You can now book a London hotel stay by the number of hours you need the room for rather than by the number of nights you intend to stay. While booking hotels by the hour may have a somewhat seedy reputation, one company is allowing businessman and women and those who need a short rest to book well-known London hotels in three-hour blocks. Barcelona-based booking platform ByHours allows users to organise stays of three, six and 12 hours, and it has already got 25 hotels in the capital on board. You can enjoy the luxury of the Academy Hotel in London for a three-hour slot with ByHours.com . The App allows the user to select their area, and then their time slot, to be then shown a list of available hotels . The company's objective is to acquire more hotels in London during the next few months, and then start to work in other cities such as Berlin and Paris. In London, hotels that it has signed up include H10 Waterloo, The Kingsway Hall Hotel, Yotel Heathrow and Gatwick, Crowne Plaza London - The City, Academy Hotel, and Threadneedles, Marriott Autograph Collection. A spokesperson for the company told MailOnline Travel: 'In total, we work with 1,500 hotels in Spain and the UK and we have done more than 150,000 transactions in 2014, an increase of 150 per cent compared to the previous year. 'We work with hotels with three to five star rating, but 80 per cent of our hotels are four stars hotels. 'We have been focusing on hotels next to airports, train stations, city centers, convention areas and also hospitals, and now, we are scaling the business model in UK, with the same strategy.' Founder of ByHours.com Christian Rodriguez has been so successful in the Spanish market he has switched his focus to the UK . The Threadneedles Marriot could be a nice stopover for 12 hours, enough time for sleep and a shower . The main key of ByHours.com is that the platform benefits the customer, but also the hotelier. The customers have the flexibility, and they can book and pay for the time they use the room. But the hotels can sell the rooms more than once a day, and increase the revenue per available room. It's a totally complementary product, and with ByHours.com's tool, hotels can decide prices, hours of check-in, if they want to re-sell rooms (depending on their cleaning service), or availability for each week. The KIngsway Hall hotel has signed up to ByHours to offer a variation on the one-night stay . The four-star H10 London Waterloo is up for grabs to tourists visiting London who require less than a one-night stayover . The platform works real time, and the company have a 24/7 Customer Service for both the hoteliers and the customers. The founder of the company is 31-year-old Christian Rodriguez. He is a 'serial entrepreneur', he has founded six companies before ByHours.com, but this is the first one that is in the travel sector. ByHours.com were named as Best Startup of the

Summary: ByHours.com offer three, six and 12 hour hotel stayovers . Academy Hotel and Threadneedles Marriot in London have signed up . Company have around 1,500 hotels signed up in their native Spain .


A man who lost his sight 12 years ago has discovered a love of painting and can create amazing images just by touch. John Bramblitt, 42, had epilepsy from the age of 11 and over the next 19 years it slowly caused him to lose his eyesight. At the age of 30, the artist from Denton in Texas was completely blind. Despite this, he decided that an inability to see should not prevent him from painting. Scroll down for video . Artist John Bramblitt, right, discovered his love of painting after losing his sight some 12 years ago . The artist uses a special technique using a fabric paint to create an outline before colouring in the work . Despite never seeing his guide dog, Mr Bramblitt was able to create this highly accurate painting . Mr Bramblitt uses a special fabric paint with raised edges to sketch the outline of his work, before filling in the gaps. Over the next 12 years he was able to refine this technique until he was able to work seamlessly. First he forms a picture in his mind and uses fabric paint to produce an outline before filling in with paints with different textures based on colour. Mr Brambitt said: 'When I lost my sight I began to learn how to use senses in new ways to accomplish tasks I was used to doing with my eyes. 'I began painting because I wanted to reconnect with people; to let people know even though I have epilepsy, even though I am blind, I'm still me in here. 'The recognition my painting and workshops has brought has meant more connections with an incredible number of brilliant people from all over. 't gives me a great optimism for the future.' Video courtesy: DMA.org . Mr Bramblitt uses a special technique to transfer the scene which he imagines onto the canvas . Mr Bramblitt developed epilepsy aged 11 which slowly resulted in him losing his eyesight . Mr Bramblitt, left, uses a special technique to help him translate his visions onto the canvas, right . The artist has sold limited edition prints of his work for $150 each as well as original artworks . Mr Bramblitt said his love of painting has giving him reason to be optimistic for his future . Mr Bramblitt went blind at the age of 30 after suffering from epilepsy since the age of 11 .

Summary: John Bramblitt developed epilepsy aged 11 and went blind when he was 30 . After going blind, Bramblitt began creating the most amazing artworks . Some of his art features scenes and people he has never seen before . Despite being blind, his art is highly accurate and incredibly vibrant .


A man facing trial for helping his former lover strangle a woman during a sexual encounter, told the court his former flame had a 'twisted desire to kill' and that he had only dug the victim's crude grave. Micheal John Duffy, 34, pleaded not guilty to murdering Colleen Deborah Ayers, 33, whose decomposed body was uncovered in a shallow grave on her parent's 25-acre Lakesland property, located near Picton, south west of Sydney. In the opening statements of Duffy's trial Crown prosecutor Elizabeth Wilkins SC told the jury, that while his former partner, Rachel Evans, had initiated the violent act, Duffy had willingly joined in. He claimed his co-accused, Evans, was the one who had a 'twisted desire to kill' and he had only helped bury Ms Ayers' body. Micheal John Duffy pleaded not guilty to killing Colleen Deborah Ayers after claiming he had only disposed of her body while his co-accused Rachel Evans was the one with a 'twisted desire to kill' Ms Wilkins told the court Evans was the one who grabbed the belt used to strangle Ms Ayers after telling a witness: 'We are going to kill her, we are going to kill her.' 'She put the belt around Ms Ayers' neck. The deceased bucked her off.' 'It was at that stage that the accused Duffy intervened and also started strangling her,' she said. 'This was Rachael Evans' idea. She was the ringleader and this accused [Duffy] joined in.' The court heard Ms Ayers had met Evans at a pub in Campbelltown only a day before she was gruesomely murdered. It is alleged on May 8, 2012, Evans and Duffy, along with a 16-year-old girl who can not be named, went to a hotel in Picton with Ms Ayers. Evans, Duffy and Ms Ayers then proceeded to have sex with each other while the unidentified teenager filmed the act. The next day, after drinking and taking the drug ice, Ms Ayers invited the duo, along with another man, Scott Debridge, to her parents empty Lakesland property. Ms Wilkins told the court Evans and Duffy had planned to steal and sell firearms from the rural property so they could buy drugs. Courthouse: Duffy's co-accused Evans, who has plead guilty to murder, will receive a reduced sentence for giving evidence at her former lover's trial . Later that night, after Evans had been 'cutting up' ice, she heard Duffy and Ms Ayers having sex. The 16-year-old witness said Evans became agitated and armed herself with the leather belt. The court heard Evans then entered the bedroom and started strangling the victim. It was at this point, the crown said, Duffy joined in. Ms Wilkins said once Ms Ayers was dead, Evans dragged her body into the bathroom so she could try to wash away Duffy's DNA. Meanwhile, Duffy and Debridge went to a dam on the property to dispose of the body where they dug a shallow grave and buried Ms Ayers. During his trial, Debridge claimed he tried to refuse the orders to dig the grave, however, Duffy 'bashed' him

Summary: Man accused of helping former lover kill woman during a sexual encounter . Micheal John Duffy pleaded not guilty to murdering Colleen Deborah Ayers . The court heard he strangled Ms Ayers, 33, with 'ringleader' Rachel Evans . He said his co-accused Evans was the one with a 'twisted desire to kill' Duffy reportedly buried Ms Ayers in shallow grave on her parents property . Evans pleaded guilty to murder and is set to receive a reduced sentence for giving evidence in Duffy's continuing trial .


Sunderland will not suspend Adam Johnson after he was charged with grooming and three counts of sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl. The club's hierarchy have decided that the 27-year-old should be allowed to continue playing for the Black Cats until the outcome of his case has been decided. A club statement on Friday morning read: 'Following yesterday's statement from Durham Constabulary, the club recognises that the formal legal process must take its course and whilst our position remains unchanged, we will keep the matter under review. 'The club will not be making any further comment.' Adam Johnson leaves Peterlee police station on Thursday after being charged . Johnson leaves the Peterlee police station on Thursday after learning of the charges against him . The 27-year-old has not been suspended by his club Sunderland despite the charges . Apr 25 - Stoke (a) May 2 - Southampton (h) May 9 - Everton (a) May 16 - Leicester (h) May 20 - Arsenal (a) May 24 - Chelsea (a) Johnson has been bailed to appear before Peterlee Magistrates on May 20 – the same day Sunderland travel to Arsenal - where it is expected the case will be sent to Crown Court. If found guilty, Johnson could face a lengthy prison term. In the meantime, he will be available to feature for relegation-threatened Sunderland, who are one point above the Premier League drop zone and travel to Stoke on Saturday. He was suspended by the club following his arrest on March 2 but that was lifted when his bail was extended by five weeks a fortnight later. Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat supported the decision not to suspend Sunderland. Advocaat said: 'He still has to come in (to train). But, in principle, if he feels okay he will be part of the squad. 'It's not difficult to deal with. The club have made a statement and I stand behind that and I will see what the future will bring.' CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL TABLE . He returned to training under new boss Dick Advocaat and has featured as a substitute in their last three matches, including the 1-0 Tyne-Wear derby victory over Newcastle. Johnson stands accused of three offences of sexual activity with a child, contrary to Section 9 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003. The offences are said to have taken place between December 30 last year and February 26. He has also been charged with meeting a child following sexual grooming under Section 15 of the same Act. Gerry Wareham, CPS Chief Crown Prosecutor for the North East, said he believes there is a realistic prospect of conviction and it is in the public interest for Johnson to be charged. Johnson will now appear at Peterlee Magistrates Court on May 20 . The England international (right) was wearing a black tracksuit as he attended the hearing on Thursday . Johnson was accompanied by his lawyer as the Sunderland winger arrived at the police station on Thursday . Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.

Summary: Adam Johnson charged with three offences of sexual activity with girl, 15 . Winger also facing charge of grooming and has been bailed until May 20 . Sunderland decided not to suspend Johnson and he is available to play . READ: Johnson charged with three offences of sexual activity with a child . READ: Johnson's Sunderland future in doubt .


Manchester City and Chelsea are set to battle it out for the signature of West Ham left-back Aaron Cresswell this summer. Cresswell has impressed for the Hammers this campaign and City are desperate to add to their quota of English players with the likes of James Milner on the brink of leaving the club. City will have another chance to run the rule over the 25-year-old when West Ham travel to the Etihad this Sunday. Chelsea and Manchester City are set to battle it out for West Ham left back Aaron Cresswell this summer . The 25-year-old has impressed during his first season in the Premier League since leaving Ipswich . West Ham snapped up Cresswell for £2million from Ipswich last summer but he has adapted to the top tier with relative ease and attracted the eye of the division’s Champions League clubs. Chelsea, mindful of their own number of English players, are also interested in Cresswell. With Cesar Azpilicueta installed as first choice left-back, the Blues see Cresswell as a homegrown alternative to Filipe Luis, frustrated with his lack of opportunities since arriving last summer. The Upton Park hierarchy would be reluctant to sell Cresswell, who is on a five-year deal in east London. Tottenham full back Danny Rose is also under consideration from City as they bid to boost homegrown quota . Manchester City also want Liverpool contract rebel Raheem Sterling and are preparing a summer bid . Tottenham’s Danny Rose is also on City’s radar for the left-back role with Aleksandar Kolorov set to be among a large Etihad exodus in the close season. England stars Jack Wilshere, Jordan Henderson and Liverpool contract rebel Raheem Sterling are also on City’s wanted list to fulfil the quota. Premier League sides must name eight homegrown players in their 25-man squad registered at the beginning of the season. A player is deemed homegrown if they have spent at least three years at any English club before the age of 21, regardless of nationality.

Summary: Aaron Cresswell has impressed during debut season in Premier League . The left back joined West Ham from Championship club Ipswich for £2m . Manchester City and Chelsea are both keen to sign the 25-year-old . Both clubs are mindful of boosting their quota of homegrown players .


Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic delivered on his promise to exact revenge as he stopped Gabriel Gonzaga in the third round of their long-awaited heavyweight rematch in Krakow. Eight years after their first encounter in which Gonzaga delivered a stunning knockout, Filipovic endured a tough opening two sessions before making his move. Mirko 'Cro Cop' Filipovic made a slow start against Gabriel Gonzaga . After dropping his rival to the canvas, he finished the job with his elbows before the referee stepped in. Filipovic had not fought in the UFC since 2011 and made a slow start as Gonzaga stalked his opponent, trying to land with his hands. Brazilian Gonzaga attempts a leg lock submission against Filipovic . He took the fight to the floor, looking for the finish, but Filipovic defended well and pulled free, albeit conceding the round in the process. And Gonzaga continued to dominate in the second round, catching a kick and taking Filipovic to the ground and there they stayed for the remainder of a session that also went Gonzaga's way. But the fight was turned on its head in what proved to be the final round. After a clinch against the cage, Filipovic launched an assault on the break, dropping his opponent after repeated blows on the inside. Referee Leon Roberts stops the fight after Filipovic dropped his rival . Once down, Gonzaga was clearly in trouble and as the blows reined in, the referee stepped in to stop the punishment. In the co-main event, London's Jimi Manuwa made a successful return to the Octagon after a year on the sidelines by outpointing Jan Blachowicz. Manuwa had never been beyond the second round in his career but this cagey affair looked destined to be left in the hands of the judges from the opening stages. Jimi Manuwa celebrates after his decision victory over Jan Blachowicz of Poland . In the end, the visitor was given the nod by scores of 30-27 twice and 29-28. There was mixed results for the other two Brits on the card as Stevie Ray enjoyed a winning debut with a second-round stoppage of Marcin Bandel but Joanne Calderwood was submitted by Maryna Moroz in the first round.

Summary: Cro Cop enjoyed revenge with third round knockout in Krakow . Referee stepped in after Filipovic dropped Gabriel Gonzaga to floor . Jimi Manuwa made successful return by outpointing Jan Blachowicz .


Christian Benteke believes it would be risky to suggest Aston Villa can be safe from relegation with one more victory. The Belgian striker, back to form under manager Tim Sherwood with eight goals in six games, said his side must continue to stretch their lead over the drop zone. Villa are six points clear of Queens Park Rangers in 18th but the gap could close this weekend with Burnley and Leicester in Premier League action and Sherwood’s team in the FA Cup semi-final. Christian Benteke rises above Fererico Fazio to head the winning goal for Aston Villa against Tottenham . Benteke points to the skies in celebration after scoring his eighth goal in six matches . Benteke said: ‘The more the better, I think it's risky to say we can take three points and we're finished. We have to try to win every game. ‘Saturday was a massive three points because now we're six points clear of QPR so it's very important for us to be far off them.’ Benteke, 24, said the match against Brendan Rodgers’ team at Wembley was the biggest of his career. ‘For the moment, yes,’ he said. ‘It (missing the World Cup) was hard but now it's in the past, I'm looking forward to playing the semi final. Benteke thinks it would be risky to think that one more win will be enough to ensure survival . ‘Liverpool are a good team but the thing with the FA Cup is it's still something special. It's 50-50 for me but some will say they are favourites. ‘Wembley is something good and special because it's a semi final, it's close to the final and we have to do everything to be there again.’ Benteke believes his partnership with Gabby Agbonalhor can destroy defences. He added: ‘He (Sherwood) said to the team we have to play to our strengths, to play with me and Gabby. ‘He helped me to destroy the defenders, with two we're always better than one. I'm comfortable, it's a good partnership.’

Summary: Aston Villa beat Tottenham 1-0 at White Hart Lane on Saturday . The win moved Villa six points clear of the relegation zone . Benteke says it would be risky to think one more win would be enough .


Javier Hernandez made it six goals in eight starts as Real Madrid kept up their pursuit of Barcelona at the top of La Liga with a 4-2 win over Celta Vigo. Chicharito is currently scoring a goal every 83 minutes with a scoring ratio that is only two minutes short of Leo Messi who nets once every 81 minutes. The Manchester United loanee put his team in the Champions League semi-finals in midweek with the winner against Atletico Madrid and in Baliados on Sunday night he scored twice to keep Real in the title race. And if his goal at the Bernabeu was a tired shot with the goal gaping in the dying minutes, his strikes against Celta Vigo were of the highest quality and will only serve to ramp up the auction for his services at the end of the season – who knows if his goals bring trophies to the Santiago Bernabeu, Real might even be in the race to sign him permanently. Javier Hernandez scored two more important goals for Real Madrid as they look to keep up with Barcelona in the quest for the La Liga crown . Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos (right) celebrates his equalising goal against Celta Vigo with with team-mate James Rodriguez (right) It's been a week to remember for the Mexican, who currently has a scoring ratio that is only two minutes short of Barcelona's Lionel Messi . The 26-year-old slots the ball through the legs of the onrushing Celta Vigo goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez . Hernandez (No 14) now has six goals in eight starts for Real Madrid and has impressed in the absence of regular striker Karim Benzema . Manchester United loanee Hernandez salutes the fans after scoring Real's second and putting his side ahead for the first time at Balaidos . Colombian international midfielder James Rodriguez celebrates his strike and the visitors third goal with Hernandez (left) The Real Madrid players surround striker Hernandez (No 14) after his first goal brought Carlo Ancelotti's men back into the lead . The game was the perfect tonic for anyone who had sat through Arsenal v Chelsea earlier on Sunday. Both sides flew forward from the off and their ambition was rewarded though for Real Madrid the reward was ultimately far greater. They fell behind after nine minutes when former Barcelona player Nolito took advantage of poor Real Madrid defending. Sergio Ramos lost his boot and was reduced to running back towards goal with it in his hand. And without him Rafael Varane, Alvaro Carvajal and Asier Illaramendi all failed to stop Nolito as he tricked his way in from the left-hand channel and shot past Iker Casillas. Real Madrid responded on the quarter-hour when Cristiano Ronaldo crossed from the right. The ball was cleared straight to Toni Kroos who picked his spot well to fire Madrid level with his second goal of the season. On 24 minutes Real were ahead and it was man of the moment in the Spanish capital Hernandez who got the goal. Rodriguez was involed in the build-up but

Summary: Javier Hernandez scored twice to keep Real Madrid in touching distance of La Liga leaders Barcelona . Chicharito is scoring a goal every 83 minutes with a scoring ratio that is only two minutes short of Lionel Messi . Real went a goal down in the opening minutes following a surprise goal from Celta Vigo's Nolito . Toni Kroos equalised for the visitors and Hernandez doubled Real's scoring with a goal in the 24th minute . Although the home side levelled four minutes later the tie was put to bed after goals from James Rodriguez and another from Hernandez .


Jacques Burger will be available to play in Saracens' European Champions Cup semi-final against Clermont Auvergne in Saint Etienne on April 18. The Namibia flanker received a one-week ban after he appeared at a Champions Cup disciplinary hearing on Thursday. Burger, who will miss Saracens' Aviva Premiership appointment with play-off rivals Leicester at Allianz Park on Saturday, had been cited by the match commissioner for striking Racing Metro scrum-half Maxime Machenaud during last weekend's Champions Cup quarter-final victory in Paris. Saracens flanker Jacques Burger puts in a trademark hit on Racing Metro winger Teddy Thomas on Sunday . Burger (right) arrives on the scene as Maxime Machenaud (left) prepare to play a diving pass . Burger then catches Machenaud after the ball has gone but the player was low to the floor . The Namibia flanker received a one-week ban for the offence but will be available to face Clermont . Announcing the verdict, European Professional Club Rugby said: 'The independent judicial officer Simon Thomas (Wales) heard submissions and evidence from Burger, who pleaded guilty to the offence, from Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall and from the Saracens team manager JP O'Reilly. 'Submissions and evidence were also presented by the tournament disciplinary officer. 'In upholding the citing complaint, the judicial officer determined that the offence was reckless and warranted a red card, and that it was at the low end (two weeks) of World Rugby's sanctions for offences of this nature. 'There were no aggravating factors, and he reduced the suspension by the maximum amount of one week due to the player's guilty plea, early expression of remorse, good conduct during the hearing and clean disciplinary record.' Burger gets to grips with Racing Metro full back Brice Dulin during Saracens' dramatic victory .

Summary: Jacques Burger was cited for striking Racing Metro's Maxime Machenaud . Saracens defeated Racing with the last kick of the game in the quarter-final . Mark McCall's side face Leicester Tigers on Saturday . Burger received a one-week ban for his strike on Machenaud . The openside will miss the Tigers game, but will be free to play Clermont .


Rita Wilson took to her Twitter account on Wednesday to thank her supporters, one day after revealing she has breast cancer and undergone double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. The 58-year-old actress - who is married to actor Tom Hanks - tweeted: 'I am overwhelmed with gratitude by your prayers and good wishes and the kindness you're sending. Thank you. Thank you.' On Tuesday, she shared the news of her disease through a statement published by People magazine. Thanking her supporters: Rita Wilson took to her Twitter account on Tuesday after revealing she has breast cancer and undergone double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery (pictured in September 2014) Rita, who took a leave of absence from Broadway play 'Fish in the Dark' earlier this month, revealed she was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and completed a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. She explained that her first test for cancer came back negative but that she was correctly diagnosed after seeking a second opinion and underwent the procedure last week. 'Last week, with my husband by my side, and with the love and support of family and friends, I underwent a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction for breast cancer after a diagnosis of invasive lobular carcinoma,' she said in the statement. Grateful for the outreach: 'I am overwhelmed with gratitude by your prayers and good wishes and the kindness you're sending. Thank you. Thank you' By her side: The star - married to Tom Hanks - announced on Tuesday that she was recently diagnosed with cancer and has undergone a double mastectomy (pictured together in February) 'I am recovering and most importantly, expected to make a full recovery. Why? Because I caught this early, have excellent doctors and because I got a second opinion.' A mastectomy is an operation that removes all or part of the breast. Before the diagnosis, Wilson said she had 'vigilantly monitored' her health with mammograms and MRIs because she knew she had an underlying condition of LCIS, (lobular carcinoma in situ)'. The mother-of-two explained that she recently underwent a breast biopsy, but no sign of cancer was discovered until she sought the opinion of a second doctor on the advice of a friend. The doctor discovered the cancer and she then sought out the opinion of another pathologist, who confirmed the diagnosis, she said. Recuperation: 'I am recovering and most importantly, expected to make a full recovery' Advice: She shared the news on Facebook and linked to a statement printed by People magazine. Her cancer was not found in the first round of tests so she encourgaed others to seek a second opinion, like she did . Rita, who married Oscar-winner Tom in 1988, went on to implore others to seek a second opinion before thanking her loved ones for their support. 'I share this to educate others that a second opinion is critical to your health,' she said. 'You have nothing to lose if both opinions match up for the good, and everything to gain if something that was missed is found, which does happen. Early diagnosis is key.' On

Summary: The 58-year-old actress revealed her diagnosis in a statement on Tuesday . She explained that doctors initially failed to find the cancer but that it was discovered after she sought out a second opinion . She underwent surgery last week with Hanks by her side and she is expected to make a full recovery . Wilson took medical leave from the Broadway play Fish in the Dark earlier this month but is expected back on stage in May .


Children who experience stressful events such as a death or illness in the family, divorce or separation, could be three times more likely to develop type 1 diabetes. Swedish scientists analysed more than 10,000 families with children aged two to 14 who did not have the condition, looking at whether there was any family conflict, a change of family structure, interventions from social services or unemployment. Subsequently, 58 children were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The researchers found many were among those badly affected by events in their formative years. Children who experience stressful events such as a death or illness in the family, divorce or separation, could be three times more likely to develop type 1 diabetes (stock image above) The team at Linkoping University said that while the causes of type 1 diabetes are unknown, it is usually preceded by the body’s immune system killing so-called beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. They suggested damaging events in childhood could affect beta cells and raise insulin demands to cope with elevated levels of stress hormones. Other factors include viral infection, dietary habits, birth weight and early weight gain. The study concluded: ‘The experience of a serious life event during the first 14 years of life may be a risk factor. The study suggested damaging events in childhood could affect beta cells and raise insulin demands to cope with elevated levels of stress hormones. Above, a woman tests her blood sugar . 'The current study examined serious life events experienced at any time before diagnosis; further studies are thus needed to determine when in the autoimmune process psychological stress may contribute.' Genetic predisposition remains the most important factor, with a 12-fold increase in the risk of developing type 1 diabetes for a child from a family in which another close family member has it. The majority of people have type 2 diabetes, which is associated with being overweight, but more than 95 per cent of cases of diabetes in children are type 1 and rates have been increasing in recent years.

Summary: Swedish scientists analysed more than 10,000 families in the study . 58 children with diabetes had also been badly affected by previous events . Other factors include viral infection, diet and early weight gain .


The New York Jets have added another former Patriot to their roster in the shape of running back Stevan Ridley. The 26-year-old has signed a one-year deal after suffering a tear to his right ACL last season. He played just six games as the Patriots won their sixth straight AFC East title and went on to win the Super Bowl. 'Sending love to all my day one fans, and every team-mate I've had the pleasure to take the field with,' Ridley posted on Instagram. Stevan Ridley (right) became the 15th player to join the Jets in a frantic free agency . Ridley (right) celebrates the Patriots Super Bowl win during their victory parade in Boston . 'We all know it's a business, yet it's also a blessing. So either way you see it, you'll never understand. 'Love New England, Love my former team-mates and I'm truly thankful for the opportunity the Patriots organisation has blessed me with. However it's #ontotheJETS.' The Jets will hope Ridley reproduces the kind of form he showed in 2012, where he rushed for 1,263 yards and 12 touchdowns. He joins Chris Ivory and Bilal Powell at running back in a revamped Jets offense, which features fellow free agent acquisitions Brandon Marshall and Ryan Fitzpatrick. New head coach Todd Bowles has also taken Darrelle Revis back from the Patriots and Antonio Cromartie to bolster an already dominant defense. 'He's excited for the opportunity and his rehab is going strong at this point,' added his agent Andy Simms.

Summary: Ridley stays in the AFC East after signing a one-year deal with the Jets . The running back joins a revamped offense including fellow free agency acquisitions Brandon Marshall and Ryan Fitzpatrick . He had a career-high year in 2012 but played just six games last season after a tear to his right ACL .


Mark Hughes has insisted he will have significant money to spend this summer if required – and told Asmir Begovic he can fulfil his ambitions at Stoke City. The Stoke manager has kept the club's chequebook largely in his pocket since taking over in May 2013 but said he would splash out when the right player became available. Signing Begovic to a new contract is a priority given the Bosnia goalkeeper will be entering the final year of his current deal. Stoke City manager Mark Hughes is confident he will have money to spend in the summer transfer window . Hughes wants goalkeeper Asmir Begovic to agree a new contract at the Britannia Stadium . But Hughes will add expensive acquisitions if needed, having missed out on £10million Xherdan Shaqiri in the January window. Hughes said: 'We haven't spent a great deal since I've been here. A net spend of £6million I think over four transfer windows. 'But I've never been given the impression that if the right player was available and we wanted to really push the boat out there wouldn't be funds available. 'We've chased any number of players and some targets we've got very, very close to where we would have been in a position to make a decision whether or not we spent a significant amount. Stoke sit 10th in the Premier League and still have an outside chance of earning a European berth . Begovic is out of contract at the end of next season and could be targeted by clubs this summer . 'We've never actually got to the point where we've needed to just because the target fell by the wayside. I've never been in any doubt that if the right target is available then the finances will be made available to me.' A host of clubs may decide to make a move for Begovic, 27, who is set to open talks over extending his Stoke stay once the season is over. Hughes said: 'I'm sure they will be looking at him. But we've got a lot of things we can offer to Asmir. 'He knows we're a good club that will continue hopefully to progress. He wants to be part of a successful football club, I know that. He's an ambitious guy. 'But we'd like to think he could achieve what he needs from his career here at Stoke.'

Summary: Stoke manager Mark Hughes has a net spend of around £6million . He is confident the club will back him in this summer's transfer window . Hughes hopes to tie down No 1 goalkeeper Asmir Begovic . The ex-Portsmouth stopper is out of contract at the end of next season .


Javier Hernandez would have been in no doubt how important his decisive goal for Real Madrid was in the Champions League quarter-final against city rivals Atletico Madrid after the entrance the squad made to the Santiago Bernabeu. French defender Raphael Varane uploaded an astonishing video to Twitter of the fire-hot arrival Madrid's players were given from their supporters, who mobbed the team coach and banged on the windows in support and anticipation. 'Live from the bus before the match! A huge thank you for your support,' Varane wrote with the video. VIDEO - Scroll down to see Real Madrid's welcoming from their fans . Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane captured the team's entrance to the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday . Fans greeted the team coach as Real arrived for their Champions League second leg with Atletico Madrid . Supporters lit flares and banged on the windows to encourage their team against Atletico . Real defender Varane filmed the footage of the supporters as the team arrived to play Atletico . Javier Hernandez scored the winning goal for Madrid in the 88th minute against Atletico to win the tie . The atmosphere inside the Santiago Bernabeu meant the iconic stadium resembled a furnace upon kick-off, but Atletico provided stubborn resistance to Real. It wasn't until Hernandez struck in the 88th minute, converting a pass from Cristiano Ronaldo after the Portuguese star drove through Atletico's defence, that Madrid sealed a 1-0 aggregate triumph. Carlo Ancelotti's side could face Spanish rivals Barcelona, Serie A's runaway leaders Juventus or Pep Guardiola's Bayern Munich in the semi-finals. The draw takes place on Friday.

Summary: Real Madrid eliminated Atletico Madrid from the Champions League . Javier Hernandez secured victory with 88th minute strike for Real Madrid . Raphael Varane filmed fans as Madrid arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu . READ: Barcelona vs Real Madrid is the dream Champions League final . Who will win the Champions League? Our reporters have their say...


Police in Idaho are trying to track down the man who saved a driver from the scene of a precarious car crash at the edge of a cliff in Idaho yesterday. The crash occurred about 8am Wednesday in Lewiston, at a drop called Bryden Canyon. The driver of the truck involved, Mathew Sitko, 23, drove through a yard and over two terraces before getting snared in a chain-link fence. The fence is the only reason the car vehicle did not topple over into the canyon with Sitko still behind the wheel, police told the Lewiston Tribune. Scroll down for videos . Incredible rescue: Police in Lewiston, Idaho, are looking for this passer-by who pulled driver Matthew Sitko, 23, from his car that was dangling over a cliff on Wednesday. Sitko crashed through the adjoiningg property and would have driven off the drop if it weren't for the chain-link fence . That's when the mystery man arrived at the scene. The man, a passer-by, grabbed a nearby rock and smashed Sitko's window, before pulling the victim from the car. He dragged Sitko further up to safety, where police and paramedics arrived shortly after to assist. 'He said he had to go, and he left,' Lewiston police officer Eric Olson told the Tribune. Driver: Mathew Sitko, 23, of Lewiston, Idaho, is recovering in hospital from minor injuries following the crash. He wrote on his Facebook page that he feels 'blessed' for what happened . Sitko was taken to hospital and is recovering from minor injuries, however he is lucky to be alive. It is unclear how far the canyon drop actually measured. Witnesses say Sitko was driving erratically and swerved to miss another motorist when the crash occurred. While police are investigating, they say he appeared to suffer a 'mental episode'. Not long after the crash Sitko posted to his Facebook page that he felt blessed. 'Good morning everyone! I am truly blessed by God today!! Thank you God & Jesus for taking care of me!! I love you!' he wrote on his Facebook. Sitko lists his job as working for Moscow and Lewiston Landscaping.

Summary: Crash occurred in Lewiston, Idaho, about 8am Wednesday . Driver Sitko, 23, crashed off the road and drove through property . His truck was stopped from dropping off Bryden Canyon by a fence . A passer-by smashed the window and dragged him to safety . The man fled when police and paramedics arrived . Sitko is recovering from minor injuries in hospital .


A naturally red-headed sixth form student has been told to tone down her hair colour or she will be barred from classes for being 'too ginger'. Emily Reay, 17, who has natural auburn hair but colours it so it is brighter, is a pupil at Trinity School in Carlisle, Cumbria, and claims she has sported the same vibrant ginger hair for the last three years. But on her return to lessons following the Easter holidays she claims she was ordered to tone it down after teachers decided the colour was inappropriate. Emily Reay (pictured) a pupil at Trinity School in Carlisle, claims she has sported the same colour of hair for the last three years. But now teachers have told her to tone it down or she will be banned from lessons . 'Everybody knows me as that "young ginger singer"': Talented musician Emily says her hair is her trademark . Now, during her last year of A-levels, Emily - who is naturally auburn - has been told she is banned from lessons until she changes her appearance. She was informed of the action being taken at the end of Monday's assembly. 'I was very angry at first, and then burst into tears. I've had the same colour for the past three years, and nobody at school has commented on it,' said Emily at her home in Carlisle. A talented musician, Emily claims her ginger hair is her trademark. Determined not to miss out on important lessons Emily says she will return to school with her hair pinned up . Emily says teachers at Trinity School in Carlisle say she is banned from lessons until she changes her hair . 'Everybody knows me as that "young ginger singer". For me it is a confidence thing. If I had to dye my hair brown, I would lose this,' said Emily. Her parents Julie and Andy Reay went to the school to discuss the matter with sixth-form headteacher Andrew Winter. They claim they were told that Emily's hair colour needed to be changed by next Monday or she would not be allowed to continue her education. 'I had to dye my hair to a more natural colour, or tone it down considerably,' said Emily. 'I offered to pin it up, or wear a beanie hat, but I was told 'no' to both.' Her parents are backing their daughter's decision not to change her hair colour. Determined not to miss out on important lessons Emily (pictured) says she plans to return to school with her hair pinned up and 'hopes nothing is said' 'They had her in tears. They do not realise what her hair means to her,' said Mrs Reay, 44. 'The irony is she is playing Scaramouche in the school's adaptation of We Will Rock You, which is about society suppressing people's creativity and self-expression. 'The school's uniform policy clearly states no unnatural hair colours, like blue or green. But is ginger not a natural hair colour?' she added. Emily said: 'I was told my hair had been a bone of contention since

Summary: Sixth form student Emily Reay is barred from classes for being too ginger . Her school said colour was inappropriate and asked her to 'tone it down' But she says her hair has been vibrant shade of red for over three years . Emily is a natural red head but colours her hair so it is even brighter .


Thirty years ago this month something as basic as two men hitting balls around a table with a stick gripped the nation by the throat. It was as iconic a moment of the Eighties as Duran Duran, yuppies, football hooliganism and Mrs Thatcher handbagging the unions. It was Steve Davis — lean, robotic and unsmiling — versus Dennis Taylor — tubby and splendidly bespectacled. ‘And so the lights go down,’ whispered commentator Ted Lowe to 18.5million viewers. ‘The players shake hands. One of these lucky chaps will pick up the title, the trophy and £60,000.’ Steve Davis (left) and Dennis Taylor pose with the trophy before their World Snooker final in 1985 . Davis was leading the final 8-0 when he missed a shot on the green that he has rued to this day . Taylor pounced upon the error from Davis to overturn the difference and lead 9-7 overnight . The 1985 final was watched by 18.5million, a BBC2 record, but it is way behind the most-watched sporting events: . 1. 1966 World Cup final 32.30m . 2. 1970 FA Cup final replay Chelsea v Leeds 28.49m . 3. 2012 London Olympics Opening Ceremony 27.3m . 4. 2012 Closing Ceremony26.3m . 5. 1984 Winter Olympics Torvill and Dean23.95m . 6. 1998 World Cup England v Argentina 23.78m . With those words the biggest British television audience for a post-midnight programme and BBC2’s biggest for anything ever, settled down to watch the 35th and final frame of the 1985 World Championship, a torture of edgy, error-ridden, nerve-frayed snooker lasting 68 minutes. Before reliving those late agonies, we should go back a little further because Davis remembers the turning point of the match not as the black he overcut with his last, disastrous shot of the tournament, but something as innocuous as a green ball in the ninth frame. He was leading 8-0 while Taylor, as Davis put it, was ‘struggling to find the end of his tip with the chalk, never mind the pockets’. Davis says now: ‘If ever I was going to have therapy, it would not be about the black. Anybody could miss a ball under pressure. The green was a different story because I didn’t need to play it. I should have played safe and waited for a better chance. ‘If there is one shot in my whole career I want to go back and play again, it is that one. I missed it and it let Dennis in.’ From being on the verge of 9-0 down, Taylor fought back to 9-7 overnight. ‘I woke up screaming every hour,’ recalls Davis. He was the world No 1, winner the previous two years, and had made the perfect start. ‘What could go wrong?’ he muses now. ‘The green.’ Taylor performs his famous finger-wagging celebration after sinking the final black . To rake up that final with Davis even now is to intrude into a type of personal grief. ‘While I am happy to talk about it, I’m slightly aggrieved that nobody celebrated the 25th anniversary of me beating John Parrott

Summary: Snooker's most dramatic final gripped 18.5million viewers in 1985 . Steve Davis had an 8-0 advantage when he missed a green ball . Dennis Taylor fought back heroically and eventually won the final 18-17 .


Like super-models, they follow a strict daily diet — in their case, three carrots, an apple and a few cabbage leaves — to keep in shape for their public appearances. Over recent months, they have been feted across the globe and pampered wherever they go. One is even going to have a song written about his life. But when I meet Darius — the biggest rabbit on earth — and his similarly sized son, there is little evidence of diva behaviour. Former Playboy model Annette Edwards holds her world record Continental Giant rabbit Darius aloft . Five-year-old Darius is 4ft long and weighs just under 3st — the king of the Continental Giant breed. He is the size of an average eight-year-old child. Slightly wary, I join him on the floor of his owner's home in the Worcestershire village of Stoulton and find he is a thoroughly gentle soul. He sits quietly, as I stroke his ultra-soft, grey fur, and examine his outsized ears and paws. Darius seems nonchalant about his world record — and untroubled that he is set to lose his title to his son, Jeff. Aged only one, Jeff is already 3ft 8in long and weighs 2st. With a rabbit's peak weight and length kicking in at the age of two, Jeff has got some way to go. 'He's going to get bigger,' says their owner, Annette Edwards. 'His length is amazing. I think he might well take Darius's record.' Annette, a former Playboy model (not a Bunny Girl, it must be noted!), is a genius at giant rabbit-breeding. She has held the record for the world's biggest rabbit, with different animals, since 2008. It would be no surprise if Jeff took the title off his dad: after all, Darius took it from his own mother, Alice. Darius seems nonchalant about his world record — and untroubled that he is set to lose his title to his son, Jeff . Annette, who has owned 100 bunnies over the past ten years, says the art of giant rabbit-breeding is simple. 'It's the same as humans,' she says. 'Some breeders make the mistake of only having one big parent. Both parents have got to be big. Jeff's mum, Sally, is 3ft 5in long. She's one of mine, too.' The crucial thing is that rabbits from the same family shouldn't interbreed. 'You mustn't,' Annette stresses. 'You end up with all sorts of illnesses, and overgrown teeth.' Unsurprisingly, nutritious food is at the heart of giant rabbit- breeding, and Annette admits that Darius is 'very greedy'. As well as those daily carrots, apples and cabbage leaves, her brood have a bale of fresh hay a week between them. But, even with these hearty appetites, rabbit-breeding is a cheap hobby: £10 a week in grub for both bunnies. And medical care isn't expensive, either. 'They don't need much looking after,' Annette says. 'Only vaccinations against myxomatosis, and solutions to get rid of fly eggs.' Certainly, Darius — recently given a clean bill of health by vets — seems to be in very good condition,

Summary: Annette Edwards has owned more than 100 bunnies in the past 10 years . She claims the secret to breeding huge rabbits is both parents must be big . The former Playboy model has owned the world's largest rabbit since 2008 . Her rabbit Darius is 4ft in length but he will soon be eclipsed by his son .


A Scottish castle commandeered by Winston Churchill to help prepare troops for the D-Day landings has gone on sale for £1.75million. The 19th century Castle Toward, near Dunoon, was used to ready soldiers for landing at a beach and was commissioned as HMS Brontosaurus in 1942. Overlooking the Clyde estuary and with easy access to the sloping shoreline, the castle was deemed an ideal training ground for thousands of British troops. Soldiers practised beach landings - complete with bombs, smokescreens and strafing fighters - jumping from landing craft and clambering up the beach in preparation for the events of June 6, 1944, in Normandy. For sale: Castle Toward, near Dunoon, which played a crucial but little-known role in defeating the Nazis, has gone on the market for £1.75m . Training ground: Overlooking the Clyde estuary and with easy access to the sloping shoreline, the castle was used as a training base for D-Day . Danger: The training at the grounds was very realistic and incredibly demanding - many servicemen were killing during exercises . Allied soldiers would spend a week of intensive training at the castle, which included swimming in full kit and daily exercises on the surrounding hills. Brontosaurus was visited by both Churchill and Supreme Allied Commander Lord Mountbatten during this time. The training was so realistic and demanding that many servicemen were killed in accidents. The castle's rich military history is still clear to see. One room is named after Churchill and the foundations of the huts built to accommodate visiting troops still stand in parts of the grounds. Preparations: The grounds of the 19th century castle on the Cowal Peninsula in Argyll and Bute was used to ready troops for D-Day . Deep waters: Swimming training saw the forces jump off the pier and they then had to wade to shore in full military gear . Army base: Troops were stationed at the castle, where they trained off the coast of Scotland, in preparation for the D-Day landings of 1944 . Camp: With easy access to the sloping shoreline, Castle Toward was a perfect place to train troops in amphibious warfare . Historic: The D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, led to the liberation of France from Nazi control, and contributed to an Allied victory in the war . Timings: The Normandy landings were originally scheduled to take place in May - then postponed until June and put off again at the last minute for 24 hours due to bad weather . Across the UK, troops took part in various military exercises in preparation for D-Day. In late 1943 the war cabinet had agreed to the building of an assault training centre on the south Devon coast, and 3,000 civilians in six villages were ordered to leave their homes. The first large training exercises - on the south Devon coast at Slapton Sands – revealed communications problems, lack of mission comprehension, poor crisis management abilities and a general sense of chaos. On April 28, 1944, 749 US soldiers and sailors died after three ships involved in a training

Summary: 19th century Castle Toward, near Dunoon, was used to ready soldiers for the D-Day landings in World War Two . Overlooking Clyde estuary and with easy access to the sloping shoreline, it was deemed an ideal training ground . The castle was commandeered by Winston Churchill and was commissioned as HMS Brontosaurus in 1942 . The training that took place was so realistic and demanding many servicemen were killed in accidents .


When Dr Michael Shannon saved Chris Trokey's life when he was born premature more than 30 years ago, he could never have known that the favor would one day be returned. But in 2011, Dr Shannon was trapped in his burning SUV after it was T-boned by a semi-truck, when Trokey, now an Orange County Fire Authority paramedic, worked to pull him out alive. Their incredible story was shared by KTLA after the pair both participated in a fundraiser for childhood cancer in Rancho Santa Margarita, California on Sunday. Reunited: Chris Trokey, second left, saved the life of Dr Michael Shannon, pictured center, with fellow paramedics (pictured) in 2011 - thirty years after the doctor saved his life as a newborn . The two men greeted each other like old friends before having their heads shaved for The St. Baldrick's Foundation. They recalled how, exactly four years prior, Dr Shannon had been driving on Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point when he was hit by a truck and pinned beneath it in his vehicle. Firefighters from Paramedic Engine 29 - of which Trokey was a part - responded to the fire and managed to stop the flames and cut him out of the car. But Trokey was unaware of who he had saved until he went to the hospital, where Dr Shannon spent more than a month recuperating. 'I was like, "Oh my gosh, Dr. Shannon?"' Trokey told KTLA. Wreckage: Trokey was one of the paramedics who treated Dr Shannon and rushed him to hospital - where he spent more than a month - after he was hit by a semi-truck and trapped in this burning SUV . Firm friends: The two men caught up last Sunday when they both took part in a fundraising event . They had met many years before - when Trokey was born weighing just 3.2 pounds and his pediatrician - Dr. Shannon - stayed with the baby around the clock to make sure he survived. 'It's amazing to watch them all grow up, but to have one come back in your life, on a day you really need it, that's really incredible,' Shannon said. He added to Yahoo: 'I do believe that things are supposed to happen when they do. I see examples of this almost daily in my life and practice.' Trokey said that Dr Shannon is now pediatrician for his own newborn son. The duo joined dozens of others to have their heads shaved on Sunday, raising a total of $12,000.

Summary: Orange County Fire Authority paramedic Chris Trokey was part of a team that saved a driver's life after his car was hit by a truck in 2011 . When he went to the hospital, he learned the man was Dr Michael Shannon - the same man who saved his life when he was born weighing 3lbs . The two men reunited this weekend at a fundraising event .


West Ham manager Sam Allardyce lamented his side's 'nerves and panic' which saw Stoke snatch a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage time to earn a 1-1 draw at Upton Park. The Irons looked to have done enough to battle to victory after taking an early lead through a superb free-kick by full back Aaron Cresswell. However, after seeing two efforts from Marko Arnautovic ruled out for offside and a header by substitute Mame Diouf hit the post, the visitors snatched a deserved point five minutes into stoppage time when the Austrian winger crashed the ball into the far corner. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was left disappointed after seeing his concede late on against Stoke . Allardyce will be scratching his head as to how he can help his side hang on to slender leads . West Ham remain in top 10 despite their late slip-up . West Ham remain in the top 10, but Allardyce knows their position should have been much more comfortable after witnessing yet another late capitulation from a positive position. 'You have to give Stoke a bit of credit, but from our point of view, we did not play as well as we can,' said Allardyce, who revealed striker Diafra Sakho is set for a spell on the sidelines with a thigh injury. 'It was not about us playing well or not, it was about winning and we had got ourselves into a fantastic position . 'When you are less than 30 seconds away from winning the game and you don't, that is the ultimate blow. 'We are very nervous on that stage based on what happened before. 'We should be on 50 points now, we have thrown away seven points in two minutes or less over four games. 'We cant find the right key elements to see the game out and leave ourselves on a nervous edge by having a little bit of panic in what we are trying to do which is coping with the opposition when they have to take more risks, playing more direct. Stoke celebrate after Marko Arnautovic's equaliser during the dying stages of the Premier League clash . Aaron Cresswell, pictured with West Ham team-mate Mark Noble, had put his side in the lead . 'While it was a very good goal, we should have dealt with it and kept possession better, using your intelligence to make sure you are doing it.' Allardyce added: 'If we had concentrated better in those (last) minutes, we would be sitting on our greatest total and finish ever in the (Premier) League. 'Instead we are scratching our heads on when are we going to finish a game out again. I thought we were going to do it today, but finished miserably in the end over just a few seconds.' Allardyce is out of contract in the summer, with the club's owners yet to decide in which direction they want to take West Ham ahead of their move to the Olympic Stadium. The 60-year-old, though, intends to remain professional in his approach over the final matches

Summary: Stoke claimed a point thanks to stoppage time goal by Marko Arnautovic . Sam Allardyce believes his side panicked in closing stages of match . West Ham remain in top 10 despite failing to cling onto three points .


Christian Benteke faces a substantial pay cut if his goals are not enough to keep Aston Villa in the Premier League – but is set to attract interest should he continue his scoring streak. Whatever Villa's Premier League status this summer, Benteke's future will be discussed as his contract, worth £50,000 per week, enters its final two years and the Belgian striker has ambitions to play European football. Wolfsburg have kept tabs on Benteke since before he ruptured his Achilles 12 months ago and remain on the lookout for a striker. The wealthy German club, currently second in Bundesliga, should have funds available from Champions League money, even after their £42million splurge on Chelsea duo Kevin De Bruyne and Andre Schurrle. Christian Benteke celebrates his opening goal against QPR at Villa Park on Tuesday . Villa value their top scorer at £25million however, and even then would remain hugely reluctant to sell with manager Tim Sherwood a big fan. Randy Lerner is set to offload the club come the closed season and new owners will have their own thoughts. A hat-trick by Benteke in the 3-3 draw with Queens Park Rangers, capped by a brilliant free-kick, underlined his return to form under Sherwood. He has scored seven goals in his last five Villa games, earning the team an additional three points in the process – the current gap to the drop zone. Benteke went on to net a hat-trick which salvaged a vital point for his side . But should Villa slip below the dreaded dotted line and out of the Premier League, Benteke is in line for an approximate 30 per cent reduction on his wages to £35,000 a week. The 24-year-old would look to leave Villa Park in that scenario, rather than play in the Championship, with a host of clubs likely to express interest. There is, however, no relegation release clause. Even if Villa stay in the Premier League Benteke will assess his options. Two years ago he handed in a transfer request to try to force a move to Tottenham Hotspur following his debut season in England yielding 23 goals. The arrival of Tim Sherwood at Villa Park has rejuvenated Benteke's form in front of goal this season . He signed a new four-year deal on vastly improved terms. Last season was less successful, bringing 11 goals before serious injury struck last April ruling Benteke out of the World Cup. His form suffered on return to the side last October, and at times he cut a bereft figure starved of service under Paul Lambert's regime. Lambert even dropped Benteke in his penultimate game in charge at home to Chelsea. Sherwood's arrival has seen Benteke return to his best, with a goal every 87 minutes. That kind of strike rate should keep Villa up, but also alert top-flight clubs. Spurs are looking to sign young players around the £15million mark, though, while Liverpool would need to shift Mario Balotelli. Jack Grealish is convinced Benteke's goals will ensure Villa's Premier League survival this season . Benteke is comfortable with life

Summary: Christian Benteke is currently paid £50,000 per week at Aston Villa . The Belgium striker has two years left on his current contract . Wolfsburg have been keeping tabs on the Villa forward .


Concerns have been raised over a program which allows school students to gain entry to university without completing their final year certificate - and is only being offered to pupils at a prestigious Sydney private school. Tuition, sporting and curricula fees for Scot's College, one of Sydney's most prestigious schools, reportedly top $30,000 . The University of Sydney is running a pilot of a 17-week bridging diploma for Year 11 students at the elite school Scot's College, Fairfax Media reported, stirring fears among student groups and university staff that the program allows parents to 'buy' their sons entry to the sandstone university. The program was devised by the university's commercial arm, Sydney Learning, and students who completed the course successfully were guaranteed places in a number of undergraduate level courses, including bachelor degrees in health sciences, liberal arts and science, animal and veterinary bioscience, visual arts, music and oral health, or in a diploma of law. Minutes of a university Academic Board meeting show staff were worried over how the course was being advertised to Year 11 students 'as an alternative to completing the HSC', with 'concern noted about possible implications for the university's reputation'. Eight Scot's students gained 'direct entry' to the university after completing the program in 2014, according to a letter sent to parents by principal Dr Ian Lambert, while 166 students completing the HSC. Rose Steele, the president of the National Union of Students, told Daily Mail Australia that while it was important there were alternative pathways available for students to gain entry to university, it was 'really concerning' if this program was only open to students who could afford it. 'NUS really believes education should be open to all and not just those who can afford it,' Ms Steele said. Sandstone halls: The University of Sydney's commercial arm, Sydney Learning, has run the pilot program with Scot's College. Pictured above is the university's clocktower and the eastern range of its main building precinct . Scot's College does not advertise their fees for tuition, sport and other curriculum activities, but in 2013 they were reported to be $30,900 per year. Daily Mail Australia approached the University of Sydney and Scot's College for comment on Monday morning. Dr Lambert, the college's chief, was quoted telling the Sydney Morning Herald that the diploma was designed with students 'in the middle rank of learners' in mind. Do you know more? Daniel.Piotrowski@mailonline.com . Scot's College: Dr Lambert, the college's chief, was quoted telling the Sydney Morning Herald that the diploma was designed with students 'in the middle rank of learners' in mind .

Summary: Pilot program allows students at one of Sydney's most prestigious schools to bypass the Higher School Certificate and attend Sydney University . Successful completion of the 17-week guarantees Scot's College students a place in a number of undergraduate courses, including law . Tuition, sporting and curriculum-related fees at the college reportedly topped $30,000 per year in 2013 . 'Education should be open to all, not just those who can afford it,' National Union of Students spokeswoman tells Daily Mail Australia .


Atletico Madrid are meeting with representatives of Palermo over the signing of Argentine forward Paulo Dybala, according to reports in Spain. Dybala, whom the Serie A club value at £29m, has also been linked with Arsenal and Chelsea but it seems the La Liga side are in the box seat. AS report that a representative for Palermo, Gustavo Mascardi, is in Madrid and is set to meet the Atletico hierarchy on Friday. Atletico Madrid are in talks to sign Palermo's Paulo Dybala, according to reports in AS . Argentine Paulo Dybala has attracted interest from a number of leading European clubs . He will then report back to Palermo president Mauricio Zamparini and to Dybala, who has scored 13 goals in 30 matches this season. Dybala, 21, has made clear his desire to play Champions League football and isn't short of interest, with Juventus, Roma, Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain all in the race. Elsewhere, AS profile the Porto coach Julen Lopetegui, who masterminded their 3-1 Champions League win over Bayern Munich on Wednesday night. 'Lopetegui grows and grows,' they say on their front page, linking him with the Real Madrid job that might become vacant this summer. Lopetegui represented Real as a player and also coached their B team in the 2008-09 season. Marca report that Real boss Carlo Ancelotti has upset Isco by demanding that he rediscovers the 'defensive intensity' that made his 'an undisputed starter.' They also focus on the race between the stars of Real and Barcelona to reach 100 goals for the season. At the moment, Barca's deadly trio of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar have 91 goals to the 88 of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema. Marca report that Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has upset Isco by telling him to be more defensive . Mundo Deportivo have installed Barcelona as favourites to win the Champions League . Mundo Deportivo feature a picture of the Barcelona team that won 3-1 in Paris on Wednesday night and proclaim them 'favourites' to go on and win the competition. They report that bets on Barcelona winning the tournament have increased following their 'exhibition' against PSG that featured a double for Suarez and another for Neymar. In Italy, the sports dailies reflect on Thursday night's Europa league action, with Gazzetta dello Sport running the headline 'Napoli Lions' after their stunning 4-1 win away to Wolfsburg. There were 'four candles on Rafa Benitez's birthday' as the Serie A side, inspired by Gonzalo Higuain, went goal crazy in Germany. Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy praise the performance of Napoli as they beat Wolfsburg 4-1 . Napoli's impressive Europa League win has also made the front cover of Corriere dello Sport . Fiorentina, meanwhile, showed a 'purple heart' to claim a 1-1 draw away to Dynamo Kiev thanks to Khouma Babacar's 92nd minute equaliser. Corriere dello Sport hail Napoli's win as 'a big thing' and say they are already into the semi-finals. Tuttosport look at who could replace Carlos Tevez in the Juventus attack should the Argentine choose to leave

Summary: Palermo representatives are in Madrid to discuss a possible move . £29m-rated Dybala is wanted by a host of leading European clubs . Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with the Argentine striker . Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has told Isco to be more defensive . Barcelona have been installed as the Champions League favourites . Napoli beat Wolfsburg 4-1 in UEFA Europa League sensation .


An innocent man who spent more than 30 years on death row for a murder he didn't commit has come face-to-face with the prosecutor who put him there. Glenn Ford, who was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer after his release last year, was too weak to stand when Marty Stroud walked into his Louisiana home last week but shook his hand. 'I want you to know that I am very sorry,' Stroud said during the somber meeting, which was filmed by Nightline. 'It's a stain on me that will be with me until I go to my grave.' 'Right,' Ford responded, without looking up. 'But it still cost me 31 years of my life and then nothing at the end but death because they give me from six to eight months to live.' Scroll down for videos . Apology: Marty Stroud, left, visited Glenn Ford, right, at his home to apologize for putting him behind bars for 30 years for a murder he didn't commit. Ford was released from prison in Angola last year . Face-to-face: The 65-year-old, who was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer shortly after being freed from prison, shook the former prosecutor's hand as he walked into his home . 'I'm sorry,' Ford added. 'I can't forgive you.' Stroud, who wished Ford the best before leaving the home, had asked to meet the man after apologizing to him in a powerful letter published in The Shreveport Times last month. In the letter, Stroud admitted that he was to blame for mistakenly putting Ford behind bars for the fatal shooting of a jeweler, despite no murder weapon or witnesses placing him at the scene. 'In 1984, I was 33 years old,' he wrote. 'I was arrogant, judgmental, narcissistic and very full of myself. I was not as interested in justice as I was in winning.' Stroud, 63, wrote the letter after the state ruled that Ford was not entitled to receive $330,000 in compensation for his time spent behind bars because he could not prove he did not know about the killing before it was carried out. 'Glenn Ford should be completely compensated to every extent possible because of the flaws of a system that effectively destroyed his life,' Stroud wrote. Struggle: Ford told Stroud that he could not forgive him for what he had done as a young lawyer . Pain: After Stroud left, Ford was overcome with emotion and was comforted by his carers, pictured . 'The audacity of the state's effort to deny Mr. Ford any compensation for the horrors he suffered in the name of Louisiana justice is appalling.' Ford was accused of shooting Isadore Rozeman, a Shreveport jeweler and watchmaker for whom Mr Ford had done occasional yard work, in 1983 and was convicted the following year. He was sent to prison, where he lived with little light or heat, while Stroud, who had been with the Caddo District Attorney's office for two years, went out to celebrate by having drinks with his team. 'That's sick,' he said in his letter. 'I had

Summary: Marty Stroud admitted in a letter published in a Louisiana newspaper last month that he was to blame for putting Glenn Ford behind bars in 1983 . Stroud: 'I was not as interested in justice as I was in winning' Ford, now 65, was freed a year ago after evidence emerged showing he was not at the scene of the murder and has since been living on donations . He has also been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and has months to live . Stroud visited Ford's home to apologize to him face-to-face but Ford told him he was not able to forgive him .


A youngster has emulated Barcelona star Martin Montoya and scored an audacious 27-yard goal into a basketball hoop - twice. Schoolboy Frankie Franz watched the Spanish right-back pull off the staggering trick shot in a video recorded at Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva training ground earlier in the month. The viral clip shows the 23-year-old defender lifting the ball into the net to the sound of gasps from his team mates at the Catalonia club. Joking that he could do the same with his mum and grandmother, nine-year-old Frankie, who is an academy player with Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club, took to the garden to have a go. He moved the basketball hoop into the middle of the goal and after a little run up sent the ball straight through the net first time. In the video he can be seen turning to face the camera looking absolutely gob-smacked as he places his hands behind his head. A slow motion look at the clip captures the trajectory of the ball, which bounces off the backboard and goes through the hoop below. His mother Lucy, 32, of Upminster, east London, said: ‘He loves football and after he saw the Barcelona player do the show he said ‘I’ll be able to do that’. Frankie decided to have a go at the trick shot after watching Barcelona star Martin Montoya pull it off in a video recorded at the club’s Ciutat Esportiva training ground . The nine-year-old kicks the ball and sends it straight through the net on the first time of trying just like Spanish right-back Montoya . The gob-smacked youngsters places his hands behind his head after scoring while Montoya (right) wheels away in celebration . ‘Me and my mum just said ‘really?’ and he went to get the net, pulled it over and bang - it went in first time. ‘Me and mum were like ‘oh my god’ we couldn’t believe it. ‘He is very good at football, but that was just amazing. It was very special.’ According to Lucy, although not captured on camera, the youngster had another go immediately after and netted again. "I think he's got it down now," said Lucy, who helps run a building firm with husband Matt, 34. "He is very confident but you can tell by the look on his face I think he was surprised too." The talented young centre midfielder has played football since he could walk and dreams of one day turning out for Real Madrid or Barcelona. The young centre midfielder is an academy player with Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club and dreams of one day turning out for Real Madrid or Barcelona.

Summary: Frankie Franz watched the right-back pull off the audacious shot in a video . Nine-year-old joked with his mum and grandmother that he could make it . Youngster moved hoop into middle of the garden and twice achieved feat . Frankie is an academy player with Dagenham and Redbridge Football Club . He plays centre midfield and dreams of one day turning out for Barcelona .


Cats and dogs have the advantage over marine pets in that they can interact with humans through the sense of touch. But that doesn’t prevent one man from dipping his hand in the fish tank and giving his blood parrot cichlid a stroke. Capturing his remarkable relationship on camera, Roland Giroux gently cups the fish with his hand from within side the tank and then treats it to a massage. The fish begins relaxing in the man's hand and stays very still as the owner begins to stroke it with his finger . The fish initially moves away before swimming in a full circle and returning to rest in between the man’s fingers. The man then begins massaging the pet by running his finger along it and the fish stays completely still as if enjoying the sensation. Repeating the process, the fish swims off once more before immediately returning to the man’s hand to be stroked again. Later in the video the fish interacts further with the man by swimming up his arm and circling his fingers. The man places his hand into the tank and gently cups the blood parrot cichlid with his fingers . Before burying its face into his hand and remaining very still once more. The video concludes with the man removing his hand from the tank and the fish, clearly saddened by this, following it up to the surface of the water. According to Mr Giroux, who uploads many videos of his fish to his Youtube channel, the blood parrot cichlid used to share its tank with two other fish. The fish swims away from the man's hand a few times in the video but returns to be massaged . But he was forced to remove the other two from the tank when he noticed that they were bullying his prized pet. He then set about interacting with the fish by feeding it frozen blood worms by hand and eventually he noticed it becoming more sociable. After a while the fish enjoyed being stroked and Mr Giroux noted that it would become frustrated if he didn’t play with it on a daily basis. The fish begins swimming around the man's fingers and towards the surface as he removes his hand . The man massages and plays with his fish for at least 15 minutes each day. The blood parrot cichlid is a hybrid of the midas and the redhead cichlid and was first bred in Taiwan around 1986.

Summary: Roland Giroux captured his relationship with his fish on camera . The blood parrot cichlid swims in circles and waits in man's hand . The man then begins massaging and stroking its body with his finger . Mr Giroux claims the fish becomes frustrated if not stroked each day .


A couple of months ago they were a struggling comedy sketch group trying to make ends meet. And now the three Australian models whose video of themselves miming along to Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody went viral have travelled to the US to make appearances on chat shows. Their original video, 'Bohemian Carsody' and the follow-up, 'Mime Through Time,' have now garnered a staggering 260 million views across several social media platforms including YouTube and Facebook. Scroll down for video . Hitting the big time: Shae-Lee Shackleford, 28, Lana Kington, 25, Madison Lloyd, 27 were interview on The Ellen Show . Lifelong dream: Shackleford revealed that 'Be on Ellen' was on her diary list of '100 things I want to do before I die' Shae-Lee Shackleford, 28, Lana Kington, 25, Madison Lloyd, 27, are quickly capitalising on their success, booking appearances on The Ellen show and Good Morning America this week. The trio were interviewed by Ellen De Generes on Tuesday, and revealed that the moment fulfilled a lifelong dream. Shackleford told the daytime host that she wrote a list of '100 things to do before I die' in her diary in 2011. Number five on the list was to 'Be on Ellen'. Live miming: The trio performed a live version of their latest video Mime Through Time . Quick change! The girls had to quickly don wigs and costumes to pull off the sketch in real life . TV stars: The girls were pictured filming a segment for Good Morning America in Times Square on Wednesday . Hi mum! Shae, Lana and Madison have hit the big time, appearing to audiences of millions in the US . The comedy group to Ellen that they had been struggling to make ends meet a year ago when they came up with the idea of filming themselves in their car miming to music. In March, their parody of Bohemian Rhapsody went viral, quickly racking up millions of hits on YouTube and attracting the attention of Queen guitarist Brian May, who contacted the girls to say he was a fan. SketchShe were even credited by Billboard magazine for causing a 261 per cent surge in streaming of the original track. Their next video weeks later has surpassed the views of Bohemian Carsody. Mime Through Time, which sees the girls change costumes in quick succession as they mime to hit songs from the 1940s through to today, currently has 21.66 million hits on YouTube and 27.9 million on Facebook alone. During their appearance on Elle, Shackleford, Kington, and Lloyd performed a shortened version of Mime Through Time live. Next up was in interview on Good Morning America - both shows attract international audiences in the millions, and are sure to raise SketchShe's profile significantly. Viral: The girls rose to fame for their YouTube videos which see them miming to songs in their car . Nude road trip: In their latest video, Mime Through Time, they appear naked in one scene to parody Mile Cyrus' Wrecking Ball . Sensations: SketchShe's videos have so far been viewed 260 million times

Summary: Australian comedy trio SketchShe went viral with their car videos . The models mime along to music in their car . The videos have amassed 260 million views across social media . Shae-Lee Shackleford, Lana Kington, Madison Lloyd performed on Ellen . Also made appearance on Good Morning America .


The mother of murdered schoolgirl April Jones has revealed she receives hate mail blaming her for the killing of her five-year-old. Coral Jones, 43, whose daughter was snatched from outside her home in Machynlleth, Powys, had letters demanding her other children be taken into care. She was branded a 'bad mother' for allowing April to play in the street past 7pm where she was abducted and killed by paedophile Mark Bridger. Scroll down for video . Coral Jones, pictured with her husband, Paul, 46, has revealed she has been sent hate mail blaming her for the murder of her five-year-old daughter April and demanding her other children are taken into care . Mrs Jones said: 'We had a letter with no name on it and no address to write to, saying I was a bad mother and it was my fault and I shouldn't have my other children with me. 'Yes, I blame myself every day for it but unless they live in my shoes they have no right to tell me I am a bad mother.' She admitted that she blames herself for letting April stay out on her bike 'for an extra 15 minutes' after getting a good school report that day in October 2012. Bridger, 49, who took her to his cottage nearby and killed her, was jailed for life in 2013 but despite the largest police search in British history her body has never been recovered. April Jones, left, was abducted from outside her home by Mark Bridger, right, who was jailed for life in 2013 . Mrs Jones and husband Paul, 46, told BBC Wales programme Week In Week Out they have battled to live a normal life for their two children Jazmin, 19, and Harley, 12, after the tragedy. Since the loss of her daughter, Mrs Jones has suffered from agroraphobia and will not leave the house on her own. Mr Jones said: 'It is not often she will go anywhere on her own. Even just to pop down the shops one of the kids will go with her or I will go with her or she will call a friend.' Mrs Jones added: 'I get frightened and feel unsafe that people come up to me. I know they mean no harm but when people come up to me and I am feeling frightened, I can't cope.' She admitted that the only place in her town she feels comfortable is April's favourite local sweet shop. 'He [Bridger] didn't just take April away from us - he took her away from the town,' she said. 'I shouldn't be like this because of him but I cannot help it.' April's older sister Jazmin explained her family were still struggling to come to terms with her murder. The family has said they have struggled to come to terms with April's death. Coral and Paul Jones are pictured with their eldest daughter, Jazmin, 19, (left) and 13-year-old Harley (second left) She said: 'One day I could be really happy and Dad could be really upset and we would argue, we

Summary: Coral Jones, 43, has had anonymous letters branding her a 'bad mother' Daughter April was snatched from outside home and killed by Mark Bridger . She blames herself for allowing April to play outside for extra 15 minutes . Family have struggled to come to terms with murder and set up campaign .


A young English fan who wrote a letter to Richie Benaud asking for tips on spin bowling almost 20 years ago has shared the Australian cricket great's response in the wake of his death. Jonathon Stevenson was just 16 years old when he asked for Benaud's advice on left-handed leg spin and he shared the lengthy response on Twitter on Friday as a tribute to the 'great man'. 'Wrote to Richie Benaud when I was 16 about bowling leggies. His detailed reply says everything about the great man,' Mr Stevenson, who is now a director at LiveWire Sport, tweeted. Scroll down for video . A letter from Richie Benaud to an English fan, Jonathon Stevenson, almost 20 years ago emerged on Friday in the wake of the cricket legend's death . Accompanying the letter from Benaud, dated September 27, 1996, was a full sheet of notes about spin bowling for left-hand bowlers. 'Your letter was timely because it was the first from a left-hander and it reminded me that there is a difference in coaching and not just in the fact that one youngster might bowl with the right hand and another with the left,' Benaud wrote. 'The ball, although coming out of the hand in the same manner and going in the same direction towards the batsmen, in fact spins differently for the two types of bowlers.' Jonathon Stevenson, who now works at LiveWire Sport, was just 16 years old when he asked for Benaud's advice on left-handed leg spin and he shared the lengthy response on Twitter as a tribute to the 'great man' Accompanying the letter from Benaud, dated September 27, 1996, was a full sheet of notes about spin bowling for left-hand bowlers . Benaud enjoyed a remarkable Test career as a wily leg-spin bowler and middle-order batsman which ended with his retirement in 1964. He was the first player to score 2,000 Test runs and take 200 Test wickets. 'I hope you enjoy your cricket and your bowling,' Benaud said. 'Yes, the left-arm over-the-wrist bowler who spins the ball into the right-hander from outside the off-stump is said to have bowled a Chinaman. The same bowler who spins one away from the right-hander has bowled a wrong'un.' After retiring, Benaud became a commentary icon initially with the BBC in England and later in his native Australia . The typed letter, dated September 27, 1996, was personally signed by Benaud . It included tips on different deliveries and gave pointers as to how they should be delivered . In his letter to a young Mr Stevenson, he listed a full page of various different deliveries the teenager should try and gave pointers as to how they should be delivered. 'Don't even think about learning the 'flipper' before you have mastered the leg-break, topspinner and wrong'un,' he finished with. The typed letter was personally signed by Benaud. After retiring, Benaud became a commentary icon initially with the BBC in England and later in his native Australia. He was the mainstay in Australian cricket television commentary until the past two

Summary: Jonathon Stevenson wrote a letter to Richie Benaud back in 1996 . The then-16-year-old asked for his advice on left-handed spin bowling . Stevenson, who now works at LiveWire Sport, tweeted the letter on Friday . Cricket legend died in his sleep on Thursday night in a Sydney hospice . Letter included sheet of notes about spin bowling for left-hand bowlers .


Forget a feather down pillow - this boy would rather use his cat's belly as a place to rest his head. California-based YouTube user Lionel Hutz filmed his young son chasing the family feline around the garden in a bid to get some rest. Footage shows the cat licking his fur before his human friend comes along and plonks himself on top. After a brief moment of stillness, the cat immediately gets up and scurries over to another spot. The boy then proceeds to follow the pet to his new location. Eager to get some rest, the infant repeats the same move and rolls to the ground. The sequence happens one more time before the cat decides he's had enough of being used as a pillow and wanders off indoors. A later video shows the duo swiftly made up, and the boy is seen gently feeding the cat handfuls of treats. Sleepy head: YouTube user Lionel Hutz filmed his young son chasing the family feline around the garden in a bid to get some rest . Perfect pillow: Footage shows the cat sat licking his fur before his human friend comes along and plonks himself on top . Not amused: After a brief moment of stillness, the cat immediately gets up and scurries over to another spot .


Ryan Skivington who admitted killing a girl's guinea pigs by squeezing the life out of them . A professional boxer killed a nine-year-old girl's guinea pigs in front of her by slowly squeezing the life out them before throwing them out of her window. Ryan Skivington from Staining near Blackpool took the pets, called Ant and Dec, out of their cage during a row with the girl's mother. The 26-year-old lightweight, who appeared at Blackpool Magistrates Court, today admitted criminal damage to the guinea pigs. He also admitted assaulting his former partner Bobbi Jo Houston at her home in Blackpool during the attack on February 12 this year. In addition he also damaged a TV and iPad worth £740 during the attack. Jim Mowbray, prosecuting, said: 'This was a sustained domestic violence incident which took place in the home of the victim. 'The guinea pigs were killed as a result of this man's actions. 'The nine-year-old daughter witnessed him taking her pets from their cage after he went into her bedroom where they were kept. 'He gripped them and then threw them out of the window resulting in their demise.' Mitch Serangi, defending, said that Skivington had no previous convictions for violence. The nine-year-old girl witnesses Skivington squeeze the guinea pigs after taking them out of their cage in her bedroom (file picture) He added: 'His former partner did not make a statement at first but she has now done so hence his change of plea to guilty. Magistrates bailed Skivington so that pre-sentence reports can be prepared. He also must keep to a curfew and away from his former partner's address as terms of his bail.

Summary: Ryan Skivington took the pets from cage during a row with girl's mother . Then squeezed the animals tightly before throwing bodies out a window . 26-year-old also admitted assaulting former partner and causing damage .


The biblical-style ramblings of accused killer Charles Severance, 54, were revealed during his court appearance on Thursday (pictured) An accused serial killer's rambling manifesto revealed details of his chilling plan to 'Knock. Talk. Enter. Kill. Exit. Murder', a prosecutor has said. Charles Severance, 54, who has been charged with the murders of Nancy Dunning, Ron Kirby and Ruthanne Lodato, in Alexandria, Virginia, was in court for a hearing on Thursday. All three victims were gunned down at their homes in daylight attacks: Dunning in 2003, Kirby in 2013 and Lodato last year. At court on Thursday, prosecutor Bryan Porter argued Severance, who was once a fringe candidate for political office, should face just one trial as his writings linked the three murders,The Washington Post reported. Severance's writing appeared to echo a biblical passage and also included the words: 'The last scream of a victim echoes to eternity... Murder on my mind, and my mind on murder.' The prosecution alleged that Severance's plan to kill was outlined in a bizarre piece called 'Parable of the Knocker', based on a bible passage called Parable of the Midnight Knocker. Judge Jane Marum Roush also decided at the hearing that Severance's trial should be moved from Alexandria to Fairfax County because the possibility of an impartial jury seemed unlikely after the hysteria which surrounded the murders. Severance was arrested in March 2014 over the murders after he sought asylum at the Russian Embassy in D.C. He was reportedly 'sent away' from the embassy and told he was an 'unwanted guest'. Accused serial killer Charles Severance, 54, had several outbursts at his court hearing on Thursday in Alexandria, Virginia and was reprimanded by the judge . Alleged serial killer Charles Severance was escorted out following a hearing in his case at the Alexandria Circuit Court on Thursday. His trial will be moved to Fairfax County, a judge ruled, over fears for an impartial jury due to the hysteria surrounding the murders . The murders caused panic among the residents of the wealthy Washington D.C. suburb of Alexandria after they were warned by authorities that a serial killer was on the loose. The shootings were random but took place just blocks from each other when the victims opened their front doors at the same time of day. Ruthanne Lodato, a married mother-of-three, was killed on February 6 last year after a man knocked on her door at 11.30am and opened fire on her and a nurse caring for her mother. Lodato, 59, was rushed to hospital in critical condition but did not survive. The nurse, who was shot in the arm, gave police a description of their bearded attacker. Several months earlier, in November 2013, regional transportation planner Ronald Kirby, 69, was shot dead at his home. In December 2003, real estate agent Nancy Dunning, 56, was gunned down. Ballistics revealed similarities in bullet fragments at the three murder scenes. Pictured left, Ruthanne Lodato, 59, a married mother-of-three, was shot dead at her home in Alexandria last year. Several months earlier, in November 2013, Ronald Kirby, 69, was

Summary: Charles Severance, 54, has been charged with murders of Nancy Dunning, Ron Kirby and Ruthanne Lodato, in Virginia, over the space of a decade . Prosecution want Severance, who was once a fringe candidate for political office, to stand trial for all three killings together . Claims that Severance's 'Parable of the Knocker' linked all three deaths . The three victims were murdered at random in broad daylight when they answered a knock at their front door .


Andy King thinks his 50th goal for Leicester City could prove to be his most important yet. Coming in the 86th minute of Saturday's match it was by no means his most spectacular, a mere flick from six yards out enough to take the ball past Adrian after a scuffed Jamie Vardy shot. But it was enough to defeat West Ham in a frenetic match and breathe life back into the side he has spent his whole career playing for. Andy King was the hero as Premier League strugglers Leicester City struck late to earn a vital three points . King is joined by David Nugent to celebrate his goal, the 50th he has scored for his club . Leicester remain at the foot of the Barclay’s Premier League table, a spot they have occupied since November, and four points from safety. But King, 26, thinks the momentum they are taking into the final eight matches of the season could be enough to propel them above the drop zone. ‘I’ve scored some pretty crucial goals before, but we might look back at the end of the season and that might turn out to be the most important one yet,’ said King, . ‘It’s always nice to score for the only club you’ve ever played for. I’ve had a brilliant journey with this club. 'I’ve been on 49 for a long time, and I’ve been in the Premier League for a good few months now - I was hoping it would’ve come earlier but I’ve ticked that milestone off now and I’m delighted about that. Nigel Pearson admits Leicester survival is still a 'big ask' despite win over West Ham . Pearson congratulates goalscorer Cambiasso after the final whistle of his side's win against the Hammers . ‘But most importantly it was about getting the three points and we have a lot of work to do between now and the end of the season to make sure we’re a Premier League team next season. ‘We’ve played well enough to prove we can survive and we’ve not turned it into results - this is a results business. That proves to everyone - not just ourselves - that we mean business.’ Leicester manager Nigel Pearson praised King, who he brought off the bench with 12 minutes to play and said his team were finally getting the results they deserved after several games this season where they have drawn or lost despite dominating. ‘I would love to be a lucky manager who plays crap and wins but we have not been that,’ he said. King says his goal against West Ham may turn out to be his most important for the club if they stay up . ‘It would be a pretty grumpy man who wouldn't let them enjoy winning but we have to keep our destiny in our own hands.’ His opposite number Sam Allardyce denied West Ham were ‘drifting’ towards the end of the season having won just twice in the last 14 games. ‘We’re not drifting but where we’re failing is we’re not

Summary: Andy King scored his 50th goal to earn Leicester three points . Estaban Cambiasso's goal had been cancelled out by Cheick Kouyate . Nigel Pearson praises his goalscorer who he brought of the bench .


The world’s leading gold mining company has paid compensation to 11 women in remote Papua New Guinea after they were raped by the firm’s security guards and police, it was revealed today. The US-based Barrick Gold, which boasts that it is the world’s leading gold mining company, reached the out-of-court settlement when the women threatened to file a lawsuit in the US. One of the women was just a 14-year-old girl attending school in the northern Enga province when she was raped in 2010, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported today. An American gold mining company has paid what is beleived to be a six-figure compensation to 11 women after they were raped by the firm’s security guards and police patrolling Porgera gold mine in Papua New Guinea . She and her classmates had made string bags for police officers who had been moved into the area to increase security around the company’s Porgera gold mine. Several police officers offered to pay her for her bags and offered to take her to an ATM to draw out the money. But she was taken, instead, to the mine site where she claims one of the armed policemen raped her. Barrick Gold, which boasts that it is the world’s leading gold mining company, reached the out-of-court settlement when the women threatened to file a lawsuit in the US . She told the ABC’s Pacific Beat programme before the settlement was reached that as a result of the rape ‘I am now suffering - I would have been somebody if I completed my education. ‘I was the best student in my class. Because of the rape my future is ruined.’ A second woman, identified as Jane Doe 4, has revealed how she was collecting firewood when she was surrounded by security guards from the mine. Victims include a 14-year-old schoolgirl who was raped by police patrolling mine in 2010 . ‘They hit me. They pushed me and I fell on some of the sharp rocks. ‘Two of the guards, they took turns in raping me. I suffered very badly.’ The ABC said allegations of brutality had surrounded the mine even before Barrick Gold took it over in 2006. In 2011 the allegations were exposed when a Human Rights Watch report documented six alleges cases of gang rape by the mine’s security guards. Responding to the report, Barrick set up a ‘remedial framework’ to provide compensation to victims of brutality and more than 130 women accepted payments of around $10,000, as long as they agreed not to take any future legal action. But 11 women rejected the offer as being grossly inadequate and planned a lawsuit in Nevada, where Barrick Gold has a number of mining operations. Now, after mediation, the mining company and the women have reached a confidential settlement and are said by Earth Rights International to be ‘pleased with the results they are getting at this point.’ In a joint statement between Barrick Gold and Earth Rights International, it was announced that ‘the women will receive compensation under the Porgera remedy framework and a

Summary: Barrick Gold reached an out-of-court settlement with the 11 rape victims . Includes a 14-year-old schoolgirl raped by police patrolling mine in 2010 . The US gold mining giant offered $10,000 but was rejected as 'inadequate' Women are thought to have been offered compensation in the six figures .