Showing posts with label Mail Online. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mail Online. Show all posts

Thursday, 13 January 2011

The petrol bomber and the grinning protesters: Police release new footage of student riots in bid to catch offenders

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 8:52 PM on 13th January 2011


Dramatic footage of a thug clutching a petrol bomb during the student fees protests was included in film footage released today in a bid to catch perpetrators of the violence.

Another rioter is shown attacking the Royal convoy, while others hurl a fence at riot police.

Others are shown grinning and dancing as they wreak havoc around the capital.

Hooded thug: A rioter runs across Parliament Square throwing a Molotov cocktail during the tuition fees protest on December 9

Hooded thug: A rioter runs across Parliament Square throwing a Molotov cocktail during the tuition fees protest on December 9

Whooping and dancing this image shows the crowd passing fence poles above their heads which were later used in the ensuing trouble

Whooping and dancing this image shows the crowd passing fence poles above their heads which were later used in the ensuing trouble

The footage, released by the Met Police, comes just 24 hours after sixth-former Edward Woollard was jailed for two years and eight months for hurling a fire extinguisher from the roof of Tory Party HQ during the first protest on November 10.


A grinning protester smiles for the cameras. She is one of many demonstrators being hunted by police

A grinning protester smiles for the cameras. She is one of many demonstrators being hunted by police

The thug who threw the Molotov cocktail on December 9 was today slammed for putting other people's lives 'in clear danger'.

It happened on the same night that the Royal convoy taking Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall through the West End was attacked, leaving the Royal couple visibly shaken.

It was the last of the four main protests held in the capital over plans to raise university tuition fees to £9,000 a year.

Detective Chief Superintendent Matthew Horne of the Metropolitan Police said: 'The right to peaceful protest is fundamental.

'The MPS polices thousands of public events each year and makes significant efforts to engage with organizers to ensure the safety of everyone.

'What we have released today is the unlawful side of protest.

'An individual throws what appears to be a petrol bomb, putting others in clear danger.

'Another young man is seen committing acts of suspected violent disorder in Parliament Square, attempting to cause damage to shops and attacking the Royal Convoy'.


Attack: The Royal convoy is attacked as it takes Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall through the West End

The Royal convoy is attacked as it takes Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall through the West End

Shock: The Royal couple looked frightened when their Rolls Royce was attacked

Shock: The Royal couple looked frightened when their Rolls Royce was attacked

Damage: A rioter kicks in the windows of Topshop in Oxford Street, central London

Damage: A rioter kicks in the windows of Topshop in Oxford Street, central London

Suspect: Detectives are hunting the man in the tracksuit top following the public disorder in central London on December 9

Suspect: Detectives are hunting the man in the tracksuit top following the public disorder in central London on December 9

Mugshots: The Met Police are appealing for information about the protesters shown here

Mugshots: The Met Police are appealing for information about the protesters shown here

Det Ch Supt Horne added: 'We saw, this week, a young man with no criminal history sentenced to a substantial term of imprisonment for throwing a fire extinguisher off the roof of Millbank Tower.

'This clearly could have resulted in catastrophic injury to those below him. His actions and their consequences have also had a massive impact on his family. I would urge those intent on committing violence and damage to reflect upon this.'

Nurse 'punched dying patient who walked with a Zimmer frame'

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 2:39 PM on 13th January 2011


Enlarge Emma Trubody was allegedly heard to have asked a patient with mental and physical disabilities why he kept urinating on the floor

Emma Trubody was allegedly heard to have asked a patient with mental and physical disabilities why he kept urinating on the floor and then hit him later that day

A nurse punched a frail patient who walked with the aid of a Zimmer frame and was in the last stages of life, a hearing was told.

Emma Trubody, 36, is said to have thumped the 46-year-old man who began to cry before telling him his 'crocodile tears' would not help.

The patient, who has not been named, was suffering from kidney and liver failure. He died six weeks later.

Ms Trubody was working as a staff nurse at the Royal Blackburn Hospital in Lancashire when she hit the patient on the arm, the Nursing and Midwifery Council heard.

Patient A, who had a number of physical and mental difficulties, was being treated at the hospital when the incident occurred on September 6, 2008.

Earlier that day, Ms Trubody is alleged to have asked him: 'Why do you keep p***ing on the floor?'

Pauline Cullen, a matron at the hospital, told the hearing: 'The gentleman was dying.

'It was clear from his medical notes he was dying because of the liver and kidney failure he had.'

Mrs Cullen was the first senior manager to receive a complaint about Ms Trubody's behaviour.

'At the time of the incident patient A had quite a number of physical ailments,' she said.

'His blood results were causing confusion and psychosis. He was being seen by a general consultant and had been admitted by a nursing home following a relapse of his schizophrenia.'

Mrs Cullen said that the day after the incident she went into work so she could inform patient A's family of what had happened and to speak to the police.

An internal investigation was carried out and when Ms Trubody was interviewed she claimed she had merely been 'mirroring' the patient's actions when she hit him.

Mrs Cullen said the nurse should have used 'verbal de-escalation' techniques to defuse the situation.

She said: 'My response to that situation would have been: 'Come on Patient A, let's go and have a brew.

'He had never had to be restrained, so I believe he could have been verbally de-escalated.'

During the interview Ms Trubody told her bosses: 'On the way out of the room he said he was fed up of being picked on and I said that his crocodile tears wouldn't work with me. He went back to his room, swearing all the way.'

Ms Trubody also claimed she used the word 'peeing' instead of 'p***ing'.

The panel heard Patient A and his family decided not to press charges against Ms Trubody and opted to rely on the Trust's disciplinary procedures instead.

Patient A died six weeks after the incident. Ms Trubody, from Rossendale, Lancashire, could be banned from working as a nurse if the NMC decided her fitness to practise is impaired.

The hearing, which is expected to last until Friday, continues.

The patient, who has since died, was being treated at the Royal Blackburn Hospital when the alleged incident happened

The patient, who has since died, was being treated at the Royal Blackburn Hospital when the alleged incident happened

Mrs Cullen told the panel the day after the incident, September 7, she went into work so she could inform patient A's family of what had happened and to speak to the police.

An internal investigation was carried out and when Ms Trubody was interviewed she claimed she had merely been 'mirroring' the patient's actions when she hit him.

Mrs Cullen said the nurse should have used 'verbal de-escalation' techniques to diffuse the situation.

She said: 'My response to that situation would have been: 'Come on Patient A, lets go and have a brew.

'He had never had to be restrained, so I believe he could have been verbally de-escalated.'

During the interview Ms Trubody told her bosses: 'On the way out of the room he said he was fed up of being picked on and I said that his crocodile tears wouldn't work with me. He went back to his room, swearing all the way.'

Ms Trubody also claimed she used the word 'peeing' instead of 'p***ing'.

The panel heard Patient A and his family decided not to press charges against Ms Trubody and opted to rely on the Trust's disciplinary procedures instead.

Patient A died six weeks after the incident. Ms Trubody, from Rossendale, Lancashire, could be banned from working as a nurse if the NMC decided her fitness to practise is impaired.

The hearing, which is expected to last

Wednesday, 29 December 2010

Block Buzzters! Toy Story 3 wins box office battle as 2010 is dominated by family films

By Paul Thompson
Last updated at 1:31 AM on 29th December 2010

It was an epic battle featuring wizards, dragons, queens, robots and vampires.

But in the end, it was a ten-inch tall astronaut and cowboy pairing that emerged victorious at the box office.

Toy Story 3 was the world’s highest-grossing hit in 2010, a year ­dominated by family films.

Hit: Toy Story 3 was the most successful film of this year, earning £700million worldwide

Hit: Toy Story 3 was the most successful film of this year, earning £700million worldwide

Mad about it: Alice In Wonderland, starring Johnny Depp, came in second place

Mad about it: Alice In Wonderland, starring Johnny Depp, came in second place

Seven of the top ten were aimed at children or young teenagers, with ­the Leonardo DiCaprio thriller Inception the only grown-up offering to claim one of the top five spots.

The third instalment of the Disney/Pixar Toy Story franchise, starring the voice talents of Tom Hanks as toy cowboy Woody and Tim Allen as his astronaut sidekick Buzz Lightyear, earned ­£680million worldwide, and was the most successful release in the UK, according to Forbes business magazine.

It is now ranked as the fifth highest-grossing film of all time (without taking inflation into account) behind Titanic; Avatar; Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King; and Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.

Family favourite: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One came in third after taking £536m

Family favourite: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part One came in third after taking £536m

TOP 10 GROSSING
FILMS OF 2010

1.Toy Story 3 £680m

2.Alice in Wonderland £650m

3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One £836

4.Inception £532m

5.Shrek Forever £475m

6.Twilight Eclipse £447m

7.Iron Man 2 £401m

8.Despicable Me £347m

9. Clash of Titans £318

10.How to Train Your Dragon £318m

The penultimate film in the blockbuster Harry Potter ­franchise, Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part 1, came a distant third, although it has not yet ­finished its run in cinemas, limiting its potential.

It was beaten to second spot by Tim Burton’s take on Alice In Wonderland, starring Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter, which took £650million despite disappointing reviews. Like Toy Story 3 it was a 3D film, giving it a higher ticket price.

Forbes predicts that after the release of Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Part 2 next year, the final part in the story of the boy wizard, the franchise will become the most successful of all time by earning more than £5billion.

Aside from Inception, the only other films for a more adult audience in the top ten were Iron Man 2 in seventh and the remake of Clash Of The Titans in ninth.

Animated films had a strong year, with Shrek Forever After, Despicable Me and How To Train Your Dragon also making the top ten alongside Toy Story 3.

Why guilt is actually good for us women

By Sandra Parsons
Last updated at 7:59 AM on 29th December 2010

Are you one of the GAT (Guilty All the Time) ­generation? Do you ­reproach yourself each day for failing to spend enough time with your family, for neglecting your friends or for having eaten unhealthily? Are you feeling remorse this Christmas for not having been nicer to your mother or for not having gone to the gym?

If you answered yes to any of the above, then you are almost certainly a woman. As Erica Jong famously said: ‘Show me a woman who doesn’t feel guilty and I’ll show you a man.’

Now, we learn from a new survey that almost all women — 96 per cent — feel guilty at least once a day. Naturally, we are somehow expected to feel guilty about feeling constantly guilty, but in fact it is cause for celebration.

A new survey has revealed that 96 per cent of women feel guilty at least once a day - but Sandra Parsons argues that this is a cause for celebration, as it makes women nicer than men

A new survey has revealed that 96 per cent of women feel guilty at least once a day - but Sandra Parsons argues that this is a cause for celebration, as it makes women nicer than men

Guilt is what makes us nicer than men. It’s the spur that drives us to ease the daily grind for others because we’d rather do that than feel guilty about not doing our bit. It impels us to do the ­family ironing, put on endless loads of washing and fret over how to create the perfect festive occasion whether for Christmas, a birthday or a wedding.

It’s why we play endless games of dolls’ tea parties or cops and robbers with small children, even though we’re exhausted and want nothing more than to slump in front of the TV with a glass of wine.

It’s why we answer the phone and say ‘No, no, of course I’ve got time’ when a heartbroken friend calls just as we were planning an early night with a good book.

And yet a ghastly and highly profitable industry has been built around encouraging women to feel that guilt is somehow bad. Only yesterday the author of a book called Escaping Toxic Guilt was explaining that the reason women feel guilt is that they’re brought up to be ‘good’. Well, I’m afraid I simply fail to see what’s wrong with that.

Yes, I know that the fashionable notion today is of ‘me-time’, the holy grail of those whose personal mantra is ‘Because I’m worth it’. The spa industry is eloquent testimony to the perception that we guilt-ridden, harassed modern women need to unwind, revive and think about ourselves.

Heaven knows we all deserve some time to relax — but for most women that means not a week at a luxury spa but a pilates class or half an hour with a cup of coffee and a glossy magazine. What I really object to is the way the ‘Because you’re worth it’ industry constantly encourages us to escape our responsibilities, as if me-time were the most sacred of human rights.

Real life is difficult. The irony is that happiness lies in battling through despite the difficulties, not avoiding them. The reward is in the glow of satisfaction you gain from not giving in, whether that means sticking to a diet or doing without a new dress so that you can pay for your child’s karate lessons.

In theory it would be lovely to treat yourself to an expensive spa holiday. But if you’re anything like the women I know, you’d find it impossible to spend a week just thinking about yourself (and you’d be feeling far too guilty about your ­children to enjoy it anyway).

When we’re older and our children have grown up, we can expect to have plenty more ‘me time’ — endless hours of it, stretching into what we pray won’t be a lonely old age. Until then, let’s hang on to our guilt — because those we love really are worth it.

My father is delighted with his Christmas present, a mobile phone called John’s Phone with extra large buttons which can only be used to make and receive phone calls. You can’t text with it, play games, take pictures or listen to music on it, and its address book is a notepad stuck on the back. It’s pure genius and isn’t there a fortune waiting to be made, surely, for the person who creates a similarly straightforward computer?

My lightbulb moment

For some weeks I have been wrestling with how best to entertain, on New Year’s Eve, a gathering encompassing three nine-year-olds, five teenagers, a couple of sophisticated, glamorous single women, an assortment of ­middle-aged mums and dads and my 82-year-old father.

Then, in a shop shortly before Christmas, I saw a karaoke machine for £50 and had a lightbulb moment: we would have an X-Factor karaoke party, with everyone dressed as someone from the show.

Great entertainment: Sandra Parsons has found a great way to keep her family happy on New Year's Eve (file picture)

Great entertainment: Sandra Parsons has found a great way to keep her family happy on New Year's Eve (file picture)

My husband agreed only on condition that we never tell anyone. Which I would have stuck to, had I not read how Simon Cowell spent his Christmas Day — with his fiancee and two ex-girlfriends, having an X Factor ­karaoke party.

His was at the $5,000-a-night Sandy Lane Hotel in Barbados. Ours will be taking place in a suburban terrace house. They say the rich are different. But actually, they’re just rich...

Helena Bonham Carter,known for her eccentric dress sense, says her husband always tells her not that she’s put on one item too many, but seven. I would have said the opposite. Every time I see a photograph of her she seems to be wearing one item too few — leaving her impressive cleavage on prominent view.

Sorry, but Upstairs can't top Downton

It grieves me to say it, but Upstairs Downstairs has been a crashing disappointment. I’ve yet to find anyone who thinks it the equal to the original, but it’s also not a patch on Downton Abbey.

For a start, the house is too empty. Sir Hallam Holland and his wife Lady Agnes (pictured) are too young and frankly, rather dull. Compare and contrast them to Lord and Lady Grantham, who have not only three grown-up daughters to add to the action but also a gripping back-story involving the possible loss of their estate.

Crashing disappointment: The revived version of Upstairs Downstairs has failed to live up to expectations and is not a patch on the original - or Downton Abbey

Crashing disappointment: The revived version of Upstairs Downstairs has failed to live up to expectations and is not a patch on the original - or Downton Abbey

And when it comes to formidable matriarchs, Downton far outclassed its rival. Eileen Atkins (co-creator, with Jean Marsh, of Upstairs Downstairs) as Lady Maud seemed altogether too relaxed and never seemed truly to inhabit the part. Maggie Smith, by contrast, hammed up the acid-tongued and totally terrifying Dowager Duchess, Lady Violet Grantham, but she unashamedly made the character her own: once seen, never forgotten.

But where Upstairs Downstairs really fell down was with the characters of the staff. Now promoted to housekeeper, Rose just isn’t a strong enough character — and there’s no one to hold a candle to the brooding presence of Downton’s Carson, or anyone who comes close to the inexplicably sexy and mysterious valet, Bates.

Over-acted: David Suchet's performance as Poirot in Murder on the Orient Express was a travesty

Over-acted: David Suchet's performance as Poirot in Murder on the Orient Express was a travesty

Sick as a Poirot

I’m in mourning for Hercule ­Poirot. As a devoted Agatha Christie fan, I adored David Suchet’s portrayal of the Belgian detective. He perfectly caught Poirot’s vanity and fastidiousness but also his cool, calm logic. The new version of Murder On The Orient Express was a travesty.

Suchet over-acted and portrayed an out-of-character Poirot, by turns darkly dramatic and exploding into anger. I can only assume his success on the West End stage in Arthur Miller’s All My Sons has gone to his head. As one TV critic put it: it’s Agatha Christie, dear, not Graham Greene...


I’ve never understood the attraction of a cruise. I know the ships are the last word in luxury and I applaud them for being possibly the only places left which insist on guests dressing for dinner. But there’s no escape from the briny, or your shipmates.

Now we learn there’s an even worse fate that can befall you: being stuck on board with John Prescott, whose lame speech and ­risque jokes have not gone down well on the Queen Mary 2, where he has been booked as ‘entertainment’.

He’s reported to have since been confined to his cabin with the vomiting bug ­norovirus, but I have my doubts. Far more likely is that other passengers have taken matters into their own hands and poisoned him.

The photographs of Rachel Weisz walking hand in hand through snowy country lanes with Daniel Craig certainly looked idyllic.

But I don’t see how a romantic holiday — even one with James Bond himself — can be worth leaving your four-year-old son behind in New York for Christmas.

Oprah Winfrey has revealed she has become something of a mentor to Fergie, with whom she’s making a documentary.

When the broke duchess sent her an email earlier this year complaining about having to give up her annual break in a Spanish villa, oprah sent one back explaining: 'you have no money. People who don’t have money don’t go to Spain on holiday.’

It seems beyond belief that after all these years of financial incontinence, fatuous
Fergie still can’t work out such basics for herself.

China tests ballistic missile that could sink U.S. aircraft carriers:

Tensions with Washington grow as Beijing boosts military might

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 3:05 AM on 29th December 2010

  • China's Foreign Ministry insists: 'We pose no threat to other countries'

China is stepping up testing on a space missile that could sink American aircraft carriers in the Pacific, a U.S. naval commander warned yesterday.

The news increased tensions between Washington and Beijing as concerns grow that China is boosting its military might.

The DF 21D's uniqueness is in its ability to hit a powerfully defended moving target with pinpoint precision - a capability U.S. naval planners are scrambling to deal with.

Ballistic: China is developing a missile designed to sink an aircraft carrier, jeapordising the U.S.' naval supremacy in Asia

Ballistic: China is developing a missile designed to sink an aircraft carrier, jeapordising the U.S.' naval supremacy in Asia

Global military power: U.S. Navy Admiral Robert F. Willard believes China has global aspirations

Global military power: U.S. Navy Admiral Robert F. Willard believes China has global aspirations

The Chinese military are also expected to launch their first aircraft carrier next year - a year earlier than anticipated by U.S. experts.

But China's Foreign Ministry insists his military is one of peace, saying: 'We pose no threat to other countries.'

Admiral Robert Willard told Japan's Asahi Shimbun newspaper he believes the Chinese anti-ship ballistic missile programme has achieved 'initial operational capability.'

This means a workable design has been settled on and is being further developed.

He added that he thinks China has global aspirations, and wants to extend its influence further than their 'near seas'.

China wants to become a 'global military (power)' Willard said. 'In the capabilities that we're seeing develop, that is fairly obvious.'

Known among defence analysts as a 'carrier killer,' the Dong Feng 21D missile would be a game-changer in the Asian security environment, where U.S. Navy aircraft carriers have ruled the waves since the end of World War II.

The system's component parts have likely been designed and tested, but the U.S. has not yet detected an over-water test to see how well it can target a moving ship, Willard said.

Years of tests are probably still needed before the missile can be fully deployed, he said.

Moving target:The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, one of six aircraft carriers in the U.S. Pacific Fleet. In total the U.S. Navy has 200 ships, 2,000 aircraft and 250,000 personnel deployed in Pacific waters

Moving target:The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, one of six aircraft carriers in the U.S. Pacific Fleet. In total the U.S. Navy has 200 ships, 2,000 aircraft and 250,000 personnel deployed in Pacific waters

The system requires state-of-the-art guidance systems, and some experts say it will take China a decade or so to field a reliable threat.

The missile is considered a key component of China's strategy of denying U.S. planes and ships access to waters off its coast.

The strategy includes overlapping layers of air defense systems, naval assets such as submarines, and advanced ballistic missile systems - all woven together with a network of satellites.

At its most capable, the DF 21D could be launched from land with enough accuracy to penetrate the defenses of even the most advanced moving aircraft carrier at a distance of more than 900 miles.

That could seriously weaken Washington's ability to intervene in any potential conflict over Taiwan or North Korea, as well as deny U.S. ships safe access to international waters near China's 11,200-mile-long coastline.


Not threatening: Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Jiang Yu, insists their military pursues a defensive national policy

Not threatening: Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Jiang Yu, insists their military pursues a defensive national policy

Meanwhile, Chinese military and political sources claim their first aircraft carrier could be put in use next year, a year earlier than US military analysts had anticipated, further emphasising the state's growing maritime power and assertiveness.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu today referred questions about Willard's comments to military departments, but reiterated China's insistence that its expanding military threatens no one.

'I can say that China pursues a defensive national policy. ... We pose no threat to other countries. We will always be a force in safeguarding regional peace and stability,' Jiang told reporters at a regularly scheduled news conference.

While China's Defense Ministry never comments on new weapons before they become operational, the DF 21D - which would travel at 10 times the speed of sound and carry conventional payloads - has been much discussed by military buffs online.

China began developing the Dong-Feng (East WInd) 21 in the 1960s, although it was not deployed until 1991. Latest DF-21 models in development are believed to be armed with 300kt nuclear warheads and will be the world's first and only anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM). The DF-21 has also been developed into a space capable anti-satellite/anti-missile weapon carrier.

When launched, the missile follows a sub-orbital ballistic flightpath. The missile is only guided during the relatively brief initial powered phase of flight and its course is subsequently governed by the laws of orbital mechanics and ballistics.

Dustin Hoffman keeps the romance alive on beach getaway with wife of 30 years

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 6:16 PM on 28th December 2010

Dustin Hoffman proved the spark is alive in his 30-year marriage as he took a romantic stroll on the beach with his wife.

The 73-year-old Oscar-winner and lawyer Lisa Gottsegen seemed very much in love as they walked barefoot along the shoreline with their arms around each other.

Romantic stroll: Dustin Hoffman and wife Lisa Gottsegen enjoy a romantic Christmas vacation on the beach in Cabo San Lucas

Romantic stroll: Dustin Hoffman and wife Lisa Gottsegen enjoy a romantic Christmas vacation on the beach in Cabo San Lucas

At one point the pair stopped and shared a cuddle and a kiss as they dipped their toes in the water.

The actor looked relaxed and casual in a pair of navy blue shorts and a pale blue short sleeved shirt.

Lisa meanwhile showed off her curves in a black halter-necked one piece.

Dustin and Lisa, who have four adult children together, have been enjoying a Christmas holiday in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico over the past few days.

What a team: The couple have been married for 30 years
What a team: The couple have been married for 30 years

What a team: The couple have been married for 30 years

Dustin is on a break from promoting his new film Little Fockers which was released on December 22.

In the film Hoffman plays Bernie Focker, the father of lead character Gregg, played by Ben Stiller.

The film, which is the third in the series, follows the whole family as they reunite for a children's birthday party.

Hoffman is taking a break from film and is set to return to the small screen in the new year starring in a new TV show called Luck, centred around a group of characters all tied to the same horse racing track.

Victoria Beckham shows who wears the trousers as she jets home

in a pair of skin-tight leather leggings

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 1:18 AM on 29th December 2010

She's known for her impractical dressing, but Victoria Beckham must have been suffering through her long-haul flight in this pair of leather leggings.

Despite aviation experts recommending loose-fitting clothes for long flights, it looks like Posh's circulation may have been affected by her choice of outfit as she jetted home to Los Angeles yesterday.

The pop star-turned-designer, 36, sat through her 11-hour flight from London in a skin-tight pair of leather trousers.

Uncomfortable: Victoria Beckham arrives at Los Angeles' LAX airport in a skin-tight pair of leather leggings

Uncomfortable: Victoria Beckham arrives at Los Angeles' LAX airport in a skin-tight pair of leather leggings

She completed her ensemble with a chic black coat, long beige scarf and a pair of towering high heels.

And as she arrived at LAX airport to make her way home to the family's Beverly Hills mansion, she predictably failed to raise a smile.

She was accompanied by her husband David and their three sons Brooklyn, Romeo and Cruz after spending Christmas in their native England.

During their holiday, they partied with Victoria's Spice Girl bandmate Emma Bunton and comedian James Corden at Gordon and Tana Ramsay's Christmas party.

Home after Christmas: David Beckham keeps an eye on his son Romeo as the family walk through the airport

Home after Christmas: David Beckham keeps an eye on his son Romeo as the family walk through the airport

Their three children even got some skiing in when the couple brought their boys to an indoor skiing centre at Hemel Hempstead in Hertfordshire - not far from Beckingham Palace.

During her Christmas at home, Victoria was thrilled to hear her new handbag collection sold out in just an hour.

Just 60 minutes after appearing on the net-a-porter.com website last week, a £1,700 two-tone shoulder bag from her self-named fashion label had already sold out.

Traditional Christmas: The Beckhams attended Gordon and Tana Ramsay's Christmas party in south London on December 22

Traditional Christmas: The Beckhams attended Gordon and Tana Ramsay's Christmas party in south London on December 22

Then an £8,950 crocodile-skin bag with chain handle quickly followed suit.

They were the first pieces from the new accessories range to go on sale, with the full collection to be available from February next year.

After visiting her bag display at Harrods on Christmas Eve, Victoria wrote on her Twitter: 'Just been to Harrods and the Victoria Beckham bag display looks Amazing!!! Thank u Harrods,happy Christmas.'

Sophie Anderton looking healthier and happier than ever as she enjoys a romantic break in the sun

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 1:23 AM on 29th December 2010

Sophie Anderton has finally got her life back on track after fighting a highly public battle with drugs - even turning to prostitution to fund her addiction.

But after conquering her demons and moving to the country with internet entrepreneur James Simpson, the model is looking healthier and happier than ever.

And the glowing brunette, 33, showed country life is doing her the world of good as she was spotted holidaying in the sun.

Bouncing back: Sophie Anderton looks healthy and toned as she enjoys a dip in the sea off the Turkish coast

Bouncing back: Sophie Anderton looks healthy and toned as she enjoys a dip in the sea off the Turkish coast

The former Gossard model and Simpson jetted to Turkey for a relaxing Christmas break away from the cold.

Showing she's still got her lingerie-model figure, Sophie enjoyed a dip in the pool in a blue bikini top and pink bottoms.

After a difficult year, which saw former stockbroker Paul Davis escape a jail sentence after he was found guilty of harassing Anderton, no doubt the brunette is looking forward to 2011.

Looking good: Anderton looks like she's enjoying the warm weather after escaping snowy Surrey

Looking good: Anderton looks like she's enjoying the warm weather after escaping snowy Surrey

She admitted recently she hoped to marry Simpson, who she started dating in late 2009.

She told Glamour magazine recently: 'We’re buying a house and, hopefully, he’ll pop the question.

It’ll be a definite 'yes’. My mother has already told him she wants him to be the father of her grandchildren, but I’m allowing the relationship to take its course.'

Action man: Sophie enjoys a jet ski ride with boyfriend, internet entrepreneur James Simpson

Action man: Sophie enjoys a jet ski ride with boyfriend, internet entrepreneur James Simpson

Anderton has credited Simpson with finally giving her the courage to kick her addictions once and for all.

She said: 'I was able to knock drinking and drugs on the head because I knew it would destroy us.'

Sophie shot to fame when she modelled for lingerie giant Gossard in 1996 and soon hit the party scene.

Enjoying the view: Anderton perches on the side of her hotel's infinity pool

Enjoying the view: Anderton perches on the side of her hotel's infinity pool

She became engaged to millionaire Robert Hanson, 17 years her senior, but the relationship was over by 2000.

It was during her high profile relationship with former Chelsea goalie Mark Bosnich in 2002 that her cocaine addition became public.

In 2007 Sophie became the victim of a national newspaper sting that saw her taking cocaine and offering to sleep with a fake sheikh for £10,000.

Careful: Anderton quickly adjusts her bottoms after her swim in the sea

Careful: Anderton quickly adjusts her bottoms after her swim in the sea

Three, two, one... Thunderbirds stamps are go!

TV puppets star in Royal Mail collection to highlight the best of British

By Katherine Faulkner
Last updated at 8:00 AM on 29th December 2010

To those brought up in the Sixties, it was the children’s television show that defined an era.

And now the Thunderbirds are to star as the heroes of a new collection of Royal Mail stamps that highlight the Best of British.

A range of eight stamps launched next year will celebrate the Genius of Gerry Anderson, the Londoner behind the hit TV puppet show.

Futuristic: A Supercar stamp

Futuristic: A Supercar stamp

The collection, which marks the 50th anniversary of his work, will also feature his other well-loved British TV series of the time – Stingray, Joe 90 and Supercar.

Captain Scarlet and the Thunderbirds Rockets will appear alongside stamps based on more traditional British icons such as the Royal Shakespeare Company and the tales of King Arthur.

Royal Mail said the Best of British collection was the ‘most exciting’ range of stamps in decades, and is designed to immortalise British cultural icons old and new.

Great British musicals will feature on some, while others will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the WWF environmental group, with portraits of ten animals such as the African elephant and Siberian tiger.

Royal Mail stamps spokesman Philip Parker said: ‘The year blasts off with Thunderbirds, Stingray and the amazing TV series of Gerry Anderson, and the excitement doesn’t stop there. There’s something for everyone.’

Axed 33 years ago, the Thunderbirds was one of the most popular children’s TV shows of the 1960s.

Producer Anderson is famous for his futuristic television shows using ‘supermarionation’, a filming technique using specially designed puppets.

He was awarded an MBE in 2001 for his contributions to broadcasting.

We've found Nemo!

Stunning shark picture looks exactly like 'Bruce' from Pixar blockbuster

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 8:31 AM on 29th December 2010

Just like Finding Nemo this hungry shark looks like it has learnt 'fish are friends not food'.

In the Pixar blockbuster, great white shark Bruce gives up his fish-munching ways at an alcoholics anonymous style, self help meet.

And as this incredible real life image shows, sharks in the real world seem to be following in Bruce's fin-steps.

The image taken by underwater photographer Daniel Selmeczi, shows a school of pilot fish swarming around an oceanic whitetip shark.

Pilot fish are carniverous and are often found in the company of sharks, manta ray and giant turtles.

A school of pilot fish swarming around a oceanic whitetip shark

A school of pilot fish swarming around a oceanic whitetip shark. The two species co-exist - he smaller fish get protection from larger predators while the shark gets freedom from parasites

The relationship is mutually beneficial - the fish gain protection from the larger predators known as 'mutualism' where different species exist side-by-side while the shark is kept clear of parasites.

The oceanic whitetip is the pilot fish's preferred companion, eating 'ectoparasites' from the sides of their body.

A similar harmonious co-existance can be seen on land with birds entering the mouths of crocodiles to clean it out without fear of being eaten alive.

Pilot fish are also carnivores so they have the added benefit that when a shark tears its meal to pieces they can share it and eat the scrap bits that fall off.

The name given to the pilot fish either comes from the belief that they helped to guide ships safely to shore in shallower waters or they helped sharks towards food.

Such is the close relationship between the two different species that sailors have reported the pilot fish staying with a boat for up to six weeks after their host shark has been caught.

The image bears an uncanny resemblance to the poster for the film Finding Nemo, which features Bruce the shark surrounded by hundreds of fish and other marine life.

Daniel, 32, from Hungary took the image while diving in the Red Sea in Egypt.

He said: 'I have been taking underwater photographs since 2002 and have travelled to Egypt, the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Indonesia and Malaysia in search of the perfect photograph.

'And this one is one of my favourites, it's rare to capture fish surrounding a shark quite like this.

'I was shocked when someone pointed out my picture looked like a scene from Finding Nemo, I love the film so it has just made me like my image even more.'

'Luckily this shark is friendly, just like Bruce, so I was in no danger photographing it.

'Many people are terrified of sharks especially with the attacks in Egypt recently but Oceanic Whitetip sharks don't eat humans, they eat fish, so I vote we save the sharks.'

The Finding Nemo poster which resembles Daniel Selmeczis underwater photograph

The Finding Nemo poster which resembles Daniel Selmeczis underwater photograph

How not to pull a bird:

Blundering polar bear takes on a tiny seagull in 10-minute battle... and loses

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 8:30 AM on 29th December 2010

This brave seagull heroically took on a polar bear in an epic battle of David v Goliath - and won.

The ten-minute encounter between bird and beast stunned onlookers as the seagull dramatically escaped with its feathers intact.

After the scrap the shame-faced half tonne bear scampered off in search of easier prey to pick a fight with.

Everything but the gull: Polar bears may be at the top of the food chain, but the only thing this bear got to swallow was its pride

Everything but the gull: Polar bears may be at the top of the food chain, but the only thing this bear got to swallow was its pride

Photographer Ole Jorgen Liodden was shocked when he captured the incredible moments on film.

Before the bruising encounter Ole had been happily snapping away at the Glaucous gull as it gently bobbed on the water minding its business.

The polar bear appeared from nowhere and unusually, instead of hunting for its preferred prey of seals, decided to dive into the water and swim up to the bird.

The bear launched a ferocious attack on the gull by biting it on its back and following up with a flurry of blows.

On the back foot: The polar bear is on the defensive as the tussling pair move into shallow water

On the back foot: The polar bear is on the defensive as the tussling pair move into shallow water

Bear bites back: The polar bear surfaces immediately behind the unsuspecting gull and clamps its jaws into the bird's back

Bear bites back: The polar bear surfaces immediately behind the unsuspecting gull and clamps its jaws into the bird's back

On a wing and a prayer: The seagull managed to fend off the bear for several minutes

On a wing and a prayer: The seagull managed to fend off the bear for several minutes

However, this gull was no bird brain and, using its beak, instinctively landed a few hits of its own to the bear's sensitive eyes and nose.

Sensing the bird was not about to become dinner, the bear swum off and the fearless gull was able to make a getaway.

Ole, 37, from Norway, took the photos in the north of the country, in Svalbard.

'This was our second photo expedition to Svalbard and we experienced an incredibly rare situation between a polar bear and a Glaucous gull,' he said.

The brave bird just doesn't know when it is beaten as it twists and turns on the giant hungry bear

The brave bird just doesn't know when it is beaten as it twists and turns on the giant hungry bear

The bear plunges its head beneath the water as it attempts to subdue the gull

The bear plunges its head beneath the water as it attempts to subdue the gull

The bear has a grab at the anry gull's wing but gets nothing but a mouth full of wet feathers

The bear has a grab at the anry gull's wing but gets nothing but a mouth full of wet feathers

Finding itself free of the giant carnivore's jaws, the bird snatches its chance of freedom and flies off

Finding itself free of the giant carnivore's jaws, the bird snatches its chance of freedom and flies off

'The bear suddenly dived and swam a good ten to 15 metres underwater before it attacked the surprised young gull.

'I have never seen anything like this on previous expeditions and the fight was more interesting than I had expected.

'Usually a polar bear can easily kill a 100kg seal, and a gull weighing in at 1.5 kg should be an easy catch.

'After the first bite to the back of the gull, the bear continued its attack in the water.

'The gull fought heroically, and with its bill managed several direct hits to the bear's eyes and nose.

'This made the bear back off and the gull escaped after ten minutes.'

The disconsolate bear is left to rue its inability to pull a bird

The disconsolate bear is left to rue its inability to pull a bird

Dial-a-fatwa that bans naps, raffles and tattoos:

Muslim scholars issue 350,000 decrees in 2010

By Daily Mail
Last updated at 7:59 PM on 28th December 2010

Taking an afternoon nap, the monotonous drone of vuvuzelas that irritated almost all football fans during the World Cup is OK, and it doesn't matter how much noise a donkey makes, it musn't be touched.

But buy a car raffle ticket and you could be in big trouble, but eating dates from palm trees growing in public areas is acceptable - as long as you don't harm the tree.

These are just some of the 350,000 fatwas, or Islamic religious decrees, that have been thought up by Muslim scholars on their website in Abu Dhabi that has a 'call centre' for those seeking guidance.

South African fans get into full swing with their vuvuzelas in Durban during the World Cup in June

Blow that horn: South African fans get into full swing with their vuvuzelas in Durban during the World Cup in June

They cover a vast range of personal and religious questions submitted online, over the phone or via text to the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf).

The centre, which employs 50 scholars, mostly male, has issued a total of 343,121 decrees this year and plans to hire twice the amount of muftis next year to accommodate growing demand for answers.

Vuvuzelas are permissible in soccer stadiums providing they don't exceed 100 decibels which could damage people's hearing, and it is illegal to kill a noisy donkey, bird or other animal, no matter how annoying they are.

Body paint, henna and make-up are allowed because they are deemed to be temporary, but tattoos are ruled out because they are permanent.

By November 1 Awqaf had issued 298,277 fatwas this year, with most inquiries made by phone. The centre was averaging about 1,000 fatwas a day.

Henna tattoos were deemed okay as it is temporary

Henna tattoos were deemed okay as it is temporary

Car raffles are out because they are 'a kind of gambling', and an afternoon nap is banned because the time could be used more productively.

But half sisters are allowed to shake hands with their brothers, even if their mother is a Christian.

Speaking of women, the centre ruled that there are no specific prayers for 'getting a husband' and women may live alone 'as long as it was in a safe place'.

Another fatwa called on worshippers to 'be clean' when heading to the mosque and to avoid overeating garlic less the smell 'offends' others.

As for recreation, watching television and checking websites that instigate hate or division are to be avoided.

Raising the Bar! Model Refaeli strips down poolside to reveal killer bikini curves

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 5:11 AM on 29th December 2010

Just in case anyone had forgotten about Bar Refaeli's illustrious career as a swimsuit model, then here's a little reminder.

The stunning model put on a tantalising poolside display as she peeled off her clothes to reveal another tiny bikini on day two of her holiday in Mexico.

Bar, 25, showed off her killer curves in a minuscule mismatched bikini after dispensing with her Daisy Dukes and see-through white shirt.

Looking good: Bar Refaeli showed off her stunning figure as she soaked up the sun in Mexico where she is on holiday

Looking good: Bar Refaeli showed off her stunning figure as she soaked up the sun in Mexico where she is on holiday

Stripping down: The Israeli model peeled off her Daisy Dukes and see-through white top to reveal her killer bikini curves
Stripping down: The Israeli model peeled off her Daisy Dukes and see-through white top to reveal her killer bikini curves

Stripping down: The Israeli model peeled off her Daisy Dukes and see-through white top to reveal her killer bikini curves

She was spotted soaking up the sun in Los Cabos, Mexico, yesterday.

After lounging around and sipping on an iced drink, the former Sports Illustrated took a dip in the pool to cool off.

Bar's boyfriend Leonardo DiCaprio didn't join the Israeli model by the pool, instead she chatted to a group of friends.

Refreshments: Bar, who dates actor Leonardo DiCaprio was sipping on a cool iced drink

Refreshments: Bar, who dates actor Leonardo DiCaprio was sipping on a cool iced drink

Lady of leisure: She has been joined on her vacation by a group of friends

Lady of leisure: She has been joined on her vacation by a group of friends

According to sources, the Hollywood star is planning on tying the knot with his girlfriend of five years.

Apparently Leo has been looking at converting to Judaism and even made several secret trips to Israel to learn more about where Bar comes from.

‘Leo’s sudden intense interest in Israel, its culture and religion is the clearest sign yet that he intends to marry Bar,’ said a source.

Cooling off: Bar takes a dip after topping up her tan in the sunny weather

Cooling off: Bar takes a dip after topping up her tan in the sunny weather

Job done: The former Sports Illustrated swimsuit model still knows how to work a two-piece
Job done: The former Sports Illustrated swimsuit model still knows how to work a two-piece

Job done: The former Sports Illustrated swimsuit model still knows how to work a two-piece

‘He has been staying with her in a hotel in Tel Aviv for a few days at a time recently so that he can avoid the photographers outside her apartment in a nearby suburb.

‘Now he is looking into converting for her.’

For months rumours have swirled that the 36-year old has secretly proposed to Bar.

But it appears the couple didn't spend Christmas together - Leonardo was spotted on Boxing Day in Los Angeles, where he took a private tour of the LA County Museum Of Art Museum.

Curvier than usual? Bar seen earlier in the holiday in another skimpy bikini
Curvier than usual? Bar seen earlier in the holiday in another skimpy bikini

Curvier than usual? Bar seen earlier in the holiday in another skimpy bikini

Christmas apart? Leonardo DiCaprio takes a Boxing Day tour at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art museum in LA

Christmas apart? Leonardo DiCaprio takes a Boxing Day tour at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art museum in LA