David Cameron has suggested using jujitsu to 'put Nigel Farage on the floor' in tonight's televised debate between seven party leaders. The Prime Minister took advice from martial arts pupils about the best way to deal with the Ukip leader when they go up against each other in the two-hour showdown. Sensing he may have gone too far with the threat to to wrestle his opponent to the ground, Mr Cameron later backtracked, insisting there will be 'no bodily contact' during the debate. Scroll down for video . Prime Minister David Cameron took advice from martial arts pupils in Warrington about the best way to deal with the Ukip leader when they go up against each other in the two-hour showdown . The Tory leader paid a visit to the Kings Leadership Academy in Warrington ahead of the seven-way debate tonight . All of the party leaders have spent the day preparing for tonight's debate, with Mr Cameron facing the prospect of having to defend the Tory-led government from attack on several fronts. Mr Cameron visited King's Leadership Academy in Warrington, where he spoke to pupils about their favourite sports. Chatting in a playground, the Tory leader said: 'In this debate tonight, jujitsu, is that the right thing?' To laughter he added: 'Shall I get Nigel Farage and put him on the floor, is that OK?' Ukip leader Nigel Farage said he was feeling 'pretty good' ahead of his TV test . But later he played down the idea of physical violence, telling reporters: 'It was a joke. There'll be no bodily contact tonight.' Today Mr Cameron insisted he was not nervous and was 'relishing' the prospect of the two-hour debate in the ITV studios at Salford's MediaCityUK. Mr Cameron told reporters: 'It is a chance to get across that we have a long-term economic plan that is working.' For his part, Mr Farage said he was feeling 'pretty good' ahead of his TV test, telling Sky News: 'I hope the truth comes out on some issues. 'Particularly, I shall be arguing and asking the Prime Minister and others, will they please admit that, as members of the EU, we cannot have an immigration policy of any kind at all.' Mr Cameron and Mr Farage will share the platform tonight with Labour's Ed Miliband and Lib Dem Nick Clegg, SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon, the Green Party's Natalie Bennett and Plaid Cymru's Leanne Wood. It is the only time Mr Cameron will go up against Mr Miliband, with one of them certain to be Prime Minister after May 7. The Prime Minister was accused by Labour of 'running scared' after dodging a head-to-head showdown with the Labour leader. After Mr Cameron objected to broadcasters' plans for three TV debates during the five-and-a-half week campaign, the ITV show marks the only occasion before the May 7 election when the Tory and Labour leaders will face each other. With all the polls pointing to an extremely tight contest, the leaders of the two biggest parties will be anxious to avoid any costly slips while looking

Summary: Tory leader later insists there will be not 'bodily contact' during debate . Cameron expected to clash with Farage on immigration and Europe . Seven-way debate will be broadcast live on ITV from 8pm tonight . Strict rules decided who will speak and when during two-hour show .


Jose Mourinho resisted the temptation until someone mentioned defending. Arsene Wenger had been talking about how it was easier to set up a team designed primarily to defend, just as Brendan Rodgers had ventured after Chelsea’s victory at Liverpool, last year. ‘It’s not easy, not easy,’ said Mourinho. ‘If it was easy, you wouldn’t lose 3-1 at home to Monaco. If he defends well he draws 0-0 against Monaco and wins in Monte Carlo. It’s not easy to defend.’ Jose Mourinho hit back at Arsene Wenger during his pre-match press conference on Friday . Arsene Wenger (left) and Mourinho have over a decade of history in the Premier League . Arsene Wenger will be sick of the sight of Didier Drogba. He has scored 13 times for Chelsea against Arsenal, averaging a goal every 87 minutes. Monaco, ouch. Mourinho is not afraid to hit where it hurts. Arsenal have been brilliant since the turn of the year, but they were downright awful at home to Monaco. They conceded three and they crashed out of the Champions League. It was a blemish to support the theory that Arsenal are fine until the pressure is on. When Chelsea crashed out of Europe they were, as usual, snarling and disputing every decision. ‘Maybe you will discover the Chelsea team are completely offensive and we are defensive for 90 minutes,’ said Wenger, resorting to sarcasm as he assessed the clash at the Emirates on Sunday. ‘Our job is to win football games and that’s what they’ve done in recent games. What’s important for me is to do what it takes to win the game. It’s easy to defend, if we have to defend then we will defend.’ It is the issue at the heart of this ideological clash. On one side Wenger, committed to the romance of attractive football. On the other Mourinho, doing what it takes to win even if it proves ugly, stacking up the trophies. Beat Arsenal and Leicester, on Wednesday, and he will clinch the title. Arsenal lost 3-1 to Monaco in the Champions League - a result which Mourinho mentioned to the media . Prince Albert of Monaco celebrates with the away fans after the full-time whistle at the Emirates . Wenger looks dejected as he stands on the touchline during the Gunners' Champions League defeat . The challenge for Wenger is next season. Can he produce a team fit to fight for the title once again? ‘We have played amazingly well for most of the season,’ said Mourinho. ‘In the last period we have been more strategic and less artistic because we had injuries and suspensions and lost the balance of our team. ‘But we are having results. It is a great feeling to deal with the difficult moment in a strategic way. When you are lost at sea and you have no boat, you must survive. You build a raft.’ Diego Costa’s injuries and suspensions were Chelsea’s shipwreck. Without his muscular spearhead, the balance was lost and it is three months since his team won by more than one

Summary: Chelsea can secure the league title if they beat Arsenal and Leicester . Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger have had a decade of touchline battles . Mourinho has hit back at Wenger's 'defensive' jibes ahead of Sunday . He said: 'If it was easy, you wouldn't lose 3-1 at home to Monaco'


Indigenous Australian models have yet to make a significant impact on the runway but an exclusively Aboriginal modelling agency is in the swing of changing that cultural fashion landscape. The first name that comes to mind when thinking of Aboriginal models for even the most die-hard of fashionistas is Samantha Harris who was one of the most prominent faces during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia in Sydney this week. The only other indigenous face to join the 24-year-old stunner at the biggest week on the country's fashion calendar over the past two years is Lauren Feenstra. On the rise: Adina-lee Vincent is one of the many emerging models signed with Aboriginal Model Management Australia . Gaining ground: The agency started off with just five models and now has 40 including Noreen Carr (pictured) However, next year's annual global event will mark a significant shift if Aboriginal Model Management Australia founder Kira-Lea Dargin gets her way. 'I expect at least five or 10 to be appearing in next year's fashion week,' she said. 'Realistically I would like to see up to 10 of our girls go through to next year's fashion week - we do have quite a few of them that have the potential,' she said. What started out as helping out a few modelling mates break into the industry two and half years ago quickly turned into a niche market that Aboriginal models have long been crying out for by the start of last year for the Russian-Aboriginal. Hot right now: Agency founder Kira-Lea Dargin hopes 10 of her girls will join Samantha Harris at next year's fashion week . In demand: Harris walked in a number of major shows at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia . Dargin began representing females who had the runway standards in terms of height and size. 'We focused on high fashion calibre models,' she said. 'We started out with five then it became 25 and now we have 40 models.' Now the agency is about to take on a whole new approach when casting begin for both female and male models aged anywhere up to 60 years old across five capital cities. The Facebook post for the casting call in Brisbane tomorrow has already attracted more than 350 shares and Dargin has received at least 400 emails with expressions of interest. 'I'm expecting the numbers to go ridiculous especially when we go onto Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth,' she said. Dargin says the high fashion market is slowly changing its perspective when it comes to indigenous models but she hoped it would move along more quickly (Cheyanne Fuller pictured) The 26-year-old is finding the mid-market range of big family chain stores such as Bonds, Target and Big W are particularly interested in hiring Aboriginal models for their catalogue campaigns. 'They are a lot more receptive opposed to the high fashion market because it has had a particular look for quite some time,' she said. 'It's a slow process but the perspective is changing - a lot of opportunities are opening but I personally would like to see it

Summary: Aboriginal Model Management Australia has 40 female clients so far . New national casting call is now looking for both sexes aged up to 60 . Founder is expecting the numbers to take off as interest rapidly grows . Target, Bonds and Big W are very interested in hiring Aboriginal models . Kira-Lea Dargin says demand for indigenous models is slowly changing in the high fashion market but should be moving faster .


Mirko ‘Cro Crop’ Filipovic is desperate to scratch his eight-year itch when he takes on Gabriel Gonzaga in Poland on Saturday. Cro Crop lost to the Brazilian in 2007 when a first-round head kick brought a swift end to the bout at UFC 70. But he is confident he can avenge the defeat on home territory. Mirko Filipovic (right) faces Gabriel Gonzaga in Poland on Saturday, eight years after losing to the Brazilian . In 2007, Filipovic (right) was beaten by a first-round head kick and wants to avenge that defeat . Filipovic admitted revenge is a motivating factor ahead of the encounter against Gonzaga . ‘I want to beat all the opponents who have beaten me before,’ Cro Crop said. ‘But especially this fight because I lost to him and this time I feel better motivated and more prepared than I did last time. ‘He [Gonzaga] is a big guy. He is tough - he always goes for the victory and sometimes he is successful, sometimes he is less successful. But he definitely is a tough opponent for everyone. ‘I don’t want to think too far ahead - I am focusing on this fight and whatever is next, will happen. ‘I am in really great shape. My training is great - I keep the same schedule of training and I am prepared and ready for this fight. ‘I have been training with Stipe [Miocic] - he is a really great guy. We have been training really hard to prepare for both of our fights. He is just a great guy to train with and to be around. ‘All of the people I have lost against, I always want to fight again. UFC decided it would be Gonzaga and yes I wanted this rematch very much.’ Gonzaga, meanwhile, insists he does not view the fight as a rematch, given the eight-year wait. ‘I didn’t make any mistakes [in his last fight against Cro Cop] and he did make one, and I tried to capitalise on that,’ he said. ‘Eight years can change a lot. So much can change in that time so I do not consider this a rematch; I consider this a new fight. ‘I’ve got better in that time - my skill set has got better. ‘I’m going to try to avoid his high kick. But I will be ready wherever the fight goes. Gonzaga said he does not consider the fight with Filipovic a rematch because of the gap of eight years . Gonzaga believes that his skillset has got even better since the last time he took on Filipovic . ‘That’s the thing about the heavyweight division in the UFC, you know, one punch can change everything. ‘I believe people are never going to forget our first fight. But right now I just need to win this fight. ‘I always need to keep working towards the title shot. I am always trying to get there and I’m here to do that, to move closer to it.’

Summary: Mirko Filipovic aims to avenge 2007 first-round defeat to Gabriel Gonzaga . Filipovic was beaten by a head-kick from the Brazilian eight years ago . He admitted revenge is a motivating factor ahead of Saturday's bout .


An Australian plus-sized model has revealed her skinnier counterparts have only 'one cracker and a couple glasses of water' per day to keep thin in the lead up to fashion week. Laura Wells has found international success as a size 14 model, including appearing in Cosmopolitan and Australian Women's Weekly magazines. Having lived and worked with other less curvy models in New York City, Wells has seen the shocking sacrifices they make to keep skinny. Scroll down for video . Laura Wells (left) has found international success as a size 14 model, including appearing in Cosmopolitan and Australian Women's Weekly magazines . 'It goes to the extremes - no food being eaten, prescription dietary pills, agents telling girls that they’re only allowed to have one cracker and a couple glasses of water leading up to fashion week per day,' Wells told Australian Women's Weekly. The model believed this was not healthy and also took a toll on their mental health as well. 'These girls are going to the extremes to look like that and not being booked for any jobs and they're living with a plus-sized model who's working every single day, and comparing themselves to me who's eating really healthy,' she said. In the interview with the magazine, Wells also revealed she was very resistant to taking up a career as a fashion model. Wells was spotted by talent scouts in New York City in 2005 and said at first she was offended at being asked to be a plus-sized model because of her misconceptions about the term . The 177-centimetre beauty was studying science and law when she was spotted in New York City by talent scouts in 2005. She said she felt insulted the first time she was asked to be a plus-sized model because of her misconceptions about the term. 'I wanted to punch everyone in the face... [I thought] basically they were calling me fat,' Wells said. 'That was my perception of the word "plus size", that people were calling me "fat".' She has modelled for Myer, Macy's, David Jones, Bloomingdale's and Asos to name a few brands . Wells said while she was a plus-sized model who was defined as someone who was 'four to six sizes bigger than a standard model', she was not 'plus-sized in reality'. Since then Wells has gone to model for Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Myer, David Jones, Berlei and Asos. Despite her career breakthroughs, she thinks people's perception of body image still has a long way to go. 'It's slowly changing but not to the extent where it needs to be,' Wells said. 'It needs to be at the point where it’s celebrated anymore... Why isn’t it just seen as normal?'

Summary: Laura Wells is a successful plus-sized model who has worked in New York . She revealed agents tell models to eat a biscuit a day before fashion week . Wells also revealed the first time she was approached by talent scouts . They asked the Australian beauty if she wanted to be a plus-sized model . Wells said she felt like she wanted to punch them in the face for asking her . Her misconceptions about plus-sized models led her to think she was being called fat .


She's the beautician turned millionaire with a serious passion for fashion - and now Amy Childs has unveiled more sophisticated designs from her successful clothing range. The 24-year-old, who found fame on The Only Way Is Essex, has designed a summer range full of pretty pastels and feminine florals inspired by the festival season. Speaking to FEMAIL about her new designs, Amy said: 'I love pastels and florals - they were big at Coachella recently and I’ve done my take on them. Amy Childs has unveiled her sophisticated summer collection full of pastel prints . 'There’s some smart work wear with a fun spring edge all the way to skater dresses that you can wear to BBQs and play around with the kids in.' Amy, who is 'really proud' of her new range, says her garments are designed for the woman wanting to embrace wearable catwalk trends and 'definitely' for real women. Amy says her new range is full of smart workwear with a 'fun spring edge', as well as skater dresses her fans can wear to BBQs and play around with the kids in . The former TOWIE star says her garments are designed for the woman wanting to embrace wearable catwalk trends and 'definitely' for real women . 'I design for real women - not photoshopped fashion models,' she said. 'I love curves. Look at the Kardashians - times are changing and curvy body shapes are a lot more common than athletic and slim - and they should be celebrated.' Amy admits she works out to keep her curves, explaining: 'I work out and do squats and tone up my tummy. I work for my curves and keep myself toned but I don’t try and lose weight. 'I’m happy how I am - I would never want to give up having a duvet day and Domino's to look like a stick insect!'. The fashion designer is inspired by the Kardashians and says they're proof that times are changing and curvy body shapes are a lot more common than athletic and slim . Despite being comfortable in her own skin, Amy has - like many celebrities - faced the wrath of Twitter trolls. ‘There are people out there who just love to tear people down and it has to stop,' she said candidly. 'People think that by hiding behind Twitter or their phones that you can say hurtful things to people - that’s not true and that’s not a good message to give to the next generation.' So, with a fashion brand, tanning range and false eyelash collection under her belt, what's next for Amy? ‘Some exciting things,' she revealed. 'I can’t say too much but I am very busy with my summer range which is coming out soon and I have just launched my collection on Celebrity Fashion Clothing where my friend Pete sells his perfume and T-shirts.' Speaking to FEMAIL about her new designs, Amy said: 'I love pastels and florals - they were big at Coachella recently and I've done my take on them'

Summary: Amy, 24, has designed a summer range full of pretty pastels . Amy says her garments are 'definitely' for real women . Has faced the wrath of Twitter trolls .


Wolfsburg dominated but needed a second-half penalty from defender Ricardo Rodriguez to edge past fellow Bundesliga club Freiburg 1-0 and advance to the German Cup semi-finals on Tuesday. Swiss international Rodriguez, who also scored twice in the win over Stuttgart at the weekend, converted a 72nd-minute spot-kick after Daniel Caligiuri was brought down by Julian Schuster. Wolfsburg, second in the Bundesliga, spurned a host of chances with Kevin De Bruyne and Andre Schurrle wasteful. The Wolfsburg players celebrate in the dressing room after reaching the German Cup semi finals . Ricardo Rodriguez's penalty beats the Freiburg keeper Roman Burki to secure the win for Wolfsburg . They join Borussia Dortmund in the final four, after Jurgen Klopp's side came from behind to beat Hoffenheim. Holders Bayern Munich, chasing a treble for the second time in three years, play Bayer Leverkusen in another all-Bundesliga clash on Wednesday with Borussia Monchengladbach taking on third-tier Arminia Bielefeld. The in-form Kevin de Bruyne missed several good chances, as did former Chelsea team-mate Andre Schurrle . De Bruyne and striker Bas Dost congratulate Rodriguez after he scored the winner from the penalty spot .

Summary: Swiss international Ricardo Rodriguez nets penalty in second half . Kevin de Bruyne and Andre Schurrle miss chances in win . Borussia Dortmund also reach last four of German Cup on Tuesday .


A woman has received the shocking news that the man she's known as her father for 23 years is not actually her biological parent. Sarah's ordeal was played out on TV after she agreed to appear on the Jeremy Kyle Show to undergo a DNA test. The 23-year-old mother burst into tears when the presenter revealed Phil, who appeared with her on the ITV show, was not in fact her real father. Scroll down for video . Sarah, 23, was devastated to find out the man she's always thought was her father is not her biological parent as she appeared on today's Jeremy Kyle Show . Phil, who has raised Sarah, was equally upset to learn he is not her real father and was comforted by her and presenter Jeremy Kyle, left, on the ITV show . Presenter Jeremy Kyle, left, broke the news of the DNA test to Phil and Sarah . Sarah's mother had dropped the bombshell that Phil - who had raised Sarah - may not actually be related to her last year. In an experience akin to the plot of musical Mamma Mia, Sarah was told one of three men could be her father. Determined to find out the truth, the pair went on the Jeremy Kyle Show - famed for it's revealing DNA tests - to get an answer. Before the results were revealed, Sarah spoke of how Phil has always been a father figure in her life. The pair appeared on the show after Sarah's mother told her last year that Phil wasn't her real father . She said: 'He put a roof over my head, he's always been there for me. I'd be over the moon if he was my father. I don't know what I will do if he's not but he will still be like father to me.' Phil added: 'Whatever happens today she will still be my daughter. If she is, it will be the proudest day of my life.' Jeremy read a statement from Sarah's mother - who is no longer in contact with her daughter - in which she confirmed Phil was not Sarah's father. But Sarah and Phil wanted to have the DNA test to know for sure. Before finding out the DNA results, Phil said it would be the proudest day of his life if Sarah was his daughter, while she said she would be 'over the moon' The DNA test confirmed Phil and Sarah are not related but they said it won't change their relationship . 'I want to find out truth, it's been going too long now,' Sarah said. But her fears were realised when the DNA test confirmed Phil was not her father. On hearing the news, Phil held his head in his hands while Sarah burst into tears. The pair hugged and vowed the truth would not change their relationship - while Jeremy said the show's team would give them any support they needed moving forward. On discovering the truth, Phil told Jeremy he will always be a father to Sarah . Wiping away

Summary: Sarah appeared on Monday's Jeremy Kyle Show to have DNA test . Wanted to find out if Phil was her real father . He had raised her but mother cast doubt on his paternity . They were heartbroken to discover they are not related .


The families of two slain New York City police officers threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Mets' home opener at Citi Field, while the widow of American Sniper Chris Kyle pitched in for the San Diego Padres. New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady also threw a first pitch, at Fenway Park in Boston - but didn't do himself proud, chucking the ball straight at the ground. The NYPD families were joined by Mayor Bill de Blasio at a time when his relationship with the police department is again coming under scrutiny. Scroll down for video . New York Mayor Bill de Blasio waves as he stands with members of the families of New York City Police Detectives Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos before they threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Mets home opener baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies in New York . Members of the family of New York City Police officers Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos throw out the ceremonial first pitches before the Mets opening day baseball game . An American flag is displayed before the baseball game between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field . New York City Police Detectives Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos are honored on a giant video screen before the start of the New York Mets home opening day baseball game . Police officers hold a giant American flag before the baseball game between the New York Mets and the Philadelphia Phillies . Tribute: New York Police Department helicopters fly over Citi Field on Monday . Widow of 'American Sniper' Chris Kyle, Taya Kyle, center, throws out the first ceremonial pitch on Military Opening Day before a baseball game between the San Diego Padres and the San Francisco Giants in San Diego . Taya Kyle gets a hug from San Diego Padres starting pitcher Andrew Cashner after throwing out the first ceremonial pitch . De Blasio's relations with the police unions and some rank-and-file officers were fractured in the aftermath of the December shooting that claimed the lives of Officers Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu. They were murdered on patrol in Brooklyn on December 20 by a crazed gunman who then committed suicide. Since that crisis, which threatened to overwhelm the mayor's agenda, de Blasio has taken pains to repair relations with the nation's largest police force, brokering a new union contract, investing in new technology and training, and doubling down on his public praise of the department. On Monday, he joined the tens of thousands of fans in cheering as the officers' images were displayed on the park's giant video screens and again when Ramos' two sons and Liu's widow threw out the pitches to Mets players David Wright, Matt Harvey and Curtis Granderson. De Blasio, however, was largely booed when he was introduced to the crowd. A year ago, de Blasio was also booed as he threw out the first pitch (a strike). Both years, he sported a Mets cap and jersey, which was emblazoned with his last name and the number 6,

Summary: Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu were murdered on patrol in December . Their families threw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Mets' home opener . They were joined by Mayor De Blasio, who was booed when introduced . Tom Brady and 'American Sniper' widow Tara Kyle also threw first pitches .


The victim of a road rage attack during rush-hour traffic has come face-to-face with the man suspected of shooting her in the head. Dietrich Evans was arrested yesterday for the attack which left Kay Hafford with bullet fragments in the bottom right side of her brain. The brave church singer agreed to face her alleged shooter in a police line-up and Evans, 22, has now been charged with aggravated assault. Scroll down for video . Dietrich Evans has been arrested on suspicion of shooting Kay Hafford in the head in a road rage attack . Lucky to be alive: Kay Hafford, 28 (left and right) was shot in the back of the head in a Texas road-rage accident but was able to pull over and call for help . Ms Hafford, who is still recovering, had been trying to get on the freeway in Houston when she honked at a passing SUV. She said the pair had an angry exchange and the driver then began taunting her. A short time later, the motorist pulled up beside her, aimed a gun at the front passenger window of her red Dodge Avenge and pulled the trigger, reported Click2Houston. Evans, 22, was arrested on suspicion of the shooting after detectives from Harris County Sheriff's Office say they discovered the gun used to shoot through Hafford's window and a car matching the description of the shooter's. Shot fired: Officials say Hafford got into an angry confrontation with another driver and honked at him, prompting the man to fire on the passenger window of her Dodge Avenger (pictured) Officials confirmed that Evans, who is being held on $250,000 bond, is a documented gang member. Incredibly, Ms Hafford told Eyewitness News she wasn't angry with her attacker but felt sorry for him. On meeting him she said: 'It made me nervous. I just shed my few tears and I let it go. I knew without a shadow of a doubt, it was him. 'Seeing him made me hurt a little bit. I kinda feel sorry for him, but I'm not mad at him. I appreciate him coming forth. He just needs help and they got him.' The victim said she had prayed for police to catch her attacker or for him to give himself up and was delighted her prayers had been answered. Artistic: Both Hafford (right) and her husband of nearly two years, Kendrick Hafford (left), are musicians . Ms Hafford said the argument began when she was 'cut up' by the suspect as she turned into the feeder road to the North Freeway. He had driven alongside her shouting for her to roll down her window and as she entered the Freeway she said she heard a loud noise and felt pain in the back of her head. Despite the gunshot wound, she was able to pull over and dial 911. It took responding constables about 15 minutes to track down the woman's car and get her medical help, reported KHOU. Paramedics who responded to the scene rushed her to Memorial Hermann Texas Trauma Institute. Ms

Summary: Kay Hafford was shot in the head after a confrontation with an angry driver . She survived the shooting on North Freeway in Houston and called 911 . Hafford has faced Dietrich Evans who was arrested on suspicion of attack .


A devastating fire has caused serious damage to a world-famous hotel used as a setting for television’s Inspector Morse. The Randolph, in Oxford city centre, went up in flames this afternoon, with smoke billowing from the roof as dozens of firefighters battled to bring the inferno under control. The extent of the damage to the Grade II listed Victorian building remains unclear but aerial pictures of the scene showed gaps in the roof and exposed beams. The Randolph Hotel, in Oxford, used as a setting for television’s Inspector Morse, caught fire today . A devastating fire has caused serious damage to The Randolph Hotel, in Beaumont Street, today . Plumes of black smoke was seen coming from the hotel by those on the Ashmolean Museum's roof terrace . The fire's cause is not known and the extent of the damage to the Grade II listed building remains unclear . The five-star hotel, run by the Macdonald chain, includes the Morse Bar, named after being used as a frequent setting for many scenes where Morse and Lewis deliberated on complex cases. Cast and crew also stayed there while filming the detective drama. The Morse Bar has featured in episodes of the follow-on TV series, Lewis, too. Roads were closed around the hotel as fire crews fought to stop the flames spreading, while its staff and guests were evacuated. Firefighters will remain overnight at the scene of the fire, which is not believed to be suspicious and is thought to have started in the ground floor kitchen. An aerial view over the historic hotel shows massive plumes of smoke billowing over Oxford city centre . The fire is not believed to be suspicious and is believed to have started in the ground floor kitchen . The extent of the damage is unclear, but pictures of the scene showed gaps in the roof and exposed beams . No-one was believed to be injured and guests and staff evacuated to the nearby Oxford Playhouse theatre . Eyewitness Anabel Bacon, who was on the roof terrace of the Ashmolean Museum opposite the imposing, gothic hotel, said there was an initial plume of smoke, which stopped very quickly - but “all of a sudden it resumed again with just as much force”. She said: ‘The fire service was there very quickly after the second plume erupted, within five minutes. Everyone was surprised… no one knew what was going on.’ No-one was believed to have been injured in the fire, with guests and staff quickly evacuated to the nearby Oxford Playhouse theatre. It was not yet known how many people were inside the hotel at the time. An Oxfordshire fire service spokesman said: ‘The call was received by fire and rescue at 4.39pm and a total of 14 fire engines have been sent to the hotel - including two high-reach appliances. ‘Firefighters have not had to rescue anybody from the blaze and the building has been evacuated. 'Roads nearby have been closed as firefighters deal with the incident.' The Randolph was built in 1864 by William Wilkinson, an architect

Summary: Witnesses reported massive plumes of smoke billowing above the building . Famous for being used a filming location for TV show Inspector Morse . Firefighters have been battling fire at five-star gothic hotel since 4.30pm . Blaze is not believed to be suspicious and is thought to have started in ground floor kitchen .


As Australians are beginning to feel the onset of winter's chill, Aussies travellers are looking to escape this year's cold in exchange for a European summer. Recent data released by KAYAK.com.au has revealed that most Aussies are planning their mid-year getaways in Europe. Research by the travel search engine further indicates that Aussies are planning to travel abroad between May and August, while seven out of the top ten holiday destinations are in Europe. Australian tourists are planning to holiday in destinations across Europe, the number one choice being the ancient city of Athens in Greece . 1) Athens, Greece . 2) Istanbul, Turkey . 3) Toronto, Canada . 4) Warsaw, Poland . 5) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam . 6) Dublin, Ireland . 7) Barcelona, Spain . 8) Colombo, Sri Lanka . 9) Santiago, Chile . 10) Vienna, Austria . Debby Soo, Vice President APAC at KAYAK, says Australians don't seem bothered by the cost of their trip, as long as it means they can stay away from the cold. 'Australia is often thought of as a nation of sun-seekers and the upswing of searches for places like Athens, Istanbul and Ho Chi Minh City support that notion,' she said. 'Destinations like Warsaw, Colombo, and Santiago also suggest Aussies are looking for more diverse escapes. 'People don't appear to be put off by distance, cost or the time it takes to reach somewhere – especially if it means they get a break from winter.' Second of the top 10 destinations Aussies are looking to escape to this winter is Istanbul - the cultural and historical heart of Turkey . Another hotspot among Aussie tourists is Toronto in Canada, according to recent data released by KAYAK.com.au . Fourth of the top 10 list is Warsaw in Poland, where Aussies are planning their mid-year getaways . Number one on the list is the ancient city of Athens in Greece, followed by Istanbul - the cultural and historical heart of Turkey. The number of Australians heading overseas has also increased in recent years, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Between 2002 and 2012, the amount of Australians travelling overseas increased from 3.5 million to 8.2 million. The strong Australian dollar sees Aussies still keen to spend their hard-earned wages on trips overseas and new experiences and sights. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is said to be the fifth destinations Aussies are searching for this winter . Dublin, Ireland also makes it on the top 10 planned holiday destinations for Aussie travellers . Barcelona in Spain is one of the seven European countries which make it on the top 10 list . The number one attraction for Aussies heading overseas is Athens, one of the world's oldest cities, and considered by many to be the birthplace of democracy. Second on the list is Istanbul, which is the sixth largest city in the world, and is famed for it's history, including it's location along the Silk Road. Other hot spots for Aussie tourists include Toronto in Canada and Warsaw, in Poland. Finishing off the top

Summary: Australian tourists are planning to holiday abroad between May and August . Most of the holiday destinations are in Europe, number one being Greece . Seven out of the top ten destinations for Aussie are in Europe . Others include Toronto in Canada, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Colombo in Sri Lanka .


It may look absurd, but a bizarre new dog grooming trend is beginning to take shape in Taiwan. The craze involves having your pet pooch shaped into a sphere or a square - with the desired effect being a more eye-grabbing and clean-cut look. In a method reminiscent of Edward Scissorhands's trimming of a hedge, canine hairdressers in the Taiwanese capital Taipei are giving particularly furry customers outlandish makeovers. Scroll down for video . What a square! A dog shows off Taiwan's bizarre new pet-grooming trend after having his fur cut in a square . Hairdresser Tain Yeh, 42, who runs a parlour in Taipei said: 'I am aware of the trend although we don't have much request for it here because it's very difficult to keep the shape. 'It came about because people were always looking for more impressive haircuts, and somebody came up with the idea of shaping the dog like a hedge.' Pictures of doe-eyed dogs with their shapely new cuts have proved extremely popular online prompting more owners to seek out the custom salons. Many are now opting for the cuts simply to get more likes and shares on social media sites. Ms Yeh added: 'The dogs don't mind, and the owners keep coming back for more. This sort of haircut needs a lot more maintenance then the regular type. 'It is also not suitable for all breeds. The dog needs to have plenty of hair to play around with so that you can shape it around the face and body.' Willing customers? Two more recently-groomed pooches stare sad-eyed into the camera as they show off new hairstyles . Getting the chop: Two dogs grimace as their fur is trimmed into hedge-like circles in a dog-grooming parlour in Taipei . The spherical look: This dog's owner has opted for the circular cut offered by salons in Taiwan . Fetching ear muffs: Many are now opting for the cuts simply to get more likes and shares on social media sites .

Summary: Craze has taken off thanks to owners posting pictures on social media . Initial idea was to give the pets a more eye-grabbing and clean-cut look . One dog salon worker in Taipei has insisted that 'the dogs don't mind'


A piano teacher awaiting a jury's verdict on charges claiming he sexually assaulted an underage student has shot himself outside a New Hampshire courthouse, court officials say. Authorities say 75-year-old John Goodwin, of Atkinson, went on trial this week on six counts of aggravated felonious sexual assault. Prosecutors said that Atkinson, who pleaded not guilty, repeatedly sexually assaulted a student, who is now 24 years old, according to SeaCoastOnline. John Goodwin, 75, shot himself outside of Rockingham County Superior Courthouse on Friday morning while jurors were deliberating claims that Goodwin had sexually assaulted an underage student . The former student testified he didn't come forward until 2013 because he was embarrassed, according to WMUR. The station reports Goodwin's lawyer acknowledged his client was 'touchy-feely,' but he didn't commit a crime. Court officials say the jury was deliberating when Goodwin shot himself late Friday morning near his car in a parking lot outside Rockingham County Superior Courthouse. He wasn't in custody. Court officials say Goodwin was airlifted to a hospital with life-threatening injuries from the self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to WPTZ. His health status has not been immediately disclosed. As of Friday afternoon, jurors were still deliberating, but court officials would not say if the jurors knew about the shooting. The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office is expected to release more information about the incident Friday evening. Goodwin was by his car outside Rockingham County Courthouse in New Hampshire when he shot himself. He was not in custody at the time and his health status has not been disclosed, though he was airlifted to hospita .

Summary: John Goodwin, 75, of Atkinson, New Hampshire, went on trial this week on six counts of aggravated felonious sexual assault . He had pleaded not guilty in the case in which prosecutors said he repeatedly sexually assaulted a student, who is now 24 . The former student said he didn't come forward until 2013 because he was embarrassed . Court officials said he shot himself outside his car while not in custody . He was airlifted to a hospital with life-threatening injuries but his condition has not been disclosed .


Nike have been forced to defend their new kits for the US women's national team following outcry over the fact they do not represent the American flag. The latest design, which will be worn by the women's team at this summer's World Cup, features an all white strip with hints of black and yellow - while the aqua colour cleats are a tribute to Canada who will be hosting the tournament. Charlie Brooks, Nike's vice president of North America communications, has defended the company's decision not to promote the 'Stars and Stripes'. ((L-R) Tobin Heath, Alex Morgan and Sydne Leroux of the USA women's team pose in their new kits . The outfits, which will be worn at the World cup, have been criticised as they do not represent the US flag . 'Not every team pays homage to the flag,' he said. 'Take Germany's kit for example, world champions. The German flag is yellow, red and black. The kit is white with black trim on it. 'I understand people asking about the colors, but there's also that level of not all national teams have to represent the flag.' While patriotic supporters are up in arms, feedback from the team itself has been more positive. 'They're stoked,' Brooks said. 'They love the uniforms.' Nike has been forced to defend its colour decision , saying 'Not every team pays homage to the flag' USA player Tobin Heath says she is 'proud' of the new designs . Sydne Leroux poses wearing the new at Nike's launch in California on Wednesday . 'This launch has been fantastic and Nike has done a great job kind of reinventing our kits, reinventing this World Cup, we're able to come out in a completely different look, but a look that we can be proud of,' added midfielder Tobin Heath. The US women's team will be hoping to replicate the success of their male counterparts who reached the last 16 of the 2015 World Cup in Brazil. 'Our success in the World Cup will do nothing but help the development of women's football in the US and just the continuation of the league that we have here and the fans that we draw,' said forward, Alex Morgan.

Summary: Nike have launched the new World Cup uniforms for the US women's team . Fans have been outraged because it doesn't represent Stars and Stripes . Company has defended the style and players have been positive .


Kenny Jackett has told his Wolves players they must maintain their focus and follow up victory over Nottingham Forest with another over Leeds United on Monday. The Wolves boss believes it is now just the top eight in the Sky Bet Championship who are fighting it out for the play-off places, with their 2-1 success at the City Ground all but ending the Reds' chances of making a late push. Wolves were fired on by a goal just 30 seconds into the second half from Benik Afobe, followed by a Bakary Sako penalty in the 72nd minute. Dexter Blackstock pulled one back for Forest four minutes into injury time, but it was too little, too late. Bakary Sako celebrates after scoring Wolves' second goal in a 2-1 win at Nottingham Forest on Good Friday . Manager Kenny Jackett has told his side that they need to keep their focus to maintain a promotion push . And Jackett does not want Wolves to let their promotion push slip away now, saying: We just need to keep winning our games and not worry about other sides. It looks like the top eight will be involved now, although I don't know if Forest will have an opinion on that. 'We have to follow this win up with another against Leeds now, there will be a big crowd at Molineux and we have to focus on that now. 'The mood is very determined, there is good focus among the players and we are keen to keep improving.' Jackett was particularly delighted for Afobe, who he had previously taken on loan at Millwall, saying: 'He is repaying our faith but we worked together at Millwall and I am delighted to have him permanently now. He was ready for a permanent home. Dougie Freedman believes the difference between the two sides was a simple composure in front of goal . 'I'm delighted to have won. I felt that Forest put us under a lot of pressure in the first 20 minutes, a lot of energy, the crowd were right behind them. We defended well in that period, very well. Then we came through it and started to look a threat ourselves. 'Then just after half time, Afobe's scored a fantastic goal that, in a tight game, has put our noses in front. After that we were very professional, we got the second goal, we needed it and it was a good overall performance.' Forest boss Dougie Freedman says the difference between the two sides was simple composure in front of goal. Wolves striker Afobe (centre) is mobbed by his team-mates after putting them ahead in the second half . 'The difference was that they took their chances when they came along. There was not a lot in it, they just took their chances when they came their way,' he said. 'When they scored just after half time, our team talk went out the window. But you have to take your chances against the top sides and we had plenty of them. 'The ability to take chances is what

Summary: Wolves beat Nottingham Forest to continue their push towards the playoff places and all but end their opposition's chances of promotion . Wolves are seventh, level on points with sixth-placed Ipswich . Kenny Jackett believes his side must maintain their focus to stay in touch . They face Leeds United in their next encounter, on Easter Monday .


A member of one of Australia's most notorious crime families has escaped jail thanks to his blood-soaked surname. Jamie Pettingill, who threatened to slice off a schoolboy's face, was ordered to complete 350 hours of community service after being found guilty of stealing six mobile phones. Pettingill robbed two women, a man and two schoolboys of their phones, and sold them to fund a gambling addiction he was hiding from his family, County Court Judge Sandra Davis said. Scroll down for video . Jamie Pettingill, who threatened to slice off a schoolboy's face, was ordered to complete 350 hours of community service after being found guilty of stealing six mobile phones . In the most serious incident he flashed a knife at a schoolboy, telling him 'Don't f**k with me, I'll cut your f**king face off', as he stole the boy's mobile phone. Judge Davis decided against putting Pettingill behind bars, due to fears his surname would attract unwanted attention and interfere with his rehabilitation. The judge also accepted Pettingill's crime spree was an 'unsophisticated, spur of the moment' act. The 26-year-old was ordered to pay more than $5000 in compensation for the mobile phones he had stolen, and was banned him from entering gaming venues. Pettingill robbed two women, a man and two schoolboys of their phones, and sold them to fund a gambling addiction he was hiding from his family, County Court Judge Sandra Davis said . Pettingill avoided jail time, with the judge fearing his surname would bring the 26-year-old unwanted attention in prison . Pettingill is the son of Trevor Pettingill, who was acquitted of shooting two police constables in Melbourne's infamous 1988 Walsh Street murders. Trevor Pettingill, along with Victor Peirce and two other men, were charged with the murder of Victoria Police Constables Steven Tynan, 22, and Damian Eyre, 20. The officers were brutally killed when responding to a report of an abandoned car around 5am on October 12, 1988. Pettingill's father, Trevor, was acquitted of shooting two police constables in Melbourne's infamous 1988 Walsh Street murders . Constable Steven John Tynan (left) was just 22-years-old when he and fellow officer Damian Jeffery Eyre, 20, (right) were lured to a street where they were ambushed and shot in the head . Victor Peirce (left) and Trevor Pettingill (right) were charged with the brutal slayings, along with four other men. Two of the men, Jedd Houghton and Gary Abdallah, were shot and killed by Victoria Police before being brought to trial . Kathleen Pettingill, who was dubbed 'Granny Evil', ran a number of brothels and had a glass eye after she was shot through the door of a housing commission flat. She was matriarch of the family, and another of her sons, Dennis Allen, was known as 'Mr Death' The Pettingill family inspired the 2010 Australian film Animal Kingdom . Peirce was himself murdered in 2002, gunned down outside a Melbourne supermarket. His wife, Wendy, said in a 2005 interview her husband had planned and carried out the killings. It is believed Peirce was driven to murder

Summary: Jamie Pettingill avoids prison time after charged with armed robbery . Pettingill threatened to slice off the face of one of the people he robbed . Judge Sandra Davis did not jail Pettingill, due to fears over his surname . Pettingill's father, Trevor, linked to infamous Walsh Street murders in 1988 . The Pettingill family inspired Australian underworld film, Animal Kingdom .


Justin Braddock ran from officers in hospital after a deputy sheriff saved his life when he found him unconscious after allegedly taking heroin . A police officer saved the life of a unconscious heroin user, only for the man to flee without a thank you when he was taken to hospital. Patrick O’Melia, 39, a deputy with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, was flagged down while he was on patrol near DeLand in Florida and asked to help 34-year-old Justin Braddock. When Mr O'Melia found Braddock unconscious in the front seat of a car he spent seven minutes giving him CPR and eventually revived him. Braddock, who had injected a large amount of the drug that day, was taken to hospital but fled, according to the Daytona Beach News Journal. He was later caught by deputies as he ran away from Florida Hospital. A two-year-old child was also said to have been found in the back of the car and the pair were later charged with neglect. Officials also found pills, other drugs and paraphernalia in the car. Mr O'Melia, who had worked as a deputy in the Sheriff's Office for just nine months, was flagged down for help by Braddock's sister Kelly Boan, 31, near New York Avenue near DeLand at about 4pm on Sunday afternoon. When he got to the car he found 34-year-old Braddock slumped in the front seat, without a pulse. Miss Boan told the deputy that they had just bought some of the drug and her brother had injected a large amount of it himself, it was claimed. It then took Mr O'Melia seven minutes to revive Braddock. Braddock was then able to stand up and get back into the front seat and an ambulance was called. He was taken to hospital by paramedics and as deputies arrived to question him, he was seen running away. Braddock continued to flee, even when officers told him they would use a taser gun. Mr O'Melia was flagged down in New York Avenue in DeLand (left) by Braddock's sister Kelly Boan (right) However his bid for freedom was short lived as he tripped and fell and was captured. Boan and Braddock were charged with possession of heroin, failure to report suspected child abuse, abandonment, neglect and possession/use of narcotics paraphernalia. Braddock is being held without bail and Boan was released on $2,500 bail.

Summary: Patrick O'Melia flagged down by Kelly Boan after her brother took heroin . Justin Braddock was unconscious and it took seven minutes to revive him . The 34-year-old had taken heroin and was taken to hospital by ambulance . But when officers arrived to question him, Braddock tried to run away .


This will prove yet another bitter pill for Saracens to swallow. The hurt of losing back-to-back European and domestic finals last year took Mark McCall’s men all of last summer and a good chunk of this season to overcome. This time they must lick their wounds and refocus their efforts on the Aviva Premiership after coming up short against Clermont. Clermont warm up in front of their supporters at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Etienne . Clermont centre Wesley Fofana attempts an offload following a crunching hit from Marcelo Bosch . Saracens flanker Maro Itojie secures a loose ball on the deck during a tight first half of action . There should be no shame in this defeat. Whereas Northampton capitulated embarrassingly against the same opponents a fortnight ago, Saracens stood tall on Saturday. Saracens’ long-suffering chairman Nigel Wray, who has pumped tens of millions of pounds into this club over the past two decades, took the opportunity on Saturday morning to repeat his conviction that English clubs will never be able to compete with French teams if the domestic salary cap is not raised. But it can only be a matter of time before Saracens deliver. With five of their starting pack under the age of 24 — all English qualified — they have forwards who will surely develop into a world-class outfit. Twenty-year-old Maro Itoje was impressive making his first start in Europe, while the Vunipola brothers were magnificent. Ultimately the better side won, and Clermont will head into their second European final confident they can land their first European title. Saracens pressurised Clermont with the same fierce defence that knocked them so spectacularly off their stride in last year’s semi-final at Twickenham. Sarries No 8 Billy Vunipola makes a strong run as Radosavljevic tries to halt his progress . The difference this time was that Clermont knew what was coming and were able to keep their wits about them, buoyed by a partisan crowd. ‘I’ve never experienced an atmosphere like that,’ said McCall. ’The effort and many aspects of our performance were phenomenal. We made Clermont play a a game they didn’t want to play. The game was on a knife edge with 10 minutes to go but games like that are decided by small margins.’ As evidence of their dominance, Clermont will point to Wesley Fofana’s superbly taken second-half try and a 19th-minute incident which saw Naipolini Nalaga denied what should have been a penalty try. Chris Ashton knocked him into touch without attempting to wrap his arms around him. Saracens full back Alex Goode tries to sidestep Clermont scrum half Ludovic Radosavljevic . But, had Jacques Burger been able to cling on to a knock-on from Nalaga with less than 10 minutes on the clock after Richard Wigglesworth’s superb chase and tackle of Alex Goode’s clearance, Saracens could so easily have won this game. It is hard to comprehend how the club will pick themselves up from yet another shattering defeat to deliver domestic silverware. But, after winning at Racing Metro in the quarter final while watching Premiership rivals

Summary: Saracens lead 6-3 at the break thanks to two Charlie Hodgson penalties . Wesley Fofana raced onto a Brock James chip for the opening try . A late Owen Farrell penalty kept Saracens in the hunt . But Brock James struck a 72nd penalty to seal the win .


Formula One star Jenson Button completed the London Marathon with an impressive time of two hours, 52 minutes and 30 seconds. The 35-year-old McLaren driver told the BBC he was 'chuffed to bits' with his performance, but joked he was disappointed to finish behind former Olympic rower James Cracknell. He added, 'There was such an amazing atmosphere out there.' Formula One driver Jenson Button celebrates completing the London Marathon 2015 in under three hours . Button praised the 'amazing atmosphere' and collective spirit of the runners at the event . Button was running on behalf of the charity Cancer Research and was really buoyed by the good will feelings about the event. 'People have put in so much effort and it's actually quite emotional it was really cool,' he said, before praising the collective spirit of the runners. 'To come here and do a completely different sport with 36,000 other people... it's really really emotional.' Button was running on behalf of Cancer Research and described his experience as 'really really emotional'

Summary: McLaren driver Jenson Button ran the London Marathon 2015 . He finished with a time of 2 hours 52 minutes and 30 seconds . Button praised the 'amazing atmosphere' and collective spirit of the runners at the event .


A new Kansas law tells poor families that they can't use cash assistance from the state to attend concerts, go swimming, visit theme parks or buy lingerie. The list of don'ts runs to several dozen items. More than 20 other states have such lists. But, the one included by the Republican-dominated Kansas Legislature in a bill that GOP Gov. Sam Brownback planned to sign Thursday appears to be the most exhaustive, according to state Department for Children and Families officials. The taxpayer-funded Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, currently provides cash payments of up to $497 per month for a family of four. To qualify that family must have an annual household income below $31,525 - before taxes - and assets valued at less than $2,000. Cutting back: In this April 13 photo, Kansas Republican Gov. Sam Brownback makes a point during an interview in his office in the Statehouse in Topeka, Kansas . The new restrictions, regarding Kansas applicants, have inspired national criticism and mockery from The Daily Show. Host Jon Stewart suggested that in accepting federal funds, Kansas should be forced to give up items like roads 'paved with luxurious asphalt.' 'The list has attracted attention because it feels mean-spirited,' said Shannon Cotsoradis, president and CEO of the advocacy group Kansas Action for Children. 'It really seems to make a statement about how we feel about the poor.' It is part of a broader welfare law taking effect in July that Brownback and his allies say is aimed at moving poor families from social services into jobs. In Kansas, here’s a list of what would be forbidden to those using cash assisted funds: . 'We want to get people off of public assistance and into private-sector employment, and we've had a lot of success with that,' Brownback during an interview this week with The Associated Press. A 2012 federal law requires states to prevent benefit-card use at liquor stores, gambling establishments or adult-entertainment businesses. At least 23 states have their own restrictions on how cards can be used, mostly for alcohol, tobacco, gambling and adult-oriented businesses, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. A few states - not Kansas - prohibit buying guns, according to the NCSL, and a few ban tattoos or body piercings. Massachusetts prohibits spending on jewelry, bail bonds, or 'vacation services.' A 2014 Louisiana law bars card use on cruise ships, which is also on the Kansas list. Kansas Department for Children and Families officials said that it's difficult to track how often cash assistance is used for items on the state's new list because recipients can use their benefits cards to obtain cash. The law will limit ATM withdrawals of cash assistance to $25 a day. The department said it reclaimed $199,000 in cash assistance from 81 fraud cases from July through February, but said most involved questions about eligibility. The state provided $14 million in cash assistance during the same period. A 2014 federal report said a check of eight states' data showed transactions with benefit cards at liquor stores, casinos or strip

Summary: The taxpayer-funded Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, currently provides payments of up to $497 per month for a family of four . The list of don'ts, included by the Republican-dominated Kansas Legislature in a bill that GOP Gov. Sam Brownback planned to sign Thursday , runs to several dozen items . The number of cash assistance recipients in Kansas has dropped 63per cent since Brownback took office, to about 14,700 in February . Brownback said the decline confirms the success of his policies, but critics note that U.S. Census Bureau figures show the state's child poverty rate remaining at about 19per cent through 2013 .


Groups of football fans are responsible for thuggish behaviour on trains on a weekly basis, a senior police officer has said. The warning by British Transport Police (BTP) Chief Constable Paul Crowther came ahead of a summit organised to determine the scale of the problem, which has come under scrutiny in recent months following a number of high-profile incidents. The latest figures for this football season show that BTP has recorded 630 football-related incidents so far, including a number with a racial element. Five Chelsea fans were caught on film directing racist abuse towards a black passenger in France . Fans appeared to be chanting on the Paris Metro train: 'We're racist, we're racist and that's the way we like it' Mr Crowther said: 'Sadly this type of casual thuggery is occurring just about on a weekly basis on our trains, with a sizeable minority who are behaving in a threatening, loud and sometimes racist way to the great terror of people who are using the system to get about and do their day-to-day business.' He said the impact on ordinary passengers is 'unacceptable', adding: 'We are in danger of saying those types of experiences are OK. 'Is that the sort of society we really want? I don't think it is. We haven't solved this type of behaviour and we need to work together to change it. 'We are saying 'Why do people think this is acceptable on trains?' You don't see this sort of behaviour on an aeroplane, for example.' Police believe the scale of football-related crime on the transport network may be higher than the figures show. Mr Crowther said: 'We think it is under-reported and we think that might be because people are intimidated or frightened.' Supporters have come under scrutiny (none of the fans pictured are necessarily referred to in the story) He said the problem was a 'very complex issue' and required a cultural change. 'What I am not looking for is more of the same,' he said. 'I don't think it is an issue we can arrest our way out of.' Representatives from football, police and other organisations, as well as those affected by football thuggery, are attending the summit, which is the first of its kind. In February a storm erupted after Chelsea supporters were filmed allegedly singing racist chants as a black man was prevented from boarding a train in Paris.

Summary: British Transport Police are clamping down on 'casual thuggery' on trains . This season alone, there has been 630 football-related incidents recorded . Chief Constable Paul Crowther said crimes may be 'under-reported' A summit has been organised to determine the scale of the problem .


Raheem Sterling and Theo Walcott will likely go head-to-head at the Emirates on Saturday. They are at starkly different places in their careers with 26-year-old Walcott perhaps acting as a cautionary tale for Sterling, 20, that early promise can sometimes give way to unfulfilled potential. Both are in the process of negotiating contracts with their respective clubs. Brendan Rodgers has spoken in the past of his admiration for Walcott while Wenger has made no secret he is a fan of Sterling. It is not beyond the realms of possibility that the clubs could do a direct swap. Although Wenger would have to deviate from his usually cautious financial approach to win the race to sign Sterling while Rodgers would be hard pushed to sell Walcott as a worthy replacement for Sterling. Here Sportsmail looks at the merits of the two English wingers. Theo Walcott and Raheem Sterling, England's leading wingers, are both in contract negotians with their clubs . Sterling has been one of Liverpool's best players this season, but his contract dispute has caused problems . THIS SEASON SO FAR . Sterling: He has been one of Liverpool’s best players throughout the season, making 28 Premier League appearances and scoring six top-flight goals while boasting an impressive 81% pass completion rate. He has as struggled to make an impact since being used as a wing-back. Walcott: There’s not a lot to go on for Walcott, who has played just 13 games in all competitions, struggling for game time after returning from a long-term layoff for a knee injury. Arsenal do seem to perform slightly better when Walcott features, winning 62.50% of their Premier League games when he is in the team, compared to 59.1% without him. TEAM PLAYER? Sterling: While Sterling’s contract negotiations might be viewed as a distraction to the team he has been an unselfish and determined player during his career so far, providing seven assists in the Premier League this season. He has linked up well with Daniel Sturridge before the striker was injured and happily played second fiddle to Luis Suarez last season when Brendan Rodgers built his team around the Uruguayan. Walcott: Is always encouraging to younger players and a good influence to have in the dressing room but he has failed to provide one assist this season and rarely contributes to defensive duties. Walcott looked out of sorts for England this week, and has not yet provided an assist this season . Sterling turns away from Arsenal's Kieran Gibbs when the two clubs met earlier this season . WOW FACTOR . Sterling: Sterling is undoubtedly exciting, can provoke disbelief with his mazy runs and deceptive strength for someone so slight. But his biggest strength is his pace. His top speed this season of 21.77 mph puts him sixth in the Premier League rankings. The problem could lie in the fact he may not be as good as he thinks he is. Walcott: The off-the-mark pace and an eye for the unconventional yet effective pass which made Walcott a sensation as a 16-year-old playing for Southampton

Summary: Arsene Wenger is a great admirer of Raheem Sterling, while both he and Theo Walcott are struggling to negotiate new deals . Sterling has scored more goals and provided more assists this season . Walcott is an example of unrealised potential that Sterling must avoid .


A pug has made a miraculous recovery after he was bitten in the face by a rattlesnake. Dug and his owner, Lindsay Castro, were hiking on the Jurupa Hills trail in Fontana, Canada, on Thursday when they heard a rattling sound. Lindsay backed away, but Dug ran up to the reptile - and suffered the consequences. The snake bit Dug in the face, and his face instantly ballooned to twice its size. Scroll down for video . Horrific: Dug the pug's face swelled to twice its size after he was bitten in the face by a rattlesnake . Curious pup: He had been hiking with his owner when he ran toward a rattle sound - and suffered for it . With limited time, the pair rushed to California Veterinary Specialist Hospital in Ontario, where he was given an entire vile of venom antidote. Finally, after two days of round-the-clock IV fluid and treatment, he is ready to go home. 'I thought I'd lost my dog,' Lindsay told KTLA. 'I was so scared.' Relieved: Owner Lindsay Castro thought she had lost her pet as they rushed to the hospital for treatment . Painful: This is Dug's neck after two days of intensive antidote treatment which massively reduced swelling . Forlorn: It has been a heavy few days for Dug, who was struck on one of the first days of rattlesnake season . 'It was huge': Lindsay described her shock at seeing the 'huge' reptile leap out of the bushes in Fontana . Canada's rattlesnake reason runs from April to September. Speaking to KTLA, Dug's vets issued a warning to other pet owners that animals do not have the same instincts as humans when they see a snake. Fontana Police have also released guidance for dog walkers, ordering people to keep animals on a six-foot leash and seek immediate treatment in the case of a snakebite.

Summary: Dug and owner Lindsay Castro were hiking in Fontana, Canada . Lindsay heard a rattle sound and backed away but Dug ran toward it . Snake jumped out, bit him, his face swelled to twice its size . After two days of intensive antidote treatment, he is going home .


Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers believes a 'very poor decision' by Michael Oliver's assistant referee was one of the reason's Liverpool were knocked out of the FA Cup semi-final by Aston Villa on Sunday night. With the score at 2-1 and just five minutes left on the clock at Wembley, much-maligned Reds striker Mario Balotelli had the ball in the net only to see the linesman unfairly flag for offside. Replays clearly showed that Villa defender Leandro Bacuna was playing Balotelli onside before the Italian slid the ball past Shay Given. Mario Balotelli (circled) is clearly onside as Steven Gerrard looks to play him through on goal . With Aston Villa leading 2-1, the Reds striker sweeps the ball home before realising his effort wouldn't count . Speaking after his side's defeat, Rodgers told BT Sport: 'It was very clear. It was a very poor decision by the official because he's looking right along the line. 'He should be able to see the full back is playing him at least a yard onside. It was a terrfici ball in, Balotelli has a good touch and he's in on goal. You need those to go for you.' Balotelli also criticised the decision, posting a screen-grab of the incident - showing him to be onside - to his Instagram page, with the message 'No words. This picture say it all' Rodgers' side had taken the lead after brilliant build-up play from Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho before the latter jinked into the Villa penalty area and curled a right-footed shot beyond Given. The semi-final showpiece was all-square just six minutes later after Christian Benteke swept home from 12-yards out following a neat cut-back from Fabian Delph. Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers admitted he was left frustrated by the assistant referee's decision . Philippe Coutinho gives Liverpool a 1-0 lead as Rodgers' side looked to earn a spot in the FA Cup final . The Villains captain earned his side a place in the FA Cup final with a 53rd-minute strike as Liverpool were unable to respond despite throwing on Rickie Lambert in the final stages. Speaking after the game, Delph told BT Sport: 'It was a great performance. It's been a tricky season for us but we believed we could do it. The gaffer is brilliant, he doesn't panic and we are so happy for the fans. 'I can't wait for the final. To walk out as captain for the final will be the highlight of my career.' Villa frontman Christian Benteke (left) celebrates pulling his side back into the semi-final clash . Fabian Delph is mobbed by his Villa team-mates after putting Tim Sherwood's side into a deserved 2-1 lead .

Summary: Aston Villa earn 2-1 FA Cup semi-final victory over Liverpool . Mario Balotelli's late goal was incorrectly ruled out for offside . Brendan Rodgers believes the goal should have stood .


Known for their high-end boutiques, wallet-stretching gastronomical delights, and luxurious hotel offerings, it may seem like an impossible dream to visit some of the world's most cosmopolitan cities on a budget. However, with the help of last-minute booking sites and a little bit of insider knowledge, it turns out that there are plenty of ways to experience these stunning destinations - without breaking the bank. Opt for a stroll around New York's recently-built Highline or Paris' Jardin du Luxembourg, or visit one of London's many free museums for a no-cost cultural fix. A walk through Times Square won't cost you anything - as long as you can avoid the temptation to shop . Alternatively, pack a picnic lunch and sit along Lake Zurich's promenade or the sprawling Sheep's Meadow in Central Park. MailOnline Travel reveals the best ways to save a buck in some of the world's most budget-busting cities... New York City . Manhattan may be known for its luxurious accommodations and expensive Fifth Avenue boutiques, but, believe it or not, it is possible to visit the Big Apple and stick to a budget. If you can resist the temptation of popping into over-priced shops and restaurants, a stroll around Times Square won't cost you a dollar and nearby Central Park and Grand Central Station are likewise free to peruse for an afternoon. For those who prefer to stay south of 42nd Street, the Union Square Farmer's Market, open on weekend mornings, is fantastic for people-watching and you can't beat a stroll along the recently-opened Highline with its breathtaking views of the Hudson River. When it comes to low-cost hotels, the concrete jungle does have a surprisingly good selection of properties for under £100 per night. In the warmer months, a stroll through Central Park is the ultimate no-cost activity for locals and visitors alike . Apple Core Hotels' nyma, a new york manhattan hotel, offers rooms for under £100 per night . The hotel is well-located - just five minutes from the Empire State Building - and even has a rooftop terrace . Hotel 31 and Apple Core Hotels' nyma, a new york manhattan hotel, are both located just a five-minute walk from the Empire State Building, which is great for those looking to stay in the heart of midtown without breaking the bank. For a taste of how the locals live, head to the Broadway Hotel and Hostel or the Belnord Hotel on the city's Upper West Side. From there, it's a quick walk to the American Museum of Natural History and Central Park's iconic Strawberry Fields, and just steps from countless (less expensive) dining and bar options. Zurich likewise offers inexpensive thrills, such as the Botanischer Garten, which is free to the public . The many promenades lining Lake Zurich are perfect for a low-cost afternoon picnic in the sun . Zurich . Another of the world's most expensive cities, Zurich likewise offers inexpensive thrills for those who are willing to look. The city's Botanischer Garten, for example, is free to the public, while the many parks and

Summary: In New York City, opt for free attractions, like Central Park or the Highline . Stay just outside the city centre in Zurich and Toronto to save . TripAdvisor offers plenty of low-cost accommodations, all for under £100 .


Two French backpackers who filmed themselves torching a native Australian quokka have been released from prison. Thibaud Jean Leon Vallet, 24, and his cousin Jean Mickael Batrikian, 18, pleaded guilty to animal cruelty after footage emerged of the pair lighting the quokka on fire with an aerosol can and a lighter on Rottnest Island on April 3. The pair appeared before Fremantle Magistrate's Court last Friday and were ordered to pay $4000 and were told that they would be held behind bars for seven days if they fail to pay the fines. Scroll down for video . The two French tourists charged with setting fire to a quokka have been released from jail after spending a week behind bars . The French men opted to serve the seven days in Hakea prison rather than pay the fine, as they did not have sufficient funds. A Department of Corrective Services spokeswoman said that the week long sentence was considered the equivalent of the fine, and that it had been served in full, reported WA Today. The men were released at 11.30 am on Thursday morning after entering the jail, in Canning Vale, Western Australia on Friday. According to Corrective Services, the two French men cost taxpayers $1810 each day they were in jail, despite the fact that the pair had saved over $12,000 between them in their working holiday employment as cleaners, reported The Esperance Express. The creature survived the incident by scampering away, but was singed by the flame . Animal rights activists have claimed that the pair's punishment was too lenient for their crime . Using a deodorant can and lighter, the men torch the defenseless creature which quickly scampers away . Animal rights activists have claimed that the pair's punishment was too lenient for their crime. 'It was pretty disgusting,' said Peter Murphy from Quokka Rescue. 'I don't think the sentence is enough. I think they got off quite lightly.' The video of the crime was played in court on Friday, and Magistrate Elizabeth Langdon labelled the act 'outrageous', reported The West Australian. In the disturbing footage of their crime, both men are heard laughing uncontrollably after igniting the quokka before one said 'Don't do that, why?' The creature survived the incident by scampering away, but was singed by the flame. The magistrate was told that Vallet and Batrikian were remorseful for their actions, and that they admitted the incident was stupid and juvenile. The men can be heard uncontrollably laughing after igniting the native Australian creature . The quokka is a small wallaby and resembles a diminutive version of the kangaroo with thick brown fur . Magistrate Langdon commented on their cruelty, calling the offence 'abhorrent.' 'One can only imagine the impact caused to the quokka,' she said. 'Obviously it would have been fearful as a result of what occurred.' The men told Fairfax Media outside court on Saturday, 'you think we're monsters? We didn't hurt the quokka. We have pets at home.' Both men were on a working holiday and were spending three months in Rottnest Island working

Summary: Video emerged showing two French tourists torching a quokka . Footage sees men laugh after igniting the creature with aerosol and lighter . The men were given the choice of paying $4000 or spending a week in jail . The pair were released from jail on Thursday after choosing the latter . The stay cost taxpayers $1810 a day despite them having $12,000 savings . Animal rights activists have said that the punishment was too lenient .


A leading holiday company has cancelled trips out to Nepal following in the wake of the 7.8 magnitude earth quake that struck the country leaving thousands dead. Intrepid Travel, who run 800 trips across the world and have 100,000 customers each year, have decided not to take any more bookings to Nepal until May 11. And those who are planning on travelling out before this date with existing bookings have been offered a full refund or alternative trip. Scroll down for video . As the search goes on for those missing in the earthquake, the British Foreign Office has advised tourists in Nepal to follow the advice from local authorities . The company confirmed to MailOnline Travel that their 200 clients who are currently in the country have all been accounted for and are safe. 'While we are continuing to concentrate on the safety of our clients out in Nepal, we have decided to cancel all our trips to the country until May 11 while the rescue operation is underway,' said a spokesperson. 'Safety is our main priority, and even after this date, we may have to recommend our customers to book to visit somewhere else. 'No-one knows how long the rescue operation will go on for, but in the short term we wouldn't advise anyone to visit after such a disaster.' Intrepid Group has been running tours to Nepal for 36 years and has a team of local operators on the ground constantly monitoring the situation. Nepal’s capital Kathmandu – with a population of over one million – was one of the worst-hit areas in Nepal, with the quake’s epicentre just 50 miles north of the city. As the tremors intensified, people were seen in scenes of mayhem running from their homes and places of work in panic. Dozens of people were gathered in the car park of Kathmandu's Norvic International Hospital, where thin mattresses had been spread on the ground for patients rushed outside, some patients wearing hospital pyjamas, while doctors and nurses were treating people. Around 1,000 tourists have amassed at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu in the hope of getting out of Nepal following the earthquake . Jordan Torrilla, Nepal expert with luxury holiday company Kuoni has warned tourists what they should expect if they honour their trips to the Asian country. 'As with any aftermath of a natural disaster, there will be a frenzy, and it certainly won't be calm and tranquil',' he told MailOnline Travel. 'There will be an atmosphere of worry, people will be doing emergency shopping, and obviously it wouldn't be a great time to be going out there. 'There are always times when people have to travel out to these destinations after a disaster, tourists just have to be aware of the people and what they will be going through. 'You are certainly not going to be number one, not going to be the priority. It's important you have a deep level of patience as it will be very difficult for the local to prioritise you when they may be dealing with severe

Summary: Intrepid Travel cancels all trips to Nepal until at least May 11 . Customers with bookings offered full refund or trip somewhere else . Nepal expert at Kuoni warns tourists to expect a 'frenzy,' and that they won't be 'a priority' Foreign Office's main focus is ensuring Britons keep themselves safe . Helpline set up to offer advice for anyone caught up in the disaster . Warning to tourists heading out to the region to be aware that the area is always 'at high risk' of earthquakes . Queues begin to build at Tribhuvan International Airport as tourists look to leave Nepal as soon as possible .


Katia Apalategui was inspired after seeing her mother cope with the loss of her husband by clinging to his pillow. Pictured posed by model . A grieving daughter has come up with an unusual way to keep the memory of loved ones alive - by bottling their scent. Seven years ago, Katia Apalategui's mother coped with losing her husband by holding on to his pillowcase which his smell clung to. This inspired the 52-year-old French insurance saleswoman to think of a more permanent way to capture a person's individual scent in a bid to help others in mourning. The strong link between smell and memory is the reason her product will provide 'olfactory comfort' to customers, she says. 'We are going through funeral homes to offer families a small box containing a vial of the departed's odour that we would have extracted from a piece of material provided by them,' she said. But the 'made-to-measure' perfumes will be rather costly and be priced at around 560 euros (£400). To help develop her idea, she teamed up with the Havre university in France, where researchers have developed a technique to reproduce the human smell. The university's Geraldine Savary explained the process involved taking a person's clothes and extracting the odour - a few hundred characteristic molecules - which is then made into a bottle of perfume in four days. She said: 'There was a perfect synergy between what she wanted to do and what our researchers are doing so we decided to get involved. 'There is a very strong link between memory and smell which is similar to that between the memories we have from looking at old photos, videos and other things. 'We take the person's clothing and extract the odour, which represents about a hundred molecules, and we reconstruct it in the form of a perfume in four days.' She came up with a more permanent way to capture a person's individual scent in a bid to help others in mourning. File photo . Popular Science reports the classic process of perfume distillation is the most likely method, which involves passing steam through an object at high temperatures and capturing the result. And Ms Apalategui, although first inspired by death, is hoping her product could be also be ideal Valentine's Day gifts or even for children away from their parents. Her son, who is in business school, is planning to launch by September this year.

Summary: Seven years ago, insurance saleswoman Katia Apalategui lost her father . Her grieving mother coped with loss by sniffing late husband's pillowcase . Inspired her to come up with permanent way to capture person's scent . But bottles of loved ones perfume will set customers back £400 a bottle .


A young yoga student is among nearly 40 Britons who are currently missing in Nepal in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake which has killed 4,000 people. Susannah Ross, 20, told friends she was going trekking last week but has not been heard from since Friday and may be unable to contact her loved ones at home in Britain. While many of those initially reported missing have since been found safe and well, there are still several dozen British travellers who have not been heard from since the disaster on Saturday morning. Missing: Susannah Ross, pictured, is among the dozens of Britons currently in Nepal who have not been heard of since Saturday's earthquake . Couple: Chloe Pincho and Brennan White, pictured, were climbing Mount Everest when the earthquake hit two days ago . A number of Britons were climbing Mount Everest at the time of the quake, while others were staying in the capital Kathmandu or trekking through rural areas. Miss Ross's family said today that they had been unable to contact the backpacker since the disaster struck and were increasingly concerned about her. She had recently set off on a three-week trek and warned relatives at home in Bath they might not hear from her during that time, but they now hope she will call to let them know she is safe. Her mother Judy said: 'We are just waiting around really. We don't know what is going on. Before the trek she said, "Don't expect to hear from me necessarily until I get back." We are doing what we can.' The 20-year-old worked as a waitress to save money for her trip to Asia, where she worked at a farm in Nepal before going trekking. She was due to continue to India for a yoga course in June. Among the other Britons who have not been in contact with home since the 7.8 magnitude earthquake are a middle-aged married couple. Barbara and Ian Nightingale, who are from Nottingham and in their 60s, were believed to be trekking in Nepal at the time of the quake. Appeal: Tom Southgate, left, and Samuel Beckett, right, have not been heard of since the disaster . Search: Matt Carapiet, left, and Jack Kilpatrick, right, are currently the subject of online appeals from their desperate families . Fears are growing over Julius Olatokunbo, 53, from Forest Hill in south-east London, after a climber wrote online that he had been 'taken with an avalanche' and separated from his group. Relatives of Samuel Beckett, 23, who was in Kathmandu at the time of the quake, say they are concerned because they have not heard from him in a week. Speaking from his home in Leicester, his father Martin said: 'We have not heard anything. He is still listed as missing. We just keep watching the news and keep looking through the social media sites.' A couple from Carshalton in Surrey, Chloe Pincho and Brennan White, were trekking up Mount Everest at the time of the disaster and their whereabouts is now unknown. The parents of Matt

Summary: Susannah Ross, 20, went on a trek last week and has not been heard from since the earthquake on Saturday . Other missing Britons include a married couple and a climber who was apparently caught in an avalanche . Around 40 travellers from the UK are listed as being missing in the wake of the deadly disaster .


An eight-year-old girl from Australia is well on her way to building a successful business empire after it was revealed that her playful videos, featuring her easy-to-follow confectionery recipes, are bringing in around $127,000 a month in ad revenue alone. The mini-Martha Stewart, who is known simply as Charli, has turned her popular channel, CharlisCraftyKitchen into YouTube's largest food channel in less than three years - beating household names such as celebrity chef Jamie Oliver to claim the prestigious – and lucrative – title. According to data compiled by online video advertising company Outrigger Media, Charli's channel earned the young entrepreneur an estimated $127,777 (AUD $163,893) in March alone – and that is after YouTube's share of the profits. Scroll down for video . Mini-Martha: Charli, an eight-year-old from Australia (pictured), makes an estimated $127,000 (AUD $162,472) per month from the ad revenue generated from her popular YouTube channel CharlisCraftyKitchen . In comparison, Mr Oliver only earned an estimated $32,261 (AUD $41,347) in ad revenue from his channel's 6.9 million views last month. Meanwhile, Charli and her five-year-old sister Ashlee, who serves as the channel's 'chief taste tester', are raking in an average of 29 million views per month for their crafty how-to videos. CharlisCraftyKitchen, which features child friendly tutorials for making everything from Minnie Mouse pops out of Oreos to princess teacup cookies, also has more than 320,000 subscribers who eagerly await their weekly posts. The tutorials even have their own short opening credits featuring Charli and Ashlee's cartoon likenesses, with one of the girl's singing: 'Welcome to Charli's Crafty Kitchen where you can eat what you make'. Big numbers: Charli and her five-year-old sister Ashlee's how to video on making Frozen-inspired ice pops has earned 57 million views since it was posted last July . Being silly: The sisters made a mess while eating their 'shark' Jello cups . Many of clips are inspired by the holidays, with a demonstration on how to make a Kit Kat Christmas cake receiving more than two million views since it was posted in December. One particular video featuring a simple recipe for 'rainbow' donuts has been watched more than 6.5 million times after it was shared in 2014. But that's nothing. A video which sees the dynamic duo creating Jello 'tip' ice pops inspired-by the hit Disney film Frozen has amassed an incredible 57 million views since it was posted last June. Charli earned another million views after she advertised the clip on her Facebook page yesterday, writing: '56 million YouTube views must mean these #Frozen inspired popsicles are REALLY tasty! [sic]' Disney kids: Charli and Ashlee used icing and M&M's to make Cinderella brownie jar treats . 'My [two]-year-old loves watching this video and we make them all the time. They are a huge hit in our household. Thank you,' one mom commented, while another joked: 'My five-year-old might account for a few hundred of [the views].' Charli started CharlisCraftyKitchen in 2012 when she was only six-years-old according to her channel's description, which notes that she 'has always been passionate about her

Summary: Charli, from Queensland, Australia, has turned CharlisCraftyKitchen into YouTube's largest food channel in less than three years . The channels earns an average of 29 million views per month . Charli’s five-year-old sister Ashlee also stars in the how-to cooking clips . One of their most popular videos, which demonstrates how to make Frozen-themed popsicles, has received 57 million views in less than a year .


A man has died after a ride-on lawnmower he was using overturned into a farmhouse pond and trapped him underneath. The man, who has been named locally as 62-year-old Richard Clements, is believed to have been mowing grass outside his property in Wattisham, Suffolk, when the machine toppled down a bank into the water and trapped him. His family managed to drag him from the pond and made frantic efforts to save him but he was pronounced dead at the scene. A man, in his 60s, has died after the ride-on lawnmower he was using to cut the grass at a farmhouse property in Wattisham, Suffolk, overturned into a pond. Pictured: An air ambulance at the scene yesterday . Friends today told of their shock at the incident, which occurred in the quiet village just before 5.15pm yesterday. Peter Mead, the secretary of Stowmarket Meadlands Recreation Club which Mr Clements had been chairman of for around 30 years, said they grew up together. The 70-year-old from Cotton, Suffolk, said: 'I heard about it last night it was a complete shock. I have been told that he was riding a lawnmower and it went into the pond. I don't know much more about how it happened. 'But knowing the sort of person Richard was I am not surprised. He was a very hands on guy and would do that kind of work. 'We used to play football together and we used to work together at Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI). I worked in the sales office he was a chemist and then a waste environmental manager before he retired about three of four years ago. 'He was just a really nice bloke. The club used to be part of ICI but we wanted to make it independent and Richard was heavily involved on that. 'He did so much for the club, he's really going to be missed. He's left us in a bit of a pickle really.' Liam Cracknell, 47, a lorry driver, who lives on the same street as Mr Clements, said: 'I heard about it this morning, it's really sad. 'I think the whole village will be shocked about it. 'I heard he drowned after the piece of machinery fell on top of him. 'Obviously it's very, very sad you don't wish that on anybody, but this isn't the first time we have had something like this happen. 'A couple of years ago we had a mam die in a pond and we had a young girl die in a bath after she had an epileptic fit. 'That's three drownings in one village which is the really strange. Obviously they are not connected but it's a very strange coincidence.' The incident occurred at about 5.15pm yesterday in the rural Suffolk village of Wattisham (above). Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and a file is being prepared for the coroner . Another neighbour, who didn't want to be named, added: 'I was here at the time and I saw all the ambulance and fire engines. 'It's a real shock

Summary: Man was cutting the grass with a ride-on lawnmower when it overturned . Richard Clements was trapped under machine in pond outside farmhouse . Family pulled him from water but he died at the scene after cardiac arrest . It comes just two years after man died in similar circumstances in village .


Arsenal's Olivier Giroud and Arsene Wenger have been named as the Barclays Premier League Player and Manager of the Month for March - with the France striker thwarting Harry Kane's bid for a third award in a row. Giroud netted five times in Arsenal's four consecutive league wins last month as Wenger's side took all 12 points on offer. The Gunners are now a point behind second-placed Manchester City with eight games remaining. Olivier Giroud (left) and Arsene Wenger are the Premier League Player and Manager of the Month . Striker Giroud scored five goals in four games for Arsenal in March to earn the award . Wenger inspired Arsenal to four victories from four games in the Premier League . Arsenal sit third in the Premier League following their impressive March, seven points behind Chelsea . March 1 Arsenal 2-0 Everton (1 Giroud goal) March 4 QPR 1-2 Arsenal (1) March 14 Arsenal 3-0 West Ham (1) March 21 Newcastle United 1-2 Arsenal (2) Giroud's impressive form stopped Tottenham striker Kane from becoming the first player to take three consecutive Player of the Month gongs. 'I'm really pleased with it,' Giroud told Arsenal's official website. 'I would like to thank my team-mates and of course the fans, because it's a collective sport and I couldn't do it on my own. 'It's a great honour to have been selected as Player of the Month, especially because we wanted to bounce back from the Champions League disappointment. 'That's what we've done and we've come back really strongly. We all want to finish strongly and this award will give me more confidence for the following games.' Kane also fired five goals in four appearances for Mauricio Pochettino's side in March, including his first ever Premier League hat-trick when Spurs beat Leicester City 4-3 at White Hart Lane. But it was Giroud who took the honours after finding the back of the net in all of Arsenal's league encounters. He opened proceedings in Arsenal's 2-0 home win over Everton and got another in the 2-1 victory against London rivals Queens Park Rangers. Harry Kane also scored five times for Tottenham in March but missed out on player of the month . Kane (second right) holds the ball after his first Premier League hat-trick for Tottenham against Sunderland . Kane (centre) scored both goals as Tottenham beat Queens Park Rangers 2-1 at Loftus Road . His impressive form continued when he got the first goal in the 3-0 home victory over West Ham before spearheading Arsenal's attack once again with both goals in the 2-1 win at Newcastle. Arsenal host Liverpool in the early Premier League game on Saturday knowing another victory would move them nine points ahead of Brendan Rodgers' side and above City, who play Crystal Palace on Monday.

Summary: Arsenal won all four of their Premier League games in March . Striker Olivier Giroud scored five times in four appearances . Spurs' Harry Kane was bidding for a third straight monthly award .