Kingfisher shares rose 3.7% after its new chief executive Veronique Laury unveiled plans to revamp the business, which also include the closure of some loss-making stores in Europe. The FTSE 100 index rose 6.90 points to 6,898.33. Outsourcing firm Mitie fell 5.9% after it issued a profit warning. The company said that due to "market pressures in the homecare and social housing businesses we expect our full year headline operating profit to be slightly below current market expectations". Thomas Cook shares rose 2.3% after the travel firm said it was on track to meet full-year forecasts, helped by strong winter bookings. On the currency markets, the pound fell 0.21% against the dollar to $1.4779, while against the euro, sterling rose 0.39% to â‚¬1.3719.

Summary: (Open): Shares in Kingfisher led the FTSE 100 higher after it announced plans to close about 60 B&Q stores over the next two years.


Okaka, 27, scored 17 goals last season as Anderlecht reached the last 16 of the Europa League and finished third in the Belgian Pro League. He also had a four-month loan spell at Fulham in 2010, scoring twice in 11 Premier League appearances. The ex-Roma player has also scored once in four appearances for Italy but missed out on a place at Euro 2016. Watford have yet to win in the Premier League this season, with home defeats by Chelsea and Arsenal and a draw at Southampton. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Watford have signed Italy striker Stefano Okaka from Anderlecht on a five-year deal for an undisclosed fee.


The driver and passenger were in a people carrier which was in collision with a lorry and a third vehicle in the early hours, Surrey Police said. Other people who were travelling in the HGV and the third vehicle managed to escape uninjured after the crash at Junction 12 for the M3, near Chobham. Officers have not yet named those who died but have informed their relatives. M25 closures causing major disruption continued for about seven hours after the collision, which happened at about 03:10 BST, but the motorway has now fully reopened. Police and Highways England worked to recover the vehicles for investigation work. Anyone who saw what happened or who has dashcam footage is urged to contact Surrey Police.

Summary: Two people have died in a crash on the M25 in Surrey.


The double signing will be seen as a bold statement of intent from the club who have won the league title for the last two seasons. Lowry, 26, most recently had a brief spell with Portadown after moving to a job in London. Beverland, also 26, has spent his entire career with Coleraine. He was the side's captain and his departure will be a big blow to Bannsiders boss Oran Kearney. Crusaders had already completed two other high-profile signings in Ballymena United winger David Cushley and former Linfield captain Michael Gault who has moved to Seaview from Portadown.

Summary: Irish Premiership champions Crusaders have signed former Linfield and Derry City midfielder Philip Lowry and Coleraine defender Howard Beverland.


Steyn was injured during the first Test in Durban, missing the second in Cape Town as England earned a draw to retain a 1-0 lead in the four-match series. The third Test will start on Thursday without the 32-year-old, who has missed four of South Africa's last six Tests because of injury. "I don't think it's the end of Dale Steyn," said coach Russell Domingo. "All players will experience some sort of niggles." South Africa had included Steyn in their squad for the final two Tests of the series in the hope that he would be fit. Domingo added: "He is a great athlete. He is as fit as they can come. We know he is a great bowler. He is the best bowler in the world."

Summary: South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn is out of the third Test against England in Johannesburg with a shoulder injury.


The couple, believed to be in their 60s, were woken up by a smoke detector after the fire started on the ground floor of their St Pauls Avenue home. The pair, who were trapped upstairs, were given "life-saving" advice over the phone by Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service before firefighters arrived. South Central Ambulance Service took the couple to hospital for checks. Watch manager Paul Watts, of the fire service, said after the couple rang 999 "the control room were in contact with the occupants, giving them life-saving guidance on how to block smoke into the room they were in." Firefighters rescued them from the first floor 11 minutes later with a ladder from the window. Station Manager Jess James said the fire is believed to be electrical in origin and there was "no doubt" the couple's lives had been saved because of the smoke detectors.

Summary: Two people were rescued from a fire at their house in Slough.


The youth, from Leicestershire, was travelling north at Barrowby when he was struck by a car at about 22:30 BST on Tuesday, Lincolnshire Police said. The car driver failed to stop and police have appealed for anyone with dashboard footage to contact them. A man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in custody. The A1 northbound carriageway was closed until about 08:30 on Wednesday to allow police to examine the scene. Lincolnshire Police said it would not be releasing any further details about the arrested man due to an on-going investigation.

Summary: A 17-year-old scooter rider was killed in a hit-and-run crash on the A1 near Grantham in Lincolnshire.


Christopher Cambray, 42, who has won awards for his work with Warwickshire Police, pleaded guilty to six sexual offences against children. These included sexual activity with a child and making indecent images of children, Birmingham Crown Court was told. The former sergeant, from Shrewley in Warwickshire, will be sentenced on 27 November. Warwickshire Police said Cambray was dismissed "at the earliest possible opportunity" by a special case hearing chaired by the chief constable, Cambray had been trying to appeal against his dismissal, a spokesman said. Det Insp Vikki Reay said: "Throughout the investigation, our key concern has been the welfare, protection and wellbeing of the children involved."

Summary: A police officer has admitted paying a child for sex acts.


The Glasgow-born pair, both 19, have penned two-and-a-half-year deals and will play initially for the Under-21s. Striker Jack, has played four league games for Doncaster, while central defender Paul has made one appearance in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy. "It's a massive club. As soon as I heard Leeds wanted to bring us here, I said 'yes' straight away," Jack said. "I've played with my brother for a long time and we know each other's game well," he told the club website. "It works especially well with him being at the back and me being up front. I can make runs and I don't even have to call for the ball from him. "He knows how I play and I know how to make runs for him. He knows where I'll be." Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Leeds United have signed teenage twins Jack and Paul McKay from Doncaster Rovers for undisclosed fees.


You could buy over 3 million PS4 or X Box One consoles with it! There are a record 1,826 billionaires across the globe and topping that list is Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft. But he's no stranger to the top spot - he's been named the richest man in the world in 16 out of the last 25 years! Minecraft creator Markus Persson made the list and 24-year-old Snapchat co-founder Evan Spiegel has been named the youngest billionaire. The list is made each year by American magazine Forbes - which is why people's worth is measured in US dollars, rather than pounds. There are also more women than ever on the list - 197 in total. People who work in technology, making websites, apps and games, are a big part of the list. Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg got into the top 20 richest people for the first time.

Summary: A new list of the world's richest people is out and it shows there are more billionaires than ever before.


Former Wales captain Rees, 34, was sent off during the Blues' Challenge Cup defeat by Quins. Judicial officer Pat Barriscale issued Rees with a 12-week ban but reduced the penalty because of Rees' guilty plea and "clean disciplinary record". Rees can return on 11 January 2016 and has the right to appeal the decision. In the meantime, he will miss the Blues' European Challenge Cup double-header against Montpellier and their Christmas Pro12 derby fixtures. Under World Rugby's sanctions for foul play, low-end suspensions for stamping last up to two weeks, mid-range five weeks and top-end bans can last between nine and 52 weeks. At Wednesday's hearing in London, Barriscale decided the offence was at the top end but reduced the sanction, also taking into account Rees' "timely expression of remorse to Easter".

Summary: Cardiff Blues hooker Matthew Rees has been suspended for seven weeks following his red card for stamping on Harlequins number eight Nick Easter.


The Scots company was founded 152 years ago in Greenock, and until today, it remained in the hands of the Williamson family for seven generations. Algie's pioneered fair trade coffee and espresso in the British market. It now employs 220 people, supplying premium brand coffee to restaurants and cafes throughout the UK and Ireland. Under German ownership, it is to operate separately under its current management, and the brand is to be retained, with the potential for expansion into Tchibo's existing markets in central Europe. Tchibo is one of the world's biggest coffee roasters, with annual turnover of more than Â£3bn. It has been in the British market for 25 years.

Summary: Matthew Algie, the Glasgow-based coffee supplier, has been sold to Tchibo, its giant German rival, for an undisclosed sum.


Two homes caught fire after being struck at about 02:05 BST on Saturday in Nelson Crescent, Longstanton. One of the owners said he rushed up to the third floor, where his six-year-old son was sleeping, after hearing a "loud bang", before leaving the property. It was "heartbreaking" to watch his home burn, he said. The roof and top floors of both homes were gutted. Four crews from Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service tackled the blaze. At one point they were forced to withdraw as the roof was unstable. The fire service confirmed the blaze was caused by a lightning strike. Neighbours rallied round to help the occupiers. Lucy Frost, who lives nearby the stricken homes, said they provided them with food and drink and took in the man's child. "The place looks devastating, now," she said.

Summary: A man had to rescue his son from a top floor bedroom after his roof was struck by lightning in Cambridgeshire.


Events will take place throughout Llandudno as an extension of the annual Craft of Comedy UK conference which will be happening at Venue Cymru. The fringe kicks off on Saturday with a slightly reduced version of the West End show Showstopper! The Improvised Musical. The authors of Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups will also be giving a talk. Steve Doherty, the conference's artistic director, said: "With the development of the fringe, we're hoping that we can spread a little laughter outside the walls of Venue Cymru and bring north Wales to the comedy industry."

Summary: A new mini comedy fringe festival is being held in a north Wales seaside town over the weekend.


Although England's James Anderson remained wicketless from his 16 overs, New Zealand left-armer Wagner weighed in with his share after Kyle Jarvis (3-72) had done the the early damage. From 98-6, captain Chris Read (52) and Stuart Broad (43) helped Notts recover. Responding to the visitors' 242 all out, Lancashire closed on 25-1. As well as his 43 from 45 balls, England all-rounder Broad looked lively with the ball too, sending down five overs in tandem with Jake Ball, who was rewarded with the scalp of Karl Brown in only his second over. Ball earlier performed well with the bat, continuing Notts' recovery by making 33 in an eight-wicket stand of 57 with Read, who had added 74 for the seventh wicket with Broad. Wagner's figures were the best by a bowler making his Lancashire first-class debut since 1923, had got stuck into the Notts top order.

Summary: Neil Wagner claimed 6-66 on his debut to help Lancashire gain control on the first day of the season at Old Trafford against Nottinghamshire.


Robertson, invited to the tournament after winning the Gdynia Open earlier this year, made a break of 114 on the way to opening up a 6-3 lead. Northern Irishman Allen struck a 112 in the final session, but Robertson took the 14th and 15th frames for the title. Ronnie O'Sullivan decided not to defend his title. The Englishman will also miss snooker's second most prestigious event, the UK Championship, which starts on on 24 November in York. "I played really well in the first session and the second was a little bit tighter," said Robertson, who took the £100,000 prize money. "I am very happy and it is the first major title I have picked up in over 12 months."

Summary: Australia's Neil Robertson comfortably beat Mark Allen 10-5 to claim the Champion of Champions title in Coventry.


The rain began on Saturday bringing flooding to parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan provinces. Pre-monsoon rains often cause damage in rural Pakistan and officials said locals had been warned to leave their villages for safer places. The summer monsoon season is even worse, last year killing dozens. The weekend's rains also saw dozens of people taken to hospital with injuries, a national disaster management official, Latif ur Rehman, told the Associated Press. Pictures showed shops and homes damaged, and bridges swept away. Habib Khan, from northern Swat valley, told local TV: "We're left on our own. Nobody from the government is coming to help us." Officials said tents and other relief goods had been sent to the region. Hundreds of people have also moved to safer areas, local media reports.

Summary: At least 53 people have been killed by flash floods caused by torrential rain in northwest Pakistan, say officials.


Rachel Slater, 24, and Tim Newton, 27, from Bradford, have not been seen since setting out to climb Ben Nevis. The couple were reported missing on Monday 15 February when they failed to return. The search operation has been hampered by poor weather, however, Police Scotland said the current search was expected to last all day due to "very favourable conditions". A total of 37 people are involved in the latest search which involves rescue teams from Lochaber, Oban, Dundonnel, Cairngorm and Skye as well as three search and rescue dogs with their handlers. Climbers and walkers in the area have been asked to report any information to police.

Summary: The search for a missing couple on Britain's highest mountain has resumed.


Mitchell, 34, followed manager Mauricio Pochettino from Southampton to White Hart Lane in 2014. He has helped recruit players like England midfielder Dele Alli and Belgium defender Toby Alderweireld. "Whilst most of our business has been completed, Mitch is keen to ensure we start the season in the best position," Spurs chairman Daniel Levy said. "We understand and respect his wish to consider new avenues. The priority right now is the final few weeks of the transfer window." Subscribe to the BBC Sport newsletter to get our pick of news, features and video sent to your inbox.

Summary: Tottenham Hotspur's head of recruitment Paul Mitchell will leave the club at "a future date to be mutually agreed".


A man called at a house in Sandys Street around midnight and, after an argument, shot the occupant in the leg. A short time later, another man, was taken from a house at Ardfield Avenue, Warrenpoint, by four masked men and driven to the Armagh Road, Newry, where he was then shot in leg. Their injuries are not thought to be life threatening. The Armagh Road has since re-opened. Supt Simon Walls said: "Our investigation into these incidents is at a very early stage and we are working to identify a motive for the shootings and if they are linked. "I would appeal for the public's assistance to help us identify and to take those responsible for these attacks off the streets."

Summary: Two men, aged 32, are being treated in hospital after two separate shooting incidents in Newry, County Down.


The 33-year-old Australian, whose current deal runs to the end of next summer, has 38 Championship wickets this season, after taking 58 last term. "As long as we can keep Clint we'll have him because he has been absolutely incredible for us," said Khan. "Clint's welcome here as long as he wants to play and he can carry on." He told BBC Radio Leicester that McKay's future at Grace Road beyond 2017 is "entirely" up to the player. He featured for Australia in all formats of the game, earning his only Test cap in 2009, and playing the last of 59 one-day internationals in 2014. Meanwhile, Leicestershire have offered Warwickshire seamer Richard Jones a two-year deal. Since arriving at Grace Road on loan in June, 29-year-old Jones has taken three Championship wickets and two in his solitary T20 Blast appearances for the Foxes so far.

Summary: Paceman Clint McKay has been offered an indefinite contract offer to stay with Leicestershire as long as he wishes, says chief executive Wasim Khan.


The 43-year-old man was attacked as he sat in his VW Golf in Palmerston Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex on Sunday evening. The victim, from Tunbridge Wells, was left with serious facial injuries at about 18:45 BST, police said. His attacker was black, aged 17 to 25, and wearing a dark blue or black hooded top, Essex Police confirmed. "The robbery happened very quickly, so he was unable to give a detailed description of the suspect," DC Stephen Baker, of Loughton CID, said. "However, we believe the suspect arrived at the scene in another car and I am appealing for anyone who saw what happened, or has any information to please get in touch."

Summary: A thief sprayed a "noxious" liquid in a driver's eyes before forcing him out of his car and driving off.


Just under 5,000 people cycled a 128km (79 mile) through Cambridgeshire on Sunday. The race started in Peterborough and catered for amateurs of all abilities on closed roads. Dubbed the 'Tour of Cambridgeshire', the route took in towns and villages across the county, including Alconbury and Whittlesey. Andrew Williams from club Cwmcarn Paragon won it for the men, with Cambridge's Laura Massey crowned the fastest woman. The Gran Fondo mass participation race, which is more common in Europe, marked the end of a weekend of cycling, with a 28km (17.4 mile) closed-road time trial taking place along the route on Saturday. Organisers said it had been successful and hoped the Gran Fondo would return in the future. Last summer, the county hosted the Tour de France's final English leg, with thousands of people lining the route to watch.

Summary: A cycle race billed by organisers as the UK's first ever Gran Fondo, or mass participation ride, has taken place.


Land Rover Bar, who started the day as leaders, won the first race before defending champions Oracle Team USA claimed victory in the second. The Britons' second-place finish in a closely fought final race was enough to secure a one-point victory. The result means that Ainslie's team are top of the 2016 series leaderboard. Ainslie, who raced with Oracle at the last America's Cup in 2013, is leading the team's bid to become the first ever British winner of the America's Cup. "I think that for a new team to be leading the World Series now is a good indication of how far we've come, but there's still a long way to go," Ainslie said. "The guys did an incredible job with the boat handling and that's what really got us out of some of the tough situations."

Summary: Britain's America's Cup team, led by Sir Ben Ainslie, claimed a tight victory on the final day of the World Series event in Portsmouth.


The attack happened in the Preston Road area sometime between 23:00 and midnight on Thursday. The victim was punched and kicked by the three men as he approached the railway bridge, resulting in a broken wrist. The suspects were described as being white and in their 20s. They had a brown staffie-type dog with them. Police have urged anyone with information to contact them. Det Con Ally Urquhart, from Livingston CID, said: "The victim suffered a painful hand injury during this assault and we're in the process of trying to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident. "Anyone who was in the Preston Road area late on Thursday evening and saw anything suspicious is asked to contact police immediately."

Summary: A 39-year-old man was attacked by three others as he walked along a road in Linlithgow.


The owner of the car had parked while visiting his brother on the street. He said "In life you have good days and bad days. This morning wasn't a good day. But I'm thankful me or my family wasn't in the car." The car was discovered partially in the hole by police in the early hours of the morning. It has since been lifted out by a crane. No-one was hurt in the incident. To find out more about sinkholes take a look at our special guide.

Summary: A car has fallen into the ground after a sinkhole appeared in a street in London.


Cumbria Police said officers were set to move into the Â£8.5m building, on St Andrew's Way, by the summer. The old station, on Market Street, was found to be no longer fit for purpose due to the limited number of custody suites, and would have been too expensive to refurbish. It is going on the market with a guide price of Â£850,000. Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said: "It will be sad for the police to move from the existing building, but time and the demands of policing have changed. "Therefore it is essential to have a building that meets the challenging demands of modern day policing."

Summary: The police station in Barrow has been put up for sale as work on the new force headquarters continues.


More than 30 firefighters were sent to W&S Recycling, on the Nuffield Industrial Estate in Poole, at about 15:45 BST. Black plumes of smoke can be seen coming from the site, near a residential area. Waste recycling has been affected by the blaze but there are no reports of any injuries, the fire service said. Nuffield Road has been closed. Six pumping appliances, an aerial appliance and water carrier have been deployed to the scene, it added.

Summary: A large fire has broken out at a recycling firm in Dorset.


Karon Thomas-Larkin, 47, taught five and six year olds at Cwmffrwdoer Primary School, Pontypool. She was later dismissed by the school after turning up smelling of alcohol seven times in a six-week period. She admitted unacceptable conduct at a General Teaching Council for Wales hearing in Cardiff. The disciplinary panel was told the incidents followed a period of sick leave, after a serious illness where she was treated in intensive care. Her union representative, David Browne, told the hearing: "This is a particularly sad case of health issues which had an impact on the set of circumstances." The panel said her behaviour fell short of that expected of a registered teacher and "undermines public trust and confidence in the profession".

Summary: A primary school teacher has been suspended from the teaching register for a year for turning up to classes smelling of alcohol.


The Spitfires beat Barrow 3-1 on Tuesday to extend their unbeaten league run to eight matches. Eastleigh have a game in hand on fifth-placed Tranmere, with four fixtures remaining in the regular season. "You can't control other results. We have to keep concentrating on ourselves," Todd told BBC Radio Solent. "You can only control your own games. It's hard not to look at the table, but you can't worry about it." Eastleigh host fellow promotion chasers Tranmere in their final home game on 23 April and have taken four points from an available six from their last two games at Grimsby and against Barrow. "We've got what we wanted from those games," said Todd. "The boys believe in themselves and they're really tight and working for each other."

Summary: Eastleigh manager Chris Todd has urged his players to focus on their own results after moving within a point of the National League play-off places.


The actress, who played Hayley Cropper in the ITV soap, was described as "a wonderful ambassador" for Hyndburn by Councillor Ken Moss. "The Freedom of the Borough is the highest honour we can bestow, and Julie Hesmondhalgh is most definitely a worthy recipient," he said. Born in Accrington, the 44-year-old is starring in Channel 4 drama Cucumber. About 10.2m viewers watched her Coronation Street character leave the soap last January by carrying out her wish to die rather than continue suffering from pancreatic cancer. In recent years, she has also appeared at the Manchester Royal Exchange theatre, starring in Blindsided and Black Roses: The Killing Of Sophie Lancaster. Hesmondhalgh, a patron of Accrington charity Maundy Relief, received her honour at a ceremony on Wednesday evening at Accrington and Rossendale College, where she studied as a teenager before moving to London to study drama and music.

Summary: Former Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh has been awarded the freedom of her Lancashire borough.


Emergency services were called to a house in East Calder on Sunday morning but 15-year-old Dione Melville was pronounced dead a short time later. Police Scotland said the girl's death was being treated as unexplained. Another two 15-year-old girls were taken to St John's Hospital in Livingston as a precaution. A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "Police in West Lothian were called to an address in the East Calder area at around 9.50am on Sunday March 27 following a report of concern for a teenager. "The Scottish Ambulance Service attended and a 15-year-old girl was sadly pronounced dead a short time later. "Two girls, also aged 15, were taken to St John's Hospital as a precaution. "The death is currently being treated as unexplained. A report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal and inquiries are continuing."

Summary: Police are understood to be investigating whether drugs were involved in the death of a teenager in West Lothian at the weekend.


Tinodiwanashe Makwanya was shot in the head as he sat in the passenger side of a Volkswagon car just after 22:00 BST on Friday. Officers said it is thought a motorcyclist with a pillion passenger pulled up alongside the car on Wellesley Road in Croydon. The car driver took the victim to hospital, where police were alerted. Six minutes after police were first called, officers were told Mr Makwanya had died when he arrived at the hospital. Det Insp Domenica Catino said: "Croydon town centre would have been busy with people out and about on a Friday night and I would appeal to anyone who was in the area and saw the events unfolding to contact police. "At this stage we retain an open mind to the motive for this shooting and our enquiries continue." No-one has been arrested in connection with the shooting.

Summary: A 24-year-old man who was killed in a fatal drive-by shooting in south London has been named.


Grainger, 41, won silver in the double sculls at this year's Rio Olympics - the fifth Olympic medal of her career. The ball at Battersea Evolution was hosted by double Olympic bronze-winning diver Tom Daley and Strictly Come Dancing co-host Claudia Winkleman. The GB women's hockey team, who claimed gold in Rio, won the Great Britain's Choice award. Grainger took a two-year break from rowing after winning Olympic gold at London 2012, following silver medals at Sydney, Athens and Beijing. But after a selection ordeal where her place was only confirmed six weeks beforehand, she won silver with Victoria Thornley in Brazil.

Summary: Scottish rower Katherine Grainger won the Olympians' Olympian award at the 2016 Team GB ball in London.


Scobbie, 29, has signed a two-year deal with the Championship outfit after five years in Perth. "I am excited to join United. It is a great club with fantastic support," Scobbie told United's official website. "When I spoke to the manager [Ray McKinnon], I knew this was where I wanted to sign and I am delighted to have my future secured." Scobbie is United's third summer signing, following the arrivals of James Keatings and Billy King on pre-contracts agreements. "Thomas is an excellent defender who can play both left-back and central, and he will enhance our defensive options," said the United boss. "As important, he is also a great organiser, a real leader with plenty of experience and these are vital characteristics for me. "We need to add more players, and I expect to further add to the squad before pre-season begins."

Summary: Dundee United have signed former St Johnstone defender Tam Scobbie after his contract expired at McDiarmid Park.


An image has been issued of the rider who was at an "unauthorised motorbike meet" at which a crash in Corringham left a woman needing her leg amputated. Det Insp Scott Egerton, of Essex Police, said the crashed bike was seen being loaded into a van with "Essex Vehicle Hire" on the side. "This was a really serious crash at an unauthorised motorbike meet," he said. "We need to identify those people pictured, locate them and speak to them. I also want to locate the bike and the van. "A number of people at this event were wearing black hooded tops with a white logo on the back. I am keen to identify what that logo is, what it refers to, and if it identifies a group they belong to."

Summary: A man who rode a moped while standing up on its seat in Essex is being hunted by police.


US businesses added 227,000 jobs last month, official figures showed, well above forecasts of about 175,000. The Dow Jones rose 98.69 points, or 0.5%, to 19,983.60 in early trade. Bank shares on the Dow were higher on expectations that Donald Trump will order a review of major regulations affecting the sector, which were brought in after the financial crisis, Goldman Sachs was up 2.3% while JP Morgan Chase climbed 1.6%. The wider S&P 500 index rose 9.86 points to 2,290.71 while the tech-focused Nasdaq index was up 16.24 points at 5,652.44. Shares in Amazon fell 3.3% after the online retail giant surprised markets by predicting a fall in profit for the current quarter.

Summary: Stocks on Wall Street opened higher as investors reacted to stronger-than-expected jobs figures.


Robert Downs, 63, from Mold, Flintshire, was killed in the collision on the A525 link road between Denbigh and Ruthin on Friday. North Wales Police said he died at the scene. In a tribute, Mr Downs' family described him as a "loving" father and grandfather. "He was a kind, loving and caring man who was always willing to assist anyone when he could. He was the rock of our life and was a long-standing and passionate motorcycle fanatic," the tribute said. "He left our side so suddenly and we all sorely miss him. But he will always be there in our minds and hearts and never forgotten." Police have appealed for witnesses.

Summary: A motorcyclist who died following a crash in Denbighshire was a "passionate motorcycle fanatic", his family have said.


The crash happened when a lorry hit another lorry which was stopped in standing traffic, just before the turn off to the B9149, at about 09:35. A man was taken to Victoria Hospital for further checks. Police are advising motorists to use alternative routes. Smoke from the blaze could be seen from the other side of the Forth, at least 20 miles away. The fire was extinguished by 11:30. The westbound carriageway was partially reopened at about 14:30 but the accident area remained closed. Drivers were being diverted via the Lochgelly off-slip before re-entering the A92 at the Lochgelly on-slip. The Scottish Fire and rescue Service said the road was expected to be closed "for some considerable time".

Summary: The A92 was closed following a huge blaze after two articulated lorries crashed at Lochgelly in Fife.


The 25-year-old, who was diagnosed with nodular sclerosing Hodgkin lymphoma in October, announced on Twitter that he was in "complete remission". Thompson has undergone a six-month course of chemotherapy. The former Rochdale midfielder, who has spent the past two seasons at Tranmere, is now targeting a quick return to first-team football. Speaking to BBC Late Kick Off in March, Thompson revealed he had received support from other sporting cancer survivors following his diagnosis, which was made after he complained of increased fatigue and illness. Among them was tennis player Ross Hutchins, who successfully beat Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013. While undergoing treatment, Thompson has raised more than £16,000 for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research as part of the "Grow 4 Joe" campaign, with team-mates and footballers from other clubs pledging to grow their hair in the closing weeks of last season.

Summary: Tranmere Rovers winger Joe Thompson has been given the all-clear by doctors following a battle with cancer.


The 34-year-old Ireland international suffered the injury during the Foxes' nine-wicket defeat by Warwickshire in the One-Day Cup on Tuesday. Niall's brother and team-mate Kevin told BBC Radio Leicester: "As expected, it's likely to be 4-6 weeks. "It could have meant more time on the sidelines, but it's a grade two tear. Hopefully he can get back quickly." O'Brien will now miss Ireland's two one day internationals against Sri Lanka in Malahide on 16 and 18 June. He's also likely to miss the five ODI's against Afghanistan in July and will target a return for the two one day internationals against Pakistan on 18 and 20 August.

Summary: Leicestershire wicketkeeper Niall O'Brien could be out until the end of July with a calf muscle tear.


Baptiste, 30, joined Boro last summer but has yet to make a competitive appearance after suffering a double leg fracture in a pre-season friendly. The 30-year-old previously had spells at Mansfield Town and Blackburn and was a member of the Blackpool team that won promotion to the Premiership in 2008. He will be available for Tuesday night's game against Burton Albion. "Following an injury, he is now fit and raring to go and will make a valuable contribution in the remaining months of the season," Sheffield United manager Nigel Adkins told the club website. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Sheffield United have signed Middlesbrough defender Alex Baptiste on a 93-day emergency loan.


The 30-year-old former Peterborough and Torquay keeper has spent the last two seasons with the Stags' League Two rivals Exeter before being released. "The lad is an experienced goalkeeper who has a real burning desire to again play Championship football," Stags boss Steve Evans said. "I am delighted that Bobby has joined us, considering he had a few options." The length of Olejnik's deal has not been revealed. The former Austria Under-21 international, who has also played for Scunthorpe and York City, played in both legs of the League Two play-off semi-finals last season, but was on the bench for the final as the Grecians lost to Blackpool at Wembley. He will compete for the number one goalkeeping position with another recent signing, Conrad Logan. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Mansfield Town have made their 12th signing of the summer after agreeing a deal for goalkeeper Bobby Olejnik.


Rupert Soames tweeted on the matter after the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) raised concerns about ScotRail's ban on guns. BASC said the ban threatened Scotland's field sports tourism. ScotRail's ban, which affects lawfully-owned guns, came after a firearm was left unattended on a train this year. Mr Soames, chief executive at Serco, tweeted: "Worried about Scotrail Fireams ban? Relax @CalSleeper welcomes responsible customers with licensed firearms. #bestwaytotravelnorth." The Caledonian Sleeper provides services between London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen and Fort William. Among BASC's concerns was a "negative impact" on the Glorious Twelfth. Traditionally, the first day of the grouse shooting season is 12 August. ScotRail said the decision to introduce the ban was made for safety reasons after a licensed firearm was left unattended on one of its trains earlier this year.

Summary: A boss at the company that operates the Caledonian Sleeper has issued a message that licensed firearms can be transported on that train service.


Jackie Walker's suspension was lifted following an investigation, the party said. The Kent activist and vice chair of the Momentum movement wrote about "the African holocaust" and Jews as "chief financiers of the slave trade". She said the past few weeks had been "a living nightmare". Ms Walker said: "I am glad this investigation has fully cleared me of any wrongdoing. "I am not a racist, but I robustly defend my right and the right of others to speak openly and frankly about matters of grave political and historical importance." At the beginning of May the The Jewish Chronicle reported that it alerted Labour to her comments. It also said a new poll suggested support for Labour among British Jews had fallen to 8.5%. In response Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn set up an independent inquiry into accusations of anti-Semitism and racism in the party.

Summary: A senior Labour activist who was suspended from the party over alleged anti-Semitic comments on Facebook has been reinstated.


Writing in the Sunday Times, the Plaid Cymru leader urged Wales to "speak with one voice". The UKIP leader and Welsh first minister will lock horns on Monday at an event in Cardiff. The UK is set to have a referendum by the end of 2017 on whether or not to remain a member of the European Union. Ms Wood said the bid for EU reform was "legitimate" but added any concerns were "far outweighed" by the benefits EU membership brings to Wales' agricultural sector, higher education institutions and transport infrastructure. She criticised Prime Minister David Cameron for allowing ministers to campaign for either side in the referendum, calling his decision "irresponsible and bizarre". And she said the issue would "alter the terms of the debate" in the lead up to National Assembly elections in Wales on 5 May.

Summary: The EU is "too important to be discarded", Leanne Wood has said ahead of a head-to-head debate between Nigel Farage and Carwyn Jones on the issue.


The display at Compass Gallery includes a British poster for Whisky Galore in 1949 and the French version posters for King Kong in 1933. Also in the exhibition are those for 1950s movies Bus Stop, starring Marilyn Monore, and Attack of the 50ft Woman. Hollywood film posters for audiences in Belgium and former East Germany also appear with USA and British ones. The posters have been loaned to the gallery by Reel Posters in London. For Scottish visitors, the poster for Whisky Galore is expected to be among those of greatest interest. The film, and the book by Compton MacKenzie it was adapted from, was inspired by the grounding of the ship SS Politician off the island of Eriskay in the Western Isles on 5 February 1941. Its cargo included more than 250,000 bottles of whisky.

Summary: An exhibition of rare and vintage original film posters has opened in Glasgow.


Councillors on the planning committee voted 7-2 in favour of granting consent for the development in Central Square. The committee heard how building work will begin on the site of the current bus station later this year. Earlier on Wednesday, the Welsh government turned down a request from Cardiff Civic Society to call in the planning permission. The news has been welcomed by the developers Rightacres, BBC Wales, Network Rail and the chief executive of Cardiff council. Director of BBC Wales, Rhodri Talfan Davies, said: "This is another important milestone as we plan our move from the outdated facilities in Llandaff to a new broadcast centre in the beating heart of our capital city." Council chief executive Paul Orders added: "This is an exciting phase in the development of our city."

Summary: Plans for a new BBC Wales headquarters in Cardiff city centre have been given the go-ahead.


Brown, who joined Saracens from Glasgow Warriors in 2010, has won three Premiership titles and last season's European Champions Cup with the club. The 34-year-old was capped 64 times by Scotland, captaining the side on 14 occasions from 2012 to 2014. "I'm forever grateful to be ending my career at a fantastic club like Saracens," he told the club website. "I'm extremely excited to be moving into a new role within the club's academy next season. "I've been lucky to have been able to live my dream for 13 years and now I'm privileged to be able to help others do the same." Saracens are third in the Premiership table with three games to play this season and face Munster in the Champions Cup semi-finals in Dublin on 22 April.

Summary: Saracens and former Scotland back-rower Kelly Brown will retire at the end of the season to become an academy coach.


In early trade, the FTSE 100 was 5.51 points lower at 6,815.28. Anglo American shares fell 2.1% while BHP Billiton dropped 1.9%. Mining shares have been hit as prices of commodities have come under pressure from a recent strengthening in the value of the US dollar. Morrisons fell 2.4% after Goldman Sachs cuts its rating on the firm to "sell". Banking shares were having a better day, with HSBC up 1.4% and Barclays rising 0.5%. On the currency markets, the pound fell 0.2% against the dollar to $1.3103 but rose 0.2% against the euro to â‚¬1.1757.

Summary: (Open): The UK's benchmark share index opened lower as shares in mining companies continued to slide.


Participants donned fancy dress for the sell-out event at South Queensferry. They paraded along the town's High Street before running into the water in the shadow of the Forth Bridges at 13:00. The New Year's Day tradition raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity. Tony Fullerton, of porridge firm Stoats which sponsors the dook, took the plunge in a team with a fancy dress theme based on Goldilocks and the Three Bears. He said: "I'm just out the water and I'm very cold and wet. It was pretty Baltic. We're dressed as the porridge bears and Goldilocks. "There's around 1,000 people in the water here and there's more jumping around and celebrating New Year's Day with a crazy party in South Queensferry." Part of the entrance fee for the event goes towards South Queensferry RNLI, while many participants also raise money for other charities.

Summary: More than 1,000 new year revellers kicked off 2017 with a bracing dip in the River Forth in the traditional Loony Dook.


The local authority's cabinet has agreed to start a consultation over the proposal that could save it £500,000 a year. Currently, 773 post-16 students benefit from free travel, which costs the council £900,514 annually. The consultation starts on 22 February and if given the go-ahead, charges will come into effect in September 2017. Council leader Ellen ap Gwynn called it "a very difficult situation" but said Ceredigion needed to take note of similar moves in other authorities. The charges would see post-16-year-old students charged £130 per term to catch a bus to and from college and school.

Summary: Sixth formers could be hit with a £390 annual charge to catch school buses in Ceredigion.


The 27-year-old, who has 41 caps, played every minute of his country's World Cup campaign in Brazil as they finished third in Group E. Granada, who, like Watford, are owned by the Italian Pozzo family, only signed Paredes from Ecuadorian side Sporting Barcelona earlier this summer. The transfer is still subject to international clearance. The terms for Paredes's move to Watford are undisclosed. He will be Watford's seventh summer signing, following striker Matej Vydra, winger Lloyd Dyer, midfielder Daniel Tozser, defenders Craig Cathcart and Gabriel Tamas, and goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes.

Summary: Watford have signed Ecuador right-back Juan Carlos Paredes from Granada on a five-year contract.


Twelve-year-old Ria Shaheena was pushed over and her dog, Mika, taken in Reddings Lane Park, Tyseley in Birmingham, on Thursday afternoon. Following appeals for information a woman in Selly Oak who suspected she had bought the three-month-old Akita dog contacted police. Mika was taken back to her home on Tuesday morning, none the worse for wear. Police said the woman had bought the dog, valued at Â£1,000, in good faith and urged the teenagers who had stolen the dog to contact them soon. A vet checked Mika over and her microchip confirmed it was the stolen dog. A tearful Ria was overjoyed to see the dog again. "I am just so happy to see her," she said. "I didn't think she'd come back."

Summary: A girl has been reunited with the puppy that was stolen from her in a park.


Dubbed "Dad's Army" on account of their advanced age, the gang stole £14m worth of goods from the safety deposit. They received prison sentences of six and seven years in March. Nip Tuck's Joely Richardson, Downton Abbey's Matthew Goode, Game of Thrones' Clive Russell and True Blood's Stephen Moyer are also in the cast. The film, directed and co-written by Ronnie Thompson, has begun shooting and will be released later this year. It also features David Calder, who appeared in Lady in the Van, Sarah-Jane Crawford and Mark Harris. The movie is one of three being made about the robbery. Screen Daily reported in January The Hatton Garden Job was being made by Working Title Films and in May it said The Hatton Garden Heist was being directed by Gabe Turner.

Summary: Former EastEnders stars Larry Lamb and Phil Daniels are starring in The Hatton Garden Job, a film about the 2015 London jewellery heist.


Aubameyang, who is contracted with the Bundesliga club until 2020, has been linked with a move to Manchester City. The two clubs play each other in the International Champions Cup in China on Thursday, but the 27-year-old will not feature as he has flown home to be with his pregnant wife. "Right now he is our player, he stays our player," said coach Thomas Tuchel. "I am totally confident [he will stay]. He is a huge personality for us. Right now, I would say he stays but I can't predict the future." The Gabon international scored 25 league goals for Dortmund last season. In a recent interview with a German broadcaster, Aubameyang said he would only consider leaving Dortmund for Real Madrid.

Summary: Borussia Dortmund are "totally confident" striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will remain at the club.


South West Trains services were delayed by the power failure near Feltham at about 07:30 GMT. Commuters were later told at 09:30 that further delays were being caused by the "awkward" swan. South West Trains apologised on Twitter and said the bird had been rather tricky to remove despite the train driver's "best efforts". Network Rail has directed customers to its website, explaining how leaf mulch can cause problems with signalling. Many commuters vented their frustrations on social media. Phil Young tweeted: "After 2 hrs stuck on @SW_Trains outside Twickenham cos of power failure, now stuck at Staines cos of a swan on the bridge! #greatworkexcuses" Geoffrey Ganda tweeted: "I waited 2 hours at Reading for a SW train in the cold. Are there any compensations? The prices go up each year but same problems."

Summary: Rail services between Berkshire and London have been disrupted by leaves, a power cut and a swan on the line.


They want to stop managers employing pilots at lower rates of pay at Iberia Express, which will launch in April. The airline said it had scrapped 118 domestic and international flights. But it said it had found seats on other Iberia flights or with other carriers for all of the 10,000 passengers affected by the strike. It is the second walk-out this month, following a strike on 18 December. International Airlines Group (IAG), which owns Iberia, hopes to allocate 40 planes from its current fleet to Iberia Express. However, pilots argue that salaries at the new carrier will be too low, and fear job losses with Iberia hiring new staff at lower salaries. The airline will handle short and medium-range flights from Madrid, where Iberia has been facing increasing competition from other low-cost carriers and high-speed trains. The IAG group also owns British Airways.

Summary: Spain's Iberia has cancelled more than a third of its flights as pilots hold a one-day strike over plans for a new low-cost airline.


Zafran Nawaz, 34, from the Yardley area of Birmingham, was discovered in a property on Carlton Road on 22 May. He had been missing for one day. Akbar Khan, 20, of Carlton Road, Bordesley Green is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates' Court on Saturday, West Midlands Police said. In a statement, Mr Nawaz's family said he was a "loving son". "While the circumstances were beyond comprehension, we will choose to remember him for what he meant to us all," the family said. Three men aged 28, 23 and 24, three women aged 19, 25 and 50 and a 15-year-old boy remain on police bail in connection with Mr Nawaz's death.

Summary: A man has been charged with the murder of a man found stabbed to death in a shed.


The plan for Peelhouses Farm, north of Lockerbie, first emerged in 2008. Planning permission was granted in 2010. The project has remained on the drawing board despite permission being renewed in 2013. Officials at Dumfries and Galloway Council have recommended a further three-year extension. When the scheme first emerged, there was a promise of an Â£800m investment and the creation of thousands of jobs. Backers pledged to turn the site into an "international hub for the internet age". Initially the scheme also included a major housing development but those proposals were subsequently dropped. The latest plans include a data centre, technology park, horticultural research facility and visitor centre. The request for planning permission to be extended by a further three years was submitted by consultants Blackmores D Limited. No objections have been lodged.

Summary: A proposed internet data centre in south-west Scotland could be given an extension to its planning consent.


Most people suffered minor injuries but La Stampa said (in Italian) two people were trapped in the crash. Rome's councillor for transport, Guido Improta, has reportedly blamed the incident on "human error". The collision happened at the Palasport station in the Eur district, a business and residential district in the south of the Italian capital. "There are 12 people injured but none are emergency patients," Mr Improta said, according to the Ansa news agency. "Now the dynamics of what happened have to be worked out. It's certainly bizarre. There was certainly a human error." A woman was killed and more than 100 people injured in a collision between two subway trains in 2006 at the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II station in Rome.

Summary: Two subway trains have collided in the Italian capital Rome, injuring at least 12 people, Italian reports say.


Lifelong learning minister Alun Davies told AMs the focus of the group would be employment and economic issues. He said valleys communities were "dispirited and under-engaged" and it was time to listen and act on people's "real world circumstances". Chairman Mr Davies said it would be "active and not a bureaucratic quango". Plaid Cymru's Bethan Jenkins welcomed the move but said the outcomes of the taskforce had to be measured by an independent group and not the Welsh Government "otherwise it will be like marking your own work". Conservative Mohammad Asghar said the chairman of the body should be independent of government and said communities should be properly consulted about its work. Mr Davies said communities would be consulted.

Summary: A taskforce to tackle "economic challenges" in the south Wales valleys has been set up by the Welsh government.


Here's Tom Katsumi's election night (and morning) in 10 tweets. The team settles in... Party colours are allocated. Houghton and Sunderland South becomes the first constituency to declare, announcing at 22:48 BST. The evening's stitching starts off at a slow and steady pace... But it quickly becomes hard to keep up with the flurry of results... Labour held many of the first seats, with successes in the north continuing to come in. The unprecedented shift to the SNP in Scotland became clear - they ended up with 56 of Scotland's 59 seats. Much of London went to Labour. A quick nap... Catching up on the Conservative south.

Summary: As the political map of the UK changes colour, one man has made it his mission to cross-stitch the election.


It follows the death of a 91-year-old woman who drowned four years ago and 400 homes were flooded when the river Elwy burst its banks in St Asaph. The bridge will be higher than the original which became blocked by debris, creating a dam that overflowed. Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is part way through the improvement work which is scheduled to last up to 18 months. City mayor and flood warden councillor Colin Hardie said: "Everyone who suffered then still worries about bad weather. "That was highlighted last winter when we were inches from the flood banks over-topping again. "It's quite a worrying time and we realise we still have to go through at least one more winter before the defences are complete." NRW is raising the flood defences as well as replacing the bridge.

Summary: A new bridge is being built in a Denbighshire city as part of major flood defence work.


Designed and built in Caerphilly, Yr Glanaf - or The Cleanest - will be the main attraction at the Wales on Wheels festival on Saturday. The electric-powered car has a body made of Western Red Cedar and is as strong and light as aluminium. The three-wheeled vehicle also has a joystick for steering, accelerating and braking. Speed is shown on the dashboard through pulsing, coloured lights to let the driver concentrate on the road. Other highlights in the festival include a Wales-made Gilbern car and a Trabant, along with other wheeled transport from the 20th and 21st Centuries.

Summary: A prototype for a wooden car will go on show at Swansea's National Waterfront Museum at the weekend.


Saturday's loss to Bournemouth all but sealed Villa's fate. The club say "every effort" will be made to offer voluntary redundancy. Villa added: "The objective is to secure a sound financial platform from which the club can rebuild. We recognise this is an extremely difficult time for all staff." The club statement described the move as a "headcount reduction". Villa have 16 points from 33 games and have been bottom of the table since November. They have been without a first-team manager since Remi Garde's departure on 29 March. Villa's board plans to meet on Wednesday to discuss the shortlist for Garde's replacement. BBC Radio 5 live's Pat Murphy reports the leading candidates remain former Manchester United manager David Moyes, ex-Leicester boss Nigel Pearson, Hull boss Steve Bruce, Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy, Burnley's Sean Dyche and Preston boss Simon Grayson.

Summary: Aston Villa's staff could face compulsory redundancy as the club prepare for relegation from the Premier League to the Championship.


The Met Office has issued a yellow "be aware" warning for Monday and Tuesday. Ferry operator CalMac said 17 of its 26 services have been disrupted. Southerly gales with gusts reaching speeds of up to 50mph and heavy rain have been forecast. Winds gusting up to 70mph could affect the Irish Sea with large waves on the west coast, the Met Office said. The warning said: "An unseasonably windy spell is likely across many parts of the UK later on Monday, overnight and well into Tuesday, as active frontal systems sweep across the UK. "Given the unseasonable nature of the winds, the public should be aware of the potential for disruption to transport and outdoor activities. Damage to some trees seems likely." Ferry services affected included sailings between Oban and Lochboisdale and Oban and Castlebay, also Ardrossan and Brodick and sailings to Gigha.

Summary: Forecasters have warned of an unseasonable spell of severe weather affecting large parts of Scotland.


The man was hit on the A466 Wye Valley Link Road in Newhouse, Chepstow, at about 17:00 GMT on Tuesday. The road was closed in both directions between the M48, junction 2 (Newhouse Interchange) and A48 / Fair View (Highbeech roundabout). Gwent Police said it would remain closed for several hours. The Welsh Ambulance Service said a rapid response car and an air ambulance from Filton airfield, near Bristol, were sent to the scene but the man was pronounced dead.

Summary: A 72-year-old pedestrian has died following a collision involving two cars in Monmouthshire.


Several tonnes of compost found in police raids has been donated to poverty-relief charity Pembrokeshire Action To Combat Hardship. Volunteers will use the compost to help grow food for hard-up families. Charity worker Jan Olin said: "The timing is perfect as it's the beginning of the growing season. It will save us a lot of money." PC James Mitchell of Dyfed-Powys Police said: "After the cannabis factories were discovered there was a lot of compost and fertiliser that the police have to dispose of. "There was so much it would be a shame to see it go to waste. Now it has gone to a good cause, who can use their cash for other things."

Summary: Fertiliser seized from cannabis farms will be used to grow fruit and vegetables for a food bank.


The Irish posted a modest total of 155-8, with Gary Wilson (38) and William Porterfield (31) the main contributors. Hamilton Masakadza hit six sixes in his 68 which set Zimbabwe on their way to victory, with 160-4 in 17.5 overs. Ireland start their World T20 Group A campaign in Dharamsala on Wednesday against Oman followed by encounters with Bangladesh and the Netherlands. The winners progress to Group 2 in the Super 10 stage and games against hosts India, Australia, New Zealand and Pakistan. Ireland eased to a 10-wicket victory over Hong Kong in their opening warm-up match in Dharamsala on Thursday.

Summary: Ireland completed their World Twenty20 preparations with a six-wicket defeat by Zimbabwe in Dharamsala on Saturday.


It has entered into an initial 15-year partnership with Community Windpower at its nine-turbine Sanquhar site. The company said it was a "proud moment" and "another key milestone" in its efforts to become a sustainable business. The development in Dumfries and Galloway is scheduled to open early next year. Nestle said it already took all of its grid supplied electricity in the UK and Ireland from renewable sources. However, chief executive Dame Fiona Kendrick said the new deal took things "a huge step further". "This is a newly commissioned wind farm, generating new energy, creating capacity that didn't previously exist and capable of providing half of our electricity needs," she said. Community Windpower said it was "delighted" to be working with Nestle while climate group RE100 said it showed that business demand for renewables was rising.

Summary: Food giant Nestle has signed a deal to meet half of its UK and Ireland energy needs from a Scottish wind farm.


More than 20 of some of the finest vessels in the world have been on show in Blyth since Friday, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. Nineteen of the ships took part in a parade of sail as part of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta. The event will end with a race from the Northumberland coast to Gothenburg, Sweden. Northumberland County Council, which jointly organised the regatta, hailed it as a success and said it hoped it would open the door to similar events. The event attracted ships from as far afield as Portugal and Russia to take part in the 500-nautical mile race across the North Sea to Sweden. Councillor Grant Davey, leader of the county council, said he hoped it would put Blyth on the map for future events. He said: "We'll move on to bigger and better things in the future."

Summary: A fleet of tall ships headed out to sea from a Northumberland port as part of a four-day regatta.


The 24-year-old joined the Premiership outfit in February but played only 15 minutes of first-team football. He had previously been with Indian Premier League outfit Karela Blasters. Thistle said in a statement: "Antonio German has left the club for personal reasons having had his contract terminated by mutual consent." The club added that they wished the Englishman well "in whatever he chooses to do next". Starting his career with QPR, German had loan spells with Aldershot Town, Southend United and Yeovil Town before moving to Stockport County. He went on to play for Bromley, Brentford and Gillingham, who also sent him on loan to Northampton Town and Aldershot Town. German made only two late substitute appearances for Thistle, in defeats by Motherwell and Aberdeen, his last outing being on 8 March.

Summary: Former Queens Park Rangers and Gillingham forward Antonio German has left Partick Thistle after only two appearances for the Glasgow club.


The victim was found when the emergency services were called to reports of a man injured at a property on Beech Court in Workington at about 07:30 GMT. A 22-year-old man was later arrested in the Northside area of the town. A Cumbria Police spokesman said: "Detectives are currently carrying out inquiries in the area. We would like to reassure people that there is no perceived threat to the public."

Summary: A man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering a man in Cumbria.


The island's director of squash, Nick Taylor, hailed their performance after Jersey beat Luxembourg 3-1 to finish third in the tournament in Romania. "It really sets us with the other nations and puts Jersey on the map. "It's as big, if not bigger, than the medals that we have got in the previous Island Games," Taylor told BBC Jersey. Having come second to Italy in the pool stages following wins over Greece, Romania and Gibraltar, Jersey lost 3-1 to Portugal in the semi-finals before beating Luxembourg for third place. "We can compete at the top level, we were one place off being promoted to the second division," added Taylor. "We'll continue to stay in the third division, we'll continue to try and strengthen our squad and bring some of the young players in."

Summary: Jersey have registered their greatest-ever achievement in squash after winning bronze in the third division of the European Team Championships.


Resuming 102 behind on 195-6, the hosts lost Matt Critchley for 20 to Steve Magoffin (2-44), while Shiv Thakor (81) added 23 to his overnight score. Tom Taylor fell to Ollie Robinson (4-110), but Tony Palladino (29 not out) and Ben Cotton's (26) last-wicket stand of 51 made Sussex bat again. Needing 11 to win, the visitors wrapped up victory inside the first over. Sussex move on to 70 points from six matches, while Derbyshire are on 52 points but still looking for their first win of the campaign.

Summary: Sussex beat Derbyshire by 10 wickets to secure their first victory of the season in Division Two.


Corporate profit margins rose to 31.1%, the highest since the first quarter of 2011, after a cut in payroll tax. The official figures by INSEE were a further sign of economy recovery, Finance Minister Michel Sapin said. The French economy saw roughly 0.4% growth in 2013 and 2014, after stagnating in 2012. The rise in first-quarter gross domestic product was in line with a preliminary estimate by the French statistics office. "INSEE confirmed the good growth figures of the first quarter, which show a recovery is underway and bolsters the government's 1% growth target for this year," Mr Sapin said. Profit margins for French companies were the worst in the eurozone in 2012, and the government had pinned its recovery hopes on expectations that businesses would resume investing. "The new margins must allow businesses to invest and hire," Mr Sapin added.

Summary: France's GDP grew by 0.6% in the first quarter after a rise in corporate profit margins and strong household spending, official figures show.


Brymbo Heritage Group (BHG) is working with partners including The Prince's Regeneration Trust (PRT) in a bid to breathe life into historic buildings at the former Brymbo steelworks. The sprawling complex employed almost 2,500 people at its peak but it closed in 1990 after almost 200 years. Some of the land has been redeveloped. The group hopes to re-use nine old buildings, creating a heritage centre, learning facilities, business units, shops and apartments as well as open spaces. The site is also home to a 300 million-year-old fossil forest uncovered in 2005. Experts are meeting with the heritage group and members of the public next week to take the plans forward. A public meeting is also due to be held on Thursday 12 February at 18:00 GMT.

Summary: A heritage group which hopes to regenerate a former iron and steelworks site in Wrexham has enlisted the help of experts.


Full-back Emilio Nsue had to be held back from team-mate Ryan Shotton as the pair clashed at the end of Blues' post-match warm-down. Birmingham's draw with relegated Rotherham left them four points above the Championship relegation zone. "Things like this happen everywhere, even with teams in a better position," Zola told BBC WM. Zola, who has won just two of his 23 games in charge since replacing Gary Rowett as Blues boss in December, also denied reports that damage had been done to a dressing room at the New York Stadium. "There have been some discussions obviously, strong discussions. I can guarantee you they happen everywhere," the Italian added. "It is not a problem. Sometimes it is good to come out strong and have a strong discussion."

Summary: Birmingham boss Gianfranco Zola says an argument between several players after the draw at Rotherham was "normal".


The tickets cover all of Wales' five home games against Moldova, Georgia, Serbia, Austria and Republic of Ireland. The final batch of tickets for members of the Wales Supporters Club goes on sale on Tuesday. Football Supporters' Federation Cymru (FSF) said the number sold so far was "a good sign". Paul Corkery, of FSF Cymru, said: "It's a sign not only of the team playing well in the Euros, but it's also coupled with the FAW doing wonders and keeping prices low. "For 10,000 fans to be buying tickets for all five games so far in advance, with some not taking place until next year, it is very encouraging." Tickets have been sold to club members in four staggered sales according to membership eligibility but are not on sale to the general public. Wales kick off their qualifying campaign against Moldova on 5 September at Cardiff City Stadium.

Summary: Welsh football fans have snapped up 10,000 tournament tickets so far ahead of the 2018 World Cup qualifiers.


Kayden Dunn, of Sneyd Green was on Repington Road on 14 April 2016 when he was struck by a Volvo XC90. He died in hospital five days later. Shakeeb Zamir, 21, also of Sneyd Green, admitted causing death by careless driving at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court and was sentenced to 12 months in prison. Following his death, Kayden's mother Tonie said her son was "much loved". More updates on this story

Summary: A driver has been jailed for killing a seven-year-old boy in Stoke-on-Trent.


Donald has been named in one of the England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) 'International Pathway' squads. The programme is aimed at helping county players find a route to the England side and includes the Lions, Young Lions, a Pace Programme and Overseas Placements. Donald will spend the coming months playing in Perth in Australia. He is one of more than 50 players aged between 17 and 30 from all 18 first-class counties selected for one of the schemes. Swansea-born Donald shot to prominence when he equalled the fastest ever double-hundred in first-class cricket, off just 123 balls against Derbyshire in July. He eventually scored 234 off 136 balls in an innings that was also his maiden County Championship century for Glamorgan. Donald has already been tipped for international honours and even to become future England captain by former England skipper Michael Vaughan.

Summary: Glamorgan's 19-year-old batsman Aneurin Donald has taken another step towards international recognition.


The Welshman, who helped Britain to track pursuit gold at the Rio Olympics, was due to be part of Team Sky for the Adelaide-based event. "Not exactly how I pictured making my world tour debut but when your appendix ruptures there isn't much you can do," he wrote on Twitter. Australian Caleb Ewan won the first stage riding for Orica-Scott. Team Sky doctor Neil Heron said: "The earliest Owain will leave the hospital is Thursday and recovery and recuperation is likely to take at least four weeks. "Owain is obviously disappointed, but he appreciates he needs to be 100% fit to get back racing." Find out how to get into cycling with our special guide.

Summary: Olympic track cycling gold medallist Owain Doull has been ruled out of the Tour Down Under with appendicitis.


Mr Warburton, 59, had not been seen since vanishing from his home in Sketty on 31 July. A post mortem examination was carried out on Tuesday when Mr Warburton was identified and police said his death was being treated as murder. His body was found in the village of Dolwyddelan, Conwy county. Mr Warburton's lodger David Ellis, 40, is in Ireland and South Wales Police has had a European arrest warrant granted. Det Ch Insp Kath Pritchard of South Wales Police said: "We are continuing to support Alec Warburton's family at this difficult time and we are grateful for the continued support and assistance of our law enforcement colleagues."

Summary: A body found in north Wales has been formally identified as missing Swansea landlord Alec Warburton.


Cooke acquired Thompson Bros Salmon Ltd, located on the island of Yell, in a share deal for an undisclosed sum. The move will add two new farms to Cooke Aquaculture Scotland's current operations. The new sites are located next to Cooke's existing facilities at Unst and Yell. Cooke chief executive Glenn Cooke said: "After this transaction, Cooke will own all of the salmon farms in the area. "That will allow us to coordinate management for the entire area and enhance our ability to meet a growing demand for our products." The combined business is expected to raise Cooke's total harvest in Scotland next year to 22,500 tonnes of whole fish. Last year, Cooke bought salmon farm operators Meridian, which has bases in Shetland, Orkney and the Scottish mainland. Cooke already runs operations in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, Maine, Chile and Spain.

Summary: Canadian firm Cooke Aquaculture is expanding further in Scotland after buying a Shetland-based salmon producer.


Television was a latecomer: state TV launched in 2001, several years after the first private station. TV viewing is eroding radio's traditional dominance. Although the growth of the broadcast media has been hindered by a lack of capital investment, dozens of private FM radio stations are on the air, most of them in cities. News from international radios - including the BBC, Voice of America and Germany's Deutsche Welle - is carried by many stations. Government-owned media are "largely biased" toward the ruling party, says US-based Freedom House. The mainland and Zanzibar have separate media policies. Many islanders can pick up broadcasts from the mainland and read the mainland Tanzanian press. By June 2012, 5.6 million Tanzanians were online (Internetworldstats.com).

Summary: Tanzania's media scene, once small and largely state-controlled, developed rapidly following the advent of the multi-party era in the mid 1990s.


The £3m earth dam on the River Gaunless in County Durham was part of an £8.8m flood prevention scheme. The Environment Agency said it would still work but it is spending £1.25m securing the mine workings below it. Project manager Jonny Lyttle said of the sites available when it was building the dam, the agency had chosen the one with the fewest mine workings. The work to secure the dam after recent subsidence was "vital" he said. "It's something we don't take any chances with," he said. The Spring Gardens dam was built after West Auckland and South Church were badly affected by floods in 2000. It won the Green Apple Award for design and good environmental practice during construction.

Summary: Land around an award-winning dam has started sinking after being built above disused mineshafts.


Seam bowler Carter, 27, joined from neighbours Nottinghamshire last September on a two-year deal. He took 20 wickets for Derbyshire in 16 appearances across all formats. Neither Knight, 23, nor Elstone, 26, who are both all-rounders, have made a first-team appearance for Derbyshire this season. Meanwhile, former Derbyshire and England all-rounder Dominic Cork is to work with the current squad as a bowling consultant as they try to secure quarter-final places in the T20 Blast and One-Day Cup. "Dominic is an experienced cricketer who knows how to win, claiming silverware with both Derbyshire and Hampshire during his playing career," cricket advisory director Kevin Dean told the club website. Derbyshire are fifth in the T20 Blast North Group with one game to play, with only the top four progressing to the knockout stage. They began Sunday's One-Day Cup match against Notts on top of their group in that competition.

Summary: Andy Carter, Tom Knight and Scott Elstone have all left Derbyshire after their contracts with the county were cancelled by mutual consent.


Now, Sir David Attenborough has uncovered the world's biggest known dinosaur for his latest documentary. The new species was 37 metres long - about the length of four London buses. He told Newsround he believes there's a very small chance the prehistoric beasts could be brought back from extinction. But he said that it would be very expensive, and it would be better to concentrate on looking after the animals we already have. You can watch the first of Sir David's new series 'Attenborough And The Giant Dinosaur' on Sunday 24 January, at 6.30pm on BBC One.

Summary: They stalked the earth around a hundred million years ago and scientists are constantly looking for new dinosaur fossils.


The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said the "incident of indiscipline" at HMP Swaleside on the Isle of Sheppey on Monday was quickly resolved. All five officers were treated for minor injuries and six inmates have been moved out of the prison. The category B prison houses around 1,100 prisoners, almost half of whom are serving life sentences. "The prison is operating as normal and an investigation will now take place," the MoJ spokesman said.

Summary: Five prison officers have been hurt during a disturbance at a prison in Kent.


Joe Henson, who founded the Rare Breeds Survival Trust in 1973, was made an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours for his services to conservation. Mr Henson attended a Windsor Castle ceremony with his wife Gill, daughter Louise and son Adam - a farmer and television presenter. The Henson family has also owned and run the Cotswold Farm Park since 1971. Mr Henson said: "I'm delighted to receive recognition of the work that I've done to save our rare breeds, and thrilled that this continues to be born out through the work of The Cotswold Farm Park. "I was particularly pleased that it was Princess Anne who gave it to me because she is very involved with rare breeds as well."

Summary: A Gloucestershire farmer who has worked for 40 years to save rare farm breeds has been honoured by the Queen.


Brimah joins two other international keepers at the club, which already has Uganda's Denis Onyango and Zambia's Kennedy Mweene on their books. The 30-year-old played just four times for the Spanish second division club last season. He was Ghana's first-choice keeper at this year's Africa Cup of Nations. However he missed the Black Stars' third place play-off game in Gabon as they lost to Burkina Faso and has not started an international game since. He caused controversy during the Nations Cup when responding to criticism with an expletive-laden rant on social media. The Ghana Football Association fined him $2,500 (£1,990) for the comments after he apologised for the video. Mamelodi Sundowns continue the defence of their African Champions League title with a quarter-final against Morocco's Wydad Casablanca in September.

Summary: Ghana goalkeeper Razak Brimah has joined South African side Mamelodi Sundowns after his contract with Spanish side Cordoba was not renewed.


Stanley Tucci will introduce the UK premiere of his film, Final Portrait, while Oliver Stone will introduce a special screening of his film, Wall Street, 30 years after it was made. The festival is celebrating its 70th anniversary. The Edinburgh International Film Festival started in 1947. Ken Hay, CEO of Edinburgh International Film Festival, said: "EIFF is hugely grateful to all its funders, partners, major donors and supporters for sharing our vision and ambition and being so generous with their support. Quite simply, without it, there would be no festival. So, thank you." Mark Adams, Artistic Director of Edinburgh International Film Festival said: "The amazing support we receive really does mean so much to the festival and helps us reach even greater heights in terms ambition and presentation of exciting new projects."

Summary: Hollywood actors Kevin Bacon, Stanley Tucci and writer Oliver Stone are among those expected to attend this year's Edinburgh International Film Festival.


The 25-year-old, who previously played for Pro12 outfit Scarlets between 2013 and 2016, returned to Ebbw Vale for his second spell with the club in June. While on the books at Scarlets, Lewis played 36 times for the region's feeder club Llanelli, scoring 353 points. "Josh is a promising fly-half," Bath's director of rugby Todd Blackadder said. "Josh will provide added depth and competition, which will undoubtedly help to drive the team forward," the former All Black told the club website. "He's shown glimpses of what he can do in Wales and I'm excited to see him fulfil his potential here at Bath." Lewis added: "It's a huge opportunity for me to continue developing my all-round game, and I'm looking forward to the challenge."

Summary: English top-flight club Bath have signed fly-half Josh Lewis from Welsh Premiership side Ebbw Vale ahead of the 2017-18 season.


However, the winless Scots can still reach the quarter-finals if they beat Canada in their final group match. Wei Adams shot Scotland in front after good work from Lee Morton. Muhammad Irfan Jnr levelled after the interval, with Muhummad Arslan Qadir and Aleem Muhammed Bilal also on target for Pakistan's first victory of the tournament in London. Scotland, who earlier lost to India and the Netherlands, have a better goal difference than Pakistan, who have now completed their pool games. Therefore, any win over Canada, who have one success from three outings, would lift the Blue Sticks into fourth place. Find out how to get into hockey with our special guide.

Summary: Scotland fell to the bottom of Pool B at the Hockey World League semi-finals after a 3-1 defeat to Pakistan.


This is on top of a 10% rise decided in August and backdated to the general election. The latest increase is an annual adjustment decided by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (Ipsa), which takes into account average public sector pay rises. It is slightly higher than the 1% public sector pay cap introduced by Chancellor George Osborne. Ipsa says this is due to the fact it uses Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures as its benchmark. An Ipsa spokesman said: "The ONS index takes account of promotions and bonuses which may explain why the figure is higher than the 1% wider public sector pay policy."

Summary: MPs are to receive a 1.3% pay rise from April, taking their salary to £74,962.


The 25-year-old, who continues to be linked with a move to Barcelona, made the third goal with a lofted ball through for Mohamed Salah to score. Salah's fellow summer signing Dominic Solanke headed in the opener, with Georginio Wijnaldum also on target. "Coutinho and Salah are two top level players, and we are extremely happy to have them," said manager Jurgen Klopp. "We are not quite where we want to be, but that is normal in pre-season."

Summary: Philippe Coutinho captained Liverpool as they beat Hertha Berlin 3-0 in their latest pre-season friendly.


The 30-year-old, 58th in both sprint qualification and the 10km classic, tested positive for trimetazidine. The Ukrainian Olympic Committee said Lisogor told an International Olympic Committee disciplinary hearing her breach had been unintentional. Latvian ice hockey player Vitalijs Pavlovs has also failed a drugs test. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said 24-year-old Pavlovs tested positive on February 19 for methylhexaneamine and had also been thrown out of the Olympics. German biathlete Evi Sachenbacher-Stehle and Italian bobsleigh brakeman William Frullani have already left Sochi 2014 after failed drugs tests. Trimetazidine has been on the forbidden substances list since 1 January 2014. The IOC said Lisogor would be disqualified from the women's team sprint classic semi-final B event, along with her team-mates. They also stated Lisogor "shall be excluded from the XXII Olympic Winter Games in Sochi in 2014, and shall have her Olympic identity and accreditation card immediately cancelled".

Summary: Ukrainian cross-country skier Marina Lisogor has been excluded from the Winter Olympics after failing a doping test.


Whitehead, 35, made 20 appearances in all competitions in 2016-17 as Town won promotion via the play-offs. The former Oxford United, Sunderland, Stoke and Middlesbrough player joined the West Yorkshire side on a two-year deal in June 2015. Meanwhile, the Terriers have also offered a new contract to goalkeeper Luke Coddington, 21. Forward Flo Bojaj, 21, and goalkeeper Joe Murphy, 35, have been released. Murphy has already agreed a contract with League One club Bury.

Summary: Premier League-bound Huddersfield Town have offered a new deal to veteran midfielder Dean Whitehead.


Lundh failed to score in five appearances for Lillestrom last season, having joined on an initial loan deal from AIK Stockholm in August. The 26-year-old has won 11 caps for Sweden, scoring two goals. "She is a hard-working striker who will offer us a real goal threat and I am delighted to have signed her," manager Scott Rogers told the club website. Details of Lundh's contract with the Reds have not been disclosed.

Summary: Liverpool Ladies have signed Sweden international striker Emma Lundh from Norwegian champions Lillestrom SK.


O'Reilly retired from international duty last year with 231 caps, three Olympic gold medals and victory in the 2015 World Cup. The 32-year-old has joined from FC Kansas City, having previously played for New Jersey Wildcats, Sky Blue FC and Boston Breakers. The Gunners won the Women's FA Cup in 2016 and finished third in WSL 1. O'Reilly, whose contract length has not been disclosed, told Kansas City's club website: "I will have conversations about my potential future in the NWSL when those conversations need to happen." She made her international debut in March 2002 at the age of 17, is the second American to join a WSL club so far in January, following winger Crystal Dunn's move to Chelsea Ladies from Washington Spirit.

Summary: Former USA midfielder Heather O'Reilly is to join Arsenal Ladies for the 2017 Women's Super League Spring Series.


Benjamin Morse, 36, died when he was hit by a dark hatchback in Cherry Street at about 12:15 BST, on Monday, police said. The 21-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on police bail as inquiries continue. Two men, aged 32 and 19, were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and also released on police bail. Mr Morse's family backed appeals by West Midlands Police for any witnesses to come forward. "Benjamin was a kind and loving son, brother, uncle and friend who would do anything for anyone," his family said. "He was sports mad, fun loving and an Arsenal fanatic and has left a huge hole in our lives. Our family will never be the same again." "We appreciate the support from family, friends and the community but would ask that the police are left to do their job."

Summary: A man has been arrested after another man died in a suspected hit-and-run crash in Halesowen.


ADIB is paying £107m ($177m) for the business which has 110,000 customers. Most of those are expatriate workers. Customers who move to ADIB will have to switch to finance schemes that are compliant with Islamic rules, which do not allow interest payments. Barclays says the deal will allow it to focus on its corporate and investment banking operations in the region. In February, Barclays Chief Executive Antony Jenkins announced the result of a strategic review, which looked at the company's 75 business units. As a result Barclays has been focusing on markets where it believes it has scale and a competitive advantage. In particular, the bank is concentrating its investment on the UK, US and Africa. The review also resulted in thousands of job cuts. ADIB is the biggest bank in UAE with 600,000 customers. Last year profits rose 21% to £238m.

Summary: Barclays has agreed to sell its retail banking arm in the United Arab Emirates to Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB).


The officer's vehicle overturned on the M61 in Bolton while trying to stop a car suspected of being involved in a hit-and-run in Blackpool on Monday. The PC was taken to hospital with minor injures and has since been discharged. The men, aged 35 and 22, both from Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester, were arrested and bailed until 29 November. The 35-year-old was held on suspicion of two counts of failing to stop at the scene of an accident, dangerous driving and drink and drug driving. The 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident.

Summary: Two men have been arrested after a police officer was hurt in a motorway crash while pursuing a car.


A controlled explosion was carried out on the object after it was found in Market Place. It was made safe and removed for examination during a security alert which lasted several hours. Police say a vehicle was seized during a follow-up operation in the Lagmore area of west Belfast on Saturday night. Supt Brian Kee said: "Our investigation into the circumstances surrounding this security alert is at a very early stage. "We are following a number of lines of enquiry, one of these is that the device may have fallen from a vehicle. "As part of a follow up operation in the Lagmore area of Belfast last night, a vehicle was seized for examination. "We are keen to hear from witnesses or anyone who was in the Market Place area of Lisburn yesterday and who may have information that could assist the investigation."

Summary: Police have said they are investigating if a bomb found in Lisburn on Saturday had fallen from a vehicle.


National League winners Lincoln will begin the campaign away at Wycombe. Relegated Coventry start at home to Notts County, while Swindon begin away at Carlisle, Port Vale travel to Crawley and Chesterfield host Grimsby. Newport, who memorably survived on a dramatic final day last season, travel to Stevenage for their first match. Exeter, who lost to Blackpool in May's League Two play-off final at Wembley, start at home to Cambridge. Elsewhere on the opening day, Accrington begin at home to Colchester, Crewe face Mansfield, Luton take on Yeovil and Morecambe are at home to Cheltenham. Forest Green play their home matches in Nailsworth, which will become the smallest settlement to host an EFL club. They will play Gloucestershire rivals Cheltenham at The New Lawn on 25 November, with the return fixture on 14 April, 2018. Saturday, 5 August Kick-off 15:00 BST

Summary: League Two newcomers Forest Green Rovers will host Barnet in their first ever game in the English Football League on Saturday, 5 August.


The 24-year-old spent two seasons with the National League side between 2012 and 2014 where he made 86 appearances and scored seven goals. He left to join Grimsby, where he spent 18 months, and spent the latter part of 2015-16 at Tranmere but made just one start and seven substitute outings. Mackreth is the first new signing made by manager John Askey for next season. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Macclesfield Town have re-signed winger Jack Mackreth from Tranmere on a one-year contract.


George Owen, from Wrexham, admitted seven charges of abusing the boy, who was aged between nine and 15 when the offences took place in the 1990s. Caernarfon Crown Court heard Owen blackmailed his victim by holding his cat out of an upstairs window and bribed him with money and sweets Judge Huw Rees said he had groomed the boy for his own purpose. The court heard that the sexual abuse had had a "devastating" effect on the vulnerable boy. Owen, a former manager of a hotel in Penmaenmawr, Conwy county, had been convicted of abusing two boys - aged 12 and 13 - he had given a lift to in his ice cream van in Bethesda, Gwynedd, in 1982. A sexual harm prevention Order was imposed and Owen must sign the sex offenders' register, both for life.

Summary: A 61-year-old man has been jailed for nine years for historical sex offences against a young boy.


Owen McKay, from Llandyrnog, near Denbigh, changed his plea to guilty ahead of a trial at Mold Crown Court on Wednesday. At a previous hearing, his wife and her son pleaded guilty to the same charge. The case centres on allegations they ran a cannabis factory at home. They are all due to be sentenced in three weeks' time. McKay's plea was on the basis that he had turned a blind eye to what was going on at the guest house between December 2013 and April 2014, the court heard. Prosecutor Richard Edwards said there had been a strong smell of cannabis in the house but there was no forensic evidence to link the defendant with the drugs, as had been the case with teacher Susan McKay, 57, from Llandyrnog, and Michael McKay, 27, from Huntington, Cheshire.

Summary: A 73-year-old man has admitted conspiring to supply cannabis from his guest house in Denbighshire.


Durham police tweeted a picture of the new doors, apologising that "time travel was not an optional extra". A spokesman said customising the lifts showed the force could be "professional and still have a sense of humour". Staff moved into the new £14m building next to its old base at Aykley Heads in Durham City last Autumn. The tweet attracted one complaint saying the doors were a "waste of taxpayers money". The six lifts were covered with vinyl wraps, not hand painted, and the cost had been "pretty modest", the spokesman for Durham Constabulary said. Personalising the headquarters was a "bit quirky" and a "talking point" for anyone who came into the building, he added.

Summary: Lift doors designed to look like the Tardis from Doctor Who have been installed at new police headquarters in Durham.


The health minister has confirmed that Â£1.5m has now been made available. The jobs will be advertised shortly. The new Londonderry hospital unit is on schedule to open in the autumn. It will treat over 1,000 patients from Northern Ireland and almost 400 from the Republic of Ireland. Simon Hamilton said the jobs would be specialised and highly skilled. "The commencement of the recruitment process for these posts is a key milestone on the critical path to the centre's opening," he said. "These highly skilled staff will have a central role in providing the expertise to enable us to provide safe, sustainable and high quality radiotherapy services at the Altnagelvin Hospital. "It will allow patients to be able to get the highest quality, complex radiotherapy treatments, without facing lengthy journeys."

Summary: Recruitment is under way for the 35 staff needed at the new radiotherapy unit at Altnagelvin hospital.


Coach James Webster has also included forwards Graeme Horne and James Greenwood, despite them picking up injuries in the win over Salford. Hull FC have winger Mahe Fonua back from a knee injury sustained on his debut in round one. His return in place of Jack Logan is the only change to the team that got back to winning ways against Wakefield. Hull KR (from): Allgood, Blair, Boudebza, Clarkson, Cockayne, Dixon, Green, Greenwood, Horne, Kelly, Lawler, Mantellato, Marsh, Mulhern, Shaw, Sio, Thornley, Tilse, Walker. Hull FC (from): Bowden, Ellis, Fonua, Green, Houghton, Manu, Michaels, Minichiello, Naughton, Paleaaesina, Pritchard, Shaul, Sneyd, Taylor, Thompson, Tuimavave, Washbrook, Watts, Yeaman.

Summary: Hull KR are boosted by the return of scrum-half Albert Kelly from a three-match absence with a hamstring injury.


The Republic of Ireland international has made 102 appearances for the Bees since joining on an initial loan deal from Blackburn in January 2014. However, the 28-year-old has not featured since April 2016 when he suffered a double fracture of his leg. His previous deal was set to expire at the end of the current season. "He is close to a full recovery from the terrible injury he suffered and we will certainly reap the benefits when he returns to the standards he was setting," manager Dean Smith told the club website. "It is a great boost to the staff, the squad and supporters that his future remains at Brentford."

Summary: Brentford midfielder Alan Judge has signed a new contract to stay with the Championship club until the end of the 2018-19 season.


The 30-year-old, who came through the ranks with Ajax in his homeland and also played for AC Milan, was a free agent after leaving Verona. He has won 16 international caps and also had a spell on loan with Fulham under Martin Jol in 2013. Emanuelson will be available to play in Saturday's home game against Wigan. Details about the length of his contract have yet to be disclosed. "The Championship is new to me but I know it is a long season, with lots of games and a lot of competition. It is a tough division but I hope I can help the team and show the fans what I'm all about," he told the club website. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Sheffield Wednesday have signed versatile left-sided Netherlands international Urby Emanuelson, subject to international clearance.


The Â£11m bridge links Arena Island to Cattle Market Road and will be a key route to the Bristol Arena. Bristol Arena, a 12,000-seat venue set to open in 2017, will be built by contractor Populous which was chosen from a shortlist of five. Communications and broadband cables plus "district heating" piping which provides green energy to businesses will be included beneath the bridge. Work started on the 63-metre-long (207 ft) bridge in March and it is hoped it will help unlock new investment in the area to create more jobs. It is open to cars, pedestrians and bikes, with 3.5 metres (11ft) of pedestrian and bike lanes on either side. The bridge was funded by the Homes and Communities Agency

Summary: A new bridge has been built over the River Avon in Bristol.


Gudjohnsen was on trial with the Premier League club earlier this year. The midfielder has returned to his Icelandic club Breidablik and will officially join Swansea in July. He will link up with one of Iceland's highest-profile players, Gylfi Sigurdsson, who has played a starring role for the Swans this season. Sigurdsson helped Iceland defy the odds by reaching the quarter-finals of Euro 2016. Gudjohnsen's older half-brother, Champions League and Premier League winner Eidur, was also in the squad in France. Now 38 years old, the former Bolton and Tottenham forward made his debut for Iceland as a 17-year-old when he came on as a substitute for his father, also named Arnor Gudjohnsen.

Summary: Swansea City have signed Arnor Gudjohnsen, the 16-year-old half-brother of former Chelsea and Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen.


A pair of Typhoon jets took off from RAF Lossiemouth on Saturday morning. An MOD spokesman said the fighters which were scrambled "in response to two Russian aircraft entering the UK's airspace", had both since returned. The RAF and Royal Navy have been frequently called on to monitor Russian planes and warships in recent years. Fighter jets were sent to monitor two Russian Tupolev TU-160 Blackjack bombers, which passed near UK airspace in February. And in January, Type 23 frigate HMS St Albans was deployed to "man mark" the Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov and its battlegroup as the vessels sailed close to UK territorial waters, returning from operations supporting the offensive in Syria. The Kuznetsov group had previously passed through the Channel last autumn on its way to the Mediterranean and was escorted by Type 45 destroyer HMS Duncan and Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond.

Summary: Two RAF fighters were scrambled in Scotland after two Russian planes entered UK airspace, the MoD has confirmed.


Matthew Rigby, 22, and 23-year-old Kathryn Smith deny murdering Ayeeshia Jane Smith at their home in Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, in May 2014. Birmingham Crown Court heard Ayeeshia had a heart injury usually seen in people who have fallen off buildings or been in a car crash. She died from a fatal heart laceration. During the trial Ms Smith, of Sandfield Road in Nottingham, described her daughter as "an angel", and said Ayeeshia had suffered bruises when falling off her potty. Mr Rigby, of Sloan Drive in Nottingham, had admitted his relationship with her mother, which has now ended, was volatile, with police often being called to their flat in Burton upon Trent, but denied injuring Ayeeshia. The former couple both confirmed they used cannabis at least three times a week, with the drug found stored in a Tommee Tippee mug at their flat.

Summary: The jury in the trial of a mother and stepfather jointly accused of stamping a toddler to death retires to consider its verdict.


The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said the alarm was raised to the fire at St Barr's Crescent on Barra about 06:15. Police Scotland said the man has still to be formally indentified, but his next of kin have been informed. Insp Roddy Mackay said police and the fire service will carry out a joint investigation. He said inquiries into the cause of the fire were still at an early stage. The incident is the third fatal fire on the Western Isles this year. A woman died in a house fire in the Garrynamonie area of South Uist on 10 February. Fives days later William Hanks, 83, died after a fire broke out at his home at Kildonan, also on South Uist.

Summary: A 51-year-old man has died after a fire broke out in a house in the Western Isles.