A Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) report found that 47% of members would vote "yes" and stay in, and around 41% would vote to leave. There were geographical differences - about 60% in Scotland would vote "yes". But a clear majority of firms felt they did not have access to unbiased information. A slim majority of firms - 50.5% of FSB members - said the UK's existing EU membership was good for the economy as a whole. However, only 34.9% thought it was good for their individual businesses. Business owner Herbert Eppel, who runs a technical translation business, was firmly in favour of the UK staying in the EU. "Leaving would have a significant impact [on businesses]," he told the BBC. "It would lead to additional bureaucracy, time, cost, effort and hassle. Everything is working pretty smoothly at the moment." He added that withdrawal would affect firms that directly import and export goods to the EU, and also peripheral UK businesses that rely on those firms. But Kelly Morris of Balgonie Castle Enterprises, an events firm, said business would be easier if the UK voted to leave. "We see the hindrance of EU regulations... the red tape and bureaucracy," she said. "Now they're talking about having to have low-powered vacuum cleaners. That's ridiculous." She added that the UK does not seem to get "value for money" from its contribution to the EU budget. Less than half of firms said they felt they had a full grasp about the possible effects on business and the UK economy of a Brexit, and said there was "a need for clear unbiased information" from the media. There were fairly large geographical variations in opinion on which would be the best way to vote. Almost 60% of firms in Scotland would vote "yes", and firms in Wales and Northern Ireland were also more likely to agree that there is a benefit from EU membership than those in England. There were also significant regional variations in England. Firms in London and the North East would be more likely to vote "yes" than firms in the East Midlands, for example. In general, firms which relied on EU imports and exports were far more in favour of a "yes" vote, while companies which did not rely on trade were less likely to see the EU as beneficial. The possible effect of a "Brexit" on trade has been a concern for some analysts, too. In June ratings agency Moody's said that a withdrawal from the EU "would worsen the UK's trade position and, through that, medium-term growth." Investment would be negatively affected, and there would be "a hollowing-out of export sector employment and capital" in the short term, it said. But some analysts say the threat to trade is overblown. Vicky Redwood, chief UK economist for Capital Economics, told the BBC: "There is a very good chance of a free trade agreement being formed to maintain a good flow of trade." If the UK were outside of the EU, it could press ahead with free trade agreements with other countries without

Summary: Small UK firms are split over whether to stay in the European Union or not, according to a survey of thousands of businesses.


The 11-year-old's recording of If Every Day Was Christmas received its first radio play on Wednesday before being made available online. Profits from the song's sales will go to Global's Make Some Noise charity, which supports disadvantaged young people in the UK. Beckham is being managed by Scooter Braun - who also signed Justin Bieber. You can follow us on Facebook, on Twitter @BBCNewsEnts, and on Instagram, or if you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news@bbc.co.uk. Bieber was 13 years old when he released his first single One Time in 2009. Earlier this week, the young Beckham launched his own Instagram account, where he has been posting images to promote the single. He also used the page to upload videos of himself singing. In one clip, he is seen performing a cover of Hopeful by Twista featuring Faith Evans. Beckham Jr also uploaded a cover of When I'm Gone - originally recorded in 1931 by the Carter Family but made famous more recently by Anna Kendrick, who performed it in the film Pitch Perfect. Speaking to Capital presenter Dave Berry about his debut single, the 11-year-old said it combined "two of my favourite things - singing and Christmas". His father David, who was in the room when he was being interviewed, said he was "really proud" of his son for venturing into music, adding: "He's having fun, he's enjoying it." But the move was criticised by Good Morning Britain host Piers Morgan, who said: "Why don't you go to school, mate, because you're not famous, your parents are famous... stop putting these kids into the public domain while simultaneously saying privacy." Scooter Braun hit back on Twitter, saying of Cruz: "He is an 11-year-old who wanted to make a song to help other kids. Once again Piers shows why he is a jackass and why his [US] show was cancelled. "Some people in this world make a living out of finding the worst in every situation. It means they have a career... not class. Just a career." Last week, Beckham's older brother Brooklyn announced he is to release his own photography book.

Summary: Cruz Beckham, the son of David and Victoria Beckham, has released his debut single.


Cranie, who joined the Terriers in July 2015 following his release by Barnsley, was set to be out of contract at the end of the season. The 30-year-old has made 50 appearances since signing for Town. "I am delighted that we have agreed a deal to keep Martin at the club, as he is a very important player in our squad," head coach David Wagner said. "I have always said that keeping our good players at the club is just as important as bringing new ones in, so I'm very happy." Meanwhile, Wagner has revealed that on-loan Chelsea forward Kasey Palmer will be out for eight weeks with a hamstring injury. The 20-year old suffered the injury in the first half of Town's 2-1 win over Leeds on 5 February.

Summary: Huddersfield right-back Martin Cranie has signed a new contract to stay with the Championship club until 2018.


Justice Secretary Michael Gove rejected a ruling last month by the Parole Board that the notorious gangster was suitable for a move to open conditions. Noye, 68, was jailed for life for the road rage murder of 21-year-old Stephen Cameron in 1996 during a fight on an M25 slip road at Swanley in Kent. He went on the run after the killing, but was captured in Spain in 1998. He was jailed in 2000 with a minimum term set at 16 years in 2002 by the then Home Secretary David Blunkett. The parole board considered a request from Noye to be released from Wayland Prison in Norfolk. Being moved to an open prison is the first stage of the process that usually leads to release. Such an intervention by the Secretary of State is rare, with fewer than 1% of Parole Board recommendations being turned down over the last five years. About 40 recommendations out of up to 6,000 from 2010 to this year have been rejected by the Justice Secretary. Noye is entitled to another parole hearing within two years. After the Parole Board made its recommendation Mr Cameron's father Ken said he and his wife Toni believed he would abscond from an open prison. "Finally we have got justice again for Stephen," he said. "He's going to be there for another two-and-a-half years with a bit of luck." Noye became one of Britain's most notorious criminals through his involvement in the £26m Brink's-Mat raid in 1983 - one of the UK's biggest robberies. Six armed men posed as security guards and stole 6,800 gold bars from a warehouse at Heathrow Airport. During the police investigation, undercover officer Det Con John Fordham was stabbed to death in the grounds of Noye's mansion in West Kingsdown, Kent in 1985. Noye was cleared of murder on the grounds of self defence, but jailed for 14 years for handling stolen bullion.

Summary: Road rage killer Kenneth Noye has been refused a move to an open prison over fears for public safety.


Microplastics from tyres and textiles are a bigger source of marine pollution than the breakdown of larger plastic waste in some areas, says the IUCN. Up to 30% of plastic released into the oceans each year comes from primary microplastics, not the disintegration of larger pieces, a report found. Debris from tyre abrasion and synthetic fabrics are the main sources, they say. The IUCN reviewed data from seven global regions to look at how much of the estimated 9.5 million tonnes of new plastic waste released into the oceans each year comes from primary microplastics. These are tiny plastic particles from the likes of consumer products rather than the degradation of larger bits of plastic in the oceans. The report found between 15% and 31% of plastic pollution came from primary microplastics, of which the biggest contributors (almost two-thirds) were abrasion of synthetic textiles, while washing, and abrasion of tyres, while driving. Synthetic rubber, made from a variant of plastic, makes up around 60% of the rubber used in tyres. Other sources included microbeads in cosmetics, which contributed about 2% of the releases to the ocean globally. FranÃ§ois Simard, deputy director of IUCN's marine programme, said the findings came as a surprise. "We discovered that most of the microplastics are coming from either the clothes or from the tyres," he told BBC News. "Microplastics are going everywhere in the sea and into the food chain, let's close the plastic tap." IUCN director general Inger Andersen said the report was "a real eye-opener". "Our daily activities, such as washing clothes and driving, significantly contribute to the pollution choking our oceans, with potentially disastrous effects on the rich diversity of life within them, and on human health," she said. The release of microbeads from cosmetic products has received widespread publicity, resulting in action from manufacturers. However, solving plastic pollution from tyres and synthetic clothes will be harder to address. Joao de Sousa, marine project manager for the IUCN's global marine programme, said solutions must include product and infrastructure design as well as consumer behaviour. For example, synthetic clothes could be designed to shed fewer fibres and consumers can act by choosing natural fabrics. In parts of the world, such as North America, primary microplastics are a bigger source of marine plastic pollution than plastic waste, according to the report. Meanwhile, synthetic textiles are the main source of primary microplastics in Asia and tyres dominate in the Americas, Europe and Central Asia. Last month, a separate report by a scientific body that advises the UN on marine environmental protection highlighted concerns about debris from vehicle tyres. Report co-editor Peter Kershaw called for further investigation and partnerships with industry to tackle the problem. Follow Helen on Twitter.

Summary: Particles of debris from car tyres are ending up in the ocean as "plastic soup", conservationists warn.


The suspect, Claudio Giardiello, was arrested in a suburb after fleeing the scene on a motorbike. He was reportedly a defendant in a bankruptcy case. He is believed to have shot dead a co-defendant, his former lawyer and a bankruptcy court judge. Earlier reports of a fourth death were proven wrong. The shooting has prompted scrutiny of security measures. Questions are being asked about how Mr Giardiello managed to smuggle a weapon into a well-guarded building, use it several times and escape. The suspect was arrested by carabinieri officers in Vimercate, about 25km (15 miles) north-east of central Milan, near the town of Monza. Interior Minister Angelino Alfano said the "presumed assassin" had been taken to a military police barracks in the Milan area. The sound of gunfire had sparked panic inside the Palace of Justice on Wednesday morning. Hundreds of people poured down stairways towards the exits while police and military police officers searched for the gunman. "All of a sudden we heard at least three or four shots," lawyer Marcello Ilia told the AFP news agency outside the building. "We tried to find out what was going on. There were suddenly lots of police officers who told us not to leave the room, they shut us in," he said. "After a few minutes we came out. They told us someone in a suit and tie was armed and at large in the court." The newspaper La Repubblica, quoting officials and witnesses, said that the gunman had been attending a bankruptcy hearing when a fight broke out inside the third floor courtroom. He pulled out a weapon and shot the lawyer, named as Lorenzo Alberto Claris Appiani, as well as one of his co-defendants, named as Giorgio Erba. According to La Repubblica, Mr Appiani was a former lawyer for Mr Giardiello who was acting as a witness in the case. The gunman then left the courtroom and headed to the office of appeals court judge, Fernando Ciampi, shooting him dead. It is not known if the gunman had any links to the judge. Several media outlets had earlier said that a fourth person had died in the incident of a possible heart attack, after reports of a body found at the building with no obvious injuries. But the reports - based on a statement from the emergency services, according to AFP news agency - have been proven incorrect, with the body in question now believed to have been that of Mr Erba. Another two people were wounded in the shooting and are being treated at a hospital. After hiding inside the Palace of Justice for more than an hour, the gunman fled on a motorbike, according to La Repubblica. Mr Giardiello was described as "aggressive" and "a little paranoid" by his former lawyer, Valerio Maraniello, in comments quoted by AFP news agency. Visitors to the Palace of Justice have to pass through metal detectors. Lawyers and courthouse employees with official identification are, however, regularly waved through, according to the Associated Press. Ansa reported that one of the metal detectors was broken

Summary: A gunman has killed three people in a shooting spree at the Palace of Justice in Milan in northern Italy.


Eddie Jones' side go into the Six Nations match looking to equal New Zealand's world record of 18 straight Test victories. However, Cotter says Scotland have enough attacking threats in their ranks to take the game to England. "The players are keen when they get their hands on the ball to express themselves at Twickenham," said Cotter. "I think that's a good attitude to have and attitude will determine a big part of the game. "We know when we defend we'll have to defend resolutely." Scotland sit third in the Six Nations table, having registered wins over Ireland and Wales either side of a narrow defeat by France in Paris. The Scots, though, have not beaten England since 2008 and have the unenviable record of not winning at Twickenham since 1983. Hamish Watson replaces the injured John Hardie in Scotland's only change from the win over Wales. England have named the returning Billy Vunipola on the bench for Saturday's match, and Cotter admits the powerful Saracens number eight is just one of many strong options Jones can call upon late in the game. "They [England] have a formula that is working well for them," said Cotter, who will be replaced by Gregor Townsend as head coach at the end of the season. "They have a bench that is coming on and finishing games off in the last 10 minutes. It's something we're aware of. "I think they'll comfortably move through the gears as the game goes on and finish in top speed and we've got to stay with them. "We know more or less what's coming and it's just a matter of withstanding that." Jones suggested in the aftermath of England's win over Italy that Scotland would be under increased pressure going into the Calcutta Cup match, with expectations raised among supporters after the wins over Ireland and Wales. "Coaches have different characters and styles," added Cotter. "That's his and everybody has their own. "I think Eddie's good fun, he's good company. I like having a chat with him outside of the game and in the game we both like to compete as best we can. "Our players know they're going to have to give their best performance. During that 80 minutes we'll have to string together a number of excellent plays in attack and defence and to think clearly to get them to start adapting to our play. "It hasn't been discussed a lot within the team, the Calcutta Cup, Triple Crown, nothing. All that has been discussed is content of the game and getting the content right. That's all this team is doing. Nothing else is being applied or talked about."

Summary: Head coach Vern Cotter insists Scotland are not going to Twickenham to merely try to contain England.


Alun Ffred Jones said Natural Resources Wales (NRW) had offered confusing advice and was sometimes seen as being "too close" to the Welsh government. Mr Jones has outlined his concerns in a letter to NRW, following an inquiry. But NRW said it was "clear" about its purpose and insisted it was already dealing with many of the points raised. The body was formed in 2013 by merging the Countryside Council for Wales, the Environment Agency and the Forestry Commission. In his letter, Mr Jones wrote: "NRW does not appear to be clear about its purpose as an organisation... many of the more specific issues raised... stem from the confusion that exists within NRW about its purpose and the apparent lack of awareness at the top of NRW of how it is perceived on the ground by key stakeholders and staff." The letter states some councils were confused on occasions when NRW stated it had no objection to a planning development, but then listed "serious concerns" about its impact. Mr Jones added some organisations raised concerns the environment body was too close to Welsh ministers, particularly in relation to the controversial Â£325m Circuit of Wales race-track project planned in Blaenau Gwent. NRW chief executive Emyr Roberts said creating NRW had been "uniquely complex" and "nothing like this has ever been attempted before anywhere in the world". "We are clear about our purpose and working with staff and stakeholders around this new concept of managing our natural resources in a more joined up way," he said. "We are already taking action on many of the points raised and, against a backdrop of significant change, I'm very proud of the fantastic work our staff have continued to do for the people, environment and economy of Wales," Dr Roberts added. A staff survey published in April found only 14% of workers at NRW felt the merger that led to its creation was well managed and one in five thought the organisation was well managed. Just over half of its 2,000 staff took part in the survey.

Summary: Wales' environment body is not clear of its own purpose, the chair of the assembly's environment committee has claimed.


The Powys community, near Brecon, which has about 1,000 residents, is the only ward in Wales where no-one wants to stand as a councillor. It is set to go unrepresented on Thursday as voters across Wales go to the polls for the local elections. But why does nobody want to represent Yscir? Elsewhere in Wales, there are 92 uncontested seats, where councillors will be returned without any votes being cast, but Yscir currently stands alone as being unrepresented. Incumbent Gillian Thomas, one of several independent councillors in Powys, is retiring and, so far, no-one wants to replace her. And the impending void is news to some people. Retired couple Tess and Brian Birtles, of Aberyscir, had not heard their ward would be left without a voice. Mr Birtles, a former communications firm boss, said he was disappointed, adding: "Powys could have done more to encourage people to stand in the ward, because ultimately it will mean that we're not represented at the local government." Still, he does not want the job himself. "I'd find it immensely frustrating," he said, "because it doesn't seem very much is done by the councils these days apart from cutting services and reducing costs." "It's quite sad", Mrs Birtles added, speculating people might not want to stand "because we're not suffering the austerity measures that some areas are experiencing" with many of the residents retirees. People, in Yscir, she said, were "living the good life". But that is not to say they all think it is rosy in the garden. There have been complaints about changes to waste services, while the decision to close Welsh-medium stream at Brecon High School has also sparked debate. Ms Thomas, 79, said it was "not good for democracy" no-one had put their name forward. "When I won the last election I said that would be my last term," she said. "My age is getting on, and I want to do things I want to do." Ms Thomas, who had previously had a farm in the ward before moving to Brecon, said she had found the job "very rewarding". "When my husband died very suddenly at an early age, it really saved me that I had an outside interest," she said. So, what is putting people off taking up the cudgels in Ms Thomas' absence? "I think it's quite big shoes to fill," said Valerie Davies, who has lived with her husband, Peter, in Aberyscir for eight years. She said the lack of a willing replacement was a "sad reflection" on the community, but also questioned who would want to join a club "being continually attacked by the rest of the populace". Mr Davies - 35-year army veteran who, like his wife, is now retired - said most people's dealings with the council concerned planning. "It wasn't advertised or publicised that nobody was standing," he added. He said he might consider it, but added: "The dealings I've had with parish councils over the years, it always ends up looking a bit petty." What about younger residents? Eliot Lawrence, 32, of nearby Cradoc,

Summary: It is picturesque, with stunning views of Pen y Fan and a charming rural setting, but Yscir has a unique problem.


The city council said it was installing the safety equipment "to provide extra reassurance to residents". Tenants will be consulted about the work later this year. The authority also said exterior cladding used on the flats was "fireproof and complies with building and planning regulations". More on this and other Sheffield stories In a statement, the council said: "Twenty-one of the council's 24 tower blocks have metal cladding. "This is fireproof as the insulation is mineral and rock wool, with fire breaks at the floor and party walls. This creates a fireproof box around each flat to the external structure to prevent the spread of fire to other flats. "The other three are brickwork-clad and designed to operate in the same way as the other 21 but in these cases have a separate metal fire barrier installed."

Summary: All 24 council tower blocks in Sheffield will be fitted with sprinkler systems following the Grenfell Tower fire in London.


Mr Hofer, 45, won last month's first round but failed to avoid the run-off. If he wins on Sunday, Mr Hofer could become the EU's first far-right head of state, although Austria's president plays a largely ceremonial role. On Thursday, the two rivals traded accusations during a TV debate. Mr Van der Bellen, 72, accused Mr Hofer of wanting to dismiss any government that did not suit him. He was referring to the fact that, despite limited powers, the president can sack governments and also swears in chancellors. Mr Hofer countered that Mr Van der Bellen was the one who had refused to swear in a Freedom Party chancellor if the party won at the next general election in 2018. However, the debate was said to be less feisty than last Sunday's TV encounter, described by some commentators as a slugfest. In the first round of voting, Mr Hofer secured 35% of the votes, while Mr Van der Bellen, polled 21%. For the first time since World War Two, the candidates from Austria's two main parties - the Social Democrats and the People's Party - did not make it to the run-off. Both parties have governed Austria for decades - either alone or in coalition. This is a big shake-up in Austrian politics, as the country has had a president from the centre-left or centre-right since 1945. The victory in the first round of the far-right candidate reflects widespread discontent with the status quo, as well as concerns about immigration and the economy, correspondents say. Support for the Social Democrats and the People's Party has been falling in recent years. In the last general election in 2013, the two parties won just enough votes to govern in a "grand coalition". Incumbent President Heinz Fischer, 77, cannot run again after two terms in office.

Summary: Austria's far-right Freedom Party presidential candidate Norbert Hofer and his rival, Green-backed Alexander Van der Bellen, are holding final rallies ahead of a run-off vote.


The 29-year-old sustained the injury during his side's Audi Cup final defeat by Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. "I think we can pretty much rule him out of August and September," said Klopp. "This is certainly not news we would have wanted." He could now miss England's World Cup qualifying games in September. Lallana has played 33 times for England and Gareth Southgate's side face Malta on 1 September and then play Slovakia at Wembley on 4 September. Liverpool suffered their first defeat of the pre-season campaign after losing 5-4 on penalties against Atletico in Munich after it had finished 1-1 at the end of 90 minutes. The Reds will now prepare to face Athletic Bilbao in Dublin in their final friendly match on Saturday before their league campaign begins at Watford on 12 August. Daniel Sturridge also picked up an injury in pre-season - the striker went off with a thigh problem on Tuesday after scoring in their 3-0 win over Bayern Munich. He immediately pulled up and was substituted on 87 minutes, but Klopp said he thought it was "nothing serious".

Summary: Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana is set to miss "a couple of months" because of a thigh injury, Reds' manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed.


The Kyrgyz National Security Committee (GKNB) named the prime suspect as Akbarzhon Jalilov, a 22-year-old with Russian citizenship, born in the Kyrgyz city of Osh in 1995. He is thought to be among the dead. The hunt is on for possible accomplices. Russian officials suspect that he had links to so-called Islamic State (IS). So far few details have emerged about Jalilov. There are unconfirmed reports that he was an ethnic Uzbek. Russia's State Investigative Committee said "an explosive device could have been detonated by a man whose body parts were found in the third carriage of the train." "The man has been identified but his identity will not be disclosed for now in the interests of the investigation," the statement added. The bomb blew up in a train carriage which had just left Sennaya Ploshchad station. The driver managed to continue to Tekhnologichesky Institut station. Later a similar device was found propped up against a wall at another city metro station, Ploshchad Vosstaniya. The Russian news website Gazeta.ru reports that the bombs were concealed in car fire extinguishers, with ball bearings taped to the outside. The one which exploded is said to have been carried in a rucksack. Reports say Jalilov had been living in St Petersburg for six years and had used several passports. He had worked as a chef in a St Petersburg sushi restaurant, Gazeta reported. Kyrgyz investigators are working with Russian authorities on the case. Reuters news agency spoke to people in Osh who said Jalilov was from an ethnic Uzbek family. They said they knew his parents but had not seen him for years. They said his father worked as a panel-beater in a car repair shop. IS has recruited many Islamist militants from Central Asian republics and from Chechnya in the North Caucasus. Russian aircraft and cruise missiles have targeted IS and other rebel groups in Syria - a vital intervention for embattled Syrian government forces. Osh - Kyrgyzstan's second-largest city - was the scene of inter-ethnic clashes between Uzbeks and Kyrgyz in June 2010, in which hundreds of people died. Home to a large ethnic Uzbek community, the city was the power base of former president Kurmanbek Bakiyev, who was overthrown in April 2010.

Summary: The home-made bomb that killed 14 people aboard a St Petersburg metro train is believed to have been set off by a suicide bomber born in Kyrgyzstan.


Gavin Egan, 34, was found in Peasholm Park, Scarborough, on 24 February 2016. The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said PC Helen Hardie "had a case to answer for gross misconduct". The force said it "disagreed with the content of their [IPCC] report". More on this and other North Yorkshire stories In its report, the IPCC said an ambulance had gone to the park after a member of the public had contacted them to say he had pulled a man out out of the lake. A paramedic searched the park for about 38 minutes but could not find the missing man, so he called the police. PC Hardie attended the scene at about 04:00 GMT. The IPCC report said: "A four-minute search was carried out before PC Hardie left the area, she did not seek assistance and the incident log was closed soon after." It added that the officer concluded the missing man had fled the scene "despite a paramedic's view that he would be incapable of such action because of freezing temperatures". She later told an inspector "there was no evidence a man had been pulled from the lake". Mr Egan's body was found at about 11:30 GMT. The IPCC investigator said that in his opinion "PC Hardie had a case to answer for gross misconduct". In a statement, North Yorkshire Police said: "We disagreed with the content of their report and their finding that it amounted to gross misconduct. "We appealed their report and it was subsequently agreed with the IPCC that a misconduct meeting would be held. "This has been carried out and the officer has been issued with a written warning."

Summary: A North Yorkshire Police officer made "errors" in the search for a missing man who was later found dead in the lake of a public park, the police watchdog has found.


International figures having been responding to the unfolding situation in the country. The White House said US President Barack Obama had spoken to US Secretary of State John Kerry and agreed that all parties in Turkey should support the "democratically elected" government. The pair urged all sides to "show restraint and avoid any violence or bloodshed" in Turkey - a key ally and a strategically important member of the coalition fighting so-called Islamic State. Mr Kerry - who is on a visit to Russia - said he had spoken to the Turkish foreign minister, saying he had emphasised "absolute support for Turkey's democratically elected, civilian government and democratic institutions". "The United States views with gravest concern events unfolding in Turkey," Mr Kerry said. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighted the need to avoid all "bloodshed", saying that "problems in Turkey need to be resolved in accordance with the constitution". Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow was "deeply concerned" at reports from Turkey, saying Russia's priority was to secure the safety of Russian institutions and citizens in Turkey. "Moscow hopes that however events in Turkey develop, whoever initiated what's happened, the security of Russian citizens will be protected", he said "Turkey is a very important regional power. Of course stability in Turkey and situation there has an impact on the situation in the region . "So we all want whatever it is that is happening in Turkey to finish as quickly as possible, in a legitimate manner and for the country to return to the path of stability, predictability and order" United Nations' Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has appealed for calm, a UN spokesman said. "The Secretary-General is closely following developments in Turkey. He is aware of the reports of a coup attempt in the country. "The United Nations is seeking to clarify the situation on the ground and appeals for calm," spokesman Farhan Haq said. Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Turkey was "a valued Nato ally", calling for "calm and restraint, and full respect for Turkey's democratic institutions". Iran said it was deeply concerned about the situation. "Stability, democracy and safety of Turkish people are paramount. Unity and prudence are imperative," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on his Twitter account. The Gulf state of Qatar - an ally of Turkey - denounced and condemned the apparent attempted coup, a Qatar state news agency reported. Bulgaria has bolstered its patrols along the Bulgarian-Turkish border and appealed to Bulgarians not to travel to the country's southern neighbour, the government said in a statement. It said Prime Minister Boiko Borisov had held talks with the security and intelligence services about the situation. A spokesman for German Chancellor Angela Merkel said "the democratic order must be respected" in Turkey. Steffen Seibert tweeted: "Everything must be done to protect human lives." The UK's new Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said he was "very concerned" about events, while the UK embassy advised British nationals in the country to avoid all public places and "remain vigilant". European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini urged "restraint" in Turkey after an attempted

Summary: An army group in Turkey says it has taken over the country, with gunfire heard and military jets flying low over the capital, Ankara.


She had been due to attend a rally but instead has been lobbying congress members and party leaders for support. Latest estimates suggest those in favour of impeachment have just enough votes for the motion to carry. Ms Rousseff is accused of manipulating government accounts. She says her opponents are mounting a "coup". Stepping up her bid for survival, she wrote in the Folha de Sao Paulo, (in Portuguese): "They want to convict an innocent woman and save the corrupt," a reference to charges several politicians face. She accused her opponents of "fraud and lies in an attempt to dismiss a legitimately elected government and replace it with a government without legitimacy". Denying she had committed any crime, she said: "This is a coup against the republic, against democracy and above all against the votes of all Brazilians who participated in the electoral process." The lower house of parliament began its debate on impeachment on Friday and a vote is expected on Sunday. The rowdy session went through the night and has continued on Saturday. If two-thirds back impeachment, it goes to the Senate, where a simple majority would suspend the president and instigate a trial. On Tuesday, Ms Rousseff, 68, suggested that Vice-President Michel Temer was one of the ringleaders of the "coup" attempt against her. She said a widely distributed audio message of Mr Temer appearing to accept replacing her as president was evidence of the conspiracy. However, she did not identify him by name. Ms Rousseff has also indicated lower house speaker Eduardo Cunha is among those trying to oust her. He is himself facing money-laundering and other charges. Metal barriers have been built outside parliament in Brasilia to keep rival protesters apart. Protest rallies are also expected in other cities. 513 members of the lower house of Congress 342 votes needed to move process to the Senate 41 senators out of 81 must vote in favour to begin impeachment trial 180 days she could be suspended for during the hearings Lower house vote: An impeachment vote is due in the lower house on Sunday. A two-thirds majority is required for it to go forward to the Senate. Senate vote on trial: If Ms Rousseff case is sent to the Senate, a simple majority is enough to suspend her for up to 180 days while she is put on trial. Vice-President Michel Temer would step in during this period. Impeachment vote: For Ms Rousseff to be removed from office permanently, two-thirds of the Senate would have to vote in favour. Mr Temer would remain president for an interim period should this happen.

Summary: Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has been holding last-minute talks with lawmakers a day before Congress votes on whether to impeach her.


Some machines were blown up using "powerful explosives", while others were dragged outside and attacked with high-powered saws to access the cash. The seven men were convicted of conspiracy to cause an explosion and burglary at Liverpool Crown Court. They are due to be sentenced on 19 April. The gang, mostly from Merseyside, was caught after a covert police operation. The court was told they carried out 13 raids between February 2015 and February 2016. The attacks happened in Sonnings Common and Woodstock, Oxfordshire; Alsager and Culcheth, Cheshire; Huyton, Merseyside; Hucclecote, Gloucestershire; Swindon, Wiltshire; Bury-St-Edmunds, Suffolk; as well as in Aberdeen, Carnoustie, and Perth. An investigation by TITAN, the Northwest Regional Organised Crime Unit, found the gang stole high-powered vehicles to carry out the raids which they concealed in a special trailer attached to a lorry. The men slept in hammocks inside the trailer which also had fuel containers to reduce the number of times they had to use petrol stations or motorway services, Merseyside Police said. Det Ch Supt Chris Green, head of TITAN, said: "These individuals believed they were untouchable and they used dangerous tactics in targeting ATM's, which clearly put members of the public at risk." Maria Corr, of the Crown Prosecution Service, added: "These men were ruthless, organised criminals who conspired to cause explosions and burgle banks up and down the country. "They thought nothing of using powerful explosives to blow up cash machines in residential areas, putting nearby residents in real danger."

Summary: A gang blew up cash machines at banks and supermarkets across England and Scotland stealing hundreds of thousands of pounds, a court has heard.


Billed as a business breakfast, Mr Brokenshire was listed as guest speaker alongside DUP leader and First Minister Arlene Foster. However, Mr Brokenshire withdrew in the face of unwelcome publicity. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said he needs to show he is not favouring one Northern Ireland party over any other. The story was first reported in the Irish News on Wednesday. "It's quite clear, given the Tory party conference, champagne receptions and James Brokenshire agreeing to attend a fundraiser, that they seem to be working very closely together," Mr Eastwood told the BBC. "That's fine on one level, but the British secretary of state and the British Government should not be in the pocket of any one party. "He needs to now go overboard in demonstrating that he isn't captured by the DUP, that he is his own man and he's prepared to stand up for what's right in Northern Ireland - not for what Arlene Foster tells him." People attending the event at a café in Lisburn, County Antrim, are being charging £30 a plate or £300 for a table of 10. The invitation described it as "an excellent opportunity to network with business and elected representatives". An NIO spokesman said that it does not "discuss [Mr Brokenshire's] diary and he is not attending the event." The DUP refused to comment. Last week, the DUP held a champagne reception at the Conservative conference amid claims the two parties have done a deal in the wake of the Brexit vote. On Wednesday, the secretary of state met DUP MPs in what was described as a constructive and useful engagement. The NIO said it was part of a series of meetings, with the MPs of all the Northern Ireland parties represented at Westminster.

Summary: The Northern Ireland Secretary has pulled out of an event run by the DUP after it was revealed to be a party fundraiser.


Cherryl Henry-Leach from Doncaster Children's Services Trust, which runs Getting On, said it was one of the only programmes of its kind in the UK. Families work with police, the health service, voluntary sector and council to avoid violence at home. Ms Henry-Leach said parents were often reluctant to get help. "They feel shame and stigma attached to being a victim of domestic abuse, while also fearing the consequences for their child if reported," she said. The programme seeks to stop children moving from one abusive relationship to another, using a "whole-family approach" unique to Doncaster to build families' self-esteem and resilience, Ms Henry-Leach said. Many teenagers on the programme have lived with domestic violence between parents so the project attempts to "de-normalise" abuse and help them move on to healthier relationships. Mother and son, Anne and Luke (not their real names) from Doncaster, said the techniques derived from University of Oxford research taught them how to listen. "There was a lot of swearing and abusive behaviour before," Anne said. "Luke never actually hit me, but he'd go to hit me, or push me which could be frightening. "I can now sit down and talk to my son without us shouting at each other. We can actually have a conversation without being abusive. Luke agreed that they have a "healthier relationship." Five Doncaster families have now completed the nine week programme, which is funded by Â£3.1m from the Department for Education's Innovation Fund. A further six families are still on the programme.

Summary: A project aiming to tackle violence suffered by parents at the hands of their children has been hailed a success in Doncaster.


The owner of a successful US cosmetics company, back in 2002 she was hit by a development which threatened the firm's future - her long-time South Korean manufacturer announced that he was ending their partnership and going out on his own. Ms Telwar suddenly found that her Atlanta-based business Anisa International - today one of the world's largest designer and manufacturer of make-up brushes - had nowhere to get its products produced. Describing the situation as "pretty scary", and faced with the possibility of her business having to shut down, she instead determined to fly to China and secure her own factory. The Anisa International plant, based in the city of Tianjin in northern China, now makes more than 25 million make-up brushes per year. Ms Telwar, 48, looks back on the split with her former South Korean partner as being like the break-up of a marriage - yet one with a happy ending. "It was a bit like a divorce," she says. "But at the end of the day, it was probably one of the best things that ever happened." Owning her own factory meant that she took full control of the manufacturing process, allowing her to design new products more freely, she says. And thanks to this newer, wider range of make-up brushes, Anisa International's sales have increased substantially. Today, the company has annual revenues of more than $30m (Â£18.5m). It is a "white label business" in that it makes its make-up brushes for other firms, including many of the big names in cosmetics, such as Estee Lauder and Sephora. Born in New York, but raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Ms Telwar undoubtedly gets some of her business drive from her Russian mother Fatima Telwar, who after a childhood in Turkey emigrated to the US. Fatima Telwar ran her own import and export business, buying general goods in the Middle East, such as rugs, and then selling them in the US. After two years at business school, Anisa Telwar joined her mother's business when she was in her early 20s. The decision to go out on her own came after a meeting with the fateful South Korean manufacturer, and Anisa International was born in 1994. While the Korean firm would make the brushes, Ms Telwar would do the distribution, marketing and selling - jobs it was soon apparent that she was rather good at. While she had little capital to put into the business, Ms Telwar instead said she was determined to both work hard and think creativity. "I had my sweat equity, and I had some marketing savvy on how to sell these brushes differently," she says. To do the later, Ms Telwar went to visit the big cosmetics firms, and got them to think more about how well a certain brush worked with their product. Whereas previously make-up brushes were not given much attention, Ms Telwar got the firms to focus on what softness, texture or size of brush worked best with a particular foundation powder, or eye shadow, or other such cosmetic item. It soon led to Anisa

Summary: It was surviving a brush with adversity that allowed Anisa Telwar's business to really grow.


A woman shows her political allegiance at the national congress of Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu-PF party in the capital, Harare, on Saturday. More than 10,000 delegates re-elected President Robert Mugabe, 90, as party leader while his wife Grace was chosen to head the women's wing. Nigerian leader Goodluck Jonathan's image is printed on the clothes of delegates at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primary elections at Eagle Square in the capital, Abuja, on Wednesday. Mr Jonathan, 57, was endorsed as the party's candidate in next year's presidential election... The next day, a woman kisses a photo of ex-military ruler Muhammadu Buhari in the main city, Lagos. Mr Buhari has been chosen as the presidential candidate of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC). Mr Jonathan beat the 71-year-old former general in the 2011 election. On Friday, models present creations by Zimbabwean designer Sabina Mutsvati at the Swahili Fashion Week in Tanzania's main city Dar es Salaam. Twenty-four designers showcased their work at the event. A supporter of Moroccan football champions Moghreb Tetouan is disappointed on Wednesday after his team's defeat at the hands of Auckland City in a match played in Rabat, as part of the 2014 Fifa Club World Cup. The Oceania club champions won 4-3 on penalties. Girls from the Pokot ethnic group take part in an initiation ceremony in Kenya's Rift Valley on Saturday to mark their passage into womanhood. The girls sing and stay standing from the afternoon until the morning and remain out of the sight of men. A member of the Egyptian parkour group, EGY PK, practises a jump in front of the Pyramid of Khufu, the largest of the Great Pyramids of Giza, on the outskirts of Cairo on Tuesday. EGY PK, one of the first parkour groups in Egypt, is training for performances, aimed at tourists, during the Christmas season... A day later, an ostrich is fed at the Giza zoo in Cairo. Khedive Ismail, Egypt's ruler from 1863-1879, built the zoo and planned the opening to coincide with the inauguration of the Suez Canal in 1869 but missed the deadline. The zoo officially opened only in 1891, covering an area of 80 acres. A view over the village of Portela being covered by a lava flow on the Cape Verde island of Fogo on Sunday. Hundreds of residents were evacuated from the village as the volcano erupted on the island for the first time in 19 years. And in this photo people are seen crossing the Dawa river near Kenya's north-eastern town of Mandera. Militant Islamist group al-Shabab recently killed 64 people in two attacks in the region, forcing many non-Muslims to flee.

Summary: A selection of photos from around the African continent this week:


Media playback is not supported on this device Australian Robertson, 34, had won the first two frames of the best-of-17 final and extended his lead to 5-2 during the first session in Cardiff. But O'Sullivan, 40, won the next seven frames, sealing victory with a break of 141 to move level with John Higgins on four Welsh Open titles. "I feel shattered, I need a month of just relaxing," said the Englishman. O'Sullivan caused controversy earlier in the week when he turned down the opportunity of a 147 break, making 146 instead. He also spoke about his boredom at tournaments. But he said he had enjoyed a "fantastic week" and would now be resting before the World Championships in April. "That is the one that everyone wants," he told BBC Sport. "I am not eligible for any other tournaments as I did not qualify, so my cue will be chilling out for a month or so." The 2007 champion Robertson, who was described by O'Sullivan as "the best player in the world", pinpointed the ninth frame as the key moment. "Once he got his tail up and the momentum it was hard to wrestle it back from him," said the world number three. "Everyone knows he is a terrific front runner and he pulled away and finished the match off in style. I made mistakes and that is what happens when you are put under pressure." 36 - Stephen Hendry 28 - Ronnie O'Sullivan, John Higgins, Steve Davis 18 - Mark Williams

Summary: Ronnie O'Sullivan won seven frames in a row to beat Neil Robertson 9-5 and win his fourth Welsh Open title.


El Hadary, who has just turned 44, came off the bench in Tuesday's 0-0 draw with Mali when El Shenawy hurt himself. In doing so he beat the age record of 39-year-old compatriot Hossam Hassan. BBC Sport has learned El Shenawy is out of the finals with a hamstring tear and Ekramy is being treated for a hamstring strain, leaving Egypt with no back-up. Ekramy suffered his injury during training on 14 January and is undergoing intensive treatment in the hope he can recover to play if required. Despite the critical situation, BBC Sport has been told the Egyptian Football Association will not seek to call up another goalkeeper to the squad because it believes it is not permitted under the Confederation of African Football's tournament regulations. Caf's rules state that a replacement player cannot be called up later than 24 hours before a team's opening game of the tournament.

Summary: The oldest Africa Cup of Nations player Essam El Hadary is Egypt's only fit goalkeeper in Gabon after injuries to Ahmed El Shenawy and Sherif Ekramy.


The taskforce was appointed by the Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland. It was asked to examine the impact of negative equity and repossessions. The taskforce has warned that the number of people falling behind on their mortgage payments could increase as interest rates begin to rise. The taskforce is now undertaking further work aimed at developing policy recommendations. Northern Ireland suffered a huge housing bubble followed by a crash that saw prices fall by almost 50%. As a consequence, rates of negative equity are much worse than elsewhere in the UK and repossessions have also increased. A major "at risk" group identified by the taskforce are households who undertook "equity release" remortgages at the height of the market. They are people who increased their mortgages to release cash for other purposes, such as home improvements or to finance buy-to-let properties. In 2007, 74% of remortgaging in Northern Ireland was for equity release. The taskforce said this category of "credit hungry" borrower was disproportionately active in Northern Ireland. Lower income groups who took out "second charge" mortgages with subprime lenders are also at high-risk. The taskforce said those lenders have shown "a more tenacious approach to arrears management". However, it said, in general, lenders have shown "forbearance" and if they had not done so rates of repossessions would be higher. The taskforce warned that, despite a gradual recovery in the Northern Ireland economy and the housing market, major risks remain. It said that the Northern Ireland economy "remains some distance from reaching escape velocity"' and that borrowers are "poorly equipped to absorb future income shocks".

Summary: The Northern Ireland housing market remains "dysfunctional" and poses a risk to economic recovery, a Stormont-backed taskforce has concluded.


England, who have never won the competition, were knocked out at the group stage this year. "We were a long way off the pace. Unless we focus on it, we will sleep walk our way into the next one," Strauss told BBC Test Match Special. "If we have a core of specialists we can prioritise both teams." Test skipper Alastair Cook was removed as one-day captain and replaced by Eoin Morgan less than two months before the World Cup started in February. England won only two of their six group games, against minnows Scotland and Afghanistan. Former England captain Strauss said: "Our country is generally is quite red-ball focussed, but that doesn't mean it has to be at the expense of white-ball cricket. "That's one of my focuses - to re-balance it and give more importance to it." Only four England players involved in the current one-day series against Pakistan featured in the recent 2-0 Test series defeat. Strauss said one-day specialists would have "opportunities" to compete in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL), which clashes with the start of the English season in April and May. Asked about the IPL and the Big Bash, Australia's Twenty20 tournament, Strauss said: "I'm a massive fan. "If you are an overseas player, what those Twenty20 competitions do is put you under real pressure. "You have to stand up and deliver and that's a really good experience."

Summary: England director of cricket Andrew Strauss says "more separation" of the Test and one-day teams will improve their chances of winning the World Cup.


Police said the tanker, transporting fuel to Nato forces in Afghanistan, was hit by a bomb overnight near the town of Landi Kotal in the Khyber region. People gathered to collect spilt fuel when another fire broke out, said one senior police official. At least 14 other Nato tankers were damaged in a separate attack nearby, at the Torkham border crossing. The region is a crucial transport route for supplies destined for Nato forces in Afghanistan but the convoys frequently come under attack from militants and criminals. Local official Shafeerullah Wazir said the tanker was hit by a small bomb in the early hours of the morning. "The oil tanker caught fire after a blast caused by a small bomb before dawn," the AFP news agency quoted him as saying. "Villagers from nearby houses rushed and started collecting oil coming out of the destroyed tanker after the fire had been extinguished. "Suddenly the fire erupted again and at least 15 people including five young boys who had been collecting oil in their buckets were burnt to death." There were no injuries at the separate attack at Torkham. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, but there has been an increase in Taliban activity since al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden was killed in the Pakistani town of Abbottabad on 2 May. In the deadliest incident, more than 80 people were killed by a twin suicide bombing targeting police recruits in the north-west. On Friday, one person was killed and 10 injured when the Taliban attacked a US consulate convoy in Peshawar - the first attack on US interests since US commandos killed Bin Laden. The Pakistani Taliban said the bombing was to avenge his death.

Summary: A Nato oil tanker has exploded in northwest Pakistan, killing at least 15 people, say officials.


Nick Alexander, 35, from Weeley in Essex, was killed on 13 November, 2015, at the nightclub in Paris. Artists including Fran Healy from Travis and Supergrass' Gaz Coombes performed at Shepherd's Bush Empire on Tuesday. There was also a minute's standing ovation in Nick's honour. LIVE: For more on this and other Essex stories Mr Alexander was selling band merchandise for Eagles of Death Metal, who were performing at the nightclub, when he was killed. The concert - called Peaceful Noise - marked the official launch of the Nick Alexander Memorial Trust, which will provide musical equipment to small charities and vulnerable groups across the country. Mr Alexander's older sister Zoe, 43, said the event was "really personal" to Mr Alexander and included performances by artists who had toured with her brother or were friends with him. She said she would remember her brother as someone who "approached life head on". "He packed a lot into those 35 years so we will remember him in that way - as somebody who embraced life and forged their own path," she said.

Summary: Hundreds of people have attended a concert held in honour of the only Brit killed in the Bataclan terror attack a year ago.


Worcestershire Parkway station has been proposed close to junction 7 of the M5. The government has set aside a total of £20m to pay for 75% of the cost of either building or renovating stations in England and Wales. The county council has until 25 February to submit its bid for the fund, which is managed by Network Rail. The Conservative-led authority has said it wants Worcestershire Parkway completed by summer 2016 if it is given money from the New Stations Fund. The plans form part of the Worcester Transport Strategy, which requires £200m of investment.

Summary: Worcestershire County Council is to bid for £7m of government money to go towards the construction of a third railway station in Worcester.


Ministers approved the grant despite warnings from senior civil servants about the charity's finances. Mr Cameron said the grant had given the charity a final chance to restructure and to "continue its excellent work". Meanwhile, the charity's supporters have taken part in a march in London. About 150 people walked from the charity's former centre to Parliament to raise awareness of the vulnerable people who used the support service. Kids Company closed on Wednesday after ministers said they wanted to recover the £3m grant. The Cabinet Office said it believed conditions attached to the use of the money had not been met - but the charity's founder has repeatedly rejected claims of financial mismanagement there. Speaking to Channel 4 News, Camila Batmanghelidjh said she had "confirmed in writing" with Cabinet minister Oliver Letwin last year that he had agreed to find £20m for the charity. But she said: "I honestly believe that they didn't want us to go under before the election because it wouldn't look good, and then post-election, I think, they were prepared for it to go under." Ms Batmanghelidjh said the "necessary, genuine, and deep-thinking commitment to solve the problem of large-scale childhood maltreatment in this country is not there inside the current government". A government spokeswoman said: "Successive governments have supported Kids Company over the last seven years to help it deliver services for vulnerable young people and so we are disappointed it has been unable to move to a sustainable financial position." Speaking earlier, during a visit to the National Citizen Service - a social enterprise that helps teenagers with training and life skills - Mr Cameron said he was "sad" the charity had "come to an end". He said: "The government thought it was the right thing to do to give this charity [Kids Company] one last chance of restructuring to try and make sure it could continue its excellent work. "Sadly that didn't happen, not least because of the allegations that were made and private donors withdrawing their money. "But I think the government was right to say 'Let's have one last go', to try and keep this charity going, given the excellent work it's done for so many young people." It provided services including counselling, walk-in centres with hot meals and help with housing and healthcare for children and young people whose parents were often unable to care for them. It had branches in London, Bristol and Liverpool and employed 600 paid staff, as well as working with a pool of about 8,000 volunteers and 500 students. What went wrong at Kids Company? 'It feels like we've lost a parent' Kids Company has also faced accusations by former staff that the charity failed to deal with allegations of serious incidents, including sexual assaults. The Metropolitan Police's sexual offences, exploitation and child abuse unit is investigating a number of allegations of crime involving the charity. Ms Batmanghelidjh told Channel 4 News: "From what we have been told, there this no case to answer so far on the part of Kids Company." Local Government Association spokesman

Summary: Prime Minister David Cameron has defended the government's decision to give charity Kids Company £3m one week before its closure, saying it had been right to give it "one last chance".


One private hospital told the BBC that 90 people are on a waiting list after it ran out of supplies last week. Hundreds of thousands of people have signed a national petition for the jab to be offered to all children It follows a case in England where a mother shared pictures of her daughter dying in hospital from the illness. Under national guidelines, the vaccine is only available to babies. All babies in the UK are offered a potentially life-saving vaccine against meningitis B as part of a national immunisation programme. However, there have been calls for the age limit to be extended to children and teenagers.

Summary: Private hospitals in Northern Ireland are reporting an increase in the number of inquiries from the public about getting the Meningitis B vaccine.


Douglas Herridge, 18, hit Colin Payne at the family home in Dartford, Kent, in November. Jurors at Maidstone Crown Court heard Mr Payne intervened in a row over money between the teenager and his mother. Mr Herridge said the 54-year-old grabbed his neck and tried to throttle him, when he struck the blow. Home Office consultant pathologist Dr Richard Chapman said Mr Payne, a former national squash champion, died from a blow of moderate force that damaged a vessel carrying blood from the heart to the brain. Judge Jeremy Carey, presiding, said: "The word tragedy is probably overused, but this case can truly be described as tragic. "Colin Payne was on everybody's assessment a fine man, a distinguished amateur sportsman, a good father, and a responsible and decent member of society, and he came to an untimely death in circumstances that really were absolutely devastating."

Summary: A teenager who fatally struck his stepfather with a single punch to the head has been cleared of manslaughter, because he acted in self-defence.


As of 2012, Britons must earn more than Â£18,600 before a husband or wife from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) can settle in the UK. Critics claim 15,000 children have been separated from parents because of it. The rule was introduced by the former coalition government to stop foreign spouses becoming reliant on taxpayers. If the government loses, thousands of couples who currently live outside the UK could move to Britain. The minimum income threshold, which also affects people settled in the UK as refugees, rises to Â£22,400 if they have a child who does not have British citizenship - and then by an additional Â£2,400 for each subsequent child. These thresholds replaced a previous, more general requirement to show the Home Office that the incoming partner would not be a drain on public resources and that the couple or family could adequately support themselves. The current rules do not take into account the earnings of the overseas partner - even if they have higher qualifications, or are likely to be employed in higher-paid work than their British spouse. The minimum income threshold does not apply to spouses from within the EEA. In a series of test cases, affected couples argued that the rules breached their right to family life. Two of the claimants, Abdul Majid and Shabana Javed, are British citizens who have partners who are Pakistani nationals. The third claimant is a Lebanese refugee who cannot find suitable work in the UK despite his postgraduate qualifications. He says his similarly-qualified wife has high earning potential and speaks fluent English. The final case concerns another recognised refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo whose wife has been barred from settling. In 2013, the High Court ruled in the couples' favour saying that the rules were "onerous and unjustified" - and the judge urged the home secretary to rewrite them. That decision was overturned at the Court of Appeal, leading to the challenge reaching the Supreme Court. If the Supreme Court rules against the government, it could lead to the minimum income threshold being lowered or, potentially, require Parliament to reconsider the entire law. When the government introduced the measures, it said they aimed to reduce the burden on taxpayers, promote integration and prevent and tackle abuse of the family migration route. But campaigners say that all they have done is split up couples and families for whom the minimum income threshold is unobtainable. They say that nearly half of the British population earns less than the income barrier, meaning they would be affected if they chose a foreign-born spouse.

Summary: The Supreme Court is to rule on whether an income barrier stopping thousands of British citizens from bringing a foreign spouse to the UK is lawful.


The 10km (four miles) sq area housing government buildings became off-limits to the public as a security measure in the wake of the 2003 US occupation. It is the latest in a series of steps by Mr Abadi to ease sectarian tensions and crack down on corruption. Baghdad has seen weeks of protests over poor services and abuses of power. Earlier this month, in a rare show of unity, the Iraqi parliament backed Mr Abadi's programme to abolish top government posts and cut spending. On Friday, the prime minister issued instructions to lift restrictions on the Green Zone. It is not clear when the plan will be implemented. The compound, in the Karkh district on the west bank of the Tigris, is surrounded by concrete walls and heavily guarded by checkpoints and tanks. It houses former palaces of Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein and was the administrative headquarters of the US occupation authorities. Several foreign embassies, including those of the US and UK, are situated there. Most Iraqis have been excluded from the Green Zone unless they have special permission, and large bribes have been paid to get round stringent entry procedures, according to AFP news agency. The zone has been targeted by bombings and rockets over the years, and the fortification measures were aimed at making it more secure, although attacks in Baghdad are still commonplace. Mr Abadi also ordered the removal of barriers and checkpoints set up on main roads and sidestreets in Baghdad and elsewhere by prominent figures and militias. The order to lift the restrictions is part of a series of measures to defuse tensions and root out corruption. A panel will also be set up to recover state property appropriated by elites which are found to have been illegally obtained. In recent weeks, thousands of Iraqis have taken to the streets in Baghdad and other cities to protest against the failure to provide basic services and against corruption. They have been backed by Iraq's preeminent Shia cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani and powerful Shia militia leader, Moqtada Sadr.

Summary: Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has ordered officials to open up to civilians the heavily-fortified area of Baghdad known as the Green Zone.


Christopher Blaikie, 24, stabbed Claire Mazzucchi in the neck with a knife during a field trip to study the behaviour of animals. A court heard the psychology student became agitated and had been suffering obsessive thoughts before the attack on 30 March last year. Judge Lord Turnbull described it as a "difficult" case. A court was told former Stirling University student Blaikie was admitted to hospital on a voluntary basis because he had been experiencing obsessive thoughts. However, he was not diagnosed with Asperger syndrome until he was admitted to the State Hospital in Carstairs following the offence. Ms Mazzucchi, 22, had been living in the same flat as Blaikie but had left because she felt uneasy. During the lunch break Blaikie started banging his cutlery, then walked over to Ms Mazzucchi's table where he put his right hand over her face and put her in a headlock. After making stabbing motions, he struck her once on the left hand side of her neck with a knife. Another student got up and pulled Blaikie away from Ms Mazzucchi, who was severely injured and needed surgery. Defence lawyer Lorenzo Alonzi said: "We have a man who has no previous record and who was under considerable stress at that time and who had even identified that he was in a stressful condition and had attempted to get help. "Regrettably, the help that he did get didn't quite reach the mark." Lord Turnbull jailed Blaikie for two years at the High Court in Aberdeen and ordered him to be the subject of a supervised release order after his term of imprisonment.

Summary: A man who attempted to murder his classmate at Blair Drummond Safari Park has been jailed for two years.


Airbus increased revenue by 6% in the third quarter to €14bn (£10bn; $15.4bn) compared with €13.3bn the year before. The company benefited from the strong dollar and growing sales across all its products. Airbus plans to increase production of its A320 to 60 a month in 2019, from 42 now, capitalising on growing sales. Shares in Airbus rose 4.6% in early trading following the news. The company's order intake increased 42% in the first nine months of 2015 compared with a year earlier. Airbus did €100bn in sales of commercial aircraft and €4bn of helicopters sales. The firm also announced a €1bn share buy back to be completed by mid-2016. Airbus said the increased production of A320s would help off set some of the issues it has had delivering other aircraft. In a statement, chief executive Tom Enders said "We are strongly focused on programme execution given our key operational challenges with the A350 and A400M ram-ups." Airbus has struggled to keep up with demand for its A350. Both the A350, and the A400M military aircraft, have carbon fibre structures that improve fuel efficiency.

Summary: European aircraft maker Airbus is planning to ramp up production of its A320 following a profitable third quarter earnings.


Morton had the best chance of the game, Bobby Barr's shot going through the legs of Hibs goalkeeper Mark Oxley and rebounding off the post. Hibs looked tired and struggled to create clear-cut chances. The result is a huge blow to the Edinburgh side's hopes as they attempt to pip Falkirk to second place in the Championship. Manager Alan Stubbs rested midfielder John McGinn, who had been struggling with a back problem. But Stubbs had to introduce the player midway through the second half as the visitors searched in vain for victory. The first chance arrived on the quarter-hour mark, and it came for Morton - Mark Russell's long-range effort comfortably saved by Oxley. Immediately after that, Hibs should have taken the lead. Liam Henderson was played through one-on-one with Derek Gaston, but the on-loan Celtic midfielder dinked his effort over the keeper and the bar. Just before half-time Morton had a great chance to take the lead after a cross from Barr found the head of Declan McManus, but he failed to get enough on it and the ball trickled wide. Hibernian struggled to create chances with the strike force of Jason Cummings and Anthony Stokes failing to click. In the second half Stokes did produce a moment of real quality from 20 yards, a looping shot which Gaston did well to palm over. Cummings then fired into the top corner of the net after being played in by Lewis Stevenson, but the assistant referee had his flag up for offside. Morton almost took the lead after a mistake from Niklas Gunnarson allowed in Barr. His shot went through Oxley and came back off the post before Hibs scrambled to safety. Hibs needed to add energy to their play and Stubbs introduced McGinn to the fray. The Scotland cap almost made an immediate impact, his shot from the edge of the area flying just over the bar. But Stubbs' men failed to make that vital breakthrough against a resolute Morton side that looked solid throughout.

Summary: Hibernian were held to a draw by a Greenock Morton side that more than merited a point.


Akbar al-Baker accused the UN body of carrying out a "vendetta against Qatar Airways and my country". The International Labour Organisation (ILO) criticised Qatar Airways for its treatment of its female cabin crew. It said cabin crew that fell pregnant often faced losing their jobs. The UN body added female staff could only be accompanied by a man off company premises if the man was their father, brother or husband. Qatar Airways said that new contracts issued in December for many of its 7,200 female cabin crew addressed these issues and ended a mandatory requirement to seek company permission before getting married. But the ILO report said that the new contract stated: "The company [Qatar Airways] reserves the right to automatically terminate your contract as a flying cabin crew member, should you become pregnant." The ILO recommended that a temporary job should be offered to women while pregnant to exclude the possibility they could be sacked, which it said remained the case. However, Qatar Airways insisted that an employee was free to apply for other jobs within the company once pregnant. The airline also said its rules on which men could pick up and drop off female staff were based on a cultural norm. The ILO committee said it was a discriminatory practice, as it did not apply to men. The inquiry was set up by the ILO in response to complaints brought forward last June by the International Transport Workers' Federation and International Trade Union Confederation, prompted by testimony from serving and former cabin crew. Qatar Airways is one of several major airlines in the Gulf. Dubai-based Emirates Airlines, the fourth-biggest international carrier of passengers and biggest airline in the Gulf, has a similar rule on pregnancy. A spokeswoman for Emirates told the BBC: "The regulatory body suspends the cabin crew licence when pregnancy is confirmed. While Emirates tries to find a ground job for pregnant crew, this is not always possible. Where it is not possible, the cabin crew member can take an unpaid leave of absence for up to one year." The spokeswoman confirmed that no paid maternity leave was offered during an employee's first three years with the company. In contrast, a spokesman for Abu-Dhabi based airline Etihad Airways said that once a pregnant member of the cabin crew was no longer able to fly, she would be reallocated a role on the ground and would not lose her job. She could then return to her role after maternity leave. Meanwhile, Qatar Airways revealed its annual earnings for the first time on Monday. It reported a net profit of $103m in the last financial year. The airline had recently been forced to deny claims it had received tens of billions of dollars of government subsidies over the past decade. It had been accused of distorting competition by American Airlines, United and Delta, who are trying to persuade the US government to alter its position on open-skies policies designed to create a free-market environment for the aviation industry.

Summary: The boss of Qatar Airways has vehemently rejected the findings of a 12-month probe that concluded his airline still discriminates against female staff.


Michael Higdon scored what proved to be the decisive goal, heading home Lee Vaughan's cross just before the hour. Torquay almost grabbed a late equaliser when Luke Young's 25-yard free-kick was saved by Scott Davies, but Rovers held onto the lead to move three points clear in the final play-off position. The Gulls remain in 18th with a three-point cushion from the division's relegation places.

Summary: Tranmere consolidated their play-off position with a narrow win at Torquay.


Her casting as Simone was criticised when it was announced in 2012, with Simone's daughter suggesting she was "not the best choice". A tweet this week by Saldana, promoting Nina, was met by a furious response from the late singer's twitter feed. It read: "Please take Nina's name out your mouth. For the rest of your life." A later tweet, posted on the official Nina Simone account on Wednesday, summed up the depth of feeling in the Simone camp: "Hopefully people begin to understand this is painful. Gut-wrenching, heartbreaking, nauseating, soul-crushing. It shall pass, but for now..." The renewed criticism comes after a poster and trailer for the film were released on Wednesday, ahead of the film's official release on 22 April. Saldana, who is of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent, drew backlash for taking the role of the world famous jazz singer and civil rights activist, after photos first surfaced of her in the role wearing an afro wig and with clearly darkened skin. Writing on the official Nina Simone Facebook page in 2012, daughter, Simone Kelly, wrote: "I love Zoe Saldana, we all love Zoe... From Avatar to Colombiana, I've seen those movies a few times. But not every project is for everybody. And I know what my mother would think. I just don't get itâ€¦" With the issue of race playing such a pivotal role in Simone's story, many fans of the singer felt an African-American actress would have been more suitable. Saldana, 34, replaced singer Mary J Blige - who dropped out of the project due to scheduling conflicts. The unauthorised film biopic focuses on the last eight years of Simone's life and the relationship between the singer and her then-manager Clifton Henderson, played by British actor David Oyelowo. Ms Kelly is on record as saying she would have preferred to see Oscar-winner Viola Davis in the role, or Beloved actress Kimberly Elise. She told Ebony magazine in 2012: "Both of the actresses that I've mentioned are women of colour, are women with beautiful, luscious lips and wide noses, and who know their craft." "I also have no problem introducing someone we've never heard of before who can play my mother." Last year, Star Trek actress Saldana told InStyle magazine: "I didn't think I was right for the part, and I know a lot of people will agree, but then again, I don't think Elizabeth Taylor was right for Cleopatra either... An artist is colourless, genderless..." Aaron Overfield, who manages Nina Simone's official website, reacted angrily to the newly released trailer on his Facebook page: "It took them THAT long to end up with ... THIS? There is a special place in hell reserved for this film." The film will be hoping to benefit from renewed interest in Nina Simone, following the critically acclaimed Netflix documentary What Happened, Miss Simone? - made in conjunction with the Nina Simone estate - which was nominated for an Oscar last weekend. The documentary includes previously unheard recordings, archive footage and interviews with those closest to the singer, recorded over three decades.

Summary: A forthcoming biopic about singer Nina Simone has faced fresh criticism over its film trailer which shows lead actress Zoe Saldana with darkened skin.


The pair arrive at Ewood Park following centre-half Shane Duffy's departure to Brighton for an undisclosed fee. Williams, 23, made 131 appearances for the Robins, helping the club to the League One title in 2014-15. Hoban, 22, has played 58 games for Watford, scoring twice. Both players, who have Republic of Ireland Under-21 honours, will be available for Saturday's Championship game against Fulham. Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

Summary: Blackburn Rovers have signed defender Derrick Williams for an undisclosed fee on a three-year deal from Bristol City, while Tommie Hoban has joined on a season-long loan from Watford.


Jayne Ludlow's side are preparing for home qualifiers with Israel on 15 September and Austria on 20 September. The inclusion of Seattle playmaker Fishlock is significant as she was pondering international retirement. "We're looking forward to the next campaign, which is really important for us," she said. Fishlock hinted she would retire after Wales' failure to reach next summer's Euros but the 29-year old is now targeting another campaign. "We're really excited," said Fishlock. "We haven't been together for a while now and we always enjoy being together. "Friendlies are always important. The result is not the main thing - it's about what we get out of it and hopefully we can get good things out of this one. "The team spirit is good, it's always good. It is fun."

Summary: Jess Fishlock has boosted Wales women ahead of Friday's Republic of Ireland friendly as they warm-up for their UEFA European qualifying campaign.


On Thursday, Root himself said he was looking forward to the time when his leadership mettle would be examined. On the first day of the second Test, where South Africa moved on to 309-6, Root got his wish and, in turn, allowed the pressure to ease off the Proteas on more than one occasion. It was a fluctuating day - South Africa were attritional in the first session, fluent after lunch and had to recover following a four-wicket collapse in the evening. They were helped by England opting to use Liam Dawson ahead of fellow spinner Moeen Ali and again in the sleepy overs in the run-up to the second new ball. I'm not the only one confused by England's approach to Moeen, with both Root and coach Trevor Bayliss saying that he is now seen as the second spinner. When confidence is high - as Moeen's should be after taking 10 wickets at Lord's - it is reasonable to expect players to perform for you. Therefore, I was surprised when left-armer Dawson, despite what the England higher-ups are saying about his place in the pecking order, was used before Moeen at Trent Bridge. Media playback is not supported on this device Put simply, we know that Moeen is good enough at this level, but the same cannot yet be said about Dawson, who is playing in only his third Test. Indeed, Dawson was the most expensive of England's bowlers, often providing a release for the South Africa batsmen. It was almost as if Root felt like he had to bowl him simply because he was in the side. In all, the six bowlers that England have in their side is probably too many. It creates a problem for the captain in juggling them, and perhaps even puts doubt in a bowler's mind in that he may be thinking that he has to perform well quickly otherwise he will be replaced by one of the many other options. I would prefer to see England play an extra batsman, even if that does push the talented Moeen down to number eight. The make-up of this side is not one I expect to be mirrored during this winter's Ashes series. When England knew that the new ball was approaching, they allowed the game to drift, fiddling overs from Dawson and Keaton Jennings. It was almost as if they were waiting for James Anderson and Stuart Broad to take the wickets, rather than using the other two of their four seamers - Ben Stokes and Mark Wood - with the old ball. Often, the whole point of a new ball is that you are using it against a new batsman. England may have missed a trick by taking the foot off the gas at that moment. Root's other issue on Friday was the use of the review system, with both of England's referrals frittered away inside 24 overs. On both occasions, headstrong bowlers in Stokes and Broad wanted reviews, only to see that their lbw appeals were turned down for pretty obvious reasons. It's tricky

Summary: After England handsomely defeated South Africa in the first Test at Lord's, I wrote that new captain Joe Root had been given an easy ride.


The North Shields-based Homeland prawn boat was in collision with the Scottish Viking off the Berwickshire coast just before 2000 BST on Thursday. Two fishermen, who are brothers, were on board the trawler. One, aged 20, was pulled to safety by another boat. The search for the other brother, thought to be 16, has been called off. Fred Caygill from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) told the BBC a crewman from another vessel had seen the missing boy in the water at 2025 BST on Thursday, but he then slipped from view. The MCA confirmed the search was terminated at 1400 BST on Friday, a decision which had followed 17 hours of searching, when expected survivability had been exceeded. Mr Caygill said it was unclear as to whether the missing boy, or his brother, were wearing lifejackets, but two were found in the flotsam. He said: "The survivability period for someone in the water has passed. "Different factors affect different people's chances of survival, but it has been a long time." More than 20 fishing vessels and lifeboats were involved in the search, which spanned an area of more than 30 square miles off St Abb's Head. The Scottish Viking ferry, which was travelling between Rosyth and Zeebrugge, is operated by the Dutch company Norfolkline, owned by DFDS Seaways. The firm said the ship was chartered by Norfolkline from Italian firm Visentini, and was expected to arrive in Belgium on Friday afternoon. A DFDS Seaways spokesman said: "We are deeply concerned about this and there will now follow an investigation by the authorities which we will fully assist with. "We have also been talking to Visentini who will investigate fully." The Marine Accident Investigation Branch will examine how the collision happened. A spokesman said: "We are conducting a preliminary examination at the moment." Lothian and Borders Police said officers were assisting the coastguard.

Summary: An investigation is under way into a collision between a ferry and a trawler which has left a teenage fisherman lost in the North Sea.


The match, in Montevideo on Friday, 30 May, will be broadcast on the Red Button and also be streamed on the BBC Sport website. You can press the Red Button on either BBC One NI or BBC Two NI to watch the match. Kick-off for the match at the Estadio Centenario is 00:30 BST and the commentator will be Michael McNamee. Uruguay are in England's World Cup pool, Group D. On Freeview and BT Vision, the Red Button feed can be found on Channel 301, on Freesat Channel 981 and Virgin Media Channel 991. For those watching with Sky, coverage will be available only by pressing the Red Button. Alternatively fans can also watch the game live by logging on to bbc.co.uk/sportni. Shane Glynn, editor of BBC Sport NI, said: "Uruguay will be a tough test for Northern Ireland. "They will be one of the sides who fancy their chances of winning the World Cup - and with players of the calibre of Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, why not? "I'm delighted BBC Northern Ireland has secured the rights to show the Uruguay game live on the Red Button and via our BBC Sport NI website. "We will also broadcast on the website an extended highlights package of the friendly match against Chile the following week." Patrick Nelson, chief executive of the Irish Football Association, said: "We are delighted that BBC Northern Ireland have obtained the rights to show this game live on their Red Button and internet services. Northern Ireland fans all over the UK will be able to see live how well our team does against one of the World Cup favourites."

Summary: Northern Ireland's friendly against Uruguay is to be shown live on the BBC.


Lord Patten, who supports the UK remaining in the EU, said Mr Johnson, a prominent Leave campaigner, "just makes it up as he goes along". He also said it would be "very difficult" for David Cameron to remain leader if the UK voted to leave the EU. Vote Leave said it was saddened at "the level of debate" from the Remain camp. Mr Johnson has previously said voters want proper debate and to hear about the issues, "not personal attacks". The UK decides whether to stay in or leave the European Union in a referendum on 23 June. The Conservative Party is deeply split over the the issue, with David Cameron and most of his cabinet campaigning for a Remain vote but about half of the MPs supporting an EU exit. The debate inside the party has turned increasingly acrimonious, with former deputy prime minister and pro-Remain campaigner Lord Heseltine recently accusing Mr Johnson of losing his judgement over the EU. Lord Patten, Tory party chairman from 1990 to 1992, added to that criticism of the former London mayor, in an interview with Newsnight's David Grossman on Friday. "Boris just makes it up as he goes along, and you come across people like that," he said. "There's a sense in which you can't call Boris a liar. I think he's one of those people in life who simply doesn't really understand the difference between fact and fiction." He added: "If he can make a good joke by saying something, or if he can write a newspaper article by referring to Hitler and the European Union, he does it - and he doesn't think about it. "He'll be saying the opposite in a few months' time." Lord Patten, a European commissioner from 2000 to 2004, said Mr Johnson was an "amiable" character, but added: "Boris is Boris. Tommy Cooper was Tommy Cooper." In response, Vote Leave said: "It's sad to see the level of debate the 'Remainers' have been reduced to. They were wrong about the euro then and they are wrong now." And speaking to BBC Newsnight, Leave campaigner Jacob Rees Mogg suggested that Lord Patten's "anger is almost certainly synthetic". The MP suggested Lord Patten was trying to "bash down" Mr Johnson because he knows that the former London mayor was "hugely popular and trusted" and was making the case for an EU exit "exceptionally effectively". The Daily Mail reported earlier this week that "senior party figures" had warned of a vote of no-confidence in Mr Cameron after 23 June, whatever the outcome, over his handling of the referendum campaign. On the question of re-uniting the Conservative Party after the referendum, Lord Patten said that if the UK voted to Leave the EU it would be "very difficult" for Mr Cameron to stay on as leader. "Are people like Michael Gove and Mr Johnson and Iain Duncan Smith... are they all going to require Mr Cameron to go cap in hand around Europe for the next few years trying to negotiate new trade deals and new agreements with the EU? "I

Summary: Boris Johnson does not seem to understand "the difference between fact and fiction", former Tory chairman Lord Patten has told BBC Newsnight.


The capital side won only three of their last 10 league games to slip to ninth place last season, having begun the new year in the top three. "Last season wasn't acceptable," said fit-again lock Fraser McKenzie. "We are really looking to achieve top four. I think that is the minimum criteria this year. We really feel we have a good enough squad to compete." McKenzie, 28, is enthused by the influx of new blood this summer, with three newcomers - fly-half Duncan Weir, full-back Glenn Bryce and wing Rory Scholes - starting Friday's pre-season match against Newcastle at Murrayfield, before their Pro 12 campaign begins at Cardiff Blues on 3 September. "We have made some really good signings who have bedded in well and quickly," McKenzie noted. "Competition for places is at a maximum at the moment and it is all looking really positive for this season." Edinburgh managing director Jonny Petrie revealed on Thursday that one more new player is set to arrive "at the start of next week". But along with McKenzie, who missed the second half of last season after an operation to remove a disc in his neck, the return of fellow lock Grant Gilchrist is akin to another new signing. The 26-year-old suffered a second broken arm in February in his first game for the club since October 2014, when his first arm fracture occurred. "He was in a bad position but how he has come back from his injuries is really impressive," said McKenzie, who spent the latter part of his own rehabilitation programme working with Gilchrist. "Grant has been made joint-captain (with hooker Stuart McInally) and has a unique set of leadership skills. "He is very good at encouraging his team-mates but he is also an incredibly big man, a tall guy with good line-out and aerial ability. "He is an 80-minute rugby player, even though he is big, with good fitness and skill levels - he has a hell of a lot of ability to push further forward. He was in the mix to be Scotland captain before his injuries and has the ability to get back to that sort of level." Gilchrist, a target for French club Toulon before agreeing a new one-year deal, is one of several internationals - alongside prop WP Nel and flanker John Hardie - who are likely to be subject of interest from England and France with their contracts up at the end of the season. While acknowledging Edinburgh "don't necessarily have the financial firepower to operate at the top end of the market", Petrie remains optimistic of retaining the club's leading lights. "WP [Nel] is one of the most dominant tight-heads in world rugby and likely to be a good candidate for the Lions as well," Petrie noted. "I don't doubt there is going to be interest from other clubs across the world. "But WP has been with Edinburgh for a few years now, he is very settled and loves playing here. "We are going to have to work hard to keep him but hopefully we

Summary: Edinburgh have targeted a top-four finish and a place in the Pro12 play-offs as a "minimum" target this season.


Amateur metal detectorists Jim Wills and Dennis Hewings first unearthed the coins in Ipplepen, Devon, in 2009. Now archaeologists have uncovered a Romano-British settlement which had trade links to the rest of the Empire. Dr Sam Moorhead, from the British Museum, said the site raised "a whole series of new questions" about Roman Devon. The Ipplepen Archaeological Project, which began its 2016 fieldwork just two weeks ago, has involved the University of Exeter, the Portable Antiquities Scheme run by the British Museum, Devon County Council and Cotswold Archaeology. Until now there was little evidence of the Romans outside of Exeter, which is 20 miles north-east of Ipplepen. It had been thought that rural areas had not been particularly affected by Roman influence, a spokesperson for the University of Exeter said. However, the discovery of "significant amounts" of Roman pottery made in other parts of the Empire and imported into Britain has demonstrated the rural site's connections to the rest of the Roman world. "The presence of these kinds of vessels demonstrates that the people living here... adopted Romanised ways of eating and drinking" including "a taste for Mediterranean products such as wine and olives", Danielle Wootton, the Devon finds liaison officer for the Portable Antiquities Scheme, said. But the site was "puzzling" when compared to other known settlements in neighbouring counties such as Somerset, where a greater amount of coins, brooches and pottery had been found, she said. "We are wondering whether the Dumnonii, the tribe who lived in the area now known as Devon, still retained their traditional identity rather than becoming entirely Romanised", Ms Wootton said. In previous years the team have discovered a Roman road, as well as pot holes which had been repaired. "Until recently, who would have thought that Ipplepen village was once 'plugged in' to the Roman empire?", Ms Wootton added.

Summary: The boundaries of the Roman Empire have been expanded following the discovery of Roman coins in a rural village.


Nearly 60 firefighters and eight fire engines tackled the blaze which started in the building's basement in Princes Square, Bayswater, at about 23:00 BST. London Fire Brigade (LFB) said the three men required treatment for smoke inhalation after they became trapped and had to be rescued by crews. The cause of the fire is under investigation. A spokesman said 200 people had left the hotel before crews arrived at the five-storey building. Station manager Charles Hanks said crews had "worked hard to confine the fire to the basement and to stop it from spreading to the upper floors of the hotel". The fire was under control by 01:56.

Summary: Hundreds of people were evacuated and three men taken to hospital after a fire broke out in a west London hotel.


The deaths of 16 people in Barcelona and Cambrils earlier this month highlighted the continued threat posed by Islamist militants. The summer months have also seen new attacks in Belgium, France, Austria, Germany and the UK, as well as the first in Finland and one in the US. Although the vast majority of Islamist attacks are elsewhere in the world, an unprecedented number have taken place in Europe and North America since the declaration of a "caliphate" by the so-called Islamic State, in June 2014. The first look at the data behind the attacks - everything from the age of the perpetrators, to immigration status - offers an insight into those responsible and how they might be tackled. We identified 63 attacks between September 2014 and late August 2017 that we considered to be acts of jihadist terrorism. A relatively limited number of countries were affected: nine in Europe - those named above, plus Denmark and Sweden - along with the US and Canada. Regardless of country, most attacks were in large towns and cities - including Barcelona, London, Manchester, Paris, Nice, Berlin, Brussels, Stockholm and Orlando. A few attacks hit iconic targets, such as the Champs-Elysees and the Louvre museum in Paris, Westminster in London and Las Ramblas in Barcelona. Many others targeted crowded spaces such as busy pedestrian areas, entertainment venues or transport hubs. But some terrorist attacks have hit more unusual places, including an office Christmas party and a service at a church. We looked at attacks motivated by jihadist ideology, that involved deliberate acts of violence against other people and were intended to intimidate or convey a message to a larger group. Other organisations use different definitions. In total, the 63 attacks caused 424 deaths and left almost 1,800 people injured. The perpetrators are not included in these figures. The Paris attack of November 2015 was the deadliest, with 130 people killed, including 90 at the Bataclan theatre. France also saw the Nice lorry attack, which left 86 people dead. There were many other attacks that left many people dead and others injured. In total, these 11 attacks were responsible for 386 deaths. However, most of the attacks did not cause casualties, with the exclusion of the perpetrators. Although the number of young people being radicalised has caused concern, the average age of the attackers - 27.5 - is not unusually young. The two youngest were 15 - an unnamed boy who attacked a Jewish teacher with a machete in Marseille, and Safia S, a girl who stabbed a police officer at a Hannover train station. Of the five who were under the age of 18 at the time, four were in Germany. 15 Age of the youngest attacker 27.5 Average age of attackers 54 Age of the oldest attacker The vast majority of the attackers were in their 20s, with about one in four attackers above the age of 30 and six aged 40 or older. The oldest suspect, Mohamed H Khalid, was 54 when he was accused of stabbing to death an elderly couple in the

Summary: A series of attacks in Europe over the summer months has raised the number of people killed in the West by jihadists during the past three years to more than 420, writes Dr Lorenzo Vidino.