As part of the BBC's So I Can Breathe series, a week of stories exploring some of the different ways the world is seeking to reduce air pollution, people have been sharing their tips on how to improve the air around them. For Phoebe, Joylen and Verity, from London, the answer is to stop cutting down trees. Students at 50 London schools breathe air that exceeds legal pollution limits. "Toxic air audits" have been announced by the mayor of London to combat the problem. According to the US Forest Service, trees typically reduce urban air pollution by only up to 1%, but even this can have significant health benefits. Areej and her mother also want to plant trees in urban areas of Damascus to improve air quality. Wood-burning stoves are a cause of high indoor air pollution levels which have been linked to four million premature deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization. Adboulie Sey thinks they should be banned from Gambia and solar energy promoted instead. Africa's new breed of solar energy entrepreneurs A tax on wood stoves is another solution, suggested by Karen Baines on Twitter. Improving how we travel is a common desire. Swapping driving for cycling can reduce the number of vehicles on the road emitting pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide. Clare Rogers tweeted this picture of her and her daughter in Enfield. Robert Singleton suggests a ban on diesel powered vehicles would go some way to reducing pollution. Girl guides helping to clean Ghana's air pollution problem Improved public transport is also proposed by Maria Innes in Buenos Aires, and echoed by Oscar Soria, in New York. Mike Hall thinks government schemes to support people buying hybrid or electric cars is one way to encourage more environmentally friendly transport. And Pablo Nieto Gonzalez in San Sebastian, Spain, wants emissions from ships to be cut. A week of coverage by BBC News examining possible solutions to the problems caused by air pollution.

Summary: From Ghana to Argentina and London, air pollution is a problem that people want to do something about.


Media playback is not supported on this device The Red Devils looked down and out as they trailed 18-10 with two minutes left at the Lightstream Stadium. But a second try from Niall Evalds and Greg Johnson's score with the last play of normal time levelled the scores. O'Brien's missed conversion forced extra-time but he responded with a drop-goal from near halfway to win it. It was a dramatic end to an enthralling game and resulted in Hull KR dropping out of Super League after a 10-year spell in the top flight. It was also the second time in a week that Hull KR, who did not touch the ball in extra-time, suffered defeat to a late drop-goal. Danny Brough's controversial effort last Saturday gave Huddersfield a 23-22 win to condemn the Robins to a place in the Million Pound Game. Fighting broke out after the final whistle as Salford fans invaded the pitch to celebrate their side's stunning comeback. There was little sign of the drama to come as Hull KR dominated the opening 20 minutes and led 10-0 through tries by Adam Walker and Josh Mantellato. Ben Murdoch-Masila touched down from Salford's first real attack and they were remarkably level when Evalds went over in the left corner. Mantellato's penalty just before half-time and Thomas Minns' second-half try seemed to have done enough to secure Rovers' place in Super League next season, only to be stunned by Salford's late fightback. While Hull KR will play in the Championship next season, Salford's victory means a turbulent year at the AJ Bell Stadium ends on a high. They were deducted six points in April for breaching salary cap regulations and had to settle for a place in the Qualifiers after losing their appeal. That decision left owner Marwan Koukash considering his future at the club, which he bought in 2013 and has seen finish no higher than 10th. But he intimated in the immediate aftermath of the win that he will now stay on. Salford coach Ian Watson: "Today was glammed up like a Grand Final, but it's a real serious game. I do believe in promotion and relegation, I just don't believe you should play off to decide relegation, you play off to win things. "There's a big sense of relief because we felt harshly done to by losing six points. I feel for Hull KR and what they are going to go through in the next couple of weeks. "I feel pleased and proud of the boys. It will be a real sense of achievement when they look back. "I've seen last-minute drop-goals before but never one like that. It was a massive play by Gaz O'Brien. He's a tremendous kicker of the ball, but I don't think he'll ever kick one like that again." Hull KR interim head coach James Webster: "Congratulations to Salford, they came up with three really good plays to win the game. They're a team that could strike from distance, we knew that. "I'm proud of the boys, they put every single thing into it

Summary: Gareth O'Brien kicked a drop-goal in golden-point extra time as Salford won the 'Million Pound Game' 19-18 to relegate Hull KR from Super League.


15 February 2016 Last updated at 15:37 GMT But how much do you know about their author, Roald Dahl? It's a hundred years since he was born, so Newsround has taken a look at his life.

Summary: Matilda, The BFG, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - they're some of the most popular children's books ever written.


The show features 19 exhibits around the 105-acre garden in Derbyshire. Lilas, by Dame Zaha, who died earlier this year, was originally created for the Serpentine Gallery at Kensington Gardens. The exhibition also features work from artists from Spain, Portugal and Taiwan. The sculptures will be on show until 30 October and members of the public can bid to buy them. Some of the work for the exhibition, including Bruce Munro's piece Time and Again, has been created specifically for Chatsworth. It was inspired by the house's success in growing some of the earliest Victorian water lilies after seeds were first brought to England from British Guiana in 1837.

Summary: An "architecturally ambitious" piece by Zaha Hadid is to be included in this year's Chatsworth House sculpture exhibition.


He was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital following the incident just before 06:00 BST on Saturday. He is reported to be in a stable condition. Sussex Police said the incident in Preston Street appeared to be linked to the collapse of a section of railing surrounding the balcony. The one-way street had to be closed to allow for investigations.

Summary: A 20-year old man is in hospital with serious injuries after he fell from a first floor balcony in Brighton.


The writer's political play This House has just transferred to London's West End, four years after it premiered at The National Theatre. Asked what his next project will be, Graham told BBC News: "I'm working on a TV drama about the referendum campaign. "I think [Brexit] is going to be the main occupying idea in all writers' heads for the next five or 10 years." He added: "That doesn't mean necessarily writing a dramatic re-enactment of referendum night, I think it just means the new mood we're living in, which is very different, a bit scary, very divisive, very angry, very confused." But Graham confirmed that his TV drama will "specifically tackle what happened" in the run-up to the EU referendum on 23 June. The playwright has previously written a short play about Brexit for The Guardian as well as The Vote, a play set in a polling station, which was televised on More4 on the night of the 2015 general election. His other credits include musical Finding Neverland - for which Graham wrote the script and Gary Barlow the music and lyrics - and Privacy, which made its debut on Broadway earlier this year starring Daniel Radcliffe. This House deals with the struggles of the Labour government between 1974 and 1979. It debuted at the National Theatre in 2012, and recently had a run at the Chichester Theatre before transferring to the West End. The play's director Jeremy Herrin said he was "delighted" by the reaction the play has had. "We haven't really changed much of it, James has kept the same script," he told the BBC. "When we first did it, the audience's obsession was much more about the coalition government in 2010 and how that was working out, and now it's much more about what's happening in the Labour Party." He added: "It's much more about dignity and honour in politics, and whether the procedure can reflect our natures. "Particularly post-Trump, it feels like that's the big question in the production - is it possible to be a decent human being in a parliamentary framework? So the play starts to answer that question." The Guardian's Michael Billington described This House as "enthralling" in his five star review of the play after its West End opening. "Graham brilliantly captures the daily machinations of politics," he wrote. "The whole ensemble contributes to a thrilling play that both relives history and transcends it." Writing in The Telegraph, Dominic Cavendish said This House is "the most intelligent, entertaining and informative political drama of this decade". He added: "This House is a must for those who want to learn more (or be reminded about) the very peculiar workings of Westminster and its often quietly heroic occupants." The play was described as "magnificently sharp and witty" by Fiona Mountford in The Evening Standard. "Whoever would have thought that the intricacies of a minority government struggling to pass a series of bills would have been so engrossing?" She added: "Both a treat and a triumph, this is a superlative night out in the West End." Comedian

Summary: Playwright James Graham has revealed he is writing a TV drama about the EU referendum campaign.


The Wainwright Society, formed after his death in 1991, has chosen Fix the Fells as its main beneficiary for 2017. Up to Â£20,000 will be used to repair badly eroded Long Stile, the final ascent on to High Street summit between Ullswater and Haweswater. A Fix the Fells spokesman said the group was "delighted" to be chosen. Derek Cockell, secretary of The Wainwright Society, said: "Next year is the 60th anniversary of Wainwright's Far Eastern Fells book, which came out in 1957. "We approached Fix the Fells and asked them if they had any paths that they were going to repair in that area and they told us about Long Stile which of course Wainwright pioneered as a wonderful route up High Street." Fix the Fells, which repairs eroded and damaged footpaths in the Lake District, is expected to complete the work in 2018 with the help of National Trust rangers and Lake District National Park Authority volunteers. Mr Wainwright, who was born in 1907, was a significant figure for Cumbria, compiling drawings of 214 fells over more than 10 years of exploration in the 1950s and 60s. The Wainwright Society was formed to keep alive the things he promoted through his guidebooks.

Summary: A Lake District path expert fell walker Alfred Wainwright described as the "connoisseur's route" is to be repaired thanks to a charity set up in his name.


Media playback is not supported on this device Caley Thistle lie five points adrift at the bottom of the Premiership with just five games of the season remaining. "It's massive," Foran told BBC Scotland. "Biggest game of my career, biggest game of the players' careers. "Ross County [are] probably out of the relegation battle but we can drag them back into it." The recruitment of former assistant manager Maurice Malpas last week was designed to address defensive problems. Foran concedes that it was the club's directors who proposed the idea of adding more experience to the coaching team, but insists that he identified Malpas as the man to appoint. "The board thought it would help by bringing someone else in," Foran said. "An older, more experienced person. "We're all trying to fix the problem. I had a think who was out there, who I could trust, who had the game knowledge and Scottish Premiership knowledge, so I picked Maurice. "The board recommended I bring someone in. There was no problem with that." With just four wins from 33 league fixtures, retaining their top-flight status seems an uphill task for Inverness, particularly given their record of conceding more goals than any side in the Premiership. "Defensively as a team, it hasn't been good enough," Foran said. "[We've] probably been too open at times attacking, so we've worked on that. There's obviously been a problem; we've conceded too many goals. "Maurice has over 50 caps. He's managed, he's been assistant manager. But the main thing for me, you can always trust Maurice. "He's old school and is never going to stab you in the back. He'll always say it straight to your face and he's good to have around the place."

Summary: Inverness Caledonian Thistle manager Richie Foran insists Friday's Highland derby against Ross County is the most important match of his career.


The Red Rose, on the brink of defeat by Surrey this week, have lost two and drawn five of their previous seven County Championship games. Lancashire won three of their opening five Division One games this season, but last triumphed in May. "We are looking behind us now," Giles told BBC Radio Lancashire. "It would be nice if results went our way elsewhere around the country, but ultimately we can only do what we do and we need to play better cricket for the last three matches. "We're getting a bit of a wake-up call here as there is a lot of cricket to be played and it is a very tight division. "At the moment we're far from safe so we've got to play better cricket." Lancashire sit fourth in the table after 12 County Championship matches, 17 points above second-from-bottom Hampshire in the relegation places.

Summary: Lancashire cricket director Ashley Giles is concerned their end-of-season form could see them dragged into a relegation fight.


But with the Foxes now languishing near the foot of the table and one hotelier claiming the impact of Richard III is slowly wearing off, is the journey over? Or is it a case of what next? Even the most upbeat of Leicester fans would probably find it difficult to be positive about their Premier League title defence as the stats make for pretty grim reading - played 19, won five, drawn five and lost nine. To put that in some context, City lost just three times in the league last season. However, Claudio Ranieri's side are through to the last 16 of the Champions League, where they will meet Sevilla for a place in the quarter finals. And after that, only the small matter of European giants such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Barcelona would stand in the way of European glory... Season ticket holder Sam Webster remains quietly confident, but does not think the Foxes can go all the way in Europe. He said: "We are an unknown entity, and the bigger teams are definitely underestimating us like the big fish did in the Premier League last season. "Getting to the semis would be remarkable. However, the drastic difference between the Champions League and Premier League form is unacceptable." But even if the Foxes are not quite living up to expectations on the pitch, Richard III has helped keep the city buzzing. Amy Gray, head of tourism affairs at VisitBritain, said: "Money can't buy the publicity - the sort of publicity Leicester has got. "We saw a 17% increase in international visitors to the East Midlands for April to June. "What we've seen in Leicester is a fantastic heritage story and a fantastic sports story - and we know both are a fantastic draw to international visitors." Source: Leicester Cathedral Eloic Montagnier, general manager of Leicester's Belmont Hotel, believes interest in other Leicester destinations - such as the National Space Centre after Tim Peake's expedition - has also contributed to the city's success. He said: "We have done over 80% [occupancy] for the last year. "It was fantastic in November, with 85% occupancy for the month - it was 65% two years ago. "I think this is a great opportunity to grow the city and I think it will keep going - I don't see the success dropping off any time soon. "Football has brought a lot of people in who may never have even considered coming to Leicester." But others aren't quite so bullish about the future. Vito Ferro's San Carlo restaurant has become something of a tourist hotspot after it held a celebratory meal for the Leicester City players the day after the title was won. Despite an initial surge in bookings, Mr Ferro believes it will wear off eventually. "It is too soon to say [whether things will quieten down] because they are in the Champions League," he said. "But I would say, yes, things are eventually going to quieten down unless something else happens." So, as Leicester looks ahead to 2017, will good things come

Summary: Ever since the remains of Richard III were first found under a Leicester car park in 2012, the city has enjoyed a feel-good factor that culminated this year with Leicester City completing a "fairytale" Premier League title win.


The figure was even higher, at 45%, when athletes at the 2011 Pan-Arab Games were asked the same question. More than 5,000 athletes competed at the events and 2,167 were asked if they had taken banned drugs. "The true prevalence of doping remains unknown," the researchers said. Just 0.5% of doping tests at the 2011 Worlds in Daegu, South Korea - where every athlete was tested - were positive. In Qatar for the Pan-Arab Games, the figure rose to 3.6%. "The study shows that biological tests of blood and urine reveal only a fraction of doping cases," said Harvard medical professor Harrison Pope. "This is likely due to the fact that athletes have found numerous ways not to be caught during tests." The research was carried out by Germany's University of Tuebingen and Harvard Medical School in 2011. However, the team claimed the publication of their work had been delayed by talks with Wada and athletics' governing body the IAAF over how it should be published. Doping has overshadowed athletics in recent years following an investigation into a state-sponsored Russian doping programme which led to the country's track and field team being banned from the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Russian athletes taking part in the World Championships in London earlier this month were only allowed to compete as neutrals. A re-testing programme run by the International Olympic Committee to look at old samples using new methods has found more than 100 athletes used banned substances at the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games.

Summary: More than 30% of athletes competing at the 2011 World Championships admitted to using banned substances during their careers, according to a World Anti-Doping Agency-commissioned study.


Media playback is not supported on this device Top seed Murray made short work of American Sam Querrey, winning 6-4 6-2 6-4 in one hour and 59 minutes. Evans, the world number 51, then upset Australian 27th seed Bernard Tomic with a 6-3 7-6 (7-2) 7-6 (7-3) victory. Tim Henman and Greg Rusedski reached round four at Wimbledon 15 years ago. It is the first time Evans has made it so far at a Grand Slam, and he next faces French 12th seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. Murray, meanwhile, plays Germany's Mischa Zverev, the world number 50. Media playback is not supported on this device Querrey was the man who upset then world number one Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon last summer, but Murray made sure he did not fall victim to another shock after the Serb's surprise defeat by Denis Istomin on Thursday. With six-time champion Djokovic out, Murray is a clear favourite among many observers to finally land the third leg of the career Grand Slam. "I don't worry about that, really," said Murray, who has lost four Melbourne finals to Djokovic. "Obviously, if you're to get to the final, then it has an effect. A lot of the times when I've been in the final here, I've played against him. Had some tough ones." Querrey gave the Scot plenty to think about in the early stages of their third-round match, attacking the net and hurrying the top seed, but a first-serve percentage of just 57% was not enough to keep Murray at bay. The American missed a fleeting chance with a break point in game eight and Murray immediately took advantage, getting the break himself in the next game with a beautiful lob. He took a firm grip on the match with a run of six out of seven games, easing through the second set with two more breaks. There was a flurry of resistance as Querrey reeled off three straight games to lead 3-2 in the third set, but Murray once again turned up the pressure with his return to break for a fifth time on his way to a comprehensive victory. "Sam, especially in the first set, was hitting a huge ball," added Murray, who had no problem with the ankle he turned during his previous match. "There was a key moment at 3-4 when I saved a break point and then managed to break the next game and had the momentum after that." British number three Evans is set to move inside the world's top 50, with 180 ranking points already secured in Melbourne, plus at least £135,000 in prize money. After failing to convert a match point against Stan Wawrinka in the third round of last year's US Open, the 26-year-old from Solihull grabbed this opportunity with both hands. "It was tough, Bernard is difficult," said Evans. "He is unorthodox and I found it hard at the start. I am happy to come through in three tight sets. It could have gone either way." Evans followed the best win of his career over seventh seed Marin Cilic on

Summary: Dan Evans joined Andy Murray in the last 16 of the Australian Open with a brilliant performance to give Britain two men in the fourth round.


Abdul Hafidah, 18, died in hospital from a stab wound to the neck after the attack in Moss Side. Police believe he had been chased by a group of men near Greenheys Lane before he was hit by the car and then attacked. His family said they were experiencing "the most difficult time in our lives". They added: "Abdul was a composed and caring son, who bought us all so much joy. You felt his presence when he was there and you missed it whenever he wasn't. "His strength was in his loyalty to his family and friends, and honesty whenever he spoke." Mr Hafidah's family also urged young people to spend time with their parents and think about the community they wanted to grow up in. Two men have been arrested on suspicion of murder. A 17-year-old boy was also arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and later bailed.

Summary: A teenager who was stabbed after he was hit by a car in Manchester was "loyal and caring" and "brought so much joy" to others, his family has said.


A selection of your pictures of Scotland sent in between 6 and 13 January. Send your photos to scotlandpictures@bbc.co.uk or our Instagram at #bbcscotlandpics

Summary: All pictures are copyrighted.


Stephen O'Brien said the agencies had been told to leave by Friday, and several international non-governmental organisations (NGO) by Saturday. The Luhansk separatists had earlier banned 10 international humanitarian agencies citing "violations". Pro-Russian rebels seized parts of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions last year. Almost 8,000 people have been killed since fighting erupted in eastern Ukraine in April 2014, a month after Russia annexed the southern Crimea peninsula. In a statement, Mr O'Brien said the "de facto authorities" in Luhansk had ordered the UN agencies and NGOs to leave the area. He also said all UN agency operations had been suspended in the rebel-held parts of Donetsk. Mr O'Brien urged the separatists in "both Luhansk and Donetsk to ensure the immediate resumption of UN and international NGO activities". He warned that restrictions on humanitarian shipments had prevented delivery of some 16,000 tons of vital supplies. "Hospitals cannot perform surgery because they lack anaesthesia. Some 150,000 people are not receiving monthly food distributions," Mr O'Brien said. On Thursday the Luhansk rebels refused to register 10 out of 11 foreign NGOs because of "violations". They accused one of the banned NGOs - Doctors Without Borders - of "illegally storing psychotropic medication". The NGO denies the allegation. Ukraine and the West accuse Russia of arming the separatists and also sending its regular troops in eastern Ukraine. Moscow denies this, but admits that Russian "volunteers" fight alongside the rebels. The EU and the US have imposed their own sanctions against Russian officials and top allies of President Vladimir Putin. A ceasefire in eastern Ukraine has been holding in the past two weeks, although there have been reports of occasional shelling.

Summary: The UN humanitarian aid chief has expressed alarm after UN agencies were ordered out of rebel-held parts of the Luhansk region in eastern Ukraine.


Up to a million people still needed to complete their tax credit renewals in the final week before the deadline. They would have received information about their annual review notice in a white A4 envelope, but they can renew online up until Sunday night. Separately, many of those in the self-assessment system must pay a tax bill. This so-called payment on account is the equivalent of half the previous year's tax bill, as an advance payment on their next bill. The other half is paid on 31 January. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) warned that anyone who failed to renew their tax credits could be in danger of having payments stopped, or find themselves paying more than they needed to. "It is great that millions of people have renewed their tax credits or reported changes so far, but anyone who has not done so yet should take action now - it only takes a few minutes to renew online," said Nick Lodge, of HMRC. Renewals can now also be completed via smartphone apps. The tax credit helpline - 0345 3003900 - is open until 20:00 BST on Saturday and Sunday. To renew, they will need their renewal pack, their National Insurance number, their and their partners total income for the tax year to April 2016, the 15-digit number on their renewal pack, and details of any changes to their circumstances, such as working hours and children. Claimants who received notices in a brown A5 envelope will see their tax credits renewed automatically and are only required to contact HMRC if they need to make any corrections or notify HMRC of any changes to household circumstances. Those whose notices came in a white A4 envelope must renew, even if their circumstances have not changed. The tax payment deadline affects everyone in the self-assessment system unless: There are various ways of paying but those leaving it to the weekend are likely to be limited to paying via online or telephone banking, or via the HMRC website using a debit or credit card. Interest is charged if the payment deadline is missed. After 28 days without payment, following the deadline, a surcharge is 5% of any unpaid tax is levied. This surcharge is repeated after six months. "This is a massive amount given the era of near zero interest rates," said Chas Roy-Chowdhury, head of taxation at ACCA accountancy body. An HMRC spokesman pointed out that there was some wriggle room for those who contact HMRC if they are struggling to pay the tax owed. "If a taxpayer can't pay and calls us before the due date and we agree a time to pay arrangement, they will not incur a surcharge," he said. "Our reasoning being the taxpayer is making an effort and it would not be fair to hit them with a surcharge, where a time to pay arrangement is in place." HMRC has been criticised by MPs and the National Audit Office for waiting times for those trying to call at key times, but the tax authority said the service had now improved.

Summary: Thousands of people face a deadline of the end of Sunday to renew tax credits and pay tax owed, or face losing payments or being hit with penalties.


It wants to redress the balance from the university's walls being lined with pictures of "dead white males" by adding more women and ethnic minorities. The portraits include broadcasters Dame Esther Rantzen and Reeta Chakrabarti. Oxford's head of equality Trudy Coe said it was "sending a signal". This commissioning of portraits is one of the biggest projects by the university to create a more diverse range of people portrayed in its public places - including more women, people from ethnic minorities, gays and lesbians and people with disabilities. The university faced a high-profile controversy last year over whether a statue of Cecil Rhodes should be removed - after claims that the Victorian colonialist's attitudes on race made him an unsuitable figure to be commemorated. The new pictures on the ancient walls will include scientist Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell and author Jeanette Winterson. There will also be some men, including film maker Ken Loach. "We're not taking anyone down - but the portraits have been almost exclusively men and we're just beginning to redress the balance," says Ms Coe, head of the university's equality and diversity unit. "It will allow students to look up and see people who look like them. It's sending a signal to a wider range of students that they belong here," she says. Ms Coe says the new pictures will reflect the modern reality of university life - and the people who have been painted or photographed have been nominated by current staff and students. The people depicted have links with the university - such as being former students or academic staff - with the criteria that they were examples of excellence and widened the range of pictures from the "narrow and traditional" and "challenged stereotypes". Among the people to be represented will be criminologist and disability rights campaigner, Marie Tidball. "Symbols are important," she said. There are millions of people with a disability in the UK, Ms Tidball said, but they have a "lack of visibility in public spaces". The commissioning of a picture of an academic with a disability was a "very significant" step towards making sure that all kinds of students could feel at home at the university, she said. "I really hope that this speaks to kids now doing their GCSEs," said Ms Tidball. And she rejected suggestions of an excess of political correctness as "absolute nonsense". BBC journalist Reeta Chakrabarti said it was a project which reflected the university's current staff and living alumni. These are people who are "alive and kicking, a representation of modern day Britain," she said. "You could just continue to portray the same people, but it wouldn't be a reflection of how the university and society have changed," she said. "Different ages, different societies celebrate different values." As a student at Oxford, she said "there weren't many people there who were like me, from my sort of background". But she had an "overwhelmingly positive experience" and "nothing about Oxford made me feel out of place". Oxford University has faced questions about whether it is admitting enough poorer students and

Summary: Oxford University is revealing the identities of more than 20 people whose portraits will be put on display to try to "promote greater diversity".


Duffy's document also supports calls for the All-Ireland Senior Football and Hurling Finals to be moved forward two weeks as part of a calendar overhaul. The Monaghan man also believes that the inter-county minor grade should be changed from U18 to U17. Duffy also says the club championship should be played in the calendar year. Currently, the All-Ireland Club Championship series takes place in the Spring with the senior hurling and football finals staged at Croke Park on St Patrick's Day. The director general's discussion paper points out that eight previous official reports since 2004 have attempted to address the twin issues of player burnout and the lack of regular club games because of fixture congestion. "That we have failed to make adequate progress in the past is due to a combination of factors - notably a failure to implement decisions taken," says Duffy. "If we care about the welfare of our players, as we claim we do....then we cannot simply talk about addressing these issues. The time has come to take decisive action." Duffy believes that the abolition of the inter-county U21 Football championship, won this year by Tyrone, would help to ease the demands on third-level players during a period when the National Football League also takes place. The director general says that the U21 football series should be discontinued after the 2017 competition. The discussion paper also calls for extra-time to be played in all provincial and All-Ireland championship games and for the abolition of both the All-Ireland Junior Football and All-Ireland Intermediate Hurling championships. Moving forward both the All-Ireland Senior Hurling and Football finals two weeks would see the former being played on the third Sunday in August and the later taking place on the first Sunday in September. Other proposals include having an increase of the amount of two-code weekends during the National Leagues and the discontinuation of the Division 1 Football League semi-finals from 2017. Duffy adds:"Are we going to practise what we preach by taking the welfare of our young elite players seriously and by providing the vast majority of our players with a fair and regular schedule of fixtures? "The evidence that we are failing on both counts is irrefutable so let us not evade our responsibilities by pretending that these problems do not exist. "We have reached a stage in our competitions' structures where something has to give. "I believe that tradition and precedence are insufficient arguments for resisting change in the face of the challenge posed to our values posed by the issues of player welfare and the denial of fair competitive activity to the majority of our players. "We should be fully aware that the GAA will continue to lose club players who are not offered a regular, planned and coherent set of competitive matches."

Summary: GAA director general Paraic Duffy has called for the abolition of the inter-county U21 Football Championship in a discussion paper on player burnout.


He faced questions from MPs as the UK government published a White Paper, setting out its approach on Brexit. It lays out 12 "principles" including migration control, free trade and "taking control of our own laws". Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood said her party would do everything it could to prevent the damage of a "hard Brexit". As the White Paper was unveiled, Montgomeryshire Conservative MP Glyn Davies asked Mr Davis for assurances that Welsh interests would be considered. Putting the question, Mr Davies said: "In the interests' of UK unity, Wales' interests must be taken into account, including discussion of this white paper. "Can you guarantee the involvement of Wales and continue to feature in all of our discussions, accepting of course that there can be no veto?" The minister told him: "You are absolutely right and that's been the approach we've taken. "We've had a number of meetings of the joint ministerial committee, two of them chaired by the prime minister, three of them chaired by me. "We've been to Wales to see the Welsh Government to talk about some of these issues. "The minister of state [David Jones] is appearing before the Welsh committee shortly on February 14. "So we are taking the interests of Wales extremely seriously, and we will operate this negotiation so that no part of the United Kingdom loses. That's the aim." Mr Davis was also challenged by Bridgend Labour MP Madeleine Moon to guarantee tariff-free access to European markets for car workers in Bridgend and steel workers in south Wales. He told her that EU countries exported more to the UK than the UK exported to them, "so they clearly have a strong interest, as strong an interest as we do in tariff-free goods access". Mr Davis added: "There's every reason to expect that we will succeed in what we intend to do which is to protect the jobs of her constituents." Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood dismissed the White Paper as a "whitewash of the demands of Wales" as seen by her party and the Welsh Government. They had called for "full and unfettered" access to the single market after Brexit in their own White Paper published in January. "Today, the UK Government has confirmed it will forge ahead with a hard Brexit, dragging Wales out of the European Single Market, threatening 200,000 Welsh jobs and making tariff barriers likely," she said. "Plaid Cymru will continue to do everything in its power to avoid economic damage and political oblivion."

Summary: UK ministers are "taking the interests of Wales extremely seriously" in preparations for leaving the EU, Brexit Secretary David Davis has said.


This is the full statement to the inquests read by his son, Stephen Clark, on behalf of his mother Jacqueline Gilchrist: Jacqueline Gilchrist speaking on behalf of the Clark family. Joseph Clark came from a large family. He had five brothers and one sister. He was the third eldest and always loved spending time with his extended family when he was growing up. 'Oey' was quite a shy lad who enjoyed playing football and going out with his mates and brothers. He was very close to his siblings, as well as his Mum and Dad. Profiles of all those who died He loved it when his extended family had large gatherings. He got to meet those relatives he hadn't seen for a while. Even his aunts and uncles loved him. Joseph, who was also known as Oey, played football for two local teams and was known for being a speedy winger. One of the teams he played for was the Woodpecker Bar FC. People always commented on how good a player he was, even if he was just kicking a ball about with his mates. Oey and I met in 1978. I was 16 years old and Oey was 18. We lived around the corner from each other. 'Fell in love' We met in a club and from then fell in love. We loved each other to bits, and then, four and a half years after we met, we had our first son Joseph, who was born on 31 August, 1982. Sadly, we lost Joseph on 15 October when he was just six-and-a-half weeks old. Oey was heartbroken. Stephen was born two years later, on 22 March, 1984. Oey was over the moon and was so excited that he had a son. He nicknamed him BB. They were always playing football together and going on days out on boats up the Mersey. In 1989, we gave birth to a little girl Jennifer. She was tiny. Oey was scared to pick her up. The morning of 15 April, 1989, that horrible day, was one of the times that he did pick her up before he left the house. He had been playing football with Stephen outside while holding Jennifer in his arms and swinging her in the air. His mates arrived in the car to go to the match, so he gave us all a kiss and said 'See you later' and off he went. That was the last thing that he said to us because he never came back from the match. He was only 29 years old with his whole life in front of him. 'Happy-go-lucky' Oey was employed by IBL in Liverpool and enjoyed his time working there. We all miss Oey very, very much. Life has never been the same since he died that horrible day. Our whole lives changed and I never really got over it and we're in still life. I am still the same from that day. Oey would have been proud of his children now that they are grown up. Stephen remembers lots about him,

Summary: A father-of-two from Liverpool, Joseph Clark was a fork lift driver and drove to the match with his brother Stephen Clark and David Roberts, who both survived, and another friend, Alan McGlone, who also died in the tragedy.


Mr Trump's transition team said he and Tsai Ing-wen noted "close economic, political, and security ties" in a phone call. The move risks angering China, which sees Taiwan as a breakaway province. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi dismissed the call as a "petty trick" by Taiwan, Chinese state media said. Mr Trump tweeted on Friday that Ms Tsai had called him to congratulate him on winning the US election. His team said that the US president-elect had also congratulated Ms Tsai on becoming the president of Taiwan last January. It is highly unusual for a US president or president-elect to speak to a Taiwanese leader directly. Following media reports pointing out the risks of angering China, Mr Trump tweeted: "Interesting how the US sells Taiwan billions of dollars of military equipment but I should not accept a congratulatory call." The White House has said Mr Trump's conversation does not signal any change in US policy. Mr Trump's spokeswoman said he was "well aware" of US policy towards Taiwan. Read more: What's behind the China-Taiwan divide? The split between China and Taiwan goes back to 1949, when the Republic of China (ROC) government fled the mainland to Taiwan. After 1945, it held China's seat on the UN Security Council and was, for a while, recognised by many Western nations as the only Chinese government. But in 1971, the UN switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing and the ROC government was forced out. Only a handful of countries now recognise Taiwan's government. Washington cut formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1979, expressing its support for Beijing's "One China" concept, which states that Taiwan is part of China. China has hundreds of missiles pointing towards Taiwan, and has threatened to use force if it seeks independence. President Tsai, Taiwan's first female leader, led the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to a landslide victory in the January 2016 election. The DPP has traditionally leaned towards independence from China. President Tsai's administration does not accept the One China policy. Read more: Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan's shy but steely leader Mr Trump's decision to turn his back on four decades of US protocol on Taiwan and speak directly to a president of Taiwan will stun policymakers in Beijing. Since his election last month, they have struggled to understand who is advising Donald Trump on Asia and what his China policy will look like. This move will turn concern into alarm and anger. Beijing sees Taiwan as a province. Denying it any of the trappings of an independent state is one of the key priorities of Chinese foreign policy. Read more from Carrie: The Trump phone call that will stun Beijing The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it opposed any official interaction or military contact between the US and Taiwan, according to the People's Daily, a Communist Party mouthpiece. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the conversation between Mr Trump and Ms Tsai was "just a petty trick by Taiwan" that he believed would not change US policy toward China, state media reported. "The One China policy is the cornerstone of the

Summary: US President-elect Donald Trump has spoken directly with the president of Taiwan - breaking with US policy set in 1979, when formal relations were cut.


More than 110 members of the Unite union, based in Weymouth and Bridport, are set to walk out from 04:00 on Monday until 03:59 BST on Saturday. Unite said it is angry at a 2.3% pay offer from First Group while it says drivers for the firm in Bristol have been given a 13% increase. The operator said the action was "totally unnecessary". The union says Weymouth and Bridport drivers earn Â£8.80 an hour while drivers in Yeovil are on Â£9.50 an hour and those at rival firms in Bournemouth and Poole earn nearly Â£2 an hour more. Unite regional officer Bob Lanning said: "What we have here is a situation where the drivers in Weymouth and Poole are the poor relations, when compared with the pay of other drivers working for First Group. "Our members regret the disruption to the public that will be caused by this strike, but they have been pushed against the wall with years of insulting pay increases for the responsible job that they do." First Dorset, which is part of the First Group, said it had been in discussions with Unite for several months and an offer to use resolution service Acas is still on the table. Marc Reddy, managing director of First Dorset, said: "This action is totally unnecessary and will cause great hardship to our customers who rely on our services daily to get them to work, to school or college, to attend hospital and doctors' appointments or job interviews." The operator said contingency plans were being put in place but urged the union to "get back round the table".

Summary: Passengers are facing disruption as bus drivers in Dorset prepare to stage a five-day strike over "poverty" wages.


The shutdown - the first for 17 years - has left more than 700,000 employees on unpaid leave since 1 October and closed national parks, tourist sites, government websites, office buildings, and more. The nation's 1.4 million active-duty uniformed military personnel remain on duty. However, about half of the defence department's 800,000 civilian employees stopped work at the beginning of the shutdown - with the exception of those engaged in activities that "provide for the national security". But on 5 October, the department said it would recall nearly all of these workers. Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel said the decision was based on an interpretation of the Pay Our Military Act, which was passed by Congress shortly before the shutdown. It permits employees "whose responsibilities contribute to the morale, well-being, capabilities and readiness of service members" to be exempted from the shutdown. "I expect us to be able to significantly reduce - but not eliminate - civilian furloughs under this process," Mr Hagel said. (only if shutdown continues) The Department of Energy has said it can continue to operate for a short time without sending workers home. However, if the shutdown continues, plans are in place. According to the plans, some facilities will have to close, with only 1,113 out of 13,814 staff required to work. Exemptions include staff overseeing the safety of the nation's nuclear arsenal and operating dams and power lines across the country. The National Nuclear Security Administration, which oversees the nation's nuclear weapons and naval reactor programmes, will have 343 employees on duty to "perform functions related to the safety of human life and the protection of property". More than 400 employees will stay on to work at the Southwestern Power Administration and the Western Area Power Administration, which are in charge of overseeing hydroelectric power and power lines in the south and western US. Some staff in other areas will remain at work to oversee "the protection of human life and property." Most of the department's staff have been sent home. However, staff at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration continue to report for duty to ensure weather, shipping and other reports are still provided for public safety. Some of the workers at the Bureau of Industry and Security, which reviews exports, also remain on duty. Transport roles run by the department, ranging from air traffic control to airport and hazardous materials inspections, continue and 36,987 out of 55,468 personnel remain at work. Staff involved in overseeing commercial space launches also continue operations. Suspended activities will include facility security inspections, routine personnel security background investigations and the employee drug testing program. The National Zoo and 19 museums and galleries, including the Natural History Museum, the Portrait Gallery and the Air and Space Museum, are closed. Of the 4,202 employees, 688 are being retained to "protect life and property" - security guards, maintenance staff and people to care for and feed the animals at the National Zoo. The Smithsonian Institution says: "During a shutdown, the Institution cannot legally accept voluntary services from federal employees to continue their regular duties."

Summary: The US government remains in partial shutdown after negotiations between Republicans and Democrats failed to find a solution to an ongoing dispute over the federal budget.


The French manager has yet to say whether he will sign a new contract to stay beyond this season, but believes the spirit he has created in 20 years at the club can live on without him. "It's more natural for local players because they have been educated in Arsenal - players like Ramsey, Chamberlain," Wenger said. "They have to take charge." He added: "They should lead and take responsibility to say 'yes, that is how we want to behave, this is how we want to play, let's go together'. "If they didn't want it, that would be a huge disappointment." Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City (kick-off 15:00 BST), which could be Wenger's last trip to Wembley Stadium, is also his 11th semi-final as Arsenal manager. It is the Gunners' last chance of a trophy this season. Wenger could field as many as five British players - Aaron Ramsey, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Theo Walcott, Kieran Gibbs and Rob Holding - but he says a player's nationality is less important to him than "players who integrate the values of the club" and are "ready to defend these values". "A lot is said about my future but my future is more important in the value and spirit of what we have built in 20 years than my own person," added the 67-year-old Frenchman. In the opposite dugout, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has happy memories of Wembley as both a player and a manager with Barcelona. The Spaniard was a member of the Barca side who won the European Cup at the ground in 1992 and he was manager when the side beat Manchester United 3-1 in the Champions League final in 2011. Guardiola said: "Wembley in my life has been so important in terms of football. We were able to win the first Champions League when Ronald Koeman made a fantastic goal against the Sampdoria of Roberto Mancini. "The second one, we beat one of the best teams in the world in Manchester United at Wembley and, especially the way we played, always I will remember in my heart. "Wembley is an important part of my life. Going back there will always be special."

Summary: Arsene Wenger has challenged Arsenal's British players to take responsibility for the club's future.


The 335ft (100m) Victorian structure, which closed last year, is one of the UK's shortest piers. Bryan Huxford, who co-owns Humberside Airport, said he would soon reopen the pier as a traditional entertainment venue. The pier sold at auction in March but was put back on the market in May after the sale fell through. Mr Huxford, who bought the pier for an undisclosed fee, said the venue would be "safeguarded for future community ownership". "This has the potential to be very exciting and could create jobs, boost skills and give people across North East Lincolnshire a venue to really be proud of," he said. "But we're not getting ahead of ourselves at this stage because we know the pier will only truly survive and thrive with the support of local people." Crafts, conferences, weddings A public consultation is expected to start next week to gauge interest in the project and decide on the pier's future use. Mr Huxford said the pier would have a number of uses including tearooms, craft market, wedding receptions, conferences and a traditional dance and concert hall. A steering group of seven business people has been set up to manage the pier while it recruits members of the public to create a community organisation. Mr Huxford said the organisation would takeover the running of the pier "with the ultimate aim of buying the building." Cleethorpes Pier, which was built at a cost of Â£8,000 and opened in 1873, has been empty since it closed last year and was previously used as a nightclub.

Summary: Cleethorpes Pier has been bought by a local businessman who intends to turn it into a community-run venue.


The US firm has struggled with hefty losses that have thrown its Japanese parent into a crisis, putting the conglomerate's future at risk. Westinghouse has suffered huge cost overruns at two US projects in Georgia and South Carolina. Toshiba said the bankruptcy would not affect Westinghouse's UK operation, which employs more than 1,000 workers. However, the firm warned that the writedown of its US nuclear business could see Toshiba's total losses last year exceed 1 trillion yen ($9.1bn; £7.3bn), almost triple its previous estimate. The Japanese government confirmed on Wednesday that it was aware of Toshiba's plans. Toshiba President Satoshi Tsunakawa said the move was aimed at "shutting out risks from the overseas nuclear business." "We want to make this our first step toward recovering our solid business," he said. Toshiba initially alerted investors in December 2016 that it faced heavy losses linked to a deal done by Westinghouse. Assets that it took on are likely to be worth less than initially thought and there is also a dispute about payments that are due. As a consequence, Toshiba initially hoped to sell its majority stake in Westinghouse. The Japanese company was also twice given permission to delay reporting its earnings until 11 April. The nuclear services business brings in about one-third of the industrial giant's revenue. Toshiba says it expects a 712.5bn-yen ($6.3bn; £5bn) writedown because some of its US nuclear assets were worth far less than estimated. A Westinghouse bankruptcy filing should help limit future losses for Toshiba. The difficulties at Westinghouse have sent Toshiba shares into freefall, losing more than 50% since the company first unveiled the problems in December 2016. In February, the company's chairman stepped down and the firm delayed publishing its results over disagreements with its auditors. The financial problems have some analysts speculating over whether the Japanese conglomerate can even survive the crisis, as it will probably be forced to sell many of its premium segments, such as the lucrative memory chip unit. So while a Westinghouse bankruptcy might stop things from getting even worse for Toshiba, it is still not clear whether the struggling giant will manage to find its feet in time. The Japanese government is unlikely to allow Toshiba to collapse, given its large workforce and its importance to the nuclear industry, said Amir Anvarzadeh, an analyst at BGC Partners. But with its nuclear problems, "the question is whether the rest of the business will be big enough to service its debt," he said. Analysis: Theo Leggett, BBC business reporter Westinghouse is long established engineering company which constructed the United States' first commercial nuclear reactor in the 1950s. It still provides technology for nuclear power stations around the world. However, massive cost over-runs at power station projects in South Carolina and Georgia, as well as heavy losses linked to the takeover of another nuclear business in 2015, have brought it to the brink of collapse. The bankruptcy filing will allow the company to continue operating while it renegotiates contracts and holds talks with its creditors. Toshiba said that only Westinghouse's US operations would

Summary: Westinghouse, Toshiba's US nuclear unit, has filed for US bankruptcy protection.


The 34-year-old full-back spent last season with Napoli in Italy's Serie A, making 18 appearances before being released at the end of his contract. Reveillere, who began his career at French club Rennes, was a member of the France squad at both the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012. He could make his debut against Arsenal on Saturday.

Summary: Sunderland have signed former France international Anthony Reveillere on a deal until the end of the season.


The doctors' union said patient care was undermined when GPs were forced to see as many as 60 patients a day. It called for more funding to allow GPs to spend at least 15 minutes with each patient. NHS England said consultation lengths were up to doctors and there were no national limits suggesting 10 minutes. However, the NHS Choices website does state that "GPs spend an average of 8-10 minutes with each patient" and advises patients to "plan ahead to make sure you cover everything you want to discuss". The BMA, which published a report on "safe working in general practice" earlier this month, called for a reorganisation and warned that GPs faced "unsustainable pressure" from increasing workload and staff shortages. The report said it was intended to "stimulate discussion" and put forward a model that could be used across the UK. Dr Nicola Hulme, a GP in Cheshire, said she found NHS England's comment about there being no national limit on appointment times "insulting". "With the high levels of demand, we have to run 10-minute appointments," she said. "To offer longer with the same number of appointments would extend our day to beyond the 12 hours we currently routinely work. "I often run late so I can deal thoroughly with my patients' issues. "Paperwork gets started routinely after 7pm. I rarely get home before 8pm, having started generally at 7.30am. "Nobody goes into medicine for an easy ride, we are all hard workers, but the intensity and the demand are now at unsafe levels." Dr Ali Alibhai, who works in central London, said GPs now had to manage so many chronic diseases such as diabetes that a consultation as short as eight minutes was "not appropriate any more for safe patient care". Dr Brian Balmer, of the BMA's GPs' committee, said that, in an ageing population, many patients had complex multiple conditions that needed longer to treat. He warned that many GPs were being forced to truncate care and deliver an "unsafe number of consultations". He said consultations should be limited to 25 a day, about the same number recommended in many other EU countries. Dr Balmer added: "We need a new approach that shakes up the way patients get their care from their local GP practice. "The consultation time needs to increase to 15 minutes with the government providing on its promised funding to make this work." Health think tank the King's Fund said its analysis showed GPs were under "huge pressure due to an increase in workload which has not been matched by a growth in funding or the workforce". It also found the average length of consultations had increased due to the rising number of older patients with more complex conditions. King's Fund chief executive Chris Ham said general practice needed "new investment to stop it falling apart", but GPs must also embrace new methods such as giving more advice by phone and email. NHS England said the length of appointments was "at the discretion of individual GP practices, based on patient need, and there are no

Summary: Patients are being put at risk by GPs being forced to carry out complex consultations in 10 minutes or under, the British Medical Association says.


In the corner of a busy hospital ward, tucked behind a curtain for our arrival, lies Joshua Davies. His face is alert and he's talkative, but take a look down the bed and you can see both his feet and his left hand in casts. A month ago, Joshua fell from a bridge near his home in Pontypridd, fracturing his spine in four places. The reason for the fall? According to Joshua, it was to get away from bullies. He told Newsbeat: "I can remember speaking on the phone to the ambulance telling them 'I can't move my legs'. "They put me on a spinal board, and that's all I can remember from it." Joshua's family said police had been contacted 15 times about attacks on the teenager, who has Asperger's syndrome. South Wales Police said it had carried out "a thorough investigation" into assault complaints and had arrested and bailed three teenagers. The family claims the teenager has been bullied for the last five years, targeted because of his disability, which is a form of autism. "Josh has never really had an identity as such, he's a good lad, he's a pleaser, he would do anything for anyone," said his mother Cheryl Davies. "Because of the Asperger's Joshua struggles with social cues. "When people confront him, if they're nice to him, Joshua thinks they want to be his friend. Which isn't always the case." "He's slowly getting there, and it is giving him a few setbacks when he has those reality checks, although he's trying to stay positive." During his time in hospital, Joshua has had lots of visitors but said it's still hard to take his mind off what happened. "I've got family to come up and see me and friends, and I've got things to entertain me. "But when I am on my own I'm just thinking 'I am lucky to have survived and carry on with my life'." "I was going to be studying electrical engineering, but if I'm not able to stand up I'm going to have to find another course because I won't be able to use the machinery." Follow @BBCNewsbeat on Twitter and Radio1Newsbeat on YouTube

Summary: In his first interview, a teenager paralysed as he tried to escape bullies describes what happened to Newsbeat.


An ornate Roman coin, medieval silver pennies, a copper figurine, a thimble, window glass and a key were unearthed. Foundations were also discovered, showing the original structure of Auckland Castle in County Durham was "significantly larger" than thought. Curatorial director Dr Christopher Ferguson said he was "really excited to have uncovered such a major finding". It suggests the castle was not created as a manor house for the Prince Bishops of Durham, as previously thought, but that it had always been a large castle complex. A five-month excavation has been carried out ahead of a new museum extension in the castle's Scotland Wing, formerly used to hold Scottish prisoners of war. Durham University archaeological services manager Peter Carne said the work had "enabled an unprecedented amount" of research into the castle and its grounds. The new museum, due to open in 2019, will look at the history of faith in Britain.

Summary: Archaeologists working at a 900-year-old castle have found "rare and unexpected" artefacts.


Defending champion Spieth, 22, had a quadruple-bogey seven on the par-three 12th as Danny Willett became the first Englishman since Faldo in 1996 to win. The American had become the first man to lead the Masters for seven straight rounds going into the final day. "This will scar him. This will damage him for a while," said Faldo, who also won three Open Championships. "We're all in shock with what happened to Jordan," added Faldo, who won his third and final Green Jacket in similar circumstances to Willett when Greg Norman blew a six-shot lead in 1996. "In '96 you got the sense that Greg was struggling, but it was bit by bit. What happened to Jordan was so sudden, just bam. It was 10 minutes of golf. That's the harshness of it." Spieth, who had carded four successive birdies to open a five-shot lead with nine holes to play, has said he hopes he "never again experiences" a similar collapse of form.

Summary: Jordan Spieth will be "scarred" by his capitulation at the Masters on Sunday, says three-time winner Sir Nick Faldo.


Homs Governor Talal Barrazi said the evacuation of al-Wair was part of an existing deal with community leaders and would take six to eight weeks. Opposition activists said the rebels would be allowed to depart with their families for rebel-held northern Syria. Al-Wair, home to an estimated 75,000 people, has been under siege by government forces since late 2013. Homs was dubbed the "capital of the revolution" after residents embraced the call to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad in 2011 and drove security forces out of much of the city the following year. That prompted the government to begin a brutal two-year siege that left whole areas destroyed and eventually forced rebels to withdraw from the Old City in 2014. Al-Wair, on the western outskirts, is the last rebel-held district. In December 2015, community leaders agreed a five-stage truce with the government. The first phase led to 300 rebels leaving and the government allowing in a limited amount of food and humanitarian aid. But the deal subsequently stalled. The second phase did not take place until September, when several hundred more rebels were evacuated and the government freed 200 imprisoned al-Wair residents. The next two phases will see about 10,000 to 15,000 people leaving in several groups over the coming weeks, opposition activists from the Homs Media Centre told Reuters news agency. The pro-opposition Orient News website reported that the rebels planned to head to Jarablus, a town near the border with Turkey that was captured from so-called Islamic State last August. In a separate development on Monday, several rebel factions said they were not yet ready to send a delegation to attend talks with the government that are scheduled to begin in Kazakhstan on Tuesday. Ahmed Othman of the Sultan Murad brigade told Reuters that one of the reasons for the boycott was unfulfilled promises relating to a cessation of hostilities agreement brokered by Russia and Turkey at the end of December. Mr Othman complained that Russia, an ally of President Bashar al-Assad, had failed to halt the government's bombardment of rebel-held areas.

Summary: Syrian rebel fighters have agreed to leave their last enclave in the city of Homs, government officials say.


The vigilantes were celebrating a successful operation with the military against the Islamist militants. An improvised explosive device (IED) went off killing and injuring people gathered around the celebrations. Despite losing territory this year, Boko Haram still controls a few areas. The BBC's Nigeria correspondent Will Ross says although it seems to have been an accident, this tragedy highlights the danger that remains even after the jihadists have been flushed out of an area. African news updates "The vigilante group together with the military decided to go to villages in Marte local government [area] where there is preponderance of Boko Haram elements," MP Tahir Monguno told the BBC Hausa service. "In the course of the operation they killed some Boko Haram insurgents and they confiscated their weapons," he said. But one of the vigilantes failed to disclose one of the IEDs picked up during the two-day mission and took it back to Monguno, about 135km (83 miles) north-east of the Borno state capital, Maiduguri. "Because of the successes they recorded there was celebration galore," the MP said, with many people joining in. Ten people were killed instantaneously when the device exploded on Tuesday evening and another 13 people died by the time the injured were taken to Maiduguri, he said. "Fifteen of them are [still] in the intensive care unit of the hospital," Mr Monguno said. Will new military HQ defeat Boko Haram? Why Boko Haram remains a threat A military source told the BBC that 12 people transported to Maiduguri had died but was unable to confirm the number of those who died in Monguno. Earlier, a witness told the Associated Press news agency that the device was found at an abandoned Boko Haram camp. According to Amnesty International, at least 17,000 people, mostly civilians, have been killed since the group launched their violent uprising to impose Islamic rule in 2009. The group is still holding many women, girls and children captive, including 219 schoolgirls it kidnapped from a school in Chibok in April last year. With the help of Niger and Chad, Nigeria's military has been able to recapture most towns and villages taken by the group. Despite losing territory, the militants are still active in the north-east and Chad blames Boko Haram for two suicide attacks in its capital, N'Djamena on Monday.

Summary: At least 23 people have been killed in the north-eastern Nigerian town of Monguno after a Boko Haram bomb confiscated by vigilantes exploded, an MP and army source have told the BBC.


The Save Oxfordshire Children's Centres Campaign "baby blockade" is against Oxfordshire County Council plans to cut the number of centres to save Â£8m. Organiser Jill Huish said more than 500 people were "definitely seen and heard" when they took part in the march through Oxford on Saturday. David Cameron had been invited to join the protest after saying he was "disappointed" by the cuts. The council has said it will continue to support the most vulnerable families in Oxfordshire. Under the proposals, the authority would replace 44 existing centres with eight "children and family centres" located in the neediest areas of Oxfordshire. The PM wrote to council leader Ian Hudspeth last month calling it "counter-productive" and urging the authority to "move cautiously in setting out its budget plans". In his response, Mr Hudspeth said the council's grants from government had fallen and that it had already made back-office savings. Ahead of the protest, Jill Huish, on behalf of the campaign group, wrote an open letter to Mr Cameron saying: "We welcome your efforts to help protect these services, however perhaps like us you are rapidly losing confidence in government." "Please join us in the streets," her letter urged. "Cameron can't plead not guilty. Let's be clear, he is not just a local constituency MP, he is the prime minister. "It's just not good enough.... we cannot keep mum and watch the 44 children's centres in Oxfordshire be closed down," she said. When asked to comment on the open letter, a government spokesperson said: "There is still significant scope for sensible savings across local government to be made by back-office consolidation, disposing of surplus property and joining up our local public services. "The government continues to work with councils to help deliver these savings and protect frontline services."

Summary: A protest has taken place opposing cuts to children's centres in Oxfordshire.


More than 3,600 firefighters are battling the King fire, 60 miles (97km) east of Sacramento. The blaze has consumed wide swathes of timber in Eldorado National Forest and is only 5% contained. "It's been an explosive couple of days," CalFire spokesman Daniel Berlant told the Associated Press news agency. Widespread drought in the state has fuelled an active wildfire season. As of early this week, California firefighters have battled more than 4,800 wildfires this year and were currently fighting 11 major fires, according to a local broadcaster. Many of the people ordered to evacuate their homes were in Pollock Pines, 60 miles east of Sacramento. Crews have been battling the fire for five days, but most of the losses have not been residences. "We have had significant losses of public timber land, private timber land and watershed," Laurence Crabtree, a US Forest Service supervisor told the Sacramento Bee. Further north, a blaze destroyed parts of the town of Weed, burning 110 homes and damaging 90. High winds drove the fire quickly across town after it began on Monday. Two churches, a community centre and a library also burned to the ground. Four firefighters lost their homes. The Reverend Bill Hofer, pastor of Weed Berean Church, told the AP he was planning to return on Wednesday night - despite an evacuation order - to deter vandalism. "The more people home with the lights on, the better," he said.

Summary: A central California wildfire threatening thousands of homes doubled in size overnight to 111 square miles (288 sq-km), authorities have said.


Born Eric Lubbock, he became Liberal MP for Orpington in 1962 when he won a by-election with a huge 22% swing from the Conservatives. He held the seat for eight years, moving to the Lords in 1971 when he inherited the title of Baron Avebury. Lib Dem leader Tim Farron paid tribute to a "true Liberal", "great campaigner" and "committed internationalist". Lord Avebury: Obituary Mr Farron said the peer, who had been suffering from leukaemia, would "be remembered as much for his unyielding commitment to fighting for Liberal causes as his sensational by-election victory". "He campaigned to lower the voting age, founded the parliamentary human rights group and fought for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, taking up the cases of hundreds of individuals fleeing persecution. "He was a committed internationalist, regularly promoting human rights around the world. The Liberal Democrats have lost a great campaigner, a great friend and a true champion of the Liberal cause." A Buddhist, Lord Avebury was the patron of Angulimala, which promotes the teaching and practice of Buddhism in British prisons. He also campaigned on behalf of secular causes, fighting to remove mandatory daily worship in maintained schools. In 2009, the National Secular Society named the peer secularist of the year, jointly with Evan Harris, for his work on abolition of blasphemy laws in England and Wales. His biography on the Lib Dem website says he also "sought and won" a battle with the senior parliamentary official known as Black Rod to keep the right to park bicycles against the front of the Houses of Parliament. Keith Porteous Wood, executive director of the National Secular Society, said Lord Avebury had supported countless human rights campaigns. "His knowledge of foreign affairs, particularly of remote parts of the developing world, was second to none. The weak and oppressed in these places have lost a true champion. "I have lost a very close friend. The nation has lost a human rights champion."

Summary: The longest-serving Lib Dem peer and veteran human rights campaigner, Lord Avebury, has died at the age of 87.


Lyth hit two sixes and 13 fours in his 116 not out and shared a third-wicket stand of 150 with skipper Andrew Gale. Gale's 61 was his highest score of the season, but he fell to Tom Curran as his side closed on 207-3, 60 behind. Earlier on day three, Sam Curran (59*) and Steven Davies (56) helped Surrey add 103 to their overnight 164-5. With the best part of four sessions lost to rain on the first two days, a draw is now the most likely result, but having begun the game in fifth place, Yorkshire will have set their sights on reaching 400 to ensure they leave the Oval with maximum bonus points. After Davies and the younger Curran added 75 for the seventh wicket, Surrey lost their last four for 28 in the space of 10 overs. Alex Lees departed in the eighth over of Yorkshire's innings and Jack Leaning followed for a duck when he chopped Stuart Meaker's first delivery into his stumps. Lyth, though, was unperturbed as he progressed to three figures off 159 balls and partner Gale, who started the match averaging only 17.93, grew in confidence to reach his first half-century of the summer before he was caught behind. Surrey all-rounder Sam Curran told BBC Radio London: "It was nice to finally get back into the side after school and stuff, to get some time in the middle. "They showed they are one of the top teams in the division and I had a good battle with Adil Rashid, a good spinner, he really made me work on my feet. "It's been frustrating. Both teams wanted four days (of play) because we're both looking for wins. "Tomorrow we're going to have to come in quite hard with the ball, see how many wickets we can take in the first session and see where we can take it from there."

Summary: Yorkshire opener Adam Lyth made his third century of the season as the defending champions replied solidly to Surrey's 267 all out at the Oval.


Chelmsford Prison told residents there had recently been "numerous incidents" of packages being hurled over the wall. One former inmate said the jail was "notorious" for being "flooded" with mobile phones and synthetic cannabis. The Ministry of Justice said staff worked "extremely hard" to stop contraband from getting into prisons. "However more must be done, which is why the Justice Secretary has asked us to look at how we can ensure prisons have the tools in place to tackle this kind of problem," the spokeswoman added. Follow updates on this story and other news from Essex A woman who lives near the prison, who did not want to be named, said she had witnessed packages being thrown over the wall "four times in two weeks." "It's getting quite bad at the minute. The prison wants us to come to an evening to talk about what to do if anything does get thrown over," she said. "I don't feel frightened, but obviously it's not nice - I always lock the doors and everything." The former inmate claimed drones were used to fly contraband goods "straight up to prison windows", but the Ministry of Justice said there was no evidence of drones coming into the Chelmsford site. The spokeswoman said laws had been introduced which mean people who smuggle packages over prison walls could be jailed for up to two years.

Summary: A prison has written to people who live nearby asking them to help stop packets of "illicit articles" being thrown over the jail walls.


Janet Jordon, 48, her daughter Derrin, aged six, and her partner Philip Howard, 44, were found in a house in Vicarage Road, Didcot, on 23 May. The body of murder suspect, Janet's son 21-year-old Jed Allen, was found two days later in woodland near Marston Ferry Road, Oxford. The private funeral is being held at Oxford Crematorium. The families of the murder victims described their deaths as an "unimaginable" tragedy. Post-mortem examinations confirmed all three died from multiple stab wounds.

Summary: A funeral is being held for a family who were found stabbed at their home in Didcot, Oxfordshire.


President Xi Jinping said China's "territorial sovereignty and marine rights" in the seas would not be affected by the ruling "in any way". But he insisted China was still "committed to resolving disputes" with its neighbours. The Philippines brought the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The tribunal, based in the Hague, ruled that there was no evidence that China had historic rights to the waters or resources that fell within its "nine-dash line", and was violating the Philippine's sovereign rights with its operations there. The ruling was made by an arbitration tribunal under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which both countries have signed. It is binding but the Permanent Court of Arbitration has no powers of enforcement. The Philippines has had diplomatic spats with China over the Scarborough Shoal and Spratlys in particular. It says China's "nine-dash line", which China uses to demarcate its territorial claims, is unlawful under the UNCLOS convention. Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei also have competing claims in the region. Although these islands are largely uninhabited, they may have reserves of natural resources around them. There has been little detailed exploration of the area, so estimates are largely extrapolated from the mineral wealth of neighbouring areas. The sea is also a major shipping route and home to fishing grounds that supply the livelihoods of people across the region. Chinese media were quick to take the official line that Beijing would not recognise the ruling. China's state news agency Xinhua said that "as the panel has no jurisdiction, its decision is naturally null and void". The Philippine government welcomed the ruling as a "milestone decision", but there was little outright celebration. The BBC's Jonah Fisher in Manila says this may be due to a recent change of government - many Filipinos believe newly-elected President Rodrigo Duterte may have sought promises of Chinese investment, in return for a quiet, dignified response. There was more delight among Philippine social media users, who dubbed the ruling #CHexit. Both the US and Japan urged both sides to abide by the ruling. The US called it an "important contribution to the shared goal of a peaceful resolution to disputes in the South China Sea". But Taiwan rejected the tribunal's findings on an area it administers, saying the ruling had "seriously damaged" its rights and would "definitely not accept this ruling". The US sent an aircraft carrier and fighter jets to the region ahead of the decision, while the Chinese navy has been carrying out exercises near the disputed Paracel islands. This result represents a major loss of face for China, and yet the first response from Beijing to the UN tribunal's demolition of its claims seems be rather conciliatory. On the one hand, the Chinese government has re-stated that it has territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the area and that the activities of its people there date back to over 2,000 years ago. However, it then goes on to talk about "consultation with the states directly concerned" and proposes "joint development in relevant maritime areas".

Summary: China has firmly rejected an international tribunal ruling that its claims to rights in the South China Sea have no legal basis.


Sredojevic, who on Sunday lead the Cranes to their first Africa Cup of Nations finals since 1978, complained on social media about not being paid. Fufa admits it owes the coach and says paying him is a priority. The association added it is meeting with the coach to resolve the issues. Fufa also explained that much of its recent income had been used to ensure the "the success of the team" in their final must-win Nations Cup qualifier against Comoros. The statement continued: "Fufa is committed to ensuring all his salary arrears are cleared and we are confident this will be handled." The coach has also said that he is prepared to take the matter to football's world governing body Fifa if necessary.

Summary: The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (Fufa) has said that it is working on clearing the salary arrears owed to the national team coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic.


Helder Costa marked his first start with the opener, and set up Jed Wallace for Wolves' second seven minutes later. Medy Elito replied for League Two's bottom side, who also had chances through Luke Berry and Ben Williamson. James Henry had a penalty saved by Cambridge goalkeeper Will Norris just before the hour. Match ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Cambridge United 1. Second Half ends, Wolverhampton Wanderers 2, Cambridge United 1. Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Jake Gosling. Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Will Norris. Attempt saved. Jón Dadi Bödvarsson (Wolverhampton Wanderers) left footed shot from the left side of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by James Henry. Foul by Dominic Iorfa (Wolverhampton Wanderers). Josh Coulson (Cambridge United) wins a free kick in the attacking half. Attempt blocked. George Saville (Wolverhampton Wanderers) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Assisted by David Edwards. Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Blair Adams. Attempt blocked. James Henry (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Attempt saved. Jed Wallace (Wolverhampton Wanderers) left footed shot from the centre of the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by James Henry with a through ball. Attempt saved. Jón Dadi Bödvarsson (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by George Saville. Attempt blocked. Joe Pigott (Cambridge United) left footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Piero Mingoia with a cross. Attempt missed. Leon Legge (Cambridge United) header from the centre of the box misses to the left. Assisted by Jake Gosling with a cross following a corner. Corner, Cambridge United. Conceded by Dominic Iorfa. Corner, Cambridge United. Conceded by Matt Doherty. Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Josh Coulson. Offside, Cambridge United. Jake Gosling tries a through ball, but Ben Williamson is caught offside. Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Josh Coulson. Kortney Hause (Wolverhampton Wanderers) wins a free kick on the left wing. Foul by Ben Williamson (Cambridge United). Jed Wallace (Wolverhampton Wanderers) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Foul by Blair Adams (Cambridge United). Substitution, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Jón Dadi Bödvarsson replaces Hélder Costa. Substitution, Cambridge United. Jake Gosling replaces Max Clark. Attempt missed. James Henry (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Jed Wallace with a cross following a corner. Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by Will Norris. Attempt saved. Jed Wallace (Wolverhampton Wanderers) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Assisted by David Edwards. Attempt missed. Leon Legge (Cambridge United) header from the left side of the six yard box misses to the right. Assisted by Max Clark with a cross following a corner. Corner, Cambridge United. Conceded by Kortney Hause. Substitution, Cambridge United. Joe Pigott replaces Medy Elito. Attempt missed. Kortney Hause (Wolverhampton Wanderers) header from the centre of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Jack Price with a cross following a corner. Corner, Wolverhampton Wanderers. Conceded by

Summary: Wolves extended their unbeaten run under new manager Walter Zenga to six games with victory over Cambridge in the second round of the EFL Cup.


The 23-year-old batsman has set himself two goals; scoring 1,000 first-class runs for the first time in his career and breaking into the county's one-day team. Wells came close to his first target last season, when he scored 982 Championship runs at an average of 37.76, but he is eager to keep improving. "I expect a lot from myself because I believe I am a good enough player to deliver bigger and better results," he told BBC Sport. "Although I have done reasonably well over the last three years I don't feel I have done as well as I could have or should have done. Statistics correct at 31 May "I feel my average isn't as high as it should be and that I should have hit 1,000 runs by now. "You'd rather be expecting more than be satisfied with average results. Moving forward you always have to have the will to improve and exceed expectations. "I don't put pressure on myself. I just see it as a challenge." The left-hander believes he should have reached the 1,000-run milestone in 2013. "If I didn't give away a couple of innings I would have got there," he said. "I spent my winter in Sydney and definitely improved. I feel I've opened up a few areas through the offside I may not have had previously and am targeting about 1,100 or 1,200 runs. "The only difference is when you are in and on 40, that you give it away. If you convert those into slightly higher scores, when then there is no reason why you should get out, then I will be at 1,200 runs. "I feel I am a better player now and I have the mental concentration and the defensive technique to do it." Ahead of the current match against Nottinghamshire at Hove, Wells had scored 221 runs in his five Championship appearances this season - with his high score of 79 not out coming against Somerset in April. He admits he is "a fair way" off his target but is keen to contribute to Sussex's title challenge, with the Hove side currently fifth in the Division One table. I am targeting about 1,100 or 1,200 runs. I feel I am a better player now and I have the mental concentration and the defensive technique to do it "I feel in really good nick at the moment and that there's a big three-figure score just around the corner," he said. "I know if I keep doing the same things and backing myself I'll score a good amount of runs. "It may sound cliched but if I get a thousand runs and we win the title then brilliant. If I get 900 and we win the title I'll take that. As long as the runs I'm scoring are contributing to winning efforts that is most important. "We have got a strong squad and one hallmark of this season so far is competition for batting spaces. Everyone is under pressure as you know you need to get your runs. "That is the way it

Summary: Luke Wells has established himself in Sussex's County Championship side but is hungry for more.


That report was never written, but the murdered opposition politician's colleagues, led by his close associate Ilya Yashin, have since worked to finish it. Most of the Russian-language report, entitled Putin. War, is based on facts that have already appeared in Russian and foreign media since Crimea was annexed in March 2014 and conflict broke out in eastern Ukraine. But its authors say putting the facts together and describing the human and economic cost of the conflict makes a very compelling case for accusing President Vladimir Putin of waging war in Ukraine for his own ends. Russia has consistently denied accusations that it has sent regular troops and armour to help rebels in eastern Ukraine, arguing that any Russians serving there are "volunteers". But Mr Yashin, who presented the report, said Russian soldiers and equipment were decisive to securing all major victories claimed by the pro-Russian rebels in Donetsk and Luhansk. "All the separatists' key successes were secured by Russian army units," he said. "The soldiers directly admit they were directed on to Ukraine territory, admit that they were brought there to take part in a war operation. There is no doubt they did not end up there by accident." The dossier presents evidence of volunteer soldiers who admit that it was Russian generals, not separatists, who directed the main battles in eastern Ukraine. A Russian army veteran, described as helping to enlist volunteers, says they are not doing it for nothing: salaries can reach $2,000-3,000 (Â£1,250-1,900) a month. Russian spending on the conflict is calculated at 53bn roubles (Â£665m; $1bn): Boris Nemtsov began work on the report early this year, after hearing that the relatives of dead Russian soldiers had not been given promised compensation. But those relatives never went public and, after his assassination, have become even more scared. Names and numbers of military units are documented, along with photos of weaponry, although activists point out these are harder to verify without knowing where they were taken. How many Russians are fighting in Ukraine? BBC team attacked while investigating soldiers' deaths Russian families look for soldier sons Mr Yashin said the opposition would seek donations to extend the initial print run of only 2,000 copies. But publishing and distributing this kind of dossier is hard work. Many publishers were afraid to work with this material, he said. And above all, the question remains: How many people are keen to learn the facts which for months have been available on the internet and the few liberal media that remain in Russia? There are plenty of Russians aware of their country's involvement in eastern Ukraine, who nevertheless find it acceptable, because they believe Moscow is supporting those who wish to be independent of the government in Kiev. But the opposition does not see it as support. It accuses President Putin of masterminding and directing the war to boost his failing popularity. In this, they admit he was successful. And it is entirely possible their report may well see the same fate as earlier works published by the late Boris Nemtsov. Critics of

Summary: When Boris Nemtsov was shot dead on a bridge a short distance from the Kremlin, it soon emerged that he had been preparing a report aiming to expose Russia's military involvement in eastern Ukraine.


He was responding to reports Beijing has deployed surface-to-air missiles on a disputed island in the region. China dismissed the reports as "hype", but said it had the right under international law to defend itself. Several nations claim territory in the resource-rich South China Sea, which is also an important shipping route. A spokesman for Mr Kerry said satellite images appeared to confirm China had deployed anti-aircraft missiles on Woody or Yongxing Island in the Paracels. The island is claimed by China, Taiwan and Vietnam and the presence of missiles would significantly increase tensions. Mr Kerry said the US expected to have a "very serious conversation" with China over its presence. "There is every evidence, every day, that there has been an increase of militarisation from one kind or another. It's a serious concern," he said. The latest images of Woody Island were captured by ImageSat International. A picture dated 3 February shows a beach on the island empty. By 14 February it contains several missile launchers and support vehicles. But the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, said reports were a Western media invention. He defended "the limited and necessary self-defence facilities" on islands inhabited by Chinese personnel as "consistent with the right for self-preservation and self-protection.... under the international law". China has been carrying out extensive land reclamation work in the region, which it says is legal and for civilian purposes. But the work has angered other countries which also claim the territory, and there is growing concern about the implications of the area becoming militarised. The South China Sea dispute has been a topic of debate at a meeting of South East Asian regional leaders in California. US President Barack Obama said the members had discussed the need for "tangible steps" to reduce tensions. Rival countries have wrangled over territory in the South China Sea for centuries, but tension has steadily increased in recent years. Its islets and waters are claimed in part or in whole by Taiwan, China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei. China has backed its expansive claims with island-building and naval patrols, while the US says it opposes restrictions on freedom of navigation and unlawful sovereignty claims - by all sides, but seen by many as aimed at China. The frictions have sparked concern that the area is becoming a flashpoint with global consequences.

Summary: US Secretary of State John Kerry says Washington is seriously concerned about increased Chinese militarisation in the contested South China Sea.


Northumbria Police said the pair were arrested on suspicion of possessing indecent images. A spokesman said investigations were ongoing to "ensure the safeguarding of those involved" and to check that there was no ongoing risk of exploitation. Both boys have been bailed pending further inquiries. Supt Sarah Pitt said the force was working with schools across South Tyneside to make children "aware of the risks around sharing images of themselves and others via text and social network sites". She said: "The internet is an essential tool and social networking sites are a popular way for children to communicate with their friends, but we need to make sure they stay safe online and know how to use it responsibly. "It's very important that we make sure young people stay safe online and are aware of the risks and what they can do to avoid them. "Anyone who may have concerns about images they have shared or received should speak with a trusted adult or the police straight away."

Summary: Two schoolboys aged 12 and 13 have been arrested after concerns were raised about children sharing inappropriate images on social media.


Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) visited the Stranraer site in November last year and again in January. Despite an action plan being put in place, they said they failed to find "significant improvements". NHS Dumfries and Galloway has apologised for being "unable to demonstrate best standards of care". The inspections were carried out as part of a programme to check on standards of care for older people requiring acute treatment in Scotland. Jacqui Macrae, head of quality of care with HIS, said inspectors had identified issues where patient documentation had not been completed or had not been completed correctly. "Therefore, we were not assured that the care being given was appropriate," she added. "We were also concerned about leadership and management, and found a lack of willingness from medical staff to ensure that patients had the capacity to consent to treatment." She said they had asked NHS Dumfries and Galloway to conduct an internal review of all patients in one of the hospital's wards. "We also asked NHS Dumfries and Galloway to produce an action plan, detailing how immediate improvements would be made to address to issues identified," she said. However, a return visit failed to identify the improvements hoped for. "As such, we escalated our concerns to senior management within NHS Dumfries and Galloway," said Ms Macrae. "We also escalated our concerns to the Scottish government. "This inspection resulted in 26 areas for improvement which NHS Dumfries and Galloway must address as a matter of priority." NHS Dumfries and Galloway's Chief Executive Jeff Ace apologised for the situation. "Whilst it is reassuring that the inspectors witnessed compassionate and skilled interactions between staff and patients, it is clear that we have much work to do to improve the consistency of record keeping, care planning and delivery of best care practice to patients with degrees of confusion or dementia," he said. "NHS Dumfries and Galloway has accepted all the recommendations contained within the report. "Of these recommendations 15 were prioritised and had actions taken immediately with the remainder aiming for completion before the end of March 2015. "We have taken this report extremely seriously and are committed to continuing to work both with local staff and with Scottish government advisors to ensure that we can demonstrate rapid and sustained improvement." Dumfries and Galloway MP Russell Brown said the report was "utterly damning". "I think what is so frustrating is the fact that even when the inspectorate carried out a follow up visit a couple of months later there didn't appear to be any significant improvement," he said. "I am pleased the NHS have apologised and immediately accepted the findings. "But what patients and their families want to see is action and improvements." The full report is available online.

Summary: An apology has been issued after health inspectors raised concerns about patient care for older people at the Galloway Community Hospital.