The former Celtic defender has left his role as a youth coach at Everton to take the job. He replaces Terry Butcher, who was sacked following Hibs' relegation from the Premiership last season. "To be given this opportunity with Hibernian is a great privilege and a real honour - it is a massive club with huge potential," said the 42-year-old. Stubbs has been appointed on a two-year contract and will be hoping to lead the Easter Road side back to the top flight at the first attempt, with Edinburgh rivals Hearts and Rangers also in the second tier next term. A decision has yet to be made on his assistant. "I'm excited about the future here at Hibernian and what we can all achieve together at the club - this is the start of the journey," he added. "The Scottish Championship will be a tough division, but I'm confident that if we approach the challenge with enthusiasm, optimism and belief then we can achieve success. He is a driven, intelligent and strong-minded character, who has a very clear vision about what he wants to achieve in football "I've been at Everton for almost six years and now I believe I'm ready to take on the role of head coach here at Hibernian." Hibs chief executive Leeann Dempster revealed her delight at the appointment, insisting the Englishman shares her vision for the club. "There were strong candidates who applied for the position but after much consideration, Alan emerged as the standout choice," she said. "It's important that the CEO and head coach are very much on the same page and that they forge a close working and trusting partnership. I spoke with Alan and it became apparent early in the discussions that we had a common goal. "He is a driven, intelligent and strong-minded character, who has a very clear vision about what he wants to achieve in football - producing positive results, playing attractive football and developing young players. "All those attributes fitted the criteria we required and we're confident Alan is the right man to unite the club and bring success to Hibernian. "Alan will be our head coach and that is part of the new structure in place at the football club; a continental-style model designed for continued long-term success."

Summary: Alan Stubbs has been named the new head coach of Scottish Championship side Hibernian.


The emails confirmed the Trump camp's interest in receiving help from the Russian government to discredit opponent Hillary Clinton during the presidential campaign last year. The Dow Jones was unchanged at 21,409.07 and the S&P 500 edged down 0.08% to 2,425.53. The Nasdaq rose 0.3% to 6,193.3. Wall Street has generally climbed this year, in spite of some shaky moments stemming from unease over the fate of the Trump administration and prospects for its business-friendly agenda. Markets also sank in May amid a furore over US President Donald Trump's firing of former FBI Director James Comey, who had been investigating ties between the campaign and Russia. That investigation is ongoing. On Tuesday, a rise in oil prices helped lift energy stocks, such as Exxon Mobil, which climbed 0.6%. But bank stocks lost ground ahead of the release of quarterly earnings this week and a day after the US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau unveiled a rule making it easier for customers to file collective lawsuits. introduced a The rule forbids companies from requiring that people use an individual, out-of-court process to resolve disputes as part of the contract for their credit card and bank accounts. Bank of America and Citigroup shares fell 1.2% on Tuesday, while Wells Fargo dropped 1%. The rule may be short-lived as it comes amid a push by the White House and Republicans in Congress to make the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau less powerful. Senator Tom Cotton, a Republican who represents Arkansas, said on Tuesday he would file legislation to undo the rule.

Summary: The US stock market closed on Tuesday about where it began, recovering after a flash of panic prompted by the release of emails from Donald Trump Jr.


Firefighters spent several days at the site in Duncan Street following the blaze on 2 March, which reduced train services and caused travel delays. The Environment Agency (EA) suspended Recovered Fuels Shipping Limited from accepting waste after the fire. The firm was "broadly compliant" with fire safety law, the fire service said. Recovered Fuels Shipping Limited, whose site was run by Asset and Land Group, could not be contacted for a comment. It has until 7 August to appeal the decision. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) visited the premises nine times in the last 12 months. Geoff Harris, GMFRS area manager, said: "The site operators, Asset and Land, have been broadly compliant with fire safety legislation throughout that time." The fire service raised concerns to the EA in February over the impact a fire could have on nearby residents, transport and the environment. "The EA were very interested in our concerns, which resulted in our fire safety officers conducting joint visits to the site with EA staff, the EA decided to take enforcement action against the site operators," Mr Harris said. An EA spokesman said: "After consideration of all the facts relating to the company and the site, the EA has now decided to revoke the environmental permit. "Subject to any appeal, the revocation takes effect on 7 August, which means after that date the company will no longer be able to operate from that site. The company is still required to remove all the waste." The cause of the fire remains undetermined.

Summary: A company which runs a paper recycling plant in Salford where a major fire broke out has had its environmental permit revoked.


An investigation into Pembrokeshire council's dealings with Michael Smith said it was "only luck" that stopped his application. The 2015 review was confidential, but a copy of the report has been exclusively obtained by the Western Telegraph. It revealed a head of service initially failed to provide information of child protection concerns about Smith. Pembrokeshire council said "it is unfortunate that a member of the authority has seen fit to disclose the report, contrary to advice". Smith, from Haverfordwest, was employed as a youth worker for the council between May 2001 and January 2012. During that time he was the subject of three disciplinary hearings. Allegations against him included allowing a child to sit on his lap and drive his Land Rover, allowing a child to sit in his Land Rover without wearing a seatbelt, and a young person, who had been reported missing by their foster carer, had shown up at his home. The report, which was compiled by an independent social worker, said Smith "displayed many grooming behaviours during the years he was employed by Pembrokeshire council but there were no direct allegations of abuse during this time". Smith was dismissed for gross misconduct and in September 2013 a police investigation began after he was accused of sexually abusing a boy. He was jailed for six years in July 2014 after admitting sexually assaulting a child under the age of 13, inciting the child to engage in sexual activity and taking indecent photographs of the child. He also admitted possessing 1,136 indecent images of children. The report said in 2010 Smith had applied to Pembrokeshire council to become a respite foster carer. The fostering team wrote to the Head of Youth Service for his views on Smith's application. The report said the head of service had "replied in very positive terms". A formal reference form which the head of service was sent asked him to "highlight any concerns" regarding Smith's employment, including any disciplinary proceedings and the outcomes. The head of service left the section blank. It was not until the papers were distributed to the foster panel that one of the members recalled Smith had been investigated previously for inappropriate behaviour with children and had been disciplined. The panel concluded Smith was not suitable for approval to be a foster carer. "By withholding relevant information and leaving the section of the form blank, the foster panel might have concluded that there had been no concerns and no disciplinary action," the report said. "It was only chance that a member of the fostering panel recollected the safeguarding investigation in 2005" and "only luck that prevented Smith from being approved as a foster carer". There have been calls to make the report public. The latest request took place at full council on 2 March when Cllr Mike Stoddart had put forward a notice of motion asking for it to be published. He said it is in "the public interest to publish the report so that the electorate can be fully apprised of the chain of events surrounding this issue." His motion

Summary: An ex-youth worker jailed for child sex offences could have been approved as a foster carer, a case review has found.


The unknown offender seized control of the Medway Council feed at about 19:45 BST. Its first tweet announced: "The Medway Council Twitter feed has been taken over by the citizens of Medway." Hackers went on to publish a string of Tweets which were removed about 10 minutes later. The authority apologised for any offence caused. It tweeted: "Our account was hacked for a short time earlier this evening. "Sorry for any offence caused by the tweets which have now been removed." During the security breach, around nine tweets were sent including one which promised: "We're also going to introduce decent schools. About time eh?". The hackers also announced an end to Rochester's Dickens Festival. Celia Glynn-Williams, head of communication at Medway Council, said action was taken to secure the account as quickly as possible. She added: "We are sorry for any offence caused by the messages that were tweeted. "We take the security of our account very seriously and are looking into how this happened."

Summary: Hackers have targeted a council Twitter feed - announcing an end to council tax and free parking for all.


But this is also a story which has cut to the heart of the country's political conscience and raised questions about so-called VIP culture. On Wednesday evening, as chairman of the Pakistan's People's Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto was visiting Karachi's Civil Hospital, so too was Bisma, a 10-month old child who needed urgent medical care. The infant's father Mohammad Faisal Baloch, from Karachi's poorest Lyari district, alleged he couldn't gain entry for more than an hour because of the security protocol surrounding Mr Bhutto's visit. "Doctors told me they could have saved her if she was brought in 10 minutes earlier," he told local media. Bisma was his only child and was suffering from respiratory problems. The story has created a storm in Pakistan even though there are conflicting reports about whether it was the traffic jam caused by the visit, or a single security guard's decision not to let the family through, that caused the delay. Much of the outrage is focused on the dilemmas of ordinary people trying to live their lives amid politicians with enormous security details, albeit politicians who may have cause for enhanced security - Bilawal's mother Benazir Bhutto was assassinated in Rawalpindi in 2007. "What if Bisma has died, Bhutto is alive, long live Bhutto" is one tweet which despondently reflects the anger people are pouring out on social media. The PPP had been using the slogan "Bhutto is alive" to counter efforts by political rivals to weaken the party. The news of Bisma's death put social media in Pakistan on fire. #Bisma, #RIPDemocrazy and #VIPCuture immediately started trending. Bilawal Bhutto also tweeted: "Anguished over Bisma's death. Am personally inquiring into this heart-breaking incident to ascertain what went wrong." Such tragic controversies and the resultant inquiries are not new to Pakistani's elite, especially the PPP. In 2010, a woman had to give birth in an auto-rickshaw when the motorcade of the then president Asif Ali Zardari, who is also the PPP's co-chairman and Bilawal's father, blocked traffic in the city of Quetta. The woman's brother Mohammad Yaseen had told media at that time: "We pleaded with the policemen as it was an emergency but they refused, citing orders that no one should be allowed to move until the president had passed." Bisma's father has described a similar situation five years on. Opposition parties such as Imran Khan's Tehrik Insaf all jumped on the chance to criticise the PPP, which rules Sindh province, of which Karachi is the capital. A PTI leader, Naz Baloch, tweeted after meeting the bereaved family that Bisma's father refused a job offer from the PPP but asked for improvements to their local Lyari General hospital. Lyari ironically is a PPP stronghold, but has remained underdeveloped for too long, many feel. Although the death of Bisma has been a catalyst for yet more criticism of Pakistan's so-called "VIP culture", ultimately what it may show is just how much development still needs to come to parts of Pakistan, given how easy it is for a toddler to quickly develop an illness which brings her

Summary: The tragic death of a toddler has gripped Pakistan's social media conscience over the past 24 hours.


Trailing 7-0 from the first leg, the home side went in front on the night when Alvaro Negredo rolled home. And Neville was on course to celebrate a rare victory as Valencia coach before Barca substitute Wilfrid Kaptoum side-footed in a late equaliser. Media playback is not supported on this device The result means Barcelona are unbeaten in 29 games, a Spanish record. Their opponents in the final will be either Celta Vigo or Sevilla, the latter of whom lead 4-0 going into Thursday's second leg. Neville is under pressure at Valencia, with the former Manchester United captain winless in nine league games since taking charge on 2 December. He made it clear that Saturday's La Liga match with Espanyol was his priority by making sweeping changes, though Barca too named an under-strength team. Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar were all rested by Luis Enrique, who left 11 first-team regulars out of the squad. The attendance at the 55,000-seater Mestalla was 16,200. "I'm thankful for the fans who came to the stadium," said Neville. "Some didn't want to come and that was their right. "We weren't playing under the best circumstances after what happened in the first leg last week, but the players played with dignity. We deserved to win.''

Summary: Barcelona reached the Copa del Rey final as they beat Gary Neville's Valencia 8-1 on aggregate after a 1-1 draw at the Mestalla Stadium.


The 26-year-old defender joins team-mates Michail Antonio, Dimitri Payet, Adrian, and Cheikhou Kouyate in committing his future to the club. The former Ipswich Town full-back has made 89 appearances for the Hammers, scoring four goals. "I've been here for two years now and I'm looking forward to the next five seasons now that I've signed," he said.

Summary: Aaron Cresswell has signed a one-year contract extension with West Ham, taking his current deal to 2021.


1453 - Sultan Mehmed II the Magnificent captures Constantinople, ending Byzantine Empire and consolidating Ottoman Empire in Asia Minor and Balkans. 15th-16th centuries - Expansion into Asia and Africa. 1683 - Ottoman advance into Europe halted at Battle of Vienna. Long decline begins. 19th century - Efforts at political and economic modernisation of Empire largely founder. 1908 - Young Turk Revolution establishes constitutional rule, but degenerates into military dictatorship during First World War, where Ottoman Empire fights in alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary. 1918-22 - Partition of defeated Ottoman Empire leads to eventual triumph of Turkish National Movement in war of independence against foreign occupation and rule of Sultan. 1923 - Grand National Assembly declares Turkey a republic and Kemal Ataturk president. Europe meets Asia in Turkey's largest city 1928 - Turkey becomes secular: clause retaining Islam as state religion removed from constitution. 1938 - President Ataturk dies, succeeded by Ismet Inonu. 1945 - Neutral for most of World War II, Turkey declares war on Germany and Japan, but does not take part in combat. Joins United Nations. 1950 - First free elections won by opposition Democratic Party. 1952 - Turkey abandons Ataturk's neutralist policy and joins Nato. 1960 - Army coup against ruling Democratic Party. 1963 - Association agreement signed with European Economic Community (EEC). Multi-ethnic state lasted more than 600 years Empire of the Ottomans BBC: Ottoman Empire (1301-1922) 1965 - Suleyman Demirel becomes prime minister - a position he is to hold seven times. 1971 - Army forces Demirel's resignation after spiral of political violence. 1974 - Turkish troops invade northern Cyprus. 1978 - US trade embargo resulting from invasion lifted. 1980 - Military coup follows political deadlock and civil unrest. Imposition of martial law. 1982 - New constitution creates seven-year presidency, and reduces parliament to single chamber. 1983 - General election won by Turgut Ozal's Motherland Party. 1984 - Turkey recognises "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus." Kurdistan Workers' Party launches separatist guerrilla war in southeast. Founder of the Turkish republic BBC History 1987 - Turkey applies for full EEC membership. 1990 - Turkey allows US-led coalition against Iraq to launch air strikes from Turkish bases. 1992 - 20,000 Turkish troops enter Kurdish safe havens in Iraq in anti-PKK operation. 1993 - Tansu Ciller becomes Turkey's first woman prime minister, and Demirel elected president. 1995 - Major military offensive launched against the Kurds in northern Iraq, involving some 35,000 Turkish troops. Pro-Islamist Welfare Party wins elections but lacks support to form government - two major centre-right parties form anti-Islamist coalition. Turkey enters EU customs union. 1996 - Centre-right coalition falls. Welfare Party leader Necmettin Erbakan heads first pro-Islamic government since 1922. 1997 - Coalition resigns after campaign led by the military, replaced by a new coalition led by the centre-right Motherland Party of Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz. Kurdistan Workers' Party leader Abdullah Ocalan is serving a life sentence Kurdish leaders charged in Turkey 1998 January - Welfare Party - the largest in parliament - banned. Yilmaz resigns amid corruption allegations, replaced by Bulent Ecevit. 1999 February - PKK leader

Summary: A chronology of key events:


Islamic tradition requires the dead to be buried as soon as possible, unless an autopsy is required. The US military took this requirement very seriously, burying the body within hours. "Traditional procedures for Islamic burial were followed," an official said. Religious rites were carried out on the deck of a US aircraft carrier, the USS Carl Vinson. The body, shrouded in a white sheet and placed in a weighted bag, was then positioned on a flat board, tipped up, and eased into the Arabian Sea. This occurred at 0600GMT, approximately 12 hours after the firefight during which Osama Bin Laden was shot in the head. After this first shot, reports ABC News' The Blotter, he was shot again, to make sure that he was dead. â€¬The body was then flown to Afghanistan and Bin Laden's identity was confirmed. Officials say a DNA sample was taken that matched that of several other family members. Some sources say facial recognition technology was also used. From Afghanistan, the body was, it appears, flown to the USS Carl Vinson. "A military officer read prepared religious remarks, which were translated into Arabic by a native speaker," a US defence official said. According to UK-based Imam Dr Abduljalil Sajid, Chairman of the Muslim Council for Religious & Racial Harmony, four key steps need to be followed: There is no necessity for an imam to be present, he says, but the procedures should be carried out by Muslims at least one of whom "knows the minimum basic Muslim law of burial". Whether any such person was present is impossible to know, he says, based on the limited information provided. But he also questions whether sea burial was appropriate in this case. It is correct to carry out a burial at sea when someone dies on a sea journey, he says, but in this case there was no sound reason for it. The US authorities could surely have found someone - a member of the extensive Bin Laden family, or even one of the many supporters of his "evil" ideology - who would have been prepared to give the body a proper burial, he argues. His words were echoed by Mohammed Qudah, a professor of Islamic law at the University of Jordan, who told the Associated Press news agency that burying Bin Laden at sea was not forbidden if there was nobody to receive the body and provide a Muslim burial. But he went on: "It's neither true nor correct to claim that there was nobody in the Muslim world ready to receive Bin Laden's body." The agency also quoted Dubai's grand mufti Mohammed al-Qubaisi, saying that sea burials were permissible only in extraordinary circumstances, adding: "This is not one of them." "If the family does not want him, it's really simple in Islam: You dig up a grave anywhere, even on a remote island, you say the prayers and that's it," he said. US officials have given two reasons why a sea burial was chosen. First, that they did not want his grave to become a shrine. Second, that

Summary: US officials say Osama Bin Laden's body was treated with respect and buried at sea, but some Muslims argue there was no good reason for not burying it on land.


Mary Hampton's bicycle was taken while she did her weekly shop in Waitrose. The 89-year-old from Berkhamsted in Hertfordshire admitted she was "very silly" not to have locked it, but in 85 years of cycling she "never had". After news of the theft hit social media, dozens offered to buy Mary a new one. Her local cycling club has loaned her one "for as long as I need it". Mrs Hampton was in the habit of cycling the three miles to the supermarket once or twice a week on her trusty Raleigh Shopper. But when she went shopping last Thursday, she returned to find her bike gone. The former primary school teacher said: "It was an old-looking bike, I didn't think anybody would be going to steal it." Her plight was shared on social media and within 24 hours, dozens of offers of new bicycles flooded in for Mary via Facebook. She finally accepted a loan of a fold-up bicycle from Berkhamsted Cycling Club. People also clubbed together to give her money for a new lock and a basket for her new bike. "I've bought a huge padlock. I've never seen such a big padlock," Mrs Hampton said. "One bad action happened, but think of the wonderful kindness and caring that's come from it," she added.

Summary: An elderly woman whose bicycle was stolen while she was shopping has been overwhelmed by offers of replacements.


The 51-year-old London mayor has spent more than a decade combining the gravitas of his various roles with an unkempt, humorous persona rarely seen in modern public life. Prime Minister David Cameron expressed his delight when Mr Johnson announced his decision to run for parliament again in 2015, saying: "I want my star players on the pitch." But now the MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip has said he will campaign against the PM in the EU referendum, relations between the two may become more tense. The big question is whether the blond-haired old Etonian wants simply to play for the team or to captain it. He has arguably the highest profile of any Conservative except Mr Cameron and is thought by many to harbour an ambition to be prime minister. When he beat Labour's Ken Livingstone to become London mayor in 2008 it was the Tories' first high-profile election success since before Tony Blair's triumphant entry into Downing Street in 1997. He defeated Mr Livingstone again in 2012, giving him even more of a winner's aura. The hoopla surrounding Mr Johnson broke out again when he ended months of speculation by confirming he would try to return to the Commons as MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip. He swept into the safe Conservative London seat in the 2015 general election, taking a spot at the cabinet table as minister without portfolio. Given the opportunity to enter Downing Street on a fortnightly basis, cycle helmet in hand, was seen as recognition for his unique rapport with voters. But crucially he is not bound by collective cabinet responsibility, giving him the freedom to rebel against controversial decisions without having to resign. Although lauded by Conservative activists for his witty speeches, Euroscepticism and lack of PR polish, Mr Johnson's political life has not been blemish-free. In 2004 he had to make a visit to Liverpool to apologise for an article in the Spectator magazine, which he then edited. It had criticised the people of the city for their reaction to the death of Ken Bigley, the British contractor taken hostage and killed in Iraq. The following month he was sacked by Conservative leader Michael Howard for failing to tell the party the truth about claims he had an affair. He created media hysteria at the 2006 Conservative Party conference when he attacked healthy eating advice advocated by the chef Jamie Oliver. He said he would like to "get rid of [him] and tell people to eat what they like". Later he provoked anger by describing Portsmouth as "too full of drugs, obesity, underachievement and Labour MPs" and associating Papua New Guinea "with orgies of cannibalism and chief-killing". The London mayor's life has been as exotic as his use of language. Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson was born in New York and he held US citizenship until 2006. Descended from Turkish, French and German stock he describes himself as a "one-man melting pot". His great-grandfather, Ali Kemal, briefly served as an interior minister in the Ottoman Empire. The son of a diplomat and Conservative Member

Summary: Boris Johnson's decision to campaign for Britain to leave the EU is being regarded as a huge boost for the Out campaign.


Most of you will know your Ayrton Sennas from your Michael Schumachers, your Lewis Hamiltons from your Niki Laudas, but what of the more obscure members of that elite, 754-strong club? Can you identify the genuine F1 drivers from the imposters?

Summary: More than 750 drivers have raced in the Formula 1 World Championship since the first race in 1950 - that's an awful lot of people.


The train firm said it would refund the difference in cost between mainline and high speed fares - to compensate for the loss of direct high speed trains. Southeastern will also give season ticket-holders from five stations a backdated 20% refund on mainline fares. Dover MP Charlie Elphicke, said the line still needed repairing quickly. He said it had been a difficult time for rail users and it was right passengers should be compensated after the problems were caused when cracks appeared in the sea wall. Mr Elphicke said an emergency peak-time high-speed rail service between Dover and St Pancras to help commuters had made a difference. "We now need Network Rail to confirm how long it will take to repair the sea wall," he said. Steve Kilby, from Network Rail, said the team was working hard to get a final design in place for repairs. But, he said: "This week has been very stormy on the beach and our guys have been working through tough conditions." He said 15,000 tonnes of rock had been placed on the shingle to protect the railway from heavy seas and eventually more than 70,000 tonnes would be in place. The stations where passengers will be compensated are Sandwich, Deal, Walmer, Martin Mill and Dover Priory. Compensation claim forms are available for people at the station.

Summary: Passengers affected by the collapse of a railway line during storms in Dover are to be compensated, rail operator Southeastern has said.


He said he was disappointed that judges ruled ministers could not invoke Article 50 - starting formal Brexit negotiations - without MPs' approval. Mr Cairns was at a breakfast meeting with business leaders in Cardiff. Welsh Conservative MP David Davies warned attempts to block Brexit could lead to an early general election. Mr Cairns told BBC Wales that there was an "obligation" on politicians in all UK parliaments to give firms certainty about the UK's departure from the European Union. "What investors and employers want is the direction of travel and that's what we're focused on," he said. The UK government has said it intends to appeal against Thursday's High Court ruling. First Minister Carwyn Jones has said that would be a mistake, but on Friday the Welsh Government announced it would apply to have a voice in the appeal. Mr Cairns claimed the UK was in a "strong position" on the Brexit negotiations as it had one of the world's fastest growing economies. He said he wanted to work with the Welsh Government to get "a good deal" for Wales, and also wanted to work with Europe. "It's in our interests that Europe grows and it's in Europe's interest that the UK and Welsh economies grow," he said. Mr Davies, MP for Monmouth and chair of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee, warned that politicians seeking to keep the UK in the EU would now use the judges' decision to try to block Brexit. "There'll be members of parliament looking to find excuses and flaws in the legislation that the government bring forward and the negotiation package, if you like, to try and vote against it," he told BBC Radio Wales. "This is all about trying to undo the result of the referendum - let's be in no doubt about that." He added: "This could easily lead to an early general election if that's what it takes to get this sorted out." But Labour's Shadow Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said Parliament now needed to do its job and scrutinise the UK government's approach to Brexit. "How we leave the European Union was not on the ballot paper and there are a number of ways in which that could happen," she told BBC Radio Wales. "There's no consensus on that yet because the government haven't yet disclosed any details of how they intend to approach both the negotiations and the end point when we leave the EU. "So of course Parliament should scrutinise those plans - that's exactly what Parliament is there to do. "The court decision yesterday simply says, as we all knew, that Parliament has a clear role - a legal role, a constitutional role and an incredibly responsible role to try and influence how that exit happens." However, Pontypridd Labour MP Owen Smith told the BBC's Daily Politics programme he could "potentially" vote against the triggering of Article 50 in a Commons vote. "Most [Labour] colleagues feel that we couldn't possibly do anything other than trigger Article 50 - I disagree with them," he said. "If we have no further

Summary: Businesses need stability after the UK government's High Court defeat over the trigger for leaving the EU, Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns has said.


About 41,000 people descended on the city's Golden Mile to mark the Hindu festival of light, with entertainment including fireworks and dancing. The lights switch on earlier this month also attracted a record attendance with 37,000 in Leicester's south Asian area. The festival, also marked by Jains and Sikhs, celebrates the victory of good over evil. At the centre of Leicester's celebrations was a 110ft (34m) ferris wheel, known as the Wheel of Light. About 6,000 coloured lamps were strung up around the city. As well as fireworks and the street lights, shops put on entertainment and there was traditional dancing and music to mark the festival. Rangoli sand art decorations and light displays also wowed the gathered crowds. The demolition of the Belgrave Flyover last year allowed for an extension of the celebration along the full length of Belgrave Road.

Summary: A record number of people celebrated Diwali in Leicester in what is thought to be the largest event outside India.


The volunteers were angry at the RNLI's decision to shut down the station later this year. They had said they would no longer use the lifeboat to respond to emergencies, and would instead use their own boats. But the crew agreed to take back their pagers at a meeting on Friday night. In a statement, the crew members said they felt they had to do so ahead of the busy summer diving season, but they pledged to continue campaigning to save the St Abbs station. There has been a lifeboat station in St Abbs for more than 100 years. The local volunteers have been credited with saving hundred of lives in and around the seaside town on the east coast of the Borders. But following a review the RNLI announced last week that the St Abbs boat was no longer needed and in future cover would be provided with an additional boat in nearby Eyemouth. Supporters of the station have argued that closing it would put lives at risk.

Summary: The crew of the closure-threatened St Abbs lifeboat station in the Borders have agreed to take back their emergency pagers and respond to RNLI call outs.


Fr D'Arcy was responding to a BBC This World programme which found that the cardinal failed to pass details of sex abuse to police or parents. It said that in 1975, Cardinal Brady had the names and address of children being abused by Fr Brendan Smyth. Smyth, a paedophile, continued to attack children for a further 13 years. Cardinal Brady claimed the BBC exaggerated his authority at that time. He said he had "absolutely no authority over Smyth" and had felt betrayed that those in the Church who had the power to stop Smyth did not do so. In an interview with Irish radio station Newstalk on Thursday, Father D'Arcy said he would find it hard to continue if he was in the position of the current Irish Church leader. But he added that changing the cardinal would not necessarily mean a fresh start. "The bottom line is that if Cardinal Brady goes, the ordinary people of Ireland won't have a single vote on who replaces him. That is the problem," he said. "Actually he would have to offer his resignation and if the Vatican didn't take it he would be back to square one. "Some people think that is what happened two years ago. But the Vatican was saying no." Father Eamon Murray, who is originally from Northern Ireland but now based in England, said many priests feel demoralised by clerical child abuse. He said Cardinal Brady would have do do a "lot of soul searching". "If I was in that position, I would have gone a long time ago because it's your own moral credibility that has suffered," he told the BBC's Nolan Show. "I've listened to a lot of people and naturally people are angry at the church and rightly so and I feel that anger and I feel that hurt and pain. "It pains me to see people who have practised their faith for a long, long time, many years leaving the church as a result of losing credibility in hierarchy." Meanwhile, one of Smyth's victims has called for the cardinal's resignation. Brendan Boland said he thought Cardinal Brady's refusal to resign was wrong. "I can't understand why he can't see his failings," he said. "For him to stand without resigning I think that is further abuse of me. "Resign. Own up to your failings." In 1975, Cardinal Brady was a priest and teacher in County Cavan in the Republic of Ireland, when he was sent by his bishop to investigate a claim of child sexual abuse by a fellow priest. That priest was later exposed as Smyth, who died in prison in 1997, one month into a 12-year prison sentence. The first child to tell his parents about the abuse was the then 14-year-old Brendan Boland. Speaking on Wednesday, Cardinal Brady said in a statement : "With others, I feel betrayed that those who had the authority in the Church to stop Brendan Smyth failed to act on the evidence I gave them. "However, I also accept that I was part of an unhelpful culture of deference

Summary: Irish priest Father Brian D'Arcy has said he believes Cardinal Sean Brady was willing to offer his resignation two years ago but the Vatican refused.


The Whitesands project would see the creation of a raised walkway along the waterfront area. The scheme has been revised a number of times to address public concerns about the river view and loss of car parking. Last year an estimate of project costs put the overall bill at between £15m and £17.8m. The Scottish government would provide 80% of the funding for the scheme with the remainder coming from Dumfries and Galloway Council. It has already approved nearly £4.5m towards the project which means it has a maximum of about £500,000 to find. A report to the local authority will ask it to agree that the project be officially published and adopted as a flood protections scheme. It cites a range of reasons for the increased costs which include: The council has spent nearly a year refining the scheme which it said had produced a range of "positive developments". Those actions include: Councillor Colin Smyth said: "I am pleased that we are now at the stage to seek committee agreement to commence the formal process of publishing the Whitesands project as a flood protection scheme. "It is unacceptable that the largest town in our region continues to flood. "That is why all councillors agreed for a flood protection and regeneration scheme to be progressed for the Whitesands, demonstrating the need for change and putting an end to the regular flooding that has plagued our regional capital for too long." He added that it was more than a flood protection scheme and could create a "high quality public open space" to encourage the use of the Whitesands.

Summary: A major flood protection scheme in Dumfries is set to make a step forward but has seen its cost estimate rise significantly to £25m.


The incident involving a Ford Transit minibus and a Saab car happened at about 22:15 BST on Wednesday. The woman driver of the minibus and the male driver of the car were taken to Bangor's Ysbyty Gwynedd. The road reopened in the early hours following an initial investigation, said North Wales Police.

Summary: Two people are in hospital with serious injuries following a crash on the A499 near Pwllheli in Gwynedd.


Members of the NASUWT, meeting in Bournemouth, criticised a loosening of the rules on who schools can employ to teach children. The government says the changes allow schools to hire talented people and the vast majority of teachers will continue to have the recognised qualification. But the union says it is about saving money. One delegate told the conference children were being taught "on the cheap". Last year the government relaxed the rules in England on employing teachers for academies. The semi-independent state schools are now allowed to employ teachers who have not qualified as teachers, bringing them in to line with the situation in free schools and private schools. In other state-funded schools, people employed as teachers have to have passed the relevant qualification - known as Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). At the time, the government said the change would allow schools to bring in talented professionals such as scientists, musicians and university professors, plus experienced teachers and heads from overseas and the independent sector. Schools are also allowed to employ people called "instructors" who have particular - usually vocational - skills but do not have QTS, and the rules governing when they can be hired were relaxed last September. The NASUWT says the changes mean less-qualified people are being put in charge of classes - and are being paid less than teachers. It has published a survey of its members which found six out of ten of those who replied said unqualified staff were being used in their schools and that most said unqualified staff were teaching lessons. It asked for views from 2,300 of its members online earlier this month. Chris Keates, general secretary of the union, said: "The extent of the secretary of state's decision to remove the entitlement of children and young people to be taught by a qualified teacher can now be seen. "Parents and the public should be deeply concerned at the results of this survey. Now when a parent sends their child to school they have no idea who is teaching them. "If any suggestion was made that unqualified doctors were let loose on patients there would be public outrage." Head teachers' leader Russell Hobby described the changes as "limited" and said he did not think heads would be looking to employ unqualified staff. The leader of the National Association of Head Teachers said: "The vast majority of head teachers will seek out good teachers with QTS, as long as that remains a strong qualification." On the conference floor, union member Victor Aguera said: "This government has turned back the clock to the 1850s and is returning to a 'teacher monitor system'. "Children are being taught on the cheap. It's part of the privatisation of education." A spokeswoman for the Department for Education said: "It is simply not true to claim that this is about depressing costs. This is about raising standards. "Independent schools and free schools can already hire brilliant people who do not have Qualified Teacher Status. "We have extended this flexibility to all academies so more schools can hire great linguists,

Summary: More children in England are being taught by unqualified teachers, a teaching union is claiming.


The Communist Party and military-run newspapers, such as the People's Daily and the Liberation Army Daily, are mostly carrying Xinhua news agency's round-up on the first day of the trial tucked away on the inside pages and make no mention of the case on their front pages. "The accused, Bo Xilai, gave a statement on the bribery charges and denied the charges... The defendants and their counsel fully expressed their views. The defendant Bo Xilai was emotionally stable and his physical condition was normal during the hearing. The courtroom was orderly," says the terse Xinhua report without mentioning Mr Bo's defiant statements. Official online media websites, however, attacked Mr Bo's personal character and his rejection of bribery charges after the first day of the trial closed. "One never expected that a corrupt element could be so composed when standing in the dock and that a criminal could be so glib when faced with various crimes... Faced with the solemnity of the court and the law and faced with irrefutable facts and evidence of criminal acts, Bo Xilai was not overawed in the slightest and had no repentance whatsoever!" says a commentary on the state-run China Central Television website. "Obviously, the legitimate rights of the defendant were fully guaranteed, and fairness, impartiality and transparency were a major feature of the trial. However, Bo's attitude towards the facts was to display cunningness and to deny them by every means possible," said one commentary in Communist Party-affiliated website Guangming Net. The mainland media are carrying fewer updates today from the Jinan court's official microblog, except video testimony from Mr Bo's estranged wife Gu Kailai about alleged payments received by the Bo family from tycoon Xu Ming. Over in Hong Kong, Beijing-backed newspapers praise the trial as a sign of the Communist Party's resolve to stamp out corruption, but independent press feels the party may find it tough to prosecute Mr Bo. "The most sensitive and most watched case is being conducted with a most public and open attitude. The degree of openness of the Bo Xilai case has exceeded the expectations of the outside world," comments the Ta Kung Pao. "The overseas media are interpreting the Bo Xilai case as a Chinese Communist Party power struggle which is indeed deliberately misleading and even bears ulterior motives," says the Wen Wei Po, another Hong Kong daily with close links to Beijing. Meanwhile, the independent Hong Kong press feel the trial ended up becoming the disgraced politician's "individual show". "Unexpectedly, Bo Xilai retracted his testimony in court, and his rebuttal left the prosecution speechless. The entire trial was like Bo Xilai's individual show. The authorities face the embarrassment of an irredeemable situation on the Bo case... The authorities' investigation into Bo Xilai seems to lack sufficient evidence, and big gaps exist in their logic," concludes the Oriental Daily News. "The shrewd and astute Bo is well aware that this is his last appearance in public and also his last public occasion to make statements and make his voice heard through the media. So despite his haggard appearance,

Summary: Official media attack former leader Bo Xilai for rejecting charges against him, while Hong Kong press see his case as a political show trial.


Media playback is not supported on this device Serena, 35, won 6-4 6-4 to pass Steffi Graf in the all-time list of major winners since the Grand Slams accepted professional players in 1968. The American regains the number one ranking from German Angelique Kerber. Australia's Margaret Court, with 24, is the only player still ahead of Serena in terms of Grand Slam singles titles. "Congratulations Serena on number 23," said Venus, who at 36 is the oldest Australian Open finalist in the Open era. "I have been right there with you, some of them I lost right there against you. It's been an awesome win. "I'm enormously proud of you, you mean the world to me. I, God willing, would love to come back. Thank you for all the love." Serena paid tribute to her sister, who was playing her first major final for eight years, saying: "There's no way I would be at 23 without her. There's no way I'd be at one without her. She's my inspiration. "She's the only reason I'm standing here today. She's the only reason the Williams sisters exist. Thank you for inspiring me. Every time you won this week, I felt like I got a win too." Serena went into the match as a strong favourite, but the tension was apparent as early as the third game when she smashed a racquet in frustration, receiving a code violation. She had broken serve in the first and third games only to hand the advantage straight back each time, three double faults inexplicably littering a desperate game for 2-2. It was clear the six-time champion was struggling to settle, with 13 unforced errors in the opening five games, while elder sister Venus kept her under pressure with some deep hitting. The decisive move of the set came with a superb drop volley followed by a thumping forehand winner from Serena to break for 4-3, and this time she managed to consolidate on serve. In contrast to the opening stages, the following nine games went with serve - Venus recovering superbly from 0-40 early in the second set - but it was Serena who was creating the chances. She finally capitalised on her sixth break point of the set with a brilliant return to lead 4-3 and followed it up with her best service game of the match for 5-3. The crowd on Rod Laver Arena had been backing Venus from the beginning as she tried to win a first major title for eight years, and all the more so as defeat loomed and she appeared to struggle physically. There was a huge cheer when she held serve to force her sister to serve out the match, but Serena recovered from 15-30 to earn match point and fell back on the court in celebration as her sister sent the ball floating wide. Saturday's final was the 28th instalment of the sisters' on-court rivarly, which began at the Australian Open back in 1998, with Serena now 17-11 ahead and 7-2 up in Grand Slam finals. Venus, who turned professional

Summary: Serena Williams beat sister Venus in straight sets to win her seventh Australian Open and an Open-era record 23rd Grand Slam singles title.


Austin Haughwout claims he was kicked out of Central Connecticut state university over the footage. The institution says he was expelled over threats to shoot people there. Mr Haughwout argued he was only joking. Last month, Mr Haughwout and his father were ordered to give information about the drones videos to the authorities. Two separate videos showed drones rigged up to carry to the weapons hovering low in woodland in Connecticut, in the north-east United States. The first, posted in July 2015, showed a handgun firing rounds of ammunition. The second, which appeared in December that year, featured a flamethrower attached to a drone burning a turkey on a spit. The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) opened an investigation into whether or not Mr Haughwout had broken any laws, though local police said they did not believe he had. Ruling last month, a judge said that he and his father, Bret, must hand documents over to the FAA, relating to the purchase of the gun, the drone and any money made from having posted the videos on YouTube, among other information. Mr Haughwout, 19, blamed his expulsion on the notoriety that followed the posting of the drone videos and is taking legal action in the New Britain superior court in a bid to be allowed to return, AP reports. It says Central Connecticut state officials denied that claim and instead pointed to the alleged threats. But a lawyer for Mr Haughwout said that what some may have interpreted as threats, were actually jokes, which are protected by the right to free speech. Mr Haughwout has also been in the news over two other incidents. In June this year, local police said they had charged him with enticing a minor with a computer, attempted sexual assault and possession of images of child abuse after officers said they had found images of child abuse on his mobile phone, AP reports. It says Mr Haughwout's lawyer reportedly called that arrest warrant "overly broad" and suggested that Clinton police had it in for his client because of the drone videos. Last year, Mr Haughwout was also charged with assaulting police officers. That case continues. And, in 2014, before the posting of the weaponised drone videos, a woman was charged with assaulting Mr Haughwout because she was upset that he had been using a drone to record video above a beach. Mr Haughwout posted footage of that confrontation on YouTube.

Summary: A teenager who posted videos of drones firing a gun and a flamethrower is suing his university after he was expelled, the AP news agency reports.


Dwindling domestic gas and coal supplies mean the nation would become dependent on volatile imports, it adds. The report, by Cambridge Econometrics for RenewableUK, said wind power saved the UK Â£579 million in fossil fuel costs in 2013. The UK is recognised for having the best wind resource in Europe. "One of the main messages from this report is that in a scenario with a higher content of wind energy, you are less reliant on fossil fuels," explained co-author Sophie Billington, a researcher from Cambridge Econometrics. "This is a key message, particularly when you consider that the UK - for the past five years or so - has imported more gas than it has produced domestically." She told BBC News that under a high gas scenario (gas power plants replacing end-of-life coal and nuclear plants) and a 40% increase in gas prices by 30%, electricity prices would increase by 8%. However, under a high wind scenario (wind farms replacing end-of-life coal and nuclear plants), electricity prices would still rise but by only 4%. "For the wind scenario, you have higher upfront capital costs but fewer uncertain variable costs, leading to more price resilience," Ms Billington added. The report said that the UK electricity sector had undergone a substantial change in recent decades, shifting from a coal-based system to a more balanced mix "encompassing nuclear and gas-fired power stations, as well as emerging renewable energy technologies". It observed: "Over the next 10 to 20 years, the energy sector will need to be re-shaped again if the UK's targets to reduce CO2 emissions are to be met." In 2008, the UK established the world's first legally binding climate change target, requiring governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% from 1990 levels by 2050. Rob Norris, RenewableUK's head of communications, said that currently there were "not enough renewables in the system to meet those targets". He told BBC News: "The crucial thing is that energy policy is a long-term game and at the moment we only really know what the government support will be out to 2020. "What you really need is a long-term vision out to 2030 so then you can plan, especially when it comes to things like large offshore developments." Mr Norris said he advocated a "rich energy mix so then you do not put all your eggs in one basket". He added: "If you have different technologies, including renewables, competing against each other then the cost is driven down for the consumer."

Summary: Installing more wind turbines will make the UK's energy market more resilient to global fossil fuel price shocks, an independent report has concluded.


The council's cabinet had recommended changing Brecon High School to an English-medium school from 1 September. But 32 members of full council opposed the plans, with eight in favour. The vote was taken as an indication of the full council's views but it was not a final decision. That rests with the cabinet which meets on 14 March. A council report said low pupil numbers and the "need to ensure robust linguistic progression and appropriate curriculum choice for Welsh-medium pupils" were the reasons for the recommendation. The council plans to centralise Welsh-medium education for mid and south Powys in Builth Wells High School, which is a 40 mile round trip. A consultation has been carried out on the plans, with staff, parents and pupils raising a number of concerns. Among them were pupils missing out on extra-curricular activities, such as after school clubs and music lessons, due to having to travel to Builth Wells for Welsh-medium education.

Summary: A majority of councillors voted in favour of retaining a Welsh-medium stream at a Powys school on Tuesday.


KLM has added a 06:00 weekday flight from the Highlands airport and an evening flight from Schiphol. Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (Hial) said the flights would allow people to spend a full day in the Netherlands before returning home. It is the latest addition from KLM since it started Inverness-Amsterdam flights last year.

Summary: New scheduled flights have been introduced between Inverness and Amsterdam.


The watchdog's annual report on education standards says about a third of secondary schools in the North and Midlands are not good enough. Ofsted chief Sir Michael Wilshaw says more attention must be focused on regions where too many schools are "languishing in mediocrity". Education Secretary Nicky Morgan said more needed to be done to "tackle pockets of underperformance". The chief inspector of schools warns of schools in some cities in the North and Midlands that have "failed miserably year after year after year". Ofsted annual report 2015 Sir Michael named 16 weak local authorities - where less than 60% of children attend good or outstanding schools and have below average "attainment and progress" at GCSE - with 13 in the North and Midlands. They are Barnsley, Blackpool, Bradford, Derbyshire, Doncaster, Hartlepool, Knowsley, Liverpool, Middlesbrough, Oldham, Salford, St Helens and Stoke on Trent. The other three are the Isle of Wight, Swindon and South Gloucestershire. In Bradford, Sir Michael said the problems were so serious that he wanted a commission of inquiry and a separate commissioner for education. And he warned that poor education meant that young people could be alienated and the "dangers of being alienated from British society are very great indeed". Increasing attention is being paid to the geography of school underachievement - such as in coastal areas and regional differences. And the report highlights concerns about a north-south gap - with stronger GCSE results in London and the South and weaker results in parts of the North and Midlands. "This gap is a worrying one. We don't want to see a divided country after the age of 11," Sir Michael said. More than 400,000 pupils in the North and Midlands go to a school that is "less than good", and the Ofsted chief said this could not be "explained away" by higher levels of deprivation. Primary schools were much more successful than secondary, Sir Michael said, despite facing similar problems of social disadvantage. He also used the example of London to show how deprivation need not be inevitably linked to lower results. Sir Michael called for greater "political will" and more attention to improve the quality of teaching. "We've seen a significant difference in the quality of teaching between the South and the Midlands and the North, a significant difference in terms of the quality of leadership... and we need to worry about this as a nation," he said. "The mediocrity in secondary performance should be a national concern - and the mediocrity is residing mainly, but not exclusively, in the Midlands and north of England. "If the 'northern powerhouse' is going to mean something, then we've got to improve educational performance in our secondary schools north of the Wash." Sir Michael also warned that problems were being exacerbated by difficulties in recruiting teachers - and that schools in challenging areas could have the toughest time finding enough teachers in some subjects. Recruitment problems were having a "significant impact", said the Ofsted chief. Watchsted, a website that gathers inspections data, ranks local authorities in terms of the proportion

Summary: Ofsted is warning of a north-south divide in England's secondary schools.


The local authority involved, the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, rejected a report in the Times newspaper that said the foster family did not speak English. It also disputed other details. Reporting restrictions are in place to protect the identity of the girl. Reality Check has been looking at the rules around fostering children and what happens in practice. According to the fostering agency Tact Care, while Muslim families do occasionally foster non-Muslim children, it is less usual for non-Muslim families to foster Muslim children. There are no official statistics available on the religion of fostered children or their carers, but we do have some information about ethnicity. Government figures show nine local authorities reported having no long-term foster carers from minority ethnic groups last year, but all reported placing minority ethnic children with their fostering service. In 2015-16, 84% of long-term foster carers were white compared with about 77% of fostered children. Foster carers can access training and are expected to demonstrate how they are meeting the legal standards of care. For example, someone caring for a vulnerable child will have to provide evidence that they understand the principle of "equality, inclusion and anti-discriminatory practice". When a child needs to be accommodated in a foster placement, a council usually has less than 24 hours to find them a home, meaning there is often not a lot of choice between which approved foster carer they are placed with. There are other considerations, too, like making sure the child is near their school. There are very few hard and fast rules dictating who can become a foster carer. Each individual applying to care for vulnerable children has to undergo a comprehensive assessment by a council or independent fostering agency. This can take about 15-20 weeks, during which they will be expected to allow their home, lifestyle, current and past relationships to be scrutinised. The basic criteria required by most fostering agencies and councils are: Age, marital status, ethnicity and sexuality will not exclude someone from being a foster carer. But some of these elements may be taken into account, depending on the individual circumstances - the primary consideration is what is best for the child. So, for example, the charity The Fostering Network says a single person can foster but must demonstrate that they have an adequate support network. And a person's religion won't prevent them from fostering but they will need to demonstrate how they can support a child of a different religion from their own. The principles are set out in law in the Children Act 1989, which says: "Foster carers and fostering services should ensure that full attention is paid to the individual child's gender, faith, ethnic origin, cultural and linguistic background, sexual orientation and any disability they might have" and foster carers must be "informed, trained and confident" at dealing with these issues. This doesn't mean foster carers must necessarily be of the same ethnic or faith background as the children they care for, but they must be equipped to meet that child's cultural and religious needs. Before 2014

Summary: A judge in the case of a five-year-old Christian girl who was placed with a Muslim foster family has ruled she should live with her grandmother.


The Supreme Court case related to federal law limiting gun ownership for people convicted of domestic violence. Justice Thomas has said in the past he prefers not to "badger" lawyers as they present their arguments in court. He spoke weeks after the death of one of the most conservative Supreme Court members, Justice Antonin Scalia, which may shift the court's balance of power. Justice Thomas on Monday asked a lawyer for the Department of Justice whether the violation of any law "suspends a [person's] constitutional rights". The court is considering placing new limits on the reach of the federal law banning people convicted of domestic violence from owning guns. It was the court's second week of oral arguments - when justices are given the chance to question lawyers about their briefs - since the death of Justice Scalia, a friend and fellow conservative of Justice Thomas. The last time he was reported to have asked a question at the high court was during a death penalty case in February 2006. Explaining his silence over the years, Justice Thomas told the Associated Press in 2013: "We have a lifetime to go back in chambers and to argue with each other." He told a group of students in 2000 that "there's no reason to add to the volume. I also believe strongly, unless I want an answer, I don't ask things... Usually, if you wait long enough, someone will ask your question".

Summary: Justice Clarence Thomas, one of eight judges at the highest court in the US, has broken a 10-year silence at court.


Media playback is not supported on this device The Tigers are 19th in the table after Monday's 1-0 defeat at Middlesbrough. They had only 13 senior players available on the opening day of the season, and signed six in the last two days of the summer transfer window. "Our signings have done their bit but they were last minute," said Davies. "I don't believe the manager had time to explore all of his options." Mike Phelan succeeded Steve Bruce as Hull boss in July but was only given the job on a permanent basis in October. The Tigers have scored only 11 league goals this season, fewer than any other team in the top flight. "We need someone who can put the ball in the net," added Davies. In a dour affair at the Riverside that was settled by a Gaston Ramirez header, Phelan's side did not seriously threaten the home goal until injury time. "Our first shot on target was in the 92nd minute and that is not good enough," said Davies, who described his side as "gutless" and "embarrassing" after a 6-1 defeat at Bournemouth in October. Hull, who have lost eight of their past 10 league games, were without six injured players and the suspended Dieumerci Mbokani for the trip to Boro. "Hopefully come January we will look different," said Phelan. "We need that investment. We can't afford any more injuries, it is going to be a hard slog throughout Christmas."

Summary: Hull City need help as they fight to avoid relegation from the Premier League, says defender Curtis Davies.


Dale Pike, 25, of Glynneath, Neath Port Talbot, "stood and watched" as Gareth Pugh dived into the lake with a weighted belt to fish out balls. Mr Pugh's body was found in the water at Peterstone Lakes Golf Club, near Newport, after he lost his breathing equipment and drowned in February 2016. Pike received 32 months after admitting manslaughter by gross negligence. Cardiff Crown Court heard Pike raised the alarm when he noticed a constant stream of bubbles rising to the lake's surface and a flotation device carrying Mr Pugh's air supply floating towards the edge. Emergency service staff pulled him from the water 70 minutes after he first entered and he was found with his feet pointing upwards, weighed down by a weighted belt and a 16kg (35lbs) bag of 341 golf balls he had retrieved. The court heard Pike, who ran Boss Golf Balls which sells balls retrieved from lakes, should have hired trained divers to carry out the work, at a cost of about £1,000 a day. But instead he employed Mr Pugh, who had ADHD and learning difficulties, and paid him £20-40 a day. David Elias QC, defending, said Pike "naively and foolishly believed that all would be well with the use of that equipment in that lake". Sentencing Pike, Judge Keith Thomas said: "Mr Pugh was an unsuitable contender for the diving work you employed him to undertake, but you allowed him to take those risks to make a quick buck. "The risk of death or serious injury was obvious to you, but your cavalier attitude towards safety was the cause of Mr Pugh's death. "With hindsight you bitterly regret what happened." Speaking after the hearing, Iwan Jenkins, from the Crown Prosecution Service, said Pike "stood by and watched" as Mr Pugh entered the water "knowing that safety regulations were being breached". "His deceit and callousness resulted in Gareth losing his life," he said. "There was clear evidence Pike had made enquiries with legitimate dive operators to cost this activity but he chose not to use them, instead falsely claiming to the golf club that he was a qualified commercial diver with his own equipment." Mr Pugh's partner Mayree Worton said: "What upsets me the most is the bond that our daughter and Gareth had together is no longer there. "The sentencing of Dale Pike is a relief, however it doesn't make what has happened any less painful, upsetting or distressing and it does not bring Gareth back."

Summary: A golf company director has been jailed after a ball collector drowned in a freezing course lake.


Police found the child after being called to at a home at Bromsgrove Cottages in Faringdon at around 13:20 GMT on Tuesday. A 40-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of murder and the child's next-of-kin have been informed. The boy was said to be of primary school age. Police have increased their presence in the area. They said this was in order "to provide reassurance". Visit our live page for the latest updates. Supt Rory Freeman, local police area commander for South and Vale of White Horse, said: "This is a very shocking discovery and I am aware it may have a very direct impact on the community of Faringdon. "We would advise any members of the community affected by this incident to speak to one of the neighbourhood policing team." The woman remains in police custody. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting 730. Police tape remains around the line of cottages, and uniformed and plain clothes officers are coming and going as the investigation continues. News that something serious had happened spread rapidly on social media on Tuesday night. This morning passers-by are saying they are shocked and saddened by what's happened. One lady walking to school with her son stopped to give a rose to one of the police officers monitoring the cordon. This is quite a visible place opposite the fire station; a lot of people go past here, so the police are asking anyone with information to contact them.

Summary: A murder investigation has been launched after a boy was found dead at a house in Oxfordshire.


Media playback is not supported on this device The world number one, 30, was scheduled to play an exhibition match at Hurlingham Club in London on Friday. "Sadly I won't be ready to play at the Hurlingham, my hip is still sore and I need to rest it," he said. The Briton is still expected to begin the defence of his Wimbledon title on Monday, but will be short of practice heading into the Championships. Murray has only played one grass-court match this year, suffering a shock first-round defeat by world number 90 Jordan Thompson at Queen's. As defending champion, the Scot is set to open on Centre Court at 13:00 BST on Monday. Russell Fuller, BBC tennis correspondent: Aches and pains are nothing new for Murray, or for any professional tennis player, but the timing is inopportune. Murray's last practice session was a light one at the All England Club on Tuesday, and although it is possible he might still have one on Friday, he may need to spend another day on the sidelines. My understanding is that his participation at Wimbledon is not currently in doubt, but his preparation has once again been hindered. This is a season in which injury and illness have caused much frustration. Media playback is not supported on this device

Summary: Defending champion Andy Murray has pulled out of his final warm-up match before Wimbledon because of a sore hip.


The firm has reported a net profit of $471m (Â£294m) in the three months to 8 September. China contributed more than half of Yum's $3.6bn revenue during the period. US-based Yum is the biggest Western restaurant operator in China and fears about growth in the country had pushed Yum shares lower in recent weeks. Profits in Yum's Chinese business had dropped in the second quarter because of higher costs but rebounded in the third quarter, rising by 22%. Since June, the group has opened 394 new restaurants, of which 192 new units were in China, which contributed to its sales growth. Globally, profits for the group grew 18% during the period. The company beat its earnings targets and has raised its full-year outlook.

Summary: Yum Brands, which runs the KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell restaurant chains, has seen third quarter profits soar 23%, boosted by strong sales in China.


Thunderstorms are short, sharp and shocking - for some literally. If you can hear the clouds rumbling, chances are the storm is close enough for you to be hit by lightning - it can strike up to 10 miles away from the centre of a storm. Count the seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder - if it is less than 30 seconds, there is a threat. If thunderstorms are forecast, postpone or cancel outdoor activities - especially golf and rod fishing. If a storm is approaching, take cover inside or in a car with the windows wound up - sheds, isolated trees and convertibles do not afford sufficient protection. Boaters and swimmers should get to shore as quickly as possible, as water conducts electricity. So too do metal pipes and phone lines. Unplug all non-essential appliances, including the television, as lightning can cause power surges. Do not use candles if the lights go out, as this poses a fire risk, and instead use a torch. Do not make phone calls, unless it is in an emergency, or put up an umbrella - the metal directs the current into the body. It is also best to put off baths, showers and dish washing, in case lightning strikes the house and sends a jolt of electricity through the metal plumbing. If caught outside in a thunderstorm, find a low spot away from trees, fences, and poles. If your skin tingles and hair stands on end, lightning is about to strike. Crouch down immediately, balancing on the balls of your feet, placing hands on knees with head between them. This makes you into the smallest target possible, and minimises contact with the ground. If someone has been hit by lightning, call for help as they will need urgent medical attention. It is safe to touch them - people struck by lightning carry no electrical charge that can shock other people. Check for a pulse and for breathing - if you know first aid, begin artificial respiration and CPR if necessary. If they are breathing, check for other possible injuries. Lightning strike victims have burns in two places - where the electric shock entered and then left the body, usually the soles of the feet. They may have broken bones or loss of hearing or sight. If waters start to rise, head for higher ground. Do not try to drive to safety, as cars can float in as little as a couple of feet of water, the depth of which is often very difficult to judge. Be wary of venturing out too soon - the BBC Weather Centre advises waiting 30 minutes after the last flash of lightning. Avoid downed power lines or broken cables. And one final tip - it is a myth that lightning never strikes the same place twice and always hits the tallest object. Lightning strikes the best conductor on the ground - whether it has been struck before or not. Sources: The Met Office and BBC Weather

Summary: Much of the UK has recently been hit by thunderstorms, but what is the best way to stay safe when thunder and lightning hits?


The Save Our Falmouth Group organised the event in response to the latest planning applications for large scale student accommodation. Protestors say the demand on housing is already high and any more students will have a detrimental effect on the town. A Falmouth University spokesperson said there are two public consultation events taking place this month.

Summary: A demonstration has been held over the rise in the number of students at Falmouth University in Cornwall.


Media playback is not supported on this device And this isn't a sentence from the early 1980s. At Swansea there's a new Toshack in town these days. Cameron, son of former boss John, helps coach an under-23 side having an impressive season. On Tuesday night they played in the quarter finals of the Checkatrade Trophy but were beaten on penalties by Coventry City. The Checkatrade Trophy is tournament much-maligned this season, but Swansea's youngsters beat three league sides to get so far and were the only Premier League academy side to reach the quarter finals. But there are still three sides they could win this season and Cameron hopes it's just the start of another successful Toshack career. "The next step for me would be to work in a first team environment," he told BBC Wales Sport. "Hopefully that's not too far away." Few can claim to have had the same success at home and abroad as John Toshack. His managerial CV includes Swansea, Wales, Real Madrid and even a league title in Morocco last year. Toshack Jr worked alongside his father when he coached in Macedonia five years ago, but now he's ready to make his own reputation. "It can be a help and a hindrance (being John Toshack's son)," he admits. "Obviously I'm very proud of what my father has achieved over the years. He's one of the most successful British managers ever. "It's great for me to have that experience on the end of a phone. I speak to him regularly and he watches the progress of our team. "But I'm not looking to emulate or be somebody else. I'm Cameron Toshack and I'm my own man." Aside from the name, there aren't too many similarities. Toshack Senior was a disciplinarian who didn't suffer fools. In his own words, his son is much more analytical. "He's a learned type - a little bit too much for me," he jokes. "All this analysis that goes into the game is now is a bit beyond me. But he's very, very conscientious and always looking to learn. "Hopefully the Swans will get the benefit of it." Of course transferring success with a youth team to success as a head coach is easier said than done. But Cameron Toshack only has to look at Swansea's new head coach for inspiration. Paul Clement started his career as a coach in Chelsea's academy, before his promotion to assistant manager under Carlo Ancelotti. Toshack is working towards his Pro Licence and is the first person at Swansea to complete the Premier League's Elite Coach Apprenticeship Scheme. He feels he's almost ready to make the step up. "Without getting ahead of myself, I'd like to eventually be in and around the first team here - and if it's not here maybe at another club somewhere in Europe," he says. "I'd like to follow in my father's footsteps in that respect. I'm not averse to moving to other countries to learn my trade and be a success."

Summary: Toshack's Swansea side have won 16 out of their last 19 and are top of their division with a chance in the cup.


Well perhaps it is. It certainly took the commodities markets (and me) rather by surprise when it agreed to cut production at a meeting in Algiers. In fact the group has a lot of work to do before it has a real and sustained impact on the price. But that decision was not what the market expected. Traders thought the result would be more disarray, as there was at a meeting of Opec and some other oil exporters in Doha back in April. This time they did manage to make progress. The context for the Algiers decision - and the unsuccessful attempts to agree action before - is crude oil prices are less than half what they were in June 2014. That hurts Opec member countries. Government finances and economic performance have taken a substantial hit. In Saudi Arabia for example, the government's finances were in surplus to the tune of 12% of annual income (GDP) in 2012. Last year there was a deficit of 16%. Angola's economy grew 7% in 2013. Last year it was 3%. Venezuela's figures are much worse, though it's far from being entirely due to the lower price of oil. That has however severely aggravated the economic damage done by the country's political crisis. Opec member countries have felt this financial pain with increasing intensity for almost two years now. Opec doesn't account for the whole market by a long way. There are very large oil producers that are not members, notably the United States, Russia, China and Canada. But the group, which currently has about 40% of the global market can move it by cutting production - and it does have a history of responding to low oil prices, by cutting production. In the past Saudi Arabia, the group's biggest player, has often led the effort. This time the situation was complicated by Iran's emergence earlier this year from international sanctions over its nuclear programme. Tehran was determined to take advantage and sought to recover its share of the market. For Opec, the trouble was that Saudi Arabia was unwilling to curb production without Iran doing likewise, a position also underpinned by the longstanding geopolitical tension between the two countries which are the leading powers in the Gulf. That tension was the reason for the failure in Doha in April. Things seem to have changed. Iran has boosted oil production already. It could go higher, but not as easily as was the case in the immediate aftermath of the lifting of sanctions. Saudi Arabia has softened its position. The oil minister Khalid al-Falih, who was appointed after the Doha meeting, is reported to have said in Algiers that Iran, as well Nigeria and Libya would be allowed to produce "at maximum levels that make sense". The secretary general of the group, Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo, told the BBC that those three countries "have lost a considerable volume of their production due to unfortunate circumstances". He said "they will be treated differently." It also appeared to be the case for some time after the price fall began in

Summary: Opec, the oil producers' group is back in the driving seat.


The 24-year-old World Cup defender has spent the last three years with Ironi Ashdod in Israel's Premier League. "I am happy because I have made a big step in my career by joining Hearts," Oshaniwa told BBC Sport. "Starting from Nigeria and playing in Israel to land here in Scotland is a big progress for my career." Oshaniwa, who has 17 caps, played in all of the Super Eagles' matches at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. But he only made 13 appearances last season as Ashdod suffered relegation from Israel's top flight. "I thank God for the opportunity," said Oshaniwa of his move to Edinburgh. "I also thank Hearts too for the confidence and determination to bring me here. "My immediate focus is to give my best and hopefully achieve many success stories with the club." Oshaniwa only joined his new team-mates in training for the first time on Saturday morning and Hearts are still awaiting international clearance. So it is too soon for the left-back to feature as Robbie Neilson's side kick-off their top-flight season against St Johnstone at Tynecastle on Sunday. The head coach was delighted that the player who began his career with Kwara United before moves to fellow Nigerian clubs Lobi Stars and Sharks had finally arrived in Scotland. Hearts, who were promoted after winning the Scottish Championship title, have already started their season with a 4-2 victory over Arbroath in the first round of the Scottish League Cup on Thursday. "It's been a long process to get him here in Edinburgh, but he's here now and he's desperate to get started," added Neilson. "He's a top-quality player and he'll bring a lot of qualities to our squad. We're all very happy with this move."

Summary: Nigeria left-back Juwon Oshaniwa has signed for Hearts on a three-year contract saying he is advancing his career by moving to Scottish football.


A bounceback for US shares, a further recovery in China and a stellar performance by Japanese shares helped the benchmark FTSE 100 index to close 82.91 points or 1.35% up at 6,229.01. Revised growth figures for the eurozone on Tuesday also underpinned confidence. Ryanair was a strong performer, up 5.2%, after it said profits would be 25% higher than thought. Broker Hargreaves Lansdown's shares were up 7% after its results and Barratt Developments shares were 0.2% higher after an initial 2% rise. It earlier reported profits up 45%. Foxtons estate agents were another good gainer, rising 3.75% after an upgrade. On the currency markets, the pound was down 0.2% against the dollar at $1.5366 but was up 0.2% against the euro to â‚¬1.3774.

Summary: (Close): London's leading shares ended the day in positive territory as global investors regained confidence.


The drama, which stars Paul Dano, Lily James and James Norton, has also won rave reviews. The adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's novel averaged 6.3 million viewers, peaking at 6.7 million. It was up against ITV's Endeavour and spy drama Deutschland 83 on Channel 4, which averaged 4.4 million and 1.2 million viewers respectively. War and Peace picked up 25% of the audience share, against 19% for Endeavour, 6% for Deutschland 83 and 4.1% for My Mediterranean with Adrian Chiles on BBC Two. The costume drama has been written by Andrew Davies, who is best known for his 1995 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice starring Colin Firth. 'Sweeping victory' In the Daily Telegraph Serena Davies gave it four stars, calling it "an excellent adaptation" and "smart storytelling on a truly epic scale". Christopher Stevens in the Daily Mail called the opening hour-long episode "nothing less than a sweeping victory". While The Guardian's Viv Groskop said: "It's hard to imagine how the BBC could have done a better job." Downton Abbey star James plays Natasha Rostov in the drama, with Dano - who starred in 12 Years a Slave - as Pierre Bezukhov and Grantchester star James Norton as Prince Andrei. The classic novel follows the three as they experience love and loss against the backdrop of Russia's wars with Napoleon. It also stars Gillian Anderson, Rebecca Front and Stephen Rea, who were also praised for their performances. The show has been made by the BBC in collaboration with The Weinstein company and will premiere on Lifetime, A&E and History channel in the US on 18 January.

Summary: The first episode of the BBC's new costume drama War and Peace was watched by more than six million viewers.


The 5ft-long (1.5m) reptile has become the talk of Pakefield, near Lowestoft, occasionally coming down for a spot of sunbathing outside the local fish and chip shop. Owner Mike Hamilton said he had tried to entice it down but his iguana was "living the life of Riley" up the tree. The "toilet-trained, ever-so friendly" pet would return when ready, he added. "He's been up there for three months now, he's enjoying himself and he won't come down," Mr Hamilton said. More on this and other news from lizard-friendly Suffolk The iguana appears to have made his home at the top of the tree and, despite taking the occasional day trip, has so far evaded capture. Rani Coleman, who works at the chip shop, said: "A customer came in one day and said there was a lizard on the floor. "We didn't believe it, but there it was, basking in the sun on the pavement." She said customers told her they had seen the "huge" iguana in various places and when she arrived at work earlier "everyone was there with their binoculars out". "I knew straight away that they'd found it," she added. The iguana is currently sitting on its tree-top perch at the end of All Saints Road, about four houses away from where it used to live with its owner. Source: Reptileexpert.co.uk Local resident Angela Hills said people were throwing fruit to try to tempt the iguana down from the tree, but she had concerns for the animal's safety as it was close to a busy road. Mr Hamilton said he did not think his "bull-headed" but harmless iguana wanted to be caught.

Summary: A pet iguana has been living up a 30ft (9m) tree for three months after making an escape from its enclosure.


Margaride Rufino, 38, and Anthony Roberts, 37, were found dead at an address in Cross Road, Idle, on Sunday evening. Their two-year-old daughter, who was not present at the property, is being cared for by family members, police said. Detectives are treating the incident as murder but are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths. Officers were called to the property after receiving reports of a domestic incident. Ms Rufino, known as Guida, was found with serious neck injuries while Mr Roberts was discovered with leg injuries. They were both pronounced dead at the scene. Two knives were recovered from the property and West Yorkshire Police has appealed for witnesses come forward.

Summary: A couple whose bodies were found at a house in Bradford have been named.


From Sunday, IPT will increase from 6% to 9.5%, a rise that was announced by Chancellor George Osborne in his Summer Budget. Motorists renewing a comprehensive policy - or taking out a new one - will face an average rise of £13. Buildings and contents policies will go up by an average of £10. But the AA warned that young drivers - and motorists living in London - will be harder hit. It said drivers under the age of 22 will pay £42 a year more on average, and Londoners will pay £31 more. But even after the tax rise, car insurance premiums are likely to remain lower than they were three years ago. Premiums in the third quarter of 2012 were £406 on average, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI). In the same quarter this year, the average premium was £379. However the AA said prices had risen significantly over the summer. "Already, premiums have risen by nearly 10% over the past six months and the IPT rise will only pile on the misery," said Janet Connor, managing director of AA Insurance. She also warned that Sunday's increase could encourage some young people to drive without insurance. Hannah Maundrell, the editor in chief of money.co.uk, said the tax rise was a "drop in the ocean" compared with the amount that consumers could save by changing to another provider. She said drivers, for example, could save up to £223 a year by switching. Those affected by the tax rise include: However travel insurance will not be affected, as the higher IPT rate of 20% remains unchanged. Life policies and mortgage insurance are exempt. The increase will raise an extra £1.5bn a year for the Treasury by 2017/18.

Summary: Millions of people face a rise in their insurance bills this week-end, as a result of an increase in Insurance Premium Tax (IPT).


A blue plaque has been unveiled recognising the work of Edward "Taffy" Bowen, outside his childhood home on Stepney Lane, Cockett. The physicist's work contributed to the development of radar technology, which aided the allies in World War Two. He grew up in the city and graduated from Swansea University in 1930. Mr Bowen also played a key role in developing radio astronomy in the United States and Australia. "Edward Bowen's work in helping develop radar and radio astronomy is the stuff of legend," said Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council's cabinet member for enterprise, development and regeneration. "The world we live in could be very different if it wasn't for his genius because his work helped give the Allies a crucial advantage during the Second World War."

Summary: A pioneering scientist from Swansea has been honoured in his home city, 75 years after his work helped to win the Battle of Britain.


Media playback is not supported on this device The sixth seed is leading the odds with some bookmakers, despite only reaching the second week for the first time after a 6-4 6-1 win against Greece's Maria Sakkari. No British woman has won the singles title since Virginia Wade in 1977. "I'm pretty sure favourites come and go and change daily. I'm just happy to be here," said the 26-year-old. "I don't spend too much time thinking about that kind of talk or listening to it." Eighteen-time Grand Slam winner Chris Evert and Britain's former Wimbledon semi-finalist Tim Henman have been among those to say they think Konta can come close to matching Wade's achievement. Konta goes onto play French 21st seed Caroline Garcia, who beat the world number seven in three sets at Indian Wells earlier this year. Second seed Simona Halep or former world number one Victoria Azarenka, who beat Konta's fellow Briton Heather Watson, wait beyond Garcia in a tough section of the draw. But Konta, who had only won once at Wimbledon before this year's run, says there is still room for further improvement in her game. "I'm playing some good tennis but I don't think I'm playing unbelievable tennis," the Australian-born player said. "I'm just playing with the mindset of getting better like I have done in every match of my career. "I believe in myself that I can keep improving and getting better." She added: "It is a massive compliment to have former players of that calibre thinking that highly of me." British number two Watson, who was a set up before losing to Azarenka, believes there is no reason why Konta cannot win in SW19. "I think she can win a Slam," Watson said. "She is playing brilliant, so aggressive, so solid and always plays well on the grass." Mary Pierce, former French Open champion on BBC Radio 5 live: Johanna Konta walks around the court very confidently and having the crowd behind you like she has is a big extra factor. It's very nice to see her play this way and she is definitely a contender for the title. Media playback is not supported on this device Watson, 25, said she was "very upset" after failing to reach the second week of a Grand Slam for the first time. She pushed two-time major champion Azarenka, who is playing her first Slam since giving birth in December, all the way before losing her serve at 4-4 in the final set as the Belarusian saw out victory. It was a chastening defeat reminiscent of Watson's thrilling three-set loss against top seed Serena Williams on Centre Court in 2015. "I have been feeling great about my game and I feel I have fallen at the same hurdle again. It hurt a lot today," said the Guernsey player. "I really wanted to make that push for the second week. I gave myself a chance today and I didn't take it." However, Watson did get the better of Azarenka when they met again later on Friday in the mixed doubles.

Summary: British number one Johanna Konta says she is ignoring being labelled as the favourite to win the Wimbledon title.


At a fringe meeting about which political party best spoke for the working class, Tim Aker said the 2005 ban had upped levels of hidden drinking by forcing people "to retreat inwards". It was evidence of a "bankrupt" Labour telling people "what to do and think". Senior UKIP figures have also targeted new Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. UKIP made big inroads into traditional Labour heartlands in May's election - coming second to the party in a host of seats in the north of England - but it has been suggested that Mr Corbyn's election could halt this momentum. But Mr Aker, who lost to Labour by 800 votes in Thurrock in May, said Labour had "ceased to exist" as a party of working people, choosing to "lecture rather than represent them". Citing the smoking ban as an example of a policy that had hit C1 and C2 workers, he said: "They (Labour) say all the time, despite ignoring the facts, that it was the pit closures that destroyed all the communities. "But I put it to you that the smoking ban has destroyed more communities than any any pit closure has done because when people don't have a place to meet, a place to socialise, they retreat in. "What sort of outcome is it to say 'we don't want you drinking and smoking, take it out of the licensed area', and it goes all the way back to the homes where people are drinking and smoking more in front of their children." In contrast to Labour, he said, UKIP would stand up for working people by giving them more power over their lives. "We are the ones that embrace the one concept that has helped working class voters more than the minimum wage, more than anything else - the greatest thing for the working class is democracy." Speaking to the BBC later, Mr Aker said the closure of pubs in many communities meant "there was no community left". He insisted he did not mean to "belittle the hardships of those who lost their jobs in the pits" but sought to "draw a parallel between their closures and the closure of pubs". Speaking at the same meeting, former vice-chairman Suzanne Evans said Mr Corbyn was an "unreconstructed communist and like all communists it is the poorest who will suffer (under him)". And speaking in the hall, deputy leader Paul Nuttall said Mr Corbyn was a "trendy lefty" rather than a working class hero and suggested that working people would not warm to a man "who says nice things about the IRA, wants to give the Falklands back to the Argentinians and, above all, won't sing the national anthem". More than ever before, he suggested, UKIP was poised to become the alternative to Labour in the Midlands and the north of England and to the Tories in the south of England. But it would only continue to make inroads in the traditional Labour vote if it was "bold and told it like it is". He added: "We must not tone down our language. We

Summary: A UKIP MEP has told the party's conference the ban on smoking in public places in England has "damaged more communities than the pit closures did".


More than 20 people are being treated in hospital with burns and other injuries after the incident in the village of Hitrino, local media say. The authorities ordered an evacuation as firefighters battled the blaze. At least 20 buildings were damaged in the derailment and explosion, spokesperson Nikolay Nikolov told Bulgaria's Nova television. Two tanks hit an electricity line and exploded when the train derailed near the village station at about 05:30 local time (03:30 GMT), according to several reports. "Two blasts have caused a serious fire and ruined at least 20 buildings," Interior Ministry Chief Secretary Georgi Kostov told Reuters news agency. "There are many people injured... many with burns." Hitrino, a town of around 800 people, is located in Bulgaria's north-eastern Shumen province, about 60 miles (100km) from the Black Sea. Bulgarian Prime Minister Boiko Borisov said he was travelling to the village. In a post on social media, he said the regional hospital needed blood supplies to cope with the causalities, and appealed to people in the region to donate blood. Transport Minister Ivalyo Moskovski also said he was travelling to the village. In a brief statement, he said he had ordered both the head of the railway accident investigation task force and a representative of the rail infrastructure company to attend the scene.

Summary: A train carrying liquid petroleum gas has derailed and exploded in Bulgaria, killing at least four people.