The claim: Prime Minister Theresa May says there is no turning back from the triggering of Article 50, which starts the process of leaving the EU. Reality Check verdict: The government is clear that it respects the result of the referendum, so it argues that any debate is theoretical. However, the question of whether Article 50 is irrevocable is the subject of legal dispute. As a result, the UK government has been unable to make any definitive legal statements on the issue. The Justice Secretary, Liz Truss, has said "My understanding is that it is irrevocable," while the Brexit Secretary, David Davis, said in December 2016: "Is it irrevocable? I don't know." In the recent UK Supreme Court case on Article 50, both sides assumed that it was irrevocable and the court judgement concluded: "We are content to proceed on the basis that that is correct, without expressing any view of our own." So this is not an issue that has been formally tested in a UK court. But European Council President Donald Tusk has said that he believes Article 50 can be reversed. When asked if the UK could unilaterally withdraw its Article 50 notification during the next two years, he said, "Formally, legally, yes." Lord Kerr - the former British ambassador to the EU, who helped draft Article 50 - agreed. "You can change your mind while the process is going on," he said. He acknowledged that this might annoy the rest of the EU, and be seen as a huge waste of time. "They might try to extract a political price," Lord Kerr said, "but legally they couldn't insist that you leave." The distinction between political and legal opinion on this issue is critical. The politics might become way too complicated if the UK tried to change its mind. But who might have the final legal say on what could yet become a critical question? Article 50 is a piece of European law, so the ultimate arbiter on this issue is the European Court of Justice. There is an ongoing case in Dublin at the moment that is seeking to refer the question of irrevocability to the European Court to get a definitive answer. One other point is worth bearing in mind: everyone is talking about a two-year period for negotiating under Article 50, at the end of which the UK would leave the EU. But Article 50 does provide for that two-year period to be extended, if all 28 EU countries, including the UK, agreed. No-one is advocating that, but it remains a legal possibility. The argument that Article 50 cannot be reversed once it has been triggered has not been tested in court. The rest of the EU has said it does not want the UK to leave, but - politically speaking - it would be very difficult to revoke notification of Article 50, and the current UK government says it has no intention of doing so. Read more from Reality Check

Summary: Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty was written with a deliberate lack of clarity - it does not say whether it can be revoked once it has been triggered.


BBC Radio Norfolk's Nick Conrad made the comments during a phone-in about the ex-Sheffield United footballer. The comments provoked 46 complaints and the BBC and the presenter apologised. Watchdog Ofcom said his comments "were offensive" and "not justified by the context of the show" but the BBC had taken steps to limit the offence. Evans, a Welsh international, was jailed in April 2012 for raping a 19-year-old woman at a North Wales hotel. Speaking on his mid-morning programme last November, Conrad said he thought women "need to be more aware of a man's sexual desire" and "it's very difficult for many men to say no when they are whipped up into a bit of a storm". "If you don't wish to give out the wrong signals it's best probably to keep your knickers on and not get into bed with him," he said. Ofcom investigated the comments that "victims of rape could be 'partially responsible' for the crime committed against them", in relation to news about convicted rapist Ched Evans. "Having carefully reviewed all the material, Ofcom found Conrad's comments were offensive and weren't justified by the context of the show," a spokesman said. He said the BBC "took steps to limit offence" in the programme by including a "significant" live contribution from a representative of the End Violence Against Women Coalition. Conrad apologised later making it clear "women and victims were in no way to blame". After Ofcom announced its decision, a BBC spokesman said: "We note the findings." At the time, a spokesman described Conrad's comments as "very ill-judged". Evans was released last year after serving half of his sentence. He apologised "for the effects" of his actions in 2011 shortly after Oldham Athletic withdrew their offer to sign him as a player in January. The club decided against the deal following threats made to sponsors, staff and fans. Evans continues to maintain his innocence over his rape conviction.

Summary: A BBC presenter who said women should "keep their knickers on" during a live debate about convicted rapist Ched Evans will face no action by Ofcom.


Oliseh, 41, had been in the job for only eight months. Nigeria have installed Samson Siasia to oversee next month's crucial 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Group G leaders Egypt. "Your contractual violations and the interest of the nation necessitates that I tender my resignation," he wrote to the Nigeria Football Federation. "So little help is being rendered me in getting the players to give their best and very vital conditions and advantages to the team play are also being sacrificed... my several e-mails and others seeking your aid to effectively carry out my duties were ignored." The NFF technical director Shaibu Amodu, who has managed the national team on four occasions, is widely expected to take charge of the team on a temporary basis. Former Nigeria captain Oliseh endured a turbulent reign as Nigeria boss after succeeding Stephen Keshi in July 2015. Some high-profile players have retired, including goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama - Nigeria's most-capped player, who quit after he was replaced as captain. Two weeks later striker Emmanuel Emenike also announced his retirement from international football. In early February, a frustrated Oliseh posted an eight-minute video rant on his own website to hit back at what he called the "insanity" of his critics. He had come under pressure after Nigeria failed to get past the group stages of the 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Rwanda. The coach later apologised to the NFF for his outburst aimed at the Nigerian media as well as some of his former international team-mates. Oliseh had also gone public with the money problems affecting his team during the continental tournament in Rwanda, to the embarrassment of his employers. Nigeria face seven-time African champions Egypt in back-to-back 2017 Nations Cup qualifiers next month. They are two points behind group leaders Egypt after two rounds of matches with only group winners guaranteed automatic qualification to the tournament in Gabon.

Summary: Sunday Oliseh has resigned as coach of Nigeria citing contract violations, unpaid wages and lack of support.


The road bridge over the River Wharfe at Tadcaster, near York, partially collapsed in December. Currently the river can only be crossed using a temporary footbridge. North Yorkshire County Council said "persistent and unusually high river levels" had delayed the work, which had been expected to finish by next month. In a statement, the authority said: "The County Council has learned in the last few days that the primary cause is damming of the river by Network Rail five miles downstream at Ulleskelf for work on a railway bridge. "Although the Environment Agency issued a permit for this work to be carried out, North Yorkshire was not notified about the operation." Councillor Chris Metcalfe said: "We are extremely frustrated by this development." Network Rail said it had "agreed the terms of our work with the Environment Agency prior to accessing the river" and was first made aware of the issue on Wednesday. "After speaking with the Environment Agency today, we have agreed to remove our worksite from the river to allow water levels to drop and essential work to take place at Tadcaster." The Environment Agency said: "We regulate work in rivers to ensure that any works carried out do not increase flood risk. When we issue a permit we take into account flood modelling data and determine if consent can be granted under Environmental Permitting Regulations. Our decision does not take into account whether one project is more or less important than another, whether they are related to rail infrastructure, road infrastructure, or other purposes." The government pledged £3m for repair work within days of the bridge collapse, and £1.4m was given by the region's Local Enterprise Partnership to widen and strengthen the bridge.

Summary: The completion of repair work to a Grade II listed bridge damaged by winter flooding last year has been delayed until January.


Earlier this year, Stacy Nichols' small electrical business on Queensland's Gold Coast employed six people. By the time the Australian government announced on 22 October its intention to reduce its support for renewable energy, she was down to just two staff. "I have a van set up for solar work sitting on the street, with no solar work or staff due to [Prime Minister] Tony Abbott," Ms Nichols says. The many companies, such as Ms Nichols' firm, that are involved in the burgeoning renewables industry - mostly wind and solar power operators - were devastated by the government's announcement that it would cut its target of generating 41,000 gigawatt hours (GWh) a year of renewable energy by 2020 to 27,000 GWh a year. The government says the cut in the Renewable Energy Target (RET) takes account of a decline in overall demand for electricity that has been sparked, in part, by higher power prices. It also says the lower target will provide certainty to the renewables sector. The decision is not as drastic as it could have been. A government-commissioned review by businessman and climate change sceptic Dick Warburton had proposed, as one option, scrapping the RET altogether. However, the new target still has to make its way through parliament either with the support of the Labor opposition or of a number of independent senators in the Upper House - neither of which is a sure thing. Until that is settled, businesses such as Ms Nichols' are facing an uncertain future. "We were growing," the mother of two young children said of their family business. "We were looking to put on more people and get another van." Her company, Infinite Lighting & Electrical, decided to specialise in solar electricity work just two years ago as the industry encouraged its members to pursue solar power in a political climate where the sector was supported by an RET entrenched in legislation by the previous Labor government. Ms Nichols invested heavily in training and certification for her staff. But months ago, when it became clear the government would cut or dump the target RET, business began to dry up, she says. It is not only small operators who have been hurt. One of Australia's largest wind turbine tower producers, Keppel Prince Engineering in Victoria, announced last Thursday it had sacked 100 workers because of the government's RET decision. A number of large-scale renewable energy producers had already been affected by the conservative government's lack of commitment to renewable energy, says the sector's peak body, the Clean Energy Council. In July, clean energy solutions provider Pacific Hydro cut its staff by 10%; Hydro Tasmania has said the government's scrapping of the carbon tax would significantly cut into profits, and US company, Recurrent Energy, has reportedly closed its Australian office. The Clean Energy Council says a cut in the RET will kill much of Australia's renewable energy industry, which employs about 21,000 people nationwide. "A substantial reduction of [the] target to around 27,000 GWhâ€¦ would equate to a 64% reduction in future investment and effectively devastate the

Summary: The Australian government has never hidden its scepticism about climate change or renewable energy but its decision last week to cut support for cleaner energy sources still left the renewable energy industry reeling.


Media playback is not supported on this device The 32-year-old Ivory Coast midfielder becomes only the third player, after Nigerians Nwankwo Kanu and Jay-Jay Okocha, to receive the honour twice. Football fans voted for Manchester City's Toure, who first won in 2013, ahead of Yacine Brahimi, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Andre Ayew and Sadio Mane. "I am very proud. To receive this dedication from the fans is unbelievable," Toure told BBC Sport. "Also I want to pay tribute to the other nominees. African football is growing up, becoming much better and we have fantastic young players coming through now." Toure described all five nominees as "champions". He added: "I am delighted and very happy. And as an African player, I want to lead all my younger brothers to be successful in the future. "When I was a kid I was always dreaming of being an important player. I have sacrificed a lot. "I will continue to try to win a trophy every year, I will fight to win a personal trophy." Two of the beaten nominees have won the award before, Algeria's Brahimi in 2014 and Ghanaian Ayew in 2011. Gabon's Aubameyang was on the shortlist for the third year running, while Senegalese Mane made it for the first time. Toure has been nominated for the award seven times and his second win ensures his year ends with a trophy, just as it began when he led Ivory Coast to glory at the Africa Cup of Nations. He captained the team in Equatorial Guinea and opened the scoring in the semi-final to put his side on course for a 3-1 victory over Democratic Republic of Congo. Toure was a key influence as his country ended a 23-year wait for their second Nations Cup title, overcoming Ghana in a penalty shootout in the final. It was Toure's first trophy with the national team in his sixth Nations Cup tournament, having lost in two finals - in 2006 and 2012. There was less success for Toure with Manchester City, who failed to defend their English Premier League 2014 title and finished second to Chelsea. But Toure remains a powerful presence in the heart of the midfield and contributed seven goals for City in the calendar year. Vera Kwakofi, Current Affairs Editor, BBC Africa, said: "Yaya Toure's leadership for country and club offers an example for many young footballers aspiring to emulate his career. "We are pleased that as the BBC we are here to celebrate and share in this moment with his fans around the world."

Summary: Yaya Toure has been voted the BBC African Footballer of the Year 2015.


The legal team of the former pop star, real name Paul Gadd, argued media coverage had made a fair trial impossible. But three judges said there was nothing "unsafe" about the conviction. The 71-year-old was jailed for 16 years in February for offences at the height of his fame, between 1975 and 1980. He had denied the allegations against him. A jury at Southwark Crown Court found him guilty of one count of attempted rape, one of unlawful sexual intercourse with a girl under 13, and four counts of indecent assault. At his sentencing, Judge McCreath told him his victims were "profoundly affected". He said the offence of attempted rape was "so serious" as to justify the maximum available sentence. Gadd was jailed in Vietnam in 2006 for molesting two girls aged 11 and 12. He later became the first person to be arrested under Operation Yewtree, the investigation launched by the Metropolitan Police following the Jimmy Savile scandal.

Summary: Disgraced singer Gary Glitter has lost a Court of Appeal challenge against his conviction for sexually abusing three young girls.


In 2015, the city recorded 1,448 deaths per 100,000 of population, according to the Office for National Statistics. That figure is 56% higher than neighbouring East Dunbartonshire, which had 926 deaths per 100,000. Scotland as a whole had the poorest life expectancy of any of the UK nations - 1,177 per 100,000, compared to England's rate of 989.6. Mortality rates for men in Glasgow stood at 1,787, while West Dunbartonshire had the poorest life expectancy for women with a figure of 1,246 per 100,000. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said: "The substantial variation in mortality rates between different local areas reflects underlying differences in factors such as income deprivation, socio-economic position and health behaviour." The figures were in line with other publications which have shown wide differences between local authority areas. But National Records of Scotland (NRS) figures covering 2011-13 suggested that both men and women were living longer. Those figures said life expectancy was 76.8 years for men and 80.9 years for women.

Summary: Glasgow has the lowest life expectancy of any area in the UK, official figures have suggested.


The family of Tara Lear-Jones said "a massive piece" has been taken from their lives and they are "just left with heartache". Ms Lear-Jones died in the accident on the A539, near the village of Penley, on Thursday. "Tara was a much loved daughter, sister, aunty, granddaughter and girlfriend," a tribute read. "We all love her so much and no words can explain how we are feeling right now. "Tara thought the world of her nieces and nephew and we will make sure they know how much she loved them when they are older." North Wales Police have appealed for witnesses who saw a blue Vauxhall Corsa that was involved.

Summary: Tributes have been paid to a 24-year-old woman who died in a car accident in Wrexham county.


Lawyers for David Turner had argued the doll was not covered by a law banning the importation of obscene items. But a judge dismissed that, saying "any right-thinking person" would find the doll obscene. Turner, 72, of Ramsgate, Kent, had already admitted possessing more than 34,000 indecent images of children. He will be sentenced in September. Other men have been convicted for importing child sex dolls, but this was the first case where the question of whether a doll is indecent or obscene had been tested by the courts. The National Crime Agency (NCA) said it was "the first ruling of its kind". Under the 1979 Customs and Excise Management Act it is against the law to import obscene or indecent items. NCA officers arrested Turner - an ex-church warden - in November last year after Border Force officers intercepted a 3ft doll that he was attempting to import from China. He claimed that it was intended to be a "companion" for him and his wife. Investigators said Turner already had two other child dolls at his home, one of which they claimed he had "sex" with. The charge was brought over a 3ft 10in sex doll already in his possession, which he bought clothes for. In an earlier hearing, Turner also admitted possessing more than 34,000 indecent images of children, aged from three to 16, contained on 17 pen drives. Of the images, 138 were of the most serious kind, Category A. When interviewed, he also admitted "secretly" taking photographs of girls aged six to 11 in public places. Judge Simon James said the importation of a child sex doll was an "unusual offence" and that it "adds a degree of complexity" to the sentencing. Turner was freed on bail and will be sentenced on 8 September. The maximum sentence is seven years. By Danny Shaw, BBC home affairs correspondent More than 100 child sex dolls have been seized in the UK as part of a special operation set up by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and Border Force. Investigators believe the dolls, which are made to be as life-like as possible, are being imported by people who have a "sexual interest" in children. Advertised as "adult dolls" on sites including EBay and Amazon, they are manufactured in the Far East and sent to Britain via courier, fast parcel and other delivery services. Hazel Stewart, operations manager for the NCA, said when people have been questioned by police about the dolls some have claimed they were bought for a "joke", others say they for "companionship". "If it was a Marks and Spencer mannequin I wouldn't be stood here," she said. Read more from Danny Shaw. Hazel Stewart, from the National Crime Agency, said: "We know [child sex doll] purchases can indicate other offences against children, as was the case against Turner who had a sickening stash of abuse images. "Importers of such obscene items should expect to have law enforcement closing in on them." Jon Brown, head of development for the NSPCC, welcomed the ruling, but wants more to be done

Summary: A judge has ruled that a child sex doll imported by a former primary school governor is an obscene item.


The Old Bailey heard Daniel Green, of Walthamstow, attacked the woman in her 20s in the early hours of 16 May 2015 at StratX stockbrokers' offices near Monument. The victim said she tried to get away but Green, 26, claimed it was consensual. Green will be on the sexual offenders' register for an indefinite period. The jury heard Green went back to the office with a group of people, including the victim, after the party where people were doing lines of cocaine, dancing on the tables and drinking champagne. Most people went home after the mood soured over a stash of cocaine going missing. The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was left in the office with Green, her friend and another employee. The trial heard she went to sleep under a desk but woke to find Green tugging her trousers down. She said: "At that point I remember just trying to crawl forward to get away. I knew what was going to happen. I remember being pulled back. "The next thing I remember was Daniel raping me. "He was making sexual noises, making me feel horrible, so I burst into tears." Prosecutor Timothy Forster said Green had treated the woman like a "piece of meat". In a victim impact statement read in court, the woman said: "I desperately want to forget about what happened, but I'm not able to and fear this is something which will continue to blight my life." Sentencing, the judge said he was not punishing Green for "City culture of excessive drink and casual use of drugs when you go out socialising" but because he had shown no remorse and behaved with "a degree of arrogance" when giving evidence.

Summary: A City trader has been jailed for six years after being convicted of raping a woman at an office party in London.


It meant the unemployment rate fell by 0.2% to its lowest since 1975, at 4.5%, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) added. But wage increases continued to fall further behind inflation. Excluding bonuses, earnings rose by 2.0% year-on-year. However, inflation had hit an almost four-year high of 2.9% in May. When the impact of inflation is factored in, real weekly wages fell by 0.5% compared with a year earlier. Mark Carney: UK wage growth 'anaemic' UK workers 'frustrated by flatlining pay' UK inflation rate at near four-year high "Despite the strong jobs picture... there has been another real-terms fall in total earnings, with the growth in weekly wages low and inflation still rising," said Matt Hughes, senior statistician at the Office for National Statistics. Those in work climbed to around 32 million, a rise of 324,000 on last year and the largest total since records began in 1971. The employment rate rose by 0.3% on the quarter to a record high of 74.9%. "The general picture is little changed on last month, with the overall employment rate and that for women both at record highs, the inactivity rate at a joint record low and the unemployment rate falling to its lowest since early summer 1975," said Mr Hughes. The unemployment rate for 16 to 24-year-olds was 12.5%, lower than for a year earlier when it was 13.5%, and well below its highest rate of 22.5% in late 2011. The sluggish pay data may cause Bank of England officials to think again about the need to raise interest rates, after a narrow 5-3 vote by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) last month to leave rates at 0.25%. "The continued weakness of wage growth provides some ammunition to the more dovish members of the MPC that now is not the time to raise interest rates," said Paul Hollingsworth, UK economist at Capital Economics. He added: "Given the emphasis that some members of the Monetary Policy Committee, including Governor Carney, have put on wanting to see a clear "firming" in wage growth before they join others in voting to hike interest rates, we still think it is more likely than not that the MPC will hold off for a while longer, rather than raise interest rates imminently." Meanwhile, Minister for Employment, Damian Hinds said the employment figures were "another reminder that our strong economy is giving record numbers of people the chance to find and stay in work". But TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: "Ministers must set out a plan to get real wages rising across the public and the private sectors." After trading lower against the dollar, the pound gained ground to trade 0.1% stronger on the day at $1.2858. Sterling also gained 0.1% against the euro, with one pound getting you 1.1217 euros.

Summary: UK unemployment fell by 64,000 to 1.49 million in the three months to May, official figures show.


While visiting Towers Residential Outdoor Education Centre in Betws-y-Coed, Conwy, the royal couple ascended a climbing wall. Earlier, they visited a photography project run by charity Mind in Caernarfon, Gwynedd. They also saw the work of GISDA which provides training for young people. Twm Griffiths, who works at the charity's training centre in Caernarfon, said the couple were rushed off their feet. He said: "They didn't have time for a coffee. They have a very busy day." Afterwards, the couple visited the Men's Shed in Denbigh, Denbighshire - a social group involved in community projects. The pair chatted with a small crowd outside, including four-year-old Esme who presented Prince William with flowers and asked about Prince George. William said his son was "loud" and thanked her for the flowers, which he said he would give to Catherine. Men's Shed director Phil Williams said the couple were given a tour of facilities, including an allotment and a woodwork workshop, and were very interested in the project. Member Alan Maddocks presented them with a gavel and bowl which he carved on a lathe, a skill he has learned since joining the group. "They were very friendly. On the way out they both shook my hand," he said.

Summary: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been in north Wales to meet organisations which support young people and tackle mental health issues.


Mosaab, his wife Nada and their three children are getting used to life in Scotland. They are among hundreds of Syrian people who fled the war and have started new lives with refugee status. The BBC has agreed not to use their surnames because they fear speaking out may put their family members still in Syria at risk. Mosaab was a tiler and self-employed lorry driver in Syria. Before the war, he says life was good, living together in peace. They would take trips to the coast and go to the countryside to pick olives straight from the tree. "I lost friends in the war, our house was destroyed and I was fleeing from place to place looking for a shelter, " he says. "Even when I moved to a new place seeking safety for my children, after a while they started bombing there too so I decided to leave for a new country so at least my children would not to hear the sounds of explosions. "I and my wife were swapping shifts to take care of my children during the night in case they woke up scared from the sounds of explosions." The family fled to Lebanon, paying bribes to the border guards. Mosaab hired a car to work as a taxi driver there until they were offered safe passage to Scotland. They are now building new lives for themselves in Clydebank. I ask him what would have happened if he hadn't fled their home in Homs? "We would be dead," he replies. He describes the difference between Syria and Clydebank as "Hell and Paradise". Mosaab's eldest daughter, Amal, is twelve. She has learned her first hundred words of English. It won't be long before she can join the rest of her class at her local secondary school. "I would like to say to the Scottish people 'thank you' - and I hope we will be a good example for the Scottish people," she tells me. "I am so glad to live in Scotland and meet Scottish people. I am happy because they settled us with Scottish neighbours to learn their language. "We just miss our families and relatives because we are far away from them but the nice way in which the Scottish people have treated us fills that space in our lives." Scottish families in their block of flats have given the children scooters to play on. A group of women called Knit for Unity has made them hats and scarves to keep them warm. Volunteers at the Maryhill Integration Network have been helping them to settle in. Syrian, Munir Enkideh, is one of them. He is well-placed to give them advice on starting a new life here because he did the same himself three years ago. He offers them Halal meat, Syrian bread and friendship. The family have only praise for the community in Clydebank. Amal says fish and chips are delicious! Mosaab now feels they can look forward to a future: "We hope to have safety and success and that the Scottish people accept us in

Summary: A Syrian refugee family who arrived in Scotland before Christmas have spoken exclusively to the BBC about the suffering they fled - and thanked their new community for the warm welcome they have received.


The 24-year-old Spaniard featured only seven times for the Addicks and spent last season on loan at the Belgian top-flight club. A product of Barcelona's academy, he joined Tottenham at the age of 18 but was released in 2015 after failing to make a first-team appearance. Ceballos played just 301 minutes for Charlton during the 2015-16 season. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Charlton Athletic winger Cristian Ceballos has joined Sint-Truiden on a three-year contract.


Gerard Donnelly was a homeless man living in Dublin's Phoenix Park. His body was found on fire in the park in the early hours of 29 November 2013. Ciaran Moran, 29, of Camden Hall, Camden Street in the city, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mr Donnelly. Opening the case for the prosecution, senior counsel said there would be disturbing evidence. Mr Donnelly died from catastrophic head injuries caused by a blunt instrument and was pronounced dead at the scene. An aerosol can was found on his body. The jury heard a number of items were found at the scene including a lump hammer, a metal pincer tool and a propane canister with a blow torch attached. "Considerable funds" The court was told both Mr Donnelly and Mr Moran were homeless. Mr Donnelly was living in a hostel. The court heard there would also be evidence from CCTV and civilian witnesses that the accused had been in possession of a number of items. They include a gas canister, a hammer and other items consistent with those found at the scene. The jury would also hear evidence that prior to the death, the accused man was aware that Mr Donnelly was a man of "considerable funds". The court was told a member of the police had come across Mr Donnelly a month before his death and found he had £6,200 (€8,500) in cash and a deposit book showing £103,000 (€140,000). Prosecution counsel said the jury would also hear that the accused man made certain significant admissions in relation to Mr Donnelly's death.

Summary: A murder trial in Dublin has heard that a homeless man who was allegedly beaten to death with a hammer had a building society account with £103,000 pounds (€140,000).


Media playback is not supported on this device Gylfi Sigurdsson almost put Iceland in front early on but his angled shot and follow-up were both saved. Nani slotted in for Portugal but Iceland worked a shock equaliser when Birkir Bjarnason volleyed home. Cristiano Ronaldo had a header saved for an unconvincing Portugal, while Iceland went close late on when Alfred Finnbogason had a shot saved. Ronaldo came into the tournament fresh from scoring the winning penalty for Real Madrid in their Champions League final shootout victory over Atletico Madrid as he added another club trophy to a long list. Honours on the international stage have eluded him, however, and unless the forward can replicate his club scoring achievements for his country that is likely to continue. Ronaldo, who won his 127th cap and equalled the Portuguese record set by Luis Figo, showed a glimpse of his quick feet to get in a precise cross for Nani, whose six-yard header was saved. But he could only kick fresh air from 10 yards out as he failed to make contact with a long Pepe pass, then sent a 20-yard half-volley wide and had his late header saved as he endured a frustrating evening in Saint-Etienne. Iceland are the smallest nation ever to reach a European Championship finals, with a population of approximately 330,000, and have no professional clubs. However, they beat the Netherlands twice on the way to qualifying for the tournament in France and added another chapter to their fairytale on their major tournament debut. Goalkeeper Hannes Thor Halldorsson had more touches than any other Iceland player in the first half (30) but his side kept Portugal within reach. Their efforts paid off when Bjarnason caught right-back Vieirinha out of position to score from Johann Gudmundsson's cross to the far post. And, despite Iceland having just 27.7% of possession overall, they gave Portugal a couple of further scares before the final whistle. "Honesty, endeavour - that's what Iceland are all about," said BBC Radio 5 live pundit and former England international Chris Waddle. "They were getting a football lesson in the first half but they never threw in the towel. They've got their rewards, and their fans are going absolutely wild." On the basis of this game, the answer would have to be yes. The move for the first goal did not involve Ronaldo and came courtesy of quick passing down the right before Andre Gomes put in a low cross for Nani to finish. However, with Ronaldo having a quiet night by his standards, no other Portugal player stepped up to make the difference. They also conceded an equaliser that suggests vulnerabilities in defence they will have to resolve if they want to win a major tournament for the first time. Portugal boss Fernando Santos: "We should've scored more goals: that's no secret. There's always difficulties in the first game. I think we'll bounce back to play two great matches." Iceland joint manager Heimir Hallgrimsson: "It's down to teamwork. You can't put one player to stop a guy like Ronaldo. It has

Summary: Iceland earned a memorable point on their European Championship debut, holding Portugal to a draw in Group F.


Prabir Mukherjee was the curator at Eden Gardens, Kolkata (formerly Calcutta). India were playing England and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni had suggested a spinning track be prepared for the Test match. Pitch preparation is not an exact science; in the past, "spinning" tracks have been prepared where the seamers have run through the Indian batting, while "flat" tracks have been prepared where the fast bowlers have wreaked havoc. The Indian curator's favourite technique for a spinning track is to leave it underprepared. Spin has been India's strength for so long that it is a cliche now. Yet visiting spinners have often been more successful than India's best - from Richie Benaud and Ashley Mallett to Lance Gibbs and Derek Underwood, and more recently, Monty Panesar and Graeme Swann. It is neither illegal nor unethical to prepare a wicket to suit the home team's bowlers. It would be foolish to do otherwise. If Jim Laker could claim 19 wickets on a dry Old Trafford wicket nearly half a century ago, part of the credit should go to his captain Peter May, who persuaded the groundsman into not watering the pitch in advance. Was that unethical? Or illegal? The illegal and the unethical co-exist in sport. On the cricket field, it is illegal to overstep when bowling - umpires call a 'no ball' immediately - but it isn't unethical. It is unethical to claim a catch when you know that the ball has hit the ground, but it isn't illegal. No-one minds a three-day Test as long as the battle between bat and ball is fascinating. The curator is subject to a set of opposing demands. A quick win for the home side versus a full five-day match which is what television demands. The latter are often boring run feasts. The toss can ruin the best-laid plans of curators. Had South Africa made in the first innings the same score they did in the second, Nagpur might have had a different story to tell in the ongoing series against India. South Africa made more in the fourth innings than India did in the third. The tracks at Mohali and Nagpur for the current series have not been minefields or square turners. True, they aided spin early, but they were the allies of batsman willing to stay and play. That 40 was the highest score in four innings at Nagpur was not so much an indictment of the pitch as of the batsmen's technique. No-one expects tracks in seamer-friendly England to be like the pace-friendly ones in Australia or South Africa. Cricket's - in fact, any sport's - charm lies in the variety and range of its settings. Conditions change, challenges differ. Overcoming the opposition by conquering the conditions is the essence of the game. Uniformity - of pitches, grounds, weather - is neither possible nor desirable. The South Africans have had to deal with difficult pitches, not impossible ones. Batting techniques have been tested, and not just those of the visitors. Indians, who presumably ought to be happier in home conditions have displayed the

Summary: Three years ago, an 83-year-old man called the then Indian cricket captain "immoral".


The tiny spacecraft, nestling in a dark corner of the comet's rugged surface, will have a ringside seat as this alien world approaches the Sun and starts to generate its tail. Never before in the history of exploration has anything like this been remotely possible and the potential for discovery is extraordinary. The official line had always been that the device had every chance of remaining alive, but privately few people had been quite so bold. But not only has Philae survived, it's come back to life at the best possible moment. The original plan was for Philae to land and use its instruments to study the comet before it became too active - the fear was that emerging jets of gas may make the place too unstable or even dangerous. But what seemed to be incredible bad luck as the lander bounced away from its intended landing site last November may prove to open up a treasure-trove of new information. The unexpected hibernation since last November - and the fact that the spacecraft is tucked safely beneath a cliff - mean it is poised to witness what could be a spectacular process at its most interesting time. That's because the spacecraft is hitch-hiking just as the comet's orbit brings it nearer the Sun with a predicted closest approach during August. If it continues, it will be able to gather information about what's inside the comet as the gas jets grow and accelerate, and possibly even take pictures as parts of the surface break apart to form the tail. One possibility is that the strangely shaped comet, which may be formed of two distinct bodies, will split in two as the Sun's rays intensify. Imagine what images of that would be like. In the 60 hours after its dramatic touchdown last November, Philae managed to carry out an initial batch of experiments before its batteries died. A lot remains to be discovered. Already we have found out that the water inside the comet, locked away as ice, does not have the same chemical signature as water here - so this type of comet cannot have brought water to the early Earth, though other types may have done. But another theory is that comets delivered the building-blocks for life - the carbon molecules without which nothing could have got started here - and now we have an unprecedented chance to investigate that. So this has become one of the most exhilarating opportunities for space exploration. But Philae's reawakening represents more than that. It is a remarkable story of brilliant engineering in which clever design combined with bold ambitions. Across Europe, in labs and companies, clean rooms and workshops, there are people who had a hand in dreaming up and building Philae, and waited 10 years for it to reach its destination, and then seven months for it to wake up. No wonder emotions are running so high. Professor Monica Grady, of the Open University, which designed and built the ptolemy instrument on Philae, was so excited at the landing last November that she

Summary: The astonishing survival of the comet lander Philae means we have a unique opportunity to witness something previous generations could only dream of.


The 25-year-old German was on the losing side in last season's UEFA Champions League against Frankfurt. Blues have also brought in a player from the winners Frankfurt, German international forward Isabelle Linden. They also signed Norwegian midfielder Andrine Hegerberg this week from Swedish side Kopparbergs/Gothenburg "To sign Paris Saint-Germain's number one goalkeeper says it all," said Blues Ladies manager David Parker. "We have had to work hard to prise her away. "It is another signal of intent and statement that we can attract the very best players to the club with the vision and strategy we have. "When meeting Ann-Katrin and showing her everything we had to offer at the club she was blown away by what we are developing here and wants to be part of this special journey we are embarking upon." The arrival of Berger, Linden and Hegerberg comes on top of the signings of Corina Schroder from Liverpool and Marisa Ewers from Bayer Leverkusen. But Blues have lost two players, England internationals Jade Moore and Jo Potter having both opted to leave, after buying out their contracts. Blues stand third in Women's Super League One, seven points behind leaders Manchester City, having gone into the mid-season break with two wins in three matches.

Summary: Birmingham City Ladies have made their third foreign signing of the mid-season break by bringing in Paris St-Germain goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger.


Banks Renewables is behind the project close to Birneyknowe Cottage, south east of Hawick. Planning officials had advised opposition due to its landscape, visual and cultural impact. The size of the project means that the final decision on whether it goes ahead lies with the Scottish government. The company has said the project would provide a Â£2.5m community benefit fund to support local groups and good causes.

Summary: Councillors in the Borders have unanimously agreed to lodge an objection to a 15-turbine wind farm near Bonchester Bridge.


The biker, 56, died in the crash on the A612 Daleside Road in Sneinton at 06:30 BST on Wednesday. Nottinghamshire Police said the 50-year-old man, who was detained on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop, has been bailed. The Carlton-bound carriageway of the A612 was closed for several hours. Earlier officers made an appeal for a second biker, who did not stop at the scene, to come forward. Updates on this story and more from Nottinghamshire Anyone with any information on the crash has been asked to contact the police.

Summary: A man has been arrested in connection with the death of a motorcyclist who was killed on a road in Nottingham.


"We are asking people to move to safer areas," a spokeswoman for the national relief agency said. The south and centre have been placed on red alert because of the floods, which have claimed several lives. In 2000, 700 people died and half a million were made homeless in Mozambique's worst flooding on record. The worst affected areas are in the southern Gaza province, where a number of rivers are currently above crisis levels. Emergency teams are on stand-by and motorboats have been dispatched to help transport people to safety, the AFP news agency reports. The evacuees will be brought to temporary shelters. Some of them have been set up in the capital, Maputo. "We estimate there are 55,000 people affected," Rita Almeida from Mozambique's Disaster Relief Management Institute told AFP. The town of Chokwe, home to a dyke, is particularly vulnerable, she added. "We are registering very high water levels in the Limpopo and Inkomati rivers that could flood the town," Ms Almeida said. From Sunday to Monday, almost 185mm (7 inches) of rain fell over the Limpopo basin, the AFP reports. International observers have described the situation as critical. There are fears that the dyke in Chokwe could break, which would lead to chaos in the evacuations. "If that dyke breaks, all those people will have to move more rapidly," the country chief of the World Food Programme, Lola Castro, said. Neighbouring South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana have also been hit by severe flooding. In South Africa, floodwaters claimed several lives and left hundreds stranded after the Limpopo river burst its banks on Monday.

Summary: Mozambique has started to evacuate some 55,000 people after heavy rains caused sea levels to rise to dangerous levels in parts of the country, officials say.


It is believed Darren Rodgers, who was 24 and from Ballymena, was on his own and fell about 26ft (8m) from a promenade onto a rocky beach in Nice. Supt Nigel Goddard, who is leading the PSNI team in France, said he was told it was an accident and not in any way disorder related. Tributes have been paid to Mr Rodgers by his friends, fellow fans, and by the Irish Football Association (IFA). The accident happened in the early hours of Monday, shortly after Northern Ireland played its first match of the Euro 2016 finals against Poland in the city on Sunday night. Mr Rodgers was from the Meadowvale area of the County Antrim town and was a former pupil of Cambridge House Grammar School. In a statement, his family thanked the local community for their support. Supt Goddard said: "I was informed this morning by my French counterparts of this tragic news "I believe it was an accident." Northern Ireland's first and deputy first ministers, Arlene Foster and Martin McGuinness, issued a joint statement. "It was with great shock and sadness we learned this morning of the death of Darren Rodgers in Nice last night as the result of a tragic accident," they said. "The loss of a young life in these circumstances is truly heartbreaking and our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family at this extremely difficult time. "This sad news is in stark contrast to the jovial carnival atmosphere just hours before at the game against Poland." DUP North Antrim MLA Paul Frew said he had spoken to Mr Rodgers on Sunday. He described him as a "great lad with a big heart". "Darren played for Braid Utd. Would have ran through a brick wall for his mates. Whole team is in shock, simply can't believe it," Mr Frew tweeted. Patrick Nelson, the chief executive, of the IFA said: "On behalf of the board, management, players and staff of the Irish Football Association, I would like to express my deep sadness at the tragic death of a Northern Ireland supporter in Nice in the early hours of this morning. "The thoughts of everyone at the association are with his family and friends at this time." Gary McAllister of the Amalgamation of Northern Ireland Supporters Clubs said: "I'm sure that every Northern Ireland fan, both here in France and at home, will be thinking of Darren and his loved ones at this very sad time."

Summary: A Northern Ireland football fan has died in an accident in France.


That is, the credo pushed by successive presidents that the United States is a beacon of democracy, an exemplar of human rights, an indispensable country imbued with special values and beliefs that grants it the moral authority and national self-belief to influence and admonish other countries, friend and foe alike. Donald Trump, rather than being heralded as the leader of free world, has been pilloried. By protesters who took to the streets - and snow - from Australia to Antarctica as part of more than 600 protests worldwide on the first weekend of his presidency. By satirists who came up with the "Netherlands Second" viral video - and all its other cheeky iterations - in response to Trump's "America First" doctrine. By models at Milan Fashion Week who paraded on the catwalk wearing the now iconic pink pussy hats that first appeared on the Washington Mall at the massive women's march. By graphic designers who have created a gallery of scolding magazine covers, including, most shockingly, Der Spiegel's depiction of the US president holding aloft the severed head of the Statue of Liberty. When Jimmy Kimmel joked during his Oscars opening monologue that Donald Trump had made 225 countries hate America, he was exaggerating. As with all well-aimed satire, however, it contained more than a kernel of truth. It is a measure of Trump's unpopularity that George W Bush, the last US president to attract such international ire, is being rehabilitated in the global mind as a cool-headed statesman and staunch defender of American press freedom. Last year, at the height of the presidential campaign, a Pew Research Center poll suggested that 85% of Europeans have "no confidence" in Donald Trump to do the right thing as president. A poll conducted by Gallup International Association suggested that, were the US election to be held in 45 foreign countries, Hillary Clinton would have won a landslide victory in every single one, with the sole exception of Russia. The French President Francois Hollande even said the brash billionaire made people "want to retch". Though international leaders are now more respectful, few could be described as being genuinely admiring. It will take more than his speech before the joint session of Congress, in which Trump sought to stabilise his presidency, to assuage global concerns. During his inaugural address, Donald Trump paid lip service to the notion of American exceptionalism, though he did not use the phrase. "We do not seek to impose our way of life on anyone, but rather to let it shine as an example," he declared. "We will shine for everyone to follow." But rather than painting a picture of sunny American uplands, his inaugural address sketched out something darker and more dystopian: a country marred by poverty-stricken and crime-ridden inner cities and "rusted-out factories scattered like tombstones across the landscape". The speech will be remembered not for his brief invocation of American exceptionalism, but rather his depiction of "American carnage" and his pledge to put "America First." It was bunker America rather than beacon America. In his speech to the joint

Summary: When a German Chancellor feels the need to explain the refugee convention to an American president, the speaker of British House of Commons says the leader of its closest ally is not welcome to address parliament, China positions itself as the grown-up in the room by chiding him for his blunt Twitter diplomacy and the botched travel ban is denounced not just by US adversaries, such as Iran, but allies, such as France and Canada, is it not time to sound the death-knell of American exceptionalism?


His firm, Cameron Pace Group and its Chinese partners will develop advanced equipment for 3D filming. The move comes amid a boom in China's movie industry and a growing demand for 3D films in the country. Various Hollywood filmmakers have been trying to tap into the Chinese market. "The future of entertainment is 3D and we believe that the future of 3D is right here in China," Mr Cameron was quoted as saying by the Associated Press news agency. Earlier this year, Chinese authorities had announced that they will allow an additional 14 foreign films to be shown in the country, if the movies are made in 3D or for the big-screen Imax format. China's movie industry has seen robust growth in the past few years. Ticket sales in the world's second-largest economy surged 29% to 13.1bn yuan ($2.1bn; Â£1.3bn) in 2011. They are forecast to rise further, by around 20% in the current year. The growth in its market has seen various Hollywood filmmakers and studios announcing joint ventures with Chinese firms. Earlier this week, Dreamworks Animation announced plans to co-produce the next Kung Fu Panda movie with its Chinese partners. The firm said it was also planning to open an entertainment district in the country. In April, Walt Disney Company, the world's largest entertainment firm, said that it plans to co-produce Iron Man 3 with Beijing-based DMG Entertainment. Mr Cameron said that the robust growth in the country's market made it attractive destination. "This is the best place for us to create a kind of a second home," he said.

Summary: James Cameron, the creator of the blockbuster film Avatar, has announced a joint venture with two Chinese firms in a bid to capture the country's fast-growing movie market.


The match ignited with three late first-half goals, the first coming in the 35th minute as Jack Parkinson curled in superbly off the post for the visitors from Mitch Pinnock's corner. Gateshead broke away to equalise straight from kick-off when Wes York was on hand to tap in after Jones' point-blank shot was saved. Jones then collected Paddy McLaughlin's cross superbly to put the hosts in front in the 44th minute. McLaughlin made it 3-1 three minutes into the second half, but Ricky Miller halved the deficit after 57 minutes with his 10th goal of the season. Sam Jones fired his second past Mitch Walker two minutes later to restore the two-goal lead but missed out on a hat-trick when he hit the crossbar with a penalty. Report supplied by the Press Association. Match ends, Gateshead 4, Dover Athletic 2. Second Half ends, Gateshead 4, Dover Athletic 2. Substitution, Dover Athletic. Sammy Moore replaces Chris Kinnear. Mitch Brundle (Gateshead) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Substitution, Gateshead. Gus Mafuta replaces Nyal Bell. Substitution, Gateshead. Reece Styche replaces Wes York. Wes York (Gateshead) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Aswad Thomas (Dover Athletic) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Ricky Miller (Dover Athletic) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Goal! Gateshead 4, Dover Athletic 2. Sam Jones (Gateshead). Goal! Gateshead 3, Dover Athletic 2. Ricky Miller (Dover Athletic). Goal! Gateshead 3, Dover Athletic 1. Patrick McLaughlin (Gateshead). Second Half begins Gateshead 2, Dover Athletic 1. First Half ends, Gateshead 2, Dover Athletic 1. Goal! Gateshead 2, Dover Athletic 1. Sam Jones (Gateshead). Goal! Gateshead 1, Dover Athletic 1. Wes York (Gateshead). Goal! Gateshead 0, Dover Athletic 1. Jack Parkinson (Dover Athletic). First Half begins. Lineups are announced and players are warming up.

Summary: Sam Jones hit a brace as Gateshead beat Dover at the International Stadium.


After the bus explosion, huge blasts were heard in the Gaza Strip as the Israeli bombardment of the Palestinian territory continued. Eleven people were killed in Gaza on Wednesday, the health ministry said. Unnamed Palestinian officials told news agencies a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel would be announced within hours. After eight days of exchanges of fire between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon are now in Cairo for talks with the Egyptian president. There were "many details to work out" before a ceasefire could be reached, Mr Ban warned. By Kevin ConnollyBBC News, Tel Aviv In the immediate aftermath of the bus bombing, there was a palpable sense of shock hanging in the air around the scene. Israel's largest city has seen nothing like this for six-and-a-half years. One resident - when told that the news of the explosion broadcast from mosques in Gaza has been greeted with a sound of celebratory gunfire there - said that they need to celebrate this as some kind of victory because they have nothing else to offer but violence. A police helicopter still circled overhead and there were roadblocks at many main junctions around the scene as police hunted for the bomber or bombers seen running away from the scene. Paradoxically, the explosion and the waves of Israeli air raids on Gaza this morning do not necessarily mean that the search for a ceasefire is dead. It may mean that both sides are sending a signal that if a deal is agreed, they will be reaching it from what they regard as a position of strength. The search for a diplomatic solution reaches a critical phase this afternoon when US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton meets Egyptian President Mohammed Mursi - the only leader with effective lines of communication both to Israel and to Hamas. Earlier, she and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon held talks in the West Bank with the Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. The US "strongly condemns" the bus bombing, Mrs Clinton said. Militants fired more rockets at Israel, while Israel renewed its naval artillery bombardment of Gaza late on Wednesday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's spokesman Ofir Gendelman said on his Twitter account that the bus explosion in Tel Aviv was a "terrorist attack". The Ichilov medical centre in Tel Aviv said that of the 28 injured, 10 had suffered "body injuries" - three of them serious - three received "moderate-light" injuries including shrapnel wounds and burns, and the remainder were suffering from "anxiety". The bus was passing the military headquarters in the city at the time of the blast. Police say they believe the blast was caused by a bomb and they are still searching for a suspect. According to Israel's ministry of foreign affairs, the last bomb attack in Tel Aviv was in April 2006, when a suicide bombing on a restaurant killed 11. Hamas, the Islamist movement which has governed Gaza since 2007, has praised the attack but has not said it was behind the

Summary: Twenty-eight people have been injured in a "terrorist attack" on a bus in Israel's commercial capital Tel Aviv, Israeli officials say.


The US firm already dominates the action-cam market, having sold more than $363m (Â£233m) worth of goods over the first three months of the year. The Hero4 Session benefits from being waterproof without needing a special case, but cannot go as deep as models fitted with separate housings. One expert said the firm risked having a "confusing" choice of products. GoPro is marketing the new camera as being 50% smaller and 40% lighter than other Hero4 models. It is: Although the new camcorder may appear to have lower specifications than the firm's other options, GoPro suggests that its compact form coupled with a new dual-microphone system - designed to better handle wind noise - should appeal to customers intending to use it on a regular basis. "We challenged ourselves to produce the smallest, lightest, most convenient GoPro possible," said the firm's founder Nicholas Woodman. "Sound quality is as important as image quality and we're very excited about the stunning audio advancements we've made." Costing Â£330, the Hero4 Session is only outpriced by the company's top-end Hero4 Black. One tech industry watcher said it would probably have "niche" appeal, but added that GoPro's current line-up risked bewildering consumers. "GoPro owns so much of the market that this is about trying to scoop up whatever is left," said James Trew, deputy managing editor of the Engadget news site. "It used to have just three cameras - good, better and best - and you paid for the one you thought was your level. "Now, in an effort to grow, I think there is a risk that it will start confusing customers, especially when the price of the Session is very similar to what are, on paper, better products. "But there will be some people it will call out to - for instance, people who might think this looks better on their helmet." GoPro faces a growing number of rivals, with EE, Xiaomi, Garmin and HTC among companies to have launched their own action cameras over recent months. The California-based firm notes, however, that it currently accounts for all of the US's top five best-selling products in the digital camera/camcorder category, according to data published by market research firm NPD. Even so, Mr Trew suggested that executives might feel they need to prove they are not complacent. "GoPro went public last year so they have a whole new set of pressures to deal with," he explained. "I think that's part of why we're now seeing more different stuff - including 360-degree camera mounts, virtual reality systems and broadcast technologies - to illustrate that it is staying ahead of the game in the face of increased competition."

Summary: GoPro has announced a new camera that is smaller and lighter than its earlier models.


It is an astonishing mass of material that has essentially been created only in the last 65 years or so. The 8.3 billion tonnes is as heavy as 25,000 Empire State Buildings in New York, or a billion elephants. The great issue is that plastic items, like packaging, tend to be used for very short periods before being discarded. More than 70% of the total production is now in waste streams, sent largely to landfill - although too much of it just litters the wider environment, including the oceans. "We are rapidly heading towards 'Planet Plastic', and if we don't want to live on that kind of world then we may have to rethink how we use some materials, in particular plastic," Dr Roland Geyer told BBC News. A paper authored by the industrial ecologist from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and colleagues appears in the journal Science Advances. It is described as the first truly global assessment of how much plastic has been manufactured, how the material in all its forms is used, and where it ends up. Here are some of its key numbers. There is no question that plastics are a wonder material. Their adaptability and durability have seen their production and use accelerate past most other manmade materials apart from steel, cement and brick. From the start of mass-manufacturing in the 1950s, the polymers are now all around us - incorporated into everything from food wrapping and clothing, to aeroplane parts and flame retardants. But it is precisely plastics' amazing qualities that now present a burgeoning problem. None of the commonly used plastics are biodegradable. The only way to permanently dispose of their waste is to destructively heat it - through a decomposition process known as pyrolysis or through simple incineration; although the latter is complicated by health and emissions concerns. In the meantime, the waste mounts up. There is enough plastic debris out there right now, Geyer and colleagues say, to cover an entire country the size of Argentina. The team's hope is that their new analysis will give added impetus to the conversation about how best to deal with the plastics issue. "Our mantra is you can't manage what you don't measure," Dr Geyer said. "So, our idea was to put the numbers out there without us telling the world what the world should be doing, but really just to start a real, concerted discussion." Recycling rates are increasing and novel chemistry has some biodegradable alternatives, but manufacturing new plastic is so cheap the virgin product is hard to dislodge. The same team - which includes Jenna Jambeck from the University of Georgia and Kara Lavender Law from the Sea Education Association at Woods Hole - produced the seminal report in 2015 that quantified the total amount of plastic waste escaping to the oceans each year: eight million tonnes. This particular waste flow is probably the one that has generated most concern of late because of the clear evidence now that some of this discarded material is getting into the food chain as fish and

Summary: US scientists have calculated the total amount of plastic ever made and put the number at 8.3 billion tonnes.


The Class 700 Desiro City fleet is intended to ease overcrowding on the north-south route from Bedford to Brighton through central London. Initial testing will be carried out at Three Bridges depot, then on the Brighton line before the train carries the first passengers next spring. Thameslink said the new trains would transform the service for passengers. The Class 700 trains will each have 12 carriages, instead of eight on many of the existing Thameslink services. An extra 1,000 rush hour seats are promised between Brighton and London and 80% more peak seats across between Blackfriars and St Pancras in central London. "The doors can open far more widely and people can get on and off the train more quickly, which means it can depart punctually," said Ruth Humphrey, project manager for Siemens which is building the trains in Germany. All the new trains will be in use by 2018. As well as the current Thameslink network and the Wimbledon Loop, they will be deployed across new routes from 2017 as part of Â£6.5bn Thameslink improvements currently under way. Meanwhile, Chancellor George Osborne has said he is committed to a full study into building a second main line from Brighton to London (BML2). The government has already said it will provide Â£100,000 for a new study into the reopening of the Lewes to Uckfield line in East Sussex. In a letter to Conservative MP for Lewes Maria Caufield, Mr Osborne said he had extended the Lewes to Uckfield study, which would now also look at improving links between London and the south coast, including a feasibility study on BML2.

Summary: The first of 115 new trains for the Thameslink network has arrived in West Sussex to begin tests.


Former shadow minister Helen Goodman had tweeted: "If China is so great, why did @Jeremy_Hunt's wife come to England?" She has since deleted it. It comes after Mr Hunt said the UK had to become as hard working as Asia. The Labour Party said the tweet did not represent its views and that the Bishop Auckland MP would be reminded of her responsibilities. Issuing an apology on Twitter, Ms Goodman wrote: "Wish to absolutely totally apologise for earlier tweet." Several other MPs had replied to her original message, with former Communities and Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles saying he was surprised she could "send out something so vile". Fellow Conservative MP Nadhim Zahawi even asked if Ms Goodman's account had been hacked, writing: "Helen that is a terrible thing so say. I hope you delete and apologise to Mrs Hunt." And Lib Dem leader Tim Farron wrote: "Clearly she missed the 'kinder politics' memo", pointing to Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's call for an end to personal attacks in politics. Mr Hunt had made the comments at a fringe meeting at the Conservative Party conference last week. He said: "My wife is Chinese and if we want this to be one of the most successful countries in the world in 20, 30, 40 years time there is a pretty difficult question that we have to answer which is, essentially, are we going to be a country which is prepared to work hard in a way that Asian economies are prepared to work hard, in a way that Americans are prepared to work hard? "And that is about creating a culture where work is at the heart of our success." In a statement, issued before Ms Goodman deleted the tweet, a Labour spokesman said: "This does not represent the views of the Labour Party. Helen will be reminded of her responsibilities as an elected Labour politician." Labour's leader in the House of Lords Lady Smith said Goodman's tweet was "absolutely bizarre". She told BBC Radio 4's Westminster Hour: "Presumably Mrs Hunt lives in the UK because she's married to Mr Hunt and she's in love with him and wants to be with him so end of story. "There's a lesson for all here, our partners and families are not in the public domain to be criticised or commented on." Mr Hunt married his wife, Lucia, in July 2009 and the couple have three children.

Summary: A Labour MP has apologised after making comments about Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt's Chinese wife.


Monitor has written to the 46 foundation trusts with the biggest deficits "challenging" their plans. It urged money-saving measures such as filling only essential staff vacancies. The Department of Health supported the move, but Labour argued it suggested there was a financial crisis in the NHS that was "spiralling out of control". David Bennett, chief executive of Monitor, said the NHS was facing an almost unprecedented financial challenge this year. "We are already reviewing and challenging the plans of the 46 foundation trusts with the biggest deficits," he wrote in a letter to trusts. "However, it is clear that this process will not close the funding gap and so we need all providers - even those planning for a surplus this year - to look again at their plans to see what more can be done." He urged trusts to leave non-essential vacancies unfilled, and to follow guidelines on safe staffing in a way which was "proportionate and appropriate". Rosters should be rigorously managed to deploy staff efficiently across all required shifts, including evenings and weekends, he said. In May, NHS trusts in England reported a total deficit of £822m in 2014-15, compared with £115m the previous year. A big rise in spending on agency nurses contributed to the deficits. At the time, Monitor said figures for this financial year were likely to be even worse. Shadow health secretary Andy Burnham said the warning by Monitor "suggests that the financial crisis in the NHS is threatening to spiral out of control and hit standards of patient care". He added: "The suggestion that hospitals can ignore safe staffing guidance will alarm patients and the government must decide if it will overrule this advice." The Department of Health said it was investing £8bn into the NHS in England so that it could implement a five-year plan, and it was vital that "every penny possible" was spent on patient care. "We support this move by NHS regulators, on top of the package of financial controls announced earlier in the year, to ensure the service lives within its means without compromising standards," a spokesman said. The provider sector has forecast a total deficit of more than £2bn for 2015-16, according to specialist resource Health Service Journal.

Summary: Hospitals and health trusts in England have been told by regulators to look again at their financial plans as current ones are unaffordable.


Last week, the Mayor of London issued his first "black alert" warning about air pollution. With pollution levels as high as they've been for five years, Londoners were advised to limit the amount of time they spent exercising outside. Today's pollution is usually invisible. But standing outside Sir John Cass Foundation School in the City of London, where some younger pupils had restricted time in the playground during the high pollution episode, we found parents who feel they can smell and taste it. "It's a sad state of affairs when you've got to tell your kids not to breathe too deeply," said one father of two. "Sadiq Khan (London's Mayor) really does need to ban diesel cars." Another father drives a black cab: "I drove in towards the school, and looking towards the city you couldn't see the top of the Gherkin. I was thinking that can't be fog, must be pollution. "I can't wait until they bring out hybrids or something because I feel I'm contributing to the pollution obviously. So I'm doubly worried about it." I took a close interest in this problem when I was head of the Downing Street Policy Unit under David Cameron. One of my children is asthmatic, so I have followed the growing health evidence - and the court battle. In November, after a series of challenges from an environmental law firm, the High Court ruled that the government must produce a credible plan to stop breaching air quality standards, by July of this year. Many things contribute to air pollution: central heating, wood burners, generators. But there is growing concern about diesel emissions from traffic. The government wants five major cities - Birmingham, Leeds, Southampton, Derby and Nottingham - to create clean zones which would charge some of the most polluting vehicles. In addition, London is creating an ultra-low emissions zone. But will this work? And will it be enough? In 2012, the World Health Organization classified outdoor air pollution as a cause of cancer. The UK government estimates that the harm done by particulates, tiny particles we can't see, in shortening our lives is equivalent to 29,000 premature deaths a year. Add in nitrogen dioxide emissions, which, like particulates, are partly generated by diesel traffic, and that figure rises to about 40,000. This would make air pollution more deadly than obesity and alcoholism combined. We asked Frank Kelly, prof of environmental health at King's College London, what 29,000 premature deaths means. "Everyone in the UK from birth is losing an average of six months off their life," he says. In practice, he explained, some individuals will suffer more than that, and some less. Prof Kelly also described the developing body of science. We have known for a long time that particulates could enter the lung. But new evidence links pollution to heart attacks, strokes, even dementia. There is also concern about the impact on children's development. Dr Satish Rao, consultant in respiratory medicine at Birmingham Children's Hospital, told us that traffic pollution can aggravate the symptoms of children who already have respiratory problems,

Summary: The former head of the Downing Street policy unit, Camilla Cavendish, assesses government efforts to control traffic pollution.


Bob McAllister narrowly escaped death himself by collapsing to the ground and 'playing dead' after a bullet grazed his forehead. Bob and his friend Hector McMillan were missionaries working in Congo during the chaos that followed the country's independence from Belgium in 1960. In July 1964, Bob, Hector, their wives and children and other missionaries were taken hostage and held for four months in the city of Stanleyville (now known as Kisangi). On 24 November 1964, the defeated rebel leadership ordered its troops to flee and kill as many white people as they could. "Hector and I were taken outside," says Bob. "As we were walking out, they suddenly opened fire on Hector and he was killed by four bullets in the back. "Then they turned their guns on me and opened fire in all directions. "One bullet grazed me on the forehead and I threw myself down and played dead and they passed me by. "Hector's children witnessed his murder." Bob, his family and the rest of the hostages were eventually rescued, but they had to leave Hector's body behind. Bob's daughter Ruth remembers the terrifying journey to freedom. "I remember being in the jeep and a Cuban man had me perched on one knee and a machine gun on the other," she says. "He was shooting all over the road and I remember feeling the hot shells falling on my body." "They sped us to the airport as fast as possible," adds Bob. "The plane was laden with stretchers. It was just taking off when a rebel shot at us puncturing a fuel tank and the pilot just about got us to safety." The McAllisters spent three decades living and working in Congo. Hector McMillan was not the only friend the family lost during that time. His late wife Alma's best friend Ruby Gray from Dromara was murdered along with five other missionaries, close to the town of Banalia. Says Bob's youngest son David: "The killing of the six missionaries was very savage. "They weren't carried out by gun, these were machete and spear killings. None of us can understand why. "Some of the missionaries' bodies were thrown in the river and eaten by crocodiles. "Local people say that when they threw Ruby into the river after she had been speared, she wasn't dead. And as she was sinking, she raised her hands and her last words were 'Glory to God'". In 2014, Bob, now 90, returned to Congo with his eldest son Billy and daughter Ruth to visit Hector's grave and attend a memorial service in Banalia to honour the six missionaries, including Ruby, who were murdered by Simba rebels. The Simbas had emerged out of the chaos that followed Congo's independence. The movement's leaders aspired to a communist state, but most of their followers were illiterate tribesmen steeped in black magic and witchcraft who were simply looking for the better life they had been promised after independence. The McAllister's trip is documented in BBC One Northern Ireland programme, A Deadly Mission: Belfast to Congo, which will be broadcast

Summary: A Belfast man has recalled how his best friend was shot dead in front of him by a firing squad of Congolese rebels in 1964.


But the number of ice cream vans has been falling for years, leading some to believe that those bells may mean nothing to future generations of children. A crop of small, family-run businesses is determined to keep the industry alive however. These ice cream entrepreneurs have found business models that enable them to thrive in a market dominated by large retailers. And some have even dipped their toes in the export market. One such success story is Londoner John Bonar, 53, who started selling ice cream when he was just 11. "We would get on a lorry in the East End, fill barrows full of ice cream, get dropped off around Hyde Park or Madame Tussauds and just sell ice cream," he tells me. He launched his own business at the age of 21, selling ice cream from a van with a hole in the floor and windscreen wipers that didn't work. Today his firm Piccadilly Whip operates 20 ice cream vans in London and Essex, and has fixed stands at Tower Bridge. Despite these achievements, Mr Bonar says that conditions have got much tougher for ice cream vans since they first became popular in the UK in the 1950s. "When I was a kid, there was four or five ice cream vans who would come round our streets and they would all earn a living. "But there are less and less over the years, because people can buy ice cream cheaply in supermarkets and everybody has got a freezer in their house." Britain's ice cream market is worth about £1bn each year, according to trade group the Ice Cream Alliance, but there is no concrete data on the number of ice cream vans in operation. The Guardian, however, estimated that there were 2,500 vans on UK roads in 2013, when falling numbers led The Sunday People to launch a campaign to save the industry. Changing tastes may have led to less work for vans on the streets, but there has been a rise in opportunities at festivals, weddings and corporate events. This has become a key source of revenue for Piccadilly Whip, whose vans will sometimes be at seven events at the same time. Piccadilly Whip's vans are made by Whitby Morrison, a Crewe-based firm employing 50 staff, fronted by operations director Ed Whitby. His grandfather Bryan started the business in 1962, taking on vehicle conversions that "everyone else said were impossible" and succeeding, Ed says with pride. The firm became the "market leader" in the 1980s after its main competitor went bust, and today sells around 100 new vans each year, exporting about 20% of them. Its vans sell ice cream in more than 60 countries, including Kazakhstan, Malawi and Guyana - although despite its global ambitions, Whitby Morrison still prides itself on its local roots. "We look to take people on from school, put them through their apprenticeships, suffer all the girlfriend problems, the first mortgage, the first child," Mr Whitby says over the phone. "We're founded on real family values." More stories from the BBC's Business Brain series

Summary: For many of us, the distinctive chimes of an ice cream van conjure up happy childhood memories of British summers and dripping ice lollies.


The actor and children's TV legend joined Weatherfield last year, but is set to move on to star in a stage production of Driving Miss Daisy. The BBC understands he filmed his final scenes last week and will appear on TV screens until April. But it's thought the character could possibly return to the cobbles at a later date. Freddie first appeared on the soap last March, when he turned up at Kylie's beauty salon. He later got a job at Kevin's garage and had a brief romance with Audrey. It is understood Griffiths left of his own accord at the end of a one-year contract. He was best-known to a generation of TV viewers for hosting classic children's programme Play School and Play Away during the 1960s, '70s and '80s. But as an actor he also spent two years with the Royal Shakespeare Company and appeared in West End productions of Miss Saigon and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Follow us on Facebook, on Twitter @BBCNewsEnts, or on Instagram at bbcnewsents. If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news@bbc.co.uk.

Summary: Fans of Corrie will have to wave goodbye to mechanic Freddie Smith soon as Derek Griffiths is leaving the soap.


Slogans were painted on the monument at White Brae, Ligoniel, on the outskirts of north Belfast and two wreaths were removed. The monument is a tribute to teenage brothers John and Joseph McCaig, and their colleague Dougald McCaughey, 23. The off-duty fusiliers were shot dead at the site by the IRA in March 1971. James Wright, chairman of Oldpark and Cavehill branch of the Royal British Legion, said: "Just like the cowards who in the dead of night murdered John, Joe and Dougald, these lowlife cowards cannot show their faces, they have to carry out their attacks under the cover of darkness. "As a branch we will not be deterred in ensuring that the murder of these young soldiers who were off-duty and out socialising in Belfast will never be forgotten." Sinn FÃ©in councillor for north Belfast, Gerry McCabe, also condemned the latest incident. "The ongoing attacks on this memorial must stop. They have gone on too long," he said. "The actions of those involved in this are not representative of the people of this community and whoever is behind this should question what they are achieving."

Summary: A memorial to three Scottish soldiers who were murdered by the IRA has been attacked for a 19th time, the Royal British Legion has said.


The report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development found an average satisfaction score of 7.3 on a scale from nought to 10. UK teenagers had a below average satisfaction score of seven. But anxiety about exams and bullying remains a problem for many young people. And heavy internet use leaves many feeling lonely and less satisfied. The findings are based on a survey of 540,000 students internationally who also completed the OECD Pisa tests in science, mathematics and reading in 2015. The study reveals large variations in life satisfaction out of 48 OECD countries and partner nations. The highest levels of satisfaction were found in the Dominican Republic (8.5), Mexico (8.3) and Costa Rica (8.2), while the Asian countries or economies of Korea (6.4), Hong Kong (6.5), Macau (6.6) and Taiwan (6.6) recorded low levels of satisfaction. The UK took 38th place for life satisfaction, behind countries such as Russia (7.8), Bulgaria (7.4) and Estonia (7.5). The study found girls and disadvantaged students were less likely than boys and advantaged students to report high levels of life satisfaction. Despite reasonably high average levels of satisfaction, bullying was a significant problem for many youngsters, with a large proportion saying they had been victims. On average across OECD countries, about 11% of teenagers said they were frequently mocked, 7% were "left out of things" and 8% were the subject of hurtful rumours. Around 4% of students - approximately one child per class - reported that they were hit or pushed at least a few times per month. But the OECD research found less bullying in schools where students had positive relationships with their teachers. Exam stress was also a problem, with 59% of students saying they often worried that taking a test would be difficult and 66% saying they worried about getting poor grades. Across OECD countries, about 55% of students said they were very anxious before a test, even if they were well prepared for it. Girls had a tendency to worry more than boys, with girls in all 72 countries reporting greater levels of schoolwork-related anxiety than boys. The report found students spent more than two hours online during a typical weekday after school and more than three hours online during a typical weekend day. The majority said the internet was a great resource for obtaining information and more than half said they felt bad if no internet connection was available. Students who spent more than six hours online on weekdays outside of school hours were more likely to report that they were not satisfied with their life or that they felt lonely at school. They were also less proficient in science than students who spent fewer hours online. The OECD research found that between 2012 and 2015, the time teenagers spent online outside of school hours increased by at least 40 minutes a day on both weekdays and weekends. The study concluded that teenagers who felt part of a school community and had good relationships with their parents and teachers were more likely to perform better academically and be

Summary: Most 15-year-olds report being happy with their lives, an international study of students' well-being suggests.


Wash Mussels Ltd will create five "limited" test areas on the bed of the River Stour where 500 tonnes of mussels would be laid each year. The RSPB is concerned about the impact of dredgers and farming on rare birds. A public consultation runs until October. In 2014, the company applied for a licence for a five-year trial, but objections were raised about a lack of studies on the effects on wildlife. The RSPB is worried about an adverse effect on the tens of thousands of birds, particularly goldeneye and red breasted merganser, which use the estuary, which has European Special Protection Area status. Mark Nowers, RSPB conservation officer, said: "Any development needs to show these important species are not affected." Peter Scott, solicitor for Wash Mussels, said: "There will be limited operations and no equipment in situ, because there will be no ropes or nets. "Noise from dredgers is pretty insignificant in terms of bird disturbance. "If the trial is successful, there will be significant employment in dredging and preparing the product for market." Mr Scott said it would not put buoys on the river or sink pots to catch crabs which feed on mussels. The Essex and Suffolk Wildlife Trusts said they would be reviewing the company's data as part of the public consultation which runs until 7 October. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said it would consider the results of the consultation before deciding whether a licence should be granted.

Summary: Large scale mussel farming could deter rare birds feeding on a "tranquil" river estuary with protected status, wildlife groups have warned.


Hull keeper Eldin Jakupovic saved two penalties after the hosts had played the whole of extra time with 10 men following Dieumerci Mbokani's dismissal. Newcastle had taken the lead in extra time when Mohamed Diame prodded home Vurnon Anita's cross to score against his former club. The lead lasted a minute, Robert Snodgrass equalising after Matz Sels had spilled Markus Henriksen's shot into his path. Mbokani was sent off in the 89th minute for lunging forward with his head at Jamaal Lascelles. The tie only came to life in extra time, the first 90 minutes featuring just two shots on target. Newcastle have now lost nine of their 10 penalty shootouts in all competitions, yet Rafael Benitez's side will be wondering why they did not win the tie in 120 minutes. They had 32 shots in that time, but their finishing was as wayward as their penalties. Jonjo Shelvey set the tone for Newcastle's spot-kick nightmare when his attempt was kept out by Jakupovic. Hull's first penalty fell to Snodgrass and he made no mistake, before Dwight Gayle hit the bar with his attempt for Newcastle. Skipper Michael Dawson made it 2-0 before Christian Atsu scored for Newcastle. Tom Huddlestone made it 3-1, and Hull's players and fans were celebrating a first EFL Cup semi-final appearance when Jakupovic kept out Yoan Gouffran's tame attempt. Hull had just one shot on target in normal time, and their hopes of reaching the semi-finals looked over when Mbokani was sent off. The forward, on loan from Dynamo Kiev, kicked out and pushed Lascelles before lunging forward at the Newcastle defender with his head. The 31-year-old has appeared in five league games since arriving at the end of August. He now faces a three-match ban - something Hull could do without as they look to climb away from the Premier League relegation zone. Hull City boss Mike Phelan: "This is the furthest the club has ever been and the players are really pleased. "For this football club, it's a tremendous achievement. Hopefully we can go one step further now." Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez: "The way that we played we deserved to score goals in the first half and in extra time. Then when we did score the goal we didn't manage the situation. "It's something you learn with experience. Maybe we will do a little better the next time we have this many chances." Newcastle have little time to dust themselves down. The Magpies return to Championship action on Friday away to Nottingham Forest (19:45 GMT). Middlesbrough await Hull in the Premier League at the Riverside next Monday (20:00 GMT). Match ends, Hull City 1(3), Newcastle United 1(1). Penalty Shootout ends, Hull City 1(3), Newcastle United 1(1). Penalty saved! Yoan Gouffran (Newcastle United) fails to capitalise on this great opportunity, right footed shot saved in the bottom left corner. Goal! Hull City 1(3), Newcastle United 1(1). Tom Huddlestone (Hull City) converts the penalty with a right footed shot to the bottom left corner. Goal! Hull City 1(2), Newcastle United 1(1). Christian Atsu (Newcastle United) converts the

Summary: Newcastle United missed three spot-kicks as Hull City beat the Championship leaders 3-1 on penalties to reach the EFL Cup semi-final.


Iron ore delivered into China fell 8.3% on Monday after Beijing reported weak export data over the weekend. China is one of the biggest consumers of the commodity and there are concerns a slowdown in its economy may hurt demand and impact miners' profits. Shares of BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and Glencore Xstrata all fell. Rio Tinto shares ended the day down by 5.7%, while BHP Billiton fell more than 4% on the Australian Securities Exchange. Fortescue Metals tumbled nearly 10% in Sydney on Monday. Mining stocks listed in London were also hurt, with Anglo American, Antofagasta and Glencore Xstrata all down by more than 2%. Recent demand for minerals like iron ore and copper has been driven in part by China's export boom, as well as government-led infrastructure spending. That has seen miners become increasingly dependent on China for growth. However, over the weekend, China reported a surprise 18.1% fall in exports for February, compared to the same month last year. A fall in China's steel futures also hurt mining shares because iron ore is a key ingredient in steel manufacture. Fears of slowing demand from China have added to slides in other commodity prices, like that of copper, which has dropped to its lowest level in more than seven months. China is the biggest buyer of the metal, which is used in electronics production and other manufacturing industries. "Any poor news from China is always going to hit short-term market sentiment, especially in the mining sector, and fears of slower growth will hit base metals," said Steven Mayne, director at IPR Capital.

Summary: Shares in some of the world's biggest mining companies have been hit by a slump in the price of iron ore, amid fears of a slowdown in China's economy.


Ciaran Murtagh's goal helped Roscommon lead by three at half-time but Donegal moved three up before a Conor Devaney goal levelled matters on 64 minutes. Mark Anthony McGinley saved a glorious Ronan Stack goal chance before McHugh's dramatic injury-time winner. Both Monaghan and Cavan missed a host of chances in their Division One game. A number of Cavan's misses were particularly glaring with Seanie Johnston having a poor free-taking day but Monaghan will feel that they should have snatched victory late on as the normally reliable Conor McManus and Owen Duffy both missed great chances to seal victory. With both sides having lost several experienced squad members in recent months, the Dr Hyde Park encounter was billed as a relegation battle and it was Donegal who came out on the right side of the result after a frantic finish. Managers Rory Gallagher and Kevin McStay got involved in spot of jostling and verbal exchanges in the closing seconds after McHugh had kicked Donegal ahead, with the Roscommon boss unhappy at the duration of a substitution by the visitors. Moments earlier, Stack had squandered a glorious chance to seemingly secure Roscommon's victory as he opted to goal for goal from point-blank range which allowed Donegal keeper McGinley to make a brilliant save. Donegal led by two early on but Roscommon took a three-point lead after McGinley's misdirected short kick-out was punished by Murtagh bundling the ball over the line. The visitors had a great chance to respond with a three-pointer of their own but Michael Carroll's low shot skimmed over the crossbar. Trailing 1-6 to 0-6 at the break, Frank McGlynn's half-time introduction spurred a Donegal comeback as three points from the impressive Marty O'Reilly and further scores by the impressive Caolan Ward, Jamie Brennan, sub Darach O'Connor and Eoin McHugh helped the visitors move three ahead. Roscommon levelled with six minutes of normal time left as Devaney lashed an unstoppable shot past McGinley. Stack seemed certain to win it but took the wrong option in going for goal and relieved by the let-off, Donegal clinched victory as McHugh pointed in the final minute of injury-time. Scores were at a premium at Castleblayney but Cavan probably should have edged the verdict after missing some great chances. Johnston's early missed free set the tone for his day although he did help the Breffnimen move into a 0-2 to 0-0 lead. Monaghan didn't open their account until McManus' 21st-minute free and he quickly added two more scores to nudge Monaghan ahead. Cavan's Niall Clerkin then created a goal chance for himself after a superb run but attempted to find a colleague instead of shooting himself and the chance was intercepted. Killian Brady did level before the break but with Cavan continuing to misfire in front of goal, Monaghan led by two on three occasions in the third quarter. However, the Farneymen failed to score in the closing 18 minutes, with Cavan also unable to split the posts in the final 15 minutes of play after points from Shane Tierney and Gearoid McKiernan. Cavan did have

Summary: Eoin McHugh's late point helped Donegal snatch a 0-16 to 2-9 Division One win in Roscommon as Monaghan drew 0-7 to 0-7 with Cavan at Castleblayney


The ministers were speaking after they met in Cardiff to discuss the implications of the EU referendum vote. Voters in Scotland and Northern Ireland opted to remain in the EU in the referendum, while Wales voted to leave. Northern Ireland Finance Minister Máirtín Ó Muilleoir described the meeting as "positive". "We want to speak with one voice to the chancellor - when we speak together, in a united fashion, we speak for 10m people," Mr Ó Muilleoir said. "So despite the fact that we voted in the north of Ireland to remain, the Scottish voted to remain, the Welsh voted to leave, despite that, I think we have made common cause today around some issues we want to bring to the chancellor's table. "We do seek resolution, particularly around this austerity agenda hampering our economic growth." His Welsh counterpart Mark Drakeford said all three nations relied on EU funding. "All three of us have to be determined to hold the United Kingdom to account in delivering the promises that were made to people that money would come in Wales' case to Wales - and that Wales would be better off, not worse off, as a result of leaving the European Union," Mr Drakeford said. "That's a common cause for us all," he said. Scottish Finance Secretary Derek Mackay said: "We want the UK government to respect our position. "We will be issuing a letter to the UK government and we call upon them to give us some financial stability and ensure that we are represented in discussions going forward. "So maybe with a new prime minister we'll get a new attitude from the UK government."

Summary: Finance ministers from Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales have said they should be included in the UK's negotiations to leave the EU.


Omran Ben Shaaban was kidnapped, shot and tortured by people who many in Misrata believe were supporters of the late dictator. The 22-year-old died in France, where he was receiving medical treatment for his injuries. His body was flown back to Libya, met by hundreds of mourners. In Misrata, protesters called for the government to avenge his death. Mr Shaaban was kidnapped by armed men in July and held for 50 days in the town of Bani Walid, a former Gaddafi stronghold that lies south-east of the capital Tripoli. He was freed last week following the mediation efforts of Mohamed Magarief, Libya's interim leader and president of the ruling General National Congress (GNC). Mr Shaaban arrived in Misrata with torture marks on his body and a bullet wound near his spinal cord, according to reports. He was taken to Paris for treatment, but died on Monday. Hundreds of people gathered at the airport in Misrata to greet his body. His coffin was carried in a procession to a football stadium where funeral prayers were held. Mr Shaaban came to prominence on 20 October last year when he was pictured at the scene as Col Gaddafi was dragged from a drainage pipe where he was hiding in Sirte. The GNC mourned the "loss of a brave hero" and has said it will take all necessary measures to bring the perpetrators to justice, according to a statement issued on the official Lana news agency.

Summary: One of the Libyan rebels credited with capturing ex-leader Muammar Gaddafi last year has been buried in his hometown of Misrata.