UN World Food Programme to suspend food aid to 1.7 million Syrian refugees

The United Nations World Food Programme said on Monday that due to lack of funding it will stop providing food vouchers for 1.7 million Syrian refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, Iraq and Egypt.

The programme said the suspension will affect hundreds of thousands of displaced Syrian families who will face difficult crises during the harsh winter months.

The programme’s executive director, Ertharin Cousin, warned that the suspension would jeopardise the health and safety of these refugees and may even provoke new tensions and instabilities in the neighbouring states that host them.

Since the outbreak of the Syrian conflict three years ago, the World Food Programme has been working to provide food for millions of displaced Syrians inside the country and hundreds of thousands of refugees in neighbouring countries.

The organisation distributed food stamps that allowed Syrian refugees to buy food from shops in the areas where they live, which led to pumping nearly $800 million to the economy of host countries over the past few years. However, after the organisation failed to raise the $64 million needed to support refugees it has issued its decision to suspend the programme

The Real Racist Conspiracy In Ferguson

After a grand jury in St. Louis, Missouri, voted against the indictment of Officer Darren Wilson in the killing of 18-year-old black man Michael Brown, President Obama gave a short address to the nation. In it, he said he understood why some would feel disappointed at the verdict — an odd statement, given that all available evidence showed that Brown had robbed a convenience store, attacked Wilson in his vehicle, attempted to grab his gun and charged Wilson before Wilson shot him.

Then Obama dropped a doozy: “We need to recognize that this is not just an issue in Ferguson, this is an issue for America … there are problems and communities of color aren’t just making these problems up.”

Obama did not specify what problems he wanted to discuss. Nor did he explain why Ferguson’s issues were America’s. But the largest lie was the notion that “communities of color” don’t make problems up.

Because in Ferguson, that’s precisely what a community of color did.

In the immediate aftermath of the Brown shooting, grand jury documents show, witness intimidation and lying became the order of the day. Witness after witness told police that local thugs were intimidating those who had seen the events. One witness told police, according to the St. Louis Police Investigative Report, that threats “had been made to the residents of Canfield Green Apartment Complex.” This witness said that “notes had been posted on various apartment buildings threatening people not to talk to the police, and gunshots were still being fired every night.”

The witness wasn’t alone. Other witnesses stated that supposed witnesses were lying to the media about events, that others who had seen the events were “embellishing their stories” in order to convict Wilson.

One witness stated, “You have to understand the mentality of some of these young guys they have nothing to do. When they can latch on the something they embellish it because they want something to do.”

Some 16 witnesses testified that Brown’s hands were up when he was shot, which was factually false according to the autopsy. Another 12 witnesses said that Wilson shot Brown from behind — again, false according to the autopsy. One witness testified that Wilson used both a Taser and a gun — false. Another said that Brown had kneeled before Wilson shot him. When confronted with the fact that the physical evidence made such an account impossible, the witness acknowledged he hadn’t seen the event, and then asked if he could leave the grand jury because he was “uncomfortable.”

In 1964, Kitty Genovese was stabbed to death outside her apartment complex in New York. The entire nation gasped in horror when it learned that supposed witnesses had not called the police.

Fifty years later, the nation completely ignores the fact that an entire community apparently lied, facilitated lying or intimidated witnesses in order to put an innocent man behind bars, because he happened to be white. At least Kitty Genovese’s neighbors didn’t actually murder her. Members of the Ferguson community tried to murder Darren Wilson by putting him on death row. Meanwhile, President Obama and those in the media who played up the original narrative cheered them on.

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French parliament calls on government to recognise Palestine

French Lawmakers have voted in favour of a resolution calling on the French Government to recognise the state of Palestine. The resolution was adopted today by 339 votes.

A total of 151 lawmakers voted against the resolution, which was proposed by the Socialist group.

The French Senate is expected to vote also on a similar resolution on Dec. 11.

French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said France would recognise Palestine as a state if peace efforts failed.

“If this last attempt at negotiation does not succeed, France will assume its responsibilities by recognising the state of Palestine,” Fabius said.

“France recognises the State of Palestine; it is not a favor, it is a right,” he said.

“France is a friend of the Israeli people and the Palestinian people. France will recognize the state of Palestine. The question is when and how? Because it is necessary that this recognition should be useful to the efforts to break the deadlock and contribute to achieving a final settlement of this conflict, “he added.

Europe has lately been swept by a wave of support for Palestinian statehood even as the peace process between Palestinian and Israeli sides remains deadlocked.

The European Parliament had been scheduled to vote on a motion to recognize Palestine on Nov. 27, but because of disagreements over the wording of the motion, the decision was postponed until Dec.18, a European Parliament press release said.

The European Parliament resolution, which was proposed by the left-wing European United Left and the Socialists and Democrats parliamentary groups, is expected to pass, despite Israeli efforts to block it.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said European recognition of a Palestinian state would be a big mistake for peace, but the EU officials disagree.

“We are the leading trade partner for Israel, and we are the leading donor for the Palestinian Authority,” said EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini.

“We can be the leading political player in the region and we can facilitate dialogue that has to take place directly between the Israelis and the Palestinians,” Mogherini said.

She added a Palestinian state could only exist if Israeli security was also guaranteed.

Gianni Pittella, president of the Socialists and Democrats parliamentary group, called on all EU member states to recognize Palestine.

Pittella said the recognition was absolutely in line with the decision taken by the UN General Assembly in 2012.

In October, Sweden became the first EU country to recognize Palestine.

The UK and Spanish parliaments, as well as the Irish Senate, have also all delivered non-binding endorsements, reflecting growing frustration with the sputtering Israel-Palestine peace process.

Denmark’s lawmakers will debate a similar motion in December and other parliaments are expected to vote on similar resolutions in the coming weeks, including the Danish, Italian, Slovenian and Portuguese legislatures.

More than 130 countries have now recognized Palestine as a state

Opposition forces Modi’s minister to apologize for her derogatory remark

NEW DELHI: Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti on Tuesday apologized in Parliament over her derogatory remarks made during an election rally in the national capital after a united opposition cornered the government in both the Houses.

“I regret my statements. I did not intend to hurt anyone,” Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti said in a bid to bring the matter to rest. However, the opposition is insisting on her resignation.

Earlier, her derogatory remarks resonated in Rajya Sabha with the opposition targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and seeking an apology from the minister.

Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti had on Monday used derogatory language during campaigning for Delhi assembly elections leading to very strong reactions from the opposition parties.

Addressing an election rally in Delhi Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti had said, “People of Delhi have to decide if they want a government of Ramzaadon (followers of Ram) or a government of those who are illegitimate.”

Opposition leaders strongly objected to her remarks, with BSP chief Mayawati calling for her resignation.

“If she does not resign, Modi govt should sack her,” Mayawati said calling for an FIR against the minister.

Attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trinamool leader Derek O’Brien said, “PM must come to Rajya Sabha, answer serious questions nation is facing like poor language used by a minister. We see him only taking selfies.”

Israeli forces demolish East Jerusalem house under construction

JERUSALEM (Ma’an) — Israeli forces on Monday demolished a Palestinian home under construction in the al-Isawiya neighborhood of East Jerusalem, witnesses and a local spokesman said.

Witnesses said Israeli officers escorted excavators which demolished a house belonging to Ishaq Mustafa Hamdan, claiming it was built without a permit in an area designated as green space.

Local follow-up committee spokesman Muhammad Abu al-Hummus confirmed the demolition. He said Israeli special forces and police mounted on horseback stormed al-Isawiya before the demolition.

Palestinians clashed with Israeli forces during the demolition, and one young man was hit with a rubber-coated bullet in his abdomen, Abu al-Hummus said.

He said the house measured 200 square meters.

The owner, Ishaq Hamdan, was detained two months ago during what Abu al-Hummas called a “collective punishment campaign” launched by Israeli authorities in response to unpaid municipal bills and fines.

Two years ago the Israeli authorities demolished another house under construction belonging to Hamdan, Abu al-Hummus added.

Israel rarely grants construction permits to Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and regularly demolishes structures built without permits.

Israeli bulldozers have demolished at least 359 Palestinian structures in the West Bank so far in 2014, according to the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions.

During the 1967 war, Israel captured East Jerusalem from Jordan, occupied it, and later annexed it in a move never recognized abroad

Palestinian woman shot after stabbing Israeli settler

BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — Israeli forces shot and critically injured a 22-year-old Palestinian woman on Monday after she allegedly stabbed an Israeli settler near Gush Etzion in the southern West Bank.

Palestinian sources identified the woman as 22-year-old Amal Jamal Taqatqa from the nearby town of Beit Fajjar.

The Israeli settler suffered minor injuries in the stabbing at a major crossroads near the Gush Etzion bloc, south of Bethlehem, the Israeli army said in a statement.

Israeli police said in an initial statement that the woman was shot after stabbing a soldier.

“Security forces on site overpowered the suspect and transferred her for further medical assistance,” the statement said.

Eyewitnesses said a group of Israeli soldiers opened fire heavily at Taqatqa from a distance of around 20 meters.

She was shot four times and taken to Hadassah hospital, where she is said to be in a critical condition.

Witnesses said Israeli forces prevented the Palestinian Red Crescent from reaching her following the shooting.

Local sources said she was probably questioned by the Israeli army on her hospital bed.

Locals in Beit Fajjar told Ma’an that over 30 Israeli military vehicles stormed the town shortly after the incident and ransacked Taqatqa’s family home.

Taqatqa’s family denied claims that she attempted to stab an Israeli and said the Israeli army deliberately targeted her and shot her in cold blood

Teesside community pulls together with donations for Christmas project

A woman who knows all about the hardship of surviving with very little has found a way to give something back to the community she once relied upon.

Jamie-Leigh Scott and three of her friends have set up the 12 Days of Christmas project to help people in need over Christmas.

When she was younger, the 27-year-old experienced first hand just how important projects like this can be and now wants to help others in the same situation.

Jamie-Leigh, from Easterside, said: “This project is personal to me as I have been in situations where I needed to use refuges.

“People don’t realise that when you are in a refuge you have nothing, so to wake up on Christmas day to just one or two presents is lovely and completely overwhelming.

“The amount of donations we have already received shows that there are people out there who want to help others worse off than themselves.”

The 12 Days of Christmas Project was created after Jamie- Leigh and pals, Tracey Gunn, Carly Smith and Lee Glover saw a Facebook message about helping the homeless during the festive season.

After a quick discussion, they decided they would aim to provide hot meals and warm clothes for those in need between December 12 and 24.

Word soon got out via a Facebook page and the project snowballed so quickly that the friends now hope to be able to offer toys and extend the project past the initial 12 days.

Acklam student, Carly, 27, says being involved in the project has made her see Christmas from a different perspective.

“I am completely overwhelmed by the generosity of people and it has made me think about Christmas in a different way,” she said.

“We have more than 560 “likes” on our Facebook page and it is great to think that it is going to make a huge difference to people’s lives.”

Mum-of-three Tracey, from Marton, believes that the key to the project’s success is being able to work together with existing, similar organisations.

The 36-year-old said: “ There are already some amazing groups and projects out there offering help all year round to those who need it across Teesside.

“We are joining up with them to expand the help available in the hope of reaching more people.

“Social services are also going to pass our information on to families they feel will benefit from the project.

“There are families out there with literally nothing, so they are going to use donations from us to put together some packs so that parents can give their children something at Christmas.”

About 50 volunteers have signed up to help the project over the 12 days but there is still a lot of work to be done before the first day.

Lee, 37, from Hemlington said: “The donations are starting to pile up which is brilliant, but we now need people to come and help us to sort it all out.

“The room is nearly bursting with clothes and toys and we need to have it all organised by December 12.

“We are also short of food donations, which is one of the reasons we started this in the first place, so we hope that people can help out with that.”

A meeting is being held at the Southlands Centre, Ormesby Road, Middlesbrough, on Wednesday, December 3, at 6.30pm, for anyone interested in helping out with the project.

Food, clothes and toiletries can be donated to the Southlands Centre every day between 9am and 4pm. Alternatively people can contact Jamie-Leigh via the Facebook page 12 Days of Christmas.

Police appeal for witnesses to alleged racist road rage incident in Middlesbrough

Police are appealing for witnesses to two alleged racist road rage incidents in Middlesbrough.

The first one took place on Sunday, November 23 at about 3.30pm and involved two vehicles - a small blue Toyota and a small silver Peugeot.

Both cars were travelling along the A1085 Trunk Road in Middlesbrough at the junction of Cargo Fleet Lane which changes from two lanes to one lane.

One vehicle overtook the other before the road change back into two lanes at the approach to the traffic lights at Cleveland Retail Park. The vehicles travelled alongside each other and the occupants were then involved in a verbal altercation in which racist abuse allegedly occurred.

Around 20 minutes later a further altercation occurred involving the occupants of both vehicles - two males and two females - outside Pets at Home at Cleveland Retail Park.

It is believed that a number of members of the public may have witnessed this incident and officers would encourage those people to come forward and speak to them.

Any witnesses or anyone with further information regarding either incident is asked to contact PC Neil Lamb from Middlesbrough Police on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Aitor Karanka wants to explain his actions after sending off against Blackburn

Apologetic Aitor Karanka says he is ready to explain his actions after being charged with improper conduct following his sending off against Blackburn.

The Boro boss has until 6pm this Friday, December 5 to respond to the FA charge and Karanka has admitted he made a mistake amid the drama of the controversial finish at the Riverside on Saturday.

"It was my first sending off," Karanka told the club's website.

"Again I want to apologise because I know I made a mistake.

"I knew one second later that I made a mistake, but you saw my feelings. I was living the game 150% and I want to apologise."

Karanka and his coaching staff felt that Blackburn's last gasp equaliser against Boro should have been disallowed for what appeared to be a clear foul on keeper Dimi Konstantopoulos.

The head coach reiterated his opinion that the goal should have stood after the game but apologised for his actions.

"I said after the game that our crowd didn't deserve my conduct, and apologised ," he added.

"After the game a member of my staff apologised to the fourth official and the referee also.

"This is my first time, but I am ready to explain my position. I've read a lot of things that aren't true."

Aitor Karanka: Differences in decisions and points of view led to Hignett's departure

Aitor Karanka has revealed that "differences in decisions and points of view" led to Craig Hignett's departure from the club today.

The announcement that Boro's No.2 had left his role with immediate effect this morning was met with widespread surprise.

But Karanka says both he and Hignett agreed that the decision was best for the club.

"We had differences in our decisions and points of view," Karanka told the club's website.

"All of us want the best for our club and we have talked, and we agreed that this is the best for the club. I just want to say thanks to Higgy.

"He was my first assistant. I said on Saturday morning that he was very important these past eight months and I know how important he is for this club.

"I wish him all the best because he deserves all the best."

Hignett was appointed as Boro's assistant in March this year and joined the club from Hartlepool United.

Only last week Karanka praised his No.2 , describing him as a legend who is very important at the club.

But the head coach today added: "This is football.

"We have to work and we have to try and get the best for our club.

"This is the main thing whether it's Aitor Karanka, Higgy or anyone...the person isn't important...it's the club, and we want to get the club in the highest position."

Sponsored: Four places to get yourself glammed up for the Christmas do

How long does it take for a woman to get ready for the office Christmas party?

Tanning, treatments, hair, make up, getting in shape and shopping for the all important outfit all contributed to the staggering figure of 312 hours arrived at by researchers.

Check out our handy guide below to some of the featured businesses on Teesside that you may wish to consider in helping you get the perfect style, wax and tan for this year's Christmas do.

Hair at Betty Blades - Redcar

Betty Blades is a friendly salon in Redcar offering treatments by skilled professionals in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

It uses quality products but don't charge high end prices - meaning that you can indulge yourself even at Christmas.

Betty Blades knows that the relationship you have with your stylist is important and promises that you won't find yourself passed between various stylists and juniors.

All stylists are level three qualified and are trained in all aspects of hairdressing.

Betty Blades is also home to Nail’d for all of your nail treatments, Beauty by Cari-Anne caters to your everyday beauty needs and The Little Lotus.

Find them all on Facebook or call the salon on 01642 497278.

Tan and Relax at Cleopatra Beauty - Acklam Road, Middlesbrough

Cleopatra Beauty is ready to get you ready for all of your nights out over the Christmas period.

They know that Christmas is the time to party and have natural looking spray tans and gel polish which can keep your nails in the party spirit for up to four weeks.

All of those parties and all of that shopping can get a little stressful.

Cleopatra invite you to try one of their relaxing aromatherapy massages.

Full details are available on their website.

Alternatively, book in your tan by calling 01642 282355 or clicking here.

Make up, Facials and Waxing at Adora Belle - Yarm

Set on the exclusive high street of Yarm Adora Bell uses the industry leading brands to give you the best results for the Christmas party season.

Specialising in waxing (including intimate waxing), manicures, pedicures, Gelish, massage, reflexology, threading, Sienna X spray tans, Caci and Environ facials and Jane Iredale Make up applications, Adora Belle is the place for all your pre-Christmas preparations.

This Christmas they are offering a ‘Jingle All The Way’ Christmas Package.

Choose three of the following for £40: half leg wax, Sienna X Tan, Gelish File and Polish, Eye Package or Party Lashes.

To book, call 01642 645135 or pop in at First Floor, 10-12 High Street, Yarm.

For for more information visit the website.

Relax at The Little Lotus - Redcar

Christmas can be a stressful time. Just ask any flustered festive shopper on the regions’ high streets.

This Christmas prepare to party by first winding down.

The Little Lotus offers a wide range of holistic treatments and using their special home blended oils.

From uplifting massage to intense, deep tissue massage to relieve aches and pains. The Little Lotus can be contacted on 01642 497278 or via their Facebook page.

Chance of snow? Risk of wintry showers over hills this weekend

The gritters will be out tonight in Middlesbrough to prepare for the arrival of colder weather towards the end of the week.

The Met Office has predicted widespread frost tonight as well as misty and freezing fog patches developing in places with a minimum temperature of minus three degrees.

Tomorrow is expected to be cold and frosty but with bright sunshine and light wind. A band of rain crossing on Friday will bring colder air and isolated showers which may be wintry on the hills. Saturday is also expected to be frosty.

Middlesbrough Council's transport, environment and streetscene teams are receiving regular weather updates with operations set to get going at the first sign or ice or snow.

The gritters will be taking to the roads tonight to ensure main roads and pavements remain safe and passable.

US drone strike claims eight lives in eastern Afghanistan

At least eight people have been killed in a US drone attack in Afghanistan’s eastern province of Nangarhar.

Hazrat Hussain Mashriqiwal, a spokesman for the Nangarhar provincial police department, said the unmanned aerial vehicle fired a missile at a compound in Sherzad district of the province, situated about 90 kilometers (50 miles) east of the capital, Kabul, at around 1:00 p.m. local time (0830 GMT) on Monday.

He further noted that the assault targeted a Taliban hideout and those killed in the airstrike were members of the militant group.

On November 27, a drone attack in the troubled southern province of Helmand left at least seven people dead. A similar attack in the Chak district of Afghanistan’s central-eastern province of Maidan Wardak killed three people earlier in the day.

On November 19, at least four people lost their lives when US forces mounted a drone strike in the Ghaziabad district of the northeastern province of Kunar.

Civilian casualties have long been a source of friction between the Afghan government and the US-led forces, and have dramatically increased anti-US sentiments in the country.

The United States carries out targeted killings through drone strikes in a number of Muslim countries, such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Somalia and Yemen.

Washington claims the targets of the drone attacks are militants, but local officials and witnesses maintain that civilians have been the main victims of such airstrikes over the past few years.

MP/HSN/SS

Your Club: The Scoil Rince i Muir Irish Dance School

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Club name : Scoil Rince í Muir Irish Dance School

Address : St Patrick’s Church Hall, Cranworth Street, Thornaby and Manor Youth Community Centre, Manor Farm Way, Coulby Newham.

Tell us about your club : Scoil Rince í Muir is an Irish dance school for both girls and boys, aged from four and upwards. The school was started by Veronica Muir TCRG, who wanted to pass on her love for Irish dancing and enable other children to get the same benefits and enjoyment she had always got from dancing as a child. The school has grown over the years and dancers have competed and placed at major competitions across the UK, Ireland and USA. Irish dancing is a great way for children keep fit while building confidence and making new friends!

How often does the club meet ? Tuesdays from 5.15-8.30pm at St Patrick’s Church Hall and Thursdays 5.30-7.30pm at Manor Youth Community Centre.

No. of people in club : The club has around 50 dancers aged from four to 25.

When did the club start ? In 2004.

Any other information ? As well as competing, the dancers get involved in local events and celebrations, including the Stockton International Riverside Festival, Billingham Folklore Festival and Thornaby Show. The school puts on an annual Irish dance show at Middlesbrough Theatre - a fantastic evening of music and dance showcasing the talents of all the dancers. Our show next year is on Sunday, July 5 and you can contact us for tickets. One of our dancers, 21-year-old Rachael Lee, has been cast in upcoming Irish dance show, Murphy’s Legacy, which is premiering at the Sage in Gateshead on January 31.

Club contact name and number : Veronica Muir on 07816 913888

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£8m Middlesbrough Town Hall revamp could bring 'high quality cultural venue' for town

Multi-million pound plans to transform Middlesbrough Town Hall into a top class cultural and heritage destination are likely to be approved next week.

Details about the £8m proposals to restore the building to its 19th Century glory have been set out in a new Middlesbrough Council report.

Significant improvements are planned to attract new performers to the venue, which has played host to stars such as from classical composers Johann Strauss and Sir Edward Elgar to Oasis, Robbie Williams and X Factor winner James Arthur.

Town hall chiefs say the aim is to provide a “high quality, cultural venue” to attract more people to the town.

Plans include an upmarket bar, coffee shop or restaurant with a glass atrium, restoration of the Crypt and concert hall, Victorian court, cells and fire station, a new multi-functional community room, new seating and toilets and lighting to illuminate the building at night.

The Victorian courts, cells and fire station have been closed to the public but will be opened up as a visitor attraction in their own right.

If the project does get the go-ahead it will see the most ambitious development of the building in more than 80 years.

The council’s executive are to meet next Tuesday to discuss the proposals.

Funding will be made up of a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) bid of £3.7m with £3.27m from Middlesbrough Council.

As part of the HLF project, funding will be made for an education officer for three years to encourage the community to get involved as well as promoting the building’s heritage.

Middlesbrough resident Andy Simmonds, from Park Vale Road, said he is really excited by the proposals.

The 37-year-old office worker said: “The town hall is one of the most important buildings in Middlesbrough and it’s great that money is going to be spent on it to make it even better.

"I love going to gigs at the town hall - I’m seeing Frank Skinner there next week and I saw Chubbs last time he was there.”

Nurse Marnie Wilson, 28, from Queen’s Road, Linthorpe, said: “I really hope the project is successful in getting the grant as the town hall really deserves money to be spent on it.

"I love the Crypt but I think it has the potential to be even better.

"The cafe with the glass atrium sounds lovely and would be somewhere nice to pop into for lunch.”

The town hall, which celebrated its 125th birthday earlier this year, was officially opened on January 23, 1889, by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

It is envisaged the concert hall will need to be closed between January 2016 and June 2017 and alternative venues such as mima, Teesside University, Centre Square will be used instead.

Middlesbrough’s register office is also set to move into the town hall after it was announced its current Elm Street home will be demolished to make way for future developments of the town centre.

The council’s executive members are recommended to approve the project at next week’s meeting.

Juninho: 'My relationship with Boro fans will last forever'

Juninho says the relationship he has with Boro fans is something that will “last forever”.

The Little Fella was brought out on to the pitch before Boro’s draw with Blackburn on Saturday and received a standing ovation from the home faithful.

And Juninho, who was brought to Teesside by Bryan Robson in 1995, admitted his relationship with Boro’s Red Army is something that will never leave him.

“It was special for me coming to Middlesbrough”, he told the club’s website. “I was in Brazil when Bryan (Robson) offered me the contract and it was a totally different situation.

“When I arrived and felt how the people liked me and welcomed me it went straight to my heart and Steve (Gibson) told me he wanted to take Middlesbrough to the centre of the Premier League and become a better club.

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“I trusted him and formed a great relationship with the supporters. I miss the Boro fans when I’m in Brazil - the relationship I have with them will last forever.

Juninho enjoyed three spells at Boro, first leaving Teesside for Atletico Madrid after Boro’s relegation from the Premier League in 1997.

But that wasn’t the end of The Little Fella’s flirtation with the club, re-signing on loan for the 1999/2000 season.

And after a short spell on loan in his native Brazil, Juninho’s final chapter at the Riverside was written from 2002 to 2004, winning the Carling Cup under Steve McClaren.

“The time has passed very quickly,” Juninho said. “The memories from my first steps on Teesside are of feeling very welcomed by the supporters because when I first came to the Riverside there were a lot of people.

“I remember my first game against Leeds, memories of the FA Cup final at Wembley and winning the Carling Cup in 2004.”

Air pollution kills more than tobacco in UK

British scientists are to warn the government that air pollution kills as many as 60,000 people in the country each year.

According to a report by the Sunday Times, scientists believe air pollution from “dirty diesel” may be to blame for about a tenth of Britain’s total annual toll.

Scientists are to present their critical report to the government in 2015.

Currently, even high levels of highly-toxic nitrogen dioxide emitted by diesel engines do not make the official toll.

A report by the Committee on the Medical Effect of Air Pollutants wants to put it to the government that inaction will mean deaths on a massive scale, almost exceeding the count related to tobacco, according to the Sunday Times.

Evidence of the long-term effects of formerly overlooked pollutants can be gleaned from the story of any one of the three million Britons suffering from COPD or emphysema.

GHN/GHN

Middlesbrough 'has highest rates of people diagnosed with mental illness connected to illlegal drugs'

Nearly 500 people were admitted to hospital in Middlesbrough for mental health problems related to illegal drugs last year.

It means that Middlesbrough has one of the highest rates of people being diagnosed with mental illness connected to illegal drugs in England.

Some 459 people were admitted to hospital and diagnosed with mental health or behavioural disorders related to illegal drugs in Middlesbrough in 2013/14.

For every 100,000 people in the town, 331 were diagnosed with one of these conditions.

Only Liverpool has a higher rate of drug-related diagnoses in England.

More than six in ten of the 459 people admitted and diagnosed were men.

These figures are for Middlesbrough Council, whereas the previous year’s figures used the old system of Primary Care Trusts (PCTs).

In 2012/13, Middlesbrough PCT had 453 people admitted and diagnosed with illegal drug-related mental health and behavioural disorders that year.

When a patient is admitted to hospital, a doctor records their primary diagnosis, which is the main reason why the patient has come to hospital, as well as up to 19 secondary diagnoses that the doctor may also observe.

This data records both the primary and secondary diagnoses of drug-related mental health or behavioural disorders.

Overall in England there were 67,926 diagnoses of mental health and behavioural problems connected with illegal drug use.

The data was released by Government body the Health and Social Care Information Centre.

Local Authority // Total Admissions // Admissions per 100,000

Middlesbrough // 459 // 331

Hartlepool // 241 // 261

Redcar & Cleveland // 222 // 164

Stockton // 286 // 149

England // 67926 // 127

Live: Verdicts from Teesside Crown Court on Park Hotel brawl

Eight people are facing trial at Teesside Crown Court over a pub brawl at the Park Hotel in Linthorpe, Middlesbrough on Sunday, October 6 last year.

All face the same charge of using or threatening unlawful violence together which would cause a person to fear for their personal safety.

Benji Bolsenbroek, 23, died shortly after the brawl.

Israel killed 9, detained 650 Palestinians in November: Report

The Israeli regime killed nine people and arrested 650 others in November, a Palestinian rights organization says in a report.

The report published on Monday by Ahrar Center for Detainees’ Studies and Human Rights exposed human rights violations committed by the Tel Aviv regime against Palestinians.

It noted that six journalists, 17 women and 42 children, were among those detained last month mostly in the occupied West Bank, the besieged Gaza Strip, and East al-Quds (Jerusalem).

The figures came a few days after Israeli authorities threatened to arrest the Palestinian activists who post anti-Israeli remarks on Facebook.

According to latest reports, there are over 7,000 Palestinians in 17 Israeli prisons and detention camps. Among Palestinian prisoners behind Israeli bars, there are 18 women, 250 children, 1,500 sick detainees, who are mostly in a critical condition, and 540 Palestinians held under administrative detention without any trial.

Administrative detention is a sort of imprisonment without trial or charges that allows Israel to incarcerate Palestinians for up to six months.

Back in June, tens of Palestinian prisoners, who had been on a hunger strike in protest against Israel’s so-called administrative detention, were hospitalized over health problems.

SSM/NT/AS

Ben Gibson heaps praise on Boro Academy after landing Young Player of the Year award

Homegrown defender Ben Gibson has heaped praise on Boro’s Academy after picking up the North-east Writers’ Young Player of the Year award on Sunday.

Gibson has established himself in Aitor Karanka’s first-team this season after breaking through Boro’s renowned Rockliffe Academy.

The 21-year-old had loan spells at Plymouth, York City and Tranmere on the road to becoming a first-team star, but now the future is at his feet.

After also excelling for Gareth Southgate’s England Under-21s this season, Gibson admitted it’s been a fantastic year - and gave credit to Boro’s Academy for his latest accolade.

“The Academy has been a great product line for Boro and that’s down to the people from the bottom to the top,” Gibson told BBC Look North.

“You’ve got a manager (Aitor Karanka) who trusts young players and isn’t afraid to throw them in. That’s testament to the staff at Boro who’ve been there right from the beginning and long may that continue.”

Gibson was recognised at Sunday’s event at the Ramside Hall Hotel after an incredible 12 months which has seen him become a first-choice defender at Boro, as well playing a crucial role in England Under-21s’ qualification for next summer’s European Championships.

But the taste of injustice was still clear to see for Gibson on Sunday, less than 24 hours after Blackburn’s controversial late equaliser at the Riverside.

Gibson admitted it was a tough blow to take, but said the team can’t dwell on that disappointment.

“It happens in football, it’s gone and we’re now on to the next game at Millwall on Saturday,” he said.

“Especially in the Championship when the games thick and fast, if you dwell too much on the good times or bad times you will struggle.

“You need to move on from things fast and look ahead to the next game.

“That’s the good thing about the Championship - if you do have a bad week you don’t have to wait long for the next opportunity to come along and put it right.”

Boro were set to go joint top of the division as Patrick Bamford’s strike saw Boro lead 1-0 in the final exchanges against Rovers - but Rudy Gestede’s leveller means the Teessiders sit fifth in the league.

But having only lost one of their last 13 games, Karanka’s side head to the New Den in fine form with the top two firmly in their sights.

“You can feel (the excitement) in the streets”, Gibson said.

“Whenever you go into a restaurant people are talking about Middlesbrough and are excited about the prospect of this year.

“But as a team we’re taking one game at a time. You can’t get carried away in this league because it will bring you back down to earth.”

The senior award was won by ex-Boro midfielder Lee Cattermole, who is now at rivals Sunderland.

Norton teenager eases panic attacks with handmade crafts

A teenager suffering from anxiety and panic attacks has started to regain her confidence thanks to craft therapy.

Last November, 15-year-old Georgia Ballantyne went from being a popular, bubbly teen, to not being able to leave the house - after her anxiety gradually got worse.

The change in Georgia came out of the blue and could not be explained by doctors or counsellors.

At one point, Georgia, from Norton, thought that she would be like this for the rest of her life but then she discovered a way to help fight her anxiety.

It was suggested that she try to find something that would distract her and take her mind off the negative thoughts she was having.

She went on the internet and found some crafts ideas and decided to give them a go,

This approach has been so successful, that Georgia and her mum, Emma Ballantyne, held a craft stall in one of the log cabins at Stockton Sparkles.

Setting up Georgia’s Gifts - a collection of handmade decorations including folded book art, rag wreaths and Christmas bunting - has involved the teenager going into shops to buy materials and speaking to customers, something she never thought she would be able to do.

Georgia, who had the stall for four days, said it went “really well”.

“It is strange to hear people talking about my work but everyone has been really complimentary about the crafts,” she said.

“I would like to do the same again next year.”

For Georgia, being out of her house and talking to people is a huge achievement.

Since November 2013, her panic episodes became so severe that she was unable to leave the house without her mum, attend school or even see friends.

But mum-of-four, Emma, has seen a big improvement in Georgia recently.

The 37-year-old said: “Over the last few weeks I have seen a big boost in her confidence which is great.

“Initially it was very overwhelming for her, but she has coped really well with it all.

“At first when we were going in to shops to get things, Georgia was stood in the back but now it has got to the point where she can go in and is able to talk to them.

“She also has to talk to customers even though she feels uncomfortable, so it has been a good push for her.”

Georgia is still unable to go out by herself but she and her mum are working on this.

Community Champions: Middlesbrough mum nominated for community award

A Middlesbrough daughter believes her mother deserves recognition for her 25 years of public service in the community.

Over the years, Pauline Hitchinson, of Beechwood, has played a huge part in her local surroundings.

For the past 15 years, Pauline, who is now retired, has worked as the local lollipop lady and prior to that she worked as a dinnerlady for 10 years at schools in the Beechwood area.

Pauline’s daughter, Rachael Hitchinson, has nominated her mum in The Gazette’s Community Champion awards in the Community Champion category which is sponsored by Johnson Matthey.

Rachael said: “My mum has been a central part of the community in the sun, rain, snow and hail.

“Everyone knows her and she always tries to solve everyone’s problems.

“All of the kids, mums, dads and grandparents love her and she is really going to be missed.

“After 25 years of thankless public service and helping out hundreds if not thousands of children and their families, she deserves a little recognition.”

Wish 2014: Middlesbrough's Pallister Park Bowling Club hope your Wish tokens will be rolling their way

A group of Middlesbrough bowlers are hoping your Wish tokens will be rolling their way.

Formed back in 1954, Pallister Park Bowling Club is a small friendly club which is situated within Pallister Park on Ormesby Road.

The club has both male and female members.

There are two qualified coaches also at the club who give everybody the chance to enjoy the sport.

Whether you are new and taking bowls up as a new hobby or you are an experienced player, the club says new members are always welcome regardless of their ability.

Last year, the bowlers used the support they received to help enhance their 60th anniversary celebrations. Tokens received from The Gazette’s readers helped to pay for showerproof jackets for members with their team logo on.

Club secretary Jan Saxton said: “This year we hope to spend our Wish money on gardening equipment to use to maintain the flower beds around the green which we are now looking after and also towards our annual expenses.”

Every year, The Gazette’s Wish campaign gives away thousands of pounds to not-for-profit groups and organisations benefiting the Teesside community.

Each registered group will be guaranteed a share of our £40,000 fund.

The more tokens a group collects, the bigger its share of the prize pot.

Tokens are now appearing daily in The Gazette.

The last token will appear on January 21.

Submissions for tokens will close at 5pm on Monday, February 23.

To help Pallister Park Bowling Club, send your tokens to: 96 Ingram Road, Berwick Hills, Middlesbrough, TS3 7BQ.

1,232 killed in Iraq violence in November: UN

A total of 1,232 Iraqis were killed and 2,434 injured in terrorist attacks and violence across Iraq in November, according to a statement issued Monday by the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).

The statement said that 936 civilians, including 61 policemen, and 296 Iraqi security forces personnel were killed, while 1,826 others, including 71 policemen, were wounded. An additional 608 security members were wounded in terrorist and violent acts during the month.

The UNAMI excluded the casualties in Anbar province where fierce clashes flared up after Iraqi police dismantled an anti-government protest site outside Ramadi in late December last year, Xinhua reported citing the statement, adding that it has received some figures of casualties from the provincial health department, but “in some cases, UNAMI could only partially verify certain incidents”.

The statement added that “UNAMI has also received, without being able to verify, reports of large numbers of casualties along with unknown numbers of persons who died due to lack of water, food, medicines and healthcare after they fled their homes”.

“With nearly 12,000 people killed and nearly 22,000 injured since the beginning of 2014, Iraqis continue to be subjected daily to the unspeakable horrors of killing, maiming, reign of terror, displacement, extreme forms of intolerance and poverty,” the statement quoted UN envoy and UNAMI chief Nickolay Mladenov as saying.

“I take this opportunity to continue encouraging the Iraqi political, religious and social leaders to act decisively to rise above their differences in order to resolve the pending political, social and economic problems, and restore confidence among Iraq’s communities, more particularly those disaffected groups, as part of consolidating the democratic process,” Mladenov said.

The security situation in the country has deteriorated drastically since June, when bloody clashes broke out between Iraqi security forces and militants of the Islamic State (IS) Sunni radical group.

The militants took control of the country’s northern city of Mosul and later seized swathes of territories after Iraqi security forces abandoned their posts in Nineveh and other predominantly Sunni provinces.

(IANS)

Craig Hignett leaves role as Boro assistant manager with immediate effect

Boro assistant manager Craig Hignett has today left the club with immediate effect.

The former Boro midfielder has been Aitor Karanka's number two since joining from Hartlepool last year.

In a statement, the club said: "Following discussions between Craig, Head Coach Aitor Karanka, and the club, all parties have agreed for Craig to leave his position with immediate effect.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks for Craig’s efforts since joining us from Hartlepool last season and wish him all the best for the future."

For developments throughout the day follow The Gazette's Boro live blog

You can also read Philip Tallentire's view on Higgy's departure here

Brothers admit assault charges at Teesside Crown Court

Two brothers have pleaded guilty to assault charges - including an attack which left a man with a fractured cheekbone.

Dwaine and Jeffrey Vincent, from Brambles Farm, Middlesbrough, were due to stand trial at Teesside Crown Court, but this was aborted as they admitted offences of violence.

All of the crimes date back to New Year’s Day and celebrations at a home in Pallister Park, Middlesbrough.

Dwaine Vincent, 40, of Ferndale Avenue, admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm on a man on January 1.

The victim of that assault suffered a fractured left cheekbone.

Jeffrey Vincent, 44, of Cherwell Terrace, admitted a less serious charge of assault by beating on another man.

They were bailed until sentencing which is due to take place on January 5 next year.

Judge Tony Briggs told them: “The grant of bail is not necessarily an indication of what happens to you eventually.

“All sentencing options remain open.”

Palestinian man defies Israeli forces alone

BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) – Despite the continuous harassment to him and his family by Israeli soldiers for more than 20 years, and despite the continuous demolition of his humble tin-roofed house near Israel’s separation wall, 60-year-old Ali Salim Mousa from the town of al-Khadr south of Bethlehem remains firm on his land.

Speaking to Ma’an on Sunday, Mousa said his house had been demolished by Israeli forces four times, and “the fifth demolition is on the way.”

His sons, who decided to build a similar houses in the same area, have started to face the same fate. Mousa lives in this house with 38 children and grandchildren.

Speaking about his humble house, Mousa says the walls are made of bricks and the roof is movable tin sheets. One-hundred meters away, he added, a viewer can see a “fancy” separation wall overlooking Jerusalem, Bethlehem and the mountains of the Jordan Valley.

A look at the simple house gives one the immediate impression that it would be impossible to live under such circumstances for a few days, but surprisingly Mousa has been living there for 28 years.

He told Ma’an that he built the first house in the mid-1980s and the Israeli forces demolished it immediately. Then he rebuilt the house and it was demolished three more times the last of which was in June along with three other houses for his sons.

Asked to describe his life during the past years, Mousa said it was of the most difficult experiences a human being can witness in his lifetime.

The Israeli occupation, he added, “has practiced the toughest kinds of harassment and threatening as well as temptations” to get him to leave the place. He said they offered him huge amounts of money but he refused.

“The conflict has been and will remain a conflict over land and survival.”

Among the types of harassment was a military post only 50 meters from Mousa’s house during the second Palestinian uprising. The military post, says Mousa, remained there for at least seven years, and it posed a life threat to everything that moves.

“Israeli border guard officers used to knock on our door every night and order us to stay in the open. They sought to break our firm will but we persevered and will persevere.”

Asked about possible financial or even moral support, Mousa confirmed that he hasn’t received any support from official Palestinian sides.

Official institutions refuse to give any support because the house is located in area “C” according to the Oslo Accords.

On the other hand, nongovernmental organizations and foreign organizations have been offering “interruptedly” some support to Mousa to help him rebuild his house every time the Israelis demolish it.

One of Mousa’s sons, Muhammad, 38, decided to build a house in another neighborhood of al-Khader known as Um Rukba, but unfortunately it is also in area “C” and the Israeli forces immediately delivered a stop-work order threatening to demolish the house if he continues to build it.

Despite all this harassment and dire living conditions, Mousa is determined to stay on his land to the degree that he said he would build graves in the area for him, his children and grandchildren and ask to be buried there.

Jeff Winter: Some Boro fans blamed me for Mark Clattenburg's mistake - I wasn't even at the game!

Mark Clattenburg’s failure to spot a clear foul on Dimi Konstantopoulos late on in the Blackburn game soon led to yours truly getting grief on social media.

Bizarrely, fans expected me to defend him but why should I?

I’m as big a Boro fan as most and go to as many games as I can, rarely missing a match home or away.

Due to speaking engagements I wasn’t at the Riverside on Saturday but, then again, neither were around 5,000 other fans who decided not to return after attending the Bournemouth game.

I was gutted to miss Juninho’s return to his spiritual home and the chance to pay my respects to former manager John Neil.

By all accounts I missed a good match and a dominant performance from our heroes.

All of that fades into insignificance though with the main talking point, namely Mark Clattenburg’s failure to award Boro a free kick rather and allow Blackburn to grab a totally undeserved point that prevented Aitor Karanka’s men from going joint top of the table.

Just because I used to be a referee - without being too egotistical, a very good one at that - it amuses me that I seem to held responsible in some quarters for every decision that goes against the Boro.

So why, I hear you ask, wasn’t the goal ruled out? I wish I knew.

Usually, you only have to breathe on a keeper and the whistle goes.

I don’t know what his excuse may be for failing to spot the contact on the keeper, maybe his view was blocked due to a crowded penalty area.

That’s no excuse, though, he should have positioned himself fully aware of what the likely outcome of a last gasp corner was going to be.

Without doubt his failure to penalise Blackburn and rule out the goal cost Boro two points.

Perhaps, as the dust settles, some more astute supporters might also realise that the opposing keeper having a worldie and a string of missed chances were also major contributing factors as to why Boro weren’t out of sight before the added time drama.

Refereeing mistakes have cost us against Leeds and Blackburn but failure to score goals have cost us more points than dodgy decisions by officials.

That is not me defending refs or making excuses, it’s fact.

'The gaffer ain't going to mess around if we're not at the races': Ben Gibson salutes Aitor Karanka's selection policy

Ben Gibson believes Aitor Karanka’s selection policy brings the best out of the Boro players.

The England Under-21 defender had started six consecutive Championship games prior to Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers.

However, for the visit of Gary Bowyer’s side, Gibson found himself on the bench with the head coach opting to partner Dani Ayala with Kenneth Omeruo.

“One bad training session and you can lose your place,” said the Middlesbrough-born 21-year-old.

“You’ve got to be right at it every day and that can only be good for us as individuals as well as the squad.

“If you are not at the races you know there’s someone as good as, if not better, sat on the bench ready to take your place.

“The gaffer ain’t going to mess around if you are not doing your job, you’ll get the hook.

“It’s a real good working environment for us and should bring the best out of us.”

Gibson’s career has been on an upward trajectory for the past couple of years.

He gained valuable experience with Plymouth in League Two and York City in the Conference in 2011/12.

That stint at Bootham Crescent included two victorious appearances at Wembley in the play-off final and FA Trophy final.

The following season saw him playing in League One with Tranmere Rovers while, in 2013/14 he made 31 league appearances.

His rapid development has been recognised by North-east football writers, who presented him with their Young Player of the Year award on Sunday.

One stat that demonstrates just how much Gibson’s game has improved this season is his disciplinary record.

He was booked four times and twice sent off for Boro in 2013/14 but this season, he’s been cautioned just once.

Asked what’s behind the reduction, he answered: “Getting used to the speed of the game.

“It was a step up from League One the year before, so everything was a little bit quicker and hopefully I’ve become a better players and become more used to the environment I’m playing in.”

Stokesley residents have 'no confidence' in plan for volunteers to run town's library

A plan for volunteers to run Stokesley library has been rejected by local people.

North Yorkshire County Council want community volunteers to run and fund the running of Stokesley Library - in a similar way to Great Ayton Library - in an attempt to save cash.

More than 50 of the market town’s residents met to discuss their action plan to oppose the council’s vision for the future of the library.

The council says the proposals are being put forward as a way “to help keep as many libraries as possible open”.

But the news has been met with much concern and, as a result, residents held a public meeting at Stokesley Town Hall to discuss the next step.

Eileen Driver, a Stokesley resident and one of the locals leading a campaign to fight for the library’s future, said: “It is the council’s responsibility to keep the library. We are willing to increase the number of volunteers but we do not want it community led.

“There is no confidence from the majority of people I have spoken to in being able to run the library completely by volunteers.

“We are fired up and determined to convince the council of this.”

The proposals are part of wider plans “for a major expansion of community involvement” in the county’s entire library service.

If they were to be given the go-ahead, Stokesley, along with 19 other libraries, would be classed as “community managed” facilities and would “receive arm’s length professional support” but no paid members of professional staff.

The council also proposes to impose two other models - ‘core’, which would be staffed by a combination of professional county library staff and volunteers, and ‘hybrid’, which would depend on volunteers working alongside the paid member of staff.

The “community managed” model is already in place in Great Ayton, which is funded and run by the community after a lengthy campaign to save the facility.

“It seems like a big challenge but we are determined to convince that the community model is not for us,” added Eileen.

But speaking previously, County Councillor Chris Metcalfe, executive member for library and information services, said “the current group of community libraries has proved to be a resounding success”.

“We can’t deny that they were introduced originally because of the need for us to do our bit to get the country’s economy back on an even keel. But the reality is that they have proved to be of enormous value, and their introduction has enabled the people of North Yorkshire to continue to enjoy an effective library service where otherwise they might so easily have seen it diminish or disappear.”

The council would not comment at this time on what would happen to the library if not enough volunteers were found.

A steering group has now been set up to co-ordinate Stokesley’s campaign. A petition has also been started and almost 600 signatures have also been collected.

To sign the petition or to collect a copy to take away, visit Browns Newsagents on East End, Stokesley.

For more information visit http://ift.tt/1xShUUC

Muslims, Christians sons of Ram, skeptic leave India: BJP minister

Minister of State for Food Processing Industries Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti has sparked off a controversy by claiming that everyone including Muslims and Christians are sons of Ram.

While asserting her point and convincing people to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party, she added that those who do not believe in this ideology, do not belong to India. “It is for you to decide, whether you want to vote for those who believe in Ram or those who are non-believers,” she said.

Addressing a gathering in Delhi on Monday, she heaped praises on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efficient working style. “Narendra Modi’s mantra is not to indulge in corruption and not let others to be a part of it,” she said.

However, the BJP leader clarified her point saying, “I was targeting the separatist and anti-national forces. Why are people taking offence to that? What would you say to the people who attacked Parliament? What would you say to the people who attack our borders. All that I have said is that when Indians go abroad they are referred to as Hindus,” she said.

PTI