Dec
2009
Articles from 18th Dec 2009
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Six accused of £50m mortgage fraud
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Six people, including four solicitors, a surveyor and a property developer, have been charged over a £50 million commercial mortgage fraud. Read
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Snow disrupts Christmas getaway
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Heavy snow has derailed the great Christmas getaway as swathes of Britain were brought to a halt by the big freeze. Read
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Expenses row Tory MP will step down
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Tory MP Julie Kirkbride has finally decided to stand down at the next general election after heavy criticism of her expenses claims. Read
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Dutch arrest 'most wanted' Briton
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A suspected drug lord accused of smuggling heroin worth tens of millions of pounds into Britain has been arrested in Holland. Read
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Obama in call over climate deal
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A clearly frustrated President Barack Obama displayed impatience with world leaders' failure to reach a new climate accord, urging them to accept a less-than-perfect pact while offering no new US concessions. Read
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Teacher admits attacking pupil
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A science teacher has admitted that he assaulted a pupil at his school. Read
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US, China take 'step towards deal'
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Bilateral talks between US President Barack Obama and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao have moved a "step forward" toward a possible climate deal, a US official said. Read
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Expenses row MP set to step down
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Tory MP Julie Kirkbride has finally decided to stand down at the next general election after heavy criticism of her expenses claims, she announced. Read
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BA union set for new strike ballot
Dec 18 2009 | National News
The union representing British Airways cabin crew is set to move "swiftly" towards a fresh ballot after its planned 12-day Christmas strike was ruled unlawful, officials announced. Read
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Blair accused over WMD evidence
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Tony Blair faced fresh accusations that he covered up evidence that Saddam Hussein had no weapons of mass destruction before invading Iraq. Read
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Sir Terry signs off for last time
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Tearful Sir Terry Wogan signed off his breakfast show for the final time and told his eight million listeners: "I'm going to miss you." Read
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Postmaster's killers get 34 years
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Three men who murdered a sub-postmaster have been jailed for life with a minimum of 34 years by a judge who branded them "parasitic criminals". Read
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Climate deal 'hangs in balance'
Dec 18 2009 | National News
US president Barack Obama has warned that the chance of a global climate change deal "hangs in the balance" as he joined other world leaders at deadlocked talks in Copenhagen. Read
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Seasonal mortgage lending slowdown
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Mortgage lending fell by 10% during November as the market suffered its traditional seasonal slowdown, figures show. Read
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Minister to repay £21,000 expenses
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A Government minister has agreed to pay back about £21,000 he claimed in expenses to cover rent that he paid to his sister. Read
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Brown and Obama lead climate talks
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Prime Minister Gordon Brown and US president Barack Obama are among world leaders engaged in frantic negotiations, amid chaotic scenes as the deadline for a new climate change deal loomed. Read
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New McCann appeal to find Madeleine
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Kate and Gerry McCann have issued a fresh appeal for help in finding their missing daughter Madeleine as they face spending a third Christmas without her. Read
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Tearful Wogan says a last goodbye
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Sir Terry Wogan woke up his devoted listeners for the final time and joked: "There's a part of you that's glad to see the back of me." Read
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Teacher on attempted murder charge
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A science teacher is due to appear in court charged with the attempted murder of one of his pupils. Read
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Joe 'doesn't deserve chart fight'
Dec 18 2009 | National News
X Factor winner Joe McElderry does not deserve to be "stuck in the middle" of a fight for the Christmas number one single, Simon Cowell has said. Read
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Heroin user is tested for anthrax
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A woman who injected heroin is being treated for the effects of anthrax following the death of another drug user. Read
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Briton missing after ship sinks
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A least one Briton is believed to be among dozens of crew members who are still missing after a cattle ship sank off the coast of Lebanon. Read
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Afghan victim`s tragic last message
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A teenage British soldier sent a poignant Christmas message home before he was killed in a suicide attack in Afghanistan, it has emerged. Read
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Wogan set for final breakfast show
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Millions of listeners are waking up with Wogan for the last time as national treasure Sir Terry hosted his final BBC Radio 2 breakfast show. Read
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'48,000 sell homes to pay for care'
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Almost 50,000 people living in residential homes this year have been forced to sell their homes to pay for care, figures have suggested. Read
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Travel chaos follows heavy snowfall
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Britain is bracing itself for transport chaos after a blanket of snow fell in many areas. Read
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Immigration centre 'unacceptable'
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Conditions for women and children at an immigration removal centre are "wholly unacceptable", a report has said. Read
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2.5 million council houses sold off
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Around 2.5 million council houses have been sold since the Right-to-Buy scheme was first created 30 years ago, research has shown. Read
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Bank cuts could have saved £75bn
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A 20% cut in pay and dividends from UK banks in the boom years would have raised more than the money pumped in by taxpayers during the financial crisis, the Bank of England has said. Read
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Councils treble number of cameras
Dec 18 2009 | National News
The number of council-controlled CCTV cameras has nearly trebled in a decade, figures have revealed. Read
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Obama joins push for climate deal
Dec 18 2009 | National News
US President Barack Obama is joining world leaders in Copenhagen in a final push to secure a new deal on climate change amid growing optimism that an agreement can be reached. Read
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UK border scheme could be illegal
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A flagship Government scheme aimed at tracking all passenger movements into and out of the UK is likely to be ruled illegal, a committee of MPs has warned. Read
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Obama hails deal on climate change
Dec 18 2009 | National News
US President Barack Obama has reached a "meaningful agreement" with the leaders of China, India and South Africa at the UN climate change conference. Read
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Bus thief went on 30-mile rampage
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A man who stole a bus and took it on a 30-mile joyride has been handed an indeterminate jail sentence. Read
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Darren Day on drink-driving charge
Dec 18 2009 | National News
Entertainer Darren Day has appeared in court charged with drink-driving following an alleged accident in the early hours. Read
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Fraudster gave £1.5m to prostitute
Dec 18 2009 | National News
A Toys 'R' Us accountant who defrauded the firm of £3.6m which he spent on a "fantasy" life of prostitutes and expensive cars has been jailed for seven years. Read
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More work needed at eco-summit - PM
Dec 18 2009 | National News
There is still "a lot of work to be done" to secure any international deal on climate change, Gordon Brown has said. Read
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Aston Villa boss joins criticism of Premier League fixture list
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has joined Arsene Wenger in criticising the Barclays Premier League fixture list ahead of tomorrow's home clash with Stoke. Read
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Aston Villa v Stoke City: Aston Villa team news
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has no fresh injury worries ahead of the home Barclays Premier League clash with Stoke. Read
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Soccer legend backs Aston Villa and Birmingham for weekend wins
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
BLUES’ run has made people sit up and take notice – winning becomes a habit, as they’ve certainly proved. Read
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Aston Villa: Martin O'Neill angered by scheduling disadvantage
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
MARTIN O’Neill has angrily hit out at the Premier League match schedulers for potentially putting Villa at a disadvantage against Stoke tomorrow. Read
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Boosted Aston Villa basking in away form glory
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
MARTIN O’Neill’s in-form team return to Villa Park against Stoke tomorrow with the manager admitting they have been boosted by their improved away form. Read
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Stoke boss Tony Pulis praises Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
STOKE boss Tony Pulis has spoken of his admiration for Martin O’Neill ahead of tomorrow’s showdown by describing the Villa manager as a “competitive bugger” but a gracious loser. Read
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Heskey: Stoke will not bully Aston Villa this time
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
EMILE Heskey has warned Stoke that Villa are strong enough to stand up to them tomorrow after being bullied into submission by the powerful Potters last season. Read
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Aston Villa: James Milner puts his England dreams on the backburner
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
JAMES Milner is convinced there is only one way to guarantee his seat on the plane to the World Cup Finals in South Africa next season – by playing the football of his life for Villa. Read
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Sports Argus Live: Calling all Aston Villa fans
Dec 18 2009 | Aston Villa FC news
If you aren't going to the Aston Villa game tomorrow why not join in with our live blog? Read
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Moseley scrum-half Andy Williams agrees Gloucester loan deal
Dec 18 2009 | Moseley RFC
Andy off to Read
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Ian Smith tells Moseley: Beware wounded Knights
Dec 18 2009 | Moseley RFC
IAN Smith has warned his men not to be fooled by Doncaster’s lowly league position as Moseley travel north tomorrow looking for a first ever win at Castle Park. Read
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Everton v Birmingham City: End of the run for Blues?
Dec 18 2009 | Birmingham City News
Whilst Everton may be at the wrong end of the league at the moment recent form has suggested that they are poised for a mini-revival. Read
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Giles Barnes: The right man for Birmingham City?
Dec 18 2009 | Birmingham City News
Giles Barnes: The right man for Birmingham City? Read
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Alex McLeish hails attitude of Birmingham City fringe men
Dec 18 2009 | Birmingham City News
THEY may not be getting a game but Blues’ back-up boys have played their part in the team’s surge up the Premier League. Read
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Birmingham City are closing in on a deal for Michel
Dec 18 2009 | Birmingham City News
Birmingham City are moving ever closer to agreeing a deal for Sporting Gijon lynchpin Michel. Read
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For the record, Birmingham City are in it for the points - McFadden
Dec 18 2009 | Birmingham City News
Birmingham City are not interested in records, just points, says James. Read
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James McFadden says Everton are good role models for Birmingham City
Dec 18 2009 | Birmingham City News
JAMES McFadden returns to Everton on Sunday insisting Blues can follow their example. Read
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Everton v Birmingham City: Join in the action
Dec 18 2009 | Birmingham City News
On Sunday afternoon we will be live-blogging directly from the ground with our Blues writers Colin Tattum and Andy Walker on hand to bring you live match analysis from the Goodison Road press box. Read
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West Brom's trip to Blackpool in doubt
Dec 18 2009 | West Brom News
WEST BROM'S fixture tomorrow at Blackpool is in the balance after a pitch inspection was confirmed for 10am tomorrow. Read
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West Brom's Roberto Di Matteo defends Wolves boss Mick McCarthy
Dec 18 2009 | West Brom News
ALBION boss Roberto Di Matteo has expressed sympathy with Wolves counterpart Mick McCarthy following his decision to rest ten players at Manchester United. Read
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West Bromwich Albion: Roberto Di Matteo in call for festive calm
Dec 18 2009 | West Brom News
ROBERTO Di Matteo is expecting his Albion players to stay sensible this Christmas. Read
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West Bromwich Albion skipper Jonas Olsson puts his Christmas celebrations on hold
Dec 18 2009 | West Brom News
JONAS Olsson has urged Albion players to forget celebrating Christmas and concentrate on saving their festivities for a promotion party in May. Read
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Mark Evans set for Stourbridge debut
Dec 18 2009 | Stourbridge RFC
LOAN signing Mark Evans will go straight into the Stourbridge side to face Tynedale tomorrow. Read
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Harriers' Yates eyed for gaffer role with Robins
Dec 18 2009 | Non-League
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers manager Mark Yates has emerged as the favourite to become the new boss at Cheltenham Town. Read
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Halesowen prepare to battle rivals Stourbridge for Cowley’s return
Dec 18 2009 | Non-League
HALESOWEN Town are preparing for a tug-of-war with arch-rivals Stourbridge to bring Alex Cowley back to the Grove. Read
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Harriers' Yates eyed for gaffer role with Robins
Dec 18 2009 | Non-League
KIDDERMINSTER Harriers manager Mark Yates has emerged as the favourite to become the new boss at Cheltenham Town. Read
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Martin in hunt for back-to-back wins
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Pablo Martin has his sights set on claiming a second victory in seven days after taking the clubhouse lead at the South African Open. Read
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Swann shines in England fightback
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Graeme Swann's uncomplicated counter-attack hauled England thrillingly back into a see-saw first Test against South Africa at Centurion. Read
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Familiar foes for United and Chelsea
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Manchester United and Chelsea will both be reunited with old flames in the Champions League last 16 after being drawn against David Beckham's AC Milan and Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan respectively. Read
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Redknapp to read riot act
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is set to punish players involved in a Christmas party organised behind his back last week and Robbie Keane's role as skipper could be under scrutiny. Read
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Donovan completes Everton switch
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Everton have confirmed the signing of United States striker Landon Donovan on a short-term loan deal. Read
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Broad feels hard done by
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
The first decision review system controversy of England's four-Test series against South Africa struck with the tourists facing a first-innings deficit at Centurion. Read
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Booth hopes for clean contest
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
London Irish boss Toby Booth has called for a trouble-free Heineken Cup clash against French club Brive at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday. Read
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Harris puts England in trouble
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
England faltered principally against Paul Harris as they reached 238 for seven at tea on an increasingly unpredictable pitch. Read
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Ferguson defends McCarthy
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Sir Alex Ferguson has defended Mick McCarthy's controversial team selection at Old Trafford on Tuesday. Read
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Tricky pitch leaves England vulnerable
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
England had to scrap for every run and hope to avoid the pitfalls of an increasingly unpredictable pitch on their way to a mid-afternoon 211 for six in reply to South Africa's 418. Read
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Liverpool to face Unirea
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Liverpool will face another side knocked out of the Champions League after being drawn against Unirea Urziceni in the last 32 of the Europa League. Read
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Giggs extends United stay
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Ryan Giggs has signed a one-year contract extension with Manchester United. Read
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Beckham to make United return
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
David Beckham is in line to make a return to Old Trafford after Manchester United were drawn with AC Milan in the last 16 of the Champions League on Friday. Read
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Australia collapse as Windies hit back
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
It was a third day of dramatic collapses in the third Test at the WACA with Australia slumping to 137 for eight in their second innings after bowling West Indies out for 312. Read
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Ancelotti keen to avoid trio
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Carlo Ancelotti wants to avoid both Milan teams and Bayern Munich in Friday's Champions League draw. Read
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England facing uphill battle
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
England knew they were in for an unequal battle after Andrew Strauss' ominous early departure to an unstoppable shooter from Makhaya Ntini on the third morning of the first Test. Read
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Aguero - I'm right for Chelsea
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Atletico Madrid striker Sergio Aguero thinks he would be a good fit for Chelsea. Read
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Carragher reveals England approach
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has revealed he turned down an invitation from Fabio Capello to return to the England set-up. Read
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Hiddink agent claims City approach
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Guus Hiddink has been approached by Manchester City, according to the Russia manager's agent. Read
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Strauss dismissal ominous for England
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Andrew Strauss' early departure to an unstoppable shooter from Makhaya Ntini was ominous for England on the third morning of the first Test. Read
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Australia surge ahead
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Australia moved to 52 for one - a lead of 260 - at tea on day three of the third Test with the West Indies after the tourists collapsed dramatically at the WACA. Read
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Mowbray salutes Celtic spirit
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Tony Mowbray claimed his side's dramatic Europa League comeback to draw 3-3 against Rapid Vienna in the Ernst Happel Stadium epitomised the spirit of the Parkhead club. Read
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Rodwell awaiting scan
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell will have a scan on Friday amid fears he may face a spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury. Read
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Redknapp plays down secret Spurs soiree
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has played down the effects of his players' secret Christmas party on their performance in the defeat to Wolves at White Hart Lane last weekend. Read
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Ferrari chief - Schumacher return close
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Michael Schumacher has informed Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo there is a "strong possibility" he will return to grand prix racing with the new Mercedes-Benz team next season. Read
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Benitez still focused on Europe
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has vowed to take the Europa League seriously after being handed a tough draw against Romanian champions Unirea Urziceni in the last 32. Read
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Moyes welcomes Donovan deal
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Everton boss David Moyes believes the arrival of Landon Donovan in January will give his side a much-needed shot in the arm. Read
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McCarthy stands ground over changes
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has hit back at his critics after the firestorm that has followed his controversial team selection against Manchester United on Tuesday. Read
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Zabaleta happy to sign new deal
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Pablo Zabaleta has signed a new four-and-a-half year contract with Manchester City. Read
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Benitez still focused onc Europe
Dec 18 2009 | National Sport
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has vowed to take the Europa League seriously after being handed a tough draw against Romanian champions Unirea Urziceni in the last 32. Read
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Wolves boss Mick McCarthy stands by Manchester United selection decisions
Dec 18 2009 | Wolves FC News
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has hit back at his critics after the firestorm that has followed his controversial team selection against Manchester United on Tuesday. Read
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Andrew Surman: It's crunch time for Wolves
Dec 18 2009 | Wolves FC News
ANDREW Surman believes the bottom half of the Premier League are looking over their shoulders fearing the drop. Read
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Wolves defender Foley: I'm going to frame my captain's armband
Dec 18 2009 | Wolves FC News
DEFENDER Kevin Foley said he will be framing the armband he wore when skippering Wolves at Manchester United. Read
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Wolves will miss injured Edwards, says replacement Foley
Dec 18 2009 | Wolves FC News
KEVIN Foley feels sympathy for injured Wolves team-mate Dave Edwards at a time when he now bids to get his own season up and running. Read
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Returning Russell Earnshaw happy to stay on Bees sidelines
Dec 18 2009 | Bees RFC
RUSSELL Earnshaw will resist the temptation to thrust himself straight back into the Bees line-up to face Nottingham at Sharmans Cross Road this weekend. Read
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St Trinian’s headmistress is not a drag for Rupert
Dec 18 2009 | Film Reviews
THE terrible St Trinian’s girls are back and they’re causing more chaos than ever. Read
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Film Review: St Trinians: The Legend of Fritton's Gold (PG)
Dec 18 2009 | Film Reviews
NOISY, woefully overlong even at 106 minutes and pushing the boundaries of a PG with its language, this increasingly tiresome sequel with Exorcist-style head-twisting vomit gags lives up to the clunky nature of its title. Read
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Film Review: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (U) ****
Dec 18 2009 | Film Reviews
THE first film two years ago had children laughing before it had even begun. Read
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Legendary director is star maker
Dec 18 2009 | Film Reviews
ONE OF James Cameron’s great qualities is to turn unknown or unsung stars into major players in his movies. Read
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Avatar gives Sigourney a different lease of life
Dec 18 2009 | Film Reviews
THERE’S a technological miracle in cinemas from today – as well as requiring a whole new way of thinking, acting, directing and filming, Avatar uses 500 times the computer power it took to recreate the sinking of Titanic. Read
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Cameron's imagination fires rockets at the US
Dec 18 2009 | Film Reviews
AS A Canadian-born film director, James Cameron can get away with things that some American colleagues might baulk at. Read
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Bollywood Film Review: Rocket Singh – Salesman of the Year (PG)
Dec 18 2009 | Film Reviews
DIRECTOR: Shimit Amin. Read
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Film Review: Avatar: An IMax 3D Experience (12A) *****
Dec 18 2009 | Film Reviews
SINCE Titanic opened on January 23, 1997, directors Tim Burton and Martin Scorsese have each released six movies. Read
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Classical Music: Mediaeval Baebes bring Christmas tour to Birmingham Cathedral
Dec 18 2009 | Classical - Folk - Jazz
THE majority of us may just be getting the festive spirit but for the Mediaeval Baebes Christmas began weeks ago. Read
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Birmingham derby clash fans appear in court
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
TWELVE football fans appeared before city magistrates following violent incidents after the local derby between Birmingham and Aston Villa. Read
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Craig Hodson-Walker murder: Jail is too good for my son's killers
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
Speaking outside Birmingham Crown Court today, mother Judy Hodson-Walker, 57, who attacked the raiders with a curtain pole on January 9, said: "I just feel that Craig has stopped the evil and that those evil people, or as I have always called them the dregs of the earth, will never ever hurt anyone again. Read
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UPDATED: Three men jailed for Craig Hodson-Walker post office murder
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
Three men who murdered sub-postmaster Craig Hodson-Walker were jailed for life with a minimum of 34 years today by a judge at Birmingham Crown Court who branded them "parasitic criminals". Read
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Rednal man dies after contracting MRSA in Heartlands Hospital
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
A LUNG cancer battler who survived invasive surgery to clear him of the disease has died after contracting MRSA at Heartlands Hospital, his friends and family have claimed. Read
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Codsall benefit cheat jailed after fiddling system for £37,000
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
A BENEFIT cheat from the Black Country will spend Christmas behind bars after fiddling £37,000 from the taxpayer. Read
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Parents wait for news after TB outbreak at Walsall school
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
PARENTS are waiting to find out if their children will need screening for tuberculosis after a Walsall student was diagnosed with the disease. Read
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Temperatures set to drop to minus five in Birmingham as snow looms
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
THE West Midlands escaped the blizzards hitting other parts of the country but people are still being advised to wrap up warm as daytime temperatures will struggle to go above freezing. Read
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Trio face sentence on Midlands post office murder
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
THREE men were to be sentenced today for the murder of a Midland sub-postmaster who was shot through the heart as he tried to protect his parents. Read
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Former Erdington school governor jailed for second child porn crime
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
Anthony Cox was found to have almost 200 indecent images involving children, some of the worst kind, on his mobile phone. Read
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Birmingham MP Sion Simon to repay money for renting flat off sister
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
SENIOR Birmingham MP and Government Minister Sion Simon is to repay up to £21,000 to the House of Commons after admitting he used his allowance to rent a flat from his sister. Read
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Acocks Green and Kings Norton men locked up for £3m cocaine plot
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
THREE Birmingham men have been jailed for a total of 38 years after being convicted of a plot to flood £3 million worth of cocaine on to the region’s streets. Read
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Birmingham Bull Ring market traders donate food to homeless youngsters
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
HOMELESS youngsters in Birmingham will get to tuck into a tasty Christmas dinner thanks to a donation of poultry and vegetables from the city’s market traders. Read
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Brummies hit back over appeal for a healthier Father Christmas
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
EXPERTS who have laid into Santa for being fat and tipsy have been sleigh-ted by Christmassy Brummies. Read
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Prof Carl Chinn backs Birmingham Mail campaign to save Cadbury
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
THE West Midlands’ best-loved historian Carl Chinn is backing the Birmingham Mail’s campaign to save Cadbury – and help preserve “the city’s most iconic brand”. Read
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Birmingham council rapped over late accounts
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
FINANCIAL watchdogs have slammed Birmingham City Council for failing to produce its annual accounts, in the latest blow to its reputation for financial competence. Read
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Birmingham City v Aston Villa derby clash fans appear in court
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
TWELVE football fans appeared before city magistrates following violent incidents after the local derby between Birmingham and Aston Villa. Read
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Government forcing councils to name top earners
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
COUNCILS will be ordered today to publish full details of their most highly-paid staff. Read
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Birmingham City Council launches campaign to recruit strategic director of regeneration
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
AN ADVERTISING campaign to appoint a director of regeneration for Birmingham will be launched today, almost four months after former post-holder Clive Dutton quit the high-profile city council job. Read
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Birmingham heroin smuggler starts nine-year jail sentence
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
A man who was caught in Birmingham smuggling 28 packages of heroin into the country after swallowing them is starting a nine-year jail sentence. Read
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Worcester gynaecologist gave colleagues updates on patient
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
A gynaecologist in Worcester gave colleagues weekly updates about a patient who alleges he gave her two orgasms on the examination table, a court has heard. Read
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Robbers have stolen £15,000 of cigarettes in a raid in Bromsgrove
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
ARMED robbers escaped with £15,000 worth of cigarettes and tobacco in a raid in Bromsgrove, police have revealed. Read
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End of the road for Midland Red bus driver
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
THE last of the Midland Red bus drivers has hung up his uniform – while being given a send-off to remember from colleagues. Read
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Don't get angry, have a laugh
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
‘CARROT-TOP’, ‘ginger nut’ and ‘copper-pot’; I’ve heard them a thousand times and they are just some of the more publishable names I can think of. Read
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Highbury Park in Moseley restoration work welcomed
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
IMPROVEMENTS to a historic city park have been welcomed by a council committee. Read
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Sutton Coldfield pub that sparked Ashley Blake's downfall has been sold
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
THE pub that was owned by shamed TV presenter Ashley Blake when he attacked a teenage customer has been bought by the garden centre next door for £1million. Read
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Birmingham's new bishop welcomes decision to stop selling Jesus-shaped soap
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
BIRMINGHAM’S new Catholic Archbishop has welcomed a store giant’s decision to withdraw from sale a soap in the shape of Jesus. Read
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Newtown man shot in heart was drug dealer, court told
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
A MAN shot through the heart in Birmingham was a ‘drug dealer’ running an “occupational hazard,” a court heard. Read
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Villa's Doug Ellis helps ChildLine
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
BIG-hearted former Aston Villa chairman Doug Ellis raised a million smiles – by donating £1 million to the ChildLine children’s charity. Read
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Solihull couple threatened with rape and murder during raid at home
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
A MIDLAND couple were tied up and held captive in their own home after two armed raiders burst in and robbed them of cash and jewellery. Read
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Two Birmingham solicitors charged over £50million mortgage fraud
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
Six people, including two Birmingham-based solicitors, have been charged over a £50 million commercial mortgage fraud. Read
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Sutton Coldfied and Meriden MPs told to pay back expenses
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
Tory shadow ministers, including two West Midlands MPs, have been asked to pay back another £25,000 in expenses after Sir Thomas Legg's audit of past claims, the Conservative Party has disclosed. Read
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Woman drops case against Droitwich Spa Hospital gynaecologist
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
A woman who accused a gynaecologist from Worcester of sexual assault and harassment - claiming he gave her two orgasms on the examination table - has dropped her case against him. Read
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Bromsgrove MP Julie Kirkbride finally reveals she is quitting
Dec 18 2009 | Top Stories
Bromsgrove MP Julie Kirkbride has finally decided to stand down at the next general election after heavy criticism of her expenses claims, she has announced. Read
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Tubby Santa a bad role model
Dec 18 2009 | Colin Whittock Cartoons
“No, I’m sorry, they may look healthier, but I’d rather have a jolly, fat Santa!” Read
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Walsall's home game against Leyton Orient in the balance
Dec 18 2009 | Walsall FC News
FROST covers have been placed over the Banks's Stadium pitch ahead of tomorrow's League One clash with Leyton Orient. Read
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Byfield clinches new deal at Walsall
Dec 18 2009 | Walsall FC News
DARREN Byfield has agreed a new deal with Walsall until the summer of 2011 with a further 12-month option for the club after that. Read
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Walsall winger Till waits on Steve Jones fitness test
Dec 18 2009 | Walsall FC News
WALSALL winger Peter Till will wait with more interest than most for the outcome of Steve Jones’ fitness battle before tomorrow’s home game with Leyton Orient. Read
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Chris Hutchings has plenty to choose from as Walsall are almost injury-free against Leyton Orient
Dec 18 2009 | Walsall FC News
CHRIS Hutchings is facing some intriguing selection decisions as Walsall prepare to try to return to winning ways against Leyton Orient tomorrow. Read
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Review: Nile at Wulfrun, Wolverhampton
Dec 18 2009 | Gig Reviews
Nile Read
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Sedgley pub hit by second arson attack in two months
Dec 18 2009 | News
A HISTORIC Sedgley pub faces another lengthy closure after falling victim to a second arson attack in two months. Read
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Wolverhampton crash leaves girl in hospital
Dec 18 2009 | News
A YOUNG girl was in a stable condition today after being hit by a car in Wolverhampton. Read
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Tottenham boss reveals punishment plan after banned Christmas Party takes place
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is set to punish players involved in a Christmas party organised behind his back last week and Robbie Keane's role as skipper could be under scrutiny. Read
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Manchester United boss would prefer open title race
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Sir Alex Ferguson would be delighted if the Premier League did not turn into a two-horse race this season - even though history suggests it will. Read
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Liverpool FC boss in praise of key player
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes players like Jamie Carragher are part of a dying breed. Read
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Everton hit by fresh injury blow
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell will miss Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash with Birmingham and Brazilian Jo is also doubtful. Read
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Liverpool defender turns down country to focus on Reds
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has revealed he turned down an invitation from Fabio Capello to return to the England set-up. Read
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Liverpool boosted by return of key player
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez hopes to be able to name striker Fernando Torres in his favoured formation for tomorrow's early kick-off at Portsmouth. Read
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Tottenham boss rejects claims of problems over Christmas party
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp has played down the effects of his players' secret Christmas party on their performance in the defeat to Wolves at White Hart Lane last weekend. Read
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Arsenal boosted with some good injury news
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been given a lift with news of Cesc Fabregas' hamstring injury and Denilson being given the all-clear to deputise for his captain against Hull tomorrow. Read
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Burnley boss backs Wolves' Mick McCarthy in row over player selection
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Burnley manager Owen Coyle believes the widespread criticism of Mick McCarthy is out of order. Read
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Everton boss delighted at new signing
Dec 18 2009 | Premier League
Everton boss David Moyes believes the arrival of Landon Donovan in January will give his side a much-needed shot in the arm. Read
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Days Out: We need to rock down to our Electric avenue
Dec 18 2009 | Things to do in Birmingham
FOR THE next few days, all of the people currently plugged in to the Electric Cinema on Station Street are going to be feeling alive like never before. Read
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A Walk in the Park: St Mark's Cresent, Ladywood
Dec 18 2009 | Things to do in Birmingham
CLARE Short’s constituency of Ladywood doesn’t always enjoy the best of reputations. Read
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Urban Walk: First of 100 saved paths unwrapped
Dec 18 2009 | Things to do in Birmingham
A BEVY of Brummie walkers will gather tomorrow to ‘unwrap’ the first of 100 paths saved by Birmingham Ramblers. Read
