Phil Smith, chief executive of IT company Cisco, likened the situation to not having access to water or a road and said businesses would not be able to survive without it.
He said a fast internet connection was vital to a country like Wales with a "complex landscape".
The Welsh government insisted Wales was leading the way with broadband.
Ministers and BT are currently delivering the scheme Superfast Cymru, which will give people access to fibre broadband.
Earlier this year a Superfast Cymru spokesman said more than 80% of properties in Wales had access to the superfast broadband.
But, speaking to BBC Wales at technology conference Digital 2016 in Newport, Mr Smith said: "I'm very surprised that broadband hasn't got to the level of penetration it should.
"To be honest it's like saying you don't have a road now, or you don't have water.
"Companies, countries and individuals can't survive without broadband, it's not some optional nice thing to have, this is the way business is done.
"A country like Wales, it's got a wide population and complex landscape, it needs people to be on video, to engage anywhere in the world at any time.
"I think it's really important that the government and industry push hard to get broadband to the highest level everywhere."
A Welsh Government spokesman said an Ofcom report in August showed Wales was leading the way among the UK's devolved nations with the availability of superfast broadband.
"The Superfast Cymru programme has already made superfast broadband speeds in excess of 24Mbps available to more than 581,000 Welsh homes and businesses, including in some very rural areas, and more premises will have access as the rollout continues," he added.
"We are committed to making Wales a truly digital nation and continue to support businesses to take advantage of broadband technology which will help them to grow, to boost Wales' economic prosperity and create jobs."

Summary: A high profile figure in the world of technology has criticised poor broadband in parts of Wales.

Answer: 1


Phil Smith, chief executive of IT company Cisco, likened the situation to not having access to water or a road and said businesses would not be able to survive without it.
He said a fast internet connection was vital to a country like Wales with a "complex landscape".
The Welsh government insisted Wales was leading the way with broadband.
Ministers and BT are currently delivering the scheme Superfast Cymru, which will give people access to fibre broadband.
Earlier this year a Superfast Cymru spokesman said more than 80% of properties in Wales had access to the superfast broadband.
But, speaking to BBC Wales at technology conference Digital 2016 in Newport, Mr Smith said: "I'm very surprised that broadband hasn't got to the level of penetration it should.
"To be honest it's like saying you don't have a road now, or you don't have water.
"Companies, countries and individuals can't survive without broadband, it's not some optional nice thing to have, this is the way business is done.
"A country like Wales, it's got a wide population and complex landscape, it needs people to be on video, to engage anywhere in the world at any time.
"I think it's really important that the government and industry push hard to get broadband to the highest level everywhere."
A Welsh Government spokesman said an Ofcom report in August showed Wales was leading the way among the UK's devolved nations with the availability of superfast broadband.
"The Superfast Cymru programme has already made superfast broadband speeds in excess of 24Mbps available to more than 581,000 Welsh homes and businesses, including in some very rural areas, and more premises will have access as the rollout continues," he added.
"We are committed to making Wales a truly digital nation and continue to support businesses to take advantage of broadband technology which will help them to grow, to boost Wales' economic prosperity and create jobs."

Summary: The head of the UK's biggest IT firm has said he is "very surprised" that broadband has not been delivered to the level of penetration it should be.

Answer: 0


The Italian authorities concluded Claire Martin killed herself after suffering from post-natal depression.
Her parents, from Sutton-in-Ashfield in Nottinghamshire, believe she was murdered because "things don't add up".
Ashfield MP Gloria De Piero said there are "anomalies to explore".
Ms Martin, 30, lived with son and her in-laws in Grottaminarda, near Naples, while her partner worked in Germany.
In March 2012, Ms Martin suffered multiple stab wounds to her neck, struggled upstairs and died.
A murder investigation was launched, but 15 months later the Italian authority closed the case after it ruled she had committed suicide.
Following a recent Guardian newspaper article on her death, her father Ray Martin said: "Things don't add up.
"It's impossible to stab yourself multiple times in the neck and climb up stairs after wiping the blood clean off the knife."
Her mother Pat Martin said: "It's a continuing nightmare, nobody gives a damn."
Ms De Piero said forensic reports have been translated into English, but there are witness statements and other evidence only available in Italian.
The MP has asked for a meeting in October with the Italian government to "get the answers the Martin's need".
Mr Martin said: "We hope to meet with the magistrate, but I honestly don't know why they won't speak with us."
The Foreign Office said it would not comment on individual cases, but has provided consular assistance to the family.
It added: "We will continue to assist in any way we can, although we cannot interfere in the legal system of another country."

Summary: An MP has a bid to establish how a suicide verdict was ruled after a woman died in Italy in 2012 from stab wounds to the neck.

Answer: 1


The Italian authorities concluded Claire Martin killed herself after suffering from post-natal depression.
Her parents, from Sutton-in-Ashfield in Nottinghamshire, believe she was murdered because "things don't add up".
Ashfield MP Gloria De Piero said there are "anomalies to explore".
Ms Martin, 30, lived with son and her in-laws in Grottaminarda, near Naples, while her partner worked in Germany.
In March 2012, Ms Martin suffered multiple stab wounds to her neck, struggled upstairs and died.
A murder investigation was launched, but 15 months later the Italian authority closed the case after it ruled she had committed suicide.
Following a recent Guardian newspaper article on her death, her father Ray Martin said: "Things don't add up.
"It's impossible to stab yourself multiple times in the neck and climb up stairs after wiping the blood clean off the knife."
Her mother Pat Martin said: "It's a continuing nightmare, nobody gives a damn."
Ms De Piero said forensic reports have been translated into English, but there are witness statements and other evidence only available in Italian.
The MP has asked for a meeting in October with the Italian government to "get the answers the Martin's need".
Mr Martin said: "We hope to meet with the magistrate, but I honestly don't know why they won't speak with us."
The Foreign Office said it would not comment on individual cases, but has provided consular assistance to the family.
It added: "We will continue to assist in any way we can, although we cannot interfere in the legal system of another country."

Summary: The family of a woman who was stabbed to death in Italy have said they are "shocked" by the lack of evidence in the case.

Answer: 0


The Office for National Statistics said industrial output fell 0.7% compared with January, when it dropped 0.3%.
Unexpectedly warm weather drove the change, because it led to a fall in electricity and gas demand, the ONS said.
Construction output fell by 1.7% in February, down from a revised January reading of zero growth.
The construction figure, the biggest drop in nearly a year, was mainly the result of a 2.6% fall in the housebuilding sector.
Meanwhile, the UK's deficit in goods and services widened to Â£3.7bn in February, from a revised figure of Â£3bn in January.
According to the ONS, the deficit was fuelled by what it called "erratic items", such as imports of gold and aircraft.
"The overall trade deficit worsened, but excluding erratic items, the picture improved, as imports fell more than exports," said ONS senior statistician Kate Davies.
Howard Archer, chief UK and European economist at IHS Markit, called the figures "a disappointing package of data for the UK economy which fuels suspicion that GDP growth slowed markedly, largely due to consumers becoming more cautious".
He added: "We suspect UK GDP growth in the first quarter of 2017 slowed to 0.4% quarter-on-quarter from 0.7% quarter-on-quarter in the fourth quarter of 2016 - this would be the weakest growth rate since the first quarter of 2016."

Summary: Activity in the UK's industrial and construction sectors shrank in February, new figures show.

Answer: 1


The Office for National Statistics said industrial output fell 0.7% compared with January, when it dropped 0.3%.
Unexpectedly warm weather drove the change, because it led to a fall in electricity and gas demand, the ONS said.
Construction output fell by 1.7% in February, down from a revised January reading of zero growth.
The construction figure, the biggest drop in nearly a year, was mainly the result of a 2.6% fall in the housebuilding sector.
Meanwhile, the UK's deficit in goods and services widened to Â£3.7bn in February, from a revised figure of Â£3bn in January.
According to the ONS, the deficit was fuelled by what it called "erratic items", such as imports of gold and aircraft.
"The overall trade deficit worsened, but excluding erratic items, the picture improved, as imports fell more than exports," said ONS senior statistician Kate Davies.
Howard Archer, chief UK and European economist at IHS Markit, called the figures "a disappointing package of data for the UK economy which fuels suspicion that GDP growth slowed markedly, largely due to consumers becoming more cautious".
He added: "We suspect UK GDP growth in the first quarter of 2017 slowed to 0.4% quarter-on-quarter from 0.7% quarter-on-quarter in the fourth quarter of 2016 - this would be the weakest growth rate since the first quarter of 2016."

Summary: UK industrial output fell in February, the biggest fall in nearly a year, according to official figures.

Answer: 0


A yellow severe weather warning has been issued as the remains of Hurricane Gonzalo reach Britain.
Coastal areas and north-western parts of Wales are expected to see the worst of the weather.
The Met Office said while all of Wales will be affected, areas including Aberporth, Aberystwyth and Anglesey will likely see the strongest winds.
"Hurricane Gonzalo will run eastwards across the Atlantic, reaching the UK on Monday night, bringing strong winds and heavy rain," said a spokesperson.
"The strongest winds are expected on Tuesday as the low pressure clears eastwards."
Gusts exceeding 55mph are likely inland, with 60 to 70mph gusts in some exposed coastal areas in the west.
The forecaster warned that fallen leaves and blocked drains could increase the risk of surface water affecting roads, and advised that travel could be disrupted.
Hurricane Gonzalo caused widespread damage and a power blackout when it hit Bermuda last week, with damage caused to houses and power lines downed.
Irish Ferries has cancelled some sailings between Holyhead and Dublin due to the adverse weather forecasts for Tuesday.

Summary: Gale force winds of up to 70mph and heavy rain will arrive in Wales on Monday evening, said the Met Office.

Answer: 1


A yellow severe weather warning has been issued as the remains of Hurricane Gonzalo reach Britain.
Coastal areas and north-western parts of Wales are expected to see the worst of the weather.
The Met Office said while all of Wales will be affected, areas including Aberporth, Aberystwyth and Anglesey will likely see the strongest winds.
"Hurricane Gonzalo will run eastwards across the Atlantic, reaching the UK on Monday night, bringing strong winds and heavy rain," said a spokesperson.
"The strongest winds are expected on Tuesday as the low pressure clears eastwards."
Gusts exceeding 55mph are likely inland, with 60 to 70mph gusts in some exposed coastal areas in the west.
The forecaster warned that fallen leaves and blocked drains could increase the risk of surface water affecting roads, and advised that travel could be disrupted.
Hurricane Gonzalo caused widespread damage and a power blackout when it hit Bermuda last week, with damage caused to houses and power lines downed.
Irish Ferries has cancelled some sailings between Holyhead and Dublin due to the adverse weather forecasts for Tuesday.

Summary: Parts of Wales are expected to be hit by the strongest winds of the Atlantic hurricane in a week.

Answer: 0


The author whose Sea of Poppies was shortlisted for the Booker prize in 2008, is being hosted as a writer-in-residence at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
He has been posting regular tweets and pictures, including the dining table Nelson Mandela ate at and guest rooms foreign dignitaries have stayed in.
His latest book is on climate change.
The Twitter tour was not limited to just the interiors of the official residence.
Ghosh pointed out aspects of the famed gardens, and also drew attention to a sewage treatment plant on the premises.
The Mughal gardens are hugely popular in India, and are opened to the public once a year.
Ghosh also took the time to meet members of the president's security detail including Vikrant, the horse that leads all the ceremonial parades the president participates in.
Many social media users have thanked the author for giving them an "unseen glimpse" into the President's house, while others have been offering their own insights- and even criticisms- of the residence..
One user suggested that some of the rooms could "use more light", while others said that "heavy dusty carpeting" could "smother the will to live".

Summary: Indian author and novelist Sharmila Ghosh has been on a two-day tour of the country's President's residence in the capital, Delhi.

Answer: 0


The author whose Sea of Poppies was shortlisted for the Booker prize in 2008, is being hosted as a writer-in-residence at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
He has been posting regular tweets and pictures, including the dining table Nelson Mandela ate at and guest rooms foreign dignitaries have stayed in.
His latest book is on climate change.
The Twitter tour was not limited to just the interiors of the official residence.
Ghosh pointed out aspects of the famed gardens, and also drew attention to a sewage treatment plant on the premises.
The Mughal gardens are hugely popular in India, and are opened to the public once a year.
Ghosh also took the time to meet members of the president's security detail including Vikrant, the horse that leads all the ceremonial parades the president participates in.
Many social media users have thanked the author for giving them an "unseen glimpse" into the President's house, while others have been offering their own insights- and even criticisms- of the residence..
One user suggested that some of the rooms could "use more light", while others said that "heavy dusty carpeting" could "smother the will to live".

Summary: Writer Ghosh is giving social media users a rare glimpse of what it's like inside the president's official residence.

Answer: 1


The bridge, over the River Wharfe at Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, collapsed in December 2015, affecting 79 homes and businesses.
The report, for North Yorkshire County Council, said improved defences should be a "priority".
The Environment Agency said it was preparing a funding bid for improved defences.
Read more about this and other stories from across Yorkshire
The report said heavy rain over the Christmas period fell on ground already saturated following heavy rain throughout November and December.
The level of the River Wharfe rose rapidly and overtopped the town's existing defences.
It states: "An improved system of flood defences in Tadcaster is a priority for the town.
"The current level of protection [for a one-in-25 year flood event] is low and whilst the rainfall preceding the flood was unusual, the risk of a repeat event remains."
Don Mackenzie, executive member on North Yorkshire County Council, said: "Clearly we want to see the basic defences built up higher so that we have more than the current 25 year protection. Ideally we would like to see a 100 year protection."
Nicola Eades, from Tadcaster Flood Action Group, welcomed the report.
"We are working closely with the organisations [on plans for defences] but it will be about what will be acceptable to the public."
She also said it would be dependent on what funding would be available nationally and regionally.
The report praises the Tadcaster Flood Action Group (TFAG) for its work in improving flood awareness and resilience in the town since 2015.
It concludes: "It is undoubtedly true that Tadcaster is better prepared for flooding through the actions and activities of TFAG."

Summary: A report into the collapse of a bridge which killed more than 100 people has said flood defences are "unacceptable".

Answer: 0


The bridge, over the River Wharfe at Tadcaster, North Yorkshire, collapsed in December 2015, affecting 79 homes and businesses.
The report, for North Yorkshire County Council, said improved defences should be a "priority".
The Environment Agency said it was preparing a funding bid for improved defences.
Read more about this and other stories from across Yorkshire
The report said heavy rain over the Christmas period fell on ground already saturated following heavy rain throughout November and December.
The level of the River Wharfe rose rapidly and overtopped the town's existing defences.
It states: "An improved system of flood defences in Tadcaster is a priority for the town.
"The current level of protection [for a one-in-25 year flood event] is low and whilst the rainfall preceding the flood was unusual, the risk of a repeat event remains."
Don Mackenzie, executive member on North Yorkshire County Council, said: "Clearly we want to see the basic defences built up higher so that we have more than the current 25 year protection. Ideally we would like to see a 100 year protection."
Nicola Eades, from Tadcaster Flood Action Group, welcomed the report.
"We are working closely with the organisations [on plans for defences] but it will be about what will be acceptable to the public."
She also said it would be dependent on what funding would be available nationally and regionally.
The report praises the Tadcaster Flood Action Group (TFAG) for its work in improving flood awareness and resilience in the town since 2015.
It concludes: "It is undoubtedly true that Tadcaster is better prepared for flooding through the actions and activities of TFAG."

Summary: Heavy rain which caused a road bridge to collapse, could happen again, a report has said.

Answer: 1


Moore, who is 6ft 5ins, scored 10 goals in 21 league appearances this season for Rovers and Torquay, where he had a brief loan spell earlier this term.
The 24-year-old has penned an 18-month deal at Portman Road.
Spence, 26, has signed to the end of the season having been without a club since leaving MK Dons in the summer.
The former West Ham defender played 80 times for the Dons after joining on a full-time contract, following two separate loan spells.
Both are unavailable for Ipswich's FA Cup third-round replay at Lincoln on Tuesday as they were not registered before the original tie.
Ipswich Town boss Mick McCarthy confirmed on Saturday to BBC Radio Suffolk he was still searching for another striker despite signing Moore, having previously had an approach turned down by Preston for Jordan Hugill.
Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page or visit our Premier League tracker here.

Summary: Ipswich Town have signed striker Ryan Moore and striker Jack Spence on loan from fellow League Two side Preston North End.

Answer: 0


Moore, who is 6ft 5ins, scored 10 goals in 21 league appearances this season for Rovers and Torquay, where he had a brief loan spell earlier this term.
The 24-year-old has penned an 18-month deal at Portman Road.
Spence, 26, has signed to the end of the season having been without a club since leaving MK Dons in the summer.
The former West Ham defender played 80 times for the Dons after joining on a full-time contract, following two separate loan spells.
Both are unavailable for Ipswich's FA Cup third-round replay at Lincoln on Tuesday as they were not registered before the original tie.
Ipswich Town boss Mick McCarthy confirmed on Saturday to BBC Radio Suffolk he was still searching for another striker despite signing Moore, having previously had an approach turned down by Preston for Jordan Hugill.
Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page or visit our Premier League tracker here.

Summary: Ipswich Town have signed striker Moore and former MK Dons defender Spence.

Answer: 1


Their 196-run first-innings lead came mainly thanks to Tom Kohler-Cadmore (102) and Ed Barnard (59).
Further contributions down the order allowed the visitors to reach 403 all out for five batting bonus points.
Glamorgan started well with Jacques Rudolph and Nick Selman putting on 74 for the first wicket, but they ended 141-3 at the close, 55 runs behind.
Worcestershire claimed three wickets for 34 runs to reduce Glamorgan to 108-3, but Colin Ingram (41 not out) and Aneurin Donald saw out the rest of the day.
Glamorgan bowler Michael Hogan told BBC Wales Sport: "It seemed to go through different stages at different times. It was a little trickier at times and then got easier as ball got softer. The boys toiled hard but it could have been a bit better.
"It was good to see Lukas Carey doing well. He has done a lot of work in pre-season and he has worked really hard on his fitness and his technique, so it is good to see him being given a chance and taking it with both hands.
"I'm fitter after a winter off, probably lacked a bit of bowling conditioning. I've had a few weeks off with injury so probably I got bit tired towards the end.
"We thought with the sun out after about 35 or 40 overs it got a bit easier, but they have got a good attack so we will have to absorb a bit of pressure. I think the boys can do the job and if the boys can build a good total we can hopefully bowl them out."

Summary: Glamorgan's hopes of reaching the County Championship quarter-finals suffered a blow as they were bowled out for just 101 by Worcestershire.

Answer: 0


Their 196-run first-innings lead came mainly thanks to Tom Kohler-Cadmore (102) and Ed Barnard (59).
Further contributions down the order allowed the visitors to reach 403 all out for five batting bonus points.
Glamorgan started well with Jacques Rudolph and Nick Selman putting on 74 for the first wicket, but they ended 141-3 at the close, 55 runs behind.
Worcestershire claimed three wickets for 34 runs to reduce Glamorgan to 108-3, but Colin Ingram (41 not out) and Aneurin Donald saw out the rest of the day.
Glamorgan bowler Michael Hogan told BBC Wales Sport: "It seemed to go through different stages at different times. It was a little trickier at times and then got easier as ball got softer. The boys toiled hard but it could have been a bit better.
"It was good to see Lukas Carey doing well. He has done a lot of work in pre-season and he has worked really hard on his fitness and his technique, so it is good to see him being given a chance and taking it with both hands.
"I'm fitter after a winter off, probably lacked a bit of bowling conditioning. I've had a few weeks off with injury so probably I got bit tired towards the end.
"We thought with the sun out after about 35 or 40 overs it got a bit easier, but they have got a good attack so we will have to absorb a bit of pressure. I think the boys can do the job and if the boys can build a good total we can hopefully bowl them out."

Summary: Worcestershire batted themselves to a good position against Glamorgan.

Answer: 1


The district council-owned building has been upgraded for the first time in more than three decades.
It includes a new 33m pool, a shallow training pool, sauna and steam room.
The sports hall has been revamped and a £250,000 climbing wall has been built at the Bridgefoot centre.
The double Olympic gold medallist said: "It's an amazing venue for these guys so that they can learn a life skill as well as having fun.
"So many pools nowadays through this whole country have been knocked down and it's incredible that they've invested the money back to make a safe place."
It is the second time Adlington has visited the centre after she opened the temporary pool provided as part of the British Gas 'Pools for Schools Programme' earlier this year.
Other athletes who joined the celebrations included water polo player, Rosie Morris, who competed as the GB goalkeeper at the London Olympics in 2012.
Zoe Reeve, former member of the GB Synchro Squad and triple Commonwealth Gold Medallist and three-time Olympian James Goddard also attended the event.

Summary: Olympic gold medallist Sarah Adlington has visited the new £1m Bridgefoot Sports Centre in Bath.

Answer: 0


The district council-owned building has been upgraded for the first time in more than three decades.
It includes a new 33m pool, a shallow training pool, sauna and steam room.
The sports hall has been revamped and a £250,000 climbing wall has been built at the Bridgefoot centre.
The double Olympic gold medallist said: "It's an amazing venue for these guys so that they can learn a life skill as well as having fun.
"So many pools nowadays through this whole country have been knocked down and it's incredible that they've invested the money back to make a safe place."
It is the second time Adlington has visited the centre after she opened the temporary pool provided as part of the British Gas 'Pools for Schools Programme' earlier this year.
Other athletes who joined the celebrations included water polo player, Rosie Morris, who competed as the GB goalkeeper at the London Olympics in 2012.
Zoe Reeve, former member of the GB Synchro Squad and triple Commonwealth Gold Medallist and three-time Olympian James Goddard also attended the event.

Summary: Olympic champion Adlington has unveiled a massive refurbishment of a district building.

Answer: 1


The old Victoria Ground, next to the A500, shut in 1997 when the club moved to the Britannia Stadium and has remained vacant ever since.
Plans for the 16-acre site include 130 homes being built initially, followed by a further 70.
David Sidaway, from the council, said he was proud to have secured investment for the "very important site".
A plan to build offices there was shelved in 2004 and in 2007 St Modwen said the recession had affected development opportunities.
Further plans for housing were announced in 2013 but never happened.
Dave Smith, from developer St Modwen Homes, said: "We understand that the Victoria Ground is an important site for both the people of Stoke-on-Trent and the city council.
"Having taken the comments from the public consultation on board, particularly for the second phase of development, we are looking forward to turning our plans for the Victoria Ground site into reality and breathing new life into the community and surrounding area."
After working with the Environment Agency over potential flooding issues, a nearby primary school to include sports pitches in the development and holding a public consultation, plans will be submitted by the end of the month, the council said.

Summary: Plans to redevelop Stoke-on-Trent's former stadium into a housing development have been submitted to the city council.

Answer: 0


The old Victoria Ground, next to the A500, shut in 1997 when the club moved to the Britannia Stadium and has remained vacant ever since.
Plans for the 16-acre site include 130 homes being built initially, followed by a further 70.
David Sidaway, from the council, said he was proud to have secured investment for the "very important site".
A plan to build offices there was shelved in 2004 and in 2007 St Modwen said the recession had affected development opportunities.
Further plans for housing were announced in 2013 but never happened.
Dave Smith, from developer St Modwen Homes, said: "We understand that the Victoria Ground is an important site for both the people of Stoke-on-Trent and the city council.
"Having taken the comments from the public consultation on board, particularly for the second phase of development, we are looking forward to turning our plans for the Victoria Ground site into reality and breathing new life into the community and surrounding area."
After working with the Environment Agency over potential flooding issues, a nearby primary school to include sports pitches in the development and holding a public consultation, plans will be submitted by the end of the month, the council said.

Summary: The old Victoria Ground is to be redeveloped into fields and 200 homes.

Answer: 1


A colony has been roosting in St Hilda's Church at Ellerburn, close to the North York Moors.
But despite the church's best efforts the bats are not moving and are soiling the altar and church furniture, leaving the church with an "appalling smell".
The creatures are protected by law and cannot be wilfully disturbed.
Volunteers at the church have been working for the past decade to keep the altar, stonework and woodwork clean.
But the bats, roosting in the higher areas of the church continually soil the interior of the building with urine and faeces.
Church warden Liz Cowley said keeping the 11th Century building in good shape was difficult.
She said: "You can see the urine marks (on the altar), they won't go away.
"If people were coming in here damaging an ancient building like this, you would say it was criminal damage.
"The smell is appalling, it's a combination of ammonia from the urine and a musty smell from the droppings that catches at the back of the throat."
Members of the church had spent Â£10,000 trying to get the bats to move and had paid for specially-built lofts nearby.
The Rev Paul Mothersdale, the Rector of St Hilda's Church, said a lot of money had been invested in trying to persuade the bats to move out of the church.
The Rev Mothersdale said: "We've tried to do everything that English Nature, or Natural England, have wanted us to do.
"Money has been spent, not only by the congregation, not only out of church funds, but local people have mucked in and helped.
"And yet we're no further forward, we're still as we were 10 years ago."
Lucy Bellini, of Natural England, said the bats had to be carefully monitored.
Ms Bellini said: "It is a really regionally important roost.
"Because of that we need to be sure that there are replacement roosts that are suitable and that the bats have found and are aware of and can move to before we allow the church to seal up access points and move the bats out of the church."

Summary: A congregation has spent thousands building bat lofts in an attempt to lure the creatures out of their church.

Answer: 1


A colony has been roosting in St Hilda's Church at Ellerburn, close to the North York Moors.
But despite the church's best efforts the bats are not moving and are soiling the altar and church furniture, leaving the church with an "appalling smell".
The creatures are protected by law and cannot be wilfully disturbed.
Volunteers at the church have been working for the past decade to keep the altar, stonework and woodwork clean.
But the bats, roosting in the higher areas of the church continually soil the interior of the building with urine and faeces.
Church warden Liz Cowley said keeping the 11th Century building in good shape was difficult.
She said: "You can see the urine marks (on the altar), they won't go away.
"If people were coming in here damaging an ancient building like this, you would say it was criminal damage.
"The smell is appalling, it's a combination of ammonia from the urine and a musty smell from the droppings that catches at the back of the throat."
Members of the church had spent Â£10,000 trying to get the bats to move and had paid for specially-built lofts nearby.
The Rev Paul Mothersdale, the Rector of St Hilda's Church, said a lot of money had been invested in trying to persuade the bats to move out of the church.
The Rev Mothersdale said: "We've tried to do everything that English Nature, or Natural England, have wanted us to do.
"Money has been spent, not only by the congregation, not only out of church funds, but local people have mucked in and helped.
"And yet we're no further forward, we're still as we were 10 years ago."
Lucy Bellini, of Natural England, said the bats had to be carefully monitored.
Ms Bellini said: "It is a really regionally important roost.
"Because of that we need to be sure that there are replacement roosts that are suitable and that the bats have found and are aware of and can move to before we allow the church to seal up access points and move the bats out of the church."

Summary: A church in York is being forced to move hundreds of bats from its altar because of a "musty smell" from the rotting wood.

Answer: 0


WBC cruiserweight champion Bellew, 34, produced an upset to stop David Haye in a heavyweight contest last month.
But when asked if he would fight WBA and IBF champion Joshua, Bellew said: "Absolutely not. I don't need that kind of fight. He's far too good for me."
His promoter Eddie Hearn said he could fight WBO champion Joseph Parker next.
New Zealand's Parker, 25, will defend his title against Romanian Razvan Cojanu in Auckland next weekend.
Speaking after Joshua's 11th-round stoppage of Wladimir Klitschko, Bellew said: "I'm still dreaming about winning the heavyweight world title but a different portion to the one AJ has."
The Liverpudlian said he was considering retirement following his surprise victory over Haye last month on his heavyweight debut.
But on fighting Parker, he added: "I say Eddie knows what he's doing."
Promoter Hearn confirmed that an all-British Bellew-Joshua fight was not on the cards.
"Tony and Joshua are good friends," he told BBC Radio 5 live's Sportsweek programme on Sunday morning.
"Tony Bellew has got his eye on some of the smaller guys. Fighters like Joshua are giants and Bellew isn't, but he's in the mix we talk about for challenging for world heavyweight titles."
Bellew is not a natural heavyweight, having stepped up from the cruiserweight division to fight David Haye in March.
He weighed in at 96.6kg for that fight, while Joshua was at a career heaviest of 113 kg against Klitschko on Saturday - a difference of almost 20kg.
But also in the mix for Bellew is WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder - and the American wants a unification fight against Joshua, should he take the WBO belt off Parker.
"My plans are to get the WBO belt and once I get that, if I'm given a mandatory challenger, get that out of the way and set up a mega fight early in 2018," said Wilder.

Summary: Tony Bellew still retains hope of winning a world heavyweight title but says he will not fight fellow Briton Joshua.

Answer: 1


WBC cruiserweight champion Bellew, 34, produced an upset to stop David Haye in a heavyweight contest last month.
But when asked if he would fight WBA and IBF champion Joshua, Bellew said: "Absolutely not. I don't need that kind of fight. He's far too good for me."
His promoter Eddie Hearn said he could fight WBO champion Joseph Parker next.
New Zealand's Parker, 25, will defend his title against Romanian Razvan Cojanu in Auckland next weekend.
Speaking after Joshua's 11th-round stoppage of Wladimir Klitschko, Bellew said: "I'm still dreaming about winning the heavyweight world title but a different portion to the one AJ has."
The Liverpudlian said he was considering retirement following his surprise victory over Haye last month on his heavyweight debut.
But on fighting Parker, he added: "I say Eddie knows what he's doing."
Promoter Hearn confirmed that an all-British Bellew-Joshua fight was not on the cards.
"Tony and Joshua are good friends," he told BBC Radio 5 live's Sportsweek programme on Sunday morning.
"Tony Bellew has got his eye on some of the smaller guys. Fighters like Joshua are giants and Bellew isn't, but he's in the mix we talk about for challenging for world heavyweight titles."
Bellew is not a natural heavyweight, having stepped up from the cruiserweight division to fight David Haye in March.
He weighed in at 96.6kg for that fight, while Joshua was at a career heaviest of 113 kg against Klitschko on Saturday - a difference of almost 20kg.
But also in the mix for Bellew is WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder - and the American wants a unification fight against Joshua, should he take the WBO belt off Parker.
"My plans are to get the WBO belt and once I get that, if I'm given a mandatory challenger, get that out of the way and set up a mega fight early in 2018," said Wilder.

Summary: Tony Bellew says he will not fight Anthony Joshua for the WBA and IBF heavyweight titles.

Answer: 0


The site - which is owned by Google - is launching a competition for teenagers to create an experiment that could be carried out in space.
Two winning ideas will be tested by the crew of the International Space Station.
Google chairman Eric Schmidt recently criticised science and technology education in the UK.
Delivering the annual McTaggart lecture in Edinburgh, Mr Schmidt said the country needed to reignite children's passion for subjects such as engineering and maths.
In addition to having their experiment run in space, the winners will get to experience weightlessness on a zero-g airplane flight, and have the option to either undergo astronaut training in Russia, or to watch the rocket launch in Japan which takes their idea into space.
When the experiments are eventually run, the results will be streamed live on YouTube.
The competition is divided into two age groups. 14-16 years, and 17-18 years.
Alongside Prof Hawking, the judging panel consists of former Astronauts Leland Melvin, Frank De Winne, Akihiko Hoshide and noted "space tourist" Guy LalibertÃ©.

Summary: The UK's top science expert, Prof Stephen Hawking, is to give a lecture to the UK's children.

Answer: 0


The site - which is owned by Google - is launching a competition for teenagers to create an experiment that could be carried out in space.
Two winning ideas will be tested by the crew of the International Space Station.
Google chairman Eric Schmidt recently criticised science and technology education in the UK.
Delivering the annual McTaggart lecture in Edinburgh, Mr Schmidt said the country needed to reignite children's passion for subjects such as engineering and maths.
In addition to having their experiment run in space, the winners will get to experience weightlessness on a zero-g airplane flight, and have the option to either undergo astronaut training in Russia, or to watch the rocket launch in Japan which takes their idea into space.
When the experiments are eventually run, the results will be streamed live on YouTube.
The competition is divided into two age groups. 14-16 years, and 17-18 years.
Alongside Prof Hawking, the judging panel consists of former Astronauts Leland Melvin, Frank De Winne, Akihiko Hoshide and noted "space tourist" Guy LalibertÃ©.

Summary: YouTube has enlisted the help of Prof Hawking in the hunt for budding young scientists.

Answer: 1


Strikes planned for Christmas were suspended after the new offer was made but members rejected it by 7-1.
The strike affects "mixed fleet" staff who joined after 2010 and account for 15% of the total cabin crew.
BA said it planned to "ensure that all our customers travel to their destinations".
It said further details for customers would be published on Friday 6 January, once it had finalised contingency plans.
"We are extremely disappointed that Unite has once again chosen to target our customers," the company said.
"We are now focused on protecting our customers from this unnecessary and completely unjustified action."
The dispute concerns about 4,000 staff who have joined the airline since 2010 on "mixed fleet" contracts, who do not feel they are paid enough. About 2,500 of them are Unite members.
Earnings were advertised between £21,000 and £25,000 but, in reality, start at just over £12,000 plus £3 an hour flying pay, Unite said.
The union said its members rejected the new offer by 7-1.
"British Airways is needlessly provoking strike action by refusing to extend the mandate of the strike ballot and allow meaningful talks to take place," Unite's national office Oliver Richardson said.
"Instead of listening to why its mixed fleet cabin crew rejected the offer negotiated at Acas, British Airways has sought instead to try and bully a workforce of young men and women who are trying to eke out a living on poverty pay."
However, he added that the union was "hopeful that a negotiated settlement which meets our members' aspirations can be achieved" and urged BA to "engage constructively".

Summary: British Airways cabin crew will stage a strike after rejecting a new pay offer.

Answer: 1


Strikes planned for Christmas were suspended after the new offer was made but members rejected it by 7-1.
The strike affects "mixed fleet" staff who joined after 2010 and account for 15% of the total cabin crew.
BA said it planned to "ensure that all our customers travel to their destinations".
It said further details for customers would be published on Friday 6 January, once it had finalised contingency plans.
"We are extremely disappointed that Unite has once again chosen to target our customers," the company said.
"We are now focused on protecting our customers from this unnecessary and completely unjustified action."
The dispute concerns about 4,000 staff who have joined the airline since 2010 on "mixed fleet" contracts, who do not feel they are paid enough. About 2,500 of them are Unite members.
Earnings were advertised between £21,000 and £25,000 but, in reality, start at just over £12,000 plus £3 an hour flying pay, Unite said.
The union said its members rejected the new offer by 7-1.
"British Airways is needlessly provoking strike action by refusing to extend the mandate of the strike ballot and allow meaningful talks to take place," Unite's national office Oliver Richardson said.
"Instead of listening to why its mixed fleet cabin crew rejected the offer negotiated at Acas, British Airways has sought instead to try and bully a workforce of young men and women who are trying to eke out a living on poverty pay."
However, he added that the union was "hopeful that a negotiated settlement which meets our members' aspirations can be achieved" and urged BA to "engage constructively".

Summary: British Airways cabin crew have voted to strike over pay, in a dispute over pay.

Answer: 0


However, the government has insisted there is a link between the attack and Syrian Kurdish fighters.
Prosecutors and security officials said DNA tests had identified the bomber as Abdulbaki Somer, born in the eastern Turkish city of Van.
Last week's bombing killed 29 people, at least 20 of them military personnel.
"The bomber's DNA matches that of Abdulbaki's father," a senior Turkish security official told Reuters news agency.
Turkey's state-run Anadolu news agency quoted prosecutors confirming the report.
It said that Abdulbaki Somer was believed to have joined the Kurdish militant PKK group in 2005 at the age of 16 and was based in the Qandil mountains in northern Iraq until 2014.
The agency said that Somer's father had told police that his son was behind the attack.
Following the blast in Ankara, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu named the bomber as Salih Necar, a Syrian national and member of the Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).
"Whatever the judicial inquiry concludes over the identity of the bomber, it is clear that the bomber came from Rojava, the area of the PYD," Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus told reporters on Tuesday, referring to another Syrian Kurd-controlled northern Syria.
He said the bomber had entered Turkey from the region in the summer of 2014.
Turkish newspaper the Hurriyet suggested that Abdulbaki Somer may have re-entered Turkey with false papers under the name Salih Necar.
The PKK, which has been fighting for Kurdish self-determination since 1984, is considered a terrorist organisation by Turkey and its Western allies.
Turkey has also designated the YPG a terrorist group, but its allies, including the United States, back the YPG in its fight against so-called Islamic State (IS).

Summary: The bomber behind a deadly blast in Ankara was Turkish-born, security officials say, not from Syria as the government initially said.

Answer: 1


However, the government has insisted there is a link between the attack and Syrian Kurdish fighters.
Prosecutors and security officials said DNA tests had identified the bomber as Abdulbaki Somer, born in the eastern Turkish city of Van.
Last week's bombing killed 29 people, at least 20 of them military personnel.
"The bomber's DNA matches that of Abdulbaki's father," a senior Turkish security official told Reuters news agency.
Turkey's state-run Anadolu news agency quoted prosecutors confirming the report.
It said that Abdulbaki Somer was believed to have joined the Kurdish militant PKK group in 2005 at the age of 16 and was based in the Qandil mountains in northern Iraq until 2014.
The agency said that Somer's father had told police that his son was behind the attack.
Following the blast in Ankara, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu named the bomber as Salih Necar, a Syrian national and member of the Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).
"Whatever the judicial inquiry concludes over the identity of the bomber, it is clear that the bomber came from Rojava, the area of the PYD," Deputy Prime Minister Numan Kurtulmus told reporters on Tuesday, referring to another Syrian Kurd-controlled northern Syria.
He said the bomber had entered Turkey from the region in the summer of 2014.
Turkish newspaper the Hurriyet suggested that Abdulbaki Somer may have re-entered Turkey with false papers under the name Salih Necar.
The PKK, which has been fighting for Kurdish self-determination since 1984, is considered a terrorist organisation by Turkey and its Western allies.
Turkey has also designated the YPG a terrorist group, but its allies, including the United States, back the YPG in its fight against so-called Islamic State (IS).

Summary: A suicide bomber who killed at least 26 people in Turkey's capital Ankara on Sunday was born in Syria, Turkish officials say.

Answer: 0


Alexander Wotherspoon, 83, appeared at Paisley Sheriff Court charged with causing the death of Eilish Herron by driving without due care and attention.
The 17-year-old was struck by Mr Wotherspoon's car at an Asda petrol station in Linwood in September 2014.
The charge says he had failed to keep control of the car while reversing.
Mr Wotherspoon, from Houston in Renfrewshire, uses a zimmer frame to help him walk.
He denied starting the engine of his car and reversing while the driver's door was still open, failing to keep control of the car and, while it was reversing, causing it to hit the Renault Clio Eilish was filling up with petrol.
The charge states that his actions knocked her to the ground, moved her car out of the way and caused his car to reverse over her, dragging her underneath the car, "causing her to be so severely injured that she died."
The incident happened at the Asda petrol station at the Phoenix Retail Park in Linwood on 10 September 2014.
Sheriff Susan Sinclair adjourned the case for a trial to take place in August and continued Wotherspoon's bail.
Speaking previously, Eilish's mother Shanneal, 47, said: "Eilish was a really good girl, a normal teenager who loved her life, loved her family and loved her sport.
"She was my best friend, we had such a good laugh.
"I can't put into words how much she's missed in our family. We are all very close."
Eilish was a keen netball player and played for Paisley Juniors as well as volunteering as a junior coach.
After her death, Netball Scotland created the The Eilish Herron Young Coach of the Year Award, which will continue as a yearly recognition award for young coaches.

Summary: A man has appeared in court charged with the manslaughter of a teenager who was hit by a car while reversing in Renfrewshire.

Answer: 0


Alexander Wotherspoon, 83, appeared at Paisley Sheriff Court charged with causing the death of Eilish Herron by driving without due care and attention.
The 17-year-old was struck by Mr Wotherspoon's car at an Asda petrol station in Linwood in September 2014.
The charge says he had failed to keep control of the car while reversing.
Mr Wotherspoon, from Houston in Renfrewshire, uses a zimmer frame to help him walk.
He denied starting the engine of his car and reversing while the driver's door was still open, failing to keep control of the car and, while it was reversing, causing it to hit the Renault Clio Eilish was filling up with petrol.
The charge states that his actions knocked her to the ground, moved her car out of the way and caused his car to reverse over her, dragging her underneath the car, "causing her to be so severely injured that she died."
The incident happened at the Asda petrol station at the Phoenix Retail Park in Linwood on 10 September 2014.
Sheriff Susan Sinclair adjourned the case for a trial to take place in August and continued Wotherspoon's bail.
Speaking previously, Eilish's mother Shanneal, 47, said: "Eilish was a really good girl, a normal teenager who loved her life, loved her family and loved her sport.
"She was my best friend, we had such a good laugh.
"I can't put into words how much she's missed in our family. We are all very close."
Eilish was a keen netball player and played for Paisley Juniors as well as volunteering as a junior coach.
After her death, Netball Scotland created the The Eilish Herron Young Coach of the Year Award, which will continue as a yearly recognition award for young coaches.

Summary: An old man has denied causing the death of a teenage girl by by reversing over her as she was filling her car up with petrol.

Answer: 1


The character with a huge papier mache head was the alter-ego of musician and comedian Chris Sievey, who died in 2010.
Fans raised Â£60,000 for the tribute which was made in a Czech foundry.
Hundreds of people attended an unveiling ceremony earlier, many in fancy dress for the occasion.
Neil Taylor, who helped raise the donations for the statue, said its installation would mean that "Frank will gaze on the Timperley sunset forever".
He said: "You either got the humour or you didn't get the humour.
"Frank Sidebottom created a whole world, he was just magical. He just made a very modest living entertaining people and that's what he's enjoying doing."
Sievey set his character's life in the village, where he lived himself, and, as Frank, hosted tours of the area for fans.
He often referenced Timperley in his TV and music work, notably on his 1987 release, The Timperley EP, which featured a version of The Kinks' 1967 song Waterloo Sunset with altered lyrics that referred extensively to the village.
He also covered Sex Pistols' Anarchy in the UK, changing its title to Anarchy in Timperley.
Although best known for Frank Sidebottom, Sievey also had success in the late 1970s with his punk band The Freshies, who had a hit with I'm In Love With The Girl On The Manchester Virgin Megastore Checkout Desk.
His TV fame peaked in the early 1990s with his own series Frank Sidebottom's Fantastic Shed Show.
Next year Michael Fassbender will play Frank Sidebottom in Frank, a movie inspired by the character.

Summary: A statue of the character Frank Sidebottom has been unveiled in Timperley.

Answer: 1


The character with a huge papier mache head was the alter-ego of musician and comedian Chris Sievey, who died in 2010.
Fans raised Â£60,000 for the tribute which was made in a Czech foundry.
Hundreds of people attended an unveiling ceremony earlier, many in fancy dress for the occasion.
Neil Taylor, who helped raise the donations for the statue, said its installation would mean that "Frank will gaze on the Timperley sunset forever".
He said: "You either got the humour or you didn't get the humour.
"Frank Sidebottom created a whole world, he was just magical. He just made a very modest living entertaining people and that's what he's enjoying doing."
Sievey set his character's life in the village, where he lived himself, and, as Frank, hosted tours of the area for fans.
He often referenced Timperley in his TV and music work, notably on his 1987 release, The Timperley EP, which featured a version of The Kinks' 1967 song Waterloo Sunset with altered lyrics that referred extensively to the village.
He also covered Sex Pistols' Anarchy in the UK, changing its title to Anarchy in Timperley.
Although best known for Frank Sidebottom, Sievey also had success in the late 1970s with his punk band The Freshies, who had a hit with I'm In Love With The Girl On The Manchester Virgin Megastore Checkout Desk.
His TV fame peaked in the early 1990s with his own series Frank Sidebottom's Fantastic Shed Show.
Next year Michael Fassbender will play Frank Sidebottom in Frank, a movie inspired by the character.

Summary: A statue of the late pop star Frank Sidebottom has been unveiled in Timperley, the village where he was best known for his TV and radio show.

Answer: 0


The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) accused ministers of offering an "unworkable" guarantee to protect firefighters aged over 55 who fail fitness tests "through no fault of their own".
The government said it had been "clear" that the staff would get full pensions.
It said "robust" plans were in place to protect the public during the strike.
In December, MPs approved plans to make firefighters in England work until they are 60 and to increase their pension contributions.
Fire minister Penny Mordaunt said no firefighter over 55 would lose their job for losing fitness if it was not their fault.
But the FBU says it has contacted fire authorities and "a number" said they would not uphold the guarantee.
FBU general secretary Matt Wrack claimed: "It is clear that when Penny Mordaunt gave the guarantee in Parliament she would have been aware that no fire authority ever planned to implement the 'guarantee'."
He said Ms Mordaunt had "misled" fire service staff and Parliament, and firefighters were "unbelievably angry with the disgraceful actions of this government".
A spokesman for the Department for Communities and Local Government said firefighters who "fail a fitness test through no fault of their own and cannot regain fitness with remedial help" would get an "unreduced pension".
The FBU said its members in Northern Ireland had ended their dispute following a "revised and improved offer with a lower pension age".
It said members in Scotland and Wales would not strike because "genuine negotiations" had taken place.

Summary: Firefighters in England and Wales are to strike on Monday in a dispute over pensions.

Answer: 0


The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) accused ministers of offering an "unworkable" guarantee to protect firefighters aged over 55 who fail fitness tests "through no fault of their own".
The government said it had been "clear" that the staff would get full pensions.
It said "robust" plans were in place to protect the public during the strike.
In December, MPs approved plans to make firefighters in England work until they are 60 and to increase their pension contributions.
Fire minister Penny Mordaunt said no firefighter over 55 would lose their job for losing fitness if it was not their fault.
But the FBU says it has contacted fire authorities and "a number" said they would not uphold the guarantee.
FBU general secretary Matt Wrack claimed: "It is clear that when Penny Mordaunt gave the guarantee in Parliament she would have been aware that no fire authority ever planned to implement the 'guarantee'."
He said Ms Mordaunt had "misled" fire service staff and Parliament, and firefighters were "unbelievably angry with the disgraceful actions of this government".
A spokesman for the Department for Communities and Local Government said firefighters who "fail a fitness test through no fault of their own and cannot regain fitness with remedial help" would get an "unreduced pension".
The FBU said its members in Northern Ireland had ended their dispute following a "revised and improved offer with a lower pension age".
It said members in Scotland and Wales would not strike because "genuine negotiations" had taken place.

Summary: Firefighters plan to strike in the dispute with the government over pensions.

Answer: 1


Tanks were seen on the streets and explosions could be heard throughout the day in Libya's second-biggest city.
General Khalifa Haftar, who accuses the government of supporting terrorism, began an assault against Islamist fighters in the city last month.
The government in Tripoli says Gen Haftar has no authority to act, but several army units have joined him.
The BBC's Rana Jawad in Tripoli says a battalion within one of the biggest rival militias has also defected to join the general.
The clashes on Sunday were said to have been some of the worst since Gen Haftar began his offensive against Islamists, dubbed "Operation Dignity," in May.
Residents told the BBC that explosions could be heard across the city intermittently for several hours.
An electricity plant was also hit by rockets, causing power outages in large parts of Benghazi.
Many residents who live in the area where the fighting erupted fled their homes to stay with relatives or friends in quieter neighbourhoods.
The number of casualties remains unclear but doctors in the city said at least six people had been killed and a dozen more injured.
A spokesman for Gen Haftar's force told local media that they had seized several senior Islamists as part of their offensive, but this could not be independently verified.
Since launching his offensive, Gen Haftar has rallied support from the public and members of the security forces.
He survived an assassination attempt earlier in June after a suicide bomb attack on his home in the town of Abyar, about 60km (37 miles) east of Benghazi.
Libya is still in turmoil three years after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi, with political, religious and political factions locked in disagreement about the country's future.
Profile: General Khalifa Haftar

Summary: Fresh clashes broke out in Benghazi on Sunday after a rogue general launched a fresh assault on Islamist militants.

Answer: 1


Tanks were seen on the streets and explosions could be heard throughout the day in Libya's second-biggest city.
General Khalifa Haftar, who accuses the government of supporting terrorism, began an assault against Islamist fighters in the city last month.
The government in Tripoli says Gen Haftar has no authority to act, but several army units have joined him.
The BBC's Rana Jawad in Tripoli says a battalion within one of the biggest rival militias has also defected to join the general.
The clashes on Sunday were said to have been some of the worst since Gen Haftar began his offensive against Islamists, dubbed "Operation Dignity," in May.
Residents told the BBC that explosions could be heard across the city intermittently for several hours.
An electricity plant was also hit by rockets, causing power outages in large parts of Benghazi.
Many residents who live in the area where the fighting erupted fled their homes to stay with relatives or friends in quieter neighbourhoods.
The number of casualties remains unclear but doctors in the city said at least six people had been killed and a dozen more injured.
A spokesman for Gen Haftar's force told local media that they had seized several senior Islamists as part of their offensive, but this could not be independently verified.
Since launching his offensive, Gen Haftar has rallied support from the public and members of the security forces.
He survived an assassination attempt earlier in June after a suicide bomb attack on his home in the town of Abyar, about 60km (37 miles) east of Benghazi.
Libya is still in turmoil three years after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi, with political, religious and political factions locked in disagreement about the country's future.
Profile: General Khalifa Haftar

Summary: At least six people have been killed in clashes between rival Islamist fighters in the Libyan city of Benghazi, officials say.

Answer: 0


Dyfed-Powys Police took to social media on Tuesday to ask for help in tracing Rebecca, saying officers were "very concerned for her".
The force said the mother and child were found in the early hours of Wednesday.
A spokesman said it was thanks to the public response on Facebook.
"Our communities' response to this appeal was significant, with over 1,000 Facebook shares achieved in the first hour and with all parts of Pembrokeshire covered according to the comments posted by our concerned followers," he added.

Summary: A missing woman and her child in Pembrokeshire have been found safe and well after a police Facebook appeal was widely shared.

Answer: 1


Dyfed-Powys Police took to social media on Tuesday to ask for help in tracing Rebecca, saying officers were "very concerned for her".
The force said the mother and child were found in the early hours of Wednesday.
A spokesman said it was thanks to the public response on Facebook.
"Our communities' response to this appeal was significant, with over 1,000 Facebook shares achieved in the first hour and with all parts of Pembrokeshire covered according to the comments posted by our concerned followers," he added.

Summary: A mother and child have been found safe and well in Pembrokeshire, police have said.

Answer: 0


The Fukui District Court lifted an injunction that had blocked the reopening of two reactors operated by Kansai Electric Power in the western city of Takahama.
The injunction was issued after locals argued the reactors could not withstand a strong earthquake.
Japan closed all its nuclear reactors after the Fukushima disaster in 2011.
The Takahama plants had already obtained approval from the country's nuclear watchdog.
"Today's two rulings show a recognition that safety has been ensured at Talahama Nuclear Power Station," Kansai said.
It aims to restart the reactors next month.
The vast majority of Japan's nuclear reactors remain closed - according to the Nuclear Energy Institute, the country's nuclear generating capacity is running at less than 5% of its full potential.
The government is keen to restart more reactors, which before the Fukushima disaster supplied about 30% of the country's power.
Japan has been forced to import fossil fuels to make up the shortfall.

Summary: A Japanese court has paved the way for two more of the country's nuclear reactors to be restarted.

Answer: 1


The Fukui District Court lifted an injunction that had blocked the reopening of two reactors operated by Kansai Electric Power in the western city of Takahama.
The injunction was issued after locals argued the reactors could not withstand a strong earthquake.
Japan closed all its nuclear reactors after the Fukushima disaster in 2011.
The Takahama plants had already obtained approval from the country's nuclear watchdog.
"Today's two rulings show a recognition that safety has been ensured at Talahama Nuclear Power Station," Kansai said.
It aims to restart the reactors next month.
The vast majority of Japan's nuclear reactors remain closed - according to the Nuclear Energy Institute, the country's nuclear generating capacity is running at less than 5% of its full potential.
The government is keen to restart more reactors, which before the Fukushima disaster supplied about 30% of the country's power.
Japan has been forced to import fossil fuels to make up the shortfall.

Summary: A court in Japan has ruled that two nuclear reactors at a Fukushima nuclear power plant can be restarted.

Answer: 0


The inaugural event - which is running until 5 November - features scores of local, national and international comedians, with Tom Stade among the headliners for the opening night.
Created by Aberdeen Inspired and Breakneck Comedy, the festival is using more than 20 city centre venues.
There will also be events aimed at children, and comedy workshops.
It is hoped it will help put the Aberdeen comedy circuit on the map.
Organiser Naz Hussain told BBC Scotland: "People are really looking forward to the festival.
"It's something that will potentially grow into something really big."

Summary: The Aberdeen Comedy Festival is to be held in the city centre.

Answer: 0


The inaugural event - which is running until 5 November - features scores of local, national and international comedians, with Tom Stade among the headliners for the opening night.
Created by Aberdeen Inspired and Breakneck Comedy, the festival is using more than 20 city centre venues.
There will also be events aimed at children, and comedy workshops.
It is hoped it will help put the Aberdeen comedy circuit on the map.
Organiser Naz Hussain told BBC Scotland: "People are really looking forward to the festival.
"It's something that will potentially grow into something really big."

Summary: A new comedy festival for Aberdeen is getting under way.

Answer: 1


Members of the University and College Union (UCU) are taking part in a two-day national strike which is happening at universities across the UK.
UCU members in Wrexham formed a picket line at the university's main entrance on Mold Road on Wednesday as members also showed their support via placards outside the main building in Cardiff.
University employers have described the decision to strike as "disappointing".
The union said the 1.1% pay rise offered by the universities was "an insult".
Staff are refusing to set extra work, cover for absent colleagues or work overtime on Wednesday.
If no agreement is reached, members have agreed to further strike action targeting open days and graduation ceremonies in June and July.
The union is also beginning preparations for a boycott of the setting and marking of students' work, to begin in the autumn.
Universities and Colleges Employers Association (UCEA) said the offer was "at, and, for some, beyond, a limit of affordability for higher education institutions and the very best offer that will be available this year".
UCEA maintained the weighting of the offer meant the worst paid university staff would get a rise of more than 5%.

Summary: Members of universities in the UK are staging a walk out in a row over pay.

Answer: 1


Members of the University and College Union (UCU) are taking part in a two-day national strike which is happening at universities across the UK.
UCU members in Wrexham formed a picket line at the university's main entrance on Mold Road on Wednesday as members also showed their support via placards outside the main building in Cardiff.
University employers have described the decision to strike as "disappointing".
The union said the 1.1% pay rise offered by the universities was "an insult".
Staff are refusing to set extra work, cover for absent colleagues or work overtime on Wednesday.
If no agreement is reached, members have agreed to further strike action targeting open days and graduation ceremonies in June and July.
The union is also beginning preparations for a boycott of the setting and marking of students' work, to begin in the autumn.
Universities and Colleges Employers Association (UCEA) said the offer was "at, and, for some, beyond, a limit of affordability for higher education institutions and the very best offer that will be available this year".
UCEA maintained the weighting of the offer meant the worst paid university staff would get a rise of more than 5%.

Summary: Staff at Wrexham University have staged a picket line in protest at a pay rise offered by the university.

Answer: 0


The value of the deal has not been not disclosed.
The acquisition will add more than 60 employees and more than 6,000 fleet assets to Aggreko's Rental Solutions business.
Glasgow-based Aggreko said it planned to fully integrate Dryco into its North America business.
It also intends to develop "expansion plans to enter additional sectors and global markets".
Dryco specialises in moisture control, drying, heating, and cooling applications for a number of industries, including shipping, manufacturing, food processing and construction.
The company, which operates 10 full-service locations in North America, posted revenues last year of $19m (Â£14.6m).
Aggreko chief executive Chris Weston said: "This acquisition combines the deep technical strength of two highly respected market leaders and provides our customers with an unparalleled range of solutions that can address their HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) and moisture control needs.
"It also gives Aggreko an opportunity to further support our rapidly expanding customer base within the shipping, food and beverage and painting and coatings industries."

Summary: Scottish firm Aggreko has agreed to buy dryco, a North American firm that supplies heating and cooling solutions for the oil and gas industry.

Answer: 0


The value of the deal has not been not disclosed.
The acquisition will add more than 60 employees and more than 6,000 fleet assets to Aggreko's Rental Solutions business.
Glasgow-based Aggreko said it planned to fully integrate Dryco into its North America business.
It also intends to develop "expansion plans to enter additional sectors and global markets".
Dryco specialises in moisture control, drying, heating, and cooling applications for a number of industries, including shipping, manufacturing, food processing and construction.
The company, which operates 10 full-service locations in North America, posted revenues last year of $19m (Â£14.6m).
Aggreko chief executive Chris Weston said: "This acquisition combines the deep technical strength of two highly respected market leaders and provides our customers with an unparalleled range of solutions that can address their HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) and moisture control needs.
"It also gives Aggreko an opportunity to further support our rapidly expanding customer base within the shipping, food and beverage and painting and coatings industries."

Summary: Aggreko is expanding its offering in North America by buying industrial climate control equipment specialist Dryco.

Answer: 1


The Chesterfield striker was cleared of rape at a retrial in 2016. He had been charged with attacking the woman in a hotel room in Rhyl, Denbighshire.
Following the retrial, North Wales Police investigated after the woman's name was revealed on social media.
Anyone who reports being a victim of a sex offence is guaranteed lifelong anonymity.
North Wales Police's temporary Supt Jason Devonport said the publishing of her name was a "serious" offence.
The men, aged between 16 and 23, were from the Sheffield, Derbyshire and Birmingham areas.
All were cautioned after admitting publishing the name of the woman - who has lifelong anonymity under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992 - after the retrial verdict.
Supt Devonport said: "This type of offence is fortunately rare, however, I'd like to emphasise all police forces take offences of this nature very seriously.
"We will vigorously pursue and prosecute those who don't respect victims' anonymity."
In November 2012 - following the initial trial - nine people were made to pay compensation to the woman after they admitted naming her on Twitter and Facebook.
Mr Evans, 28, was originally found guilty of rape at Caernarfon Crown Court in 2012, but that conviction was quashed in April 2016. A retrial jury found him not guilty of the offence six months later.
The Chesterfield striker had been charged with attacking her at a hotel on 30 May 2011.
He was found not guilty of the same charge, after a retrial at Cardiff Crown Court, in October 2016.
Mr Evans' former club Sheffield United announced this week it was to re-sign him.

Summary: Three men have been cautioned after the name of a woman they named as Ched Evans was revealed online.

Answer: 0


The Chesterfield striker was cleared of rape at a retrial in 2016. He had been charged with attacking the woman in a hotel room in Rhyl, Denbighshire.
Following the retrial, North Wales Police investigated after the woman's name was revealed on social media.
Anyone who reports being a victim of a sex offence is guaranteed lifelong anonymity.
North Wales Police's temporary Supt Jason Devonport said the publishing of her name was a "serious" offence.
The men, aged between 16 and 23, were from the Sheffield, Derbyshire and Birmingham areas.
All were cautioned after admitting publishing the name of the woman - who has lifelong anonymity under the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 1992 - after the retrial verdict.
Supt Devonport said: "This type of offence is fortunately rare, however, I'd like to emphasise all police forces take offences of this nature very seriously.
"We will vigorously pursue and prosecute those who don't respect victims' anonymity."
In November 2012 - following the initial trial - nine people were made to pay compensation to the woman after they admitted naming her on Twitter and Facebook.
Mr Evans, 28, was originally found guilty of rape at Caernarfon Crown Court in 2012, but that conviction was quashed in April 2016. A retrial jury found him not guilty of the offence six months later.
The Chesterfield striker had been charged with attacking her at a hotel on 30 May 2011.
He was found not guilty of the same charge, after a retrial at Cardiff Crown Court, in October 2016.
Mr Evans' former club Sheffield United announced this week it was to re-sign him.

Summary: Several men who revealed the identity of the woman involved in Evans' rape trial have been cautioned.

Answer: 1


Each team had an early chance before Dover captain Jamie Grimes' looping header put the visitors ahead in the eighth minute.
Macclesfield keeper Scott Flinders, making his first appearance after signing from York, misjudged a free-kick, allowing Grimes to nod in.
Flinders saved a curling James Hurst effort and Dover had a goal ruled out just after half-time.
Those missed opportunities came back to haunt Athletic when Holroyd got on the end of Danny Whitaker's shot to level in the 69th minute before bursting through and scoring again soon after.
Flinders atoned for his early error by brilliantly keeping out Moses Emmanuel's late volley as Macclesfield held on for a victory that moves them to within six points of promotion-chasing Dover.
Report supplied by the Press Association.
Match ends, Macclesfield Town 2, Dover Athletic 1.
Second Half ends, Macclesfield Town 2, Dover Athletic 1.
Substitution, Macclesfield Town. Laurie Bell replaces Chris Holroyd.
Substitution, Dover Athletic. Tyrone Marsh replaces Ricky Miller.
Ricky Miller (Dover Athletic) is shown the yellow card.
Richard Orlu (Dover Athletic) is shown the yellow card.
Goal!  Macclesfield Town 2, Dover Athletic 1. Chris Holroyd (Macclesfield Town).
Substitution, Dover Athletic. Jim Stevenson replaces Ricky Modeste.
Goal!  Macclesfield Town 1, Dover Athletic 1. Chris Holroyd (Macclesfield Town).
Substitution, Macclesfield Town. Anthony Dudley replaces Jack Sampson.
Substitution, Dover Athletic. Chris Kinnear replaces James Hurst.
Second Half begins Macclesfield Town 0, Dover Athletic 1.
First Half ends, Macclesfield Town 0, Dover Athletic 1.
James Hurst (Dover Athletic) is shown the yellow card.
Goal!  Macclesfield Town 0, Dover Athletic 1. Jamie Grimes (Dover Athletic).
First Half begins.
Lineups are announced and players are warming up.

Summary: Two Holroyd goals in a short span gave Macclesfield a win over Dover.

Answer: 1


Each team had an early chance before Dover captain Jamie Grimes' looping header put the visitors ahead in the eighth minute.
Macclesfield keeper Scott Flinders, making his first appearance after signing from York, misjudged a free-kick, allowing Grimes to nod in.
Flinders saved a curling James Hurst effort and Dover had a goal ruled out just after half-time.
Those missed opportunities came back to haunt Athletic when Holroyd got on the end of Danny Whitaker's shot to level in the 69th minute before bursting through and scoring again soon after.
Flinders atoned for his early error by brilliantly keeping out Moses Emmanuel's late volley as Macclesfield held on for a victory that moves them to within six points of promotion-chasing Dover.
Report supplied by the Press Association.
Match ends, Macclesfield Town 2, Dover Athletic 1.
Second Half ends, Macclesfield Town 2, Dover Athletic 1.
Substitution, Macclesfield Town. Laurie Bell replaces Chris Holroyd.
Substitution, Dover Athletic. Tyrone Marsh replaces Ricky Miller.
Ricky Miller (Dover Athletic) is shown the yellow card.
Richard Orlu (Dover Athletic) is shown the yellow card.
Goal!  Macclesfield Town 2, Dover Athletic 1. Chris Holroyd (Macclesfield Town).
Substitution, Dover Athletic. Jim Stevenson replaces Ricky Modeste.
Goal!  Macclesfield Town 1, Dover Athletic 1. Chris Holroyd (Macclesfield Town).
Substitution, Macclesfield Town. Anthony Dudley replaces Jack Sampson.
Substitution, Dover Athletic. Chris Kinnear replaces James Hurst.
Second Half begins Macclesfield Town 0, Dover Athletic 1.
First Half ends, Macclesfield Town 0, Dover Athletic 1.
James Hurst (Dover Athletic) is shown the yellow card.
Goal!  Macclesfield Town 0, Dover Athletic 1. Jamie Grimes (Dover Athletic).
First Half begins.
Lineups are announced and players are warming up.

Summary: Chris Holroyd's late goal gave Dover a 2-1 victory over Macclesfield at the National League.

Answer: 0


Rumours of a tour to celebrate the band's golden anniversary have been circulating for a number of years.
However, Richards would not go so far as to say when the quartet would be performing in public again.
"There's things in the works - I think it's definitely happening," he told the BBC. "But when? I can't say yet."
"We're playing around with the idea and had a couple of rehearsals - we've got together and it feels so good."
Richards was speaking to BBC arts editor Will Gompertz the day before the band turns 50.
They played their first gig at London's Marquee Club on 12 July, 1962; and had their first hit, a cover of Chuck Berry's Come On, 12 months later.
A photography exhibition marking the band's long career will be launched at London's Somerset House on Thursday.
Talking about the pictures, which include reportage, live concert and studio images, the guitarist said he felt "weird" looking back at the group's early days.
"It's amazing - most of these pictures I think, 'where was the cameraman?' I don't remember them being there," he said.
He added he would like the band to continue for as long as possible, saying: "There might be life in the old dog yet - we'll die gracefully, elegantly wasted.
"Sometimes its hard work and you wonder why you're doing it, but apart from those few moments it's been an incredible adventure."
The Stones last world tour, A Bigger Bang, played to 4.5m people in 32 countries over two years before it finished in London in 2007.
With ticket sales of $558m (Â£360m), it was the most profitable tour of all time, until it was eclipsed by U2's 360 tour last year.

Summary: The Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards says he is "feeling good" about performing in public again.

Answer: 0


Rumours of a tour to celebrate the band's golden anniversary have been circulating for a number of years.
However, Richards would not go so far as to say when the quartet would be performing in public again.
"There's things in the works - I think it's definitely happening," he told the BBC. "But when? I can't say yet."
"We're playing around with the idea and had a couple of rehearsals - we've got together and it feels so good."
Richards was speaking to BBC arts editor Will Gompertz the day before the band turns 50.
They played their first gig at London's Marquee Club on 12 July, 1962; and had their first hit, a cover of Chuck Berry's Come On, 12 months later.
A photography exhibition marking the band's long career will be launched at London's Somerset House on Thursday.
Talking about the pictures, which include reportage, live concert and studio images, the guitarist said he felt "weird" looking back at the group's early days.
"It's amazing - most of these pictures I think, 'where was the cameraman?' I don't remember them being there," he said.
He added he would like the band to continue for as long as possible, saying: "There might be life in the old dog yet - we'll die gracefully, elegantly wasted.
"Sometimes its hard work and you wonder why you're doing it, but apart from those few moments it's been an incredible adventure."
The Stones last world tour, A Bigger Bang, played to 4.5m people in 32 countries over two years before it finished in London in 2007.
With ticket sales of $558m (Â£360m), it was the most profitable tour of all time, until it was eclipsed by U2's 360 tour last year.

Summary: Guitarist Richards says the band have met up for "a couple of rehearsals" as they mark 50 years together.

Answer: 1


Chelsey Lee, 26, played for Bucheon KEB Hana Bank in the Women's Korean Basketball League (WKBL), whose teams are allowed only two foreign players.
Prosecutors were asked to investigate after the Korean Olympic Committee pushed for Lee's naturalisation.
The WKBL says Lee will be suspended for life and her records annulled.
The Miami-born centre won the league's rookie of the year award in the 2015-16 season after helping her team reach the championship series.
However, Lee and her two agents are suspected of fabricating her and her father's birth certificates to show she had a South Korean grandmother.
Bucheon KEB Hana Bank issued a public apology, vowing to take legal action against Lee and her agents.
The club's owner and head coach will step down.
WKBL commissioner Shin Sun-woo said the team's records and ranking will be nullified and the league will scrap the extra quota for international players with a Korean parent or grandparent.

Summary: A South Korean basketball player has been suspended after being accused of fabricating her father's birth certificate.

Answer: 0


Chelsey Lee, 26, played for Bucheon KEB Hana Bank in the Women's Korean Basketball League (WKBL), whose teams are allowed only two foreign players.
Prosecutors were asked to investigate after the Korean Olympic Committee pushed for Lee's naturalisation.
The WKBL says Lee will be suspended for life and her records annulled.
The Miami-born centre won the league's rookie of the year award in the 2015-16 season after helping her team reach the championship series.
However, Lee and her two agents are suspected of fabricating her and her father's birth certificates to show she had a South Korean grandmother.
Bucheon KEB Hana Bank issued a public apology, vowing to take legal action against Lee and her agents.
The club's owner and head coach will step down.
WKBL commissioner Shin Sun-woo said the team's records and ranking will be nullified and the league will scrap the extra quota for international players with a Korean parent or grandparent.

Summary: An Miami-born basketball player has been banned from South Korea's domestic league for life after prosecutors said she forged her birth documents.

Answer: 1


Council officials will meet on Tuesday to start the process of identifying where the Maes will be.
A cabinet report said 140 acres were needed, along with good mobile phone signal and, if possible, fibre broadband.
Town and community councils will be contacted, asking for suggestions to be sent to Ceredigion council by March.
Once these have been received, they will be forwarded to the National Eisteddfod board, which is responsible for choosing the host site.
The county hosted the first known eisteddfod, when Lord Rhys, prince of Deheubarth, gathered poets and musicians at his castle in Cardigan in AD 1176.

Summary: The site of the Welsh Maes will be chosen by Ceredigion council, it has been announced.

Answer: 0


Council officials will meet on Tuesday to start the process of identifying where the Maes will be.
A cabinet report said 140 acres were needed, along with good mobile phone signal and, if possible, fibre broadband.
Town and community councils will be contacted, asking for suggestions to be sent to Ceredigion council by March.
Once these have been received, they will be forwarded to the National Eisteddfod board, which is responsible for choosing the host site.
The county hosted the first known eisteddfod, when Lord Rhys, prince of Deheubarth, gathered poets and musicians at his castle in Cardigan in AD 1176.

Summary: Suggestions for the potential host site of the Maes in Ceredigion are being sought.

Answer: 1


Hot lava and ash spewed from the top into a valley nearby on the Italian island of Sicily.
The eruption happened on Sunday morning at 4am local time for more than an hour and a half.
Although the area around the volcano was covered by ash, it didn't affect planes travelling near it.
Air traffic can be seriously affected when ash from volcanic eruptions is in the air.
In 2010, the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in Iceland erupted and flights in Europe and across the Atlantic were cancelled because the ash particles in the air made it unsafe to fly.
Check out the video above to see Mount Etna's latest eruption in all its glory.

Summary: A volcano has erupted into a valley in Sicily.

Answer: 1


Hot lava and ash spewed from the top into a valley nearby on the Italian island of Sicily.
The eruption happened on Sunday morning at 4am local time for more than an hour and a half.
Although the area around the volcano was covered by ash, it didn't affect planes travelling near it.
Air traffic can be seriously affected when ash from volcanic eruptions is in the air.
In 2010, the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in Iceland erupted and flights in Europe and across the Atlantic were cancelled because the ash particles in the air made it unsafe to fly.
Check out the video above to see Mount Etna's latest eruption in all its glory.

Summary: The Mount Etna volcano in Italy has erupted, causing a huge amount of ash to fall from the sky.

Answer: 0


Fellow scrum-half Greig Laidlaw was Scotland's man of the match in their opening Pool B win over Japan.
But Pyrgos takes over as skipper as head coach Vern Cotter rotates his squad against the USA on Sunday.
"Greig had a great game on Wednesday, but I'll focus on my role and do it to the best of my ability," said the Glasgow Warriors 26-year-old.
"I just look at it like it's a great opportunity.
"Hopefully, we get the right result."
Pyrgos led Scotland in a World Cup warm-up defeat by Ireland last month and will be determined to retain his place.
However, Laidlaw is almost certain to return for the potentially decisive meeting with South Africa in Newcastle a week on Saturday.
"I knew coming in that was how it was going to go," added Pyrgos.
"It was amazing to lead the team out against Ireland and again it's a huge honour to captain Scotland at a World Cup.
"I know how much it means to the country and I'm really excited.
"I'm not sure how I'll feel when I get out there, but it'll be a big moment for myself and my family."

Summary: Scotland scrum-half Alex Pyrgos says he is "excited" to be named as captain of the World Cup-winning side.

Answer: 0


Fellow scrum-half Greig Laidlaw was Scotland's man of the match in their opening Pool B win over Japan.
But Pyrgos takes over as skipper as head coach Vern Cotter rotates his squad against the USA on Sunday.
"Greig had a great game on Wednesday, but I'll focus on my role and do it to the best of my ability," said the Glasgow Warriors 26-year-old.
"I just look at it like it's a great opportunity.
"Hopefully, we get the right result."
Pyrgos led Scotland in a World Cup warm-up defeat by Ireland last month and will be determined to retain his place.
However, Laidlaw is almost certain to return for the potentially decisive meeting with South Africa in Newcastle a week on Saturday.
"I knew coming in that was how it was going to go," added Pyrgos.
"It was amazing to lead the team out against Ireland and again it's a huge honour to captain Scotland at a World Cup.
"I know how much it means to the country and I'm really excited.
"I'm not sure how I'll feel when I get out there, but it'll be a big moment for myself and my family."

Summary: Pyrgos is ready to make the most of what could be his only chance to captain Scotland at this World Cup.

Answer: 1


On Tuesday Mr Obama cancelled planned talks after the firebrand Mr Duterte called him the "son of a whore".
Wednesday's informal meeting took place before an Asean summit gala dinner.
While a Philippine spokesman said he was "very happy" it happened, the US side said they had a "brief discussion" in a pre-meal "hold space" for leaders.
Mr Obama and Mr Duterte are said to have entered the dinner venue separately at the summit in Laos and did not interact with each other during the event, which lasted one hour and 20 minutes.
"They were the last people to leave the holding room. I can't say how long they met," Philippine Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay, travelling with Mr Duterte, told reporters shortly afterwards.
"I'm very happy that it happened."
A White House official said the pair exchanged "pleasantries" in a "brief discussion" before dinner.
War on drugs
Mr Duterte's outburst came after at a press conference where he told reporters he would not accept Mr Obama raising any concerns about the war on drugs in the Philippines.
"You must be respectful. Do not just throw away questions and statements. Son of a whore, I will curse you in that forum," Mr Duterte said, apparently in reference to the US president.
What else has the controversial Filipino president said?
Summit diplomacy, Duterte-style
World leaders' offensive insults: Who's top?
From 'Punisher' to president: Who is Rodrigo Duterte?
The  Filipino leader later expressed regret over the remarks, but not before Mr Obama had cancelled a planned meeting.
Mr Duterte won the presidency with his hard-line policy to eradicate drugs and some 2,400 people have died in anti-drug operations since he took office in June.
He had previously urged citizens to shoot to kill drug dealers who resisted arrest, and threatened to "separate" from the UN after it called his war on drugs a crime under international law.
President Duterte, known for his controversial remarks, had previously called US Secretary of State John Kerry "crazy" and referred to Pope Francis as the "son of a whore".
But the president also has staunch support at home for his hardline position on drugs.

Summary: US President Barack Obama and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte have met in Laos, after a row over the war on drugs.

Answer: 0


On Tuesday Mr Obama cancelled planned talks after the firebrand Mr Duterte called him the "son of a whore".
Wednesday's informal meeting took place before an Asean summit gala dinner.
While a Philippine spokesman said he was "very happy" it happened, the US side said they had a "brief discussion" in a pre-meal "hold space" for leaders.
Mr Obama and Mr Duterte are said to have entered the dinner venue separately at the summit in Laos and did not interact with each other during the event, which lasted one hour and 20 minutes.
"They were the last people to leave the holding room. I can't say how long they met," Philippine Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay, travelling with Mr Duterte, told reporters shortly afterwards.
"I'm very happy that it happened."
A White House official said the pair exchanged "pleasantries" in a "brief discussion" before dinner.
War on drugs
Mr Duterte's outburst came after at a press conference where he told reporters he would not accept Mr Obama raising any concerns about the war on drugs in the Philippines.
"You must be respectful. Do not just throw away questions and statements. Son of a whore, I will curse you in that forum," Mr Duterte said, apparently in reference to the US president.
What else has the controversial Filipino president said?
Summit diplomacy, Duterte-style
World leaders' offensive insults: Who's top?
From 'Punisher' to president: Who is Rodrigo Duterte?
The  Filipino leader later expressed regret over the remarks, but not before Mr Obama had cancelled a planned meeting.
Mr Duterte won the presidency with his hard-line policy to eradicate drugs and some 2,400 people have died in anti-drug operations since he took office in June.
He had previously urged citizens to shoot to kill drug dealers who resisted arrest, and threatened to "separate" from the UN after it called his war on drugs a crime under international law.
President Duterte, known for his controversial remarks, had previously called US Secretary of State John Kerry "crazy" and referred to Pope Francis as the "son of a whore".
But the president also has staunch support at home for his hardline position on drugs.

Summary: US President Obama and Philippine leader Rodrigo Duterte had a brief face-to-face encounter, after a very public spat.

Answer: 1


The Dow climbed 0.28% to 21,891.12, lifted by increases at Boeing, ExxonMobil and Chevron.
Declines at Discovery Communications, Amazon and Facebook reined in the Nasdaq, which dropped 0.42% to 6,348.12.
The wider S&P 500 was little changed, falling less than 0.1% to 2,470.30.
Markets are in the middle of earnings season, as companies reveal their quarterly performance to investors.
Discovery Communication shares fell more than 8% after the firm's quarterly revenues disappointed and a deal to buy Scripps Networks Interactive failed to reassure investors' concerns about the challenges facing traditional television companies.
Discovery's channels include Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel, while Scripps owns TV channels such as the Travel Channel and Food Network.
Snap fell 1% to $13.67 as a lock-up ended that has prevented early investors and employees from selling shares since the social media company's IPO.
The shares remain well below the price of $17 at which they went on sale in March this year.
Bigger technology companies also fell on Monday. Amazon shares dropped more than 3%, while Facebook shares dropped by more than 1.8%.
Some analysts believe that investors are cashing out after the strong increase in share prices earlier this year.

Summary: US markets were mixed on Monday, as the Dow increased but falls in technology stocks limited gains.

Answer: 1


The Dow climbed 0.28% to 21,891.12, lifted by increases at Boeing, ExxonMobil and Chevron.
Declines at Discovery Communications, Amazon and Facebook reined in the Nasdaq, which dropped 0.42% to 6,348.12.
The wider S&P 500 was little changed, falling less than 0.1% to 2,470.30.
Markets are in the middle of earnings season, as companies reveal their quarterly performance to investors.
Discovery Communication shares fell more than 8% after the firm's quarterly revenues disappointed and a deal to buy Scripps Networks Interactive failed to reassure investors' concerns about the challenges facing traditional television companies.
Discovery's channels include Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel, while Scripps owns TV channels such as the Travel Channel and Food Network.
Snap fell 1% to $13.67 as a lock-up ended that has prevented early investors and employees from selling shares since the social media company's IPO.
The shares remain well below the price of $17 at which they went on sale in March this year.
Bigger technology companies also fell on Monday. Amazon shares dropped more than 3%, while Facebook shares dropped by more than 1.8%.
Some analysts believe that investors are cashing out after the strong increase in share prices earlier this year.

Summary: (Close): Wall Street closed little changed on Monday, with shares in the big three US companies falling.

Answer: 0


The limb was found in a garden in Cranwells Park on Wednesday and has been sent for forensic analysis, Avon and Somerset Police said.
A force spokesman said detectives were "keeping an open mind" as to whether it was linked to two similar incidents in the city.
All three feet have been found within a few hundred yards of each other.
Tests showed the first foot found in Weston Park East in February was  "probably" a medical teaching aid. The second foot, found last month in the same area, is still undergoing tests.
"The same officers are looking into the latest discoveries and will look to confirm beyond all reasonable doubt that they are linked and if there are any new lines of inquiry which can be taken forward," the spokesman added.

Summary: A third human foot has been found close to where two others were discovered earlier this year.

Answer: 1


The limb was found in a garden in Cranwells Park on Wednesday and has been sent for forensic analysis, Avon and Somerset Police said.
A force spokesman said detectives were "keeping an open mind" as to whether it was linked to two similar incidents in the city.
All three feet have been found within a few hundred yards of each other.
Tests showed the first foot found in Weston Park East in February was  "probably" a medical teaching aid. The second foot, found last month in the same area, is still undergoing tests.
"The same officers are looking into the latest discoveries and will look to confirm beyond all reasonable doubt that they are linked and if there are any new lines of inquiry which can be taken forward," the spokesman added.

Summary: A foot found in a park in Bristol is believed to be a medical aid, police have said.

Answer: 0


Three Victorian hotels will go to make way for a six-storey, four star hotel and two assisted-living apartment blocks, at East Cliff in Bournemouth.
English Heritage strongly objected to the scale of the development in what is a designated conservation area.
But, councillors voted seven to three in favour saying it would help tourism.
Chair of the planning board and Conservative ward councillor David Kelsey, said the buildings earmarked for demolition were nice but no longer "necessarily functional".
"They've come to the end of their working lives, we need to preserve the tourism aspect while improving living for older people in the town," he said.
"The loss of buildings and trees are always regrettable but we can't stand still, we need to move forward."
The site on Grove Road and East Overcliff Drive will get a 90-room hotel along with a nine-storey and seven-storey building, comprising 122 assisted-living apartments.
Applicants The East Cliff Project LLP will demolish Bay View Court, The Cottonwood and the Ocean View hotels.
The council received 246 letters supporting the plans.
Forty-nine residents and the Ancient Monuments Society wrote to object to the demolition, stating that despite being altered, they still "give a sense of the historic character of the area".
English Heritage said the scale of the development would cause "severe harm" to the conservation area.

Summary: Plans to demolish historic buildings in a seaside town have been approved by councillors.

Answer: 0