It is the disease the medical community refuses to accept, and most experts claim is just a mental illness. Morgellons disease has been described by those who suffer from it as causing fatigue and memory loss, while also leading to large sores on the body which are constantly itching to the sensation of bugs or parasites crawling underneath the skin. From these sores they claim sprout colorful fibers that cannot be described and, according to one person, 'cannot be forensically identified as animal, vegetable or mineral.' That person is Joni Mitchell, who claims to have suffered from Morgellons for most of her life, and who has recently been hospitalized after she was found unconscious at her home. Mitchell, who suffered from polio as a child, remains in the hospital, but is said to be in 'good spirits.' Scroll down for video . Joni Mitchell (above) has suffered from Morgellons disease throughout her life, and has recently dedicated herself to trying to get it accepted as a medical condition . Sufferers say they are constantly itching, and large sore develop on their skin from which colorful fibers (above) grow . Mitchell spoke of the disease in a 2010 interview with the Los Angeles Times, saying; 'I have this weird, incurable disease that seems like it's from outer space.' She went on to say; 'Fibers in a variety of colors protrude out of my skin like mushrooms after a rainstorm ... Morgellons is a slow, unpredictable killer - a terrorist disease: it will blow up one of your organs, leaving you in bed for a year.' This is far different than the way many in the medical community describe the disease however, which, according to the Mayo Clinic, is incredibly rare and effects predominantly middle-aged white women. The Centers for Disease Control reports that the symptoms are very similar to those of mental illness, from the sensation of crawling and bugs and parasites to the concept of false beliefs. The CDC even conducted a study at one point, and found that most people who claim to suffer from the disease were likely just experiencing anxiety, depression or, in some cases, issues with substance abuse. Mitchell admitted to briefly having problems with addiction in a Reader's Digest interview, saying; 'I didn’t get involved for years, and then I went on Rolling Thunder and they asked me how I wanted to be paid, and I ran away to join the circus: Clowns used to get paid in wine – pay me in cocaine because everybody was strung out on cocaine.' A 2012 paper published in a peer-reviewed medical journal found that half of the 115 subjects tested positive for a prescription or illicit drug, among them; amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cannabinoids, and even cocaine. Futhermore, most of the fibers collected from their skin were cotton, likely from clothing or bandages, and no parasites were detected in any of the individuals. The medical community believes Morgellons is likely a mental illness and that sufferers are anxious, depressed or even suffering from substance abuse (Mitchell above in 1996) Cindy

Summary: Joni Mitchell was hospitalized on Tuesday after being found unconscious in her California home . Mitchell has suffered from Morgellons disease throughout her life, and has recently dedicated herself to trying to get it accepted as a medical condition . Sufferers claim they feel the sensation of bugs or parasites constantly crawling under their skin and biting them . They also say they are constantly itching, and large sore develop on their skin from which colorful fibers grow . The medical community believes it is likely a mental illness and that sufferers are anxious, depressed or even suffering from substance abuse . Mitchell, who has been a heavy smoker since she was 9-years-old and had polio as a child, has admitted she dealt with cocaine addiction in the 70s . Individuals have said that taking antibiotics cured them of Morgellons, though some experts say it is simply a placebo effect .


It was a simple slip of the tongue, instantly corrected minutes after his last ever ride at Sandown on Saturday. After a tearful yet joyous and ultimately unsuccessful afternoon that none of the 18,000 spectators will forget, it was also the point at which AP McCoy acknowledged that he was an ex-jockey. ‘I am going to miss what I do . . . what I did,’ he said with a pained smile. That whole new routine kicked in yesterday. AP McCoy makes a lap of honour round the Parade ring with Champion Jockey's Trophy at Sandown . McCoy walks into Parade Ring to ride his final race on Box Office as the media assemble to get one last shot . A lie-in and cooked breakfast before a party for family and friends at his home near Lambourn. This week there will be two days as a spectator for McCoy at the Punchestown Festival. Then, when former colleagues head to Uttoxeter and Hexham on Saturday to make an early impression on the first AP-free jockeys’ title race in two decades, McCoy will be attending the wedding of one of wife Chanelle’s friends. The family duties and the exorbitant cost of a ticket means McCoy will not be heading to Las Vegas to watch Mayweather and Pacquiao. But there is a bucket list of things he wants to do now his life is no longer welded to the pursuit of riding perfection. Seeing his beloved Arsenal in the FA Cup final as well as, next season, travelling to watch them in Europe. McCoy with trainer Jonjo O'Neil after riding his final race on Box Office at Sandown racecourse on Saturday . Channel 4 presenter and tennis fan Emma Spencer . Riding some stages in the amateur Tour de France and attending the US Masters in Augusta. He can aim to reduce his own golf handicap and there is also another sporting challenge to conquer. McCoy, who doesn’t play tennis, has challenged Channel 4 presenter Emma Spencer, herself a tidy player, to a match with a tasty side bet riding on the outcome. Coaches are being lined up for McCoy’s crash course. Watch out Emma. Come to think of it, watch out Andy Murray. The list of diversions mean in the short term coping with life in Civvy Street should not be impossibly harrowing for the man who described Saturday as the ‘hardest day of my life’. During his Punchestown trip McCoy will also visit Robbie and JT McNamara, both battling degrees of paralysis after bad falls. It will inject a dose of sobering reality into his situation. McCoy said: ‘The fear of retirement is going to get worse in a month or a year. I think I will be all right in the first few weeks because I have things to do and I will be busy. ‘I will see Robbie McNamara on Tuesday and John Thomas on Wednesday. It will be nice to see the two lads and will put a lot of things into perspective.’ Sean Bowen won the conditional jockey title

Summary: AP McCoy will struggle with his new routine now he has retired from racing . 20-time champion jockey described Saturday as the hardest day of his life . His short-term list of diversions will include watching his beloved Arsenal . Conditional jockey champion Sean Bowen tipped to follow in his footsteps .


Steve Cotterill could be just a week away from putting Bristol City back into the Championship. The 50-year-old needs just two more wins to achieve the fourth promotion of a career that has been mostly spent rescuing clubs from relegation after goals by Kieran Agard, Joe Bryan and Aaron Wilbraham clinched a local derby victory. In front of a sold-out Ashton Gate, City took revenge for a bitterly fought 1-0 defeat back in November which ended their unbeaten start to the season. Bristol City's Aaron Wilbraham (left) tussles for the ball with Swindon Town's Yaser Kasim (right) Swindon Town's Michael Smith (left) shields the ball from the challenge of the oncoming Luke Ayling (right) Bristol City (4-4-2): Fielding, Ayling, Flint, Williams, Tavernier, Smith, Pack, Freeman (Wagstaff 93), Bryan, Agard (Emmanuel-Thomas 86), Wilbraham (Elliott 94) Subs not used: Saville, Richards, Cunningham, Osborne . Booked: Agard . Scorers: Agard 36, Bryan 80, Wilbraham 87 . Swindon (4-4-2): Foderingham, Branco, Ricketts, Turnbull, Byrne, Kasim, Stephens, Luongo, Gladwin (Swift 78), Michael Smith, Williams (Obika 69) Subs not used: Barker, Barthram, Hylton, Rodgers, Cameron Belford . Booked: Turnbull, Kasim . Referee: Neil Swarbrick (Lancashire) Attendance: 12,302 . That finished with Swindon chairman Lee Power accusing Cotterill of 'lacking class'. But it was the City boss who had the last laugh with a victory that left Swindon boss Mark Cooper having to pick his side up from two 3-0 defeats in four days that have finished their last hope of automatic promotion. Just to add to their woes they had both Yaser Kasim and Raphael Branco booked, meaning both will now serve suspensions. City had actually needed to ride their luck for much of the first half, with goalkeeper Frank Fielding pulling off three saves in two frantic minutes at one point. And Swindon striker Andy Williams cost Cooper's side their best chance of going in front when he cashed in on a mistake by Aden Flint to go through. He should have squared the ball back to strike partner Michael Smith who couldn' t have missed but instead tried to go it alone and gave Fielding the chance to save. Bristol City striker Kieran Agard (centre) celebrates giving his side the 1-0 lead against Swindon Town . Ben Gladwin (left) brings the ball for Swindon as Bristol City's Joe Bryan (centre) gives chace in midfield . As if that miss wasn't frustrating enough for the visitors, they were then architects of their own downfall when City took the lead on 35 minutes. Yaser Kasim was put under pressure as Swindon tried to play the ball out from the back from a goal kick, and gave it away to Joe Bryan. The young wing back hit a perfect pass to send Agard clear to make no mistake with his 11th goal of the season. City had earned that goal for the way they worked to put pressure on defenders, and they made their own luck again when Derrick Williams stretched to divert Ben Gladwin's shot onto the underside of the bar. Swindon's strike partnership of Williams and Smith

Summary: Bristol City's lead at the top of the League One table was extended to eight points following a 3-0 win over Swindon . Kieran Agard scored the home side's opening goal from inside the box in the first-half . Joe Bryan made it 2-0 with a superb free-kick on 80 minutes before Aaron Wilbraham wrapped up the win from close range later on .


Shane Warne hailed Richie Benaud as the 'godfather of cricket' following the former Australia captain and broadcaster's death at the age of 84. Benaud was as well known for his commentary as his cricket after moving into a career in the media in 1956 which saw him become the voice of the game in both England and his homeland. But he was also a trailblazing all-rounder who took 228 wickets and scored 2,201 runs in 68 Tests while never losing a series in charge of his country. Tributes are seen at the statue of Richie Benaud at the Sydney Cricket Ground after his passing aged 84 . A tribute of a microphone with Benaud's Test cap number of 190 is left at the statue . The flags atop the Sydney Harbour Bridge can be seen flying at half-mast as a tribute to Benaud . The Australian flag at the SCG is lowered at half mast for the Australian cricketer and commentator . One of Benaud's most famous commentaries was on the 'ball of the century' - Warne's first delivery in Ashes cricket which dismissed Mike Gatting - and the 45-year-old fellow leg-spinner paid an emotional tribute to his mentor on Instagram. 'Dear Richie,' he wrote. 'I've known you & Daphne for close to 30 years & to everyone you were a legend on all levels & rightly so too. As a cricketer, commentator & as a person, you were the best there's ever been & to top it off, an absolute gentleman... 'For me it was an honour & a privilege to call you a close friend & mentor, we had so many wonderful times together, talking cricket & in particular, our love & passion of leg spin bowling. I will cherish our entertaining dinners & all the fun times we shared over a long period of time. 'I would also like to thank you & Daphne for all your support & time you made for me as a young cricketer & leg spin bowler trying to make his way as an 18 year old, your tips & advice along the journey meant so much !!! 'Richie, you were loved by everyone, not just the cricket family, you were the godfather of cricket & you will be missed by all... R.I.P my friend.' Shane Warne paid tribute to Benaud, calling him the 'godfather of cricket' Current Australia Test captain Michael Clarke believes it was Benaud's spirit as well as his prowess with bat, ball and microphone that made him one of the most popular figures in the game. 'I think that everybody involved in the game of cricket: supporters, players, the media, everyone, Richie is known for a lot more than bowling a few leg-spinners and hitting a few cover drives,' he told Today on Channel Nine in Australia. 'I think that's probably why he's such an idol to so many current cricketers because he's been such a gentleman on the field, an amazing player and a lot of current players probably don't realise what a good player he was. 'But, what

Summary: Richie Benaud passed away at the age of 84 on Friday . He was as well known for his commentary as his cricket . Benaud never lost a series while he was Australia captain . Leading figures from the sport were quick to pay tribute .


Cristiano Ronaldo scored five, including a eight-minute hat-trick, as Real Madrid beat sorry Granada 9-1. Gareth Bale broke the deadlock and Carlo Ancelotti’s team were 4-0 up before half-time as they put memories of their Clasico defeat to Barcelona a fortnight ago behind them. The huge gulf in class showed in the midday sunshine at the Bernabeu right from minute 20 when Bale bullied Diego Mainz off the ball and charged through on goal. He dribbled around flailing Granada keeper Oier Olazabal before nudging the ball over the line for the opener. Cristiano Ronaldo scored five goals against Granada on Sunday to help Real Madrid to a thumping 9-1 win at the Bernabeu . Ronaldo's five goals included an eight-minute first-half hat-trick as the visitors were comfortably swept aside . Marcelo links up with Ronaldo as the duo dance after one of the forward's goals in the first half at the Bernabeu . Real Madrid bounced back from their El Clasico defeat by Barcelona with a thumping win on Easter Sunday . REAL MADRID: Casillas; Arbeloa, Ramos, Varane, Marcelo; Rodriguez (Jese 61) Kroos (Illaramendi 57), Modric; Bale, Benzema (Hernandez 61), Ronaldo . Subs not used: Navas, Nacho, Coentrao, Silva . Booked: Arbeloa . Goals: Bale 25, Ronaldo 30, 36, 38, 54, 89, Benzema 52, 56, Mainz (own goal) 83 . GRANADA: Oier; Foulquier, Mainz, Babin (Murillo 61), Juan Carlos; Fran Rico (Silvestre 57), Iturra; Ibanez, Rochina (Piti 53), Candeias; El Arabi . Subs not used: Roberto, Nyom, Javi Marquez, Riki . Booked: Piti, Murillo . Goal: Ibanez 74 . Referee: Jesus Gil . If Bale’s goal had dented Granada’s fragile defence, Ronaldo was about to crush it into one of those breakers’ yard scrap metal cubes with three quick goals that ended the match as a contest before the break. On the half hour he took a pass from James Rodriguez – back in action after 60 days out with a broken toe – and found Oier’s far corner. Six minutes later Ronaldo played the ball out to Marcelo and when Oier parried the full-back’s cross the Portuguese was on the spot to sweep it home. And two minutes after that he completed his hat-trick from Bale’s pass. The Welsman’s ball found him in space down the left. Rodriguez made a run on the outside and as the defenders were dragged one way, Ronaldo dropped his shoulder the other and beat Oier who could only flap at the ball as it whooshed past him. Granada came into the game having only won once at the Bernabeu back in 1974 – this clearly was not going to be the second win here in their history. Not that they had not had chances to score themselves in the first half. When the score was still 0-0 Iker Casillas threw the ball straight to Robert Ibanez but the Granada winger sent his shot straight back at the Spain goalkeeper who was whistled by home supporters for his sloppy distribution. Their next chance came when they were already four down with El Arabi’s shot crashing down

Summary: Cristiano Ronaldo scored eight-minute hat-trick in first half as Real Madrid thumped Granada 9-1 on Sunday . Portuguese star helps himself to two more goals in second period to make it five goals in a game . Karim Benzema also nets double, while Gareth Bale grabbed the opener at the Santiago Bernabeu . Diego Mainz scores own goal in second half while Roberto Ibanez nets consolation for the visitors . Carlo Ancelotti's side now one point behind leaders Barcelona in La Liga table .


Comics at the BBC must go through a lengthy process to get some jokes on air because the Corporation is extra-wary about causing offence, an editor at the company has claimed. Chris Sussman, executive editor for comedy, revealed particular jokes have to go through 'quite a lot of layers' to be approved. Some jokes even have to be looked over by director general Lord Hall - alongside editorial policy advisers, the channel and legal advisers - before they are aired, he said. Comics at the BBC must go through a lengthy process to get jokes on air, including some being looked over by director general Lord Hall (left), an editor at the company claimed. It is because the Corporation is extra-wary about causing offence - like in the Sachsgate scandal involving Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross (right) The cautious attitude comes after a 'difficult few years', Mr Sussman added. Speaking at a Bafta event The Telegraph reported him saying: 'It's been a difficult few years and I think that is reflected internally in terms of the processes and procedures we go through when we’re making programmes. 'To get a certain joke on air, to get a joke approved, we have to go through quite a lot of layers. 'Sometimes we’ll run something past at script stage, if we’re unsure. Most of the time it’s about "here’s the show, have a look at it".' The strict rules come after a 'difficult few years' following the Sachsgate scandal, where Ross and Brand left lewd messages on Andrew Sachs' (left) voicemail, Mr Sussman added. Comedian Frankie Boyle (right) has previously criticised the BBC about its cautious attitude towards comedy . Mr Sussman joined the Corporation after Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand caused outrage by broadcasting a series of answer phone messages they left with Andrew Sachs. The messages included lewd comments about Brand's relationship with Sachs' granddaughter, Georgina Baillie. Comedian Frankie Boyle has previously criticised the BBC about its cautious attitude towards comedy. He called the Trust cowardly for the broadcaster’s lack of political comedy in 2010 shortly after leaving Mock The Week. In an open letter Boyle added that the BBC wanted to 'deliver the flavour of political comedy with none of the content'. John Lloyd, producer of Blackadder and Not the Nine O'Clock News, added that comedy that is not funny could 'sink the corporation'.

Summary: Chris Sussman said particular jokes must go through 'a lot of layers' Cautiousness comes after a 'difficult few years' at the BBC, he added . Made the comments at a Bafta event on free speech and television .


It was just after breakfast, only a few short hours after the rampant champagne-fuelled celebrations into the early morning had ended, but Carlo Ancelotti knew exactly what he was saying. Still in Madrid’s five-star Tivoli Lisboa hotel, the ‘fat boy with the bowl full of Emilian tortellini’ (his own words, not mine) told an Italian journalist friend: ‘Yes we’ve made history by winning La Decima — but this is Real Madrid. Lose two games next season and I’ll still be an “idiot”.’ Date: May 25, 2014. Hotel Address: Liberty Street, Lisbon. And of course Ancelotti was speaking after Madrid’s two principal teams, sworn enemies, had contested the Champions League Final and he had lifted the ‘cup with the big ears’ for the fifth time as player or coach. Carlo Ancelotti is starting to feel the strain after recent poor results at Real Madrid . Ancelotti was a hero after guiding Real Madrid to their 10th European Cup triumph last year . Gareth Bale celebrates after scoring Real's second goal in extra time during the Lisbon final . Cristiano Ronaldo scored his team's fourth late in extra time to secure the famous victory . August 19 - Real 1-1 Atletico . Supercopa, First Leg . August 22 - Atletico 1-0 Real . Supercopa, Second Leg . September 13 - Real 1-2 Atletico . La Liga . January 7 - Atletico 2-0 Real . Copa del Rey Last 16, First Leg . January 15 - Real 2-2 Atletico . Copa del Rey Last 16, Second Leg . February 7 - Atletico 4-0 Real . La Liga . Not that winning liberated him from the sad truth of his statement. Two games? His team have lost almost one out of every three matches in 2015 (six defeats in 19 outings). Worse is the fact that he is now a black smudge on Madrid’s pristine-white history, having already lost to Atletico — the club which was unable to register a single win over Real between 1999 and 2013 — four times in a season. Perhaps worst of all, the European champions’ utterly humiliating 4-0 defeat at the ferocious Calderon stadium last time these two met, just over two months ago, meant Atletico had won all three home ‘derbis’ by a 7-0 aggregate this term. In fact, during each of the seven defeats in 11 derbies Ancelotti has had to soak up as Madrid manager against Diego Simeone’s bruising buccaneers, his team hasn’t scored once. None of which make Ancelotti an idiot. Where they do, cumulatively, leave him is in perhaps the most embarrassing position of his career. Not because if he loses the imminent Champions League quarter-final against Spain’s champions Ancelotti fears the sack. Cristiano Ronaldo sits dejected during Real's 4-0 La Liga defeat to Atletico back in February . Mario Mandzukic (left) celebrates with Fernando Torres after scoring in Atletico's 4-0 win in February . Like Norman Stanley Fletcher in Porridge, there are some penalties in his chosen profession which ‘Carletto’ (Wee Charlie) treats as an occupational hazard. You might argue that losing a 3-0

Summary: Real Madrid have not beaten their neighbours in six meetings this season . They will meet again in Champions League last eight this week . Carlo Ancelotti is under increasing pressure after poor form in 2015 . He masterminded Real's 10th European Cup triumph last season . But that win over Atletico hasn't made his job any more secure .


Manchester United have fought all season to try to secure a return to the Champions League, but six players shown the exit door at Old Trafford are in the competition's final four. Last season's disastrous campaign under David Moyes saw United miss out on Europe's premier competition for the first time in 19 years, with Patrice Evra and Javier Hernandez members of the failing squad. But those two - plus Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlos Tevez, Paul Pogba and Gerard Pique - have all made the semi-finals in their former club's absence from the competition. Javier Hernandez scored the winner for Real Madrid against Atletico. He is on loan from Manchester United . Patrice Evra was part of David Moyes' failing side last season but he now plays for Italian side Juventus . Hernandez and Ronaldo combined for Real Madrid's winner against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night, with the former only on loan and deemed surplus to requirements by Louis van Gaal who has instead relied on misfiring Radamel Falcao. Meanwhile, Tevez was leading the line for Juventus, with Evra at left back, in their 0-0 draw against Monaco that won a place in the last four. Pogba is out with a thigh injury but could return in the time for the semi-finals next month. Finally, Pique is enjoying one of the best seasons of his career at centre back for Barcelona and helped keep out Paris Saint-Germain's fearsome attack that featured Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Edinson Cavani on Tuesday night. Cristiano Ronaldo has gone from strength to strength since leaving United and is in the last four once again . Carlos Tevez went to Manchester City between his stints with United and Juventus, who beat Monaco . Whatever happens in the semi-finals, there will be at least one former Old Trafford representative at the Champions League final in Berlin's Olympic Stadium on May 6. United are on course for a return to Europe's top table next season, with their position inside the Barclays Premier League's top four looking fairly safe ahead of Liverpool who sit eight points behind. But for now, the Champions League semi-finals are the home of their former players, rather than their current ones. Gerard Pique spent time at United between two spells with Barcelona, and he is in the semi-finals with them . Paul Pogba was released by the Old Trafford club after spending his youth there and plays for Juve now .

Summary: Manchester United have six ex-players in Champions League semi-finals . Javier Hernandez scored the winner for Real Madrid against Atletico Madrid . Paul Pogba, Carlos Tevez and Patrice Evra play for Italian side Juventus . Cristiano Ronaldo set up Hernandez's goal for Real Madrid on Wednesday . Barcelona's Gerard Pique helped keep out Paris Saint-Germain . Hernandez was the hero for Madrid but he will need to find a new home .


With rigorous grooming regimes and Instagram filters, it seems that some celebrities are on a constant mission to stay forever young - and succeeding. But whether it's through botched surgeries, poor lifestyles, stressful career lows or shattered relationships, certain stars have taken a quicker turn for the worst than their contemporaries. From child actors that swiftly deteriorated in the lime light or golden Hollywood stars that have greyed with time, FEMAIL rounds up the celebrities that have aged terribly . LINDSAY LOHAN . Lindsay Lohan at the age of 18 in 2005 (left) and now at the age of 28 (right) The child actress shot to fame as a freckle-faced darling in classics such as The Parent Trap, Freaky Friday and Mean Girls, but despite showing much promise, the now 28-year-old began to experience regular run-ins with the law and started appearing on headlines for the wrong reasons. A few rehab stints, DUI charges and parole violations later and it seems like Lohan's fast-paced lifestyle is finally catching up to her. The star has recently began showing rapid signs of ageing, including lines and over-plumped lips. JOHNNY DEPP . Johnny Depp at the age of 39 in 2003 (left) and now at 51 (right) Johnny Depp shot to stardom as a teen idol due to his dark and mysterious looks and acting versatility, which scored him roles in films such as Edward Scissorhands and A Nightmare on Elm Street. Having dated a slew of beautiful it-girls such as Winona Ryder and Kate Moss, before having two children with long-term partner Vanessa Paradis, the 51-year-old actor is now married to 29-year-old actress Amber Heard. It seems the series of high-profile relationships and a long-term smoking habit has taken its toll on the actor, as he now exhibits duller skin and lacklustre hair. KATE MOSS . Supermodel Kate Moss at the age of 30 in 2004 (left), now at the age of 41 (right) Kate Moss was, and still remains, one of the most famous supermodels in the world, rising to fame in the Nineties after she was discovered at the tender age of 14. The now 41-year-old ushered in the supermodel movement 'heroin chic', and popularised waif models at the time. However, 20 years of drinks and partying have seemingly aged the supermodel, who only celebrated her 41st birthday in January - but exhibits fine lines and dull skin. BRAD PITT . Brad Pitt at the age of 42 in 2006 (left) and now at 51 (right) Brad Pitt made his breakout role as a denim-sporting, cowboy hat-toting, golden-skinned bandit in Thelma & Louise in 1991, and quickly gained celebrity for his dashing looks. The actor has since been regularly cited as one of the world's most attractive men, and the now 51-year-old has been with wife Angelina Jolie since 2005, with whom he has six children with. But it seems like the strain of a hectic life has taken its toll on Pitt's looks, and the actor looks more haggard and greyed by the day. BRITNEY SPEARS . Britney Spears at the

Summary: Some are child actors, others are former Hollywood heartthrobs . Can be attributed to poor lifestyles, career lows, or shattered relationships . Renée Zellweger caused controversy with her dramatically altered face .


Defending champion Czech Republic reached the fourth Fed Cup final in five years by defeating France after Petra Kvitova won the first reverse singles Sunday. In a match of two big-hitting players, fourth-ranked Kvitova beat world no 29 Caroline Garcia 6-4, 6-4 for an insurmountable 3-0 lead in the semifinals. After failing to serve out the match at 5-2, Kvitova converted her first match point in her following service game with a passing forehand shot. Petra Kvitova comfortably beat Caroline Garcia to send the Czech Republic into the Fed Cup final . The Czechs will face Germany or Russia in the final in November with a chance of winning their fourth title in five years. Garcia double faulted twice in a row in the third game of the final set to drop her serve and Kvitova marched on with another break in the fifth game. The Czech Republic are the current reigning champions and have been in four finals in five years . France's Garcia was unable to stop the Czech's going into a uncatchable 3-0 lead after he defeat .

Summary: Defending champs Czech Republic beat France to reach the Fed Cup final . Petra Kvitova defeated Caroline Garcia in straight sets for 3-0 lead . The Czech's have reached their fourth final in the past five years .


A husband whose wife was brutally stabbed to death by her own son has described his heartache at her death. Kris Wardle, who lives in Leicester, thought his world was complete when he married his long-term girlfriend Katrina in 2011 with her teenage son, Mark, acting as Best Man. However, less than two years later, the HGV truck driver would be a widower, after his beloved wife was killed in a frenzied knife attack by now 21-year-old Mark after a row over his cannabis use. Scroll down for video . Kris and Tina Wardle fell in love in 2002 and had planned a life together . 'You could have turned the lights out in the middle of an eclipse and if she smiled, the room would just light up,' said Kris. 'If I called her perfect she’d just come round and belt me round the back of the head, cause she knew damn well she wasn't perfect, but to me, that girl, she was just something so special.' Kris said Katrina, who was known as Tina, already had two children when they met and was a devoted mother when they fell in love in 2002 when her son Mark was ten years old. 'They came first, always, there was no question about it, she loved her kids, she loved them to bits,' said Kris. 'Mark was the apple of Tina’s eye, no two ways about it. He didn’t have an outgoing personality.' Kris said Mark was very quiet and only interested in his computer games. Mark Howe was obsessed with the TV show Dexter which features a serial killer . Michael C Hall who starred as Dexter in the TV show . 'He didn’t talk a lot, he’d come in, he’d do a bit of homework, he’d watch some TV, play computer games and sometimes we’d talk, but it would be inconsequential things, just little things, mainly about games. 'A couple of games he wanted to play, or the games he was looking to play. 'I think that him being as quiet as he was, made her so much more protective of him.' As time went on, the couple grew concerned that the now 13-year-old Mark was spending more time in his bedroom playing computer games and withdrawing not only from his friends, but his family too. 'Tina was a little worried because he seemed to be getting quieter in himself, she talked with me about it and she spoke to some of her friends from work, and they were saying he’s a teenager,' said Kris. 'He was just an average teenager. Sometimes he'd be "yeah, whatever I'm not interested, I don't want nothing to do with it" and other times he’d be "yeah okay, let’s go to the cinema". 'Sometimes he’d be chatty and sometimes he’d just stay in his room play on the computer. 'The reason it always sticks into mind so much, was how much more Mark was talking in the game room, compared to how he’d talk actually off line. 'He was more happy to talk online than

Summary: Mark Howe, 21, researched what weapons his TV icon used on victims . Sent text messages to friends saying how much he hated mum Tina . The 48-year-old tackled him over cannabis use at family home in Leicester . Found lying dead inside flat by her father-in-law Brian Wardle . Kris Wardle said he was devastated at death of his beloved wife . Kris Wardle and his father Brian appear on Britain's Darkest Taboos, Sunday night at 9pm on CI .


A husband accused of trying to murder his cheating wife was ready to let her have sex with another man once a month as long as she stayed with him, his trial heard yesterday. A close friend told how Joseph O’Riordan, 74, had confided in him about the extraordinary plan for his 47-year-old wife Mandy. O’Riordan, a councillor and former nightclub owner, stabbed her eight times in a jealous rage after finding out she had been having an affair with a postman. Extraordinary deal: Joseph O'Riordan stabbed his wife of ten years Amanda (left) with a seven inch kitchen knife eight times - yesterday Brighton Crown Court heard he was considering allowing her to have affairs . She suffered life-threatening injuries after being knifed in the torso, chest, arms and back. The jury was also shown dramatic footage of the moment police arrived at the couple’s home to be greeted by a ‘calm’ O’Riordan opening the door. The revelation of his proposal for keeping his wife of ten years came from Alfred Harris. He told how O’Riordan had confided five days before the attack that he believed she was having an affair. O’Riordan was ‘choked up and emotional’ when he said: ‘I think Amanda is playing away. She’s getting her nails and hair done more regularly, she’s been on a diet and doesn’t want sex.’ Asking for a suit: O'Riordan sent his wife this letter from his prison cell . The following day, added Mr Harris, the men met for a pub lunch in O’Riordan’s home village of Polegate, East Sussex. ‘I saw Joe and he told me that Amanda had been seeing someone else – a guy who drove a van. Joe said he loved Amanda to bits and if she wanted to have sex with someone else once a month that would be okay as long as she stayed with him.’ In a statement read to Brighton Crown Court, Mr Harris also described the couple as ‘loving and close’. He was ‘so shocked’ to learn that O’Riordan had attacked his wife at their flat on a residential care home estate. The jury saw images of four police officers, one of whom was wearing a lapel camera, arriving shortly before 10pm last October 22 after racing to the scene. PC Dave Catt said they drew their ‘incapacitating’ sprays fearing the knifeman would be still holding his weapon. They were greeted by O’Riordan wearing a blood-spattered light blue shirt and holding a cordless phone on which he had phoned for an ambulance. Mr Catt said O’Riordan admitted: ‘I found out that she was having an affair and I lost it.’ Mrs O’Riordan was moaning and lying on a bed, holding a towel to her stomach with a deep chest wound and serious wounds to her hand and back. Paramedics arrived moments later and took her to hospital. Jurors looked at two screens as images of her husband’s arrest and subsequent detention at a police station were shown. Growing suspicion: Giving evidence yesterday Alfred Harris – a friend of the couple for more

Summary: Joseph O'Riordan, 73, stabbed wife eight times after discovering her affair . She was left with life-threatening injuries to her torso, chest, arms and back . Yesterday Brighton Crown Court heard about deal he was ready to offer her . He had told friend about the idea while in the pub just days before stabbing .


The Labour candidate in Britain's most marginal seat was last night accused of failing to tell voters that she met Vladimir Putin in Moscow two years ago when a controversial billion-dollar arms deal was signed. Tulip Siddiq, a former aide to Ed Miliband, and who is standing for Labour in Hampstead, was at the Kremlin with her aunt, the hardline leader of Bangladesh who is accused of human rights abuses. A smiling Ms Siddiq was photographed alongside Putin and Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Ms Siddiq's mother Rehana. Labour candidate Tulip Siddiq (left) was last night accused of failing to tell voters that she met Vladimir Putin (right) in Moscow two years ago . But the Tories last night accused Ms Siddiq of trying to conceal her extraordinary links to Putin and Sheikh Hasina. They claimed she appears to have gone to great lengths to cover up her trip in January 2013 – just six months before she won a hotly-contested Labour selection contest in Hampstead – and her links with Hasina. The Tories also said she had deleted postings and photographs on her blog which showed how she campaigned to get her aunt re-elected. And they questioned why her 1,200-word official Labour profile made no mention of Putin, the arms deal or being a member of a ruling Bangladeshi dynasty. A Tory official said: 'It seems very odd that Ms Siddiq has appeared to try to conceal the most interesting parts of her political life.' Retiring Labour MP Glenda Jackson won Hampstead with a majority of just 42 in 2010. Last night a Labour spokesman said: 'Tulip is proud of her background and has always been very open about it.' As for the photograph, the spokesman said: 'Tulip was totally separate from any official delegation but was invited to an event with her family.' The Tories last night accused Ms Siddiq of trying to conceal her extraordinary links to Russian President Vladimir Putin (pictured)

Summary: Tulip Siddiq accused of failing to tell voters she met Vladimir Putin in 2013 . Labour candidate met Russian President at signing of billion-dollar arms deal . Former aide to Labour leader Ed Milbiand is standing for party in Hampstead .


A man has accused rapper DMX and his entourage of robbing him while at a New Jersey gas station on Easter morning. The unidentified Newark resident, 22, said he recognized the 44-year-old rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, while at an Exxon station on Sunday, according to Newark police spokesman Sgt. Ronald Glover. Police said the victim reported that he had a brief conversation with DMX about rap music around 12.30am, according to NJ.com. 'During the conversation a male in DMX's entourage showed the victim a gun and demanded the victim's money,' said Glover in a statement. Scroll down for video . A man has accused rapper DMX (above) and his entourage of robbing him while at a New Jersey gas station on Easter morning . The 21-year-old victim said he recognized the rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, and that he had a conversation with him before a member of the entourage allegedly pulled out a gun and demanded money . The victim told police that he pulled $3,200 cash from his pocket and DMX grabbed it out of his hand. The rapper then got into one of four black Cadillac Escalades that fled from the scene. The resident was able to follow the car long enough to obtain one of the vehicle's license plate number, which he provided to police, as the cars traveled down McCarter Highway, according to PIX 11. It has not been made clear if police have tried to get in contact with DMX or whether the license plate has been traced to him or his entourage, according to NJ.com. DMX was scheduled to perform on Saturday night at the Master of Ceremony concert at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. He wrote 'Jersey!!!!! Thank you!!' on his Twitter on Saturday . It appears DMX had been in New Jersey on Saturday night because he was scheduled to perform at the Master of Ceremony concert at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. He wrote on Twitter on Saturday: 'Jersey!!!!! Thank You!! For real Thank You!!!!!' Following the incident, no arrests were made and no criminal charges have been filed. The investigation is ongoing. Following the incident no arrests were made and no criminal charges have been filed .

Summary: Newark man, 21, said he recognized the rapper, whose real name is Earl Simmons, while at an Exxon station on Sunday . He told police they had a conversation about rap music before man in DMX's entourage allegedly pulled out a gun and demanded money . Victim said DMX allegedly snatched the money before driving off .


Hollywood star Robert Downey Jnr stormed out of a TV interview when asked about his history of drug abuse and time in prison. The actor was furious when the line of questioning suddenly got personal in a recorded chat with Channel 4 in London to promote his new film Avengers: Age of Ultron. He had been on good form when the exchange started - in which, as arranged, he would discuss his experiences on the new blockbuster which premiered in Britain on Tuesday. But he could be seen getting visibly uncomfortable when interviewer Krishnan Guru-Murthy began asking about his long-conquered personal demons. Scroll down for video . Calling time: During an interview for Avengers: Age of Ultron, Robert Downey Jnr left mid-way through . He's off: When asked about his relationship with his father, Downey Jnr gets up and says: 'I'm sorry, I really don't... what are we doing?' before walking out . 'It's all getting very Diane Sawyer in here': Robert clearly didn't appreciate the line of questioning . Didn't go according to plan, Krishnan? The Channel 4 news presenter was left visibly embarrassed . Specifically, the news anchor asked Downey Jr to explain a comment in a five year-old interview with the New York Times, in which he said: 'You can't go from a $2,000-a-night suite at La Mirage to a penitentiary and really understand it and come out a liberal.' Responding, Downey Jr, 50, said: 'I could pick that apart for two hours and be no closer to the truth than giving you some half-arsed answer right now. I couldn't even tell you what a liberal is.' But, when asked about his relationship with his father, Downey Jnr gets up and says: 'I'm sorry, I really don't... what are we doing?' before walking out of the interview. Seemingly amused with the reaction, Guru-Murthy can be seen smiling and gesticulating as a production team-member tried to remove Robert's clip-on microphone. At that point he turns and says: 'It's all getting a bit Diane Sawyer [a U.S. journalist known for her investigative interviewing].' Off to a good start: Downey Jr was charming as the exchange started - in which, as arranged, he would discuss his experiences on the new blockbuster, which premiered in London on Tuesday . Getting personal: But when Guru-Murthy asked questions about his long-conquered personal demons, the star could be seen getting visibly uncomfortable . Clearly wanting to keep a dignified silence on the matter, the veteran star - who originates from Manhattan and has battled both drug addiction and prison - resisted the temptation to make reference to the incident on Twitter. Unlike him, however, Krishnan twice shared details - captioning one video 'A steely moment from Ironman'. But viewers weren't impressed, with nearly three-hundred 'disliking' it within hours. Tellingly, the comments which followed shared a similar opinion. One wrote: 'God, Krish you can be an a--. When your interviewee is uncomfortable, don't keep pressing them. Props to RDJ for ending it.' Another simply said: 'No class at all.' Downey Jr had a period between 1996 and

Summary: Was promoting Avengers: Age of Ultron in interview for Channel 4 in UK . Hollywood star was furious when questioning suddenly became personal . Stormed off when asked about drugs and his relationship with his father . He spent time in California substance abuse facility and prison . Actor was arrested numerous times between 1996 and 2001 . Downey Jr's son Indio was arrested for drug possession last June .


A Soviet dissident who spent 12 years in prison and forced labour camps is to be charged with making and possessing indecent images of children after a police investigation. Vladimir Bukovsky, 72, has lived in the UK since he fled the Soviet Union in the 1970s after he was accused of spreading anti-Soviet propaganda. It came after he managed to smuggle to the West 150 pages of documents detailing the abuse of psychiatric institutions for political reasons in the Communist state. Soviet-era dissident Vladimir Bukovsky, who has been summonsed to appear in court next month to be charged with making and possessing indecent images of children . But now Bukovsky has been summonsed to appear at Cambridge Magistrates early next month following an investigation by Cambridgeshire Police, the Crown Prosecution Service said. He will be charged with five counts of making an indecent photograph of a child, five counts of possessing indecent photographs of children, and one count of possessing a prohibited image. Jenny Hopkins, Chief Crown Prosecutor for the CPS in the East of England, said: 'Following an investigation by Cambridgeshire Police, we have concluded that there is sufficient evidence and it is in the public interest to prosecute Vladimir Bukovsky in relation to the alleged making and possessing of indecent images of children.' She added: 'The decision to prosecute was taken in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors.' Bukovsky is a dissident, author and activist who spent 12 years in Soviet prisons, forced-labour camps and forced-treatment psychiatric hospitals. He was first arrested by the Soviet authorities when he was part of a group of young activists who held public readings of banned poetry and organised demonstrations against the heavy-handed tactics of the authorities. The revelations sparked an international outcry, and Bukovsky was arrested for the spread of anti-Soviet propaganda. In 1976 he finally secured his freedom when he was exchanged by the Soviet government for the Chilean Communist party leader Luis Corvalan. He was described by The Daily Telegraph as 'pale and haggard' and 'underfed with an accelerated heartbeat' after his long incarceration. Bukovsky will appear at Cambridge Magistrates Court, pictured, on May 5 after receiving a summons. He denies the allegations . He moved to Britain soon after and has lived in Cambridge ever since. He is a senior fellow at the libertarian think-tank the Cato Institute, according to its website. Bukovsky has written many books about his experience, including his memoir To Build a Castle: My Life as a Dissenter, and he has repeatedly called for Russians to stand up to president Vladimir Putin. He accused Russia of orchestrating the murder of former spy Alexander Litvinenko, who was poisoned by radioactive polonium-210 which was slipped into his tea at a Mayfair hotel. At a hearing with Mr Litvinenko's widow Marina in 2013 he said: 'Since the Russian authorities got away with this murder they continue the practice. They encourage the Soviet regime to continue murdering people. 'It's like giving them a licence to kill, like announcing a season for hunting.' In 2004 he was one of the

Summary: Vladimir Bukovksy will appear at Cambridge Magistrates next month . 72-year-old is to be charged with making indecent photographs of children . Dissident spent 12 years in prisons for spreading anti-Soviet propaganda .


Wonder who will do the catering... Burger King will be paying the expenses and providing gifts for the wedding of an Illinois couple after Joel Burger and Ashley King accepted the company's payment proposal on Monday. The burger chain contacted the newly-engaged couple via Skype and gave them the good news. BK will be paying for the wedding and providing personalized gift bags, Mason Jars and Burger King crowns for the event. Scroll down for video . Burger King will be paying the expenses and providing gifts for the wedding of Joel Burger and Ashley King . The popular fast food chain will also be providing personalized gift bags, Mason Jars and Burger King crowns . The couple has been known as Burger-King since they were in the fifth grade together, in New Berlin, Illinois . Burger and King said they 'shaking' and 'blown away' after getting the good news. The couple has been known as Burger-King since they were in the fifth grade together, in New Berlin near Springfield, the State Journal-Register reported. Although they weren't always a couple, Burger and King have known each other since kindergarten. They announced their engagement this spring with a photo next to the sign at a local Burger King restaurant. Although a woman's name usually comes first in an engagement announcement, they decided to flip their names. Burger and King said they 'shaking' and 'blown away' after getting the good news about BK footing the bill . Burger King spokesman Eric Hirschhorn said: 'When we heard about the happy, Burger-King couple, we felt an overwhelming urge to celebrate their upcoming marriage. 'We knew deep in our hearts that we wanted to honor the union of Mr Burger and Ms King, . 'We knew we wanted to create a "whopper of a wedding" that's uniquely their own. 'And now we hope we've swept them off their feet. 'All we ask in return is that they live happily ever after.' The Burger-King nuptials will be held July 17 in Jacksonville. Burger King wanted to create a 'whopper of a wedding' that was uniquely ordered up for Ashley and Joel .

Summary: Joel Burger and Ashley King have known each other since kindergarten . They got engaged and announced with a photo taken at Burger King sign . Chain found out and contacted couple about paying for their July wedding . BK will provide personalized gift bags, Mason Jars and crowns for event .


The oldest human footprints left behind on a muddy lakeside 1.5 million years ago appear to have been made by prehistoric hunting parties. Researchers examining the site where a series of tracks left by a barefooted early human in Ileret, northwest Kenya, have now found a total of 99 prints. They now believe that they belong to groups who all passed over the soft mud at the same time - perhaps even stalking some of the other animals whose prints are also preserved in the mud. The distinct tracks found at Ileret in Kenya (like the one above) are the oldest human footprints in the world . It provides some of the strongest evidence yet that the human ancestors that left the prints - Homo erectus - were sophisticated hunters. While their ancestors before them may have eaten meat they scavenged or from small prey they were able to catch, hunting parties suggests Homo erectus went after larger prey. Early human ancestors may have evolved to throw spears allowing them to hunt around two million years ago, a new study has suggested. Research by Dr Neil Roach has shown that the that the skeletons of Homo erectus had shoulders and collar bones that would have allowed them to hurl sticks accurately and powerfully. This would have enabled Homo erectus to become a proficient hunter, able to throw weapons like spears and rocks at potential prey. Dr Neil Roach, a palaeoanthropologist at the American Museum of Natural History in New York who led the study, said the prints appeared to have been made by adult males. He said that the tracks represent groups hunting for antelope or wildebeest. Speaking to Nature, Dr Roach said: 'What we can say is that we have a number of individuals, probably males, that are moving across a lake shore in a way that is consistent with how carnivores move. The researchers, who presented their findings at the annual meeting of the Paleoanthropology Society in San Francisco, hope to test their conclusions by studying the movement patterns of modern day subsistence hunters in Africa. The tracks in Ileret were first revealed in 2009 after researchers at Bournemouth University and Rutgers’ Koobi Fora Field School in Kenya, announced they had discovered a collection of 22 human prints. This deep print appears to have been left by a male Homo erectus that may have been part of a hunting party . Analysis of the print tracks (above) showed they had been made by a early human that walked much like we do . The prints were preserved in sediment that had once been the shoreline of an ancient lake. Alongside the human prints were those of birds including storks, pelicans as well as crocodiles, antelope, hippos, bovids and other predators. Professor Matthew Bennett, who was part of the team that originally studied the footprints, is shown above crouching in front of the ancient human tracks . Analysis of the footprints by Professor Matthew Bennett at Bournemouth University revealed the human prints had been made by a species with a similar

Summary: Researchers at the American Museum of Natural History in New York have found 99 footprints that appear to have been left by male Homo erectus . The footprints - the oldest human tracks in the world, found in in Ileret, Kenya - may have been left by group hunting antelope or wildebeest . It suggests Homo erectus were probably sophisticated and deadly hunters .


A man tragically ran over his granddaughter Friday morning as he moved his truck in the driveway. In what is being described as a horrific accident, 20-month-old Kendra Moad of Kearns, Utah followed her grandfather, who has not been named, out of the house as he pulled his truck forward so he could move some garbage cans. He did not however see the toddler in front of his truck and killed her. Scroll down for video . Kendra Moad(above) of Kearns, Utah followed her grandfather out of the house Friday morning and into the driveway . He did not see the toddler and ran her over as he pulled his truck up in the driveway (above) to move the trash cans and ran over and killed the 20-month-old . 'He got into the red Chevy pickup truck parked at the residence to pull it forward so he could move the garbage cans and unfortunately the child managed to get under, in front of car and he ran over the child,' Unified Police Department Lt. Justin Hoyal told Fox 13. 'Very tragic situation here today.' Kendra suffered severe head trauma and was unconscious when medical workers arrived, and was pronounced dead shortly after at a nearby hospital. This is now the fourth time since August that a child was accidentally run over and killed in their own driveway by a family member in Utah. The grandfather is not facing any charges at this time, but the case remains under investigation. 'No family member ever wants to go through something like this, and so it’s always important that when you are pulling out, you’re backing out of your driveway: Just take that extra second to check and make sure there is nobody, none of the children have followed you out, or nobody is around your vehicle,' said Hoyal.

Summary: Kendra Moad of Kearns, Utah followed her grandfather out of the house Friday morning and into the driveway . He did not see the 20-month-old toddler and ran her over as he pulled his truck up in the driveway to move the trash cans . This is now the fourth time since August that a child was accidentally run over and killed in their own driveway by a family member in Utah . Kendra suffered severe head trauma and was unconscious when workers arrived, and was pronounced dead shortly after at a nearby hospital . The grandfather is not facing any charges at this time, but the case remains under investigation .


The February afternoon we arrived in Adelaide, the mercury was whizzing up to a sizzling 46C and the South Australian city was the hottest place on the planet. The temperature had climbed above 40C for a whole week and even the Aussies were struggling. Appropriately, friends took us out that evening to dine in one of the city's hottest restaurants - Celsius! Luckily, it was air-conditioned and served phenomenal food. We especially appreciated the peanut butter and popcorn ice cream. But Adelaide that week was also hot for other reasons. It was the cycling mecca of the world, with 20 teams of Lycra-clad pros and their supporters tearing up the roads and hanging out in coffee bars. Sian Lloyd enjoys a glass of Clare Valley riesling at Skillogalee Winery north of Adelaide in South Australia . Sian meets Team Sky’s Geraint Thomas (centre) and Sir Chris Hoy (right) at the start of the Tour Down Under . Sian takes a ride ahead of the Tour Down Under in Adelaide (left) and meets a bouncy local kangaroo . The Tour Down Under is a big part of the international cycling season and contributes more to the South Australian economy than the F1 Grand Prix (formerly Adelaide-based, now in Melbourne) ever did. Not only was the launch night atmosphere electric, but it was great to catch up with our pals Sir Chris Hoy and Team Sky's Geraint Thomas. We also rubbed shoulders with the Indian cricket team. Howzat! We were staying at the Adina Apartment Hotel, the former Treasury building, where the old tunnels and cabinet rooms can still be seen. The Beatles hid here to evade fans back in 1964. Breakfast was served in the lovely oasis of the serene central courtyard, a delightful start to the day. The hotel is conveniently just round the corner from the splendid Central Market. A trip here is enough to convince anyone that Adelaide is the true food capital of Australia. And bearing in mind that some of the best wine is made within an hour's drive of the city, from the Barossa Valley to McLaren Vale, you feel very indulged. Adelaide is a much softer city than Sydney. It has charm, colonial history, sophistication and space to breathe. It's not called the City of Roses for nothing - there are lots of perfumed parks as well as wide boulevards. A wisteria arch in the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, South Australia, one of the city's beautiful gardens . A trip to Adelaide's Central Market is enough to convince us that Adelaide is the true food capital of Australia . Adelaide is a softer city than Sydney. It has charm, colonial history, sophistication and space to breathe . Most beaches are half an hour away, but being creatures of habit, we always head for the Adelaide Hills and the foodie haven of Hahndorf. Here we lunch on superb venison pasta and salted caramel crepes at a quaint old cottage called The White House. We then do a bit of wine-tasting in the scenic Hills and lovely McLaren Vale,

Summary: Sian Lloyd visited Adelaide, Hahndorf and Clare Valley in South Australia . Former ITV weather forecaster caught the famous Indian Pacific to Perth . She ticked off a bucket list item by cycling the Clare Valley Riesling Trail . Kalgoorlie gold mine and Margaret River impressed in the country's West .


Alan Stubbs says he feared there would have been crowd trouble if he'd agreed to have his Hibs team form a guard of honour for Hearts in the Edinburgh derby. Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson and Jambos defender Alim Ozturk have both rounded on their city rivals for refusing a public display of acknowledgement for the Championship title winners at Easter Road. Rangers lined up to applaud Hearts on to the Ibrox pitch when the teams played just over a week ago, and Queen of the South and Alloa did the same. But Stubbs, who admitted that the police hadn't been consulted, insisted that the threat of unrest – not a lack of respect – was responsible for the decision. Hibs boss Alan Stubbs feared unrest among fans if his side formed a guard of honour for city rivals Hearts . 'It's been turned into a lack of respect,' said the Hibs boss. 'Well, I rang Robbie the day after they won the league and congratulated them and said they had been the best team over the season and that it had been fully deserved. 'My players have come out in the press and said Hearts have been the best team. I think that's respect. 'The reason why we decided against it is because there are two sets of rivals fans, it's a derby, there's going to be a lot of animosity. You are going to have one set of fans that will be jovial because they've won the league, you'll have one that are not going to be happy about that. 'The most important thing is the safety of the fans and that's the main reason we've done it. We don't want to start the game on a bad foot, that's the reason we've done it. Not a lack of respect. It's a respect for fans. It's a decision we spoke about and we feel as if it's the right decision for both sets of fans. 'We can't let this get out of control for the reasons we've done it. We've seen silly things happen over the years and we don't want to get into that state because of a guard of honour. 'If I won the league and we were at Tynecastle, I wouldn't expect a guard of honour there. We don't turn around and say because one team has done it every other team has to. I wouldn't expect it. 'Because you know it only takes on person. Before you know it, you've got a situation on your hands that could have been prevented. We want the derby to be spoken about for the right reasons, not the wrong reasons – and it only takes one idiot.' Agreeing that it would be unthinkable for either Old Firm team to offer their oldest rivals a guard of honour in a similar situation, Stubbs said: 'So why's it any different here? 'It's a derby and it means a lot to both sets of fans.' Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson feels that it is disrespectful not to acknowledge his team's achievements .

Summary: Hibernian will not form a guard of honour for Scottish Championship winners Hearts during the Edinburgh derby . Boss Alan Stubbs believes it would cause unrest among the fans . Hearts head coach and defender Aim Ozturk feel that Stubbs' decision shows a lack of respect .


Environmentalist group Sea Shepherd has rescued 35 crew members from a sinking ship. The rescue mission comes after the Sea Shepherd vessel Bob Barker followed it's world record breaking pursuit of the accused poaching vessel Thunder for more than 100 days. Bob Barker Captain Peter Hammarstedt said 35 crew members, who abandoned the sinking ship, were safely rescued off the coast of Africa after being held in life rafts. The toothfish poaching vessel Thunder issued a distressing signal, claiming that the ship was sinking at about 4.00pm on Monday. Environmentalist group Sea Shepherd ship 'Bob Barker' has rescued 35 crew members from a sinking ship . 'The Captain of Thunder radioed us and said their ship was sinking. We launched our small boat and did everything we could to assist,' Mr Hammarstedt said. 'It appeared as though the ship and crew were in a serious situation.' Mr Hammarstedt told ABC News they have been following the 'internationally-wanted poaching vessel for the past 110 days' as part of its Operation Icefish. 'Our suspicion is that the captain of the Thunder, knowing he's run out of fuel, has deliberately sunk his own boat in order to destroy any physical evidence,' he said. 'I've sent a couple of my crew onboard the Thunder — my chief engineer examined the engine room, which is completely underwater. 'We also notice they've opened several hatches — those that the water, once it's filled one area of the ship, will quickly go into another and it's clear, in my opinion, that this ship was sunk.' The poaching vessel Thunder was trailed for more than 100 days before it started to submerged on Monday . Around 35 crew members from the Thunder ship were safely rescued after being held in life rafts . Operation Icefish has been very successful in exposing the operations of the alleged poachers and making connections between them and fishing companies in Spain. The Thunder lost its nets, its catch and its profits for the entire season during the pursuit as they face prosecution in whichever port it is forced to go to once short of fuel and supplies. This was the longest pursuit of a poacher in maritime history, surpassing the 21-day pursuit of a Uruguayan poacher in 2003 by Australian Customs.

Summary: The Sea Shepherd vessel Bob Barker has safely rescued 35 crew members . It comes after Bob Barker followed the accused poaching vessel Thunder . Thunder issued a distressing signal, reporting the ship was sinking . Sea Shepherd claims Thunder deliberately sunk the ship to destroy proof . This was the world's longest pursuit of a poacher in maritime history .


Two thousand miles might seem like a long way to go just for fried chicken. But two long-time friends from Canada, who took their two sets of sons on a journey to the original home of Kentucky Fried Chicken in Corbin, Kentucky, said it's a trip they'll never forget. The group of six completed the drive in three days crossing two Canadian provinces including Quebec and Ontario, as well as five U.S. states - New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky, according to The Times Tribune. For three of the sons, it was the first time they had tasted KFC. Two long-time friends and their four sons traveled from Montreal, Quebec to Corbin, Kentucky to eat at the original home of Kentucky Fried Chicken (above left to right: Jason Lutfy, Sebastien Lutfy, Neil Janna, Jesse Janna, Josh Janna and Brian Lutfy) Brian Lutfy, center, his son, Jason, left, and stepson Sebastien enjoy original Kentucky Fried Chicken at the Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum in Corbin on Saturday . Brian Lufty, 52, one of the fathers who packed the four sons into a van, made the 34-hour round trip mission for his third time to visit the Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum in Corbin. His tales of earlier visits to the KFC inspired the most recent trip. The group left from Montreal on Thursday and arrived at the restaurant on Saturday afternoon. 'Neil and I have been friends for 35 years, and doing ongoing, crazy things have been special for us. But to bring our sons here with us makes it even more fun,' Lufty told the Times Tribune. 'We do practical jokes with our kids. We've done skits that we taped along the way. It's been a crazy road trip. It's been at the top of our bucket list.' He continued: 'I did that first trip 30 years ago, and the second one 20 years ago. Now it's come full circle. We did fun things with our kids. The important thing about this trip is this — don't be afraid to have fun.' While there are KFC restaurants in the Montreal metropolitan area, known as Poulet Frit Kentucky, Lufty's son Jason suggested going on a father-son trip to Corbin to visit the KFC. This was after hearing his father's stories about his previous road trips there. On Saturday morning, Lufty, his sons Jason and Sebastien, his friend Neil Janna, 51, and his two sons Jesse and Josh, made a stop to visit Colonel Sanders birth place in Henryville, Indiana. Traveling 2,090 miles, crossing over five U.S. states and two Canadian provinces, the group of six spent five days away from home while on the special trip. In total it took three days to drive from Montreal to Kentucky (a map of their journey above) They then traveled to his burial place and Yum! Brand's headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky. That afternoon, they arrived at Sanders Cafe in their blue van featuring a bucket of Colonel's chicken on the roof while wearing their special-made shirts to commemorate the trip. The Canadians were met by

Summary: Trip included Brian Lufty, 52, of Montreal, his stepson Sebastien and son Jason, friend Neil Janna, 51, and his two sons Jesse and Josh . They made the trip in three days crossing over five states to visit original home of Kentucky Fried Chicken in Corbin, Kentucky . Lufty visited Harland Sanders Cafe the first time in 1985 and again in 1995 . While at the restaurant they ordered their fried chicken and brought their own plates, silverware, glasses, artificial flowers and candles for the table .


Dick Advocaat has refused to rule out staying on as Sunderland boss beyond the end of this season. The 67-year-old has signed a nine-game deal with the Black Cats and celebrated his first home match with a 1-0 victory over North-East rivals Newcastle last weekend. That result moved Sunderland three points clear of the bottom three and, with supporters having taken a liking to the affable Dutchman, he is open-minded when it comes to his future. Dick Advocaat has refused to rule out staying at Sunderland beyond the end of this season . Jermain Defoe (centre) scored a stunning goal to give Sunderland a win over fierce rivals Newcastle last week . Advocaat does not want speculation regarding his future to overshadow Sunderland's survival attempts . ‘My situation is not important,’ he said ahead of today’s visit of Crystal Palace. ‘The most important thing is the team improving. I’m a demanding manager, players can always do more. ‘We will wait and see with my situation but I am enjoying every minute of this. ‘The four years at Rangers were the best of my life, the way I could live my life. I have worked all over the world, but that admiration from the fans and the people at the club, I liked that. ‘I enjoyed last weekend and I expected that atmosphere. The fans were unbelievable. Hopefully that will be the same against Palace.' Of the instant rapport with the club’s fans, Advocaat said: ‘I’m not being arrogant but that is a normal situation for me. At the clubs I have worked at and the prizes I have won, that is normal for the fans to feel that way. ‘But it is good to be back in club management. I enjoy working with people.’ Meanwhile, Advocaat has given his players a five-game survival target. Sunderland finish the season with trips to Arsenal and Chelsea, and the boss said: ‘We have those last two away games to end the season so ideally we have to do it (safety) in the next five games. ‘The most important of those five games is against Crystal Palace, because it is the next one. ‘If we get a good result against Palace, the thinking might change as to how many points we need. We have to do it week by week and it's important to win the home games. It's better to do it game by game rather than look too far ahead.’ Advocaat congratulates Defoe on his goal against Newcastle and now targets a win over Crystal Palace . Advocaat has given Sunderland a five-match survival aim as the last two games are at Arsenal and Chelsea . That result moved Sunderland three points clear of the bottom three and, with supporters having taken a liking to the affable Dutchman, he is open-minded when it comes to his future. ‘My situation is not important,’ he said ahead of today’s visit of Crystal Palace. ‘The most important thing is the team improving. I’m a demanding manager, players can always do more. ‘We will wait and see with

Summary: Dick Advocaat 'enjoying every minute' of his time at Sunderland . He has given his team five games to secure Premier League future . Sunderland host Crystal Palace on Saturday and beat Newcastle last week .


Terrorists are undergoing training in rural areas of west Wales, it has emerged. Locations in Ceredigion, Powys and Pembrokeshire are also being used to radicalise Muslims, according to an officer from the Wales Extremism and Counter Terrorism Unit. Those involved in such activities 'take part in seemingly ordinary activities' in the community but 'have an ulterior motive', Detective Constable Gareth Jones said. Training: Locations in Ceredigion, Powys and Pembrokeshire in west Wales, illustrated above, are being used to radicalise Muslims, according to an officer from the Wales Extremism and Counter Terrorism Unit . Speaking to Ceredigion Council, DC Jones stressed that issues surrounding terrorism were not confined to large cities. Incidents of Islamic extremist activity in Wales can be traced back to 1998, when it is claimed hate preacher Abu Hamza sent a group of 10 extremists to train in the Brecon Beacons, in Powys. The area is one of several locations used by the British military for training. Its rugged terrain helps prepare soldiers, including elite forces personnel like the SAS, physically and mentally for warfare. In 2005, two of the 7/7 bombers, Mohammad Sidique Khan and Shehzad Tanweer, were photographed white water rafting at the National Whitewater Centre in Bala, North Wales. Five years later, three would-be terrorists from Cardiff were arrested as part of an Al-Qaeda inspired gang who plotted a 'Mumbai-style' series of terror attacks on Britain. Link: Michael Adebowale, left, one of the men convicted of murdering Fusilier Lee Rigby, is understood to have studied Arabic at the former European Institute of Human Sciences at Highmead, near Llanybydder . Omar Latif, 28, Gurukanth Desai, 30, and Abdul Miah, 25, were photographed holding a series of secret meetings with Mohammed Chowdhury and Shah Rahman in a country park in Wales. And Michael Adebowale, one of the men convicted of murdering Fusilier Lee Rigby, is understood to have studied Arabic at the former European Institute of Human Sciences at Highmead, near Llanybydder. The centre is understood to have been set up by Iraqi clerics. Speaking to councillors, DC Jones said: 'This chap attended the Institute for Human Sciences for quite some time. It's fair to say that is a connection to a horrendous terrorist attack in the UK. Would-be terrorists: Omar Latif, 28, right, Gurukanth Desai, 30, and Abdul Miah, 25, left, were photographed holding a series of secret meetings with Mohammed Chowdhury and Shah Rahman in a country park in Wales . 'Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys have been used for radicalisation training. 'These people do turn up and take part in seemingly ordinary activities, but they do have an ulterior motive. This does happen in Ceredigion.' DC Jones added that community intelligence was important to authorities. He said: 'It really is vital that if any intelligence comes from the community that we look at it. We don't want that intelligence to drop off.'

Summary: Locations in Ceredigion, Powys and Pembrokeshire being used for training . Also used to radicalise Mulsims, according to counter-terrorism officer . He said those involved are 'seemingly normal' but have an 'ulterior motive'


Kate Winslet faces a planning battle with Natural England over plans to build sea defences . Kate Winslet is to face a battle with Natural England over plans to build a 550ft-long wall to protect her £3.25 million beachside home from flooding and erosion. The multi BAFTA-winning actress, 39, wants to install a boulder and gravel seawall along the West Sussex coast to protect her property. But Natural England has recommended the planning application be refused - citing concerns it may result in the 'direct loss' of natural habitat designated for rare and vulnerable birds, trees and wetlands. The Academy Award-winning actress bought the eight bedroom house in West Sussex in 2013. She lives there with her husband, Richard Branson's nephew Ned Rocknroll, and her three children. But the environmental body has recommended her local District Council reject the application because of concerns over the impact it will have on the natural habitat. It is also unclear what effect the sea wall would have on a public footpath that runs along the bottom of the estate by the seashore. The shoreline is currently unprotected. The actress' Grade II-listed home backs onto a site that is a designated special protection area to safeguard wildlife living along the coast. Wildlife include waders, geese, ducks, herons, terns and cormorants. It is also in a 'Ramsar site', according to Natural England - which are protected under Government policy as 'proposed or listed wetlands of international importance.' The application is one of a number of requests previously submitted to the council for extensive renovation work at the house including the building of an underground swimming pool, garage and pool house. The planning document states: 'The proposed privately funded sea defences will ensure that the existing vegetation and public footpath will be protected into the future. 'Furthermore it should be considered that the footpath is liable to become dangerous in areas without protection from further erosion of the existing banks.' A spokesman for Natural England said: 'Our objection centres on the fact that the application site falls within land which is protected as a Special Area of Conservation, Special Protection Area, Ramsar and Site of Special Scientific Interest. 'The proposal would result in direct loss of protected habitat and would be likely to have a significant, adverse effect on these designated sites. Winslet wants to build a sea wall along the West Sussex coast to protect her £3.25million beach house . Plans submitted to her local District Council show the proposed sea wall to protect Winslet's property . 'The application did not include any information to address the likely impacts and no mitigation was proposed. 'We will continue to liaise with the applicant about alternatives which would avoid loss of designated habitat.' A local conservation body has also submitted comments on the application and said it is concerned about the impact of a sea wall on the appearance of the area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). Concerns have also been raised about potential erosion of a coastal path that could be caused by the defence . In a

Summary: Kate Winslet submitted application for a sea wall along West Sussex coast . She wants to build a 550ft-long sea wall to protect her home from flooding . But Natural England has raised concerns about environmental impact . It recommended her local Council refuse the planning application because of concerns wall could destroy habitat for rare birds and wetlands .


Manchester United will have to wear Nike kit during their summer tour of the US, despite their world-record deal with adidas. The club are expected to jet across the Atlantic in July for a trip of around 12 days, which would have been an ideal opportunity to showcase their new gear following their £750m, 10-year agreement. However, their existing deal with Nike runs until the end of July and Sportsmail understands there is no buy-out agreement that would allow the club to exit the agreement early has been agreed. Manchester United will have to wear Nike kit during their summer US tour , despite their new adidas deal . Wayne Rooney and co are expected to jet across the Atlantic in July but will have to wear their old kit . adidas are the new sponsors in a £750million deal but there is no buy-out clause in Nike deal that ends in July . Ryan Giggs is pictured in an adidas shirt, the Barclays Premier League side last wore adidas shirts in 1992 . That means that unless United remain in America until August 1 - a week before the start of the season - fans will have to wait to see the new kit while their team continues in what will effectively be an old ensemble. As reported on Wednesday, the tour will be shorter than last year's epic trek across the country and is likely to be confined to the west coast thanks to input from manager Louis van Gaal. The Dutchman, who pays ferocious attention to detail, vowed that a repeat of last summer would not happen again on his watch and believes to this day that the effects of the pre-season schedule cost his side dearly when the real action started. Louis van Gaal has had a big input on United's pre-season plans, restricting the US tour to just 12 days . Van Gaal believes the extensive tour last year hampered United and it will now be restricted to the west coast . United traditionally stage a pre-season friendly at Old Trafford and August 1 would seem a logical choice . United traditionally stage a pre-season friendly at Old Trafford and August 1 would seem a logical choice. They faced Valencia last year and Sevilla in 2013 although the Olympics prevented such a fixture taking place in 2012. Officials like a test run to ensure new equipment is working and to allow new staff to get used to a matchday operation at Old Trafford.

Summary: Manchester United signed a £750million, 10-year kit deal with adidas . But the Old Trafford club will have to wear old Nike kit on US tour . United are expected to stage a 12-day tour of the US west coast . There is no buy-out agreement in Nike's current deal which ends in July .


A billionaire tycoon wants planning authorities to grant permission for his new £4 million beachfront mansion which can jack itself up in the case of flooding which heats itself using the outside air in temperatures as low as -25C. Jim Ratcliffe, founder and chairman of chemical company Ineos, has applied to planning officials in the New Forest to seek to demolish an existing beach hut and replace it with a 'carbon neutral' mansion. The 62-year-old businessman who is based in Switzerland claims that the new house, if built, will be his only UK residence. The proposed beach house in this computer generated image would only be visible from yachts on the Solent . The high-tech planned mansion will be virtually 'carbon-zero' and uses renewable energy such as solar power . Billionaire tycoon Jim Ratcliffe wants to build a futuristic beach house on a site he owns overlooking the Solent . The planning application claims the building will be 'climate-change proof due to its jacking system. The building has been designed by Charles Morris, who was the architect responsible for the Orchard Room at Prince Charles's Highgrove Estate. According the document: 'The development proposals incorporate domestic-scale micro renewable energy systems, including an array of photovoltaic cells, solar hot water and an air source heat pump. 'The solar thermal hot water system provides hot water powered directly from the sun; the photovoltaic cells will provide electrictiy to power immersion heaters to ensure that there is hot water in all weather conditions. 'The air source heat pump will draw latent heat from the air even when air temperature is as low as -25C to heat the house via underfloor heating. 'The dwelling would be so thermally efficient and would harness so much renewable energy that it will not need a boiler. 'The dwelling has been designed to be lifted by 73 piston jacks, with with a capacity to lift 25 tonnes; this will allow the development to respond to rising sea levels over the next 100 years, this is truly innovative and truly unique.' Mr Ratcliffe is seeking to demolish the existing house on the site and replace it with the new mansion . The house has a revolutionary jacking system which can lift the property up in the case of flooding . The £4million luxury mansion will have stunning views of the Isle of Wight and is at the edge of the New Forest . Mr Ratcliffe bought the site in 2005 and has had several previous planning applications rejected. According to the plans, the house would only be visible from yachts on the Solent. His neighbours include Dire Straits lead singer Mark Knopfler and the band's bass guitarist John Illsley who live either side of the planned development. Graham Baker of the New Forest Association told the Times: 'Mr Ratcliffe bough a beach house, a small cheaply built occasional dwelling. He wants to erect a mansion in its place.' Mr Baker claimed the planned jacking system is not sufficiently unique to allow planners to grant the house permission. However, neighbour Frank Woodward, 89,

Summary: Jim Ratcliffe is the founder and chairman of chemical giant Ineos . The Swiss-based billionaire said the house would be his only UK home . The house features several revolutionary energy saving measures . The home's heating and hot water systems all use renewable energy .


Lazio coach Stefano Pioli is excited about the enthusiasm in his squad but has told his players to keep their feet on the ground ahead of Sunday's home game against Empoli. The Biancoceleste are riding a seven-game winning streak in Serie A and won 1-0 at Napoli on Wednesday to reach their eighth Coppa Italia final. Senad Lulic's late goal gave Lazio a 2-1 aggregate win and set up a meeting with Juventus in the final on June 7 in Rome. Lazio manager Stefano Pioli expressed his pride in his squad but said there is still a lot of work to be done . Lazio's Senad Lulic (right) scores a late winner against Napoli to secure a place in the Coppa Italia final . The Biancoceleste players celebrate reaching the club's eighth Coppa Italia final on Wednesday evening . 'My team handed in a great performance at Napoli and it wasn't easy to win there,' Pioli said to the Italian press. 'I have fantastic players, who are united and willing to make sacrifices for the good of the team. 'We have achieved an important objective in reaching the final but we have won nothing yet. 'Compliments are lovely, but we are only halfway there.' The Biancoceleste won 3-1 at Cagliari last weekend to remain third in the standings. The top three sides at the end of the season will qualify for the Champions League. Lazio are one point adrift of city rivals Roma with nine games remaining. Arsenal and Liverpool target Felipe Anderson (centre) tussles for the ball with Napoli's Walter Gargano . Felipe Anderson (right) was watched by Manchester United representatives during Wednesday's semi-final . 'We want to continue our good run in Serie A,' Pioli said. 'We want to aim for the maximum this season and that is to win every single game.' Pioli will have to make some changes to the side with defender Dusan Basta and midfielder Mauricio both suspended, while goalkeeper Federico Marchetti will miss this weekend's game after fracturing his nose in midweek. Etrit Berisha will replace Marchetti in goal. Empoli travel to the Italian capital looking to clinch only their second win on the road this season. The Tuscan outfit fell 2-0 at Juventus on Saturday to see their eight-match unbeaten run halted. Empoli, coached by Maurizio Sarri, are 14th in the standings, 11 points clear of the drop zone. Sarri will have all of his players available, with the exception of injured striker Simone Verdi.

Summary: Stefano Pioli is enjoying the success but remains focused on results . Pioli's men reached their eighth Coppa Italia final with a win over Napoli . Third-placed Lazio are a point behind Roma in second with nine Serie A games remaining .


Items on sale in Poundland are sometimes up to 50 per cent more expensive than those sold in supermarkets, new research has shown. The budget retailer last week announced that sales exceed £1billion for the first time last year becoming Europe's largest single-price discount retailer. The company's success has been put down to shoppers hunting bargains and taking sales away from Britain's four big supermarkets, Asda, Tesco, Sainsburys and Morrisons. Scroll down for video . New research has found that certain items on sale at Poundland, pictured, are up to 50 per cent more expensive than those sold in supermarkets . But according to research in the Sunday Times, shoppers in Poundland are being charged more per unit of certain products compared with bigger retailers. The research points out that at Poundland shoppers can buy a 250g box of Kellogs Cornflakes for £1, while at Tesco they can buy a 750g box of the cereal for the same price. A bag of Galaxy Minstrels with a weight of 105g also costs £1 in the shop but a bigger bag at at 153g can be purchased in Asda for 98p. Equally two pints of mile cost £1 in Poundland, but shoppers can get four pints in Asda for 89p. Also a pack of six Tunnocks Tea Cakes is 81p in Tesco, compared to £1 in the budget brand. Originally founded by entrepreneur Steve Smith in 1990, the company snowballed from a small private enterprise into a High Street revolution, which involves buying up unwanted stock and end-of-lines, then swiftly getting them into the shops to sell cheaply. However, the research does point out that there are still many products cheaper at Poundland compared to other supermarkets. These include a Fray Bentos steak and kidney pie, which is £2.20 in Sainsbury's and a 24 pack of Jaffa Cakes, which are £2.29 in Tesco. However, a spokesman for Poundland told the newspaper: 'We conduct price surveys every two weeks against the supermarkets and we believe we are 40% cheaper or more against 1,000 branded products. Comparing either supermarket promotions or larger pack sizes with our prices is not a meaningful comparison. Poundland has snowballed from a small private enterprise into a High Street revolution, which involves buying up unwanted stock and end-of-lines (file picture) 'Promotions are temporary and with larger pack sizes you have to spend much more to get any better value. On a like-for-like comparison Poundland’s value, across our whole range, is compelling.' The company's discounting strategy has since been adopted by bargain chains such as Aldi and Lidl, all of which have eaten into a market once dominated by the supermarket chains such as Waitrose, Tesco and Sainsbury's. Back then, shoppers were beginning to desert the High Street for superstores, but Mr Smith and his Poundland chain - which he sold in 2000 for £50million - were a lifeline that helped keep it afloat. Poundland said it had opened 60 new stores in the UK and Ireland and had a strong pipeline of openings for the new year. Meanwhile the retailer warned

Summary: Certain products at retailer are more expensive per unit than supermarkets . Comes as Poundland announced sales exceed £1bn for first time last year . Company's success has been put down to shoppers hunting for bargains .


A sickening propaganda image linked to the Islamic State terrorist group has surfaced showing a newborn baby sleeping next to a grenade, a handgun and what appears to be a birth certificate. The image, which has not been verified, was re-posted to Twitter on Sunday by an anti-ISIS activist in Syria with the warning: 'This child will be risk to you not just to us'. Abu Ward Al-Raqqawi, a self proclaimed 'founder of the Syrian revolution,' believes the chilling image was released to radicalise the next generation of jihadis. Terror experts have revealed to Daily Mail Australia the snapshot is a showcase of the groups supposed longevity, as well as a compelling window into life within their self-declared caliphate. Scroll down for video . The sickening image of a newborn baby pictured next to a handgun, grenade and Islamic State birth certificate . The post says the newborn child is called ‘Jrah’, while its mothers name is ‘Om’ and its fathers name is ‘Abu.’ It also claims the certificate next to the baby is an 'ISIS issued ID for a child.' The image was believed to be posted by Abu Ward Al-Raqqawi in the hope of garnering attention to the international threat posed by ISIS. The image has yet to be verified but it bears strong similarities to earlier ISIS propaganda. Last September, a harrowing image was released by the group of a baby dressed as a fighter lying on an Islamic state flag beside grenades and enormous automatic firearms. In August, notorious Australian terrorist Khaled Sharrouf posted a Twitter image of his seven-year-old son gripping the severed head of a Syrian soldier, with the accompanying caption 'that's my boy!' The chilling snapshot was re-posted by anti-Islamic State activists in hopes of garnering international attention to the threat posed by the depraved militant group . The image bears a strong resemblance to earlier ISIS propaganda, such as this image of a baby lying on an ISIS flag surrounded by weapons . Australian National University terrorism expert Dr Clarke Jones told Daily Mail Australia the image appears to be authentic. ‘By showing the birth certificate, and the fact that the group are indoctrinating babies, I think ISIS are indicating they will be around for a long time.’ ‘It’s an interesting signal of life within the caliphate. Obviously by posting opposition to the Islamic State from within their borders the activist is operating with great risk.’ Jones said the post could be an international plea for military intervention on account of the rapid deterioration of life in Raqqa, the stronghold of the Islamic State. In August, notorious Australian terrorist Khaled Sharrouf released this image of his seven-year-old son holding a severed head . ISIS has made it a policy to groom children to take part in jihad, brainwashing them from a very young age. Online propaganda is an integral part of this process, with the group using scores of social media accounts to disseminate their messages to youths around the world. In February, Australia's Attorney-General George Brandis announced an $18 million initiative to battle

Summary: It was posted to Twitter on Sunday by an anti-Islamic State activist in Syria . It is believed to be the latest chapter in the group's propaganda campaign . It follows a series of shocking posts of young boys being radicalised . The terror group grooms children to take part in jihad from a young age .


With just a bird, a gas lamp and a net, each morning, fisherman in China keep a special, thousand year old tradition alive. Sailing peacefully across a river, the men fish without the aid of a rod with this unusual method, which was first practiced in 960 AD. The men, pictured in southern China, release a cormorant bird, which then dives into the water and retrieves a carp, returning it to the fisherman's reed raft. With just a bird, a gas lamp and a net, each morning, fishermen in China keep a special, thousand year old tradition alive . The stunning images were captured on the River Li in Guilin, China, by a Russian photographer called Viktoriia Rogotneva. The 45-year-old, from St Petersburg, was captivated upon visiting the fishermen in the town. 'Every fishermen has a reed raft, a few trained cormorants and a small source of light - usually a kerosene lamp,' he said. 'In the morning the fishermen go to the river and let the cormorants go. The birds are very hungry and dive into the water to catch big carp.' Sailing peacefully across the river, the men men fish without the aid of a rod with this unusual method, first practiced in 960 AD . A man releases a cormorant bird, which then dives into the water and retrieves a carp, returning it to the fisherman's reed raft . The fishermen quite literally just take the carp right out of the bird's mouth after the hungry animals return with their haul . These breathtaking early morning images were captured by 45-year-old Viktoriaa Rogotneva from St Petersburg, Russia . 'The cormorants then return to the surface of the water, and the fishermen take the fish right out the bird's beak,' Rogotneva added. The elderly fishermen of Guiliin spend between two and three hours on the lake each every morning, and while cormorant fishing only produces about 4kg of carp per day, the men are determined to keep this special practice alive. To control the birds, the fishermen tie a ring near the base of the bird's throat, which prevents them from swallowing any large fish, but allows them to eat smaller fish with no discomfort. The images were all shot on the River Li in Guilin, China, which is in the southern part of the country . Heading out in the dawn's light, each man is equipped only with a reed raft, a few trained cormorants and a small kerosene light source . The elderly fishermen spend anywhere between two to three hours per day on the lake, despite the low yields from cormorant fishing . On average, the men will only produce about 4kg of carp per day, but are still determined to keep this beautiful practice alive = . This fishermen bring up the birds from when they are tiny chicks, so the cormorant is more of a pet than a hunter . This way of fishing is 'absolutely ecologically safe,' says Rogotneva, who insists that the fishermen catch only as much as they need . Rogotneva said:

Summary: Elderly fishermen in Guilin, China, keep the unusual, ancient tradition of cormorant bird fishing alive . The bird, which they have often raised from a chick, dives into the water and retrieves a carp for its owner . This is an ecologically safe way of fishing, as the birds are not harmed and the men only catch what they need .


South Sydney hooker Issac Luke is at the centre of a homophobic accusation after posting an offensive comment on social media in response to attacks from Canterbury Bulldogs fans. The 27-year-old had made a heartfelt appeal on his official Instagram account on Saturday in a bid to track down the young Rabbitohs fan who was allegedly attacked at ANZ Stadium in Sydney. The rugby league player had intended to donate a jersey ahead of the Easter long weekend as a gesture to make up for the incident that left the boy hospitalised after the controversial clash. But the good Samaritan is now under investigation by the NRL integrity unit over an alleged homophobic slur after Luke hit back to the taunts, saying: 'get off my page you lil poofters'. South Sydney star Issac Luke will be investigated by the NRL after posting a homophobic slur on Instagram . The 27-year-old posted an offensive remark in response to to attacks from Bulldogs fans on Instagram . 'This is about a kid your fans knocked out. Well now two kids Yous [sic] dropped. We train at Redfern come down and see if you fellas are still carrying on #rulesarerules even though it was a hard penalty to take,' the post continued. 'I bet yous [sic] would've done the same had we done it to one of your players. Or we would've have even had u gooses commenting had it happened earlier on in the game. Now get off my page.' The comment prompted an immediate backlash on social media with some labelling the response 'grubby' and 'disappointing'. One Twitter user questioned: 'I'm assuming Issac Luke is one of those players the kids should be looking up to right?' Another person wrote: 'You are grubby homophobic thug and I hope you get rubbed out of our game.' The South Sydney hooker had intended to donate a jersey to the injured young fan who was allegedly attacked . Luke was forced to leave the field after sustaining a head knock during the round five NRL match between the Canterbury Bulldogs and the South Sydney Rabbitohs at ANZ Stadium on Friday night . However, many others have defended Luke's comment, with one person saying: 'Gutless cowards trying to get you cause your [sic] a big star I know the homophobic slur wasn't intentional you've got my support.' And another posted: 'Lovely gesture. What we are proud of our players and will always cheer loud and proud for you all.' But Luke's comment was quickly removed and he has since apologised for his offensive remark. 'I just want to apologise for what I said to fans,' he posted. 'I was very worried and my emotion got the better of me I didn't meant to offend anyone. Just tip me up if I'm being sill peeps [sic].' The comment prompted an immediate backlash on social media with some labelling the response 'grubby' Along with his apology, Luke confirmed that he has managed to find two young people who were involved in the alleged attack. The NRL has issued a

Summary: Souths hooker Issac Luke has become embroiled in a social media storm . The 27-year-old had posted a heartfelt appeal to find a young injured fan . But he was taunted by Bulldog fans on Instagram over his posts . He lashed out at them, calling them 'lil poofters' on Saturday . The offensive comment prompted an immediate social media backlash . The post was immediately deleted and Luke has since apologised . The Rabbitohs star is now under investigation by the NRL integrity unit . It comes after Souths sealed a bitter win over the Bulldogs on Friday .