The baby who died in Poldark's emotional season finale last night is a true survivor in real-life, having beaten the odds to live after she was born prematurely. Little Matilda Fitt - who played baby Julia Poldark in the BBC drama - was born to 34-year-old Hannah Fitt nine weeks early in their home town of Barry, South Wales, weighing just 2lb 12oz. Matilda, now 21 months old, won the part to make her small screen debut only weeks after leaving the hospital, where she was treated for pneumonia. Scroll down for video . Little Matilda Fitt (left) - who played baby Julia Poldark in the BBC drama (right) - was born nine weeks early in Barry, South Wales, weighing just 2lb 12oz . Matilda was chosen to play to Julie, who in the TV show died from putrid throat, because of her small size. Now Mrs Fitt has revealed how watching the scene brought tears to her eyes. 'It was very emotional seeing it because of what we’ve been through,' she said. 'Matilda was in and out of hospital for check-ups and tests since birth. She had a lot of breathing difficulties and pneumonia. 'But last September she was finally discharged from hospital consultant care and a few weeks later she won the part of Julia.' Mrs Fitt took Matilda for the filming in Cornwall last year to meet stars Aiden Turner and Eleanor Tomlison. Matilda was chosen to play to Julie, who in the TV show died from putrid throat, because of her small size . Matilda, now 21 months old, lives with her mother Hannah, 34, (left) and dad Matthew, 33, (right) 'The cast were all great with her and Aiden Turner is as lovely as everyone says,' she said. 'All the cast were - especially Eleanor. She’s a very special person, extremely down to earth and just lovely - she was great with Matilda. 'Some scenes were tricky to nail because baby Julia is supposed to be really poorly and we knew Matilda did have to die on camera. 'As you can imagine, getting a 15-month-old to play dead was no easy feat but she coped really well. 'In one scene she is lying on a bed fully made-up and the doctor is mopping her brow. But I was there with sweets to make sure she was happy.' Matilda was on set for five days and even had her own trailer . 'As you can imagine, getting a 15-month-old to play dead was no easy feat but she coped really well,' said Mrs Fitt, pictured on set with Matilda . Millions tuned in to watch the series finale yesterday evening, and were shocked by the death of Ross and Demalza’s baby daughter. Julia caught putrid throat from her mother, who contracted it after the disease broke out among the people of Trenwith. Matilda, who lives with her mum and dad Matthew Fitt, 33, was cast as the older of two young children who played Julia. Matilda, pictured, won the part to make her small screen debut only weeks

Summary: Matilda Fitt, now 21 months old, played baby Julia Poldark in BBC show . The real-life infant was born nine weeks early, and battled pneumonia . Matilda was chosen to play Julia because of her small size . Unlike her character, who died of putrid throat, Matilda is now doing well .


Two hours before the Miami Open semifinal, Novak Djokovic practiced his returns in an empty stadium, the ball coming at him quickly because his hitting partner stood three feet inside the baseline to emulate big-serving John Isner. The drill helped. Djokovic achieved a breakthrough service break against Isner and won Friday night, 7-6 (3), 6-2. 'He's probably the best server we have in the game,' Djokovic said. 'But I managed to get a lot of serves back. That was one of the keys in the match, making him play and getting into the rally and making him work extra.' Novak Djokovic beat John Isner in straight sets to reach the finalof the Miami Open on Friday night . The No 1-seeded Djokovic closed to within one win of his fifth Key Biscayne title and will face Andy Murray . The No 1-seeded Djokovic closed to within one win of his fifth Key Biscayne title. His opponent Sunday will be two-time champion Andy Murray, who defeated Tomas Berdych 6-4, 6-4. Djokovic became the first player in the tournament to break Isner, and managed another break two games later. He actually outserved the 6-foot-10 American, totaling 10 aces to nine for Isner, and never faced a break point. A taut, one-hour opening set created plenty of drama for the capacity crowd. Isner held despite several long service games and erased the only break point he faced late in the set, but he won only two of five points on his serve in the pivotal tiebreaker. Djokovic's biggest hole while serving was a love-30 deficit late in the first set. He responded with consecutive aces and escaped. Djokovic is aiming to win his fifth title in Miami and will take on Scotsman Murray in Sunday's final . Djokovic's first break gave him a 2-1 edge in the second set, and that margin grew to 5-1. He finished with just eight unforced to 31 by Isner, who lost 70 percent of his second-serve points. 'I needed to step in and use those opportunities,' Djokovic said. 'When I have his second serve, I'd better use it properly and try to be aggressive.' Djokovic won the Key Biscayne title in 2007, 2011, 2012 and 2014. Serena Williams bids for her eighth Key Biscayne title Saturday against Carla Suarez Navarro. Djokovic's biggest holin serving was a love-30 deficit late in the first, he responded with consecutive aces . Murray lost his first service game in each set but recovered and moved closer to his third Key Biscayne title by beating Berdych. Murray won the championship in 2009 and 2013, and was the runner-up in 2012. The Scotsman has a home in nearby Miami and practices on the Key Biscayne courts. 'I've obviously played some good tennis here over the years,' Murray said. 'The reason for that is because I'm extremely familiar with the conditions, with the surface, the way the court plays.' Aside from his two shaky service games, the No. 3-seeded Murray played almost flawless tennis against No. 8 Berdych, extending points with scrambling defense until the Czech

Summary: Novak Djokovic beat John Isner 7-6. 6-2 in their Miami semi-final . The world No 1 will take on Andy Murray in Sunday's final . Djokovic is bidding to win his fifth title at Key Biscayne .


Chelsea supporters are being invited to take part in a protest photo aimed at improving the rights and welfare of construction workers building the stadiums for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The protest will take place outside Stamford Bridge at 3pm this Saturday ahead of the Blues' evening kick-off against Manchester United. The photo has been organised by the Chelsea Supporters Trust and Playfair Qatar, an organisation raining awareness about the conditions many migrant workers face in the Arab state. Photo protest will take place outside Stamford Bridge at 3pm on Saturday ahead of Manchester United game . There have been more than 1,400 confirmed deaths of construction workers in Qatar as the country put the infrastructure in place to host the World Cup. 'It is estimated over 4,000 in total will perish before a ball is kicked at the controversial World Cup in seven years' time,' a Chelsea Supporters Trust press release statement. 'Not only are these deaths entirely unacceptable and reprehensible, but Qatar's kafala system of employment behind it is akin to modern day slavery. The decision to award the World Cup to Qatar, which has questionable labour laws, has been controversial . An artists impression of the Al Gharafa stadium that will host World Cup matches in 2022 . 'Immigrant workers are paid pennies by the hour - some going without any pay whatsoever - and are bound to their employer, unable to change jobs or even leave the country without permission, for which there is no obligation to be given.' For more information about the protest at Stamford Bridge visit the Chelsea Supporters Trust's website.

Summary: Chelsea Supporters Trust teamed up with Playfair Qatar to set up protest . Supporters invited to take part in protest photo aimed at improving rights of migrant construction workers building Qatar stadiums . Protest will be held at 3pm out side Stamford Bridge ahead of Chelsea's clash with Manchester United on Saturday evening .


The NFL is set to hire Sarah Thomas as its first permanent female official for regular season games, according to reports. The 42-year-old mother-of-three from Mississippi has officiated pre-season games as a line judge. The Baltimore Sun's Aaron Wilson broke the story, with the NFL refusing to confirm the appointment. The Los Angeles Times reported that Thomas will be one of eight new officials for the 2015 season. Sarah Thomas is set to become the NFL's first full-time female official after refereeing college games . Thomas was on the NFL's list of officiating prospects and is set to be named as one of eight new officials . Thomas has a history of trailblazing since beginning her refereeing career in 1999. Starting at high school level, she would go on to become the first woman to referee in a Big Ten stadium and a bowl game. 'She has the right temperament and attitude and feel for the game,' a source told The Baltimore Sun. 'She knows the rules and understands how to apply them in the spirit of the rules. That sets her apart, male or female.' 'I set out to do this and get involved in officiating not having any idea that there were not any females officiating football,' Thomas told NFL Network. 'Being a former basketball player, you saw female officiating all the time. So, no, I don't feel like a pioneer.' In 2012, Shannon Eastin was hired during an officiating lockout and was line judge during the regular season game between the Green Bay Packers and the St Louis Rams. She was not hired permanently, however.

Summary: Thomas set to be named as one of eight new referees for the 2015 season . The married mother-of-three has regularly officiated college games . Thomas was the first woman to officiate an NCAA game in 2007 . She has also spent time in the NFL's developmental program for officials .


SeaWorld has released an almost five-year-old video that shows an ex-trainer repeatedly using the N-word - following the trainer's release of a book criticizing the company's treatment of animals. The recorded cell phone conversation, which the company released to reporters, shows John Hargrove using the N-word seven times while talking on the phone with a female friend. In the five-minute video, Hargrove discusses an incident in which five black men allegedly threw a rock at the woman speaking on the other line that she said hit the back of her head. Hargrove, who also featured prominently in the CNN documentary Blackfish, says SeaWorld is mounting a smear campaign against him in an attempt to distract from his message. Scroll down for video . SeaWorld has released an almost five-year-old video depicting ex-trainer John Hargrove repeatedly using the N-word, just days after his book criticizing the company's treatment of animals launched . The recorded cell phone conversation, which the company released to reporters, shows Hargrove using the N-word seven times while talking on the phone with a female friend . 'You know you were mad, cause you whipped around and you said that, you did, "What are you n****rs doing throwing them rocks?"', he can be heard saying, a glass of wine in front of him. 'Didn't you think it was risky to say that to those five n****rs?', he asks the girl, who denies during the conversation that she spoke those words. 'How much did you drink tonight, my god,' she then says. Three bottles of wine can be seen on the table during the video. During the video Hargrove, who was a trainer at SeaWorld for 14 years, tells his friend 'I've been drinking so much,' as he and the person behind the camera continue to laugh hysterically at their friend on the phone. SeaWorld spokesman Fred Jacobs said the company was given the video by an 'internal whistle-blower' last weekend and that his employment would have been terminated 'immediately' if they had known 'he engaged in this kind of behavior.' 'We are offended by John's behavior and language. The video is particularly reprehensible since John Hargrove is wearing a SeaWorld shirt,' Jacobs said in an email. Hargrove was a trainer at SeaWorld for 14 years and spoke out against the company in the highly critical documentary Blackfish . SeaWorld has also publicly claimed that Hargrove quit the company after he was disciplined for a 'severe safety violation involving the park's killer whales'. Hargrove spoke out against SeaWorld in the highly critical documentary Blackfish, which has left the company reeling with declining revenue and attendance. And last week he released a book detailing his long career with the once-popular park, titled Beneath The Surface. Hargrove quickly struck back after the video was released, saying SeaWorld was digging up dirt to make him 'look like this awful person'. 'What's so amazing, they're not addressing the issues at hand,' he told the Orlando Sentinel. 'This is about killer whales in captivity.' Hargrove told U-T San Diego that he had never seen the video

Summary: Video shows John Hargrove, who appeared in Blackfish, using the N-word seven times as he talks to a friend on the phone . Hargrove said he 'had a lot to drink' when the video was filmed and did not remember the incident . SeaWorld released the video to reporters and said they received it last weekend from an 'internal whistle-blower' Hargrove says the company is launching a 'smear campaign' against him . He is currently on a book tour promoting Beneath The Surface .


The woman who was tragically killed when her car washed away in flood waters in Maitland has been identified as an elderly great-grandmother who was popping out for milk. The body of Anne Jarmain, 86, was found at 7pm on Wednesday; 10 hours after her car was pulled off the road and underwater as she tried to crossed Cessnock Road, which in the NSW Hunter Region. Her family and friend are in shock, with her neighbours lamenting that they could not convince the sweet, 'strong-willed' woman to stay at home. After two days without power and with limited food supplies, Ms Jarmain insisted on making a 'quick trip' into town. Scroll down for video . Police battled wild flood water as they searched for Ms Jarmain's vehicle at the scene of the tragic accident . Anne Jarmain's car was washed off the road when she tried to overtake a stalled car over flood waters . Family and friends of those who jumped in the water to rescue the women trapped in the car watch by the side of the floodwaters . 'We sent over (some hot water to her) at 7.30am and that's when she said she said she was going into town,' her neighbour of 12 years, Kath Wilkinson told the Newcastle Herald. 'She had said she would have loved to go and visit Jim (her husband), who is in a nursing home, but she knew she wouldn't be able to. 'We told her she didn't need to go, but she yelled out to (my husband) Geoff to thank him when she left,' Ms Wilkinson explained. Ms Jarmain was dragged into the waters when she tried to manoeuvre her silver hatchback around a stalled Falcon before 9am on Wednesday. Around ten people immediately ran into the water, with four people stripping off and swimming frantically through the icy, fast-moving water. Ms Jarmain was dragged into the waters when she tried to manoeuvre her silver hatchback around a stalled Falcon before 9am on Wednesday . Ms Jarmain went missing in Maitland on Wednesday morning. Sadly , her body was found that night . Police divers seen entering the water where a major rescue operation is underway when Ms Jarmain was missing . The car was swept away near Cessnock Road in Maitland. A helicopter and police divers searched until Ms Jarmain's body was recovered . However, her car went nose-first into the water and was swept into the flooded Wallis Creek. Ms Jarmain's son, Trevor says he is very moved by the efforts of bystanders to help. Ms Jarmain was a beloved mother of three; Trevor, Robert and Jennifer and treasured grandmother and great-grandmother to many. 'She was healthy and active and very strong willed,' Trevor told Fairfax. 'She was an avid bowler and was a member of the Telarah Bowling Club. 'She will be sadly missed.' Anne Jarmain loved bowls, feeding the magpies on her veranda and her husband, Jim. A police officer at the scene on Wednesday when the search for Ms Jarmain was ongoing . The Premier is touring

Summary: Anne Germain, 86, was killed by the flood waters on Wednesday . She was making a quick trip to the shops when her car washed away . Bystanders stripped off and dove into the icy waters to try and save her and her car was dragged by the fast waters in Maitland . She had wanted to go and see her husband in a nursing home but knew it wouldn't be safe . NSW Premier Mike Baird visited the area and is 'shocked' by devastation .


It seemed a somewhat unusual honeymoon destination for Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. But the couple insist they fell in love with the 'calm' of Ireland on a previous visit and just had to return. Of course, they did it in style, staying at the 18th-century Ballyfin, at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the centre of the country. And now the five-star hotel has been given the highest accolade, declared the grandest hotel in Ireland by Conde Nast Traveller magazine. Splendour! Ballyfin has been named by travel publication Condé Nast Traveller as the grandest hotel in Ireland . The five-star retreat boasts a luxurious pool, which can be enjoyed with privacy due to its small volume of rooms . Grand retreat! With only 20 rooms for the 614 acre estate, this 5 star luxury hotel is the perfect place for a break from the stresses of the modern world and provides discretion and privacy like few other destinations . Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, the five-star Ballyfin played host to the famous couple last May . The high profile couple were seen travelled by Mercedes to the hotel during their first holiday as a married couple, last year. The famous couple headed to the picturesque Co Laois area, following tying the knot in an opulent Italian wedding ceremony last May 24. Many were baffled at them shunning popular exotic holiday destinations such as the Seychelles and Maldives but Kim tweeted her explanation. 'We spent Kanye's bday in Ireland a few years back & fell in love with it! Its such a calming relaxing place!' The couple enjoyed a relaxing stay at the hotel, which has only 20 rooms on its 614 acre estate . Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, the entirety of the elegant Ballyfin can be hired out for a small €25,000 (£18,000) a night. It prides itself on promoting a break from the stresses of modern life, and maintaining privacy for guests. With only 20 rooms on the 614 acre estate, it aims to be a relaxing haven for its guests. During their Irish stay, the couple headed to the local cinema, to the surprise of locals, and enjoyed the outdoors with a mountain biking trek. Intimate luxury! The elegant manor house has snug rooms restored to their 18th century glory . The interior decoration of the hotel is renown for being one of the finest examples of the Neoclassical and Empire periods in Ireland. Guests can take their pick of luxurious places to relaxing, from the eighty-foot library and Gold Drawing Room, to the grand saloon. Hidden away behind a secret bookcase in the library is even a sun-filled conservatory. The rooms are bedecked with Irish art and antiques from around the world, aiming to preserve the elegance from Ballyfin's 1820s beginning. The house has long been admired in Ireland, and after eight years of restoration, Ballyfin re-opened in May 2011 as a 5 star country house hotel . Last year Tourism Minister Paschal Donohoe revealed that visitors

Summary: Five-star Ballyfin has was given the prestigious award in the publication's latest edition . The high-profile couple stayed there last May on their honeymoon following their Italian nuptials . The entirety of the elegant hotel can be hired out for £18,000 (€25,000) a night .


A 21-year-old man has been charged with second-degree murder after allegedly shooting dead his fiancée at their Minnesota home on Easter morning while holding their baby daughter in his arms. Dimitri Harrell reportedly pulled out his gun and pointed it at 19-year-old Samirria White after they started arguing over his 'infidelity' in the bedroom of their St Paul apartment at around 3.40am. Carrying the couple's three-month-old child, he then shot Miss White in the face at close range, according to police. When medics arrived at the scene, they pronounced the young mother dead. Now, Harrell, who later admitted to having stored his handgun under his daughter's mattress, has been charged with one count of second-degree murder at Ramsey County District Court. Shooting: Dimitri Harrell (right) has been arrested after allegedly shooting dead his fiancée, Samirria White (left), at their Minnesota home on Easter morning while holding their baby daughter (center) in his arms . The suspect, who had 'trust issues' with Miss White after having two children by another woman, remains in custody in lieu of $200,000 bail. If convicted, he faces up to 40 years in prison. In the moments before Sunday's shooting, Harris had been arguing with Miss White after he had vanished from the apartment several times during the night, arousing her suspicions, relatives said. During an interview with police, the suspect apparently told officers he had then tried to pull his gun - which he had bought several days earlier - from his pocket while holding the couple's baby daughter. However, the weapon had accidentally discharged, he said, causing a bullet to strike Miss White in the face, according to the Star Tribune. It is unclear whether he explained why he took out the gun. Tragic: Harrell reportedly pulled out his gun and fired at 19-year-old Miss White (pictured with their daughter) after they started arguing over his 'infidelity' in the bedroom of their St Paul apartment at around 3.40am . Arrest: Now, Harrell has been charged with one count of second-degree murder at Ramsey County District Court. Above, the suspect is pictured in his mug shot (left) and posing with Miss White and their baby (right) Several people - including some of the victim's siblings - were also in the property at the time of the alleged murder. Many of them heard yelling come from the couple's bedroom, CBS reported. Miss White's 16-year-old brother, who woke up after apparently hearing his sister scream 'Don't point that gun at me!', ran into the room when he heard the gunshot. There, he found his sister dead . The boy yelled at Harrell to get away from Miss White, according to a complaint obtained by the Tribune. In response, the suspect apparently told him it was an accident and fled the scene. After emergency crews arrived at the scene, Miss White was declared dead and the bedroom was cordoned off. Police later found the gun on Harrell's 'close friend', who was in the apartment. Scene: The shooting occurred in the 800 block of Pierce Butler Route (pictured) in Minnesota on

Summary: Dimitri Harrell, 21, was arguing with Samirria White, 19, over his 'infidelity' With three-month-old daughter in his arms, he apparently pulled out a gun . He then shot his fiancée in the face at close range, killing her, officials said . Now, Harrell has been charged with single count of second-degree murder . He revealed to police he had stored the gun under his daughter's mattress . Also claimed he shot victim accidentally while pulling weapon from pocket . Harrell caused 'trust issues' after having two children with another woman . In custody on $200,000 bail; if convicted, faces up to 40 years behind bars .


The son in law of disgraced New York politician Sheldon Silver was indicted Monday on two charges unrelated to the separate investigation into his famous power-broker relative. Just three months after Silver himself was arrested on corruption charges, his son-in-law Marcello Trebitsch, 37, was accused of running a $7million Ponzi scheme. The Brooklyn resident was in court on Monday as prosecutors accused him of lying to investors about stock losses and pocketing most of the money entrusted to him for trading. Trebitsch is married to Silver's daughter Michelle. Despite being a co-owner of their mutual fund, Allese Capital LLC, and a certified public accountant who 'kept the books', Michelle has not been charged in the scheme. The son-in-law of Sheldon Silver was charged Monday with allegedly running a $7million Ponzi scheme. Silver, the former Speaker of the New York State Assembly, was charged in January for allegedly taking $4million in brides and kickbacks since 200. Silver pictured above entering court for his arraignment on February 24 . The criminal complaint was filed by Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bhahara, the same prosecutor who led the investigation into Silver's alleged corruption. But sources told the New York Daily News that the investigations are unrelated. 'Investing in securities entails certain risks, but should not include the risk of being defrauded by one’s investment manager,' Bhahara said. According to the complaint, Trebitsch took millions from investors, promising to invest their money in large-cap stocks through his mutual fund. However, prosecutors say he only invested a fraction of the money and used the rest to finance his family and pay back other clients. Meanwhile, he allegedly lied to investors about what money he did invest, sending them fake account statements and tax forms that showed them posting positive returns along the lines of his promised 14 to 16 per cent - keeping 'enormous trading losses' secret. Trebitsch ran the scheme from 2009 through December 2014, according to the complaint. Trebitsch has been charged with securities and wire fraud and is currently free on $500,000 bond. If convicted he faces the possibility of 40 years in prison and fines of up to $5.25million. Father-in-law Silver was arrested in January, on charges he took $4million in brides and kickbacks since at least 2000. Following his arrest, Silver was forced to give up his leadership position as Speaker of the New York State Assembly. Silver has viciously denied the charges, and has said he is 'confident' he will be 'vindicated in the courtroom'. If convicted, the 71-year-old faces the possibility of 60 years in prison.

Summary: Marcello Trebitsch, 37, was indicted Monday on securities and wire fraud charges . The Brooklyn resident is married to the daughter of disgraced former New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver . Just three months ago, the same prosecutor hit Silver with corruption charges for allegedly taking $4million in bribes and kickbacks . Silver has fiercely denied the charges .


Napoli coach Rafa Benitez on Wednesday quashed speculation that he is to return to the Premier League to take charge Manchester City. The former Liverpool and Chelsea manager has yet to sign a contract extension with Napoli, with his current deal ending this summer. It has been rumoured Benitez could replace Manuel Pellegrini at the helm of City at the end of the campaign. Napoli boss Rafael Benitez has dismissed reports linking him to the Manchester City job . The Spaniard is out of contract at the end of the season and has yet to agree an extension with Napoli . However, Benitez said to the Italian press: 'I have not had contacts with City, unlike what I've read in England. 'I have spoken to the (Napoli) president via messages but we have not been able to meet due to our busy playing schedule in order to evaluate the business plan. 'Now our focus is on matters on the pitch.' Benitez joined Napoli in the summer of 2013 and led the Naples outfit to the Coppa Italia and third place in Serie A in his first season in charge. Napoli are fourth in the league this term and are firmly on course to reach the semi-finals of the Europa League. Dnipro vs Club Brugge (agg 0-0) Fiorentina vs Dynamo Kiev (agg 1-1) Napoli vs Wolfsburg (agg 4-1) Zenit vs Sevilla (agg 1-2) The Italians host Bundesliga side Wolfsburg in Thursday's quarter-final return leg holding a 4-1 advantage from last week's opening leg in Germany. 'We can fight until the end for all of our aims,' Benitez said. 'We can still qualify for the Champions league, whether it is by winning the Europa League or by finishing in the top three of Serie A. 'We all know how crucial qualification for the Champions League would be in terms of future investments.' Wolfsburg's Daniel Caligiuri tackles Napoli's Christian Maggio (right) during the Europa League quarter-final . Napoli's Marek Hamsik celebrates scoring his side's second goal during the 4-1 win over Wolfsburg . Napoli's Manolo Gabbiadini (right) scores his side's fourth goal in the 4-1 win over Wolfsburg . Wolfsburg's Caligiuri (left) dribbles with the ball ahead of Napoli's Maggio (right) during the Europa League tie . Benitez (right) celebrates with striker Gonzalo Higuain (left) after their victory over Wolfsburg .

Summary: Rafael Benitez has dismissed speculation linking him to Manchester City . The former Chelsea and Liverpool manager is being touted as a potential successor for under-pressure City boss Manuel Pellegrini . Benitez insists he is fully focused on his job at Napoli . He won the Coppa Italia last season and has led Napoli to brink of the Europa League semi-finals this term .


We all joke about how bad school dinners are but a secondary school in China takes this age old gripe to another level. In protest at their 'horrible' school meals, high school students in north east China's Jilin province are being forced to the sidewalk everyday to eat their lunch. With teachers banning packed lunches and erecting barbed wire and metal sheeting to prevent smuggling, the students' only option is to leave school grounds to eat everyday, the People's Daily Online reports. A group of students eat their lunch together at a local street vendor near the school premises . Left, a group of students eat their lunch while sitting on the sidewalk. Right, they make their way back to class after being forced to leave the school grounds to eat . Pictures of large groups of students sitting on the kerb eating their lunch have spread rapidly across Wechat, China's version of Whatsapp. According to students, their school banned all pre-packed lunches and cut their lunch break from one hour to 30 minutes, forcing students to eat their lunch outside on the street. Students claim food cooked in the school canteen is simply too horrible to eat, and it is so bad that at one point the canteen even closed down. The school has resorted to drastic measures to keep out students who may try to smuggle in food by putting up barbed wire and metal sheeting to block off the back entrance. The school canteen also fought back by only serving staff - but they are continuing to sell lunch boxes at 10 yuan a piece which the school recommends the students buy. And in a further effort to make eating outside of the school more difficult, street vendors are banned from operating outside of its gates. The images attracted thousands of comments on various Chinese websites. One person, from Jiangsu, said the schools were 'only after money'. Others also questioned those who were in charge of the greatly-despised canteen, including the school's headmaster, who was branded 'shameless'. The school has banned students from bringing food onto the premises and has even erected barbed wire and metal sheeting to prevent smuggling at its back entrance .

Summary: Students at school in China pictured eating their lunches on the sidewalk . They say they are protesting the high school's 'disgusting' canteen meals . The school in Jilin province banned students from bringing their own food . Teachers have erected barbed wire and metal sheets to prevent smuggling .


Oxford women made history on Saturday with a 12th boat race victory in 16 years on a landmark day for the sport. For the first time in 88 years the women’s race was staged on the famous Tideway course that for so long had been the sole preserve of the men. Hot favourites Oxford romped to victory by six and a half lengths against Cambridge, as the women struck a telling blow for sporting equality in racing the same championship course on the same day as the men. Ansastaia Chitty lifts the trophy aloft after Oxford won the boat race, easing past Cambridge on the Thames . On the day the Oxford sides shared the race route for the first time, they also shared the exact same winning margin, with the men going on to triumph in their race shortly afterwards. Oxford women’s president Anastasia Chitty hailed the victory as a special moment for her crew, but also for rowing and sporting equality overall. ‘It’s an amazing moment,’ Chitty told BBC Sport. ‘To pull something off like that is amazing. ‘To row on the same stage as the men, there were so many women before us who have never had this opportunity and it’s extremely humbling. We started moving away early on and kept ourselves ahead.’ The Oxford crew celebrate their win over Cambridge after dominating the race from start to finish . As the most decorated Olympic athlete ever to race in either boat race, Oxford stroke Caryn Davies underlined the quality on display in the women’s contest. The 32-year-old US Olympics team star boasts silver at Athens and gold medals at Beijing and London in the women’s eight — and now a boat race victory to boot. ‘I think that’s harder, I’ve got to be honest,’ Davies told BBC Sport when asked how the boat race compared to Olympic competition. The Oxford women's crew power to their win in the first women's boat race on the river Thames . ‘There was almost three times as long to suffer. But there’s always less suffering when you win! I’m just proud and honoured to have such attention. It shows how excited people are and I’m so glad we can be role models to young women everywhere.’ Oxford women finished in 19 minutes 45 seconds — 19 seconds ahead of Cambridge. Davies added: ‘I could just hear so many people cheering along the banks and it didn’t matter it they were cheering for Oxford or Cambridge. Just that they turned out was really great for us.’ After Oxford’s women breezed to victory, their male counterparts made it a Dark Blue double with victory in the 161st men’s race by an identical six and a half lengths. President Constantine Louloudis claimed a fourth and final boat race victory, completing a clean sweep only interrupted by claiming bronze with Team GB’s men’s eight at London 2012. The dark blues made a fast start and dominated the race against their Cambridge counterparts . Louloudis hailed the victory — Oxford’s 11th in the last 15 years —

Summary: Oxford won their 12th women's boat race in 16 years . The Dark Blues triumphed by six and a half lengths . It was the first time the women's race has been raced over the same course and on the same day as the men's event .


When it comes to singing lullabies, Audrey Hepburn's classic Moon River tops the chart for British parents, but you might be surprised by some of the other entries. In a survey conducted by BT, a third of parents polled said they belt out hip hop songs to soothe their little ones to sleep, while ten per cent opt for pop tunes. Eurythmics' There Must be an Angel came second on the top ten, followed by Vanilla Ice's Ice Ice Baby, while more current hits from Pitbull, Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith also made the cut. Baby soother: When it comes to lullabies, the classic Moon River, which Audrey Hepburn famously sang in Breakfast at Tiffany's (pictured), tops the chart for British parents . Aside from Moon River - made famous from Audrey Hepburn's 1961 movie hit Breakfast At Tiffany's - Frank Sinatra's My Way also proved popular with parents, as did Dolly Parton's Island In The Stream. One rock 'n' roll classic made the cut, Sweet Child O'Mine by Guns 'N' Roses, as well as three recent pop songs; Sam Smith's Stay With Me, Pitbull and Kesha's Timber and Sing by Ed Sheeran. A quarter of mums polled said they sing songs from TV ads to send their babies to sleep, and a quarter of dads, somewhat unsurprisingly, turn to sport chants. Ireland's Call topped the list for rugby enthusiasts, followed by Swing Low Sweet Chariot, while Liverpool's You'll Never Walk Alone proved popular for football-loving dads. Eurythmics' There Must be an Angel came second on the top ten list, followed by Vanilla Ice's (left) Ice Ice Baby, while more current tunes from Pitbull, Ed Sheeran (right) and Sam Smith also made the cut . One in five parents admit they change the lyrics in lullabies because they don't them well enough, and one in ten insist it's because their version is better (picture posed by models) As for the true classics, Humpty-Dumpty ranked number one on the list, Rock-a-bye Baby ranked second and Three Blind Mice came third. Of all the parents polled, one in five admit they change the lyrics in lullabies because they don't know them well enough, and one in ten insist it's because their version is better. 1. Moon River by Audrey Hepburn . 2. There Must Be An Angel by Eurythmics . 3. Ice Ice Baby by Vanilla Ice . 4. My Way by Frank Sinatra . 5. Islands In The Stream by Dolly Parton . 6. Sing by Ed Sheeran . 7. Sweet Child O’Mine by Guns ‘N’ Roses . 8. Timber by Pitbull Ft. Kesha . 9. Groovy Kind Of Love by Phil Collins . 10. Stay With Me by Sam Smith .

Summary: New survey found that Audrey Hepburn's Moon River was most popular . Other chart songs used as lullabies include Vanilla Ice's Ice Ice Baby . Pitbull, Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith also made the cut .


It's been a good couple of weeks for Ander Herrera and Juan Mata, so you'd forgive the Spanish duo for taking some time off to enjoy the Manchester sunshine on Wednesday. The pair have been in scintillating form in recent games with both bagging braces in Manchester United's last two victories. Mata was the two-goal hero during his side's 2-1 win against Liverpool in May with his sensational volley on the hour mark proving the highlight of the Anfield triumph. Ander Herrera races away to celebrate after he scored his second goal against Aston Villa on Saturday . Herrera's late goal capped off a 3-1 win for Louis van Gaal's side; it was their fifth Premier League win in a row . Ander Herrera posted his picture on his Instagram with his Manchester United team-mate Juan Mata (left) Herrera followed up his compatriot's achievement with a brace of his own as United stormed to a 3-1 victory against Aston Villa on Saturday. That win lifted United above bitter rivals Manchester City to third in the Premier League table with the two sides set to clash in the Manchester derby at Old Trafford on Sunday. No doubt Louis van Gaal will be hoping the pair continue their hot-streak against Manuel Pellegrini's men as they look to cement their place in next season's Champions League. Juan Mata completed his brace against Liverpool with a stunning volley on the hour mark at Anfield .

Summary: Ander Herrera and Juan Mata have both scored braces in recent games . Mata scored two goals in Manchester United win over Liverpool . Herrera followed up with a two-goal haul against Aston Villa on Saturday . As United and City go head-to-head, we ask: just how Manc is the derby? CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester United news .


Pouting and playing with her mother's pearl necklace, Sweden's Princess Leonore looked distinctly out of sorts during a visit to the Vatican. But at just 14-months-old and on the verge of the terrible twos, the infant Duchess of Gotland would probably have preferred to be doing something else. Cradled in the arms of her pregnant mother, Princess Madeleine, 32, the little girl was instead whisked off to meet Pope Francis. Displeased: Princess Leonore looked less than impressed with her trip to the Vatican . Madeleine, who wore a traditional lace mantilla for the occasion, is thought to be around six months pregnant with her second child and will give birth this summer. But before that happens, she has a busy schedule of events in and outside of Sweden to complete - many with her British businessman husband Christopher O'Neill, 40, by her side. Mr O'Neill was also at the Vatican today and shared the childcare with his wife, at one point giving his little daughter a hug. The couple have recently returned to Sweden after years spent living in New York, where Princess Leonore was born just over a year ago. Unlike his or her big sister, the new baby will be born in Stockholm following her parents' move to the city last summer. The birth is likely to coincide with another big royal event, the wedding of Madeleine's older brother, Prince Carl Philip, 35, on the 13th June. Hug from Daddy: Not even the ministrations of father Christopher O'Neill could raise a smile . Playing with pearls: Leonore did find at least one distraction though - her mother's pearls . His bride-to-be, 30-year-old Sofia Hellqvist, is a former glamour model - a career that was the source of controversy when the couple's relationship was made public in January 2010. Ms Hellqvist is expected to become Princess Sofia of Sweden following the wedding, although her title will not be officially decided until the ceremony. Having posed topless in Swedish men's magazines, Ms Hellqvist hit tabloid headlines in 2005 after reaching the final of the scandalous sex and alcohol-fuelled TV show Paradise Hotel. The shows sees five men and five women stay in a hotel together and included a scene in which Sofia was shown kissing pornstar Jenna Jameson. However, in 2009, after she met Carl Philip, who is third in line to the throne, in a club, she has softened her image. Cheerful: Princess Madeleine was all smiles as she made her way into the Vatican . Still cross: The baby was carried in for the audience by her father . Next in line: Prince Carl Philip will marry fiancee Sofia Hellqvist in Stockholm on the 13th June . The relationship was controversial for a time, as Queen Silvia apparently did not entirely approve of the match. But it is the prince himself who has the most colourful past, with his 'Wild Summer' of 2012 still referenced by Sweden's tabloid press which delightedly documented his antics. As well as going on a drunken rampage in central Stockholm while wearing an alien mask,

Summary: 14-month-old Princess Leonore was taken to meet the Pope at the Vatican . Looked out of sorts and played with her mother Madeleine's pearls . Madeleine's British husband Christopher O'Neill, 40, was also there .


Despite battling an a rare congenital condition two-year-old Nathaly Hernandez won't let things get her down, as a heartwarming new video shows. The smiley toddler - who has lived at the Home of the Innocents nursing facility in Kentucky since she was three months old - was filmed as she perfectly lip-synced to Miley Cyrus' Wrecking Ball. Footage shows her putting her heart and soul into the song - particularly as the rousing chorus builds. As she opens her mouth wide and scrunches up her face, Nathaly determinedly raises her arms to indicate she's singing at the top of the lungs. She also sways her head to the beat. Scroll down for video . Sing-a-long session: Despite battling an array of health complications two-year-old Nathaly Hernandez won't let things get her down, as a heartwarming new video shows . Getting into the groove: The smiley toddler - who has lived at the Home of the Innocents in Kentucky since she was months old - was filmed as she performed a passionate lip-sync to Miley Cyrus' Wrecking Ball . At various points the infant tunefully sounds words through her breathing tube. Nathaly was born with a number of complications impacting her joints and movement. She is able to sit but cannot walk, and a custom-made wheelchair allows her to get around. She also has an oxygen tube in her neck that helps her breathe. Nathaly's caregivers said she became obsessed with Miley Cyrus' Wrecking Ball after her teenage roommate played the track. She then starting singing along to the song and moving her body in a bid to evoke emotion. Bundle of joy: Nathaly (above, pictured with her father Angel) was born with a number of complications impacting her joints and movement . Staff at the Home of the Innocents were stunned by Nathaly's antics and made a video of her in action last Friday and posted it online. To date, the clip has been watched thousands of times with viewers giving it a big thumbs up. 'I could watch this over and over. She is precious!' one commenter wrote. Another added: 'My little girl who is the same age made me play this video three times in a row, she adores this as much as I do!' Nathaly's parents, Angel and Maria, also shared the video via Facebook. They told Wave 3 News watching her sing to Miley Cyrus was a big 'surprise.' Little smiler: To date, Nathaly (above, seen with her older sister) has been receiving round-the-clock care from nurses and therapists at Home of the Innocents, which is a non-profit organization . Inspiring others: Touching on Nathaly's zest for life, her father concluded: 'I don't have words to explain. She has changed my life' The Hernandezes - who have another daughter - are hoping to get Nathaly home with them soon. They plan for her to go to a local public school with a special needs assistant on hand to help. Already Nathaly is bilingual and able to understand Spanish and English. To date Nathaly has been receiving round-the-clock care

Summary: Nathaly Hernandez has lived at the Home of the Innocents nursing facility in Kentucky since she was three months old . She was born with a rare condition that impacts her joints and movement . Her caregivers said she became obsessed with Miley Cyrus' Wrecking Ball after her teenage roommate played the track . They filmed her lip-syncing the track last Friday with the video triggering a torrent of positive response .


Manny Pacquiao says he has to fight Floyd Mayweather like it is the last of his life when he touches gloves with the undefeated American in the $300m bout on May 2. The Filipino has been installed as the underdog for the mega-fight in Las Vegas, which has been billed as the biggest sporting event in history with two of the best pound-for-pound fighters of all time facing off. And to come out on top Pacquiao says he must be a 'warrior in the ring', bringing a never-say-die attitude to each round at the MGM Grand. Manny Pacquiao says he will have to be a warrior against Floyd Mayweather but is convinced he will win . Pacquiao works out at a park in Los Angeles, California ahead of his $300m mega-fight on May 2 . The WBC title belt that will be presented to either Pacquiao or Mayweather at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas . 'I have to be a warrior in the ring,' Pacquiao said, as quoted by Boxing Scene. '(I have to) fight like it is the last fight of my life.' 'I need to fight every round like each one is the last round of my life.' Pacquiao also promised fans, who have been waiting for the Mayweather showdown for half a decade, that it will be 'worth the wait' and spoke about his confidence going into the fight. He added: 'If the opportunity to knock Floyd out presents itself, I will take advantage of it . 'I know what it will take to beat Floyd, I will leave no doubt that I won on May 2. None. 'That is the Manny Pacquiao (that) Floyd will face on May 2. It is time for Floyd to lose.' Mayweather takes a plunge in the Cryosauna which is cooled to as low as -175 (-115C) Pacquiao says it is time for the undefeated Mayweather to lose and he will be the man to inflict defeat .

Summary: Manny Pacquiao takes on Floyd Mayweather in $300m mega-fight on May 2 . Filipino boxer says he will fight like it is the last of his life in Las Vegas . Pacquiao has no doubt he will be the first to beat Mayweather . Insists he will be a warrior in fight and will look to win each round . Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquiao: WBC unveil $1m emerald green belt . Floyd Mayweather 'is a control freak', slams PacMan's promoter Bob Arum .


Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are billed as two great rivals of modern day football but if former Brazil striker Ronaldo has his way, they could one day be in the same team. The 2002 World Cup winner is a co-owner of second tier United States side Fort Lauderdale Strikers and Ronaldo wants to leave no stone unturned in his quest to make the side a major global force. The ex-Barcelona and Real Madrid striker admitted his desire to see the best talent in the world at his club. Ronaldo says he 'would pay out of his own pocket' to sign Lionel Messi to his United States football team . Cristiano Ronaldo is also a target for ex-Brazil and Inter Milan striker's US team . Ronaldo is a co-owner of second tier United States team, Fort Lauderdale Strikers . 'I would pay from my own pocket to sign Messi,' Ronaldo is reported as saying in Marca. 'This club will be great. Why not Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo why not? In a few years we can achieve it. Nothing is impossible.' Ronaldo believes that football will continue to grow in popularity in the United States and that the lifestyle on offer in America appeals to the elite calibre of players. 'The US is the second country in the world after China, where football grows,' Ronaldo said. 'Many famous players want to come to play South Florida for the quality of life. Who would not want to live here?'

Summary: Ex-Brazil striker Ronaldo is a co-owner of Fort Lauderdale Strikers . Ronaldo insists the club will target signing the best players in the world . Ronaldo believes the lifestyle in the United States appeals to top players .


A mother of two has openly admitted she prefers her younger son boy and says the special bond is caused by his 'special smell' - and sniffs him all the time. Amie Cox, 33, of Victoria made the ready admission of the sensory bond she has for son Alex, 5, over her older boy William, 7, while appearing on an SBS Insight programme about sibling rivalry. Since her revelations surfaced on the Insight website, Ms Cox told Daily Mail Australia she has been attacked and been called 'a freak', but that she is 'a normal loving Mum'. She said that the bond with Alex's scent began from the first moment she held him after giving birth and that for the first six to 12 months of his life she didn't want anyone else to touch him or 'rub their smell on him' because it would interfere with his unique and special smell. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO . Amie Cox, 33, of Victoria, and her two sons, five-year-old Alex (left) with whom she says she has 'a special smell connection' and sniffs him 'all the time' and William, 7, who she says is more easygoing and has a normal relationship with his younger brother and she loves both boys equally . Since revelations about how she prefers the smell of her younger boy Alex, Amie Cox says she has been attacked on the SBS Insight website, but says he is a 'normal loving Mum' who treats her boys equally and older son William also thinks his brother Alex has 'a special smell' Amie Cox said she bonded to younger son Alex (pictured, right, with his brother William, 7) so strongly after his birth that she 'didn't like people to rub their smell on him by touching him' and that continued for his first six to 12 months, although she is now used to it . Ms Cox's revelations came to light during the taping of the programme when the studio audience was asked whether they had a clear preference for one child over another. Ms Cox didn't hesitate to answer 'Alex'. When the audience and SBS presenters reacted with amusement to her swift reply, Ms Cox said 'People have already ... you can't say that,' she said shrugging. 'If you said choose one to live or die, I wouldn't be able too ... like I love them equally. 'But Alex has a smell that he's had since he was born. I sniff him all the time. There's some sort of smell connection.' The Insight programme is based on research of modern families which shows sibling interactions can have a vital role in teaching children valuable social and life skills, as well as in shaping personality and behaviour. But, the programme researchers said, siblings also routinely get stuck into each other. 'Parents may see this rivalry as part and parcel of the sibling experience, however there is a growing body of research that links early sibling aggression with serious ongoing learning and mental health problems,' Insight says. Amie Cox says five-year-old Alex (left) who

Summary: A mother of two admits she has a favourite child because of his smell . Amie Cox says son Alex has had ' a smell since he was born' She says 'there's some sort of smell connection' with him . She loves him and his brother equally but Alex is the special one . Amie says she couldn't choose one over another to live or die but favours Alex . The 33-year-old says she is being attacked and called 'a freak' but she's 'a normal loving Mum' SBS Insight programme asks if sibling rivalry might lead to learning and mental health problems and whether family favouritism makes this worse .


Amelia Rose Jones was allegedly murdered by her grandfather Mark Jones when she was 41 days old . A grandfather accused of murdering his baby granddaughter complained she was a 'bloody nightmare' when he looked after her the day before she was rushed to hospital, a court heard. Mark Jones is accused of killing 41-day-old Amelia Rose Jones at his daughter's terraced home in Pontnewydd, south east Wales. The youngster died of a bleed to the brain after being rushed to hospital on the evening she was being babysat by her grandfather. Miss Jones, 25, told Newport Crown Court that after she had left her baby in the care of her father for the first time on November 16 to go on an evening out with her friends she returned home and he said he had had a difficult night with the child. She said: 'When I came home he told me Amelia had been a bloody nightmare ... I didn't think anything of it at the time. 'I trusted him with my life and my children. I had no reason not to. He was my father.' Jones, 45, of Cwmbran, denies murder. His defence is he dropped Amelia on two separate nights - first after accidentally slipping on a toy and then after suddenly fainting. But his daughter claims he never mentioned slipping over when she returned on November 16. The next day the child was being looked after by her grandfather while her mother went to the cinema. Before she returned, Jones made a 999 call saying he had gone to make a cup of coffee but came back to find the baby having difficulty breathing. She was rushed to Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport where medics managed to restore her pulse. But after failing to get her breathing the baby was quickly transferred for specialist treatment at University Hospital Wales in Cardiff. She could not be brought back to consciousness and had suffered injuries to her brain, and died on November 19. It is the prosecution's case a possible motive for the killing was the defendant's strong dislike of Amelia's father Ian Skillern, who had finished his relationship with Miss Jones before the birth of their child. The jury has already heard Jones and Mr Skillern could not be in the same room with each other. Miss Jones told the court that on November 14 - days before her daughter's death - her father had made a strange comment about her baby. She said: 'Just as he was leaving he said 'even though I don't like her father I don't hold grudges against a baby'. It was a really strange thing to say and came out of the blue.' Mark Jones, 45, is being tried before a jury at Newport Crown Court after denying his granddaughter's murder . Sarah also recalled an incident where she had left Amelia with her father during a shopping trip - and upon her return she found the baby screaming 'like never before'. She told the court Jones blamed the crying fit on another

Summary: Mark Jones is accused of killing his 41-day-old granddaughter Amelia Rose . Amelia's mother Sarah claims Mr Jones looked after her baby daughter the day before her death and described her as a 'bloody nightmare' Jones has denied murder, claiming he dropped Amelia twice by accident . Court told Jones disliked Amelia's father, which could have been a motive .


THE WILD OATS PROJECT . by Robin Rinaldi . (Hodder £14.99) At the age of 42, San Francisco-based journalist Robin Rinaldi believed she had accidentally succeeded in conceiving a longed- for child. The pregnancy test turned out to be wrong, but her husband Scott wasn’t taking any more chances: he got a vasectomy. Rinaldi’s response was to demand an open marriage and bed 12 strangers in as many months. She’s now written a graphic, tell-all memoir about that year and its very messy fallout. Robin Rinaldi (pictured) demanded an open marriage from her husband, Scott after he had a vasectomy . When they met, 17 years earlier, Rinaldi wasn’t sure she wanted kids. As her biological clock began ticking louder, though, a child came to embody the solution to all sorts of problems. It would strengthen their marriage of opposites, help her finally overcome a troubled childhood as the daughter of an alcoholic bookie and give her life a sense of purpose. Her husband, meanwhile, was adamantly against it from the start. For reasons she never quite gets to the bottom of, he has no desire ever to become a father. She depicts him as stable and stoic but, frankly, he sounds a bit of a cold fish, spending much of his spare time making mead, keeping a file on his laptop entitled My World View and refusing to look her in the eye during sex. After his vasectomy, Rinaldi’s discontent settles onto her failure to sleep around when she was single. ‘I refuse to go to my grave with no children and only four lovers,’ she declares. ‘If I can’t have one, I must have the other.’ Promiscuity, she’s certain, will enable her to look back from her deathbed and feel she’s lived. Instead of ending her marriage, she strikes a bargain that seems to give her the best of both worlds. During the week, Rinaldi lives in a rented studio, free to have as much casual sex as she likes. She picks up men on business trips, places ‘good girl seeks experience’ ads online and, eventually, gravitates to an urban sex commune, where very hands-on orgasmic meditation is practised twice daily. Come the weekend, she returns to Scott and their cat Cleo — no questions asked. Reading about her Wild Oats Project, it’s hard to know what’s more astonishing — that Scott ever agreed to this 5:2 open marriage or that Rinaldi thought it could possibly solve anything. Full disclosure: some years ago, I published a memoir about my own year-long experiment — with chastity. Afterwards, several people told me I should write a follow-up in which I did the exact opposite. I assumed they were joking, but that’s more or less precisely what Rinaldi has done. Not that it isn’t titillating stuff — at least to begin with. What she craves most especially is dirty talk, and she gives as good as she gets. There’s no hint of coyness as she details every sexual act she participates in along the way. As it gets steamier, her prose flushes a

Summary: Aged 42 Robin Rinaldi believed she had conceived a longed-for child . The pregnancy test was negative and her husband had a vasectomy . Rinaldi then demanded an open marriage and slept with 12 people in a year .


It seems that scoring stunning volleys in Tyne-Wear derbies is not the limit of Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe's limits as he shows off his impressive keepy up skills with a tennis ball. Fresh from his heroics on Sunday when he struck a brilliant volley to earn his side victory against Newcastle at the Stadium of Light, Defoe was the first player to take part in Sunderland's keepy up challenge. The former Tottenham forward set an impressive score of 76 for his team-mates to beat before taking the second part of the challenge - keepy ups with a Creme Egg. Tyne-Wear derby hero Jermain Defoe takes on the Sunderland keepy up challenge . The former Tottenham and West Ham striker is the first Sunderland player to take the challenge . Defoe eventually sets an impressive score of 76 for his team-mates to attempt to beat . Defoe was unable to replicate the high score achieved with the tennis ball but managed to post a respectable-looking nine with the Easter treat. Defoe was overcome with emotion in the wake of his brilliant blast, and admits the joy it brought to a sold-out Stadium of Light was too much to take in. 'I have said many times that I missed the Premier League and it's because of games like this,' he said. 'Games like this are why I came back. Being at a club like this, they just love football. I was told before that if I come here and work hard and score goals, they won't ask for anything more. Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe celebrates after scoring a stunning volley against Newcastle . Defoe's superb first-half strike was enough to secure a 1-0 win for Sunderland in the Tyne-Wear derby . Newcastle goalkeeper Tim Krul was completely helpless as Defoe's shot found its way into the top corner . 'And I just love scoring goals, the fans deserved it. It's been really difficult for them in the last few weeks but they always turn out. 'It was the whole occasion really that got to me. It was great to be the person that made so many people happy. I was just thinking, "Why me?". 'As the whistle went for half-time and as I was walking down the tunnel I thought, "I'm crying and I'm on the telly", but I didn't care. For the fans and everyone it was just a special day.' The 32-year-old not only wrote his name into Sunderland folklore with his derby winner at the weekend but boosted Dick Advocaat's side survival hopes. The North East club moved three points clear of the relegation zone with seven games to play as the Dutch manager earned his first win since taking charge.

Summary: Jermain Defoe was the first Sunderland player to take part in the challenge . Former Tottenham and West Ham striker scored an impressive 76 . Defoe then performed keepy ups with a Creme Egg and scored nine .


A Texas father is accused of shooting dead his 22-year-old son for coming to the defense of his mother during a heated domestic argument. Harris County Sheriff's officials say Ulysses Beaudoin, 39, gunned down Ulysses Nelson Tuesday night after showing up at the family's home in Katy with his mistress in tow. Deputies say the deadly confrontation took place at around 9amm at 6622 Gordon Drive in the Bear Creek Meadows subdivision. Scroll down for video . Filicide: Ulysses Beaudoin (left), 39, of Texas, is accusing of killing his 22-year-old son and namesake, Ulysses Nelson (right), when the young man tried to intercede on behalf of his mother during a domestic argument . Crime scene: The deadly incident took place inside the family's home in Katy, texas, Tuesday night when Ulysses Beaudoin arrived with his girlfriend in tow . Beaudoin had pulled up to the house in his Ford SUV and went inside. His girlfriend, who has not been named, remained in her own car around the corner. Moments later, Beaudoin got into a fight with his wife of 18 years, Christina Nelson, in the master bedroom, reported Click2Houston. When the couple's 22-year-old son tried to intervene, deputies say the father pulled out a 9mm handgun and shot him twice in the back. The armed man then allegedly threatened his 18-year-old son, sending the teen fleeing for his life. The boy ran to a neighbor for help, crying hysterically and begging her to call 911 and then check up on his older brother, who had been shot. Nelson was pronounced dead at the scene from his wounds. Protector: Deputies say Beaudoin and his wife of 18 years, Christina Nelson (right), got into an argument in the bedroom, prompting their son (left) to step in . In cold blood: Beaudion allegedly pulled a 99m handgun on his 22-year-old son and shot him twice in the back . Pursuit: The 39-year-old suspect jumped into his girlfriend's car and fled, but police tracked him down at a nearby Shell gas station . Crocodile tears: The 39-year-old suspect was seen weeping and muttering, 'My baby,' as he was being handcuffed . An infant was also present in the house at the time of the shooting but escaped unharmed, according to ABC13. According to investigators, the gunman then jumped in his girlfriend’s Dodge Charger and the two fled the scene, but responding officers tracked them down and arrested Beaudoin at a Shell station near the house. The 39-year-old suspect was seen weeping as he was being handcuffed, reported the news site Covering Katy. At one point, he cried out, 'My baby,' presumably referring to his dead son. Ulysses Beaudoin is now facing a murder charge in Nelson’s slaying.

Summary: Ulysses Beaudoin, 39, of Texas, allegedly shot his son, Ulysses Nelson, twice in the back . Officials say he then threatened his 18-year-old son with 9mm handgun . Beaudoin and his girlfriend fled from the scene but were tracked down . The father was seen weeping and muttering, My baby,' as he was being handcuffed .


Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall lauded his young guns after their latest European heartache before declaring he has no intention of overspending in a competitive post-World Cup transfer market. McCall watched his side, which contained five English-qualified forwards in the starting pack, battle in vain before losing 13-9 to the Clermont on Saturday. Saracens’ millionaire chairman Nigel Wray spent much of last week repeating his belief the cap should be scrapped in order for Saracens to compete at Europe’s top table, raising expectations they could be set to land a ‘marquee’ player from outside the league whose wages would sit outside next season’s £5.5m cap. Maro Itoje (second left) was one of five England-qualified forwards in the Saracens pack that faced Clermont . Mako Vunipola tries to fend off Clermont lock Jamie Cudmore during a ferocious contest . Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall saw his side come agonisingly close to reaching the final . But McCall said: ‘We know where we’d like to improve our side and we’re prepared to wait for the right person. We don’t want to jump in and get “a name” just because he’s available post-World Cup. 'The fact our pack is as young as it is is incredibly exciting for us. They could be the mainstay of the club for the next four to five seasons.’ Billy Vunipola (left), Jim Hamilton and Itoje leave the field following their 13-9 loss against Clermont .

Summary: Saracens lost 13-9 to Clermont at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on Saturday . The Sarries pack contained five English-qualified forwards . Saracens’ millionaire chairman Nigel Wray wants the salary cap scrapped .


ABC is filming a pilot episode of The Muppet Show, in the hopes of bringing the beloved variety show back to the small screen. The network has asked Big Bang Theory co-creator Bill Prady to mastermind the revival, which would see the return of Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and other old favorites. New Muppets TV content hasn't been since since Muppets Tonight ended in 1998, though old episodes have been re-run extensively and several movies have been filmed. Scroll down for video . Light the lights? Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy could be back on TV screens soon if a planned pilot of a rebooted Muppets Show proves a success . A 'proof of concept' presentation for advertising executives is in the works already, ABC confirmed to DailyMail.com. Filming is due to take place next weekend at a Disney studio in Burbank, California - and will see some original Muppet puppeteers take the reins again. The episode will start with Muppets stalwarts including Kermit, Fozzie and Gonzo gathering at ABC Studios in the hope of getting the new show off the ground. But the cuddly characters will apparently have a problem to solve - Miss Piggy hasn't agreed to join in, and is reluctant to get involved so long as she is going through a rough patch with her on-off lover Kermit. Details of the new episode were first reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Gang's all here: The new series will feature a host of favorites including Gonzo, bottom right, Fozzie Bear, center right, Animal, top center, and Rowlf the Dog, top left . Sources told them new characters including a girlfriend and in-laws for Fozzie Bear could also be on the way. Bob Kushell, who has credits from The Simpsons, Malcolm in the Middle and 3rd Rock From The Sun, has been named as the second co-writer alongside Prady. Randall Einhorn, who worked on The Office and has directed episodes of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is set to be the new Muppets showrunner. Dream team: Bill Prady, left, and Bob Kushell, center, are set to be the new writers for the show, with Randall Einhorn, right, as showrunner . The Muppet Show was originally produced in Britain, as American studio heads did not take to the early pitches. Its characters had appeared as extras in other shows, including Sesame Street, before getting their own TV series. The Muppet Show ran from 1976-81, and The Muppets Tonight ran from 1996-98.

Summary: Bill Prady has written a pilot episode to pitch to advertisers . Filming will start in Burbank, California, next weekend . New series set to see return of Kermit, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo and Animal . First episode revolves around luring an upset Miss Piggy back to the cast . It has been 17 years since the last Muppets TV series ended .


The sailor who claimed to have ‘miraculously’ survived for 66 days at sea has responded to sceptics around the world – saying: ‘God knows I am a truthful man’. Louis Jordan, 37, who was rescued 200 miles off the North Carolina coast, said he survived for more than two months on his stricken boat by eating fish he caught by trailing dirty clothes in the ocean, and by catching rainwater in a bucket. But doubters have questioned how Jordan – who declined medical help despite claiming to have broken a shoulder and who appears well-fed, with pale, unblemished skin – seemed in such good shape after such a gruelling ordeal. Scroll down for video . Louis Jordan, second from left, walks from the Coast Guard helicopter to the Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia. He left hours later after he refused treatment . Doubters of Jordan's ordeal say that despite claiming to have broken a shoulder, he appeared to be well-fed, with pale, unblemished skin . Rebutting his critics for the first time yesterday in an exclusive interview with The Mail on Sunday, he said: ‘God knows I am a truthful man. My family knows I am telling the truth. The people who know me know that.’ He added that the authorities had checked he had not withdrawn money from his bank account when he first went missing, though they will now scrutinise his credit card and bank statements for any activity during the period he says he was drifting. Jordan said his morale was boosted by reading the Bible from cover to cover, but claimed he lost 50 lbs after his supply of tinned food ran out and his diet was reduced to raw fish. He also gave colourful examples of his experiences, from encounters with two killer whales who had ‘such beautiful faces, they looked so friendly’, to sailing through shoals of glowing phosphorescent jellyfish at night. Jordan pictured on his 35-foot boat, which during one storm in which Jordan claims he broke his shoulder, lost its mast, rudder and radio . Jordan had been living on his docked sailboat in Conway, South Carolina, before he told his family he was 'going into the open water' to go fishing more than two months ago . Jordan, an amateur sailor who had been living on his boat, the 35 ft Angel, set off on a fishing trip from Conway, South Carolina, on January 23. He was reported missing six days later. The sailor claims he broke his shoulder during one of the three times his boat was knocked over in heavy seas – destroying the mast, rudder and radio – yet he has shown no obvious sign of injury. Last night a US Coast Guard spokesman said: ‘We don’t have any reason to doubt him but nor can we confirm he spent all this time out there. We are looking forward to learning more about what exactly happened. We are as keen as anyone to find out the truth.’ Survival expert Erik Kulik, of the True North Wilderness Survival School,

Summary: Louis Jordan, 37, was rescued Thursday after being stranded 200 miles off the coast of North Carolina . Refused treatment when he was taken to hospital in Norfolk, Virginia . Coast guard crew who rescued him said he was smiling when they arrived . Group expected him to be severely sun burnt and covered in blisters . He refused treatment at hospital and conducted TV interviews straight away . Authorities are looking into his credit card and bank statements from during the time he says he was drifting .


A 16-year-old schoolboy has died after falling from a cliff and plunging into the sea in the middle of the night. The teenager, named as Joshua Smith, was plucked from the water by the crew of an RAF rescue helicopter and flown to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Police today said that the teen's death was not being treated as suspicious, but have referred it to the police watchdog. Joshua Smith died after falling from a cliff and plunging into the sea in the coastal town of Berwick-upon-Tweed in Northumberland (pictured) A major air and sea search and rescue operation was launched after emergency services received reports that someone had fallen from the cliff at Spittal Point, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland. The coastguard, police, paramedics, firefighters and an RAF rescue helicopter were all scrambled to the scene in early hours of Easter Sunday. Police have said they are not treating Joshua's death as suspicious (file picture) RNLI station manager, John Dunn, said crews used torches from the edge of the cliff in a bid to spot the boy after the alarm was raised at around 2.40am. 'They were just on the edge of the cliff with torches and searchlights trying to spot the guy in the water,' he told the Newcastle Chronicle. 'The helicopter was there doing its job and pulled him out of the water pretty quick.' Joshua, from the Berwick-upon-Tweed area, was plucked from the surf near Spittal Promenade by a crew from RAF Boulmer's search and rescue helicopter and flown to Wansbeck General Hospital, where he later died. Joshua was a rugby enthusiast and played for his local u16 team. He attended Berwick Academy. Friends described him as a 'lovely lad' who was 'always smiling.' Colin Frame said on the Berwick Rugby Club Facebook page: 'Tragically we lost one of our rugby family last night. 'On behalf of everyone at Berwick Rugby Club, but especially his Under 16 coaches and fellow players, we send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends. 'At times like this it is difficult to make sense of the world but at times like this we will pull together as a Club to try. RIP Josh. #oneclub' His headteacher, Alexis Widdowson, said the school was 'devastated' by the teenager's death. 'Josh Smith was a talented boy who touched the hearts of all those who knew him and he will live on in our memories,' she reportedly told the Berkwick Advertiser. 'Our thoughts, now, are with his family and closest friends and we offer them our sincerest condolences.' Flowers were also said to have been left at the scene of his cliff fall. A spokesman for Northumberland Police said: 'At 3.06am police received reports from the ambulance service that a boy had fallen from cliffs at Spittal Point, Berwick. 'Emergency Services attended along with the RNLI and a 16-year-old boy was recovered from the sea. 'He was taken to Wansbeck General Hospital where he later died. 'Enquires are in the early stages to establish the circumstances.' They added that his death has been referred to

Summary: Joshua Smith, 16, died in hospital after being rescued from the sea . Fell from a cliff at Berwick-upon-Tweed in the early hours of Easter Sunday . Northumberland Police say they are not treating the death as suspicious . Have referred the death to the Independent Police Complaints Commission .


Wilfried Zaha has admitted he felt ‘worthless’ during his two-year spell as a Manchester United player after his dream move to Old Trafford turned sour. The 22-year-old winger was signed by then Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson in January 2013 from Crystal Palace for £10million. But the terms of the transfer saw him loaned straight back to the Eagles for the remainder of the season and he did not arrive at Old Trafford until the summer, by which time Ferguson had retired and been replaced by David Moyes. Wilfried Zaha has rediscovered his form at Crystal Palace this season . During a disastrous campaign for the club under Moyes, Zaha made just four United appearances before playing out the second half of last season at Cardiff. ‘There is nothing worse than not being involved,’ he told the Daily Telegraph. ‘You are sitting there thinking ‘what exactly am I? A footballer who is not playing football?’ You feel a bit worthless sitting in the stands, watching all the time. You have nothing to speak about with the players. Zaha made just four appearances for Manchester United in two years with the club . ‘If you have played the game then it’s “well done” or “you should have passed here or there”. But when you haven’t played… I think people lose a bit of respect for you. I think they are thinking ‘well, he’s not played’. They don’t have anything to speak to you about. It’s a big thing.’ ‘There were so many rumours about me that were not true. And they hurt me because all I was doing was keeping my head down to do my best every time and then after training I’d go home and there would be something in the paper or wherever about me not having a good attitude and that’s why I wasn’t playing, rumours about my private life and that’s why I wasn’t playing, me turning up late for this, turning up late for that.’ Zaha revealed the last straw came when he was left on the bench against League One outfit MK Dons as United crashed out of the Capital One Cup 4-0 last August. Eventually he spoke to new United boss Louis Van Gaal, who confirmed that he wasn't part of his first-team plans and so he headed back on a season-long loan deal to Palace, where he flourished under Alan Pardew, and the deal was made permanent in February this year. Louis Van Gaal told Zaha he wasn't part of his plans after Capital One Cup snub .

Summary: Wilfried Zaha joined Manchester United for £10m in January 2013 . Winger made debut in July but only made three more appearances . Rejoined Palace on loan and deal made permanent in February 2015 .


Floyd Mayweather v Manny Pacquiao will be the biggest fight of all time financially and the most significant this century. Evaluating the greatest ever fights is a complex variable of several factors including not only the quality and excitement of the action but the political, social and cultural undertones, the scale of expectation and outside influences. Where Money Man v PacMan comes to rank among the most important fights in ring history will depend upon what happens that coming night in the MGM Grand Garden Arena. In this, the fourth in a series of 12 fights that shaped boxing history, I look back on one of the greatest sporting events of all time. RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE . George Foreman v Muhammad Ali . Kinshasa, Zaire . October 30, 1974 . The fight voted the greatest sporting event of the 20th century. The fight which crossed oceans and continents. The fight which drove boxing through social barriers. The fight which put a shadowy central African republic on the world map. The fight which established Muhammad Ali as the most recognisable human being on Earth. The fight which made George Foreman famous in defeat. The fight about which millions of words have been written and movies made. A photograph taken on October 30, 1974, shows Muhammad Ali (left) and George Foreman (right) USA's Foreman (right) approaches his compatriot Ali (left) during the iconic Rumble in the Jungle in 1974 . The Rumble in the Jungle was the brainchild of promotional genius Don King backed by the multi-million dollar investment through which Zaire president Mobuto Sese Seko hoped to excite his people into keeping him in power. King had persuaded Ali and Foreman to sign $5million contracts which he could not afford but would talk President Mobuto into bank-rolling. JOE FRAZIER v MUHAMMAD ALI . March 8, 1971, Madison Square Garden, New York . JACK JOHNSON v JAMES JEFFRIES . July 4, 1910, Reno, Nevada . JOE LOUIS v MAX SCHMELING . June 22, 1938, Yankee Stadium, New York . As the 25-year-old world heavyweight champion with enormous punching power Foreman was odds-on favourite to crush the brilliance of the man they called The Greatest but who, at 32 and diminished by his three-and-a-half-year banishment from the ring for refusing to go to war in Vietnam, was perceived as a fading force. Ali went to work on Foreman’s psyche from the moment the circus arrived in Kinshasa, turning up at his training session to mock Big George for his size and make fun of his intellect. The irritating effect on Foreman was prolonged after he suffered an eye-cut in sparring, the date of the fight was put back more than a month and King, fearful of cancellation, insisted they stayed in Zaire instead of taking a break back in America. Ali also charmed the local population, who happily took to the streets throughout those weeks chanting ‘Ali, boma-ye’ – ‘Ali, kill him.’ The fight developed into a tactical triumph for Ali, albeit a self-punishing one which may have contributed to the subsequent onset of

Summary: Floyd Mayweather v Manny Pacquiao is now just nine days away . Sportsmail's Jeff Powell has been counting down the greatest fights . In the fourth of a series of 12 fights that shaped boxing history, we have George Foreman v Muhammad Ali - the Rumble in the Jungle . It was a fight which astonished the satellite world on October 30, 1974 . Foreman v Ali inspired movies and millions of words written about it .


Kevin Pietersen will make his long-awaited return to domestic cricket this weekend as he begins his attempt to force his way back into the England reckoning. The controversial batsman has been named in Surrey's 13-man squad for the three-day warm-up against an Oxford University side at The Parks, which gets under way on Sunday. A short statement on Surrey's official website said: 'Kevin Pietersen is named in the squad as Surrey head to The Parks for their final pre-season game before their opening first-class fixture against Glamorgan next week.' Kevin Pietersen has been named in Surrey's 13-man squad to play Oxford University . Pietersen lines up with his Surrey team-mates ahead of his long awaited return to domestic cricket . The former England batsman unsurprisingly got the lion's share of attention from photograhpers . The 34-year-old has played almost exclusively Twenty20 cricket in various leagues around the world since being axed by England following the humiliating Ashes whitewash defeat last year. Indeed, he has not played a first-class match since January 2014, when Australia sealed a 5-0 thrashing of England in Sydney, while his last appearance for Surrey in the LV= County Championship was in June 2013. But he has given up a lucrative deal with Indian Premier League side Sunrisers Hyderabad in order to come back to Surrey as he bids to win back his England spot. Pietersen hopes he can add to his 104 Test caps and much-storied international career with successful performances for Surrey, who have been only too happy to welcome back the South African-born batsman. The 34-year-old has not played first-class cricket since being axed by England after last year's Ashes . Piestersen jokes around by taking a picture of photographers from his phone . Meanwhile, Pietersen has thrown his support behind former team-mate Michael Vaughan as the right man to 'change the brand of cricket currently being played' in England. Ten years on from his career-defining captaincy in the 2005 Ashes, Vaughan is the hot favourite to be appointed as director of England cricket, a streamlined version of the managing director's job which was abolished with Paul Downton's sacking on Wednesday. 'He (Vaughan) is close enough to the game to make changes which need to happen for the good of English cricket,' Pietersen said. 'The way he captained shows he'll change the brand of cricket currently being played, which we need.' Pietersen has backed former England captain Michael Vaughan (left) to lead England Cricket .

Summary: Kevin Pietersen has returned to domestic cricket with Surrey . Axed England batsman will make his debut against Oxford University . KP has backed Michael Vaughan to lead overhaul England Cricket .


Ronny Deila has warned television broadcasters to stop messing around Scottish football fans. The Celtic boss leads his side into a Scottish Cup semi-final with Inverness at Hampden on Sunday with a 12.15 kick-off. And after a week of turmoil and complaints – from clubs and supporters – over the unhealthy sway television has on kick-off times, Deila says the balance of power in the relationship is all wrong. Ronny Deila will take his Celtic side to Hampden Park for the Scottish Cup semi-final on Sunday . The match will take place at 12:15, a time that Scottish football fans do not agree with . 'I think TV is an issue that I don't like in terms of the kick-off times,' said the Norwegian. 'It should not be TV that controls football – it should be the opposite. 'It should be about the supporters and the clubs so that they can make money by getting people into the stands - because that is what we live for. 'I understand the economics of it are so important and that television takes over and take control. 'But I don't like that. It's not the best for people who like football.' The SPFL sparked a furious row this week when they put back the final Rangers game of the season by 24 hours for broadcast on Sky Sports – sparking outright fury from Hibernian and Hearts. Celtic players train at Lennoxtown in preparation for Sunday's crunch match against Inverness . Deila (right) believes that teams should have more of a say on kick-off times, rather than broadcasters . Both capital clubs have lodged formal complaints over the governance of the game, with chief executive Neil Doncaster under pressure ahead of a stormy SPFL AGM on Thursday. At the heart of the problem is the growing fury of fans at being messed around with late changes to kick-off dates and times to facilitate broadcasters offering Scottish football a tiny fraction of the billions paid to English clubs. None of Celtic's post-split fixtures will be played on a Saturday at 3pm, forcing season-ticket holders from Ireland and England to cancel or alter their travel plans. 'There are different traditions in different countries,' added Deila. 'In Norway, we had the best time, which is six o'clock on Sunday, but now they are doing different times. 'In the end, you don't know when games are going on. 'It's so hard to plan the weekend with the family and also get to the games. 'If Saturday at 3pm is the best for Scotland then we should play more at that time. A Celtic scarf displayed outside Celtic Park shows fans' desire for Deila to win them the treble this season . 'I would also rather play at six in the evening than 12 in the morning. 'I think football should be played at night because then you get a better atmosphere into the arena.' Addressing concerns that Celtic are being affected more than most through large gaps in the stands, Deila acknowledged: 'It's a big problem for us. We need

Summary: Celtic will play their Scottish Cup semi-final against Inverness on Sunday . The match kicks off at 12:15, which has angered Scottish supporters . Celtic boss Ronny Deila believes the club should decide kick-off times . Fans believe it is unfair for television broadcasters to dictate timings when they are offering Scottish football a fraction of the billions paid in England .


BBC Trust chairman Rona Fairhead is facing calls to step down immediately as a director of HSBC over her links to the bank’s tax scandal. Mrs Fairhead, 53, has said she wants to stay for a least another year, but yesterday it emerged that two major investors and a leading shareholder group have voted to get rid of her. She has been under mounting pressure to quit both of her lucrative positions, at the BBC and the scandal-hit bank, after claims that HSBC’s Swiss operation helped wealthy clients hide billions from the taxman. Facing vote: Rona Fairhead is facing calls to step down immediately as a director of HSNC over her links to the bank's tax scandal . Last month she was criticised by MPs as ‘incredibly naïve or totally incompetent’ for her failure to pick up on the scandal. And last night it emerged that American investors Christian Brothers Investment Services and Trillium Asset Management, which manage more than £4.9billion of assets between them, have lodged their votes to get rid of Mrs Fairhead as a non-executive director on HSBC’s main board. One of the UK’s most powerful shareholder groups has also urged investors to vote against her re-election as an independent director at the bank’s annual general meeting next week. In a note to investors, the Pensions & Investment Research Consultants – which advises pension funds and other institutional investors managing £1.5trillion – said: ‘Ms Fairhead chaired the HSBC audit committee up until 2010, a period when the company’s Swiss arm was allegedly undertaking tax avoidance and evasion on behalf of clients. Scandal: There are claims that HSBC’s Swiss operation helped wealthy clients hide billions from the taxman . ‘Given the lack of control and oversight of this practice, it is considered that Ms Fairhead failed in her responsibility as a guardian of HSBC.’ But HSBC has told shareholders that Mrs Fairhead, who has been on the board of the embattled bank since 2004, has ‘agreed to stay on the board for a further one-year period’ – the maximum she can be voted in for. Non-executive directors at publicly listed companies must be elected on an annual basis, regardless of how long they intend to stay. A source said that both she and the bank would ‘assess’ whether she should stand for re-election in 2016 ‘closer to the time’. Public accounts committee chairman, Margaret Hodge, told Mrs Fairhead she should resign or be sacked by the Government as BBC Trust chairman . HSBC declined to comment. Last year Mrs Fairhead received more than £513,000 in fees and benefits for her work at the troubled bank, including a £334,000 fee as non-executive chairman of HSBC North America Holdings. PIRC said the huge pay package ‘could be considered to compromise her ability to scrutinise the bank’s activities independently’. Mrs Fairhead also earns £110,000-a-year for her three-day-a-week job as chairman of the BBC Trust, and a further £130,000 as a non-executive director of the fizzy drinks giant Pepsi. Many MPs expected her to resign from HSBC, especially after her bruising encounter with the

Summary: Rona Fairhead is facing immediate calls to step down as director of HSBC . It's after claims Swiss arm helped wealthy clients hide billions from taxman . She was criticised by MPs as 'incredibly naive' for failing to notice scandal . American investors lodged their votes to get rid of the BBC Trust chairman .


Sky launched its Buy and Keep scheme for customers this time last year but it has now opened the service to everyone across the UK and Ireland. It lets people stream movies straight to their TV, or to their mobiles using an app, as well as receive a hard copy in the post. Films can also be watched across multiple devices using a 'follow me' function. Sky launched its Buy and Keep scheme (pictured) for customers this time last year but it has now opened the service to everyone in the UK and Ireland. It lets people stream movies straight to their TV, or to their mobiles using an app, as well as receive a hard copy in the post . Buy and Keep launched in April 2014 for Sky+HD subscribers. The firm has deals with the majority of major film distributors and the latest movies are added each week. Recent new releases have included The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies and Paddington, alongside classics such Avatar, Back to the Future and Wizard of Oz. And typically these new releases are available to rent on Sky Store before they arrive on Sky Movies. Buy and Keep launched in April 2014 for Sky+HD subscribers. It is now available to everyone in the UK and Ireland. Recent new releases have included The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies and Paddington, alongside classics such Avatar, Back to the Future and Wizard of Oz. New releases cost £13.99 and classics are £7.99, but this includes the price of a physical DVD and postage. By comparison, the latest releases on Talk Talk-owned Blinkbox start at £3.49 to rent or £8.99 to buy a digital copy the user can keep and watch on up to five devices. Films on Buy and Keep can be bought by creating an account, or signing in, at Skystore.com or through the Sky Store app on Android and iOS. New releases cost £13.99 and classics are £7.99, but this includes the price of a physical DVD and postage. By comparison, the latest releases on Talk Talk-owned Blinkbox start at £3.49 to rent or £8.99 to buy a digital copy the user can keep and watch on up to five devices. TV shows start at £1.89 to rent and £5.99 to buy. Films on Buy and Keep can be bought by creating an account, or signing in, at Skystore.com or through the Sky Store app on Android and iOS. Non-Sky TV customers in the UK can watch on their main TV via a NOW TV box, Roku or YouView box, while those in Ireland can watch via a Roku box. Nicola Bamford, Director of Sky Store said: 'People want the simplest and most convenient way to buy and watch the movies they love, which is why it's great news that from today Buy and Keep will be available to everyone and across multiple devices. 'Sky Store offers the complete service - straight to your TV, across your devices and

Summary: Films can be bought at Skystore.com or through the Sky Store app . Recent new releases include The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies and Paddington . New releases cost £13.99, classics are £7.99 and both include a DVD copy . New releases on Blinkbox are £8.99 to buy a digital copy the user can keep .


In telly terms, the FA Cup has had quite - what they like to call in the trade - a 'journey’ this season. This weekend saw its TV channel sidekicks deliver a double header with a new ally to help set the scene. This no doubt will have the purists, and perhaps even some fans of the four teams involved, spitting at the very mention. But with Wembley on board for both games, I doubt the BBC and BT Sport will have minded presenting their coverage from HQ. However, on Saturday evening, Ian Wright was dead sheepish about it in the BBC’s on-site studio. ‘I don’t like semi finals at Wembley’, said Wrighty squirming awkwardly in his seat at the prospect of it. Well, some twenty four hour or so later, Wembley was certainly delighted to host them. Arsenal players celebrate during the victory over Reading which saw the Gunners reach the FA Cup final . Fabian Delph (centre) is congratulated by his team-mates after scoring against Liverpool at Wembley . Wembley Stadium was a great setting for this weekend's two FA Cup semi-final clashes . Prior to that first clash on Saturday between Arsenal and Reading, there had also been disgruntled talk from inside the Emirates Stadium. This time about the fact the match clashed with the big Premier league game between Chelsea and Manchester United. Yes, over on Sky Sports, you could have witnessed business as usual at Stamford Bridge. With a first half that Jamie Redknapp at one point described as ‘difficult to watch’. If you weren’t watching Chelsea's victory, what you could see instead was what turned out to be a genuine sporting event, a real footballing occasion. Alongside Wright, the extremely engaging Jason Roberts hoped his old club Reading wouldn’t treat their premature trip to north west London as ‘a day out' and believed there was a chance the Royals could win against Arsenal. Well, they most certainly set aside the chance for some selfies and instead contributed wholly to a cracking game of football. A clash that was bursting out of the telly screen with atmosphere as the sun soaked some thrilling football and the crowd generated a groundswell of excitement. Reading, pictured celebrating after Garath McCleary's goal, contributed to a great encounter on Saturday . What’s more, there were also a couple of errors that led to two memorable moments in the coverage. Firstly, when a film about the infamous 1990 FA Cup Semi Finals failed, Gary Lineker was left with a spare few minutes to fill. Which he did with a great chat about his guests' Cup Final Wembley memories. ‘It’s a wonderful experience, winning an FA Cup, isn’t it Wrighty?’, observed Lineker before turning to the distinctly pot free Alan Shearer. ‘Don’t start again, Gary!’, barked Al, his brief annoyance serving only to make the moment even funnier for his fellow ex pros. And then there was Reading’s Adam Federici. I was amazed at the end of the game when the director went through the familiar montage of close ups, and while doing

Summary: Wembley hosted two FA Cup semi-finals over the weekend . Arsenal defeated Championship Reading 2-1 after extra-time to reach final . Fabian Delph and Christian Benteke scored as Aston Villa beat Liverpool .