People visit the temple throughout the day to pray to the kuman for good fortune, lighting incense sticks and kneeling before the garishly-coloured figures. Some buy lottery tickets, and run their hands along the trunk of a fallen ironwood tree, festooned with coloured scarves and smoothed by years of handling. They believe they can see the winning number in the faded grain of the wood. Thais, like many people in South East Asia, are superstitious. But the monks at the temple have found their doll collection growing recently, as people have quietly left behind child-sized figures, known as luk thep, or 'child angels'. The monks have moved them to a small room in a tower, where, like the kuman, they are served the red fizzy drinks they are believed to prefer. "Each person has their own beliefs", one of the monks, Phra Prasit Warayan told me, "but the belief in the power of luk thep is very strong. When things go well for the owner, they worship them, but when things turn bad, they abandon them. Because they are afraid of what might happen, they leave them here, because they know we accept them, and the abbot is always careful to put them in an appropriate place." The dolls look incongruous in the temple, in their formal children's clothing and with their wide-eyed, Western features. But how did the luk thep craze start? And is it just a continuation of the kuman belief, that inanimate objects can be inhabited by a ghost, or spirit? I hoped to find that answer at a dazzling pink house in a gated community in another suburb. A chubby, blond doll's head sits on a shrine, next to offerings of food and water. Various other limbs lay drying outside after being given a special cream massage. In one room, two young women sat surrounded by different parts of doll's anatomies, carefully applying nail varnish, nose studs and weaving real human hair into soft, plastic scalps. The dolls are often given yantra - Buddhist tattoos - and are filled with rice, a symbol of prosperity. In the next room Mananya Boonmi lovingly brushes the hair of her favourite doll, Pet. She has collected these dolls for fourteen years, but she did not always see them as she does now, as living beings, who will reward their owners with good fortune - as long as they are looked after as if they are a human child. She believes she was one of the earliest believers in luk thep. She says she was selling small souvenirs around four years ago, when she had the feeling that one of her dolls, Ploy, was trying to help. She began to treat the doll like a real child, and her business took off. She says she was also able to overcome difficulties she was having raising her son. "We can rely on luk thep mentally", she says. "They make us happy, as if they are alive, and we can carry them around with us. I love dressing them up, and talking to them.

Summary: Situated in the nondescript outer western suburbs of Bangkok, Sawang Arom temple is already well known for its collection of kuman - plastic child-dolls in historic costumes, usually clutching a bag of gold, and believed to be inhabited by the ghost of an unborn foetus.


Tozer, 26, spent 2015-16 at Yeovil, who he joined from Northampton. The Plymouth-born player said: "It has been a bit of a whirlwind with the deal being sorted out so quickly, but I'm delighted to get the deal done and over the line." Newport manager Warren Feeney said: "He has experience at this level which will be a great benefit for us." Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Defensive midfielder Ben Tozer has joined League Two's Newport County on a one-year deal.


Some reported death threats, with more than half of those questioned saying they had had physical threats. More than a third of the UK's 195 female MPs took part in the research. Of these, two thirds said they felt "less safe" following the murder of the Labour MP Jo Cox last summer. Deputy Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle said Parliament was working with police to ensure MPs' safety and offer training to enhance their security while away from Westminster. The anonymous 5 Live survey, conducted last month, saw one respondent remarking that "the level of violence and abuse has significantly increased in the last years. At times I have been very frightened." Another wrote: "Had to phone the police once, [after] a constituent threatened to kill me." Following the murder of Mrs Cox, who represented Batley and Spen, one MP said she had received "absolutely zero" support from Parliament or her party. Another wrote: "I asked my kids' view on whether I should stop after Jo's death, but their support was all I needed. Standing up to bullies is the only answer." "I won't give in," wrote another. The research reveals how abuse faced by politicians can affect their families. One MP wrote: "The feeling of not being able to protect my children was unexpected, as was having panic buttons fitted." One revealed she had "worries for the safety of my parents in the constituency", while another found she was "more protective of my family and info on where they live/go to school". In the wide-ranging survey, female politicians were asked for their views on getting more women into Parliament. More than half were in favour of all-female shortlists, while almost half wanted a crackdown on "unprofessional or sexist" language at Westminster. But the idea of allowing breastfeeding in the chamber was resoundingly rejected. One MP said: "I wouldn't breastfeed my baby if I worked on the checkout at Tesco, so why would I do it in the chamber?" Two-thirds of those who responded to the survey said getting more women elected would mean Parliament would make better decisions. One commented that "less time would be wasted. Too much hot air from men". Another said: "Parliament might be run more sensibly - less time wasted on posturing and debate for the sake of debate." Almost two-thirds of the female MPs who responded to the survey said they had received sexist comments from fellow workers or MPs - with one told she should be "in the kitchen washing the dishes". One woman MP said she had experienced sexual assault and two said they had been groped. Of the women with children who responded, the majority found long-distance travel, irregular hours and late parliamentary sittings a problem. One mother commented that "constant 'dissing' and lack of valuing what an MP does, children pick this up". Another worried about the "embarrassment of my kids if I do anything controversial" and a "risk of bullying". The women MPs were asked whether they would still stand for Parliament if they were just starting out, knowing what they do

Summary: An overwhelming majority of women MPs have received online and verbal abuse from the public and a third have considered quitting as a result, a BBC Radio 5 live survey suggests.


The inmates stole five rifles; a guard and an inmate were killed in an exchange of fire. The authorities have begun a manhunt for the fugitives with the help of UN peacekeepers stationed in the country. The Haitian government tweeted that it condemned what it described as a prison mutiny. "One guard was killed during the incident," Justice Minister Camille Edouard Junior told Reuters news agency. "Three prisoner were wounded, including one who died as a consequence of his wounds." Eleven escapees have so far been detained, and checkpoints have been set up on roads near the prison. However, inmates at Arcahaie do not wear prison uniforms, making it easier for them to blend in with the general population. Haitian prisons are notoriously overcrowded and inmates spend years in pre-trial detention.

Summary: More than 170 inmates have escaped from a Haitian prison in Arcahaie, 45km (30 miles) north of the capital Port-au-Prince.


Jiang Jiemin was removed from office due to "suspected serious disciplinary violations", state-run news agency Xinhua said, citing authorities. The term is commonly used to refer to corruption. Mr Jiang has not commented publicly on the allegations. Chinese authorities announced they were investigating Mr Jiang on Sunday. Mr Jiang was head of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (Sasac). Formerly, he headed the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC). Four CNPC executives are also under investigation for corruption. Mr Jiang is the first member of the current 205-strong Communist Party Central Committee to face such charges and state media is presenting it as proof of the new leadership's resolve to clean up public life, the BBC's John Sudworth in Shanghai reports. However some observers suggest that, whether guilty of corruption or not, there may be a political edge to Jiang Jiemin's downfall, as vested interests in state-owned industries have long been seen as opposed to economic reform, our correspondent adds. Chinese President Xi Jinping has described fighting corruption as a priority, warning that "bribe-taking by some party members and cadres" poses "severe challenges" to the Communist Party's rule. Several high-profile officials have been felled in recent months. In July, former Railways Minister Liu Zhijun was given a suspended death sentence for corruption and abuse of power. Liu Tienan, formerly deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission, was sacked in August and is the subject of an investigation, state media say.

Summary: China has sacked a top official responsible for overseeing state-owned companies amid a corruption probe, Chinese media say.


Keane, 23, initially continued playing after a clash of heads during the 2-0 win over Rotherham on 20 February. But he was substituted on 32 minutes and missed the next two matches, returning on 5 March against Blackburn. "I felt alright to go on but I went down from a set play and said to the physio I couldn't see," Keane said. In November 2015, the Football Association released new guidelines that stated "anyone with a suspected concussion must be immediately removed from play". Keane added that it took him a while to get back to feeling "normal" following his injury. "At first I was just really dizzy all the time and had no memory of the past week, really," he told BBC Radio Lancashire. "The doctor asked me what year it was and I thought it was 1996. I was all over the place. "I got treated really well at the hospital, had a few scans and then had to take my time to get back to normal and thankfully now I am alright. "Looking back, [substituting me] was definitely the right thing to do. "They have to be extra cautious when it comes to head injuries and rightly so because you can get massive injuries to your brain."

Summary: Burnley defender Michael Keane has revealed he believed it was 1996 and had "no memory" of the previous week after suffering from concussion.


The university's students union is behind the scheme, which has been running across a number of its campuses. Research has suggested that interacting with dogs can help reduce stress and help improve concentration levels. Hundreds of UU students have spent time petting and playing with the dogs. On Wednesday, four dogs spent the afternoon at the students union at Jordanstown. The union's officer for student affairs, Hannah Rooney, said that students faced many pressures at exam time, and the dogs helped to reduce that. "Students really enjoy the dogs, and it's good fun for the dogs themselves," she said. "It a bit of distraction as it's something we don't get on campus every day, you don't have dogs all the time. "So it's a way to relieve stress and get out of that mindset students are in with exams coming up. "We've run this at our Magee and Coleraine campuses and the feedback from students has been great. "They'd want a puppy room all the time if it was possible." The dogs were provided by volunteers from Northern Ireland Assistance Dogs. They train and provide medical alert dogs to adults with medical conditions, such as diabetes. Danielle O'Neill was one student who was revising for exams but called in to spend time with them. "Being with the dogs just relaxes you and gives you five minutes to put your mind onto something else other than exams and studying," she said. "It gives your hand a bit of a break from writing too!" Other UK universities, including Bristol, Nottingham, Aberdeen and Central Lancashire have also offered similar schemes in recent years.

Summary: Dogs have been bringing relaxation and calmness to students revising for sitting exams at Ulster University (UU).


The defensive midfielder joined from Caen last summer for £6m and went on to make 40 appearances in Leicester's Premier League-winning campaign. Kante, 25, was part of the France squad that reached the final of Euro 2016. "I am so happy to have signed for one of the biggest clubs in Europe. It's a dream come true for me," he said. Kante is Chelsea's second signing of the summer after Belgian striker Michy Batshuayi joined from Marseille. "The opportunity to work with Antonio Conte, a brilliant coach, and some of the best players in the world was simply too good to turn down," said Kante. Leicester said they accepted a club record fee on Friday before Kante finalised terms and completed a medical. "Despite the offer of a substantially improved, long-term contract, it became apparent that N'Golo's wish was to join Chelsea," said a Foxes statement. Leicester striker Jamie Vardy turned down a move to Arsenal earlier in the summer, but there is continued speculation winger Riyad Mahrez could leave. Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo described Kante as a "fantastic" signing with "exceptional quality". "He is a perfect fit in terms of Antonio Conte's philosophies and the style of football he wants to play," added Emenalo. Meanwhile, Conte lost his first game in charge as they were beaten 2-0 by Rapid Vienna in a friendly. Chelsea fielded a strong side captained by John Terry and including Branislav Ivanovic, Nemanja Matic, Willian, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Diego Costa. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Chelsea have signed Leicester City midfielder N'Golo Kante on a five-year deal for a fee believed to be in the region of £30m.


Only 21 balls were possible in a rain-hit morning session at New Road. After Australian paceman Jackson Bird had taken his third wicket, the hosts then looked in some discomfort at 25-3. But Mitchell put on 142 with teenager Joe Clarke (70), finishing the day on 105 as Worcestershire closed on 228-5. Worcestershire got off to a bad start when Richard Oliver, their T20 matchwinner against Durham the day before, was out to only the fourth delivery he received, leg before wicket to Bird. After an early lunch following the mid-morning downpour, Tom Fell then edged Bird low to wicketkeeper Adam Wheater before the recalled Tom Kohler-Cadmore was bowled without playing a shot. But the meeting of last season's two promotion winners then changed course as Clarke joined Mitchell, who made an unbeaten 142 at Southampton in May, only for Hampshire to be saved by the weather. Kohler-Cadmore came in for his third Championship start of the summer as Alex Gidman was still feeling the effects of a blow he took on the helmet on the first day against Nottinghamshire a week ago. The home side also opted to play an extra spinner, in-form T20 specialist Brett D'Oliveira coming in for seamer Ed Barnard. Worcestershire skipper Daryl Mitchell told BBC Hereford & Worcester: "It's always pleasing to get a hundred and when we were 25-3, it's doubly pleasing to get us out of a bit of trouble. We will see how important it is at the end of the game. "It's a good wicket, pretty dry and not a lot of grass, and I thought batting first was important with two spinners in the team. "There was a bit of cloud cover and it did nibble around a little we overcame that and Joe Clarke played a fantastic innings." Hampshire coach Dale Benkenstein told BBC Solent: "It was a solid day but, at 25-3, there was a real opportunity and we got a little bit excited. We have not had those opportunities, especially recently. "It's a fairly good, slow, placid wicket. We almost tried to get wickets but they got a bit away from us. "If you bowl in good areas there is enough in the wicket and it's hard to score."

Summary: Worcestershire captain Daryl Mitchell compiled his second hundred of the season against Hampshire to help rescue his side against their fellow County Championship Division One strugglers.


Making them vote may halt declining election turnouts and could "kick start the habit of a lifetime", the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) said. In 2010, 44% of 18 to 24-year-olds voted, with the "younger and poorer" least likely to vote, it suggested. The UK risks "sleepwalking into a more divided democracy" unless there is reform, the IPPR's Mat Lawrence said. "The working class and the young have less input into political decision-making processes, with lower rates of participation and representation than older and more affluent citizens," the IPPR report suggested. Such inequalities undermined the "legitimacy and effectiveness" of democracy, the report claimed, saying it was unlikely the trend would be reversed in next month's general election. At the 1970 general election, the gap between the proportion of 18-24 year olds and over-65s who voted was 18%. However, at the 2010 general election, the gap had risen to 32% - with 76% of over-65s voting, compared to 44% of 18-24 year olds. "Long-run decline in voter turnout in the UK is being driven by the relative collapse in participation among the young and the less well-off - not by a uniform decline in turnout among all groups," Mr Lawrence added. "A distinctive non-voting population, generally younger and poorer, heightens political inequality by giving some groups far greater influence at the ballot box." The report comes after the voting age was reduced to 16 for the Scottish independence referendum, in September - when 109,593 16 and 17-year-olds registered to vote. Mr Lawrence said the high turnout at the referendum, as well as the rise of grassroots groups, provided reasons for optimism. Broadcaster and author Rick Edwards told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that he supported the proposal, saying "something drastic needs to happen" to encourage young people to vote. But he said there would have to be a "none of the above" option on ballot papers, to allow voters to express their dissatisfaction. "The problem is politicians are more interested in serving the interests of the demographic who vote more because they are interested in winning their votes and keeping their votes. "Therefore what is happening is that young people are getting marginalised and their interests aren't being served as they should be," he added. He said that if young people felt they were not being spoken to, or were not being paid any attention by politicians, they would be even less likely to vote.

Summary: Young people should be forced to vote in the first election after they turn 18, a centre-left think tank has said.


Sosefina Amoa, 26, accepted a plea agreement for voluntary manslaughter, punishable by up to 30 years in prison. A prosecutor has said she will seek a four to 10-year prison term. A lawyer for Amoa said the Samoan woman smothered the infant in her room at the Little Sisters of the Poor convent but did so out of panic and shock after a difficult delivery. She put her hand over the infant's mouth to "quiet the baby so she could figure out what she was going to do", lawyer Judith Pipe said. Amoa is said to have arrived in the US from Samoa on 5 October 2013 to begin a five-month programme to become a member of the convent. She gave birth to son Joseph in her room on 10 October. Prosecutor Cynthia Wright told the Washington court Amoa was standing when the infant was born and that he fell, hitting the floor before he was smothered. Amoa later cleaned her room and showed the infant to a sister at the convent the following day, saying she had found the child outside. The unnamed nun allegedly found the child cold and not breathing and took the body in a bag to a local hospital along with Amoa, court documents said.

Summary: A trainee Catholic nun has pleaded guilty to killing her newborn infant in a convent in Washington DC in October.


Police said the 61-year-old man had left his own vehicle when he was struck by the lorry shortly after 13:00. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The eastbound carriageway was closed at Junction 3 while emergency services attended, but has since reopened. Police said they were attempting to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

Summary: A man has died after being hit by a lorry on the M8 at Livingston in West Lothian.


The tie-up could worsen the position for shoppers in local areas owing to a cut in quality, fewer promotions and store closures, an initial probe found. Poundland wants to buy its closest rival in an agreed deal worth £47.5m in cash and £7.5m in shares. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said this could hit 80 areas. These were where the companies, which have a combined network of 800 stores, currently overlap. There was a further 12 areas where they would be competitors in the near future. Following an initial investigation, the CMA said there was "a realistic prospect of substantial lessening of competition" in these areas. The authority said it would now move to a more in-depth investigation unless these concerns were addressed in a "clear-cut manner" by the companies.

Summary: Discount store Poundland's proposed purchase of rival 99p Stores for £55m faces an in-depth investigation by competition authorities.


The performance will be overseen by Chic's Nile Rodgers, who produced Bowie's hit album Let's Dance in 1983. "The tribute will be a multisensory testament to the icon's incredible artistry and a reflection of his limitless creativity," said the Recording Academy in a statement. Gaga has previously credited Bowie as an inspiration. "He's sort of like an alien prince," she once told chat show host Alan Carr. "Every morning I wake up and I think, 'What would Bowie do?'" "We had already booked Lady Gaga on this year's show, but when David passed - almost in a single moment - we knew we had to change direction," said Ken Ehrlich, executive producer of the Grammys. "We immediately spoke and agreed that she should be the one to honour David. She's perfect for it." The Grammys will be held in Los Angeles on 15 February. Gaga is nominated for best song written for visual media, thanks to her Diane Warren-penned ballad Til It Happens To You, from the documentary The Hunting Ground. Other performers on the night include Adele, Kendrick Lamar, James Bay, Ellie Goulding and Carrie Underwood. During his career, Bowie was nominated for 11 Grammys but only won once - when Jazzin' for Blue Jean was awarded best video in 1985. He also received a lifetime achievement prize in 2006. The star died of cancer on 10 January, just days after releasing his new album, Blackstar. It will be eligible for honours at next year's Grammy ceremony. A Bowie tribute is also planned for the Brit Awards, which take place on 24 February. Details have yet to be announced, but media reports suggest that Noel Gallagher, Bono, Adele and Damon Albarn have been invited to take part.

Summary: Pop star Lady Gaga is to honour David Bowie with "an experiential tribute" at this month's Grammy Awards.


Last August feels like a long time ago and a lot has happened since - how well do you remember the past 39 weeks? This content will not work on your device, please check Javascript and cookies are enabled or update your browser

Summary: After nine months, 380 games and more than 1,000 goals, another Premier League season grinds to a halt on Sunday.


The leaders, who have won 26 of their 27 top-flight games, are 27 points clear of second-placed Aberdeen and require seven points to win the title. Responding to criticism of Scottish football, Rodgers said: "It's ignorance really. "The footballing world is more than the (English) Premier League." Celtic's 4-0 victory at Inverness CT in midweek left them three games away from a sixth consecutive league title. "With all due respect, it's a lack of knowledge of football," Rodgers said of criticism of Scotland's top flight. "We all love to see the Premier League and I was part of it but football is global and Celtic is one of the biggest clubs in the world. "But if your eyes are only on one league then of course you tend to ignore what's around that. "It (Scottish Premiership) is not as prestigious as some of the other leagues and that's purely on the basis of finance. Financially, Scottish football doesn't have the same rewards or the same propaganda that surrounds some of the other leagues, but it's still a very very competitive league." Media playback is not supported on this device Celtic midfielder Nir Bitton echoed his manager's view and said the Premiership was a "competitive league". "For us it is not as easy as it looks on the table. It's a very competitive league," said the Israel international. Bitton, who featured in the win in the Highlands, believes critics of the Scottish Premiership are wide of the mark. "I think every game is difficult and the other team are going to defend and try to get something out of the game," he said. "A lot of people look at the table and think Celtic are far better team [than others] in the Scottish league and they have no competition. It's far from being true. "I think you can see that players who have played in the Premier League like Joey Barton or Niko Kranjcar that came to Scotland and thought it was going to be easy. "But no, it's not easy. It's a very competitive league, it's a very difficult league, it's very tough. Some places you go to play like Inverness on Wednesday night, believe me it's not easy."

Summary: Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has defended the standard of Scottish football as his unbeaten side close in on the Premiership title.


The lead exchanged hands on several occasions before Harlequins fly-half Nick Evans missed a last-minute drop-goal to win the game for the hosts. A crowd of more than 70,000 enjoyed a feast of points and four tries before half-time as Gloucester led 17-15. Quins' Ross Chisholm and Gloucester's Harry Trinder both scored twice, while Rob Cook grabbed the pick of the tries. Both sides go away with a bonus point but neither were able to get the decisive score on a day which saw England captain Chris Robshaw return to Twickenham for the first time since his team's disappointing World Cup campaign came to a premature end. In a side-plot to the main event, England winger Jonny May limped off for Gloucester in the second half with an apparent knee injury. Jeremy Thrush scored the opening try for the visitors after seven minutes before Gloucester open-side flanker Matt Kvesic, who produced a man-of-the-match performance, played a pivotal role in his side's second try, scored by fly-half James Hook. The Wales international then saw his fellow countryman Jamie Roberts inspire a Harlequins comeback on his first Premiership start for the club. Marland Yarde and Danny Care crossed in the first half for Conor O'Shea's men to put them back in contention. Trinder extended Gloucester's lead after the break with his first try before four action-filled second-half minutes produced three tries. Two went Harlequins' way, through Nick Easter and Chisholm, and then Trinder ran in his second, but pulled a hamstring in the process. Greig Laidlaw's penalty and Cook's dazzling run through the Harlequins defence seemed to make the win safe for Gloucester. But Evans kicked the home side to within a converted try and replacement Chisholm raced over once more to level it up again. Evans attempted a last-gasp drop-goal to win it, but his kick drifted just wide to the right. Harlequins: Brown; Yarde, Lowe, Roberts, Visser; Evans, Care (capt); Marler, Ward, Collier, Horwill, Matthews, Robshaw, Clifford, Easter. Replacements: Buchanan, Lambert, Sinckler, Merrick, Wallace, Dickson, Botica, Chisholm. Gloucester: Cook; Sharples, Meakes, Twelvetrees, May; Hook, Laidlaw (capt); McAllister, Hibbard, Afoa, Thrush, Galarza, Kalamafoni, Kvesic, Morgan. Replacements: Dawidiuk, Murphy, Doran-Jones, Savage, Rowan, Heinz, Burns, Trinder. For the latest rugby union news follow @bbcrugbyunion on Twitter.

Summary: Harlequins and Gloucester shared 10 tries in an epic 39-39 Premiership draw at Twickenham.


At the High Court in Livingston, Scott Macintosh was found guilty of attempted murder. He had denied carrying out the attack on art graduate Kate Lampitt-Adey, 26, in her Edinburgh flat in August. Macintosh, from Leith, claimed in his defence Miss Lampitt-Adey already had the injuries when he got to her flat. The photographs, taken by a police officer an hour after the assault, show her entire face swollen and bruised. Her eyes were badly bloodshot and fingertip bruises on either side of her windpipe could be seen where Macintosh, 36, repeatedly tried to choke her. Police called to the scene by neighbours who heard her strangled screams for help were also attacked by the accused. Officers found Miss Lampitt-Adey barricaded in a room in her Easter Road home "cowering" behind a bed.

Summary: A man who attacked and strangled a woman who dumped him after a short relationship has been jailed for nine years.


Hernandez hanged himself at the Souza Baranowski Correctional Center and was pronounced dead later at hospital. The former New England Patriots tight end, 27, was serving a life sentence for killing a man who was dating his fiancee's sister. Last week he was acquitted of a drive-by double murder prosecutors said began over an argument about a spilled drink. Hernandez had cried in court as that verdict was read, saying he was "very happy". His death comes on the day members of his former team visited President Donald Trump at the White House to be commended for their Super Bowl victory over Atlanta in February. Former team-mates and NFL players have been posting their reaction online to the death. Miami Dolphins centre Mike Pouncey, who played with Hernandez at the University of Florida wrote: "To my friend my brother! "Through thick and thin right or wrong we never left each other's side. Today my heart hurts as I got the worse news I could have imagined." Former wide receiver Donte Stallworth wrote that his thoughts are with Herandez's "sweet little 4 year old baby who has to grow up with this". Jerel Worthy of the Buffalo Bills wrote on Twitter: "Waking up to terrible news. If you have a chance to right your wrongs. Please jump at the opportunity turn over a new leaf and live!" Massachusetts Department of Correction said Hernandez had tried to block the door to his single cell before hanging himself. Lifesaving techniques were performed on Hernandez and he was taken to UMASS Leominster hospital where he was pronounced dead at 04:07 local time (08:07 GMT). State police are on the scene and his next of kin have been notified, officials said. State Department of Correction spokesman Christopher Fallon said in a statement that he was not aware a suicide note had been written and that officials had not been concerned that Hernandez would take his life. Does the NFL have a crime problem? Although Hernandez was acquitted of the double murder last week, he was found guilty of illegally possessing a firearm and the judge added five years to his sentence. Hernandez had been accused of the fatal shooting of Daniel de Abreu and Safiro Furtado outside a Boston nightclub in 2012, one month before he signed a $40m (Â£32m) contract extension with the Patriots. Hernandez had been found guilty in April 2015 of the first-degree murder of his friend, another American footballer, the semi-professional Odin Lloyd, in 2013. Lloyd's body was found with six bullet wounds less than a mile from Hernandez's home. Within hours of his arrest for the 2013 shooting, the Patriots sacked Hernandez, considered one of the top tight ends playing the game. Hernandez was given a life sentence without parole.

Summary: Former NFL footballer Aaron Hernandez has been found dead in his cell in Massachusetts, officials say.


Johnstone's first came at the end of a half in which Trinity had thrown away a 12-0 lead and stopped Salford going in level at the break. He scored again before the visitors reduced the arrears through Justin Carney's try. However a third score to add to Reece Lyne's effort ended Red Devils hopes. Since losing in front of Chester at Hull, Trinity have found form to beat Huddersfield, Leeds and now Salford, who were in action for the first time since crowd violence marred their victory at Huddersfield. Jacob Miller and Michael Sio crossed for Wakefield on the back of cheap possession early on but Salford, prompted by Michael Dobson, fought their way back through Gareth O'Brien and Matt Sarsfield tries. However winger Johnstone's score before the break was a blow from which the Red Devils never quite recovered, and the loss of Carney to an ankle injury was salt in the wound. The Wildcats have now achieved more Super League wins this season than they managed in 23 games last year. Wakefield: Jowitt, Jones-Bishop, Arundel, Lyne, Johnstone, Miller, Finn, Scruton, Moore, England, Kirmond, Ashurst, Sio. Replacements: Walton, Arona, Simon, Molloy. Salford: O'Brien, Carney, Sau, Jones, J. Griffin, Wood, Dobson, Kopczak, Tomkins, G. Griffin, Murdoch, Sarsfield, Flanagan. Replacements: Evalds, A. Walne, J. Walne, Forster. Referee: Joe Cobb (RFL)

Summary: Tom Johnstone's hat-trick helped Wakefield to a 32-18 win against Salford and gave them a third straight success under coach Chris Chester.


Colombian leader Juan Manuel Santos and the Farc rebel commander known as Timochenko signed the deal in an emotional ceremony on Monday evening. "I would like to ask for forgiveness for all the pain that we may have caused during this war," he said. The guests at the ceremony in Cartagena cheered when Timochenko apologised. Some shouted "Yes, we can!" while Farc members and heads of state from Latin America rose to their feet on the stage and applauded. The ceremony which marks the end of 52 years of armed conflict was broadcast live and shown on giant screens in the capital, Bogota, and other large cities. Farc rebels gathered in a number of camps also followed the broadcast. There was so much symbolism in this historic signing - a pen made from a bullet to sign the peace deal, the singing of Beethoven's Ode to Joy, everyone dressed in white. President Santos said this historic moment was a message from Colombia to the world: no more war. "No more war," the crowd chanted in return. This was the first time Timochenko addressed the nation live on TV. He promised the Farc would give up its guns, and more than that, he asked for forgiveness. It earned him a standing ovation. That would have been unthinkable not long ago. But after 50 years of war, many Colombians still aren't ready to forgive. As President Santos put it, the hard work of building peace now lies ahead. Under the deal, the Farc will now become a political party. The rebels will take part in legislative elections in 2018, and - as part of the peace deal - they will be guaranteed a minimum of 10 seats in Congress for their first two legislative periods. President Santos addressed the Farc rebels directly and praised their decision to lay down arms. "Swapping bullets for votes and weapons for ideas is the bravest and most intelligent decision that any rebel group could take," he said. "When you begin your return to society (...) as head of state of the homeland that we all love, I welcome you to democracy." Timochenko said that the rebels would not take up arms anymore. "War is over, we're starting to build peace," he said before his speech was interrupted by the sound of Colombian Air Force fighter jets flying over the venue. Looking up startled, Timochenko's worried expression then turned into a smile and he joked: "Well, this time they came to pay their respects to peace and not to drop bombs." A number of Farc leaders, such Raul Reyes and Mono Jojoy, were killed in bombing raids over the past decade. The peace deal was reached after four years of formal peace talks in the Cuban capital, Havana, which were preceded by two years of secret talks. But before it can come into force it will have to be approved by Colombians in a public vote scheduled for Sunday. While recent polls suggest that a majority of Colombians back the deal, there has been vocal opposition to the agreement.

Summary: The leader of the Farc rebel group has apologised to the victims of Colombia's armed conflict which ended with Monday's signing of a peace deal.


The security alert began after police received a report of a suspicious object on Thursday afternoon. A number of cordons are in place and police have warned that traffic will be affected. A respite centre has been opened at Long Tower Youth Club for people displaced by the alert. Sinn FÃ©in Councillor Patricia Logue said: "The people who create these alerts have nothing to offer the community and should desist immediately from their campaign of disruption."

Summary: Homes have been evacuated and traffic has been disrupted due to an ongoing security alert in Southway, Londonderry.


Selkorinn Choir sang in wind and rain outside a window of the ward where Groa Petursdottir is a patient. She missed four of the group's performances in Scotland after falling ill. Staff at the hospital kept the arrangements of the hospital gig a secret from her. Patients from other wards, including the children's ward, were also able to watch the performance from their windows. The choir had to leave for home after completing its Scottish tour without Ms Petursdottir. She said of their surprise performance: "It was very nice of them and a lovely surprise. I was very moved."

Summary: An Icelandic choir has performed a surprise gig at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness where one of its members has been receiving treatment.


Titanic Quarter Ltd has now taken on fresh borrowing of up to Â£75m from Danske Bank. The Davidson Kempner fund took control of the loans in 2014 as part of a deal with Ulster Bank. It came at a time when Ulster Bank was working to drastically reduce its property loan book. Most of those loans were sold to US funds which are generally not intending to build long term relationships with borrowers. James Eyre, the commercial director of Titanic Quarter, said the refinancing deal with Danske was an important step. "We are delighted to be back working with a local bank and to have significant additional financial support from the shareholders which reinforces their commitment and confidence in Titanic Quarter," he said. He suggested that it could mean that work begins on various stalled developments. "These long-term facilities will optimise Titanic Quarter's strategy to progress further planned developments including Grade A offices, media, hotels, residential, leisure and tourism," he added. Ciaran McLaughlin, corporate banking manager at Danske Bank, said: "Danske Bank is pleased to have agreed long term facilities with Titanic Quarter on its existing investment assets, which are strategically important to the city. "It was an easy decision for Danske Bank to get involved given the significance of the project."

Summary: The firm developing Belfast's Titanic Quarter has repaid loans which were held by a US investment fund.


Nigel Farage is wondering why, as Jonathan Portes has been pointing out, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures for migration to the UK from other EU countries is so much lower than the number of National Insurance numbers allocated to EU nationals. According to the most recent comparable statistics, migration to the UK from the rest of the EU was 257,000 in the year to September 2015, but during the same period, 655,000 EU nationals registered for National Insurance numbers (Ninos). Mr Farage smells a rat: "They are pulling the wool over our eyes. Ninos are a simple and clear reflection of the real numbers of people in this country, as without them you can neither legally work, nor claim benefits." Now the government has promised to tell us how many of the Ninos issued are still active - in other words, how many of the EU citizens who registered are currently paying UK tax or claiming benefits. But are Ninos a good measure of immigration? There is no question that the official immigration figures, based on a survey taken at ports and airports, are imprecise, with the ONS 95% confident that the immigration figure is within plus or minus 23,000 of the true figure. More importantly, though, the ONS figures only aim to measure long-term migration. They use the UN's definition of a long-term migrant as someone who moves country for a year or more. When it comes to National Insurance numbers, on the other hand, there is no minimum stay in the UK. Everyone who wants to work in the UK must have a National Insurance number, even if they're only working in the country for a few weeks. What's more, Ninos are unique to an individual, so once you've received one, it's yours forever. This means that not all those who HMRC reveal to be "active" will necessarily belong to people who have been in the country continuously since their number was issued - they could have left and returned. The ONS statistics also include people who are not planning to work or claim benefits, such as children or non-working partners. These people don't need a Nino when they arrive, but can apply for one in the future. This means someone registering for a Nino could have arrived at any time, not necessarily in the year or quarter in question. It's not hard to see how the two sets of figures would be different. The question is, should they vary this much, or is there a problem with the way the ONS currently gathers its data? HMRC has said it will work with the ONS to help reconcile all available sources of statistics, including Ninos, to ensure the figures are as accurate as possible. With this process rumbling on - and the latest immigration and Nino statistics due out on 26 May - this issue is sure to keep providing fuel for the EU debate, coming just a month before the referendum. Reality Check verdict: There are good reasons why the two numbers would be different, but they

Summary: Campaigners to leave the European Union have been badgering the government about the reliability of the official immigration statistics.


The shopping centre is due to be knocked down as part of a £850m redevelopment of the site at the east end of Princes Street. The revamped site will eventually feature a 210-room hotel, 30 restaurants, luxury apartments and a multi-screen cinema. The St James Centre site and the adjacent New St Andrew House office complex were built in 1973. They are located within the Edinburgh World Heritage Site. The redevelopment is due to be completed by 2020. In a report to go before councillors next week, it said the majority of compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) have been agreed and negotiations are progressing well for outstanding land acquisitions. A footbridge which crosses Leith Street is being removed as part of the project but the council, which owns the bridge, plans to store it and try to "recycle" it in a new location. The development, which will keep the existing John Lewis store, will also include a cinema, which is expected to offer more art house films than the Vue multiplex at the nearby Omni centre. Edinburgh St James is a 1.7 million sq ft city centre development and one of the biggest regeneration projects currently underway in the UK. It will provide 850,000 sq ft of retail space, five star hotel accommodation and will deliver up to 250 new private residential apartments. The new commercial, retail and residential district is forecast to support more than 3,000 permanent jobs. It will link Princes Street to Multrees Walk in a series of crescents with a retail and hospitality training academy, as well as flats, restaurants and shops. Andrew Burns, Edinburgh city council leader, said: "The Edinburgh St James development will now be able to take a step forward with the council, Scottish government and TH Real Estate, the developer, finalising the details of this innovative funding package. "I am delighted the council has played its part in helping unlock £850m of private sector investment at the heart of our city centre. "Not only will it provide much needed premium retail space for the city, it will also contain 250 new homes, 30 restaurants, a multi-screen cinema and a 5 star, world class hotel. "We anticipate demolition will begin this May with an expected completion date of 2020."

Summary: Demolition of the St James Centre in Edinburgh will begin in May.


Scientists are recruiting 64 healthy adult volunteers for the trial, which is expected to take up to two years. The work will be split equally between London, the Rwandan capital Kigali and Nairobi in Kenya. This early trial is being run by the International Aids Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), a non-profit organisation. The principal investigator, Dr Jill Gilmour, who has worked at the laboratory at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital since its founding in 2001, says she is optimistic that the Aids virus can eventually be tackled with a vaccine. The virus is now 30 years old, and the search for a vaccine has proved elusive so far. However, an American-backed trial in Thailand found in 2009 that a combination of two vaccine prototypes was 30% effective in preventing HIV infection. Follow-up trials are being planned with the aim of improving those initial results. In the IAVI trial, volunteers who are free of HIV and not at risk of catching the infection will receive a combination of two vaccines. One of them is derived from a weakened version of Sendai, a flu-like virus that infects rodents. It will be administered through nasal drops. This is because in the early stages of infection, both HIV and Sendai affect the mucosal tissues, which are found in the nose and also in the genital area. Dr Gilmour said: "I believe it's not if, it's when we will have an effective HIV vaccine. There is now strong scientific data to support that position. "We will get there but vaccine development takes time. It's not for the faint-hearted. "Bear in mind that with polio, it was 45 years from discovering the virus to getting an effective vaccine. "HIV is a formidable beast with sneaky tricks. It changes every time it divides, so it's highly variable. And it can integrate into your own cells, so your immune system can't see it." The trial is early work known as Phase I, meaning that the aim is to ensure the vaccine is safe and induces an immune response. Dr Gilmour added: "Delivering the vaccine into the nose has public health benefits, because we're not using needles. "If we see strong immune responses, we go into the larger second phase of testing whether the vaccine is effective in reducing transmission or lowering the load of the virus. "The Sendai product is modified from a virus which affects rodents, including hamsters. From our perspective, it's a bonus that this virus has lived in the human environment without causing us harm." The IAVI laboratory at Chelsea and Westminster handles almost 100,000 blood samples a year and has supported more than 20 other vaccine trials. Its work includes sending test kits to sub-Saharan African countries at the heart of the Aids epidemic, carefully tracking the thousands of blood samples that it holds and ships elsewhere, and ensuring the data and paperwork from trials is rigorously monitored, so the results from different sets of tests can be pooled. Jason Warriner, clinical director at the Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "We welcome investment in the search for a vaccine

Summary: A fresh effort to find a vaccine for HIV is beginning at laboratories in a London hospital and two centres in Africa.


Michael Forbes' art portrays the US President-elect and also Madonna, who is shown as the Statue of Liberty. Black Isle-based Forbes created the piece this week. Madonna, who opposed Trump's election campaign, has posted an image of the painting on her Facebook and Instagram pages. Her post to Facebook has had more than 57,000 "likes" and her Instagram post more than 40,000. Pop surrealist artist Forbes is part of the Tripping Up Trump movement which protested against the building of Trump's golf resort at the Menie Estate in Aberdeenshire. The artist painted a mural on a barn of a farmer, also called Michael Forbes, who refused to sell land to Trump for the golf course. Artist Forbes has a gallery in New York and his work in Scotland includes posters for the Highlands' Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, created his painting of Trump this week. Among the latest Trump piece's references are the US election's popular vote won by Hillary Clinton. She lost the election due to the electoral college system. American comic book superhero and pop culture icon, Superman, also appears in Forbes' piece. Madonna features because of her views on Trump and also Forbes' admiration of her activities in the gay community in the US. The artist, who in his youth worked as an assistant to British Pop artist Gerald Laing, has been amused and pleased with the reaction to his Trump painting. He said: "After Madonna posted it on Instagram my phone has been ringing repeatedly with people telling me about it." President-elect Trump takes the oath of office on Friday with an estimated 900,000 people expected to gather in Washington for the induction and related activities.

Summary: A Scottish artist's painting of Donald Trump as King Kong has been shared thousands of times online after postings by singer Madonna.


Rothamsted said that crops had been vandalised, causing "significant" damage. The incident took place on Sunday morning at the centre's test site in Harpenden, Hertfordshire. The project aims to see whether the modified crops can deter aphids - a major wheat pest. Rothamsted has previously pleaded with anti-GM campaigners not to destroy their experimental plots, which they say could help reduce pesticide use. But opponents of GM technology claim that planting the crops in the open air would allow modified pollen to get out into the surrounding environment. After the break-in at the site, Rothamsted scientist Toby Bruce wrote on Twitter that wheat seeds appeared to have been strewn onto plots, and the tops of plants had been cut off. However, the laboratory said the account was anecdotal and might not be accurate. In a statement, Rothamsted commented: "The intruder caused significant, random property damage, but failed to disrupt the experiment in this attack." The lab's director Prof Maurice Moloney said the act was an attempt to "deny us all the opportunity to gather knowledge and evidence" on a possible new approach for reducing the use of pesticides. A 50-year-old man from Devon is to appear at the Central Magistrates Court in St Albans on 13 July. The crop being trialled at Rothamsted contains genes synthesised in the laboratory. It will produce a pheromone called E-beta-farnesene that is normally emitted by aphids when they are threatened by something. When aphids smell it, they fly away. Anti-GM group Take the Flour Back has vowed to "decontaminate" the site unless the research is halted. The event was trailed on the organisation's website as "a nice day out in the country, with picnics, music... and a decontamination". There is no suggestion the man who has been charged is linked to Take the Flour Back. Eleanor Baylis, from the anti-GM group, said in a statement: "We have no information about this incident, but are relieved if the quantity of GM pollen released from the trial has been reduced. "The British people are clear that they're not swallowing this technology." The protesters have previously declined an invitation from Rothamsted to meet scientists behind the project and, following a heated debate on the BBC's Newsnight programme, a planned day of action on 27 May will go ahead. But a spokeswoman for Take the Flour Back told BBC News the group would be interested in engaging in a public debate with wide participation. She said the decision not to take part in the debate proposed by Rothamsted was due to the specific conditions of the event. Paul.Rincon-INTERNET@bbc.co.uk

Summary: A man has been charged with criminal damage following a break-in at the Rothamsted Research centre where a trial of GM wheat is being held.


Mohammed Haji Sadiq taught for 30 years at Cardiff's Madina mosque and abused four girls as a form of punishment. He was found guilty of eight sexual assaults on a child under 13 by touching, and six indecent assaults after a trial at Cardiff Crown Court. The court heard Sadiq, of Cyncoed, "took advantage of his position". He had denied the charges involving four girls aged between five and 11 and blamed "politics" in the mosque for the accusations. But sentencing him, Judge Stephen Hopkins QC told Sadiq: "Children called you 'uncle' as a mark of respect. You are a man in my judgement of some cunning." He added: "Beneath the veneer there is a dark and deviant side." Sadiq, who was a part-time Imam, sexually assaulted two girls under the age of 13 by touching, and indecently assaulted two other girls over a decade between 1996 and 2006 at the Woodville Road mosque. He abused them if they made a mistake while reciting the Koran and would use a stick as a form of punishment in class, hitting people over the hand or hard on the back. Some of his victims said they were afraid to attend the mosque because of his abuse. One said she had attempted to take her own life because of the abuse. In victim impact statements read to the court, others said they felt they could not tell anyone about the abuse because of the culture they grew up in. The court heard one victim feared the consequences of speaking out following Sadiq's conviction. She said: "Due to my religion it was very difficult, almost impossible to tell anyone what had happened". She added: "In the Muslim religion we do not talk about personal matters". Another victim said it was "not acceptable" in her culture to talk about what was happening at the mosque. She said: "I remember the relief I felt when I told my mother, and she believed me and went to the police. "In my family honour is very important, but my family have been very supportive". Sadiq has had no involvement in the mosque since 2006 when it burnt down and was re-sited elsewhere in the city. He was cleared of one indecent assault after his trial last month. In addition to his jail sentence, he was issued with a sexual harm prevention order and will have to register as a sex offender. Det Ch Insp Rob Cronick of South Wales Police praised the "immense courage" of the victims who came forward. "As a result of the verdict and today's sentence I believe there may be members of the community who may now feel confident enough to speak to the police or our support agencies," he added. A spokesman for the children's charity NSPCC said: "This was an appalling breach of trust and Sadiq has rightly received a significant prison sentence for these heinous offences." A Muslim Council of Wales spokeswoman said: "We applaud the bravery and courage of the young women who now, as adults, pursued the case and pursued justice.

Summary: An 81-year-old former Koran teacher who was convicted of a string of child sex offences has been jailed for 13 years.


Thomson, who is based in Gosport, was due to sail from France to Portsmouth Harbour this weekend after finishing second in the race last month. But organisers called off the event as heavy rain and gale force winds have been forecast. They said the event will be rescheduled for 11 or 12 February. Bangor-born Thomson, 42, crossed the line 15 hours, 59 minutes and 29 seconds after winner Armel le Cleac'h - who set a record time of 74 days, three hours and 35 minutes. Thomson had threatened to overtake Le Cleac'h with 309 miles left of the race before a malfunctioning autopilot ended his challenge. He has now matched Dame Ellen MacArthur as the best British competitor in the Vendee Globe. She finished second in the 2001 race. Thomson is expected to sail his boat Hugo Boss, surrounded by a flotilla of craft, in a parade down The Solent into Portsmouth. Hundreds of fans are expected to attend the celebrations in the city and at Thomson's team base at Haslar Marina. Organisers said full details of the rescheduled celebrations will be announced next week.

Summary: An event to mark the achievements of sailor Alex Thomson in the round the world Vendee Globe race has been postponed due to forecast storms.


The centre-back, 28, was jeered by a section of Spain fans during Saturday's Euro 2016 qualifier win over Slovakia, and was subjected to similar during the previous internationals break. "The last thing I would do is leave the national team," he said. "I won't change regarding club rivalry. I always wish Real Madrid to do badly." It was reported that England's friendly in Spain on 13 November was moved from Real's Bernabeu Stadium to Alicante because of concerns over the possible negative reaction to Pique's involvement. In June, the former Manchester United defender sarcastically thanked Colombian rapper Kevin Roldan for playing his part in Barca's success last season. The performer posted photos on social media of Real team-mates celebrating Cristiano Ronaldo's 30th birthday in February just hours after a 4-0 defeat by Atletico Madrid. The players were consequently criticised. Barcelona went on to win the league, Copa del Rey and Champions League. "I don't regret anything that I have said and I would repeat it a thousand times and more," added Pique. "I am like that, I want Madrid to always lose. That is the sporting rivalry that has always existed in Spain."

Summary: Barcelona defender Gerard Pique will stick by his anti-Real Madrid stance and continue playing for Spain despite being booed by supporters.


People logging on are asked which team they want to follow to get the latest news during the tournament. All countries taking part in the competition were listed apart from Wales, Turkey, Switzerland and Ukraine. Football body UEFA, which runs the app, blamed a "technical issue" on some devices which it has now resolved. Wales fan Tim Hartley said he was "very disappointed" that his team was not on the app after it launched. "It's surprising that I've received tickets to follow my team right through to the final, and yet UEFA has left Wales out of app," he said. "But having said that, the fans will stand together in France next month regardless, app or not." After BBC Wales contacted UEFA it said it resolved the glitch and the missing countries were now available to fans. A spokesman said no teams were left out but a technical issue had meant the last row of participating teams could not be seen.

Summary: Wales fans hoping to follow their team on the official Euro 2016 app were left disappointed - after the country was not included.


The company reported a 21.8% increase in pre-tax profits to Â£14.5m for the year to 27 November. Ocado chief executive Tim Steiner said it had achieved "robust trading" in a challenging environment. However, the average order size fell 2.7% to Â£108.10 against the backdrop of continuing supermarket price wars. The rise of German competitors Aldi and Lidl has shaken up the sector, putting pressure on the big four supermarkets, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda and Morrisons. But investors welcomed Ocado's latest results, sending its share price up by more than 7% to 262p in morning trading. Annual revenues rose 14.8% to Â£1.27bn, and the retailer's customer base grew by almost 14% over the year to 580,000. However, Ocado said it was still in continued talks with several international retailers in regards to a partnership using the Ocado Smart Platform. When it released its full-year results in February last year, Ocado said it was in "advanced discussions with multiple potential international partners" for the platform, adding it expected to sign "multiple deals" in the medium term. Analysts believe agreements with retailers in the US and western Europe are important in driving Ocado's share price. George Salmon, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown said: "The group has long said it's making progress on deals with third parties, but there hasn't been much in the way of tangible progress recently. "The appointment of Luke Jensen [from Sainsbury's] as head of Ocado's Smart Platform will raise hopes that the group can finally get someone to sign on the dotted line." However, Mr Salmon warned that "following Amazon's entry into the market, competitive pressures are rising in its core business". "In this context, it's arguably more important than ever for the group to get something over the line." Last year, Morrisons agreed to supply groceries to Amazon customers in the UK under a new deal with the US online giant. Amazon's entry into the market was seen as escalating competition in the sector. In August 2016, Morrisons also built on its existing relationship with Ocado expanding its home delivery service nationwide in a new deal with the online grocer. Ocado said it had "provided the capability and execution for strong growth" in regard to its partnership with Morrisons.

Summary: Online grocer Ocado has announced a rise in annual profits, but a long-awaited overseas deal has not yet materialised.


About 1,250 people died in road accidents last year, the ministry said. The decision has been strongly criticised by many Cameroonians, who say it will affect their businesses and nightlife. The ban means that buses and taxis must be off roads from 2000 GMT to 0400 GMT. The ministry said night travel accounted for 35% of accidents, even though few people commuted at night. The accidents were caused mainly by heavy drinking, it said. About 12,000 people died last year in road accidents in Cameroon and another 12,000 were wounded, the ministry said. The BBC's Randy Joe Sa'ah in the capital, Yaounde, says that while many people welcome moves to reduce fatalities, they believe poor roads are the main cause of accidents. Only about 20% of Cameroon's roads are tarred, he says. Many people are not sure how they will travel to and from work because some journeys last more than six hours, our reporter says. Police have been ordered to pull off buses and taxis that travel after 2000 GMT, raising the prospect of commuters sleeping on the roadside or walking home, he says. The ban has also been condemned by owners of bars and night clubs, who believe that it will ruin their businesses and destroy nightlife in big cities. Small-scale traders said their income would be badly affected because their produce would not reach markets early in the morning. "I'm finished. This is bad for me and my children," a vegetable hawker, Grace Teboh, was quoted by the AFP news agency as saying.

Summary: Cameroon has banned all night-time public transport on roads to curb accidents caused by heavy drinking, the transport ministry says.


"Ma Kali", as she is popularly known, is the Hindu goddess of destruction. Since it was uploaded a day ago, the Instagram post has received more than 11,000 comments, most of them abusive and by Indians. Many called for her to take down the picture. Perry has not responded to the comments and has left the image as is. The image she has used is commonly found on calendars and posters in India. Although some of her fans have tried jumping to her defence, they are far outnumbered by angry and emotional Indians. Indians tweet 'Who is Maria Sharapova?' Amazon sorry over India flag fiasco Perry is not the first international celebrity to offend Indian sensibilities online. Tennis star Maria Sharapova was mercilessly trolled for not knowing who cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was and Hollywood actor Richard Gere had a police case registered against him for kissing actress Shilpa Shetty on the cheek. More recently, online retail giant Amazon got into trouble for retailing doormats with the Indian flag emblazoned on them. The company was forced to apologise after India's foreign minister threatened action.

Summary: Pop star Katy Perry is facing the wrath of Indians online after uploading an image of the Hindu goddess Kali with the caption "current mood".


Noting that it was exactly 30 years since the end of Brazil's military dictatorship, the soothing official response was that the diversity of views was proof of the strength of the country's young democracy. A tiny flaw in that argument was the presence of some demonstrators who were calling for the military to intervene again, but they were, in fact, a minority. Nonetheless, faced with a poorly performing economy and tainted by a corruption crisis at the state-run oil company Petrobras, the government was harshly criticised at multiple protests across Brazil. President Dilma Rousseff won a tight second-term election victory only last October, and among the protesters were undoubtedly political opponents for whom a Workers' Party government will always be unacceptable. But such a large scale protest could not be left to hang in the air and two ministers were despatched to appear before the TV cameras. The job of Justice Minister Eduardo Cardozo was to deflect the anti-government critics, promising a "package of measures" to address corruption and impunity - key concerns among the protestors. His ministerial colleague Miguel Rossetto was watching the government's flank, promising to listen to more traditional government supporters who oppose plans for austerity measures. Brazilians of all political views have heard talk of a "package of measures" before, most notably following widespread street protests in 2013, only to see little actually change on the ground. And the problem for the government in the months ahead is that it is not in complete control of events that may shift public opinion. In Congress, President Rousseff, lacking the political skills of her predecessor, has struggled to control her governing base, with defiance from the speakers of both the lower and upper houses. She has promised change and a more inclusive approach to governing. The new Finance Minister, Joaquim Levy, is forging ahead with an austerity plan which traditional government supporters fear could jeopardise recent social advances. The 2014 GDP figure is due to come out on 27 March and may at best suggest a year of stagnation in a country which had been growing at 7% in 2010. The continuing scandal at Petrobras is having a corrosive effect on the whole economy, and has drawn in some of the biggest construction firms in the country. The investigation itself is providing a daily litany of negative headlines of arrests and plea bargain statements, and many politicians from the governing coalition are facing investigation. The government says a relentless and independent investigation is proof of their commitment to root out corruption, but the crisis has been damaging. A water shortage in southern Brazilian states, while easing a little due to summer rains, still threatens rationing and even energy shortages. Brazil's democracy is undoubtedly strong, and talk of military coups these days is seen as far-fetched, but the tone of political debate is acrimonious, not least on social media. The combination of a weakened government, a struggling economy and a divided society is not the easiest backdrop for a president whose second term has got off to a shaky start.

Summary: The Brazilian government wanted to react quickly in the wake of Sunday's protests involving a hotly disputed, but undeniably large number of demonstrators.


There were 33 defendants present in the Cairo courtroom to hear the verdicts, while the rest were out on bail. Family and friends of the defendants cried in shock outside the courthouse, reports said. The decision to hand over the islands to Saudi Arabia sparked a backlash among many Egyptians. It was made by Egyptian president Abdul Fattah al-Sisi during a rare visit by Saudi Arabia's King Salman, during which the Saudi king announced plans for aid and investment in Egypt. Critics says President Sisi "sold" the uninhabited islands, Tiran and Sanafir, in return for the investments. Saudi-Egyptian island deal sparks anger But the Egyptian government maintains that the islands always belonged to Saudi Arabia, and were only being looked after by Egypt since the 1950s. Both secular and Islamist activists called for people to demonstrate against the transfer of the islands. Police dispersed the protests in April, arresting dozens of people, many of whom were later charged with participation in illegal rallies. Mr Sisi has faced increasing criticism in recent months on a range of issues, including Egypt's lacklustre economy. The president, a former army general, previously enjoyed broad support after winning the election in 2014, but has faced increasing discontent.

Summary: Egypt has sentenced 51 people to two years each in prison for protesting against a decision last month to cede two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia.


The Central Hotel, often frequented by politicians, was hit by a car bomb and a suicide attack. Gunmen then stormed the hotel mosque and opened fire during Friday prayers. An MP and Mogadishu's deputy mayor were among the dead, the government says. Islamist militant group al-Shabab has said it was behind the attack. The al-Qaeda linked group has been driven out of the country's major towns but still controls many rural areas in the south. The BBC's Mohamed Moalimu in the city says the area around the hotel has been cordoned off. "First the car bomb exploded at the gate of the hotel, then a suicide bomber blew himself up in the hotel compound," police Major Nur Mohamed told Reuters. Information Minister Mohamed Abdi Hayir Mareeye told the BBC that Somalia's deputy prime minister and other ministers had been at the hotel at the time but had survived the attack. An al-Shabab spokesman told BBC Somali analyst Mary Harper it had killed the officials while they were praying because they were "apostates". It has previously said it would target members of the government. Earlier this month, al-Shabab shot dead an MP in a drive-by shooting in Mogadishu.

Summary: Some 20 people, including senior officials, have been killed in an attack on a hotel in the Somali capital, witnesses have told the BBC.


Reports say riot police were involved in a tense stand-off with protesters, but later retreated. Protesters rallied after Nasser Zefzafi was arrested on Monday charged with threatening national security. Mr Zefzafi has organised months of protests against unemployment and corruption. Morocco has been gripped by demonstration since the death of a fishmonger in Al-Hoceima in October. According to AFP news agency, protesters chanting "We are all Zefzafi" filled streets in Al-Hoceima on Tuesday evening and riot police were deployed in a square to stop their advance. A stand-off ensued but police eventually backed down without incident. Marches have also taken place in Casablanca and in the capital, Rabat, AFP reports. The mass protests were triggered last October by the death of fishmonger Mouhcine Fikri, who was crushed to death by a rubbish truck as he tried to rescue his stock that had been confiscated by the police. Thousands of protesters took to the streets accusing the authorities of corruption, abuse and injustice. His death drew parallels to that of a Tunisian fruit seller in 2010 which helped spark the Arab Spring uprisings.

Summary: Thousands of people have demonstrated in the northern Moroccan city of Al-Hoceima, demanding the release of a well-known activist.


Mr Osborne said the changes would allow councils to allocate more sites for building homes specifically for people who already live or work in the area. He said he also wanted to improve transport, schools and broadband in rural areas to boost the rural economy. But Labour said the plans were ignoring the need for more affordable homes. The chancellor wants to extend the government's "starter homes" scheme, announced before the election for brownfield sites, to some villages. The initiative offers young local first-time home buyers a 20% discount on the price of the property. As it stands, the discount will be offered on homes up to Â£250,000 outside London and Â£450,000 inside London. The measures are part of Mr Osborne's new rural productivity plan, which will be unveiled later. Steve Reed, Labour's shadow local government minister, said the Conservatives' housing policies had made things worse for people in rural communities. "The government says it wants to build starter homes in rural areas but it seems these will replace affordable homes to buy and rent - starter homes should be additional to affordable housing supply not instead of it," he said. "In many rural areas buying or renting a home has become increasingly unaffordable. Yet the government has undermined the provision of affordable housing at every step by watering down requirements on developers to build new affordable homes." Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Mr Osborne said rural areas were an increasingly dynamic part of the economy, with 60,000 people moving from the city to the countryside each year. He has pledged to continue to protect the Green Belt but said he wanted to "make it easier for people to stay in their rural communities and for newcomers to settle there too". He and Environment Secretary Liz Truss write in their joint newspaper editorial: "For rural areas, we want better internet and mobile phone communications, better transport, better schools, better skills, better housing, better business growth and better local government. "And we'll look at planning and regulatory constraints facing rural businesses. In a recent survey of rural businesses the main barrier to growth that most identified was planning restrictions. "So for a start, we'll review rules around agricultural buildings such as barns to allow rural businesses to expand more easily." The Campaign for Rural England said it welcomed the government's recognition that rural areas could boost the economy, but it voiced concern that the "beautiful English countryside" was at risk of "inappropriate developments". Planning officer John Rowley said: "We recognise that providing the right houses in the right places that meet local need is a vital part of ensuring our villages remain vibrant and sustainable. "However, the proposals risk alienating local communities and reducing the amount of affordable housing in rural areas. The government's suggestion that young families will be able to afford houses at even 20% discount will not ring true in many low-waged rural economies." He added it was likely that commuters would be able to outbid local families, taking advantage of the discount which would not continue on resale -

Summary: Chancellor George Osborne has said he wants to reform planning laws to make it easier for villages in England to build new starter homes.


Mr Humphrey and his wife, Yu Yingzeng, were sentenced in August last year for illegally obtaining private information on Chinese nationals. He received a two-and-a-half year sentence, while Ms Yu was sentenced to two years in prison. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) China, which was fined $490m in China for bribery, hired Mr Humphrey in 2013. The pair were hired by GSK to investigate the source of a sex tape of the company's China boss, shortly before the firm became the subject of the bribery allegations. They admitted buying information, but said they did not realise it was illegal to do so. Release in the coming days will reduce his sentence by seven months. Time spent in custody before his trial was taken off his sentence. Once released, he is likely to be deported, as the court originally stipulated. Ms Yu will be released in the coming weeks, according to the Reuters news agency. The original verdict did not make a link between Mr Humphrey's investigations and the allegations against the pharmaceutical giant GSK. Those allegations first emerged in an email in January 2013 from an anonymous and self-styled whistleblower to the company. The email alleged that GSK's sales teams targeted influential doctors with expensive gifts and cash to win business. It was sent to GSK's London-based chief executive, Andrew Witty, and made accusations against GSK China's general manager Mark Reilly. Later, a sex tape featuring Mr Reilly and his girlfriend was also sent. GSK declined to comment.

Summary: British company investigator Peter Humphrey is to be released early from a Chinese jail, according to reports.


The Scottish Sentencing Council has launched a consultation on new guidelines. It said it would be the first time a comprehensive definition was provided for the principles underlying sentencing decisions. Observers called for the guidelines to help courts ensure prison was not used as an alternative to the welfare state. The body's first draft guideline sets out the principles and purposes of sentencing for all offences. It is designed to assist judges in court and help the public better understand how sentences are decided. The consultation, which will run until 27 October, asks people to comment both on the principles and purposes of sentencing and on how easy the guideline is to understand. The sentencing council has also created a website explaining how judges decide a sentence. This includes videos and an interactive scenario that lets people choose what happens next in a realistic court case, and then select the sentence they would give - if they were the judge. The council, which is made up of judicial, legal and lay members, was established as an independent advisory body to promote consistency in sentencing across Scotland. Its chairwoman, Lord Justice Clerk Lady Dorrian, Scotland's second most senior judge, said judges and sheriffs had a variety of factors to take into consideration when passing sentence. "The overall principle is that the sentencing should be fair and proportionate," she told BBC Scotland. "But that must take into account things like the impact on society, the circumstances of the offender, whether there needs to be a balance between the issue of punishment or the potential for rehabilitation. "These are all matters for the individual sentencing judge, but they are all matters which are touched upon in this guideline." She said sheriffs and judges would have a framework against which they could assess the sentence they were imposing. "They are required to take into account any guideline and to follow it," she said. "And if they don't take it into account, they must state that they have not taken it into account, and why." The sentencing said those passing sentence should ensure similar offences are treated in a similar manner, that they are no more severe than necessary and reasons for sentencing decisions should be stated clearly and openly. Professor Cyrus Tata, director of the Centre for Law, Crime & Justice at Strathclyde University, welcomed the publication of the guideline, which he said could lead to important changes in sentencing. He said: "It's very important that we have a public principle which says 'we are not going to use imprisonment as, if you like, the last stop shop in the welfare state'. "Too many people are ending up in prison at the lower end, not because they have committed serious violent offences - if they have, they need to go to prison - but because there doesn't seem to be anything else available in the community. "And that's a tragedy, and it's crackers." The organisation is developing guidelines on the sentencing of young people, and preparatory work is being undertaken in relation to the way sentences

Summary: Members of the public are to be asked to comment on how offenders are sentenced by the courts.


The 32-year-old, who has eight caps for Jamaica, was released by the Royals at the end of last season after five years with the club. He captained the side during their spell in the Premier League two years ago and made 35 appearances in the Championship last term. "It's been a long summer for me," McAnuff told the Orient website. "I've had a few offers but have been waiting for the right fit and I believe I've found it here at Orient."

Summary: Former Reading midfielder Jobi McAnuff has joined League One side Leyton Orient on a two-year contract.


The Dow Jones rose 40.68 points to 18,202.62 while the wider S&P 500 edged up 4 points to 2,144.29. Oil prices rose over 2% after figures suggested a drop in US stockpiles. Shares in Chevron added 0.5% and Chesapeake Energy climbed 3.1%. The tech-focused Nasdaq rose just 2.6 points to 5,246.41, with Intel down nearly 6% after its latest results. Intel reported better-than-expected third-quarter earnings and revenue, but its shares were hit after its forecast for fourth-quarter revenues fell slightly short of expectations. Intel is predicting revenues of $15.7bn in the quarter, plus or minus $500m, compared with analysts' expectations of $15.86bn. Morgan Stanley shares rose 1.9% after the bank reported a 62% jump in third-quarter earnings to $1.5bn. Like the other major US investment banks, Morgan Stanley's results were boosted by a big increase in bond trading, with revenues from that activity rising to $1.5bn in the quarter from $583m a year earlier. Volumes of bond trading have been strong in recent months, partly due to the UK's vote to leave the EU and also due to speculation about moves in US interest rates.

Summary: (Close): US markets closed higher, with energy stocks lifted by rising oil prices.


A new scheme called Flood Re has been designed to cut bills for those whose homes are in danger of flooding. Up to now, thousands of householders have been paying large additional premiums to make sure their homes and possessions are protected. About 350,000 homes could benefit - although thousands will be excluded. The cost will ultimately fall on ordinary policy-holders, who will pay an extra Â£10.50 on their premiums on average. As many as 15,000 homeowners made insurance claims for storm and flood damage last winter. Insurance companies should now be able to lower premiums, as they can pass on the flood risk element of policies to the reinsurer Flood Re. Householders who are eligible will also see their policy excesses - the amount they have to pay towards a claim - capped at Â£250. Previously, some people had to pay several thousand pounds towards repairs. However, houses built since 2009 will not be covered by the scheme. This was done to discourage developers from building on land at risk of flooding. Businesses are also excluded, as are landlords who take out insurance policies on homes they do not occupy themselves. The scheme has also been criticised by a group of climate change experts, who said it did not offer good value for money. "It achieves very poor value for money because it is trying to subsidise the costs of flooding, rather than addressing the causes and trying to prevent flooding in the first place," said Daniel Johns, head of adaptation on the Climate Change Committee (CCC). Initially 17 insurance companies are taking part in the scheme. If necessary, they can pass on any flood risk to Flood Re, which has been funded by the insurance industry as a whole. Its costs will be covered by an industry levy of Â£180m a year. Most insurance companies are expected to pass on that cost to their customers, raising average bills by around 2%. But Brendan McCafferty, chief executive of Flood Re, said flood-risk consumers should benefit from greater choice and more competition. "This should make flood cover more affordable and accessible to those in high flood risk areas over time," he said. However, consumers will not need to contact Flood Re directly, as this will be done by existing insurance companies. Shira Kimmerling, whose home in Hebden Bridge was flooded on Boxing Day 2015, was previously unable to afford insurance. But she told the BBC that, under the Flood Re scheme, she would now be able to pay for cover. "I think it's wonderful news," she told the Today programme on Radio 4. "But after all, it's not a very sustainable and cost-effective plan in the long term. We need to invest in flood resilience." Those who have already taken out household policies are being advised by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) to talk to their providers. If they want to switch to a cheaper policy, they should ask if it is possible to avoid cancellation charges. But the ABI also said there was no rush to change policies immediately. One

Summary: Homeowners living in high flood-risk areas of the UK should now be able to save hundreds of pounds on their insurance premiums.


Barca will be investigated for alleged misappropriation of funds in the £48.6m (57m euros) deal with Santos. The signing of Neymar has been correct and his signing has caused despair and envy in some of our adversaries Rosell, speaking at a news conference after a Barca board meeting, insisted he had "acted correctly". Vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu now takes over from the 49-year-old Rosell, who came to power in 2010. Rosell's future has been a real source of concern ever since a Spanish national court judge accepted a lawsuit this week from Barcelona club member Jordi Cases, who alleged that the amount paid for Neymar was more than the reported fee. Rosell maintains the accusation is "unfair and reckless". He added: "For some time, my family and myself have suffered threats and attacks in silence. These threats and attacks have made me wonder if being president means having to jeopardise my family. "From the beginning, I have said the signing of Neymar has been correct and his signing has caused despair and envy in some of our adversaries." Rosell said he was resigning to spare the club's board of directors from "unfair attacks" that could "negatively affect their management or the image of the club". He added: "It has been an honour to serve the Barcelonistas. It's been a privilege to be the president of FC Barcelona." Rosell was named Barca president in the summer of 2010 after winning a landslide vote to succeed Joan Laporta, earning 61.34% of a record turn-out of 57,088 voters. He had also been vice-president under Laporta before resigning in 2005.

Summary: Barcelona football club chief Sandro Rosell has resigned following a Spanish court's decision to look into last year's signing of Brazil star Neymar.


Storms and tornadoes have lashed the region in recent days, swelling rivers and causing flash flooding. Missouri Governor Jay Nixon said 13 people in the state had died. Another seven have died in Illinois, where there is a disaster proclamation in seven counties. Mr Nixon said the National Guard had been called in to help local authorities. Aerial footage showed water from the Mississippi River engulfing buildings in the evacuated town of West Alton, north of St Louis, on Tuesday. In the town of Union, about 50 miles (80km) west of St Louis, buildings were partly submerged by severe flooding from the Missouri, Meramec and Bourbeuse rivers. Coast Guard spokesman Capt Martin Malloy said the high water levels and fast currents had led them to close the section of the Mississippi near St Louis - a busy route for commercial shipping. River levels are forecast to peak on Thursday and Mr Nixon warned that the situation could get worse before it gets better. He said the National Guard would provide security in evacuated areas and direct traffic away from closed roads. "These citizen soldiers will provide much-needed support to state and local first responders, many of whom have spent the last several days working around the clock responding to record rainfall and flooding," he said in a statement. Nr Nixon added that three new flood-related deaths had been discovered on Tuesday, raising the death toll in the state since the storms began over the weekend to 13. Many of the victims have been trapped in vehicles swept off flooded roads. South-west of St Louis, a section of Interstate 44 was closed by flooding near the town of Rolla while part of Interstate 70 was also closed in the neighbouring state of Illinois. Many other smaller roads were also closed across the two states, where flood warnings were in effect. Floods also inundated a wastewater treatment plant south of St Louis on Monday, causing sewage to flow directly into rivers and streams. The flooding in Missouri and southern Illinois began over the weekend after as much as 10ins (25cm) of rain fell in some areas in a matter of hours. It came after severe storms over the Christmas holiday claimed at least 49 lives across southern and western states of the US. Parts of eastern Oklahoma, Arkansas and Illinois are still subject to flood warnings.

Summary: A five-mile (8km) section of the Mississippi River near St Louis, Missouri, has been closed to vessels as rising water levels caused "hazardous conditions", the US Coast Guard said.


He said it was "very clear" his party accepted the referendum result. Some shadow cabinet members are reportedly considering voting against triggering the UK's EU exit negotiations. The Supreme Court will announce next Tuesday whether the government needs to seek Parliament's approval. Ministers say they already have enough powers under the Royal Prerogative to go ahead with Brexit. But campaigners argue that starting Brexit in this way would be undemocratic and unconstitutional. In June's referendum, 51.9% of voters backed leaving the EU, while 48.1% supported remaining in the 28-nation group. Mr Corbyn said: "It's very clear the referendum made a decision that Britain is to leave the European Union. It was not to destroy jobs and living standards or communities, but it was to leave the European Union and have a different relationship in the future. "I have made it very clear that the Labour Party accepts and respects the decision of the British people. We will not block Article 50." Asked if that meant he would be imposing a three-line whip - the strongest available sanction - on Labour MPs, requiring them to back Article 50, he said: "It means that all Labour MPs will be asked to vote in that direction next week or whenever the vote comes up." The Guardian reports that four shadow cabinet ministers and several junior Labour spokespeople were considering defying Mr Corbyn and voting against Article 50 being invoked. The Supreme Court's decision on whether a vote needs to take place follows a government appeal against a High Court ruling last autumn that MPs and peers should have to vote give their approval. Following Mr Corbyn's comments, Green Party co-leader Caroline Lucas said he was "trying to deny Labour MPs the chance to make their own principled choice on one of the most important decisions of the UK's recent history". And Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron said Mr Corbyn was "actively helping" the government in its plans to leave the European single market, "at a huge cost to jobs and prosperity".

Summary: Jeremy Corbyn says he will ask his MPs to vote for the Article 50 Brexit process to begin, if the government is forced to seek Parliament's approval.


Emily Arbuthnott, 37, struck James Lyall, 82, while he was walking across the road in front of her car at a zebra crossing on the A92 in Inverbervie in November 2014. Mother-of-three Arbuthnott, of Laurencekirk, admitted the charge at Aberdeen Sheriff Court. Sentence was deferred for background reports. The charge stated the driver failed to slow down or stop when her vision was obscured by the sun and did not notice Mr Lyall as he crossed the road. He was taken to hospital in an ambulance under police escort but later died. Arbuthnott, the daughter-in-law of the 17th Viscount of Arbuthnott, was not injured in the crash which happened on 5 November 2014.

Summary: A motorist has admitted causing the death of a pensioner by driving carelessly on an Aberdeenshire road.


Formula 1's bosses decided on Thursday not to introduce the protection until 2018 because they felt the 'halo' device tested so far needed more work. But Rosberg said: "It is all ready to go. It just needs to be put on the car. "For sure we all want it to be put on the car as soon as possible. I am disappointed and we'll look into that." Some drivers believe it was the right decision to postpone the introduction of the halo. Media playback is not supported on this device Renault's Jolyon Palmer said: "F1 safety is very good at the moment. We have very big run offs, I am pretty happy with the safety levels we have at the moment. "It is personal preference, I know a lot of the drivers, especially the younger ones, are in the same camp as me." But Rosberg said: "The large majority of drivers agree we need to get it on the car as soon as possible. It makes sense. "It is such a huge step for safety." The Grand Prix Drivers' Association [GPDA] has been vocal in pushing for the introduction of the halo and on Thursday its chairman, former F1 driver Alexander Wurz, said he "hoped F1 does not come to regret the decision". Wurz added that it "could almost be seen as 'business first and safety second'". Four-time champion Sebastian Vettel, a director of the GPDA, said: "I haven't read exactly what the reasoning was. It still remains positive that from 2018 onwards it is going to be on the car." The decision to postpone the introduction of the halo caught some team insiders by surprise as all had been given the impression so far this year by the FIA, motorsport's world governing body, that it was working towards introducing the device in 2017. F1 race director Charlie Whiting said the main reason for the delay was to give more time for drivers to assess its impact. Whiting said: "The decision was taken that simply because only three drivers have ever tried it, and they have only done a total of four laps. "This was something that everyone felt was quite a relevant thing and it wouldn't really be feasible to expect, in the short term, to get the relevant number of laps with the halo. That was the reason for introducing if for 2018 instead of 2017." Subscribe to the BBC Sport newsletter to get our pick of news, features and video sent to your inbox.

Summary: Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg says he is "disappointed" with the decision to postpone the introduction of extra cockpit head protection until 2018.


Woodward, who led England to victory at the 2003 tournament, described the risk of "one stupid tweet" to squad harmony as "the new enemy". Hosts England start their 2015 campaign against Fiji on 18 September. "If you allow one player to be distracted, it can all come tumbling down," said the 59-year-old. Speaking to the Radio Times, Woodward added: "We didn't have to worry about it in 2003. I've had the conversation with Stuart Lancaster. "Don't let the players be distracted. It could be the media, their family, sponsors, ticket requests, anything." England have reportedly handed their World Cup squad social media guidelines, keen to avoid any unnecessary distractions. Meanwhile, Rugby Football Union chief executive Ian Ritchie has refused to be drawn on what Lancaster needs to achieve at the World Cup to retain his job as England coach. "I'm not going to deal in hypotheticals," he said. "I think we should be going into every game trying to win it and I think that's what we'll try and do. "We are in here to try and win the event, we will worry about the hypotheticals afterwards. "Knowing the squad and the coaching set-up, they are all very focused on doing their very best to win and I think we have a chance of doing that." Listen to 'Woodward's World Cup' on BBC Radio 5 live on Wednesday, 9 September from 21:00 BST.

Summary: Former England head coach Sir Clive Woodward has warned current boss Stuart Lancaster that social media could derail his side's World Cup campaign.


But he hopes they will not create pressure to increase salaries in Wales. There is an agreement which limits the regions bidding for each other's players, however Scarlets faced competition when re-signing centre Scott Williams who was out of contract at the end of the season. "You've got to be realistic because it is a free market," Short said. "No agreement can constrain someone's ability to look for work, and regions will be ambitious and will have their own player requirements. "How the financial fallout from that works is part of the regions' agreement, and one would hope that you wouldn't see pressure within Wales to increase salaries because we've got enough to deal with outside of Wales." Wales international Williams had been expected to renew his national dual contract (NDC), funded 60% by the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU). However, the WRU withdrew their offer with union chairman Gareth Davies saying it was because the regions had "upped the ante". Williams ended up signing a conventional deal with the Scarlets. The NDCs were introduced as a mechanism to stop high-profile players leaving Wales for England and France. Short was chairman of the regions' representative body - now called Pro Rugby Wales - when they negotiated the deal which funds and governs domestic rugby in Wales. He said he would not have expected the union to get involved in a bidding war, and backed the dual contracts. "The union have been excellent in supporting regions in the past year," he added. "The NDCs are working well and everybody should recognise that it's a new concept and will take some time to settle down, but it is settling down well. "And congratulations to the union - it's been a sea-change in the relationship over the past year or so."

Summary: Scarlets chairman Nigel Short admits it will be hard to stop regions competing against each other for Welsh players.