It joins new flags for Wales and England which have been created after a campaign by Jeremy Burge of Emojipedia and Owen Williams from BBC Wales. Unicode, the authority on computer text and characters, agreed to add the three flags to the next release of emojis. However, it will not be available widely on tablets and phones until technology companies like Apple and Google update their software. In the meantime, the Saltire emoji can be copied from the Emojipedia website for use in patriotic tweets. Mr Burge said anyone who uses Twitter via the website will be able to access the new emojis and they are expecting more platforms to support them no later than the end of the year. Other emoji flags already available include those for Ascension Island, St Barthelemy, Curacao, Diego Garcia and Djibouti.

Summary: A new Saltire emoji flag has been released for Twitter users.


Former Wolves trainee Little, 28, had been with the Ashton Gate club since signing on a free transfer from Peterborough in June 2014. Wilbraham, 37, also arrived in 2014 and has scored 30 league goals since then. The club captain's new offer also includes some "additional non-playing responsibilities". Meanwhile, 20-year-old midfielder Joe Morrell has joined six other young players in being offered extensions by head coach Lee Johnson. But the on-loan quartet of Wales duo Adam Matthews and David Cotterill, goalkeeper Fabian Giefer and Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham - who was the Robins' top scorer this term - have all returned to their parent clubs. Johnson's side finished 17th in the Championship in 2016-17, three points above the relegation zone.

Summary: Championship side Bristol City have released right-back Mark Little, but veteran forward Aaron Wilbraham has been offered an extended deal.


Real Madrid's Bale, 27, will have ankle surgery on Tuesday and is expected to be out for four months. However, Coleman said: "I'm hoping it's going to be more like three months. "He's an absolute machine and physically he's an absolute specimen. We'll know a little bit more probably next week or the week after." Bale hobbled out of Tuesday's 2-1 Champions League win at Sporting Lisbon with what has been diagnosed as a "traumatic dislocation of the peroneal tendons" in his right ankle. Wales are third in Group D, four points adrift of leaders the Republic, who they face at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on 24 March. Bale has scored four times in Wales' opening four qualifiers and is now second to Ian Rush on his country's all-time goalscoring list with 26 goals.

Summary: Wales manager Chris Coleman is optimistic injured forward Gareth Bale will be fit for the World Cup qualifier in the Republic of Ireland in March.


The government will underwrite the cost of the privately-financed £40m scheme at Cheltenham's Pittville campus. It will include 570 new rooms, the refurbishment of existing rooms and media centre with a bar, refectory, gym, shop, café and games area. Chancellor George Osborne said the village would give students the "first-class facilities they deserve". It will be delivered under the Treasury's £40bn UK Guarantee Scheme. The University of Gloucestershire's Stephen Marston said: "The university is delighted that financial close has been achieved on the scheme. This means we can now move ahead with the building work. "The new student village at Pittville will give our future students a great place to live, with well-designed and well-managed accommodation and good facilities in a wonderful location." Work is expected to be completed in time for undergraduates for the 2017/18 academic year.

Summary: A former teaching campus of the University of Gloucestershire is to be turned into a student village.


They surrounded a house in South Yarmouth, Massachusetts, and ordered Shaun "Shizz" Miller out. He walked outside in disguise and when they realised the "elderly man" was actually the 31-year-old they were looking for, they arrested him. He had been on the run since being charged with heroin trafficking offences in April. When officers searched the house in South Yarmouth, they found two loaded weapons hidden in a laundry basket, and nearly $30,000 (Â£23,000) in cash. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms tweeted that the charges against Mr Miller were part of a larger complaint into the Nauti street gang, and that twelve other people had also been charged.

Summary: Police officers in the US have arrested a fugitive after seeing through his elaborate disguise as an elderly man.


Iain O'Hara was at Keepers Pond, Blaenavon, at 12:30 BST on 5 June, when fire lighters were pushed into the back wheel and set alight. He filmed the blaze and put footage on Facebook in order to try and catch the culprit. Gwent Police has appealed for information about the incident. Mr O'Hara from Nantyglo, Blaenau Gwent, said he was warned by customers that the van was on fire and managed to escape unharmed. While he is still able to use it, Mr O'Hara said paintwork has been damaged and he must buy new parts for machinery. "If a compressor had gone up, myself and whoever I was serving could have been seriously injured or killed," he said.

Summary: An ice cream van was set alight as children were being served at a picnic spot, its owner said.


Previous rules had banned the practice, over what world governing body Fiba said was a safety issue. The Qatar women's team withdrew from the 2014 Asian Games after being denied permission to wear the hijab - a head covering worn by many Muslim women. On Thursday, new rules were ratified that will take effect from 1 October. "The new rule comes as a result of the fact that traditional dress codes in some countries - which called for the head and/or entire body being covered - were incompatible with previous headgear rules," a Fiba statement read. Fiba began a revision process of its headgear rule in September 2014, with exceptions being granted at national level as part of a two-year testing period. Earlier that year, football's governing body Fifa officially authorised the wearing of head covers for religious reasons during matches.

Summary: Basketball has changed its rules on headgear in a move that will allow players to wear the hijab during matches.


Connor Slocombe was awarded with the golden sneaker trophy as his toes poked through the front of his rotten trainers. We've all got a pair of really bad-smelling trainers somewhere in the house. So, Newsround asked you which member of your family would win the prize for stinkiest shoes! Send your comments to newsroundcomments@bbc.co.uk Me and my twin brother, they smell like sweaty gooey socks! James, Hastings, England Me! They smell like boiled cauliflower and mouldy cheese. I think it's just natural. Martha, London, England Me and they stink like blue cheese! Megan, Hastings, England My dad's shoes have to be the smelliest! Lucas, Devon, England My Dad because he is working every day and has stinky feet. Yasmin, Hastings, England My dad's shoes can be really smelly after he has run home. Jessica, London, England My whole family! Ryan, Hastings, England

Summary: An American boy's smelly sneakers have earned him the title of "Smelliest Sole" at the 42nd National Rotten Sneaker Contest in New York, USA.


Police said the woman, believed to have been the sole resident, was found dead inside the property in Broyle Lane, Ringmer. The cause of the fire is being treated as unexplained and investigations are under way by Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service. Police said the woman's family have been told about her death and the coroner has also been informed. The alarm was raised shortly before 05:00 GMT on Friday, police said. Efforts by emergency teams were hampered by structural damage, which made it unsafe to enter the detached house until temporary repairs had been carried out. Broyle Lane has been closed for most of the day and diversions are in place. The fire service said six fire engines were sent to the blaze.

Summary: A 98-year-old woman has died after fire engulfed a house in East Sussex.


The Saddlers say the fee for Henry, 19, could rise to more than £5m if additional clauses are met. The left-back, currently sidelined with a shoulder injury which may require surgery, has agreed a five-year deal to rejoin his former boss Dean Smith. Kaikai, 21, moves to Griffin Park on a deal until the end of the season. The wide man, who scored 12 goals in 26 League One appearances during a loan spell at Shrewsbury last season, made his Premier League debut for the Eagles in May. Meanwhile, Brentford midfielder Ryan Woods has extended his contract until 2020 and Emmanuel Ledesma has joined Greek Superleague side Panetolikos on a free transfer. The 28-year-old Argentine made two appearances for the Bees after signing non-contract terms with the west London club earlier in August. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Championship side Brentford have signed defender Rico Henry from Walsall for a fee of £1.5m and brought in Crystal Palace winger Sullay Kaikai on loan.


The 21-year-old centre-back, who made 10 appearances during a loan spell with the Hatters last season, has agreed a two-year deal at Kenilworth Road. A Republic of Ireland Under-21 international, Rea came through Albion's academy and featured twice for the Seagulls in the League Cup. Luton boss Nathan Jones worked with Rea during his time as a coach at Brighton. "He's a player and a character that I've got a lot of time for," Jones told the club website. "It's taken a while. Brighton had a valuation of the player that we've had to negotiate, and we've got there in the end." Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: League Two side Luton Town have signed defender Glen Rea from Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee.


The grey-coloured machinery was taken from the AMD site on Newton Road at about 22:45 on Thursday after the security gate was breached. At about the same time, the nearby premises of JG Findlay on Old Irongray Road were also broken into and hedge trimmers taken. Det Con Ryan Kirk said it appeared that the thefts may have been linked. "We are keen to trace a white or silver-coloured van which was seen in the Newton Road area at around 22:45 on Thursday night and which contained three men in dark-coloured clothing," he said. "Anyone who may have been in the area and who saw anything suspicious is asked to call police at Dumfries on the 101 number."

Summary: Two rock breakers worth £10,000 in total have been stolen from a plant hire yard in Dumfries.


The "Fez-tival" - named after the entertainer's famous hat - aimed to encourage a new generation of comedians and magicians. It took place at the castle in the town where the comedian, who died in 1984, was born. There is currently no such world record. Cooper died of a heart attack during a TV show in 1984, ending a career built around magic routines which went wrong. The Tommy Cooper Society was set up in Caerphilly in 2002 and raised £45,000 for a statue of the comedian to be erected opposite the town's castle. It is hoped Saturday's gathering will become an annual event.

Summary: A world record attempt for the most Tommy Cooper impressionists at one venue has been held in Caerphilly on Saturday.


The collision took place at about 15:20 BST on Tuesday in Sycamore Avenue, in Glapwell, near Chesterfield. Officers said the girl, who has not been named, was taken to hospital but died later. They also said the driver of the minibus had not been arrested, but could not confirm whether it had been carrying passengers at the time. Anyone with information has been asked to contact police. Updates on this story and more from the East Midlands

Summary: An eight-year-old girl has died after being hit by a minibus in a Derbyshire street.


When one reptile got wedged between houses in Dudley, firefighters knew they faced a marathon, not a sprint. As pictures of the operation show, West Midlands Fire Service also knew they needed a big stick - although the carrot approach remained untested. With the rescue a success, the five-year-old tortoise was reunited with its owner. After the operation on Saturday, West Midlands Fire Service said its work was "not just fires". The crisis over, it allowed the service to make an irresistible joke, posting on Twitter "it was SLOW going". The Express and Star reported the animal became stuck between two houses on Merryfield Road, with the operation taking about an hour.

Summary: Fire crews may be well versed in rescuing cats but tortoises can prove just that little bit trickier.


Both sides were chasing a top-two spot in the qualifying tournament and progression to India in 2016. Scotland made just 77-9 in their 20 overs, with Fiona Urquhart hitting 21 while Lucy O'Reilly took three wickets. Clare Shillington (34) and Cecelia Joyce (36no) eased Ireland to the target and a final against Bangladesh. Bangladesh beat Zimbabwe by 31 runs in the other semi-final. Liz Priddle (11) was the only other Scottish batter to manage double figures as the wickets tumbled. Six Irish bowlers took wickets, with Robyn Lewis claiming 2-8. An opening partnership of 58 between Shillington and Cecelia Joyce laid the foundations for a comfortable run-chase. Kim Garth hit a winning four to spark celebrations as the Irish finished on 79-1 in the 12th over.

Summary: Ireland secured a place in next year's World Twenty20 thanks to a nine-wicket victory over Scotland in the qualifiers semi-final in Bangkok.


Hector Astudillo Flores said a disturbance occurred at the traditional coming-of-age party in Cundancito, in the west of the region. After the shooting, authorities tried to reach the area but were met by gunfire, he said. Two years ago, 43 students disappeared in Guerrero, which is one of Mexico's most violent states. Figures compiled by the La Jornada newspaper found that at least 324 people were murdered in Guerrero between October and December last year, most related to the drug trade. Mr Astudillo, who said details of the case would be passed to Mexico's attorney general, did not say whether arrests were made in Cundancito.

Summary: At least 11 people were shot dead at a girl's 15th birthday party in Mexico's Guerrero state, its governor says.


The three animals were each mauled around the neck area by at least one dog in their field in the eastern part of the forest on Thursday. They were treated by vets and underwent surgery for their wounds. They are all now in a stable condition. Hampshire police confirmed officers had been called to the scene following the attack and were investigating. An alpaca in the same field had also been the victim of a dog attack earlier in the year. The owner, Susan Sears, has farmed the animals for six years and has a herd of about 80 animals which are bred for their wool. "It's devastating. We've bred these animals and get to know them individually - they've all got their own characters," she said. She has set up a crowdfunding appeal to help raise money for the animals' treatment.

Summary: Three alpacas have been seriously injured in a dog attack in a field in the New Forest.


The League One side have been under the caretaker charge of Grant McCann since Dave Robertson's sacking on Sunday. Ex-Northern Ireland international McCann has not revealed whether he is interested in the permanent job. Meanwhile, Rotherham boss Steve Evans - the bookies' favourite - missed his usual Thursday media conference because of an internal meeting. McCann would not be drawn on if he wanted to job on a full-time basis, telling BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "All I'm doing is focusing on the job at hand and that's the game at Oldham. "I don't take much noticed of what's going on in terms of the bookies or a manager shortlist."

Summary: Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony says he has a four-man shortlist for the vacant manager's job.


The 24-year-old has been missing since August with a foot problem but played 90 minutes on Saturday as Rovers drew 0-0 at Wolves in the Championship. Lowe, a former England Under-21 international, is a product of Blackburn's academy system. "It's been that long, it felt like a debut, even though I've played enough games for the club," said Lowe. He told BBC Radio Lancashire: "Once the game settles down and you've made your first pass, the adrenaline kind of settles down and you focus on what your job is." It was the first time Lowe had played with January signings Jordi Gomez and Danny Graham. "Obviously there are a lot of people that have come in and changes have been made," he added. "They've settled in very well around the training ground and I've trained with them for quite a while now, so there is nothing new from that respect."

Summary: Blackburn Rovers midfielder Jason Lowe has said his return from eight months out injured felt like another debut.


Mark Munro, 30 and James Robertson, 27, are accused of killing Russell Robertson in Falkirk in May. Prosecutors allege the 27 year-old was seized by the neck, restrained, thrown to the ground and then pushed over bridge railings. The two men are accused of assaulting Mr Robertson while he clung to the bridge. They are alleged to have punched Mr Robertson on the hands and prised his fingers from the railings, causing him to fall into the canal. Mr Munro, of Denny, Stirlingshire, and Mr Robertson, of Pitlochry, Perthshire, deny the allegations. During a short hearing at the High Court in Glasgow, a trial was scheduled to take place next July. Following his death, Mr Robertson's family said: "We are totally devastated at the loss of Russell. "He was much loved son, brother, nephew and uncle."

Summary: Two men will stand trial accused of murdering a man by forcing him from a bridge into the Forth and Clyde Canal.


Starting on 26 January, Timeline will be broadcast live between 19:30 and 20:00 each Thursday on BBC Two Scotland. It will be jointly presented by the BBC's Glenn Campbell and Shereen Nanjiani. The head of news at BBC Scotland, Gary Smith, said Timeline would be "the weekly centrepiece of a new engagement with our audience". He added that the public would help shape the agenda of the programme which is to have a distinctive online and social media presence. Explaining the choice of programme name, Mr Smith said: "A timeline is our go-to for information, for news, for what we care about. "It's how we find out what's interesting and relevant to our lives. "A timeline connects people. It brings them together to share stories, experience and opinions. It connects young and old, the ordinary that can become exceptional. "Timeline is a programme that will do just that."

Summary: BBC Scotland has announced details of a new weekly current affairs programme.


He has agreed a four-year deal and has joined for an undisclosed fee. The midfielder, 27, has won 30 international caps and could make his debut for Wolves in their away game at Birmingham on Saturday. "I like the vision of the club - everybody wants to get to the Premier League and that is a challenge that I like," Oniangue told the club website. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Championship club Wolves have signed Congo captain Prince Oniangue from French top-flight side Reims.


Yang Gang was party secretary in the autonomous region's capital, Urumqi, from 1999 to 2006. The Beijing court heard he took 13.79m yuan ($2.10m; Â£1.5m) in bribes to help others to win promotions and contracts. Yang was formally accused of corruption last year, after an investigation that began in 2013. The court said his sentence was lighter than it could have been because he confessed his crimes and helped with the investigation, said the Xinhua news agency. China has been conducting a widespread crackdown on corruption, across the public and private sectors. Dozens of high level officials have been jailed in recent years, a drive seen by some as having a political motive.

Summary: A former Communist Party chief in China's Xinjiang region has been jailed for 12 years for corruption, state media report.


Police located the vehicle crashed on the Marble Arch Road, Florence Court, after 21:00 BST on Thursday. Inside, they found what could be up to eight kilos of cocaine. No-one was in the van. Det Insp Alan Pyper said the suspected drugs were being analysed. "We are delighted to have recovered this quantity of illegal drugs and our inquiries are continuing to establish a quantity and value," he said. "I would appeal to anyone who saw a red van in the vicinity of the Marble Arch Road between 21:00 and 22:00 BST last night to contact detectives on the non-emergency number 101."

Summary: A "substantial" quantity of suspected cocaine has been found in an abandoned van in County Fermanagh.


They were travelling to a funeral on Friday when the incident occurred 60km (37 miles) north-east of the capital. Police say 19 people were killed instantly and three others later died from their injuries. Hundreds have been killed by landmines left over from the country's war of independence in the 1970s, as well as internal conflicts in the 1990s. The strength of the blast tore the vehicle in two, Reuters news agency reports. It was travelling near the town of Mansoa in the north of the country when the explosion occurred.

Summary: At least 22 people have been killed after their vehicle struck a landmine in Guinea-Bissau, police say.


The forward fell to the floor after an attempted tackle on flanker Dave Ward in Saturday's loss at Harlequins but played on for the rest of the game. The Concussion Management Review Group (CMRG), who met to discuss the recent George North head knock, will convene to review the incident. An update will be given on 20 January. The 27-year-old Samoan was not treated on the field after the incident in the 30th minute, but has not been named in the team that travels to Toulon in the Champions Cup on Sunday. The CMRG panel will be chaired by Dr Julian Morris and includes the Rugby Football Union's director of professional rugby Nigel Melville and Premiership rugby director Phil Winstanley.

Summary: Sale Sharks are being investigated for a potential breach in their concussion management protocol during an incident involving TJ Ioane.


With five balls remaining, the 30-year-old Sussex captain sealed a seven-wicket victory with his 11th four, and also hit four sixes in a 66-ball knock. Cameron White made 54 from 39 balls to help the Renegades to 161-7. Kevin Pietersen made only six for the Stars but Wright, with only 39 from three previous innings, saw them home. "Once I got to 30 or 40 it was about going longer and deeper, and trying to get those partnerships building," said Wright, who made the most recent of his 51 Twenty20 appearances for England in March 2014. It was a second consecutive victory for the Stars, who had lost their opening two fixtures in the 20-over competition. The eight teams each play four home and four away matches, with the top four qualifying for the semi-finals.

Summary: England all-rounder Luke Wright hit 109 not out as Melbourne Stars beat Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash before a crowd of 80,883 at the MCG.


Amended timetables have been put in place and delays are expected due to limited platform space as a result of Network Rail's work. On Thursday, passengers faced "severe" delays and cancellations after the upgrade work overran. Replacement buses will operate in affected areas. Affected services include: National Rail said trains were expected to be delayed by up to 30 minutes, cancelled or revised until the end of service on Friday. Passengers on affected journeys between Cardiff and Newport can use alternative train operators, it added. People have been advised to check their journey before they travel at www.arrivatrains.wales/check for the latest information. Network Rail's upgrade work in the Cardiff area will continue until 2 January.

Summary: Rail disruption has continued for a second day in south Wales due to restrictions because of re-signalling work at Cardiff Central.


The 10-year-old, who's a crossbreed of a pit bull-Dutch shepherd mix, beat off competition from 20 others dogs to win the top prize. Quasi Modo has a slight hunchback after being born with a spinal defect and was adopted by a vet in Florida, USA, after being abandoned at an animal shelter. Take a look at these brilliant photos from the dog competition.

Summary: A dog called Quasi Modo has been named the World's Ugliest Dog.


Christie, 22, has won five World Cup gold medals and broken the 500m world record this season. She says she wants more time to prepare for the World Championships in March. "We have put a lot of thought into this decision. I've been European champion more than once, but not yet world champion," Christie said. "This extra training time could help me achieve that goal. It's a risk, but I am willing to try." Christie has won overall gold at the last two European Championships - including the clean sweep of all three distances last year. This year's Championships begin on 13 January. The fifth World Cup event of the season takes place in Dresden, Germany on 3-5 February and the World Championships take place from 10-12 March in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Summary: British short track speed skater Elise Christie will not defend her European titles this month after deciding to skip the Championships in Turin.


His interim world title bout against Bermane Stiverne in December was cancelled after he tested positive for the banned muscle-builder ostarine. That came after he tested positive for meldonium before a WBC world title fight against Deontay Wilder last May. The ban is only for bouts sanctioned by the World Boxing Council, which has also fined him $250,000 (£205,000). Povetkin, 37, avoided a sanction after the Wilder fight was cancelled as he said he had stopped taking meldonium in 2015, before it became a banned substance.

Summary: Russian heavyweight Alexander Povetkin has been banned indefinitely after failing a second drug test in a year.


Central Line services were suspended between Marble Arch and White City after masonry fell on the track outside Shepherd's Bush station. The damage was repaired before the line reopened about 21:30 GMT. Transport for London (TfL) said it was possible to see into the tunnel from a building site above. It is understood contractors were working on an extension to the Westfield shopping centre when a small amount of loose concrete fell on to the westbound line below. No damage was caused to trains or the track, but TfL said the risk that other debris might fall through the hole meant it had to be filled before trains could begin running again. Operations director Peter McNaught apologised to passengers affected by the disruption.

Summary: A section of a London Tube line had to be closed after contractors drilled a hole through the roof of an underground tunnel.


The Environment Agency recorded a water level of 13ft (3.87m) at the Old Wye Bridge Gauge at 12:30 GMT and warned the level was rising. It said a peak level of up to 16ft (4.8m) was expected overnight. The River Severn is also rising and was expected to reach a peak of up to 19ft (5.7m) on Friday. The Met Office has also predicted heavy rain and strong winds overnight.

Summary: Three flood warnings have been issued for the River Wye in Hereford.


Bennett, 26, returned to the Pompey line-up against Accrington on Saturday having missed the last two games. "You just get on with it, whatever goes on," he told BBC Radio Solent. "If I'm here, I'm playing for Portsmouth Football Club. That's the end of the story, I'm here and I'm willing to fight for my place." Bennett's return could not prevent Pompey falling to a 1-0 defeat at Accrington - their first loss in five league games. "I've been working hard on the training ground," Bennett said. "The gaffer will tell you that I've stuck my head down and I've supported the lads when I've not been involved. "Hopefully, I've done enough to keep my place having come back."

Summary: Portsmouth midfielder Kyle Bennett says rumours linking him with a move to Ipswich Town have not affected his commitment to the club.


Paramedic John Wood tweeted about the "surprising message" which the crew saw from 1,000ft (305m) above ground level over Hewelsfield near Lydney. "Anyone know the outcome?" tweeted his colleague James Yates, describing it as a "unique proposal". The crew was flying back to the charity's base in Filton, near Bristol, from an operation in Gloucester. "They're big letters - very easily seen and made out of some kind of sheets," said Mr Wood. "We were quite amused and haven't seen anything like that before. "It made me wonder about the story behind it. Who put it there, for whom and has it been seen?"

Summary: A giant marriage proposal has been spotted in a Gloucestershire field by the crew of an air ambulance.


He is joined by fellow midfielders Dale Keenan and Chris Dillon, plus defenders Ben Richards-Everton and Ryan Finnie. Craigen, who joined Thistle from Edinburgh University, has made 30 appearances this season. Keenan, the 20-year-old who arrived from East Fife in 2013, had made eight first-team appearances this term. Richards-Everton signed from Tamworth last summer, but the 22-year-old England C cap spent the season on loan to Airdrieonians, making 19 appearances for the League One side. Former Scotland Under-19 cap Finnie joined Thistle after leaving Rangers in January, but the 20-year-old failed to break into the first team at Firhill. The 19-year-old Dillon did not break into the Thistle first-team and made one appearance this season on loan to Berwick Rangers.

Summary: James Craigen's three-year spell with Partick Thistle has ended, with the 24-year-old Englishman among five players being released by the Glasgow club.


All money raised is to be used by the RNLI in Yorkshire where it operates nine lifeboat stations. The cycle race to be held over three days covers 320 miles (515 km) through the county. It is to start on 29 April in Beverley, East Yorkshire, and end on 1 May in the North Yorkshire resort of Scarborough. Last year's inaugural race was watched by an estimated 1m people. The race was launched after Yorkshire hosted the Tour de France Grand Depart in 2014. Leesa Harwood, from the RNLI, said they relied on "voluntary donations and without our supporters we simply wouldn't be able to provide crews with the equipment and training they need." The RNLI Flood Rescue Team recently helped hundreds of people during flooding in Cumbria. The organisation operates about 235 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 200 lifeguard units on UK beaches.

Summary: The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has been named as the official charity for the Tour de Yorkshire.


Mr Cole, 30, from Dursley in Gloucestershire, was travelling from Copenhagen to Assen, in north eastern Netherlands, via the Dutch capital. He went missing during a night out in the Thorbeckeplein area of the city at 02.00 GMT last Monday, police said. His family has been informed. A police investigation is under way to find out how he ended up in the water. Mr Cole's brother Lee travelled to Amsterdam to visit bars and distribute leaflets as part of the search. He has formally identified the body. Dutch Police said a tracking dog became "restless" in a particular area being searched. Divers and sonar equipment were brought in and a man's body was recovered Detectives from Gloucestershire will liaise with Dutch officers to provide information to the coroner's office, and Mr Cole's family is in contact with the British Consulate.

Summary: A body pulled from a canal in Amsterdam is that of missing British man Richard Cole, Dutch police have confirmed.


Mrs Allan left her home in Ponteland, Northumberland, early on Boxing Day wearing pyjamas and a waterproof jacket. She was later seen on CCTV on Newcastle's Quayside. The body of the 59-year-old was recovered from the River Tyne at Tyne Dock West, Jarrow, on Wednesday. Northumbria Police said a report has been prepared for the coroner. The disappearance of the mother-of three sparked a major search operation involving many local people in her home town. When the CCTV images emerged, police divers searched a section of the River Tyne but drew a blank. Flowers were laid at the spot where she was last seen by family and friends.

Summary: A body found in the water on South Tyneside has been confirmed as that of missing woman Sally Allan.


The 22-year-old former Chelsea and Leeds trainee spent two seasons with the Latics where he scored 11 goals. Poleon, who can also play on the wing, becomes the fifth new arrival for the Dons this summer after their promotion last season. "Oldham wanted to strike a deal with him, but he is a London boy," boss Neal Ardley told the club website. "We tried to pull on the old heart strings to get him some home cooking back with his Mum." Poleon added: "It was the best decision for me and my family. I believe that the manager here can get the best out of me." Wimbledon have not disclosed the length of Poleon's deal. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: League One side AFC Wimbledon have signed striker Dominic Poleon after his exit from Oldham Athletic.


Inmates taking part will work at the open prison's in-house cafe or at work placements with local coffee shops. The project also aims to decrease reoffending rates and "encourage active citizenship". It is being delivered by the Springboard Charity in partnership with Zest Training in St Andrews. The prisoners have been trained in employability skills and completed fully accredited barista qualifications. One participant, Ryan, said: "The whole experience has really helped me develop my confidence and skills. "The skills learned during the training I have now carried over into the workplace" Mary Stewart, HMP Castle Huntly's head of offender outcomes, said: "Springboard have been overwhelmed with those wishing to train, and from the original group now out in the community working, the feedback on their skills and work ethos has been nothing short of amazing."

Summary: A group of Castle Huntly prisoners have gained qualifications and experience in coffee barista skills to improve their employment prospects on release.


Residents living near the disused Trinity United Reform Church on the Esplanade in Whitley Bay were forced to leave their homes after the fire broke out at 20:25 BST on Saturday. Several are still in a refuge centre and have not been allowed home. Northumbria Police said the fire was being treated as arson and a man, aged 56, had been arrested. Det Ins Jane Fairlamb said: "This was a large operation involving a number of partners, all agencies worked together to extinguish the fire and I want to personally thank all of them for their hard work in ensuring that it did not spread to neighbouring properties. "The fire was successfully extinguished overnight, but a number of people have been housed in temporary accommodation while we carry out some further structural investigations."

Summary: More than 30 firefighters spent four hours tackling a blaze at a church in a seaside town.


Shane Geraghty kicked Irish into an early lead with a penalty. But tries from Armand Batlle and Nigel Hunt helped Grenoble build a 21-6 lead by the break. Charl McLeod's second-half score and 13 points from Jonathan Wisniewski's boot sealed victory before Dom Waldouck and Alex Lewington scored consolations. Defeat leaves London Irish, who made 11 changes from their Premiership victory against Newcastle, five points behind second-placed Edinburgh in the group ahead of next weekend's final game at Agen. Grenoble finish their pool games at home against Edinburgh knowing victory will guarantee a place in the quarter-finals. London Irish: Ojo; Lewington, Mulchrone, Brophy-Clews, Fowlie; Geraghty, Steele; Smallbone, Cruse, Aulika, Curry, Sinclair, Guest, Trayfoot, Narraway (capt). Replacements: Stevens, Court, Halavatau, Gilsenan, Sisi, Allinson, Williams, Waldouck. Grenoble: Aplon; Dupont, Farrell, Hunt, Batlle; Wisniewski, McLeod; Taumalolo, Heguy, Edwards, Hand (capt), Kimlin, Vanderglas, Diaby, Grice. Replacements: Jammes, Coulson, Desmaison, Marie, Setephano, Saseras, Gelin, Kilioni.

Summary: Grenoble moved to the top of European Challenge Cup Pool Five with victory at London Irish, who are now unlikely to qualify for the knock-out stages.


John Whitbread, from Leicestershire, put the £1,800 trip to the Dominican Republic on eBay in the hope of finding a female companion. But the two highest bidders failed to pay the winning sum. He instead sold £10 raffle tickets and the lucky winner drawn out of a hat has agreed to jet off with him. The "Jilted John" raffle raised £1,420 for Balls to Cancer. Mr Whitbread confirmed to the BBC that the winner had agreed to accompany him to the Caribbean. The 32-year-old, who grew up in Derbyshire, split from his fiancée six weeks before their wedding. He was determined not to go on the honeymoon alone and so auctioned off his partner's place - to women only - on eBay. After the top two bidders failed to pay, he decided to hold a raffle instead.

Summary: After being jilted three times, a man who tried to auction his ex-fiancée's honeymoon place has finally found a holiday partner.


Bournemouth lost a three-goal lead to draw 3-3 with Arsenal in the Premier League on Tuesday, 3 January. Barker, on Hitchin's books at the time, later posted: "Big hype just for a disappointment like the nine months leading up to your child's birth." Barker, who was sacked, has until 25 January to respond to the charge. He later apologised for his "disgraceful comments" and said that he would accept any punishment given to him. Barker, who takes medication to combat the symptoms of ADHD and a mild form of autism, was sacked by both Hitchin and Codicote FC, where he had been on loan. Arter and partner Rachel's baby daughter Renee was stillborn in December 2015. In relation to Barker's charge, it is alleged he posted comments which were abusive and/or insulting and/or improper and/or brought the game into disrepute.

Summary: Ex-Hitchin player Alfie Barker has been charged by the FA in relation to tweets sent to Bournemouth's Harry Arter about the death of his baby daughter.


Two men aged 33 and 49 and two women aged 29 and 37 were in the house on Falkirk's Windsor Road when the three men forced entry on Wednesday evening. The robbers made off, with property including a two-figure sum of cash, in a waiting dark-coloured hatchback car. All of the suspects were described as being white and wearing dark clothing. None of the victims were badly hurt. Det Insp Graeme Hendry urged anyone with information about the raid, which happened at about 23:50, to come forward. He said: "This is an isolated incident during which the victims were injured, though, thankfully, not seriously. "Nevertheless this was a traumatic experience for those involved and we are now keen to trace the three suspects who entered the home as well as another individual who we believe was waiting in the car."

Summary: Police are investigating after four people were assaulted and robbed by a gang of men who broke into a house.


It will bring its payroll in the city to 400 and most of the jobs involve administrative work. Economy Minister Jonathan Bell said the posts paid combined salaries of £1.2m. He said they were being created "in this location against competition from other Grant Thornton offices in the Republic and the rest of the UK". Invest NI is giving the company £202,000 in grants. Grant Thornton has two offices in Belfast and operates in more than 120 countries. The company said the jobs ranged "from school leavers to experienced professionals".

Summary: Tax and audit firm Grant Thornton is expanding in Belfast and creating 71 jobs.


The River Thames scheme, which will see defence work in Berkshire and Surrey, still has a £45m shortfall. Consultation is being held in Surrey, Berkshire and London from late August. Project manager David Murphy said the agency was confident the funding would be found but needed to secure it in the next year. "Within the next 12 months we need to be certain about where that money's going to be coming from because we've got to put a business case to government," he said. He said 15,000 homes and businesses were covered by the scheme which would focus on the Lower Thames area from Datchet to Teddington. Plans include river widening in Elmbridge; work to increase the capacity of weirs at Sunbury, Molesey and Teddington; and the construction of a flood relief channel.

Summary: Ideas on how to reduce the cost of a £300m Thames flood alleviation scheme are being sought from the public, the Environment Agency has said.


Wing Sarah McKenna scored a hat-trick of tries and Kay Wilson crossed twice, with four conversions from Emily Scott. Izzy Noel-Smith, Abbie Scott, Vicky Fleetwood and Harriet Millar-Mills also scored as England hit back from conceding a try in the third minute. Find out how to get into rugby union with our special guide. England's next match in the four-team event is against Canada on Tuesday. "We've got to be pleased with putting on 50 points against a very competitive and physical international side," said England head coach Simon Middleton. "It was our first run out after a very long journey and a tough few days acclimatising."

Summary: England began their International Women's Rugby Series campaign with a resounding 53-10 victory over Australia at Porirua Park, New Zealand.


Sophia Cahill, of Torfaen, said Mr Bowers had hit her in the face, pulled her hair and squeezed her throat. District Judge Andrew Sweet told the former Another Level star he was "satisfied that he assaulted her in the manner she described". Bowers, who will be sentenced next month, told Croydon Magistrates' Court he was acting in self-defence. He accepted he made contact with her during a scuffle at his parents' home, but said it was accidental, the court heard. Judge Sweet said he had not ruled out the possibility of a prison sentence and adjourned the case for sentencing until 15 October.

Summary: Pop singer Dane Bowers has been convicted of assaulting his beauty queen ex-girlfriend.


Donald Skene, from Dundee, is alleged to have burst into Taj Madina Mosque in Victoria Road on Friday afternoon. The 38-year-old is said to have "conducted himself in a disorderly manner" by acting aggressively, shouting and swearing. The case was continued for further examination and Mr Skene was remanded in custody. Prosecutors allege that Mr Skene repeatedly punched and smashed the glass of framed prayers on the walls during the incident. He made no plea or declaration during the brief private hearing through his solicitor Ross Donnelly. He is expected to appear at Dundee Sheriff Court again next week.

Summary: A man has been accused of smashing glass in a Dundee mosque and struggling with members of the congregation.


Last year's vote followed a two-year consultation process and fell short of the majority required to change membership policy. Motions require a two-thirds of its eligible voters to back the move and only 64% voted in favour. Details of a new ballot are expected within the next two weeks with a decision expected in early March. The May motion fell 10 votes short of admitting female members and the Scottish venue was told by organisers the R&A it would not stage another Open Championship as a result. Muirfield announced in June it wanted to hold a fresh ballot. Run by The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, the privately owned links course last hosted the Open in 2013.

Summary: Members of Muirfield will have another vote on whether women can be admitted to their club.


The park will form part of the North Bay Sands development and could be open by late 2013. The scheme had been put on hold by developers Benchmark Leisure in 2009 due to the economic downturn. Borough councillors approved the plan on Thursday. The complex will also feature a family restaurant, 29 holiday lodges and 124 holiday homes. The Conservative-controlled council's planning committee was told the scheme should become a focal point for tourism and leisure for the town. The water park will include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, water rides and flumes, a spa, changing facilities and a car park. The developers said the park could attract up to 300,000 visitors a year.

Summary: Plans for a new water park as part of a Â£150m leisure complex in Scarborough have been approved.


Public transport company Translink NI Railways said the majority of the prosecutions were against drivers. It said cases had been brought against motorists for ignoring warning signals or driving through level crossings as trains approached. The convictions cost offenders more than Â£14,000, it said. In total, 74 people were prosecuted. One of the incidents reported by Translink staff was a group of youths playing football on the tracks near Ballymoney station in County Antrim. Other incidents included pedestrians trespassing, hanging from barriers and running across tracks shortly before trains, travelling at speeds of up to 70mph, passed. Richard Knox of Translink said the company was working "more closely than ever" with police to identify "risk-takers" on railway lines. "We now have CCTV at the majority of our crossings and we will continue to prosecute offenders who take risks and put themselves, our employees and passengers at risk," he added.

Summary: More than 70 people have been prosecuted over railway safety incidents in Northern Ireland in the past year, figures have shown.


Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said a gas canister had exploded on board the 10m-long vessel, which was moored at Laggan Locks near Fort Augustus. Firefighters from Fort William and Fort Augustus were sent to the scene after being alerted shortly after 13:00 on Tuesday. The man was flown to Raigmore Hospital. His condition is not known. A spokesman for the fire service said: "The incident was confined to a boat measuring approximately 10m by 4m. "No firefighting action was required. However, crews provided emergency first aid to a man who had suffered from injuries as a result of the explosion involving a gas canister on board the vessel."

Summary: A man has been injured after an explosion on a boat on the Caledonian Canal in the Highlands.


The body of Gediminas Stauskas, 32, originally from Lithuania, was found in a garage near Coalisland last week. A detective said the man being questioned was initially arrested on Tuesday in Portadown as part of a separate investigation into two shootings last month in Newry. He has now been taken to a police station in Belfast for questioning. Mr Stauskas was found dead at the property on the Moor Road, near Clonoe, on 15 October. It is understood he may have been tortured before he was killed. Mr Stauskas had a violent past, having been jailed for five and a half years for the 2011 manslaughter of a fellow Lithuanian, Audrius Aukstuolis.

Summary: Police investigating the murder of a man in County Tyrone have arrested a 34-year-old man.


Jones, 29, suffered a thigh muscle tear in Pompey's 1-0 win at AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday and was replaced by substitute Brian Murphy in the first half. Murphy is expected to start against Hartlepool on Saturday. "Paul will unfortunately join our injury list, which seems to be growing and growing," Portsmouth manager Paul Cook told BBC Radio Solent. Portsmouth have secured a place in the League Two play-offs and still have a mathematical chance of automatic promotion if they can win their remaining two games.

Summary: Portsmouth goalkeeper Paul Jones has been ruled out of the remainder of the club's League Two campaign.


Officers were called to the school in South Lanarkshire on 21 December. It is understood parents were notified about the incident before the end of term. South Lanarkshire Council said it was aware of the incident. Police said a decision had still to be made on whether to refer the matter to a social work-led team or the Scottish Children's Reporter Administrator. A spokeswoman for Police Scotland said: "An 11-year-old male pupil at a primary school in South Lanarkshire has been referred to the Youth Justice Co-ordinator (a police officer within the Restorative Justice Department) for alleged drugs offences. "A decision has still to be made as to disposal - whether a referral to the Early and Effective Intervention Co-ordinator - a multi-agency team with a social work lead - or a police report to the Scottish Children's Reporter Administrator."

Summary: A primary school pupil has been reported to police after allegedly being caught with cannabis in class.


The 32-year-old was a member of England's World Cup squad that finished third in Canada earlier this year. She had a spell on loan at Notts County last season and left Arsenal Ladies at the end of the campaign. Her arrival follows Thursday's signing of Sophie Ingle and she told the club website: "This is a fantastic move for me and I cannot wait to get started." Reds manager Scott Rogers said: "This is a really important signing for the club - Siobhan is an England international whose experience will be crucial next season."

Summary: Liverpool Ladies have signed England goalkeeper Siobhan Chamberlain for the 2016 season.


The prince took part in a ceremony at Bath Abbey which was attended by over 240 dignitaries and university staff. In his speech, he said that he did not feel "either senior or distinguished enough" for the role but that he was "very excited". One of his first acts was to present Paralympic gold medal-winning swimmer Ellie Simmonds with an honorary degree. Vice chancellor Professor Dame Glynis Breakwell said it was "a tremendously exciting day for the university and the city of Bath". "We know that he is the man for the job," she said. "I think he will bring connectivity [and] influence. He will also bring a great deal of wisdom."

Summary: Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, has been installed as the chancellor of the University of Bath.


Flights to Majorca from Inverness Airport are to be offered for six weeks from 16 June 2016. The first direct flights from Scotland to Jamaica will also be offered next summer, for three weeks from Glasgow Airport. Holiday companies Thomson and First Choice will operate the links. Graeme Bell, general manager at Inverness Airport, said the flights to Majorca would be a "fantastic addition" to the airport's holiday route network. The flights would connect holidaymakers to several resorts, including Sa Coma on the east coast of Majorca. Services from Glasgow to Montego Bay are to be offered for three weeks from June 2017. Thomson and First Choice are also introducing new flights from Glasgow to Sal in Cape Verde this winter and again next summer. The companies said the Jamaica flights would serve popular resorts including Lucea, Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios and Trelawny. Glasgow Airport has welcomed the announcement.

Summary: New flights connecting Scottish airports with popular holiday destinations abroad have been announced.


The potential victims have been identified by trading standards teams investigating fraudulent mail. Some 10,843 of them have lost money already, being tricked out of an average of Â£1,184 each. Suckers lists are drawn up by con-artists who find people who have been caught out by a con. They also include those who have the potential to be caught out. The lists are sold between fraudsters. Trading standards teams are urging people to look out for relatives or neighbours who may be vulnerable to mass marketing scams. The National Trading Standards Scams Team estimates that it has saved consumers more than Â£5m over the last three years by tackling the issue.

Summary: Nearly 200,000 people - with an average age of 74 - have been seen on so-called "suckers lists" circulated by fraudsters.


The man got into the Vauxhall Astra after the children's mother parked and left the car in Kempe Road, Enfield on Saturday at 12:45 BST. The 12-year-old girl managed to get out of the vehicle as he drove off, but the baby was still inside. The child was later found on a doorstep in Cheshunt. Police said the car was abandoned nearby. They are searching for the man. The 11-month-old boy, who was not injured, was found by a member of the public in Guinevere Gardens who then contacted police. The black Vauxhall Astra was discovered in Coopers Walk, Cheshunt, later that afternoon. Metropolitan Police described the driver of the stolen car as a white man, in his late teens, with light spiky hair. They have appealed for witnesses to contact them.

Summary: A man stole a car and drove away with a baby boy and a young girl sitting in the back in north London.


The permanent facility would provide a space for young people and volunteers to gain skills in food, farming and conservation, the trust said. Currently people are trained in a temporary classroom at Gosling Sike Farm in Houghton near Carlisle. It is hoped the project will safeguard the future of the county's wildlife. Development officer Michelle Waller, said: "There is an important role for Cumbria Wildlife Trust to play in passing on knowledge and skills to the future guardians of wildlife in Cumbria. "The current skills gap in conservation is huge, yet opportunities for people to access these skills have been disappearing over recent years. Gosling Sike Farm is an opportunity to change this." The trust said it needs to raise a total of about £1m for the construction and running of the building.

Summary: Cumbria Wildlife Trust has unveiled plans for a £700,000 training centre in a bid to fill a "huge gap" in conservation skills.


Manxmen Rob Sellors and Ben Scott will be joined in their record attempt by Richard Hurdle from Gloucestershire. The current record of 25 hours and 10 minutes was set by Bob Baxter in 1985. Scott, 42, said: "I know we'll make a pretty formidable team and if there's any chance of setting a record this is the team that can do it." The three experienced ultra-distance runners are using the run to raise money for the Isle of Man's Children's Centre. Sellors said the challenge was both "exciting" and "daunting." The 48-year-old headteacher said: "The challenge of running around our beautiful island in one go has always held a strong appeal for me. "Personally this is a challenge I would really like to attempt before I reach 50." The men began their challenge from Peel promenade on Saturday at 14:00 GMT.

Summary: Three men are attempting to become the first runners to complete the Isle of Man's 100-mile (161km) Raad ny Foillan coastal footpath within 24 hours.


The Clwydian Mountain Range and Dee Valley, the Elan Valley and Gwent Levels will receive a share of the Heritage Lottery Fund investment. The three landscapes are recognised as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the grant is aimed at conserving their character. The funding is expected to create 3,000 training opportunities and a similar number of volunteering posts.

Summary: A grant of £6m has been announced for three Welsh landscapes.


The Fertility Room project, started by the local tourism councillor, is an attempt to boost local travel and the country's flagging birth rate. Couples who produce a birth certificate showing their baby was born nine months after their stay will be offered a future free stay or reimbursed. Italy has the lowest birth-rate in the EU, and one of the lowest in the world. Only eight babies were born for every 1,000 residents in 2015. The project's website (in Italian) says: "Giving birth to a child is an act of deep love, which should be encouraged despite the multitude of difficulties in life." But some local authorities have distanced themselves from the project. Claudio Ricci, Umbria regional councillor, said in a statement (in Italian) he would investigate whether the initiative was "appropriate for the public image of Assisi and the promotion of the region".

Summary: A group of hotels in the Italian city of Assisi are offering a free holiday to couples who conceive there.


The 25-year-old former Newcastle United trainee played 36 times last season as Rovers won promotion to League One. He joined Darrell Clarke's side in 2014 on a free transfer from Hereford and has made 60 appearances for the club. "It's another clear indication that we want to reward and keep our most talented players," chairman Steve Hamer told the club website. "He's a smashing lad and could go a long way in the game, hopefully with us at Bristol Rovers."

Summary: Bristol Rovers defender Daniel Leadbitter has signed a new two-year deal with the club.


He was doing training circuits with a student in a Cessna 152 at Wycombe Air Park, on 22 May, at the time. The UK Airprox Board heard the helicopter pilot was "unfamiliar" with the airfield and air traffic control should have passed on more information. Investigators concluded the helicopter "was not at the correct height". Their report found the Cessna was travelling at 1,000ft (304m) when the pilot saw the helicopter "at the same height as his aircraft". The helicopter ought to have been approaching the Buckinghamshire airfield at 750ft (228m) at the time. Its pilot had already had to ask air traffic control to repeat the landing instructions four times before he heard them correctly. The report concluded the aircraft's "close proximity meant safety was much reduced below the norm". It also found a lack of specific instructions from air traffic control was a contributory factor to the incident.

Summary: A pilot has told a "near miss" inquiry into an incident in Buckinghamshire involving a Robinson R22 helicopter he believed the collision risk was "high".


The word "petrel" has been painted in 3ft high letters on the approach to the pumps at the Sainsbury's Edenthorpe store in Doncaster. A picture of the blunder was posted on social media with the comment "Seabirds straight ahead #YouHadOneJob". In a light-hearted response, the superstore said: "We're aware of this and correcting the misteke." The white letters, which may have left drivers thinking they were being pointed towards a species of small seabird, were painted by bungling signwriters next to the flawlessly spelt word "exit" and some perfectly drawn arrows. It prompted a flurry of social media users mocking the blooper, with some employing their own deliberate spelling errors. Aaron Jones tweeted: "Only in Doncaster would you go for 'Petrel' instead of 'Petrol'." While Martin Milan posted: "@sainsburys Your Edenthorpe, Doncaster store... What if I want Deesul lol?" Petrels are small seabirds that fly low over oceans and seas.

Summary: A road sign marking directing motorists to a supermarket petrol station has been misspelt, leaving drivers bemused.


Mohammed Abdallah is charged with possession of a firearm, receiving money for the purpose of terrorism and belonging to a banned organisation. Mr Abdallah, of Westerling Way, was arrested on Friday at Heathrow Airport after coming into the UK on a flight from Tunisia. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court and was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on 7 October.

Summary: A 25-year-old man from Manchester has been charged with terrorism offences.


The Waterford runner was due to compete in the first of tonight's semi-finals in London but he is unable to take his place because of a vomiting bug. He narrowly qualified for the semi-finals after Kyron McMaster of the British Virgin Islands was disqualified from his heat on Sunday. Barr, 25, was hoping to improve on his fourth place finish at Rio 2016. "I'm gutted to have to withdraw from today's semi final," Barr said. "I wasn't feeling great yesterday evening and later in the night I was hit with a bad bout of gastroenteritis." "My whole year has been focused on the World Championships. The support yesterday was just brilliant and to not be able to go out and compete today for Ireland is beyond disappointing."

Summary: Thomas Barr has withdrawn from the semi-finals of the 400m hurdles at the World Championships because of illness.


Shortly after trading began, the benchmark FTSE 100 share index was up 6.66 points at 7,171.09. Diageo shares rose more than 4% after the company - whose brands include Johnnie Walker Scotch and Smirnoff vodka - reported a 4.4% rise in sales for the half-year to 31 December. The company said it had been helped by an improved performance from its US spirits business. Whitbread shares were the biggest fallers on the index, down nearly 6% after the company reported disappointing trading at the London branches of its Premier Inn hotels business. A key revenue measure for the London hotels fell by 6% in the three months to 1 December. The results overshadowed better figures from its Costa Coffee chain, where like-for-like sales grew by 4.3%. On the currency markets, the pound rose 0.15% against the dollar to $1.2652 and was 0.3% higher against the euro at 1.1783 euros.

Summary: The UK stock market edged higher, with drinks giant Diageo leading the way after its sales growth beat forecasts.


The man - whom the Metropolitan Police have not named but have stressed is not an MP - was arrested on Friday. The rape is alleged to have happened in the early hours of that day. The suspect has been bailed "pending further inquires" until a date in January, the force added. Parliament is "working closely" with police, the House of Commons said. "We are aware of an incident on the parliamentary estate which is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Service," a spokesman said. "Parliament is working closely with the police on their investigation and we cannot comment further while this is ongoing."

Summary: A 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape following an alleged attack at the Houses of Parliament.


Wood, who has run the newspaper's fiction coverage for five years, will take over as the award's literary director after this year's ceremony. She was a judge in 2011 and her father, the author and academic Michael Wood, is this year's chair of judges. Her appointment comes three weeks after the death of the prize's former literary director, Ion Trewin. Booker Prize Foundation chair Jonathan Taylor said Wood would "bring new perspectives while maintaining our mission to bring the best of contemporary literary fiction to an ever widening international audience". He added: "Ion was aware of our intentions and shared our great enthusiasm at the prospect that Gaby would succeed him."

Summary: The Daily Telegraph's head of books Gaby Wood has been chosen to oversee the Man Booker Prize.


Tristram Wallace, 36, died after an attack in Arden Street on Monday. Warwickshire Police said a post-mortem examination had taken place, but further tests were required. Peter Mallon, 41, and 39-year-old Tony Jelf, both of no fixed address, were charged with murder on Thursday, officers said, along with Neil Potter, 36, from Clopton Road. They were remanded in custody at Leamington Magistrates Court on Friday. Two women also appeared in court charged with theft and attempted theft.

Summary: Three people have appeared in court, charged with murdering a man in Stratford-upon-Avon.


The 27-year-old has played more than 100 games for the Blues after recovering from a stroke suffered during a game in 2010. Brecon-born Hobbs previously played for Pontypridd and represented Wales at a U-19s and U-20s level. "I am really looking forward to the new challenge ahead at Newport Gwent Dragons," said Hobbs. Dragons director of rugby Lyn Jones added: "I have always been impressed with Sam as an all round player. "When we were made aware of his availability, we had no hesitation in making him an offer to stay in Wales, beating off offers from England. "He will add a great deal of experience and character to a maturing Newport Gwent Dragons squad." Hobbs had to take a six month break from rugby after suffering a "small blood clot" on his brain in 2010.

Summary: Prop forward Sam Hobbs will join Newport Gwent Dragons from Cardiff Blues at the end of the season.


Work on the Pontio centre at Bangor University began in 2012 and it opened last year after a delay which cost £1m. The university said it was also liaising with contractors over concerns about holes in the roof. But Pontio directors said they had a successful first 12 months and they were confident they could build on their experiences. They told the Newyddion 9 programme ticket sales for their first year saw about 35,000 sold for live performances, 39,000 for its cinema and about 2,500 for conferences and other events.

Summary: A £50m arts and innovation centre in Gwynedd has sold more than 76,000 tickets in its first year.


Defending champions the USA took their first win in race six on Saturday but were again easily distanced on Sunday. The Kiwis, who dominated as they won both of the day's races, can seal overall victory in the best-of-13 series on Monday. The final is a repeat of the last time the trophy was contested in 2013, when USA came from 8-1 down to win 9-8. Four years ago, New Zealand were eventually overhauled by an USA team that also featured Britain's Ben Ainslie as tactician in what is regarded as one of sport's great comebacks. Ainslie's British team were knocked out at the semi-final stage this year, losing 5-2 to the Kiwis. The America's Cup, the oldest competition in international sport, was first raced in 1851 around the Isle of Wight and has only been won by four nations. Media playback is not supported on this device

Summary: New Zealand are one win from the America's Cup title after taking a 6-1 lead over USA.


Shadow Home Secretary Andy Burnham, Bury South MP Ivan Lewis and interim mayor Tony Lloyd are on the shortlist. Voting by local party members closed on Friday. The election is set to take place in May. The deal for the elected mayor, which will include control of transport, social care, housing and police budgets, was announced in 2014. Agreed by council leaders with the then chancellor George Osborne, it will give Greater Manchester control of about Â£2bn of government funding previously administered from London. Labour will be the first party to announce a candidate for the election. It will also confirm its candidate for the contest in the Liverpool City Region on Wednesday.

Summary: Labour will announce its candidate for Greater Manchester's first mayoral election later.


Thomas Clark was last seen at 10:45 that morning when he was pictured on CCTV leaving Hairmyres Hospital. Police believe he returned to his home in Kirkton Park at some point before 18:00 on Thursday but that has not been confirmed. Officers have been conducting door-to-door inquiries since the pensioner was reported missing on Friday. They have also been talking to local businesses and transport firms. Mr Clark is about 5ft 6in, of slim build with white hair. When he was last seen he was wearing a long brown puffer jacket and brown leather shoes. He also wore a checked grey jumper with blue and green diamonds on the front, a black beanie hat and grey padded gloves with leather palms.

Summary: Police have launched an appeal to find an 84-year-old man missing from his home in East Kilbride since Thursday.


Darren Osborne, 47, from Pentwyn, allegedly mowed down Akram Ali, 51, and nine other people on a crowded pavement in north London on 19 June. The area was busy with Muslim worshippers attending Ramadan night prayers at the time. Mr Osborne is charged with the murder of Mr Ali and attempted murder. The defendant appeared at the Old Bailey via video link from Belmarsh prison and spoke only to confirm his identity before a timetable for his case was set out. Mr Justice Holroyde set a trial for January 22, 2018, at the Old Bailey. A plea hearing will take place in November. Mr Osborne was remanded in custody.

Summary: A Cardiff man accused of carrying out the Finsbury Park terror attack will face trial in the new year.


Cardiff City forward Lee Tomlin, 28, and Accrington Stanley striker Billy Kee have been charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent. They are due before Leicester Magistrates' Court on 18 September. Mr Tomlin, who used to play for Bristol City, and Mr Kee, 26, will continue to play for their respective teams, said their clubs. A spokesman from Cardiff City FC said: "Lee will continue as part of the first team squad and, as such, has travelled for this afternoon's game with Wolverhampton Wanderers." A spokesman from Accrington Stanley said: "Billy will continue to be available for selection for Accrington Stanley. "The club will not comment further on this incident at this time."

Summary: Two footballers have been charged following an alleged incident outside a Leicester nightclub on 22 January.


The 31-tonne Dassault Mirage lVA was gifted to Yorkshire Air Museum, in Elvington, and is expected to go on display later this year. Museum Director Ian Reed said negotiations to bring the plane to the museum began in 2007. He said the 77ft-long (23m) aircraft will be the first of its kind to go on display in Britain. The museum is already home to a number of Cold War-era aircraft, including a Mirage III, Victor and Nimrod jets. Mr Reed said Elvington had maintained strong ties to France since World War Two, when it was home to France's only two heavy bomber squadrons. "This is the first time that a strategic nuclear bomber has been gifted directly to an independent museum of a different nation, and reflects the reputation of the museum and its close connections with the French Air Force," he said.

Summary: A Cold War Nuclear bomber has been donated to a North Yorkshire museum by the French government.


The 21-year-old, signed from Manchester United in August, has made 12 appearances for a Black Cats side that are 19th in the Premier League. He was injured during his side's 3-0 win over Hull City on Saturday. "We won't see him again this season and all we can hope is getting him right for the start of next season," said Sunderland boss David Moyes. "I think he'd just started to find his way in the Premier League - even though he had experience at Manchester United - and the games he was having were bringing him on and giving him confidence." The injury means McNair is unlikely to feature in Northern Ireland's World Cup 2018 qualifier against Norway in March.

Summary: Sunderland defender Paddy McNair will miss the rest of the season because of a cruciate knee ligament injury.


The Secretary of State for Transport rubber stamped a transport and works order for the Ashton Vale to Temple Meads metrobus. The West of England Joint Transport Executive Committee, made up of local authority partners, has been developing the scheme since 2006. It is part of a wider plan to improve public transport across the west. A spokesman for the committee said: "This is a hugely significant milestone for metrobus and a compelling endorsement of the project." Earlier in the year, Bristol mayor George Ferguson amended the route so that the rapid transit buses no longer run along the Harbourside but along Cumberland Road instead. He said he did not want to see buses "clogging up" the bridge or compromising the harbourside area "ambience". This change in the plan will still need planning permission if the £50m project is to be delivered by 2016.

Summary: The government has given its approval to the planned "rapid transit" bus route through Bristol.


The 25-year-old took a blow to the head during his side's victory over Sunderland last Tuesday. He finished the match but developed symptoms which subsequently ruled him out of Sunday's win against Everton. Laurent Koscielny is suspended for the Wembley final while Gabriel left Sunday's game on a stretcher. Germany international Mustafi was initially expected to return to face Chelsea at Wembley, but the problem is understood to be more serious. Fellow central defender Koscielny is suspended after being sent off in the first half against Everton, while manager Arsene Wenger said the knee injury which forced Gabriel off "doesn't look too good". Gabriel's replacement Per Mertesacker came on for his first appearance of the season having recovered from a knee injury he suffered in pre-season. Mustafi joined Arsenal for a fee in excess of £35m last summer and has played 37 times for the club this season.

Summary: Arsenal face a defensive crisis going into Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea, with Shkodran Mustafi doubtful with a suspected concussion.


The animal, which was suffering from a rare condition in its belly called balloon syndrome, had swollen to twice its normal size. Vets in Bude, Cornwall, think the animal swelled up after picking up an infection and gas was produced by bacteria. The hedgehog is now being fed worms before being released. Adam Revitt, of Locke and Preston Vets, who looked after the hedgehog when it was brought to them in early May, said: "If it had continued to blow up it could have ruptured. "More concern to me was that the air was putting pressure on the hedgehog's chest so it couldn't breath or move, therefore there was a danger of it suffocating or starving to death. "I used a needle and syringe to drain the air. It took about five minutes to drain all the air out."

Summary: An inflated hedgehog has been saved from "rupturing" by vets who pricked it with a needle.


Officers from the Metropolitan Police Service Counter Terrorism Command detained the man in a street in the city on Thursday afternoon. He is being questioned on suspicion of the commission, preparation and instigation of terrorist acts under section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000. Two properties in the city are also being searched. Police said the arrest was pre-planned and was as a result of an investigation by the MPS Counter Terrorism Command supported by the Wales Extremism and Counter Terrorism Unit. There was police activity in the Grangetown and Riverside areas of Cardiff on Thursday afternoon but Metropolitan Police refused to confirm if it was linked to the arrest. The BBC understands the arrest is related to alleged Islamist terrorism.

Summary: A 33-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of terror charges in Cardiff.


More than 60 members of the GMB union will stage a series of 24-hour walkouts in a row over pay grades. The union said members did not want to strike but had been "backed into a corner". Sellafield Ltd has previously said it was committed to resolving the dispute, but it also said it had made plans to keep the site safe during any action. Strike dates have not yet been announced. Talks last week were adjourned to allow both sides to consider proposals and counter-proposals. Speaking before the latest meeting got under way earlier, Chris Jukes, GMB senior organiser, said: "After years of being underpaid, it's time they were given their due." Sellafield Ltd, which operates the site, said it was "carefully considering" its position. A spokesman added: "In the meantime the Sellafield site continues to operate safely and securely, as normal."

Summary: Firefighters at the Sellafield nuclear reprocessing plant are to strike after "last-chance" talks broke down.


PC Guy Sinnott is in a stable condition after being stabbed once in the stomach and once in the leg, during a response to reports of anti-social behaviour in Bow, east London, on Sunday night. The youngster was remanded in custody at Stratford Youth Court. The youth, who can not be named because of his age, is due before Snaresbrook Crown Court on 1 December. He is also charged with possession of a bladed item.

Summary: A 16-year-old boy has appeared in court accused of attempting to murder a police officer.


Police were made aware of alleged racial abuse on a Metrolink tram on 28 June after a video was posted online. There were two further alleged assaults later in Trafford, at Pomona Strand and Bridgewater Way, police said. A man, 20, has been charged with racially-aggravated assault. Another man, 19, and a boy, 16, were charged with public order offences and assault. The 20-year-old, Robert Molloy, of no fixed address, was also charged with two further assaults and a public order offence. Aaron Cauchi, 19, of Brydon Close, Salford, was charged with two public order offences and assault. The 16-year-old from Pendleton, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was charged with two public order offences and assault. All three are due to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court on 8 November.

Summary: Two men and a teenager have been charged over a suspected "hate" crime on a tram in Manchester city centre.


At least 26 others are reported to have been injured in the accident, which occurred in the city of Osmaniye as the bus was returning from a school trip. The state-run Anadolu Agency said the bus collided with a car, lost control and veered into an irrigation canal. Rescue teams have been searching the canal for missing passengers. Earlier, passers-by and residents jumped into the water to try and rescue people trapped inside the bus, Hurriyet newspaper reported. Turkish media said the children were from a school in Hatay province which borders Syria, and were on their way back from a trip to a museum and a national park.

Summary: At least 14 people, including six children, have been killed in a bus crash in southern Turkey, local media reports say.


The 30-year-old will join the Stags on a free transfer after League One club Southend decided not to offer him a new contract for the 2016-17 season. "I'm just looking forward to getting my fitness levels to where they need to be so I can be ready to provide for the team," he told the club website. Hurst made 151 appearances in four years with Southend, scoring 19 goals. Mansfield will complete the deal on 1 July, but the length of his contract has not been disclosed.

Summary: Mansfield have further strengthened their squad for the new season by signing midfielder Kevan Hurst.


It was the first time the island had ever faced a Premier League club, having entered the top-tier knockout competition for the first time. "It was always going to be our hardest-ever game, but we put our heart and soul into it," Peacegood said. "7-0 on paper sounds very one-sided but it was actually a very good contest." Having beaten Sevenoaks and London Edwardians in the previous rounds, Guernsey always knew they would face an almost-impossible challenge against a club who have previously been European champions. "I would say a few of our Guernsey players could find their way into that Reading side," Peacegood told BBC Radio Guernsey. "We can take a lot away from the game that can make us a better side for the run on the EH Trophy and the inter-insular next year."

Summary: The captain of Guernsey's hockey team Aidy Peacegood has praised his side's commitment as they lost 7-0 to Reading in the third round of the EH Cup.


The blaze broke out in Spalding, shortly after 00:00 BST on Sunday. Lincolnshire Police said the cause of the fire was not yet known as it had been initially not safe for fire investigators to enter the house, in Tower Lane, off Cowbit Road. Police are working to establish the identity of the three deceased and to trace next of kin. Lincolnshire Fire Service said six crews were call in to deal with the fire. Station manager Matthew Perrin said it had spread from the ground floor to the first floor area before being brought under control. Officers managed to rescue one of the victims, but were unable to resuscitate them. A second casualty was found in the house in the early hours of Sunday, after the fire was put out.

Summary: A third body has been found in the wreckage of a house after a fire in Lincolnshire, police have confirmed.


The 21-year-old and three others were allegedly involved in a disturbance in the VIP section of Livello in October. Newcastle Magistrates' Court heard an amateur footballer, Wesley Erskine, was hurt during the incident. Geoffrey Forrester, defending, said the allegations would be "seriously contested". The court heard Mr Erskine, had been on a night out in Newcastle with his teammates when violence broke out. Keith Laidlaw, prosecuting, said: "Mr Wesley Erskine suffered injuries when bottles were smashed and bottles where thrown around by a number of the defendants in this case." Jamar Collins, 21, from Bristol, Jean Coly, 23, from Liverpool, and Joan Jacob, 45, from Newcastle, also appeared in court. All three are charged with violent disorder and Coly an additional charge of wounding with intent. All four were granted unconditional bail and will appear at Newcastle Crown Court on 3 May. The Jamaica-born winger joined the club in 2012.

Summary: Newcastle United winger Rolando Aarons has appeared in court charged with violent disorder over a bar brawl in the city.


Under a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) made in 2005 James Defalco, of Mallard Close, Torquay, has to tell anyone with whom he is in a relationship about his condition. Exeter Crown Court heard he broke the order during September 2014. He pleaded guilty to breaching his SOPO and is due to be sentenced next week. In 2005 Defalco, who then went by the name of Derek Hornett, became one of the first people in Britain to be convicted of recklessly infecting someone with HIV. He was made subject of the SOPO as a result of his conviction. Adjourning the case for sentencing, Judge Francis Gilbert QC warned Defalco he was likely to receive an immediate jail sentence.

Summary: A 54-year-old sex offender faces jail after having sex with a woman without telling her he was HIV positive.


The 52-year-old shot a six-under-par 65 to sit alongside four other players, including American defending champion Lexi Thompson. Davies has not won an event on the LPGA Tour since 2001. Spain's Carlota Ciganda, See Young Kim of South Korea and South African Paula Reto are also six under par. Former world number one Davies has fallen to 275th in the rankings and has not finished higher than 54th in an event this year. She was three under after eight holes and, though she dropped a shot just before the turn, four more birdies on the back nine left her well placed. Thompson, who started at the 10th, had nine pars in her opening nine holes before an eagle at the par-five first, three successive birdies from the third and another at the eighth. World number one Lydia Ko is one of seven players on four under.

Summary: England's Dame Laura Davies shared the lead after carding her best round of the year on day one of the Meijer LPGA Classic in Grand Rapids, Michigan.


Burns sustained a dislocated collarbone after falling awkwardly during the first half of his side's 4-1 victory. Burns may be out of action for four to five weeks and is set to miss the 7 February County Antrim Shield Final. Mitchell was helped off in the second half with an ankle injury and faces a two-month spell on the sidelines. Striker Mitchell, who is the league's leading scorer with 19 goals, will visit a specialist this week to have the injury assessed. The Dungannon forward last week agreed a pre-contract deal to play for Glenavon next season and will join the Mourneview Park club in the summer. Linfield manager David Healy lamented the loss of Burns for an important period of the season. "Aaron is a big player for us and has scored important goals. He could be out for at least four to five weeks," said the Blues' boss.

Summary: Linfield midfielder Aaron Burns and Dungannon Swifts striker Andy Mitchell suffered injury setbacks in Saturday's Premiership match at Stangmore Park.


The 27-year-old medium-fast bowler, who was out of contract at the end of the season, only featured in one County Championship game for Notts this summer against Worcestershire in July. Carter said: "I'll have more chance to play all three formats at Derbyshire, which is where I think I should be. "I am aiming to get a good run of games and kick on with my career." Carter has played 29 first-class matches, taking 91 wickets at an average of 27.95 with best figures of 5-40. He has also made 20 List A and 23 Twenty20 appearances. Notts director of cricket Mick Newell said: "His attitude has always been very good and he's a talented bowler. We wish him all the best."

Summary: Andy Carter has signed a two-year deal with Derbyshire after turning down a new offer from Nottinghamshire.


The man asked the woman for a cigarette light as she walked on a path at Wychall Reservoir, Birmingham. Moments later he "grabbed her from behind, dragged her to the floor and assaulted her", police said. The man who carried out the attack on 18 November was smartly dressed in blue trousers and black pointed shoes and spoke with a Scottish accent. He was also described as white and in his 30s or 40s. The woman also recalled that her attacker smelled strongly of aftershave. The assault took place on a path running between Popes Lane and Wychall Road at about 17:00 GMT. "This is a shocking attack on a woman by a stranger," said Det Con Fay Mason. "We need to identify her attacker as soon as possible." Anyone with information was urged to contact West Midlands Police.

Summary: Police are urgently hunting for a man after a serious sexual assault on a 63-year-old woman near a nature reserve.


Russell Bentley from Kent, who now lives in Beddgelert, Gwynedd, won the race in a time of 02:35:05. The women's race was won by Joanne Nelson of Darwen Dashers in a record time of 03:03:53. The race, now in its 34th year, got under way at 10:30 BST near Llanberis, Gwynedd, and circled the foothills of Snowdon. Mr Bentley said it was the "hardest thing I've ever done". Among those pitting themselves against the tough course was the Bishop of Bangor, the Right Reverend Andy John. Before the race, Bishop John said it would be "slightly more tolerable" when he thinks "something greater" may come from it. He tackled the course for the third time to raise money for Caroline Gregory, who has volunteered at the now-cleared "Jungle" migrant camp in Calais.

Summary: A race record of 2,200 runners took part in Saturday's Snowdonia Marathon.


Some 40,000 people have been affected by the torrential rain and several hundred left homeless. The authorities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul have declared a state of emergency in seven cities. Among the dead were seven family members whose homes in the town of Igrejinha were buried by a landslide. Other victims included three children who died when their house in Novo Hamburgo was engulfed by mud. Rescue workers have been evacuating areas thought to be at risk from landslips. There was also flooding in and near Porto Alegre, the state capital of Rio Grande do Sul, which suffered power cuts. Drier weather is forecast for the next few days but more rain is likely towards the end of the week.

Summary: Landslides and floods in southern Brazil over the weekend are now known to have left a dozen people dead.


Nye Frankie Newman, 17, from Aldershot, was involved in a train accident on the Metro on New Year's Day. His mother, Deborah Malone-Newman, said Nye's ashes were being given to family and members of his parkour group to take on their travels. The family hopes to have Nye's ashes scattered in 100 countries. More on this and other stories from across the South of England. Ms Malone-Newman insists the accident on 1 January was not due to "train surfing". She said: "It was a trip that was not solely for parkour purposes. "He was sightseeing with his girlfriend - they were on their way to the fireworks - he was trying to take a picture, popped his head out the train door and a heavy object hit his head." Investigations are continuing into Nye's death with a pre-inquest review hearing expected to take place on 22 May.

Summary: The ashes of a free runner killed on the Paris Metro will be scattered around the world, his family says.


Opener Finch took just 18 balls to reach his fifty - equalling Glenn Maxwell's record - as he gave Australia the perfect start to their chase of Sri Lanka's 212 all out. The tourists reached their target in just 31 overs, and with six wickets in hand, as George Bailey took over from Finch (55) to smash 90 from 85 balls. Fast bowler John Hastings took 6-45 as Sri Lanka struggled despite Dhananjaya de Silva's 76 from 87 balls. Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews was struck on the helmet by John Boland and later retired hurt with a calf injury. Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board has apologised for the "inconvenience" caused when more than 45,000 fans attended a ground that could only accommodate 18,000 on Sunday. The fifth and final match of the series will take place on 4 September in Pallekele.

Summary: Aaron Finch equalled the Australian record for the fastest one-day international half-century to help his side complete a 3-1 series victory over Sri Lanka in Dambulla.


The 22-year-old Ivorian picked up the problem when he tangled with Chelsea's Eden Hazard and was substituted in the 52nd minute as a consequence. "I am afraid it is a bad injury," said United manager Jose Mourinho. "It is in his knee, the ligament area. He feels it is really bad." Bailly had played every minute in the league for United coming into the game. The defender signed from Spanish side Villarreal for about £30m in the summer. Subscribe to the BBC Sport newsletter to get our pick of news, features and video sent to your inbox.

Summary: Manchester United fear centre-back Eric Bailly suffered a serious knee injury during Sunday's 4-0 defeat at Chelsea.


Ryk Downes' collapsed with a heart attack in January, but was saved thanks to a defibrillator at the Post Office in Pool-in-Wharfedale, near Leeds. Two passing motorists stopped and administered CPR, using the defibrillator to restart his heart. Mr Downes, a Lib Dem councillor, is raising money to buy more of the devices. The 51-year-old, who is running the race in Leeds later, told how he was on his daily run when he collapsed yards form his home. "It was a congenital condition, it could have happened at any time," he said "I was totally unaware. I don't even remember it happening. I was very lucky. "I was the first person to be saved in the area by a community defibrillator so I want to raise money to help others."

Summary: A man who underwent triple heart-bypass surgery just weeks ago is to run a 10km race for charity.


The 82-year-old told listeners to his RTÉ Lyric FM show the news on Sunday. "I shall not be with our listeners on this day next week. I have to go to hospital this week. "They think they may have discovered a bit of cancer in the prostate and they think it may have moved up into my back," he said. "I've had the most wonderful, fantastic, robust, good health all my broadcasting life. "It's my turn now. Many, many people much worse off. Thank you for your good wishes," he added. Mr Byrne is a veteran RTÉ broadcaster, having hosted The Late Late Show from 1962 until 1999. He now presents Sunday with Gay Byrne on RTÉ Lyric FM. "All Gay's friends and colleagues in RTÉ wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back in the coming weeks," said a spokesperson for RTÉ.

Summary: The Irish radio and television presenter Gay Byrne has announced that he has been diagnosed with suspected cancer.


The 51-year-old has signed a contract until the end of June 2018 at the Italian giants, who sacked Frank de Boer on 1 November after 85 days in charge. Pioli's first game will be the Serie A match against city rivals AC Milan at the San Siro on 20 November. He is Inter's ninth manager since Jose Mourinho left the club after winning the Champions League in 2010. Pioli was sacked by Lazio in April and includes Parma and Bologna among the 11 clubs he has previously coached. He inherits an Inter side ninth in Serie A, 13 points behind leaders Juventus, and bottom of their Europa League group after a 2-1 defeat at Southampton on 3 November.

Summary: Inter Milan have named former Lazio boss Stefano Pioli as their new coach.


The Bath-born player, 28, has made 36 appearances for the Dragons since joining from Wasps in 2015. He is in his second season and signed a contract extension in December 2016. Dragons forwards coach Ceri Jones said: "It's a big blow. Eddie has been excellent all year for us, he has really stepped up to the mark and will be a big loss." However, Jones says Jackson's misfortune can be a chance for others to thrive. "We are very fortunate to have the likes of Ollie Griffiths, Harrison Keddie, James Thomas who can come into the back-row," said Jackson. "Harri has shown glimpses of what he can do all season and there's definitely a player there, so this is an opportunity." Dragons travel to Munster in the Pro12 on Friday.

Summary: Newport Gwent Dragons number eight Ed Jackson has undergone shoulder surgery and faces a spell on the sidelines.


The Met Office proposes installing light detection and ranging systems (LiDARs) at sites in Stornoway on Lewis, Lerwick on Shetland and Glasgow. They will be among 10 locations across the UK where the equipment will be used to help better forecast the impact of volanic eruptions on air travel. Flights were cancelled in 2010 and 2011 following volcanic activity in Iceland. There were concerns grains of volcanic ash thrown into the atmosphere by the Eyjafjallajokull and Grimsvotn could harm aircraft engines.

Summary: Equipment for detecting volcanic ash is to be installed at three sites in Scotland.


The case concerned whether the publication of pixelated CCTV footage meant a criminal offence had been committed. But the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) ruled there was "nothing sufficiently distinctive" likely to identify her. Evans and his supporters are trying to get his conviction overturned. The disgraced Wales football international was jailed for five years in 2012 after being found guilty of raping a 19-year-old woman at a hotel near Rhyl, Denbighshire. The 26-year-old was released last year after serving half of his sentence. In January, the CPS was asked by the Attorney General to consider whether there was a case to answer. CPS Wales chief crown prosecutor Ed Beltrami said it was "deemed unlikely that a member of the public could identify the victim and for that reason it was decided that there was insufficient evidence to charge".

Summary: No action will be taken against a website supporting rapist Ched Evans following an inquiry into whether his victim was identified.


Henry Brandon Barker, 20, of Failsworth, was found guilty of causing death by dangerous driving following the death of Shahzaib Hussain. Shahzaib was hit outside a mosque on Moss Street West in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester. Barker was detained in a youth offenders institution and disqualified from driving for eight years. Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court heard Shahzaib ran out onto the street from the mosque, where he had earlier attended afternoon prayers with his father and uncle, on 29 February. He died later in hospital. The Mercedes, driven by Barker, failed to stop after the collision. Barker's passenger Aaron Ward, 23, from Hattersley Road West, Hyde, has been jailed for 18 months for aiding and abetting and also disqualified from driving for four years and nine months.

Summary: A motorist has been detained for seven years after an 11-year-old boy was fatally struck by a car.


About 100 firefighters are tackling the blaze at the building on Festival Way in Basildon. Residents reported hearing two "massive explosions" and seeing "plumes of thick smoke" at about 00:20 BST. Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said the building, near Festival Leisure Park, was "completely alight" with flames also affecting a neighbouring industrial unit. A spokesman said firefighters had been "working hard to bring the fire under control." Locals tweeted that large clouds of smoke could be seen above the building, which the fire service said measures about 100m x 50m. The fire service added: "The officer in charge reports good progress is being made by firefighters tackling the fire." Essex Police said there were not believed to be any casualties.

Summary: A huge fire has broken out at a packaging warehouse in Essex.


The 34-year-old 17-times Grand Slam champion had the surgery in his native Switzerland to repair a torn meniscus. He was injured the day after his four-set Australian Open semi-final defeat by Novak Djokovic last week. Federer, who won his most recent Grand Slam at Wimbledon in 2012, has pulled out of the World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam and the Dubai Championships. He is the reigning champion in Dubai, having secured his seventh title there last March, and has won twice in Rotterdam. "While this is an unfortunate setback, I feel grateful that up until now I have remained mostly healthy throughout my career," he said. "My doctors have assured me the surgery was a success and, with proper rehabilitation, I will be able to return to the Tour soon."

Summary: World number three Roger Federer will be out of action for a month after having arthroscopic knee surgery.


The 15-year-old victim, a French holidaymaker, was attacked on Monday while snorkelling a few metres from the shore at Saint-Paul on the west coast, local officials say. It is the second fatal shark attack near the island so far this year. Previous fatalities have been surfers attacked further offshore, AFP news agency reports. It said the girl had travelled from mainland France to visit her father in Reunion. She was swimming with another girl when the attack took place. Fire and rescue services and a police helicopter are being used to search for body parts, public safety director Gina Hoarau told AFP. According to local paper Le Journal de l'Ile de la Reunion, authorities had warned the public to be vigilant a few days ago, noting an increase in shark sightings. Ms Hoarau described the circumstances of Monday's attack as "surprising".

Summary: A teenage girl has been killed by a shark while swimming off the French island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean.


The newly crowned champions resumed on 82-4, 318 runs in arrears after Hampshire's 400-9 declared. Only 7.4 overs were bowled, however, before the teams left the field for bad light and rain later arrived to end play for the day. Yorkshire opener Alex Lees was 37 not out, with partner Tim Bresnan on 12. Unless Hampshire can bowl the White Rose county out cheaply on the final day, they will have to settle for a draw, which will probably ensure they go into next week's final game away at Nottinghamshire in one of the Division One relegation places. However, if they can pick up maximum bowling points, they could slightly close the 11-point gap on Sussex and Somerset, whose game at Hove was also rain-affected on the third day.

Summary: Hampshire's chances of a victory over Yorkshire to boost their hopes of avoiding relegation faded in bad weather on day three at the Ageas Bowl.