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£1.

20 28 JAN – 3 FEB 2011 IssuE 243

Working with

The weekly newspaper for kids First News supports


children’s charities

NO CHILD BORN TO DIE SCIENCE CRAZY BUT TRUE! WIN!


Planes of
New the future Scooters
campaign and
launch 3 8 Cat in court 18 an aquarium 19

WHAT SHOULD WE
LEArn, Mr PrIME
MInISTEr? GOvERNmENT SAYS
THEY WILL BE CHANGING
WHAT YOU ARE TAUGHT

by editor Nicky Cox

THE Government is going to make changes to


what you learn about at school – and wants
to know what you think.
Prime Minister David Cameron has put Michael Gove
(pictured below) in charge of your education. Mr Gove
thinks you’re not learning enough ” facts” at school.
He also says that English schoolkids are falling behind
continues on page 3

27737FirstNews50x285 04/01/2011 16:57 Page 1


2 FirstNews Issue 243 28 jAN – 3 fEB 2011

FIRST NEWS HEADLINES For more headline news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

Bomb blast

Barcroft
in Moscow
A BOMB blast ripped
through Moscow’s
busiest international
airport on Monday killing
35 people.

A British man was among those


killed. Two planes from London
had arrived in Moscow, shortly
before the blast.
Another British plane that was
still in the air turned round and
returned to the UK.
Nearly 200 more people were
injured in the terrorist attack.
One UK traveller, Mark Green,
said he had left the arrivals hall
two minutes before the blast.
almighty explosion

Sports star with no legs


Mr Green, who had arrived on
a BA flight, told the BBC that as
he was putting his bags into a car,
there was “an almighty explosion”.
He said the blast, in the
baggage reclaim area, had
caused snow to fall from the roof
of the terminal, like an avalanche.
Prime Minister David Cameron
said it was an “appalling attack” CODY McCasland, 9, has more than 20 artificial legs – and says he’s going to win a gold medal for sports.
and that ”we should never allow
the terrorists to win”. The boy, from Texas, dreams of winning a by editor Nicky Cox pool too.
The President of Russia gold medal at the Paralympic Games. He has Rather than be upset about his disability,
has launched a big police running, walking and sitting down legs. says: “He is really fast and is even winning Cody enjoys showing off his collection of legs
investigation and promises to Cody was born without any tibia or knee against children a lot older than him.” to inspire others with disabilities.
track down whoever was behind bones and had his lower legs amputated as Cody’s first love is swimming, where He has vowed to win at the Paralympics.
the attack, saying: “We have to a toddler. he doesn’t use any false legs, and he “I definitely will take part one day and win a
get to the bottom of this”. Cody enjoys sprinting and his mum, Tina, often beats able-bodied athletes in the gold medal,” he says.

Save our forests


MORE than 190,000 people, including celebrities and public
figures, have signed a letter of petition to try to help save
England’s forests.
The Government is thinking about selling the land would be “misjudged
privatising large areas of our native and short-sighted”. They are among the
woodland, which means they would hundreds of thousands of people who
sell the forests to private owners. At the are all protesting against the sale.
moment the Government owns 18% Environment Secretary Caroline
of England’s forests and spending cuts Spelman claims there are no plans to
could mean that some, or all of this, sell any of England’s nature reserves
is sold. and a statement from the Government
A bill is being presented before the says that plans “will not compromise
House of Lords to get permission to the protection of our most valuable and
sell, although it is hoped that a letter of biodiverse forests”.
petition will help stop the sale. But charities and wildlife organisations
Celebrities like model Lily Cole, actor disagree. A spokesperson for the
Richard E Grant, former Mayor of London Woodland Trust said: “The sale is likely
Ken Livingstone and designer Dame to raise a tiny amount but could do
Vivienne Westwood have all signed their immeasurable damage and cost the
name to the letter which states that nation dearly.”
FirstNews Issue 243 28 jAN – 3 fEB 2011 3

FIRST NEWS HEADLINES For more headline news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

New vaccine to What should we learn, EDITOR’S


COMMENT
save lives in Africa Mr Prime Minister? continued from front page will be changing from September
Editor Nicky Cox MBE
YOU’LL notice my editor’s picture
isn’t the same as my usual one.
A NEW vaccine is set to save behind pupils from other 2013.
thousands of lives in Africa. This is a picture of me, aged five, writing
countries such as China. Andy Burnham, the Labour
a story in my primary school. I’m showing
The jab is to protect against Now the Government is taking Party’s education spokesman,
you this photo because Save The Children
pneumonia and it’s thought it could a fresh look at what you learn doesn’t agree with Mr Gove. He
launched its new campaign this week called
save more than half a million lives a at school. Under its review, a says Mr Gove is “stuck in the past”
“No Child Born To Die” (see this page). The
year globally. group of experts will examine the and that, alongside academic
charity is asking everybody what they were
Children in Kenya have already national curriculum, which sets study, young people needed
born to do to draw attention to the millions
begun getting the vaccine, as well out what is taught in England’s technical and social skills to get
of children who die before their fifth birthday
as infants in Nicaragua. Later this schools. on at work and in life.
in poor countries. What would those children
year, children in Sierra Leone, Yemen, Mr Gove says he wants The Government wants to hear
have become, had they survived – because
Honduras and Guyana will be next in the curriculum to be smaller views from parents, teachers,
no child is born to die?
line for the life-saving jab. with a focus on the “essential you or anyone else with ideas at:
Celebrities are supporting the campaign by
With more funding, even more knowledge” that you tinyurl.com/schoolchanges
revealing pictures of themselves as children
countries could be getting the jab. should learn. And go to www.firstnews.
and saying what they were born to do.
The Gavi Alliance, a global health The Government has said that co.uk to take part in our survey
Simon Cowell made me laugh by saying he
organisation, says it needs an extra English, maths, science and PE which we will
was “Born to be Right”!
£500 million a year for the next five years for more vaccines. must remain compulsory for also share
I would say I was “Born to Communicate
As well as giving protection against pneumonia, the vaccine also children of all ages. Then the with the
with Children”.
guards against a form of meningitis and blood poisoning. experts will look at what other Government.
Go to www.savethechildren.org.uk/
Lots of mums have been bringing along their babies for the jab. subjects should be taught for Scotland,
bornto to tell the charity what you were born
One mum, who lost her son, Wesley, to pneumonia in November, pupils of different ages, as well as Wales and
to do – and to support the campaign.
brought along her three-month-old daughter, Tamara. exactly what should be taught in Northern
She said: “My son’s death happened very suddenly. Wesley got sick them. Some subjects may be cut Ireland have
in the morning and by evening he had died in hospital – I don’t want right back. their own
that to happen to Tamara.” It’s planned that the lessons curriculums.
THIS WEEK
IN HISTORY

No child On 31 january 1983 a new law came into


force in Britain saying drivers and front-
seat passengers had to wear seatbelts to

born to die
reduce road deaths.

BAD WEEK FOR...


I WENt along to the launch of Save the Children’s
new campaign ‘No Child Born to Die’ as their youth
ambassador, on Monday.
The aim of the campaign by tilly Wood, 11
is to stop children dying
from really simple things like ambassador, I was asked to Dancing On Ice contestants
diarrhoea or pneumonia. come onto the stage with
While they’re not serious the news reader Natasha In a twist of the normal rules, this week
problems in the UK, an upset Kaplinsky who asked me what the contestants themselves choose who
tummy for a child in other I was born to do – I said I was to vote off the show after the skate-off!
parts of the world can mean “Born to Question” as I have
they die. This is because the to know and find out about
poorest children don’t have everything!
access to the injections that
will protect them.
We also watched a short
film promoting the campaign.
GOOD WEEK FOR...
Save the Children wants It’s really sad but also very
people to realise that we were powerful and definitely makes
all born with a purpose, with Rebecca
you want to help.
dreams and goals and skills Darcy Bussell was “Born to Ferguson
– and that every child should Dance”, Usain Bolt was “Born The X factor
survive to achieve these. to Run” and Simon Cowell was runner-up
The launch of the campaign shown telling the camera he
had tonnes of famous people has signed a
was “Born to be Right”!
who were all asked what Tilly at the campaign launch
record deal
Save the Children wants
they were born to do. I met to know what all first News with Alexandra Burke with Epic, an
Alexandra Burke who was readers were born to do. arm of the
really nice and posed for a If you want to let them Sony record
picture with me (right). She
said she was “Born to Believe”.
know and pledge your CHECK IT OUT label who look
support, visit their website for Find out more about after jLS and
In my role as youth more information! Olly Murs.
www.savethechildren.org.uk/bornto
4 FirstNews Issue 243 28 JAN – 3 FEB 2011

SPECIAL REPORT For more special reports, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/discover
by Barbara Hewitt, Department for International Development

Life six months after


the Pakistan floods
When Pakistan was hit by floods last July, the
world saw unfold one of the largest disasters ever. Back to school
More than 20 million people were affected by
the floods which swept across an area the size
of england.

The UK was one of the first countries to respond to


the crisis providing emergency shelter and medicine
for hundreds of thousands of people and safe
drinking water for millions more.
However, in the south of Pakistan, the situation is still really
serious. Large areas are under water. Millions of people need
food and are getting ill.
But, thanks to support from the UK Government, homes,
schools, and bridges which were wiped out by the floods are
starting to be rebuilt.
In December, the UK Government announced that it would
help to get 200,000 children back into school by repairing 1,500
schools and providing 200 temporary schools. It is also supplying
seeds so families can grow their own food again.
Secretary of State for International Development Andrew
Mitchell said: “The people of Pakistan have suffered terribly
because of these floods – one of the biggest disasters the world
has ever seen. Help from Britain has already saved millions of
lives by providing shelter, medicine and clean water for families
who had to leave their homes. But more is needed to get
Pakistan back on its feet and we will continue to help them.”

Mobile health clinics


Children in Pakistan are given medicine to
treat their illnesses
Ruchsana is 12 years old. She has four brothers
and lives in Sindh province in Southern Pakistan.
Sindh was badly affected by the floods in
July and August last year and some areas are
still under water.
Thankfully, Ruchsana survived the flooding,
but now she is ill.
“I heard rumours that the flood was coming
and me and my family had to leave our home,”
Muzaffargarh rehabilitated school says Ruchsana.
“I have a pain in my knee when I’m standing
and when I’m sitting down. I saw the doctor
Rebuilding schools today and she gave me some medicine to make
An estimated five million school-aged children have been affected by the floods in it better. When I grow up I’d like to be a doctor.” Ruchsana
Pakistan, with more than 10,000 schools damaged or destroyed.  With funding from the UK Government,
In the south of Pakistan, people are living in hundreds of the schools because their International Medical Corps
homes have been washed away.  (IMC) is giving medical help
Half the adult population in Pakistan can’t read or write, and getting children back in to thousands of families and
to school is seen as really important to help the country look after itself in the future. children like Ruchsana. 
Our main picture shows brothers Faisal (left, aged six) and Amir (right, aged seven) at The dirty water means that
their rebuilt primary school in Sindh Province, Pakistan. lots of people are getting chest
Their school was under water for more than a month during the flood, and has just and skin infections as well as
been repaired by Save the Children. The UK Government is funding Save the Children problems with their stomachs.  
to repair hundreds of other schools like this. The doctors write
Faisal said: “Our school was closed for one and a half months. Water was above the prescriptions and medicines
window ledge. My brother and I rushed home to our mother and father, and we all are collected from an
had to move away to a safer area for two months, where we stayed with relatives and ambulance which travels from
other people. Some of our friends went to stay in camps, and lived in tents. The school town to town.
Ruchsana gets medicine
is better now than it was before.”
FirstNews Issue 243 28 jan – 3 fEb 2011 5

THE NEWS IN PICTURES For more pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news-in-pictures

20 January nOva
FrIburGnO, brazIl: Volunteers
separate bags of donated clothes at
a food and relief supply centre, more
than a week after deadly floods and
mudslides killed at least 744 people.

20 January San FranCISCO, uSa: a newborn


baby Giant anteater rides on the back of his mum, Evita,
as it makes its first public appearance at the zoo.

23 January brIXen Im thale, auStrIa:


Outside view of the alpeniglu Hotel at dusk. The hotel
is built completely of snow and ice, consisting of bar,
restaurant, wedding chapel and sleeping accommodation.

20 January OberhauSen, Germany: a memorial


to Paul the octopus is opened at the Sea Life aquarium in
Oberhausen, western Germany. The eight-legged tipster was
honoured with a ‘Paul Corner’ at his former home three months
after his death. Paul shot to fame during the 2010 football World
Cup in South africa for correctly predicting the results of games.

23 January GuJarat, IndIa: a float


rolls past during the final full dress rehearsal for 23 January adelaIde, auStralIa: ben Swift of Great britain
the 62nd Indian Republic Day parade. leads the group sprint to win Stage Six of the 2011 Tour Down Under.
6 FirstNews Issue 243 28 jAN – 3 FEb 2011

ANIMAL NEWS For more animal news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

Beavers
help bats
RESEARCHERS have revealed
that beavers help to make the
ideal place for bats to live.
The beavers chop down trees to
make their dams. This makes the
tree canopy in the wood thinner,
making it easier for the bats to fly
with fewer things to fly into.
The dams also attract insects,
which are the main diet for bats.
Scientists say this is another

Are sharks
argument for re-introducing
beavers into European forests. So
far three beaver families have been
reintroduced into Scotland on a
five-year trial. So far the trial is going
well and the first wild beaver babies,

colour blind?
known as kits, were born last summer.

NEW research from scientists in Australia claims that sharks may be colour-blind.
After examining the retinas of 17 different the sharks only have one makes the scientists may be more important for object detection
species of sharks they found that they only believe sharks can’t tell colours apart. by sharks.”
have one cone cell, which is the cell responsible This new theory could be used to help reduce The discovery could also help manufacturers
for seeing colour. Humans have three cone cells. the number of shark attacks on humans by design fishing equipment and lines that are
Each one can see either blue, green or red light. helping the design of swimwear. Dr Nathan more visible to sharks. This would help the
These cones are what allow most of us to see Scott Hart says: “Our study shows that contrast sharks avoid fishing lines and equipment that

Wolf action!
the differences between colours. The fact that against the background, rather than colour, many of them accidentally get caught in.

LEGAL action may be taken


against Sweden over a
wolf hunt that could be
Bustard help
breaking laws. FUNDING has been
approved to help reintroduce
The European Commission think
that the country has broken an EU the great bustard to the UK.
law about wolf hunting. The great bustard is the world’s
Sweden is letting hunters shoot heaviest flying bird. It became
20 wolves this year, after wolf extinct in the UK in 1832 when it
hunting was reintroduced in 2010. was hunted to extinction.
As First News went to press 14 A small population of bustards
wolves had already been shot. was reintroduced to the UK in 1994.
However, there are only around Around 18 of the birds can be found
200 wolves left in the wild in in Wiltshire now.
Sweden and some people say The new funding will be used to
they still have an “unfavourable help monitor the birds and develop
conservation status” which means a five-year plan to help increase
they shouldn’t be shot. the population and their chance of
survival.
In 2009 the first bustard chicks for
177 years hatched in the wild in

Tagging hurts!
the UK.
Male great bustards can grow to
around 1m tall and have wings that
can spread up to 2.4m long.

TAGS used to monitor penguins may affect their survival and reproduction,
according to new studies.
Researchers working with king penguins say penguins is not ethical.
that penguins with tags attached to their flippers The French researchers were working with a
resulted in 40% fewer chicks and shorter lives. They group of 100 king penguins in the Antarctic. Their
believe that continuing to use the tags on wild findings have been published in the journal Nature.
FirstNews Issue 243 28 jan – 3 FEB 2011 7

OUR STORIES For more home news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

Home News
scotland
FAST WEATHER
FACTS FACT FIL
E

Earthquake!
a 3.5-magnitude earthquake has
struck Scotland. The quake struck
around 6am in the morning, in
the Highlands, around 40km
away from Fort William. Tremors
were felt across the Highlands
london West Midlands scotland
including Inverness, Skye and
Oban, although the strength of Shakespeare translated Fastest police car Tay source found?
the quake meant that tremors
may have been felt up to 120km To mark the 2012 London Olympics Britain’s fastest police car has been Experts in Scotland think they
away. Experts say it is unlikely it has been announced that each revealed in the West Midlands. finally may have found the source
of Shakespeare’s 38 plays will The 162mph Lotus sports car will of Scotland’s longest river, the The australian flood damage
that the earthquake caused any repair bill could exceed $5 billion.
major damage. be translated into a different be used to help catch speedy River Tay. The slopes of Ben Lui
language. The plays will be motorists on some of the country’s have been accepted as the source
performed in languages like arabic, busiest motorways. The speedy since 1780, but now experts say
Maori and Italian at Shakespeare’s
Globe Theatre, as part of a six-week
sports car has been given police
markings and flashing lights!
they can pinpoint it to a specific
point. The researchers have buried
THE
theatre season in 2012. a time capsule at the spot they
believe is the start of the river.
WEEK’S
WEATHER
with jonathan Powell

From Friday 28 january 2010


to Thursday 4 February 2011
leicester
Week In general
Name that street Sunshine and showers.
Some fog and frost.
Residents in Market Harborough FrIday 28 january
have been asked to suggest names Scotland/n Ireland
for 15 new streets being built. The – Rain showers. Day
major housing development will 3c/37f night -1c/30f. Light
see more than 600 new homes southeasterly.
being built. Harborough District England/Wales – Scattered
Council need street names and showers. Day 5c/41f night 0c/32f.
want local people to help them. Light southwesterly.
You have until 11 February to
suggest names, preferably with saturday 29 january
historical relevance to the area. Scotland/n Ireland
– Dry, sunny spells. Day
4c/39f night 0c/32f. Light
Wales southeasterly.
England/Wales – Dry, sunny
Food share spells. Day 6c/43f night 1c/34f.
Light southwesterly.
a new scheme has been launched sunday 30 january
in parts of Wales to share excess Scotland/n Ireland
food from shops, to those who – Rain showers. Day
need it most. The FareShare 5c/41f night 1c/34f.
project will donate food from the Light southwesterly.
warehouses of large supermarket England/Wales – Rain showers.
chains and local businesses to Day 6c/43f night 2c/36f. Light
community projects who need southwesterly.
the supplies. So far more than
rest oF the Week
£36,000 worth of food has been
Staying chiefly settled.
delivered, which would have been
26.2 tonnes of landfill.

THE WEEK IN NUMBERS


32.3 million pounds is being
spent on building the new Walton
12 people were injured in
Staffordshire after an explosion in a
6 million pounds has been
allocated to the Scarborough area
Bridge in Surrey, the first crossing to dental surgery. to help manage coastal work over
be built over the Thames in 20 years. the next four years.

6,250 pounds is the


value of an iTunes voucher won
25 acres of land on the outskirts
of Plymouth are to be turned into a
4 million pounds is how much
200-year-old Pennsylvania Castle
by a mother from Kent for making solar farm. 2.2m high solar panels will in Portland, Dorset, has sold for.
the 10billionth download from the cover the fields, providing power for
apple app Store. 1,000 homes.
8 FirstNews Issue 243 28 JAN – 3 fEB 2011

SCIENCE For more science news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/discover

GRASP Lab
Flying into
the future
One of the quadrotors
helps to build a tower

Robot
builders
tall buildings could be
built by robotic aircraft in
the future, if new research is

NASA/The Boeing Company


anything to go by.
If you go to www.firstnews.co.uk/
discover, you can watch a team of
quadrotor robots (like a helicopter,
but with four rotors) build various
towers from standard parts.
The robots all have a gripper that
This design from Boeing could change throughout
can pick up the pieces and carry
the year, as tests and simulations improve it
them horizontally or vertically. The
parts have magnetic ends so that
they can fit together easily. aeroplanes of the future could look very different to what we’re used to, depending on how a design competition
Although the way the robots work goes this year.
together is impressive, it will take a This is one of the first designs submitted Although the designs are similar in some to NASA’s goals of making less noise and
lot more work before they can make to NASA for planes that could be carrying ways to current aircraft, all three of the entries having cleaner exhaust fumes and lower fuel
regular buildings. The towers that passengers from 2025 onwards. are much more futuristic in many ways. consumption than standard planes. Also, they
they have built in the lab are quite We usually associate NASA with space Each of the three companies that won will have to have a range of at least 11,000km
basic, but it is possibly a sign of how travel, but their other main area of work is in contracts – Lockheed Martin, Northrop and be able to carry either passengers or
things could be done in the future. aeronautics, or the mechanics of flight. Grumman and Boeing – will have to stick cargo weighing at least 22 tonnes.
The work is being carried out at
the University of Pennsylvania’s
GRASP (General Robotics,

Did the sun rise


Automation, Sensing and
Perception) lab in the US.
Aviceda

early in Greenland?
reports in the media this week seemed to
suggest that something fishy was happening
in Greenland.
According to the stories, the sun rose over the west of
Greenland for the first time this year on 11 January. Since
Greenland is so far north, for a lot of the winter it faces
Getty

away from the sun and is in permanent darkness. The sun


usually rises there on 13 January each year.
Some reports have claimed that climate change is to
blame, because melting ice in the area has lowered the
horizon and caused the sun to appear earlier than usual.
Could skyscrapers be built by A splendid fairy wren photographed Many experts said that, although climate change is
flying robots in the future? in Queensland, Australia affecting the ice in Greenland, there was probably another

Splendid and sly


explanation. It is possible that unusual atmospheric

?
conditions led to the light from the sun below the horizon
being bent so that it was seen by people in Greenland.

Did you
This is known as refraction, and is similar to the way that
things in deep water can look closer than they are.

know
the males of a species of bird have been found to take advantage of
scary predators to get some female attention.
Scientists knew that male splendid a woman would be more likely to move
Getty

One Canada Square, the fairy wrens sing whenever one of their closer to a man if she was being scared by
huge tower at Canary Wharf predators, the butcherbird, is singing. a creepy film, say the scientists.
in London, is designed so Now, experts writing in Behavioral Although the wren’s trick seems
that it can sway 35cm in Ecology say it is a ploy to take advantage dangerous, because the butcherbird
the strongest winds. Winds of the female’s fear of butcherbirds. would know its location, the scientists say
that strong would only be Researchers from the University of that this is not the case. They say that the
Chicago have called the tactic the “scary male wrens know the butcherbird is too A woman looks out at the bay in Ilulissat,
expected every 100 years. Greenland, where the effect was noticed
movie effect”. It is similar to the way that busy singing to be actively hunting.
FirstNews Issue 243 28 jan – 3 FEb 2011 9

GLOBAL STORIES For more world news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

World News
SNIPPETS Austria
Workmen in Zagreb, Croatia, Pigeon problem
fled after realising that the
a man has been thrown out of
houses they were demolishing
his flat in Vienna because he
were the wrong ones and that
wouldn’t stop feeding pigeons.
people still lived there.
Other residents on the estate
usA Netherlands Finland had complained for years, after
the man started feeding the
Canada Police targeted No limits Foul fumes
birds with bacon and sweetcorn.
Officials said that the man’s flat
was full of pigeon nests and poo.
Cougar in Vancouver a particularly violent week in the The justice minister, Ivo Opstelten, Four people had to be taken to
US has seen 11 police officers shot has suggested removing a law hospital after a block of flats was
a cougar has killed at least seven in the line of duty. The shootings preventing prosecution for crimes filled with chilli fumes. a woman
farm animals in the last fortnight, include one in Detroit, where a committed more than 12 years had forgotten about the chillies
including a horse. Police were man walked into a police station ago. He says that criminals should roasting in her oven, and she had
searching for the big cat as we and fired randomly at the officers not avoid punishment just because to escape onto the balcony with
went to press. Environment inside the building. a certain time has gone by. her daughter to avoid the smell.
officials say that humans are safe,
as only five people in the last 100
years have been killed by cougars.
at least three Canadians die each

Getty
year from bee stings.

Australia
Chipped criminals
The head of South australia police
has suggested that criminals could
be fitted with microchips to stop
Getty

them offending again. Mal Hyde


said that his comments were
partly in jest, but that attitudes
usA may change in the future and
make it possible.
Crucial call
a six-year-old from albuquerque
has been called a hero after
saving his mum’s life. Ethan
Lucero saw his mum face down
on the floor and not moving,
so he dialled 911 and told the
operator that his mum was

Getty
having a heart attack. He guided
the ambulance to his house by usA China Indonesia
flicking the lights on and off.
Bug blaze Stealth not stolen Crash charges
a Mount Carmel man set fire to his Officials have rejected accusations Three Indonesian men have been
SNIPPETS
flat after trying to kill an infestation that their new j-20 stealth fighter charged with people-smuggling, a tiger and her three cubs
of bedbugs. The man was using is based on stolen US technology. after a boat-load of asylum seekers escaped from a circus in alphen
highly flammable rubbing alcohol Reports have claimed that Chinese crashed on Christmas Island. The ann den Rijn, netherlands, this
to treat his flat, but was smoking a secret agents took parts of a US accident happened in December, week, and killed a camel before
cigarette at the same time which F-117a nighthawk that was shot and up to 60 people are thought to
Getty

they could be captured.


started the blaze. down over Serbia in 1999. have died in the crash.

A KID’S WORLD
Name: Karmeen Herawi Age: 15 Lives: Afghanistan
UNder the Taliban, women struggled for basic rights, such as getting an education and a job.
In afghanistan only 10% of women partner project STaRS women’s literacy the head of the women’s council or a
can read and write. Karmeen Herawi, course. politician. This is not just because of the
15, didn’t get an education when she now she can read and write, and has salary, but to help people, especially to let
was young so she begged her parents an ambition. Karmeen says: “after my women know about their rights and how
to let her attend the Christian aid education I would like to become either to protect them.”

CHECK IT OUT Find out more about Christian Aid www.christianaid.org.uk


10 FirstNews Issue 243 28 JAN – 3 FEB 2011

SPECIAL REPORT For more special reports, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/discover
by Pamela Saunders for the RNLI

Royal National Lifeboat


Institution

The RNLI is a charity that saves lives at sea, rescuing an average of 22 people a day.
The charity provides a 24 hour lifeboat search and rescue Teenager joins RNLI Loch Ness
RNLI SOS Day 2011
service around the coasts of the UK and Ireland. A staggering The charity holds a fundraising day every year
95% of RNLI lifeboat crew members are all volunteers
Lifeboat team
called RNLI SOS Day. This year it takes place today
who have everyday jobs ranging from doctor, teacher and RNLI volunteers on Loch Ness have recently been joined (Friday 28 January).
housewife to fishermen, paramedics and bakers. There are by their newest recruit, 17-year-old student, Louise Graham. RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews are ready to drop
235 RNLI lifeboat stations, which are operated by 4,800 RNLI On reaching 17 she successfully applied to become part everything to go out to sea and help others no
lifeboat crew members in total. of the team that provides an emergency response on the matter the weather this winter, from icy rain to biting
The RNLI also provides a seasonal lifeguard service and last 23-mile-long loch. She now carries her pager along with gale force winds. RNLI SOS is a day where everyone
year they were helping people on more than 150 of the UK’s her school books and is ideally placed to be one of the first can have fun while raising funds to help RNLI crews
crew arriving at the lifeboat station as continue rescuing people in trouble at sea or during
one of her teachers is also a member of flooding incidents.
the lifeboat team. For this year’s RNLI SOS Day, children and young
On joining the operational crew, people are taking part in Sponsoring Our Silence,
Louise was given a full set of lifeboat Selling Our Sweets or Saving Our Silver, for example.
crew protective clothing and helmet, Many will also be taking part in Share Our Skills to
and the vital pager. Louise admits that raise money for SOS Day.
the first time the pager went off it was To find out more, visit the RNLI SOS website:
a bit of a shock: “My pager went off www.rnli.org.uk/sos.
during the first lesson of the day and my
first thought was that I’d left my mobile
phone on.”
She was able to hitch a lift with her
teacher, who is also a crew member, and
was at the lifeboat station a minute later.
Training continues now that she is part
of the regular crew and her parents and
friends are very supportive.

busiest beaches. The charity also has a Flood Rescue Team


that is ready to help those at risk from flooding both here
and abroad.
The charity ensures that all crew members receive regular
training to equip them with lifesaving skills. It costs around
£1,200 each year to train each lifeboat crew and £1,000
to train and equip, to RNLI standards, one lifeguard each
season. The RNLI provides the best possible lifeboats, Stay safe when visiting the coast
equipment and training to ensure that the volunteer lifeboat
crews can do their job safely. This all costs money and is As a volunteer RNLI member Louise The RNLI rescues an average of four young people
why every donation – whether large or small – is of great has to respond to an emergency every day, so it has some top tips to help young people
value to the RNLI and its volunteer crews and lifeguards. The immediately, even if that means leaving stay safe when visiting the coast:
in the middle of a school lesson Remember SAFE:
charity totally relies on donations from the public, and is
independent from the Government. Spot the dangers
For more information about the RNLI visit Shorething – Always go with a friend
www.rnli.org.uk/shorething – the RNLI’s website for young
people. It’s packed full of activities and games so young CHECK IT OUT Find and follow the safety signs and flags
Emergency? Stick up your hand and shout for help
people can find out more about the RNLI and how to keep For more information visit www.rnli.org.uk or dial 999 and ask for the coastguard
themselves safe at sea.
FirstNews Issue 243 28 jan – 3 FEb 2011 11

SCHOOL NEWS For more news crew, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

Music mad
At Shevington Community primary school, we have been doing a lot of
Aliens land
When we came back to school after the Christmas holidays, there was a big
fantastic work on different types of music. commotion in the juniors’ playground.
For our ‘How could I become a famous Jodie and Cameron, Year 5, Shevington Children and staff were baffled at what was Grace Lewis, 11, Muswell hill Primary
musician?’ piece we all had to create a group, Primary School tucked shyly away behind the trees. Green School, London
then write and perform a song. We began goo was dispersed everywhere and abnormal
to write a catchy song and when we had it was fabulous. Everyone was well behaved footprints climbed the walls. an emergency
finished we would have to perform it in front and all the groups remembered their routines assembly was called and we were told what
of the whole class. perfectly. Overall, we all thought that it was had happened.
We were put into groups of four or five a brilliant topic because everyone had the apparently, annette, the caretaker’s wife, saw
and had to think of a name for the group. opportunity to become a ‘pop star’, which we the UFO land. She claims it was just after eight
all of the groups were brilliant at teamwork. would definitely love to do again. o’clock when she heard a loud bang and saw
We had to think of a name for the song, the Well done to all those groups that took flashing lights coming from the woods of our
type of music we wanted and the theme of part – Girl power, bullet boys, Cool kids, Spicy playground.
the song. peppers and Mini boom. She immediately told her husband, who
Once all that had been decided called the police. at first, they thought it was
we began to write the lyrics for our teenagers messing around with fireworks but, The answers were: a robot crab, electric
song. Once the song was completed when they went to look, a strange object was ladybird, a robot spider, that it was a flying
we moved on to creating a dance awaiting them. saucer and the alien was down at the cafe!
routine to match our song. The a forensic scientist came and took away Some even claim that they saw it hit the
performance took place in a massive samples of the goo and a green crystal found London Eye on new Year’s Eve!
classroom at school. We practised in by the bench near the UFO. a few days later, However, in the juniors it’s a different story.
different areas of the classroom and he sent us a letter saying that the crystal was a Hardly any of us believe it’s real and we all think
every group successfully completed radioactive substance and the goo was found it’s probably a hoax.
their song and dance routine. mainly on Mars. naSa have now taken the UFO away to be
Then it was time to show the We were also shown some footage of a UFO analysed! Some people think it’s scary, some
performance to the whole class. It near Coppettes Wood Primary School, heading think it’s amazing, others think it’s a hoax. Is
was recorded and the teachers took straight for our school! there really life out there?
lots of pictures. These performances The school has been interviewing children It really was an experience we will
took place at the end of last year, and from the infants on what they think it might be. never forget.

YOUR SCHOOL IN FIRST NEWS We want to hear what your school is up to


Are you doing something sponsored for charity? Starting your own school newspaper? Or putting on a show?
Send your report (including pictures) to the address on page 14 or email newsdesk@firstnews.co.uk. If we print your story we’ll send you a copy of the paper and an exclusive First news
certificate to be presented to you in assembly! Don’t forget to include your name, age, and your school’s name and address. (Please note: by writing to First news you give consent to
First news printing details and photographs of those involved in the report.)

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12 FirstNews Issue 243 28 Jan – 3 fEb 2011

ENTERTAINMENT NEWS
with Serena Lacey

Toon in!
AdAm Tanswell heads behind the cameras to bring you the lowdown
on disney’s latest animated movie, Tangled…
Barney joins Bl
He’S been one of our favourite presenters for years, and now Barney Harwood
has joined Blue Peter. He fills us in on his brilliant new job!

Congratulations on the new job. does She doesn’t do much, just tortoisey things like
STORY TIme! this mean you’ll be giving up all your eat green stuff and walk slowly. barney is very
american actress and singer Mandy Moore other shows? similar to me. He doesn’t sit still for very long
was chosen to provide the lead voice in Thanks very much. It’s very exciting. I certainly and he likes treats. Me and barney get on well.
Tangled. “The movie is an updated version don’t want to give anything up. I’d like to
of the story of Rapunzel,” reveals Mandy. do everything if I can, please, although the did you ever write in for a Blue Peter
“and I’m the lucky girl who gets to voice the schedule is quite mad. We do a lot of filming badge?
princess. I’ve been describing Rapunzel as a and do spent a bit of time away from home so no, I never did. I was more of a Jim’ll fix It boy.
bohemian Disney princess who sets out on it depends if we can work it all out. I wanted to fly with the red arrows when I was
an exciting adventure,” she continues. “She’s a boy. I still do. I wrote to Jim. It’s still on my
been kept in a tower since she was a baby, Were you nervous on your first day? wish list now. I wanted to be a pilot but I was
but she’s been longing to see what the not really. I felt like a guest. I’ve been on blue born short-sighted so they wouldn’t let me.
world outside is really like.” of hair on her head! Special software had to
Peter so many times, for so many years, as a I’ve since had laser treatment so my eyes are
be created to animate the movement of her
guest. It just feels like that. andy, Helen and I the way they should be. I don’t know what the
long locks in the movie.
get on so well but have never really worked rules are about flying planes. I can fly model
together before, apart from me going on planes, so I should be all right!
THe PeRFeCT FIT!
What made Mandy Moore perfect for the their show, ruining one of their makes and
then going home. It’s just nice. It feels like a What does First News have to do to get a
role? “She was amazing when she came
collection of mates having a good time and Blue Peter badge?
into audition,” explains co-director nathan
doing the job that we love. You have to do something really creative. I’ll
Greno. “We knew she could sing, but she
leave it completely open to you, but it has
also had a wonderful sweetness about her.
did they have any newcomer pranks to be creative. It has to take a bit of time and
Mandy was also incredibly smart, just like
for you? then, you never know, you could earn your
Rapunzel in the movie. She was perfect.”
On my first day I got a text from a number I first first news blue Peter badge.
SPeAK UP! didn’t recognise, from a very famous person,
wishing me well on my first day. I was so What kind of things do you think you’ll be
OH BOY! Recording the voice was an incredible
excited I went round telling everyone. I rang doing on the show?
The movie’s not just about a princess… experience for the actors. “It was a little
my mum and everything and it turned out it They’re keeping everything as a surprise at
There’s a bandit boy, too! actor Zachary weird because I was alone in the sound
was Helen! They got me on day one. but that’s the moment so I don’t know. I like things that
Levi voices the movie’s Prince Charming booth for most of the time,” admits Mandy
okay. I can get them back! go fast. If something goes fast I’m good to go.
character called flynn Rider. “flynn isn’t a Moore. “I’d only seen a couple of sketches
This week they put me on a street luge which
regular Prince Charming,” admits Zachary. of Rapunzel, so I had to imagine what the
What did you do in your first week? does about 70 or 80 miles an hour. I found that
“He’s not royalty. He’s a bandit and a thief, movie was going to look like in my head.”
We did ice sculptures, a street luge and I’ve quite easy, really, but that is because I’m used
although he’s good underneath it all.” done something quite creative which you to motorbikes and going round tracks at daft
LIGHTS, CAmeRA, ACTION!
should get to see on my blog on the CbbC speeds. I’d like to know more about what I’m
dISNeY dReAm! “When I watch the animation, I can see little
website. and now I am off to Glasgow to wash up to. anything to do with speed I’m looking
“It’s a dream come true for me to be part bits of myself in Rapunzel’s movements,”
some chickens. We do it all! It’s random but forward to.
of a musical movie like Tangled,” reveals chuckles Mandy Moore. “They used to video
us in the sound booth so that they could we’re liking it!
Zachary Levi. “I’m a huge Disney nerd and Is there anything you wouldn’t do?
this is Disney’s 50th animation. I still can’t watch how we act when we say our lines. I
guess the animators used the video when do you have a favourite Blue Peter not really. I don’t like frogs, I really don’t. and,
believe my luck!” pet yet? on the first show, they made me hold a couple
they were animating the action!”
It’s got to be barney. Shelley is pretty cool. – a South african bullfrog, which is the size
mOVIe mAGIC!
It took a team of 500 people more than WORdS OF WISdOm!
three years to create the animated action a team of 52 animators worked on the
of Tangled. “a lot of work goes into creating animated action of the movie, but Mandy

Justin loves dogs!


a movie like this,” admits the movie’s Moore and Zachary Levi won’t be heard
co-director byron Howard. “There are 24 in all countries around the world. Instead,
drawings for every second of animated film, the film will be dubbed into 34 different
so thousands of pictures are created during languages!
the filmmaking process.” JUSTIN Bieber has lent his support to a
charity campaign encouraging people
A HeLPING HANd! to adopt dogs from animal shelters.
The filmmakers decided to do something
The singer has appeared in a poster campaign
different with the princess’s sidekick in
for animal charity Peta, posing with a cute pup.
Tangled. “Usually, a Disney princess has a
Justin said in a statement: “It’s really important
rabbit or a cute bird as a sidekick,” explains
that people adopt. I really encourage going out
co-director byron Howard. “but Rapunzel
to an animal shelter or a place where you can get
has a lizard sidekick called Pascal!”
a dog who has been abandoned or doesn’t have
a home.”
HAIRY SCARY!
Every year thousands of dogs are abandoned
Rapunzel is blessed with more than 21
Tangled is released in cinemas on around the UK so, if you’re thinking about getting
metres of beautiful, golden hair. In fact, she
28 January. a pet, the campaign encourages you to go to a
has more than 100,000 individual strands
shelter instead of a pet shop or a breeder.

For more entertainment news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news


FirstNews Issue 243 28 Jan – 3 fEb 2011 13

TV, FILM, MUSIC AND THEATRE! GAME ZONE

lue Peter SHHH!


Details on the new 3DS and some old-school Mario fun on the old DS

ANNE HATHAWAy
actress anne Hathaway
has landed the role of
Catwoman in the new batman
movie. The third film in this
series, The Dark Knight Rises,
of a football. It
is about to start filming and
was ridiculous.
will be released in cinemas in
You’ve got
July 2012. Christian bale will
to push your
once again play batman.
barriers,
though, and
push yourself
GLEE

3DS release date


past your
Glee star Jane Lynch, who
comfort zone
plays Sue Sylvester in the hit
to know what
show, has revealed that her
you’re truly
character is inspired by Simon
capable of. I’m
Cowell. She said: “He’s a great
up for anything
inspiration for the character of
really. The kids NINTeNdO held two events this week to launch their new 3dS console,
Sue. There is a lot that I can take
can suggest
from him and put into her!” finally revealing details of a release date and price.
stuff for me to
do too. The 3D version of the DS will be in shops in your house or wherever you are, like
JLS from 25 March, priced around £220-£230. EyePet on the PS3/PSP.
Blue Peter presenters are always out and about – features that have been announced One other cool feature of the new 3DS
where would you like to go? If rumours are to be include ones called SpotPass and is that you don’t need to quit a game to
I’d like to climb the Chrysler building in new York and I’d believed, JLS could be set to StreetPass. With access a web browser.
like to bungee jump in new Zealand and I’d like to make star in their very own 3D movie. SpotPass, if you
cakes for my grandma in Lancashire. It has been reported that the walk past certain
band have signed a deal to wireless hot
Who would be your dream Blue Peter guest? play themselves in the movie. spots, you’ll be
Oh my! I could talk about all sorts of people. ben folds They would be following in able to get free
five is one of my favourite groups and to play piano with the footsteps of people like software, bonus
them would be incredible, but that’s just personally. Simon The Jonas brothers and Justin game data and
Cowell is a pretty obvious one, but we’d get him to perform bieber who have both released more, even when Super Monkey Ball 3D
for us, to prepare a song, then me, andy and Helen can be 3D films. Just imagine, JLS in the 3DS is asleep.
the judges. We’d call it eggs-factor because, if he wasn’t giant 3D format! StreetPass is People like Eurosport and Sky are signed
good, we could pelt him with eggs! The Sims 3 similar, but lets up to provide 3DS users with 3D sports
you exchange clips, and aardman animation will be
Why is Blue Peter still such an iconic show? game data with other gamers, when you making a new series of Shaun the Sheep
because of what it offers, there’s no other show like it. It’s walk past them in the street. shorts before the end of this year.
been around for as long as it has because kids identify with One of the cool bits of software included One thing that has concerned some
it. It’s that old classic, traditional family show but we’re with the DS is the Mii Maker. With this, you people is that nintendo say that the 3DS
getting a bit funky now. We’re doing some more outlandish can take a picture of yourself and turn it will be able to play “most” DS games.
things now! into a Mii, then edit it or customise it. It There’s been no word so far on why that is
also comes with a removable 2Gb SD card or which games might not work.
Tune in to Blue Peter mondays and Tuesdays, 4.30pm for storing pictures and data on, and some What do you think? Does the 3DS
on BBC1 augmented reality cards. These can be sound cool? Is it overpriced? Leave some
used for games that use the 3DS cameras comments on our story at www.firstnews.
to make it look like game characters are co.uk/bored.

TOP TELLy! the UK compete against the USa, Germany


and Sweden. Live athletics Ice, bbC1,
Mini Mario and monkeys
Saturday @ 2.00pm. Mario vs Donkey Kong: Mini-land Mayhem (DS)
Dance Dance Dance
It’s the semi-finals and the THe pesky donkey Kong has kidnapped Pauline, so it’s time for mario
judges have to send more to crack out his mini mario toys to help get her back.
contestants home! Got to Dance, The aim on every level is to get the Mini Monica says: “The
Sky 1, Sunday @ 6.00pm. Marios to the exit, using tools like girders, game is different to
DiSney movie pipes, conveyor belts and ladders. other Mario games
When allie joins a new high Even if you complete all of the levels, but just as fun. It’s a
school, little does she know making sure that you grab all of the bit harder than others
that a mystery is about to be collectables each time will make sure that but, once you get
uncovered. avalon High, The you have to really test yourself. used to it, you are
Disney Channel, friday 28 There’s a cool level creator, where you hooked. The levels
January @ 6.00pm. can use all of the features of the main become harder,
UK vS USa levels to make your own. You can then with time limits and
upload them and share them online. chasing monsters!”
Live coverage from the aviva RATED!
International match. Teams from

For some hot new trailers 8/10


www.firstnews.co.uk/bored
14 FirstNews issue 243 28 JAN – 3 FEB 2011

THe BiG inTeRVieW For more interviews and clips go to www.firstnews.co.uk/discover


The Piers Morgan interview...

I thought they were strange


AUTHOR and cartoonist Jeff Kinney found fame with his witty book series Diary of a Wimpy Kid. The first and
second books have been made into Hollywood movies so we caught up with Jeff to talk about the films and
why he always thought his books were strange.
Is it true that you didn’t originally want Was it exciting seeing your story up Do you have a favourite part of the film?
to be an author? there on the big screen? Yes I do. My favourite moment in the first
That is true. I originally wanted to be a It is. When that 20th Century Fox music movie is when Greg is singing Total Eclipse
newspaper cartoonist but I just couldn’t starts to play it’s enough to get anyone of the Heart where he is standing alone

f f
break into the business. I spent about three excited. It’s quite a thing. I think it’s a dream singing in a clear soprano. It’s funny and

Je
years just trying to get my cartoons out most people have, to make a movie. And, to also very moving. That’s definitely a
there but nobody would have them. So I do it twice, I feel very grateful. favourite moment.
decided to turn my cartoons into book form.

Kinney
I still don’t think of myself as an author, Did you have to change the story much? Are there plans to turn the whole book
more of a cartoonist. What I ended up doing The thing I learned the most is that series into films?
was writing this journal with text in it first, filmmaking is just a completely different I think we’re up against the kids getting
with cartoons, just like the books. A light medium, with a different way of telling a older, unfortunately. Hopefully we’ll make little bits of me in all the characters. When
went off in my head and I realised this could I was a kid I always felt detached. I felt like I
work for me. was watching and observing my situation
as if I was watching through the lens of a
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series is huge movie. I felt like I didn’t really participate
– did you ever expect this to happen? in childhood very much but that served
I really never expected the books to get me well as it meant I could remember
published at all. I thought they were everything that happened.
too strange and I didn’t think they were
conventional enough to get published. I How many more Diary of a Wimpy Kid
also wanted them to be for adults. I never books do you think there will be?
pictured them as a children’s series. I would definitely like to continue the series.
I always thought I would end the series
Does it get easier to write books after around the fifth book but, what I realised,
the first one? is that my books are not the Harry Potter
No, it’s actually very difficult for me. It always books where people are looking for a nice,
has been. It actually took me eight years neat conclusion. They are comics and Greg
to write enough material for the first four is a character who never ages and grows
books. And, so, these days I’m up against a up. I think I will keep writing in this universe
blank page and the blank page usually wins. until people lose interest.
story. I would say that my books have really three or four films with this cast and then
How involved were you in turning the no emotional content where, as a movie, we’ll have to catch our breath and see what When can we expect a new book?
books into films? if you don’t make the audience care about we think the future of the series is. I think we’ll get a new book in November!
I was probably about as involved as an the characters they’re not going to watch it.
author can be. I was involved in casting, I I think where the first movie really delivers Which character do you identify
worked on every script change, helped pick is on the emotional front. You really come most with? Diary of a Wimpy Kid is available
the director and writers and I was on set for to care about Greg and his best friend, I’m a lot like Greg in some ways. I think Greg as a DVD and book double
about half of the shoot. That was the case Rowley. The second movie is much more of is an amplification of my worst parts of pack from 7 February from
for the second film as well. I got a lot of a comedy and I’m really excited to see how being a human being, both as a kid and as Twentieth Century Fox Home
exposure to, and experience of, film making. people react to that one. an adult. But I guess you could say there are Entertainment.

make sure you never miss a copy of first news the first news team
Editor Nicky Cox FirstNews
EAsy! Just cut out the form below, fill in your details and give it to your local newsagent. Deputy Editor Gabrielle Utton COMPETITIONs
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Newsbridge Ltd, BGP and any associated companies and their
Advertising Nina Chaudhry, Anisha Unzia, Leanne Walker families. Winners will be the first correct entries drawn after the
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FirstNews Issue 243 28 jan – 3 FEB 2011 15

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THE NEWS CREW For more news crew, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news
Repor
ter

Ice festival visit... Meet the family of


ON Saturday I went along to visit the London Ice Sculpting Festival at
Canary wharf. the month winners...
There were six teams taking part from by Patrick Hughes THe Huntley family from Swindon became West end dancers for the day, as
around the world. They were Hungary,
they enjoyed a masterclass with the legendary director/choreographer Arlene
Africa, Portugal, France Netherlands and Beefeater and a Royal Guard engraved
the UK. Phillips at London’s Pineapple Dance Studios. Kristina tells us all about it.
in it.The Portuguese team, who in the
The Saturday I went along was the Being named the Heart McCain Family
completion and judging by Kristina Huntley
of the Month was a real surprise - we never
day for their inspirational win anything as a family! a dream come true. We got to spend some
designs. Each team created The prize was tickets to the West End real quality time together and have loads
a huge ice sculpture using production of Grease and then a day of fun
amazing clear ice. The at Pineapple Dance Studios for a dance I’ll be telling my kids and grandkids
theme that they were given master class with Arlene Phillips. about this, for sure!
for the competition was It was the perfect
‘Love London’. prize – my sister,
France created a goddess Karolina, and
called La Tamise which I go to a dance
means Thames. Hungary and drama
The African team sculpture which
created a two metre high wall
won the Public Choice Award school. And, at
of ice which had traditional home, Arlene is
London figures like a definitely a hero
of ours.
end were the winners, created a very Arlene and
cool piece of abstract art that I found her team of
really interesting. The Netherlands professional
created their own mini-sized London dancers taught
consisting of many famous London us the routine
buildings such as Big Ben, Tower which wasn’t
Bridge and the Canary Wharf Tower. too difficult to
And, finally, the UK team created master.
a ballerina, standing inside the Then we got
curtains of a theatre. It was a very to perform it in
hard piece to create in two days! front of Arlene
I also got the chance to try out ice who judged us
sculpting at one of the master classes. as a family. She
We had a go at carving a small was really lovely
polar bear. It was very hard to make it and gave us great
look like a polar bear, but we managed comments.
to stop it looking like a dog! Family time
Overall it was such a fun day for us is usually
and my favourites to win were the spent at the dinner
Portuguese and, fortunately, table so this
they did. experience was just

Atmosphere Gallery games...


THE Atmosphere Gallery has just opened within the Science Museum
in London. It helps us understand all about climate control. I went
along to check it out.
Prince Charles opened the Atmosphere
Gallery last month. The plan is for it by Amit Pandya
to stay open for five years. Within the
gallery there are over 15 main exhibits. interesting exhibits to look at.
The most interesting exhibits were the There are also original diaries of the
interactive games. In one of the games early scientists involved with climate.
fossil fuel had to be collected and then They were Joseph Fourier, John Tyndall,
burned. This then released carbon Svante Arrherurs and Guy Callendar.
particles in the air, which then changed The gallery is fun and full of
the floor space that showed ice, water, learning. There were some games which
land and desert. were a little more complicated for me,
Another of the games that I enjoyed but I think they would be really good
was ‘Dr Nochstein’s world of adaption’. for grown-ups. I would definitely
This showed how to overcome climate recommend going to see the Climate
where money and materials are rare. As Gallery. It’s a great day out for the
well as the games there were plenty of whole family.
FirstNews Issue 243 28 jan – 3 FEB 2011 17

GREEN NEWS
with Gabrielle Utton

Plastic bags still Fish are winning


popular the fight
New Government figures show that The celebrity chef fighting for fairer
the number of plastic bags people use fishing is winning as more people are
in Britain is on the rise. buying sustainably sourced fish.
Sprats are a little fish that
Britain doesn’t have a rule that makes We reported two weeks ago on Hugh used to be very popular
shops charge for carrier bags. Instead retailers Fearnley-Whittingstall’s campaign to stop
have pledged to reduce the number of bags person used 11 bags a month in 2002. This countless fish being thrown back into the sea campaign, Tesco has promised to catch all of its
they give out. However, it looks like people fell to just two bags a month by 2009. In the because fishermen aren’t allowed to bring them own-brand canned tuna using the pole and line
are not being discouraged to take plastic UK shoppers use nearly eight bags a month. back to shore. way of fishing, as it reduces the risk of other sea
bags and, actually, used more in 2010 than Keeping a reusable cotton bag with you is It seems his three TV shows, called the Fish creatures being caught by accident.
they did in the previous year. an easy way to make sure you don’t need to Fight, which aimed to show people the variety To find out more about Hugh’s Fish Fight and
The picture is very different in Ireland. pick up a plastic carrier when out shopping. of fish they could be eating, his petition to change European Laws that force
In 2002 a tax was put on plastic bags so Lots of shops give them away or sell them instead of relying on cod, fishermen to throw dead fish into the sea, log
customers pay for bags at the shop till. This cheaply, or you can try making your own! salmon and tuna, has had on to fishfight.net.
has resulted in a massive drop in the number Find simple instructions to sew your own a big effect. Supermarkets jamie Oliver has created lots of recipes
of carrier bags being used. In Ireland each shopping bag at www.morsbags.com. have noticed that their sales for making meals with less popular fish and
of other fish such as coley, seafood such as pouting, mackerel and trout.
Hugh Fearnley- sardines and dab have risen. Check out www.jamieoliver.com/tv-books/

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Whittingstall Following Hugh’s jamies-fish-suppers for recipe ideas.

What do you do to help fight climate change? How do you get your friends,
family and school to do their bit too? Tell us and First news readers. Write to For more green news, pictures and
newsdesk@firstnews.co.uk or the address on page 14. videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

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Visit: www.NationwideEducation.co.uk TODAY and ‘PASS IT ON’!


18 FirstNews Issue 243 28 jAN – 3 FEB 2011

CRAZY BUT TRUE For more crazy news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

Cat on
RECORD OF
THE WEEK
Most ConseCutIve doubLe

the jury!
dutCh-stYLe skIps (teAM)
The most consecutive Double Dutch style
skips by a team are 371 and were achieved
by the Summerwind Skippers (all USA) in
Boise, Idaho, USA, on 11 November 2010.

For info on this record and hundreds more,


go to www.guinnessworldrecords.com
A CAt called tabby sal has been called up to perform jury service in America.

QUICK
The feline is expected to turn up to the Suffolk Superior Crown by serena Lacey
Court in Boston, despite the fact that he can’t speak or even
understand English! attend on 23 March.
Tabby Sal’s owner, Anna Esposito, wrote to the court to explain
that Tabby Sal is, in fact, a cat but the court still say he must
Anna said: “Sal is a member of the family so I listed him on the
last Census form under pets but there has clearly been a mix-up!” CHUCKLES

Fountain fall
Q: Where do baby apes sleep?
A: Ape-ricots

A WoMAn from pennsylvania, usA, has become an Q: When is a door not a door?
internet sensation after falling into a fountain while A: When it’s a jar
texting on her phone.
The unknown lady was
A
distracted by her phone
when she was walking HA H
through the Berkshire
Mall in Wyomissing.

Holey garden
The CCTV footage
Q: What do a footballer and a magician
of her falling into the
have in common?
fountain was put up on
A: they both do hat tricks
the internet, complete
with commentary by
the mall’s security. She
thens climbs out and A FAMILY in China were shocked to wake up and find
walks away looking pretty a giant hole in their back garden.
miserable!
The 21.3m-wide sinkhole opened up overnight at the home in
The clip has already
the Sichuan province of China. It is so deep that no-one knows
attracted more than two
how deep it actually goes. Zhang Fengrong, 58, said he woke up
million hits on YouTube.
at 2am after hearing a roaring sound. He watched the sinkhole get
Check it out for yourself email us your jokes to
bigger and bigger and closer to his house!
online at www.firstnews. newsdesk@firstnews.co.uk
The family have moved in with friends and family while they
co.uk/news. this week, thanks to Lara Fletcher
work out what to do about the giant hole.

Written and illustrated by Paul Palmer


FirstNews Issue 243 28 jan – 3 Feb 2011 19

coMpETiTionS To enter go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

Win Zinc nigHT HAWK


ScooTERS! Win A liFE AQUARiUM!
BE the envy of your friends with these REEF oNE, maker of the funkiest
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interacts and responds to the play pattern lucky reader the chance to own a
of its owner, changing the colour and high-tech biorb LIFE aquarium of
motion of its bright LED lights in response their very own.
to every movement. the tanks, which come in red, white or
these scooters are ideal for black, are the perfect pad for fish and make
a night-time adventure! the even the most boring bedroom look great!
scooter includes front and rear Here’s the science bit: reef one’s clever
colour changing lights and cleaning system means the water stays clear
a special super-bright phase for longer, giving your fish a healthy home
that is activated with a press which needs less cleaning than normal fish
of the footplate button. tanks. and it glows too! For a tank sunrise,
the lights flash for five sunset and moonlight.
seconds and then the Zinc LiFe aquariums can be home to goldfish
night Hawk and other coldwater fish, or transformed
comes alive ready into tropical tanks for more exotic fish, just
for you to whizz by adding a heater.
off and show off your skills. if you’d like your own fish to be a pampered pet, then this is the perfect
We have a Zinc night Hawk Scooter up for competition for you.
grabs for five lucky winners. We have a 60 litre red LiFe aquarium, complete with heater and decorations to
to be in with a chance of winning, just answer give away to one lucky winner.
this question, and don’t forget to tell us which to be in with a chance of winning, just answer this question.
one you would like, either a boys’ or girls’ one.
Which of these is not a type of fish?
Which of these methods of transport has two wheels?
a) Clown fish b) Cat fish c) Budgie Fish
a) Coach b) aeroplane c) Scooter

EnTER MARK YOuR eNTRY SCOOTER


www.firstnews.co.uk/competitions or turn
EnTER MARK YOuR eNTRY FISH
www.firstnews.co.uk/competitions or turn
noW! to page 14. The closing date is 11 February 2011. noW! to page 14. The closing date is 11 February 2011.

ASK ESTHER With


thanks to I fancy my teacher…
I REaLLy fancy my teacher. I know it’s wrong but I keep day dreaming about him and
I’m Esther Rantzen, President of ChildLine, which helps 2,500 children can’t seem to stop. all the boys my own age are too young and silly. amy, 14
every week. If there’s something worrying you, please write to me at the it sounds like you know that it would For example, avoiding seeing him when
address below. be wrong for your teacher to have a you don’t have to. With time you may begin

Too much pressure…


relationship with you which is correct. i am to like boys your own age when they begin
wondering if you can think of any ways that to mature a little more. i hope this helps.
you could stop thinking about him? take care.

my parents are starting to put a lot of pressure on me to study


harder and improve my grades. I am already in the top sets
of all my classes. I hand my homework in on time and attend
HElping oTHERS
homework club after school three nights of the week. How can
I get them to ease off on the constant pressure? Ben, 15 EvERyoNE needs a bit of help from time to time. Helping others can
it sounds like you try really hard to improve i am wondering if you have thought about
make us feel good inside and, of course, it means those people may
your grades at school and that this is paying talking to your mum and dad about how be more likely to help us out in the future (although that probably
off. Well done. However, it is important that you feel about this and try to come to a shouldn’t be your main reason for being nice!)
you also have time to do something that you compromise? if you would like to talk about Sometimes it can be good to stop and at home is a way of helping others.
enjoy in your free time to have a break from this further you can contact ChildLine free on think about all the ways other people and, how about helping the world we
school work as this can be very demanding. 0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk. help you too. Your teacher helps you learn all live in a better place? making sure you
things. the school cooks make sure you’re recycle your rubbish, or make a promise

Hurt feelings…
well fed at lunch time. not to drop any litter ever – even not
as we get older there are lots of ways doing something can be a way of helping!
we can start to help other people. You at ChildLine, adults give their free time
might want to help tidy things up at to listen to children who call, whatever
my ex-boyfriend is going out with one of my best friends. I didn’t mind at first but now it is really home, or set the table for dinner. or you their worry, at any time of day or night.
annoying me as they are always together and joke about me. I don’t know what to do as it keeps could help your little brother or sister with People often say helping others can make
on hurting my feelings. Bethany, 12 their homework. and it’s not just people you feel good and proud of yourself. it
who need our help – what about animals? shows your friends and family that you
this sounds like a difficult situation for you. i when they treat you like this. if you would like to
Some people volunteer at animal care about them. Let’s face it, the world
am wondering if you have spoken to your friend talk about this further you could call ChildLine
sanctuaries or city farms. is a better place to be in if everyone is
about how this makes you feel? if not this might free on 0800 1111 if you feel this would help, or
even learning how to look after your pet thoughtful and kind towards each other!
be an idea in order for her to realise how you feel you can go online at www.childline.org.uk.

Write to me: ask esther, 4th Floor, Shand House, 14- 20 Shand Street, London, Se1 2eS. emaiL me: newsdesk@firstnews.co.uk and put ‘ask esther’ in the subject box. I’m sorry I can’t reply to every letter.
If you have a problem you want to talk about please call ChildLine on 0800 1111. If you are worried by anything you read in First News, please visit www.childline.org.uk/Helpandadvice.asp
20 FirstNews Issue 243 28 JAN – 3 FEB 2011

FUN STUFF For more competitions news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/competitions

WIN GUINNESS WoRLD RECoRDS


2011 GAmER’S EDITIoN! WIN moSHLING
SoFT ToyS!

THIS week we have the usual 3x3 grid and you need to fill in the COMPLETE our prize crossword using the clues below. Send in your
numbers one to nine. Send in your answers and you could win a copy answers and you could win one of four Moshlings soft toys. For kids
of Guinness World Records 2011 Gamer’s Edition. The Guinness World that love collecting Moshlings (pets for their pet monsters) almost as
Records 2011 Gamer’s Edition is out now! It’s packed with the latest much as they love their Monsters – a selection of 12 Moshling soft toys have been
and greatest from the world of videogames. released into the wilderness and are awaiting discovery! For every one you find you’ll
For more information visit: guinnessworldrecords.com/gamers. also receive a secret code that unlocks cool items online. www.vividimaginations.co.uk

1 5 Across
1 Team that beat Newcastle in the FA
by-election recently (6)
13 Artist’s stand (5)

5 6 3 2
Cup (9) 14 Seizes (5)
6 Wash off (5) 15 Cain (anag) (4)
7 Sandy area by the sea (5)

(C) 2011 Mind Candy Ltd. Moshi Monsters is a trademark of Mind Candy Ltd. All rights reserved
7 3 1
9 Exciting experiences (7) 1 2 3 4 5
12 Least warm (7)
16 England won this cricket

8 4 3 2 1 7
series 3 - 1 (5)
6 7
17 ___ Dalglish: new
Liverpool manager (5)

8 6 18 Sweet and cold dairy


drink (9)
Down
8 9 10

3 9 7 5 2 8 2 Volcano in Sicily (4)


3 Happening (5) 11 12 13 14

7 2 6
4 Traffic light colour (5)
5 Electronic messages (1-5)
6 ___ Adlington: Olympic

2 5 9 7
swimmer (7) 15 16 17

8 School subject studying


the past (7)

5 1
10 Belonging to him (3) 18
11 ___ East and
Saddleworth: had a Across Down
1 - 25th January is this (5,5) 2 - Eastern European country (7
6 - Big smile (4) 3 - Next in line after eighth (5)
7 - ___ Craig: making a new Bond film (6) 4 - ___ Weasley: Harry Potter ch
8 - Hoped for (6) 5 - Foot extremity (3)

WHAT oN EARTH FIRST NEWS CHALLENGE 9 - Abominable snowman (4)


11 - Eg thyme or parsley (4)
7 - Your father (3)
10 - N African country with recen
13 - Capital of Greece (6) 12 - Staple food (5)
15 - The King's ___ : film with Colin Firth (6) 13 - British tree; residue from a f
17 - Opposite of hit (4) 14 - ___ Simpson: father of Bart
All of these are types of fruit. Can you guess what they are? Q1 Which animal has been called for jury
18 - Only British male in the Australian Open (4,6) 16 - Small green vegetable (3)
service in America?

A B Q2 What do scientists in Australia claim


that sharks may be?
Q3 What does RNLI stand for?

C D
Q9 Which TV programme has Barney
Harwood recently joined?
Q10 Aston Viila spent £24 million on
which striker?

Q4 Who wrote the book series Diary of a


Wimpy Kid?

E F Q5 Which charity has Justin Bieber lent his


support to by appearing on their poster?
Q6 Where is Karmeen Herawi from?
Q7 How much did Pennsylvania Castle in
Portland, Dorset, sell for?
Q8 Which Government department is
Michael Gove in charge of?
FirstNews Issue 243 28 JAN – 3 FEB 2011 21
HoW To
FUN STUFF ENTER
send your finished puzzles to Puzzles 243, First news, shand House, 14 - 20 shand street,
London, se1 2es. The closing date for puzzle entries is Friday 4 February 2011.

WIN K9 SERIES oNE DvDS!


CAN you spot the five changes to this picture from K9? Send in your answers and you could win one of three copies of K9 Series 1 Vol on
DVD. K9 Series 1 Vol.1 comes to DVD on 31 January 2011. Doctor Who’s classic sidekick returns in his own live action Sci-Fi adventure series.
Orphan teenager Starkey ultimately plans to bring down the system but for the time being he is prepared to simply slip through the cracks.
He and his friend, Jorjie, hide out in the residence of reclusive scientist Professor Gryffen and his errand boy, Darius, who are experimenting
with alien technology. The Professor blows a hole in the fabric of space/time and they are attacked by two reptilian warrior JIXEN, but they
are saved by a small dog-like robot, K9, who follows the Jixen through the portal.

A B

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LAsT WeeK’s AnsWeRs: First news chAllenge 1)15 2) Border S T E V E N A G E 6 2 3 9 1 8 4 7 5

Collie 3) Cambridgeshire Council 4) Dancing On Ice 5) Fruit Fly 6) three


R
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M I
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L K S H A K E
C
9 8 5 2 4 7 3 1 6
22 FirstNews iSSue 243 28 jAn – 3 FEB 2011

THE BOOK CORNER MY WAY CAMPAIGN

Book reviews Hunted


www. redhouse.co.uk

SopHie McKenzie

reviewed by Charlotte Westwood, 13

Any new book by Sophie McKenzie is a real treat FIrST nEWS has been running a campaign for a year called My Way! It’s
and this book is no exception. The story centres around Dylan. She and
her three Medusa partners, nico, Ketty and Ed, are briefed by secret
about getting people to understand that everybody learns in their own
agent Geri about a new mission they are to embark on. They are to way. For some people school is easy but, for others, it might be harder.
look into the suspicious death of a boy in a children’s home. Using their The important thing we want everybody to understand is that the
unique powers to investigate further, Dylan and her friends soon find way you learn has nothing to do with how smart you are. Around six
themselves in grave danger because a murderer is on their trail and has children in each class have learning challenges but that doesn’t mean
an agenda all of his own. Fast-paced, adventurous and well-written, this is a book you don’t want that they won’t be fantastically successful in whatever they choose
to put down! All Medusa Project fans will be glad to know the story continues...
to do. As My Way! ambassador Henry Winkler says: “Every child has
brilliance inside them. Their job is to dig it out and give it to the world.”
ArrrrgH! SliMoSAur!
AlAn MAcdonAld
onE child in every ten is affected by migraine headaches. Living with
reviewed by Thomas Pate, 7
migraine can be hard especially if you have pain with your migraine.
THE Slimosaur is an ancient dinosaur monster with big
There is no cure for migraine.
green scale and stinky breath. It’s very big and very fast But there are lots of things you can do to help manage your
and it covers people in slime and then eats them. The Urk tribe give it a migraine and a range of treatments that you can try. Amelia, eight,
sacrifice hoping it will go away but the sacrifice is the chief’s daughter. suffers from migraines. Here she describes how they affect her. This is
Only Iggy can save them with his clever plan. I liked this book because it Amelia’s story.
was funny and I’d recommend it to all those interested in the Stone Age.
The illustrations are great. Hello, my name is Amelia Lotz. I was
diagnosed with migraine headaches
last year.
For more book reviews and clips Migraines are very, very bad headaches
go to www.firstnews.co.uk/bored and you feel as if your head is going
to explode.
Sometimes they can make you sick and
sometimes you can see images. We are

READING CHAMPIONS investigating what causes my headaches.


It might be certain foods, so I cannot eat
cheese, chocolate and citrus.
Other things like bright lights, lack of
EvEryonE knows a reading Champion – they’re people who inspire sleep and strong smells can also cause
my migraines.
others to get reading. Each week one of our champions tells you a bit To help the doctors I also had to have
about their favourite reads and what they think makes reading lots of tests in hospital. These were an EEG
so appealing. test, when they stuck lots of electrodes to
my head and also an MRI scan. This lets
name: Chris Priestley the doctor see inside my brain.
My teacher, Miss Wylie, is very
Chris is the author of the World Book Day £1 book understanding and she knows that I have
The Teacher’s Tales of Terror to be careful if it is a very sunny day and
she makes sure that I drink plenty of water is a very good website that helped me
Favourite reads: “I really liked historical fiction when and take extra care while I’m at school. and my family understand more about
I was younger. I loved Rosemary Sutcliff and Henry It is more common for adults to have migraines and read about other children’s
Treece. I also remember really enjoying The Lion, migraines but some children do get them. experiences and how migraines affect
the Witch and the Wardrobe. I loved Dr Seuss. When I found that www.migraine4kids.org.uk their school life.
I read The Cat in the Hat, I think I knew – even at
that age – that I was reading something that not
everyone was going to get and that I had taken one
of those forks in the road that come along in life. I

Be a My Way! Star…
took the Dr Seuss road and I’m very happy I did.
“If I could be a storybook character I really have no idea who I would be. . . I did
really want to be the Marvel comic character Dr Strange when I was a boy. Maybe
writers invent characters because they are dissatisfied with the ones they find in other
people’s books!
“I certainly think reading is a hugely important, life-changing thing. It allows you to WouLD you like to star in this column? Write around 150 to 200
instantly go anyway, be anyone, any time. There is nothing like it. For the time you are words about your learning challenge and how you’re succeeding
reading, you have a personal relationship with that author – no matter when the book
was written.
despite it and send us a photo too. HoW you learn is just as
“Reading has certainly been one of the most important things in my life. It can just important as WHAT you learn and we want to hear from you.
be a way of unwinding after a busy day, an escape to something more exciting. But it Send your reports to newsdesk@firstnews.co.uk putting My Way! in the subject
is usually more than that. Fiction does help us understand the world we live in. Even box. And THAnK yOU!
fiction that may seem outwardly nothing more than a rip-roaring adventure will – if it’s
any good – have a lot more going on besides”.

Want to share your story? Find out


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Ask your school to sign up today. www.readingchampions.org.uk and click on My Way!
FirstNews Issue 243 28 jan – 3 feb 2011 23

SPORT NEWS For more sport news, pictures and videos go to www.firstnews.co.uk/news

In freestyle, Did you


?
know
everyone’s john sometimes spends up
to five or six hours per day
working on his routines or

equal
coming up with new ones.

John Farnworth tries to pass on some freestyle tips

CLIC Sargent, the cancer charity for young people, has launched its Kick! campaign for 2011, which aims to raise money through football-related
events. John Farnworth, who has won World and European freestyle football world titles, kicked the campaign off with a skills session for kids in
Greenwich. We dragged him away from the pitch to tell us more.
What made you first get involved with freestyle? of doing one more. I always tell people to not really worry last week doing some stuff, and the reaction over there was
I went to an event in Manchester back in 2003, and that’s about what everyone else does – if your record’s one, that’s really good. That’s what drives you all the time as well, when
what got me hooked. There were no real boundaries or limits fine, just try and do two. If it’s 200, try and do 201. people enjoy what you’re doing.
to what you could do, so that’s what helped get me into it.
Is there one trick that’s easy to learn but looks cool? Why should kids try freestyle for the Kick campaign?
Did you have a natural ability for it? When I was young, the one trick I wanted to do was balance I always find that freestyle is good for the confidence. It
It was just purely practice. I wouldn’t really call myself a the ball on my neck. I thought it looked quite cool, and doesn’t matter whether you play football or sport, there’s
talented person. I could hardly do anything when I started. you can learn it after a few minutes of practice. It’s always a always something within freestyle that you can achieve. In
good confidence builder as well, because people like it. freestyle, everyone’s equal.
What skills do you think are best for kids to learn first?
I started with just kick-ups with my laces when I was younger. Do people look amazed when they watch you? Check out the sports news section of www.firstnews.co.uk
I couldn’t even do ten, so I set myself a challenge every day Yeah, I think that’s the nice thing about it. I was in america to see john showing off his skills at the launch.

To find out how you can play football and raise money at the same time, see www.clicsargent.org.uk/football or call 08451 20 22 32

SPORT NEWS IN NUMBERS PICTURE OF THE WEEK


3 is the number of hat-
tricks that Manchester United’s
7 wickets is how much
australia’s women beat
Dimitar berbatov (right) has england by to win the
scored in the Premier League ashes. australia’s Sarah
this season. Since the Premier elliott scored 81 not out in
League started in 1992, the the second innings, but her
record for most hat-tricks in a team-mate Rene farrell was
season belongs to alan Shearer, player of the match, after
who scored five in 1995-96. The taking five wickets for 23
all-time record for the english runs in the second innings.

Getty
top division is held by Man Utd’s
Denis Law, who scored seven in
1963-64 when it was still called
3 is the position that
british cyclist ben Swift
the first Division. finished in the Tour Down

2
Getty

Under. His fellow brit Mark


football presenters were Cavendish was in last place
suspended after making sexist out of the 129 riders who
remarks about female referee’s finished the race.
assistant Sian Massey. Sky
Sports’ Richard Keys and andy
Gray said that Massey didn’t
23 world records were
broken in just the first two
understand the offside rule, and a half days of the IPC
even though the controversial (International Paralympic
decision she made was correct. Committee) athletics

24 million pounds is
how much aston Villa paid for
World Championships.
The 23rd record came in
the f40 discus category,
striker Darren bent. He started when Greece’s Paschalis
to pay them back straight Stathelakos threw 40.92m,
away, by scoring the only goal which was a massive 1.61m
of the game in a 1-0 win over further than the previous
Getty

Aston Villa’s record signing Darren Bent gets a helping hand from
Manchester City. world record. Bella, one of the team’s mascots, before his first game for the club
27737 FirstNews365x285_First News 04/01/2011 12:22 Page 1

IN CINEMAS FEB 11
also in 2D

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