The number of victims has risen from 560 to 741, with 96% aged between four and 20. Meanwhile, 276 potential suspects have been identified - a rise of 24 in the past three months. Some 328 football clubs, spanning all tiers of the game, are involved in the inquiry, called Operation Hydrant. A hotline was set up to report abuse last year when a number of ex-footballers said they were victims as youngsters. Police forces across the UK have received an increased number of calls from victims and from people offering information. The investigation is being co-ordinated by the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), which urged anyone who may have been a victim to report it. Chief constable Simon Bailey, NPCC lead for child protection, said all allegations and information received is being acted on. "When allegations are reported it enables police to assess whether there are current safeguarding risks and ensure that appropriate action is being taken to prevent children being abused today," he added. The NPCC said 27 referrals to the inquiry related to sports other than football. These referrals include basketball, rugby, gymnastics, martial arts, tennis, wrestling, golf, sailing, athletics, cricket and swimming. The Football Association has also begun an independent review, led by Clive Sheldon QC, into its handling of abuse allegations in the years prior to 2005. The hotline set up by the NSPCC is available 24 hours a day on 0800 0232642.

Summary: Police have identified 181 new victims in the investigation into child sex abuse within football in the UK since April.


Speaking on Saturday, Sinn Féin's Stormont leader said she has contacted the other party leaders to stress her party's commitment to the talks. Ms O'Neill said Sinn Féin had a team ready to "crunch" the issues. The process was suspended for the summer at the beginning of July. However, Ms O'Neill said she is disappointed that all unionist parties have not condemned what she described as "rogue bonfires with effigies, with things which have been absolutely disgraceful and wouldn't be tolerated anywhere and shouldn't be tolerated in the north". She said: "We can't have actions like this that 'sectarianise', that promote hate, that promote distance right across our communities. "We need the unionist leaders to come out and say it's wrong, it needs to stop, it doesn't play its part in culture. "We all should encourage culture and celebrate our culture, Orangeism is a big part of that culture, but it has to be done in a respectful way," she added. Ms O'Neill indicated that Sinn Féin intended to continue to push for an Irish language act, a key sticking point in the talks. "We need to deliver that, that's what the citizens are asking for," she said, adding that "legacy issues" relating to the Troubles also have to be resolved. Ms O'Neill also criticised the deal between the DUP and the Conservatives at Westminster. She said: "Look at the deal which they have done with the Tories, they have given them a blank cheque in relation to Brexit and we all know the devastating implications there are going to be for the island of Ireland". Ms O'Neill said that part of the reason there is a political crisis is because the "DUP has been pandered to by the British government for the last ten years". She said a deal with the DUP is in their own self interests "only to keep Theresa May and her millionaire cabinet in power". "It doesn't bode well for the rigorous impartiality which the British government is supposed to display," she added. Northern Ireland has been without a functioning devolved government since January, when the coalition led by the two biggest parties, the DUP and Sinn Féin, collapsed over a green energy scandal.

Summary: A relatively peaceful marching season bodes well to create the right atmosphere for political talks aimed at restoring power sharing in Northern Ireland, Michele O'Neill has said.


The seven-time Tour de France winner was charged last month with using performance-enhancing drugs, and had until Saturday to contest or accept sanctions. However, that deadline has now been extended by 30 days. Armstrong, who could lose his Tour titles and faces a lifetime ban, denies the charges. "This extension will allow the court sufficient time to evaluate Mr Armstrong's amended complaint," read a statement from Tim Herman, counsel to Armstrong. The 40-year-old's initial 80-page complaint was thrown out on Monday, but he has submitted a shorter, 25-page suit asking a federal judge in Austin to prevent the case from going forward. Three of the six men named in the doping conspiracy case were given lifetime bans on Tuesday. Doctors Luis Garcia del Moral and Michele Ferrari, plus trainer Jose "Pepe" Marti, from the rider's US Postal Service team failed to answer charges before the USADA's deadline and were promptly banned. Armstrong's latest lawsuit argues: US District Judge Sam Sparks said the original lawsuit seemed more of an attempt to win over public opinion than to focus on legal argument. "This court is not inclined to indulge Armstrong's desire for publicity … by sifting through 80 mostly unnecessary pages [for] factual material relevant to his claims," Sparks wrote on Monday. USADA charged Armstrong with doping last month and claimed 10 of his former team-mates will testify against him. Armstrong, who dominated the Tour de France between 1999 and 2005, has never tested positive and says he has taken more than 500 drug tests in his career. In his original submission, he accused USADA, its chief executive Travis Tygart and FBI agent Jeff Novitzky of waging a personal vendetta. Armstrong has already urged USADA's review board to dismiss allegations brought against him, claiming they are "stale allegations disproved long ago and short on evidence". His legal team argue their client is unable to mount a legitimate defence until he is able to see the evidence against him, although USADA has said it is withholding witnesses' identities to protect them from intimidation. Armstrong, who survived testicular cancer prior to his record-breaking Tour wins, retired after the 2005 race, but made a comeback in 2009. He retired for a second time in February 2011, taking up the triathlon.

Summary: Lance Armstrong's deadline to appeal against charges from the United States Anti-Doping Agency has been extended.


Mani Kurian, 50, of Eridge Road, Eastbourne, was convicted unanimously by a jury at Lewes Crown Court. He was also found guilty of five sexual assaults and one assault by beating. A 21-year-old woman was raped as she walked on the upper promenade towards the pier in the East Sussex town at about 02:00 BST on 19 October 2014. Court officials said Kurian would be sentenced on 26 February.

Summary: A man has been found guilty of raping a woman near Eastbourne Pier.


The pair, dressed in Team GB tracksuits and wearing plastic medals, admitted to Sky News they "blagged" their way on to the float and joined the celebrations. The float was carrying Britain's gold medal-winning women's hockey team and athletes from the modern pentathlon. The BOA said: "It didn't spoil anyone's enjoyment of a wonderful event." "We are aware of the matter and are disappointed anyone would want to detract from the athletes' celebration," it added. Four hundred athletes took part in the Manchester celebrations with more 150,000 people lining the streets. A second parade is to take place in Trafalgar Square in London from 13:00 BST after which the athletes will visit Buckingham Palace. Greater Manchester Police said it did not provide security for the floats and had received no reports regarding the incident. Manchester City Council is yet to comment. Team GB set an Olympic record in Rio 2016 by winning 67 medals - two more than they managed at London 2012. The Paralympians also beat their previous performance with 147 medals - 27 more than four years ago.

Summary: Two imposters sneaked on to a float during the celebratory Rio 2016 parade in Manchester, the British Olympic Association (BOA) has confirmed.


The Super Eagles have made an impressive start to their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign. But it has become apparent that the German coach faces a major headache at right fullback. Nigeria has struggled to find a competent rightback since the departure of Chidi Odiah in 2010. Rohr has tried four different players in three matches as he seeks to keep the West Africans at the top of Group B. The Super Eagles boss said: "We have been trying to find the right balance but the struggle in the rightback position is something we hope to sort out. "Musa Muhammed played in that position against Tanzania and he was good, but he's not playing at his club in Turkey İstanbul Başakşehir. "We have also played [Wilfred] Ndidi, [Kenneth] Omeruo and Shehu [Abdullahi] but there is no permanent man. "This is something we have to fix." Yisa Sofoluwe and Austin Eguavoen are both famous for providing strong cover in the rightback spot in the 1980s and 1990s before Nduka Ugbade, Mobi Oparaku, Joseph Yobo and Chidi Odiah stepped in. Nigeria have since tried Efe Ambrose, Chibuzor Okonkwo, Ogenyi Onazi, Kenneth Omeruo, Leon Balogun, Musa Muhammed and Sheu Abdullahi without much success. Dutch-born defender Tyronne Ebuehi, 20, was seen as the man to plug the hole but the youngster rejected the chance to play against Algeria in a World Cup qualifier earlier this month, saying he prefers to focus on establishing himself at his Dutch club ADO Den Haag instead. Nigeria's 3-1 over the Desert Foxes on 12 November coupled with an away victory in Zambia last month propelled them to the top of Group B. The three-time African champions host Cameroon in back-to-back fixtures on 28 August 2017 and 2 September 2017.

Summary: Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr has admitted that a problem at rightback could derail the Super Eagles' quest for a place at the 2018 World Cup finals.


How much wealth your parents have is likely to matter more than it did for older generations. Here's why. It used to be the case that young adults could expect to start their working lives with higher incomes than those born earlier. This is because incomes normally rise over time, as the economy grows. Then we had the financial crisis of 2008. The upshot is that today's young adults are the first generation since at least World War Two not to start their working lives with higher incomes than those born before them. For example, someone born in the 1980s could expect a household income of £27,000 at the age of 28, compared with £28,000 for those born in the 1970s. The figure was £21,000 for those born in the 1960s and £15,000 for those born in the 1950s. Despite having about the same income, those born in the early 1980s are much less wealthy than those born in the 1970s were at the same age. By their early thirties, the 1980s generation had accumulated wealth of about £27,000 each, on average. By the time they had reached the same age, the 1970s generation had twice as much wealth on average - £53,000 each. A large part of the explanation is that an individual's wealth is mainly made up of property and pensions - and younger adults are faring well with neither. At the age of 30, 40% of people born in the early 1980s were owner-occupiers, down from 55% of those born in the 1970s. Home ownership rates were higher still among earlier generations, with six out of 10 people born in the 50s and 60s owning their own homes at the age of 30. Similarly, the Local Government Association reported in December that just 20% of those aged 25 own their own property, compared with 46% two decades ago. The lower home ownership rate doesn't just explain why young adults have lower wealth now. It also means they are likely to be poorer as they get older, because fewer of them will benefit from future increases in house prices. In their late twenties, renters born in the early 1980s were spending 28% of their income on housing costs. At the same age, those born in the 1960s were spending 22% of their income on rent. Those born in the 1950s spent 13% and those in the 1940s just 10%. Part of the rising costs of renting is explained by the decline of social housing. For today's renters, it seems likely that raising a deposit is a greater barrier to home ownership than actually paying a mortgage. Lower interest rates mean housing costs for young homeowners have fallen and they are quite likely to be paying much less than renters relative to their incomes. Mortgage interest costs for homeowners born in the early 1980s amounted to just 15% of income. Of course, the low interest rates that have benefitted homeowners are themselves likely to be one of the factors pushing up house prices. The vast majority of young adults working in

Summary: From unattainable house prices to disappointing pay rises, the financial challenges faced by young adults can seem daunting.


A European Parliament probe alleged on Monday that funds for the group of MEPs that UKIP belongs to had wrongly been spent "for the benefit of UKIP". It said the group should repay Â£146,696 of the funds intended for European Parliament business. The Electoral Commission is now looking into "whether there has been any breach of UK election law". In response to the news a UKIP spokesman said: "We are confident we will be found to be in the clear." The European Parliament investigation claims that the UKIP-dominated grouping - the Alliance for Direct Democracy in Europe - broke rules banning the use of the funds on "financing of national political parties, financing of national election campaigns and candidates or referendum campaigns". In a statement the European Parliament Bureau said: "The activities of the ADDE which were found to breach the rules for European party financing, were nine opinion polls held in the UK ahead of the 2015 general elections as well as ahead of the EU referendum in 2016, and a report on these polls. "The expenditure linked to the services of three consultants was considered non-eligible by an external auditor and by the Parliament's administration." When the European Parliament allegations first emerged last week, a spokesman for the ADDE group accused the parliament of "harassment", with UKIP MEP Roger Helmer adding: "Call it revenge for Brexit if you like." BBC assistant political editor Norman Smith said it was understood the Electoral Commission inquiry related to whether UKIP spent some of the European money on the Brexit referendum. UKIP would face a possible fine up to Â£20,000 if it was judged to have accepted "impermissible donations".

Summary: The Electoral Commission has opened an investigation into UKIP's finances after allegations it misspent EU funds.


Private domiciliary care firms commissioned by local authorities say there is a recruitment crisis due to competition from hospitals and supermarkets. The UK Homecare Association said there was a "real sense of desperation". Public Health Minister Rebecca Evans said action would be taken. Colin Angel - of the UK Homecare Association, the body which represents care companies - told the Week In Week Out programme many of his members were really struggling. "What we hear in Wales is a real sense of desperation from some providers trying to work out how they can remain in business on the sorts of rates that they are being paid by local councils," he said. "And I think in some parts of Wales, particularly rural areas, we may see care providers handing back work or going out of business even more quickly than in the rest of the country. And that's something that I hope the Welsh Government is going to take seriously." Private domiciliary care firms provide 13 million hours of care every year in Wales. One care company in North Wales "reluctantly" pulled out of providing care to Conwy council, saying it could not supply the care required for the money the council was prepared to pay. Thirteen of the Wales' 22 local authorities said they had seen contracts handed back to them, when asked by BBC Wales. The proportion with returned contracts - 59% - compares to a UK average of 48%. Cymorth Llaw has provided domiciliary care in north Wales for 17 years and company boss Ken Hogg said it was getting more and more challenging. While the company is not in danger of going bust, profits have been falling. "There will be difficult decisions to be made. We've made difficult decisions in the past," Mr Hogg said. "We have to stop this crisis in social care and we have to make these professional carers feel valued, not only valued members of society, but also the remuneration that they deserve." Last year the company pulled out of providing care in Conwy - which initially paid £14.20 an hour for care. Conwy offered to raise that to £15.00, but the company decided they had no choice but to give up the contract. "We didn't think that we could provide this level of service for that cost, for that amount of money that Conwy were offering. And we were very, very reluctant to leave, but we had to leave, it was as simple as that," Mr Hogg added. Conwy council said it was committed to supporting vulnerable people in communities, despite facing financial challenges. Care worker Amanda Hopewell, of Cymorth Llaw, is paid £7.55 per hour - just above the national living wage. She is on a zero-hours contract, which means the hours she works are not guaranteed. She said she struggled to make ends meet. "I did look into buying a house about four years ago, but because I didn't have a contract they wouldn't allow me to buy a house or anything like that," she said. "It's hard. You see all your

Summary: Firms caring for thousands of people living at home in Wales are facing tough financial pressures to stay open, a care companies body has said.


The Markit construction purchasing managers' index (PMI) fell to 55 from 57.8 - well below the 57.5 forecast by economists. The figure contrasted with a stronger-than-expected start for the manufacturing sector published on Monday. Factory output rose from 52.1 in December to 52.9 in January. Any figure above 50 indicates growth in the sector. Markit economist Tim Moore said construction firms were struggling for momentum, with increased economic uncertainty holding back new orders and contributing to one of the weakest rises in output levels since summer 2013. "Taken together with the slowdown in new order growth, the latest survey suggests that construction companies are braced for a relatively subdued first quarter," he said. David Noble, chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply, which compiles the survey along with Markit, said a shortage of bricks and blocks contributed to the slowdown. Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said weakness in construction orders and a downturn in public sector infrastructure work, which accounts for about a quarter of total construction and is not covered by the PMI, suggested the sector would post only "lacklustre growth" this year. Optimism among construction companies waned to its lowest level since December 2014, the survey showed. "Some firms highlighted concerns that underlying demand conditions had started to soften," Markit said. Analysts use the PMI surveys for early signals about the economy. However, the construction sector figures have been at odds with data used in official growth figures in recent months. Growth in the dominant UK service sector fell slightly in December to 55.5 in December, down from 59.9 in November, but remained above average.

Summary: Growth in the UK construction sector slowed down in January to its weakest level for nine months.


The Exiles were reduced to 10 men on 36 minutes when goalkeeper Joe Day was dismissed for bringing down Plymouth forward Jordan Slew. Argyle's Graham Carey converted the penalty and added another from the spot when he was fouled by Darren Jones. A fabulous 25-yard volley from County's Jon Parkin had levelled matters earlier on, but Slew's late strike sealed it. Match ends, Newport County 1, Plymouth Argyle 3. Second Half ends, Newport County 1, Plymouth Argyle 3. Corner, Plymouth Argyle. Conceded by Darren Jones. Rhys Healey (Newport County) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Foul by Rhys Healey (Newport County). Yann Songo'o (Plymouth Argyle) wins a free kick in the defensive half. Corner, Plymouth Argyle. Conceded by Scot Bennett. Attempt blocked. Jordan Slew (Plymouth Argyle) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Attempt saved. Reece Grego-Cox (Newport County) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the top centre of the goal. Attempt missed. Ben Tozer (Newport County) header from the centre of the box misses to the right. Corner, Newport County. Conceded by Yann Songo'o. Attempt blocked. Sean Rigg (Newport County) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Substitution, Plymouth Argyle. Ryan Donaldson replaces James Spencer. James Spencer (Plymouth Argyle) is shown the yellow card for a bad foul. Jazzi Barnum-Bobb (Newport County) wins a free kick on the right wing. Foul by James Spencer (Plymouth Argyle). Sean Rigg (Newport County) wins a free kick in the attacking half. Foul by Yann Songo'o (Plymouth Argyle). Attempt missed. Sean Rigg (Newport County) right footed shot from more than 35 yards is too high. Goal! Newport County 1, Plymouth Argyle 3. Jordan Slew (Plymouth Argyle) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner. Assisted by Graham Carey. Substitution, Newport County. Jack Compton replaces Jordan Green. Corner, Newport County. Conceded by Yann Songo'o. Attempt saved. Graham Carey (Plymouth Argyle) right footed shot from outside the box is saved in the centre of the goal. Substitution, Plymouth Argyle. Connor Smith replaces David Fox. Rhys Healey (Newport County) wins a free kick on the left wing. Foul by Gary Miller (Plymouth Argyle). Rhys Healey (Newport County) wins a free kick on the left wing. Foul by Jake Jervis (Plymouth Argyle). Jordan Green (Newport County) wins a free kick on the left wing. Foul by Jordan Slew (Plymouth Argyle). Substitution, Plymouth Argyle. Jake Jervis replaces Craig Tanner. Substitution, Newport County. Rhys Healey replaces Jon Parkin. (Newport County) wins a free kick in the attacking half. Dangerous play by David Fox (Plymouth Argyle). Corner, Plymouth Argyle. Conceded by Darren Jones. Attempt blocked. James Spencer (Plymouth Argyle) right footed shot from outside the box is blocked. Attempt missed. David Fox (Plymouth Argyle) right footed shot from the centre of the box is high and wide to the right. Goal! Newport County 1, Plymouth Argyle 2. Graham Carey (Plymouth Argyle) converts the penalty with a left footed shot to the bottom left corner. Penalty conceded by Darren Jones (Newport County) after a

Summary: Newport County's plight at the bottom of League Two worsened as they were beaten by leaders Plymouth.


Increasingly services are springing up offering quick fixes for the annoyance of cracked screens or broken home buttons. New entrant, iCracked, is hoping its model of sending technicians to customers, sometimes within an hour, will help it win market share. But critics questioned what impact it would have. The firm already operates in 250 US cities and as the name suggests, focuses mainly on iOS devices but also repairs some Samsung models. The prices it will charge for fixing devices will vary but will average about £57, according to the firm. "For most people, their phone is an extension of themselves, so when it breaks it can have a huge impact on the way they go about their everyday lives," said founder A J Forsythe. The firm began life in 2010 at a US university where Mr Forsythe was a student. "I started handing out flyers around campus and people would call me and I'd fix their device," he told the BBC. Growth came fast and the firm now employs 1,000 technicians across the US. Its UK launch will initially be focused in London with 30 technicians which it hopes to expand to 100 next year. Customers can call out a fixer either via the iCracked website or its app. They then arrange a time for them to come to their home, office or local coffee shop to repair the device. There is a burgeoning industry springing up around smartphone repairs. High street shops offer drop-in services where they can repair phones or tablets in a matter of hours, often more cheaply than iCracked. Websites such as Quick Fix Mobile also offer repairs within 24 hours, with prices averaging £30 - £50 for a broken screen. Marketing manager Sean Barber was dismissive of iCracked. "I'm not sure why these big companies come from the US and make such big news. There are already plenty of others in the UK already offering this service." He compared iCracked's launch with that of Uber, the lift-sharing service which has proved controversial to the taxi industry. "I don't think iCracked is going to disrupt the market like Uber did. You still have to book an appointment with a technician and in that time, a customer could have come to a service like ours and had it fixed," he said. Mr Forsythe admitted that some may question the need for an emergency service for iPhones, but said that demand was there. "We're seeing hundreds of requests each day and we are expecting London to be one of our busiest cities. "I wouldn't say that it is limited to a First World problem." Apple did not wish to comment on the service but on its website it advises customers to contact their carrier or Apple to arrange service for damaged devices. Users can also take broken phones into stores. There is also a growing trend for do-it-yourself services such as the Restart Project - which gives amateurs advice on how to extend the life of their gadgets.

Summary: A US firm is launching an emergency repair service for broken or damaged smartphones in the UK.


A total of 737 clubs have entered the 2017-18 competition, with 370 of those starting their campaign on the weekend 5-6 August when 185 extra preliminary round ties will be played. The extra preliminary round is the first of six qualifying rounds before the first round proper on 4 November. The two Northwich teams will be also face each other in the North West Counties Premier Division next season. Northwich Victoria were beaten 3-0 by Premier League Sunderland at the Stadium of Light 11 years ago. There are 18 clubs taking part in the FA Cup for the first time this season, including Whitchurch Alport. The Shropshire club was formed in 1946 and boasts former Northern Ireland striker Jimmy Quinn among its former players. Friday's draw took place 41 days after Arsenal beat Chelsea in the 2017 final at Wembley. All extra preliminary round winners will receive £1,500 in prize money. Click here for the full FA Cup extra preliminary round draw

Summary: Northwich Victoria, who reached the second round two seasons ago and the third round in 2006, will face local rivals 1874 Northwich - a breakaway club formed five years ago - in the extra preliminary round of the FA Cup.


The research showed nearly one in five (18%) boys were in need of extra learning support, compared with fewer than one in 10 (8%) girls. One in eight (13%) Scottish eight-year-olds were reported by their parents as having an additional support need. The survey was carried out in 2012 by social research body ScotCen. Its study, Growing Up In Scotland, tracks the lives of thousands of children and their parents from birth. The data has been released to coincide with Learning Disability Awareness Week. Other findings showed children from families with the lowest incomes were more likely to have an additional support need than those from families with the highest incomes - 17% compared with 9%. And youngsters living in the most deprived areas were more likely to have an additional support need - 15% compared with 11% living in the least deprived areas. Local authorities and other agencies are legally required to provide additional support where needed to help any child or young person benefit from education. Some of the reasons cited in the study for children requiring learning support included speech problems, dyslexia and autism. Paul Bradshaw, head of longitudinal surveys at ScotCen, said: "The findings show that a significant proportion of today's youngsters are in need of additional support from an early age. "The challenges they face are varied, aren't always straightforward to manage and it's likely that they'll have a significant impact on their adult lives, so it's important that every effort is made to provide this support where possible. "The earlier extra support for children's development is identified and delivered, the more likely it is they'll succeed throughout childhood and into adolescence." The survey's results come from interviews with the parents of 3,685 children and are taken from data collected in 2012 when they were aged eight, and in either primary three or primary four.

Summary: Boys are twice as likely as girls to need additional support for learning, according to a study of eight-year-old children in Scotland.


Laura Stewart, 20, was walking on North Hanover Street with her friend Mhairi Convy, 18, when they were hit by a Range Rover on 17 December. The funeral of Ms Stewart, an accounts student from Cumbernauld, was held at Our Lady and St Helen's Parish Church in her home town. About 200 people attended the ceremony to pay their respects. Outside the church floral tributes were laid, including the name "Laura" written out in red and white flowers opposite the word "sister" in purple flowers. Tributes left with the flowers included a card saying "with all our love for always, mum and dad" and another to a "beautiful" girl who was a "loving friend and sister". The order of service showed a photo of the student with the words "Courage grows strong at a wound" - the motto of the Stewart clan. Mourners wept as the white coffin with purple handles was carried out of the church to the hymn Walk With Me Oh My Lord. Father Gerald Sharkey led the procession out of the church through the snow. The body was then driven to Eastfield Cemetery in Cumbernauld for a private burial. Ms Stewart and Ms Convy, of Lennoxtown, studied at Glasgow College of Commerce. Following the crash, the two women were taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary, where they died. A 36-year-old male pedestrian and the 50-year-old male driver of the Range Rover were also treated in hospital after the crash. Strathclyde Police are investigating the deaths.

Summary: Hundreds of mourners gathered for the funeral of a student who died after a 4x4 mounted a kerb in Glasgow.


Senna's family sent a helmet used by the three-time champion in 1987 to give to Hamilton when he earned a 65th pole, which he did in Canada on Saturday. "It is the most special thing I have, beyond all trophies," said Hamilton. "As I kid I thought maybe one day I can get to Formula 1 and emulate Ayrton. To equal him; I just can't believe it." Hamilton has long since surpassed Senna's record of 41 wins - he did so at the 2015 Japanese Grand Prix - and now has 55. In both poles and wins, he now lags behind only seven-time champion Michael Schumacher, who claimed 68 poles and 91 victories. Asked whether surpassing Senna's marks meant more than Schumacher's, Hamilton said: "I haven't got to the 68 of Michael so I can't really say. I can't look that far ahead at the moment. "Ayrton was the guy I noticed from the beginning. I think it was the colour of the helmet. So I am honoured to be honoured by that family. "To think that I am that close to Michael's record is incredible - I plan on getting there but that is all ifs and buts." Hamilton, who repeatedly looked at Senna's helmet as he sat in the post-qualifying news conference, said the achievement was even more special given it happened at one of his favourite races - where he claimed his first pole and win back in his debut season of 2007. "I knew 65 was there and waiting; I knew Montreal has been a beautiful place for me," he said. "I thought if I was going to get that special pole anywhere, it was going to be here. "But you can only hope it is going to go well, and often it doesn't. "The lap started perfectly, very smooth, no mistakes, built it up and then the last corner which has always been a strength of mine." He added: "I am honoured to be among those great drivers, the legends. Ultimately just very proud. "It wouldn't be possible without all the work from my family. "This is just the tip of the iceberg. No-one knows how hard we worked to get here. I am proud to have got the Hamilton name here. If this was my last day in the sport, the Hamilton name will remain there forever." The helmet Hamilton was given is a replica, for travel and insurance reasons, but he will be receiving a genuine helmet that Senna used at a later date. But Hamilton said he was expecting a tough battle in the race with his title rival, Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel, who qualified second and leads him by 25 points in the championship. "Ferrari are very, very strong in the races," Hamilton said. "It was a very close battle last year between us and I can only imagine this year it is going to be pushing all the way to the end. "We have a car that is not working everywhere. It is a great car but it is a trickier car

Summary: Lewis Hamilton says being presented with one of Ayrton Senna's helmets for equalling the Brazilian's pole record means more to him than any trophy.


Media playback is unsupported on your device 25 July 2014 Last updated at 20:04 BST A company based in Solva has developed new mobile phone technology to record the animal's position. The app is free and can be used in remote areas without wi-fi. Its inventor told Abigail Neal how mapping these sightings could help protect the birds.

Summary: Technology pioneered in Pembrokeshire is being used to track endangered birds of prey in Africa.


Les Price, from Abertillery, Blaenau Gwent, has been told he is not ill enough for weight-loss surgery. To qualify on the NHS, a person must have a body mass index of more than 35 and a serious health condition which could be improved if they lost weight. Mr Price, 45, said he cannot complete simple tasks without help. "It's hard," he told BBC Radio Wales. "When I have a shower I need my partner to help me wash... and if I need creams put on, then drying and dressing." Mr Price began to put on weight after losing his wife less than a year after they married. "It sort of knocked me for six, I didn't want to do nothing," he said. "It was just takeaways for a good six months. It really hit me hard, so I did overindulge a lot then." Mr Price also had an accident at work which left him temporarily immobile and unable to exercise, which also caused weight gain. He told BBC's Jason Mohammad programme his weight attracts attention when he goes out. "Mentally every time you go out, it's like you're looking at people to see how they are reacting to seeing you. "Little kids say it how it is, 'oh mam, look at that fat man'." In a bid to get help, Mr Price met Dr Nadim Haboubi, who runs the only NHS-funded weight management clinic in Wales. He was initially told he was a "prime example" for a gastric band, but because he does not suffer from a chronic illness which would be improved by weight loss, such as heart disease or diabetes, he does not qualify for the surgery. "Every time I'm put forward I'm told 'sorry, you're not ill enough'," he said. Mr Price said he was not "pinning hopes" on the surgery, but accepts his life could be shortened by his weight and has been having injections to reduce his appetite. He appeared in a Channel 5 documentary about obesity called Fat Chance of Work. "If I was able to get the operation, I would love to be able to get myself fit enough to go back to work," he said. "I would love to get back into life and get on living."

Summary: A man whose weight ballooned from 23 stone to 35 following the death of his wife has told of his struggles to obtain the treatment he feels he needs.


The man, who is in his 30s, was attacked at the property in Argenta Walk at about 04:00 GMT on Monday. Chief Insp Stephen McCauley said: "We believe an altercation of some kind has taken place in the house which has led to the man being stabbed." He added a number of men "hurriedly" left the house. The victim's injury is not believed to be life-threatening.

Summary: A man has been stabbed in the back during a house party in Ballymena, County Antrim.


Seven were taken to hospital, two in a serious condition, after the fire at Standon House Care Home in Tamworth, Staffordshire, on Saturday night. The fire was accidental, caused by "poorly discarded smoking materials," Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said. All residents were moved to alternative accommodation, police said. About 20 firefighters were sent to the property, which suffered "very considerable" damage, the ambulance service said. The ambulance service said 16 residents were rehoused within adjacent flats, with a further two people taken by ambulance to other care homes. Emergency services were called to the home in Ashby Road at 23:00 BST and "fortunately, firefighters and staff were able to bring all of the residents out of the building," the ambulance service said. Six people, including the two in a serious condition, were taken to Good Hope Hospital in Sutton Coldfield with a further patient taken to Queen's Hospital in Burton. The seven were taken to the hospitals to be "assessed after smoke inhalation," Staffordshire Police said. Insp Beverley Rounds, of Staffordshire Police, said: "We've had a number of calls from people living nearby and we want to thank them for their vigilance and reassure them the residents have been evacuated."

Summary: At least 25 residents were evacuated from a care home after a large fire tore through the property.


Media playback is unsupported on your device 25 August 2015 Last updated at 06:50 BST But when the school term ends, families with children who usually rely on this extra support, no longer get those free meals. Ricky's been to a club in Greater Manchester where kids and their parents can come along for free, to get active and learn about how to prepare a healthy and nutritious meal.

Summary: During term-time some schools provide free meals for families who struggle to afford to pay for healthy foods.


No new date has yet been set for the game to be played.

Summary: Saturday's Women's Super League 1 game between Doncaster Rovers Belles and Arsenal Ladies has been postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.


Top seed Murray, 29, can set up a potential second-round clash with Britain's Slovenia-born Aljaz Bedene if he defeats the world number 49. Bedene, 26, must first get past France's Benoit Paire after replacing Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the main draw. Swiss second seed Stan Wawrinka, 31, plays Spaniard Fernando Verdasco. British wildcards Dan Evans and Kyle Edmund face France's Paul-Henri Mathieu and eighth seed Gilles Simon respectively. Elsewhere in the first round, Australian Nick Kyrgios takes on Canadian third seed Milos Raonic and Britain's James Ward meets Luxembourg's Gilles Muller. Queen's is part of the ATP World Tour 500 series and finishes a week before Wimbledon, which runs from 27 June to 10 July. Subscribe to the BBC Sport newsletter to get our pick of news, features and video sent to your inbox.

Summary: British number one Andy Murray will face France's Nicolas Mahut in the Aegon Championships first round at Queen's Club.


Swansea, two points adrift of safety, have beaten United four times in the last three years including two of their last three games at Old Trafford. "We need to believe we can go up there and win because we've done it previously and it's not impossible," Britton told BBC Wales Sport. "We can take confidence from that." Britton, 34, played in Swansea's 2-1 FA Cup third round win in January 2014. And on the opening day of the following 2014-15 season Swansea won by the same scoreline in what was Louis van Gaal's first competitive game as United boss. "The record for ourselves isn't too bad," Britton said. "It's a stadium that's been a fortress for Man United for many, many years but we've won twice up there. "They're on a very good run under Jose Mourinho and are very tough to beat. "They've got a few injuries which won't have helped them and a game on Thursday against Manchester City. "They've got a busy period so we need to try and take advantage of that if we can." Britton, whose appearance in last Saturday's win over Stoke City was his first game since December, admits this season has been Swansea's toughest yet in the Premier League. Swansea, promoted in 2011, have had three managers during a campaign which has seen them in or around the relegation zone for most of the season. "We've had situations where we've flirted with relegation and never been in the bottom three," Britton said. "When Michael Laudrup got the sack [in 2014] there was a situation where we were on the verge of being dragged in but never did get dragged into the relegation battle. "But this year, from very early on, we've been involved so without doubt this has been the toughest season we've had in the Premier League. "It's been a difficult year for everyone." Swansea beat Stoke 2-0 on Saturday to end a six-match winless run. Media playback is not supported on this device But Hull City's victory over Watford kept the Swans in the relegation zone, still two points adrift of the Tigers and safety. Britton believes the battle to stay in the Premier League could go down to the final day of the season on 21 May when they host West Brom. "It's very, very tight but we can take a lot of heart from the performance at the weekend against Stoke, not just the win but the way we played," Britton said. "The previous five or six games we had dropped below the standard that had been set when Paul first came in. "But hopefully there's a belief back in the changing room after the weekend and we need to take that into the last four games. "As players you don't want relegation on your CV's. You don't want to be involved with that because when you get relegated it's a failure."

Summary: Midfielder Leon Britton says Swansea City can take confidence from previous wins over Manchester United ahead of Sunday's Premier League game.


Gerrard, 36, is leaving MLS club LA Galaxy and claims he is considering "options on and off the pitch". Lawrenson feels Gerrard could "definitely play in this Liverpool team" and be used in a coaching role. "They will not have to pay him fortunes - they can tell him if they need him he'll play," said Lawrenson. "The most important thing in all this, though, is that he would not be seen as a threat by Jurgen Klopp if he was on the coaching staff. "He would be brilliant to have around the club because he would be in awe of Klopp, so that is just not a worry. I am sure Klopp would love it too - the only effects would be positive. "He has already coached Liverpool's under-16 team for a while in 2015 and really enjoyed it," added Lawrenson, who made 356 appearances for the club. "If you are an under-16 and getting coached by Stevie G, then how good is that?" Gerrard is pursuing his Uefa A coaching licence - the second-highest qualification offered - and has punditry commitments lined up. But Lawrenson believes Gerrard would "definitely be open" to being registered as a player. He left Anfield in 2015 after spending 17 years in the first team, making 710 appearances, scoring 186 goals and winning eight major trophies. The midfielder played 34 times for Galaxy over two seasons and insists he will be back in football in some capacity. He has been linked with moves to Celtic and Newcastle in recent weeks. Klopp allowed Gerrard to train with the first team during the MLS off season and has previously said the former Reds' captain is "always so welcome" at the club. Lawrenson also wants the club to utilise Jamie Carragher, who retired in 2013 after 737 Liverpool appearances, insisting drawing on the experience of two former greats is "a no brainer". He added: "I would let those two come in and take a couple of training sessions at Anfield as well. They would offer a different voice and a different point of view, without undermining the manager. Can you imagine them in the coaches room with Klopp? It would be great."

Summary: Liverpool should re-sign Steven Gerrard as a player and coach as the "only effects would be positive", says the club's former defender Mark Lawrenson.


The double reception was first proposed by the SDLP at the end of last year, to celebrate both teams reaching the finals of the Euro 2016 competition. Unionists objected, saying the council had already held a civic reception for the Northern Ireland team in November. Unionist amendments to expand the invite to other UK teams were defeated. An amendment put forward by Ulster Unionist councillor Jim Rodgers to invite all four teams from England, Wales, Northern Ireland the Republic of Ireland was defeated by 33 votes to 20. Unionist councillors also proposed sending letters of congratulation to all teams from the British Isles who qualified for the Euro 2016 finals, but this amendment was also voted down.

Summary: Belfast City Council has voted to invite both the Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland football teams to a civic reception at Belfast City Hall.


Brown and Barclay have won 107 caps between them but have been omitted from Vern Cotter's 32-man pool. "We seem to be promoting players who've come in from New Zealand at the expense of John Barclay and Kelly Brown. "Your chances of playing for Scotland are greatly heightened by playing for Edinburgh and Glasgow," said Nicol. Edinburgh flanker Hugh Blake has been called into the squad for the first time, in preference to both Brown and Barclay. Blake qualifies to play for the national team through his Scottish grandparents. Brown, 32, led Scotland into last year's Six Nations as captain, only to be dropped from the squad for the home defeat to England then recalled as captain for the loss to France at Murrayfield. He was overlooked for selection for the three Autumn tests against Argentina, New Zealand and Tonga. Barclay has excelled in the back-row for Welsh side Scarlets this season and, at 28, is likely to have several seasons left at the top level. Former Bath and Glasgow scrum-half Nicol says favouring players who play their rugby in Scotland isn't necessarily wrong, but that ultimately the decision should come down to ability. "There's not been a stated policy about not picking players playing in Scotland," Nicol continued. "There are a number of players (in the squad) who play outwith Scotland, but I think it's very clear that your chances of playing for Scotland are greatly heightened by playing for Edinburgh and Glasgow. "That might be the right thing to do, don't get me wrong. "I just think that, if you're picking your best players for this Six Nations, and forget the World Cup, because if they're good enough for the Six Nations then you're good enough for the World Cup, you pick your best players and I would've thought Kelly Brown and John Barclay in particular are two that would come in there." Despite reservations about the omission of some experienced players, Nicol is positive about Scotland's chances in the Six Nations. "I'm quite excited about what could happen," he said. "It was a good Autumn series. "A very good performance against Argentina, good again against the best team in the world, New Zealand, and then finished it off well against Tonga. "So there's a lot of confidence in the squad. "Edinburgh have improved markedly since the Autumn tests and that's reflected in more players coming in from Edinburgh. "That's a good sign. These players will be a bit more confident coming into the Six Nations."

Summary: Kelly Brown and John Barclay are among Scotland's best players and should be in the squad for the Six Nations, according to former captain Andy Nicol.


Trevor Campbell, 59, from Sompting, was treated by paramedics but died at the scene. He was struck at about 06:00 GMT on the eastbound carriageway in Lancing. A 58-year-old man from Climping had been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. More news from Sussex Mr Campbell, his wife Rosemary said the family was devastated. She said he left a daughter, Ella, 28, and a granddaughter, Aerith, aged two. "Trevor absolutely doted on Aerith, just as he did our own daughter, and his death is going to leave a huge gap in our family," she said. Mr Campbell, a porter at Lancing College, was taking his usual walk to work when he was killed, police said. Lancing College headmaster Dominic Oliver said he was a long-serving and loyal member of the team, and the Lancing community was saddened and shocked by his death.

Summary: A man arrested over the death of a pedestrian hit by a car on the A27 in West Sussex on Thursday has been released without charge.


She also understands why athletes get into trouble because "sometimes your mind isn't 100% as all you're thinking about is training". According to the Daily Mail, Mo Farah missed two tests before winning double Olympic gold for Britain in 2012. The Mail says the second one came at Farah's home in February 2011, when he claimed not to have heard the doorbell. Nine UK athletes missed two tests in the same year as Farah did. Yet UK Anti-Doping chief executive Nicole Sapstead told BBC Sport that it is "not common" for an athlete to miss a test. Farah's gold medals in the 5,000m and 10,000m at London 2012 were among the defining moments of the Games. At the time, UK Anti-Doping rules stated that an athlete who missed three tests in any 18-month period could face a ban of up to two years. That meant Farah could have been ruled out of his home Olympics with one more breach of the regulations. The rules have since been amended and athletes who now miss three tests in a 12-month period can be banned for four years. Sotherton said top-level athletes are tested up to 20 times a year and have to know three months in advance where they are going to be. "You are never free of drug testing," said the 38-year-old, who won Olympic bronze at the 2004 Games in Athens. "I've been tested nine times in six weeks before - at my house, at the track, at my partner's house. "But a missed test doesn't mean you are doping. It may mean you have been a little bit careless. That doesn't make you a drugs cheat. "I was very organised and I made a slip of a number by one day. That's how a missed test can happen." Sotherton's sentiments were echoed by Jenny Meadows. "It is very difficult to work out where you are going to be three months in advance," said the former European indoor 800m champion. "You do have to remember, of course, where you said you would be and make sure you are at that place. Even this week I was out of the house before my testing slot should have started." While European and Commonwealth 800m silver medallist Lynsey Sharp spent one hour every day for two weeks sat in a Boston cafe while on holiday because the doorbell did not work in her rented apartment. "There is not a lot of room for mistakes," said Sharp. "I do think we have great system but it can make it difficult for athletes." Michael Rimmer, who won an 800m silver medal at the 2010 European Championships, said he had missed tests in the past and has suggested athletes are tagged so the testers know where they are at all times. But Michele Verroken, a sports ethics and anti-doping adviser, said there had to be "an element of surprise" to testing. "There is no obligation on the testing agency to test you in just that hour because athletes would manipulate the system and provide you with a clean

Summary: Former Olympic heptathlete Kelly Sotherton says one missed drugs test "doesn't mean you are doping".


Brig Gen Tlas, said to be in his mid-40s, is a member of Syria's most powerful Sunni family, which has given its support to the Assad's Alawite clan for decades. The general's father, Mustafa Tlas, was Syria's longest serving defence minister, who helped to ensure Mr Assad's succession to the presidency in 2000 following the death of his father. As a young man, Gen Tlas also attended military training with President Assad. So, naturally, he was a member of Mr Assad's so-called inner circle, serving as commander of an elite Republican Guard unit. The general - together with his wife - was also seen as a leading figure on the Damascus social scene, entertaining foreign envoys, artists and the media. But sources say he has become increasingly frustrated in recent months over the violent crackdown by the security forces on protesters. He was reportedly under a form of home arrest since May 2011, following his meeting with the opposition to try to start a political dialogue and also because of his opposition to the clampdown. The current regime, he once reportedly said, was taking the country to hell. Most of Syria's leaders are Alawite, but Gen Tlas is a Sunni Muslim, and his desertion may encourage other Sunni officers to consider their allegiances.

Summary: Manaf Tlas, a Syrian general, has deserted the regime of President Bashar al-Assad and left the country gripped by continuing unrest.


An average of eight million people tuned in to watch the finale as it was broadcast live, with an additional 500,000 watching on ITV+1. Viewing peaked at 9.7 million as Army bandsman and magician Richard Jones was announced the winner. The previous low was in 2014, when 10.7 million saw singing act Collabro win. Jones, a lance corporal of The Household Cavalry, impressed the judges and public with his military-themed act. "I can't believe it, thank you so much to everyone that voted - it's been an incredible experience, it means the world to me," the 25-year-old said. The first magician to ever win the talent show, he wins a Â£250,000 prize and the opportunity to appear at the Royal Variety Performance. Live viewing represented a 39.7% share of all TV viewing, although final consolidated figures - where all on demand and catch-up viewing is taken into account - will not be known for a week. An ITV spokeswoman said audiences peaked at 10.5 million viewers when ITV+1 figures were added. The finale was broadcast at the same time as the Uefa Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, which was broadcast on subscription service BT Sport and YouTube free of charge. Last year's Britain's Got Talent final was watched by an average of 11.7 million viewers, accounting for a 46.6% audience share. More than 17 million viewers tuned in to watch the final at its peak in 2009, when dance act Diversity famously triumphed over Susan Boyle. The final usually counts itself as one of the most-watched programmes of the year. However, this year it is unlikely to feature in the top 10. 'Brilliantly British' Wearing his Household Cavalry uniform, Jones's act featured a card trick which told the story of Britain's oldest living magician, Fergus Anckorn, and how he used magic to help him cope with being a prisoner of war in Singapore. The act culminated in bringing the 97-year-old out on stage. Receiving a standing ovation from the judges, Alesha Dixon described the performance as "poignant, noble and brilliantly British". Speaking on Britain's Got More Talent after the main show, head judge Simon Cowell said he thought the public voted Jones the winner not just because of his skill as a magician. "I think people rooted for him as a person," he said. "His presentation, his whole performance was immaculate - it was very patriotic and heart-warming and he deserved to win." Fellow judge Amanda Holden added: "I'm absolutely delighted because when magic first started on Britain's Got Talent it was rubbish and after 10 years he has done such a great job." The Army tweeted its congratulations to Jones, as well as a picture of The Band of the Household Cavalry celebrating his win. Swing singer Wayne Woodward - who became the bookmakers' favourite late on Saturday afternoon - finished as the runner-up with his rendition of Nina Simone's Feeling Good. Boogie Storm, a group of disco dancing Star Wars stormtroopers, were voted third. Also among the 12 finalists was sword swallower Alex Magala, whose act

Summary: The final of this year's Britain's Got Talent drew the lowest audience in the show's 10-year history, according to overnight figures.


The 48-year-old will work under new director of cricket Jimmy Adams and chairman of selectors Courtney Browne, both former Windies internationals. Law had previously coached Sri Lanka and Bangladesh's national sides. "I am excited at the opportunity to contribute to what I think is an interesting time for West Indies," said Law, who takes over on 15 February. "I think this assignment has come at an important time of my career." West Indies had been without a full-time head coach since Phil Simmons was sacked in September. Having also had time in charge of Bangladesh Premier League side Khulna Titans, Law becomes the third Australian to coach the Windies after Bennett King (2004-07) and John Dyson (2007-09). While he only played one Test in 1995 - scoring 54 not out in his only innings - Law appeared in 54 one-day internationals between 1994 and 1999, and was a losing finalist in the 1996 World Cup. As well as captaining Queensland to their first Sheffield Shield win in 1994-95, he was one of the leading batsmen in English county cricket in long stints with Essex and Lancashire, as well as having a brief spell at Derbyshire at the end of his career.

Summary: West Indies have appointed former Australia batsman Stuart Law as their new coach on a two-year contract.


In a joint bid, Metropoulos & Co and Apollo Global Management are paying $410m (Â£275m) for the bankrupt company. The offer had originally been planned to set the floor for an auction, which Hostess boss Greg Rayburn had predicted would be "wild and woolly". In fact, a court filing showed that no other offers were submitted. The deal, which also includes Suzy Q's and Cup Cakes, is expected to be approved by a bankruptcy court on 19 March. Hostess Brands started winding down its companies last year, after being hit by rising food prices and a bakery strike. An auction for Hostess's bread brand, Wonder, has also been cancelled, with a view to selling it directly to Flowers Foods, which makes Tastykakes and Nature's Own bread.

Summary: Hostess Brands is selling its cake bakery business, which includes Twinkies cakes, to two private equity companies.


The investors, Filmyard, includes construction magnate Ron Tutor and investment firm Colony Capital. Disney has been negotiating with potential buyers for months to sell the division, which has made films such as Pulp Fiction and Shakespeare in Love. Earlier this week, Disney bought the social gaming developer Playdom. "Although we are very proud of Miramax's many accomplishments, our current strategy for Walt Disney Studios is to focus on the development of great motion pictures under the Disney, Pixar and Marvel brands," Disney's chief executive Robert Iger said. Disney wants to concentrate on these family-orientated divisions, which produce popular films such as Toy Story, that also come with highly profitable merchandising opportunities. "Disney has been very smart with its film strategy," media analyst Theresa Wise told BBC World Business Report. "One of the big issues with movies is very few films break even... so they need other revenues. Disney has the fantastic ability to sell family films and all the merchandise that goes with it. Disney has owned Miramax since 1993 when it bought the firm from Hollywood heavyweights Harvey and Bob Weinstein. The Weinstein brothers, who recently attempted to buy it back from Disney, named the film company after their parents Miriam and Max.

Summary: Entertainment giant Walt Disney has announced the sale of its Miramax film division for about $660m to a group of private equity investors.


Thousands of them have been on picket lines and the hostilities between the government and the doctors' union, the BMA, show few signs of abating. There's no question this is a very significant problem for the government. Thirty eight per cent of junior doctors did go to work today, but that figure includes the planned emergency cover, and those non-members of the BMA. And falling out with the medical profession, allowing relations to have got so bad, potentially risking patients' health, is a serious risk for any government. There's not much sign though of ministers backing down. In terms that could hardly be stronger, one well-placed government source told me today: "We all know they are going to lose." And when you listen to the words of the health secretary who says this strike is unnecessary, that the government promised to make changes to the NHS in its manifesto and they're determined to drive them through, it's clear ministers are a very long way from giving up. And it's worth noting the government does have the option of just imposing the new terms and conditions as contracts are renewed - that could start as early as next month. More talks are planned for later this week. And ministers are not yet at the stage of deciding to use brute force to impose the changes. The hope in government is that once today's strike is over, progress might be made in the talks in the two weeks before the second planned walkout. Neither side, publicly, is willing to give any ground. But there are nerves about the third planned strike, planned for the middle of February, which is expected to be an all-out strike where no emergency cover would be arranged. There's a belief in government that's a line that no-one wants to cross. But there is a risk for the government too if public opinion settles on the doctors' side. PS: In different times, the Opposition would likely have been criticising the government's handling of a situation like this as loudly as possible. Today has been rather different. Labour has not been making the political running on the issue. It's worth noting that the shadow health secretary, Heidi Alexander, did not join any of the strikers on the picket line, while others like the shadow chancellor John McDonnell did.

Summary: Junior doctors have been out on strike in the first protest like it for decades.


Selby was ringside in Brooklyn to see Frampton beat champion Leo Santa Cruz on points to win the title. Frampton wants to defend the title in his home city of Belfast and did not rule out a rematch, although he also has Selby in his sights. "He's mentioned me a few times, sounds like he wants the fight," Selby said. "I want the fight and it shouldn't be too difficult to make." Selby said any possible meeting could be held in Belfast or Cardiff's Principality Stadium. Barry-born Selby insisted before the fight there was no chance of him meeting British rival Josh Warrington, who beat Patrick Hyland to retain his WBC International featherweight title. Selby accused Warrington of 'running scared,' after talks fell through over arranging a summer contest at Leeds' Elland Road. Frampton inflicted the first defeat of 27-year-old Mexican Santa Cruz's career to become the first Northern Ireland fighter to win a world title in two weight divisions. It was Frampton's first pro bout at featherweight, having moved up a division after unifying the IBF and WBA super-bantamweight titles by beating England's Scott Quigg in Manchester in February. Selby said he was not surprised by Frampton's majority verdict over Santa Cruz, who has held world titles at three weights. "I thought it was a brilliant fight and very competitive from the first bell to the last," Selby added. "Carl Frampton boxed excellent and he surprised me with his tactics. I thought he would box on the back foot and use his range and jab. "But at times he held his feet, stood in the middle of the ring and went toe to toe and beat Santa Cruz at his own game."

Summary: IBF world champion Lee Selby is confident his next fight will be against new WBA world featherweight champion Carl Frampton.


Millions of Iranians voted on Friday for members of the assembly, which appoints Iran's supreme leader, and also in parliamentary elections. Reformists and moderates have won all the seats in the capital Tehran. But Sadeq Larijani said reformists had worked with "American and English media outlets" during the poll. "Is this type of coordination with foreigners in order to push out these figures from the Assembly of Experts in the interests of the regime?" he said in a statement. Early results gave former President Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a moderate conservative, and Iran's reformist President Hassan Rouhani the most votes for the assembly. The vote for the assembly has assumed added significance given that Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, is 76 and has suffered ill-health. It is the first time Iranians have gone to the poll since last years landmark nuclear deal and the lifting of international sanctions. The parliamentary result in Tehran is significant because lawmakers from the capital usually determine the political direction of the house, analysts say. But with a mixed vote outside the capital neither the reformist or hardliners are likely to have overall control of parliament. This stunning election result will make a difference in Iran's engagement with the wider world. President Rouhani's hand has been strengthened in parliament to help open his country to greater trade and investment. That will help him, and others in his reformist camp, to deepen the dialogue with the West, which began with negotiations on a landmark nuclear deal. But much of this opening will continue to be with Europe, rather than the US. Iran's relationship with America is still complex and controversial. Iran's ambitions in the region are also deeply rooted - it has strategic interests in countries like Syria, Iraq and Lebanon as well as Afghanistan, and a strong sense of its right to remain engaged. These are areas where Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guards and its conservative Supreme leader hold sway. But Iran wants to be regarded as an equal partner, able to sit at the world's top tables to work on common threats like the so-called Islamic State. President Rouhani's team may now feel empowered to engage a bit more, more often. What is the Assembly of Experts? Mr Rouhani said on Saturday that the election was an endorsement of his efforts to end Iran's international isolation. "The competition is over. It's time to open a new chapter in Iran's economic development based on domestic abilities and international opportunities," the official Irna news agency quoted him as saying. Despite securing the nuclear deal he has faced resistance at home to domestic reform. Ayatollah Khamenei said the turnout, at 60%, showed "the brilliant face of religious democracy to the world", Iran's conservative Tasnim news agency reported. But he also urged "vigilance" against what the agency called "foreign meddling". BBC Persian's Ali Hamedani says the economy was a key issue in the process. With sanctions lifted and Western investors beginning to return to Iran, there are high hopes for an improvement in daily life, he says.

Summary: A leading Iranian cleric has accused reformists of colluding with the West to block hardline appointments to the country's Assembly of Experts.


Staff shortages and weaknesses in consistency, accuracy and timeliness of inspection reports have all been flagged up as areas of "concern" by the Public Accounts Committee. Chairwoman Meg Hillier said there was an "alarming lack of attention to detail" when reports were prepared. The CQC - set up six years ago - said it was proceeding with improvements. The CQC's inspection programmes for hospitals, primary care and adult social care services in England are all behind schedule, the MPs' report said. It was concerned by the CQC's ability to respond quickly and effectively to information received from patients, staff and whistleblowers. On one occasion an NHS trust told the committee it found more than 200 errors in a draft CQC report, including data inaccuracies. "The fact these errors were picked up offers some reassurance but this is clearly unacceptable from a public body in which taxpayers are placing their trust," said Ms Hillier. The cross-party committee also said the regulator had "struggled to recruit inspectors and analysts" and as a result it was "not meeting the trajectory it set itself for completing inspections". By mid-April the vacancy rate was 34% for inspectors, 36% for senior analysts and 35% for managers. Staff turnover in 2014-15 was nearly 8%, which is higher than the CQC's 5% target. And the MPs warned that the CQC was not ready to assume new responsibilities for assessing the efficiency of hospitals in April 2016. "Recruitment at the commission is going too slowly, meaning too many members of the public don't have up-to-date independent information about the quality of services provided," Ms Hillier warned. "It is vital the public is clear on what the commission has actually inspected and when. If the commission is to properly fulfil its duty to taxpayers we must see improvements in the way it collects, acts upon and publishes information." The MPs did also acknowledge that the CQC had made "substantial progress" since its previous report into the regulator back in 2012. David Behan, chief executive of the CQC, said: "We have always maintained that there is more we have to do, in particular with regards to improving the timeliness of our reports and inspecting all health and adult social care services. "These are not new issues and we have been working hard to improve our performance. We have reported on our progress in public every month and we will continue to do so. "What is essential is that we do not take any shortcuts, which could compromise the quality of the important work that we do."

Summary: The Care Quality Commission, the health watchdog in England, is "not yet an effective regulator", MPs say.


Broncos led through Rhys Williams before Briscoe and Liam Sutcliffe posted two quick scores for the Rhinos. James Cunningham put London back ahead but tries from Briscoe and James Segeyaro made it 20-12 at the break. Jordan Lilley, Matty Achurch and Kallum Watkins extended Leeds' lead, and despite tries from Nick Slyney, Iliess Macani and Elliot Kear either side of Briscoe's third, Leeds secured victory. Leeds maintained their 100% record in the Qualifiers, having previously recorded victories over Featherstone and Hull KR. But there was more injury woe for the Rhinos as captain Danny McGuire limped off with an ankle injury in the first half. London Broncos head coach Andrew Henderson: "I am very proud of the efforts of the guys. "We put ourselves under pressure at times and we had to absorb that and I was pleased to see us finish the game off strongly, scoring some points at the back end of the game to make the score more respectable." Leeds head coach Brian McDermott: "There were spells where I thought we were really good and some other spells in the game where I thought we were very off. "We made some periods of the game look very difficult at times with our lack of energy, but also London gave it a good crack against us and they didn't fall off like perhaps Featherstone did last week." London Broncos: Walker; Williams, Hellewell, Kear, Macani; Soward, Barthau; Slyney, Cunningham, Ioane, Harrison, Garside, Bussey. Replacements: Ackers, Thackray, Battye, Offerdahl. Leeds Rhinos: Sutcliffe; Briscoe, Watkins, Keinhorst, Hall; Moon, McGuire; Galloway, Segeyaro, Garbutt, Ferres, Ablett, Jones-Buchanan. Replacements: Cuthbertson, Achurch, Mullally, Lilley. Referee: Chris Campbell

Summary: Tom Briscoe's hat-trick helped Leeds to an easy Qualifiers victory over London.


The first year student at the University of Surrey died while returning from a sports trip to Italy. The other two students have both been treated and are "recovering well", the university said. The university is working with Public Health England (PHE) to inoculate students living in halls of residence. All three students were diagnosed with meningitis, but two of them - including the one who died - had the meningitis B infection, prompting the "precautionary vaccinations". A total of 4,200 full-time students - about one third of the student population - will be offered the jab. Vice Chancellor Prof Max Lu said the university had been "reassured that the risk to staff, students and visitors is still very low". Prof Kamila Hawthorne, associate dean for medicine at the university said evidence showed the infection was not "highly contagious, comparatively rare and the risk to the wider community remains very low". "Only people who have prolonged, close contact with an ill person are at a slightly increased risk of becoming unwell." Source: NHS Choices

Summary: A student has died from meningitis and another two are recovering, prompting a university to offer undergraduates a vaccination.


Dorset Fire and Rescue sprang into action to rescue Pigwig after he became trapped in the pool at Avon Castle Drive, Ashley Heath, earlier. District commander Andy Cole said its specialist animal rescue squad was also dispatched to deal with the unusual rescue operation. Firefighters used rescue boards, strops and lines to tug the stranded pig out. Crews from Ferndown and Poole were the first on the scene of the drama after receiving a call at 16:50 BST. They were later joined by a crew from Hampshire Fire and Rescue service in Ringwood. Pigwig was hauled from the swimming pool at about 17:30.

Summary: A pig that fell into a swimming pool in Dorset has had his bacon saved by firefighters.


The Reverend Hayley Young, from Hayling Island Baptist Church near Portsmouth, made the video after her treatment started to cause hair loss. She told Victoria Derbyshire she hopes it will counter misconceptions. The video - which sees the 28-year-old tell her story through cardboard signs - has been viewed over 19,000 times. Ms Young contracted HIV following a non-sexual attack in 2013 - for which she decided not to press charges - and prior to the video had only informed a handful of people close to her of the infection. Among them, she explained, were some negative reactions, with one person referring to her as "dangerous". Her loss of hair was also causing rumours to spread in her church, with many people concerned over her health. It was a result of these factors, she explained, that she "thought it was time that I informed my congregation". "I knew telling them face to face was going to be quite difficult for myself and them so I thought about how I could do it creatively," she added. Her decision to choose a "cardboard testimony" was a result of having seen the popularity of such videos in the United States. The video explains the symptoms Ms Young - who has been a minister at the church since January 2011 - has experienced since contracting HIV, but also looks to counter any misconceptions surrounding the infection. "I think people were worried about me being around children, how they can contract it," she told Victoria Derbyshire. One individual thought HIV could be passed on through kissing. "People just don't know unfortunately," she added. Since the video was posted on May 10, Ms Young says she has been overwhelmed by the reaction from church-goers. "On the whole, the congregation have been amazing and [they're from] a variety of ages and a variety of backgrounds, so I've been humbled by their positivity." She says she is glad many others have been "inspired and encouraged" by the video, but does not feel it is her role to become a spokesperson for those with HIV. Ms Young also explained how she had been hurt by some of the abusive messages YouTube users had posted on the video, although she is now learning to come to terms with them. "When you put your head above the parapet, it's going to happen, isn't it?" she said. Ms Young is continuing to take her medication daily, but feels that her health "still isn't 100%". With the right treatment, she hopes to live a "happy and healthy life". She says she is able to take peace and strength from her Christian faith. Watch Victoria Derbyshire on weekdays from 09:15-11:00 BST on BBC Two and BBC News Channel. Follow the programme on Facebook and Twitter, and find all our content online.

Summary: A vicar who made a YouTube video to tell her congregation she was HIV positive says she has been "humbled" by their reaction.


The £100m scheme includes a new ground for non-league Boston United, along with shops and 500 homes in the Wyberton area of the town. Wyberton Parish Council held the vote after residents called for it. Of those eligible to vote, only 18.76% - 550 people - took part, of which 86% voted against the scheme. Parish council chairman Richard Austin said: "I wasn't expecting a big turnout, but I'm sure the World Cup game had an effect." He said the date and time had been "set in stone" and the council could not change them. However, he added: "I can only speculate, but perhaps the majority were happy to take the view of the ones that did vote. "We live in a democratic society and this is what happens sometimes." Mr Austin said prior to the vote people had raised concerns over the potential impact of the scheme, including the traffic it would generate. He said the parish council would now consider the results before forming its view on the application to Boston Borough Council. The developer, Chestnut Homes, whose owner David Newton is Boston United chairman, said the project would be good for the town and create jobs. The project, called The Quadrant, includes plans to move the Conference North club from its York Road stadium, where it has been since the late 19th Century, to a new 4,000-seat ground off the A16 at Tytton Lane. Chestnut Homes submitted its planning application in May. If approved, work could begin in 2015.

Summary: England's game against Uruguay has been partly blamed for a low turnout in a referendum on plans to build a football stadium and new homes in Lincolnshire.


Film studio Warner Bros is looking for a girl between the ages of eight and 12 to play the character of Modesty. "Modesty is a haunted young girl with an inner strength and stillness," the studio said. "She has an ability to see deep into people and understand them." The casting call will take place at the Excel Centre in London on Saturday. The chosen youngster will star opposite Eddie Redmayne in what is bound to be one of the biggest film releases of next year. Rowling has written the screenplay for the film, which is based on a Harry Potter spin-off book she published in 2001. Redmayne will play "magizoologist" Newt Scamander, who writes a Hogwarts School textbook about the weird and wonderful fictional creatures he encounters. Hopeful actresses have been invited to start queuing from 09:00 BST on Saturday. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is expected to be released on 18 November 2016. Writing on her Facebook page in 2013, JK Rowling said: "Although it will be set in the worldwide community of witches and wizards where I was so happy for 17 years, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is neither a prequel nor a sequel to the Harry Potter series, but an extension of the wizarding world. "The laws and customs of the hidden magical society will be familiar to anyone who has read the Harry Potter books or seen the films, but Newt's story will start in New York, 70 years before Harry's gets under way."

Summary: An open casting call is to be held to find a girl to star in JK Rowling's Harry Potter spin-off film Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.


In recent weeks, North Korea has carried out a hydrogen bomb test and repeatedly test-fired missiles. Mr Obama met Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a nuclear summit in Washington on Thursday. But hours later, South Korea's Yonhap news agency said the North appeared to have test-fired another missile. The latest test saw what appeared to be a ballistic missile land off the east coast of the Korean peninsula, Yonhap reported. Mr Obama said he and Mr Xi were seeking to agree "how we can discourage action like nuclear missile tests that escalate tensions and violate international obligations". Mr Xi, quoted by China's state news agency Xinhua, said it was critical all parties "fully and strictly" implemented newly-agreed sanctions. China is North Korea's closest ally and largest trading partner. Zheng Zeguang, China's assistant foreign minister, said the presidents had a "candid and in-depth exchange of views on a variety of issues...and reached an important consensus". He called the meeting "positive, constructive and fruitful". North Korea's nuclear test on 6 January and a satellite launch on 7 February were violations of existing UN sanctions. Since then, the UN and Washington passed further sanctions on Pyongyang. The UN steps were drafted with support by China and reportedly came after two months of negotiations between Beijing and Washington. Previous UN sanctions imposed after North Korean tests in 2006, 2009 and 2013 did little to dispel its nuclear ambitions. Much of the burden of making sure the sanctions are implemented is falling on China. Under the new measures, any North Korean ships arriving in China must be inspected for contraband and imports halted if there is proof profits from those exchanges go towards the North's nuclear programme. Washington has long pushed for Beijing to put more pressure on North Korea. A White House statement in February said China's "unique influence over the North Korean regime" gave it the chance to do so. China's foreign ministry last week said it was keen to push for wider talks on North Korea, involving a number of regional powers, during the meeting with Mr Obama. There was no confirmation whether new talks were agreed on Thursday. Mr Obama also vowed to closely work on the same issue with its allies South Korea and Japan after meeting their leaders on Thursday. "We are united in our efforts to deter and defend against North Korean provocations," he said.

Summary: China and the United States will work together to try to prevent further missile tests by North Korea, US President Barack Obama says.


The dangers of allowing ungoverned space, where militant groups have launched attacks on neighbouring Israel, ought to have been obvious to anybody in Cairo, but it was only the killing of 16 of their border guards on Sunday that finally prompted action. The inhabitants of the Sinai Peninsula, notably some of its Bedouin tribes, are a heavily armed force that, it would seem, the military rulers of Egypt who had recently stood down were reluctant to challenge. Now, in one of those bitter paradoxes of power in the Middle East, it has fallen to Mohammed Morsi, the recently elected president from the Muslim Brotherhood to clamp down on militants who claim Islamic legitimacy for their attacks. It might be argued that Mr Morsi is the ideal man to take these wayward tribes in hand - since he has both a democratic mandate and some degree of backing from Egypt's religious establishment. There is also a good deal of cynicism in Cairo about the tribes' professed religious motivations, since they are also widely believed to be involved in smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people. Even so, Tuesday's raid on Touma, close to the Gaza Strip on the Mediterranean Sea, may indicate the opening of a bloody new chapter for Sinai. The raid, in which helicopters fired missiles into the township, had an aspect of communal punishment about it, or reprisal for Sunday's loss of border guards. Inevitably there will be some who want revenge against the security forces. Since the armed bands on the peninsula are thought to possess hundreds of light weapons, as well as technicals (pick-up trucks mounting heavy machine guns), and multiple rocket launchers they have considerable ability to cause trouble. The bombing of several hotels in Sharm el-Sheikh in 2005 claimed 84 lives was blamed by security officials on elements within the same Bedouin tribes, claiming ties with al-Qaeda. It underlines the degree to which the country's Red Sea tourist industry is vulnerable to reprisals. More recently the Israelis have accused the same groups of several deadly attacks along their border with Egypt. These created great tension in an area that had been peaceful for decades, and prompted the Israelis to start building a barrier through the desert in an attempt to prevent more infiltration. Today the Israelis have reacted with satisfaction to the new security crackdown, and have given their agreement to military reinforcements going into Sinai (as it required under the 1979 peace treaty between the two countries that sought to de-militarise the peninsula). Mr Morsi meanwhile faces the accusation that has been used in the past against those who have taken similar measures, of acting as Israel's policeman. The shooting of so many Egyptian soldiers at the weekend has allowed the president to present this action as a response to a challenge to national authority rather than an attack on Israel. But the scope both for serious escalation in this violence and for political difficulties for the new president will make the Sinai Peninsula a key place to watch in coming months.

Summary: For many months Egyptian government control of the Sinai Peninsula has been tenuous at best.


The heavyweight boxer is hoping to fight for the constituency, currently held by Conservative David Morris. He told the BBC it was a genuine ambition and he would stand as an Independent. Mr Fury said there was too much focus on immigration and not enough on "our own brothers and sisters who are on the streets and abusing drugs and alcohol". "I want to make a change for the better for the place I live," he said. "I believe that I will succeed because of the influence I have over the people from the town." He said he had been thinking about entering politics over the past month or so. The political ambition was separate to his dressing up as Batman last week for his heavyweight title fight against Wladimir Klitschko, he said. Fury was due to take on the Ukrainian boxer, 39, for his WBA, IBF and WBO titles in Dusseldorf, Germany, on 24 October before the champion pulled out with an injury. Fury said he now planned to meet David Morris and Lancashire County Council to discuss his political plans, and said: "I should be elected in five years' time." Despite his roots in the travelling community, which is often said to be subject to abuse and discrimination, he said he believed there was too much focus on immigration. "What about people who are born and bred here?" he said. "We need to build on the foundations we have steadily to make change." Fury said he had no political experience, and no views on previous political scandals involving expenses. "I feel that coming from a travelling background, I am used to politics and arguing," he said. "My opinions on travellers are different to refugees - we are not talking about people coming over from Romania - they are British people." On the economy, he said it was "slightly better" than it had been over the last three years in terms of unemployment and people having more spending power, "and coming back to pubs and bars". He said he did not want the UK to be part of the European Union, citing what he said were the financial problems of Spain, Greece and Italy.

Summary: Boxer Tyson Fury has revealed that he has ambitions to be the next MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale.


Edinburgh saw 794,792 passengers for the month, a year-on-year increase of 12.4%, and its 'busiest November ever'. Glasgow's monthly figure of 618,583 was a rise of 7.7% on November 2014. The figures suggest Edinburgh Airport will have its busiest year on record in 2015, while Glasgow Airport will be busier than in any year since 2008. International traffic has been especially strong at Edinburgh, with annual growth of 22.5%. Qatar Airways has expanded its service to Doha, and numbers are reported to be up on routes operated by easyJet, Ryanair, Etihad and Turkish Airlines. Edinburgh Airport Chief Executive Gordon Dewar said: "These exceptionally strong figures represent our busiest-ever November; Edinburgh Airport has experienced passenger numbers levels in November - a quiet month in air travel - on a par with what many other regional airports do at the peak of summer. "This tremendous achievement is a direct result of our commitment to increasing connectivity and choice and improving the passenger experience. "This has been another record-breaking month and is a sure sign of the growing success of both Scotland and Edinburgh as a destination which emphasises our position as a key driver for Scotland's economic growth." Glasgow's international traffic was up 12.2%, with new services to Budapest, Vilnius, Lublin and Berlin. Domestic services have also expanded, with a new route to Exeter and extra capacity on flights to Gatwick and Stansted. Glasgow's managing director Amanda McMillan said: "2015 has been a fantastic year in terms of passenger growth. Our November figures not only guarantee we will end the year on a high, they will ensure we are in a strong position as we prepare to enter 2016, the airport's 50th anniversary year. "In addition to gearing up for the Christmas getaway, we have already seen a new service to Milan launch this month with easyJet and there is more to come before the end of the year. "Later this month Blue Air and Wizz Air will both begin a new service to the Romanian capital of Bucharest and British Airways will start a new Saturday service to Salzburg for the ski season."

Summary: Passenger numbers grew significantly in November at Scottish airports, with the introduction of new international services.


She wrote more than 60 novels in a career spanning 50 years, her best-known creation being Inspector Wexford, which was turned into a highly successful TV series. Rendell, one of Britain's best-selling contemporary authors, also wrote under the pen-name Barbara Vine. Born in Essex, she is credited with bringing a social and psychological dimension to crime fiction. Publisher Penguin Random House said Rendell, who suffered a stroke in January, died in London on Saturday morning. "We are devastated by the loss of one of our best-loved authors," the publisher said in a statement. Penguin Random House chair, Baroness Gail Rebuck, said Rendell was admired throughout publishing for her "brilliant body of work". "An insightful and elegant observer of society, many of her award-winning thrillers and psychological murder mysteries highlighted the causes she cared so deeply about." Rendell's first Wexford book, From Doon with Death, was published in 1964, beginning a series of more than 20 starring Inspector Reginald Wexford, played in the TV series by George Baker. Many of her works were translated into more than 20 languages and adapted for cinema and TV, attracting worldwide sales of 60 million. She was the author of more than 20 standalone novels, whose protagonists were often on the margins of society, and was awarded the Crime Writers' Association Cartier Diamond Dagger for excellence in crime writing. Her final novel, Dark Corners, is due to be published in October. Rendell began her writing career as a reporter on an Essex newspaper. However, she was forced to resign after filing a story about a local sports club dinner that she hadn't attended. Her report failed to mention that the after-dinner speaker had died half-way through the speech. Rendell, whose writing brought her considerable wealth, was made a Labour life peer in 1997 and is reputed to have given generously to charity. She was a vocal campaigner against female genital mutilation. Labour leader Ed Miliband tweeted she would be missed greatly by the party. She was born Ruth Barbara Grasemann in 1930 in South Woodford to a Swedish mother and British father. Rendell married Don Rendell, a journalist, in 1953. They divorced 22 years later but remarried each other within two years. She is survived by their son.

Summary: Crime writer Ruth Rendell has died aged 85, her publisher says.


Pain is etched across her face, her body is stiff as she slowly eases herself into a seat. The Belfast woman appears to be in agony and a lot older than her years. "I have come out partially disabled. I went in able bodied and I have come out in crutches. I am mentally wrecked; I don't know what is going to happen down the line," she said. "I don't know what the diagnosis is, I don't know what the prognosis is, but I do know that if the pain keeps continuing on like this I am going to end up in a wheelchair." After a routine smear test, Susan was advised that she had a prolapse. This explained why she leaked urine every day. A vaginal prolapse is a condition in which structures, such as the uterus, rectum, bladder, urethra, small bowel or the vagina, itself may begin to prolapse, or fall out of their normal positions. Susan says she dreaded going out shopping and seeking the nearest public toilet when out and about became routine. "Everyday life was impossible. At times standing became unbearable, running and playing with my daughter impossible," she said According to Susan, while a consultant advised having an implant, she was never informed of the potential problems. "I was never advised, for instance, that it was actual mesh. I wasn't given any leaflets to say of the side effects or anything like that. "I did ask questions, I did ask about the side effects and was there anything I needed to worry about and I was told there wasn't." Susan's problems emerged almost immediately after the procedure. In fact she left hospital in tremendous pain and said during the past 12 months she has been passed round several specialists. She said part of the problem is convincing people that there is something wrong. The 51-year-old said she has been told by specialists not to be frightened of her pain and to try to live and work through it. As a result she is taking various medications that make her physically sick. "The pain changes day to day. It (the mesh) can cut into your groin where it is like barbed wire gripping you. I have had pain right down my legs. My hip often gives way when I am walking," she said Susan said she wants the mesh removed. Sitting close by is 58-year-old Yvonne McIntosh. She had vaginal mesh inserted four years ago to try and fix incontinence. While it was a success at the start, she said it now feels like it is starting to unravel inside her body. "I have been having excruciating pain. I have felt something within me is coming out and would have to go into the bathroom to push it up," she said. "My husband could also feel it when we were being intimate - he said he could feel something sharp." A mother of three, Yvonne said it feels like it is making its way out of her body and coming through her groin. Even while talking to

Summary: Susan McLarnon arrives on crutches to tell her story.


The bidding is slow and stuttering. "All that wait for nothing," mutters the auctioneer as a telephone bidder thinks long and hard about a making a higher offer before changing his mind. Most works sell at the low end of their estimated price range. Constable's The Lock, for instance, fetches $13.5m (Â£9.1m) when it was estimated to sell for as much as $17.8m. It is an oddly subdued end to the year, because the headlines in the media were suggesting that in 2015 the art market caught fire. In May, Picasso's Les Femmes d'Alger, Version O, sold at Christie's in New York for $179.3m (Â£120.6m). Bidders in the auction room erupted in applause: it is the highest price ever paid for a work at auction. Then, in November, a Chinese businessman paid $170.4m for Modigliani's Nu Couche (Reclining Nude) - the second-highest price ever fetched at auction. However, 2015 also saw seen many auction flops. Claude Monet's Nympheas sold for $33.8m, well below its top estimate of $50m and Andy Warhol's Four Marilyns sold for $36m rather than the expected $40m. It seems that many of the world's millionaires are now feeling worried about the future, and are opting to keep their wealth in cash. This is particularly true of rich Chinese, who now make up a fifth of the world's buyers of art. Turbulence on the Shanghai stock exchange in 2015, an economic slowdown and tough anti-corruption laws have persuaded many to stop splashing out on art. "At the very, very top of the market - amongst billionaires who are really keen to get a great work by a really famous-name artist like Picasso - there is still a lot of competition", says Jane Morris, editor of The Art Newspaper, based in London. "Once you go under that, where we're talking prices in the millions of dollars, people are feeling more squeezed. "There's much less confidence in the Chinese market. The Russians are feeling much poorer. People in general are feeling poorer, and that has had an impact." The biggest impact of all has been on the market for contemporary art, which had been booming for five years or more and where prices had been surging. This autumn, Christie's made only $331.1m from its post-war and contemporary art sale. That is well below the $852.8m made from the same event in 2014. And Christie's Asian 20th Century and contemporary auction, held in November in Hong Kong, made only $66m compared with $82m made at a similar event in 2014, and $121m in 2013. People who buy art as an investment now appear to be switching away from contemporary art towards old masters and well-known painters from the 19th and 20th Centuries. Works by "brand-name" artists such as Roy Lichtenstein, Paul Gauguin and Gustave Courbet all fetched record prices at auctions in 2015. Many Chinese buyers, such as Liu Yiquin - who bought Modigliani's Nu Couche - are now buying Western art at auctions in London and New York rather than contemporary art in Hong Kong. Art Basel Miami is an event

Summary: It is a rainy December evening in London and Sotheby's is holding one of its last major auctions of 2015 - a sale of works by Old Masters from the Renaissance era and works by British artists such as John Constable and Joseph Wright of Derby.