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Harry Gould, from Newcastle-under-Lyme, will be presented with the Legion d'Honneur by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire. Mr Gould served with the Royal Army Service Corps and was involved in the transportation of supplies to troops. The charity that helped him apply said Mr Gould had been unaware he was eligible until told over a cup of tea. Latest stories from Staffordshire Mr Gould said he had been 18 years old when he landed at Arromanches, in Normandy. "We had to come off the landing crafts. There were thousands of [men] just dead on the ground. "The cargo we were carrying was mainly fresh water, ammunition and food. "The water was important because the water in in Normandy had been polluted by the Germans." Later, as Mr Gould was travelling in convoy, the two wagons in front of him exploded after being hit by aircraft fire. "It made you feel terrible, but you had to keep going," he said. He said he had been overwhelmed when learning he was eligible to receive the medal. "It's like having an OBE in this country," he said. Geoff Harriman, chairman of Tri Services and Veterans Support Centre, helped Mr Gould apply for the honour. "Through conversations over a cup of tea, we found out Harry took part in the D-Day landings," he said. "We knew the French government were awarding medals, so we applied on his behalf. "It's France's highest award to non-French nationals. It's a way of saying thank you for assisting in the liberation of France."
A 91-year-old former soldier has been awarded one of France's highest honours for his role in the D-Day landings.
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The stamps will feature characters such as Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker and Yoda and will also feature three scenes from the new film, Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens. They will go on sale on 20 October.
Eighteen new first class stamps are being released by the Royal Mail to celebrate the Star Wars movies.
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People have reported dead fish in Aberaeron, Aberystwyth, Barmouth, Harlech and Chwilog. Other beaches are also likely to be affected. NRW experts said it was a "natural phenomenon" caused by mackerel and other fish chasing food in calm seas. Rowland Sharp, marine fisheries officer for NRW, said: "The calm seas means that mackerel chase small fish all the way on to the beaches. "The fish in these bait balls will ground themselves on beaches in an effort to escape." He added: "It may appear worrying, but it's only nature at work really."
Reports of thousands of small fish being washed up on beaches in Ceredigion and Gwynedd are no cause for concern, said Natural Resources Wales (NRW).
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The country's Consul General will present more than 40 Ushakov Medals to surviving veterans and representatives of those who have died. Other ceremonies for veterans are being held in Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness before Remembrance Sunday. From 1941 to 1945, Allied ships sailed from Scotland and Iceland to Russia to supply it with food and weapons. More than 3,000 seamen lost their lives to the freezing conditions and attacks by German submarines and aircraft. In total, 214 Ushakov Medals are being presented by the Consul General Andrey Pritsepov to veterans or their families in Scotland. The Consul General said: "The Ushakov Medal is one of Russia's most important naval awards, presented only to those who demonstrated courage in sea warfare. "These medals are well-deserved by the Scottish veterans of the Arctic Convoys who sailed alongside our fathers and grandfathers on extremely dangerous missions and returned home victorious against all odds." The ceremony at Glasgow City Chambers on Friday is being hosted by Lord Provost Sadie Docherty. She said: "In this centenary year of the outbreak of the First World War, we are remembering the fallen in all conflicts and the bravery of those who defend our shores and freedoms. "Those who served in the notorious Arctic Convoys have a special place in history and we owe them a huge debt for their bravery and tenacity. "I know it means a great deal to the veterans and their families that they are finally being honoured in this fashion for their role in maintaining a vital naval lifeline that helped Britain and her allies win the war." The medal is named after Fyodor Ushakov, an 18th Century naval commander who never lost a battle and the patron saint of the Russian navy. The medal was originally established in 1944 for those who demonstrated courage and prowess in sea warfare. It is now awarded to veterans "for personal courage and valour shown during World War Two while participating in the Arctic Convoys". Convoys left the Clyde and Loch Ewe in Wester Ross during the effort to supply Russia with food and weapons from 1941 to 1945. The British Merchant Navy, along with Russian, US, Canadian, Norwegian and Dutch merchant fleets, were involved. In total, 78 convoys sailed to and from Russia under escort from Allied warships.
Russia is honouring Scottish veterans of the World War Two Arctic Convoys at a ceremony in Glasgow.
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The remains of this large, rodent-like creature give clues about how mammals "took over" when dinosaurs died out. They think the newly-discovered species was a plant-eating creature that looked a bit like a beaver. The researchers noticed, in particular, the animal's teeth, which were designed for chewing plants. This group of now-extinct mammals lived alongside the dinosaurs and thrived for more than 100 million years. The scientists say that this discovery helps explain how mammals made it through the event which killed off dinosaurs, thought to be an asteroid hitting Earth. "A whole lot of mammals did die, but this group is one that made it through pretty well," Dr Brusatte explained. "That asteroid hit and suddenly the dinosaurs are wiped out. It looks like mammals were just waiting their turn and as soon as the dinosaurs disappeared, they thrived."
Scientists have discovered a species of ancient mammal that survived the event that led to the end of the dinosaurs.
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Mike Brandon, 31, from Bristol, is being treated in Philadelphia after his British consultant said all NHS routes were "exhausted". Kate Brandon said it had been "by far the hardest three weeks of our lives." She said her husband had spent the last week in intensive care but was now back on the "wonderful oncology unit". Mr Brandon was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia two years ago. In May, his wife raised enough money using a social media campaign to fund his taking part in "revolutionary" cancer trials at the University of Pennsylvania. Mrs Brandon said: "We were told that paradoxically the sicker that people become during this treatment, the more likely they are to have a good outcome. "This knowledge has helped carry us through this excruciatingly difficult time. Boy, did our boy get sick." Mr Brandon said: "There are plenty of things about a leukaemia diagnosis that are tough: the constant worry about things that may never happen, the strain of the things that have definitely happened, and the stress it places on those closest to me. "When my leukaemia relapsed in March, we were told that it was time to plan our last days together, but Kate point blank refused. We would fight on, and we have."
A man with a rare type of leukaemia whose wife raised £400,000 to cover his medical costs in the USA is "well under way" with his cancer treatment.
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The adder's-tongue spearwort is only found in two places in the UK - Badgeworth, near Gloucester, and on Inglestone Common, near Bristol. At Badgeworth, the tiny nature reserve boasts a small crop of the plant but in South Gloucestershire the buttercup is only spotted once every five years. Plant expert Richard Lansdown said: "We wouldn't normally reintroduce but Inglestone is down to a single plant." The species, more commonly known as the Badgeworth buttercup, relies on bare, wet ground that has been churned up by cattle to set seed and thrive. But with fewer animals grazing the common in recent years, it has become overrun with scrub and the buttercup now "only grows intermittently" at a single pond. "I sieved out the mud and extracted all the seeds [at Inglestone] and didn't find any from the Badgeworth buttercup - there weren't any left at all," said Mr Lansdown. "So we've had to use seed originally collected from the site some years ago that was sent to the Millennium Seed Bank." Using the 270 plus seeds held at Kew, 200 plants were propagated and about 80 planted out at Inglestone with a further planting planned for mid-June "The two sites have been declining for a very, very long time," said Mr Lansdown. "But we've planted out 83 plants in different locations at Inglestone and at least half of them are surviving and doing well and have begun fruiting which will add to the seed bank."
A rare buttercup is being reintroduced in South Gloucestershire.
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Danni Jordan found the net for the Welsh with just a minute to go, to make the final score 2-1 in Glasgow in the final Test of the series. Phoebe Richard had equalised just before half-time in a hard-fought encounter after Fiona Burnet had opened the scoring for the hosts. Wales take the series 3-0 after beating Scotland 2-1 and 1-0 previously. The dramatic series win was a fitting way for defender Tina Evans to celebrate winning her 100th cap for Wales. "We're absolutely thrilled considering Scotland are ranked considerably higher than us in the world rankings," Evans said. "We knew it was going to be a really difficult test for us but we're really pleased with how we've performed in getting three really good results. "We came here with high expectations and probably exceed them but we're delighted with the performances and the results we've got. "It was a really special day and it was really amazing to captain today and for the girls to come in and put in that huge amount of effort makes me really chuffed and excited for what the future holds." Wales are currently ranked 26th in the world and are preparing for the European Championships in Cardiff in August, so will relish an important series win over 17th-ranked Scotland. Find out how to get into hockey with our special guide.
Wales women hockey came from behind to complete a three-Test whitewash over their Scottish counterparts.
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Last year Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service attended 37 incidents, compared with 16 in 2014 /2015. The service is now carrying out special training sessions using a 28 stone (179kg) dummy. Figures obtained by the BBC show a rise in "bariatric rescues" from four assistance requests in 2011/12. More on this and other Lincolnshire stories. The type of rescues logged by the fire service included removing bedroom doors and banisters, to using lifting equipment to help patients from their homes into ambulances. Spencer Creek, technical response manger for the service said that more than 60 firefighters had taken the specialist training course. "What we are looking at now is how the guys practically deal with the weight of the casualty," he said. "And how do we deal with it in a number of different scenarios." As well as the training, the service has invested in specialist equipment including, inflatable chairs and strengthened stretchers at the cost of £3,000 per fire engine. East Midlands Ambulance Service has equipped all its ambulances with stretchers capable of holding patients weighing up to 30 stones (190kg).
Firefighters in Lincolnshire have seen a doubling in the number of calls to assist the ambulance service treat obese people in one year.
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Hansons Auctioneers said the Gibson UB3 banjolele is expected to attract worldwide interest at the sale on 30 June, in Etwall, Derbyshire. In 2008, another George Formby banjo ukulele sold for for £72,000 at auction to Queen's Brian May. In 1936, the BBC banned Formby's song The Window Cleaner for being smutty. John Croft, former president of the George Formby Society and ukulele expert, said: "There is huge interest in this instrument. George Formby has fans all over the world - young and old." Mr Croft, from Llanyblodwel, Shropshire, added it was a "wonderful piece of social history". "In his heyday in the late 1930s, George Formby earned more than three top Hollywood stars put together - Errol Flynn, Douglas Fairbanks and Clark Gable. "And we should never forget Formby's contribution to boosting morale among the troops during World War Two. "He and his wife Beryl flew out to dangerous war zones, including El Alamein. This country owes a great deal to them both. "I hope the instrument stays in the UK but the most important thing is that it is loved and played." This banjolele was originally purchased by Bill Logan, the first president of the George Formby Society. Who was George Formby? He was born George Hoy Booth on 26 May 1904, in Wigan and was the eldest of seven children The actor, singer-songwriter and comedian's show business career started in 1921 and lasted 40 years until his death in 1961 He was famous for playing the banjolele and by 1939 was the most popular and highest paid entertainer in the British Isles - he was estimated to be earning more than £100,000 a year Formby appeared in 21 films, made more than 230 records, entertained on stage hundreds of times, performed twice by royal command and entertained an estimated three million allied servicemen and women during World War Two In 1960, Formby made his last record, Happy Go Lucky Me, and in December that year made what was his final television programme, The Friday Show George Formby Society Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: "This is such a rare opportunity. This was one of George Formby's favourite banjoleles and the chance to own and play it is very special. This instrument is a priceless treasure for Formby fans." Formby was said to have owned three Gibson UB3 models.
A banjo ukulele owned by popular 1930s and 40s entertainer George Formby is to be auctioned, with an estimated sale price of £30,000.
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Hollywood actress Glenn Close stars in the musical, which opened on Monday evening at London's Coliseum theatre. Writing in The Guardian, Michael Billington said the new production had given the show "a new lease of life". "Close delivers the big lines not with a camp flourish but as if they were sincerely felt," he said. Billington noted that the show had "none of the epic scale of the original London production" but added this was to the producers' credit: "Sometimes semi-staged is better than the luxurious grandeur of an elephantine West End musical." Glenn Close is reprising the role of Norma Desmond, a character she first played in Los Angeles in 1993. She won a Tony award for her Broadway performance in 1995. Holly Williams from theatre website WhatsOnStage said: "It might be 20 years since she bagged a Tony in this part, but I wouldn't bet against her scooping a few shiny new gongs this time round." However, some critics did note that Close's voice occasionally struggled with the higher notes. "[Close's] vocal instrument may not be as sharp as it once was, but she brings an utterly ferocious intensity to the part and the songs," Mark Shenton wrote in his review for The Stage. Time Out also had some criticisms of the production: "Like many later Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals, Sunset Boulevard is not brilliant." Andrzej Lukowski added that "69-year-old Close is definitely a bit old to play 50-year-old silent movie star Norma Desmond". Rod McPhee, writing in The Daily Mirror, said Close "masterfully belts out the show's biggest numbers, and earned rapturous applause as a result. Her first musical in London's West End proves that she's far from a fading star." Sunset Boulevard tells the story of a Hollywood writer named Joe (played in the new production by Michael Xavier), who is being chased by mob creditors. Joe seeks refuge in a Los Angeles mansion, only to discover it is already being inhabited by Norma Desmond, a wealthy but forgotten silent movie star. Culture minister Ed Vaizey attended Monday evening's performance, tweeting: "Absolutely wonderful. Glenn Close gives the performance of a lifetime. One of the best things I have seen." Speaking to the BBC after she came off stage on Monday evening, Close said: "Norma Desmond is one of the best parts ever written for a woman." "It's a phenomenal show, it's such an exciting journey and it has been the best adventure. I feel so lucky. I am on such an emotional high, I've never had this kind of response."
A new production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Sunset Boulevard has received a positive response from critics.
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At one point the drone was just 30m (100ft) from the plane which had to take evasive action to avoid a collision, officials said. A navy spokesman accused the Iranians of behaving in an "unsafe and unprofessional" manner. Tensions between the countries are high with the Gulf a potential flashpoint. US Naval Forces Central Command spokesman Commander Bill Urban said the incident happened in international air space as an F/A-18E Super Hornet was preparing to land on the USS Nimitz. Despite radio warnings to stay clear of the carrier, the drone carried out "unsafe and unprofessional" altitude changes near the jet, he said. "The dangerous manoeuvre by the QOM-1 [drone] in the known vicinity of fixed-wing flight operations and at coincident altitude with operating aircraft created a collision hazard and is not in keeping with international maritime customs and laws," Cdr Urban said. The incident is the latest in a series of close encounters in the Gulf between US and Iranian forces. In July, a US Navy ship fired warning shots at an Iranian Revolutionary Guard vessel after it came within 140m (450ft) and ignored radio calls. In January, a US destroyer fired three warning shots when Iranian fast-attack vessels approached at high speed in the Strait of Hormuz.
An Iranian drone has flown dangerously close to a US fighter jet as it was about to land on a carrier in the Gulf, the US Navy says.
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Researchers found residues of potassium bromate and potassium iodate in 84% of the samples collected from Delhi. The chemicals are banned in many countries, but India continues to allow their use in bakeries. The All India Bread Manufacturers' Association said the chemicals were "considered safe". Health Minister JP Nadda has urged people not to panic and to wait for his ministry's report on the issue. "I have told my officials to report to me on an urgent basis. There is no need to panic. Very soon we will come out with the [inquiry] report," he said. Delhi-based environmental think-tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) said in its report that it had collected 38 bread and bakery samples from retail stores, bakeries and fast-food shops in Delhi for its study. "More than 84% of samples tested were found to contain potassium bromate and/or iodate," it said. The CSE has urged the government to ban the use of these chemicals in bakery products. "Considering that it [potassium bromate] can cause cancer, is banned in most parts of the world, and has healthy alternatives, there is no reason why this chemical should be allowed, specifically when residues are found to be present in the end-product." The CSE said potassium iodate should also be banned because "it can potentially affect the functioning of thyroid". The bread manufacturers' association said it was yet to see the CSE report, but added that the two additives were safe and "widely used in advanced countries like the US". "Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's regulations permit the use of potassium bromate and/or potassium iodate at 50 ppm max for bread and at 20 ppm max for bakery purpose," the association said in a statement.
India's health ministry has ordered an inquiry after a study found cancer-causing chemicals in many bread and other bakery products.
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The celebrated singer, who died in January aged 69, is joined by Adele, Calvin Harris, Coldplay and Jess Glynne on the five-strong shortlist. Adele was named British artist of the year in 2015, one of the two awards she won at last year's event. This year's awards, to be broadcast live on BBC One, will be held at the ExCel in London on 12 December. Bowie's nomination follows his surprise omission from the album of the year shortlist announced last month. Blackstar, his final release, had been tipped for inclusion but was shut out by Rick Astley's 50, Adele's 25 and three other titles. Kaiser Chiefs, Craig David, John Legend and Robbie Williams are among the performers at this year's ceremony. It was announced last week that pop singer Izzy Bizu will be crowned BBC Introducing artist of the year at the event. Follow us on Facebook, on Twitter @BBCNewsEnts, or on Instagram at bbcnewsents. If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news@bbc.co.uk.
David Bowie has been posthumously nominated for the British artist of the year prize at the BBC Music Awards.
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A BBC investigation reveals Southampton docks does not monitor its air pollution rates, despite the city being among the most polluted in the UK. Southampton City Council estimates the port contributes up to 23 per cent of air pollution in the city. Ships can use a "plug-in" system to reduce emissions but not in the UK. It comes after the World Health Organisation (WHO) called Southampton one of the most polluted cities in the UK. The city's port welcomes thousands of ships a year, including some of the biggest cruise liners and container ships in the world. The vessels leave their engines running while docked to power their electrics, but elsewhere in the world ships use a shore-based electricity supply, virtually eliminating their emissions. Cargo and cruise ships, including the Queen Mary 2 and Britannia which regularly dock in Southampton, use the method - just not when visiting the British port. Port Director Alastair Welch from ABP said: "The challenge has been in particular there is no one standard for shore power. I'd like it in place as soon as possible. "I should emphasise shore power is not the only answer and that's why we're working with solar power and hybrid ships now, because all of them have a part to play for the future." A review of Air Quality in Southampton in 2015 by the local authority showed the port is believed to contribute between seven and 23 per cent of the air pollution, while cars contribute 18 per cent and HGVs 12 per cent. The government has since told Southampton to implement clean air zones by 2020 and the council is implementing a Clean Air Strategy to meet national goals.
Southampton, the biggest cruise port in Britain, has no way of monitoring air pollution generated by emissions from the largest ships in the world.
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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".
The Northern Ireland housing market remains "dysfunctional" and poses a risk to economic recovery, a Stormont-backed taskforce has concluded.
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It will be the 30-year-old's first competition of 2016 as she prepares to defend her Olympic title in Brazil. The double world champion missed the indoor season with an Achilles injury. Ennis-Hill is not yet ready for a full heptathlon and will miss an event in Gotzis, Austria on 28 May.
Olympic heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis-Hill will begin the build-up to Rio 2016 by competing in the javelin at the Loughborough International Athletics match on Sunday.
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Consumer group Which? said nearly half of its members surveyed said such reassurance was most likely to make them see red while hanging on the line. Next on the frustration list was being directed to the company's website, and apologies for all operators being busy. Callers would rather be told how long they would have to wait, Which? found. Many also wanted to know where they were in the queue, and to be given the choice of being called back. Nearly half of those asked said that classical music was the most soothing while waiting. Nine in ten of those asked felt that they were prepared to wait on the line for no longer than five minutes. Richard Headland, editor of Which? magazine, said: "Waiting on hold is a waste of time, but some organisations make the experience needlessly annoying through objectionable messages and music. "If these drive you round the bend, vote with your feet and take your custom elsewhere. The best companies know the value of answering your call quickly." Businesses lining up a queuing strategy Jo Causon, chief executive of the Institute of Customer Service, a trade body, said: "People are time-poor and less likely to be happy waiting for service as a result. It means consumers are less understanding of organisations that do not make it easy to get in touch. "If businesses want to enjoy ongoing customer loyalty - and attract new business - their focus should be on convenience and efficiency. In short, this means getting it right quickly, and getting it right first time. Anything less, and customers will think twice about spending money or recommending them to others." She pointed out that the phone is now consumers' third most popular method for getting in touch with an organisation, behind face-to-face contact and online.
Being told that your call is valued is the most annoying feature for those waiting on the phone to a company, a new survey suggests.
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Having gone behind through Macauley Gillesphey's free-kick after Jason Kennedy had been hauled down, Orient overturned the deficit. Jay Simpson found space to level after half-time, firing into the left corner. Ollie Palmer then streaked clear to put Orient ahead, before Raynes headed in from Alex Gillead's cross to level. The goal denied Kevin Nolan's visitors the chance to go fifth in the table, as they remain seventh, while Carlisle are three points behind in 11th. Leyton Orient player-manager Kevin Nolan told BBC Radio London: "You've got to respect the point, especially when you come to a place like this. "In the end we probably could have snatched it, but if we would have I think (Carlisle manager) Keith Curle would have been equally disappointed. "I'm delighted with the response. Since I've come in we've taken 16 points out of eight games so it's fantastic form and we've got to take positives out of it because we're all disappointed at the moment."
Michael Raynes' late equaliser earned Carlisle United a key point in a 2-2 draw with fellow League Two promotion hopefuls Leyton Orient.
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Hardie is expected to start in Gregor Townsend's team having had an injury-interrupted season. Once Scotland's undisputed number seven, he has suffered an awful run of bad luck culminating with the loss of his Test place to Hamish Watson. "I've been unfortunate, but I'm looking to put it behind me and finish the season on a real high," said Hardie. The New Zealand-born back-row, 28, was one of Scotland's stars at the 2015 World Cup, his work-rate and impact at the breakdown catching the eye. He was talked about as one of the players of the tournament, but this season has brought one setback after another. In November, during a bruising Test against Australia, Hardie suffered damage to his ankle and knee, while also suffering a concussion. It took him two months to recover. Following on from that, he was selected to play against Wales in the Six Nations but had to retire after just 24 minutes. Then he appeared as a substitute in the game against France but only lasted five minutes before having to go off injured again. Townsend named Hardie in the starting line-up for his first Test as Scotland coach, against Italy in Singapore, but Hardie suffered a back spasm in the warm-up and had to withdraw. "Everybody gets injuries and everybody has low patches, but rehab is a really good time to look at it as a positive, even though it isn't so much," Hardie told BBC Scotland. "You have to get your body right and get other aspects of your rugby game right. I've had a lot of time to do that. "You can't look at the negative side too much. You'd love to be out there every week with the boys, but that's just the way rugby is sometimes. I'm a really positive person. I've had my fair share of injuries and I know how to overcome them. "It does toughen you mentally, it helps you be more resilient and when you get on the field you realise how important it is. I'd never take anything for granted, but you realise when you get the injuries and you're not playing every week how hard it is. "Hamish is playing some great rugby and I'm really happy for him. He's come on in leaps and bounds in the last year or two and he's getting lots of experience. The competition is healthy. It's bringing out the best in us. "It's a privilege to be in camp and I've got to make the most of it. The boys have built a really good culture across the last two or three years, starting with Vern (Cotter) and now with Gregor, and we're just going to see more special things from this group."
Scotland flanker John Hardie wants to end a nightmarish eight months with a win against Fiji on Saturday in Suva.
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Abigail Klem, president of the US first daughter's eponymous clothing line, says it has seen "some of the best performing weeks" in its history. The reported sales surge comes amid an ongoing boycott targeting business interests of the fashion entrepreneur's father, President Donald Trump. Last month several retailers dropped Ms Trump's label, citing falling sales. In an interview with fashion magazine Refinery29, Ms Klem declined to cite specific sales figures, but research by a market analytics firm seems to support the claim. According to Lyst, a London-based e-commerce website which tracks clothing retail, sales of Ivanka Trump products rocketed in February. It says sales increased 346% from January to February this year and 557%, compared with average orders last year. "To see such an extreme spike in one month is completely unheard of and came as a huge surprise to us," says Lyst's US spokesperson Sarah Tanner. Ms Klem said that most products are sold to women in New York, California and Texas, and the average shopper earns between $60,000-100,000 per year (£50,000-£82,000). She said the political controversy surrounding President Trump, and the boycott, may have helped his daughter's brand. The reported sales surge comes after Kellyanne Conway, a counsellor to President Trump, was accused of breaking ethics rules by promoting Ivanka Trump products during a live TV interview from the White House. The first daughter's perfume is currently highest ranked on Amazon.com, with many shoppers leaving pro-Trump comments. "I bought this without knowing what it smelt like, and I didn't care! I support the Trumps! MAGA! Who needs nordstroms!" Dustin M wrote, in reference to Nordstroms, which was the first retailer to drop Ivanka's products. "Oh and by the way, the smell is aweosme!" Another apparently happy customer wrote: "Bought this as a gift for my wife, and to support Ivanka's position."
Ivanka Trump's brand is booming, says the fashion firm, as one estimate says sales have jumped five-fold.
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Allan Bell made the statement during peaceful demonstrations by pro-choice and anti-abortion campaigners outside the Manx parliament on Tuesday. Mr Bell said work on changing the legislation would begin "at the end of this year, early next year". The Termination of Pregnancy Act 1995 is the current law governing abortions in the Isle of Man. This means a termination can only be carried out on the island in the case of a pregnancy arising from a criminal offence such as rape, or on mental health grounds. For most women seeking an abortion, the only option is to travel to the UK to pay for the procedure. Manx campaign group, CALM (Campaign for Abortion Law Modernisation), which was established in April, wants island legislation to be brought in line with the UK. Although it is not currently illegal, the group said it is "almost impossible" for women to have a termination on the Isle of Man. A spokesman added: "The current act is incredibly restrictive. We are not saying abortion should be available to everyone at the drop of a hat." Anti-abortion campaigners at the rally held banners saying: "Thou shalt not kill". A spokesman said: "I'm part of a group which is here to represent the rights of unborn babies." Chief Minister Allan Bell said the legislation was due to be reviewed after the Isle of Man's general election in September.
The chief minister of the Isle of Man has said abortion laws on the island "need changing".
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Media playback is unsupported on your device 6 September 2015 Last updated at 11:33 BST Huge crowds of German people gathered at the station to cheer them on as they arrived. Many of them held signs saying "welcome" written in German and Arabic, and offered bottles of water and sweets to them. German police said around 7,000 refugees arrived at Munich station on Saturday, most of them had travelled from Syria. They will now be sent on to special reception centres all over Germany where they will receive hot food and clothes. BBC reporter Jenny Hill is at the train station in Munich...
Hundreds of migrants were given a warm welcome when they arrived at Munich train station in Germany.
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His plan to deport the estimated 11 million people living illegally in the US was decried as impractical during an election debate in Wisconsin. But he said on Wednesday it was cheap, "doable" and humane. Democratic President Barack Obama wants to lift the threat of deportation to millions of undocumented people. But his plan to allow about four million people to apply for work permits has been hindered by legal challenges. Mr Trump, a billionaire New Yorker who has been leading in the polls, defended his plan to build a wall on the US-Mexico border and deport all the people living illegally in the US. "You're going to have a deportation force, and you're going to do it humanely," he told MSNBC's Morning Joe. "You have millions of people that are waiting in line to come into this country and they're waiting to come in legally." How do you deport 11m people? Debate exposes Republican divisions He pointed to the actions of former US President Dwight Eisenhower, who authorised what was probably the largest deportation operations in US history. Senator Ted Cruz backed Mr Trump during the debate, condemning any form of "amnesty" because illegal immigration kept wages low for American workers. But his fellow Republican, Ohio Governor John Kasich, said that mass deportation was a "silly argument" that could never work and would split families. The issue has exposed the diverging views within the party, and Florida Senator Marco Rubio clarified his stance on Wednesday. He described his position as a "very long path" to citizenship when people had spent at least 10 years on a work permit.
Donald Trump has defended his hardline stance on immigration, a day after it was attacked by fellow Republican presidential candidates on national TV
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Chester, 38, was appointed Trinity coach last March and guided them to the semi-final of the Challenge Cup and Super League safety. The former Hull KR coach's new deal will see him remain at the club until the end of 2019. "The negotiations were very easy and over quite quickly, we both have the same thoughts of how we want the club to progress," he said. Trinity are eighth in Super League, with three wins from their opening six games.
Wakefield coach Chris Chester has signed a new two-year deal.
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Loch Glascarnoch near Garve supplies water to Mossford power station. A road that used to link Inverness and Ullapool, two bridges and part of a telegraph pole have been visible and were photographed by Calum Maclean. Glascarnoch and its dam form part of energy giant SSE's Conon hydro electric scheme, which involves six dams and seven power stations. The dams and power plants were built in stages between the 1940s and 1960s. A new road to Ullapool was built to replace the one lost under Loch Glascarnoch. SSE said the water level of the loch had been lowered for operational reasons. A spokesperson said: "As we head into the winter we've pulled the level down because the rain we usually get in October and November can raise the levels up by as much as one metre a day."
Water levels at a loch created in the 1950s have dropped low enough to reveal structures usually hidden underwater.
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Marchant, 20, has made 37 appearances for Quins since making his senior debut in May 2015, scoring 11 tries. "I'm delighted to have re-signed with Harlequins," he said. "This is such a great club and I have loved my time here. It was an easy decision to stay." Marchant had been due to tour Argentina with England last month but was ruled out with a toe injury.
Harlequins centre Joe Marchant has signed a new and extended contract with the Premiership club.
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Spaniard Tena, 26, joined Accies from Livingston in 2013 but has not played since suffering a knee injury against Ayr United in July. Seaborne signed from Partick Thistle in August but only made 13 appearances. "We thank both players for their service and wish them well for the future," a club statement said.
Hamilton Academical have released defenders Jesus Garcia Tena and Dan Seaborne "in order to allow them to find new clubs ahead of next season".
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The specialist system monitors the strain from wind, traffic and the weight of the bridge. Specialists were brought in to install the monitors which will feed data back to the control room. The bridge was closed to all traffic on 4 December after a crack was discovered in a truss under the carriageway. Engineers hope to have it repaired and open to traffic again by 4 January. An inquiry will begin after that, with MSPs agreeing that the "immediate" priority should be to get the bridge reopened. The lorries were sent over the bridge in different patterns over five hours of tests on Saturday. An inquiry will focus primarily on the structural defect, and an independent technical adviser will be asked to take part. The inquiry aims to call officials from bridge operator Amey, its predecessor the Forth Estuary Transport Authority, Transport Scotland staff and Transport Secretary Derek Mackay.
Ten lorries have been used during tests of a new state-of-the-art structural monitoring system installed at the Forth Road Bridge for the first time.
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GSA established a Phoenix Bursary scheme to help those affected by the blaze which ripped through its iconic Mackintosh building in May last year. Of the 100 students given grants, 90 are exhibiting at the Reid Building. The show has paintings, video work, multi-media installations, sculptures, interactive pieces and photography. It will open to the public on Friday. An investigation by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service concluded the fire was caused by flammable gases from a canister of expanding foam. The report, released in November, said the gases ignited as they came into contact with the hot surface of a projector in Studio 19. In the aftermath of the blaze, GSA launched a £20m fundraising drive to pay for the restoration of the Mackintosh and its contents. The art school confirmed earlier this year that Glasgow-based Page\Park Architects would lead the restoration project.
Students who lost work in the Glasgow School of Art (GSA) fire are showing new work made possible through a special programme set up to help them.
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The 28-year-old Jamaican set both current world records, 9.58 seconds for 100m and 19.19 seconds for 200m, at the 2009 World Championships. Despite winning five Olympic and World individual sprint titles since, he has yet to improve on those times. "Everybody wants to see the 100m go but the 200m is for me," he said. "If I can get a perfect season where I'm working well, without any injuries, with no time off, I'll definitely have the chance to break the 100m world record. "The 200m is my personal focus. One of my biggest goals is to try to run sub-19, pushing the barrier a little bit will be great for me." Bolt's 2014 campaign was disrupted by foot and hamstring injuries and he only ran in three races - including a leg for Jamaica's victorious 4x100m relay team at the Commonwealth Games - before bringing his season to an early end. Bolt's quickest 200m time since setting his world record in Berlin was the 19.32 seconds he clocked at London 2012. Similarly the closest he has come to beating his own 100m mark was the 9.63 seconds he ran to defend his Olympic crown two years ago. In an interview with Al-Jazeera, Bolt also offered a partial defence of the six positive doping tests returns by Jamaican athletes - including Asafa Powell and Veronica Campbell Brown - in 2013. "There were mistakes but there weren't any serious drugs," he said. "It is still bad: the drug scandal. But it was a good thing it wasn't like they were deliberately going out of their way to take drugs."
Usain Bolt believes he can lower both his 100m and 200m world records, and aims to be the first man to break 19 seconds for the longer distance.
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Gary Boyce uncovered the 8th Century cemetery six months ago in Great Ryburgh, Norfolk. He had been carrying out work to build a fishing lake. Mr Boyce has been given a £90,000 grant from England Heritage, but feels there should be more support for landowners who find themselves in his position. Landowners are responsible for the initial exploration costs of excavations found on their property, and the cost rises if human remains are discovered and have to be excavated. Mr Boyce told BBC Inside Out: "History has been changed (by the discovery) but you've seriously got to weigh up the costs. To nearly lose your house, that's massive." Will Fletcher, inspector of ancient monuments for Norfolk, Suffolk and Bedfordshire for Historic England, said: "We tried to operate as quickly as we could and provide some support to Gary because obviously he was in a very difficult position." Tim Pestell, the curator of Archaeology at Norwich Castle, said it was an unusual discovery. "Because the site was so unique, it is nationally significant. Great Ryburgh will go down in the academic textbooks as an example of an early Christian community," he said. "The landowner got unlucky because it was so wonderful, it wasn't expected. That's why Historic England has put thousands of pounds into rescuing that site." It is hoped that some of the artefacts will eventually go on display at Norwich Castle along with one of the coffins, after it has been sent to York for conservation. See the full story on Inside Out BBC ONE East Monday 19:30 GMT.
A developer says he has had to remortgage his house to pay the £250,000 excavation costs after finding 81 Anglo-Saxon coffins on his land.
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Dwr Cymru Welsh Water also announced that finance director Chris Jones will be taking on the chief executive role when Nigel Annett steps down. The firm, with three million customers, said it had kept bills to the same level in real terms as in 2001. Meanwhile, research by Cardiff University claims the company is worth £1bn a year to the Welsh economy. Its financial results come in a different form to companies with shares on the stock market. It is owned by the not-for-profit company Glas Cymru and savings or efficiencies are ploughed back into Dwr Cymru or used to keep bills as low as possible. Mr Annett, with Mr Jones, founded Glas Cymru 12 years ago, and he said the idea stems from the notion that having a public service company, which is a monopoly, being run on the basis of profit maximisation for shareholders does not work in the customers' interest. He said there were cases where the Glas Cymru non-profit model of ownership could work elsewhere in other businesses and industries. Mr Jones said of the job awaiting him: "There are some big challenges ahead. "We're a company that has to have a long-term vision, looking to invest in assets that will be around for the next for the next 20, 30 and 40 years, so we have to make the right decisions. "We have to balance that investment with the need to strive to keep bills down for our customers as well because everyone is feeling the pinch in difficult circumstances." Research also published on Thursday by Cardiff Business School said that Dwr Cymru contributes £1bn into the Welsh economy every year. The study claims for every £1 spent by the company, another 56p is generated for the rest of the Welsh economy. The report also quotes the water regulator Ofwat saying that between 2009/10 and 2014/15 Dwr Cymru customers face the lowest increase in average household bills of all water and sewerage companies in England and Wales. On top of the £338m spent on infrastructure last year, the company is committing another £650m over the next two years, which it is argued will employ 1,000 construction workers. The company has also reported that their financial reserves amount to £1.6bn, that's a tenfold increase compared with 2001 when Dwr Cymru was taken over by Glas Cymru. Dwr Cymru's borrowing or gearing has also come down. It now stands at 63% compared with 65% last year and 93% in 2001.
Welsh Water put £338m into capital projects in the past year, up £76m on 2012, its financial results show.
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His 2016 budget would impose a one-off 14% tax on US profits stashed overseas, as well as a 19% tax on any future profits as they are earned. The $238bn (£158bn) raised would be used to fund road projects in the US. But analysts say it is unlikely the Republican-controlled Congress will approve the proposals. Mr Obama told broadcaster NBC that despite several years of economic improvement, wages and incomes for middle class families were "just now ticking up". "They haven't been keeping pace over the last 30 years compared to, you know, corporate profits and what's happening to folks in the very top," he said. Research firm Audit Analytics calculated last April that US firms in total had $2.1tn-worth of profits stashed abroad. It found US conglomerate General Electric had the most profit stored overseas at $110bn. Tech giants Microsoft and Apple and drugs companies Pfizer and Merck all featured in the top five. No tax is currently due on foreign profits as long as they are not brought into the US. As a result some companies put their earnings in low tax jurisdictions and simply leave them there. The White House said its plans for an immediate 14% tax would raise $238bn, which would be used to fund a wider $478bn public works programme of road, bridge and public transport upgrades. "This transition tax would mean that companies have to pay US tax right now on the $2tn they already have overseas, rather than being able to delay paying any US tax indefinitely," a White House official said. The official said that after this one-off tax, the 19% permanent tax firms would have to pay on overseas profits "would level the playing field, and encourage firms to create jobs here at home." The tax rate is far lower than the current US top corporate tax rate of 35%. Also expected in Mr Obama's budget proposal is a tax cut on earned incomes, including tax credits for child care and "second earners". Mr Obama will also seek to ease restrictions on military and domestic spending in place since a budget deal in 2011. Republicans in Congress have largely rejected many of Mr Obama's proposals for increased domestic spending and tax rises on corporations but support increased military spending. Representative Paul Ryan, the Republican's top budget official, accused Mr Obama of exploiting "envy economics" in his proposal. "This top down redistribution doesn't work," Mr Ryan told NBC.
US President Barack Obama plans to close a tax loophole that allows US firms to avoid paying taxes on overseas profits, the White House says.
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North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue helped 26 Easingwold School pupils off the vehicle when it became stranded near Newton-on-Ouse just after 08:00 GMT. None of the children was injured in the incident. North Yorkshire County Council said the bus driver went through a road closure sign and it would be investigating. In a statement it said the route taken by the bus, operated by Stephenson's of Easingwold, had been closed due to flooding. The bus operator apologised and said it was carrying out a detailed investigation. "We put road closure signs out during flooding for a very good reason - to keep people safe," said Councillor Don Mackenzie. "It is not possible to tell how deep the water is on flooded roads and drivers can quickly find themselves in trouble, along with their passengers." Dave Stephenson, from the bus operator, said: "We have yet to interview the driver but obviously as soon as we speak to him we will know more about what's happened. "We express our sincere apologies to the children who were on the service this morning as well as to their families for this unfortunate incident." North Yorkshire Police said they would be investigating how the bus became stranded on the eight-mile (12km) journey to the school. Head teacher Phil Benaiges said: "A number of students were brought into school but most went home with their parents to get warm and dry. "Some were upset and all were cold and wet." River levels remain high following flooding over the Christmas and New Year period and around 15 roads across North Yorkshire remain closed. The fire service and police said it was essential motorists did not attempt to drive through flood water. Further heavy rainfall on Monday virtually cut off the seaside town of Whitby where the fire service had to rescue two people from a car which became trapped by flood water.
A bus carrying almost 30 school children became stuck in flood water near York after the driver allegedly ignored a road closure sign.
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Media playback is unsupported on your device 4 March 2015 Last updated at 07:38 GMT The 22 humans who live on Aoshima, off Ehime prefecture, are greatly outnumbered by a population over of 120 cats. Originally brought in to deal with mice infesting fishing boats, the cats now eat scraps, crops or food given to them by tourists or local people. The big increase in visitors to the island has worried the elderly residents living there because it might disrupt their quiet lives.
Tourists from around Japan have been flocking to a tiny fishing community, to see what has been nicknamed Cat Island.
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The 24-year-old was one of three Pakistan players jailed in November 2011 for conspiring to bowl deliberate no-balls against England in 2010. He was banned for five years, but returned in January last year. "He made a mistake and he paid a price for that mistake and as far as we're concerned that's over," Bowden said. "It is as straightforward as that, there've been one or two other cases with players that have had a history and we've taken the same view. "It was a relatively straightforward, not an easy choice and one has to think about it, but he paid a price and therefore he should be free to go on and further his career and enjoy his life." When he arrives next June, Amir will bolster a bowling line-up that has seen Graham Napier and David Masters retire after helping Essex win the County Championship Division Two title this year. "He's going to bring pace, he's going to bring experience and I hope he brings some ambition," Bowden added. "Our ambition is to do well in Division One, to stay in Division One, and to do well in white-ball cricket. "He's going to have a big impact in the second half of the season in four-day, and for the entire Twenty20 competition."
Essex chief executive Derek Bowden says Mohammad Amir must be allowed to get on with his career, with the Pakistan bowler set to join the club in 2017.
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The former "It Girl" and reality TV star said she began receiving treatment in January for a non-malignant growth in her pituitary gland. Ms Palmer-Tomkinson, 44, told the Daily Mail: "I got terribly frightened. I started thinking, 'I'm going to die.'" The tumour has been successfully reduced by the treatment, she said. Ms Palmer-Tomkinson said the tumour was discovered after she went for blood tests after feeling ill in the summer of 2015. She said: "'I actually feel very lucky. My growth was non-malignant but it affected the production of prolactin. I've been with people who have malignant brain tumours so I don't want to be like, 'Hey look at me'. "I have been - touch wood - luckier. I've taken medication and, thankfully, it seems to have gone away for now." The pituitary is a pea-sized gland on the underside of the brain which controls the release of hormones in the body. A prolactinoma is normally a benign, slow-growing tumour in the pituitary gland, but its effect on the secretion of the hormone prolactin can cause infertility. Ms Palmer-Tomkinson was also diagnosed with an auto-immune condition, which causes tiredness, joint pain and acute anaemia. Having been treated for cocaine addiction in the past, she has criticised media coverage which had blamed her frailty on drugs. "That's always their take on it... cocaine. That was so many years ago. But not many people can contemplate Tara's life without it," she said.
Socialite Tara Palmer-Tomkinson has revealed that she feared she was going to die when she learned she had a brain tumour.
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Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Ireland's first gay PM, attended Sunday's event with his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau. The leaders also held talks, where they discussed a range of issues, including Brexit and abortion. Mr Varadkar and Mr Trudeau met for the first time when the Canadian prime minister visited Ireland in July. Mr Trudeau said the taoiseach was the first foreign leader to take part in a pride event in Canada. Speaking at a joint news conference after the bilateral talks, Mr Varadkar said he discussed the issue of abortion with Mr Trudeau. He stated that he wanted to hold a referendum on the Eighth Amendment in the first half of next year. The Eighth Amendment to the Irish constitution was passed in 1983 and granted a foetus equal right to life as its mother, effectively outlawing abortion.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar began his three-day visit to Canada by taking part in the Montreal Pride Parade.
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President Putin signed a decree to make the award to the martial arts expert, who starred in Hollywood action thrillers during the 1990s. Seagal is friends with Mr Putin, who he has described as "one of the greatest world leaders". Mr Putin's spokesman said Seagal was known for his warm feelings towards Russia and his status as a famous actor was a reason to make him a citizen. Seagal made headlines when he described Russia's actions in Crimea, which it annexed in 2014, as "very reasonable". A keen guitarist, he played a concert there the same year. In 2013 Mr Putin reportedly proposed that Seagal be made an honorary consul of Russia in California and Arizona. The move would have made Seagal a potential intermediary between the White House and the Kremlin, Buzzfeed reported. The US refused. Seagal, whose grandmother was from Vladivostok in Russia's far east, has made frequent trips to Russia in recent years and visited Kamchatka and Sakhalin in September. He said during the visit that he wanted to spend several months a year in the country, Russia's Tass news agency reported. Seagal follows other celebrities including French actor Gerard Depardieu, US mixed martial arts fighter Jeff Monson, US boxer Roy Jones and US snowboarder Vic Wild in taking Russian citizenship. Earlier this year Seagal was given Serbian nationality after offering to set up a martial arts school in the capital Belgrade. The action star's movie credits include Under Siege and Flight of Fury and he has also starred in his own US reality TV show, Steven Seagal: Lawman.
US actor Steven Seagal has been given Russian citizenship, the Kremlin says.
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The 28-year-old previously spent time in England with Notts County, and has played for St Mirren and Ross County. He will officially join the Stags on 1 January, subject to international clearance, and is Steve Evans' first signing for the League Two club. "We are working hard to add to the quality we have and this lad will give us that initial quality," said Evans. Mansfield have not disclosed the length of Arquin's deal.
Mansfield Town have signed striker Yoann Arquin after the Frenchman left Swedish side Syrianska.
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The crew, from Camborne fire station in Cornwall, were called to a house in Fore Street, Barripper, at about 09:00 GMT. The boy's parents contacted the fire brigade after they tried, but failed, to free him. Cornwall Fire and Rescue said the crew used small tools to free the child, who was unharmed.
Six firefighters have rescued a young boy whose head was stuck in a toilet trainer seat.
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In Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin, researchers say they looked at all evidence and found supplements did not boost the health of mothers and babies. But pregnant women should make sure they take folic acid and vitamin D, as well as eating a well-balanced diet, as per NHS guidelines, they add. Supplements-makers said some women were not getting enough nutrients. The researchers said folic acid had the strongest evidence to support its use - taking 400 micrograms a day can protect against abnormalities called neural tube defects in the developing baby. Vitamin D - 10 micrograms a day - is recommended for healthy bones in the mother and baby. Some women can get these two pills for free on the Healthy Start scheme. A supplement that can be dangerous in pregnancy is vitamin A. Too much can harm the baby. The researchers said pregnant women might feel coerced into buying expensive multivitamins in order to give their baby the best start in life. But they would do well to resist the marketing claims, which did not seem to translate into better outcomes for mother or baby, they said. "The only supplements recommended for all women during pregnancy are folic acid and vitamin D, which are available at relatively low cost," they said. Janet Fyle, from the Royal College of Midwives, said: "We would encourage women who are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant to have a healthy, varied diet including fresh fruit and vegetables, alongside taking folic acid supplements. "We would also stress that there is no need for pregnant women to 'eat for two'. "This is a myth, and all that is required is a normal balanced amount of food." The Health Food Manufacturers' Association, which represents the food supplements industry, insists that a substantial proportion of women of child-bearing age are not getting enough nutrients from diet alone. The industry-funded Health Supplements Information Service said food supplements could help plug dietary gaps.
Pregnancy multivitamins are a waste of money because most mothers-to-be do not need them, according to researchers.
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There were 1,500 earthquakes recorded in Edinburgh and the Lothians over the same period. The largest earthquake in the Lothians was in Rosewell on 9 October 1986 with a 2.8 magnitude on the Richter Scale. Among the other areas with the most geological activity were Clackmannanshire and Dumfries. A seismometer at the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh records earthquakes within a 30km (19 miles) radius. More recently there was a 2.2 magnitude earthquake recorded in Penicuik in Midlothian on 13 November 2014. There were two 2.3 magnitude earthquakes in Penicuik on 30 November and 9 December 2007. Davie Galloway, British Geological Survey seismologist, told the BBC Scotland news website, that an earthquake over 2 magnitude would feel like a lorry passing your house and it would make windows rattle. He said: "People think we don't get earthquakes because we are not on the edge of a plate but we do. "Although we sit on the middle of a plate on the earth's crust we still have earthquakes although not on the same magnitude as for example Japan. "We also get them in old mining areas. If the stress exceeds the strength of the rock then it can create an earthquake." The largest-known earthquake to ever hit the UK had a magnitude of 6.1 on 7 June 1931 in the North Sea. It was felt across most of Britain with damage reported from 71 different places. Ben Flanagan at Esri UK, said: "We wanted to examine where Scotland's earthquakes occurred to see if any patterns emerged and uncover the myth that the country doesn't get that many. "Modern mapping techniques enabled us to plot all 10,000 across the UK and reveal Scotland's areas of highest seismic activity."
There were more than 4,000 earthquakes recorded across Scotland over the past 50 years, including a 4.4 magnitude quake in Knoydart Peninsula in 1974.
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Known for its beaches and cricket - its national sport - the former British colony has a dual heritage: English - evident in its stone-built Anglican churches and Saturday race meetings - and African, reflected in its music and dance. Country profiles compiled by BBC Monitoring Barbados is one of the more populous and prosperous Caribbean islands. Political, economic and social stability have given it one of the highest standards of living in the developing world. As well as being a centre for financial services, it also has offshore reserves of oil and natural gas. However, the economy took something of a knock in the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis. The country's public debt rose sharply in 2009-11, mainly because of a slowdown in the tourism and financial services sectors. Prior to the economic crisis there was a construction boom, with new hotels and housing complexes springing up. The trend accelerated as the island prepared to host some of the key Cricket World Cup matches in 2007. However, a shortage of jobs has prompted many Barbadians - more often known as Bajans - to find work abroad. The money that they send home is an important source of income. Most Barbadians are the descendants of African slaves who were brought to the island from the 17th century to work the sugar cane plantations. Limestone caverns, coral reefs and a warm climate tempered by trade winds are among the island's natural assets. Barbados is relatively flat, with highlands in the interior.
The eastern Caribbean nation of Barbados was historically heavily dependent on the export of sugar as its main revenue earner, but in recent decades the economy has diversified into tourism and offshore finance.
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The authority said relocating the station could generate up to 6,500 more jobs and bring in hundreds of millions of pounds in business rates. The figures emerged after a Freedom of Information request by BBC Look North. An HS2 spokeswoman said the Meadowhall site provided "significantly better connections to more people and places". Figures show that the council spent £78,090 on an assessment of the case for a city centre station, £25,525 on "understanding the economic impact relocating the station and £6,000 on a business breakfast with HS2 representatives. A Sheffield City Council said: "The differences in predicted economic impact between a city centre or an out-of-town parkway location are vast. "A city centre station will help connect Sheffield to Leeds and Manchester to help create the 'Northern Powerhouse'. An out-of-town parkway station will be a massive economic opportunity lost. " It was announced in 2013 that a new station linking Sheffield with London and Birmingham via the HS2 high-speed rail network would be situated at Meadowhall shopping centre. Katherine Button, of HS2 Ltd, said: "The Sheffield Meadowhall station is the best location to serve the wider South Yorkshire region. "We have scrutinised other options including a city centre site, but Meadowhall provides significantly better connections to more people and places across the region and at a lower cost, and provides the quickest onward journey times to Leeds, Newcastle and Scotland. "That is why the majority of Sheffield City Region authorities, as well as Leeds City Region and East Midlands authorities support Meadowhall, and are keen to see faster progress in the coming months. "The final decision will come from the Government and we anticipate an announcement will be made later this year."
Sheffield City council has spent £190,000 lobbying for a proposed HS2 station to be moved from Meadowhall to the city centre, it has emerged.
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16 January 2016 Last updated at 12:15 GMT The CCTV, recorded on 5 January, shows the HGV passing the van at speed near Ulceby, forcing the van driver to stop on the crossing. Inspector Graham Bridges said it was an example of "extremely dangerous driving" and the police are now trying to trace both drivers.
Footage of a lorry overtaking a van on a level crossing in Lincolnshire has been released by British Transport Police.
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Three-quarters of Scotland's top-flight clubs have told BBC Scotland they would consider a move to summer football. But Doncaster says the amount of games played and international tournaments have to be taken into consideration. "We are effectively playing for 11 months and using pretty much every date we can in that period," he explained. "We currently start in July and finish in May. The missing month is the one the World Cup and European Championship takes place in. Media playback is not supported on this device "The key question is do we want to be playing games at a time when a World Cup or European Championship is going on? "If we want to go head-to-head with those major tournaments, that's a decision we can make but we should make it in an informed way and understand what that really means." The chief executive also highlighted the possible economic impact of changing the Scottish season. "I think we need to look at other league formats that result in fewer games and that might create more flexibility to take games out of the worst of the winter weather," he said. "I think most managers would agree that we play too many games but the problem with shortening the season is the knock-on impact on income, so it's much easier said than done. "We can't simply create a winter break if we are using 11 months at the moment. We played seven [rounds of Premiership] games in January this year, not because we wanted to but because of the constraints. "Unless there is a debate around how many games we play and the league structure, there is very little scope to alter the current calendar." Scottish Football Association chief executive Stewart Regan was asked about summer football at his organisation's annual general meeting on Wednesday and described it as "an interesting concept". "We are discussing a raft of matters relating to the fixture calendar," he said. "We [Scotland] play Ireland on Saturday night and [Scottish clubs'] first Europa League qualifier is [in early July]. "The traditional close season has gone and it's important to consider how we move towards a mid-season break rather than summer football. "So you would have two half-seasons with a gap in the middle. It's important for players to have down time and holidays and that we're managing international and club fixtures side by side."
Scottish Professional Football League chief executive Neil Doncaster believes the possible advent of summer football is an issue of some complexity.
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Sebastian Prodl is suspended while Christian Kabasele, Craig Cathcart and Younes Kaboul are all out injured. Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany should be fit despite being substituted during the 3-1 win over West Brom. John Stones has also recovered from a groin strain and could replace Nicolas Otamendi in defence. Steve Wilson: "Pep Guardiola's been saying some interesting things this week. Firstly that his side's performance this season would have got him sacked at the kind of club he's been accustomed to working at. "Then he asked an interviewer to give him one good reason to think that the English league is anything special compared to Spain, Italy and Germany. "I'm certainly not saying that Guardiola is wrong - just that it's odd that he was willing to say this stuff. You might interpret it as a pointed signal to those he works with at City to up their game if they want to get to his level. "Speaking of managers, Walter Mazzarri has been told to pack his bags with Watford issuing a statement remarkable only for its brevity. "The Hornets are on their longest losing streak in nine years - should they lose again on Sunday it will be their longest for 44 years. Enough said." Twitter: @Wilsonfooty Watford head coach Walter Mazzarri: "I would like to thank the main characters of this season - the players and the fans. "Our fans have always been extraordinary with their participation and with their fantastic passion for the whole season. "Also I thank the players, who have always given 200 per cent of what they had, always going further and pushing their limits." Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola: "It's a crucial game for us absolutely - a final. It's in our hands. We have to go there and win. We have won three in a row but we still have 95, 96 minutes to fight. "Watford have had a good season. They are safe. We have to be careful. "We are going to make changes [in the summer]." I had been wondering for a while what was going to happen to Watford boss Walter Mazzarri, and it was no surprise when it was announced this week that he will be leaving. I think the Hornets will play well in his farewell game but I still think Manchester City will get the win they need to secure third place. Prediction: 0-3 Lawro's prediction v rock band Royal Blood. Head-to-head Watford Manchester City SAM (Sports Analytics Machine) is a super-computer created by @ProfIanMcHale at the University of Salford that is used to predict the outcome of football matches.
Watford could be without up to six central defenders, with Adrian Mariappa (knee) and Miguel Britos (calf) facing late fitness tests.
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The Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded the funding to Cwm Community Action Group of Betws-y-Coed to help create the Snowdonia Slate Trail. It comes as Gwynedd council bids to secure World Heritage Site status for the region's slate villages. The pathway, which will use existing rights of way, will also gather stories about the area's rich history. The Snowdonia Slate Trail will start at Porth Penrhyn, near Bangor, and pass through a number of villages including Bethesda, Ffestiniog, Penmachno, Capel Curig and Betws-y-Coed. A Snowdonia National Park Authority spokesman said: "This new route will be of benefit not only to walkers who wish to walk short distances, but also for long distance walkers, encouraging them to stay in the area over several days which in turn will be of great benefit to the local economy." The total cost of the project is £85,000, and funding has also come from Magnox, Ffestiniog and Bethesda town councils, the Snowdonia National Park Authority's Cae Fund and the community fund in Wales. The walkway is due to be completed in October 2017.
The creation of a new 85-mile trail through Snowdonia has been boosted by a £53,000 grant.
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The 21-year-old, who arrived from Dinamo Zagreb in the summer, last featured in the 3-1 victory over St Johnstone on 23 January. Simunovic, who missed Sunday's League Cup semi-final defeat by Ross County, also had a spell on the sidelines in the first half of the season. Kris Commons is close to a return from a muscle injury. The midfield playmaker, 32, has missed the last three matches and manger Ronny Deila said Wednesday's visit to Aberdeen "would probably be too soon" for a return. Celtic captain Scott Brown made his first appearance in two months as a late substitute at the weekend.
Celtic's Croatian defender Jozo Simunovic will be absent for four to six weeks with knee ligament damage.
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Hill, 18, scored 15/16 in the skeet final to beat Thailand's Sutiya Jiewchaloemmit. Scott, 30, triumphed in the double trap, shooting 27/30 to beat Qiang Pan of China. "To come away with a gold is an amazing end to the year and I couldn't have asked for a lot more," said Hill, who won gold at the European Games in June.
Amber Hill and Steve Scott both won gold medals at the 2015 ISSF Shotgun World Cup final in Cyprus.
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The former England Under-19 international made four appearances last season as the Belles were promoted from Women's Super League Two. "I have tried so hard to get back but my legs just won't go," she said in a message posted on Twitter. "Unfortunately, this disease cannot be beaten and has taken my dream." Belles manager Glen Harris said: "It is sad that a young player, with the talent Ash has, has had to stop playing at the top level. "Ash has been a pleasure to work with, always turning up and training with a smile on her face... even if it's not always in the right kit!" Mills added: "My three years with the club have been absolutely fantastic. "I have enjoyed every minute of my time here. I feel very honoured to have represented this great historic and successful club." Mills said she plans to cheer on the Belles from the stands. Doncaster start the new Women's Super League One season at home to reigning champions Chelsea on 24 March. Around 100,000 people in the United Kingdom have multiple sclerosis or MS, according to the Multiple Sclerosis Society. It is normally diagnosed in people between the ages of 20 and 40. Symptoms might include fatigue, vision problems and difficulties with walking, but MS is different for everyone. In MS, the protective layer surrounding nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord - known as myelin - becomes damaged. The immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin, causing scarring or sclerosis. The damaged myelin disrupts the nerve signals - rather like the short circuit caused by a frayed electrical cable. If the process of inflammation and scarring is not treated, then eventually the condition can cause permanent neurodegeneration. Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of the MS Society, said: "MS is an unpredictable and challenging condition to live with and diagnosis can be upsetting and scary. The MS Society is here to help anyone affected by MS." MS Society helpline: 0808 800 8000.
Doncaster Rovers Belles midfielder Ashleigh Mills has ended her playing career at the age of 20 after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
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All are members of the Diocese of West Yorkshire and Dales Motorcycle Club, formed for clergy and lay motorcyclists. Ten bikes will start the trip on Monday from Leyburn in North Yorkshire. Reverend Michael Hepper from St Matthew's in Leyburn said it would be a "very different kind of retreat". The 725-mile round trip will begin with a 200-mile ride to Barnard Castle, over the moors to Hexham and through the Kielder Forest to Jedburgh and Edinburgh. The riders will continue to Fionnphort on the west coast of Scotland via the Trossachs and the Isle of Mull. The "pilgrimage" ends on the island of Iona, known as "the cradle of Christianity" because St Columba is said to have landed there by coracle from Ireland in AD563, bringing the Gospel. Mr Hepper said the trip would be "a spiritual experience and an adventure". Reverend Neal Lefroy-Owen, of St Hilda's, Halifax and St John's, Warley, said: "It's great to be able to share my love of riding with fellow Christians from the new diocese and to get to know them better." Reverend Canon Stephen Kelly - area dean of Wakefield and priest in charge of Woolley and West Bretton, Reverend Canon Paul Tudge of Farsley near Pudsey, and Reverend Vic Iwanuschak, Incumbent of All Saints Pontefract will also take part in the pilgrimage ride. Five lay riders and four pillion passengers will accompany them.
Five Yorkshire vicars are preparing for a five-day motorbike "pilgrimage" from Yorkshire to Iona off the west coast of Scotland.
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Ambulance staff dealt with 2,184 calls between 19:00 on Hogmanay and 07:00 on New Year's Day. Additional crews, call handlers and dispatchers were on duty. The busiest time was from 01:00 to 04:00, with 739 calls. The new year total was 35 higher than the previous year. The Christmas period, from 23 to 27 December, saw a 10% increase on 2015. Scottish Ambulance Service chief executive Pauline Howie said: "The overall level of demand for our service over the festive period has exceeded previous years and Hogmanay was one of our busiest nights of the year."
The Scottish Ambulance Service had a busier Hogmanay than last year.
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Mr Morsi said he was not "calling for war", but that he would not allow Egypt's water supply to be endangered. Egypt was apparently caught by surprise when Ethiopia started diverting the Blue Nile last month, amid works to construct a hydroelectric dam. The river is a tributary of the Nile, on which Egypt is heavily dependent. The Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is a $4.7bn (£3.1bn) project that Ethiopia says will eventually provide 6,000 megawatts of power. It says the Blue Nile will be slightly diverted but will then be able to follow its natural course. "Egypt's water security cannot be violated at all," Mr Morsi said on Monday. "As president of the state, I confirm to you that all options are open." "If Egypt is the Nile's gift, then the Nile is a gift to Egypt,'' he said, quoting popular sayings about the river in an emotive televised speech. "The lives of the Egyptians are connected around it... as one great people. If it diminishes by one drop then our blood is the alternative." Analysts say Mr Morsi could be using the issue to distract attention from severe domestic political and economic challenges. Egypt is particularly dependant on water supply from the Nile, and its growing population has been placing that supply under increasing strain. Sudan is also reliant on Nile waters. Egypt cites a colonial era ruling to claim a right to the majority of the Nile's waters for itself and Sudan, but Ethiopia says the ruling is outdated. Mr Morsi said Egypt had no objection to development projects on Nile basin states, "but on condition that those projects do not affect or damage Egypt's legal and historical rights". Last week, Egyptian politicians were inadvertently heard on live TV proposing military action over the dam.
Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi has said "all options are open" to deal with any threat to his country's water supply posed by an Ethiopian dam.
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An independent Rugby Football League tribunal ruled on charges brought in April, and an independent body upheld the verdict on Thursday. Koukash told BBC Radio Manchester: "You start questioning 'is the sport with this governing body worth keeping my involvement in it and keep investing like I have been doing?'" Independent body Sports Resolutions also upheld Salford's fine of £5,000 for "seeking to avoid declaring payments" to one player and "non declaration of benefits" to two others. "I have no doubt whatsoever the RFL are out to get Salford at every opportunity as long as I'm involved in the club, and the six-point deduction is very harsh," continued Koukash. "It's as harsh as it was a couple of years ago when they deducted a couple of points from the club for fielding 14 players. "When we saw it a few weeks ago, Widnes did it twice and they got a fine, so we can see that they have been targeting Salford for quite a while. "That's probably due to the fact that I'm outspoken against them and they see me as a person who is not welcome in the sport. If that's the case then maybe I shouldn't be in the sport." After the Red Devils were initially charged in March, Koukash had promised "all-out war" if his club were punished by the RFL. In 2013, Salford were fined £5,000 and deducted two points for fielding 14 men during their 34-30 win over Castleford, while Widnes beat Hull FC 46-6 earlier this season when had an extra man on the field. When asked for a response to Koukash's comments, the RFL responded with the same statement released after Salford's appeal was rejected. "The independent body Sports Resolutions upheld the decision by an independent RFL tribunal to find Salford Red Devils guilty of breaching the salary cap in the 2014 and 2015 season," said the statement. "The tribunal found Salford guilty of the following: One of the main points of the appeal was that the independent tribunal found Salford guilty on undeclared payments which Koukash conceded were not registered. Wigan were the last club to be found in breach of the salary cap in 2007 and they were docked four points, compared to Salford's six. "What we couldn't get away from was yes, there were three undeclared payments dating back in 2013 and 2014, two of them for [helping the players pay] rent," added Koukash. "They could be argued due to admin or mismanagement - that's why we are getting the six points deduction, for breaking operational rules and not the salary cap itself. "If you add the three undeclared payments to our spend we do not go over the salary cap. I think it is unfair. Yes, we did not declare the payments, but is it a six-point deduction? No, it is not."
Salford Red Devils owner Marwan Koukash is considering his future involvement in rugby league after losing their appeal against a six-point deduction for breaching salary cap regulations.
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TV network NBC announced Sir Elton will host and perform on stage with fellow musical guest and collaborator Leon Russell on 2 April. It is the singer's first return to the show in nearly three decades. Meanwhile, Dame Helen will make her debut as host a week later with musical guests Foo Fighters. Sir Elton last appeared on Saturday Night Live in 1982 when he performed Empty Garden and Chain in a show hosted by Johnny Cash. He recorded his latest album, The Union, with American musician Russell. Dame Helen will be soon be seen on screens opposite Russell Brand in the remake of Dudley Moore film, Arthur. Brand also hosted the show for the first time last month. Saturday Night live is one of the longest-running programmes in the US with nearly 700 episodes broadcast over 36 series.
Sir Elton John and Dame Helen Mirren have been lined up to host episodes of US comedy sketch show Saturday Night Live in April.
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The full-back, 25, was hurt in Town's 3-1 defeat by Millwall on 9 April - his first game since last December - and a scan has shown he needs surgery to repair ligaments. "It's disappointing - he's just got back into the side," assistant boss Mike Jackson told BBC Radio Shropshire. "Hopefully he'll get it sorted and be back playing as quickly as he can." Demetriou, who is out of contract in the summer, has made 50 appearances for Shrewsbury, scoring three goals, since joining from Kidderminster Harriers in June 2014. He spent the first half of this season on loan at Cambridge United and returned to the Shrews in January. Following last season's automatic promotion, Shrewsbury are trying to avoid an immediate return to League Two over their final six games. One point clear of the relegation zone, Town have a tough-looking start to their run-in with back-to-back home games against fourth-placed Bradford City and Sheffield United before trips to Gillingham, in sixth, and automatic-promotion chasers Walsall. Micky Mellon's side then finish with two games against mid-table sides - Peterborough, currently 14th and Swindon in 16th.
Shrewsbury Town defender Mickey Demetriou will miss the rest of the season because of a knee injury.
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The Briton, 31, who begins his title defence at the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday, posted videos on Snapchat of him travelling on a motorway. It is illegal to use phones whilst driving in New Zealand. Police reviewed the incident but will not be taking further action after citing a lack of "sufficient evidence". "Auckland City Police will be taking no further action in relation to recent media publicity about Lewis Hamilton and his motorcycle journey in Auckland," a police spokesperson said. "The video footage available does not provide us with sufficient enough evidence that an offence has occurred." It is not the first time three-time world champion Hamilton has been involved in driving incidents. The Briton was fined around £300 after performing car stunts for fans outside Melbourne's motor racing circuit, before the 2010 Australian Grand Prix. He also had his driving licence suspended for a month in France in 2007 for speeding on a motorway. And in November, Hamilton crashed his £1.6m super car in Monaco because "heavy partying" had left him tired.
Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been investigated by police after appearing to take a selfie while riding a motorbike in New Zealand.
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The Assembly Rooms, which opened in 1977, was badly damaged in a huge blaze that broke out in its roof car park last March. The city council said rebuilding would be too expensive and the venue would be sold to a private company and could be knocked down and the site redeveloped. As well as live music, the Assembly Rooms also hosted British Open snooker. Perhaps its most famous musical moment was in 1983, when Morrissey was hit in the eye with a flower during a Smiths gig and fans invaded the stage at the end. The venue also hosted performances from acts such as The Clash, Paul Weller and Manic Street Preachers and was home to the city's pantomime each year. City council Labour leader Ranjit Banwait said he hoped the venue would be replaced with "some kind of cultural offer". The opposition Conservative group said the local authority had dithered over the plans. Councillor Robin Wood said the venue could have been kept "alive" in the interim until a bidder was found. He said: "For over a year now we have been wondering what on earth is going to happen. Now we are told the wrecking ball is going to go at it. "I think it would be much better to refurbish it and reopen it and look at other alternatives. What we will end up with is a pile of rubble and nothing." Dave Parry, of the Derby Civic Society, said the venue was too big for the market place and never really achieved what it set out to do. "We would like to see something that would be representative of the city," he said. "I'm not sure that it is the right place for a cultural thing, but we also don't want to see a supermarket or block of flats there."
The curtain is set to fall on a music venue in Derby where a host of famous acts have thrilled fans for decades.
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The 32-year-old midfielder, who has 249 caps for England and Great Britain, was in the squad that played two matches against Canada last weekend. But head coach Jason Lee decided he could not rely on her fitness for the tournament, which starts on 31 May. Ellie Watton and Zoe Shipperley have made the 18-strong squad. Beeston forward Watton and Buckingham defender Shipperley have 15 international caps between them, but there is experience elsewhere with captain Kate Richardson-Walsh having played in three previous World Cups. England have been drawn in Pool B alongside Argentina, China, Germany, South Africa and the United States. The top two nations will qualify for the semi-finals. "We're facing some of the best teams in the world and playing the USA in our first game on 1 June is significant as they come into the tournament off the back of winning the Champions Challenge at the end of last month," said Lee. England World Cup squad: Goalkeepers: Maddie Hinch (Holcombe), Kirsty Mackay (East Grinstead) Defenders: Laura Unsworth (Holcombe), Kate Richardson-Walsh (Reading), Sam Quek (Reading), Hollie Webb (Surbiton), Sally Walton (Wakefield), Zoe Shipperley (Buckingham) Midfielders: Georgie Twigg (Surbiton), Susannah Townsend (Reading), Susie Gilbert (Reading), Ashleigh Ball (Slough) Forwards: Hannah Macleod (Leicester), Alex Danson (Reading), Sophie Bray (East Grinstead), Ellie Watton (Beeston), Lily Owsley (University of Birmingham), Nicola White (Leicester)
London 2012 Olympian Helen Richardson-Walsh has missed out on England's Hockey World Cup squad after back surgery.
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The lead investigator was seeking to clarify earlier comments by police that suggested some of the driver's actions were deliberate. Band members Kris Leonard, River Reeves, Jack Dakin and Tomas Lowe died, along with manager Craig Tarry, 33, near Stockholm on 13 February. Lars Berglund said the driver's "only intention was to avoid a crash". Witnesses reported seeing the car going though red lights and barriers before the Warrington band's car plunged 80ft (24m) into a canal off a bridge, the middle section of which was raised. Mr Berglund told Mirror reporter Rhian Lubin: "I have not suggested that [the driver] was doing this in order to kill himself or the band. I said he was making a move from the right lane to the left lane and that was not accidental. "We can see the brake lights. His intention was to stop the car. But maybe his speed was too high and it was too late." Earlier, a Stockholm police spokesman said: "It looks like he [the driver] tried to drive past red lights, barriers. "All the witnesses thought it looked like he was trying to drive past... there weren't supposed to be cars on the left. 'It is a possibility he deliberately crashed the car, but he may have misunderstood the signs. "[It is] still subject to investigation and we are still waiting for results of technical investigation too." Police have previously confirmed the driver, who has not been identified, had no traces of alcohol or drugs and said it would have been very difficult to pass two lines of parked cars if he was asleep. The car, carrying the four members of the band and their manager, was recovered from the canal under the E4 highway bridge in Sodertalje, Sweden. In the week after the accident, the band reached number one in the iTunes chart following a social media campaign backed by Oasis singer Liam Gallagher and Tim Burgess from The Charlatans. A concert in the band's memory at Warrington's Parr Hall on 2 April has now sold out. The gig, which will feature friends and bands they have played with, will be hosted in their Warrington hometown by BBC Radio 1 DJ Phil Taggart.
Swedish police say they do not believe the Viola Beach crash driver "intended to kill himself or the band".
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Last year, there were about 14,000 visits, compared to 8,000 in 2005, when the county became an approved destination for Chinese citizens. Their spending, including at Bicester Village outlet, has also increased from almost £8m to more than £20m, according to Visit Britain. A further rise has been predicted for the next ten years. Martin Walker, from not-for-profit group Experience Oxfordshire, said Chinese tourists were "increasingly important" to the county's economy. However, he said, the UK was currently "underperforming" with about 290,000 visitors a year, compared to countries such as France, which gets 350,000. A number of attractions and travel organisations in Oxfordshire had signed up to the Great China Welcome initiative in a bid to encourage more visitors, he said. In 2013, consultancy company Spectrum Insights found Chinese tourists spend 90% of their budget on shopping during UK visits. It said Bicester Village was the most popular shopping destination in the UK, with 27% of Chinese visitors naming it as their favourite. Keith Slater, a former director of several UK retailers, said bosses had "deliberately set out to market to the Chinese and to promote it as a must-go place." "It's actually marketed as Bicester Village London, so is seen as part of the capital," he said. "It's the designer brands, like Burberry, which really attract the Chinese and they prefer to buy a UK brand in the UK."
The number of Chinese visitors to Oxfordshire has almost doubled in the last ten years, figures have shown.
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Vicki Russell told the CBC that Air Canada bumped her from the 1 April Toronto-to-Miami flight that she had booked two months in advance. As a result she missed her connecting flight to meet the cruise ship. Ms Russell has since received C$800 (US$592; £463) compensation from the airline. She says everything went according to plan until an agent told her about two hours after she had checked in and received her boarding pass that the flight was overbooked and she did not have a valid ticket. Despite showing her travel documents and getting the tour company to email her trip receipt to prove her ticket was valid, the flight left without her. "It was extremely upsetting," Ms Russell told the CBC. "The woman could not have been more rude, hostile. In all my years of travelling, I have never had a travel person treat me so badly." She was sent to Air Canada customer service at the airport to find a new flight to Miami. By the time she was seen by an agent, no flights were available that would allow her to make the connection. She also had to wait to get back her checked luggage. She filed a complaint for missing her "dream vacation" with Air Canada the next day. The $10,000 National Geographic cruise, organised by Lindblad Expeditions, tours the famous Pacific Ocean archipelago's varied islands and habitats. A spokeswoman for Lindblad Expeditions said on Friday they have been in contact with Ms Russell throughout the situation and have rebooked her expedition at no charge, including airfare from Miami to Galapagos. Air Canada confirmed that the flight had been oversold. But the carrier said their agents spent "a great deal of time" looking at options for Ms Russell, including exploring "outside the box" solutions for getting her directly to the Galapagos Islands despite her flight ticket being issued only to Miami. They noted they refunded her initial fare and paid compensation. "This is a very regrettable situation and we are sorry this occurred," said an Air Canada spokesman in a statement. The practice of airlines bumping passengers from flights has been under scrutiny since the footage of United Airlines passenger David Dao being forcibly removed from a flight made headlines worldwide. Following that incident, Canada's federal government reiterated its pledge to table a passenger rights law this spring. It is expected to include compensation rules for those denied boarding due to factors within the carrier's control. The Canadian Transportation Agency receives an average of about 50 complaints a year from passengers saying they were denied boarding.
A Canadian woman missed a "trip of a lifetime" Galapagos cruise after being bumped from a flight.
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The Robins have won six of their 10 League One games since former Brighton Under-21 and reserves coach Williams took interim charge in December. The 35-year-old replaced Martin Ling at the County Ground, after Ling stepped down citing "health reasons." "He is a fantastic coach, the best I've come across in 25 years of football," chairman Lee Power said. "The reason Luke is 'head coach' and not 'manager' is because that is what he is: the head coach. "No players will come into the club that Luke is not happy with, but his main job is to coach the group and improve them." Williams is the fourth person to take charge of Swindon this season, following Mark Cooper, Ling, and chairman Power, who looked after the first team for a spell following Cooper's dismissal in October. The Robins are currently 13th in the League One table, seven points outside the play-off places.
Swindon Town have appointed caretaker boss Luke Williams as head coach on a five-year contract.
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The hosts went in front when Tyrone Barnett stabbed in as the Blades appealed in vain that goalkeeper George Long had control of the ball. Dean Hammond headed an equaliser but David Worrall drilled home to re-establish the Shrimpers' lead. Jack Payne sealed the victory with a dinked finish just seconds after Che Adams hit a post for the away side. Southend climb to eighth, six points adrift of the play-off places, while Sheffield United slip to 13th.
Southend United gave their fading League One play-off hopes a boost with a home victory over Sheffield United.
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Jarvis, 29, has won 17 caps for Wales and last played in the Six Nations win over Italy in March 2016. James, who will miss the first match of the three-Test series against the world champions in Auckland, has not recovered as quickly as hoped, but remains with the squad. Wales have lost 26 matches against the All Blacks since beating them in 1953. James is also likely to miss the game against the Chiefs in Hamilton on Tuesday, 14 June. Jarvis, who is joining French Top 14 side Clermont Auvergne from Ospreys, will arrive on Wednesday morning in New Zealand. The Exeter-born player graduated to professional rugby via the Bath academy, and played for England Under-16s and U19s. But he successfully pursued Wales honours via Ospreys, having been eligible because of his Merthyr Tydfil-born grandmother. He has started six Wales games, coming off the bench for the remainder of his caps.
Tight-head prop Aaron Jarvis is flying to New Zealand to join Wales as cover for Paul James, who has a calf injury.
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Fake Ophelia is a large collage on canvas by Steven Campbell - one of the "new Glasgow Boys" who studied at the school. Forsyth and his partner Moira Wylie gifted the work made in 1991 by Campbell, who died at the age of 54 in 2007. It will hang in the art school's library. Gregory's Girl director Forsyth first met Campbell in the 1980s. The two were fishing buddies. When Campbell was asked to paint a famous Scot for the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, he chose Forsyth, as the only famous person he knew, and a friend. Fake Ophelia is formed of paint, textiles, string, wallpaper and paper cut work. Campbell went to the GSA as a mature student, graduating in 1982 with a Fulbright Scholarship which he used to travel to New York. He returned to live in Glasgow in 1986 and emerged in the group of Scottish figurative painters which also consisted of fellow GSA alumni Ken Currie, Peter Howson and Adrian Wiszniewski. Alison Stevenson, head of learning resources at the GSA, said: "We are grateful to Bill and Moira for this generous donation to the GSA's archives and collections. "Steven was an incredibly talented artist whose life was cut tragically short. "We are delighted to be able to add Fake Ophelia to our rich collection of works by GSA graduates."
Film-maker Bill Forsyth has donated an artwork to Glasgow School of Art.
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The 29-year-old has featured in 53 U's games since joining in 2015, 18 of which have come this season. "He came and requested the opportunity to leave for personal reasons," said director of football Tony Humes. "We have been working with him over the past few weeks to resolve the situation in the best way possible."
Colchester United midfielder Owen Garvan has had his contract with the League Two club cancelled by mutual consent for personal reasons.
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Immobile joined the La Liga club on a season-long loan spell from Borussia Dortmund in July 2015, before signing on a permanent deal worth 11m euros. The 26-year-old was then loaned to Serie A side Torino, where he scored five goals in 14 games last season. Immobile made two appearances for his country at Euro 2016.
Lazio have signed Italy striker Ciro Immobile from Sevilla for an undisclosed fee - reported to be around 8.5m euros (£7.1m).
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Mourners wore Chelsea and Cambridge United colours to celebrate the life of Tommi Miller, who was eight. Terry met Chelsea fan Tommi last year, and when he was told of the boy's death he volunteered to pay for the service. Tommi was laid to rest near his Cambridge home in a Chelsea-blue casket bearing the club logo. Tommi, who was diagnosed with leukaemia aged three, died last month after a bone marrow transplant proved unsuccessful. More on this and other stories from Cambridgeshire Family friend Tawney Bianca Toogood contacted Terry on Instagram to tell him the boy he had been photographed with had died. When she explained the family could not afford the funeral they wanted for their son, the former England captain got in touch with the funeral parlour and covered the full £1,600 costs. Tommi's mother Ruth said she was "overwhelmed" by the gesture and "very proud" the footballer - one of her son's favourite players - remembered him. Most of the arrangements for Tommi's funeral were made by Mrs Toogood's mother Mally Beaver, and sister Chelsea. The families became friends after meeting on the cancer ward at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge. "My father battled leukaemia for just 12 weeks, but Tommi fought it for five years," Mrs Beaver said. "His family found times tough and we did everything we could to help them out." When Tommi died the Beaver family, from the travelling community, reached out to other travellers for help. "Roo and Kevin [Tommi's father] aren't from the community, but everyone took them to their hearts," Mrs Beaver said. Travellers from as far afield as Canada, Australia, Scotland, Lancaster and Harlow raised more than £4,000 to help towards "a celebration of Tommi's life". As well as the specially-made casket, Mrs Beaver arranged for 100 blue balloons to be released at the service, and had 100 blue roses brought over from Holland "to make it special for him". The extra money raised will be put towards a headstone for Tommi's grave.
The football-themed funeral of a boy who died from cancer has taken place after Chelsea captain John Terry paid for it.
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The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said sales were up 8.4% compared with February last year. Sales of alternatively fuelled vehicles jumped 19.9% year-on-year, with diesels up 5.6%. Fleet sales fell 1.4% but still accounted for 53.1% of new vehicle sales in the month. SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: "February is typically one of the quietest months of the year ahead of March's plate change, but this positive performance is encouraging and puts the sector in a good position for the coming 12 months." Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said only 4% of cars typically were registered in February, so "small movements in the absolute number of registrations have a big impact on the headline growth number". "High consumer confidence, lower petrol prices and cheaper unsecured credit have enhanced the attractiveness of car ownership, but these drivers will be less supportive of sales growth in 2016," he added. "Growth in car sales therefore looks likely to moderate, contributing to a slowdown in the overall consumer spending recovery this year." A record 2.63 million new vehicles were registered last year - about 6% higher than in 2014 and the fourth consecutive year of growth, according to the SMMT. The top selling models in February were the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf and Nissan Qashqai. VW sales were down 13% compared with February 2015, although Toyota recorded a 16% drop and Vauxhall a 17% slide. Ford sales were 12% higher compared with February 2015 at 11,513 vehicles,
Almost 84,000 new cars were sold in February in the UK - the highest level for the month since 2004.
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Skomer Island and Marloes Sands are included in travel guide Lonely Planet's Best in Europe 2015 list. Kent was ranked top, followed by County Kerry in Ireland, with destinations in Germany and Hungary also making the top five. The guide said Skomer's marine nature reserve and 500,000-strong bird population were among its draws. It also recommended visiting Marloes Sands - "a mile-long sweep of beach that does a vanishing act at high tide". Europe's 10 Best Places for Family Holidays, by Lonely Planet
Two Pembrokeshire beauty spots have been named among the 10 best places to go in Europe for a family holiday.
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The Ryder Cup veteran, 41, finished two over par, two shots adrift of the projected cut and down in tied 93rd. He needed to win at least £23,905 ($30,639) - equivalent to a top-30 finish - to retain his tour place. But the 2008 Open runner-up said: "It doesn't mean you're never going to see me again." He later added on Twitter: "You don't get to number five in the world and help lift a few Ryder Cups and disappear. "You come back stronger and more determined than ever." Scotland's Martin Laird, who won the Texas Open in 2013, remains in contention at the halfway stage in San Antonio. The 34-year-old shot a second-round 67 to leave him five under par, three shots behind the joint leaders, American pair Bud Cauley and Tony Finau. Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell is two under but England's Luke Donald, runner-up in last week's RBC Heritage, missed the cut on four over. First-round leader Branden Grace carded a one-over 73 to drop back into a seven-way tie for 10th, alongside Laird. Poulter, who shot 75 and 71, said he would still play on the PGA Tour through sponsors' invites and add more European Tour events to his schedule. The world number 190 added he thought his struggles had been "slightly over-dramatised". "It means I've got some work to do and I need to go away and do some work," he said. After missing the second half of last season with a foot injury, Poulter started this season needing to earn either 218 Tour points or £271,514 ($348,000) in 10 events to retain his full playing privileges. He has accrued 155 points and prize money of £247,335 ($317,010).
England's Ian Poulter says he will "come back stronger than ever" after losing his PGA Tour card by missing the cut at the Texas Open.
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Now it's been announced that Bryan Cranston is to make his UK stage debut in an adaptation of the 1970s Oscar-winning film Network. The 60-year-old US actor will play Howard Beale, a TV news anchor who announces he will kill himself on air after he's told he's being sacked for declining ratings. In a famous scene, Beale implores his viewers during an on-air meltdown to shout out of the window: "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take this any more!" Adapted by Billy Elliot writer Lee Hall, Network will open on the National Theatre's Lyttelton stage in November. It will be directed by Ivo van Hove, whose Hedda Gabler at the NT is currently a sell-out hit. Announcing its new season on Friday, National Theatre boss Rufus Norris described Network as "one of the greatest media satires of all time". "It's incredibly prescient in terms of the world today," he said. "I think it will stand up in our digital world." The 1976 film, directed by Sidney Lumet, won four of its 10 Oscar nominations. Peter Finch, Faye Dunaway and Beatrice Straight cleaned up in three of the four acting categories while writer Paddy Chayefsky won for original screenplay. Norris said van Hove had been talking about the idea with Cranston for "a couple of years". "He's got a fantastic pedigree as a stage actor," he said. "It's a part that requires something compelling and special." Norris pointed out that Beale's "mad as hell" line was still being quoted at demonstrations - and had appeared on a placard held by singer Charlotte Church at a rally in 2015. Cranston won a Tony award in 2014 for his Broadway debut in Robert Schenkkan's play All the Way. He was Oscar nominated last year for Trumbo. Other announcements made by the National Theatre on Friday included: Follow us on Facebook, on Twitter @BBCNewsEnts, or on Instagram at bbcnewsents. If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news@bbc.co.uk.
He's best known for his role as criminal mastermind Walter White in Breaking Bad.
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The singer hasn't given a reason for his decision yet, but his team have said that it was because of "unforeseen circumstances". Bieber has already performed in more than 150 shows since starting his tour in March 2016, with an average of 40,000 tickets sold for each date. A statement on his website said: "Justin loves his fans and hates to disappoint them. "He is grateful and honoured to have shared that experience with his cast and crew for over 150 successful shows across six continents during this run. "However, after careful consideration he has decided he will not be performing any further dates. Tickets will be refunded at point of purchase."
Justin Bieber has cancelled 14 concerts that he was due to perform in Asia and North America as part of his Purpose World Tour.
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He has launched a consultation to try to find agreement on how universities should be paid for. The consultation has been called the 'Big Conversation'. Speaking in the assembly, Mr Farry said that Northern Ireland was the only part of the UK actively "disinvesting" in higher education. The consultation process will involve a number of events and online presentations in order to seek opinion from students, university staff, unions and the wider public. Just under 40% of funding for Queen's University, Belfast (QUB) and Ulster University comes directly from Stormont's Department for Employment and Learning (DEL). However, the universities faced cuts of more than £16m in funding from DEL in 2015/16, which followed cuts in funding during previous years. Ulster University is shedding about 200 jobs in 2015/16 and 1,200 student places over the next three years, while Queen's University announced in April that it was cutting 236 jobs in 2015/16 and 1,010 student places over the next three years. Ulster University also closed a number of courses and departments including their School of Modern Languages at Coleraine, County Londonderry. The universities also draw about 30% of their annual funding from student tuition fees, which are currently £3,805 per year for students from Northern Ireland. Some students also study for degrees at further education colleges, and that budget was also reduced this year by about £12m. DEL's budget was reduced by £62m earlier this year, and its budget for higher education institutions fell from £203m to £186m, a reduction of 8.2%. Mr Farry said that, given its importance to the local economy and the fact that just under half of young people in Northern Ireland entered higher education, the status quo was no longer an option. During subsequent questions, a number of MLAs including Phil Flanagan of Sinn Féin, Jim Allister of the Tradition Unionist Voice (TUV) and Basil McCrea of NI21, expressed concern about a possible rise in tuition fees. In response, Mr Farry said that he had an "open mind" and that "this is not a conversation about whether we have fees or don't have fees". "All options have to be on the table and fees are only one of many options facing us. This is not a done deal process." The consultation ends on 23 October, and Mr Farry said he wanted to present options to the Northern Ireland Executive in the autumn.
The way that higher education is funded in Northern Ireland is "no longer sustainable", Employment and Learning Minister Stephen Farry has said.
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Ruth Munro's mother, Margaret McPartlin, died in September 1993 aged 73. But a court heard she continued to draw Ms McPartlin's pensions from British Steel Corporation and Diageo. Munro, 67, from Tullibody, Clackmannanshire, admitted defrauding the schemes of £18,577. Alloa Sheriff Court was told that between 1993 and May 2015 - by which time Ms McPartlin would have been 94 - she pretended to the administrators of both pension schemes that her mother was still alive. Sheriff Linda Smith deferred sentence for a criminal justice social work report until 10 November and ordered Munro to reappear then. She said: "I'll continue this for reports to be made available." It is expected that Munro's solicitor, Jay Goodwillie, will outline mitigating circumstances at the November hearing.
A woman has admitted pretending her dead mother was still alive for more than 20 years so she could carry on drawing her pension.
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Resuming on 111-4, Voges moved his overnight score on from 29, occupying 196 deliveries to frustrate Hampshire's attack, led by Kyle Abbott (5-59). As Voges, James Franklin and John Simpson fell to the new ball, it left them on 215-8 and Hampshire in hope of a win, with the lead at just 133. But the Middlesex tail held on and hands were shaken on a draw after tea. Middlesex were the only side to remain unbeaten over the entire 2016 season as they claimed their first title since 1993, but they looked in danger of beginning a new campaign with a loss when they got under way. Without the injured Fidel Edwards, Abbott - who took his total to 16 Division One wickets in two matches - led Hampshire's attack, with Brad Wheal (3-73) also contributing. Voges survived an lbw appeal on 29 before nightwatchman Steven Finn (16) was caught off a Wheal bouncer, but Simpson joined the former Australia Test batsman to stop any Hampshire momentum. However, with the new ball in hand, Abbott gave the hosts a glimmer of hope, having Voges caught behind and Franklin taken in the slips before Gareth Berg snared Simpson (22) for wicket-keeper Lewis McManus' fourth catch. It wasn't to be for Hampshire though as Toby Roland-Jones (25), Ollie Rayner (17 not out) and Tim Murtagh (19 not out) took Middlesex to a lead of 196 and safety at tea. Michael Carberry and Jimmy Adams were brought on to bowl, signalling their intentions to agree on a draw, which brought both sides 10 points and moved Hampshire into second place in Division One behind Surrey. Hampshire captain James Vince told BBC Radio Solent: "The way the guys fought back from Middlesex being 220-2 in their first innings to get into a position where we were really close to being able to chase a gettable score on that wicket is an incredible effort from everyone. "The bowlers, having lost Fidel early in the first innings, were outstanding to put in a shift to get us into that position. "We did exactly what we wanted with the new ball and came within one wicket of probably setting up a 150-run chase in 40-odd overs. So it's huge credit to all the boys." Middlesex head coach Richard Scott told BBC Radio London: "We showed the old resilience of last year when we were up against it. "When the new ball came, a couple of quick wickets fell, but Ollie Rayner, Toby Roland-Jones and Tim Murtagh were magnificent. "We put ourselves under the pump this game. We dropped some crucial chances - if we'd have taken those chances we'd at least of had parity after the first innings. But that wasn't to be and I thought they played very well."
Adam Voges scored 92 as Middlesex's lower order kept Hampshire's bowlers at bay to earn a draw for the champions.
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Typhoon Nida hit Hong Kong on Tuesday with high winds and torrential rain, forcing schools, businesses and transport services to shut. But the storm was reported to be weakening as it moved to the mainland. Guangzhou in Guangdong province issued a red alert, its highest weather warning, and people have been advised to stockpile food and essentials. The southern cities of Zhuhai and Shanwei are also on red alert, with transport, industry and public services largely grinding to a halt. Nida, which earlier passed over the Philippines, is set to be the strongest typhoon in the region since 1983, one official told Chinese state media, warning it could bring severe flooding. In Hong Kong, thousands of workers were evacuated from an offshore oil platform and from a series of tunnels and bridges being built to link the territory with two other cities. Hundreds of people took refuge in government shelters in the city, amid torrential rain and gusts of over 150km/h (93mph). Although Hong Kong officials ended their rainstorm alert at midday on Tuesday, they warned residents there was still a risk of flooding in low-lying areas. Southern China is hit by heavy rains every monsoon season, but this year has been particularly bad. In July, Typhoon Nepartak killed dozens of people in Fujian province and forced hundreds of thousands of Chinese people from their homes. It also caused deaths and damage in Taiwan.
Large areas of southern China are on emergency alert as a powerful typhoon batters the region.
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Media playback is unsupported on your device 10 January 2015 Last updated at 07:53 GMT A farm in Dorset have got a trusty group of 25 goats that love to eat them. The goats eat all of the greenery and leave just the bare branches. The extra food is good for the animals and helps to keep them full up over the winter months. Watch Hayley's report to find out more...
Goats are being used as a handy new way to recycle unwanted Christmas trees.
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The unidentified woman was helped to safety after running into waters in Ellel earlier, the fire service said. Fourteen flood warnings have been issued, including in Croston, which was hit by a severe deluge last year. Some rail services between Preston and Lancaster have also been cancelled after heavy flooding on the track. Read breaking news updates on BBC Lancashire Live Elsewhere, Burrow Beck in Lancaster has burst its bank, and there are two flood warnings for the River Condor at Galgate amid prolonged periods of heavy rain. No properties have been affected, although water is being pumped from culverts in some areas. Dave Wilkinson, who lives in Galgate, said: "If the river levels keep up like this it's obviously going to come over in the next 24 hours I would say. "This is just one night's rain. We've been here for six years now and it's never gone up as quickly as this before." The Environment Agency's flood warnings mean flooding is "expected", with "immediate action required". Police are advising people to avoid travelling where possible, to turn off electricity in their homes and avoid walking through floodwater. Drivers have also been urged to exercise caution.
A pregnant woman was rescued from her car by a farmer after becoming trapped amid widespread flood warnings across Lancashire.
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The 55-year-old tweeted from the hospital in Tooting to thank the professionals who "saved his life". Moore won 64 England caps between 1987 and 1995, played for the British and Irish Lions, and trained as a solicitor while pursuing his rugby career. The former England hooker now works in the media.
Former England rugby international Brian Moore is recovering in intensive care at St George's hospital in London after suffering a heart attack.
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The A9 drops from 150m (492ft) to 20m (65ft) as it enters a valley at the Berriedale Braes. Transport Scotland will run an exhibition at Berriedale Parish Church in Berriedale on 26 November outlining the proposed work. The plans will also be made available on the agency's website. The draft road orders for the work involved will be published on Friday. Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "The hairpin bend and steep hill at Berriedale Braes has presented drivers with a very challenging road to negotiate - and is why we are working hard towards delivering improvements right along the A9, including at the Braes." In August, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) called for work to tackle the bend to be accelerated. The Berriedale Braes were the scene of a lorry fire on 5 August which blocked the road for five hours. A 77-mile (124 km) detour was unsuitable for HGVs. The SCC said accidents were a "frequent occurrence" and adversely affected businesses in the far north and Orkney. Transport Scotland said a solution to the hairpin was being progressed.
Transport Scotland will present a draft outline of the proposed improvements to a challenging hairpin bend on the A9 in Caithness next week.
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They scored 428.91 to come second behind Chen Aisen and Lin Yue of China. Daley, 21, and Goodfellow, 19, improved on their effort in the first round of the series in Beijing, where they picked up bronze. Tonia Couch and Lois Toulson took bronze in the women's event, while Chris Mears and Jack Laugher won 3m synchro bronze for Britain. Coach and Toulson's bronze followed a silver won in Beijing, but Mears and Laugher's success was their first medal of 2016. The third round of the series takes place in Windsor, Canada from 15-17 March before the final leg in Kazan, Russia a week later.
British pair Tom Daley and Dan Goodfellow won 10m syncro silver in the Dubai leg of the Diving World Series.
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Daniel James' late penalty gave Wales a first win in the competition after an opening draw against hosts France. Page's side face Ivory Coast in their final Group B game on Monday. "It's always a good sign when you win games of football and you haven't been at your best," said former Wales defender Page. "We probably played better against France and didn't win. "If someone would have said before the tournament that we'd be two games in and with four points going into the third game I'd snap their hand off. "It's our first time in this tournament and we've been up against excellent opposition against France and a different challenge against Bahrain." Wales are second after their win over Bahrain with next opponents Ivory Coast top of Group B after they beat France.
Intermediate teams manager Rob Page says Wales Under-20s were under par despite a 1-0 win over Bahrain in the Toulon Tournament.
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The approval of the austerity measure is an important victory for President Michel Temer. He took office earlier this year promising to lead the country out of its worst recession in many decades. Protests against the measure turned violent in the capital Brasilia and at least a dozen states in the country. The opposition says the measures will mainly hit areas such as health and education, which are already underfunded. Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets during the Senate session to protest against the austerity plan. After the vote, many demonstrations descended into violence. In Brasilia, masked protesters set fire to a bus and marched on the local offices of Globo TV, which they say is biased towards Mr Temer's government. But the marchers were blocked by riot police. In Sao Paulo, the headquarters of the state's conservative Industrial Federation (Fiesp) was attacked. To pass the constitutional amendment, the government needed the votes of 49 senators - three-fifths of the Senate. The measure was approved by a narrower margin than the government expected, passing by 53 to 19 votes. "We have won. That was the main thing: to deliver the product in the middle of a storm," said government leader in the Senate Romero Juca. The project, known in Brazil as PEC 55, freezes expenditure in the executive, judiciary and legislative branches of power, allowing them to grow only by the rate of inflation n the previous year. The government argues it is necessary to boost growth and investments, and contain the country's growing public deficit. But critics say the poorest in society will be harmed and that setting a spending cap for two decades in advance is unrealistic, says the BBC's Julia Carneiro in Rio de Janeiro. The measure takes effect on Thursday.
The Brazilian Senate has approved a controversial amendment to the constitution capping public spending for the next 20 years.
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The initiative returns from 19-25 June ahead of a busy summer of elite sport which includes the cricket and rugby World Cups in the UK and Ireland. The European Football Championship starts in July in the Netherlands. The campaign will encourage the public to watch, listen, volunteer and take part in sporting activities. Crouch added: "We want more women and girls to get involved in sport and enjoy the huge benefits that being active brings to their lives." Shelley Alexander, editorial lead for women's sport for BBC Sport, said: "We'll devote even more resources to showcasing the best of women's sport across television, radio and online this year. "We'll also examine the pertinent issues across women's sport, with our original journalism interrogating the state of play of women and girls' sport from the grassroots to the elite."
Women's Sport Week will be "a fantastic campaign" and "encourage more women to try a new sport", says minister for sport Tracey Crouch.
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The valuation caps a strong month for the virtual currency, with its value growing by more than 65% in a month. The steady rise in value is believed to be linked to policy changes in Japan and China that have made it easier for speculators to trade in bitcoins. Many other virtual currencies have also enjoyed a sustained rise in value over the last few weeks. Bitcoin first broke the $1,000 (£768) barrier in November 2013 but its value has fluctuated wildly since then. For instance, in early 2014 one bitcoin was worth only $280 (£215). And at the end of 2016, each one was changing hands for about $900 (£690). Bitcoin emerged in 2008 and is a digital currency based around cryptography. Individual coins can be split into smaller denominations and many people involved with the currency use computers to verify the globally-held log, known as the blockchain, of who spent what where. Verifying transactions involves solving a complicated mathematical problem and the first person to do so gets rewarded with bitcoins. Rising interest in bitcoin has sparked the creation of many other crypto-currencies. These have proved popular as the technology underlying bitcoin has struggled to cope with its popularity and growth. One estimate suggests bitcoins now make up only 47% of all traded crypto-currencies. Rivals such as Ethereum and Ripple have been gaining value far faster than bitcoin over the last few months. The surging valuations has led some commentators to suggest that an unsustainable crypto-currency bubble is developing. "The question is not if but when the market will turn," said an editorial in The Economist.
The value of Bitcoin has hit a new high with each individual coin now worth more than $2,100 (£1,615).
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She officially opened the games, which is marking its 150th anniversary. And she was photographed pouring whisky from a quaich to anoint the new Aboyne Games caber, and meeting competitors. The monarch is thought to be in residence at nearby Balmoral, the Royal Family's Scottish holiday home.
The Queen has made a surprise visit to the Aboyne Highland Games in Aberdeenshire.
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24 June 2015 Last updated at 14:21 BST But this is a hoverbike - one of the world's first flying motorcycles, that travels in the air at low levels. It's makers Malloy Aeronautics say it's based on drone technology and has been developed over many years. It can be flown by a driver or remotely. The first version was made in 2011 using a 1200cc BMW motorbike engine. The latest prototype is powered by four bladed fans. It's still not clear when the first ones will be ready to buy but there's a lot of interest, including from the US Military. Watch the hoverbike in action.
It's billed as having the simplicity of a motorbike and the freedom of a helicopter.
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The 24-year-old full-back has signed a two-year deal, having turned down the offer of a new deal with the Pilgrims. "The last couple of years at Boston I've always wanted to make the step up," said Mills. "I'll be jumping two steps, but I'm sure I will pick it up quite quickly." Mills' arrival follows the signing of fellow full-back Danny Andrew from League One side Fleetwood Town.
Promoted Grimsby Town have made their second signing since returning to the Football League by bringing in defender Zak Mills from National League North neighbours Boston United.
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The "Co-bikes" are currently available from five sites in Exeter, including the central train station, the university and Sowton Park and Ride. It's hoped that by spring 2017 there will be eight hubs around the city. The initiative has been launched with support from Department of Transport, while Devon County Council has helped to fund the scheme. Mark Hodgson, Managing Director of Co-bikes, said: "After years of planning, we're very excited to be launching Co-bikes in Exeter. "The Co-bikes electric bikes are changing the way that people travel around the city and are affordable and easy as well as being great fun to ride", he added. For people who choose to become members, the service will cost 75p for 30 minutes, while non-members will pay double. The bikes have small electric motors which can travel distances of between 40 and 60 miles, and allow speeds of up to 15mph.
The UK's first city-wide electric bike scheme has been launched in Exeter.
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Jones, 39, and Cardiff Blues pair Danny Wilson and Matt Sheratt have been added to Wales' staff for the Pacific Islands tour in June 2017. Wales head coach and assistant Rob Howley are away with the British and Irish Lions next summer. "Stephen will obviously get a lot out of it but I think there'll be more going the other way," said Pivac. Jones played well over 200 matches for Llanelli and Scarlets and returned to west Wales as a backs coach in 2015 after a spell as part of Dai Young's coaching team at Wasps. Pivac believes he has a future at international level. "He's been identified as a coach with a lot of potential and someone I believe will be a fine international coach going forward. He's going to be world class," said the New Zealander. "Wales are talking about playing an attacking game so I think Stephen will be able to add something there. He's taken a lot of his qualities he showed as a player into his coaching." Jones scored 917 points in 104 appearances for Wales and played fly-half in six Test matches for the British and Irish Lions. He is now sharing his expertise with Scarlets stand-off Rhys Patchell, a combination Pivac says is key to the team's success. "The relationship between the two is blossoming and that's great for Welsh rugby going forward," he added. "Technically Stephen is very very sound, tactically very switched on. We're in a pretty good place as a result of the hard work he's been doing."
Scarlets coach Wayne Pivac says Wales will gain when Stephen Jones joins their coaching team next summer.
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Owen Lane's two tries set Wales on their way with Reuben Morgan-Williams and Phil Jones also crossing for the hosts. Robbie Smith, Blair Kinghorn and Ben Appleson were Scotland's try scorers. Wales begin their World Rugby Junior Championship campaign in Georgia against Australia on 31 May, They will also face England and Samoa in Pool A, while Scotland are in Pool B with Ireland, New Zealand and Italy.
Wales Under-20s warmed up for the 2017 World Rugby Junior Championship with a 29-22 victory over Scotland at Bridgend's Brewery Field.
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Lawrence, who competed for Wales at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, finished her swim, bike and run in a total time of four hours, nine minutes and 11 seconds on the Sunshine Coast. The 26-year-old was nearly two minutes ahead of Australian two-time winner Melissa Hauschildt. Fellow Welsh competitor Leanda Cave won the same title in 2012.
Swansea triathlete Holly Lawrence has won the women's half ironman 70.3 World Championship in Australia.
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The Premier League team, who are on a two-game post-season tour of the United States and Canada, are scheduled to play Houston on Friday. Several people have died and dozens have been injured following record rainfall over the weekend. On Monday, hundreds of basketball fans were trapped inside an arena after an NBA basketball game. Supporters were advised to stay in their seats overnight following Houston Rockets' win against Golden State Warriors in the NBA Western Conference Finals. Many spent almost 11 hours at the Toyota Center, until the early hours of Tuesday morning. Manchester City are currently in Canada, ahead of their match against Toronto FC on Thursday.
Manchester City's friendly trip to face Major League Soccer side Houston Dynamo is in doubt after flooding in the city.
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The 22-year-old, who scored 20 goals last season, has started in both of the Baggies' league games this season. "We have no interest in selling Saido which is what I have told Spurs chairman Daniel Levy," said Albion chairman Jeremy Peace. "I know we are living in an age where no club can say 'never' about the possibility of selling a player." He added: "However, the prospect of selling Saido is simply not on our agenda. "We are going forward with Saido very much in our plans and still striving to add players to improve the balance of our squad." The Daily Telegraph reports the offer from Spurs is worth £15m, with Albion valuing Berahino at £25m. In February, Baggies boss Tony Pulis said he put Berahino "on the naughty step" after the forward said that "he hoped to move on to bigger things". Berahino, with 14 strikes, was the third top English scorer in the Premier League last season behind Spurs' Harry Kane and QPR striker Charlie Austin.
West Brom have rejected an offer from Tottenham for England Under-21 striker Saido Berahino.
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A report for ministers called for Literature Wales to have much of its funding and responsibilities removed. Literature Wales then described the review as a "dud", filled with "inaccuracies", which its funder, the Arts Council of Wales, also criticised. Mr Skates said he had been surprised to see "personal statements" that could undermine his response to the report. The review by Prof Medwin Hughes found the board of Literature Wales was "lacking the skills and experience" to spend public money. It said there was no evidence of strong governance at Literature Wales and its mission and goals were "unrealistic and vague". In response, Mr Skates announced that several responsibilities would transfer from Literature Wales to the Welsh Books Council. They include the Wales Book of the Year award, bursaries for writers and literary events. Mr Skates has now written to the Arts Council of Wales and Literature Wales to tell them he notes the "concern" they have with elements of the report. He has asked Prof Hughes and his panel to consider their criticism of the report and to respond during the summer break. In the letter, Mr Skates assured the organisations that their "concerns are being looked at" but criticised their public responses. "Some of you clearly perceive serious issues with the report," he wrote. "You have raised these with me and have agreed with me that the review panel should consider your concerns and respond to them. "I have therefore been surprised in recent days to see personal statements appear online which could be seen as seeking to undermine the process we have all committed to, without awaiting the panel's response. "This is not helpful." In the letter, Mr Skates adds: "I hope and expect that we will move forward in a way that allows this work to be completed in good faith and in doing so maintain productive and positive working relationships, both now and in the future."
The way arts bodies responded publicly to a critical review was "not helpful", Economy Secretary Ken Skates has said.
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