It said pre-tax profits for the six months to 2 October were Â£46.4m compared with Â£49.4m a year earlier. Halfords said the wet summer weather had put customers off buying bikes and also blamed discounting by rivals. But its Autocentre car maintenance business saw like-for-like sales rise 3.3% in the period. Overall the group said revenues were 1.8% higher, despite the disappointing cycle sales, with retail like-for-like sales rising 1.4% in the period. Halfords chief executive Jill McDonald, said the performance of the group's cycles division was "disappointing" but said there were "plenty of reasons" to remain confident that the market will continue to grow over the long-term. She also announced a new group strategy, saying the modernisation of Halfords was "not yet complete". Halfords shares were down 41p at 389p by midday.

Summary: Shares in UK retailer Halfords have fallen 9% after it reported a near 6% drop in half-year profits on lower bicycle sales.


The French Super League side led 12-0 at the break through Fouad Yaha and Vincent Duport tries. Duport then went in for his second score and put Richie Myler over for Dragons' fourth try. Dave Taylor was next to cross before Tony Gigot went in either side Alex Brown's consolation effort for Batley. Catalans are through to the last eight of the Challenge Cup for the second successive season, while Batley have now gone six years since they last reached the quarter-finals. Batley Bulldogs: D Scott; Reittie, Ulugia, Bretherton, A Brown; Southernwood, Brambani; Hirst, Davey, J Brown, Chandler, Harrison, Blake. Replacements: Leak, Lillycrop, Rowe, Peterson. Catalans Dragons: Gigot; Yaha, Horo, Duport, Richards; Albert, Myler; Taylor, Pelissier, Casty, Stewart, Anderson, Baitieri. Replacements: Bousquet, Mounis, Bosc, Mason. Attendance: 1,249 Referee: Gareth Hewer (RFL)

Summary: Catalans Dragons ran in seven tries against Championship part-timers Batley Bulldogs to progress to the Challenge Cup quarter-finals.


Treasury Minister, Senator Philip Ozouf, said it was the island's first bond issue. He said the bond would be paid back over the next 40 years, at an interest rate of 3.75%. In May, the island was awarded an AA+ credit rating by agency Standard and Poor's. Senator Ozouf said: "The right thing to do has been discussed on a number of occasions and social housing is capital hungry but it also repays itself because the States receives a rental from that investment. "We can go to bond markets, secure very low interest rates for a very long period of time and we can invest more in social housing than otherwise would have been the case."

Summary: Jersey's government is in the process of borrowing £250m through the issue of a bond to invest in building more social housing.


The European Cycling Challenge (ECC) 2017 aims to collect GPS data on where people cycle, while promoting the health benefits of cycling. Seven local authorities and the NHS have teamed up to form Team "Glasgow City Region". Anyone interested in taking part can register on the event website, sign up to the Glasgow team and download the official app, NAViki. Participants can also use data from Strava or other route trackers. Trips can also be manually logged. The ECC has been described by organisers as the biggest cycling event across Europe. Team "Glasgow City Region"

Summary: Glasgow cyclists are being encouraged to record their journeys during May to help improve and increase cycle routes.


Around 20 corpses were found on wooden boats between October and November, a coastguard spokesman said. Many of the boats have been towed to Japanese ports, but the bodies are yet to be identified. Korean writing is reported to have been found on the vessels, leading some to suggest they came from North Korea. Coastguard personnel spotted a boat with three sets of remains inside on Tuesday and pulled it ashore at Fukui port, Tokyo Broadcasting System reported. The bodies were badly decomposed and partially skeletonised, it added. This is not the first incident - in 2012, the decomposed bodies of five males were discovered off Japan's west coast. Experts suspect the vessels are North Korean fishing boats lost due to a lack of modern equipment, according to local media.

Summary: Japanese officials are investigating after up to 11 boats were found drifting off the country's coastline - some with decaying bodies on board.


It depicts the Manhattan skyline, with Trump Tower prominent. It was originally drawn for a charity auction in 2005 but the winner later passed it on to the LA-based Nate D Sanders auction house. Auctioneer Michael Kirk told journalists from artnews.com that the drawing had received five times more interest than the firm was used to. "It's attracted interest from not just Trump followers, but also presidential memorabilia collectors," he said. There were 11 bids for the drawing, starting at $9,000. Other Trump memorabilia sold in the past includes a Ferrari, a set of golf clubs, and a bottle of whisky signed by him.

Summary: A drawing by US President Donald Trump has sold at auction for $29,184 (Â£22,000).


Holcomb was found in his room at the US Olympic Training Centre in Lake Placid, New York on Saturday. He competed in three Winter Olympics, making history when he piloted the US four-man bobsled team to gold at Vancouver 2010 - the country's first Olympic title in the event in 62 years. At Sochi 2014 he won bronze in both the two-man and four-man bobsled. "The entire Olympic family is shocked and saddened by the incredibly tragic loss today of Steven Holcomb," said US Olympic Committee chief executive Scott Blackmun. "Steve was a tremendous athlete and even better person, and his perseverance and achievements were an inspiration to us all." Holcomb had been competing since 1998 and won five world titles and was also a six-time World Cup champion.

Summary: Olympic gold medallist bobsledder Steven Holcomb has been found dead aged 37.


The man, from Dublin, has been remanded in custody. Mr Hutch was shot dead in the area in September 2015. His murder was one of eight deaths connected to a feud between the Kinahan and Hutch criminal gangs. The man was arrested during searches by Irish and Spanish police investigating the Kinahan criminal gang. The court proceedings in Fuengirola on the Costa del Sol on Thursday were closed to the media. The co-ordinated searches by police focused on six locations in Dublin and five on the Costa del Sol, including a yacht and a boxing gym linked to the Kinahans. Police seized documents, including bank statements, computers, phones and about 23,000 euros (£19,570) in cash. Spanish police joined more than 60 gardaí for searches in Tallaght, Clondalkin and Crumlin while officers from the Garda's Drugs and Organised Crime Unit were involved in the searches in Spain.

Summary: An Irish man in his 30s, arrested in Spain in connection with the murder of Gary Hutch, has appeared in court in the country.


He brought his hundred up off 42 balls as Bears made 242-4 and bowled out Derbyshire for 182 to win by 60 runs. The New Zealand captain hit 11 sixes and 13 fours in the second highest T20 score ever, behind Chris Gayle's 175 in the Indian Premier League in 2013. The previous T20 Blast record was 153, by Luke Wright for Sussex in 2014. McCullum has hit 158 not out before, for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the first ever IPL game in 2008, an innings that took 73 balls. The 33-year-old led New Zealand to a 1-1 draw in the recent Test series against England, before the Kiwis were beaten 3-2 in the subsequent one-day international series.

Summary: Birmingham Bears' Brendon McCullum smashed 158 not out off 64 balls against Derbyshire at Edgbaston, the highest ever T20 Blast score.


The stock shed 3.6% in early trading because of worries over forthcoming pay talks but recovered some of that loss to close 1.8% lower at 471.90p The FTSE 100 ended the day down 29 points, or 0.47%, at 6146.05. Another big loser was supermarket chain Sainsbury's, which dropped 2.2% as investors delivered their verdict on its deal to buy Home Retail Group. Miners were amongst the top five stocks that saw falls and included Glencore, Antofagasta and Fresnillo. On the currency markets, the pound was down 1.11% against the dollar at $1.4201 and was 1.09% lower against the euro at â‚¬1.2486.

Summary: (Close): London's leading shares have closed for the week with Royal Mail having a yo yo day.


Carlos Edwards, Ed Upson, Lee Martin and John Marquis are among the players told they will not be offered deals. Three under-21 players - Jack Powell, Chris Parr and Keaton Wood - are also being released by the Lions. Mark Beevers is in talks over a new deal while defenders Byron Webster and Joe Martin have activated one-year extension clauses in their contracts. The Lions missed out on promotion to the Championship after a 3-1 defeat by Barnsley at Wembley.

Summary: Millwall have confirmed seven players will leave the club following Sunday's League One play-off final defeat.


It happened as the lorry drove under a 19th Century stone bridge known as The Cut. PSNI Banbridge posted a photo of the damage on Tuesday, with the caption: "Looks like we are going to need a bigger sign. The Cut 3, Lorries 0'. "Usually people exaggerate their height, not think they are smaller." The lorry in question appears to have some damage to its roof. In November a prison service van hit the bridge and lost its roof. The following day a second lorry became stuck under the bridge. At the time officers used the image as a warning to drivers of other high-sided vehicles, advising them to know the height and dimensions of their lorries before passing under bridges.

Summary: A low bridge in Banbridge, County Down, has been hit by a vehicle for the third time in less than a year.


The two men, aged 19 and 24, were arrested on Daggers Lane soon after the shooting in Dartmouth Street at about 14:30 GMT on Tuesday, West Midlands Police said. The 33-year-old male victim was a passenger in a stationary car. He died after being shot in the head. The scene of the incident is cordoned off for forensic investigations. Officers are appealing for anyone who saw a grey Audi Q5 being driven away from the scene shortly after 14:30 on Tuesday to come forward. The car has been recovered. Det Insp Martin Slevin said: "We have increased patrols in the area to reassure residents, however we do believe this to be a targeted attack and there is no risk to the general public." One nearby shopkeeper said he heard five shots.

Summary: Two people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man was shot dead in West Bromwich.


The firm has announced it is to open a new manufacturing unit, featuring "robot-assisted" technology, at its headquarters in Street, Somerset. Up to 300,000 pairs a year of the footwear firm's desert boots will be made at the facility, creating up to 80 technical and managerial jobs. The company started making shoes in the county in 1825 but production was moved from to the Far East in 2005. The company's desert boots are currently made in Vietnam and India and a spokesman said it will continue to source its range from its existing supply chain. The last remaining Clarks plant in the UK, in Millom in Cumbria, closed in 2006.

Summary: The shoe retailer Clarks is to start making shoes in the UK once again.


The 22-year-old, who was linked with a move away from Bolton in January, was out of contract and had been offered new terms by manager Dougie Freedman. But the Serie A outfit confirmed that Alonso has signed a three-year deal. Alonso, who joined Wanderers from Spanish giants Real Madrid in 2010, scored four goals in 30 appearances during the 2012-13 campaign. Freedman has already added a left-back to his squad ahead of next season with when his contract at Norwich expires later this summer.

Summary: Bolton Wanderers full-back Marcos Alonso has left the Championship club to join Italian side Fiorentina.


An Easyjet plane bound for Morocco was evacuated at about 15:30 GMT after a passenger claimed to have a bomb in his bag, a police spokesman said. Security checks were carried out and no devices were found, but two men, aged 45 and 46, have been arrested. An Easyjet spokeswoman said the airline took "any security threat" seriously and safety was a "priority". "Easyjet can confirm that police were requested to board flight EZY1893 from Manchester to Marrakech at the request of the captain," she said, adding that the airline "would like to thank passengers for their understanding" after the evacuation. A Manchester Airport spokesperson said further security checks have been completed and the plane would be departing later on Thursday.

Summary: Two men have been arrested at Manchester Airport on suspicion of making a bomb hoax, police have said.


Officers were called to the London home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at 03:42 GMT but the man was pronounced dead at the scene. A Met Police spokesman said: "This incident is not being treated as terrorist-related." The force said it was contacted by a London hospital shortly after midnight after a patient failed to return. More on this story and other news from London Officers were called to the palace three hours later, after reports of a man behaving suspiciously. The man, aged in his 40s, was on fire when they arrived. A spokesman for the royal family said the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were not at the palace at the time.

Summary: A man has died after being found on fire outside Kensington Palace.


Glen Yates, 78, was found by police at an address in Hudson Road, Blackpool in Lancashire, on Tuesday. His death is not thought to be suspicious. The next day officers were called back to the "completely ransacked" property to find cash and two medals missing. They believe thieves smashed through a window after seeing the emergency services and the undertaker leave. PC Daniel Swarbrick said: "Mr Yates' family are obviously grieving the loss of a beloved father and grandfather, but they have been dealt a double blow knowing his house has since been targeted by thieves. "Several items of great sentimental value to the family have gone missing and they are desperate to get them back." Mr Yates was given Army service medals while working in Malaysia. He was presented with them a few years ago at Fulwood Barracks, police said.

Summary: "Opportunistic" thieves stole cash and Army medals from a house after watching the body of the owner being taken away.


Ralston Dodd, 25, was arrested in Birmingham on 11 July. He had been jailed in November after admitting stabbing a man three times in the back following an argument on a north London street. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said such releases in error were "extremely rare" and it was investigating. Dodd attacked a 21-year-old man with a knife in Islington on 18 September 2016 before going on the run. He was arrested on 11 October 2016 and, a month later, sentenced to nine years' imprisonment at Blackfriars Crown Court for grievous bodily harm with intent. Dodd, from Islington, was in custody at HMP Thameside in south-east London before his release in error. An MoJ spokeswoman said such mistakes were "extremely rare but we take any case very seriously". "We are urgently investigating so we learn the lessons to prevent it happening again," she said. "Public protection is our priority."

Summary: An "extremely dangerous" prisoner who was released early after his nine-year sentence was recorded in error as nine months has been recaptured.


Peter Capaldi, who has replaced Matt Smith as the Time Lord, joined co-star Jenna Coleman in Cardiff. The actor, and lifelong Doctor Who fan, said: "New job, first day, slightly nervous. Just like the Doctor, I'm emerging from the Tardis into a whole other world." Capaldi appeared in the hit BBC show during the Christmas Day episode. The show's writer Steven Moffat said: "First the eyebrows. Then, at Christmas, the face. Coming soon, the whole Doctor. In the Cardiff studios, the Capaldi era begins." Filming on the latest series of the show will continue until August with director Ben Wheatley coming on board.

Summary: The new Doctor Who has admitted to first-day nerves after stepping onto the show's set in south Wales.


Nigerian national Michael Chukwuma, 21, stabbed 34-year-old compatriot Obina Durumchukwu in a Mumbai suburb, Indian police said. The incident took place following a party on Saturday night. "They were discussing football players. One is a fan of Messi and the other was for Ronaldo," a police inspector said. "During the conversation a quarrel has taken place. The deceased threw a glass into the face of the accused person. The glass broke and caused small injuries. "After that the accused took the broken glass and assaulted the deceased person who died due to heavy bleeding." Argentina international Messi, 28, is a five-time winner of the Ballon d'Or - the annual award given to the world's best player by the governing body Fifa. Portugal captain Ronaldo, 31, has won the accolade three times.

Summary: A man was killed after arguing with a friend over whether Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo was the best footballer in the world.


The pups were taken at around lunchtime on Friday from a house in Beccles Drive, Portobello, Wolverhampton, while their owners were out. West Midlands Police said the teenagers were seen at the back of the house and later on Caister Drive with the dogs. The dogs are too young to have been taken from their mother, police said. Det Sgt Nicki Addison said the family are distressed at the loss of two of the litter and that anyone who is offered a pup for sale should contact them. "Equally we would like to hear from anyone who has information about the young men responsible for taking them," she said. The two offenders are described as white teenagers. One was wearing a black jacket, blue jeans and a black beanie hat.

Summary: Two seven-week old French white bulldogs have been stolen from their home, by two teenagers who were seen running off with them.


The structure was fixed on to towers by two of the UK's largest cranes and took eight hours to be put in place. Liverpool, which began work on the stadium expansion last year, said it marked another "incredible chapter". Work is under way to increase Anfield's capacity from about 45,500 to 59,000. The Main Stand will feature a new third tier, adding 8,300 seats. The Anfield Road Stand will then be expanded to add a further 4,800 seats. The Â£100m work is expected to be completed in time for the 2016-17 season. Ian Ayre, the club's chief executive, said: "This is an historic milestone in Anfield's history as the stadium transformation continues to take shape. "This is a redevelopment that gives us a fantastic opportunity to ensure that all the rich history and traditions that make this stadium so special can continue for many years to come." Source: Liverpool FC

Summary: A 650-tonne roof truss has been lifted on to Anfield's Main Stand as part of work to expand Liverpool's home ground.


The national team played at grounds across the country from 2000-2007 while Wembley was being rebuilt for £757m. Last year it was reported that paying off the costs of the national stadium would mean staging England games at Wembley for up to nine more years. But last week the FA agreed a £300m package to refinance their loan, which they say will allow "significant annual interest savings."

Summary: England could play home matches away from Wembley from next year.


Their applications were accepted at the league's AGM on Tuesday. Reigning champions Cradley Heath have been approved to defend their title after switching their home meetings from Wolverhampton to Birmingham. "It's going to be a very competitive season," said National League co-ordinator Peter Morrish. The Brummies had been in speedway's top division - the Elite League - until folding in July. "I'm delighted for every single Birmingham Speedway supporter because this day now means we are officially back in league racing at Perry Barr Stadium," said Brummies owner Tony Mole. Eastbourne decided to drop out of speedway's Elite League for financial reasons. "It was case of dropping down or losing our licence," explained chairman Martin Dugard. "The team we are going to base ourselves on is a team that can go and win. I think it will be a lot more exciting speedway than we have had in the past."

Summary: Birmingham Brummies, Eastbourne Eagles and Rye House Raiders will compete in the National League - British speedway's third tier - next season.


Sharapova, seeded fifth, was erratic but served 21 aces to seal a 7-5 7-5 win after two hours and six minutes. The Russian will next play either top seed Serena Williams or compatriot Margarita Gasparyan in the last eight. Sharapova, who made seven double faults and 46 unforced errors, said she expected to next play Williams. The 28-year-old, who was beaten by world number one Williams in last year's final, said: "It was a great final last year, I came close in the second set but not close enough. I'll look forward to playing the best in the world and it'll be a great match." Elsewhere, Japan's seventh seed Kei Nishikori saw off Jo-Wilfried Tsonga with ease, beating the ninth seed 6-4 6-2 6-4. The 2014 US Open finalist will face Novak Djokovic or Gilles Simon in the last eight.

Summary: Former champion Maria Sharapova battled to a straight-set win over Swiss Belinda Bencic to progress to the quarter-finals of the Australian Open.


Virgin Kitesurfing Armada UK's attempt off Hayling Island, Hampshire, involved 423 participants parading over a one-mile (1.6 km) course on Sunday. Guinness World Records has verified the attempt was a new record. The previous record was set by Virgin Kitesurfing Armada South Africa when 415 kitesurfers completed a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) course off Cape Town. Kitesurfers from around the world took part in the record attempt at Hayling Island, which took three-and-a-half hours to complete. Event organiser Dan Charlish said: "It has been an amazing experience - 423 kitesurfers is a fantastic total and everyone should be really proud."

Summary: More than 400 people have set a new world record for the largest parade of kitesurfers.


Stephen Abram of Indelible Tattoo Studio, pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual assault, outraging public decency and five counts of voyeurism. The 46-year-old from Bournemouth filmed women at the former tattoo parlour undressing and using the toilet. Footage of two women who were sexually assaulted in their sleep was also found on Abram's phone. Dorset Police first investigated the tattoo artist in June last year after a woman thought she had been filmed by Abram in the bathroom. He was also placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years on Friday at Bournemouth Crown Court. Det Con Shanena Cornwell said: "I would like to praise [the victims] for coming forward and supporting this prosecution. "I hope the sentence handed out will go some way to help them come to terms with what has happened."

Summary: A tattoo artist has been sentenced to 23 months in jail after pleading guilty to a string of sex offences.


He was also wearing glasses and was suited and booted like a politician. So far, so ordinary, but his uncanny likeness to one of Northern Ireland's best-known politicians has not gone unnoticed. Mr Brosnan was photographed bearing a striking resemblance to the Sinn FÃ©in President Gerry Adams. The Irish-born actor is currently filming in the capital for the thriller based on Stephen Leather's novel, The Chinaman. He is playing the role of Liam Hennessy, a former IRA member turned government official. Mr Brosnan is staring opposite Jackie Chan in the untitled Martin Campbell project. It is not the actor's first time working with Mr Campbell. The star was directed by Mr Campbell in his Bond debut, Goldeneye in 1994. They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and Mr Adams showed a sense of humour by tweeting: "I never knew Pierce Brosnan was so good looking."

Summary: The actor Pierce Brosnan has been seen in London sporting a white beard and greying hair during filming of a new action thriller.


The snake was anaesthetised for the seven-hour operation, Dr Taweesak Anansiriwattana told BBC Thai's Issariya Praithongyaem. Doctors at Klongluang Animal Hospital had to cut through the skin and abdominal cavity wall in order to reach the tumour, which weighed 1kg (2lb). Tissue samples have been sent for tests to determine if the snake has cancer. The snake weighed about 52kg (114 lbs). Most of the tumour was removed but a small part remains as it was too close to arteries, vets say. The snake was brought to the hospital by a private owner.

Summary: Thai veterinarians have operated on a 10-year-old anaconda to remove a large tumour from near its heart.


Media playback is not supported on this device The 28-year-old was a target for Tianjin Quanjian but any potential move was scuppered by new rules in the Chinese Super League, according to the club's owner. Costa did not play in Chelsea's win at Leicester on Saturday with boss Antonio Conte saying he had a back problem. He trained on his own on Monday but this was to aid his recovery. BBC Sport understands Chelsea are determined to keep Costa, who is the joint top scorer in the Premier League with 14 goals. Costa's return to training means he could be in contention for the visit of Hull on Saturday as Chelsea look to extend their seven-point lead at the top of the table.

Summary: Chelsea striker Diego Costa trained with the first team on Tuesday after being linked with a move to China.


Sheridan returned to the Latics for a second spell as manager in January when they sat 22nd, five points from safety. The 51-year-old has won nine games of 20 since taking charge and the 1-0 win over Crewe confirmed their survival. "Obviously it's a great relief. I'm chuffed to bits with everyone," he told BBC Radio Manchester. "The players and the supporters have all stuck together as a group and a club we've got over the line. "It's a great achievement from the players from where they were and since I've come in they've just responded to me and we've got there." Oldham have also confirmed in a statement on their website that they have not received any approaches for Sheridan, after he was linked with a move to the vacant managerial position at Bolton.

Summary: Oldham manager John Sheridan has spoken of his relief that the club have escaped relegation from League One with two games remaining.


The body of Gillian Hiney, 48, was discovered in Cardwell Street early on Wednesday when police were called. A 58-year-old man from the city was arrested by Staffordshire Police on suspicion of murder. He has been released without charge. Police said investigations are continuing to establish the cause of Ms Hiney's death. Det Ch Insp Dave Giles said: "A detailed investigation will continue in an effort to establish whether Gillian's death was caused by another person or whether it was as a result of a medical condition." Police said a post-mortem examination took place on Wednesday afternoon, but did not establish a clear cause of death. Forensic investigators will continue with a detailed examination of the property over the next 24 hours. More from Stoke-on-Trent and south Cheshire

Summary: Detectives have named a woman who was found dead at a house in Stoke-on-Trent.


South African Earle made contact with the eye area of Bath flanker Tom Ellis in the second half of the 38-3 loss. The first game the 29-year-old will miss is the Pro12 home derby with Newport Gwent Dragons on 26 December. Blues head coach Danny Wilson had stated he believed the contact was accidental. Earle pleaded not guilty to the charge, but a disciplinary panel ruled he had committed the offence. He - and tournament organisers - can appeal against the decision. Earle is next free to play on Monday, 13 February, 2017. Among the other cases to be heard on Wednesday, Worcester flanker Sam Betty will discover his fate after being sent off for striking an opponent during their Challenge Cup defeat by Newport Gwent Dragons at Rodney Parade.

Summary: Cardiff Blues lock George Earle has been banned for eight weeks after being sent off in their European Challenge Cup defeat by Bath.


The proposals include building a new glass entrance, replacing the car park with a public space and installing solar panels on the Nave roof. It is part of a 10-year plan, known as Project Pilgrim, to improve facilities at the medieval building. Staff are asking for feedback to the plans, which will be on display in the cathedral until 20 April. Dean of Gloucester, The Very Reverend Stephen Lake, said: "Gloucester Cathedral is a place for everyone so it is important that the people of the city and county have an opportunity to let us know what they think of the changes we are proposing to make to their Cathedral. "We invite everyone to help to shape the project by taking part in this important consultation."

Summary: Detailed plans to redevelop parts of Gloucester Cathedral have been unveiled, as part of a £6m project.


More than 200,000 people played last season, and you can register to take part now - it takes less than a minute to get set up. If you played last season's version, you will have automatically been entered into the new game, along with any leagues you were involved in. The leagues start again with everyone on zero points, so whether you were top of the table or bottom of the pile, we all begin with a clean slate. This season, BBC Sport's Lawrenson will be entering predictions from his weekly column into the game so you'll be able to see whether you can outperform our expert. Find out everything you need to know about the game here, along with details of how to play and answers to frequently asked questions.

Summary: BBC Sport's Premier League Predictor game is back - and this season you can take on pundit Mark Lawrenson.


Ronald Burton, 60, is accused of abusing one boy, who was aged between 11 and 13, from 1994 until 1996. It is further alleged he raped and sexually assaulted another male pupil, aged 13, in 2014. At the High Court in Glasgow, Mr Burton denied a total of seven charges against him. Judge Lady Scott set a trial due to begin in July. The two boys involved are listed on the indictment as being his pupils at the time. The charges also include claims that Mr Burton bought one child a gym membership and took him there. It is also alleged that during one attack, at the accused's home in East Kilbride, Mr Burton "did hypnotise the youngster or attempt to". He is further said to have supplied cannabis to the boy.

Summary: A teacher is to stand trial charged with sexually abusing two pupils at schools in South Lanarkshire.


Children from St Ives School, Cornwall, were uninjured in the crash on the A30 near Penzance at about 12:00 GMT. Witness John Mackie said children were climbing out of the 62-seater coach owned by Williams Travel on to the grass verge. The A30 was closed in both directions between Newtown Roundabout and Crowlas Cross while the coach was recovered. For more on the coach crash and other news The coach was travelling towards Penzance and swerved across the wrong side of the road before going up the verge. St Ives School said all of the children, aged between 11 and 16, were "safe and well".

Summary: A coach carrying 30 schoolchildren to a swimming gala veered across a main road and crashed through a hedge.


South Yorkshire Police officers were called to Queen Mary Road at about 16:00 BST on Saturday after a gun was fired in the street. No one was injured but it caused "damage to the window of a nearby house", officers said. The force said it had started an investigation and would be carrying out extra patrols in the area to reassure local residents. Detectives have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Summary: Six people were arrested after a gun was fired in Sheffield.


The single-decker vehicle crashed into the front of the property in Holmer Green, near High Wycombe, on Saturday afternoon. Three passengers were injured, and a man and woman inside the house in Wycombe Road were also hurt. No-one else on the bus was injured, it is understood. Carousel Buses has been approached for comment. "Fortunately the two occupants of the property were able to leave the property with only minor injuries," a police spokesman said. A structural engineer and contractors were working with a recovery team on Sunday to try to remove the bus, which was left embedded in the front of the house. Police have appealed for people with information to contact them but no-one was arrested. The spokesman said: "It was lucky no-one sustained serious injury."

Summary: Five people were injured when a bus ploughed into the front of a house.


Shetland Coastguard said it was alerted to the incident by police at about 01:45. A man and a woman had been pulled from the water by police officers by the time a local RNLI boat and the Lerwick coastal rescue team arrived at the scene. The coastguard said they were then checked over by paramedics.

Summary: Two people have been rescued from the water in Lerwick harbour.


The attack on Clifton Street Orange hall was reported to police shortly before 09:00 BST. In a statement, Belfast County Grand Orange Lodge said it was the "latest act of vandalism" on the building. It added that the hall was "targeted on numerous occasions last year following parades in the area", and has blamed republicans for the paint attack. Belfast County Grand Master, George Chittick, claimed it was a deliberate attempt to raise tensions. "Brethren in north Belfast have made great strides to make the hall a community facility for all and this attack was clearly carried out by people who have no respect or tolerance for a differing viewpoint. "It is time for such wanton vandalism to stop, once and for all," Mr Chittick said. A police spokesman said they were appealing for anyone with information about the attack to come forward.

Summary: An Orange hall close to Belfast city centre has been attacked with paint bombs.


Officers are looking into posts sent from an account in the Brighton area after the model asked her Twitter followers to help identify the culprit. She posted a screengrab of a message she received which featured two images mocking her 14-year-old son, Harvey, who is blind. She wrote: "Caught out!! Another bully on our hands. Anyone know this guy??" More news from Sussex here Later, she tweeted: "Thank you to everyone for supporting me with Harvey's bully's [sic] "This is something I feel strongly about and will always raise awareness for." A spokesman for Sussex Police said: "Police are aware of offensive social media posts targeting Katie Price's son and an investigation has begun."

Summary: Offensive messages posted about TV star Katie Price's disabled son are being investigated by Sussex Police.


Aguero, 28, clashed with Reid during Sunday's 3-1 win in the Premier League. If found guilty, the Argentina international would be banned for three matches and miss the Manchester derby on 10 September. He would also miss a league match against Bournemouth and the EFL Cup game against Swansea. The Football Association said referee Andre Marriner and his officials did not see the 76th-minute incident so it has decided to take retrospective action after reviewing television footage. An independent panel is due to rule on the case on Friday using written submissions and reviewing video evidence. Aguero, who is out of Argentina's two 2018 World Cup qualifiers this month with a calf injury, will not appear in person.

Summary: Manchester City are contesting a violent conduct charge against striker Sergio Aguero for elbowing West Ham's Winston Reid.


The 21-year-old former Leeds United youth team captain joined the Millers on 27 November. However, he was suspended a week later after being given a 12-month community order, which includes 150 hours of unpaid work, after pleading guilty to headbutting a woman last February. Lenighan joined after a spell in non-league but never played for the club.

Summary: Rotherham United have released midfielder Simon Lenighan following an internal investigation.


Simon Knights, 38, is suspected of using trains to move around the South East, committing burglaries. Police investigating crimes in Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Kent, Essex and London are looking for him. A Â£2,500 reward has been put up for information that leads to his arrest and conviction for at least one of the offences. It is thought he is stealing cash and jewellery to fund a gambling addiction, police said. Thousands of pounds worth of jewellery has been stolen during more than a dozen break-ins that Knights is suspected of being responsible for since June last year. He is described as white, about 5' 8" with ginger hair and blue eyes. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact police.

Summary: A smartly-dressed "commuting criminal" being hunted by six police forces may now be in Kent, detectives have said.


The 32-year-old former English Amateur champion finished the first round in Paris two shots clear of compatriot Nathan Kimsey, Belgium's Thomas Pieters and Alexander Bjork of Sweden. Tommy Fleetwood continued his good recent form with an opening round of 67 - one of three players on four under. "I gave myself some real chances and took them," said world 279 Waring. Another Englishman, Andy Sullivan, went round Le Golf National - venue for the 2018 Ryder Cup - in 68. Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell, a former champion, and Wales' Bradley Dredge are among those a further shot behind after rounds of 69. Waring is competing this season on a medical exemption because of back problems which meant he only started four tournaments last year.

Summary: England's Paul Waring carded seven birdies in an opening round of 64 to take the lead at the Open de France.


The 22-year-old Czech international scored 24 goals in 51 games for the Hornets during a previous loan spell in the 2012-13 Championship campaign. He spent last season on loan at West Bromwich Albion, making seven Premier League starts and netting three times. Udinese and Watford are both owned by the Italian Pozzo family and the deal to bring him back to Vicarage Road has been described as an "initial" loan. Vydra was a key figure in Watford's progress to the 2013 Championship play-off final, which they lost to Crystal Palace. He will now rekindle his prolific strike partnership with Troy Deeney, who contributed 20 goals himself during that season and was on target 25 times last term.

Summary: Watford have re-signed Udinese striker Matej Vydra on a season-long loan.


League One Vale only have nine players in the squad who currently have contracts that run beyond this summer. "We're slowly putting things into place," 51-year-old Bodin told BBC Radio Stoke. "There's lot of work going on behind the scenes in terms of looking at players for next season." Vale can now turn more of their attention towards 2016-17 after seeing their play-off hopes all but ended by Saturday's defeat by Chesterfield - a result that left boss Rob Page fuming. "You do a lot of work with contacts and trying to speak to players and getting character references," said Bodin. "Even from the start of this season, we've been watching under-21 players and see how they develop - it's an on-going process. "For all the work you do, you don't actually sign players until the end of June."

Summary: Assistant boss Paul Bodin says plans are already in place to try and strengthen the Port Vale squad for next season.


Customers of Smart and Sun Cellular said they could no longer access the sites on portable devices or desktop computers. Instead, users see a message saying the sites have been blocked because of anti-child-pornography laws. The Philippines government has not given any official explanation of why the sites have suddenly been blocked. However, the country's National Telecommunications Commission confirmed to CNN that it had ordered all the nation's ISPs to block access from 14 January, But social media chatter suggests customers using Globe and other ISPs can still access the sites. Pornhub recently reported visitors in the Philippines spent the longest average time on its site. The average viewing time in the Philippines was 12 minutes and 45 seconds, said Pornhub - about three minutes longer than the global average.

Summary: Popular pornography websites XVideos, Redtube and Pornhub have been blocked by two ISPs in the Philippines.


The 32-year-old had been made available by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for the county's first three Division One matches. But he missed the draw with Lancashire due to the problem with his left hip. On Wednesday, the ECB turned down a request from Nottinghamshire to play England bowler Stuart Broad. Broad and fellow paceman James Anderson, who is unavailable for Lancashire, will return for the third round of games starting on 21 April. England do not play a Test until 6 July, but then face seven Tests in just over two months against South Africa and West Indies, before seven more in Australia and New Zealand over the winter.

Summary: Ex-England captain Alastair Cook has been included in Essex's 13-man squad for Friday's County Championship match against Somerset after a hip injury.


Coverage will return in 2016. NB. Fixtures and event start times are subject to change. The BBC is not responsible for any changes that may be made. For more details of forthcoming coverage, visit the specific sport's page on the desktop website. You can view BBC Sport output as well as listen to our radio sports programming on the BBC iPlayer. The BBC Sport website is available via desktop, mobile, tablet and app, giving fast and easy access to the live stream, text commentaries, news, reports, schedules, videos, as well as highlights of the day's action. The BBC Sport app is available free for Apple and Android devices. National and regional variations have been included in this list where possible. Please check your local listings for more detailed information. To find out the latest about rugby union coverage, please visit our What's on BBC Sport page.

Summary: BBC Sport has extensive live coverage of the Six Nations on television, radio, online and social media.


The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 0.05% lower to 17,663.2 points, while the Nasdaq closed 0.4% lower, to 5,053.8 points. Chevron was one of the biggest winners, up 1.11% to over $90 a share. AB InBev was up 1.4% to over $119 a share after operating profit jumped. The brewer also gave encouraging guidance on revenue, ahead of its $105bn (Â£70bn) agreed merger with rival SABMiller. The S&P 500 index closed lower 0.48% to 2,079.36 points. Shares in Exxon Mobil closed up 0.74% to $82, after reporting results which were slightly better than expectations. Shares in troubled Canadian pharmaceutical company Valeant closed almost 16% lower, as action continues over allegations from investor and researcher Citron over Valeant's involvement with "phantom pharmacies".

Summary: (Close): US stocks closed lower on Friday, despite better-than-expected results from Chevron and AB InBev, ending Wall Street's best month in four years.


The 33-year-old has 54 caps, although over half have come off the bench, and has also played for L'Aquila, Aironi and French side Racing Metro. This is an exciting move for me He will provide competition at hooker for Neil Cochrane and Tom Lindsay. "It's a great bonus to bring in Carlo, who has such strong experience," said Wasps director of rugby Dai Young. Festuccia will again join up with compatriot Andrea Masi, a team-mate at two of his former clubs, at Adams Park. "I am delighted to join Wasps and test myself in a new environment," he said. "I have played in the Pro12 and the Top 14 and always wanted to compete in the English Premiership, so this is an exciting move for me."

Summary: London Wasps have signed Italy international hooker Carlo Festuccia from Pro12 side Zebre on undisclosed terms.


The supermarket withdrew all batch codes of the 360ml Bausch + Lomb "EasySept Hydro + Peroxide Solution". Trading Standards said the "potential fault" means peroxide could remain in the lens case, which could cause a number of health issues. The BBC has approached Bausch + Lomb for a comment. The Chartered Trading Standards Institute said customers who have bought the product should not use it. It said: "Residual peroxide could potentially remain in the lens case after neutralization. "If the residual hydrogen peroxide is above product specification, the user could experience burning/stinging, irritation, red eye and, in rare circumstances, other more serious health consequences." A Tesco spokesman said the solution was recalled "as a precautionary measure" as requested by the manufacturer. He added the product is also on sale "across a number of retailers". No other Bausch + Lomb products are known to be affected.

Summary: Tesco has recalled a contact lens solution amid concerns it could burn people's eyes and cause other "serious health consequences".


The 50-year-old guided Lazio to a third place in Serie A last season but they are 31 points behind leaders Juventus in eighth spot with seven games left. Former Lazio striker Simone Inzaghi, 39, will take charge for the remainder of the season. Pioli was appointed head coach in June 2014 after spells in charge of several clubs including Bologna and Parma. Lazio have won just five of their last 22 Serie A games. They were knocked out of the Europa League by Sparta Prague at the last-16 stage having lost a Champions League play-off round tie against Bayer Leverkusen last August.

Summary: Lazio have sacked boss Stefano Pioli in the wake of Sunday's 4-1 Rome derby defeat against Roma.


The couple, named locally as Michael Beck, 62 and Nicola Beck, 52, were found dead at around 11:40 GMT on Wednesday. Their home, near Dunkeswell, Devon, remains cordoned off. Devon and Cornwall Police said the deaths are being treated as a "domestic related murder and suicide". Read more about farmhouse deaths and other Devon and Cornwall stories here Det Insp Steve Davies, from the Major Crime Unit, said: "We are conducting house-to-house enquiries and have been carrying out searches at the premises today. "We are not looking for any other person in connection with this isolated incident and can confirm that no other person was present at the premises at the time of this incident."

Summary: A husband and wife whose bodies were discovered at a farmhouse died in an apparent murder-suicide, police have said.


The 30-year-old midfielder played under Cook at Sligo Rovers three times between 2008 and 2012, as well as at Accrington and Chesterfield. The duo also played together at Stanley in 2005-2006. Boco has signed on a deal until the end of the season and has been sent straight out on loan to National League South side Havant & Waterlooville. The 48-time capped international made 19 appearances for Chesterfield last season before leaving in January to join Indian side Bharat FC.

Summary: Portsmouth manager Paul Cook has signed Benin international Romuald Boco for the sixth time.


Harry Whitlam, 11, died after the vehicle driven by Gary Green, 51, reversed into him at Swithens Farm, Rothwell, in 2013. An inquest last year heard Mr Green was almost three times the legal alcohol limit on the day of the crash. He was not prosecuted at the time as it happened on private land. Mr Green, of Bradburn Road, Wakefield, admitted failing to ensure the safety of others at a hearing at Leeds Crown Court. He is due to appear in November for a further hearing before sentencing. The Health and Safety Executive announced this year it had brought a charge against Mr Green under Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act.

Summary: The driver of a tractor which knocked down and killed an 11-year-old boy has admitted breaching health and safety rules.


The boards of the two companies had agreed the acquisition in July following protracted talks. The H&H offer valued John Swan at about Â£8.2m. Edinburgh-based John Swan operates livestock centres at Newtown St Boswells in the Scottish Borders and Wooler in Northumberland. H&H Group operates as a holding company for a number of businesses operating across the auctioneering, commercial print, insurance and property sectors. In the year to the end of April, John Swan made a pre-tax profit of Â£123,000 - having made a loss of Â£369,000 in the previous year.

Summary: A court has sanctioned a takeover bid by Carlisle-based H&H Group of livestock auctioneer John Swan and Sons.


CCTV footage circulating on social media shows the 23-year-old England player being hit in the face by a man. Barkley was not seriously injured in the incident, which came hours after he played the full match for the Toffees in their win over Leicester on Sunday. Everton have not commented and no complaint has been made to police, who are viewing the footage. "Ross was the victim of an unprovoked attack by a stranger who approached him on Sunday evening," said Matt Himsworth, managing director of Himsworths Legal. Barkley, who trained as normal with his team-mates on Monday, has played 22 times for England and was part of Gareth Southgate's most recent Three Lions squad. The Liverpool-born player joined Everton as an 11-year-old and has made 173 first-team appearances. After Sunday's match, manager Ronald Koeman said Barkley should be sold if he does not sign a new contract.

Summary: Everton midfielder Ross Barkley was the victim of an "unprovoked attack" in a Liverpool bar, his lawyer has said.


A piece of equipment failed at an electricity substation near Lenadoon. An investigation is under way. Witnesses described hearing a bang and flash of light in the sky at about 23:15 BST. Many people believed it was an explosion. Three Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue crews were called to the scene. Sarah McClintock, NIE, said a fault had caused a dip in power. "Equipment failure could cause a bang and a flash which we believe is what people saw last night," she said. "There was nothing sinister involved. It was a piece of equipment that failed in one of our sub stations and that would have caused the flash and could also have caused the dip in power that we have seen."

Summary: A loud bang and a flash of light in the sky over west Belfast on Friday night were nothing sinister, NIE has said.


A spokesman for the Ministry of Justice said the incident at HMP Rochester was "quickly resolved and there was no impact on the prison regime". Prison visits also continued as normal, and inmates had their regular weekend time outside their cells. Earlier reports had suggested the two prisoners were on the chapel roof and were removing roof tiles and throwing them, but this has not been confirmed. Rochester Prison houses young offenders and adult Category C offenders.

Summary: Two inmates at a prison in Kent gained access to a building roof.


The third place play-off match became a straight fight for the fourth Rio qualifying berth, behind Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Earlier, Simon Middleton's side reached the knockout stages and beat New Zealand 17-14 in the quarter-finals. The sport will feature at a summer games for the first time. During the group stages, England comfortably beat China and Russia, but lost the final pool match 24-7 to Australia. Finishing in the top four places in the series standings was the easiest route to Rio. Had they not achieved qualification at what was the final event of the series, England, Scotland or Wales would have had to try and achieve Great Britain's Olympic place by winning a regional qualifying event between June and September.

Summary: England women sealed Great Britain's qualification for Rio 2016 rugby sevens after beating USA 15-14 in the World Series in Amsterdam.


Kevin Johnstone, 41, of Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, was working at a building site when he slipped amphetamine into Tony Jones's drink. Swansea Crown Court heard Mr Jones was taken to hospital complaining of heart pain after the stunt. Johnstone previously pleaded guilty to unlawfully and maliciously causing amphetamines to be administered. The court heard Johnstone thought it would be a "good joke" to watch his colleague react to the drugs. Johnstone's defence barrister James Jenkins said Mr Jones's condition "was not life threatening at anytime" and the incident was a "joke that went wrong". Sentencing Johnstone to 10 months in prison, suspended for two years, Recorder Elwen Evans QC, said he had shown "exceptionally stupid behaviour". "This is the deliberate spiking of someone's hot drink at work," she said. "Spiking their drink for some sort of entertainment. "You thought it was a joke."

Summary: A builder who spiked a colleague's hot chocolate with the drug speed has been given a two-year suspended sentence.


Reading University ecologists are investigating the impact of urban traffic the nocturnal mammal's numbers. Dr Philip Baker said hedgehogs face "growing threats" in built-up environments. Anyone spotting a dead hedgehog in Reading is asked to contact the team who will recover the body and carry out genetic studies. Surveys suggest Hedgehog populations in Britain are in steep decline. In the 1950s, 36 million of the animals used to snuffle in UK gardens. There may now be less than a million. The study team is investigating if roads and other obstacles like rivers can create barriers to movement and cause populations to fragment. Dr Baker said: "Towns and cities provide surprisingly good habitats for hedgehogs, but if different populations become isolated, they may face an uncertain future. "Our research is focusing on Reading but our findings will help hedgehog conservation nationwide."

Summary: People are being urged to record sightings of dead hedgehogs as part of a conservation research project.


The 25-year-old picked up the injury during the World Cup and is now a doubt for the Six Nations. Gilchrist was named Scotland captain ahead of last year's November Tests but soon suffered an arm injury which ruled him out for the rest of the season. And his World Cup ended during Scotland's second game, when he was injured against the United States. "Further specialist opinion revealed some damage to soft tissue structures which had not previously been clinically evident," said a statement from Edinburgh. "Following best advice from the specialist, it was decided that surgery would be the most appropriate course and this has already taken place." Gilchrist, capped 12 times, has spent his entire professional career with Edinburgh.

Summary: Edinburgh and Scotland lock forward Grant Gilchrist has undergone groin surgery.


The France midfielder, 30, joins the Italian champions on a three-year deal for an initial 20m euros (£18.2m). Juve say they could pay PSG a further 10.5m euros (£9.6m), depending on the number of games 30-year-old Matuidi plays. Matuidi won four consecutive league titles with PSG after joining in 2011 from Ligue 1 rivals Saint-Etienne. He becomes Juve's ninth signing of the summer, with Italian media suggesting he will earn 3.5m euros (£3.1m) per season. Matuidi could make his debut on Saturday after being named in the squad for the Serie A opener against Cagliari in Turin. Massimiliano Allegri's side are aiming this season for a seventh consecutive Scudetto. Their six straight Italian league titles is already a record. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Juventus have signed Blaise Matuidi from Paris St-Germain in a deal worth up to 30.5m euros (£27.8m).


The 25-year-old Guinea international has agreed a three-year deal with the Championship club. "This was not easy, but we are very happy to find this boy and do this business," R's boss Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink told the club website. "I see him as an out-an-out striker. He is going to come in and fight against Sebastian Polter and Conor Washington." Sylla, who has previously had spells with Le Mans and Zulte Waregem, becomes QPR's sixth signing of the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Rangers goalkeeper Joe Lumley has signed a new three-year contract at Loftus Road. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Queens Park Rangers have signed striker Idrissa Sylla from Belgian side Anderlecht for an undisclosed fee.


Hull City Council said the 1km closed loop road, which is being built next to Ennerdale Leisure Centre, would be safe for cyclists to use away from traffic. Two ponds are also being created as part of the design as well as a car park and a bike hire facility. A ground breaking ceremony at 12:15 GMT is marking the official start of construction on the project due to be completed by August 2017. Councillor Terry Geraghty said: "The new circuit... will help meet increasing demand for road racing in the region, offering a fantastic facility for training sessions, races and other events including competitions all year round." The six-metre wide circuit is being funded by British Cycling and the council.

Summary: Work has begun on a new £650,000 cycle track in Hull.


Lee Fudge, 29, and Mark Chatfield, 39, were last seen at Ford Prison - which is a category D jail - on Thursday. Fudge was jailed for life in 2007 for the robbery of a BP garage in Kent. Chatfield was jailed for four years for burglary in August 2014 after he broke into a home in Guildford. Police say anyone who spots the men should not approach them but call 999. Det Insp Dave Grover said "We need the public's help to find both men so they can be returned to custody to serve the remainder of their sentences. "Neither man was from Sussex but we do not know if they have left the county to go back to where they are from, or if they are still here." Police have said the photograph of Fudge is the best they have available.

Summary: Police are hunting for two men who have absconded from an open prison in Sussex.


The Conservative received 45% of the first preference votes. He was elected after the second preference votes were counted, when no candidates received more than 50% of first preference votes. Mr Macpherson received a total of 68,622 first and second preferences compared to his nearest challenger Labour's Kevin Small. Mr Small received 39,365 of the first and second preference votes. Turnout was nearly 25%, up from 15% in 2012. Mr Macpherson described the result as "a vote of confidence in local policing", but added: "That is not to say everything is perfect. "In my second term I will be focusing on the issues raised by the public during the campaign. We can do more for our communities and my job for the next four years is to make sure that we do." Candidates are listed alphabetically by surname.

Summary: Angus Macpherson has been re-elected to the role of Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon.


Robinson oversaw the Dons' promotion to the Championship in 2014-15 and their subsequent relegation this season. The 35-year-old met with Leeds chairman Massimo Cellino in London on Friday about the managerial position. Leeds' current head coach Steve Evans, who is on a rolling contract, has been unsure of his future since the end of the campaign. MK Dons chairman Pete Winkelman said he could not guarantee that Robinson would be in charge next season after they finished 23rd in the Championship. Evans, who took over at Elland Road in October 2015, has said he would like to stay on at the club but he still does not know his future. Leeds, Cellino and Ross McCormack's licensed agent Derek Day are currently responding to a charge by the Football Association that they breached football agent regulations during the sale of McCormack in 2014.

Summary: MK Dons boss Karl Robinson has turned down an offer to manage Leeds United, reports BBC Three Counties.


The Wales international 26, helped Real overcome Manchester City on Wednesday to set up a Champions League final against Atletico Madrid on 28 May. He has scored 19 goals in La Liga this season and provided 10 assists. Zinedine Zidane's Real are one point behind La Liga leaders Barcelona with two games to go. A Real statement said Bale has "a joint strain in his right knee". Keeper Keylor Navas, 29, also misses Sunday's match at the Bernabeu after being "diagnosed with tendinitis in the Achilles tendon of his left foot". Valencia are ninth in La Liga, 40 points behind third-placed Real. Zidane says he will not look to rest Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 31 La Liga goals this season, before the Champions League final. "I think he is going to play. I think he is in perfect shape," said Zidane on Saturday.

Summary: Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale will miss Sunday's crucial La Liga home game against Valencia because of a knee strain.


Bale, 26, limped out of Real's 4-0 Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk in midweek. But Benitez expects the former Spurs player to be fit for his country's Euro 2016 qualifiers against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Andorra next month. "It is a small injury and it appears he recovers quickly," said Benitez. Bale has scored six of Wales' nine goals in Euro 2016 qualifying. Benitez believes he should be available for their two fixtures in October, which they enter needing a point to qualify for their first major tournament since the 1958 World Cup. "We are optimistic," he said. "If the player is fit to go with the national team there is little you can do apart from the normal conversations with the national team managers. "The most important thing is that Gareth recovers as quickly as possible."

Summary: Wales forward Gareth Bale is set to be out "for two to three weeks" with a calf injury, according to Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez.


Kyle Byfield, 23, died in hospital after he was found injured at Jubilee Court, Banbury, on 16 April. His family said they had been "overwhelmed" by the support from the local community following his death. Natasha Capell, 26, of Jubilee Court, has been charged with murder and remanded in custody. In a statement, his parents, Ronnie and Alan Byfield, and girlfriend Laurie Peach said: "We are all totally devastated and shocked by this tragic loss of our beloved Kyle. "He will be greatly missed by all and forever in our hearts." An inquest into his death is due to open later at Oxford Coroner's Court.

Summary: The family of a man stabbed to death in Oxfordshire have described him as a "loving and caring, fantastic character".


The 19-year-old winger, who can play on the left or right, made his only appearance for Liverpool in the FA Cup third round against Exeter in January. Kent spent part of last season on loan at League One club Coventry City. "He is fearless, loves to take on his man and get balls into the box," Barnsley boss Paul Heckingbottom said. "Not only that, he can finish. He's one of the most highly rated youngsters in the country and now he has a great opportunity to step up and show us what he can do in the Championship," he told the club website. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Liverpool and England Under-20 midfielder Ryan Kent has joined Championship club Barnsley on a season-long loan deal.


Carnival 56, which takes place on 12 and 13 August, is the first major music event at the park since BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend in 2006. Other acts include Dundee band Model Aeroplanes and there will be DJ sets from Basement Jaxx and Hot Chip. Tickets for the festival go on general sale on Monday. Festival director Craig Blyth said: "Mark Ronson is in a class of his own, few artists match the energy of Rudimental live and Clean Bandit are one of the biggest acts today. "We're delighted to have them join us as headliners in Dundee on a bill which has real depth and quality. "There is a huge buzz about the festival, with a few more surprises still to come, and know the artists will get a massive response when they hit Camperdown this August."

Summary: Mark Ronson, Rudimental and Clean Bandit are among the headliners at a new summer festival in Dundee's Camperdown Park.


The operation last week at the Rousses Lake in the Jura mountains caught French officials by surprise. They said the mission was not authorised. Swiss media said the country's army had asked for permission from the French air force - not local authorities. The water was needed to save the cows from dehydration during a heat wave. Christophe Mathez, deputy mayor of France's Les Rousses commune, said local officials had "no idea this operation would occur", the Associated Press news agency reports. However, Swiss military official Denis Froidevaux told the Swiss newspaper Le Matin: "As soon as they contacted us, we realised there was a communication problem and we immediately stopped." The Swiss air operation also startled local residents and tourists swimming in the lake, reports say.

Summary: Swiss army helicopters have crossed the French border to scoop up lake water to help thirsty cows, drawing criticism from French officials, it has emerged.


Kevin Lane, 47, was jailed for shooting dead car dealer Robert Magill in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire in 1994. Lane always said he was innocent and claimed a corrupt detective meant his conviction was unsafe. He took his case to the Court of Appeal last month. But a judge said his arguments were "speculative" and rejected his appeal. Lane's barrister told the court the detective who dealt with the case, Det Supt Chris Spackman, was "spectacularly corrupt". He was jailed in 2003 for plotting to steal Â£160,000 from Hertfordshire Police, the Court of Appeal heard. Lawyers argued his "reckless dishonesty" meant Lane's conviction for murder was "manifestly unsafe". Lady Justice Rafferty told the hearing: "The arguments are generalised criticism of Spackman's corrupt and dishonest behaviour.....which was adverse to Kevin Lane. "We are not persuaded that the safety of the conviction is in doubt and this application is rejected."

Summary: A convicted murderer who spent two decades in prison for a crime he denies committing has failed in his bid to clear his name.


In his first international 400m since breaking the world record in the 2016 Olympic final, the 24-year-old South African won in 43.62 seconds. It beat Michael Johnson's record at this meeting of 43.66, set in 1996. Britain's Laura Muir, 24, ran a personal best of one minute 58.69 seconds to finish fifth in the 800m. Compatriot Lynsey Sharp, 26, set a season's best of 1:58:80 to finish seventh in a race won by Burundi's Francine Niyonsaba in 1:56.82. Scot Muir, who has recently recovered from a stress fracture in a foot, said: "You do not realise the value of something until it is taken away from you." Eilidh Doyle, 30, ran a season's best 54.36 in finishing third the 400m hurdles. Fellow Britain James Dasaolu, 29, was fifth in the 100m in 10.12 as 35-year-old American Justin Gatlin won in 9.96.

Summary: World record holder Wayde van Niekerk ran the fastest 400m time of the year on his return to action at the Diamond League meeting in Lausanne.


The teenager had been detained after supply teacher Vincent Uzomah, 50 was attacked at Dixons Kings Academy on Thursday. Mr Uzomah was stabbed in the stomach with a knife but is stable in hospital, police said. The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is due before Bradford Youth Remand Court on Saturday. He has also been charged with possession of cannabis. It is thought Mr Uzomah, who is married with two children, had only been working at the school for four weeks. Friends and neighbours paid tribute him, with one family friend saying members of the Nigerian community in West Yorkshire had been left "really distraught" by the attack. Mr Uzomah's neighbour June Hayes, said: "He is a very gentle and loving and caring man. "I'm just so sorry this has happened to him."

Summary: A 14-year-old boy has been charged with attempted murder after a teacher was stabbed at a Bradford school.


The pictures were taken at his home in Norfolk to celebrate the little prince turning three. Photographer Matt Porteous took the shots in July at Anmer Hall. The photos show George playing on a swing and eating ice cream on a picnic blanket with his cute dog Lupo, an English Cocker Spaniel. A Kensington Palace spokesman said: "The Duke and Duchess hope that people will enjoy seeing these new photographs. "They would like to thank everyone for all the lovely messages they have received as Prince George celebrates his third birthday."

Summary: Photographs of Prince George have been released by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to mark his birthday.


Australian Open semi-finalist Johanna Konta pulled out of the team earlier this week because of illness. Captain Judy Murray's team face South Africa and Georgia from Thursday in their bid to win promotion from Euro/Africa Zone Group 1. Swann, 16, was a beaten finalist in the 2015 Australian Open junior final. British number two Heather Watson will also play in the singles, while Jocelyn Rae and Anna Smith compete in the doubles. Great Britain meet South Africa and Georgia in a three-team group, with the winners advancing to a play-off tie on Saturday. Another play-off awaits the winners in April, when one more victory finally clinches promotion to World Group Two.

Summary: Teenager Katie Swan has been selected as one of Great Britain's singles representatives for this week's Fed Cup tie in Israel.


The mother-of-four was among 38 people killed when a gunman opened fire at Sousse on 26 June. The funeral for Ms Jones, who was 51 and from Blackwood, Caerphilly, will be held at St David's Church in the town at 12:00 BST on 13 July. An inquest into her death at West London Coroner's Court was told she died from a single shot. In a statement, her family said: "Our mother of all people didn't deserve this, such a caring person who put everyone else before herself."

Summary: A funeral will be held on Monday for the Tunisia beach attack victim, Trudy Jones.


The 20-year-old was confronted by four men who asked about his sexual orientation before one sprayed his legs with an aerosol and set them alight. It happened in the grounds of Holy Trinity Church on Yarm Lane in Stockton at about 03:00 BST on Wednesday. Det Insp Jon Tapper said Cleveland Police were classing it as a "hate motivated crime". "We believe this occurred because of how the suspects perceived the victim to be, and what they perceived the victim to be, which is clearly not acceptable," he said. "This is a residential area - a number of people use the park, including children - and the fact that people may attack somebody randomly and without motive is very concerning." The man has been released from University Hospital of North Tees after having skin grafts on his calves. Police have appealed for witnesses.

Summary: A homophobic attack on a man set on fire and seriously injured is "very concerning", police have said.


In February, 2 Sisters factory in Llangefni announced 270 jobs were under threat as it planned to "simplify" its business. The company said compulsory redundancies had been restricted to 14, and 37 workers had taken voluntary redundancy. It said 170 agency workers had not had their contracts renewed. In a statement, 2 Sisters said: "After many of weeks of consultations with our colleagues, we can confirm that the site has now moved to the proposed operating model which the business presented two months ago. "This has been a very difficult time for all parties and we would like to thank everyone for their understanding during this period of uncertainty."

Summary: Fifty jobs have been saved from redundancy at an Anglesey poultry plant.


The Millers have been without a permanent boss since Kenny Jackett quit on 28 November after only five games and 39 days at the helm. Jackett had taken over from Alan Stubbs, who was fired in October after less than five months as manager. Warne, 43, will continue to be assisted by coaches Matt Hamshaw, John Breckin and Mike Pollitt. The former midfielder made 292 appearances for the Millers as a player, before joining the club's coaching staff following his retirement in 2012. In December, he said he had no interest in taking the managerial job at the New York Stadium on a full-time basis. Rotherham are bottom of the Championship table, 12 points adrift of safety.

Summary: Rotherham interim manager Paul Warne will stay in charge of the Championship strugglers until the end of the season.


The pundit and radio host was ordered to pay Â£24,000 in damages to food blogger Jack Monroe earlier this month. Ms Monroe sued Ms Hopkins over two tweets posted in May 2015 which accused her of vandalising a war memorial. Mr Justice Warby said the grounds of Ms Hopkins' appeal would not have "a real prospect of success" in his view. Ms Hopkins has also been ordered to pay Â£107,000 towards the campaigner's legal costs within 28 days. He ruled that the tweets had caused "Ms Monroe real and substantial distress" and she was entitled to "fair and reasonable compensation". The final costs figure has yet to be assessed. Mail Online columnist Ms Hopkins could appeal directly to the Court of Appeal. Following the original verdict, she argued that libel and defamation laws should be applied differently to cases involving social media.

Summary: Columnist Katie Hopkins has been told she cannot appeal against a libel action which landed her with a six-figure bill.


The ex-Roma boss, 52, was appointed last week after Marseille's takeover by American businessman Frank McCourt. Garcia's side failed to register a shot on goal in the match but defended brilliantly at the Parc des Princes. Edinson Cavani was denied a penalty and missed a hat-trick of chances for the hosts as PSG lost ground on Ligue 1 leaders Nice, who won 4-2 at Metz. Alassane Plea's hat-trick for Nice helped clinch an impressive away win for the Cote d'Azur side as they moved on to 26 points. Nice are now four points ahead of Monaco and six points clear of third-placed PSG.

Summary: Rudi Garcia's first game in charge of Marseille ended in a battling goalless draw against Paris St-Germain.


The 26-year-old joins after leaving Panathinaikos in Greece. The midfielder has extensive experience of playing in Spain, having previously turned out for Granada, Las Palmas, Espanyol, Villareal and Elche. Wakaso has played for the Black Stars since 2012 and played five matches at this year's Africa Cup of Nations. "Deportivo Alaves want to welcome Wakaso and wish him much luck in this new stage," the club said in a statement. Wakaso has also played in Russia, with Rubin Kazan, and Scotland, with reigning champions Celtic. Alaves finished in La Liga last season.

Summary: Ghana international Mubarak Wakaso has signed a three-year deal with La Liga side Alaves.


A blaze ripped through the building and destroyed the roof on 14 April. Three boys, all aged 17, and a 15-year-old girl have been released on bail and are due to appear at Halton Youth Court on 29 July. No further action will take place against two boys and a girl, all aged 17, who were also arrested in April, Cheshire Police said. At its height, 70 firefighters tackled the fire at the premises on Wilson Patten Street. No-one was injured in the blaze at the former nightclub, which closed in 2010. Mr Smiths was a regular setting for the ITV Granada show The Hit Man and Her, which was presented by Pete Waterman and Michaela Strachan between 1988 and 1992.

Summary: Four teenagers have been charged with arson after a fire at the former Warrington nightclub Mr Smiths.


Josh Ginnelly, on loan from Burnley, converted Ryan Crowther's cross to give Altrincham the lead. But Simon Heslop's glancing header from Kayden Jackson's cross brought Wrexham level before the interval. Robbie Evans, Blaine Hudson and Connor Jennings all had good opportunities to secure victory for the visitors in the second half. Gary Mills' Wrexham are 12th in the table, four points behind the play-off spots, while Altrincham remain in 19th. Wrexham manager Gary Mills told BBC Radio Wales Sport: "You don't get many games where you get chances like we have had in the second half and haven't taken them. "It's come back to bite us again and another two points have gone missing. "We know we need to win games now. We're four points off that fifth spot and it's still up for grabs."

Summary: Wrexham came from behind against lowly Altrincham to claim their third successive National League draw.


The 42-year-old Spaniard did not take training on Saturday and assistant Steve Agnew was in charge for Sunday's 2-0 defeat at Charlton. Karanka was thought to be considering his future at the Championship club. But a Middlesbrough statement on Monday said he "will be resuming first-team duties with the club with immediate effect". It added: "We have 10 games left this season and as a club we are fully focussed on what remains of our Championship campaign." Karanka took charge at the Riverside in November 2013. His Middlesbrough side were top of the table by six points on 12 January, but they are now seven points behind leaders Burnley. Have you added the new Top Story alerts in the BBC Sport app? Simply head to the menu in the app - and don't forget you can also add score alerts for the Six Nations, your football team and more.

Summary: Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka is to stay at the club after walking out of training following a row last week.


Quick-Step Floors, Team Sky, BMC Racing, Movistar Team and Orica-Scott are among 10 UCI WorldTour teams who will be racing, organisers confirmed. Britons Mark Cavendish and Geraint Thomas, European road race champion Alexander Kristoff and world time trial champion Tony Martin plan to race. The Tour of Britain starts in Edinburgh on 3 September. There are 20 teams in total taking part and a provisional list of all 120 riders will be released later in August. "We are delighted with this year's line-up of teams and with riders of the calibre of Geraint Thomas, Mark Cavendish and Alexander Kristoff coming out to say they will be targeting the Tour of Britain, this bodes for a fantastic spectacle for fans," said race director Mick Bennett.

Summary: The top five ranked teams in world cycling will all be taking part in this year's Tour of Britain.


The visually-impaired athlete completed the 750m swim, 20km bike run and 5km run in one hour 14 minutes 53 seconds. There were silvers for Ryan Taylor (PT2) and Kerry Large (PT4), ahead of debutant Ruth Wilson, who took bronze. In another World Series Event in Yokohama, Japan, Mark Conway claimed bronze in the PT1 event. The Series next heads to Strathclyde Park in Glasgow on 4-5 June as athletes continue to fight for ranking points ahead of the sport's Paralympic debut in Rio in September. The World Triathlon Series: Yokohama highlights will be broadcast on BBC2 at 14:00 BST and then on the BBC Sport iPlayer.

Summary: Melissa Reid and her guide Hazel Smith have claimed PT5 gold in the ITU World Paratriathlon Event Series in Aguilas, Portugal.


Police were called to Brennen Wharf in South Australia's Port Lincoln after witnesses saw the white Ford drive into the water early on Monday. The act "appeared deliberate" and the car quickly sank in 30m (nearly 100ft) of water, police said. Divers later recovered the bodies. They also found a rifle with a telescopic sight, local media said. "It's obviously a tragedy for the community," said Port Lincoln Mayor Bruce Green, according to the newspaper. Speaking at a press conference on Monday afternoon, Detective Superintendent Paul Yeomans confirmed that the three were from a Port Lincoln family. "We are not treating it as an accident," he said. The car is reported to have been driven at very high speed before hitting the water. South Australia Police appealed to the public for more information.

Summary: A father and his two children have drowned after their car was driven off the end of a wharf in Australia.


Their innings defeat by Surrey left Hampshire 23 points from the safety of seventh place with six games left. Hampshire required a late revival to avoid relegation last season and Smith is confident of a repeat performance. "We've got six games left in the season as we'll approach every one of those as winnable," he told BBC Radio Solent. "We've just got to take the positives really and make sure we keep fighting. Acting four-day captain Smith added: "This point last year, we'd won one and lost five. This year, we've won one and lost three, so in all intents and purposes we're actually ahead of the game. "We don't want another great escape, but we know we're going in the right direction. "We've been hard to beat this year and we've just got to keep maintaining and believing that, which I know the guys do."

Summary: Will Smith believes Hampshire can pull off another "great escape" despite being left adrift at the bottom of County Championship Division One.


The 27-year-old, who won heptathlon gold at London 2012, tied the knot with Andy Hill in the village of Hathersage. Having returned to training following her triumph at London 2012, the Sheffield athlete chose to miss the 2013 indoor season to concentrate on this summer's World Championships. Her outdoor season is due to start on 8 June at Edinburgh's Meadowbank Stadium. She will then join fellow British gold medallists Greg Rutherford and Mo Farah at the London 2012 Anniversary Games, held at the Olympic Stadium, from 26-28 July. Ennis will compete in the 100m hurdles and long jump. She met Hill at school and the couple have been together for about eight years. He proposed to her on Christmas Eve in 2011. In an interview last December, the 27-year-old said she was enjoying planning her "medium-sized" wedding and was "loving all the girlie stuff".

Summary: Olympic champion Jessica Ennis married her long-term partner at a church in Derbyshire's Peak District on Saturday.


He was shot after an intruder forced entry to his family's home in Sydney at 0600 local time (GMT 2000). The gunman kicked down the door and threatened the boy's mother before entering his room and shooting him at very close range, police said. His step-father and young step-siblings were also in the house at the time. The boy was taken unconscious to hospital soon after, where he later died. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Brett earlier told reporters that the teenager's mother was "extremely distressed". The gunman covered his face but is described as being fairly tall, of thin build and aged between 18 and 20. Police have appealed to the public for information.

Summary: A 15-year-old Australian boy has died after being shot in his bed in what police describe as an "execution style" shooting.


The 22-year-old ex-Newcastle man failed to make a league start or score a goal for the Cobblers in his previous spell at the club in the 2013-14 season. Hooper is reunited with boss Rob Page at Sixfields, for whom he scored five goals in 30 games at Vale last season. "Did I get the best out of him? I'd like to think so and hope I can again," Page told BBC Radio Northampton. "He is a big physical lad, he was at Northampton before and he has matured a hell of a lot since then. "He has experience and league goals now under his belt and grown in confidence because of that, and that will hold him in good stead hopefully in his second spell at Northampton Town." Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Northampton Town have re-signed striker JJ Hooper on loan from League One rivals Port Vale until 9 January.


Zac Evans died and two other men were injured on 24 January outside The Pike and Musket pub in Tuffley, Gloucester. A motorcycle hearse carried Mr Evans' coffin to the city's cathedral, where around 300 people - including friends and family - wore items of blue clothing in his memory. A 44-year-old man has been charged with murder and attempted murder. The Reverend Bruce Clifford said the funeral would be a "great occasion". He said: "It's going to be a tremendous day because I know that all the support of the family, over the last four weeks, will reach a climax. "In the midst of this sorrow and tragedy, the family are finding a way to express joy, and in expressing joy rekindle the life of Zac. "He had such a zest for life."

Summary: Hundreds of people have gathered for the funeral of a 19-year-old killed in a machete-style attack last month.


Halifax beat seventh-tier side Nantwich Town 6-4 on aggregate to secure a first trip to Wembley in the club's history. Jordan Burrow scored both goals as they drew Saturday's semi-final second leg 2-2 in front of 3,009 fans at The Shay. Padraig Amond scored both of Grimsby's goals as they beat Bognor Regis 2-1 in their second leg at Blundell Park to complete a 3-1 aggregate success. Meanwhile, Hereford will meet Morpeth Town in the FA Vase final, which is to be staged on the same day. Hereford won 2-1 at Salisbury in their second leg, the Bulls going through 3-1 on aggregate, while Morpeth's Luke Carr scored an injury-time goal to earn a 4-3 aggregate win over Bowers & Pitsea.

Summary: National League rivals Halifax and Grimsby will contest the FA Trophy final at Wembley on Sunday, 22 May.


A Lebanese national named Osama Khayat allegedly confessed to buying ammunition and rockets for IS, said the Kuna state news agency, citing the interior ministry. Five others had been arrested, the report said. In June, 27 people died after an attack on one of Kuwait's oldest Shia mosques. It was the deadliest bombing in decades in the predominantly Sunni Muslim country. An affiliate group of IS calling itself Najd Province said it carried out the attack. IS has also said it was behind last week's attacks in Paris and Beirut. Kuwait's interior ministry said the cell had been helping to recruit fighters and raised money that was being funnelled to an IS-related bank account in Turkey. It said four members of the cell were outside Kuwait, including two Syrians and two Australian-Lebanese. It was unclear whether those four had been arrested.

Summary: Kuwait has arrested members of an alleged cell accused of supplying funds and weapons to the so-called Islamic State (IS), reports say.


Robert Trigg is accused of murdering girlfriend Susan Nicholson, 52, at a property in Rowlands Road, Worthing, West Sussex, on 16 April 2011. He has also been charged with the manslaughter of Caroline Devlin, 35, who was found dead in bed in Cranworth Road, Worthing, on 26 March 2006. Mr Trigg, of Park Crescent, Worthing, is next due in court in January. He was remanded in custody after appearing first via video-link at Hastings Magistrates' Court and then at Guildford Crown Court. No pleas were entered to the two charges. He will appear at Lewes Crown Court on 20 January.

Summary: A 52-year-old man has appeared in court charged with killing two women in the same town, five years apart.


The 23-year-old free agent had been with Northern Premier League Premier Division side Warrington Town since a brief early season stay at League Two side Accrington Stanley. He left Scottish Championship side Raith Rovers to move to Accrington. The ex-Ipswich trainee had two seasons at Raith, making 87 appearances. He also played north of the border for both Kilmarnock and Cowdenbeath. McKeown, who can play as a full-back, wing-back or winger, will be available for the New Year`s Day home fixture against Wrexham, who beat the Sandgrounders 1-0 on Boxing Day. Steve Burr's Southport, who are 21st in the National League, hope to make a further loan signing in time for the return game with fellow strugglers Wrexham. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Southport have signed former Northern Ireland Under-21 utility player Rory McKeown to aid their battle to escape relegation from the National League.


Speaking in response to a comment about it being "a lovely sunny day," Lord Morrow said: "It's hot. Yes, the boilers are all working." Mrs Foster replied: "Stop". The (RHI) scheme was set up to encourage uptake of eco-friendly heat systems over the use of fossil fuels. But its overgenerous offer of fuel subsidies meant it could cost taxpayers an extra Â£490m. Some politicians hit out on social media at the exchange shown on BBC's Newsline. Alliance Leader Naomi Long reacted on Twitter saying, "Nothing as amusing as risking Â£480m of tax payer's money, Lord Morrow? Except this joke's on all of us." TUV leader Jim Allister said, "Frivolous remark today by DUP Chair, Lord Morrow, about the boilers all being on, shows DUP just doesn't get it. Voters do." The DUP has been contacted for comment.

Summary: There has been condemnation from some political parties of an exchange between DUP party chairman Lord Morrow and former First Minister Arlene Foster on Friday.


Activity at US factories remained at a two-year low in September. In China manufacturing activity contracted to a six-and-a-half year low. Suppliers to Volkswagen continued to be hit after the world's largest carmaker admitted to deceiving US regulators over emissions tests. Shares in Delphi Automotive fell 0.5% and Honeywell lost 1.5%. On the Nasdaq Clean Diesel Technologies opened up 10.6%, but later fell back to close 4% higher. The Dow Jones fell 0.3% to 16,279, the S&P 500 lost 0.2% to close at 1,938 and the Nasdaq Composite closed a fraction lower at 4,752. "The market looks tired and flat, and there is some hesitation to commit with earnings coming out in two weeks and worries about China and the impact on companies that do a lot of business overseas," said Daniel Morgan, senior portfolio manager at Synovus Trust Company.

Summary: (Close): US shares closed lower - depressed by weak reports on the US and Chinese economies.


The South African's decision comes a week after compatriot Louis Oosthuizen withdrew, while two other Masters champions, Fiji's Vijay Singh and Adam Scott of Australia, will also not play. "We had a great team but now obviously it will not be as good," said South Africa team captain Gary Player. Golf returns to the Olympics after a 112-year absence at the Rio games. Three-time major winner Singh said fears over the Zika virus would prevent him competing in Brazil, while Scott pulled out in order to focus on the PGA Tour. The Games take place from 5 to 21 August, with the men's golf tournament ending on 14 August. Never want to miss the latest golf news? You can now add this sport and all the other sports and teams you follow to your personalised My Sport home.

Summary: Former Masters champion Charl Schwartzel is the latest high-profile player to opt out of the Rio Olympics.


The thieves stole around Â£1,000 from the Compass Advocacy Network (CAN) in Ballymoney in January. But now, the Holywood star, who recently met the group in Belfast, has donated a "substantial sum" to help the charity. CAN works with children aged between 12 and 18 with learning difficulties. The money stolen from the charity's Seymour Street ofices was raised during the BBC Children in Need campaign. The manager of the charity, Linda McKendry, said they were "really, really touched" by Troyer's generosity. In a letter to CAN he said: "I heard what happened and I just wanted to help you and the kids. "Please tell them hello from me. Also, remember you can do anything you set your mind to, always be optimistic." CAN is a registered charity that employs eight people and uses about 25 volunteers. Around 240 people use the services the charity provides on a regular basis.

Summary: Austin Powers star Verne Troyer has made a donation to a County Antrim disabled children's charity that was recently targeted by burglars.


Net income at the company fell to $223.8m (Â£145m) in the three months to September, down from $331.8m a year earlier, while Barbie doll sales fell by 4%. The stronger dollar also hurt revenue from overseas markets. The chief executive, Christopher Sinclair, said the results were "broadly in line" with expectations. The company has been struggling as children increasingly turn to electronic games and tablets. This is the eighth consecutive quarter of declining sales for the 56-year-old Barbie brand. "We're very encouraged by the progress we are making on reenergizing the company," Mr Sinclair said. "As we continue our turnaround efforts, we remain comfortable with our full-year outlook." Nearly half of Mattel's revenue came from international markets last year and Mr Sinclair expects the strong dollar to "continue to be a headwind".

Summary: A fall in the sales of the Barbie doll has hit earnings at the US toymaker Mattel.


The RSPCA said a member of the public found the bag containing the shih tzu in their green bin on Eastview Close in Prenton, Birkenhead, on Tuesday. The female dog had suffered a broken neck, a broken leg, had extensive bruising, a prolapsed eye and multiple puncture wounds to her lower jaw and legs. The RSPCA is appealing for information. Also in the bag was an extra-extra-large pink hoodie with "Discover Life Club" on the front and a strip of red carpet. RSPCA inspector Anthony Joynes said: "The injuries don't appear to be consistent with her being hit by a car. "I am keen to find out what has happened in this little dog's final moments as it is clear she must have suffered immensely. I would urge anyone with any information to come forward." The dog was microchipped but the microchip had not been registered, Mr Joynes said.

Summary: A dead dog has been found dumped in a plastic bag decorated with the words "do not open until Christmas day".


The PARAS'10 race in Colchester is run by soldiers and civilians, some of whom carry 35lbs (16kg) packs. High heat and humidity had been forecast, meaning "medical risk to the safety of runners was too high". "A hard call had to be made in light of weather," tweeted organisers from the charity Support Our Paras. "There are real dangers of heat exhaustion even for highly fit soldiers and since two-thirds of the PARAS'10 field are tabbing with 35lbs, this carries genuine risk for all. "A serious casualty would be the end of the event," the charity wrote in a statement. The event, which organisers say is regarded as "the ultimate 10 mile endurance race," has been rescheduled to take place on 15 November.

Summary: An "ultimate" 10-mile endurance race due to take place on Saturday has been postponed because of a predicted "deterioration in the weather".


Rates are property taxes - they are made up of the regional rate and the district rate which is set by councils. Mr Storey said the 1.7% increase is a real term freeze, when inflation is considered. Although CPI (Consumer Price Index) inflation is 0.3%, a different measure based on UK GDP is used in public finance accounting. Mr Storey said: "By freezing the regional rate in real terms for the sixth year in a row, the Executive has aimed to strike a balance between the needs of ratepayers during challenging economic times and ensuring that public finances are sufficient to cover the priorities we have set ourselves."

Summary: Household and business regional rates will rise by 1.7% in April, Finance Minister Mervyn Storey has confirmed.


An estimated 330lbs (150kg) of what is believed to be mephedrone and amphetamine were found hidden in a flat in Garston, south Liverpool, on Friday. Officers were led to the flat in Lowbridge Court after Merseyside Police followed a car to a tyre fitting yard. Five men have been arrested on suspicion of drugs offences. Titan, the regional organised crime unit in north-west England, said the Ford Fiesta was tailed to a unit on the Huyton Industrial Estate in Huyton. About 24,000 ecstasy tablets, 9lbs (4kg) of amphetamine and 2lbs (1kg) of cocaine was seized - some of which were hidden within a tyre. Further enquiries led detectives to the flat, where the huge find was discovered. The arrested men, aged between 22 and 44, are in police custody for questioning.

Summary: Police have uncovered a massive haul of drugs worth an estimated £25m, including dozens of bags of white powder stuffed inside a fridge.


Reports of trouble were received at areas including the High Street, railway station and near Inverurie Academy from about 20:00 on Monday. As many as 30 young people - some believed to have travelled from outlying areas - were involved. Police said several people were issued with anti-social behaviour fixed penalties. There were no reports of injuries. Six people were previously charged in connection with anti-social behaviour following reports of youths congregating in Inverurie on Friday and Saturday. Sgt Willie Murdoch said: "This kind of anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated. "A team of officers are investigating these incidents and several lines of enquiry are being pursued including examination of CCTV. "Anyone identified as being involved in disorderly behaviour will be apprehended and there will be consequences for those involved."

Summary: Disturbances involving about 30 youths in an Aberdeenshire town were pre-arranged, police believe.


Jack Glenn, 23, was wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt, dark tracksuit bottoms and blue trainers when he entered the water from the Foyle Bridge. The Glenn family have been liaising with the Foyle Search and Rescue team and the PSNI. Searches were held on Saturday along both sides of the River Foyle. A candlelit vigil will be held at the Peace Bridge on Saturday evening. Peter Tait, a family relative, told the BBC: "We will not stop searching for Jack until he is found. "He was a wonderful young man. He was very caring and well known for his sport. "The family is finding it incredibly tough. They are devastated but they thank everyone for their help and support." He added: "We are asking people to talk to a loved one or a friend if they have a lot going on in their heads. Speaking out is key."

Summary: Hundreds of people have been searching for a Londonderry man who went into the River Foyle on Thursday.


Top of the list is its chief Ahmed Diriye with $250,000 (Â£169,000) offered for information leading to his capture. A list of their names, nicknames and origins was issued after a cabinet meeting - and a week after al-Shabab's attack on a Kenyan university. Official figures put the number of dead in the raid on Garissa University College at 148 - most of them students. The al-Qaeda-affiliated militants have promised a "long, gruesome war" against Kenya, which has troops in the African Union force in neighbouring Somalia. The AU and Somali government troops have recaptured major cities from the militants in Somalia in recent years, but al-Shabab still holds territory in rural areas of the south. Rewards: Why target Kenya?

Summary: Somalia's government has placed a bounty on the top 11 leaders of the militant Islamist al-Shabab group.