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Man who acted as henchman to his brother during revenge attack ordered to pay compensation

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A businessman has been ordered to pay compensation to a family who he terrorised during a grudge attack on their home. Ryan Clark acted as henchman to his younger brother Jordan who led the revenge raid on the home of their sister Paris's former partner. They believed their target Joshua Grimshaw he had given her a black eye and Ryan held back the rest of his family while Jordan barged his way into the house in Dawlish and gave him a kicking. Jordan Clark, aged 25, from Cowley, near Exeter, is already serving 16 months for the attack but his older brother escaped with a suspended sentence after a Judge was told he played a minor part and had no criminal record. Ryan Clark, aged 30, of Shackleton Walk, Teignmouth admitted affray and was jailed for 16 weeks, suspended for a year and ordered to do 240 hours unpaid community work. Judge Erik Salomonsen also ordered him to pay £250 compensation each to Joshua Grimshaw's parents Martin and Paula and to pay £420 costs. He told him:"You have lost your good character and may be tarred with the same brush as your brother in your home town. You have escaped going to prison by a hair's breadth. "You went with your brother to the victim's home to clear the air, to put it charitably, but you knew your brother had a history of violent behaviour and a propensity to become violent and that is exactly what happened. "He administered a punishment to Joshua while you stood in the way of his father, mother and sister and as a consequence the victim received kicks and punches to the head. "You pushed and shoved the parents away and left them both with bloodied noses." Mr David Bowen, prosecuting, said the violence took place at the Grimshaw family home in Chestnut Walk, Dawlish, in December last year after Jordan Clark went to the door and punched Joshua in the face as he opened it. Both brothers barged in and Ryan held back the rest of the family as they came downstairs to try to rescue Joshua. Martin Grimshaw needed hospital treatment to his bleeding nose. Mr William Parkhill, defending, said Ryan's role had been less and he had never intended to get involved in the violence. He ran two businesses and provided for his young family and had no previous record. He said:"He was a man who reacted incredibly badly to a situation that happened very fast in front of him and was out of his control." He said Ryan was aware of the problems between his sister and Joshua Grimshaw but thought they were going to the house to pick up a set of keys.

Keep on smiling! Seven reasons to be happy despite England's World Cup nightmare

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It was billed the 'do-or-die' game: a chance for England to bite back after defeat to Italy, and give us reason to dream we could finally end almost 50 years of hurt. But unfortunately it turned into another nightmare night for the national team with Luis Suarez (who else?!) baring his teeth once again to virtually bury the dagger into England's 2014 World Cup campaign. Here are seven reasons for English football fans to keep on smiling despite the horrible pain of defeat. 1. England are NOT out of the tournament, yet No team has ever qualified for the knockout stages after losing their first two games. But England have a slender chance of making history, if other results go their way. First, Italy must beat Costa Rica. Then England must thrash Costa Rica, AND hope Italy also beat Uruguay. 2. Spain are already OUT, and their shock exit was much worse. The reign of Spain ended in 'Chilli Con Carnage' on Wednesday when the World and two time European champions became the first team to be knocked out of the tournament. But, while the Spaniards were thrashed by the Dutch and outclassed by minnows Chile, England's narrow defeats to Italy and Uruguay were hardly reason to start a Spanish Inquisition. 3. Losing to Germany on penalties is almost IMPOSSIBLE, thank goodness Few things in sport compare to the hurt of going out of a major tournament on penalties to the Germans. Any England fan old enough to remember Italia 90 or Euro 96 would say something similar. Now it would take a near-miracle to propel England into the Semi Finals to, most likely, face the Germans. And, let's face it, even if the improbable happened, England would be hard-pressed to survive a German onslaught for 90 minutes plus extra time. 4. NOBODY expected England to win the World Cup After years of the 'Golden Generation' when the national team were never able to match-up to our expectations, we've finally calmed down. If England's 2006 team of Beckham, Lampard, Gerrard, Ferdinand and Owen were over-rated, then the next generation of Raheem Sterling, Luke Shaw and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain weren't really rated at all. Forget holding to trophy aloft at the Maracanã stadium, getting to the last-16 would certainly be reason to party. 5. EURO 2016 is less than two years away It's some 721 days until the start of the European Championship in France. But those 24 months will give plenty of time for England's young stars time to get better and better. And, of course, they won't have to play against Brazil, Argentina or Uruguay. 6. WIMBLEDON should wipe away our World Cup pain The 2014 tennis tournament at the All England Club starts on Monday, and for the first time in ages the defending men's champion is from the UK. Once Andy Murray begins his bid to regain the title at 1pm on Centre Court, few British people at SW19 or watching the action on television will be that bothered about what's happening in Brazil. And if he gets into his stride to meet the likes of Djokovic and Nadal, then almost everyone else will have erased the less-than-popular Uruguayan striker ('Schwarez' or whatever he's called) from memory. 7. Exeter is HOTTER than Brazil, and that's certainly reason to smile Although we all expected hot and humid conditions in Brazil, the reality (for England last night at least) was British-style cool and cloudy weather. Meanwhile the rest of us at home have been basking in a summer heatwave. According to wellbeing guru Dr Cliff Arnall, the long spells of sunshine, holiday excitement and major sporting events all contribute to making today the happiest day of the year.

Keep on smiling! Seven reasons to be happy despite England's World Cup nightmare

Suarez annoyed by Roy Hodgson's pre-match comments

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Luis Suarez says his match-winning show against England on Thursday was fuelled by Roy Hodgson's pre-match dig at his talents. In the build-up to the decisive Group D clash in Sao Paulo, England boss Hodgson claimed the Liverpool striker wasn't worthy of being branded "world-class". Suarez, who scored 31 Premier League goals in 32 appearances for the Reds last season and won the PFA player of the year award, went on to score twice in the 2-1 victory. The result all but sent England crashing home in the group stages for the first time since 1958. And the 27-year-old – who had knee surgery just over four weeks ago – admits Hodgson's words were the catalyst for an inspired showing. "It wasn't revenge, but in England they talked about the injury and the coach had words that annoyed me," said Suarez. "This victory is very important, it is crucial. It was a difficult match against a difficult rival. England are a strong team. "But we have not qualified, we have to keep our feet on the ground." Suarez also reserved special praise for the Uruguayan physio, Walter Ferreira, after helping him overcome meniscus damage in his left knee. Having sneaked in behind Phil Jagielka to score Uruguay's first, he then capitalised on a mistake by Steven Gerrard to score the winner six minutes from time, before celebrating with Ferreira. "My wife and my two children are important to me and Walter is also important, the goals were for him because of what he did for me," added Suarez. "I have to thank him. I scored the goals, but he is the man responsible for them."

Suarez annoyed by Roy Hodgson's pre-match comments

Cartoon HD Alternatives: Flixanity, Popcorn Time and Showbox downloads

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With the news that Cartoon HD has been taken offline users have flocked to look for alternatives to the streaming app. Here we have a look at just a few of them available. Thousands of people watched shows and movies using the free cartoon and movie streaming App Cartoon HD, however users have been left stranded after realising that the app has come end after the application appeared down. Confirmation from Gapp Center followed shortly on Twitter posting: "Sorry! Cartoon HD is closed." The App which offers users free streaming of both cartoons and movie releases could be found on the Apple App Store over Christmas, but then was pulled. Users then started downloading it via a website Downloads are said to include latest releases from the cinema, including ones currently being shown in movie theatres.Alternatives to Cartoon HD Flixanity - www.flixanity.com Flixanity boasts at this point a total of 3977 movies and 598 TV shows for free on any device. Including series such as Game Of Thrones and Breaking Bad. However some have said the app is difficult to use Popcorn Time - www.time4popcorn.eu Popcorn Time is being downloaded by users as an alternative to Cartoon HD. And unlike Cartoon HD, the site promises that it 'will never be taken down'. The app can be downloaded from the developer's website, and lets you browse, stream and download torrents. Showbox - media-apps.cc/android Another similar app is Showbox which claims to be an 'Amazing collection of Movies and TV-shows. Absolutely free. You can download them on your Android device or watch online'. Internet Piracy After years of negotiations, the main providers in the UK have said they will letters to people who download copyrighted films without paying for it. Under the new code bodies will monitor IP addresses of downloaders. The first letters will sent from next year and it is thought that at first they will have an educational tone, rather than be penalty led. How to stay legal. According to the Federation Against Copyright Theft "Downloading illegal content can leave you and your family open to receiving harmful content including unsolicited advertising and pop-ups. Your computer can also be damaged by spyware and viruses. In the workplace, illegal downloading and file sharing can have serious repercussions for businesses. Spyware can infiltrate systems and firewalls compromising network security." It adds: "The potential harm from rogue sites – exposure to malware, exposure to indecent images, identity theft, unsafe and untested medicines and other counterfeit products, and lost jobs and income for creative workers – is profound.FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CARTOON HD Cartoon HD offers users free streaming of both cartoons and movie releases. The App could be found on Apple's App Store over Christmas, but then was pulled. Users are now downloading it via a website Downloads are said to include latest releases from the cinema, including ones currently being shown in movie theatres Cartoon HD remains free, the creative industries are worth £8million an hour to the British economy. The main internet providers in the UK have said they will letters to people who download copyrighted films without paying for it. Under the new code bodies will monitor IP addresses of downloaders. The first letters will sent from next year and it is thought that at first they will have an educational tone, rather than be penalty led.

Health warning as new figures show 25% of melanoma cancer sufferers in Exeter do not survive beyond five years

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One-in-four people in Exeter and surrounding areas who are diagnosed with the most serious form of skin cancer do not survive beyond five years, new figures have revealed. The statistics from Public Health England (PHE) showed there were 138 new cases of melanoma – the most serious form of the disease – in Exeter, Mid and East Devon in 2012, with 14 people dying from the disease. A total of 868 people were diagnosed with melanoma in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset that year – more than double the national average – and 108 people died as a result of the disease. The figures released as part of a six week campaign to raise awareness of skin cancer found 25% of people in the region with melanoma did not live for more than five years. Professor Debra Lapthorne, centre director of the Devon, Cornwall and Somerset PHE Centre, said: "Statistics show that those living in the Devon, Cornwall and Somerset area are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer compared to the rest of England. "There could be any number of reasons for this but it's likely to be due to a high number of outdoor jobs and leisure pursuits as well as an older population. "The campaign message is clear, if you notice any unusual or persistent changes to your skin, you should visit your doctor." PHE said some people were more at risk of getting skin cancer than others, but knowledge of the risks was low. Only one in three (38%) in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset know that people with lots of moles and freckles are more likely to get skin cancer, while only 32% are aware that a family history of skin cancer increases risk. Of those diagnosed with melanoma in the region, four in five are over the age of 50. Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: "In Devon we are fortunate to have a relatively reduced risk of developing life limiting diseases such as cancers. However, our rates of skin cancer are above the national average. Detecting it early can save lives." The campaign is also focusing on the region's men who are more likely to die from the disease than women. Studies found men are much less worried about developing the disease, with only one in three (34%) saying they are worried compared with more than half of women (56%). Dr Adrian Burt, a GP who appears in the campaign adverts, said: "The earlier skin cancer is diagnosed, the more successful treatment is likely to be." People who are aware of any changes to their skin are advised to see their doctor who will be able to assess whether further investigation is needed.

Health warning as new figures show 25% of melanoma cancer sufferers in Exeter do not survive beyond five years

Serial Exeter sex offender in court for failing to tell police he was living in a tent

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A sex offender failed to sign on the register because he was living rough in a tent in the Exe Valley. Jeffery Church, aged 66, said he forgot he had to tell the police about the location of his tent but was happy to be locked up when he was arrested because he had backache and was fed up with being homeless. Church has a long record of breaking the terms of the register which require him to notify police of any new address within three days. He is a vagrant who moves around Exeter, Plymouth, South and Mid Devon constantly and has failed to notify his address with the police 13 times. Church, whose last address was a hostel in Exeter, admitted breaking the terms of the Register and his case was adjourned for another two weeks to allow him time to get legal representation. He appeared in custody at Exeter Crown Court where he was not represented because of a dispute between local law firms and the Government over legal aid cuts. He told the Judge he had only missed his signing on by a day and had been arrested after going to the police station to give them details of where his tent was pitched. He said:"I was camping rough in the Exe Valley but got a back injury which became too much for me. The Sergeant said he was going to let me off with a severe warning and I said 'sod it' as I left and he arrested me. "I thought at least I could go back to prison to get treatment for my back but in hindsight I should just have walked away when I had the chance. "I want to settle down and get help to find somewhere to live and I keep trying to apply to see the housing officer at prison but the place is bursting and I haven't been able to see anyone." Judge Erik Salomonsen urged Church to keep trying after being told it may be possible to find him a place at the Oakfields Project in Howell Road, Exeter. Church has a long record of 65 different convictions, including several for sex crimes, and has repeatedly defied the conditions of the Sex Offenders' Register since being put on it in 2008. He has previously been jailed in Devon, Cornwall and London for failing to tell police of his whereabouts. Church, whose last address was Smythen Street, Exeter, was jailed for ten months for an identical offence in July last year. On that occasion he failed to register after being released from Exeter Prison after serving a jail sentence for sexually assaulting a girl at a bus stop in Plymouth. He was originally put on the register after being convicted of sexual touching at Truro Crown Court in March 2008.

Serial Exeter sex offender in court for failing to tell police he was living in a tent

Judge orders benefits fiddler to repay £20,000 or go to jail

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A benefits fiddler has been ordered to repay £20,000 to taxpayers or go to jail after a Judge rejected her claim she was penniless. Sheena Tugwood swindled more than £30,000 by posing as the carer of her partner when in fact they were living together and eventually married. She escaped a jail sentence last year after Exeter Crown Court heard how she was in mourning for fellow conspirator Roderick Tugwood, who killed himself while awaiting trial for the swindle. Tugwood, who is also known by her maiden name of Pattle, was brought back to court under the Proceeds of Crime Act. She told Judge Barry Cotter, QC, she had no money to pay compensation despite selling her home for £115,000 and giving £15,500 of the proceeds to her son. The Judge ruled she had deliberately given the money away to prevent her having to repay it and ordered she must do so, along with the £4,815 that is left from the £45,000 equity she had in her home in Dawlish. Tugwood, aged 51, formerly of Coronation Road, Dawlish, admitted two counts of conspiracy to defraud at the earlier hearing in September and was jailed for 12 months, suspended for 12 months. At that hearing the Judge showed mercy after being told she was severely depressed because of the suicide of her 54-year-old wheelchair bound husband, who had been facing £60,000 fraud charges. Pattle was his one-off partner and companion from 1998 when he started making false claims and she married him in April 2103. She has now been ordered to repay £20,315 to Teignbridge Council and the Department of Work and Pensions within six months or serve 18 months in jail. Judge Cotter told her he found her explanation of how and why she paid the money to her son to be 'unconvincing'. He said it was highly unlikely the son could have lent her the money at the time she said he did because he was only 21, working in a mobile phone shop, and would not have had the cash to spare. The Judge said he believed the sale of the house in Coronation Road for £115,000 to Tugwood's nephew had been at least £20,000 below its true value but accepted she no longer had any claim on the property, which is now valued at £150,000. He also rejected Tugwood claim there was nothing left of the £45,000 she received from the sale, saying figures which she herself had supplied showed she had not spent all the money. In the original case in which she was charged under the name of Pattle, Mr Malcolm Galloway, prosecuting, said the false claims started in 1998 and carried on until a DWP investigation in 2009. Those involving Pattle totalled £32,767.91. He said:"The fraud was relatively simple to the extent he indicated he was living at an address and she was his landlady and so benefit was paid to him and she had access to it. "It is right to say the documents used in these frauds flowed predominantly from Mr Tugwood. The matter came to light as a result of investigation and it was discovered this defendant and Mr Tugwood were partners. "There was evidence from those who saw them together and spoke to them during that time. She said in interview she was his carer but could not explain why she had described them as partners in forms for mortgage and credit card applications. "We are aware they married in April this year and recently the prosecution were informed of the tragic news he had taken his own life, having pleaded guilty to firearms charges which carried a minimum sentence. "The Crown take the view this matter should be dealt with in the light of the medical evidence which shows that understandably and obviously the defendant is distraught over Mr Tugwood's death." Mr Nicolas Gerasimidis, defending, said:"The circumstances of this case are tragic. He became her husband on April 6 and over the years it has been a long and complicated relationship. "She has been substantially traumatised and has suffered depression, insomnia and very painful neuropathy, all exacerbated by Mr Tugwood's untimely demise. Ultimately she has shown contrition and acceptance of what she has done."

Judge orders benefits fiddler to repay £20,000 or go to jail

Crews called to shed fire in Exeter

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Fire crews were called to a shed fire at a home in Exeter last night. They were called to the scene at Grecian Way, Broadfields, Exeter, just after 9am On arrival they confirmed that the fire involved a wheelie bin which had spread to a garden fence and tree and then to a shed. The fence and tree were destroyed by fire and the shed was partially damaged.

Owner of fire damaged Exeter pub The Hole in the Wall vows to re-open 'as soon as possible'

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The distraught owner of a popular Exeter pub that was partially destroyed by a large fire yesterday has vowed to re-open the venue as soon as possible. George Sloan said he and his team were still in shock and were "absolutely devastated" by the blaze that broke our at The Hole in the Wall in Little Castle Street in the early hours of yesterday morning. At its height more than 70 firefighters battled the blaze that saw part of the city centre cordoned off for several hours. Mr Sloan paid tribute to their efforts in stopping the spread of the fire. And he told worried customers there was "no doubt" they would re-open the venue. He said: "I can not emphasize how much this has been our pride and joy and something we have been working on for a year and a half. We are all distraught. "We will make it good as soon as possible. We had a great crowd in the night before watching the sport and the rugby has been really popular here. "We are all a bit down in the dumps. But we will take it on the chin. There are no questions or doubts about whether we re-open. It is just a question of timescale. We are totally committed to re-opening it as soon as practically possible." Mr Sloan said the damage looks bad but he hoped things were not as bad as they appeared. He said: "There is extensive damage to the kitchen and a bit of damage to the roof. The fire service have been absolutely fantastic. They could not have been more supportive and very professional. "With fire damage it always looks terrible and they have had to take up all the floorboards and things like that. "I don't know how long it is going to take to get things up and running again. But it is just so sad for everyone who has worked incredibly hard to make the pub such a beautiful place."

Owner of fire damaged Exeter pub The Hole in the Wall vows to re-open 'as soon as possible'

Honiton woman attempts to "arrest" Prime Minsiter David Cameron as New Father's 4 Justice row escalates

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AN activist for the New Fathers 4 Justice group from East Devon was removed by security police after attempting to "arrest" Prime Minister David Cameron last night. The 42-year-old woman from Honiton tried to confront the PM at an agricultural event in Burford and claimed she wanted to "citizen's arrest" the PM over "crimes against children in the family courts." She, along with fellow activist Bob Smith from London, attempted to force their way through the crowds but could not get within reach before security stepped in. Last Sunday saw activists scale Exeter Cathedral as the campaign escalates. A spokesman for the group said: "We'd like nothing more than to be simply with our families, and happy in the knowledge our children would grow up with equal rights, but until anything is done - this is the only way anyone takes any notice of our message. "New Fathers 4 Justice want nothing less than a legal presumption of 50/50 contact for a child with their parents if they split up, and the abolition of the deeply controversial, undemocratic secret court system that still exists within the 'family' division despite forty years of inequality and protest. "All decent parents and grandparents have inalienable rights to share in the care and upbringing of their children and grandchildren, and the breaking of the bond between child and parent is a grotesque travesty of natural justice." New Fathers 4 Justice added that it is not affiliated with Fathers 4 Justice (F4J) UK or its founder Matt O'Connor.

Honiton woman attempts to

Terrified mother hid in her garden near Exeter as crazed son hunted her with two knives

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A terrified mother fled her house in the middle of the night after her son broke in, demanded she give him £1 million and launched a frenzied attack on her. Martin Drew was being treated for a personality disorder and doctors had warned his mother about his threats to her before he launched his attack at her home near Exeter. He got in through a bedroom window and cornered his 53-year-old mother Bridget in a bathroom where he attacked her so violently she needed 15 stitches. He pushed her into the bath and told her he was going to kill her but she escaped and hid in a hedge at the bottom of her garden as he hunted for her with two knives in his hands. During the attack he demanded £1 million and she was so desperate to pacify him she told him she would pay it. Other members of her family also took refuge in neighbours' homes and gardens while police rushed to the remote house at Clyst Honiton where they used a taser to stun and disarm Drew. The deranged son also smashed up the home, overturning a glass display cabinet and destroying family heirlooms inside. Drew, aged 33, who was living in a hostel in Tiverton, admitted causing grievous bodily harm, making threats to kill, and drink driving. He was sent to Langdon Hospital in Dawlish for treatment and banned from driving for three years. Judge Erik Salomonsen made a hospital order which restricts Drew's release after hearing he suffers from emotional instability and dependency personally disorders. He also made restraining orders banning him from going back to the family home indefinitely. The Judge said Drew was suffering from a treatable personality disorder which originated from the childhood trauma of witnessing his father's death. Mr Adrian Chaplin, prosecuting, said Drew was had been drinking and was one and a half times over the limit when he drove to the family home in Black Horse Lane, Clyst Honiton on July 20 last year. His brother Robert was woken by him climbing through a window at 3.30 am and Drew asked:"Where's the bitch, I want to kill her." He went into her bedroom where he punched her repeatedly. He followed her as she tried to escape into a bathroom, where he hit and headbutted her, knocking her into the bath. She escaped when her husband Lawrence Rowe tried to come to her rescue and ran out wearing only underwear and a shirt. Mr Chaplin said:"She was terrified and believed she would be killed if she did not get out of the house. He continued to demand money and said he wanted £1 million. She tried to humour him and said he would get what he wanted. "When her husband came into the bathroom she managed to get out. Even though she had to go through the dining room, which was full of broken glass, she felt it was her only chance to escape with her life. "She ran out the front door and hid in bushes at the bottom of the drive and remained there, praying she would not be found." Drew ripped out the phone line to stop anyone calling the police but his brother used a mobile to dial 999 and neighbours who heard the noise also called for help. Mr Chaplin said Drew armed himself with two bread knives and was still trying to find his mother when he was tasered and arrested, still making threats and saying he wanted to kill her. He told police he had drunk four pints of lager and described his behaviour as 'going berserk'. Mr Nigel Wraith, defending, called Dr Brian Darnley, from Langdon Hospital, who said Drew was suffering from at least two personality disorders and is a complex but treatable case. He said the danger to the family had been identified by psychiatrists who were treating him and Mrs Drew had been warned. Drew had not been sectioned because he showed no signs of wanting to put his ideas about harming his mother into action and was thought to be stable at the supported unit where he was living in Tiverton. Judge Salomonsen said:"The fortunate aspect of this case is that his condition is treatable and psychological work is being done on the underlying post traumatic stress disorder. "He continues to pose a high risk but with treatment and the passage of time this may be alleviated. I have read in the reports how he tragically witnessed his father's death when he was a boy and is suffering the psychological consequences of that." Ends

Terrified mother hid in her garden near Exeter as crazed son hunted her with two knives

Transfers: Hummels to Manchester United, Suarez to Barcelona and Isla to Arsenal

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Manchester United are stepping up their interest in German central defender Mats Hummels with a move looking increasingly likely. Hummels is currently playing for the German Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund and the German national football team and is understood to be Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal's number one target this summer following the departures of both Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic Arsenal want to sign Juventus defender Mauricio Isla, a player that is also attracting interest from Liverpool. Meanwhile Luis Suarez, conqueror of the English national team could be set to leave Liverpool with Barcelona a likely destination. The Uruguay star made no secret of his unhappiness at much of reputation within the English league and his colourful spell in the Premiership could be coming to an end.

Video: Nearly 1,000 military personnel march through Exeter city centre for Armed Forces Day

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A ROUSING cheer went up as nearly 1000 members of the armed forces marched through a sun-kissed Exeter this morning for one of the biggest parades of its kind the city has seen.
Crowds lined up several rows deep and clapped loudly for all those taking part including servicemen and women, past, present and future. All branches of the armed forces were involved with Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Lawrence taking the salute at the Guildhall. The parade was led by the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines together with Royal Marines from Lympstone, who are marking the anniversary of their founding 350 years ago by exercising their Freedom of the City, as well as representatives from the Royal Navy, the Coldstream Guards and RAF Brize Norton . The event was held to mark Armed Forces Day and the parade left from St James Park at 11:30am before marching along Sidwell Street, High Street, and into Cathedral Green. The serving personnel were followed by representatives of many ex-service organisations from Exeter, together with local cadet units who were led by their own band. The celebrations continued with the re-dedication of a chapel in the Cathedral to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, as well as a military village being erected on the Cathedral Green that will stay throughout the day.
There will be a full afternoon of musical entertainment on the Cathedral Green with performances from The Rifles Blues Band, the Air Cadet Band with the programme culminating with Beat the Retreat by the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines. Among those in the crowd was John Evison, 86, of Alphington was there with his wife Margaret. He is a member of the Royal Marines Association and the couple's two sons are both in the military. He said: "The association is marching this morning but unfortunately I am unable to march but I will be joining up with them at the Cathedral. "Things like this are very important. The public should see what the service people do. These days it seems to be a bit remote from the public but events like this are important to break down those barriers." James Letten was there with his two sons Aidan, 12, and Isaak, 10. He said: "I work with the Navy supporting the lads so have brought the boys down today to show our support. The Armed forces still get a bit of flack in some quarters so this is good for their morale. It is also good for the city of Exeter. It has brought a lot of visitors to the city so it is a win, win situation. "Things like this are good for the public to understand the armed forces better and appreciate what they do. It is great that so many people in Exeter have come out to support them." Deputy Lord Mayor of Exeter, Cllr Rob Newby, said: "This year sees a number of notable military anniversaries including the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War, the 70th anniversary of the D Day landings, the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Java and the 350th anniversary of the founding of the Royal Marines. "It is therefore important that we continually recognise the work of our armed forces and I am delighted that this year's call to arms has been so well received by all three elements of the armed forces – past, present and future! The presence of The Princess Royal further cements this recognition in Exeter." As part of the service, the medieval double chapel of St Andrew and St Catherine was dedicated to the Royal Marines and the Royal Navy, offering a space for prayer and reflection for those who have been in active service and their families. The Dean of Exeter Cathedral, the Very Rev Jonathan Draper, said the Cathedral was honoured by the visit of HRH the Princess Royal. "The chapel isn't intended as a museum to the past but a place of prayer for the present, that remembers the stories that have gone before, honours those who have made the supreme sacrifice for their country for peace and looks forward in hope to a world free of war and acts of terror." This evening, the Royal Marines Association Concert Band – made up of former marines of the famous Royal Marines Band Service – will be joining the Cathedral choir for a spectacular concert in the nave.

Video: Nearly 1,000 military personnel march through Exeter city centre for Armed Forces Day

Hundreds of thrill seekers taking part in skydive world record attempt at Dunkeswell

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A skydiving centre in Devon is hoping to break a world record today. Hundreds of thrill seekers have flocked to Skydive 99 in Dunkeswell near Honiton today to be part of the challenge of breaking the Guinness World Record for the most tandem parachute jumps completed in 24 hours. Organisers said that up to 300 people will take part in today's attempt, with the first lift taking off at 6am this morning and jumps expected to continue until sunset. "All the participants are going up to 15,000 feet - that's about as high as you can jump from. So our attempt is not just about breaking a record but also about getting the best possible freefall experience while you're doing it," said charity coordinator at the centre, Linda Bulpin. "And roughly 80 percent of people taking part today are raising money for charity, so it's an all round exciting day." The current record of 251 was set at Varrelbusch Airport, Germany, in August last year. But the Devon record attempt has the summer solstice acting in it's favour. "We've already managed over 100 and it's only lunchtime," Ms Bulpin said. "It's looking good - we might even get an early finish!"

Hundreds of thrill seekers taking part in skydive world record attempt at Dunkeswell

Picture gallery: Hundreds of military personnel take salute from Princess Royal during Armed Forces Day parade in Exeter

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Scroll through to see our best pictures from the Armed Forces Day parade in Exeter this morning. Pictures by Martin Whitham.

Picture gallery: Hundreds of military personnel take salute from Princess Royal during Armed Forces Day parade in Exeter


Teenager at centre of Danny Coles twitter storm speaks of shock as Exeter City captain says he feels 'deeply ashamed'

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THE 14-year-old boy at the centre of the twitter storm involving Danny Coles said he was shocked by the Exeter City captain's reaction. Will Wenley, a pupil at St Peter's School and a season ticket holder at St James' Park, was stunned to be told by Coles to "f*** off c***" on social media. The unsavoury exchange was sparked when Coles commented on the performance of England's Phil Jagielka during England's World Cup match, describing the Everton defender as "a car crash waiting to happen". Will, who lives with his family in Pennsylvania, responded by tweeting "so like you at Exeter" to which Coles took great offence and tweeted a number of expletives directed at the fan before angry exchanges with other Exeter fans. Coles has issued a public apology and said he will contact Will to say sorry in person. But Will said the club should take action and told the Echo he thought it was just "banter" when he replied to Coles' tweet. He said: "I thought it was a massive overreaction by Danny Coles and I wasn't expecting that reaction one bit. I just thought it was a bit of banter. I like Jagielka as a player and was just responding to Coles' criticism of him. "I was quite shocked and I think as the captain of Exeter City he should act in a more responsible way." Coles's Twitter account has subsequently been deleted and he has now issued a full apology. The club said it was dealing with the matter internally. Will, who goes to all Exeter City home matches and several away ones, added: "I think Danny Coles is a decent player but this is not the first time he has abused the fans." "My mum has shrugged it off as she is not a big football fan but my dad thought it was quite shocking and annoyed. The club have said he wants to meet me directly. I would be happy to do that. I do want an apology but I don't want to see him go. "He is the Exeter City captain and should act like captain. His comments reflect upon the club poorly. This is not the first time it has happened so I guess the club should act. But if he apologises to everyone then hopefully that will be the end of it and we can all move on." It is not the first time the Exeter City captain has courted controversy over his use of social media. He hit out at a section of the St James's Park crowd who cheered his substitution against Bury in December. He posted: "Well done to the supporters that cheered on the substitution today, loudest I have heard u all season, if only u cheered the boys that much. "And to chant what u did to the manager, embarrassing." But following the latest controversy, he has issued a full apology for his comments and said he felt "totally ashamed." "I would like to apologise unreservedly for my comments which appeared on Twitter last night," he said. "I am not going to make any excuses, nor plead any mitigating circumstances: my behaviour was completely inappropriate and I am totally ashamed of my actions. "As the captain of Exeter City FC, I know I should set a good example to the supporters, the players and the wider football community and in breaching the club's social media guidelines I have let everyone down and embarrassed myself and the club, which prides itself on its family values. "I have deleted my Twitter account and will be making sure that I impress upon the rest of the squad the importance of realising what damage ill-judged remarks on social media can do. "Most importantly, as a family man I would be disgusted if someone spoke to one of my children in the manner I addressed a fan last night and I will be contacting the young lad directly in order to apologise personally."

Teenager at centre of Danny Coles twitter storm speaks of shock as Exeter City captain says he feels 'deeply ashamed'

Pictures: Crowds flock to day one of the vintage festival at Killerton House near Exeter

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A National Trust house property near Exeter has been hosting the "ultimate blast from the past" event this weekend. The team at Killerton House have again teamed up with events company "Crikey! It's Vintage" to put on another retro festival. Scroll through to see our pictures from day one of the festival, which is open again today (Sunday). Visitors have been able to step back in time into the elegance and style of the vintage era while Killerton's parkland, garden and house will be abuzz with live music. This year's event feature entertainment from Company B who performed their signature, rowdy jump jive from 2pm on Saturday. Mr B, the Gentleman Rhymer, is expected to dazzle the crowds on Sunday from 2pm until 4pm. The High Society jazz band is also back by popular demand. About 100 stalls has been selling vintage and retro fashion, crafts, home-ware, antiques and paraphernalia. Fashion shows will take place at 12.30pm and 4pm, showcasing designs from the 1930s through to the swinging 50s. A pop up beauty parlour will help guests look the part while a cocktail caravan promised to instil a sense of glamour and panache to weekend. The event will also give textile lovers a chance to explore "The Nature of Fashion" – Killerton's fashion exhibition in partnership with Exeter College. It is open from 10.30am to 6pm again today (Sunday). Day passes cost £10.60 for adults and £5.30 per child. Entry is free for National Trust members. More information can be found by visiting www.nationaltrust.org.uk/killertonvintage

Pictures: Crowds flock to day one of the vintage festival at Killerton House near Exeter

Sister claims Exeter nightclub refused entry to military personnel following Armed Forces Day

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The city may have been awash with military personnel yesterday for Armed Forces Day parade – but it seems that serving personnel were not welcome to continue their celebrations at an Exeter nightclub. The sister of a soldier has expressed her anger after her brother was refused entry into Club Rococo on Saturday night because of his occupation. She said: "I enjoyed the celebration of the armed forces in the city this weekend and seeing two Navy boats welcoming people on board to look around in the canal basin. "My brother is in the army and came down to see me for my birthday and went to Club Rococo Friday night and everything was fine, however Saturday night he was refused entry because of his occupation. "His friends were all allowed in and he was told that even though he was there the night before he could not come in on a Saturday as the club does not allow Marines in. "He said that he is Army and not a marine and showed military I.D but the staff turned him away. "I am disgusted that it is okay to discriminate against someone for their occupation in this day and age. I am proud that my brother is in the army and works hard and is committed to his job and I think the managers at Club Rococo should be ashamed." No-one from Club Rococo was available to comment.

Sister claims Exeter nightclub refused entry to military personnel following Armed Forces Day

New help available for dementia sufferers in Topsham

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A new activity club giving vital support to people living with dementia and their carers is open in Topsham. The club is based at Seaward House, Topsham and utilises space owned by The Mede, offers activities based around brain exercise that have been shown to slow down memory deterioration and improve quality of life. Kate Smith, Director of Memory Matters South West, the organisation responsible for the new club, said: "We use a variety of activities to provide stimulus, including number and word games, current affairs, calculating with money and listening to sounds. "Sessions are always fun and there's a lot of laughter. Club members often become firm friends and they are always keen to help each other out." As well as providing activities for those who are cared for, day clubs like this allow carers to have much needed time out for themselves, something that they often neglect because of worries about leaving their loved ones. Carol Emmett, who takes her husband to a similar club in Lostwithiel, Cornwall said: "When I decide it's time to go off to do my shopping, I know I'm leaving Ken in a happy, homely atmosphere. This is a place where Ken feels safe and happy, and is never patronized." The recent G8 dementia summit highlighted the need for better awareness of the disease and increased funding for research, with the aim of finding a cure or treatment by 2025. Kate reacted to the findings: "There is currently no cure for dementia and not enough support for people living with the disease. At the moment there are around 12,000 people in Devon who desperately need practical help with dementia now. "There is strong evidence that certain activities promote brain fitness and slow down memory failure. We need more places where people can get support and stimulation and Memory Matters South West is intent on offering a lifeline to as many people as possible," she added. Memory Matters South West CIC run three day clubs in Cornwall and One in Devon, more clubs are anticipated in local communities in the next year. For more information on the new club and how to become a member, there are spaces available,, please contact Kate Smith on 07813 886706 or email kate@memorymatterssw.co.uk

Transfer rumours: Sterling to Real Madrid, Lukaku to Atletico Madrid and Guarin to Manchester United

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He was one of the few positives from England's disastrous World Cup campaign and Liverpool's Raheem Sterling is now on Real Madrid's radar. The 19-year-old is reportedly being monitored the Champion's League winners as a possible replacement for Angel Di Maria. Brendan Rodgers is likely to try and resist any advances with Sterling set for a big role at Liverpool next season. There are also reports that Atletico Madrid are trying to sign Chelsea's Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku on a season long loan. Lukaku could be part of the £32m deal for Diego Costa who is set to move to Stamford Bridge after the World Cup. Manchester United are monitoring Inter Milan's Fredy Guarin as they look for midfield reinforcements for next season.
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