Body Image: Four-Year-Olds 'Feeling Pressure'

Children as young as four are refusing to eat certain food for fear of being fat, a survey of teachers has found.

Pressure to live up to unrealistic body images leaves many youngsters with anxiety issues, low self-esteem and eating disorders, according to the poll by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL). 

An early years teacher in England told researches: "I work with 4-5 year-olds and some say things like 'I can't eat cheese, it will make me fat'."

And a teacher at a primary school said: "I am very worried to hear little girls as young as 10 talking about being skinny and dieting."

The survey, which questioned almost 700 primary and secondary teachers in February and March, also indicated that boys are under almost as much pressure as girls to have the "perfect" body.

It found 84% believe that there is pressure on girls to have or maintain a certain body image, with two thirds (66%) saying boys are facing the same issue.

And this pressure is increasing - almost two thirds (63%) of those surveyed said there is more pressure on young people to have a certain body image now than 10 years ago.

The school staff also expressed concerns that pupils who worry about their body image were trying to control their weight and appearance.

Young girls are using sunbeds or spray tans

More than half (54%) of the teachers surveyed said that they knew of girls who had dieted due to concerns about their body image, with just under a third (30%) saying they knew of boys who had started excessive exercise regimes.

In addition, over a fifth (22%) said boys were using protein shakes and supplements to improve their physique.

Almost half (48%) suggested that girls had developed eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia due to pressure to live up to a certain body image.

A head of department at a secondary school in England said: "I've heard girls aged 15 say, without a hint of irony, 'I'm dieting but I need to keep my boobs so boys will like me."'

Almost half (46%) also said that girls are wearing clothes to disguise their body shape, while over half (51%) suggested that girls are choosing outfits that "flaunt" their bodies, and 29% claimed that girls are using sunbeds or spray tans.

ATL general secretary Dr Mary Bousted said: "Young people are under tremendous pressure to have or maintain often unrealistic body images portrayed in the media.

"ATL members report that this not only impacts on female pupils but increasingly leads to low self-esteem, lack of confidence and anxiety in male pupils too.

"With academic and other social pressures young people already have enough to deal with."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Queen Volunteered For Bond Olympics Sketch

Danny Boyle, the mastermind behind London's Olympic opening ceremony, has revealed he did not actually ask the Queen to appear in his James Bond sketch - she volunteered.

TV viewers around the world were surprised to see the Queen appearing alongside Daniel Craig in the spoof sequence prior to her arrival in the Olympic Stadium last summer.

Boyle told ITV's Jonathan Ross Show he had originally envisaged a lookalike taking part in the skit.

Boyle is an Oscar-winning director

The creative director of the London 2012 opening ceremony explained: "It was part of the protocol - you have to bring in the Head of State and sing the National Anthem - and we thought we'd (do) something different, so we wrote up this idea of the James Bond idea.

"And we sent it in to them, and we were asking really for permission for them to accept that it wouldn't embarrass them and we'd get a double, a good double, and we were thinking Helen Mirren.

The Queen at the opening ceremony last year

"They came back and said 'we're delighted for you to do it, and Her Majesty would like to be in it herself' - and the surreal thing, 'she would like to play herself'."

The Oscar-winning director went on: "She said 'what do you want me to do?', and I told her and she said 'fine'.

"So we got in and we started doing it and then she said 'don't you think I should say something?' and I said 'yes, OK, what do you suggest?'.

"She said 'I'll do something' and we started shooting and she turned round and she said her lines beautifully."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Experts Defuse Bomb Found In Northern Ireland

A bomb discovered and defused in a car in Northern Ireland was destined for a police station, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has confirmed.

The device was found in County Fermanagh, not far from the luxury Lough Erne golf resort where this June's G8 conference of world leaders will be held.

Sky's David Blevins said the device consisted of explosives packed into a beer keg rigged with timing devices.

PSNI district commander Pauline Shields said: "The people responsible for this have no regard for the lives of anyone in our community.

"It is fortunate that no-one was killed or seriously injured as a result of this reckless act.

"Although investigations are at an early stage it is our assessment at present that this vehicle was destined for Lisnaskea PSNI station."

Residents were told to leave their homes and Army technical officers carried out a clearance operation on the suspicious car and a viable device was made safe.

Ms Shields added: "Once again our community has been disrupted and the lives of residents put at risk by an element intent on causing  loss of life and disruption.

A week ago the Police Service of Northern Ireland discovered a mortar-type device aimed towards New Barnsley police station in north Belfast.

Also last week, three officers escaped injury when an explosive device detonated close to them as they patrolled a coastal path on the outskirts of Belfast.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Weather: Snow Disrupts Travel And Cuts Power

Heavy snowfall has brought disruption to many parts of the UK, with roads closed, flights delayed, rail services cancelled and sports events called off.

Power lines were brought down, leaving tens of thousands of homes in Northern Ireland without electricity, while 6,000 properties in Scotland and hundreds more in areas of northern England also had no power.

The snowy conditions extended south, hitting areas around London and Kent, where forecasters said there could be 2cm-5cm of the white stuff on higher ground.

The Met Office issued a yellow warning for the public to be aware of adverse weather conditions as a slow-moving band of rain, sleet and snow made its way across many central and northern parts, and the south and east.

There may be 5-10cm of snow at lower levels and further significant snow accumulations were likely on hills, with continued drifting and blizzard conditions in strong southeasterly winds. 

There is apparently 18 inches of snow near Wrexham (Pic: Alison Brooks)

One of the worst affected areas seemed to be North Wales, where reader Alison Brooks said there was more than 18 inches (45cm) of snow outside the town of Wrexham.

Airports were forced to shut their runways, and road closures hit motorists.  The AA has warned drivers that even short journeys may be difficult.

More snow is expected tonight but it set to slowly die out on Sunday and forecasters say most places will have a cold, dry day with cold easterly winds.

About 70 people stranded in their cars in Cumbria overnight were put up in a local high school.

Bay Search and Rescue in Cumbria were deployed to help people in the snow

In Northern Ireland, 6ft snow drifts left emergency crews struggling to get through but electricity returned to 5,000 homes overnight.

However, about 35,000 customers were still cut off and teams were out again from first light to continue with network repairs, Northern Ireland Electricity said.

In Scotland, ScottishPower estimated there were some 6,000 homes were still off supply in the south-west area.

Electricity North West was trying to restore power to parts of Cumbria, with 350 customers still without electricity, as engineers were unable to reach them due to road closures.

Leeds Bradford Airport said flights were not currently operating due to the adverse weather conditions. There was also disruption at East Midlands Airport.

Among the problems reported on the railways was disruption on First Transpennine Express services between Huddersfield and Manchester, and no Northern Rail services between Skipton and Carlisle.

The bad weather also hit the sporting programme, with racing at Doncaster and Newbury called off and some football league games in England and Scotland postponed.

A motorist drives past another car stuck in a snow drift near Belfast

Northern Ireland's World Cup qualifier against Russia fell foul of the weather for the second time in 24 hours, with hostile conditions rendering Windsor Park unplayable.

The Group F clash was initially due to take place on Friday night but heavy snow and plummeting temperatures in Belfast saw the fixture postponed after three inspections by Norwegian referee Tom Hagen and the FIFA delegation.

The South West, which was hit by heavy rain and floods on Friday, was expected to have a relatively dry day, with only one flood warning, meaning flooding was expected, in place.

Dozens of flood alerts, where flooding was possible, remained for that region as well as the South East, the Midlands and Anglia.

Sky weather presenter Isobel Lang said: "Southeast England, East Anglia, the Midlands, north Wales, northern England, Northern Ireland and much of Scotland can expect snow today.

"High ground will be worst affected with some heavy snow at times with drifting in the strong winds and also blizzards.

"Low levels could see 5-10cm, two to four inches, of snowfall today although amounts will probably be lower across London."

She added: "Southwest England, south Wales and southern Ireland looks largely dry and relatively mild with some brighter spells.

A snow plough is pictured toppled over in the bad weather

"A few showers may nudge into the extreme southwest later. Tonight will stay dry with a frost forming in places."

The rain was a particular problem on Friday in Cornwall, where a landslide, thought to have been triggered by torrential rain, smashed through a block of flats, partially collapsing the building.

Emergency crews found a woman's body after picking through debris at the Veronica flats in Looe on Friday night. The body is believed to be that of Susan Norman, who was in her 60s and had been unaccounted for, according to the police.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Jobs Saved As Blockbuster Bought

The troubled DVD and games rental chain Blockbuster has been bought, saving 2,000 jobs and 264 UK stores.

More follows...

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Child Smokers: Thousands More Take Up Habit

The number of children who have taken up smoking has risen by 50,000 in just one year - the equivalent of 567 a day.

About 207,000 children aged 11 to 15 started to smoke in 2011, a sharp rise from 157,000 in 2010, Cancer Research UK said.

Almost one in three (27%) of under-16s have tried smoking at least once, a study by the charity found.

It urged the Government to commit to having all cigarettes put in plain standardised packs.

Sarah Woolnough, executive director of policy and information at Cancer Research UK, said: "With such a large number of youngsters starting to smoke every year, urgent action is needed to tackle the devastation caused by tobacco.

"Replacing slick, brightly-coloured packs that appeal to children with standard packs displaying prominent health warnings is a vital part of efforts to protect health.

"Reducing the appeal of cigarettes with plain, standardised packs will give millions of children one less reason to start smoking."

Last April, the Government launched a consultation on plans to introduce mandatory standardised packaging for tobacco products.

Health campaigners have welcomed the proposal, although opponents claim it would lead to increased smuggling and job losses.

Information generated by the consultation, which closed in August, is still being analysed by health officials.

In December, Australia became the first country in the world to put all tobacco products in standardised packs.

Cigarette packets and other products are all sold in a standardised colour, with only the brand name and graphic warnings visible.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Olympic Stadium: West Ham Handed The Keys

West Ham have been handed the keys for the Olympic Stadium after a deal for the London 2012 venue was finally agreed.

The announcement ends a seven-year battle for the showpiece venue in Stratford between rival football clubs that often saw the process bogged down by legal challenges.

West Ham were named preferred bidders ahead of Tottenham Hotspur and Leyton Orient, but negotiations with the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC) have been lengthy and complicated.

However, the LLDC announced this morning that a deal has now been signed off that sees the Barclays Premier League club become anchor tenants, paying £2m a year on a 99-year lease.

As expected, it was confirmed that the LLDC will receive a windfall payment should West Ham's owners sell on the back of the move within 10 years.

The stadium during London 2012

It is thought the deal was agreed after the Government agreed to put in an extra £25m towards the cost of converting the venue for football, taking the Treasury's overall contribution to £60m.

West Ham are also understood to have upped their funding of the project from an initial offer of £5m to around £15m.

The rest of the cost of adapting the stadium - estimated at between £150m and £190m - will come from sources including the Mayor of London's budget, a £40m loan from Newham Council and a £20m loan from the LLDC.

As well as the £2m rent and a possible share of any future sale of West Ham, the taxpayer stands to claw back money from a share of naming rights and catering and hospitality revenue.

Boris Johnson says the deal 'defies the gloomsters'

Plans for the revamped stadium were also unveiled, with the facelift due to be completed in time for the 2016-17 football season.

It will be transformed into a 54,000-seater venue with a new roof, corporate areas, toilets, concessions and retractable seating. As well as football the stadium will also be used stage athletics, live concerts and other events.

London Mayor Boris Johnson told reporters: "This is a truly momentous milestone for London's spectacular Olympic Stadium, ensuring its credible and sustainable future.

"Through this deal with West Ham United FC, we are defying the gloomsters who predicted this landmark would become a dusty relic."

Karen Brady: 'We'll pay our way'

West Ham vice chairman Karren Brady insisted that the club intends to "pay its way."

She told reporters: "We want to pay our way, we accept that we have to pay our way and myself and the two owners of West Ham have been very clear on that.

"We will put in a lump sum, we will pay a rent that will cover most of the running costs and then of course we're sharing naming rights and other revenues.

"We accept that the cost of making it that world class stadium is coming from the Government but we hope that over 99 years we pay back not only that but an awful lot more than that."

David Sullivan and David Gold said the decision was 'fantastic'

West Ham's owners David Sullivan and David Gold said the decision gives the club a platform "to compete on the pitch at the highest level".

But former sports minister Richard Caborn branded the deal "the biggest mistake of the London Olympics".

Mr Caborn said that he welcomed the fact that the future of the stadium was now settled but insisted there has been unnecessary cost to the public purse.

He said: "This is the biggest mistake of the Olympics and lessons should be learned from this. West Ham are basically getting a stadium costing more than £600m for just £15m and a small amount in annual rent.

"The mistake was made in 2006-7 when they [the Olympic Board] ruled football out of a retro-fit design as we has done successfully in Manchester with the Commonwealth Games stadium."

An application by Leyton Orient for a judicial review of the decision to award West Ham preferred bidder status is still outstanding, but it is not expected that it will affect the outcome.

Orient owner Barry Hearn said the LLDC had made "a massive, massive mistake".

He said: "What does the world legacy really mean? I hear the word from politicians all the time and I don't think they can even spell the word.

"It is just a game. Well we are not in a game, we are in a fight for survival and we have to do everything available to us to continue the fight."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Military Honours: Heroes Rewarded For Bravery

A medic who treated a British soldier on the battlefield while under fire from the Taliban is among 118 heroes to get a military bravery award.

Lance Corporal Abbie Martin, 20, said she was "petrified" as she treated the injured comrade in Afghanistan with bullets flying overhead - but "my training kicked in".

Last weekend it was revealed that Lance-Corporal James Ashworth became the first recipient of the Victoria Cross since 2006 after being awarded it posthumously.

Captain Michael Dobbin, 28, from the Grenadier Guards, who was on the same patrol as L Cpl Ashworth when he died, is to receive the Military Cross.

He personally led a 200m charge at insurgents in Nahr-e-Saraj last summer.

Captain Michael Dobbin led a 200m charge at insurgents

L/Cpl Martin, 20, told Sky News how she was on her first tour of duty and leapt into action when she heard there was a "man down" on the battlefiield.

"At first I was hiding and then everyone was giving me fire support so I could get to the guy and treat him," she said.

"I was just thinking about the casualty - all the things I could do for him - my training just kicked in - as well as not getting shot."

She added: "It was the most petrifying experience of my life but I knew I had that job and I had to do it."

Several days later, despite a struggle to come to terms with the horror of her first patrol, she treated multiple casualties after a grenade blast, saving all the injured.

L/Cpl Martin receives the Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service, which recognises meritorious service during, or in support of, operations.

The list also includes Lance Corporal Lawrence Kayser, who is awarded the Military Cross.

Lance Corporal Lawrence Kayser fought with shrapnel in his arm

He saved colleagues from a "potentially disastrous situation" in Helmand in June 2012 when his platoon came upon the enemy while preparing an ambush.

When L/Cpl Kayser, from Woodton, Norfolk, and his platoon suddenly came under fire, the 27-year-old leapt from a ditch and charged Taliban fighters.

He shot one enemy in his path before being hit by shrapnel from a grenade, which wounded his arm, but fought on, driving insurgents out of the compound.

Describing the moment he came face-to-face with the insurgent he said: "It was a surprise for both of us.

"Neither of us thought the other was there. I just had the feeling I wanted all the angles covered. He had an AK47.

"We both raised our rifles at the same time but I fired from the hip.

"Luckily he missed but I clipped him in the abdomen. He dived back as I dived to the side."

Sergeant Roy Geddes 'breathed fire into the spirit of his men'

He added: "I have done a few tours before and have learned a bit about enemy tactics so I didn't want him to get between the lads and cause a nuisance. I decided to move through a nearby doorway and cut him off."

L/cpl Kayser, who is based in Bulford, Wiltshire, pursued him before a grenade was hurled into the alleyway, landing just metres from his feet.

He was struck on the arm with shrapnel from the blast.

Despite a "bee sting" sensation in his arm he pressed forward and the enemy fled, allowing him to clear the rest of the compound.

It was only when he returned to his base five hours later that he discovered the extent of his shrapnel wounds.

The soldier, who has had three tours of Afghanistan and two tours of Iraq, was treated and returned to his patrol base, admitting: "You're always scared but for me it was instinct, I've been in fights with the enemy before."

Also honoured are Sergeant Roy Geddes, 43, from the RAF Regiment, and Corporal Kurt Lee, also from the RAF.

The pair battled insurgents when they attacked Camp Bastion in September last year, where Prince Harry was serving his tour of duty as an Apache gunner.

Sgt Geddes, from Elgin, Monmouthshire, receives the Military Cross after it is said he "breathed fire into the spirit of his men" when Camp Bastion was attacked.

He fought on despite being wounded in the knee after one of his vehicles was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade.

Sgt Geddes is only the second member of the RAF to receive the MC for action in Afghanistan.

He is recognised alongside Cpl Lee, 28, from Bury, Lancashire, who is Mentioned In Despatches for his own role in the battle.

Praising the recipients of the honours, Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said: "In a changing world the bravery and commitment to duty of our servicemen and women remains unswerving.

"Whether fighting for our security on operations abroad or rescuing mountaineers and sailors within the British Isles, they deserve our gratitude and respect.

"I hope that the awards announced today go some way to underlining how much this country values the efforts and sacrifices of our Armed Forces."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Woman And Child Killed By Train At Station

A woman and a young child have died after they were struck by a train in the morning rush hour.

British Transport Police were called to the incident at Riddlesdown rail station near Purley, south London, at around 8.20am.

Ambulance teams and Met Police officers also attended and the woman and child - believed to be a toddler - were declared dead at the scene.

The station was temporarily closed while the emergency services dealt with the incident and the police investigation was carrying on.

Riddlesdown railway station (pic: Sunil Prasannan)

Electrical power to the line between Woldingham and South Croydon was turned off and it was anticipated the line would not open until at least 4pm today.

There was considerable disruption to services run by the Southern train company in the area, with buses running between some stations and extended journey times.

Later, British Transport Police senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Simon Taylor said: "Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the woman and child involved in this tragic incident.

"Officers are continuing to work to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident, although early indications show that no-one else was believed to have been involved."

The line between Uckfield/East Grinstead and South Croydon reopened early this afternoon but delays are expected until around 4pm.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bus Stabbing Girl: Funeral Of Christina Edkins

The family of a 16-year-old girl stabbed to death on a bus say they have been "overwhelmed" by the support of well-wishers.

Christina Edkins' funeral has been held at Birmingham Cathedral.

Speaking on behalf of Ms Edkins' family before the service, her cousin Stephen Newby said: "Today we will say goodbye to Christina.

Christina's parents said she was "bubbly, beautiful and intelligent"

"We are devastated that she should have been taken away so senselessly and continue to try to come to terms with what has happened.

"We have been overwhelmed and comforted by the spontaneous reactions of so many people. While many of them never knew Christina, all have been touched in some way by this tragic event and share in our grief."

Ms Edkins died of a single stab wound to her chest on March 7 during morning rush hour after she was attacked on the top deck of a bus in Edgbaston.

The driver raised the alarm and attempts were made to resuscitate the schoolgirl, but she died at the scene.

The funeral of a teenager stabbed to death on a bus on her way to school is taking place at St Phillips Catherdral in Birmingham.

Mourners have gathered for the service at St Phillips Cathedral where a candlelit vigil was held in her memory on Thursday night.

The coffin carrying Ms Edkins is carried into St Phillips Cathedral

In a statement the Very Reverend Catherine Ogle, Dean of Birmingham, said:

"It is a sad privilege for Birmingham Cathedral to conduct the funeral for Christina, and we extend heart-felt sympathy and prayers to her family and friends," she said.

"This death is very hard to bear and we ask all those who mourn the loss of this lovely and bright young woman to join us in prayer on Friday.

A message from Christina's parents

"Birmingham Cathedral stands in the centre of the city as a symbol of the triumph of peace, hope and love and these are the values that really matter at times like these."

Following her death, Christina's parents Jason and Kathleen described her as a "bubbly, beautiful and intelligent" teenager.

Mr and Mrs Edkins said in a statement: "We are heartbroken by the loss of our beautiful princess, Christina, and it's hard to find words to describe the pain we're all feeling.

"Her family and friends will remember her as an amazing individual with her whole life ahead of her - a life that was tragically cut short on that Thursday morning.

"Our lives will never be the same again."

Christina was stabbed on a bus on Hagley Road, Birmingham

The grieving parents added: "We are truly overwhelmed by the kindness that's been shown by friends and neighbours, people who knew Christina well and also those who never got the chance to meet her."

Christina lived near the Birmingham city centre but was a pupil at Leasowes High School in Halesowen.

Her parents said she was "just like most 16-year-olds" and had been studying hard for forthcoming exams while looking forward to her school prom.

The statement continued: "We'd bought Christina's prom dress the week before and recall the day she tried it on ... she looked like a princess.

Christina was attacked on the top deck of the bus

"Christina was studying extremely hard for her exams and weighing up which college to attend.

"In many ways she was like most 16-year-olds - worried about her appearance, what fake tan to wear, how her hair and nails looked and about 'hot boys', as Christina would call them!

"We would like to thank everyone for their kind words, flowers, teddies, balloons and candles ... the support has been fantastic and shows what good, kind people there are in this world.

"We'd like to thank West Bromwich Albion for their half-time tribute at the weekend and to the fans for their heartfelt applause, which was very emotional."

Phillip Simelane, 22, from Walsall, has been charged with her murder.

He has been remanded in custody in a secure mental health unit and is due to appear in court for a plea hearing on May 31.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Coronation Street's Michael Le Vell In Court

Coronation Street actor Michael Le Vell will stand trial in September charged with 19 child sex offences.

The star, who plays car mechanic Kevin Webster in the ITV soap, made his first appearance at Manchester Crown Court today under his real name of Michael Turner.

The 48-year-old is charged with six counts of raping a child, six allegations of indecently assaulting a child and seven counts of sexual activity with a child.

The alleged offences relate to one complainant and all took place between 2001 and 2010.

During the preliminary hearing, which lasted about 10 minutes, Le Vell, wearing a dark pinstripe suit, white shirt and black tie, spoke only to confirm his name.

Six members of his family sat in the public gallery of the packed courtroom.

Le Vell arriving for the hearing, which took place in a packed court

Le Vell has not yet entered a plea but has stated publicly that he is innocent and will fight the allegations through the courts.

Prosecutor Eleanor Laws told Judge Michael Henshell that a plea hearing will take place on May 17 followed by a two to three-week trial starting on September 2.

Alisdair Williamson, defending, asked for an earlier trial date, saying: "Mr Turner has had this hanging over his head for 18 months."

But Judge Henshell said the September date should be fixed and granted the actor bail until the plea hearing, at the same court, in May.

Asked by the judge if he understood, Le Vell nodded and said "Thank you", before leaving the dock.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Weather: Weekend Snow Warnings Across UK

Large swathes of the UK are facing a white weekend, as more wintry weather looks set to cause widespread disruption.

Snow is expected overnight in Northern Ireland, Wales, the Midlands, northern England and southern and western Scotland.

Commuters are being warned of Friday morning rush-hour chaos as strong gusts combine with the anticipated deluge to cause blizzard-like conditions.

And dozens of flood alerts have been issued by the Environment Agency for south-east England, while the Met Office put out several severe weather warnings for the weekend.

Sky News Weather Presenter Nazaneen Ghaffar said: "The rain across south-west England, southern Wales and the south of the Republic of Ireland will continue moving north-eastwards into tonight.

"As it does, it hits the cold air coming in from the east and so it will turn to snow, giving significant accumulations by the early hours of the morning.

"The areas most affected will be across Northern Ireland, central and northern parts of Wales, the Midlands, northern England and southern and western Scotland."

Ghaffar added that outbreaks of rain across south-western parts of the UK and Ireland brought the risk of flooding.

"Disruptions are likely during Friday morning's rush hour as the snow will continue to fall with strong to near gale force winds, causing blizzard conditions and drifting," she said.

"In fact, throughout the day on Friday outbreaks of sleet and snow will continue with windy conditions, although outbreaks of light and patchy rain are more likely for southern England and southern Wales.

"Additional accumulations are likely across the north Midlands, Lincolnshire, northern England and Scotland.

"It'll be windy and cold over the weekend with further outbreaks of snow, especially across northern England, Wales and the Midlands."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Dale Cregan 'Admitted' Two More Killings

By Mike McCarthy, North of England Correspondent

A man who murdered two Manchester policewomen admitted to a psychiatrist he had earlier killed a father and son, a jury has heard.

Dr James Collins said Dale Cregan told him he had fantasised about stabbing rivals to death and cutting off their heads.

The psychiatrist had been sent to Manchester's Strangeways prison earlier this year to assess Cregan's mental health as he waited for his trial to begin.

Dr Collins told Preston Crown Court that Cregan harboured fantasies about mutilating his victims.

Cregan admits killing police officers Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes

In relation to one of them he allegedly said: "When I was having my fantasies I used to think about stabbing him repeatedly, about smashing him with a hammer, cutting his head off.

"I have been thinking that when I killed him I could have done more."

Cregan, 29, admits murdering PCs Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes in a gun and grenade attack last September but denies killing Mark Short and his father David earlier last year.

Dr Collins said Cregan admitted killing all four victims, that he had built up a stock of firearms including pistols, revolvers and machine guns and that he had brought hand grenades into the UK from the Netherlands.

Cregan told a psychiatrist he had a host of weapons

The killer is alleged to have said: "I got bored with them (the guns). I don't like them as much as knives. It is too easy to use them. You just shoot them."

The court was told Cregan had grown up fighting with members of the Short family and had developed an intense hatred towards them.

He is alleged to have told Dr Collins: "I shot David Short point-blank in the head three times, but I would have preferred it if I had used a knife.

"A big relief rushed through me (after the killing) but if I had the time I would have cut his head off.

"If I'd had time, I would have cut his head off and arms and legs ... I had the best night's sleep I had had for a long time that night.

"I have never had a temper. When I killed him I was just like I am now - as calm as I am now. I didn't get butterflies or anything."

Cregan also allegedly told the psychiatrist that he made £20,000 a week through drug dealing.

The trial continues.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

One Dead After Train Hits Car On Crossing

One person has died after a train travelling from Devon to London hit a car on a level crossing in Somerset.

The crash happened on the half-barrier crossing near Athelney, which is on the line between Taunton and Castle Cary.

The car became trapped under the front of the train and British Transport Police (BTP) said the victim was declared dead at the scene.

There have been no reports of any passengers on the train being injured.

A lengthy line of rescue vehicles gathered in Stanmoor Road to help in the recovery phase, after the vehicle was pushed along the tracks for a significant distance.

A spokesman for British Transport Police (BTP) said: "Shortly before 6.30am, BTP was called to reports of a car having been struck by a train at Athelney automatic half-barrier level crossing.

"The train involved is the 0546 Exeter to London Paddington service. The train has not been derailed and there are no reports of any injuries to anyone on board.

According to the Somerset County Gazette, train passengers were on the disabled train for some five hours before being taken to Taunton.

Passenger Stuart Lambert, from Taunton, told the newspaper: "I felt a slight shudder, that was the first I knew and then we were told a car had skipped the level crossing.

"The train company were awesome. They looked after us really well."

The BTP spokesman added: "There was one person in the car who has been pronounced dead at the scene. An investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances leading up to the incident."

Rail operator First Great Western said there was a limited bus replacement service operating between Taunton and Westbury.

The company tweeted: "Due to this disruption customers travelling between London Paddington and Exeter are advised to travel via Bristol Temple Meads."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Archbishop Of Canterbury Being Enthroned

The Most Rev Justin Welby is being enthroned as the new Archbishop of Canterbury at the city's cathedral.

The service is being attended by dignitaries including Prince Charles and Prime Minister David Cameron.

The ceremony got underway despite protesters gathering earlier outside Canterbury Cathedral, demonstrating against cuts to public services and the so-called bedroom tax.

New Pope Francis, who was elevated to the head of the Catholic Church on March 13, sent a message on the enthronement in England.

Pope Francis said: "I thank you for the kind words contained in your message to me at my election, and I wish in turn to offer my greetings and best wishes on the occasion of your enthronement at Canterbury Cathedral."

The Most Rev Justin Welby with his wife Caroline

Speaking ahead of the inauguration at the Cathedral, the new archbishop told Sky News he was looking forward to meeting and working with Pope Francis as both religious leaders start their high-profile roles.

He told Sky News Sunrise presenter Eamonn Holmes: "The papacy is a completely different thing to an Archbishop of Canterbury.

"I am one of almost 100 English bishops with a particular role, whereas he is the head of the Roman Catholic Church globally.

"I am greatly looking forward to meeting him. His story - his life story - is extraordinary. He is a great intellectual, but also an incredibly pastoral and simple, down-to-earth character.

"I am absolutely sure that we will be able to work together on a vast number of issues."

The Archbishop chose to visit West Sussex last Tuesday as part of a pilgrimage of his own around five English cities this month, instead of the Vatican for Pope Francis' inauguration.

He now leads 80 million Christians - in comparison to the Pope, who is leader of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics.

The solemn service includes attendance by Prince Charles and David Cameron

However, they do have one thing in common. Like the newly-installed Pope, the Archbishop also likes to travel on the bus.

"I don't know what he will do, but I find it the easiest way of getting around," he said.

In the process of moving into Lambeth Palace, he conceded: "It is a very different life, it'll take a while to settle. We have a very close family. They tease relentlessly and keep my feet very firmly on the ground."

He faces many divisive issues within the church, including women bishops, gay clergy and relations with the Catholic Church.

"I think reconciliation is about learning to be very different ... and continue to love and care for each other as we should within the church, and within society to be able to hold very different views without being destructive," he said.

Dr Rowan Williams is the outgoing archbishop

"One of the greatest challenges of my job is following Rowan Williams because he was such an extraordinary, exceptional, wonderful man, and such a wonderful archbishop."

When he is not working, he likes to spend time with his family, reading and running. Asked what he likes to watch on TV, he confessed he has not owned one for the last two years.

"I love The West Wing. If I want to kick back I watch something like The West Wing - and I must start watching the new series of The Newsroom.

"We do now have a TV and I do watch a bit. The great thing I love about the telly is I like happy endings, simple stories and things that don't make me think too much. Though I do watch some more serious stuff, but not too much, because life is pretty serious on the whole and telly is great entertainment."

The Most Rev Welby was named as Dr Rowan Williams' successor in November. The father-of-five resigned as an oil executive in 1987 after 11 years in the industry to train for the Anglican priesthood.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Winchester Prison: Inspectors Slam Conditions

Two severely disabled prisoners were locked up in a cell for nearly 24 hours a day and had not showered for months, an inspection has found.

The pair were jailed in the cell at HMP Winchester - designed for just one person - and relied on other prisoners to take them their meals, HM Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP) found.

Staff were unaware that the two older and disabled prisoners could not use the shower on their landing as it was not adapted accordingly.

The men had a small window in their cell that was painted over so they had to choose between keeping out the cold or shutting out the light, the report added.

Elsewhere, one third of the 680 prisoners told inspectors illegal drugs were "easily available", while one in 10 developed a drug habit within the jail walls.

The category B prison, partly built in the 19th century, has deteriorated sharply and is now of serious concern, Chief Inspector of Prisons Nick Hardwick said.

"Until shortly before the inspection, HMP Winchester was neglected and drifting," Mr Hardwick said.

"There had been pockets of good practice and, although many staff did their best, their efforts were often haphazard, inconsistent and badly coordinated."

In a damning report, the inspectorate said that more than half of prisoners had felt unsafe at some time, while there was insufficient action to tackle violence.

Mr Hardwick said a new governor was appointed shortly before the inspection.

He said: "The new leadership was aware of many of the problems and we saw early signs of a determined effort to tackle them.

"But the prison is just at the start of the process of putting things right again, and it will be a long, hard task to do so."

National Offender Management Service chief executive Michael Spurr said: "As the chief inspector acknowledges, the new governor has begun to tackle the deficiencies and I am confident that these will be properly addressed and rectified."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Missing Children Policy 'Is Sex Abuse Risk'

By Martin Brunt, Crime Correspondent

A children's charity has accused police chiefs of putting vulnerable children at risk of sex abuse with a new definition of "missing persons".

Chief constables say a new two-tier definition will give better protection to children and vulnerable adults.

Full investigations will still be launched into "missing" cases, but specialist officers will record and monitor only those who regularly go "absent" and explore the reasons why.

From next month the new approach will be applied by all police forces to the 327,000 people reported missing each year, two-thirds of whom are children.

But David Tucker, of the NSPCC, said: "We are very concerned that the new definition of 'missing persons' will put vulnerable children at risk of being groomed and sexually exploited. The length of time a child goes missing is irrelevant because they can fall into the clutches of abusers very quickly.

"Children go missing for a variety of reasons; they may be bullied, abused or are generally unhappy. But whatever the reason, this problem must be taken seriously.

"We expect all professionals including the police to invest the right amount of time and take the necessary action to protect all children as soon as they go missing."

Until now all missing person calls were treated the same, with response officers called out to investigate until the person was located.

Police call handlers will now put calls into one of two categories: missing or absent.

The new definition of "missing" will be: "Not at the place they are expected to be, but the circumstances are out of character or the context suggests they may be subject of a crime or at risk of harm to themselves or others."

The definition of "absent" will be: "Not at a place where they are expected or required to be."

The Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) hopes the new policy will cut bureaucracy and stop officers from being seen as 'taxi drivers' sent to collect runaway children who regularly abscond.

Chief Constable Pat Geenty said: "The police are often the first agency to take a missing person report and our aim is to ensure we get the best possible response to those most at risk of harm.

"This means identifying these cases early so that policing resources go where they are most needed. We need to move beyond a one-size-fits-all response".

The new policy will be introduced nationally in April after being piloted in three police forces as part of the joint Home Office and Acpo Reducing Bureaucracy programme.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

David Hockney Aide Death Cause Unknown

A post-mortem has shown "no obvious natural causes" for the death of David Hockney's personal assistant, police have said.

Dominic Elliott died in hospital on Sunday morning after he was taken ill at the world-famous artist's house in Bridlington, East Yorkshire, on Saturday.

A Humberside Police spokesman said: "A post-mortem was carried out on the body of 23-year-old Dominic Elliott yesterday at Hull Royal Infirmary mortuary and it showed no obvious natural causes for his death.

"Further tests will now be carried out, the results of which will not be known for some weeks.

"Mr Elliott's family has been fully updated by Humberside Police."

Mr Hockney's home in Bridlington, East Yorkshire

Officers are continuing to investigate how Mr Elliott became ill before he was taken to Scarborough Hospital by a friend.

Keen sportsman Mr Elliott worked as a personal assistant to the 75-year-old artist, setting up equipment and helping in his studio.

He was the subject of more than one Hockney portrait.

Humberside Police said earlier this week that the circumstances of his death were "not clear" but there was no sign of violence.

Hockney, who is not thought to be the friend who drove Mr Elliott to hospital, is said to be extremely upset by the death.

The Bradford-born painter is sometimes referred to as Britain's greatest living artist and is one of the most influential cultural figures of the last 50 years.

His famous works include A Bigger Splash and the portrait Mr And Mrs Clark And Percy.

As well as his detached house near the seafront in Bridlington, Hockney has homes in London and Los Angeles.

Mr Elliott was a well-known local sportsman and tributes have been paid to him by team-mates at Bridlington Rugby Club and Driffield Hockey Club.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Napalm Death Gig Cancelled Over Museum Fears

A performance by "grindcore" band Napalm Death has been cancelled by the V&A after fears the deafening noise could cause the historic museum to crumble.

The metal-punk act had been due to play a one-off show on Friday after teaming up with a ceramic artist who created a sound system which was designed to disintegrate during the gig.

But the London museum called off the free event, called Bustleholm, after a safety check highlighted a risk that the gallery itself could deteriorate.

Frontman Mark "Barney" Greenway

There were also concerns that visitors could potentially be injured as a result of the gig by the Birmingham band, who released debut album Scum in 1987.

The museum said: "This was due to take place in the Europe Galleries, which are currently being refurbished, and a further safety inspection has revealed concerns that the high level of decibels generated by the concert would damage the historic fabric of the building.

"The V&A is committed to an exciting programme of exhibitions and events but the safety of our visitors and building remains our priority at all times."

The museum's resident artist Keith Harrison had created three ceramic sound systems based on the tiles used on the tower blocks of the Bustleholm Mill estate in West Bromwich, where he grew up.

Prior to the show, Napalm Death's frontman, Mark "Barney" Greenway, had said: "Sound as a weapon - or a weapon of change - is a very interesting concept and I think that the whole process of our sound gradually degrading clay sculptures is captivating."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Omagh Bombing: Two Blamed By Civil Court

Two men have been found liable for the Omagh bombing following a landmark civil action at Belfast High Court.

Republicans Colm Murphy and Seamus Daly were implicated for the Northern Ireland atrocity after the court action taken by relatives of some of the victims.

Murphy and Daly had been ordered to face a retrial after they successfully appealed a finding of liability against them in the original case in Belfast High Court.

But their second trial delivered the same outcome in the same court, with judge Mr Justice John Gillen ruling the men were responsible for the 1998 Real IRA atrocity.

Twenty-nine people, including a woman pregnant with twins, died when the dissident republican car bomb ripped through the Co Tyrone market town on August 15, 1998. More than 200 were injured in the blast.

Murphy was tried and convicted in the Irish criminal courts but was released after it was revealed that the Gardaí forged interview notes used in the case.

Because no-one was successfully convicted of the bombing, in 2009 some of the bereaved families took out a civil case against four people accused of the attack.

Murphy, a builder and publican from Dundalk, Co Louth, and Daly, a bricklayer from Cullaville, Co Monaghan, along with Real IRA chief Michael McKevitt and Co Louth republican Liam Campbell were held responsible.

The men were ordered to pay £1.6m in damages.

McKevitt, who is serving a 20-year prison sentence in the Irish Republic for directing terrorism, and Campbell, who recently successfully fought extradition proceedings to Lithuania on arms smuggling charges, failed in their bids to overturn the Omagh civil judgment.

They are now seeking to have their case heard in the European Court of Human Rights.

Murphy and Daly's successfully appealed but both men were ordered to face another trial. The retrial started in January and finished last month, with Mr Justice Gillen delivering his reserved judgment today, confirming the men were responsible.

The bombing killed people from a variety of different backgrounds including Protestants, Catholics, a Mormon teenager, five other teenagers, six children, a woman pregnant with twins and several tourists.

The nature of the bombing - described as Northern Ireland's worst terrorist attack - created a huge international outcry and added to the impetus of the peace process.

More follows...

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Weather: No Sign Of Spring Amid More Snow

Snow has covered the north of the UK overnight as persistently cold weather keeps an unusual grip on March.

Heavy snow - up to 10cm across lowlands and 25cm on higher ground - has fallen across Scotland, with temperatures hovering around a bitter three degrees.

The Met Office has issued amber alerts for many parts of Scotland, while gale force winds are also forecast.

Driving conditions have been made difficult and more than 100 schools have closed. Aberdeenshire and the Borders are among the worst hit areas.

Sky News Weather Presenter Isobel Lang warned people to prepare for disruption.

Several inches of snow have fallen in Scotland

She said: "Heavy snow and strong winds will bring travel disruption today with the worst of the conditions likely to be across central and eastern Scotland, northeast England and Northern Ireland.

"Bitter east winds will blow the snow around causing drifting and blizzard conditions."

The outlook for the rest of the UK also looks typically unseasonal.

Lang said: "Heavy showers in other parts of Britain could also bring hail, sleet or snow, especially later today and tonight."

Meanwhile, the whole country should be braced for further snow storms and cold wet weather throughout the week - and beyond.

"Tomorrow may start with some snow in the morning, perhaps disruptive in places, but it should turn drier during the day.

"Concerns increase again, though, later in the week as wet and windy weather, preceded by snow, moves in across the southwest and spreads north across the country.

"Although rainfall totals may be enough to cause some problems across the south and southwest, it is likely to be snow that is most disruptive, especially across central and northern parts," Lang said.

The latest snowy spell continues a cold month across the UK which has brought an unwelcome delay to springtime weather.

Forecasters said that while snow was not uncommon in March, the persistent dumpings and low temperatures were unusual.

It is too early to predict if it will be a white Easter or not, but Lang warned that the run-up looked "unsettled and unspring-like".

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Joss Stone Trial: Star Had No Home Security

Singer Joss Stone has described how her front door was rarely locked at a time when two men were allegedly plotting to rob and kill her.

She was speaking at the trial of Junior Bradshaw and Kevin Liverpool who deny they planned to murder the star and dump her in a river in June 2011.

The 25-year-old told Exeter Crown Court she became aware of the plot only when she was visited by the police at her mid-Devon home.

She said: "Apart from someone (police) coming around to say someone is trying to kill me, it was a really nice day."

Speaking about the lack of security at her home, she said: "I've lived in Devon for a long time and nobody really shuts their door."

On Monday the jury was told a metre-long samurai sword, knives, hammers, black bags and gaffer tape were discovered in the defendants' Fiat Punto when they were arrested.

A crossbow and BB gun were found at their home in the Longsight area of Manchester.

Handwritten notes that were also discovered talked of Stone's presence at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and referred to the singer and the Queen as "she devils".

The pair deny the charges against them

Describing the security arrangements at her home at the time of the alleged plot, Stone - who was referred to in court by her real name, Jocelyn Stoker - said: "I had an alarm but I did not really turn it on very much.

"I didn't really have a lock on my door ... But I do now."

She also agreed that the property in Ashill, accessed by narrow lanes, was an "open house" for family, friends and her then-boyfriend.

Wearing a white blouse and a black skirt, the singer said: "At the time I had a gate. To get in, they (visitors) would just open the gate, drive in with their car, get up to another (wooden) gate, shut the gate hopefully so the dogs don't get out, then say hello."

Stone's tour diary, charting dates when she was in and out of the country including at the time of the alleged plot, was shown in court.

The record showed the singer was "home" from June 9-20.

The trial continues.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Bill Roache: Soap Star Sorry Over Remarks

Coronation Street actor Bill Roache has said he is "very sorry for any offence caused" after he seemingly claimed victims of sexual abuse are being punished for their behaviour in "previous lives".

The star, who has played Ken Barlow in the ITV soap for more than 50 years, was criticised for the controversial remarks he made to a New Zealand television station.

Speaking to TVNZ, he said: "If you accept that you are pure love ... and therefore live that pure love, these things won't happen to you."

He was then pressed by reporter Garth Bray, who asked: "To some people that sounds perhaps like you're saying victims bring things on themselves. Is that what you're saying?"

The 80-year-old replied: "No, not quite, but then yes I am. Everything that happens to us is the result of what we have been in previous lives."

The comments echo those of Glenn Hoddle who was sacked as England's football manager in 1999 after he was quoted as appearing to suggest disabled people were paying for sins committed in previous lives.

Glenn Hoddle appeared to say disabled people were paying for previous sins

Roache was later asked by Sky News correspondent Becky Johnson: "You appear to have suggested some victims may be paying for things they did in a past life. Is that how you feel?"

The star replied: "No I would not go along and say things like that. I'm not saying that. In this situation where we can only talk about the law. I'm not going to talk about victims or life.

"Life is what we make it. We do come into life to learn from certain experiences and broadly some of the major experiences we have we have asked to go through. This is my understanding of life."

He added: "If you're going to pin me down and start saying 'all victims deserve what they're getting'. No I am not saying that at all."

Roache then issued his apology in a statement, saying: "I would like to say that I am very sorry for any offence that has been caused as a result of my comments.

"I would never say that victims of sexual offences are in any way responsible for the abuse they have suffered and I offer my deepest apologies if anything I have said has been misunderstood in this way.

"I had no intention of causing any kind of distress as a result of my interview and I offer my utmost sympathies to anyone affected by sexual offences and paedophilia."

His original remarks to TVNZ were condemned by the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC), which said his comments were an insult to abuse victims.

Michael Le Vell pictured arriving at court

Dr Jon Bird, from NAPAC, condemned Roache's "hippy-dippy" spiritualist beliefs, saying child sex abuse left people with horrific physical and mental scars.

Roache's co-star of 30 years, Michael Le Vell, has been suspended from the ITV soap after he was charged with 19 child sex offences.

Le Vell, whose real name is Michael Turner, appeared in court last month and was bailed until his next appearance in the dock at Manchester Crown Court. Le Vell has denied any wrongdoing.

During his interview with TVNZ, Roache said: "Everyone's innocent until they're proven guilty."

He described paedophilia as "absolutely horrendous" but added: "There's a fringe here ... particularly pop stars who have these groupies, these girls, who are sexually active and sexually mature.

"They don't ask for their birth certificate and they don't know what age they may be. They're certainly not grooming them and exploiting them but they can be caught in this trap."

He added: "These people are instantly stigmatised. Some will be innocent and some will not, but until such time as (any offence) is proven, there should be anonymity for both.

"If someone has done something wrong, the law should take its course. But whether they're proven guilty or not, we should never be judgemental about anyone. We shouldn't go round condemning. We should be forgiving about everything."

Speaking to Sky News, Roache said: "I'm not blaming anybody for anything but things were different back in the 1970s. People were more tactile.

"I think it's probably unfair to judge too harshly today on things that were done 20 or 30 years ago. There should be a greater understanding that things were different in those days."

He added: "I'm not excusing inappropriate and insensitive behaviour to women. I think women are wonderful and they should be treated with respect."

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Hinkley Point Nuclear Plant Given Go-Ahead

A new nuclear plant at Hinkley Point in Somerset has moved a step closer after Energy Secretary Ed Davey granted planning permission.

The proposed development of Hinkley Point C by French energy company EDF is a boost for the nuclear industry following a series of setbacks in plans to construct a new fleet of reactors in the UK, which ministers say are needed to cut carbon and keep the lights on.

The deal is expected to be rubber-stamped within weeks when EDF and the Government secure agreement on decommissioning the price the company will be paid for the electricity it generates.

Mr Davey told Sky News there would be no public subsidy and the cost would be "affordable for consumers and businesses."

Once up and running it is anticipated that the plant's two reactors will generate enough electricity to provide 7% of the country's needs, or power five million homes.

The minister told the Commons that affordable new nuclear would play a "crucial role" in ensuring secure, diverse supplies of energy in the UK and decarbonising the electricity sector and the economy.

He also confirmed that EDF had now secured the majority of consents it needed to build and operate the plant and that he expected to announce shortly a deal on the so-called 'strike' price.

Under electricity market reforms, low-carbon power such as nuclear reactors and offshore wind farms will have long-term contracts with a guaranteed price for their electricity, to give investors certainty to invest in projects with high capital costs.

It has been reported that the costs of the new power station would run to around £14bn and the development would create up to 25,000 jobs during construction and 900 permanent positions once in operation.

But environmental groups reacted angrily to the news and raised questions about dealing with the waste.

Greenpeace executive director John Sauven claimed Hinkley Point C failed the test on economic, consumer, environmental and arguably even legal grounds.

He said: "It will lock a generation of consumers into higher energy bills, via a strike price that's expected to be double the current price of electricity, and it will distort energy policy by displacing newer, cleaner, cheaper technologies.

"Giving it the green light when there is no credible plan for dealing with the waste could also be in breach of the law," he warned.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

Fire Deaths: Accused 'Can't Rule Out Husband'

By David Crabtree, Midlands Correspondent

A woman accused of killing her six children in a fire at the family home in Derby says she does not know if her husband was responsible and she could not rule anyone out.

Speaking at Nottingham Crown Court, Mairead Philpott, 31, said: "I don't know if he is capable of it. I don't know if he has done it or not."

She was asked under cross-examination whether it was possible that Mick Philpott, 56, got up in the night and set the fire without her knowledge.

She told the court: "I don't know, I was asleep. I can't rule out anybody."

Richard Latham QC for the prosecution said to her: "Are you saying there is a possibility your husband set this fire behind your back?"

"I honesty, don't know," she replied.

She was asked about covert police recording made after the blaze.

In one passage of the recordings Mick Philpott is heard to say: "Don't say nothing now, don't say nothing."

The fire claimed the lives of six siblings

In another section he said: "Don't worry we will walk through it, I promise you. Unless you want me to blab about it."

The prosecution allege that they were talking about a plot to start the fire.

Mairead Philpott claims it was about not revealing details of their unconventional sex life, which they feared would get into the press.

Mr Latham said: "This is not about sex. It's about the allegation of killing your children." This was denied by Mrs Philpott.

Jade Philpott, 10, John, nine, Jack, eight, Jesse, six, and Jayden, five, perished in the fire last May.

Duwayne, 13, died in Birmingham Children's Hospital days later.

On Monday, Mairead Philpott denied starting the fire at her home in Victory Road and said there was no plan to start one with Mick and co-accused Paul Mosley, 46.

The Philpotts and Mosley are on trial for the manslaughter of the Philpotts' six children. All three deny the charges.

22.11 | 0 komentar | Read More

David Hockney: Artist's Assistant Dead

A studio assistant to the artist David Hockney has died in hospital after being taken from the painter's home in a serious condition.

Dominic Elliott, 23, had sat for the artist on more than one occasion at his studio in Bridlington, East Yorkshire.

He died at Scarborough General Hospital on Sunday morning and police are now investigating the events surrounding his death.

Curtains drawn at Hockney's house in Bridlington

Humberside Police said that they were contacted after the man had been taken to the hospital by a friend in a serious condition.

Police said: "The 23-year-old man was sadly pronounced dead at hospital and the police notified.

"The circumstances of the man's death are not clear and officers are currently undertaking inquiries to establish events leading to his death.

"There were no signs of violence and a post-mortem is due to take place tomorrow (Tuesday) which is hoped may provide further information."

Tributes have been paid to Mr Elliott by members of the rugby club where he played in the seaside town.

Bridlington Rugby Club chairman Gordon Morrice told the Bridlington Free Press: "Dominic was a valued member of our club, a good player with great potential.

"With his size and ability he could easily have established himself as a first team regular.

"He was a popular lad and had so many friends at the club."

The club said Mr Elliott, who only took up rugby a couple of years ago, was a second row forward who mainly played for the Mariners - the club's second team.

Hockney, 75, is one of the most famous British artists of his generation and was celebrated at the Royal Academy of Arts last year with an exhibition of his large scale landscapes, called A Bigger Picture.

The Bradford-born artist is famous for artworks such as A Bigger Splash, a vivid depiction of a Los Angeles swimming pool, and the portrait Mr And Mrs Clark And Percy.

In recent years he has been exploring the possibilities of using an iPad for his artworks.

22.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

Alps Victim 'Really Popular Boy', Says School

A 12-year-old boy who along with his father died while hiking in the Alps has been described by his headteacher as a "really popular boy" who will be "really sadly missed".

Peter and Charlie Saunders were killed on a walking trip in the Chamonix valley in France after flying there for a short weekend adventure.

Mr Saunders tumbled to his death as he tried to search for his son who had fallen 300 metres, French police believe.

A statement issued on behalf of the family said: "Charlie was always full of life, had a really happy temperament and loved spending time with his father.

"Peter was fantastic at making things happen, resourceful, with a positive approach to life. They will both be sorely missed by friends and family alike.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the French rescue services for all their efforts."

Charlie had started at Royal Latin School in Buckingham in September. Headteacher David Hudson told Sky News: "Charlie was a really popular boy, enthusiastic and got involved in everything from day one.

"I think there's a real sense of shock in the school generally. We're all affected on a very human level. Lots of us are parents ourselves. But all of the children in the school matter hugely to us.

"I think it's going to be a very difficult day and few weeks for us. He had just started with us in September so it was early days for him in his school career.

"But already he'd been involved in a number of clubs. He was a great sportsman.  He got involved in badminton and athletics. He obviously loved his outdoor sports so he was already making a huge impact in the school and he will be really sadly missed."

The Saunders were said to be exploring a 'dangerous' mountain trail

Rescue services in Chamonix were called by 48-year-old Mr Saunders at 2pm local time on Saturday.

He apparently said his son had fallen into a crevasse near Mont Blanc and that they were lost.

Captain Patrice Ribes, a French police officer, told Sky News that emergency services tried to trace the mobile phone call and launched a rescue mission.

But the rescuers lost contact and had to begin their search with little information about the pair's location.

A helicopter eventually spotted their bodies on Sunday morning at an altitude of 1,600m.

Capt Ribes said: "We think the father tried to find his son after he called us and asked for rescue. We believe he fell as he tried to find his son. Their bodies were found together this morning at 7.40am."

The father and son had ventured into the Glacier des Bossons area of the Mont Blanc mountain range.

Capt Ribes said they had inadequate equipment and were exploring a "dangerous, deep, snowy" mountain trail.

The valley, which boasts five ski resorts, gets a lot of British tourists throughout the year, with many owning holiday homes in the area.

According to reports, at least 10 off-piste skiers and mountaineers had already been killed in the area this month.

22.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

Snow Warning: New Cold Snap Brings More Misery

Another cold snap is on its way, with parts of the country facing more snow and freezing temperatures, forecasters say.

Scotland and the north of England are expected to see up to 20cm (eight inches) of snow build up from today into Wednesday morning, with temperatures dropping as low as minus 15C (5F) overnight.

The cold weather also meant more misery for road and rail travellers on Monday morning with serious disruption on a number of key commuter routes.

The Met Office has issued a yellow severe weather warning for today and tomorrow, urging those in the regions likely to be affected by snow to be aware.

The Grampians, eastern parts of the Southern Uplands, the Lake District and the Pennines are expected to be hit hard.

A man takes a walk through the grounds of Bowes Castle in County Durham

Wales, the Midlands, East Anglia and parts of the South East may also wake to a covering of up to one inch of snow on Wednesday morning and overnight frost is expected throughout the country.

The frost has caused problems for some south-east England train companies were hit by a build-up of ice on the "third rail" from which trains get their power.

Services in Hampshire, Surrey and Kent were particularly affected, with a number of trains being delayed and cancelled.

On the main line in Kent, the third rail problem meant there were delays of up to 50 minutes to trains between Sevenoaks and Orpington, while trains were unable to run between Havant in Hampshire and Guildford in Surrey.

There were also problems on the Tube where late-running engineering work meant a closure of a large section of the Metropolitan line at the start of the rush hour.

Services did resume later, but with severe delays.

Meanwhile, flights in and out of Leeds-Bradford Airport were halted on Monday morning after about 3cm of snow fell. Passengers were asked to check with their airline or tour operator before heading to the airport.

The A66 across the Pennines between Bowes, County Durham, and Stainmore, Cumbria, was also closed because of heavy snow.

Yellow: Be aware; Orange: Be Prepared (Met Office)

A Durham Police spokeswoman said: "There are currently tailbacks of traffic while this process is under way."

Sky News weather presenter Isobel Lang said the wintry weather would continue even as the spring equinox takes place.

"Snow and strong, cold east winds will cause disruption across eastern Scotland later on Monday and into Tuesday," she said.

"Over 10cm to 20cm (4in to 8in) of snow is forecast, with the highest accumulations over hills. It will feel freezing cold.

"Snow is likely in other areas too, for example across the Cumbrian Fells and Pennines today, and perhaps across eastern England later on Tuesday too.

"Drier, clearer weather midweek will lead to some widespread sharp frosts with lows of minus five to minus 10 Celsius."

Lang said the current conditions are in marked contrast to those last year when high pressure brought a settled and sunny period to much of the UK.

She explained: "Temperatures popped up to 22.8C at St James' Park at the end of the month, and broke Scottish records for March when Aboyne in Aberdeenshire hit 23.6C on March 27."

The third rail difficulties also meant delays for passengers travelling between Reading and Wokingham in Berkshire and there were no services between Alton in Hampshire and Farnham in Surrey and delays between East Grinstead in West Sussex and Oxted in Surrey.

The problem also led to delays of up to 45 minutes for passengers travelling between Horsham and Three Bridges in West Sussex, while similar-length hold-ups were hitting services between Tonbridge in Kent and Redhill in Surrey.

To add to passengers' woes, over-running engineering works caused disruption at Norwich, with trains between Norwich and Cromer/Great Yarmouth/Lowestoft delayed.

London Midland, which has suffered staff problems over recent months, had to replace trains with buses between Nuneaton and Coventry due to a shortage of train crew.

London Midland, and Virgin Trains, also suffered delays between Northampton/Rugby and Milton Keynes Central due to a signalling problem.

Another signalling problem near Glasgow meant trains could not run between Paisley Canal and Glasgow Central, while passengers were warned of possible delays and cancellations to trains East Kilbride and Glasgow Central.

22.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

Leveson: Parties Reach Deal But Row Over Clause

The three main political parties have reached a deal on how to regulate the press - but Labour and the Tories have become embroiled in a war of words over who has emerged on top from the fraught negotiations.

The details are expected to be revealed in the House of Commons later, but it appears a Royal Charter - rather than legislation passed by Parliament - will be used to create an independent regulator which will have more powers to deal with the press if it breaks the rules.

Prime Minister David Cameron, who will give an oral statement and apply for an emergency debate on the reforms, has been clear he is very uncomfortable with the idea of setting anything down in law because it could be seen as politicians meddling with the press.

However, it is understood a compromise has been reached to include three lines of statute - a clause in the legislation to ensure that any Royal Charter cannot be amended in the future without two-thirds majorities in both Houses of Parliament.

There will be no industry veto of who sits on the regulator, and judges will have the power to direct newspapers on apologies.

But the main point of contention - whether or not it should be underpinned by law - seems to be a matter of interpretation, and has triggered a dispute about the degree of statutory regulation.

The row centres on a clause being inserted into the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill in the Lords later.

It does not explicitly refer to the Royal Charter that will establish the new press arrangements - but Labour and the Liberal Democrats argue the effect would be the same.

David Cameron insists all parties have accepted his blueprint

Labour leader Ed Miliband and Deputy Prime Minister and Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg claim the deal is based on their plans for a Royal Charter underpinned by law, so that it cannot be watered down or changed.

But Mr Cameron, who was addressing Conservative MPs this afternoon ahead of the Commons showdown - disagrees.

He has denied the new press regulations will have "statutory underpinning", and insists the agreement on a Royal Charter, struck in the early hours of this morning, avoids the need for a law to control newspapers.

He said: "It's not statutory underpinning. What it is, is simply a clause that says politicians can't fiddle with this so it takes it further away from politicians, which is actually, I think, a sensible step.

"What we wanted to avoid and we have avoided is a press law. Nowhere will it say what this body is, what it does, what it can't do, what the press can and can't do. That, quite rightly, is being kept out of Parliament.

"So no statutory underpinning but a safeguard that says politicians can't in future fiddle with this arrangement."

He added: "What's happened is that everyone has accepted my argument for a Royal Charter. Why does that matter? Well I thought it was important to avoid a press law, a law that said the press can do this, the regulator's got to do that. That would be dangerous, that's not going to happen and that's what we secured and that's why this is a good deal."

But Mr Miliband said: "What we have agreed is essentially the Royal Charter that Nick Clegg and I published on Friday. It will be underpinned by statute ... because it stops ministers or the press meddling with it, watering it down in the future.

Ed Miliband and Nick Clegg claim they have got what they wanted

"It will be a regulator, a system of complaints where the regulator has teeth, can direct apologies ... and it is independent of the press.

"For too long we have had a system where the press have been marking their own homework. There has been a lot of tough negotiation in this process, but I genuinely believe this upholds the freedom of the press ... at the same time as protecting the victims.

"People who revealed MPs' expenses, people who revealed phone hacking have nothing to fear from what has been agreed."

The Conservatives, Labour and the Lib Dems are understood to have held talks for more than five hours.

Mr Cameron was not present but was represented by Oliver Letwin, who has been the key figure for the party in recent negotiations.

Mr Clegg told Sky News that in his opinion "everybody" was a winner. "We have secured the cherished principle of the freedom of the press, but also given innocent people reassurance that they won't be unjustifiably bullied or intimidated by powerful interests in the press without having proper recourse when that happens," he said.

Hacked Off, the group campaigning for victims of phone hacking, also welcomed the cross-party deal.

London bombing hero Paul Dadge told Sky News: "This isn't to stop stories in the newspapers in the future. This is to ensure that things that happened to me, the Dowler family, the McCanns, don't happen again in the future."

But Neil Wallis, former executive editor of the News Of The World, disagreed. "What these people want to do is to control what the public is told. And if you give the state legislation, what you have not got any longer is a free press." he said.

"You can't put those words in the same sentence - 'state regulation' and 'free press'. It simply stops."

Trevor Kavanagh, former political editor of The Sun, added: "Until we've examined the fine print we will have to hold our fire, but it's a little worrying when the three political parties get together and their final verdict is welcomed so enthusiastically by Hacked Off, which is definitely seeking to shackle and gag the free press."

Mr Cameron, who last week pulled out of talks about implementing Lord Justice Leveson's recommendations, previously warned that legislation would endanger press freedom.

22.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

Hacking: 'Hundreds Of Victims' In New Plot

Police have found a new conspiracy to intercept voicemails with "potentially hundreds more victims" the Law Courts have been told.

The revelation came during the 14th case management conference relating to civil damages actions brought by scores of people from all walks of life over the phone hacking scandal.

At the beginning of proceedings, Hugh Tomlinson QC told the High Court that there had been "substantial developments" since the previous case management hearing.

He said a number of further arrests had been made "in what the Metropolitan Police Service have characterised in their public statement as a new conspiracy to intercept voice mail messages".

Shane Richie is among the new victims

He added that it involved "potentially hundreds of victims".

Mr Tomlinson, who represents claimants in the action, said it was "not known at the moment how many more claims may be issued".

Sky correspondent Rachel Younger, who was in court, said: "Only one of the new victims has been named - TV star Shane Richie - who has made his application to the court."

During the proceedings Labour MP Siobhain McDonagh accepted "very substantial" damages and a public apology over phone hacking. 

In October 2010 her private mobile telephone was stolen from her car in south west London.

David Sherborne, representing the MP for Mitcham and Morden, told Mr Justice Vos that in June last year police notified her they had "obtained evidence that The Sun newspaper had accessed her text messages from about October 2010 and therefore appeared to have accessed and/or acquired her mobile phone".

A QC told the court on behalf of the newspaper that it was accepted that her mobile phone "should not have been accessed and used and furthermore accept that there has been a serious misuse of her private information".

Mr Sherborne said the defendants, the publishers and/or owners of The Sun, had agreed to pay Ms McDonagh "very substantial damages" and her legal costs.

:: Retired boxer Chris Eubank told the court that he was looking forward to a "gargantuan battle" in the phone-hacking litigation.

The former world champion told Mr Justice Vos he was confident that evidence relating to his case would get in the public domain shortly and he looked forward to the "gargantuan battle" ahead of him.

"I know that Mrs Murdoch has a pretty good left hook so I am going to ask her to be gentle with me," he joked.

Despite interruptions by the judge - who said that his case was at a preliminary stage and it was not appropriate to try to negotiate in the face of the court - Eubank persisted in holding the floor, saying he was not accepting News Group Newspapers' "derisory offer" of £21,000 as they had taken everything away from him.

He said he was fighting on, alleging they had destroyed his marriage and he had been unable to care for his children.

22.29 | 0 komentar | Read More

Uncovered: The Public Bodies Snooping On You

The Department for Transport is among a range of public organisations that has paid private firms to spy on its behalf, while it has been claimed some 14 bodies, including 10 councils, may have commissioned potentially illegal surveillance.

The findings, obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by civil liberties and privacy campaigners Big Brother Watch (BBW), showed that £3.9m has been spent by public bodies in the last two years on paying private investigators for surveillance work -including snooping on their own staff.

A total of  29 organisations - 27 councils, one public authority and one government department, the DfT - paid private firms to undertake surveillance using powers under Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (Ripa) in the years 2010/11 and 2011/12.

But some 14 organisations - 10 councils and four public authorities - paid private firms to undertake surveillance that was not covered by Ripa - meaning they commissioned potentially illegal activity.

Two public authorities and two councils paid other public bodies to spy on their behalf at a cost of £7,600, while four councils - Caerphilly, Dudley, Leicestershire and York - used private investigators to monitor their own staff.

BBW director Nick Pickles said: "This research has uncovered cases where it looks like the law has not been followed and it's essential they are urgently investigated.

"Unlike the US, British law isn't strong enough to stop evidence obtained by illegal surveillance being used in court and the punishments for people deliberately flouting the law are trivial.

Eric Pickles says councils which have flouted the law should face justice

"We need a proper licensing system for private investigators, reformed laws to stop unauthorised surveillance being used in court and most importantly to replace the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act with legislation that is fit for purpose."

City of York Council denied using private investigators and said it had used an external fraud team.

BBW has recommended urgent reform of Ripa to protect against unauthorised surveillance by third parties.

The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 should be strengthened to stop unauthorised surveillance by raising the bar about what evidence can be used in legal proceedings, BBW recommended.

The group also wants private investigator licensing to be strengthened and a duty to regulate contracted investigators to be introduced.

Communities secretary Eric Pickles said: "This Government has clamped down on the overuse and abuse of surveillance powers by town halls.

"Such powers can only be used for serious crimes, and require a magistrates' warrant. It is totally unacceptable if councils are trying to sidestep these important new checks and they should be held to account for acting outside the law."

00.35 | 0 komentar | Read More

Archbishop Of Canterbury: I Don't Drink Alone

The new Archbishop of Canterbury has revealed he never drinks alone for fear of becoming an alcoholic like his father.

The Most Rev Justin Welby said while he does enjoy a tipple, his wife keeps an eye on his drinking to make sure he does not have one too many.

Asked if he was teetotal in an interview with The Sunday Times Magazine, he replied: "No, absolutely not. I very much enjoy a drink.

"I remember reading that the children of alcoholics have a much better chance themselves of having a dependency problem.

"So Caroline and I have an agreement that she keeps an eye on me, so she'll say if I am going over ... but I have rules myself. I don't drink alone, things like that."

He described his father, Gavin Welby, who died in 1977, as "charming, volatile, unpredictable".

"You never knew what was going to happen," he said.

"It took me a long time after he died to ... think back over my time with him with any equanimity. It had just been all so painful."

Asked if this was because his behaviour was conditioned by his drink problem, he continued: "Yes, very erratic behaviour, very irrational, dishonesty, shouting ... then, of course, one worries how much of this is how one's going to behave oneself."

The Most Rev Welby was named as Dr Rowan Williams' successor in November and is due to be enthroned as Archbishop of Canterbury in a service at Canterbury Cathedral on Thursday.

The father-of-five resigned as an oil executive in 1987 after 11 years in the industry to train for the Anglican priesthood.

00.35 | 0 komentar | Read More

Police Release 87 After Town Centre Fracas

More than 80 people arrested in the build-up to a football match have been released on bail.

Warwickshire Police Inspector Darren Webster said 87 people had now been released on police bail while enquiries continue.

The arrests were in connection with alleged "violent disorder" ahead of a non-league fixture between home side Nuneaton Town and Lincoln City on Saturday afternoon.

Insp Webster said: "Everyone has now been bailed in connection with the incident. The senior investigating officer will now evaluate what action needs to be taken."

Riot police from three forces and the British Transport Police were called to deal with reports of trouble at several pubs in Nuneaton shortly before 10.30am.

Officers from Warwickshire, West Mercia and West Midlands Police forces then began arresting dozens of people on suspicion of violent disorder at The Granby pub in the town centre from 3.20pm.

Chief Inspector Adrian Knight, in charge of the policing operation, said it had been "a particularly challenging day".

"Police officers responded to reports of disorder at a number of public houses in the town and were deployed in full protective equipment for their own safety," he said.

Nuneaton Town chief executive Ian Neale said the trouble was nothing to do with the football club or its supporters.

Mr Neale said police went to The Granby pub to organise an escort to town for Nuneaton fans but only three people said they were interested in going to the match.

Police from several forces took part in the Nuneaton operation

He said: "They were allowed to leave the pub to take a taxi to the ground, which is two miles away from where the arrests were made.

The Granby had opened in December after the former venue was redecorated and had promoted Saturday lunchtime as "family time".

After the incident staff thanked its normal patrons on its Facebook page.

"Just time to say a massive thank you for all your words of support and thank you to everyone who came down to show that we will continue and become better from it," it said.

Supporters responded with their own messages of support.

Jackie King wrote: "Hey, these so called 'footie fans' may have done u a favour - people'll be flocking in to show support."

After Saturday's incident in the town centre, Nuneaton went on to win the Blue Square Bet Premier League fixture 1-0.

00.35 | 0 komentar | Read More

Leveson: Grant And Rowling Attack Cameron

Hugh Grant has urged MPs to back the Liberal Democrat and Labour plan for press regulation as he accused David Cameron of "sucking up" to press barons.

The Notting Hill actor, who is leading the Hacked Off campaign for stringent press controls in the wake of the hacking scandal, claimed on Sky News that the Prime Minister was turning his back on the victims.

Mr Cameron suddenly pulled out of cross-party talks about implementing Lord Justice Leveson's recommendations last week, declaring that the three main party leaders were too far apart.

The Tories are firmly opposed to any statutory regulation of the press and want a system backed by a Royal Charter.

Labour and the Liberal Democrats also want a Royal Charter but crucially their plan would be underpinned in legislation - raising fears about creeping restrictions on the freedom of the press.

MPs will now vote on the Tories' plans on Monday in what could turn into a major defeat for Mr Cameron as Labour and the Lib Dems look certain to unite against him, with Tory rebels also crossing the floor.

Before Mr Cameron's decision on Thursday, Grant had been personally speaking to members of the shadow cabinet to urge them not to reach an agreement "much too early".

David Cameron is battling to avoid any statutory regulation

But he dismissed the idea that Hacked off was a "smooth sinister operation", downplaying it as a "few dandruffy professors in a cheap office with a slightly insane, chess champion ex-Lib Dem MP and a couple of threadbare lawyers and me".

The actor said ordinary victims of press abuse had reacted with "horror and astonishment" to Mr Cameron's behaviour and accused him of breaking his word.

On Sky's Murnaghan show, he claimed: "For him, politically, it was more important to suck up to the newspapers than to fulfil the promise that he made under oath.

"(He said) that what mattered as an outcome to all this was that those victims should never be subject to those kind of abuses again."

He described the vote as "incredibly important" and said politicians would have to "ask their consciences" whether they were going to side with press barons or back the victims.

Grant added that his acting career, which sees him star in the upcoming film Cloud Atlas, is now less important than his campaigning to curb the excesses of the press.

Harry Potter author JK Rowling also spoke out on Sunday, saying in a statement that Mr Cameron's actions had left her feeling "hung out to dry".

"Monday's vote will make history one way or another - I am merely one among many turning their eyes towards Ed Miliband and Nick Clegg and hoping that they have the courage to do what Cameron promised, but which he failed to deliver," she said.

The Prime Minister has said he will abide by the will of Parliament

Author JK Rowling giving evidence to the Leveson inquiry in 2011

Without an overall Commons majority, his allies accept he is unlikely to win sufficient support for using the threat of punitive damages against non-participants to persuade papers to sign up.

Despite efforts to shore up the vote - including bringing a minister back from Japan - a number of Tories are expected to back the Lib/Lab proposals.

Earlier on Murnaghan, Lib Dem deputy leader Simon Hughes suggested as many as 60 Conservatives could side with Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband.

Chancellor George Osborne expressed hope of a last-minute deal, warning that any regulatory system that did not have cross-party support would not last.

"We want to make sure we have a system of press regulation that prevents the abuses we saw in the past happening again, but also makes sure we have a free press in this country," he told BBC1's Andrew Marr Show.

"That is such a precious thing: people fought - and literally died - to give us a free press."

Mr Miliband wrote in the The Observer that Monday was "the day that politics has got to do the duty by the victims and has got to stand up for the victims".

Shadow culture secretary Harriet Harman told Murnaghan: "I think it is absolutely a straightforward issue - across the House of Commons the feeling is it is not right for the press not be accountable to a proper code of conduct.

"It is time for a proper tough regulator and that we don't slip back to what it was like before. We don't want ministers to tamper with the royal charter and change it afterwards - it can't be weakened down or toughened up later. And it must have teeth."

00.35 | 0 komentar | Read More