John Carver has hit back at former Newcastle captain Michael Owen after he said they would lose every remaining match this season. The pundit has claimed his old club would be relegated if there were 10 games left to play instead of just five. The Magpies will set a new club record of seven straight Premier League defeats should they be beaten at home by Swansea. Newcastle manager John Carver is not happy with recent criticism aimed at his struggling side . Carver has been left with a sour taste in his mouth following Michael Owen's recent relegation jibe . Michael Owen captained the Newcastle side which was relegated to the Championship in 2009 . Newcastle are seven points off the relegation zone . Owen has been joined by the likes of Phil Neville and Sportsmail’s Jamie Carragher in criticising both the team and the lack of ambition at the club, whose supporters will again protest against owner Mike Ashley. But Carver says he does not listen to those who have never tried management, including Owen, who was relegated with Newcastle in 2009. ‘I could be nasty about Michael because let’s not forget what happened when he was here,’ said Carver. ‘But listen, I don’t have a problem with anyone having an opinion. Where I have the problem is with people who have never been in this situation - never been in my situation now. ‘They have never had to sit here and pick a team when you have got so many injuries, suspensions, or dealing with situations on the training ground or something from left field that you think, "Where’s that come from?”.’ He added: ‘Let’s not start a war here because I accept that the likes of Michael Owen and Jamie Carragher have played hundreds of Premier League football matches and I haven’t. I understand that. ‘But sometimes there has to be a little bit of sympathy with the people doing this job. When you have never gone in and put your foot in the water and tested it, then it is a little different. ‘There are a lot of people out there who don’t do it because they can’t do it. ‘It’s easy talking with a tactics board and dobbers, but all of a sudden in this position you have to make a decision because your back four is not high enough and someone is causing you problems because of it. If you don’t see that during a game then you have a problem. People don’t see that.’ Carver, though, does have time for the likes of Graeme Souness and Peter Reid, the former managers of Newcastle and Sunderland respectively. ‘I never listened to Graeme when I was academy director here but what I will say is that he talks an awful lot of sense on the TV,’ said United’s head coach. ‘And when I see someone like Peter Reid on TV, who has been in this situation and has managed in this region, he understands what it feels like. I respect what he says.’ Newcastle ace Siem de

Summary: Michael Owen said Newcastle would be relegated if there were 10 games left to play in the Premier League . John Carver's Newcastle side have lost their last six straight league games . Phil Neville and Sportsmail's Jamie Carragher have also criticised the club . Carver believes such pundits do not know the ins and outs of management .


The study's lead researcher said the results are a 'surprise', but it's no excuse to pile on the pounds . For years we have been told that the first step to staying healthy is to keep to a healthy weight - that means making sure your Body Mass Index (BMI) is within the normal range of 18 to 24. Few people are advised to gain weight, unless their BMI is below 18, but could that change? A study published last week suggests that overweight people are less likely to develop dementia. The researchers, drawn mostly from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, analysed the medical records of nearly two million people for up to ten years and found that those who were overweight (with a BMI of 25 to 29) had an 18 per cent lower risk of dementia compared to those with a healthy BMI. Remarkably the obese (with a BMI of 30 plus) did even better; they were 24 per cent less likely to develop dementia. Being underweight increased the dementia risk by 39 per cent. Dr Nawab Qizilbash, a clinical epidemiologist and the lead researcher, called the results a 'surprise', but said it was no excuse to pile on the pounds: 'This is a robust and reliable study that opens up an avenue in the search for factors that protect against Alzheimer's.' But these results are not that extraordinary. Three years ago, an even larger study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, reported that overweight people tended to live longer than those of normal weight. The study analysed 100 trials involving three million people. It found that being overweight (a BMI between 25 and 29) reduced the risk of premature death by six per cent compared with someone of a normal BMI. More surprising was that even if someone was at the lower end of obese (BMI of 30 to 34.5) their risk of premature death didn't go up. Being obese started to reduce lifespan only when your BMI went above 35 - here the risk of dying earlier climbed to 29 per cent greater than those with a normal BMI, according to the study, headed by Dr Katherine Flegal, of the U.S. government Centres for Disease Control. So could being cuddly fat, rather than hugely overweight, protect you against dying early? Being overweight (a BMI between 25 and 29) reduced the risk of premature death by six per cent . Professor David Haslam, a GP and chairman of the National Obesity Forum, says something called the obesity paradox is at work: 'Obesity increases your chances of developing disorders such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes but once you've fallen ill, being a bit overweight seems to have a protective effect. 'The obesity paradox had been called 'surreal and unsettling', but it does seem to be real. We need to understand it.' Malcolm Kendrick, a GP and author with an interest in obesity, claimed in his recent book Doctoring Data that being overweight was beneficial. He is suspicious of the word 'paradox' when

Summary: A study suggests overweight people are less likely to develop dementia . Those who had a BMI of 25 to 29 had an 18 per cent lower risk . Having more fat when you fall ill is associated with better recovery . Remarkably the obese (with a BMI of 30 plus) did even better .


England World Cup winner Jason Robinson has revealed he once contemplated suicide during a troubled period of his career in which he was arrested for violent offences. Speaking in the documentary Jason Robinson: Sports Life Stories, which will be broadcast on ITV4 at 10pm on Tuesday, the 40-year-old former dual-code international admitted he had been a heavy drinker during his early days at rugby league club Wigan, which almost led to his downfall. Robinson, who scored for England in the 2003 World Cup final victory against Australia, said: 'I got into a situation where I was drinking sometimes six nights a week. Former England ace Jason Robinson, pictured in 2007, has revealed he contemplated committed suicide . Robinson played a key role in England's 2003 World Cup win against Australia in Sydney . 'Monday it was Wakefield, 10 pence a pint night. Tuesday I would be over to Liverpool, Wednesday it would be Oldham. Thursday it would be Wigan. And after the game we would go out wherever.' However, it was his arrest for affray, assault and criminal damage which left him considering an attempt on his own life and he credits then team-mate and Samoa star Va'aiga Tuigamala with turning things around. 'I can remember I just sat in my bedroom with an old knife, an old meat cleaver,' he recalled. 'I didn't want life to go on in this way. That night when I contemplated doing it, I wept like a baby. 'Had it not been for him (Tuigamala), coming into the environment I was in and putting a different slant on it, I certainly wouldn't have the hope that I've got now. And hope is something that people can't take away.' Former team-mate Va'aiga Tuigamala (right) convinced Robinson out of committing suicide . Robinson, pictured with Ben Cohen, has said 'nothing will compare to winning the World Cup in Australia' Robinson, who enjoyed immense success before switching codes in 2000, also looks back on England's World Cup win as the pinnacle of his 20-year playing career. 'When you look at the emotion on those players' faces, it was the reality and the relief that we have just won a World Cup,' he said. 'And I will never forget that. Jumping on Will Greenwood's back. Hugging Lawrence Dallaglio. All the hard work. Everything we've done has been for this moment. 'Nothing will ever compare to winning the World Cup, and especially in the backyard of Australia.'

Summary: World Cup winner Jason Robinson came close to committing suicide . Robinson spiralled out of control after drinking six nights a week . The former rugby ace was arrested for affray, assault and criminal damage . Samoa star Va'aiga Tuigamala talked Robinson out of suicide .


Pusok sported a black eye in his booking photo after the beating . A California county on Tuesday approved paying a $650,000 settlement to avoid a lawsuit by a man whose beating by deputies after a horse chase was captured on video. San Bernardino County spokesman David Wert said county supervisors approved the settlement with 30-year-old Francis Pusok in a closed meeting. Pusok's arrest was recorded by a TV news helicopter and has led to an FBI civil rights investigation and 10 deputies being placed on leave pending an internal probe. Wert says the agreement would settle all potential claims from Pusok's April 9 arrest. A message seeking comment was left for Pusok's lawyer. In an interview with NBC 4, Pusok revealed that he had been handcuffed for '99 per cent' of the beating and that near the end of the scarring experience a deputy whispered into his ear: 'This isn't over.' When San Bernardino County Sheriff's deputies arrived at Pusok's house, he said he fled 'because any contact with police has been negative for me'. As the chase was coming to a close about two and a half hours later, video shows Pusok falling to the ground as he is hit with a taser and two deputies approach. A California county has approved a $650,000 settlement to avoid a lawsuit from Pusok after his beating by deputies after a horse chase was captured on video . Pusok's arrest was recorded by a TV news helicopter and led to an FBI civil rights investigation and 10 deputies being placed on leave pending an internal probe . The officers then start to assault Pusok, and later claimed that his taser had been ineffective due to his loose clothing - even though Pusok is clearly seen convulsing from the electric shock in the helicopter footage. Pusok estimates that within 15 seconds of the first taser hit, the cops had him in handcuffs but says they continued to assault him and yelled 'stop resisting' even though he was laying face down on the ground. He says the officers went on to tase him two more times after he was in handcuffs. Pusok remembers the cops 'hitting me every place that they could hit me - anywhere and everywhere.' 'I thought I was being beaten to death,' said Pusok.. 'I was wondering, "When is it going to stop?"' After the incident, Pusok was arrested on suspicion of evading, stolen property, reckless driving and theft of a horse. He was treated for his injuries while being held at West Valley Detention Center where he was released Sunday night at bail. A court hearing has been scheduled for June 16, but San Bernardino County Prosecutors said Monday that they had not yet made a decision on whether to file formal charges against Pusok. Meanwhile, 10 officers - including a sergeant and a detective - involved in the incident were placed on paid leave as the FBI starts an investigation into whether excessive force was used in the arrest. San Bernardino County Sheriff John McMahon said last week that

Summary: County supervisors approved the settlement with 30-year-old Francis Pusok in a closed meeting . A news helicopter following the chase recorded police Tasering Pusok, putting him in handcuffs and continuing to beat him after he was subdued . The incident has prompted an FBI civil rights investigation . 10 deputies placed on leave pending an internal probe .


Ronnie O'Sullivan found himself in more bother at the Betfred World Championship after making a rude gesture during his second-round match against Matthew Stevens. On the table the five-time world champion enjoyed a successful day, firing two rapid centuries in establishing a 12-4 lead, needing just one more in Monday's closing session to the match to reach the quarter-finals. But O'Sullivan was also spoken to by the referee Olivier Marteel towards the end of the afternoon session - and warned about his behaviour. Ronnie O'Sullivan is spoken to by referee Olivier Marteel in his second round match against Matthew Stevens . O'Sullivan is spoken to by referee Marteel in his second round match against Stevens at the Crucible . Marteel approached O'Sullivan as he walked to the table when Stevens missed a red, telling O'Sullivan he had noticed his hand gesture, which was thought to have been self-directed. O'Sullivan avoided a fine in the first round when he briefly played without shoes after a new pair proved uncomfortable, breaking the rules but not sufficiently to warrant any punishment, after he accepted a substitute pair of size eights, loaned by tournament director Mike Ganley. Stevens reacts to a shot in his match against O'Sullivan during day nine of World Championships . Stevens in action against O'Sullivan in their second round match at the Crucible Theatre . The warning from Marteel could be the end of Sunday's matter. Yet any repeat of the incident would see O'Sullivan docked a frame, a tournament spokesman confirmed. Armed with a 5-3 lead from the opening session, O'Sullivan took the opening two frames on Sunday to pull further in front. The next went against the 39-year-old, but breaks of 110 and 139 in consecutive frames suggested O'Sullivan was in unstoppable form, as sweeping through the subsequent three testified. O'Sullivan in action against Stevens in their second round match at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield . Ali Carter continued to struggle in his match against Australia's Neil Robertson. The 35-year-old from Essex, who trailed 6-2 following Saturday's opening session, won the first frame of the day but lost the next five. A finish with a session to spare was possible when Robertson led 11-3, but Carter took the last two frames of the day to avoid that indignity and trail 11-5 overnight. Earlier, Shaun Murphy left Joe Perry with a mountain to climb as their second-round clash got under way, surging 7-1 in front, while Judd Trump built an early 5-3 lead over Marco Fu.

Summary: Ronnie O'Sullivan is closing in on World Championship quarter-final spot . But, he found himself in a spot of bother with referee Olivier Marteel . O'Sullivan was warned about his behaviour after obscene hand gesture . Five-time world champions needs one more frame to secure progression .


Some 35,000 gathered on the White House South Lawn Monday morning for the 137th annual Easter Egg Roll festivities. Pop band Fifth Harmony and duo MKTO brought music to the event, and Mrs Obama joined the So You Think You Can Dance All Stars on stage taking the spotlight during a choreographed routine. This comes only days after she sported her mom dance moves on the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon during a segment called The Evolution of Mom Dancing Part 2. On Monday, another highlight of the day's festivities was Mr Obama's annual reading of his favorite childhood book Where the Wild Things Are, which he has done since 2009. However, this year there was a disturbance when bees started buzzing near the children gathered for story-time on the South Lawn. Not breaking character, Mr Obama settled the shrieking children by saying: 'If you're a wild thing, you can't be scared of bees!' Moves: The First Lady busts out her best dance moves to join the So You Think You Can Dance All Stars on stage at the Easter Egg Roll . Style: The First Lady took the spotlight during the performance as she added her own flair to the choreographed routine . Uptown Funk: Mrs Obama displays her moves during the routine, only days after she joined Jimmy Fallon on the Tonight Show where she danced in a segment called the Evolution of Mom Dancing Part 2 . GimmeFive: The theme of this year's Easter Egg Roll is 'GimmeFive' which is part of the First Lady's campaign to get people to be more active . This year's theme is #GimmeFive, which is part of Mrs. Obama's campaign to try to get young people to be more active and lead healthier lives. However, President Obama did confess to having a bit of not-so-healthy Easter chocolate when asked by a reporter at the event. 'I had a few, I have to admit,' Mr Obama said. Notably not in attendance were first daughters Sasha, 13, and Malia, 16, Obama. The president said they were occupied by 'a little school stuff going on'. Grrrrr: President Obama reads from the children's classic Where the Wild Things Are during Monday's Easter egg roll on the White House South Lawn . 'Let the wild rumpus start!': Each year, the president reads the book which was a childhood favorite . Be brave: At one point, bees were bothering some of the children gathered to hear the president read, and he refused to break character, saying 'If you're a wild thing, you can't be scared of bees! What a crowd: An estimated 35,000 came to the White House South Lawn Monday for the annual Easter egg roll . Celebrating spring: Above, the scene on the White House's South Lawn Monday morning as the Easter egg roll kicked off . Monday's events included sports and fitness zones, cooking demonstrations, and of course, the traditional egg roll in which kids compete to move their egg to the finish line first using only a wooden spoon. Staying true to the roll's theme,

Summary: President Obama kicked off festivities for annual event Monday morning . Mrs Obama joined So You Think You Can Dance All Stars for routine . White House expected 35,000 to attend the annual tradition . The Easter egg roll dates back to 1878, during Rutherford B Hayes' administration .


Going to any major sporting event these days is a pricey affair. There’s the cost of the ticket, getting to the venue and the all important souvenirs. That’s not to mention keeping fed and watered all day. But it seems patrons at the Masters can get themselves a decent meal for a reasonable price. You can get a taste of the south with a Bar-B-Que or Classic Chicken sandwich for $3 — which is about £2.05. The Masters is one few sporting events which offers food at reasonable prices for its punters . Shot of the day . Lee Westwood nearly got off to the perfect start with a stunning shot at the par-five second. After a perfect tee shot, he pinged a fairway wood 280 yards onto the green. It trickled towards the hole and looked to be heading in for an albatross, but it lipped out at the last moment. It was a high point for Westwood, though, who then made five bogeys in his next nine holes. New practice routine Padraig? Padraig Harrington has enjoyed a resurgence of form in recent months and the secret of his success could be down to his unusual practice technique. The Irishman was spotted on the driving range at Augusta with a rubber band wrapped around his knees and standing well away from the ball (1). He then takes a run-up at the ball (2), not dissimilar to that of Happy Gilmore — a character from a comedy film whose own run-up technique would see him regularly drive the ball more than 400 yards. Harrington’s might not travel quite as far, but the drill obviously helps him keep his form and balance nicely (3). Gary's still a player . At 79, and with a career grand slam behind him, you might forgive Gary Player for putting his feet up. But the South African is fit as a flea. After joining Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer as an honorary starter, he tweeted: . Time for a Texas takeover? Jordan Spieth has been the star and if the Dallas native wins from here, he would claim Texas’s 13th green jacket, more than any other US state. Same old for Sergio . After a 68 on day one, a 74 in his second round was a disappointment for Sergio Garcia. He tweeted: . Lost and found . Tiger Woods might have lost a touch of his genius in recent years, but he won’t be losing his putter any time soon — he has his name inscribed on it. And his precise practice sessions were clearly paying off as he finished with a 69, a four-shot improvement on round one. Tiger Woods has his name inscribed on his putter and will hope it brings him luck going into the weekend . 1.39 . Despite his best efforts, Woods could not match the white-hot putting of Jordan Spieth. The 21-year-old has averaged 1.39 putts per hole, the best in the field.

Summary: Patrons at the Masters can get themselves a decent meal for a reasonable price . Lee Westwood nearly got off to the perfect start with a stunning shot at the par-five second . Padraig Harrington has enjoyed a resurgence of form in recent months and the secret of his success could be down to his unusual practice technique .


A series of images showing the heartbreak, brutality and horror of the Ebola virus as it tore through West African communities has taken the top prize at the world's largest international photography competition. American John Moore's poignant photographs of the outbreak in Liberia were praised by the judges for compassionately illustrating how people's daily lives were destroyed and families decimated by the deadly disease. The Sony World Photography Award winners were announced at a gala in London last night, where Mr Moore's images were named the best from a group of first place winners in categories that included architecture, arts and culture, conceptual, contemporary and landscapes. Omu Fahnbulleh stands over her husband Ibrahim after he fell and died in a classroom used for Ebola patients in Liberia last year . Another of John Moore's award-winning images shows a Doctors Without Borders health worker carrying a child suspected of having Ebola at a treatment centre. Although the little girl and her mother showed symptoms of the virus, they survived and were released a week later . A burial team from the Liberian Red Cross sprays disinfectant over the body of a woman suspected of dying from the deadly disease . A despairing woman crawls towards the body of her sister as burial team members carry her from the site of her death. Mr Moore's images earned him the top gong, as well as first place in the Current Affairs category . Photographer John Moore, who is based in New York, receives his award on stage at the awards gala held in London last night . Other photo projects submitted for consideration included children playing football in one of Argentina's most dangerous slums, a stunning image of a starry Malaysian night sky, and pictures of people living in the inhospitable industrial outskirts of St Petersburg, Russia. In winning the Photographer of the Year award, Mr Moore - who operates as a special correspondent for Getty Images - received a $25,000 prize and hi-tech Sony photography equipment. The judging panel said: 'It is his spirit in the face of such horror that garners praise. His images are intimate and respectful, moving us with their bravery and journalistic integrity. 'It is a fine and difficult line between images that exploit such a situation, and those that convey the same with heart, compassion and understanding, which this photographer has achieved with unerring skill. 'Combine this with an eye for powerful composition and cogent visual narrative, and good documentary photography becomes great.' Based in New York, Mr Moore has photographed in more than 70 countries and has won numerous accolades for his previous work. This year's awards attracted a record-breaking number of entries, with 173,444 images submitted from 171 countries. Yong Lin Tan won the competition's youth award for this stunning image, which was taken in the back alley of the photographer’s grandmother’s house in Kedah, Malaysia . Sebastian Gil Miranda, from France, received special praise for his images showing youngsters playing football in Jose Leon Suarez, Buenos Aires - one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Argentina

Summary: Getty Images photographer John Moore received the industry's top gong last night for his incredible photographs . His pictures show the horror and heartbreak of the deadly Ebola virus as it ravaged West Africa last year . The expert judging panel said his photographs conveyed the situation with 'heart, compassion and understanding' He was named the winner from group of 13 photographers across categories that included landscapes and culture .


A cat who had been stuck in a wall at a Cairo train station for five years has been freed at last. Biso had squeezed into the hole in the wall at the Mohamed Naguib metro station as a kitten in 2010 - but then soon became to big to escape. He survived thanks to an elderly man named Uncle Abdo, who gave the trapped cat water and fed him scraps of food every day. Scroll down for video . Biso the cat, who was stuck behind a wall in a Cairo train station for five years, has finally been freed . The cat survived thanks to an elderly man called Uncle Abdo who fed him scraps of food every day . Now, the feline in finally free thanks to a social media campaign, according to the Cairo Post. Animal rights activist Mounira Shehata told the newspaper the smell when the wall was removed was 'heinous'. She said: 'It was like a tomb. There were black worms along four meters of the edge, where Uncle Abdo was able to put in food for Biso.' Uncle Abdo, who named the cat, said Biso would regularly hide from bigger cats in the hole, but one day, squeezed inside and was not able to come out again. He added that workers had tried to rescue the cat years ago, but a scared Biso had stayed behind the wall. And Uncle Abdo even visited the station to feed Biso during the revolution in Egypt in 2011, when most stores, including his own, were closed. Uncle Abdo even came to feed Biso during the the revolution in Egypt in 2011, when his shop was closed . 'I do it for God. What is for God does not go away,' he told Masr al-Arabia. Biso's plight came to the attention of animal activists after a picture of the cat's tail hanging from behind the wall was posted on Facebook last month. A caption explained that the wall could not be broken to free the animal because it would be considered damage to public property. The picture caught the attention of Ms Shehata and her fellow animal rights activists Marwa Elgebaly and Rania el-Kordy - who all decided to go save the cat on March 12. Staff at the station told the trio they would need to return a couple of days later, when a maintenance official would be able to help. And after Dina Zulfikar, an animal rights worker, filed a report at the Abdeen police station March 13, officers arrived at the metro station. Biso's plight came to the attention of animal activists after a picture of his tail was posted on Facebook . But the terrified cat quickly ran off after his rescue from behind the wall at the Mohamed Naguib metro station . They told the head of Mohamed Naguib metro station, in downtown Cairo, of the prosecution order to rescue Biso. Workers were brought in to help - and the rescue mission took more than five hours. The terrified cat only emerged from the

Summary: The cat was trapped behind the wall at Mohamed Naguib metro station . He survived thanks to a man Uncle Abdo, who owns a shop outside station . Uncle Abdo gave Biso water and fed him scraps through hole every day . Thanks to a social media campaign, Biso the cat is now finally free .


SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon today hit back at claims from Tory former Prime Minister Sir John Major that she poses a 'real and present danger' to the UK. In a speech today, Sir John claimed the SNP would use any power they wield in Westminster after the election to foster division and further their dream of the break up of the 300-year-old Union. And he mocked Ms Sturgeon over her demand to play a role in propping up a Labour government, when she is 'not even bothering' to stand as an MP herself. Scroll down for video . SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon was mocked by ex-PM Sir John Major over her demand to play a role in proper up a Labour government, when she is 'not even bothering' to stand as an MP herself . Sir John said that he had repeatedly warned in the 1990s that devolution to Scotland would make independence more, not less, likely. Labour had argued it would 'kill independence stone dead' but instead it 'fanned the flame' which lead to the referendum which left the Union 'battered' but intact. 'Now, it is at risk again,' he said. Labour's only route back to power is in hock to smaller, left wing parties, he said, leading to 'more borrowing, more spending, an end to welfare reform, and far more people dragged into higher tax brackets'. Welsh nationalists Plaid Cymru would demand more money for Wales while the 'worthy' Green party's economic plan is 'a recipe for economic self-harm'. He warned of 'mayhem' if the SNP holds the balance of power, with a weak Labour government open to a 'daily dose of blackmail' to secure the support of the nationalists in Commons votes. The SNP would use its role in Westminster to bolster support ahead of next year's Scottish Parliament elections, when it will put independence back on the agenda, Sir John said. The Tories hope to capitalise on a damning poll which shows more than half of British voters want Ms Sturgeon and her party to play no part in the next government. 'The SNP is a real and present danger to our future,' Sir John said. 'They will pit Scotland against England. That could be disastrous to the people of Scotland – and fatal to the UK as a whole.' But Ms Sturgeon branded his comments 'an affront to democracy'. Addressing the Scottish Trades Union Congress in Ayr, she said that SNP MPs at Westminster could 'vigorously and loudly' support a future Labour government in some areas. The SNP leader added: 'John Major's comments are silly, over the top and frankly they don't show him in a particularly good light. 'I want the SNP to go to Westminster to make Scotland's voice heard and also to be a voice for better politics, for the kind of politics that stands in opposition to Tory policies of austerity and undermining public services and pushing more people into poverty. 'I can understand why that message of standing up for ordinary people not just in Scotland but across the UK might offend

Summary: Former Tory PM warns SNP would use role in government to breakup UK . SNP leader accuses him of being 'silly and over the top' in speech . Polls suggest SNP will prop up a Labour minority government .


Chelsea have opened talks with Patrick Bamford over an improved contract following his stunning loan spell at Middlesbrough. Bamford, 21, scored one and made one in Boro’s 2-1 victory over play-off rivals Wolves on Tuesday evening. The Chelsea youngster is on loan at Middlesbrough for the season and has scored 17 goals in their push for promotion from the SkyBet Championship. Patrick Bamford (centre), celebrating with Tamas Kalas, is in talks with parent club Chelsea over a new deal . Bamford scored in Middlesbrough's surprise FA Cup win over Manchester City in January . Chelsea have opened talks over the possibility of tying English starlet Bamford down to a new long-term deal . Bamford, who began his career with Nottingham Forest, currently earns £7,500 a week, but Chelsea will significantly improve on that as part of his new package. He has just over a year left on his deal at Stamford Bridge and Chelsea are keen to tie him down to a new contract. Bamford has impressed the Chelsea hierarchy during loan spells at MK Dons, Derby and current side Middlesbrough. Boro boss Aitor Karanka will be hoping Bamford can inspire his side to promotion during the final three games of the Championship campaign. The Riverside Stadium outfit take on promotion rivals Norwich on Friday evening before facing Fulham and Brighton. Bamford enjoyed two separate loan spells at MK Dons before spending the second half of last season at Derby .

Summary: Chelsea loanee Patrick Bamford continued good form with goal vs Wolves . Young striker has hit 17 goals on loan at Middlesbrough this season . Parent side Chelsea are keen to tie him to a new long-term deal . His current deal at Stamford Bridge expires next summer . READ: Will Chelsea EVER bring through English players?


Chris Smalling has signed a three-year contract extension at Manchester United worth in the region of £80,000-a-week after turning his career around at Old Trafford. The 25-year-old England centre-back had been linked with a move to Arsenal after struggling to hold down a first-team place at United and being branded ‘stupid’ by manager Louis van Gaal for his sending-off in the Manchester derby at the Etihad earlier this season. Smalling was also guilty of several off-the-field indiscretions, including being pictured going to a fancy-dress party as a suicide bomber last year. Chris Smalling (left) signs his new Manchester United contract alongside club boss Louis van Gaal . Smalling celebrates scoring United's fourth goal during their 4-2 Premier League win against Manchester City . But the defender has matured under Van Gaal and become a regular starter in the Dutchman’s team this season. He was due to be out of contract next summer but has now committed himself to United until 2019. Van Gaal said: ‘I am delighted he has signed a new contract. Chris has improved and developed immensely during the short time that I have been at the club and has become an integral part of the first-team squad. ‘He always conducts himself in a very professional manner and it is also pleasing that he has scored some important goals this season too.’ Smalling, who cost United £10million from Fulham in 2010, has made 147 appearances and won two Premier League titles. Four of his nine goals for the club have come this season, including one in the Old Trafford derby earlier this month as United beat City 4-2. The 25-year-old has become a regular for Van Gaal after struggling for a first time place earlier this season . He said: ‘I am so proud to play for such a great club. We have developed as a team over the course of the season under Louis van Gaal and we are now playing as a complete unit. ‘This is a very exciting time to be at Manchester United. We are all determined to get back to where we belong and competing at the highest level.’ Smalling has established himself as a permanent member of England's squad during the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign and that boils down to his vast improvement under Van Gaal. Smalling shakes hands with Dutch boss Van Gaal after signing his new long-term deal . Smalling has made 147 appearances for United and won two Premier League titles along the way . With a top four finish and Champions League qualification close to being secured, the 25-year-old can look forward to more European adventures as his development continues. After the disappointment of last season, Van Gaal has instilled a level of confidence into his players and Smalling has thrived under his tenure since the turn of the year. The former Fulham man is keeping big summer signing Marcos Rojo out of the side at and that's testament to his improvements after a difficult start to the season. Smalling is expected to keep his place in United's starting eleven

Summary: Chris Smalling agrees new long-term Manchester United contract . The deal is believed to worth around £80,000 a week . 25-year-old has become a regular starter under Louis van Gaal . Van Gaal reveals he's 'delighted' that Smalling has penned a new deal .


A Ukip candidate was forced to apology after he appeared to mock the victims of the Mediterranean refugee crisis – just days after hundreds drowned. Peter Endean, who is standing for Nigel Farage's party in council elections, re-tweeted an image with a caption that said: 'Labour's new floating voters. Coming to a country near you soon'. Around 1,300 people are believed to have drowned in the past two weeks while trying to reach Europe in make-shift boats launched by people smugglers from Libya – with up to 950 perishing off the Italian island of Lampedusa over the weekend alone. Peter Endean has apologised for retweeting a message mocking victims of the Mediterranean refugee crisis . Mr Endean, who is seeking election in Plymouth, Devon, and is also UKIP's communications manager for the city, has apologise and claims he re-tweeted it by mistake. He said: 'I retweeted it by accident. It was not intentional and clearly a mistake. I apologise unreservedly.' Earlier, Ukip's deputy chair Suzanne Evans described the situation as a 'devastating tragedy', but insisted Britain needed to be careful not to 'encourage' fleeing refugees from moving to the UK. She said: 'We all want to welcome people here, but as idealistic as we might want to be - and it's in our nature to want to help everybody - you can't, unfortunately. That's the reality of it.' Asked how many refugees Britain should take, Ms Evans replied: 'We have got to be talking thousands rather than tens of thousands.' EU leaders including David Cameron will meet in Brussels on Thursday to discuss a 10-point plan, drawn up in response to growing crisis. Mr Endean, who is standing for Nigel Farage's party in council elections, re-tweeted the above image with a caption that said: 'Labour's new floating voters. Coming to a country near you soon' Mr Endean apologised and claimed he re-tweeted it by mistake. He wrote: 'I retweeted it by accident. It was not intentional and clearly a mistake. I apologise unreservedly' Brussels wants a military mandate to seize and destroy people-smugglers' boats, backed by increased budgets for Frontex, which manages the borders of the 28-nation bloc. It comes after Mr Miliband this morning launched a furious attack on David Cameron and other EU leaders for leaving refugees to drown by stopping search and rescue missions in the Mediterranean. The Labour leader said it was unacceptable to abandon thousands of immigrants boarding makeshift boats in Africa in the hope of making it to Europe. He also called on the UK to take a 'fare share' of refugees fleeing civil war. Around 1,300 people are believed to have drowned in the past two weeks while trying to reach Europe in make-shift boats launched by people smugglers from Libya – with up to 950 perishing off the Italian island of Lampedusa over the weekend alone . EU leaders including David Cameron will meet in Brussels on Thursday to discuss a 10-point plan, drawn up in response to growing crisis - but Ed Miliband said the response had been inadequate . Mr Miliband's remarks

Summary: Peter Endean re-tweeted a message with an image of the fleeing refugees . A caption read: 'Labour's floating voters. Coming to a country near you' It comes just days after up to 950 refugees drowned trying to reach Europe . Mr Endean later apologised 'unreservedly' but insisted it was an accident . The council candidate from Plymouth said it was 'unintentional'


Substitute Eidur Gudjohnsen spared Bolton's blushes with virtually the final kick of the game and denied Blackpool a first away victory in 343 days in a 1-1 draw. Michael Jacobs' ninth-minute opener looked to have given the bottom-of-the-table Seasiders their first success on the road since they beat Wanderers' neighbours Wigan on April 26. But Bolton, who have repeatedly conceded late goals themselves in recent weeks, mustered an equaliser in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Emile Heskey, Neil Danns and Gudjohnsen combined to leave the visitors crestfallen. Blackpool's Michael Jacobs (left) scores against Bolton Wanderers . Bolton: Amos, Vela, Mills, McCarthy, Ream, Danns, Bannan, Feeney (Gudjohnsen 77'), Rochinha (Heskey 46'), Walker (Craig Davies 68'), Le Fondre . Subs not used: Bogdan, Moxey, Dervite, Trotter . Booked: Feeney, Vela . Goals: Gudjohnsen 90' Blackpool: Lewis, Hall, Clarke, O'Dea, Dunne, Cubero, O'Hara, Perkins, Orlandi (Barkhuizen 84'), Madine, Jacobs . Subs not used: Delfouneso, Oliver, Parish, Ferguson, Telford, Samuel . Booked: Clarke, Madine, Lewis . Goals: Jacobs 9' Referee: David Coote . Attendance: 17,076 . It was at this very venue that Blackpool boss Lee Clark pulled off a great escape on the final day of last season at the helm of Birmingham, who scored in the third minute of stoppage time to prevent relegation into the third tier, but this time he was on the wrong end of some late drama. In recent weeks Clark had publicly accepted the Seasiders, who remain 16 points from safety, were doomed but Rotherham's defeat to Blues 24 hours earlier meant they kicked off knowing they would not be relegated at the Macron Stadium. That may have instilled a freedom to Clark's troops and the home crowd were stunned into silence by Jacobs' early opener. He collected a long, direct ball down the right, turned on the afterburners to accelerate away from Josh Vela and Paddy McCarthy and lashed beyond Ben Amos in the Bolton goal. Things could have been worse for the shell-shocked hosts too as Peter Clarke headed straight at Amos and an unmarked Andrea Orlandi glanced over from six yards. Clark's men continued to ask questions, with Jose Miguel Cubero's rising effort deflected narrowly away from the top corner of Amos' net. Bolton Wanderers' Josh Vela and Blackpool's Jamie O'Hara (right) vie for the ball . Tangerines stopper Joe Lewis made a couple of smart stops to deny winger Liam Feeney and centre-back McCarthy but there was a malaise about Bolton's play which Neil Lennon had been so keen to avoid pre-match. In the second half, Amos failed to clear a corner and Clarke leant back and skewed his effort over the top before Jacobs cut in from the left flank and bent a brilliant effort just wide. Lewis had been largely untroubled apart from a routine save from Tom Walker but he was stranded at the other end of his goal when Adam Le Fondre cut the ball across for an onrushing Barry Bannan, who somehow placed his side-footed strike against the outside of the post. Lennon had started with just one

Summary: Substitute Eidur Gudjohnsen scores equaliser for Bolton in stoppage time . Veteran striker netted with virtually the last kick of the game . Michael Jacobs had opened the scoring for Blackpool after nine minutes .


A Wisconsin church's four-decade tradition of people mud-wrestling pigs at a summer fundraiser has been cancelled after complaints the animals were 'punched in the face, body slammed and jumped on'. St Patrick's Parish in Stephensville, Wisconsin said in a statement that the Original Pig Rassle will be replaced this August with a human mud foosball tournament. Global Conservation Group, an animal advocacy group, launched an online petition claiming the tournament was inhumane to the pigs. It garnered more than 81,000 signatures in efforts to cancel the event. Deacon Ken Bilgrien of St Patrick's Parish told Christian Today on Wednesday that the church is moving in a different direction for its 45th annual Roundup, but declined to discuss the controversy surrounding the event. Scroll down for video . St Patrick's Parish in Stephensville, Wisconsin has discontinued its Original Pig Rassle tournament after 44 years of the tradition (above scenes from the event) Global Conservation Group, an animal advocacy group that launched an online petition claiming the tournament was inhumane to the pigs, garnered more than 80,000 signatures in efforts to cancel the event . On August 10, 2014, the church held a 'pig wrestling' event where the animals were 'punched in the face, kicked, body-slammed, yelled at and thrown onto a barrel', according to the Global Conversation Group. 'Wrestling, as a sport, is contested by two human opponents, evenly matched, each of whom enters into the match voluntarily with mutually agreed-upon rules and a common goal,' the group wrote on its website. 'Not so in "matches" like pig wrestling, where frightened animals are unwilling participants exploited by teams of humans for entertainment.' The group also accused the church of being in violation of Wisconsin Chapter 951, Crimes Against Animals, which outlaws cockfighting, dog fighting and any other similar fighting between animals or animals and humans, according to its Change.org page. The church announced in a statement that moving forward the parish's talents could be 'spent in areas that are less controversial'. 'After much prayer and many hours of discussion, we realize that what we had for 44 years in the Original Pig Rassle was memorable, legal and great family fun,' the statement on its website read. The group said during the August 2014 'pig rassle', the pigs were 'punched in the face, kicked, body-slammed, yelled at and thrown onto a barrel' The Wisconsin parish (above) said during its 45th annual Roundup fundraiser this August, the Original Pig Rassle will be replaced with a human mud foosball tournament . Global Conservation Group said they consider the church's decision a victory for their 260-day campaign and consider this a huge step for animal welfare . 'We also realize that our parish and diocesan talents could be better spent in areas that are less controversial. 'It is with great regret that we have discontinued the Original Pig Rassle, we are however, very excited to begin this new tradition at St. Patrick Parish.' Following the news, Global Conservation Group, which protested the church's 'pig rassle' last August, wrote on its Change.org page on April 21: 'This is

Summary: St Patrick's Parish in Wisconsin said its four-decade tradition, Original Pig Rassle, will be replaced with human mud foosball this summer . Global Conversation Group started online petition last August to cancel event claiming it was inhumane; it collected more than 81,000 signatures . The group said they are 'very proud of the church for doing what's right' and consider this a huge step for animal welfare .


Harking back to UK transformation show 10 Years Younger, people on the street are asked to guess a woman's age in a bold new advert. A French model starring in a television film for Garnier is filmed and photographed as she 'ages' an average of five years throughout a typical working day. The Parisian public observe her appearance and proceed to judge her as older - from as young as 26 to as old as 40 - as the day progresses. At 7am the actress looks bright and bushy tailed, ready for the day ahead - studio lights capture this in the ad . But by 9.47 she looks exhausted as she prepares the family dinner and does the laundry after a day at work . The working mother-of-two is seen drying her hair first thing, dropping her two young children off at school, working out, working on a computer in the office, food shopping and more as a camera follows her every move. She is photographed at the beginning of her day and at the end - at 7am and 9.47pm - and both images are then judged independently by people on the street. Looking at the morning photo, strangers generally thought she looked somewhere between her late twenties or early thirties, but with the evening photo, they guessed she was in her late thirties and forties. Researchers found she looked five years older in the evening photograph compared to the morning image based on the average ages guessed. The advert for Garnier's Miracle Sleeping Cream ends with the statement 'In only one day, fatigue can age you by five years.', followed by the answer to all your problems: 'But a miracle can change everything'. If there's a best way to sell face cream, this creation by Paris agency Publicis Conseil would surely take top prize. Probably because it can make you feel awful about yourself. The powerful advert for Garnier's Miracle Sleeping Cream has gained widespread coverage . The mother-of-two in the short film is photographed at the beginning of her day and at the end . Both images are judged independently by people on the Parisian streets - who guess vastly different ages . Strangers thought she looked somewhere in her late twenties or early thirties in the morning, but by evening, they guessed she was in her late thirties and forties . Researchers found she looked five years older in the evening photograph compared to the morning .

Summary: French actress is filmed, photographed and judged as she 'ages' Mother-of-two is followed throughout her day showing effects of fatigue . Public guess her age based on photos to promote new Garnier face cream .


Louis van Gaal celebrated his derby demolition in style on Sunday night as he was snapped with Manchester City women's players Toni Duggan and Isobel Christiansen in a restaurant. Duggan uploaded a photograph on Instagram of her, Christiansen and Everton's Michelle Hinnigan at Wing's Chinese restaurant following United's 4-2 win against their great rivals City, and wrote: 'Heyyy Louis van G!!!! Nice to share a wings with you...... [sic].' Duggan later deleted the post. Duggan has since removed the photo from Instagram and issued an apology on Facebook. Her apology read: 'I would like to apologise to all MCFC fans for the error of judgement I made last night. 'I now appreciate the significance of my actions and can assure everyone connected with Manchester City that I am proud to represent the Club and wear the shirt.' Wing's is the go-to place for footballers in Manchester, with England and United captain Wayne Rooney among its regulars, but the only City stars in sight were Duggan and Christiansen. Louis van Gaal pictured with Manchester City women's players Toni Duggan (left) and Isobel Christiansen (far right), while they were joined by Everton's Michelle Hinnigan at Wing's restaurant . Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal leaves Wing's restaurant after celebrating the win with friends . Van Gaal was at the go-to restaurant for footballers and celebrities with his wife Truss and friends . The group seemed in high spirits after United's 4-2 humiliation of their neighbours City at Old Trafford . Van Gaal embraces Mr Wing following the meal at his restaurant as the United manager celebrated in style . Van Gaal gets ready to leave... and he may not worry too much about being given a ticket after the derby win . Click here to read Ian Ladyman's report . Goals from Ashley Young, Marouane Fellaini, Juan Mata and Chris Smalling won United the bragging rights, while Sergio Aguero scored twice for the visitors in the eighth and 89th minutes. The red half of Manchester were given reason to celebrate as they moved four points clear of their noisy neighbours in the Barclays Premier League, and Van Gaal decided to let his hair down. Asked how he planned to celebrate at his post-match press conference, Van Gaal said: 'I can go to Mr Wing's because when you win you can go. 'When you lose then the fans are saying, "what is Mr Louis van Gaal doing? Losing and he goes to the best restaurant of Manchester?" Now I can go. Maybe I shall go.' Ander Herrera (left) and Juan Mata hit the town to celebrate the win against their great rivals City . Daley Blind is snapped leaving Wing's restaurant on Sunday evening after celebrating the derby win . Duggan was snapped with a few more United legends last week with Phil and Gary Neville, and Paul Scholes . Apr 18 - Chelsea (a) Apr 26 - Everton (a) May 2 - West Brom (h) May 9 - Crystal Palace (a) May 17 - Arsenal (h) May 24 - Hull City (a) He did

Summary: Manchester United beat their rivals City 4-2 at Old Trafford on Sunday . Louis van Gaal celebrated the derby demolition at Wing's restaurant . Van Gaal was snapped with City's Toni Duggan and Isobel Christiansen . City striker Duggan uploaded the snap to Instagram of her with Van Gaal . England women's international Duggan later deleted the post . Juan Mata, Daley Blind and Ander Herrera also celebrated the victory .


A brazen thief has allegedly taken a diamond engagement ring from Christine Davidson just days before she passed away on Thursday . The family of a woman who battled a cancerous brain tumour for 14 years has claimed her diamond engagement ring was 'forcefully removed and stolen' from her finger at a nursing home just days before she passed away. Christine Davidson, from Adelaide, South Australia, was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer in 2001, and told she only had between nine months to three years to live. After enduring an incredible 14 years of chemotherapy and radiation, the mother of two lost her battle to cancer last Thursday morning at an Adelaide nursing home at the age of 61. But four days before she died, her husband Ronny and their two daughters Symantha, 40, and Kelly, 38, noticed her ring was missing from her finger. 'Dad noticed the bruises around her finger and asked us if we managed to get the ring off,' Symantha told Daily Mail Australia. 'Three weeks prior to her passing, we tried to remove the ring because it started to cut her circulation but we had no luck after trying everything we could think of.’ The family has launched a desperate online appeal in a bid to have their mother's ring returned. Christine Davidson (left) who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, pictured with her husband Ronny (right) and their daughter Symantha (centre) Christine and her husband Ronny were happily married for 41 years before she passed away . Kelly took to her Facebook account last Wednesday to post an emotional appeal and has since attracted more than 117,000 shares and almost 17,000 likes. 'We just don't understand how someone could steal from a dying woman,' Symantha said. ‘The ring was a sign of mum and dad’s long lasting love and their strong marriage – they were happily married for 41 years before she passed. ‘Mum also promised to give the ring to her only granddaughter who she was very close to - My daughter Jayda, 17, but now she’s devastated.' Christine was working at an insurance company before her sickness came on suddenly 14 years ago . Christine, who fell suddenly ill 14 years ago, pictured with her grandchildren last Christmas . On March 28, the family was told their mother, grandmother and wife was on her 'final stage of life'. ‘She was a nanna to four amazing grandchildren and she was the best mum we could ever ask for,' Symantha said. 'The last 14 years was hard on our family because we were forced to watch her suffer but we're happy she's at peace now and she’s not in pain anymore. ‘Multiple neurosurgeons were blown away with what she had accomplished after she fought hard to kick the rare long-lasting tumour - she was a brave fighter.' Christine was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer and was told she only had up to three years to live . Symantha said she has informed the police about the missing ring. Daily Mail Australia has contacted South Australian police

Summary: Christine Davidson lost her battle to cancer at an Adelaide nursing home . Her diamond ring was last seen three weeks before she passed away . The family has claimed a brazen thief is behind the missing ring . The 61-year-old wanted to hand her ring down to her only granddaughter . The family have launched an emotional public appeal to get her ring back . A local jewellery store has offered a $1000 reward for anyone providing information that leads to finding the missing ring .


Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer was in 'shock' as he watched his goalkeeper Simon Eastwood almost snatch a last-gasp draw for his side against Liverpool. Trailing 1-0 following Philippe Coutinho's 70th-minute strike, Eastwood left his post guarding the Blackburn goal and arrived in the Liverpool penalty area in a bid to help his side draw level with seconds of the contest remaining. Bowyer had looked ready to celebrate the latest of equalisers after Eastwood skilfully controlled the ball before testing his Reds counterpart Simon Mignolet with a tricky drive. Blackburn goalkeeper Simon Eastwood had a chance in the dying stages to force extra-time . Eastwood almost scored a dramatic late equaliser beyond Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet . Eastwood showed great composure to control the ball and shoot towards the Liverpool goal . Eastwood reacts after his last-gasp strike was saved by his Reds counterpart Mignolet . 'I think it was more shock that he managed to do that and turn,' said Bowyer. 'It was an unbelievable turn from him... a last roll of the dice. 'Our group's an honest group and they have had a right good go. 'To have pushed Liverpool like that over two games and still have a chance like that means there's nothing but praise for them. 'It shows the progress we've made at the club and the supporters have hopefully gone away pleased with what they saw, but just a little bit disappointed that we couldn't get the goal.' Coutinho watches his shot find the bottom corner to give Liverpool the lead with 20 minutes to play . Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson believes Liverpool's 1-0 FA Cup quarter-final victory at Blackburn will give his team-mates a much-needed lift heading into the Barclays Premier League run-in. The Reds settled the replay through Coutinho's second-half strike and will now play Aston Villa in a Wembley semi-final on April 19. Liverpool's charge towards the Champions League places has been curtailed by defeats to Manchester United and Arsenal but midfielder Henderson feels the Ewood Park result will help get things back on track. 'It was a really important game for us today,' he told BT Sport. 'I think everybody has been disappointed over the last couple of weeks with performances and results. Liverpool manager Rodgers and Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer talk in the technical area at Ewood Park . 'But I think we showed great character today. We knew when we came here they'd make it difficult for us but from start to finish we controlled the game, I thought we were brilliant. 'Towards the end when we'd gone 1-0 up they were chucking everything at us but we defended fantastically. 'Credit to the lads really and we'll go to Wembley against Villa and I'm sure it will be a tough game because they're a good side. 'But it gives everyone a lift.' Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers celebrates with Jordan Henderson after his side's victory . Jordan Henderson, Kolo Toure and Joe Allen celebrate after Liverpool secured their place in the semi-finals . Brazilian playmaker Coutinho drilled home Liverpool's winner after a swift

Summary: Philippe Coutinho's strike secured a 1-0 victory for Liverpool . Blackburn goalkeeper Simon Eastwood almost snatched a draw . Eastwood drew a save from opposite number Simon Mignolet in the box .


Awkward photos of the New Zealand Prime Minister pulling multiple young girls' ponytails are being posted on social media just days after he was forced to apologise to a waitress for touching her hair while she was at work. Prime Minister John Key said sorry to waitress Amanda Bailey, 26, after she wrote a post on a blog site shaming him for his behaviour and saying it made her 'uncomfortable'. After the incident, Reddit users started tracking down old pictures and videos of Mr Key touching other young girls' hair and collecting them on a Tumblr page. Scroll down for video . Awkward photos of the New Zealand PM pulling \young girls' ponytails are being posted on social media . This comes after he was forced to apologise to am Auckland waitress for touching her hair at work . The waitress at the centre of the ponytail storm told the New Zealand Herald that she published the details of John Key's behaviour, which she experienced while she was working at a cafe in Auckland, as she 'expected more from him' and wanted 'the public to be aware'. The 26-year-old, an employee at Rosie cafe which is frequented by Mr Key and his wife, recounted on The Daily Blog how the Prime Minister kept playfully pulling her hair despite being told to stop during election time last year. Ms Bailey told the Herald that she felt Mr Key's behaviour was inappropriate. 'I didn't feel I should have to put up with that,' she said. 'I expected more from him and I want the public to be aware. 'John Key feels he is untouchable.' Mr Key said sorry to waitress Amanda Bailey (right), 26, after she wrote a post on a blog site shaming him for his behaviour and saying it made her 'uncomfortable' Mr Key defended his pranks as 'a bit of banter' and said he had already apologised for his actions . Eventually, she wrote, she told Key's security detail she didn't like it and later told Key 'No' repeatedly and wagged her finger at him. When he pulled her hair again on a subsequent visit, she said, she told him to stop 'or I will actually hit you soon.' 'I really didn't like it,' the worker wrote. 'I felt powerless and tormented and I stepped out the back and I cried frustrated tears.' The worker said Key came back soon after the last incident with two bottles of wine from his own vineyard and gave them to her, saying 'This is for you, sorry, I didn't realise.' Key's office issued a statement Wednesday saying he regularly visits the cafe near his home with his wife and has a good relationship with the staff there. 'His actions were intended to be light-hearted,' the statement said. 'It was never his intention to make her feel uncomfortable and he has apologised to her.' A waitress has revealed how the New Zealand Prime Minister had repeatedly given her unwanted attention while she was working at a cafe in Auckland frequented by him and his wife

Summary: Waitress Amanda Bailey, 26, said NZ PM John Key pulled her ponytail . She wrote that she gained unwanted attention from him last year at a cafe . Ms Bailey said Mr Key kept touching her hair despite being told to stop . The Prime Minister apologised and said his actions were 'all in the context of a bit of banter' Social media users have posted other photos of Mr Key touching girls' hair .


Many of us enjoy a chilled glass of wine or a cold beer after a hard day at work. But while the majority of people believe their drinking habits are under control, one in five young professionals now considers themselves to have a problem with alcohol, a survey found. A new poll laying bare the public's attitudes to drinking found nearly half of young workers think it is acceptable to regularly get drunk on a night out, compared to a fifth of the general population. It also revealed the risky effects of drinking, as young people admitted to forgetting how they got home, driving themselves home drunk or getting in a car with someone they knew was intoxicated. One in five young professionals now considers themselves to have a dirnking problem, a survey found . The news comes after a shocking report published this week found binge drinking costs the British economy £4.9bn every year in terms of treating drunks in A&E, road crashes, police arrests and court cases. The damning report said current policies on alcohol taxation are failing to keep up with the financial consequences of people drinking to excess, and calls for minimum unit prices to offset these costs. The new poll of 4,000 British adults found 7 per cent reported they have a drinking problem. Among young professionals, this figure rose to 21 per cent, with 28 per cent of men in this saying they believe they have a problem. More than a third (35 per cent) of 18 to 24-year-olds said they had got so drunk they could not remember most of their night out, with one in five (18 per cent) admitting they have not been able to recall how they got home. One in 20 admitted to driving themselves home drunk and one in ten said they have got in a car with someone who they knew was intoxicated. A survey of 4,000 British adults revealed: . 7 per cent reported they have a drinking problem . 21 per cent of young professionals said they had a drinking professionals, with the figure rising to 28 per cent for men alone . 35 per cent of 18-24-year-olds said they had got so drunk they could not remember most of their night out, . 18 per cent admitted they have not been able to recall how they got home . 5 per cent admitted to driving themselves home drunk . 10 per cent got in a car with someone intoxicated . Among 25 to 34-year-olds 16 per cent said they have woken up in a stranger's house . 23 per cent of 35-54-year-olds said they drink at home alone . Another 23 per cent considered alcohol to be more harmful to their health than smoking . 53 per cent said the NHS should refrain from treating alcoholics . 54 per cent said it is not acceptable to drink when pregnant . Among 25 to 34-year-olds 16 per cent said they have woken up in a stranger's house. Meanwhile, nearly a quarter (23 per cent) of those aged

Summary: Fifth of young people don't remember how they got home after drinking . Third forgot their entire night while one in 20 drove themselves home drunk . But nearly a quarter considered alcohol to be more harmful than smoking . Half said the NHS should stop treating alcoholics given health warnings .


Kellie Maloney has left hospital after completing her sex change and said: 'I am proud to be the woman I should've always been'. Transsexual Kellie, formerly boxing promoter Frank Maloney, started the process to change gender two years ago and underwent her final surgery last week. The twice-married 61-year-old was expected to stay in hospital for 10 days, but has been released four days early. She now faces a further six weeks recuperation period at her home in Kent with children Sophie, 20, and Libby, 14, and may also go to Europe for some spring sunshine to help her heal. Scroll down for video . Recovery: Kellie Maloney had tweeted these pictures of herself after leaving hospital after her final sex change operation . Message: After her release from hospital Kellie sent this tweet on what was also international Transgender Day of Visibility . She was seen leaving the private Nuffield Heath hospital in Brighton - which was also the international Transgender Day of Visibility. She wrote on Instagram: 'I am proud of who I am on this transgender day of visibility. But more important I am just proud to be the woman and human being I should always been. 'I stand alongside my sisters asking the world to show us respected.' This morning she tweeted: 'First night at home not feeling to bad still very sore and got pain but in good health'. The gruelling transition process has included hormone therapy, electrolysis to remove excess body hair, counselling and voice coaching. She also underwent surgery in November last year to make her face appear more feminine - a process which went drastically wrong when she stopped breathing. The procedure left Ms Maloney, who has three children from two marriages, with a severely swollen face and the former promoter revealed that she thought her head would 'explode' after the agonising surgery. She had been due to have her final surgery in January but due to the previous complications it was delayed. As a boxing promoter she helped Lennox Lewis to become world heavyweight champion. Getting ready: Kellie Maloney went on a fitness regime before her sex change operation (pictured) and six days on from the procedure she has left hospital and is recovering at home . Her highly successful career, which spanned more than 30 years, saw her manage five boxers to world titles as well as many more British, European and Commonwealth champions. Before the final countdown to her last operation, Ms Maloney revealed she was hitting the gym hard to make sure she was in optimum health for the procedure. On March 14, she tweeted: 'One last week of hard gym sessions set myself A target of 4lbs to lose be4 going in to hospital and getting my bmi down by 2 per cent more.' Last year she shocked the macho world of boxing by announcing her decision to change her sex and live as a woman. Ahead of her surgery, Kellie told Lorraine Kelly that she wanted to have her nose made slightly smaller. 'My youngest daughter told me

Summary: Transsexual Kellie was formerly boxing promoter Frank Maloney, 61 . She has completed her sex change and is at home recovering . Tweeted to her fans: 'Still very sore and got pain but in good health' Started transition to change gender two years ago and has now completed .


A masked burglar stole vintage watches worth more than £200,000 from an antiques shop in a Mission Impossible-style raid by crawling along the floor to avoid setting off the infrared beams. The thief scaled a two-storey antique market before breaking into a rooftop vent and squeezing down a narrow shaft to reach the store. He picked three sets of locks and crawled on the floor ‘like a snake’ to avoid triggering infrared security beams. 'Like a snake': This CCTV footage shows how a masked thief avoided infrared beams during a raid on a jewellers in Hampstead, north London, by crawling around the shop in a 'Mission Impossible'-style heist . Mission Impossible: The burglar, who crawled around the shop on his front, spent just eight minutes in the luxury shop before fleeing with more than £200,000 worth of stock . Wearing a dark hooded jacket, jeans and Nike trainers, the burglar stole 124 rare timepieces before climbing back up the shaft and escaping in a waiting 4x4. The eight-minute raid, which has been likened to a Mission Impossible film, took place at the Vintage Watch Store in Hampstead, North London, on Saturday at about 9pm. Although the thief was able to bypass alarms and evade several CCTV cameras, he was captured on a camera hidden in the ceiling overlooking display cabinets. Crawling: The man and an accomplice returned the following night to try a similar break-in but were disturbed and fled . The man and an accomplice returned the next evening, but fled empty-handed after neighbours heard them trying to smash through the reinforced vent and alerted police. They left behind ladders, a screwdriver and a balaclava, which are being analysed by police for DNA evidence. The daring raid happened a week after the Hatton Garden heist where gems worth up to £60million were stolen by a professional gang who climbed down a lift shaft to reach the vault. Antique: The thief stole 124 antique watches worth more than £200,000 in the heist on Sunday night . Gold: Among the watches taken a 18-carat gold 1910 Swedish Royal Presentation Wedding Pocket Watch worth more than £12,000 . Another 18-carat gold Fusee Verge, which has an estimated value of £9,000, was also taken in the raid . Simon Drachman, who owns the Hampstead jewellers, said the raid on his shop was also carried out by someone who knew what they were doing. The 53-year-old said: ‘It was very much a Mission Impossible thing. He was extremely fit and managed to squeeze through a vent that is two feet high and wide. He cleaned up the counters and made sure everything was clear.’ He added: ‘These are rare watches and unique. They are not easy to find and he knew exactly what he wanted.’ The crime took place at shortly before 11pm on Sunday, April 12 at the Vintage Watch Shop owned by Simon Drachman . The business is a two-storey antiques market on Heath Street, which the thief accessed via a rooftop vent . Among the haul was an 18 carat gold Goliath 8-Day

Summary: Thief stole 124 watches from Vintage Watch Shop in Hampstead, London . He scaled two-storey building before slipping through a 4sq ft roof vent . Then squeezed down narrow chute and snaked along floor to avoid beam . Owner Simon Drachman compared Saturday night heist to Tom Cruise film .


West Ham are planning to move for Real Madrid’s European goal hero Javier Hernandez as part of an extensive summer recruitment programme. Hernandez, 26, is on loan at Real from Manchester United and scored a late winner in the Champions League quarter-final against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. The striker nicknamed the Little Pea has started only twice in La Liga for Carlo Ancelotti and will return to Old Trafford at the end of the season, where he has one year left on his contract. Javier Hernandez celebrates after scoring the winner for Real Madrid against rivals Atletico on Wednesday . The striker will leave Real at the end of this season and return to Manchester United . The Mexican does not feature in Louis van Gaal's plans and could be available for around £7million . He is not in Louis van Gaal’s plans and will be up for sale at around £7million. There will be interest from other Barclays Premier League clubs but West Ham have a list of primarily young transfer targets ahead of their final season at Upton Park. They are in pursuit of Sampdoria’s Spanish midfielder Pedro Obiang, 23, Senegal striker Moussa Konate, 22, of FC Sion in Switzerland and Basle’s 23-year-old centre half Fabian Schar.

Summary: Javier Hernandez scored winner against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday . The Mexico international is on loan at Real Madrid from Manchester United . Hernandez does not feature in Louis van Gaal's plans for next season . The striker, who will have one year left on his contract, would cost £7m .


They say age is just a number, but to a few select celebrities, it feels like that number hasn't changed in years. Stars like Kate Hudson, Pharrell Williams and Gwen Stefani have all seemingly discovered the fountain of youth, showing little to no signs of ageing over the past decade and while many have resorted to plastic surgery, these A-listers are still sporting glowing taut skin without going under the knife. Here, FEMAIL rounds up the celebrities whose faces haven't changed for at least 10 years. Scroll down for video . 14 years difference: Actress Kate Hudson when she was 22 years old in 2001 (left) and now at 36 (right) Kate Hudson . Although a huge 14 years have passed between the two images, actress Kate Hudson, now 36, looks the same as when she did when she was a young 20-something. Since then, the actress has won a Golden Globe - for her role in Almost Famous - and has starred in a number of hit films including How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days. The blonde beauty also has two children, one with former husband Chris Robinson, and one with ex-fiancé, frontman of Muse, Matthew Bellamy. Pharrell Williams . 12 years difference: Singer Pharrell Williams when he was 30 years old in 2003 (left) and now at 42 (right) Singer Pharrell Williams has hardly aged a day in the 12 years, but since 2003 has won a whopping 11 Grammys and soared up the charts with hits such Happy and Blurred Lines. He also married longtime girlfriend Helen Lasichanh, and had a son, Rocket, in 2008. Rihanna . 10 years difference: Rihanna when she was only 17 years old in 2005 (left) and now at 27 (right) Despite maintaining her adolescent looks, pop superstar Rihanna has come a long way since she was 17 years old, rising to fame with her third album, Good Girl Gone Bad in 2007. The 27-year-old has now won eight Grammys and also shared a tumultuous relationship with rapper Chris Brown. Jared Leto . 11 years difference: Actor Jared Leto when he was 32 in 2004 (left) and now at 43 . Jared Leto, now 43, has proven his looks are age-defying, impossibly looking almost younger than he did 11 years ago. The singer and actor has since become an Oscar-winner for his role in Dallas Buyers Club, and has appeared in hit films likeFight Club and the highly-anticipated film Suicide Squad film. Keira Knightley . 12 years difference: Actress Keira Knightley when she was only 18 years old in 2003 (left) and now at 30 . The looks of British actress Keira Knightley have barely changed in the last 12 years, from when she was only 18 years old. Knightley has now starred in award-winning films such as The Imitation Game and Atonement, and is currently pregnant with her first child with husband, musician James Righton. Rachel Weisz . 13 years difference: Actress Rachel Weisz in 2002 at 33 years old (left) and now at 45 . Even though 13 years have

Summary: While some have gone under the knife, these A-listers look effortless . Many have undergone style and hair changes, but look as young as before . Some celebrities like Jennifer Lopez still look the same after 16 years .


A university undergraduate has claimed that the cost of trying to study in London left her with no other choice than to turn to prostitution. As renting in the capital soared to an average of more than £1,100 per month, the second year history and politics student who attends a London university told how she took up sex work– even visiting some clients at their workplace. Speaking through the English Collective of Prostitutes', the woman – who asked to remain anonymous – spoke after a research project revealed more than a fifth of students have thought about being involved in the sex industry. A University student has revealed how she turned to sex work after her student loan failed to cover her rent (picture posed by model) The survey conducted by the University of Swansea further revealed that nearly five per cent of them had actually worked in the sex industry. The young woman said that she didn't immediately turn to prostitution but used it as a last resort after conventional means of work failed to support her. She said: 'I started working after my first year and tried various part time jobs: in a coffee shop, a pub and as a waitress. None paid enough. 'The student loan didn't cover even my housing, let alone living expenses, food, books and travel costs.' She added that money worries meant she began to struggle academically as well as financially. 'I had trouble keeping up with course work, especially if I worked evenings. 'For example at the pub, I'd earn £7 an hour for an eight hour shift, two nights a week, so I'd bring home about £100 weekly. 'I'd just moved to London from the north of England. My family are not well off, so cannot afford to help me much. The student says that traditional means of earning failed to cover the cost of living in London . 'I didn't know anyone in London so when I moved here it was starting from scratch.' Initially she lived in student accommodation in the city but says that working as a prostitute enabled her to afford somewhere better. 'It was an overcrowded, noisy flat with other students,' she said of her halls. She moved into her own home after she began to advertise her services. 'I could afford a place of my own. I advertise through a website and have regular clients. 'I visit them at home, in hotels and occasionally at their workplace.' Despite sex work not being an ideal situation the student says that it had been beneficial towards her studies. 'It is flexible and fits around my course. 'I can work the hours I want to and scale back around exam time or if I have extra course work.' The woman heard about sex work from other students who had also been looking for a way to earn extra money. 'In my first year at university I started hearing about students turning to sex work,' she said. 'After a time I met someone on another course who'd been working as a

Summary: A student has revealed she turned to sex work to cover the cost of living and studying in London . She tried regular work but still struggled to pay the bills . She says that sex work is becoming common practice among students .


Dutch football made a killing in the stock market this week. Yet its rise was not because PSV Eindhoven won their first Eredivisie title since 2008, ending Ajax's four-year reign. It was down to Memphis Depay, who scored his 20th goal of the season to confirm their 22nd championship in Holland. It turned heads at Manchester United. Yet Jim Lawlor, their chief scout, had been doing his homework long before Depay reached the total which Louis van Gaal holds in such high regard. PSV Eindhoven's Memphis Depay celebrates with the trophy after securing the Eredivisie championship . Depay (left) and PSV team-mate Georginio Wijnaldum (right) celebrate with the Eredivisie trophy . PSV manager Phillip Cocu (left) and top goalscorer Depay (right) clinched the title with three games to spare . 20 – Memphis Depay (winger) 19 – Luuk de Jong (striker) 16 – Michiel Kramer (striker) 14 – Michael de Leeuw (striker) 14 – Mark Uth (striker) The manager announced in February he lacked a striker who could score 20 goals. If a 21-year-old can do it from the wing in 27 appearances, albeit in Holland rather than England, is that not worth a £25million investment? Manchester United think so, and they are not alone. From 'official talks' with Liverpool, to 'discussions' with Paris Saint-Germain, to a not-so-secret meeting in Manchester. Depay has been busy, and no wonder. He is the Eredivisie's top goalscorer, without even being PSV's main forward. His 20 goals have contributed 12 points, which just so happens to be the difference between them and second-placed Ajax. Yet not many people had heard of Depay, particularly before the 2014 World Cup, so why the sudden case of rubbing hands together? How Depay could look for Manchester United should he make his £25m move to Old Trafford this summer . Depay pictured in action during PSV's title-winning victory against Heerenveen last weekend at home . Depay is the Eredivisie's top goalscorer with 20, without even being PSV's main forward in their attack . Depay was understood to have held a meeting in Manchester as he nears his £25m move with Louis van Gaal . First, his background. He has 'dream chaser' tattooed across his chest, and 'successful' inked on the inside of his lower lip. Joining the iconic Manchester United brand would not contradict either, particularly given his difficult childhood. As a four-year-old, his parents separated. In 2012, after turning 18, he dropped 'Depay' from the back of his shirt as a snub to his absent father. Raised by his mother in the southern Dutch town of Moordrecht, he grew up in 'a small village where there is not much to do', so says Gigi, a childhood friend of Depay's. Yet some of the greatest footballers were created in such places. Take Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez, for example. He grew up in poverty-stricken rural Chile in a mining town called Tocopilla – literal meaning Devil's Corner. With Depay poised to join the Barclays Premier League, talk is of him being paid the same as Sanchez – £130,000 a week. Yet the

Summary: Memphis Depay held a secret meeting Manchester United recently . The Holland winger scored last week as PSV clinched the Eredivisie title . Depay is Eredivisie's top goalscorer with 20 - even though he is a winger . Louis van Gaal previously admitted he lacks a 20-goals-per-season striker . The 21-year-old is a left winger who cuts inside with a powerful right foot . Nobody in Eredivisie completed more dribbles (101) last season than him . In 2014, Depay became the youngest-ever Dutch scorer at a World Cup . Van Gaal put him alongside Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben in 4-3-3 .


She's the clean eating food lover who has more than 102,000 followers on Instagram thanks to her healthy and delicious looking meals. But she has a secret weapon that most food bloggers don't have - when people aren't obsessing over her recipes, they're checking out her rock-hard abs. We're talking about Clean Eating Alice, the latest social media sensation to be making a name for herself by living a healthy life. Scroll down for video . Over the last year Alice (pictured before, left, and after, right) has completely transformed her body with the help of healthy eating and the LDN Muscle bikini guide . Alice Liveing, from Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, began her healthy journey just over a year ago. She said: 'After years of bad skin, constant fatigue and feeling uncomfortable about my appearance I decided to completely overhaul my approach to eating. 'I started experimenting with food, and found that simply changing what I ate for breakfast had a huge impact on my mood and energy for that day. 'The term [clean eating] is completely subjective and can mean different things to different people, but my interpretation of it was to develop a healthy relationship with food. 'I didn’t restrict myself or feel like I was dieting as such, and learnt how best to fuel my body with tasty and nutritious food.' In these Instagram snaps Alice shows off toned arms, something she said she had previously struggled with . Alice started sharing pictures of her meals on Instagram, which allowed her to take stock of what she was putting into her body. 'I remember a distinct turning point was when I began to post photos of my food on the social media platform Instagram,' she said. 'The idea that I would be making healthy food, and being able to log and share it on Instagram was nothing novel or new, but was helpful for me to keep track of what I was eating. 'I also found great pleasure in making my food look nice, as well as taste good. 'I am conscious that some people may find it annoying when their friends start posting foodie pics on social media, but however annoying they may find it, it is precisely what enabled me to find a healthy relationship with food and create new and delicious dishes that could then help others.' In this snap Alice shows off her figure in a pair of shorts ready for a New Year's Eve party . Of course you don't get a body like Alice's without putting in a lot of hard work. She revealed: 'I aim to go to the gym between four and six times a week, and follow the LDN Muscle Bikini Guide. 'I think one of the best things about this journey is that I found a way of exercising that I loved which I think is so important, and I have LDN Muscle to thank for that. 'I think that the way I look has gained me a few male admirers, but I try to avoid letting any of

Summary: Clean Eating Alice is the latest healthy living Instagram sensation . She posts pictures of her body transformation and healthy meals . The pretty blonde has a six pack thanks to the LDN Muscle bikini plan .


Manchester City have not won a Premier League game having been behind at half-time in almost 20 years. The shocking stat is revealed as City's title hopes lay in tatters following Monday night's 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace which Manuel Pellegrini's side trailed at the interval. The last time City managed to win having been in a losing position at half-time was on April 17, 1995 when they beat Blackburn Rovers 3-2 having been 2-1 down at the break. Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany and Joe Hart trudge off the field after losing to Crystal Palace . Man City have not managed to win a Premier League fixture having trailed at half-time in almost 20 years . Man City boss Manuel Pellegrini looks to the floor at Selhurst Park as his side's title dreams lay in tatters . While City have spent five seasons out of the top-flight since the 1994-95 campaign - which Rovers went on to win - the stat still makes for incredible reading as the blue side of Manchester look to retain their Premier League crown and claim their third title in four seasons. City's goalscorers that day were defender Keith Curle, now manager of League 2 strugglers Carlisle, from the penalty spot, former Brentford boss Uwe Rosler and Paul Walsh. City went on to finish the Premier League season in 17th, two places above the drop zone. Blackburn: Flowers, Kenna, Berg, Pearce, Hendry, Le Saux, Sherwood, Atkins (Batty, 78), Ripley, Sutton, Shearer. Scorers: Shearer, 7, Hendry, 39. Booked: Sutton, Atkins. Manchester City: Coton, Edghill, Foster, Curle, Kernaghan, Summerbee, Flitcroft, Simpson, Rosler, Walsh (Beagrie, 78), Quinn. Scorers: Curle (pen), 32, Rosler, 57, Walsh 71. Booked: Kernaghan, Simpson. Paul Walsh scores in April 1995 - the last time Man City won having trailed at half-time in the Premier League . Uwe Rosler (left) celebrates equalising against Blackburn as Man City staged a comeback at Ewood Park . Alan Shearer celebrates for the eventual Premier League winners after scoring the opener on seven minutes . While City have not won having trailed at the interval in almost two decades, all of City's top six rivals have managed to overturn half-time deficits in the last five years. Spurs came from behind to beat Hull in November 2014, Manchester United and Chelsea claimed victory after trailing at half-time last season. Liverpool beat Aston Villa after losing 1-0 at the interval against Aston Villa in March 2013 while Arsenal came from 2-1 down to beat Chelsea 5-3 in October 2011. To make matters worse, it seems Manuel Pellegrini's men are in need of some new blood. City had the second oldest starting XI in the Premier League this weekend with an average age of 29 years and 345 days; only West Brom fielded an older side, during their 4-1 home defeat to QPR. Sergio Aguero, Vincent Kompany and goalkeeper Joe Hart were the only starters against Palace aged 28 or under. Arsenal – 29/10/11 – 2-1 down at Chelsea at HT, won 5-3 . Chelsea – 11/5/14 – 1-0 down at Cardiff at

Summary: Man City's last Premier League win having trailed at half-time was in 1995 . Man City came from behind to beat Blackburn Rovers 3-2 at Ewood Park . Uwe Rosler, Keith Curle and Paul Walsh scored in the comeback win . Manchester City lost to Crystal Palace on Monday night . CLICK HERE for all the latest Man City news . City have lost their last three Premier League away games, after losing two of the preceding 26 on the road. The last time Man City lost three straight league away games was between February and March 2011. City have scored more than once in a game once in their last six away from home in the league; they scored two or more in 11 of their 13 preceding away games. They have kept three clean sheets in their last 16 PL matches. They have lost six Premier League games in 2014/15, the same number as in 2012/13 and 2013/14. Swansea have won two more Premier League points than Manchester City (16-14) since selling Wilfried Bony on January 14.


CPRE president Sir Andrew Motion, who is demanding a national clean-up . Council chiefs were condemned last night after claiming it was too dangerous to collect the roadside litter blighting Britain. Winchester Council in Hampshire said its annual clean-up of roads around the city had been hit by new Health and Safety Executive rules designed to protect litter-pickers from traffic. But the HSE denied tightening rules – and said councils were ‘over-interpreting’ legislation. Last night, former Poet Laureate Sir Andrew Motion, now president of the Campaign to Protect Rural England, accused town hall bosses and the Highways Agency of ruining the countryside by failing to remove rubbish. He said: ‘Every day, people tell us that they are disgusted, angry and ashamed of the state of England’s roads. ‘Nobody wants to drive through our beautiful countryside or approach a vibrant city, heralded only by discarded rubbish.’ Although laws to fine people who throw litter from vehicles were now in place, their implementation had been delayed by ‘shameful time-wasting’, Sir Andrew said. ‘Without funding to tackle the problem, I fear our roads will become corridors of waste,’ he added. Highways England – the Government-owned company launched last week to replace the Highways Agency – is required to keep the motorway network clean, but responsibility for clearing A-roads and trunk routes is divided between the agency and councils. Scroll down for video . Peter Silverman, of pressure group Clean Highways, said: ‘Of course safety is paramount but councils are always looking for excuses and this is just the latest. They are shutting their eyes to the problem of litter.’ Roadside litter has become a problem almost everywhere in the UK. Disgrace: Winchester Council chiefs claimed it was too dangerous to collect roadside litter. Pictured: rubbish beside Crookilley Way, Stockport . Andrew Gwynne, who is standing for re-election as Labour MP in Denton and Reddish in Greater Manchester, said: ‘The Highways Agency is atrocious when it comes to removing rubbish. The worst case I’ve come across is Crookilley Way in Stockport, which is littered with plastic bags and bottles.’ A Highways England spokesman said: ‘Although we spend at least £6 million a year collecting more than 150,000 sacks of litter from England’s motorways, we still find the level of litter unacceptable. We will continue to investigate what more can be done.’ Winchester Council insisted that the HSE had ‘clarified’ last June that litter-picking was covered by the same code of practice that governs employees involved in highway maintenance – requiring a wider separation than was previously the case between workers and passing traffic.

Summary: Winchester Council in Hampshire claimed annual clean-up hit by new rules . But the Health and Safety Executive denied tightening rules and added that councils were ‘over-interpreting’ legislation . Poet Laureate Sir Andrew Motion accused town hall bosses and Highways Agency of ruining the countryside by failing to remove rubbish .


New York City police are searching for a man who was caught on a surveillance camera dumping an unconscious woman on a street in Queens over the weekend. The NYPD released the video Tuesday, along with a photo of the victim in the hospital in hopes of identifying her. The woman was critically injured and still has not regained consciousness. The grainy video, obtained from a store owner in the Richmond Hill section of Queens, shows a man dressed in a hooded sweatshirt and sweatpants dragging the limp body of a woman from the backseat of a parked car at around 12.30am Saturday. Discarded: New York City police are searching for a man who was caught on a surveillance camera dumping an unconscious woman on a street in Queens . The video shows a man dressed in a hooded sweatshirt and sweatpants dragging the limp body of a woman from the backseat of a car parked at 131st Street and Jamaica Avenue Saturday morning . Person of interest: The man walks back to the car, briefly glances at the woman's body on the ground, then gets behind the wheel and drives off . Paramedics arrived on the scene 20 minutes later and transported the victim to a hospital in critical condition . After making sure no one is watching, the man props the woman against the wall of a nearby building, but without his support she slumps to the ground face first. The man walks back to the car, briefly glances at the woman's body on the ground, then gets behind the wheel and drives off. The owner of the business whose camera captured the incident told WABC it was disheartening to see that the unidentified man left the woman all alone lying in the middle of the sidewalk at night instead of calling for help. Paramedics responded to the scene at the corner of 131st Street and Jamaica Avenue just before 1am and transported the unnamed victim to Jamaica Hospital, where she was placed on a ventilator. She was listed in critical but stable condition suffering from injuries to her legs and bruising. Jane Doe: Police have released a photo of the unidentified victim in the hospital (left) and an image of her clothes from Saturday (right) In a hospital photo released by police, the victim appears to be an African-American woman in her 20s. Her face is covered in scrapes, her left eye is bruised and there is a breathing tube in her mouth. The NYPD also disseminated a photo of the clothes the woman was wearing Saturday, including a dark-colored jacket, jeans and sneakers. Anyone with information on the woman or the man who left her in the street is being asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS.

Summary: CCTV camera captured a man in a hoodie dragging woman's limp body from car parked at 131st Street and Jamaica Avenue in Queens Saturday . Woman was left slumped on the sidewalk for 20 minutes until paramedics arrived and took her to a hospital . She was placed on a ventilator and remains in critical but stable condition with leg injuries .


A young special needs girl from Texas got the prom proposal of a lifetime. Sophomore Tiffany Gay thought she was being led outside for a routine fire drill but instead she found her biggest crush, junior Luis Velasquez, holding a bouquet of flowers. Gay's classmates cheered as she held back tears of joy. Some of them held signs that read, 'Will you go to prom with me?' Overjoyed: Tiffany Gay was overcome with emotion this week when her biggest crush Luis Velasquez asked her to be his date to the prom . The reveal: Sophomore Tiffany Gay thought she was being led outside for a routine fire drill but instead she found her biggest crush, junior Luis Velasquez, holding a bouquet of flowers . Heartwarming: Luis Velasquez asked Tiffany Gay to prom in front of the whole school this month . To add to the romance, Bruno Mars' Just The Way You Are' played in the background of the magic proposal. 'He met Tiffany back in the seventh grade,' Velasquez’s mom, Jessica, told ABC News. 'Since then, Tiffany has had the biggest crush on my son. And since the beginning of this school year, Luis said he’s taking Tiffany to prom,' she added. Gay is a special needs student who struggles with a genetic disorder called Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) that causes sufferers to have an insatiable appetite. According to the Genetic Disease Foundation, 'PWS typically causes low muscle tone, short stature if not treated with growth hormone, incomplete sexual development, and a chronic feeling of hunger that, coupled with a metabolism that utilizes drastically fewer calories than normal, can lead to excessive eating and life-threatening obesity.' Jessica Velasquez said that Gay is a wonderful girl and that her son cares about her. Big crush: Tiffany Gay has had a crush on Luis Velasquez ever since she met him and Velasquez promised to himself that he would take her to the prom this year . Leading the way: Velasquez leads Gay to signs asking if she will go to the prom with him this year . The decision: Velasquez hugs Gay asks he pops a very special question and asks her to be his prom date . 'When you meet her,' Jessica said, 'she has that infectious smile and you’re just like, "Oh, my God, I want to hug you."' Yahoo reports that Alpha Gomez who works at the Texas High School both students attend said that Luis Velasquez is 'one of the most giving students' that he says he's ever met. Velasquez said that asking Jessica to prom was something he always knew he would do. 'He’s a good kid,' Jessica said. 'Not because he’s my son, but he is really a good kid. He has that nurturing, fathering personality. He’s always had it.' Video of the proposal has over 3.5 million views since being posted on Tuesday. 'In the evening my brother sent me a text that my video was going viral,' Jessica recalled. ‘I was like, ‘What are you talking about? And then I checked and said, "Oh, my God."'

Summary: Sophomore Tiffany Gay thought she was being led outside for a routine fire drill but instead she found Luis Velasquez holding a bouquet of flowers . Gay's classmates cheered as she held back tears of joy and some of them held signs that read, 'Will you go to prom with me?' Gay is a special needs student who struggles with a genetic disorder called Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) PWS causes insatiable appetite along with other physical abnormalities . Video of the cute promposal has over three million views since being posted to Facebook on Tuesday .