-lane pool will be built as an extension to the city's Perdiswell Leisure Centre. The previous Labour administration had planned a smaller six-lane pool but the ruling Conservative group has scaled up the plans. Councillor Alan Amos said the city's population was expanding and needed a pool "for the future". "I could never understand why anyone would want a six-lane pool when we could have an eight-lane and that's what we've voted for," he said. Worcester City Council has bid for funding from Sport England to cover "about a fifth of the cost" of the pool. The rest of the money will come from "prudential borrowing" or capital receipts from the sale of the site of the current swimming pool in Sansome Walk, the council said. The new pool is expected to open in 2017.

Summary: Plans to build a new £10m swimming pool in Worcester have been approved by the city council.


Dr Stephen Bridgman said pregnant women who had not had the disease and had come into contact with someone who had it should see a GP for a blood test. St Sampson's Medical Centre and L'Aumone Surgery reported rises of just under 50% in the period from January to July this year, compared to last year. These were estimates, as doctors are not obliged to report exact numbers. However, Dr Bridgman also issued advice on Tuesday to islanders with illnesses affecting their immune systems. "Any clinical condition causing immunosuppression will increase the risk of severe chickenpox infection and so these patients should also contact their GP if they have been in contact with chickenpox," he said.

Summary: Guernsey's director of public health has issued a warning to pregnant women after a rise in chickenpox cases.


The eastbound exit at junction 4 of the M54 at Shifnal, Shropshire, remains closed while forensic teams continue to search for clues to the man's identity. Police said the bones were human and were believed to be from the same skeleton as the skull found by maintenance workers on 20 August. Tests determined the remains had been at the scene for at least two years. A post-mortem examination proved inconclusive as to how the man died. The latest discoveries were unearthed close to the surface and near where the previous remains were found, a spokeswoman for West Mercia Police said. It will not be known if all findings represent a complete skeleton until the pathologists have completed their inquiries, she added. Searches are expected to come to an end on Thursday evening and the M54 slip road will remain closed for unrelated road works, she said.

Summary: More bones have been found near a motorway slip road where a man's skull was discovered last month, police said.


It also attended 354 road traffic collisions, of which 133 were pedestrians hit by vehicles. The E14 postcode area of Tower Hamlets was the busiest area with 27 incidents, while the Muswell Hill area was second. The figures, released as part of National Air Ambulance Week, show it treats on average six seriously injured people a day, new figures show. The air ambulance has an advanced trauma doctor and paramedic team onboard to carry out emergency procedures. In 2013, it attended 411 shootings and stabbings, and 636 road traffic incidents.

Summary: London's Air Ambulance was called to 282 shootings and stabbings in the first eight months of 2014.


The build of the model started in 2013, with visitors and members of the public adding the bricks. The 200,000th piece of Lego was bought by a student from South Korea on a visit to Durham Cathedral. The university group, who are on a visit to the UK, had no idea they would be able to add the 200,000th brick. Once completed, the model will be 3.84m long, 1.53m wide and 1.7m high. Each piece of Lego costs Â£1 to buy and the money goes towards exhibitions and improving the historic cathedral. The model replica needs another 100,000 bricks until it is complete.

Summary: A model replica of Durham Cathedral, which is made out of Lego, has had its 200,000th brick added to it.


The Press Association found the details via a freedom of information request. Eleven Scottish councils responded and listed the animals they had granted licences for in their area. Dangerous wild animals (DWA) licences allow people to keep undomesticated animals as pets, subject to safety measures and a small fee. The Scottish councils which responded, and the animals involved, were: The Scottish SPCA said it was important anyone keeping such an animal knew how to keep them and could afford to do so. Ch Supt Mike Flynn said: "There is a licensing regime in place which is run by the local authority for species listed under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act. "The local authority would usually involve a vet who has specialist knowledge of the particular species requiring the licence. "As with any animal being kept as a pet, owners should have the knowledge and resources to ensure the animal's welfare."

Summary: Crocodiles, cobras and elk are among hundreds of dangerous animals being kept legally on private properties in Scotland, it has been revealed.


Walsh, 25, was a key player last season, making 43 appearances in all competitions having joined the club on a two-year deal from Crawley in 2015. "We want players who can take us to the next level and then grow with the club - Joe fits that mould," manager Robbie Neilson told the club website. "He gives us options at left-back and centre-back and I'm sure he'll go from strength to strength."

Summary: Defender Joe Walsh has signed a new three-year contract with MK Dons.


The 13.1 mile (21km) race begins at Castle Street at 09:00 BST with wheelchair competitors starting at 08:50. The route will take in Penarth marina, Cardiff Bay and Roath Park before finishing near the civic centre. The event will also be broadcast live on BBC Two Wales, BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru for the first time. A park and walk service will operate at Cardiff City Stadium in Leckwith, and anyone cycling to the race can use a bike park at Gorsedd Gardens next to the runners' village. Competitors can leave their belongings at baggage areas at Bute Park and Museum Place from 07:30. The majority of roads will reopen at 12:00 and any runners left on the course after that time will continue on pavements. Live online coverage of the event starts at 08:00 at the BBC Wales News website.

Summary: Road closures will be in place across Cardiff on Sunday as more than 22,000 people take part in the half marathon.


Media playback is not supported on this device Jamie Peacock talks us through a training session with the team, explaining what it takes to be a professional Rugby League player. The team have a little black box full of facts about their performance - but who is the quickest? And who's game has the most impact. Jamie reveals all. If you've been inspired to give Rugby League a go, take a look at our dedicated guide to find out how to start today.

Summary: If you're looking for a game that will give you fitness and strength, look no further.


Torrential showers on Sunday meant no play was possible at Stormont and umpires Ian Ramage and Roland Black called off the game at 14:45 BST. The next scheduled match in the series will take place at the Belfast venue on Tuesday. Stormont is hosting all five ODIs between the teams, with the other games on 14, 17 and 19 July. Ireland squad (v Afghanistan): William Porterfield (capt) (Warwickshire), George Dockrell (Leinster Lightning), John Anderson (Leinster Lightning/Merrion), Peter Chase (Leinster Lightning/Malahide), Ed Joyce (Sussex), Tyrone Kane (Leinster Lightning/Merrion), Tim Murtagh (Middlesex), Andy McBrine (NW Warriors/Donemana), Barry McCarthy (Durham), Kevin O'Brien (Leinster Lightning/Railway Union), Stuart Poynter (Durham), Paul Stirling (Middlesex), Sean Terry (Leinster Lightning/YMCA), Gary Wilson (Surrey).

Summary: The opening one-day international between Ireland and Afghanistan in Belfast was abandoned because of rain.


Late last year members of both unions rejected an offer, claiming the proposals involved no wages increase and no changes to the conditions of contractors. The OCA is now proposing a 2% increase in basic and sick pay. A consultative ballot is expected to take place over the next month. Last July, hundreds of North Sea workers went on strike over plans to cut their pay and allowances. The action was taken by members of the RMT and Unite unions employed by the Wood Group on Shell platforms. It was the first industrial action of its kind in the offshore oil and gas industry in almost 30 years.

Summary: The Unite and GMB unions are to consult their members on a new pay deal from the Offshore Contractors Association (OCA).


BBC Global News director Peter Horrocks said it appeared to be "deliberate censorship", adding that the BBC was complaining to the authorities. Other major news websites were functioning as usual, and the reason for the blackout remained unclear. Since the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the BBC's English-language site has been generally available. However, other BBC services including its Chinese-language news website has been blocked largely since it was launched. BBC World TV - as with all overseas broadcasters - suffers intermittent blackouts particularly when reporting China stories. Mr Horrocks said: "The BBC provides impartial, trusted news to millions of people around the world, and attempts to censor our news services show just how important it is to get our accurate information to them." The last time the BBC's English-language website was disrupted was during the corporation's coverage of activist Chen Guangcheng's escape from house arrest in April 2012.

Summary: Access to the BBC's English-language website has been blocked across China, the corporation has said.


Water levels are receding from most parts of Tamil Nadu state, where at least 280 people are now known to have died in floods since last month. Garbage and sludge have collected on the streets and sewage has entered homes, damaging properties. The rains, the heaviest in 100 years, are being blamed on climate change. BBC Hindi's Imran Qureshi in Chennai says people have begun cleaning up their houses, offices, shops and showrooms, all of which had been submerged. "Floodwaters damaged three TV sets, two refrigerators, washing machine, beds and a sofa in our three-bedroom house," Shobana, a resident, said. "Worse, we lost all our important papers that were kept in our almirah [cupboard]." Soldiers and emergency workers are now rushing food, clean drinking water and medical supplies to flood-hit residents, reports say.

Summary: A major clean-up operation is under way in the southern Indian city of Chennai (Madras) after a week of devastating floods.


Yik Yak, a social media platform, allows you to do just that because it's anonymous. In the first ever question and answer session to be held on Yik Yak, users of the app sent their questions about the EU referendum to the BBC. A member of the BBC's Reality Check team has been answering some of those questions on the site. Once a query has been asked, it doesn't stop users from adding to it or contributing their opinion. One user had an interesting question about the Prime Minister. The BBC experts response? "Maybe. I mean he really wants us to remain." Here's how BBC news responded to this question: "Both sides of the referendum campaign have been accused of making claims that are potentially misleading. BBC.co.uk/reality check has facts and accurate information to help people make up their minds." Compiled by Rozina Sini

Summary: What do you do when you have questions about the EU referendum but you are too scared to ask?


Resuming on 238-8, Kent were all out for 259, but Stevens (6-47) helped limit Derbyshire to 159 in reply. Only five of the visitors' batsmen reached double figures, with Wayne Madsen top scoring with 56. The hosts fell to 51-5 to start their second innings, but Stevens (53 not out) helped see them to 142-7 when bad light stopped play, a lead of 242 runs. Stevens, only a week away from his 41st birthday, had taken only 12 five-wicket hauls in his career before this season, but he has taken one in each of Kent's opening three games. He also maintained his impressive form with the bat, with his unbeaten half-century the fourth time he has gone past 50 this season.

Summary: Darren Stevens took his third five-wicket haul of the season for Kent before Derbyshire's bowlers hit back.


Aurimas Butkys ran off shortly after he entered Boston Police Station in Lincolnshire on Thursday. Lincolnshire Police, who described the escape as "an embarrassing event", said Mr Butkys was detained in Kent on Sunday. The 25-year-old was arrested on an extradition warrant in connection with an assault in Lithuania. More on this and other local stories from across Lincolnshire It is also alleged Mr Butkys assaulted a police officer during his escape. The force said inquires were ongoing into the escape and the assault. Describing the escape as "embarrassing", Supt Phil Vickers previously said: "Officers have to make an assessment as to what the proportionate use of force is against someone who has been arrested - and in this case we got it wrong."

Summary: A handcuffed suspect who escaped from custody by climbing an 8ft (2.4m) fence has been recaptured.


The order to Express Reinforcements for the Hinkley Point C project in Somerset is understood to be worth about £100m. It was placed by the Bouygues and Laing O'Rourke, the main contractors. Reinforced steel will be supplied from the firm's Neath and Newport manufacturing centres using rod supplied by Celsa Steel in Cardiff. EDF Energy, which plans to build the power station, said: "In February this year, said that Hinkley Point C would be a significant opportunity for UK steel. "The company has helped steel producers understand the requirements needed for nuclear construction so that a large proportion of its requirement could come from UK companies, subject to a competitive process." The multi-billion pound project is on hold while the government reviews the details. Prime Minister Theresa May is expected to make an announcement on Hinkley later in September.

Summary: A Welsh firm has been named as the preferred bidder for a 200,000-tonne order of steel for the UK's first new nuclear power plant in decades.


England took the lead in this Group A encounter after 53 minutes when Lewis Cook's 25-yard effort found the back of the net. But a comical own goal from Fikayo Tomori saw the two sides share the points. Unaware that goalkeeper Dean Henderson had strayed from his goal, Tomori, who is owned by Chelsea, played a blind back-pass which rolled into an empty net. It was Guinea's first ever under-20 World Cup goal. The African side missed a glorious opportunity to take all three points when Alseny Soumah found himself clean through but was denied by Henderson. The English have four points from two matches and will next face the South Koreans on Friday. Guinea will face Argentina. In the other group match, Argentina lost their second straight game to South Korea 2-1. Click here for U-20 World Cup results from the Fifa website

Summary: Guinea picked up their first point at the Fifa under-20 World Cup after a 1-1 draw with England in Jeonju, South Korea, on Tuesday.


The blast, near a livestock market in the city's outskirts, is thought to have targeted passing Shia pilgrims. They were on their way to a shrine in the Kadhimiya district to take part in religious commemoration ceremonies. So-called Islamic State (IS) has said it was behind the attack. A statement said the attackers had used a truck loaded with three tonnes of explosives. The claim was posted online on an official account used by the militant group. IS has carried out many attacks on Shia Muslims, whom it regards as apostates. More than 40 civilians have been killed in bombings in Baghdad over the past month.

Summary: A bomb has exploded in Baghdad, killing at least 21 people, Iraqi police and hospital workers have said.


The 32-year-old only joined the NBA champions on Thursday, and his first appearance had been delayed over visa issues. But he could now miss the rest of the season, after scans revealed he fractured his left tibia in a clash with the Miami Heat's Okaro White. "It's very deflating," Cleveland forward LeBron James said. "As soon as the collision happened, I heard a break. When I went over to him and he said it, I already knew, I heard it crack," he added after the Cavaliers' 106-98 defeat. "How would you think his spirit's like? He played 58 seconds. "To have an injury like that take you out for the rest of the season, really there's not much you can say."

Summary: Australian centre Andrew Bogut's debut for the Cleveland Cavaliers lasted just 58 seconds before he broke his leg.


The index rose 1.63 points - or 0.08% - to 2,122.73. The Dow Jones closed up 25 points to 18,272.56, while the Nasdaq was down by 2.5 points to 5,048.29. Trade was mixed after data showed that US industrial output fell for the fifth consecutive month, and consumer confidence also fell. The University of Michigan's US consumer sentiment index plummeted to 88.6 in May, from 95.9 in April. Nike was amongst the biggest winners of the day, rising 1.4%, whilst on the tech-heavy Nasdaq, Netflix shares rose 4.5% following reports it is in talks with a Chinese partner backed by Alibaba founder Jack Ma to launch online video services in China. King Digital Entertainment, the mobile gaming company which developed the popular game "Candy Crush", bounced back and closed up 0.08%, after shares opened down 4.9%, after it warned of weaker profits. Analysts say King needs another hit product.

Summary: (Close): The S&P 500 index closed higher at a new record, just above its record close on Thursday.


It has agreed to not call any further industrial action in protest at the introduction of 12-carriage driver-only operated (DOO) rolling stock. The High Court previously barred Aslef from inducing Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) drivers to take industrial action after a flawed strike ballot. The union must now pay Â£250,000 legal costs. Aslef said it accepts "GTR is contractually entitled to require drivers employed on the Gatwick Express services to drive 12 car DOO". It had argued the new trains were less safe. A GTR spokesman said: "We are pleased this matter has been concluded. "It supports the continued introduction of our new 12-carriage Gatwick Express trains." GTR said passengers would benefit from better luggage space, air-conditioning, wi-fi and information systems. The company is involved in a prolonged separate dispute with the RMT union over the role of conductors and DOO services.

Summary: The Aslef train drivers' union has dropped its fight against longer trains on Gatwick Express.


The complex - which hosts shops, restaurants and a cinema - opened in October 2009 at a cost of Â£275m. A proposal of application notice has been submitted to Aberdeen City Council. The plans are for a new retail and leisure space, as well as additional parking and a hotel. The existing shopping centre would also be expanded. General Manager Ryan Manson said: "Since opening its doors in 2009, Union Square has firmly established itself not only as a central part of Aberdeen city centre, but also a leading name in Scottish retail. "We have consistently brought new and exciting brands to customers in the north east and the proposed expansion plans will allow us to continue to do so in future."

Summary: Planning permission is to be sought for a multi-million pound expansion of the Union Square Shopping Centre in Aberdeen.


Dorrie Kempsell and Ivy Peck celebrated the occasion at the care home in Exmouth, Devon where they both live. The sisters, originally from Liverpool and supporters of rival football clubs, both married men named Ronnie. The twins said getting lots of fresh air and being "interested in everything" were key to a long life. Mrs Peck said: "We've always been active - cycling when we were much younger and we played games that kept us going." The only time in their lives the twins have lived apart was when Mrs Kempsell lived with her husband. When he died after seven years of marriage Mrs Kempsell moved in with her twin and her husband in Suffolk before moving to Devon. Mrs Kempsell is a supporter of Everton Football Club while her twin has always supported Liverpool. The sisters welcomed their matching cards from the Queen which Mrs Kempsell described as "lovely".

Summary: Twin sisters who have rarely lived apart have marked their 100th birthday with a party.


The 32-year-old Tongan has spent four seasons with the Exiles after joining from Leeds in 2012. He featured for Auckland and Otago in New Zealand and also played once for Super Rugby side Highlanders. "I have been watching Aulika all season and when his agent got in touch I didn't hesitate in signing him," said director of rugby Steve Diamond. "He is a great scrummager and puts himself about on the pitch. I am sure he will be a big asset for us next season and beyond." Sale have also announced that England Under-18 internationals and twin brothers Tom and Ben Curry have signed their first professional contracts with the club.

Summary: Premiership side Sale Sharks have signed prop Halani Aulika from relegated London Irish.


Besic, 23, has not been a regular for Everton, making 29 Premier League appearances since joining from Ferencvaros for £4.8m in 2014. Iranian businessman Farhad Moshiri has recently bought a 49.9% stake in Everton and promised investment. Bryan Oviedo signed a new contract this month while Everton are also hopeful of giving Ross Barkley an improved deal. "When I first arrived here it was difficult for me but now I feel at home," said Besic. "The supporters, as well as the manager, the staff and my team-mates, have all made me welcome at the club and I feel really happy."

Summary: Everton's Bosnian midfielder Muhamed Besic has signed a new five-and-a-half-year contract at Goodison Park.


UK Border Force officers stopped a lorry at the King George Dock, Hull, on 17 May. When the lorry was searched officers found about 58kg of cocaine and almost 84kg of heroin inside. Police have charged six men with conspiracy to fraudulently evade duty, prohibition or provision and conspiracy to supply a Class A drug. The operation was part of an ongoing operation by Greater Manchester Police's Serious and Organised Crime Group. The men - two from Greater Manchester, two from Merseyside, one from Nottinghamshire and one from Derbyshire - are due to appear at Manchester Crown Court on 31 August.

Summary: Six men have been charged over a haul of drugs with an estimated street value of more than £66m.


He has not played since losing a World Championship quarter-final to eventual winner Stuart Bingham in April. "Looking forward to playing the Masters," the 39-year-old wrote on social media. The former world number one has won 27 ranking events in his career, including five Masters titles. O'Sullivan recently told BBC Sport: "I am reluctant to give up this easy life I have at the moment which is very enjoyable. "I am dithering but at the moment I am enjoying life so much I haven't really got the time to practise or give the game 100%." The Masters begins on Sunday, 10 January, with the final on the following Sunday, 17 January.

Summary: Five-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan has confirmed he will return to competitive snooker at the Masters at Alexandra Palace in January.


Fire took hold in the Grade II house in Node Court, Codicote, Hertfordshire, the early hours of 12 July 2015. Police said the blaze, which "ravaged" the roof, had been "the largest of its kind in the UK". Joshua Bozier, 24, of Dalton Way, Whitwell, admitted arson and was jailed for three years and four months at Cambridge Crown Court. Bozier had smashed the window of a car parked next to the building and set it alight, Hertfordshire Police said. More on this and other news from Hertfordshire It spread to the thatched roof, totally destroying it and causing extensive damage to the building itself. Investigators described Bozier's actions as "mindless, fruitless and reckless". The blaze in the building, which housed a number of businesses, was "thought to be one of the most costly arsons the country has known", Det Con David Quinn said.

Summary: A man has been jailed for starting a blaze which caused £3.5m of damage to the thatched roof of a listed building.


In come James Slipper and Sekope Kepu in place of Greg Holmes and Scott Sio, with the latter not even making the bench. Sean McMahon replaces the injured David Pocock in the back row. And Sam Carter comes in for Rob Simmons, who has a back problem, in the second row. READ MORE: Ford to start at 10 for England Israel Folau; Dane Haylett-Petty, Tevita Kuridrani, Samu Kerevi, Rob Horne; Bernard Foley, Nick Phipps; James Slipper, Stephen Moore (capt), Sekope Kepu, Rory Arnold, Sam Carter, Scott Fardy, Michael Hooper, Sean McMahon. Replacements (three to be omitted): Tatafu Polota-Nau, Toby Smith, Greg Holmes, James Horwill, Dean Mumm, Wycliff Palu, Ben McCalman, Liam Gill, Nick Frisby, Christian Leali'ifano, Luke Morahan

Summary: Australia have brought in two new props to try to shore up their scrum for Saturday's second Test against England in Melbourne.


The 24-year-old Netherlands midfielder, who signed for Chelsea in 2013, has extended his deal by a year to 2019. He helped PSV win the Dutch title while on loan during the second half of the 2015-16 campaign and will now return to Eindhoven until the end of this season. In recent months he has had treatment for a recurring knee injury but said he is "now ready for top football". "Rest and physiotherapy were necessary," Van Ginkel said. Van Ginkel has played four competitive matches for Chelsea since originally joining for £8m from Vitesse Arnhem. He was loaned to Stoke at the start of the 2015-16 season, playing 21 times, before moving to PSV, where he scored eight times in 16 appearances. This season, Phillip Cocu's side sit third in the Eredivisie, eight points behind leaders Feyenoord.

Summary: Marco van Ginkel has extended his contract with Chelsea - and rejoined PSV Eindhoven on loan on the same day.


It will be the first Pro12 final held outside Ireland and the second time at a pre-determined venue, following the 2015 climax at the Kingspan Stadium. Edinburgh saw off bids from the 11 other Pro12 clubs and their regions in order to stage the event. Pro12 chief executive John Feehan said: "Edinburgh is well known as an inspiring host city for sports, arts and cultural events." He added: "The tender was outstanding and was unanimously agreed as the chosen venue." Speaking at the announcement from Edinburgh Castle, Scottish Rugby's Dominic McKay said: "We are extremely pleased that our bid was successful and we have the privilege of hosting such a prestigious final. "We want to celebrate the climax to the season by welcoming fans from all Pro12 clubs to the final, to what promises to be a fantastic sporting event." Tickets will go on public sale on Tuesday, 15 September.

Summary: Murrayfield will host the 2016 Guinness Pro12 final on 28 May.


Bale injured his calf against Sporting Gijon on 17 January, but the world's most expensive player is now ready to return after 44-days out. Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane confirmed the news and underlined Bale's importance. "He [Bale] is a fundamental player for Madrid," Zidane told the Real website. "Of course I would prefer to have him with us. "Gareth was with us this morning. It is his first full training session. It went well, he did not feel the problem he had. So I am happy with that, his problem is over. "It is more difficult then to pick the team, but I always want Gareth with us. We will see if he can be back with us this weekend." Madrid face Celta Vigo in La Liga action on Saturday, 5 March before entertaining AS Roma in the Champions League on Tuesday, 8 March looking to protect a 2-0 advantage.

Summary: Wales forward Gareth Bale has returned to training at Real Madrid and is being lined-up for a return in the Champions League on 8 March.


Not only was it almost 11,000 votes ahead of UKIP, the party also increased its vote share. Only a fortnight ago some were predicting a shock defeat. Nobody anticipated a victory on this scale. Undoubtedly a large part of it must be down to the candidate Jim McMahon, the former council leader. He was recognised as the local candidate. But UKIP tried to turn this into a referendum on Jeremy Corbyn, even branding him a "security risk". Clearly it failed and suggests he's not as politically toxic as his opponents wish. UKIP blames the postal vote and the number of Asian voters who use it. But that's the system the party is up against. UKIP's result was far worse than Heywood and Middleton and much more disappointing than it expected. And it leaves them struggling with a strategy to win seats from Labour in the north of England.

Summary: This was a surprise result for Labour, but an unexpectedly good one.


The 26-year-old helped the Foxes win the Premier League title last season, scoring twice in 38 matches. He joined them on a free transfer from Aston Villa in July 2014. Albrighton told the club website: "The club have been great to me since I signed. I've had some amazing times here and we've reached the ultimate by winning the league last year." Subscribe to the BBC Sport newsletter to get our pick of news, features and video sent to your inbox.

Summary: Leicester City midfielder Marc Albrighton has signed a new four-year deal.


Yates, 24, whose brother Simon is competing in the Paris-Nice event, finished third in the 171km stage from Montaldo di Castro to Terminillo. Colombian Nairo Quintana broke with two kilometres to go, finishing 17 seconds clear of Britain's Geraint Thomas, with Yates 23 seconds adrift. Quintana also claimed the overall lead with three stages remaining. Overall standings after stage four: 1. Nairo Quintana (Col/Movistar) 16hrs 34mins 46secs 2. Adam Yates (GB/Orica) +33secs 3. Thibaut Pinot (Fra/FDJ) +56secs 4. Jonathan Castroviejo (Spa/Movistar) +1min 01secs 5. Rohan Dennis (Aus/BMC Racing) +1min 06secs 6. Tom Dumoulin (Ned/Sunweb) +1min 19secs 7. Primoz Roglic (Slo/LottoNL) same time 8. Geraint Thomas (GB/Team Sky) +1min 23secs 9. Daniel Moreno (Spa/Movistar) +1min 27secs 10. Domenico Pozzovivo (Ita/AG2R) +1min 29secs Find out how to get into cycling with our special guide.

Summary: Britain's Adam Yates moved into second place after four stages of the Tirreno-Adriatico in Italy.


The 25-year-old midfielder has made just five appearances for the Saints this season - two of them in the League Cup - and his contract with the club is set to expire in the summer. Ramirez spent most of last season on loan at Hull City, scoring just once in 22 Premier League appearances. The Uruguayan has also been capped 34 times by his country. Boro are currently a point behind Championship leaders Hull, having lost their last two league matches, as they vie for automatic promotion back to the Premier League. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Middlesbrough have signed Gaston Ramirez from Southampton on loan until the end of the season.


The infection was related to the treatment he has had for prostate cancer over the past 18 years, his daughter, Rev Canon Mpho Tutu said. Mr Tutu was readmitted on 28 July one week after being discharged. He will now continue his recovery at home. Archbishop Tutu retired from public life in 2011 but continues to travel. The 83-year-old Nobel Peace Laureate cancelled a planned trip to Rome in December following another infection. The statement said Mr Tutu was happy with "the first-class" treatment he had received. However, he told Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi, that "most South Africans did not have access to decent health care". The archbishop also celebrated Eucharist in the hospital with daughter Mpho, it added. Desmond Tutu Profile: Archbishop Desmond Tutu Archbishop Tutu in his own words

Summary: South Africa's Archbishop Desmond Tutu has returned home after a second spell in hospital for a recurring infection, his foundation says.


In a nod to Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, youngsters will find their winning ticket in commemorative chocolate bars. They will be distributed to all 72 primary and secondary schools in the region to mark the railway's opening. One child from every school will win a return trip between Stow and Edinburgh on 5 September. The Borders Railway will officially begin operating between Tweedbank and Edinburgh the following day. Councillor Sandy Aitchison said: "All pupils will enjoy a week-long series of events and lessons around the themes of literacy and journeys. "This will include some additional prizes of book tokens as well as lots of interesting Borders Railway themed activities. "Those lucky enough to find one of the rare Golden Tickets will join fellow pupils from schools across the Borders to take part in the historic opening of the new railway line."

Summary: Schoolchildren in the Borders could win a "golden ticket" to travel on the new Borders Railway.


The 38-year-old shot a five-under-par final round of 67, including a birdie-birdie finish, to claim one of the three Open spots on offer. He was set for a three-man play-off for the title until Darren Fichardt birdied the final hole to win. Manley's Open debut will come at Royal Birkdale from 20-23 July, 2017. That will also be his debut at one of golf's four major championships. Manley said: "I'm really chuffed to be playing in my first Major, I'm really excited. "I've been trying for many years through pre-qualifying so to get there I'm pretty pleased. "The Open is massive and I can't wait to get my teeth stuck into that golf course. I've never experienced anything as big as The Open before, but I can't wait for it."

Summary: Welsh golfer Stuart Manley has qualified for The Open Championship for the first time after finishing joint second at the Johannesburg Open.


In January, the Rhondda Tunnel Society was given a Â£10,000 grant from the Welsh Government to carry out an initial "tapping survey" on the tunnel, which runs from Blaencwm to Blaengwynfi in Neath Port Talbot. Experts began work on the 3km-long (1.8 mile) tunnel at 08:00 BST on Wednesday. The work is expected to last two weeks. Steve Mackey, chairman of the Rhondda Tunnel Society, said it was an "exciting day". He said specialist works and railway contractors Hammond ECS had started in Blaengwynfi by working to remove a concrete cap so they can begin an "exploratory drill" inside the tunnel. "The Rhondda Tunnel Society was formed in 2014 and this is probably one of the most important visible signs of [progress]," he added. "I'm quite excited. I came here at half past seven this morning."

Summary: Survey work has begun at a disused Rhondda railway tunnel, with plans to reopen it to walkers and cyclists.


The dance bars were banned in 2005 by the state government which said they corrupted young people and were a front for crime and prostitution. Bar owners and dancers had bitterly protested against the ban. Before the ban, more than 100,000 women were employed in some 1,400 dance bars in the state. The women danced to Bollywood numbers and clients often threw money at them. Maharashtra's controversial ban was overturned by the high court in Mumbai in April 2006, but soon after the state government appealed in the Supreme Court which ordered the bars to remain closed until it gave its order. On Tuesday, Chief Justice Altamas Kabir and Justice SS Nijjar said the bars can reapply for their licences and they can reopen.

Summary: India's Supreme Court has ruled that dance bars can reopen in the western state of Maharashtra and its capital city, Mumbai.


It was found at West Runton, near Cromer, where one of the most complete skeletons of a mammoth ever found was uncovered in 1990. The find was excavated by local geologist, Martin Warren, at the foot of a cliff last week. "The teeth of rhinoceros are quite distinctive, I've seen them before but that was in 1984," he said. Mr Warren said he had put the jaw in plaster casting to preserve it. David Waterhouse, from Norwich Castle Museum, said he would be interested in seeing the jawbone. "I'd like to have a close look at the teeth to see whether it was a new one [species] or one we have already seen," he said.

Summary: A rhino's jawbone, dating back more than 700,000 years, has been discovered near a Norfolk beach.


Among several arrests was Gregorio Gigliotti, the operation's alleged kingpin and who ran the "Cucino A Modo Mio" (I Cook My Way) restaurant. Also detained were 13 Italian men with links to organised crime, in the southern Italian region of Calabria. The region is the base of the `Ndrangheta crime syndicate, which has been growing in influence. Those arrested were accused of organising cocaine shipments from Latin America to the US and Europe. Police seized a number of weapons from the pizzeria, as well as about 60kg (132lb) of cocaine, in the run-up to the arrests. The 'Ndrangheta has become the most powerful of Italy's mafia groups, analysts say, due to its role in the cocaine trade.

Summary: US and Italian agents have dismantled a cocaine trafficking network run from a New York pizzeria, police have said.


The incident happened about 1600 GMT on Sunday before a flight departure. A spokesperson for the airport said passengers were on board while waiting for aircraft to be de-iced. The flight was the 1445 GMT Amsterdam service. Passengers were offloaded and the flight was cancelled. A spokesperson for Easyjet said: "EasyJet can confirm that flight EZY6773 from Belfast to Amsterdam on 20 November was cancelled due to a technical issue resulting from an airport vehicle accidentally hitting the aircraft during boarding. "The safety and wellbeing of our passengers and crew is always easyJet's highest priority. "The Captain kept the passengers informed and they were given the option of being rebooked onto the next available flight or obtain a refund. Passengers were offered meals and hotel accommodation if they needed it. The company apologised for any "inconvenience caused."

Summary: An Easyjet aircraft has collided with a de-icing vehicle at Belfast International Airport.


The Premiership leaders have announced pre-season dates with the Serie A team, Leicester City and Barcelona. The match against Inter on 13 August will celebrate the 50th anniversary season of Celtic's 1967 European Cup triumph against the Italians. The venue has yet to be confirmed, with Scottish sides having the right to opt out of early league fixtures. Leicester, currently top of the English Premier League, will visit Celtic Park on 23 July, while the Barcelona game will take place in Dublin seven days later. Should Celtic win a fifth successive title, they will feature in the second round of Champions League qualification, with the first leg scheduled for 12 or 13 July and second leg on the 19 or 20 July. The first leg of the third round of qualifying would be on 26-27 July, with the play-off round beginning on 16-17 August.

Summary: Celtic will skip the second weekend of next season to fit in a friendly with Inter Milan.


The shooting happened in Braithwaite Road, Sparkbrook, at about 23:30 BST on Thursday. The 22-year-old man remains in a stable condition in hospital. West Midlands Police said three men aged 20, 21 and 25, have been arrested in connection with the shooting. The busy Stratford Road at the junction of Bordesley Middleway and Braithwaite Road has been cordoned off while forensic investigations take place. See more stories from across Birmingham and the Black Country here

Summary: A man has been shot in the shoulder on a Birmingham street, police said.


Michael Cole, 29, of Newhaven, East Sussex, admitted inciting sexual activity with boys and possessing indecent images of children. He was charged after police appealed to teenagers who may have been threatened online by a man posing as a woman. Cole was bailed at Lewes Crown Court until sentencing on 19 June. During its investigation, Sussex Police said teenagers, mainly boys aged 13 to 17 in the Seaford, Newhaven and Peacehaven areas, were approached by a person calling themselves Jenny Lane and threatened if they did not send inappropriate images. Det Con Steve Shimmons said Cole, aka "Jenny Lane", used social media, including Facebook and Skype, to contact teenagers and sent out more than 100 friend requests.

Summary: A man has pleaded guilty to sex offences against boys after he tricked teenagers into sending him "inappropriate" images online.


Investment from the National Lottery will help restore the Grade II listed Regency landscape in Llanarthney, Carmarthenshire back to its former glory. Work will include the reinstatement of the interconnecting 18th century lakes, cascades, bridges and dams. The project will see the recruitment of 300 new volunteers. They will join the garden's existing team, while accredited training as part of the restoration work will create four new apprenticeships. The investment is made up of £3.5m from the Heritage Lottery Fund and £2.7m from other partners. Huw Francis, director of The National Botanic Garden of Wales, said: "This funding will mean we no longer have to imagine what the estate might have looked like, because we can now recreate it for our modern day visitors to experience first-hand."

Summary: The National Botanic Garden of Wales is marking St David's Day with a £6m funding boost.


The Scot, 47, began on the back nine and was two over after seven holes but carded a two-under 70 in California. She is four behind Americans Cristie Kerr and Mo Martin who lead on six under with South Korea's In Gee Hun. World number one Lydia Ko is two over as she prepares to defend her title at next week's ANA Inspiration tournament, the first major of the season. England's Mel Reid and Wales' Becky Morgan - who dropped two shots in her final nine holes - are on the same mark as 19-year-old New Zealander Ko. Four-time-major-winner Laura Davies, 53, is a shot further back on three over.

Summary: Catriona Matthew shot four birdies in her last eight holes to finish round one of the Kia Classic in contention.


Although parts of the US rapper's song were muted by ITV, Ofcom still received 151 complaints about offensive language and race discrimination or offence. Ofcom has assessed the complaints but said it will take no further action. ITV tried to cut out offensive language by airing February's ceremony with a short delay, the regulator decided. An Ofcom spokesman said: "We received a number of complaints that Kanye West's language, shortly after the watershed, was offensive. "But we will not be taking the matter forward for investigation. "Having carefully assessed these complaints, we noted that before the programme ITV took steps to ensure that offensive language was not used, and during the programme to mute the majority of it."

Summary: More than 150 complaints about Kanye West's language during his performance at the Brit Awards have been dismissed by broadcasting regulator Ofcom.


The incident took place in the tribal Kinnaur region, bordering Tibet. Officials said the avalanche buried eight people in two homes in Kafnu village, some 200km (124 miles) from the state capital, Shimla. Three of them were later rescued. There has been heavy snow in the remote Kinnaur region since Monday. Popular scenic villages like Kalpa, the regional headquarters, are under more than 1.82m (6ft) of snow, officials say. Last month, five people were killed in an avalanche in Kinnaur. At least 38 yaks, domesticated and owned by the locals, were also killed. Much of Shimla has also been cut off - the area is without electricity as power cables and poles have been uprooted in many places.

Summary: Five people are feared killed after an avalanche hit a village in India's northern state of Himachal Pradesh, officials said.


Police were called to reports of a collision involving a 17-month-old boy at the Ibis Hotel car park in Salford shortly after 21:00 BST on Thursday. The boy died at the scene, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said. Detectives said they did not believe there were any suspicious circumstances, adding it was "a tragic accident". Armed officers arrived at the hotel as they were closest to the scene when the emergency call was made, but police said it was not a firearms incident. The incident at the car park on Trafford Road involved a Toyota Rav-4, police said. Sgt Brian Orr, of GMP's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "At the moment this appears to have been a truly tragic accident and not a suspicious incident; however we have launched an investigation to establish a full understanding of exactly what happened." Police are appealing for information.

Summary: A toddler has died after he was hit by a car in the car park of a hotel in Greater Manchester.


The programme will seek to develop crops able to stand weather extremes such as drought and flooding. It is hoped the impact on food, agriculture, energy, materials and health will help economic growth. It is part of a £319m Biotechnology and Biological Research Council investment in biosciences aiming to ensure research remains globally competitive. Professor Mike Gooding, director of the university's Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS), said: "This new investment is significant in enabling IBERS plant breeding scientists to continue as world leaders with nearly 100 years of experience in the development and use of crops in a changing world."

Summary: Aberystwyth University is beginning an £8.8m programme looking at crop sustainability.


The 26-year-old Bulgarian moved to Dens Park in January 2015 following his release from Dobrudzha Dobrich in his homeland. He made 15 appearances in the past campaign and scored his first goal for the club in a derby win over Dundee United in May. In his first half-season with Dundee, Gadzhalov turned out for the Dark Blues on nine occasions.

Summary: Defender Kostadin Gadzhalov has signed a new one-year deal at Dundee.


Ice Hockey UK - in conjunction with Dumfries and Galloway Council - hopes to host the under 20 and under 18 events at Dumfries Ice Bowl. Proposals have been put forward to the International Ice Hockey Federation to stage the tournaments in 2018. Voting on the bids is expected to take place on Friday to decide the venue for the competitions. If successful, Dumfries would host under 20 division 2 group A and the under 18 division 2 group A. It has previously staged a number of events including under 20 and under 18 world championship tournaments in the 2013/14 season and the women's division 2 group A tournament in 2015.

Summary: A double bid to bring some of the rising stars of ice hockey to Scotland is being made.


The 20-year-old from Seaforde clocked 2:03.70 at the British Para-swimming trials for Rio in Glasgow. Firth, a 2012 London Paralympics gold medallist, had already achieved the 100m breaststroke and 100m backstroke qualifying times at the trials. She will compete in the 200m Individual Medley on Wednesday. Firth won the 200m freestyle by two seconds from Jessica-Jane Applegate with Chloe Davies back in third. The Co Down woman represented Ireland at the 2012 Games before her decision to switch allegiance to Great Britain in 2013. Last year Firth had to pull out of the British team for the IPC World Championships because of a broken wrist. After this week's British trials, Firth will head to Madeira for the European Championships which take place in Madeira from 30 April to 7 May.

Summary: Northern Ireland's Bethany Firth has broken her own 200m freestyle world record to qualify in a third discipline for the Paralympics in Rio this summer.


Samata Ullah, 33, of Rennie St, Cardiff, faces six charges including membership of so-called Islamic State. He is accused of giving terrorist training in the use of encryption programs, possessing a missile guidance book and directing terrorism. Mr Ullah was remanded in custody by Westminster Magistrates Court until 28 October. He will appear at the Old Bailey on that date. The court heard the alleged offences took place between 1 December 2015 and 22 September 2016. It is alleged the defendant was responsible for a blog site said to contain information about Islamic State and cyber-security guidance. He was also charged with assisting others to commit acts of terrorism by researching an encryption program, developing an encrypted version of his blog site, and "directing the activities of an organisation which is concerned in the commission of acts of terrorism". Mr Ullah was arrested in Cardiff on 22 September.

Summary: A man has appeared in court on terror charges including storing a computer operating system in a cufflink.


The 26-year-old Brazil international will initially join the Italian champions on a season-long loan costing 6m euros (£5.3m). Juventus will then have the option to buy Costa for 40m euros (£35.4m) at the end of his loan spell. Costa joined Bayern from Shakhtar Donetsk in July 2015, scoring 14 goals in 77 appearances and winning two Bundesliga titles and the German Cup. On Tuesday, Bayern signed Real Madrid forward James Rodriguez on a two-year loan deal. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Brazil winger Douglas Costa has joined Juventus from Bayern Munich on loan.


The Northern Ireland deputy first minister made the proposal on BBC Radio Ulster's Talkback programme and reiterated the suggestion during an election debate on UTV. DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds said he thought the issue should be decided by the assembly. Ulster Unionist MLA Danny Kennedy also said he could not support the proposal. The SDLP's Mark Durkan said he had no objection to holding such a referendum. Alliance deputy leader Naomi Long said that the assembly was making itself increasingly irrelevant on the issue and she would consider the option.

Summary: The DUP has rejected a proposal for a referendum on same sex marriage from Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness.


The blast took place in the Kurram tribal district on the border with Afghanistan. At least two children were reported to be among the dead. Several others injured in the blast were taken to hospital in Parachinar, the capital of Kurram district. The area has seen a series of attacks, including a car bomb blast in March that left 24 people dead. Another attack at the town's vegetable market in January killed at least 20 people. A faction of the Pakistani Taliban said it carried out both attacks. Parachinar is a mainly Shia area and the Kurram district is known for sectarian clashes. Two census workers were in the minibus, according to local media reports. Census workers have been targeted in the past, but it is not clear if their presence was a factor in this case.

Summary: At least 10 people have been killed in a roadside bomb blast that hit a minibus in north-west Pakistan.


Paul Hemming, 42, of Alderney Avenue, Milton Keynes, is accused of killing Natalie Hemming, 31, who was last seen in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, at about 15:00 BST on 1 May. She was reported missing from her home in the Newton Leys area of Milton Keynes on Tuesday by a relative. Mr Hemming was remanded in custody and is next due to appear in court in July. Mother-of-three Ms Hemming, lived with her partner and their children. Thames Valley Police said the search for her is continuing. It is trying to trace the movements of a black Ford S Max - registration EJ12 UWG - between 21:45 on 1 May into the early hours of Bank Holiday Monday. The car travelled towards Aylesbury on the A413, then south of Aylesbury on the A41 before returning to Milton Keynes on the A418, the force said.

Summary: A man charged with the murder of his partner who has been missing for six days has appeared in court.


At the close, the benchmark index of blue-chip stocks was down 24.92 points, or 0.33%, at 7,447.79. Financial services, insurance and banking stocks were hit hard, dragged down by heavy losses from UK sub-prime lender Provident Financial. Provident ended the day 17.5% lower after a profit warning, saying disruption from a shake-up at its home credit division would hit profits. Investment management firm Hargreaves Lansdown fell by 2.4%, while St James's Place dropped 1.8% and Standard Life lost 1.5%. Whitbread, the owner of Premier Inn and the Costa coffee chain, was the biggest riser, up 3.4% at 3984p after reporting strong like-for-like sales for the first quarter. The FTSE 250 was also down, losing 89.10 points or 0.45% to finish at 19,682.61. On the currency markets, the pound was up 0.21% against the dollar at $1.2656. The pound also gained against the euro, up 0.17% to 1.1360 euros.

Summary: The FTSE 100 lost ground for the second consecutive day on Wednesday.


Fire crews spent eight hours tackling the blaze after being called to the Apetito food factory, on the Canal Road Industrial Estate, on Monday afternoon. The fire damaged a 40m (131ft) building used for packaging meals for care homes, hospitals and local authorities. Adjoining buildings were evacuated and nearby residents told to keep windows closed. At the height of the blaze, eight crews were at the scene and the fire created a plume of thick black smoke. A Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Wiltshire Council carried out air quality monitoring to check there was no risk to local people. "This testing showed no concerns about particulate pollution and the advice to keep doors and windows closed has been lifted."

Summary: An investigation has begun to find how a "significant fire" at a factory in Wiltshire started.


The 35-year-old overtook fellow prop Jason Leonard by making her 115th international appearance. She is now level with Scotland's Donna Kennedy as the record caps holder in the women's game. Izzy Noel-Smith scored the crucial try for England eight minutes from time at University College Dublin, after Nora Stapleton had crossed for Ireland. Sunday's match was not part of the autumn international series. England, who beat France 10-5 at Twickenham Stoop on Wednesday, have moved up to second in the world rankings. They meet New Zealand, the top-ranked team, at Twickenham on 19 November before facing Canada a week later.

Summary: Rochelle Clark scored the opening try as she became England's most-capped player in a 12-10 win over Ireland.


Jamie Charles Reed, 26, of Scunthorpe, appeared at Grimsby Magistrates' Court in connection with the death of 60-year-old Robert MacNeil. Humberside Police said Mr MacNeil, died at Great Oaks Hospital on Monday, but would not reveal his injuries. Mr Reed was remanded in custody and will appear before Hull Crown Court on Friday. More on this and other North Lincolnshire stories A spokesman for the trust said: "We can confirm that we have had an incident at Great Oaks in Scunthorpe and a patient has died. Our heartfelt sympathies are with the man's family and friends. "The police were notified immediately of the incident in the early hours of Monday morning and we are fully co-operating with their inquiries. "We cannot comment any further at this time due to the police investigation."

Summary: A patient at a Scunthorpe mental health unit has been charged with the murder of another man being treated there.


A photo of Ken Farlow, 95, staring at Spitfires through the fence of Gloucestershire Airport became an internet hit in July. The airport tweeted: "With sadness we report the passing of Ken Farlow yesterday. His story touched hearts." Mr Farlow, who had bowel cancer, was an electrical engineer in the war and worked on Spitfires and Hurricanes. After hearing his story airport bosses treated Mr Farlow to a flight in a two-seater training plane. He was also invited to RAF Coningsby and the Royal International Air Tattoo. Mr Farlow's daughter Helen Nock, who took the photo of him staring through the fence, said her father, who lived in Painswick, Gloucestershire, spent time in Syria and Palestine during the war working on the airplanes.

Summary: A terminally ill former World War Two Spitfire engineer whose photograph went viral on social media has died.


The M62 has reopened after being closed eastbound at J21 Milnrow and westbound at J22 on the A672 Ripponden. A lorry crossed from the eastbound carriageway to the westbound carriageway and collided with 10 vehicles, police said. The crash happened at 08:15 BST on Monday. The motorway remained partially closed overnight for repair work but reopened on Tuesday. The 37-year-old lorry driver was airlifted to hospital and remains in a critical condition with a head injury. A second motorist, aged 53, was treated for a leg injury and a third driver, aged 30, sustained whiplash. Officers are asking drivers who may have captured footage on CCTV or a dash-cam to contact them.

Summary: A lorry driver remains in a critical condition in hospital after a serious collision which closed a major motorway.


The Baggies turned down four bids from Tottenham for the 22-year-old striker, including two on 1 September. He went on Twitter to indicate he would never play for Albion again but he came on against Southampton on Saturday. "The lads have given him some stick. Sometimes it's the best way because it takes away the tension," Fletcher said. "When somebody comes in and there is a little bit of banter, I'm sure he feels like one of the lads again." Scotland midfielder Fletcher, who is not on Twitter, said: "It's about emotions really. "You can do silly things and when you're on Twitter it allows you to voice your opinions. If he had sat quietly for 48 hours he wouldn't have done it."

Summary: Saido Berahino has faced West Brom dressing room "banter" about his threat to go on strike on deadline day, says his captain Darren Fletcher.


Pattinson, the brother of former Notts bowler Darren, will be available for the County Championship and 50-over One-Day Cup until the end of June. The 26-year-old made the last of his 17 Test appearances for Australia against New Zealand in February 2016. Siddle, 32, signed for Notts on a two-year deal ahead of last season, but never played because of a back injury. "As soon as James became available as a replacement, we knew he was a great option," head coach Peter Moores said. "He's got real pace - and he's very aggressive, which is the way we want to play our cricket." Pattinson has struggled with a string of injuries in recent seasons, and asked not to be considered for Australia's current tour of India in order to regain full fitness playing for Victoria in the Sheffield Shield.

Summary: Nottinghamshire have signed Australia pace bowler James Pattinson to replace injured compatriot Peter Siddle.


The driver hit another car, which was stationary, in Eskbank Road, Dalkeith on Wednesday. Police stopped a Vauxhall Vectra on the A6094 near Tesco's Hardengreen store a short time later. The 45-year-old driver was charged with driving under the influence of drugs and failing to stop. Cannabis was found in the car and he was charged with drugs possession. He will appear in court at a later date. No one was injured in the collision. Insp Neil Mitchell, of Police Scotland, said: "Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts not only the driver, but other road users at risk and such offences will not be tolerated. "Road policing officers regularly monitor all main arterial routes and any motorists found to be driving in a manner that puts the public in danger will be appropriately dealt with."

Summary: A man has been charged following a hit and run in Midlothian.


From next week Babcock Dounreay Partnership will be called Cavendish Dounreay Partnership. The consortium is overseeing DSRL's work decommissioning Dounreay, an experimental nuclear power complex on the north Caithness coast. The site's original buildings such as its dome are to be demolished by 2025. The rebranding follows the decision of Babcock International Group, which has a 50% stake in the parent body organisation, to call its civil nuclear business unit Cavendish Nuclear. The other partners in the consortium, CH2MHILL and URS, as well as the rest of Babcock International Group, are unaffected by the change.

Summary: The consortium of international companies that owns and manages Dounreay Site Restoration Limited (DSRL) is changing its name.


Local authority officers have suggested running demonstration projects to show how people's first encounter with the city could be made better. The ideas include a "gateway structure" - a standing stone-like monument - at Clachnaharry. Telford Roundabout and the central reservation of the A82 at the Longman could be also be planted with shrubs. Members of Highland Council's city of Inverness area committee will be asked to give these projects the go-ahead at a meeting next week.

Summary: Highland councillors are to consider ideas designed to improve the approaches to Inverness by road.


The 31-year-old joins on a free transfer after leaving Championship side Rotherham United. Collin has played more than 200 league games in the past four seasons, one with Carlisle and three at Rotherham. But he only played twice for the Millers last term, with a further three appearances during a loan spell with Scottish club Aberdeen. League Two side Notts released veteran keeper Roy Carroll at the end of last season. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Notts County have completed the signing of experienced goalkeeper Adam Collin on a two-year contract.


At the close of trading, the Dow Jones was up 0.9% at 17,959.03, the S&P 500 was up 0.9% at 2,089.27 points, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq was up 0.68% at 5026.42 points. The latter is edging nearer to its all-time highest close of 5,048.62, reached in March 2000. The US oil benchmark, West Texas Crude, rose by 1.7%, to $46.32 a barrel. Shares in sportswear giant Nike went up by almost 4%, after it reported that net income rose 16% to $791m. However the firm warned that the dollar's recent strength would hit future profits. Luxury jewellery firm Tiffany's shares fell by 4% after the company said that the strong dollar was having "a negative effect on spending by foreign tourists". But the dollar's rise was stemmed somewhat on Friday. It dropped back against the euro again losing 1.56% to â‚¬0.9237 and it lost 1.22% against sterling to Â£0.6694.

Summary: (Close): US shares ended the week with solid gains, recovering some of Thursday's lost ground.