Pupils could face disruption to classes as teachers prepare to vote on a national walkout over pay and conditions. Tens of thousands of teachers could strike in the autumn, potentially causing temporary school closures. The National Union of Teachers is expected to call for a vote on industrial action this weekend over the prospect of looming funding cuts. Strike threat: Members of the National Union of Teachers is expected to call for a vote on industrial action this weekend, like the strike here in 2013 . The ballot of its 300,000 members would take place after the election, with strikes possible from September. The last time teachers across the country went on strike was in July, when 21 per cent of schools were forced to close – leaving parents having to pay for childcare or take a day off work. A motion to hold a ballot on strike action was announced yesterday at the NUT annual conference in Harrogate, with a debate expected tomorrow. Disruption: Tens of thousands of teachers could strike in the autumn, potentially causing temporary school closures . Members will be asked to consider funding shortages in schools, which the union said would lead to redundancies. NUT deputy general secretary Kevin Courtney said education will face a ‘terrible set of cuts’ if action is not taken. Last month, the Institute for Fiscal Studies suggested schools could see cuts of up to 12 per cent over the next parliament.

Summary: National Union of Teachers expected to call for a vote on industrial action . Ballot of its 300,000 members would take place after general election . Fears funding cuts will lead to redundancies in schools .


My first trip to New York was with my aunt when I was about 18 and I had been appearing in Coronation Street for about 12 months. I can remember it all so clearly. We had a lot of fun together - we went to see the musical Chicago on Broadway and did lots and lots of shopping. We returned to the city that never sleeps in January 2001, eight months before the terrible events of 9/11, and one of the first things my boyfriend Sylvain Longchambon and I did on my latest trip was to visit the site of the World Trade Center to see the monument to those who died. It was a very poignant moment. Coronation Street star Samia Ghadie and boyfriend Sylvain Longchambon take a selfie in New York . There were hundreds of people visiting the memorial at the time but everybody was quiet and extremely respectful. Sylvain and I flew to the US from Manchester and spent four nights in the city. I love flying from Manchester if I can, not just because it's nearer to my home but because it's not so vast and sprawling as either Gatwick or Heathrow. We stayed at the Marriott where the service was fantastic - when we checked in the concierge desk wanted to know if they could help us to make bookings for shows or restaurants. And when we got to the room, we were met by a butler who immediately took away our shoes for shining - very impressive. You don't get that at a Travelodge! We had a beautiful suite on the 31st floor, giving us panoramic views of Central Park. We valued the fact that the suite had a separate lounge area, and it came in really handy because during our stay Sylvain's cousin in New York celebrated his 30th birthday, so lots of people came back to our room for a glass of bubbly. We sipped champagne as we gazed out across Manhattan - and The Rovers Return suddenly felt a very long way away. The JW Marriott Essex House as seen from Central Park, of which it boasts panoramic views . One of Samia and Sylvain's first stops was to pay their respects to those lost on September 11, 2001 . On the second night of our break, we went on the Bateaux New York cruise, which offers an unforgettable three-hour trip along the Hudson River. We enjoyed cocktails and then a great three-course meal, and after that there was music and dancing. You can go outside on deck where you have amazing views of Manhattan. Actually we only just made the cruise by the skin of our teeth. President Obama was in New York to address the United Nations and as we were in a taxi heading for the pier to board the cruise, we discovered that the police had closed a lot of the streets to let the President's motorcade through. With the clock ticking and our yellow cab going nowhere, we decided to get out and find the nearest subway

Summary: Samia Ghadie and boyfriend Sylvain Longchambon spent four days in NYC . While there the Dancing on Ice stars stayed at the JW Marriott Essex House . Their suite on the 31st floor offered up panoramic views of Central Park . The couple enjoyed a three-hour Bateaux New York cruise on the Hudson . The confirm Burger Joint in Le Parker Meridien Hotel lives up to the hype .


It was a gruesome death that is the stuff of most people's nightmares. Now scientists have identified the unfortunate individual whose bones were found fused to the walls of a cave in Lamalunga, near Altamura, in southern Italy. Using analysis of DNA extracted from the bones sticking out from the limestone rock, researchers have found he was a Neanderthal who fell down a sinkhole around 150,000 years ago. Scroll down for video . Genetic analysis of the bones (above) of ‘Altamura Man’, found entombed in limestone in a cave in Altamura, Italy, has revealed that they belong to a Neanderthal who fell into the cave 128,000 to 187,000 years ago . Wedged in the narrow space and probably badly injured, he is thought to have starved to death. Over the thousands of years that followed, the body decayed and the remaining bones gradually became incorporated into the stalactites left behind by water dribbling down the cave walls. The DNA is the oldest to ever be extracted from a Neanderthal and the researchers now hope to further analyse the genetic information from the skeleton. They have a reputation as rather brutish creatures who chomped their way through huge hunks of meat, but it seems Neanderthals may actually have been the first masterchefs. New research is suggesting that these extinct early humans may have used wild herbs to flavour their food. Scientists have found traces of compounds found in camomile and yarrow in the hardened plaque of 50,000 year old Neanderthal teeth found in El Sidron, Spain. At first researchers thought they might have been using these plants as a form of self-medication, but now new findings have presented a different theory. Dr Sabrina Krief, a lecturer at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris, and her colleagues suggests they may have used them to make food more palatable. First discovered in 1993, the skeleton - nicknamed 'Altamura Man' - has provoked debate among anthropologists partly due to the difficulties in studying the skeleton as it had become part of the cave walls. Examination of those bones that were exposed suggested they belonged to an adult male. However, few could agree on whether the skeleton belonged to a Neanderthal or a modern human, or how long it had been down there. But after taking a tiny part of the skeleton's shoulder bone, researchers at the Sapienza University of Rome, University of Firenze and Newcastle University have been able to answer the questions. They found mitochondrial DNA they extracted from the shoulder bone matched that of other Neanderthal skeletons. Uranium-thorium dating techniques has also revealed that the skeleton appeared there between 172,000 and 130,000 years ago, during a period when ice sheets were expanding significantly from out of Antarctica and Greenland. Giorgio Manzi, one of the palaeoanthropologists leading the study from the Sapienza University of Rome, said: 'Altamura Man is an incredible treasure for the Alta Murgia territory. 'We hope that this fossil skeleton will become a key for a virtuous combination of scientific research, protection of our heritage and its promotion and development.'

Summary: Altamura Man was discovered in a cave in Lamalunga near Altamura, Italy . Researchers say the body has been in the cave for 128,000 to 187,000 years . Scientists have extracted DNA that has confirmed bones are Neanderthal . They say DNA might reveal new details about the evolution of hominids .


A grandfather who couldn't afford his own cruiser has come up with an innovative solution - putting his caravan on a boat and taking it out on the water. Peter Thurston, 80, takes his vessel, dubbed the 'catamavan', out on the River Swale in Kent regularly and enjoys the views of the countryside. He says his small yachts were too cramped for leisure cruising, and he couldn't buy a bigger vessel, so two years ago he built the caravan boat to take his mind off his recent divorce. Bizarre: This 'catamavan', a cross between a boat and a caravan, has been spotted on the River Swale in Kent . The catamavan has an oven, fridge freezer, shower, toilet, double bed and two tables, and it is fitted with a small engine that reaches four knots. Hundreds of two-litre bottles fill the twin hulls, so the boat won't sink even if it gets a hole as he travels up and down the same stretch of river. Mr Thurston said: 'I wanted something that had a nice, stable platform and was really comfortable because all my boats are quite cramped. 'I've got a number of yachts and if you have ever been in a yacht you will know that you can never see out the window. Project: Peter Thurston started building the unusual vessel while he was doing through a divorce . 'In the Swale you get lovely nights and mornings but sometimes it's a bit cold to sit outside and have a meal so you eat below deck and don't get any views. 'I couldn't afford a cabin cruiser, the sort of thing you need to have big windows and eat outside, so this was a better alternative because I didn't have to spend so much money and I could make it whatever size I wanted. 'I sleep on it regularly during the summer but in the winter it's quite cold, although I do check on it regularly.' Peter says he spent around £4,000 building the hull and added: 'Most of it was done flat pack at home. 'Then I took the catamaran down to the ship yard and we lifted the caravan onto it. 'It is not intended to go fast and it only has a small engine but it still goes about four knots. 'I also did it because when I was down at the harbour all day working on my boats it would give me somewhere to stay the night. 'You are allowed to anchor anywhere along the Swale unless it is a restricted area and there's nothing wrong in what I've done.' The father of four keeps the catamaran anchored in Conyer, Kent, which is 19 miles away from his home in Herne Bay. Mr Thurston said he started his project after the break-up of his marriage and began building the boat in his front garden before moving it to a local boatyard. 'I started building it as a bit of a distraction really,' he said. 'It gave me something to focus on because things weren't going well back

Summary: John Thurston started building the bizarre vessel while getting divorced . He took the hull of a catamaran and placed the caravan on top . The 80-year-old enjoys cruising up and down the River Swale in Kent .


Philippe Coutinho is becoming Liverpool's go-to guy and is picking up where Luis Suarez left off last season, believes Sportsmail's Jamie Carragher. Coutinho starred for Liverpool in their 2-0 win against Newcastle United on Monday night and managed five shots against goalkeeper Tim Krul, though he could not nab himself a goal. Liverpool sold Suarez to Barcelona for £75million during the summer, but Carragher feels Coutinho can fill the sizable gap left by the controversial Uruguay striker. Philippe Coutinho is becoming Liverpool's go-to guy, according to Sportsmail's Jamie Carragher . Coutinho starred for Liverpool in their 2-0 win against Newcastle United on Monday night . Liverpool sold star striker Luis Suarez to Barcelona for £75million during the summer . 'The role he played tonight was the false nine we speak about a lot,' Carragher told Sky Sports after the Barclays Premier League match. 'We expect him in a wide area, but we saw some of his touches tonight and his ability in small spaces against players, some of the pieces of play he produced tonight. 'Last season Luis Suarez was Liverpool's main man, the go-to man. But as this season has progressed, and for the future, Coutinho is Liverpool's.' It was Coutinho who scored Liverpool's only goal against Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park in the FA Cup last week to book their place in the semi-final. The Brazil international signed a new five-year contract with Liverpool in February after completing a £8.5m move from Inter Milan in January 2013. Both Jamie Carragher (left) and Gary Neville (right) were starring on Sky Sports Monday Night Football .

Summary: Liverpool 2-0 Newcastle United: Click here to read the match report . Philippe Coutinho starred in Liverpool's Premier League win on Monday . Sportsmail's Jamie Carragher feels Coutinho is becoming their key man . Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers: We can still finish in the top four . CLICK HERE for all the latest Liverpool news .


The finish might have been uncharacteristically scruffy, scored after his first shot came back off the keeper, but it was a landmark goal for Lionel Messi at the Nou Camp on Saturday as he made it 400 goals for Barcelona in a 2-0 win over Valencia. Messi scored with the last kick and Luis Suarez scored with practically his first, putting Barcelona 1-0 up after just 56 seconds. Between the two strikes Claudio Bravo saved a Dani Parejo penalty as Valencia dominated the first half but they couldn't make their pressure tell. For Messi, still only 27, it was another milestone. 'I hope to score many more,' he wrote on his Facebook page. Lionel Messi (left), Luis Suarez (centre) and Neymar celebrate Suarez's goal in the first minute for Barcelona against Valencia . Suarez (left) lashed the ball in after neat play from Messi to continue his fine form for Barcelona . Valencia enjoyed a better first half, despite the scoreline and captain Dani Parejo missed a penalty in the ninth minute . Bravo celebrates his penalty save but Barcelona were fortunate to take a lead into half time . Messi tapped in Barcelona's second goal in stoppage time to seal the victory over Valencia . The Argentine has reached the 400 goal total in just 471 games with 309 goals in the league, 75 in the Champions League and 32 in the Copa del Rey. Goals in the World Club Cup and the Spanish and European Super Cup have also made up the stratospheric total. He also has 141 assists to his name in those 471 matches. Afterwards Luis Enrique said: ‘Messi gave us what he always gives us. But it’s not just about him it’s about the whole forward line and the whole team.’ Suarez was once again decisive after his two goals in midweek against PSG in the Champions League and he is now just six games from picking up a league winners medal in his first season. The early strike would have counted for nothing however if Valencia had made their first-half domination pay and had Bravo not stopped that eighth-minute penalty. As Messi raced from inside his own half to get the late late second, Enrique could be seen jumping up and down in the technical area long before the ball was in the back of the net. He knows what a major hurdle his side have now cleared. The victory sees Luis Enrique's side move five points away from Real Madrid, who take on Malaga later on Saturday . Messi skips past two Valencia challenges as Barcelona secured an important win against La Liga's fourth placed side . Messi attempts an acrobatic kick for Barcelona against Valencia in the La Liga encounter at the Nou Camp on Saturday . Barcelona were ahead inside the first minute with a move that swept from one end of the pitch to the other starting with Bravo releasing the ball quickly and finishing with a first time finish from Suarez past Diego Alves into far corner. Between the two Barca

Summary: Luis Suarez scored Barcelona's opening goal against Valencia in the first minute of the game . Claudio Bravo kept out a tame penalty from Valencia captain Dani Parejo in the ninth . Lionel Messi sealed the three points with one of the final kicks of the game .


An inventor has solved the problem of the millions of coffee capsules that are thrown away each year after use - with sugar-coated pods that dissolve in water. The soaring popularity of home coffee machines has led to a increasing amount of waste generated by caffeine lovers. Now, designer Eason Chow believes his innovative new product could be the solution - and found inspiration from the sugar-coated sweets dispensed from gumball machines. It involves covering coffee granules in milk powder then dipping the whole lot in sugar to create a revolutionary capsule with no waste created whatsoever. Taking inspiration from sugar-coated sweets in gumball machines, Eason Chow believes his dissolvable pods solve the problem of the rising waste generated from coffee capsules . Mr Chow, 25, from Singapore, has also made a stackable coffee maker to use the capsules with . Mr Chow says the sugar coating will come in varying thickness and flavourings to suit all tastes - and he has also made a stackable coffee maker to use the capsules with. He came up with the idea after realising how much waste packaging is generated from coffee capsules each year. The product, called Droops, is still in the early stages, but Mr Chow says the coffee pods will cost around £4 for a pack of 20 and the machine will cost around £80. The 25-year-old, from Singapore, said: 'Droops Coffee Maker redefines the experience of processing coffee in conventional coffee makers. 'The inspiration for the project came from the observation of how much unnecessary waste of packaging is made from coffee machines which use capsules. The product, called Droops, is still in the early stages. The pods will cost around £4 for a pack of 20 and the machine will cost around £80 . Mr Chows says he wanted to incorporate an element of surprise and fun in the design. Pictured: Sketches of the Droop in process . 'This led to me thinking of how can the process be redefined and be fun.' He explained he drew 'memories to my childhood' and 'the surprising and fun element of dispensing sweets from a gumball machine'. 'Therefore, I decided to adapt this element of surprise and fun into the design and even personalising the coffee pods with different possibilities to heighten the desire of tasting different coffee types.' He added that most coffee machines on the market are very industrialised and made to process coffee out of convenience. 'They neglect the importance of the visualising and the social responsibility through its usage,' he said. 'Droops coffee maker aims to be a benchmark that identifies and exemplifies the importance of these elements to fun coffee drinking.' The rise of coffee machines for home-use has led to a new waste problem that was virtually non-existent a few years ago thanks to the single-use pods to make beverages. Normally, these pods are made from recyclable materials - such as aluminium or plastic - but they are rarely disposed of in an environmentally-friendly manner. According to Zero Waste Europe, an estimated 10 billion coffee capsules were

Summary: Soaring popularity of home coffee machines has led to increasing waste . Eason Chow believes his innovative new product could be the solution . Pods are made of coffee granules in milk powder are then dipped in sugar . Price will be around £4 for a pack of 20 and a machine will cost around £80 .


Almost a third of teachers have suffered online bullying at the hands of parents in the last year, a survey suggests. Families are using social media to post obscenities, threats, offensive photos, sexually explicit insults and even covert films of teachers. Around 30 per cent of teachers said they had been the subject of parents’ abusive internet posts. A study of 1,500 teachers found 30 per cent have suffered online abuse by parents - and that this type of bullying is on the rise accounting for 40 per cent of all reported online insults this year . And the poll found that bullying by parents is on the rise, accounting for 40 per cent of all reported online insults this year compared to just 27 per cent last year. The survey, by teachers’ union NASUWT, reveals a disturbing picture of how parents are increasingly using Facebook and Twitter to intimidate staff. One teacher said they had been sworn at by a parent online over a PE lesson, while a female dance teacher said she had been called a ‘paedophile’ for wanting to film a performance. Others said they had received insults from parents about their appearance and weight, with one told she was ugly and her ‘husband could do better than her’. Of those harassed online by parents, 15 per cent had threats made against them, compared to seven per cent in 2014. The poll also showed that the proportion of teachers suffering abuse from both parents and pupils has more than doubled over the past year . Around eight per cent saw allegations of inappropriate behaviour with students, six per cent saw videos or photos taken without consent and three per cent were told they had behaved inappropriately towards parents. The poll of 1,500 teachers also showed that the proportion of teachers suffering abuse from both parents and pupils has more than doubled over the past year – increasing from 21 per cent to 60 per cent. NASUWT general secretary Chris Keates said: ‘It is deeply worrying to see that the abuse of teachers has risen by such a huge margin this year. 'Equally concerning is that it appears that more parents are the perpetrators of the abuse.’ He added: ‘The vile, insulting and personal comments are taking their toll on teachers’ health and wellbeing and undermining their confidence to do their job.’ The survey found that many teachers had received racist, sexist and homophobic remarks online – with one teacher called a ‘wog’ by a pupil and others called ‘lesbian’ and ‘slut’. And teachers said that 60 per cent of the abusive comments online had been written by pupils. Over half of the pupils responsible for abuse were aged between 14 and 16, while 38 per cent were aged between 11 and 14, the teachers’ poll found. One teacher received the comment ‘I hope she gets cancer’, while a heavily pregnant worker was sworn at, called ‘fat whore’ and ‘ugly’. Another said they had been harassed for seven months by pupils who sent sexually explicit messages and set up a

Summary: Survey found one third of teachers suffer online bullying by parents . The bullying is on the rise accounting for 40% of all reported online insults . Survey by teaching union reveals disturbing picture of how parents are increasingly using Facebook and Twitter to intimidate staff . Further 15 per cent of teachers said they had threats made against them .


Federal law enforcement officials say a right wing group has published the names, numbers and addresses of senior and former officials with several government agencies. Along with a paranoid message proclaiming the officials to be 'NWO stooges,' the group, or possibly individual, released the info of employees of the CIA, FBI and DHS on the site Pastebin.com, which allows anonymous posts. The post claims to reveal the information of FBI Director James Comey and DHS Director Charles Johnson, in addition to previous directors, CNN reports. Hacked?: Federal law enforcement officials say a right wing group has published the names, photos and addresses of senior and former officials with several government agencies including FBI Director James Comey (left) and DHS Secretary Charles Johnson (right), in addition to previous directors . The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the leak but would not elaborate on who was affected or how many addresses had been leaked. 'DHS has notified employees who were identified in the posting and encouraged them to be vigilant. DHS will adjust security measures, as appropriate, to protect our employees,' said Homeland Security spokeswoman Marsha Catron. According to CBS News, which first broke the story, the posting was titled 'DHS-CIA-FBI TRAITORS HOME ADDRESSES.' The brief message read, in part: 'LET THESE EVIL NWO SATANISTS KNOW THAT THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY FOR THEIR 911 TREASON, AND THEIR FUTURE FEMA CAMP PLANNED PUBLIC CRACKDOWN TREASON ALSO. 'JESUS IS LORD, AND THE PUBLIC IS IN CHARGE, NOT THESE SATANIC NWO STOOGES' NOW is likely an acronym for New World Order, a term used by conspiracy theorists to refer to a totalitarian world government. Leaked: The post also claimed to contain highly sensitive information, such as P.O. boxes used by the CIA as cover addresses as well as what it claimed to be contact information belonging to the chief of the CIA's National Counterterrorism Center. The post also claimed to contain highly sensitive information, such as P.O. boxes used by the CIA as cover addresses, CNN reports, as well as what it claimed to be contact information belonging to the chief of the CIA's National Counterterrorism Center. Also included in the in the post are what it claims is the personal information of Rudy Giuliani as well as that of Giuliani's son and daughter, ex-CIA directors Leon Panetta and Porter Gross, and former Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano. No one appeared to directly take responsibility for the posts. Also unclear was whether the information came from a computer hack or other sources. Last month, a group claiming ties to Islamic State militants had posted the names, addresses and photos of 100 U.S. troops online and called for them to be killed. That information was publicly available, not stolen from any Defense Department website or database, Defense Secretary Ash Carter said at the time.

Summary: An anonymous post on Pastebin.com claims to reveal addresses of FBI Director James Comey, DHS Director Charles Johnson and others . Also included in the post were P.O. box addresses the writer claims are used by the CIA as cover addresses . The post also read 'JESUS IS LORD, AND THE PUBLIC IS IN CHARGE, NOT THESE SATANIC NWO STOOGES'


New cases: The decision not to prosecute Lord Janner over historic abuse claims has prompted 30 more alleged victims to come forward . A dossier on Lord Janner is among 114 files on child sex abuse that has vanished from the Home Office, it was revealed today. The 1986 Janner file is mentioned in an investigation into an alleged government cover up but its contents remain a mystery. The Home Office has refused to comment on the dossier, which could potentially conceal the name of a second person, it is alleged. Last year NSPCC boss Peter Wanless led a review of Home Office files from 1979 to 1999 and concluded it would be 'impossible' to unearth this and the other 113 missing files. According to the Daily Mirror the paper, titled ‘Greville Janner MP [redacted] re evidence in child abuse cases’ is listed as ‘not found’ and ‘presumed transferred to the MoJ [Ministry of Justice] but not located’. It came as it emerged up to 30 people have now reportedly told police they were abused by Lord Janner, with more coming forward since it was announced he will not be charged with child sex offences. Publicity surrounding the case has encouraged a new wave of alleged victims to come forward, The Times said last night. The news came as Britain’s law chief spoke out publicly for the first time since she ruled the former MP would not face a trial because of his dementia. Yesterday the Director of Public Prosecutions Alison Saunders dared her critics to challenge her in court, and said she is not afraid to see the controversial move tested by a High Court judge. In an appearance on Newsnight she said her decision on Lord Janner was correct when asked if she would not change her mind. She said: 'No. I’ve considered the decision very carefully. I mean this wasn’t an easy decision to make and I am very aware of the disappointment and frustration that some people will feel around the decision and I feel frustrated that we cannot and haven’t been able to prosecute it. Scroll down for video . The news came as Alison Saunders, the new Director of Public Prosecutions, has dared her critics to challenge her in court after she decided Lord Janner could not face trial because of his Alzheimer's . An explosive dossier compiled by MP Geoffrey Dickens is believed to be among 114 files known to have been lost or destroyed by the Home Office. In 1983 the Tory MP for Huddersfield West said he had eight names of 'really important, public figures' who unless they were arrested he would ‘expose in Parliament’. Based on his descriptions, these are thought to include MPs, civil servants, a diplomat and even a Buckingham Palace official. Some had links to the Paedophile Information Exchange, who wanted sex with children legalised, he said. Dickens handed his '40-page dossier' to the then Home Secretary Leon Brittan, which set out allegations of a paedophile circle ‘operating and networking within and around’ the Westminster elite. Another copy was

Summary: Publicity surrounding case has prompted 30 people to contact police . Revealed dossier on Lord Janner was among files lost by Home Office . DPP Alison Saunders has told critics to challenge her ruling in court . Also said that her decision is 'the right one' and will not change .


Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez is a star-studded strike force that almost every team in the world would dearly love to have, but when the going gets tough, Barcelona turn to Jeremy Mathieu and Gerard Pique. The French centre-back flung himself through the air to reach Xavi's free kick at the back post, heading home from close range, finally breaching Celta Vigo's stern defence. It was Mathieu who had opened the scoring in the El Clasico, in similar fashion. Pique, meanwhile, just a minute before Mathieu scored, had made an incredible, game-saving tackle on Celta striker Charles, to prevent him from opening the scoring. Jeremy Mathieu (right) heads home in the 73rd minute to hand Barcelona a 1-0 lead against Celta Vigo . Celta Vigo goalkeeper Alvarez Conde (right) is unable to stop the powerful header from Mathieu . Celta Vigo: Alvarez Conde, Mallo Novegil, Cabral, Fontas, Castro Otto, Hernandez, Fernandez, Krohn-Dehli (Radoja - 67'), Orellana, Larrivey (Dias de Oliveira 71'), Agudo Duran . Booked: Krohn-Dehli, Duran . Sent off: Orellana . Subs not used: Mina Lorenzo, Lopez Sanchez, Blanco, Bongonda, Gomez Sola . Barcelona: Bravo, Dani Alves, Pique, Mathieu, Adriano, Rafinha (Xavi 58'), Busquets, Iniesta (Pedro 75'), Messi, Suarez (Rakitic 85'), Neymar . Subs not used: Ter Stegen, Montoya, Bartra, Sergi . Goals: Mathieu 73' Booked: Suarez . Ref: Inaki Vicandi Garrido . Att: 23,731 . This gritty, barely-deserved triumph helped Barcelona stay four points ahead of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga, after Ancelotti’s side's almost-harrowing 9-1 demolition of Granada . Celta Vigo’s aggressive pressing nearly paid dividends, but their hard-work and effort counted for nothing thanks to Mathieu’s goal. Their frustration manifested itself in a bizarre way, with Fabian Orellana sent off for throwing a lump of turf at Sergio Busquets. For some reason Sergio Alvarez, Celta Vigo's goalkeeper, is kryptonite for Barcelona's attacking trident, as they also failed to beat him in 90 minutes at the Camp Nou earlier this season. After Barcelona's Halloween nightmare against Celta Vigo, the directive from Luis Enrique here was not to leave with egg on their faces on Easter Sunday. Barcelona's own website stated that 'a dose of retribution' was in order, after the 1-0 defeat by Eduardo Berizzo’s side in late autumn. Before the game Spanish media wondered if the international break had happened at just the wrong time for Barcelona and just the right time for Real Madrid – something reflected in Madrid’s big win at lunchtime. The Frenchman wheels away in celebration of his second half header at the Balaidos Stadium . Gerard Pique (right) and Sergio Busquets join the French defender in celebration of his goal . With Los Blancos in disarray, a couple of weeks spent healing wounds away from the Santiago Bernabeu seemed an agreeable plan, while Barcelona's momentum was disrupted. Jordi Alba was injured playing for Spain, so Adriano Correia started in his stead. Messi, meanwhile, was dragged round the United States with Argentina, sidelined because of an inflamed foot which left him unable to put his boots on. He managed to

Summary: Barcelona struggle to 1-0 La Liga victory against Celta Vigo . Jeremy Mathieu gave Barcelona 1-0 lead with second half header . Orellana shown red card for throwing grass at Sergio Busquets . Luis Suarez shown a yellow card for diving by referee Inaki Vicandi Garrido .


The greatest challenge to Rory McIlroy's grand slam bid or Tiger Woods' latest comeback at this week's Masters could come from Mother Nature. Players endured rainy spells during their practice on Tuesday with forecasts that the wet weather is set continue once the tournament gets underway on Thursday April 9. The typically warm and humid Georgia weather is expected to be unsettled by a cold front heading into Augusta for the weekend, which is likely to bring more showers and thunderstorms, especially on Friday and Saturday. Rory McIlroy hides under an umbrella as the heaven's open during practice on Tuesday . World No 1 makes his way through the rain ahead of his bid to complete a career grand slam . Dark clouds gather over the course as England's Lee Westwood practices his putting . The practice round ahead of the tournament was disrupted by bad weather in Augusta . McIlroy's caddie J.P. Fitzgerald holds an umbrella over the player's head to let him take a putt . Spectators, wrapped in an assortment of weatherproofs, are caught in a deluge while walking the course . Despite using an umbrella to shield himself from the elements on Tuesday, McIlroy could find himself facing record high temperatures on the first day of play - with the mercury expected to reach 90F, approaching the record 91F set in 2011. Augusta National has its own weather centre where officials can keep an eye on any extreme changes and evacuate players, spectators and staff from the course if necessary. According to Accuweather.com, Thursday and Sunday will likely be the best weather days at the tournament while Friday and Saturday carry potential for storms with strong winds. Many spectators were forced to watch their heroes hone their swings from under shelter, although the course's state of the art drainage system mean that play is unlikely to be delayed. Weather reports have forecast unseasonably high temperatures and stormy weather across the four days . Spectators may have to get used to taking cover beneath trees, especially on Friday and Saturday . A cold front coming over Georgia is likely to bring more stormy weather and strong winds . Golf fans flock to leave August National as the rain pours down on Tuesday . Spectators under shelter take a look at the tournament's order of play, beginning on Thursday morning . Water puddles on a seat with the Masters' logo with the start of the tournament only a day away .

Summary: Golf's first major of the season, the Masters, tees off on Thursday April 9 . Rory McIlroy is bidding for a career grand slam while Tiger Woods is back . Extreme weather conditions including high temperatures and storms have been forecast across the four day event in Augusta . CLICK HERE for all the latest news from The Masters 2015 .


A New York City tattoo parlor at the center of a VH1 reality series just got a serving of drama - but not the kind that makes for good publicity. A woman from South Carolina is suing Harlem tattoo parlor Black Ink, claiming an artist there did a botch job on a chest piece that left her disfigured and in pain. The Harlem tattoo parlor's owner and artists star in their own reality show, Black Ink Crew, which has had three seasons. Scroll down for video . Scarred: Asabi Barner, 37 (pictured), is suing Black Ink tattoo parlor in Harlem, New York City for a chest tattoo that left her scarred . The damage: Barner says she went to the parlor after watching the reality show which features the shop on VH1 . In pain: Barner said she trusted the artists, but came away with a tattoo that remains painful a year later . Asabi Barner told PIX 11 that she visited New York last year and decided to stop by the parlor to get a new tattoo to cover up a unicorn and horseshoe piece that she got when she was 18. She said she had watched the parlor's reality show and trusted the artists, who specialize in tattooing on dark skin tones. Barner left the shop happy with her 'phenomenal' new chest tattoo of fruits and vegetables to represent her career in the culinary industry. Reality stars: The owner and artists at Black Ink tattoo star in their own VH1 reality show, Black Ink Crew . But the next day she was still in pain and then noticed that the tattoo started to puss and ooze in the area around her left breast. Back home in South Carolina, Barner asked a local tattoo artist what was wrong and the artist said that her skin had been 'overworked' in an attempt to bring out a white color in the tattoo. She also went to a plastic surgeon to see if the tattoo could be remedied, but the doctor said any procedure would only leave a bigger scar. More than a year later, Barner says she has to apply a ice pack to the tattoo every day to relieve the burning and itching pain. Photos of the botched tattoo show Barner's chest covered in raised scars that have left her uncomfortable in her own skin. 'In the intimate moments it creates a problem because you don’t have that confidence. I wasn’t overly confident before, but I felt good about myself. Felt good about my body, but it just changes you,' Barner told PIX 11. Barner is currently in the process of suing Black Ink, claiming the shop is responsible for her pain through reckless, careless and negligent behavior.

Summary: Asabi Barner, 37, of South Carolina got a tattoo at Black Ink tattoo parlor while visiting New York City . The parlor in Harlem specializes in tattooing dark skin and the shop's owner and artist have their own reality show called Black Ink Crew on VH1 . Barner went to the shop last year to get a new chest piece to cover up an older chest tattoo . After the first day, Barner says the new tattoo started to puss and continues to be painful to this day . She is currently in the process for suing the tattoo parlor .


For most of the country, spring is already in full force. But chilly temperatures in the northeast have kept snow on the ground well into April. One family on New York's Long Island were even able to keep a snowman alive until this weekend, when their Frosty finally melted in 70-degree temperatures. But before the snowman withered away, he became somewhat of an internet celebrity, with more than 3,000 people liking the page the family dedicated to their carrot-nosed friend on Facebook. Scroll down for video . Until next year! A family on New York's Long Island tried to keep this snowman alive for as long as possible, but the Frosty melted this weekend when 70-degree temperatures hit the area . Remnants: The Fregoe family took a small ball of ice from the snowman to store in the freezer until next winter, when he will come to life again . Mike Fregoe of Massapequa Park says he and his family built the snowman in January, when it grew to be more than 9-feet tall. Since then, the snowman's height has fluctuated as late winter storms have continued to dump snow even into March. He says he has kept the snowman alive with his teen daughter Rebecca. 'It started out as a small project for fun, and it's morphed into the ongoing snow saga, and it's a great thing that makes everybody smile and happy, and we're having fun with it still,' Mr Fregoe told CBS New York last week. Keeping winter alive: Mike Fregoe went to a local park every day to collect melting snow by the bucket-full to add to his snowman . Last ditch effort: Mr Fregoe pictured adding to the snowman last week, when the weather was so warm he was wearing a tank top . But since the beginning of April, the snowman began shrinking and the family started a Facebook page asking for 'snownations' to keep their beloved Frosty alive. 'I won’t take snow from an ice skating rink or any artificial snow,' Mr Fregoe said. 'The only way this guy is going to stay alive is with the snow from this winter.' Mr Fregoe says he's received snow from people visiting the snowman from as far away as Vermont, as well as closer communities like the Hamptons. The Fregoes also did a lot of the work themselves, taking daily trips to the park to shovel melting snow by the bucket load. Ups and downs: Above, pictures of the Fregoe's snowman this winter, when he climbed to 9-feet tall after a late January snow storm . In his natural environment: The snowman pictured above on March 20, in the midst of a spring snowstorm . Getting a tan: Frosty sports a hat for St Patrick's day on the left, and is shielded from the sun on the right with an umbrella . To protect the snowman from melting faster, they also shaded him with an umbrella and comically added a bottle of suntan lotion to one of his twig arms. Last week, when Mr Fregoe spoke with

Summary: The Fregoe family of Massapequa Park, New York built their own Frosty in January . Thanks to late winter storms that stretched into spring, the family was able to keep the snowman alive for months . The snowman finally melted this weekend, when temperatures reached a high of 75 on Saturday and 57 on Sunday . Mike Fregoe is keeping a small snowball in the freezer to start a new snowman next winter .


Around one in seven couples suffer with infertility and an increasing number are seeking alternative therapies in the hope it will bring them a longed for baby. Those who can afford it can turn to London's famous private medical haven Harley Street, where Dr Xiao-Ping Zhai has been helping women conceive for decades using only traditional Chinese medicine. Now she's invited BBC cameras inside The Zhai Clinic, which she opened in 1996, to reveal the secrets of her success. Dr Xiao-Ping Zhai says she has used Chinese medicine to help a thousand women become pregnant . 'I'm a doctor who initially trained in western medicine, then I studied Chinese medicine as I realised lots of problems couldn't be overcome by traditional western medicine,' she explains to Vanessa Engle for the documentary Inside Harley Street, which airs tonight on BBC2. Dr Zhai's methods include acupuncture and prescribing a bespoke combination of Chinese herbs which must be taken day and night. The herbs may be drunk as a tea or are provided as a vitamin tablet - 12 must be taken in the morning and 12 in the evening. The vitamins contain natural ingredients such goji berries, Chinese yan and ginger. Dr Zhai says as a result of her natural remedies: 'I have brought more than one thousand babies into the world.' One of them was advertising director Jane Parker's son Rupert. He was conceived when she was 40. Dr Zhai prescribes a bespoke course of vitamins - 24 tablets a day for two weeks - containing Chinese herbs to help conception (file photo) Jane, from London, previously told the Mail On Sunday how she fell pregnant using Dr Zhai's methods after two failed cycles of IVF. She said: 'I'd read an article about her, and had arranged it even before I'd had the IVF – she had a long waiting list. I was in an emotional state of shock when I saw her in December 2008. 'I was convinced she was going to tell me I was too old. Yet she was incredibly reassuring, giving me confidence without raising my hopes to unrealistic levels. 'She ran a series of checks including blood tests and scans. She only prescribes after she's been through the results. 'In January 2009, alongside regular acupuncture sessions, I started taking specially prepared herbs, following her advice on which supplements to take and made several changes to my lifestyle (including giving up alcohol, taking no vigorous exercise and avoiding cold drinks). 'One month later, I’d just returned from holiday and realised my period was late. I bought a pregnancy test and discovered I was expecting! I carried on with the acupuncture, herbs and supplements throughout the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. 'I gave birth to Rupert in November 2009 when I was 41. I genuinely believe that if I hadn’t seen Dr Zhai, I wouldn't have my son.' The new BBC documentary, which airs this evening follows May Lyang, 36, who hopes to have a success story like Jane's after five years of trying. She turned to Dr Zhai after

Summary: Around one in seven couples suffer with infertility . Dr Xiao-Ping Zhai offers help via with traditional Chinese medicine . Uses acupuncture and prescribes course of Chinese herbs .


Selfie sticks and extreme sports are not designed to go together, as a snowboarder in Japan proved. While enjoying the slopes in the country’s Chiisagata District, the man can be seen decked out in purple holding a matching selfie stick at arm’s length. Recording himself from behind, the man begins his descent of the mountain and a skier can be seen just in front of him. Weaving down the slope, the snowboarder initially appears to make a success of the video and he even causes the snow to spray in the air while turning. Picking up the speed, the man heads in the direction of the chairlifts before moving away again – adjusting his selfie stick to capture himself from the front in the process. But as the confident snowboarder adjusts the camera, he is oblivious to the chairlift swinging into view behind. The snowboarder, in a bright purple jacket, is using a selfie stick to film himself in action . The show-off stops to clear some snow off the screen of the camera, not realising what is about to happen . It is later explained online that there was too much snow and that the chairlift was therefore lower to the ground than it would normally be. As the snowboarder in the purple jacket turns to his companion and appears to talk, the empty chairlift deals him a heavy blow to the head. And the final indignity sees the boarder fall to the ground while still filming himself. The snowboarder can be heard making a scream as he holds the back of his head and falls to the floor. Realising his mistake, the snowboarder concludes the video by shuffling himself out of the way and sitting beside the chairlift as another passes safely by. The empty chairlift appears out of nowhere and clatters the snowboarder over the head . And the final indignity sees the snowboarder fall to the ground while still filming himself .

Summary: The man records himself descending mountain with fellow skier . He negotiates a number of trees and video is initially a success . Pair stop but the snowboarder fails to move from path of chairlift . While posing for the camera the chairlift hits him hard in the head . The footage was recorded in the Chiisagata District of Japan .


They have invited us into their kitchens and proudly shown off their families. But most of us are fed up with hearing about the wives and children of the party leaders, it seems. For 71 per cent of voters say they are choosing politicians and have no need to know about their spouses or offspring, a ComRes survey for the Daily Mail and ITV News reveals. Only a quarter say it is important to know about leaders’ domestic lives. Scroll down for video . Voters don't feel the need to know about politician's wives, a poll has found. Above: Nick Clegg and his wife Miriam Gonzalez Durantez were seen in their £1.5million Putney home in an ITV interview broadcast last night . Only 25 per cent of voters believe it is important to get to know party leaders’ families, the new ComRes poll shows. The party leaders have made their wives more prominent in this election campaign than ever before . The findings may come as a shock to Ed Miliband, David Cameron and Nick Clegg, who have all invited the TV cameras into their homes and given their wives prominent campaign roles. Yesterday Mr Clegg became the latest to show off his kitchen, only to have it criticised for being mismatched and dated. It follows an interview with Mr Miliband and his wife Justine in one of their two kitchens and footage of the Camerons in the kitchen in Downing Street and in their Witney home. In the ITV interview broadcast last night, Mr Clegg and his Spanish wife Miriam Gonzalez Durantez were seen in their £1.5million Putney home, sipping white wine while, in the background, a paella was cooking on the hob. However, one interior designer said the Clegg kitchen was ‘middle of the road’, too much a mix of city and country – and in need of refreshing. In the interview, Mr Clegg revealed what many have long suspected, that in key decisions his wife wears the trousers. The poll found that women are marginally more likely to want to know about politicians’ spouses and families than men, by 27 per cent to 24 per cent. Above: Ed Miliband is supported by wife Justine during the campaign . The ComRes poll shows Conservative voters are the most likely to think it is important to get to know the wives and children of the party leaders – 32 per cent, compared with 25 per cent of Labour voters. Labour would lower the voting age to 16, the party confirmed yesterday as Ed Miliband launched its education manifesto. The move – the first change in the voting age since 1969 – would enfranchise more than 1.5million 16 and 17-year-olds. Party sources believe that idealistic youngsters are more likely to vote Labour. The idea is also backed by the Lib Dems. But polls show that the public, including most 16-year-olds, do not support the idea. It is also opposed by the Conservatives. David Cameron said this year he was willing to hold a Commons vote on the issue, but did not support

Summary: 71% of voters say they don't need to know about families of politicians . Only a quarter feel it is important to know about leaders’ domestic lives . Ed Miliband, David Cameron and Nick Clegg have all invited the TV cameras into their homes and given their wives prominent campaign roles .


Double rapist Solomon Khoorban, 33, a former soldier based at Woolwich barracks, London, has been jailed for 16 years . A double rapist ex-soldier who went undetected for 12 years after attacking a 16-year-old in a West End nightclub and raping a second woman at knifepoint has finally been jailed. Violent Solomon Khoorban, now 33, forced himself on the teenager in the VIP area at Equinox nightclub in Leicester Square - which has now been replaced by a casino - after punching her so hard in the face that she was knocked unconscious. He then ordered his terrified victim to wait in the VIP area for at least 30 minutes, threatening to kill her if she did not oblige. Princess Diana was among a host of famous faces who attended shows, events and after parties at the club before it closed down. Just two months later, in August 2003, the knife-wielding attacker raped a 32-year-old woman as she walked through Greenwich, south east London. The former gunner, who was 21 at the time, put her in a headlock, dragged her into the bushes and raped her twice. He also told her: 'B****** shouldn't be out at this time'. Both rapes were reported to police at the time but it took detectives more than a decade to track Khoorban down and link him to the sex attacks. The arrest came after the Met’s Specialist Crime and Operations Command carried out a review of both investigations in September 2014. Detectives combed through a series of ID photos from the British Army before identifying Khoorban as a suspect. When he was arrested in November 2014, police linked his DNA to the attacks. He had not previously been on the DNA database because he had not been in trouble with police. Jailing him at Snaresbrooke Crown Court for 16 years, Judge Sheelagh Canavan said Khoorban was a 'violent sexual predator' who had ruined his victims' lives. She said: 'The damage you have caused these women and no doubt will continue to cause will last the rest of their lives. They are serving a life sentence. 'The younger girl was 16 with her whole life to look forward to and she is moving forward with this over her. 'The second victim has been traumatised by what you did to her. Nothing I can say or do will change that. 'You are a violent sexual predator, I have no doubt you were excited by your use of violence which was far beyond anything that was needed to achieve your purpose.' During the hearing, the court heard how Khoorban had raped his first victim during a night out when she was marking the end of her GCSEs. The soldier had asked his victim to go upstairs to talk and she agreed because her feet were hurting after dancing in high heels. The court heard how the subsequent attack was so violent that the teenager had to be rushed to hospital to be treated for her injuries. Judge Sheelagh Canavan said: 'I doubt anyone who was there will forget the

Summary: Solomon Khoorban, 33, raped teen at club after punching her unconscious . He then raped second victim, 32, at knifepoint in the bushes in Greenwich . Both crimes reported at time but it took 12 years to trace him through DNA . He has been jailed for 16 years after pleading guilty to three counts of rape .


A man, 21, allegedly forced a tearful 15-year-old girl into his car on Saturday and screamed, 'you will never see your parents again!' in attempt to force her to be his teen bride. Kong Meng Xiong, 21, of St. Paul, Minnesota has been charged with kidnapping, third-degree criminal sexual conduct and false imprisonment. The Star Tribune reports that the girl's family reported the kidnapping on Sunday and that they opposed to their daughter marrying Xiong, whom she was dating, because of their age differences. Alleged kidnapper: Kong Meng Xiong, 21, of St.Paul, Minnesota has been arrested after he allegedly tried to force his 15-year-old girlfriend to be his traditional Hmong bride . Xiong and his parents say they wanted the girl and Xiong to marry in the Hmong tradition. The girl, who has not been identified because she is a minor, told police that Xiong was her 'boyfriend' and that they got into a physical argument over the prospect of marriage on Saturday night. Xiong allegedly threw the girl's iPad against a wall at her family's home and then ripped her sweatpants as he dragged her into his car. Her parents were not home at the time. The girl told police that she managed to escape but that Xiong took hold of her a second time, forced her into his car, and took her to his family's home. When the girl's parents returned home from work at around noon on Sunday, they learned of the kidnapping from their oldest son. The girl's parents called Xiong's parents and demanded that they give them their daughter back. The girl's older brother later drove to the Xiong's home where they willingly let the girl go home. The girl told police that she and Xiong had been 'dating' in January and first had sex when she was just 14-years-old. The victim's father told police that Xiong asked him to marry his daughter on multiple occasions but that he said no because of their large age difference. Xiong admitted to kidnapping the girl and said that she tried to escape from him on Highway 26. This is not Xiong's first brush with the law. In 2009 Xiong was tried in juvenile court or sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl when he was 15. He pleaded guilty. Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said about the case, 'This is a very disturbing case involving the victimization of a 15-year-old girl that cannot be tolerated in our community. 'Women and girls are not property, they are human beings who have every right to be free from violence and to live according to how they choose for themselves. 'We allege that the defendant has sexually exploited a minor who cannot legally consent to sex, and has taken violent actions to kidnap and hold the victim against her will.' According to Hmongculture.net, the Hmong are an ethnic group that come from Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos. In the late 1980s many Hmong people came to the United States after being sponsored by the Lutheran church. The majority relocated to St. Paul, Minnesota and

Summary: Kong Meng Xiong, 21, of St. Paul, Minnesota has been charged with kidnapping, third-degree criminal sexual conduct and false imprisonment . Xiong allegedly tried to kidnap his 15-year-old girlfriend and force her to be his bride in a traditional Hmong marriage . In Hmong culture, bride-napping is a frowned-upon tradition in which a male suitor kidnaps his bride if her family does not approve of the marriage . Xiong pleaded guilty to sexual assault against a 13-year-old girl in 2009 when he was 15 .


A 3D printing company has created a prosthetic leg for a goose after it was left struggling for self confidence following an amputation. Ozzie the goose was close to being put down numerous times after he broke his leg and it was amputated at the joint. But an animal lover's appeal for help led to a South African tech company stepping in to manufacture him a brand new limb. Ozzie the goose has his stump measurements taken as BunnyCorp works to design him a new leg . Ozzie's new 3D printed leg (pictured) was designed in the shape and size of a goose leg to fit him perfectly . Philip Van Der Walt, director of BunnyCorp, said it was a few weeks ago when his company 'got word of a goose with a situation'. He said: 'He broke his leg and it had to be amputated at the joint. 'He was lucky as animal lover and rescuer Sue Burger got hold of him and started nursing him back to health. As time went by he struggled more and more to cope with only one leg resulting in damaged wings and self confidence. 'They considered ending his struggle many times but always decided not to. 'Out of desperation, Sue managed to get onto the national radio station here and called (South African broadcaster) RSG in the hope someone would hear their plea and be able to assist them somehow. 'Helen from 3D printing systems contacted me a few days later telling me about someone who is looking for help, as she normally sends us medical related queries. The prosthetic limb is composed of several parts and replacement pieces which comprise his new leg . After creating specific design files, a 3D printer was used to manufacture the new limb (pictured) 'We soon discovered that it was the same person from the radio. We contacted Sue and told her we would look into it and see if we can get something off the ground.' Mr Van Der Walt then gathered up sponsors to help fund what is believed to be the first 3D-printed prosthetic limb for an animal in South Africa. He added: 'Sue brought the goose to the BunnyCorp offices where we took photos and took measurements of the goose's leg. We explained to them the process and what we had planned and then set a date for the test. 'We started working and came up with a few possible solutions, we are by no means experts on animal prosthetic but we do work with human prosthetic and this did give us some insight on what should work. 'The CAD (computer-aided design) files where then sent to Hybrid Advanced Geometries to be 3D printed and finished. 'We got together on the 3rd of April and did a fitting test on the goose, the parts fitted perfectly but he was a bit confused about his new leg as he has been without one for about five months. 'He will need some therapy to assist him and close monitoring for a few days. We can

Summary: Ozzie the goose has been given a new leg manufactured using a 3D printer . He broke his leg and had it amputated before being nursed back to health . But he was unable to fly and struggling for self confidence after operation . Rescuer Sue Burger made an appeal on public radio for help with Ozzie . Tech company BunnyCorp stepped in to 3D print him a new prosthetic limb .


Linda Thompson, Bruce Jenner's second wife, has praised her former husband for being 'a champion for those who share the struggle to just be who they are.' She tweeted her message of support and pride just hours before Bruce's highly-anticipated sit down interview with Diane Sawyer is set to air on ABC. It's the first public comment the former beauty queen, who was married to the Olympic gold medalist from 1981 to 1986, has made about his rumored transition from male to female. Scroll down for video . Breaking her silence: Bruce Jenner's second wife Linda Thompson tweeted a message of support for the Olympian ahead of his ABC prime time special with Diane Sawyer set to air on Friday night . Supportive and proud: Linda, 64, has said her former husband's anticipated confirmation that he's transgender and plans to live as a woman is as monumental as his Olympic success . Linda shared two pictures of the former decathlete, one of him celebrating his victory at the Montreal Olympics in 1976 and one of his sporting image on a billboard. She compared his expected revelations about his personal journey to the magnitude of what he accomplished as an athlete. Linda had two sons with Bruce - Brandon and Brody - and both have been seen in teaser videos released by the TV network suggesting they are also supportive of their father's transition. Second time around: The star athlete met Linda Thompson as his first marriage crumbled and as soon as his divorce was finalized in January 1981, he and Linda tied the knot in Hawaii . Real man: A shirtless Bruce happily posed on the cover of Playgirl in 1982 with Linda, as he continued to reap the rewards of his Olympic success . A former beauty queen and an ex-girlfriend of Elvis Presley, Linda and Bruce tied the knot in a beach ceremony in Hawaii on January 5, 1981. The two had started seeing each other while the Olympian was still legally married to his first wife Chrystie and married as soon as his divorce was finalized. They led a glamorous Hollywood lifestyle and were fixtures on the celebrity circuit. Linda starred in the Hee Haw TV series and had small parts in other TV shows and films while Bruce worked as a TV commentator and actor, appearing in six episodes of CHiPS and the Village People movie Can't Stop The Music. In 1982, the couple posed for the cover of Playgirl with Bruce shirtless alongside his curvaceous wife. Following their divorce in 1986, Linda went on to marry prolific music producer David Foster, from whom she was divorced in 2005, and became a celebrated songwriter in her own right. Proud mama: Linda shared this photo of herself with her sons Brody, 31, and Brandon, 33, Jenner on on April 6 . It's been reported previously that Bruce has said that he told both his first two ex-wives, when their divorces were finalized, that he's known since childhood that he should really be living as a woman. There have also

Summary: Friday's tweet is the first public comment Linda has made about her former husband's personal journey . She compared his anticipated TV revelations about his 'true self' to the magnitude of his Olympic achievement . An ex-girlfriend of Elvis Presley, Linda tied the knot with Bruce in 1981 . The couple had two sons Brandon and Brody before they divorced in 1986 .


The fiancé of a beloved Georgia teacher is speaking out about the night the woman died, as her killer, a high school student, faces multiple charges. Alton Hines was waiting for his fiancé, 33-year-old Leah O'Brien at her home on the night of Saturday, April 25, he told WSBTV. 'I had actually just finished putting on a blazer and a bow tie waiting for her to return,' he said. Popular: Leah O'Brien was killed when the car she was driving to chaperone the school prom was hit by a vehicle carrying two students also on their way to the dance . Fiancé: O'Brien's fiancé, Alton Hines (photographed), recently spoke out about the night he found out O'Brien had been killed . Hines was going to escort O'Brien to the Lakeside High School prom. As he waited for his bride-to-be to return, he received a call from O'Brien's father telling him she had been in a car accident and didn't make it. 'To get a call and find out what had happened,' Hines told WSBTV. 'I just dropped straight to my knees and started to cry.' Passengers: O' Brien (left) was driving with her 8-year-old daughter, Kori (right) at the time of the crash; Kori is in a medically-induced coma . Children: The mother-of-two leaves behind two daughters, Kori and Rachel, 10; Rachel is staying with relatives . O'Brien, a science teacher at the high school located in the Atlanta Suburb of Decatur died at the scene of the crash that night when a car carrying two students on their way to the prom crashed into her Hyundai Sonata. Her 8-year-old daughter Kori was in the vehicle at the time and suffered serious injuries. She is now in a medically induced coma. O'Brien's other daughter, Rachel, 10, is staying with relatives. Driver: Driving the Dodge Charger that killed the beloved teacher was 19-year-old Ramiro Pedemonte . Charges: Decatur police say Pedemonte (center) was going over 100 mph when he hit O' Brien and is now facing multiple charges . Driving the Dodge Charger that killed the beloved teacher was Ramiro Pedemonte. Decatur police say Pedemonte was going over 100 mph when he hit O'Brien. The teen was arraigned Friday on charges including homicide, reckless driving, and serious injury by motor vehicle, according to 11 Alive. Pedemonte was driving with an 18-year-old woman at the time of the crash. Local resident Darnyl Katzinger, who lives near the crash scene, said she raced outside to find the two students in shock. Aftermath: The wreckage of the teacher's Hyundai Sonata which was hit by the student's Dodge Charger . Revealed: At the arraignment, it was revealed that Pedemonte was on probation at the time of the accident with a June 2014 charge of of possession with intent to distribute . She told WSBTV: 'They were very distraught. 'Both of them kept repeating, 'why did she have to pull out in front of us?' At the arraignment, it was revealed that Pedemonte was on probation at the time of the accident with a June 2014 charge of

Summary: Alton Hines, the fiancé of Leah O'Brien, 33, the beloved teacher killed in a car crash on April 25, is speaking out about the night the woman died . The other driver, 19-year-old Ramiro Pedemonte is facing charges including homicide, reckless driving, and serious injury by motor vehicle . Police determined that Pedemonte was going over 100 mph when he hit O'Brien . Authorities say Pedemonte was on probation at the time of the accident with a June 2014 charge of of possession with intent to distribute .


Louis van Gaal believes Manchester United will hit the ground running in their attempt to win the Barclays Premier League next season after persuading the Old Trafford hierarchy to agree to a short and sharp pre-season tour of America in July. After last summer’s mammoth trek across the United States, an angry United manager Van Gaal vowed that it would never happen again on his watch and believes to this day that the effects of the pre-season schedule cost his side dearly when the real action started. Now Sportsmail can reveal that Van Gaal and United have turned down offers from Asia and Australia and are about to sign off a visit to America – in all likelihood to the west coast. The trip will last in the region of 12 days – a whole week shorter than last summer - and will be over by August 1. Manchester United beat Real Madrid in Michigan last summer in front of 109,000 fans . United played four games in America last pre-season, here Wayne Rooney scores against LA Galaxy . United beat Liverpool in the final to win the International Champions Cup last summer . While rivals such as Manchester City are trekking around Australia, Van Gaal and his United players will operate out of one base in America and travel to their games from there. The club have agreed once again to rake part in the International Champions Cup that they won last summer by beating Liverpool in a final in Miami. The tournament is played all over America but this time the promoters have essentially allowed United to choose their own venues as they are so desperate to have England’s most famous club in it. Details of the competition were supposed to be announced last week with United given a provisional deadline to commit to their schedule by last Friday. However, the announcement has been put on hold while Van Gaal and United tweak final details. Last season, Van Gaal joined United after the World Cup in Brazil to find the club committed to a two-and-half week marathon comprising visits to Los Angeles, Pasadena, Denver, Washington, Detroit and, finally, Miami. Rooney scored another spectacular goal for United against Aston Villa last weekend . Following their tour of America, United suffered a slow start but are now firing on all cylinders in the league . The Dutch veteran was furious at the itinerary that he felt asked too much of his players as they were constantly asked to fly in to different time zones and even play at altitude in Colorado. Having to then play the final in Florida during a thunderstorm was the final straw. For long periods of this winter’s negotiations, Van Gaal and United seemed set to commit to a schedule on America’s East Coast. It is understand, however, that Van Gaal has recently performed a volte face and expressed a preference for the more agreeable climates of the west. Van Gaal has insisted this time that his team will travel to match venues from one base and will

Summary: Manchester United will embark on a short tour of America this summer . They are likely to spend 12 days on the west coast, staying in one place . United will defend their International Champions Cup title . Louis van Gaal has avoided a lengthy, energy-sapping tour this year . CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester United news .


Alastair Cook insists he is 'refreshed' by this winter's enforced sabbatical at home on the farm. England can only hope their Test captain has benefited indeed, because he can expect to have precious little time for the remainder of this year to regain that sort of perspective. Cook has had a taste already of what is to come, first of all in three Caribbean Tests this month and then a decidedly awkward assignment at home to New Zealand, before England somehow try this summer to regain the Ashes lost 5-0 under his captaincy in 2013-14. England captain Alastair Cook in training in Basseterre as his team prepare for the West Indies Test series . Cook addresses the media at Warner Park in Basseterre ahead of England's Caribbean Tests . Cook (right) and Jonathan Trott walk out for a nets session as England prepare for their series . April 6-7 St Kitts & Nevis Invitation XI (3pm BST) 8-9 St Kitts & Nevis Invitation XI (3pm BST) 13-17 1st Test, Antigua (3pm BST) 21-25 2nd Test, Grenada (3pm BST) May 1-5 3rd Test, Barbados (3pm BST) To date, he is one match - eight runs in two innings - one problematic radio interview and one departure press conference, alongside coach Peter Moores, back into the regime he departed for three months after his Christmas axing as England's World Cup captain. As Cook, Moores and their playing and management colleagues reconvened at Gatwick Airport on Thursday, the captain's first task was to field questions on a series of topics unlikely to go away any time soon. He made 79 in his last Test innings, part of a wide-margin and third successive victory at home to India last summer, and will be a record-breaker for the foreseeable future as England's most prolific centurion. It was Cook himself, however, who helpfully pointed out those facts will be irrelevant when he next walks out to open the innings for his country. Before and after that moment, he will be beset by the endless stream of enquiries - about his own poor form of the past two years, his and Moores' future, the remarks of outspoken new England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Colin Graves ... and, of course, Kevin Pietersen. Alastair Cook smiles while fielding during England's Test series with India last summer . Cook bats during the fifth Test against India at The Oval last year . The speculation over whether Kevin Pietersen will return to the England fold will overshadow the tour . The wonder is whether Cook can clear his mind sufficiently to defend his wicket against the new ball, or dispatch a wide one. That ability, though, is what sets apart batsmen of his calibre - and he can only keep telling himself he has the track record to prove it. 'That's what I've got to do ... at the top of the order you're paid to score runs, and I'd love to get back to that. 'Every time you go out to bat you start on nought. 'The record you have in

Summary: England begin their tour of West Indies in Saint Kitts on Monday . Captain Alastair Cook says he is 'refreshed' by winter sabbatical at home . Cook was axed as England's one-day captain, missing awful World Cup . He will now seek to restore some national pride in the West Indies . England face New Zealand and Australia at home later this summer .


David Cameron is trying to be Prime Minister without taking the job interview, Ed Miliband claimed today ahead of tonight's TV debates. The Prime Minister will be absent when Mr Miliband and four other party leaders take part in the televised showdown, after agreeing to just one direct confrontation with his rival in the race for Number 10. Mr Miliband accused the PM of 'ducking' the chance to defend his record in government or explain how he would pay for a host of tax giveaways and spending pledges. Labour leader Ed Miliband addresses supporters during a visit to Crouch End in north London this morning . Mr Cameron has pledged to find £7billion to pay for tax cuts for lower and middle earners, by lifting the point at which people start paying tax and the level when the 40p band kicks in. He has also promised to increase the NHS budget by £8billion a year, while slashing welfare spending by £12billion. Tonight's 'Challengers' Debate' will feature Mr Miliband, Ukip's Nigel Farage, Natalie Bennett of the Greens, SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon and Plaid Cymru's Leanne Wood. The BBC1 debate, hosted by David Dimbleby at 8pm tonight, is the second TV showdown of the campaign, following an ITV broadcast on April 2, also featuring Mr Cameron and Mr Clegg, from which no clear winner emerged. Speaking on a campaign visit to north London, Mr Miliband said: 'David Cameron has chosen not to turn up tonight to defend his record. 'Here's what I believe - I think if you are applying for the job of prime minister, the very least the British people expect is for you to turn up to the job interview. 'What I'm going to be doing is setting out the big choice facing our country, between a Labour plan to have a recovery for working families across Britain or more of the same from a government that believes that as long as you look after the rich and powerful everyone else will be okay.' The Labour leader said David Cameron was trying to be Prime Minister without taking the job interview . Tonight's 'Challengers' Debate' will feature Mr Miliband, Ukip's Nigel Farage, Natalie Bennett of the Greens, SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon and Plaid Cymru's Leanne Wood . Launching the Conservatives' Scottish manifesto in Glasgow, Mr Cameron denied dodging tonight's debate. Speaking alongside the Tory leader north of the border, Ruth Davidson, at the Emirates Arena, Mr Cameron insisted he had 'unblocked the logjam' that was preventing the events happening at all. 'Tonight's debate is part of the deal that was done to unblock the logjam that there was about TV debates,' Mr Cameron said. 'You are going to hear a lot of different politicians ... while you think they may be saying different things, they are all actually saying the same thing. Ed Miliband will spend the day cramming for tonight's debate after spending the morning campaigning near his home in London . 'They are saying abandon the plan that has turned this country around and got us more jobs, more

Summary: PM absent tonight when five party leaders take part in TV showdown . Nick Clegg has been excluded from the 'Challengers' debate on the BBC . Ed Miliband said David Cameron was ducking the chance to defend record . PM said he had 'unblocked the logjam' to ensure debates happening at all .


A violent thug who went on the run before taunting police by posing on Facebook in a silver wig and Dame Edna Everage-style sunglasses has been jailed for a second time. Michael Easy, 29, from Southampton, Hampshire, sparked a nationwide police manhunt after going on the run in 2013 after attacking a woman at a party. While on the run, he posted photographs of himself on Facebook posing in a platinum wig and pink Dame Edna Everage-style glasses under the profile name of Michelle. The image showed him pressing his finger to his lips - taunting police as they had failed to track him down. Michael Easy, 29, from Southampton, Hampshire (pictured), sparked a major police manhunt after going on the run and taunted police by posing in Dame Edna-style glasses and a platinum wig in Facebook photos . Easy posted the photograph of himself in a wig and pink sunglasses under the Facebook name 'Michelle Dirt' However, officers eventually found him and he was jailed for 15 months - but he went on the run again in December last year upon his release. Officers arrested him once again and he is now facing the next four months in jail for breaching a restraining order and assaulting two prison officers during his first stint behind bars. The court heard Easy breached the restraining order when he was seen leaving a party with his former girlfriend, aged 19, in December last year. Her family called the police because they were concerned for her safety as Easy had been found guilty in January 2013 of assaulting her when she was pregnant with his child - although in court Easy disputed the child, who is now in care, was his. Southampton Magistrates' Court heard he was due in court for a trial concerning these charges in February, but failed to appear. He was convicted in his absence and a police manhunt was launched. He was found nine days later. Mark Florida-James, defending Easy for his latest crimes, told the court that his former girlfriend had told him she thought the restraining order was over and that she obliged in leaving the party with him. Easy (pictured) is now facing four months in jail after breaching a restraining order and assaulting two prison guards while at Winchester Prison . The crown applied for a new order to be imposed, with prosecuting solicitor Louise Holmes telling the hearing that Easy's former girlfriend, who cannot be named, is 'extremely vulnerable' and has learning difficulties. Ms Holmes said: 'Mr Easy's history and his previous convictions clearly show he is a man of violence towards women and his partners.' The court was handed a statement from Easy's former partner asking not to impose the restraining order, but Ms Holmes told the court that police believed she did this because she is worried for her safety. District Judge Anthony Callaway refused to impose another restraining order, telling the court the woman concerned is an adult who can make her own decisions. The court also heard how Easy assaulted two male prison

Summary: Michael Easy first went on the run in 2013 after assaulting a woman at party . While hiding from police, he taunted them by posting photos on Facebook . Caught and jailed for 15 months before going on run again on his release . Now facing four months in jail for assault and breaching restraining order .


A girl who believed she had a bad hangover was found to have 13 blood clots in her lungs. Holly Barber, from Manchester, woke up feeling unwell and with chest and neck pains – but chalked it down to heavy drinking a few days before. But when the 25-year-old started coughing up blood she knew it was something serious. She rushed to hospital, where doctors found 13 pulmonary embolisms, blood clots blocking the main artery of her lungs, killing the tissue and stopping her from breathing properly. She was treated with medication but, incredibly, a year later was dealt another blow – when medics found another melon-sized blockage in her right lung. Holly Barber, 25, was horrified to be told she had 13 blood clots in her lungs as she believed she was suffering was just a bad hangover. She is pictured before (left) and after her diagnosis (right) Ms Barber began coughing up blood and was having difficulty breathing, so rushed to hospital. It was there doctors diagnosed pulmonary embolisms - blood clots that were blocking the arteries in her lungs . She was horrified to be told the blockage was so big she was probably days from death. She now takes blood-thinning medication to prevent future clots, but the shock of the ordeal has led her to completely changed her lifestyle. She has given up drinking and taken up exercise in an effort to lead the healthiest life possible, and wants to encourage other to do the same. Ms Barber, who has set up her own diet business, said: 'I was so scared when I started coughing up blood, I had no idea what was happening to me but I knew it wasn't a hangover. 'I used to love partying with friends but after suffering from 13 blood clots, I knew I needed to change my ways. 'A terrifying experience like this gives you a brand new outlook and makes you appreciate things so much more, I'm lucky to be alive. 'I did like a drink but you have to look at the bigger picture.' A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in the pulmonary artery, which is the blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the lungs. As in Miss Barber's case, it can be life threatening, as it can prevent blood from reaching the lungs. A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in the pulmonary artery, which is the blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the lungs. This blockage – usually a blood clot – is potentially life threatening, as it can prevent blood from reaching the lungs. The symptoms of a pulmonary embolism can sometimes be difficult to recognise because they can vary between individuals. But the main symptoms include: . chest pain – a sharp, stabbing pain that may be worse when you breathe in . shortness of breath – this can come on suddenly or develop gradually . coughing – this is usually dry, but may include coughing up blood or mucus that contains blood . feeling faint, dizzy or passing out

Summary: Holly Barber, 25, thought she was hungover but began coughing up blood . Hospital tests revealed 13 clots called Pulmonary Embolisms in her lungs . Incredibly, a year later doctors found a melon-sized blockage in her lung . She must now take blood-thinning medication for the rest of her life .


That's a wrap - Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia came to a close on Thursday night in Sydney, with the Johanna Johnson show bringing the event to a spectacular close with her Hollywood-inspired Sirens' Call presentation. Now that the heels have been kicked off, the cameras put down, and the last bottle of champagne drunk, FEMAIL take a look back at the week, taking note of the trends emerging from the shows, the beautiful designs we can't wait to hang in our wardrobes and the trends we won't be trying any time soon. Some dazzling creations had fashion spectators dreaming of an occasion special enough to warrant a couture price tag, other trends were so wearable we wanted to snap them up straight off the model's backs... while a few were downright bizarre. Make-up trends and accessories threatened to overshadow many of the designs being showcased, with stylists going over the top to stand out with head pieces, masks and other adornments bordering on the ridiculous. The week that was: MBFWA featured loud prints, metallic, intricate detailing in couture masterpieces from highlight shows Romance Was Born (left), Toni Maticevski (L) and Steven Khalil (middle R)... and some very different beauty looks and trends we won't try in real life (R) Bigger was better this week with voluminous silhouettes appearing again and again at some of the star shows, including Maticevski and Michael Lo Sordo. Skin is definitely in - flimsy, sheer fabrics were a fixture on the catwalk, with the front row receiving an eyeful as breasts, backsides and everything else were put on display beneath see-through mesh and lace designs. A key beauty trend on the catwalk appeared to be face bling - both Akira Isogawa and Bondi Bather sent models down the runway with sequins and beads glued to their faces. Meanwhile eyebrow-raising head wear frequently outshone the designs on parade - from perspex masks made to look like plastic bags blowing in the wind, to giant animal heads, and Ned Kelly-inspired head pieces. METALLICS . Shine on: Maticevski (left), Ginger & Smart (middle), and Johanna Johnson (right) wowed with metallic golds and bronzes . Metals were a recurring feature on the catwalk. Head-to-toe gold dazzled at Toni Maticevski, while Johanna Johnson showed full-length skirts. Ginger & Smart's bronze dresses were favourites for their wear-ability off the catwalk. VOLUMINOUS SILHOUETTES . Big is better: Toni Maticevski (left), Ellery (middle), and Michael Lo Sordo (right) all presented voluminous silhouettes . The future is now: Contemporary styles by Maticevski (left and right) and Romance Was Born (middle) were masterpieces of design, wearability is questionable . Big is better - silhouettes went super-sized at many of the highlight shows. Maticevski, Romance Was Born, Ellery and Michael Lo Sordo all presented billowing, voluminous gowns. SLOUCHY COMFORT . Pyjama party: Laid-back, slouchy silhouettes featured in the (L-R) Haryono Setiadi, Gary Bigeni, Tome, and Serpent & The Swan shows will make for a comfortable season . Next season looks to be a comfortable one. As well as the oversized evening wear being showcased, ready-to-wear separates were inspired

Summary: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia 2015 came to a close on Thursday night in Sydney . Stand-out shows included Maticevski, Romance Was Born, Tome, Steven Khalil and Johanna Johnson . Sheer and metallic fabrics and slouchy and voluminous silhouettes were recurring trends .


During a recent episode of Divorce Court, a disgruntled man said the members of Wu-Tang Clan did something with his girlfriend - and it wasn't unleashing their famed Killa Beez. Nathan Sellers went on the show with his ex, Lia Palmquist, and accused her of sleeping with every member of the Wu-Tang Clan during one night as she partied with them at a hotel after a show. That would mean Palmquist had sex with the RZA, the GZA, Ghostface Killah, Masta Killa, U-God, Inspectah Deck, Raekwon, Cappadonna and Method Man. The tenth member of the Wu, Ol' Dirty Bastard, is dead so he wasn't involved no matter what. Nathan Sellers (right) went on Divorce Court with Lia Palmquist (left) and said she slept with the Wu-Tang Clan . American rap group Wu-Tang Clan (L - R) Ghostface Killah, Masta Killa, Raekwon, RZA, Ol' Dirty Bastard, GZA, U-God and Method Man pose for a April 1997 portrait in New York City, New York. ODB is no longer alive . Palmquist admitted to partying with the guys from the Wu, but denied that she did anything sexual with them . Palmquist told show host Judge Lynn Toler: 'This sounds ridiculous, but he accused me of sleeping with the entire Wu-Tang Clan.' Sellers quickly fired back: 'She did.' The accused woman went on to tell Judge Toler that she did hang with the Clan on their tour bus and stay at their hotel until 7am talking politics, but maintained she stayed faithful to Sellers. She said: 'Nothing inappropriate happened and let me just put on the record that Wu-Tang is nothing but gentleman. 'They treated me highly respectful. 'I would never cheat on him. 'I would never be a bust-down or a groupie in that type of situation.' Unfortunately her ex-boyfriend wasn't buying it and Sellers said: 'She gave Wu some tang.' It's unclear who Judge Lynn believed, but she did say Palmquist engaged in 'bust-down behavior'. Sellers wasn't buying anything that his ex-girlfriend had to say and told the judge: 'She gave Wu some tang' It's unclear who Judge Lynn believed in the matter, but she did say Palmquist engaged in 'bust-down behavior' In March, the Wu-Tang Clan opened the silver box that held their unheard record Once Upon A Time In Shaolin . Sellers and Palmquist went on Divorce Court after being together for five years, according to the show's description of the episode. It read: 'The two met at a Halloween party where Lia was dressed as Lil Kim and Nathan was dressed as Hello Kitty. 'Lia says things were good for the first few years they dated until Nathan moved six hours away to attend school. 'Lia says Nathan then moved to San Francisco for a few months chasing his dreams of being a fashion designer, before moving back in with her again. 'Lia says her sex life with Nathan is non-existent right now. 'She says she wants a traditional family with kids, and she doesn’t think Nathan does.' Earlier this year, the Wu-Tang Clan opened the silver box that held

Summary: On Divorce Court episode Nathan Sellers went on show with Lia Palmquist and accused her of sleeping with every single member of Wu-Tang Clan . He said it was during one night as she partied with them at a hotel . Palmquist would have had sex with RZA, GZA, Ghostface Killah, Masta Killa, U-God, Inspectah Deck, Raekwon, Cappadonna and Method Man . Ol' Dirty Bastard is dead so he wasn't involved no matter what happened .


Sleeping in the arms of their loving parents, these are among more than two dozen babies recently born to surrogate mothers for gay Israeli couples who are being airlifted out of Nepal to safety. The infants - some of whom were prematurely born - were evacuated from the country on Monday following Saturday's devastating earthquake, which has so far claimed more than 4,600 lives. Several premature babies - and some wounded people - were ferried to an Israeli military base on one of the country's emergency rescue aircraft in the morning. The plane had previously delivered doctors to Nepal to aid rescue efforts. Later in the day, five more infants landed safely in Tel Aviv with their Israeli families. Some were seen resting peacefully in their carriers, while others were clutched tightly to their parents' chests. Scroll down for video . Joyful: An Israeli man and his partner are pictured carrying their two children - include a newborn baby born to a surrogate mother in the Nepalese capital of Kathmandu - after touching down at an airport in Israel . Evacuation: More than two dozen babies born to Nepalese surrogates are being airlifted out of Nepal in the wake of Saturday's devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake, which has so far claimed more than 4,600 lives . Sunny: An Israeli couple disembark from an Israeli emergency medical plane (MDA) after being flown to Sde Dov airport in Tel Aviv . All smiles: One of the men beams as he carries his daughter, while his partner carries their newborn baby . Israel told AFP that it planned to airlift 25 babies recently born to Nepalese surrogates out of the country this week. However, other reports have said that 33 youngsters will be rescued in total. Many Israeli male couples have traveled to capital of Kathmandu to father children with the help of surrogate mothers because in Israel the procedure is limited by law to only heterosexual partners. However, in the wake of the 7.8-magnitude earthquake - which led to a series of avalanches which buried the Everest base camp - the new parents have been eager to get their babies out of Nepal. The parents who were pictured returning to Sde Dov Airport on Monday had traveled abroad before Saturday's disaster to collect their children. Four surrogate mothers are also being airlifted to safety. Also on Monday, five other flights flew to Kathmandu carrying Israeli rescue teams, IDF soldiers and medical crews in a bid to help victims of the deadly earthquake, according to the Jerusalem Post. Yossi Filiba, a single father from Tel Aviv, said by telephone from Kathmandu on Sunday that he had traveled to Nepal more than three weeks ago to witness the birth of his baby girl, Na'ama. Flown to safety: Several premature babies - and some wounded people - were ferried to Israel on a small aircraft belonging to Israel's emergency rescue services (MDA). The plane had previously delivered doctors to Nepal to aid rescue efforts . Disembarking: Later in the day, five more infants landed in Tel Aviv with their

Summary: Babies flown from Nepal to Tel Aviv, Israel, with their parents on Monday . Several premature infants evacuated on small military plane in morning . Later in the day, five more youngsters touched down at Sde Dov Airport . Up to 33 babies could be flown from Nepal in total following earthquake . Many gay Israeli couples travel abroad to have children with surrogates . In Israeli, the procedure is limited, by law, to only heterosexual partners . Earthquake and triggered avalanches have killed more than 4,600 so far .


Eight San Francisco police officers accused of sending racist and homophobic text messages have been suspended, and the police chief is recommending that the veteran employees be sacked. Chief Greg Suhr announced in a statement Friday that he has asked a police oversight committee to approve firing the officers . He called the texts 'despicable' and says those who sent them 'clearly fall below the minimum standards required to be a police officer.' Authorities say that the offensive texts targeting blacks, Mexicans, Filipinos and gay men, which make repeated use of racist and homophobic slurs, were sent between 2011 and 2012. San Francisco Police Chief Greg Suhr (pictured) said that eight officers had been suspended and that he had recommended they be fired . Texts between San Francisco Police Department officers included racist, sexist and homophobic messages . Suhr says six others will face disciplinary actions that include reassignment to positions that don't have contact with the public. The messages were discovered by federal authorities investigating former sergeant Ian Furminger, who was convicted of corruption and sentenced to 41 months in prison. 'All n*****s must f*****g hang' and 'N*****s must be spayed' were among the texts uncovered. 'It's not against the law to put an animal down,' an officer said, referring to a black man in Furminger's house. Other texts were offensive to women and repeatedly used the word f**. The eight officers include Captain Jason Fox, 42, a two decade veteran and Sergeant Michael Wibunsin, a 12-year veteran, according to the San Francisco Chronicle's sources. Officers identified as Michael Robison, 46, a 23-year-veteran, Noel Schwab, 49, a 16-year-veteran and Michael Celis, who has been on the force for 16 years, have reportedly already resigned or said they will resign. Sean Doherty, an 11-year veteran and Rain Daugherty, a 15-year-officer, are also facing termination. Robison, Schwab and Celis have reportedly already resigned. Michael Robison, 46, a 23-year veteran of the force, has resigned. He gave an interview to the Advocate in 1999 (pictured) about being a gay officer. He said 'the "good ol' boys" system is on its way out' The offensive text messages were uncovered after federal corruption charges were brought against former SFPD sergeant Ian Furminger, who was sentenced to 41 months in prison last month . The eighth officer has not yet been identified, and was not aware about possible dismissal as of Friday. Robison is openly gay and told the LGBT magazine The Advocate in 1998: 'The "good ol' boys" system is on its way out, and the newer generation that's replaced them sees things from a more open-minded standpoint' He was accused of using a racial epithet against a suspect in the mid 1990s but the allegation was dismissed. In 2007 an officer named Jason Fox was accused of hitting a gay man's head against the wall and using his hair to clean up urine on the street outside a club. 'Do you think we want your AIDS-infected pee on our streets?’ Fox allegedly said. He did not face police department discipline in the case because the

Summary: Officers suspended by Chief Greg Suhr with recommendation for firing . Texts targeted blacks, Mexicans, Filipinos, gay men and women . 'It's not against law to put an animal down,' one said of black house guest . Those facing termination include a captain and a sergeant . Man with captain's name was promoted after alleged homophobic incident where gay man says officers said he had 'AIDS-infected pee'