An identical twin whose sister was murdered by her stalker ex-boyfriend has revealed she wishes she had done more to save her. Grieving Nikki Thomas, from South Wales, says she wants to turn back the clock and tell Jenna that she didn't have to 'put up' with her former partner's obsessive behaviour, including bombarding her with hundreds of calls and texts a day. But Jenna, who was strangled to death by Philip Packer in a jealous rage in 2008, never reported his behaviour to police - and paid the ultimate price. Scroll down for video . Nikki Thomas appeared on This Morning to tell how her sister was murdered by her obsessive ex . Now Nikki, 27, is warning others to learn from her sister's tragic story and not tolerate stalking behaviour. As part of Stalking Awareness Week, Nikki, from North Cornelly, appeared on today's This Morning in honour of her sister. She told presenters Phillip Schofield and Amanda Holden how Jenna had started a relationship with Packer, who was 28 years older than she was, when she was a teenager. But shop worker Jenna found Parker, a nightclub doorman, could be obsessive and controlling so she eventually ended their relationship. However, Nikki said he then wouldn't leave her sister - then aged 21 - alone. She recalled: 'In 2009 she left him saying she wasn't happy. He was very controlling, obsessive and jealous. 'He wouldn't stop contacting her. He would ring 300-400 times a day and that was just phone calls. There were also texts and visits.' Jenna was strangled to death by Philip Packer, pictured, who used to hound her with calls and messages . Nikki said neither she or Jenna realised how far Packer would go and 'kind' Jenna didn't consider reporting him to the police. Nikki said: 'My family and I were worried but she thought she had a handle on it. She never said she was frightened for her safety. 'She wasn't scared of him but it was unwanted attention - she made that clear to him but he persisted. She didn't go to police as she thought she could deal with it.' Nikki said Packer would often turn up unannounced at Jenna's house to drive her to work, or if she was waiting at the bus stop, he could pull over and offer her a lift. This is what happened on June 24, 2009, but Jenna never made it to her work place. After offering her a lift, Packer, then aged 49, took her to a layby and strangled her to death. He then drove to a police station and told them he had a dead body in his car. Six months later he appeared at Cardiff Crown Court where a jury found him guilty of murder. Nikki and TV presenter Rav Wilding, left, appeared on This Morning to promote Stalking Awareness Week . He was jailed for a minimum of 18 years (later reduced to 16 years). Nikki now wishes she had urged her sister to put a stop to Packer's stalking behaviour. She could

Summary: Jenna Thomas, 21, was murdered by ex boyfriend Philip Packer . He hounded her with calls, texts and visits after they split up . Then strangled her to death one day in jealous rage . Her twin, Nikki, now wishes they'd taken stalking behaviour more seriously . Urges others not to 'put up with' harassment .


Appointment: Courtney Brain, 16, was taken out of lessons when she visited her GP for treatment . A straight-A schoolgirl was given a detention for missing half an hour of lessons for an emergency appointment with her GP, her mother claimed yesterday. Courtney Brain, 16, was taken out of school at Skegness Academy when she visited her GP for treatment for a water infection. But she was stunned upon her return to class in Lincolnshire to be told she must make up the missed time for the ‘unauthorised absence’. Her mother Jane Burnham, 50, criticised the ‘mind-boggling’ decision last Wednesday to punish Courtney - who she claimed has a 98 per cent attendance record, although the school put this figure at 91 per cent - and accused the Academy of being ‘petty and unreasonable'. Mrs Burnham, who runs a hotel in the town, said: ‘I was gobsmacked. My daughter has never been in trouble before. She is expected to get straight A*s in her exams and helps out after school with extracurricular activities. 'She is not a problem child, she works hard and this was the only appointment I could get. Trying to see your GP around here can be a nightmare and I’ll always try and get an appointment after school. But on this occasion she couldn’t, so you take it when you can. 'She was only out of lessons for half an hour. It wasn’t like she was round the back of the bike sheds having a cigarette or going on a shopping spree. Then it would be different. 'She had a water infection for which she needed antibiotics - and I find the decision to give her detention mind-boggling. Concern: Skegness Academy (above) in Lincolnshire claimed the detention was to give Courtney, whose mother runs a hotel in the seaside town, the best chance possible of doing well in her exams in the summer . ‘Water infections can get worse so it was important to go to the doctor as soon as she could. I think it very petty and unreasonable for her to be punished in this way. I am not happy at all. 'We were gone half an hour, that’s all she was missing. It’s mind boggling. It’s disgusting really.’ The school claimed the detention was to give Courtney the best chance possible of doing well in her exams in the summer. But Jane Mrs Burnham who runs the Carmelle Hotel with husband Trevor, 53, said she did not think the extra half-hour revision will ultimately make any difference to her overall grades. Detention: Courtney (pictured) was told she must make up the missed time for the 'unauthorised absence' She added: ‘I think the extra half an hour really would not make that much difference especially as she has already done all her coursework and practical work. GP visit: Courtney had a water infection for which she needed antibiotics last Wednesday . ‘It is just revising for her English and maths GCSE now. It is not as though she makes a habit of missing school for doctor’s

Summary: Courtney Brain left Skegness Academy to visited her GP for treatment . She was later told to make up missed time for 'unauthorised absence' Mother criticises decision to punish her daughter as 'mind-boggling' School claims detention was to give her best chance of good grades .


This the 100 tonne crane barge that is being used to lift shopping trolleys and even cars that have been dumped at the bottom of the River Avon. The Canal and River Trust in Bath, who are carrying out the dredging operation, have so far removed 150 trolleys from the river bed as well six vehicles, one of which dating back over 40 years. Divers had already located and harnessed the dumped items before the barge was used lift to the obstructions, including mopeds, on to the riverbank. The work is being focused on an area between Windsor Bridge and Victoria Bridge in the city in a clean up operation costing £20,000 in preparation for a new development. It came after the abandoned cars and other objects were identified by the Environment Agency during a recent survey of flood defences in Bath. The historic River Avon is a haven for wildlife, as well as being an important route for boats, including those used by thousands of holidaymakers each year. The 100 tonne crane, which has been positioned on the edge of the River Avon in Bath to dredge the water for abandoned items at the bottom . The Canal and River Trust in Bath are carrying out the dredging operation which was ordered after hundreds of objects were identified as blocking the river . Not only have shopping trolleys and smaller items such as bikes being recovered, the crane has also recovered several cars from the water . A car is lifted from the riverbed, left, and dumped on to a scrap heap, right. Some of the vehicles recovered from the river have been over 40 years old . Passers-by look over the riverbank as the crane plucks an abandoned bike from the water, which has broken wheels and severe rust . The clean-up operation is costing £20,000 and was ordered by the Environment Agency after the objects were identified during a recent river survey . Over 150 shopping trolleys have so far being recovered as well as numerous bikes and wheels as well as several mopeds and cars .

Summary: Divers located and harnessed the dumped items which have included shopping trolleys, mopeds and even cars . A 100-tonne crane has now been put in place to lift the abandoned objects from the bottom of the river bed . The extent of the rubbish in the River Avon was recently revealed after a survey of flood defences in Bath .


A new Islamic fatwa in Turkey has decreed that Muslims are allowed to use toilet paper. The Directorate of Religious Affairs for Turkey stated that the use of the material for hygiene is acceptable but water was preferable. Islamic teachings traditionally state that followers should use water to clean themselves after going to the toilet. A new Islamic fatwa in Turkey has decreed that Muslims are allowed to use toilet paper . The set of rules for how Muslims should relieve themselves, called the Qadaa al-Haajah, was established in the times before toilet paper or toilet seats were invented. Use of the left hand or three stones was also permissible. The code also states that followers should not speak or read while on the toilet and should enter with their left foot and leave with their right, speaking a prayer. The Directorate of Religious Affairs for Turkey stated that the use of the material for hygiene is acceptable but water was preferable . Men and women are also told not to stand while relieving themselves but to squat or sit. The new announcement, reported by Hurriyet Daily News, stated: 'If water cannot be found for cleansing, other cleaning materials can be used.' 'Even though some sources deem paper to be unsuitable as a cleaning material, as it is an apparatus for writing, there is no problem in using toilet paper. Last month the Directorate of Religious Affairs had also relaxed rules on around the use of products containing alcohol - as long as they were not consumed. Hand sanitizes and other similar products used for hygiene products are now halal. 'While it is forbidden to drink substances containing alcohol that were produced for cleaning purposes, it is acceptable to use them for cleaning,' Hurriyet Daily News reported. The fatwa stated that places that had been cleaned with the products would not need to be washed again with water prior to performing prayer. A new ruling on begging, stating that anyone who begs and earns money beyond their immediate needs is 'demanding the fire of hell.' The code, known as Qadaahul Haajah, is part of a set of guideline based on the teachings of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Although they are not compulsory, many devout Muslims follow the Sunnah teachings. -The rules state Muslims must say before entering the toilet 'In the name of Allah, O Allah! I seek refuge with You from all offensive and wicked things' -They must enter with their left foot and leave with their right saying a second prayer 'Praise be to Allah who relieved me of the filth and gave me relief' -People should not speak, greet anyone else or read while they are relieving themselves . -Muslims should not go to the toilet standing up but should squat or, if necessary, sit . -Followers must not face the direction of Mecca while they go to the toilet or have anything bearing the name of Allah or the Quran on them . -People should relieve themselves out of sight of people and should not look at their

Summary: Announcement states the use of toilet paper by Muslims is now permitted . Directorate of Religious Affairs for Turkey allows it but says water is better . Islamic rules previously said that followers should use water or left hand .


Wigan climbed up to third place in the First Utility Super League after exacting sweet revenge on arch-rivals St Helens for October's Grand-Final defeat. The Warriors came out on top 12-4 in a brutal, no-holds-barred contest in front of a spellbound capacity 24,054 crowd at the DW Stadium which contained just three tries but countless examples of rugby league at its finest. Defences reigned supreme and both sets of players were out on their feet long before the end of an absorbing Good Friday duel as the ferocious exchanges, on a glue-pot pitch, began to takes its toll. Wigan Warriors' Dom Manfredi (centre) celebrates with his team-mates after he scores his side's first try. It took a try from Sydney-bound winger Joe Burgess 10 minutes from the end to finally break the champions' resistance. It was a second successive defeat for Saints, who began the season under Keiron Cunningham with six wins in a row, but there was no shame in this loss. Cunningham was forced to turn to a new half-back pairing in Jordan Turner and Lance Hohaia after skipper Jon Wilkin joined Travis Burns on the injury list by pulling a hamstring in training while Paul Wellens, restored to the captaincy, limped off four minutes into the second half to prompt another re-shuffle, . Wigan could hardly have made a better start, with winger Dom Manfredi charging over for a try after just 52 seconds, reclaiming possession after Turner's attempted clearance kick was charged down by prop Lee Mossop. Wigan Warriors' Manfredi went over for the first try as his side exacted revenge over St Helens . Matty Smith kicked the goal to make it 6-0 and Saints had to scramble to prevent Manfredi and his centre Anthony Gelling adding to the Warriors' lead. Wigan were indebted to a terrific last-ditch by George Williams that brought down centre Josh Jones in full flight and, as the momentum shifted towards the visitors, it was no surprise when impressive forward Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook charged over for a try on 15 minutes. Tom Makinson, third choice marskman in the absence of Mark Percival and Burns, was unable to add the goal and Saints suffered a blow when boom second rower Joe Greenwood, just back from an elbow injury, limped off with an ankle problem. As the conditions deteriorated and fatigue set in, the game developed into a war of attrition in the second half with chances few and far between. Wigan Warriors' Manfredi (centre) is tackled by St Helens' Josh Jones (left) and James Roby . The impressive Manfredi was hauled down just short of the line while Saints loose forward Luke Thompson went close for the visitors. The key moment came 10 minutes from the end when Saints turned the ball over 20 metres out from their own line after being penned back by Wigan's tigerish tackling. Wigan substitute prop Ryan Sutton was held up on the line in the next set but the breakthrough came moments later when Burgess won the race to George Williams' grubber kick, touching the ball down with

Summary: Wigan exact revenge on St Helens in Super League Grand-Final rematch . Warriors come out on top in tense clash at sell-out DW Stadium .


While throwing in the nine-to-five life is a dream for many, one young couple decided to make it a reality, experiencing the world as they spent a year filming one mini documentary a day. Sydney couple Epiphany Morgan and Carl Mason produced 365 documentaries in as many days, visiting 35 countries and 70 cities, as part of their project 365 Docobites, an idea which even the couple originally doubted would actually work. 'The idea only popped into my head about seven months before we hopped on the plane. When I first told one of my friends what we were thinking of doing, she asked whether I was sure it was a good idea,' Epiphany told Daily Mail Australia. Scroll down for video . Epiphany Morgan and Carl Mason produced 365 documentaries in 365 days while travelling to 35 countries . With only seven months to organise everything, Epiphany, 23, left her job at a film production company to freelance and work towards their dream, while Carl, 27, continued to work as a senior editor at an advertising agency. 'When we told our friends and family what we were planning on doing, they didn't really believe us. They kept asking, 'are you sure you're going to be able to do that?',' Carl said. 'Honestly, I didn't even believe we were going until about month before we left when Epiphany told me that everything was in order for us to leave,' he said. With a strict budget of $40 a day, the couple set off to their first destination- the US- and landed in New York to begin their very long journey across the globe. 'I can remember the first day, we were in Times Square with all our camera gear and we didn't get up the courage to ask a single person to be involved,' Carl said. 'It was a bit rainy, and when it stopped raining we told ourselves it was too dark, and then it was, 'oh, we haven't eaten', so we kept finding an out,' he said. The couple began their filming journey in New York and visited 70 cities in their year of filming . Both Epiphany and Carl have a background in film: Carl worked as a senior editor at an advertising agency and Epiphany worked at a production company before going freelance . The pair, from Sydney, set themselves a goal of releasing one mini documentary each day for a year . 'But we realised that we just have to get out there and do it, and then next day we went back out again and found a busker. As soon as we put ourselves out there we found that people were so willing to get involved.' Over the course of the year, Epiphany and Carl visited 70 cities in 35 countries to capture moments and people on camera- and on a strict production schedule and budget, found themselves stretched to the limits. 'We ended up starting out with three months of funding, and managed to stretch it out to six months by living very cheaply,' Epiphany

Summary: Epiphany Morgan and Carl Mason produced 365 documentaries in a year . The Sydney couple travelled to 35 countries on a $40 per day budget . They released one 'docobite' each day of people they met while travelling . The pair said they learnt how to focus on what humans have in common .


Bayern Munich were crowned Bundesliga champions for the third year running without even kicking a ball on Sunday as their nearest rivals Wolfsburg went down to a 1-0 defeat at Borussia Monchengladbach. Needing to win to keep the title race alive - at least mathematically - for another week, Wolfsburg rarely looked like succeeding as they were second best at the Borussia Park Stadion. They resisted until the last minute of the game, though, when Max Kruse struck to earn the Foals a win which moves them up to third and secures their place in the Champions League next season. Max Kruse (centre) celebrates his last-minute winner against Wolfsburg on Sunday in the Bundesliga . Wolfsburg knew only a victory against Borussia Moenchengladbach would keep their title dreams alive . But the defeat means Bayern Munich have been crowned Bundesliga champions for the 25th time . The result means Bayern, who beat Hertha Berlin 1-0 on Saturday to go 15 points clear, have taken the title for a record 25th time, while Pep Guardiola has his 19th major honour as a coach and fifth league title. Bayern have secured the title with four matches to spare. However, the Champions League semi-finalists will have to wait to celebrate it with their fans as they travel to Bayer Leverkusen next week before hosting Augsburg on May 9th. 'Retaining the title is a magnificent achievement. All credit to the coach and the team,' Bayern president Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said on the club's website. 'They've been fantastic throughout, in a season following a World Cup where we had a host of players in action.' Bastian Schweinsteiger's well-taken goal secured a vital three points for Bayern on Saturday . Bayern were celebrating their latest title on Sunday and they tweeted this photo via their official account . In Sunday's other match, Paderborn wasted an opportunity to move out of the relegation zone as they threw away a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 at home with Werder Bremen. Mario Vrancic and Moritz Stoppelkamp grabbed two goals in as many minutes to put the East Westphalians in front, but Davie Selke brought Bremen back into the game on the stroke of half-time. Izet Hajrovic levelled in the 75th minute while Paderborn were reduced to 10 men three minutes later when Michael Heinloth was sent off, compounding their woes and leaving them inside the bottom three. Pep Guardiola's treble-chasing side are also in the semi-finals of the German Cup and Champions League .

Summary: Bayern Munich crowned Bundesliga champions for the 25th time . Pep Guardiola's side beat Hertha Berlin 1-0 on Saturday at Allianz Arena . Wolfsburg fell to 1-0 defeat at Borussia Monchengladbach on Sunday . Bayern are also in semi-finals of the German Cup and Champions League .


A man who spent 15 years on death row in Alabama has been freed after his conviction was quashed and he struck a bargain with prosecutors. William Ziegler, now 39, was initially convicted of capital murder in 2001 for killing Russell Allen Baker, an acquaintance of his who was found dead next to his house in Mobile the previous year. However in 2012 his conviction was overturned by Judge Sarah Stewart who blasted his initial trial, pointing out that his lawyers were substandard, a key witness later recounted her testimony, and that a juror lied about his views on the death penalty during selection. William Ziegler, now 39, was jailed in 2001 (pictured) for the killing of Russell Allen Baker, an acquaintance of his who was found dead next to his house in Mobile the previous year . Ziegler (cetnre, with his mother, second left) had his conviction for capital murder quashed in 2012 after a judge blasted his initial trial, allowing him to cut a plea deal which saw him walk free today . Today he is a free man again after he agreed to plead guilty to aiding and abetting murder, with the judge sentencing him to the 15 years and 50 days he has already served, Al.com reported. The ruling, which has been hailed by Mr Ziegler's family, marks the second time in recent weeks that a death row prisoner has walked free. On April 3 Anthony Ray Hinton was released after spending 30 years in jail for a 1985 shooting in which two fast food managers were shot dead. His conviction was overturned after tests on the gun allegedly used in the shooting couldn't prove that it was fired during the killings. In Ziegler's case, he was arrested after the body of Baker was found in a wooded area close to his house in 2000. Witnesses reported seeing Baker arguing with Ziegler at a party that evening, eventually leading to Ziegler's conviction, along with two other accomplices. However, that witness, whose evidence was kept secret by prosecutors at Ziegler's initial trial, later recanted her testimony, one of the factors leading to the conviction being overturned. In November last year, state prosecutors had raised the prospect of a retrial for Ziegler, meaning he could have faced going back to death row if convicted for a second time. At his hearing today, Judge Sarah Stewart warned Ziegler against becoming bitter, adding that 'the world is a very different place than it was 15 years ago when you went to jail' Ziegler's release comes after Anthony Ray Hinton (pictured) was freed from death row two weeks ago after serving 30 years for a double murder he did not commit . Ziegler was determined to prove his innocence, according to his defence lawyers, but was reluctantly persuaded to accept a plea bargain for the chance to leave jail and escape another trial. During the hearing, Judge Stewart urged Ziegler to resist turning bitter and said she knew he recognized God's grace. 'I want you to appreciate that gift,' she said. 'You need

Summary: William Ziegler convicted of capital murder for 2001 killing of Russell Baker . Was sentenced to death, but had sentence quashed on appeal in 2012 . Today pleaded guilty to aiding an abetting murder, and was sentenced to the 15 years he has already served, allowing him to walk free . Judge Sarah Stewart said warned him against being bitter at hearing . Also cautioned him that world is 'very different' compared to 15 years ago .


The battle of the batteries is hotting up. Reports claim Google is the latest firm to set up a team dedicated to boosting how long our phones, tablets and even electric cars can run for. And sources said the four-man team spends its days devising and testing different technologies from the flexible to the wearable. Reports claim Google is the latest firm to set up a team dedicated to boosting how long our phones, tablets and even electric cars (pictured) can run for. Sources told the Wall Street Journal that the four-man team spends its days devising and testing different technologies from the flexible to the wearable . The reports were made by Alistair Barr in the Wall Street Journal. Google has been working on similar projects since 2012 when former Apple battery expert Dr Ramesh Bhardwaj began leading a testing team. Mr Barr explained that Dr. Bhardwaj recently described how 'solid-state, thin-film batteries could be used in smartphones and other mobile devices that are thinner, bendable, wearable and even implantable in the human body.' He also referenced a video for Project Loon that revealed how Google has been working with experts at AllCell Technologies to develop batteries that function at subfreezing temperatures. This is vital for Google's Project Loon balloons designed to float near the stratosphere and provide internet to wider areas. Google has been working on similar projects since 2012 when former Apple battery expert Dr Ramesh Bhardwaj began leading a testing team. In a video for Project Loon (pictured), Google revealed it has been working with experts at AllCell Technologies to develop batteries that function at subfreezing temperatures . Fan site AppleInsider recently spotted nine job listings on Apple's official recruitment site in the past month that relate to batteries. These include one for an iOS battery life software engineer (pictured left) and another for iOS software power systems engineer (pictured right) The AllCell technology uses wax and a graphite material, for example, to help lithium-ion batteries absorb heat and spread it across the power pack. Last week, a team of Stanford University chemists unveiled an aluminium battery that can recharge in less than 60 seconds. Apple defines the Apple Watch battery on its Watch product page. It says its all-day battery life is based on 18 hours of use. All-day battery life: This includes 90 time checks, 90 notifications, 45 minutes of app use, and a 30-minute workout with music. Audio playback: The battery will last up to 6.5 hours when playing music. Talk time: Apple said the Watch can be used for up to three hours for calls. Workout: During this test the Watch lasted for seven hours when a workout session was active and the heart rate sensor was on. Watch: When used as a watch the device will last for 48 hours if checked five times an hour. Power reserve: When the Apple Watch's battery gets low it switches into Power Reserve mode letting users tell the time for up to 72 hours - with four time checks an hour. Charging time: The company said

Summary: Reports claim Google is latest firm to test alternative battery options . Sources said the four-man team devise and test different technologies . It follows Apple's recruitment drive for battery and software experts .


A woman strong-armed a man of his flexing title at a football game earlier this month. During a 'Flex Cam' break at a Philadelphia Soul game on April 12 a woman proved that she had the biggest muscles in the room and maybe even the city. Video of the unidentified woman's robust display at the Arena Football League game has over 300,000 views on YouTube. Scroll down for video . You call that muscle?: This man was quick to show his guns on the Flex Cam on April 12 . About to get flexy: This unidentified woman removed her jacket to show this man what real muscles are . The Flex Cam is a stadium tradition in which a camera rolls around the audience so that they can display their muscles. In this particular Flex Cam a woman in the seats held back for a while contemplating whether or not to strut her stuff. She can be seen seated and wearing a denim jacket and laughing when a man in front of her shows his chicken cutlet of a muscle. The woman then makes then the decision to stand up, remove her jacket and reveal her protruding muscles right in his face. The man, feeling a bit defeated, then slumps back into his chair. That's what you call muscle: This woman flexes her gigantic muscles for all to see . In your face: In case the man in front of her could not see her huge muscles she gave him a closer look . Taking her seat: After this defeated man refuses to make eye contact with the strongest woman in the room, she takes her seat .

Summary: During a 'Flex Cam' break at a Philadelphia Soul game on April 12 a woman proved that she had the bigger muscles than the man in front of her . Video of the unidentified woman's robust display at the Arena Football League game has over 300,000 views on YouTube . The woman shames the man in front of her and perhaps everyone in the arena with her gigantic arms .


Ahead of this weekend's Premier League action, Sportsmail will be providing you with all you need to know about every fixture, with team news, provisional squads, betting odds and Opta stats. Here is all the information you need for Southampton's home clash with Hull... Southampton vs Hull City (St Mary's) Team news . Southampton . Southampton midfielder Filip Djuricic has been ruled out of Saturday's Barclays Premier league clash with Hull because of an ankle injury. Midfielder Steven Davis returns to the team after recovering from an ankle problem, as does defender Florin Gardos who has been struggling with an unspecified knock. Steven Davis (left) battles with Ipswich Town's Tyrone Mings in an FA Cup third round match earlier this season. Davis could return to the Southampton side to face Hull . Goalkeeper Fraser Forster is out for at least the season after undergoing knee surgery, but Jay Rodriguez could be back from his long-term knee problem before the end of the season. Provisional squad: K Davis, Gazzaniga, Clyne, Gardos, Bertrand, Targett, Yoshida, Alderweireld, Fonte, S Davis, Schneiderlin, Wanyama, Ward-Prowse, Reed, Elia, Tadic, Mane, Long, Seager, Pelle. Hull . Hull boss Steve Bruce is yet to decide whether to drop out-of-form keeper Allan McGregor for Saturday's Barclays Premier League trip to Southampton. Veteran Steve Harper is on standby to replace McGregor if Bruce opts to give the Scot a rest while he has a number of other selection issues to contend with. Allan McGregor is out of form for Hull and could be rested by manager Steve Bruce . Tom Huddlestone returns from suspension but David Meyler is out after his red card last week while Gaston Ramirez and Nikica Jelavic are also both unavailable. Curtis Davies' thigh injury will be assessed. Provisional squad: McGregor, Harper, Dawson, Davies, McShane, Robertson, Bruce, Chester, Elmohamady, Livermore, Diame, Huddlestone, Quinn, Hernandez, Aluko, N'Doye. Kick-off: Saturday, 3pm . Odds (subject to change): . Southampton 4/9 . Draw 3/1 . Hull 15/2 . Referee: Kevin Friend . Managers: Ronald Koeman (Southampton), Steve Bruce (Hull) Head-to-head league record: Southampton wins 21, draws 18, Hull wins 12 . Key match stats (supplied by Opta) Southampton have won seven of their last eight against Hull City (L1), including each of the last five. Hull have lost seven and won none of their last 12 trips to Southampton in league competition. Since February 1, Southampton have taken only two points more (11) than Hull City (9) and have played an additional game. Saints have scored only five goals in their last nine Premier League matches. Hull have collected only two points from their last five Premier League matches (D2 L3). Hull City have failed to score in 13 of their last 23 Premier League games. Southampton have won their last five games against Hull, including a 1-0 win at the KC Stadium earlier this season where Jose Fonte (left), Toby Alderwireld (centre) and Morgan Schneiderlin celebrate victory . Eight of the Tigers’ last 11 Premier League goals have come in the first half. Hull have created only 20 clear cut chances

Summary: Filip Djuricic out with an ankle injury for Southampton . But Steven Davis and Florin Gardos back in contention for Saints . Hull boss Steve Bruce could drop keeper Allan McGregor for Steve Harper . David Meyler suspended for Tigers but Tom Huddlestone returns .


Everton manager Roberto Martinez insists keeping Kevin Mirallas happy is key to holding on to him in the summer. There has been plenty of speculation about the Belgium international and he even admitted himself in February he fancied a new challenge and had an ambition to play in the Champions League next season. Injuries have prevented the 27-year-old from really finding his best form this campaign with a run of consistent performances but Martinez was delighted to see him score his first Premier League goal since December 28 in last weekend's win over Burnley. Kevin Mirallas has been linked with a move away from Everton following an injury-hit term at the Toffees . Everton manager Roberto Martinez admits to not knowing what the future holds for his Belgian star . There were reports this week Tottenham would try to make the forward part of a swap deal with their winger Aaron Lennon, who is currently on loan at Goodison Park. However, Martinez backed Mirallas to put the continuing debate about his future to one side. 'The total honest truth is we don't know what is going to happen in the future,' he said. 'I heard somewhere that he had one year left and it was a bit of an unsettled situation but that is not the case, he has two years left. 'I don't think it has ever been an issue. Sometimes there has been too much said on the outside. 'With any footballer now it does not matter whether you have one year or six years left, what is more important is being happy, feeling ready to be part of the project and be an important player going forward. Aaron Lennon has impressed on Merseyside since moving on loan from Tottenham Hotspur in January . Kick-off: Sunday, 1.30pm - Sky Sports 1 . Odds (subject to change): . Everton 11/4 . Draw 5/2 . Manchester United 6/5 . Referee: Andre Marriner . Managers: Roberto Martinez (Everton), Louis van Gaal (Manchester United) Head-to-head league record: Everton wins 56, draws 40, Manchester United wins 75 . 'When you see him on the pitch he is someone who brings a real desire to score goals, he brings us a goalscoring threat which is quite special and all I want is for Kevin to enjoy his football and carry on performing well. 'He is someone who takes responsibility on the pitch, wants to make things happen and scoring the goal was an important moment. 'Kevin has always been a really hard-working player day-to-day and I have seen him progressing but I have never seen an issue in his performances at all. 'The way he performed on Saturday showed that. In every window you have to sit down and make sure everyone who is fully committed is ready to be part of the future. 'I don't see that as being an issue we need to sort at this present time.' Goodison hosts two of the league's most in-form teams on Sunday with the Toffees, with four wins and a draw in their last five matches, facing

Summary: Roberto Martinez admits the future of star Kevin Mirallas is uncertain . Belgium international has voiced ambition to play in Champions League . Mirallas has two years remaining on his contract at the Merseyside club . Aaron Lennon has been linked with a swap dealing involving Mirallas . Everton face Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday .


From tackling ISIS to fighting in the Ukraine, these fascinating images show some of the women serving on the front line. The photographs show female soldiers and fighter pilots in action among the ranks of armed forces around the world, including in Syria, Pakistan and North Korea. One image shows fighters from the Sawt al-Haq (Voice of Rights) battalion of the Free Syrian army standing with their weapons as they undergo military training in Aleppo. Another shows female North Korean soldiers patrolling along the banks of Yalu River, near the town of Sinuiju, close to the border with China. Pro-Russian rebels are also pictured during a ceremony in war torn Donetsk. The images include a shot of US Army soldier SSG Norma Gonzales of 426 Civil Affairs Battalion waiting to be flown by helicopter to a base in Kandahar, southern Afghanistan. Scroll down for video . Ready for battle: Female members of the Sawt al-Haq (Voice of Rights) battalion of the Free Syrian Army stand with their weapons as they undergo military training in Aleppo in 2013 . On patrol: Female North Korean soldiers are pictured along the banks of Yalu River, near the North Korean town of Sinuiju, opposite the Chinese border city of Dandong . Pro-Russian rebels stand near a monument during a ceremony to honour the World War Two defenders of Donetsk from Nazi forces. The picture was taken in Donetsk, Ukraine in September last year . US Army soldier SSG Norma Gonzales of 426 Civil Affairs Battalion reads a magazine while waiting to be transported by helicopter to a base in Kandahar, southern Afghanistan in 2012 . A Syrian Palestinian woman known only as 'Guevara' - married to an Al Wa'ad battalion commander - is pictured holding her gun and walking through the ruins of a street in the city of Aleppo, Syria . In training: An Israeli soldier of the Caracal battalion stands next to backpacks after finishing a 20-kilometre march in Israel's Negev desert, near Kibbutz Sde Boker in May last year . Line of fire: A female member of the 'Mother Aisha' battalion, an all-female rebel group in Syria, receives instruction as she holds a rifle during military training in Aleppo's Salaheddine district . Taking flight: Ayesha Farooq, 26, Pakistan's only female war-ready fighter pilot, climbs up to a Chinese-made F-7PG fighter jet at Mushaf base in Sargodha, north Pakistan . Armed: Former petrol station worker Irina became a member of a reconnaissance team of pro-Russian rebels in the town of Makievka, eastern Ukraine. She is pictured holding a gun in October last year . Weapons inspection: A Kurdish female fighter from Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) checks her gun near Ras al-Ain, in the province of Hasakah, Syria, after capturing the city from Islamist rebels in 2013 . Tender touch: Um Jaafar, a woman fighter in the Free Syrian Army, sits with her husband Abu Jaafar, a Sawt al-Haq (Voice of Rights) battalion commander, and her daughter Faten at their home in Aleppo . On the march: Members of the Jordanian police women's team

Summary: Pictures show women serving with armed forces around the world including in Pakistan, Jordan and North Korea . They include images of pro-Russian rebels in Donetsk, Ukraine, and US soldiers serving in southern Afghanistan . One shows North Korean soldiers on patrol near the Chinese border and another shows fighters in Aleppo, Syria .


BBC presenter Charlie Stayt has been blasted after he misspelt the word 'education' during a live report on the issue. Viewers took to Twitter to complain after he missed out the letter 'c' when he scrawled the word on a whiteboard at a primary school in Southampton, Hampshire. Viewer Hardy Lion tweeted: '#bbcbreakfast ha ha spelt education wrong!!! Back to school!' Back to school: Eagle-eyed viewers spotted Charlie Stayt's embarrassing spelling error during a live broadcast . The presenter left out the letter 'c' when he wrote the word for the third time on the whiteboard this morning . The presenter later described the gaffe as 'one of those things,' after being alerted to it by colleagues . Whilst Mike Knowles tweeted: 'If you're presenting a live report about education on #BBCBreakfast maybe double check how you spell education.' Viewer John Morley added: 'Fantastic, #bbcbreakfast presenter can't spell education.' Crafty Monkey wrote: '@BBCBreakfast C-!! Could do better!' Afterwards, Bill Turnbull told Stayt he had started a Twitter frenzy and made him spell out the word education live on air. He said: 'There we go, it was a typo, we'll forgive him.' Presenter Sally Nugent added: 'I don't think that spelling mistake was that bad.' Stayt said: 'Let's just call it one of those things.' But Turnbull added: 'You've only caused a Twitter frenzy in two-and-a-half minutes.' Nugent said: 'I don't think anyone's noticed.' Stayt was discussing the issue of education at Highfield Primary School as part of the programme's UK sofa tour in the run up to the election. Blunder: Stayt was broadcasting from Highfield Primary School in Southampton, Hampshire . Afterwards, colleague Bill Turnbull made red-faced Stayt spell the word 'education' US politician Dan Quayle was mocked when he misspelt the word 'potato' on a school blackboard on June 15, 1992 when he was visiting a school in Trenton as part of his official duties. He took part in a spelling bee when students had to write words on a blackboard. When it was 12-year-old William Figueroa's turn he had to write the word 'potato'. But Quayle pointed out: 'You're close, but you left a little something off. The e on the end'. In December last year, police in South Yorkshire were left embarrassed after taking delivery of a new patrol car with POLCE emblazoned on the side. In April 2013, council workmen somehow managed to spell 'school' wrong outside Innellan Primary School, near Dunoon in Scotland. They painted 'sckool' on the road instead. Bungling workers were slammed in February 2013 in Shrewsbury, Shropshire, after they put up a sign for a historic Welsh bridge - but misspelled it 'Whelsh'. In March 2012, Oxfordshire council workers misspelled 'SCHOOL' as 'SCHOUL' in traffic markings outside Wolverton Primary School. A sign made by Hertfordshire Highways in February 2012 instructed motorists to 'Keer Cleap'.

Summary: Charlie Stayt made the error during live broadcast from Southampton . BBC presenter left out the letter 'c' when he wrote word for third time . Many viewers took to Twitter to complain about Stayt's mistake .


White solidarity groups in South Africa are protesting over the removal of a statue of British colonialist Cecil Rhodes from the University of Cape Town. The monument of the controversial historical figure is set to removed today, after South Africa’s oldest university voted to ditch it following a month of protests against the statue. Members of the university council ordered that the bronze sculpture was removed, after hearing its presence made black students feel uncomfortable and was seen a symbol of historical white oppression . The defaced statue of British colonialist Cecil Rhodes is tied by straps to a crane before its removal at the University of Cape Town. It follows weeks of protests at the university over the symbolism of the statue . The monument has been vandalised in recent weeks. It has not yet been decided where it will be moved . The government has backed the move, and Sandile Memela, the spokesman for the arts and culture ministry, said they are working to see if the country can take an ‘official position’ on statues and other colonial symbols. ‘It marks a significant… shift where the country deals with its ugly past in a positive and constructive way’, he said to press agency AFP, adding the government did not encourage the violent removal of statues. But the decision to move the monument of Rhodes – a 19th century imperialist who critics say helped pave the way for apartheid – has sparked protests in itself. On Thursday morning, the youth wing of white Afrikaner solidarity group AfriForum handed a memorandum to parliament in Cape Town to ‘demand protection’ for their heritage. The same statue was covered in plastic bags after protests by students and staff at the university in March . The university's council heard that black students felt uncomfortable because of the bronze monument . Politician and businessman Cecil Rhodes is called a 'racist' by his opponents. Born in 1853, he made his fortune in diamond mines, and entered into politics as an outspoken supporter of colonialism. He later founded Rhodesia - modern-day Zimbabwe - which was named after him. He believed England was the 'master race', and wanted to draw a 'red line' railway from Cairo to Cape Town for the British Empire - spanning the entire continent of Africa. While his supporters say he brought political and physical infrastructure to South Africa, others say his actions laid the groundwork for apartheid by restricting the rights of black Africans to work. Source: BBC, Wikipedia . While they are not recognised as supporters of Rhodes, statues of their heroes have been attacked during the university protests. A monument of former president Paul Kruger was splattered with paint, and Afrikaner men, some of them in quasi-military outfits, demonstrated next to it on Wednesday. ‘The Afrikaner is -- from a historical perspective -- increasingly being portrayed as criminals and land thieves,’ solidary group Afriforum said in a statement. ‘If the heritage of the Afrikaner is not important to Government, our youth members will preserve our own heritage.’ It has not been decided

Summary: University of Cape Town voted to remove the statue from the campus . Government backs decision as way of country dealing with its 'ugly past' But white solidarity groups say their historical heroes are under attack .


Could these be the boots of a disembodied samurai soldier, lingering mysteriously behind this little girl? A spooky dark visage that appears behind the child in this photograph has sparked online rumours of a ghost. This photograph was captured in Kanagawa prefecture, Japan - 'nearby some samurai tombs', apparently - late last year. The Reddit user who posted it online - a friend of the photographer - insisted it was 'not photoshopped' and that paranormal forces could be at work. 'I'm not saying it's anything - just that it looks an awful lot like disembodied boots and legs...' 'Obiaruf ' told users. Scroll down for video . A trick of the light or paranormal forces at play? There is chatter online about what the cause of this apparent black boot apparition is . Eerie: A pair of black boots are clearly seen behind the little girl - even though her photographer father apparently does not recall a person standing there . The Reddit user who posted the controversial image online suggested they could be samurai boots - although others are not so sure . He then suggested they appeared to be 'samurai boots to me'. 'I know there are several very old samurai tombs nearby. 'Again, not saying that this is what is there, just that, based on preliminary research, this is my best guess...' Photographs from the same set show the little girl with nothing behind her and the snapper 'swears' there was nothing behind her at the time. In this picture from the same set, no one appears to be standing behind this little girl . However, in this other picture, the black boots have returned . Another conspirator suggested they could be combat boots from the World War II era. 'My grandfather was in the pacific theater (Okinawa Japan) in WWII and I recognize what the man in the background is wearing. Its a US Navy Uniform from WWII.' But not everyone was so convinced by the tricky picture. Some users suggested it was likely an optical illusion - a trick of the light - or the presence of a real-life human being. Or both. 'Looks like a living person in boots and dark pants and a light blue, possibly denim colored shirt,' said Jack_Shid. Sceptics have noted the presence of a blue piece of fabric lingering behind the little girl . 'Because of the perspective, the rest of the person is hidden behind the girl . Last month, a chilling image emerged on the 'Toowoomba Ghost Chasers' Facebook past, with its owner claiming it showed the ghost on a young drowning victim. The photograph, which was taken in 2014, was posted on Facebook by Australian Kim Davison, from Queensland. Social media users are claiming that the white shape at the back of the image, circled, shows a ghostly face . Photo was taken at Murphy's Hole which is the same location 13-year-old Doreen O'Sullivan drowned in 1915 . Was it Doreen O'Sullivan' ghost? Ms Davison claims her daughter's leg was grabbed by something in the water . The

Summary: Are these the ghostly disembodied boots of a samurai soldier? Chatter online after mysterious image emerges of a little girl . The photograph was taken in Kanagawa prefecture, Japan, last year . A black pair of boots appear behind the small child . However, there is no evidence of anyone else in other photos . 'I know there are several very old samurai tombs' nearby . The photographer purportedly insists it has not been photoshopped .


Court bill of £500: Kim Copeland, 52, was walking home from her local Sainsbury’s store in Coventry when she threw the used cigarette on the ground . A grandmother of four told of her fury today after being fined more than £500 for dropping a cigarette butt. Kim Copeland, 52, was walking home from her local Sainsbury’s store in Coventry when she threw the used cigarette on the ground - before two council officers came ‘sprinting’ towards her to say she had committed a criminal offence. Miss Copeland was then issued with a £50 fixed penalty notice following the incident in October last year, but refused to pay it within ten days in protest at how she was treated. However, after failing to pay, she eventually received a letter ordering her to appear at Nuneaton Magistrates’ Court on March 17. She was then fined £304 by magistrates who also ordered her to pay £200 court costs. Miss Copeland was unable to attend the hearing because she had to look after her son Chez, 17, who has autism, and has now criticised the city council for taking her to court. She said: ‘I was doing some shopping and was walking back home and cut through a couple of car parks. I heard these tyres screeching behind me and all of a sudden two women got out and started sprinting towards me. ‘I didn’t know whether to drop my shopping and put my hands in the air or walk towards them. I realised they had council uniforms on and they starting asking me if I was aware I had committed a criminal offence. ‘The first thing I thought was something hadn’t gone through the till properly at Sainsbury’s. I hadn’t even realised I had a cigarette. It is just automatic. 'I must have lit one up when I came out of the shop. My generation just discard the butts on the floor. If I had dumped a three-piece suite, then fair enough - but it was just a cigarette end.' Miss Copeland added: ‘They were just so stern and officious. The way they spoke to me was horrible. It is the whole manner, they acted as if I had murdered somebody.’ The grandmother, who also has three grown-up daughters, is now considering whether to pay the fine by the deadline - which is tomorrow. If she refuses she could be taken back to court. Hearing: After failing to pay Miss Copeland was told to appear at Nuneaton Magistrates' Court (pictured) Miss Copeland said: ‘I’ve been treated like I have committed a major criminal offence. I didn’t pay because of how they were towards me but also the principle. ‘I’ve always been led to believe the punishment should fit the crime and in this case it doesn’t. I find it shocking. They are now saying I will face imprisonment if I don’t pay the fine. 'I don’t want to pay it because I won’t sleep at night if I do, but I might have to. I thought they were bluffing and it was scaremongering -

Summary: Two council officers came 'sprinting' towards Kim Copeland in Coventry . Said she had committed a crime and issued her with £50 penalty notice . She refused to pay it within ten days in protest at how she was treated . But she was then told to appear at court and fined £304 plus £200 costs .


As Andy Murray and Kim Sears prepare for their nuptials in his home town of Dunblane on Saturday, the local residents are also getting ready for the big day. The inhabitants of the Scottish cathedral town have gone into overdrive for wedding of their most famous resident, lining the streets with bunting and creating special-themed produce in many of the stories. Since the Wimbledon champion announced his plans to say 'I do' at the cathedral, there have also been plans to line the streets with well-wishers as the couple make their way to the venue. Andy Murray and Kim Sears are preparing to marry in his home town of Dunblane this weekend . Messages to the happy couple are in many of the shop windows and several business owners have already sent gifts to either Andy, 27, or his bride-to-be ahead of the big day. Lesley Anderson, 52, who owns Point Nouveau Bridal shop in Dunblane, sent a crystal-covered garter to Kim Sears six weeks ago and received kind a thank you note which said it was 'gorgeous'. The ivory-coloured piece is hand-embroidered on the inside with the couple's initials and wedding date and was designed by Nicola Ure from K C Bridal specialists in Falkirk. A handmade card featuring Andy and Kim, 27, on the front drawn by local artist Lorna Brown accompanied the garter. Local shops and shop owners are preparing their shop fronts to reflect the great day . Many of the local businesses have decorated their shop fronts with colourful bunting . The card shows Andy in his kilt holding a tennis racket and Kim in her dress along with their Border Terriers. Kim's reply to the gifts read: 'Dear Lesley and all at Point Nouveau Bridal. 'Just a little note to say a huge thank you for the gorgeous gift Nicola made for me. 'It was very kind of you and I hadn't found a garter yet so thanks ever so much. 'Also, that card of Lorna Brown's is absolutely fabulous! It really made us giggle, especially our two little dogs in the background! 'We are really excited for our big day in a month's time and are happy to be celebrating our wedding in Dunblane. 'Thank you again for your thoughtfulness and generosity. Best wishes, Kim Sears X.' Lesley Anderson, 52, (left) who owns Point Nouveau Bridal shop in Dunblane, sent a crystal-covered garter to Kim Sears with a hand-drawn picture of the couple (left). Kim replied with a handwritten note (right . Lesley is close friends with Andy's grandmother, Shirley Erskine, 83 and gave the garter and card to her to take to Kim. She said: 'Out of the blue we got this beautiful card. To be honest we never ever thought we would hear very much at all so when we got this beautiful card we were chuffed to bits. 'I was absolutely delighted. This was such a personal thing. We were really, really chuffed. Andy continues to maintain a close bond with the town - after winning Wimbledon, he shook hands with all

Summary: Andy Murray and Kim Sears are getting married in Dunblane this weekend . Tennis star is a hero in his hometown and locals are already celebrating . Bunting lines the streets and cartoons of the pair are in shop windows .


Paris Saint-Germain's then sports director Leonardo declared the club were ready for tougher competitions in Europe two years ago but Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final exit suggests they need more time to reach the top. PSG were knocked out 5-1 on aggregate by Barcelona despite Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marco Verratti returning to the Ligue One side but coach Laurent Blanc was not really shocked. 'Those who follow Barcelona know the patience required to win the Champions League. You need the means, but also some patience,' Blanc said after the 2-0 defeat at the Nou Camp, which followed last week's 3-1 humbling at the Parc des Princes. Laurent Blanc looks on as his Paris Saint-Germain side were thrashed 5-1 on aggregate by Barcelona . 'The first qualified for the semi-finals are Barca and Bayern Munich. Paris will certainly be there one day but you have to understand we need time,' he said after PSG's third successive quarter-final exit in the tournament. Once again, Sweden striker Ibrahimovic failed to shine in a big game in which his attacking partner Edinson Cavani, despite his limitations, seemed more involved. PSG saw off Chelsea in the previous round but that was more of a one-tie thing, with Thiago Silva and David Luiz scoring after Ibrahimovic had been sent off in the second leg. Luiz was below-par in the last two games, being at fault on four of the five goals PSG conceded against Barca, but PSG's problems are collective, conceded midfielder Blaise Matuidi. Blaise Matuidi says that PSG are still not ready to win the Champions League and still have work to do . David Luiz was given a torrid time over the two legs and was at fault for four of Barcelona's goals . 'Barcelona are an institution, a club who have been at the top level for a long time, like Real Madrid or Bayern Munich,' the France international said. 'We have been around for five years only.' PSG were bought in 2011 by Qatar Sports Investments (QSI), who invested massively in the club hoping to win Europe's premium club competition. While they never look threatened in the Group stage, PSG have been failing against top-notch opposition. 'Let's be realistic, they were better than us. They will probably win the Champions League,' Ibrahimovic admitted. Star men Zlatan Ibrahimovic (left) and Marco Verratti were unable to influence the game in PSG's favour . 'As far as we are concerned, it is not possible to reach that goal on short term. We have made several big steps and we were eliminated by a superb team. 'Let's not lie to ourselves, it's just reality.' PSG will now focus on winning the Ligue 1 title for the third consecutive season -- a goal more suited to their capacities -- with a possible treble on the cards as they won the League Cup and will play the French Cup final on May 30. They are second in the standings behind Olympique Lyonnais on goal difference but have a game in hand.

Summary: PSG planned to be Europe's top side after major investments in the club . However, the loss against Barcelona showed they still have long way to go . Blaise Matuidi thinks Luis Enrique's side will win the Champions League .


Shia paramilitary fighters looting and setting fire to buildings in Tikrit are 'out of control', an official said. Ahmed al-Karim, head of the Salahuddin provincial council, said the fighters had burnt 'hundreds of houses' in the last two days. It comes as Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi ordered Iraqi forces to oppose vandalism in the city of Tikrit, retaken from the Islamic State group this week, and arrest those responsible. Scroll down for video . Shia paramilitary fighters looting and setting fire to buildings in Tikrit are 'out of control', an official said. Above, black smoke rises from burning shops . Mr Karim, who left for Baghdad late on Friday afternoon due to the chaos, said houses and shops were being burnt and fighters were stealing everything from inside them. 'Our city was burnt in front of our eyes. We can't control what is going on,' he said. Security and military forces were ordered to 'deal with cases of vandalism' carried out by gangs seeking to tarnish the achievements of government forces and allied paramilitaries, a statement released by the prime minister’s office said. Mr Abadi also called on 'forces located in Tikrit to arrest everyone who carries out such acts, and preserve properties and facilities in Salahuddin province.' A Shia fighter smiles as he celebrates with his comrades a day after victory in the month-long battle to retake the northern Iraqi city from Islamic State . Shia fighters from the Popular Mobilisation units and Iraqi security forces maintain security in Tikrit, on April 1 . Above, a fire rages through a building. Militiamen have also spray-painted the names of their groups on homes and other buildings, officials added . Militiamen have spray-painted the names of their groups on homes, shops and other buildings, and also looted clothing and toiletries from shops. They also admitted to intentionally burning houses in other recaptured areas that were believed to have been used by IS or to belong to its supporters. Policemen from the rapid response forces have written graffiti on walls in Tikrit as well. A number of homes and businesses were burning in Tikrit earlier this week, though at least some of the fires were apparently related to efforts to clear the city of bombs. Iraqi security forces secure a street in Tikrit earlier today. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi ordered Iraqi forces to oppose vandalism in the city of Tikrit and arrest those responsible . Smoke rises by a destroyed building at one of Saddam Hussein's palaces. At least some of the fires were related to efforts to clear the city of bombs . Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, Iraq's top Shia cleric who is revered by millions, also called on security forces and allied paramilitaries to 'preserve and guard citizens' properties in areas that have been liberated.' Doing so is a 'religious and national and moral duty,' Sistani said in remarks read by his representative at Friday prayers in Karbala. 'It has an important role in encouraging those who have not yet decided to participate in liberating their areas to decide to participate,' he

Summary: Ahmed al-Karim said fighters had burnt 'hundreds of homes' in two days . Prime Minister ordered Iraqi forces to oppose vandalism and make arrests .


She might be celebrating her 75th birthday, but an overjoyed Queen Margrethe of Denmark looked far younger as she waved to excited crowds from the balcony at the Amalienborg Palace. The Danish monarch was joined on the balcony by her sons, Crown Prince Frederik, 46, and Prince Joachim, 45, who were with her again for a procession down Copenhagen shopping street Strøget to the Københavns Rådhus [city hall] for a slap-up lunch. And the two were by Margrethe's side once again in the evening when the Danish royals welcomed royals from all corners of Europe to Fredensborg Castle for a gala banquet followed by a magnificent fireworks display. Early arrivals: Crown Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark were among the first guests to arrive for the gala dinner . Cut-out: Crown Princess Mary's bell-sleeved dress featured a rather risque cutaway bar, showing off her ponytail . Smart: Denmark's Princess Marie and Prince Joachim were next to arrive with Prince Joachim wearing a striking red velvet tuxedo . Smart: Denmark's Princess Marie chose a floor-length ivory dress covered in delicate beads . Joining them was Frederik's Australian-born wife Mary, 43, who opted for a striking silver gown featuring a neat high neckline and dramatic blouson sleeves. Margrethe's other daughter-in-law, the French-born Princess Marie, 39, was also at Fredensborg and looked wonderful in a floor-length cream beaded gown. Other members of the Danish Royal Family to attend the event included Margrethe's sister Princess Benedikte, 70, who chose a summery floral dress with a square neck and sheer train. As with Wednesday night's lavish dinner at Christiansborg Palace, Danish prime minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt was on the guest list and cut a dramatic figure in a heavily sequinned black and nude dress. But while socialist politician Ms Thorning-Schmidt, who is married to former Labour MP Neil Kinnock's son Stephen, caught the eye, it was the many royals in attendance who took centre stage. Looking good: Queen Margrethe (right) and Princess Benedikte chose complementary gowns in striking lilac and pink . Gorgeous: Danish prime minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt cut a glamorous figure in her sequinned black gown . Making an entrance: King Constantine II and Queen Anne-Marie of Greece (left) and Princess Elisabeth of Denmark (right) The Danish Queen Margreth made a striking entrance in her wide skirted dress and chic up 'do . The monarch appeared to be full of fun again as she took her seat in the middle of the top table . Crown Princess Victoria from Sweden, also in a floor-length, beaded gown, looks for her place at the dinner party . Spectacular: Fireworks explode over Fredensborg Castle at the end of the gala dinner . Magnificent: The display had been laid on to mark Margrethe's 75th birthday . Stunning: The 262-year-old castle, which was built by Frederik IV, was lit up by the flashes from the exploding fireworks . From Sweden came the country's King Carl XVI Gustaf and his glamorous Brazilian-born wife Silvia, who arrived with Crown Princess Victoria, 37, who looked ravishing in a spectacular sequinned dress. The Norwegian

Summary: Queen Margrethe II of Denmark is celebrating her 75th birthday today . Last night she hosted a Gala dinner attended by royals from around Europe . Today the delighted monarch appeared on the palace balcony to wave to the crowds after a lunch at City Hall . No members of the British royal family were able to attend the glitzy celebration in Copenhagen .


Daniel Sturridge's season of frustration looks set to continue as he faces a race to be fit to lead Liverpool’s attack at Wembley. The England striker failed to train again on Thursday as Brendan Rodgers stepped up preparations for Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final with Aston Villa, meaning Sturridge hasn’t been involved in any outdoor work since before the quarter-final replay against Blackburn. Liverpool still have two more sessions before they travel south but Sturridge, who missed Monday’s 2-0 win over Newcastle United with tightness in his hip, would have to involved in at least one to stand any chance of starting at Wembley. Daniel Sturridge faces a fight to be fit for Liverpool's FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa on Sunday . Striker Sturridge was left out of the squad against Newcastle on Monday after being taken off at Blackburn . It would even appear touch and go as whether Sturridge will be fit enough to make Rodgers’ 18-man squad, given how tormented he has been with fitness issues this season. Liverpool will give Sturridge every chance to prove his fitness but the signs at present are not encouraging. The injury is a continuation of the problem he sustained in the 2-1 defeat to Manchester United on March 22. Sturridge missed England’s games against Lithuania and Italy with what England manager Roy Hodgson called ‘a small tear’ in his hip. Sturridge admitted last week he will not be back at his sharpest until next season and he will be glad to see the back of this campaign, having missed more than five months with a combination of thigh and calf problems. Steven Gerrard could return at Wembley after seeing out the last game of his suspension against Newcastle . Liverpool captain Gerrard holds a '96' balloon at the Hillsborough memorial service on Wednesday . If, as appears likely, the 25-year-old is forced to play a minor role, it would leave Rodgers a decision to make with regards his starting line-up, as Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is available having served a three-match suspension. Gerrard, whose 35th birthday falls on the same day as this year’s FA Cup final, missed several games in February and March with a hamstring problem but when he was fit for matches against Swansea and Manchester United, Rodgers decided to use him from the bench. He will be desperate to play at Wembley and Rodgers, who will be without cup-tied winger Jordon Ibe, must decide whether to keep faith with his current midfield of Lucas Leiva, Jordan Henderson and Joe Allen or alter his system to fit Gerrard back in. Rodgers will be without Jordon Ibe who is cup-tied having represented Derby in the FA Cup this season . Joe Allen says playing in these type of games is why he joined Liverpool from Swansea . Playing at Wembley will be a new experience for a number of Liverpool’s squad and Allen says a positive result against Villa is required to enhance their development. Liverpool are favourites to reach the final but the Wales international maintains there is no

Summary: Liverpool face Aston Villa in FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Sunday . Daniel Sturridge is suffering with a hip injury and is a doubt for the clash . England striker has not trained this week and is in danger of missing out .


A mother, father and their eight-month old baby boy were killed on Monday when a concrete barrier fell onto their truck as they were driving under an overpass in Washington State. The tragic accident claimed the lives of Josh and Vanessa Ellis and baby Hudson, who were crushed when the 50-foot-long concrete slab slammed down on top of them, according to Bonney Lake Police. The barrier weighed 'tons' according to investigators and the damage to the family's pickup truck was so great that it took them hours to extract the bodies. Scroll down for video . Tragic accident: Josh and Vanessa had been married for five years and their baby boy Hudson was only eight months old at the time of the crash . Community: Josh and Vanessa were both youth pastors at the EastPointe FourSquare Church in Bonney Lake . Demolished: This picture show the complete devastation the concrete block wrought on the family pickup truck . Clean-up: A car drives on Angeline Road under the state Route 410 overpass, Tuesday, April 14, 2015, the day after a young couple and their son were killed when a concrete slab fell from the overpass . Poignant: A cross, a stuffed animal and flowers are shown at a makeshift memorial for Josh and Vanessa Ellis and baby Hudson who were killed on . Scene: Josh, Vanessa and baby Hudson were crushed to death after a concrete slab fell from a construction site on a Washington state bridge and landed on their truck. Above, the crushed vehicle . Fatal: The married couple and their baby were driving underneath the state's Route 410 overpass in Bonney Lake - where workers were installing a sidewalk - on Monday morning. Above, the scene . Shockingly, authorities thought that only one person had been killed by the impact, but discovered to their horror that an entire family had been crushed to death according to KIRO TV. While America once had the world's best road and transportation network system, but now it is crumbling. Indeed, according to a former US Transport Secretary, Ray LaHood said there are 70,000 bridges that have been deemed structurally deficient across the nation. LaHood made this damning statistic abundantly clear when he told CBS News, 'I don't want to say they're unsafe. But they're dangerous. I would agree with that.' Moreso, every four years, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) releases its comprehensive assessment of the state of US infrastructure. In its most recent one, from 2013, it gave the nation a grading of D+. Across the United States there are 607,380 bridges according to the ASCE and they have an average lifespan of 42 years. Out of those bridges, one in nine is considered to be structurally problematic. Chief among those are the Storrow Drive Bridge in Boston, which has cement too thick for its steel structure to continue supporting and the US Route 1/9 Bridge over the Passaic River in New Jersey, which is rusted. One of the reasons why things have got so bad is due of course to dwindling

Summary: Josh and Vanessa Ellis and baby Hudson were traveling in Washington state on Monday . As the local pastors were driving under Route 410 overpass, a slab of concrete fell off bridge . It landed on their pickup truck, crushing vehicle and killing entire family . Construction workers were installing sidewalk on the bridge at the time . Police say the family 'would have known nothing about it' as the concrete came down so fast and quick .


A report on the threat posed by Australian foreign fighters has cited the Abbott government's 'troubled relations' with the Muslim community as undermining efforts at countering violent extremism. The Lowy Institute report, released on Thursday, says the large number of Australians fighting in Syria and Iraq represents a 'serious national security threat' but that the risk of an attack on home soil could be mitigated by the right policy response. The new report comes just a day after the news of the death of Melbourne model-turned-jihadist Sharky Jama. The Australian was reportedly killed in Syria while fighting with terrorist organisation Islamic State. Scroll down for video . A report on the threat posed by Australian foreign fighters has blamed the Abbott government's troubled relations with the Muslim community for worsening the situation . Melbourne'sSharky Jama was reportedly shot dead in Syria after joining Islamic State last year . Mohamed Elomar (above) is a boxer-turned-terrorist who fled Sydney to join the Islamic State in Syria . The Department of Foreign Affairs was unable to confirm Sharky's death as its capacity to do so was 'extremely limited'. A spokesman for the department told Daily Mail Australia consular assistance was no longer available within Syria 'due to the extremely dangerous security situation'. He further added Australians who were involved in overseas conflicts were 'putting their own lives in mortal danger'. 'Any Australians fighting with non-state militia in Syria or Iraq should end their involvement in the conflict now and leave the conflict zone,' the spokesman said. 'Australians are strongly advised not to travel to Syria or Iraq; any Australians in either country should leave immediately.' Khaled Sharrouf's fled to Syria from western Sydney. His 14-year-old daughter married Mohamed Elomar . Sharrouf posted a photo last year of his son holding up a severed head, causing international uproar . The new report outlines how returned fighters pose a serious threat to Australians. 'Returned foreign fighters have been involved in many of the most serious jihadist plots in the West, including in Australia,' the report says. 'Returnees from Syria have already engaged in terrorist plots in Europe, and the large number of Australians involved with groups such as IS (Islamic State) and Jabhat al-Nusra raises well-founded fears of an increased threat at home.' While much of the responsibility in dealing with the threat will lie with the police and intelligence services, the report says, it adds that programs aimed at countering violent extremism (CVE) need to be a core element of the response. The report says 'questions remain' as to how any new CVE approach will be implemented by the government, and that 'troubled relations with Australia's Muslim communities mean that its efforts to counter violent extremism are not off to the strongest of starts'. Propaganda prop: Abdullah Elmir, 17, from western Sydney, featured in a high-definition Islamic State broadcast earlier this year . Australian Mahmoud Adullatif, who is known as the 'Playboy Jihadi', died recently while fighting for IS . Melbourne woman Zehra Duman (pictured above) was married to Abdullatif and has threatened Australia . A

Summary: Report into threat posed by foreign fighters blamed Australian government . The Lowy Institute Report says Australians fight in Syria and Iraq represent 'a serious national security threat' The report claims the right policy response could mitigate potential disaster . It comes a day after Melbourne model-turned-terrorist Sharky Jama was reportedly killed fighting with the Islamic State in Syria . Family were told on Monday by friends via a text message and phone call .


Suddenly, at the age of 34 and after 15 years of hoping for the exact opposite, I desperately wanted to get pregnant. My husband Russell was ready to be a father, we were financially secure and after editing a weekly magazine in New York for four stressful years, I was ready to resign and focus on building a family. Eleven months later, when my body was still not doing what I demanded, I got depressed, stressed and scared. Proud mum Sarah Ivens with her two children, William (left) and one-year-old Matilda (centre) 'Have I left it too late to have a baby?’ I’d wail impatiently to Russell as month after month I’d clutch at my abdomen in pain as my period started, filled with a burgeoning dread that my body was failing us. ‘I always put my career first, and travelling and having our dream wedding. Now I’m worried I’m too old.’ I was paranoid that my life decisions had left my baby dreams impossible to reach. During my pre-broody years I’d been bombarded with images of 40-something celebrities, gloating about how easy it had been for them to conceive naturally and quickly. Of course, horror stories in the tabloids tried to persuade me that I had about as much chance of procreating successfully after the age of 30 as I did of making it to The X Factor finals, but I had decided to follow the stars and wear blinkers. The truth, I was quickly discovering, lay somewhere in the middle of the heartbreak, guilt and misinformation women find themselves drowning in as they consider motherhood. Happy family: After years of heartbreak, Sarah and Russell have two children William, (centre) and Matilda . Pregnancy expert Zita West said: ‘I think in a way modern life has done women a disservice. ‘We’re told we can have it all, so women go on the pill while they are building their careers for many, many years, which masks any issues they may have such as polycystic ovary syndrome or endometriosis. 'Then when they decide to have a baby in their 30s, they are shocked if it doesn’t happen as they planned. 'We know that fertility starts to decline at 35 and that age is the biggest factor in a woman’s ability to conceive. Sarah and Russell celebrate their wedding with a dream day in the Cotswolds in 2009 . Expectant parents Sarah and husband Russell prepare for their son William's imminent arrival in 2011 . 'What women need to do immediately is ask their mothers what age they went through the menopause: this is a key genetic factor in your own fertility, and your cycle starts to decline rapidly 10 years before you hit the menopause.’ Eventually, Russ and I conceived - naturally - but at the 13-week scan, the other horrific factor of late motherhood reared its ugly head. Our baby had severe chromosomal abnormalities and had zero chance of survival. I was advised by a series of doctors to have a medical abortion, to safeguard my future fertility and mental state. ‘The

Summary: Journalist Sarah Ivens, 39, tells of her struggle to get pregnant aged 34 . The mother-of-two tried for years before having a child . She believes women need to be more aware of the difficulty of conceiving .


A period of striving came to an end for Liverpool and Brendan Rodgers at the Emirates on Saturday. Hope expired. The manager's 15-minute press conference, where he conceded that his team's chances of qualifying for the Champions League were over, was a requiem for lost opportunities. Rodgers did his best to stay upbeat. The Liverpool manager does not do disconsolate. But he did not pretend that this has not been a difficult season. After their heroic tilt at the title last year, Liverpool have slipped out of contention. It is a bitter pill to swallow for a club that had scented a return to glory. It still feels as if Liverpool are moving forward under Rodgers. It still feels as if he has the confidence, the ability and the strategy to take them back to the top. But there is no disguising the fact that this is an uncomfortable, uncertain time for the manager and his players. Brendan Rodgers admitted Liverpool are unlikely to reach the top four after losing to Arsenal 4-1 on Saturday . Right back Hector Bellerin gave Arsenal the lead as the Gunners went on to win 4-1 at the Emirates . Just four minutes later, Mesut Ozil had doubled the lead for the home side with this brilliant free kick . Alexis Sanchez got in on the goalscoring act just before half-time to give Arsenal an unassailable lead . When they went on a run in which they lost only once in 17 league games from mid-November through to mid-March, it seemed like last season's magic was coming back. But when that 2-1 home defeat by Manchester United was followed by a crushing 4-1 loss to Arsenal, the perspective changed. Suddenly, the troubles are crowding in on Rodgers. He spent much of his press conference answering questions about Raheem Sterling's refusal to sign the new contract he has been offered. It also became clear there was a new controversy involving Mario Balotelli. When asked why Balotelli was not in the squad, Rodgers found it hard to disguise his frustration. 'He took a slight knock to his knee and he deemed it not able to travel with the team,' Rodgers said. 'He felt it was too sore to travel. The medical staff have looked at it but it was just something that he, himself, did not feel comfortable enough to travel with.' The problems with Balotelli, his failure to settle into Rodgers's system, are symbols of the difficulties the club has faced in a season dominated by trying to adapt to life after Luis Suarez and by the long, melancholy farewell to Steven Gerrard, and it has not been easy. Liverpool missed the suspended Gerrard. They missed Martin Skrtel even more. At times, their defending was shambolic. Rodgers spent most of his press conference fielding questions about contract rebel Raheem Sterling . Mario Balotelli was not included in the Liverpool squad to face Arsenal after picking up a slight knock . Rodgers revealed that Balotelli withdrew himself from the squad and did not travel to London . Daniel

Summary: Liverpool were beaten 4-1 by Arsenal at the Emirates on Saturday . Club's top four hopes have been dealt a massive blow with the defeat . Liverpool lost to another of their top-four rivals Manchester United before the international break . Brendan Rodgers admits that their chances of qualifying for next season's Champions League have severely diminished .


A doctor who ploughed into an elderly couple in a 50mph head on crash while rushing to work has escaped prosecution after the police officer investigating the case went off sick. The female driver in a Toyota Aygo pulled in front of Colin Kay as he was driving his Citroen Picasso on the A586 in Great Eccleston in Lancashire last year. The collision was captured on film as Mr Kay had fitted a camera to his dashboard and revealed how he had no time to react and avoid the crash. Scroll down for video . Colin Kay captured the collision on a dashcam which showed how the Toyota Aygo driver veered across the road . The incident happened on the A586 in Great Eccleston in Lancashire last year and Mr Kay provided Lancashire Police with the footage . After the incident last year, the doctor driving the Toyota also had to be cut from her vehicle and was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital by air ambulance . The 72-year-old was left with bruises after the crash and his wife Krysia suffered a whiplash injury to her shoulder. But despite having evidence recorded on his dashcam, Mr Kay has now been told there will be no further action because the investigating officer went off sick and they could not prepare the paperwork in time. The retired engineer from Bacup in Lancashire, said: 'I contacted the police because I was keen to see a full prosecution to stop more careless driving. 'But nothing has been done because the investigating officer went off sick and they could not prepare the paperwork in time. Mr Kay has taken his case to the IPCC after the driver who ploughed into his car will not face any further action after the investigating officer went off sick . 'I think it is disgusting. If I was off sick somebody picked up my work. She has just got away with it and that's that.' The pensioner has now contacted the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) and sent them a copy of the footage after learning there would be no further action. He added: 'I have written to the IPCC and put my points across - it's not only my case not acted upon, how many others have not been acted upon?" 'The only way our roads are going to become safer is when motorists driving carelessly like this are punished. Mr Kay with the footage on his computer. He says it is disgusting that there will be no action due the case not being picked up by another officer . 'My wife and I were very lucky that we were not more seriously hurt and we are very disappointed that no police action has been taken in this case.' After the incident last year, the doctor driving the Toyota also had to be cut from her vehicle and was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital by air ambulance. It is understood she did not have serious injuries. The grandfather-of-seven explained: 'We were extremely lucky. I have a pacemaker and

Summary: Colin Kay was driving on the A586 when another car ploughed into his car . The whole incident was captured on film by a dashcam on his dashboard . He has been told the driver will not face any action over crash last year . This is because the police officer investigating the case had gone off sick .


Sebastien Pocognoli has risked the wrath of his manager Tony Pulis, after publicly stating his confusion at losing his place in the West Brom team. The Belgian defender was an important player under Alan Irvine but since he left the club, the left back has found his game time limited. Speaking to La Meuse, he admitted he couldn't get his head around the decisions being made. 'I do not understand. I have also got no explanation as to why I don't play. Sebastien Pocognoli (centre) says he's baffled by Tony Pulis' decision to drop him from the starting 11 . 'Even if my (left-back rival) is injured or suspended I don't get a chance. That's frustrating because I feel very happy in Birmingham and I have a good relationship with the fans.' Pocognoli insists that he doesn't want to be one of the those players to throw a strop but may be forced to consider his long-term future. He said: 'I will not cause trouble, because I am not that type, the end of the season is approaching and I am waiting for the club to tell me their plans. 'After I played 15 good games, I know that some clubs have followed me. It is too early to talk about that, but I want to stay in the Premier League. 'I have a good life here and at age 27 I think of everything. But I am also open to a new league.' It's been a turbulent season for West Brom but has improved since Pulis took over from Alan Irvine .

Summary: Since Tony Pulis took charge at West Brom, Pocognoli has found game time hard to come by and midfielder Chris Brunt ahead of him . The left back can't understand why he doesn't get picked to play . Pocognoli was a regular under Alan Irvine before he was sacked . CLICK HERE for all the latest West Brom news .


Aaron Ramsey has scored 25 goals for Arsenal since the start of last season, none more vital than a dramatic extra-time winner in the FA Cup final. But his last one — the only goal of the game at Burnley — meant the world, because it was for someone special. ‘I’ve had a tough few weeks,’ said Ramsey, who pointed skywards after scoring at Turf Moor. ‘I’ve been on an emotional rollercoaster of late. My gran passed away a few weeks ago and she meant an awful lot to me. We had a great relationship and I’ve dedicated my last couple of goals to her. Aaron Ramsey celebrates his goal against Burnley by dedicating it to his late Gran who passed away . ‘Her name is Eileen. She’s on my Mum’s side and we used to call her Nanny Leany. She was 84. She was an incredible woman. ‘She lost her husband early in her life and raised seven kids on her own and in those days it was an incredibly difficult thing to do. She was always happy, making jokes and I had that sort of outlook on life. She always believed in me and gave me reassurances. It has been a difficult time.’ His grandmother would have been proud of young Aaron as he took time out from preparations for today’s FA Cup semi-final against Reading to pay his tribute to her. Just as she must have been proud of his career in football and the way he rebuilt it after a badly broken leg. ‘She used to watch me play and would take me to games when I was eight or nine,’ Ramsey added. ‘She would always be asking how I was doing. She didn’t go to my games but I got her Sky to watch a few. She would always complain it was not on normal TV.’ Ramsey will be on ‘normal TV’ when the BBC screen today’s semi-final from Wembley, as he was last May when his 16th goal of a prolific season won the FA Cup and ended Arsenal’s nine-year wait for a trophy. ‘It was a great day and a great moment in my career,’ he said. ‘It was a relief as well.’ Ramsey points to the sky has the goalscorer is greeted by Arsenal right back Hector Bellerin at Turf Moor . Ramsey and Bellerin celebrate on the deck after the Welsh midfielder had fired home for the Gunners . Arsenal had fought back from two down against Hull and 108 minutes had elapsed when Ramsey fired his side into a 3-2 lead before going off on a celebratory sprint which he ended flat on his back, exhausted, beneath a pile of jubilant team-mates. ‘I was knackered,’ smiled Ramsey. ‘We were in extra-time and my celebration, I didn’t really know what to do. I was just running about and it all caught up on me then so I needed a couple of seconds just to get my breath back and realise just what I’d just actually done. It was definitely overwhelming. And it was

Summary: Aaron Ramsey starred when Arsenal won the FA Cup against Hull in 2014 . His extra-time goal helped Arsene Wenger's side claim the silverware . This time he is hoping to win it for his Gran Eileen who passed away . Welshman has dedicated his last couple of goals to her in memory .


A federal judge has approved a plan to resolve concussion lawsuits brought by more than 5,000 former players that could cost the league $1billion over 65 years. The deal comes after the league has been dogged for years by complaints that it long hid the risks of repeated concussions in order to return players to the field. The NFL expects 6,000 of nearly 20,000 retired players to suffer from Alzheimer's disease or moderate dementia someday. The settlement approved on Wednesday by a federal judge in Philadelphia would pay them about $190,000 on average. Senior US District Judge Anita Brody (left) approved the deal on Wednesday after twice sending it back to lawyers over concerns the fund might run out. Former Philadelphia Eagles fullback Kevin Turner (right) suffers from Lou Gehrig's disease and led the lawsuit against the NFL . The settlement also includes allowing for monetary awards of up to $5million per claimant for serious medical conditions associated with repeated head trauma. Senior U.S. District Judge Anita Brody approved the deal after twice sending it back to lawyers over concerns the fund might run out. The negotiators did not increase the original $765million plan, but agreed to remove that number as the cap. The deal means the NFL may never have to disclose what it knew when about the risks and treatment of concussions. Players' lawyers have argued that the settlement will help families get needed financial awards or medical testing that might take years if the case went to trial. The league expects 6,000 of nearly 20,000 retired players to suffer from Alzheimer's disease or moderate dementia someday. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (above) has been criticized for not doing enough to prevent players from getting concussions . The league's top lawyer said Brody's approval 'powerfully underscores the fairness and propriety' of the settlement. 'Retirees and their families will be eligible for prompt and substantial benefits and will avoid years of costly litigation that — as Judge Brody's comprehensive opinion makes clear — would have an uncertain prospect of success,' NFL general counsel Jeff Pash said in a statement. The total NFL payouts over 65 years, including interest and $112million sought for lawyer fees, is expected to be more than $1billion. Critics contend the NFL is getting off lightly given annual revenues of about $10billion. However, plaintiffs would have first had to fight their way into court — instead of getting booted to NFL mediation under their players' contracts — to prevail. About 200 NFL retirees or their families have rejected the settlement and plan to sue the league individually including the family of former New England Patriots linebacker Junior Seau (above) Seau (above) committed suicide at his San Diego-area home in 2012 after several years of increasingly erratic behavior. An autopsy showed he suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy or CTE . 'From a business point of view, (the NFL has)...avoided what may have been the biggest risk to their continued prosperity,' said Andrew Brandt, director of the sports law program at Villanova University law school. 'Removing this as a threat is

Summary: Senior US District Judge Anita Brody approved deal on Wednesday . Settlement includes allowing for monetary awards up to $5million per claimant for serious conditions connected to repeated head trauma . NFL expects 6,000 of nearly 20,000 retired players to suffer from Alzheimers disease or moderate dementia someday . Wednesday's settlement would pay them about $190,000 on average . About 200 NFL retirees or their families have rejected the settlement and plan to sue the league individually .


Some of the 2,500 police officers who were involved in tracking down the Boston Marathon bombers showed a lack of 'weapons discipline' during two firefights with the brothers, a new report reveals. In the first standoff, the officers fired 'toward the vicinity' of Tamerlan and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev 'without necessarily having identified and lined up their target', the 130-page document states. They also reportedly failed to appropriately aim their guns. Amid their chaotic shooting, transit cop Richard Donohue was critically wounded. It is unclear whether he was shot by an officer's bullet. Shortly after the firefight in Watertown, Massachusetts, on April 19, 2013 - which resulted in the death of Tamerlan Tsarnaev - an officer mistakenly fired on a police vehicle carrying two other cops. Scroll down for video . 'Lack of discipline': Some of the 2,500 police officers who were involved in tracking down the Boston Marathon bombers showed a lack of 'weapons discipline' during two firefights with the brothers, a new report reveals . Brothers: In the first standoff, the officers fired 'toward the vicinity' of Tamerlan (left) and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev (right) 'without necessarily having identified and lined up their target', the 130-page document states . Official report: They also reportedly failed to appropriately aim their guns. Amid their chaotic shooting, transit cop Richard Donohue was critically wounded. Above, the After Action Report, which was released on Friday . The unmarked black pickup truck had been 'erroneously reported as stolen'. It was 'spotted driving on Adams Street, near the scene of the shootout, and fired upon by an officer,' the report states. Upon closer inspection, the officer discovered that the occupants of the vehicle were a Boston Police Department officer and a Massachusetts State Police trooper in plain clothing, the document says. Fortunately, both officers were unhurt. Then, later in the night, when Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was found hiding in a boat, an officer 'fired his weapon without appropriate authority,' causing others to believe the bomber was shooting at them. This caused 'many officers to fire at the boat in the belief they were being shot by the suspect,' says the long-awaited report by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, released Friday. The two standoffs and the car incident all created 'dangerous crossfire situations'. But despite the findings, the report praises many other aspects of the emergency response to the April 15 attacks. Firefight: Shortly after the firefight (pictured) in Watertown, Massachusetts, on April 19, 2013 - which resulted in the death of Tamerlan Tsarnaev - an officer mistakenly fired on a police vehicle carrying two other cops . Suspect: Then, later in the night, when Dzhokhar Tsarnaev was found hiding in a boat, an officer 'fired his weapon without appropriate authority,' causing others to believe the bomber was shooting at them. Above, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev is pictured clutching his chest after emerging from the boat he was hiding in . Timeline: This graphic, featured in the report, details the timing of the two bombs and the following incidents . The document particularly highlights the response of medical personnel at the scene and Boston

Summary: Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency report states some cops showed lack of 'weapons discipline while hunting the Tsarnaev brothers' They fired at suspects without 'necessarily having identified their target' Also failed to appropriately aim weapons during April 19, 2013, shootout . Shortly after, one officer 'mistakenly fired on an occupied police vehicle' Later in night, another cop 'fired weapon without appropriate authority' However, report praises response of medical personnel after bombings . 'Every patient that was transported to hospital from the scene survived' Three people were killed in April 15 attacks - a further 264 were injured .