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Hull City talking points and player ratings: Faye's the man, Henderson's promise

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What have we learned from Hull City's 1-0 victory over Huddersfield Town in the Capital One Cup? Brad Rial analyses the key talking points, and Philip Buckingham rates the players. So, Hull City are through to the fourth round of the League Cup, for the first time since 1978, after beating Huddersfield Town at the KC Stadium on Tuesday night. It was a far from vintage performance from the Tigers, but they probably just about deserved the win in a mildly entertaining game (Steve Bruce described it as "like watching paint dry!"). But at what point do City fans start to take the competition seriously? A favourable draw tonight and we could feasibly find ourselves in the quarter-finals and just a couple of wins away from Wembley. Okay, I might be getting ahead of myself, but you only have to look at last season's finalists – Swansea and Bradford – to see how far a unfancied team can go when it focuses on the Capital One Cup. Bruce seems determined to treat the cup as little more than glorified friendly matches, but will he feel the same way if we win next time out? Proschwitz scores, but questions still remain on fringes of Hull City attack Nick Proschwitz may have got the only goal of the game, but it was a hit and miss performance from the big German. Last night epitomised his Hull City career to date. He is, at times, incredibly frustrating to watch, but just when you start to give up on him, he comes up with a moment of real quality that makes you think, maybe there is a player in there after all. Last night he took his goal really well as he lashed the ball high into the roof of the net, giving the keeper no chance. But later on, when presented with a one-on-one with Smithies in the Huddersfield net, he skied the ball harmlessly over the bar. Matty Fryatt had a frustrating night in front of goal, not least when he saw a first-half effort come back off the post. I am a fan of Fryatt, but at times last night it seemed like he was trying to do too much. With Gedo now back in on loan and – you'd imagine – ahead of Fryatt in the pecking order, it's time now for Matty to seek game-time elsewhere to rediscover his goalscoring touch, with the whisper last night that Leeds United will now move for him. Yannick Sagbo, playing on the left for the majority of the game, showed brief moments of quality, but did not do enough to suggest he should start on Saturday. I'd expect Danny Graham to keep his place up front against West Ham.Conor Henderson has a good eye for a passConor Henderson came on to make his debut and, as you'd expect for a graduate of the Arsenal youth ranks, looked assured in possession. Playing in centre midfield, it took him a little while to get up to the pace of the game, but he eventually demonstrated a good eye for a pass, despite misplacing one or two (he can be excused the odd hiccup, given it's his first competitive game in such a long time). Bruce has suggested the Irish under-21 international may have fallen through the cracks at the top level after suffering two serious injuries. Now a part of City's development squad, hopes are high the 22-year-old with "a lovely left foot" will prove to be something of a late starter.Faye to start against West Ham? As Steve Bruce was at pains to point out last night, Hull City's "bread and butter" is the league and he will bring his key men back in for the visit of West Ham. However, of those "fringe" players who started against Huddersfield, I would expect Abdoulaye Faye to keep his place for Saturday's match. With James Chester out for eight weeks, Bruce has a big decision to make on who partners Curtis Davies at the back. On last night's showing, Faye deserves his chance. He was his usual commanding self and one of City's stand-out performers. Faye would be the ideal replacement for Chester, particularly against a Sam Allardyce side (and one of his former clubs). It was a solid performance all round by the back four and goalkeeper. Steve Harper didn't put a foot (or hand) wrong. He was calming influence as he gathered cross after cross, and two clean sheets from two cup games is all anyone can ask for. Liam Rosenior kept his place but switched from the left, where he started at Newcastle, to his favoured right-hand side. With Figueroa expected to return at left-back against West Ham, I'd argue Rosenior should keep his place at right-back, giving Bruce an option of pushing Elmohamady into midfield. Completing the back four, Alex Bruce and Joe Dudgeon both put in commendable performances. Bruce looked particularly solid and made two or three excellent challenges. If he is called upon at any point on Saturday, I am sure he will be as dependable as ever. Philip Buckingham's player ratingsSTEVE HARPER: Restored to the side to face his former loan club and produced another clean-sheet. Largely had his defence to thank for that but still a calming presence. 6LIAM ROSENIOR: A second game in four days saw a switch to right-back and he again did little wrong. Solid defensively and showed the attacking guile to set City's opening goal in motion. 7ABDOULAYE FAYE: If this was a dress rehearsal to see who takes James Chester's shirt this weekend, the veteran is now in pole position. Strong, dependable and read the game astutely. 8ALEX BRUCE: Not a popular figure for the visiting supporters but he carried out his tasks in a diligent and understated fashion. His tackling was exemplary even with players running at pace. 8JOE DUDGEON: Back in the side after a hamstring injury and let no one down at left-back. Gave Huddersfield little joy down his flank and a clearing header late on summed up game. 7YANNICK SAGBO: Huddersfield did not enjoy his movement and energy, and another night could have seen him on the score-sheet. Keeps giving Bruce a nudge every time he gets chance. 7DAVID MEYLER: Adopting the anchor role, he gave others around him chance to press on. A tidy performance without fireworks and was often found breaking up the attacks. 7STEPHEN QUINN: The midfielder is making up for the time lost to injury and he had a big say on the pattern of the game from midfield. Rested for final 15 minutes after an accomplished night. 7GEORGE BOYD: Utilised out wide on the left wing and though his influence ebbed and flowed, he showed plenty of nice touches in unfamiliar role. Faded after the break considerably. 6NICK PROSCHWITZ: No doubting his willingness to showcase his quality and a deadly finish gave City the all-important opener on the hour mark but missed a great chance for a second. 7MATTY FRYATT: Desperately close to scoring his first goal in 17 months when striking inside of the post, the highlight of another frustrating run-out. Too often loose with ball at his feet. 6SUBS: GEDO (for Fryatt 68) A return to the side almost brought a goal when missing Faye's knock down by a whisker. 6; CONOR HENDERSON (for Quinn 74) A debut for the Arsenal man passed without incident but pleasing nonetheless. 6; (Not used: Eldin Jakupovic, Curtis Davies, Tom Huddlestone, Jake Livermore, Ahmed Elmohamady.)

Hull City talking points and player ratings: Faye's the man, Henderson's promise


Hull City paper talk, September 25: Leeds watch Tigers striker Matty Fryatt

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Will he stay of will he go? Well Matty Fryatt turned out for Hull City last night and had a couple of chances but still looked off his best. In the stand at the KC was Leeds boss Brian McDermott casting an eye over the City frontman. That could be a lifeline for Matty who seems to be falling further out of contention at City. But McDermott told the Yorkshire Evening Post that Fryatt is just one of a number of players he is watching in a bid to find someone to boost Leeds goal threat. He said: "Trying to find a striker who can score you plenty of goals –and the right type of striker for the team as it – is never going to be easy." Whether Fryatt did enough to impress McDermott will be clear in the next few days. But there's little doubt City would let him leave for Leeds if they came in. Our own Phil Buckingham said he looked like a player who needs games, a lot of games. Phil tweeted: "Hard not to feel for Fryatt on his current rusty form. The mind is willing but the body is not. No goals in 17 months for him now." In contrast it's lanky Nick Proschwitz who has caught the fans' attention after finding his scoring boots in his last couple of turn outs for reserves and cup. Steve Bruce is also recognising the German's energy and, despite it appearing Nick would be on his way, he looks to have bought himself more time to prove what he can do at the highest level.Bookies start to see City potential Almost written off by the bookies at the start of the season, City are proving a different prospect after some strong early performances. And the Tigers have been installed as favourites to take three points against West Ham this Saturday with odds as low as 5/4. West Ham, who haven't done much to impress fans or pundits, can be found for as high as 7/3. There's still faith in Danny Graham, with the striker favourite to bag the first goal at 6/1.Happy Elmo HE's rapidly establishing himself as the happiest footballer in Hull. And after promotion and becoming a new dad, City's Egyptian star Ahmed Elmohamady is oozing confidence for the season ahead. In fact Elmo, City's player of the year last season, is certain the Tigers will not be fighting relegation - but finish in the top ten. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Elmo said: "This season we will finish in the top ten. Listen, we have a really good manager, Steve Bruce has experience in the Premier League. The players he brought for the club are from the top level, like Tom Huddlestone and Jake Livermore from Tottenham, Danny Graham, Yannick Sagbo and Gedo. They are really quality players. "When we played Manchester City and Chelsea – top teams – we played very well. We were just unlucky with some chances to score. Now we are 11th but I think we will finish in the top ten." And Elmo's confidence in the boss is also boundless. He says Bruce, who took him from Eygpt to Sunderland on loan in 2010, "means everything to me here in England". He adds: "I am proud to work with this manager. He is a very good man, I like him. He has always spoken to me and given me advice, even about life outside football." And of course, you can't speak to Elmo without mentioning the promotion dance. His groovy moves as City went up now feature on the Match of the Day title sequence. And Elmo says: "Everyone speaks to me about this dancing. Some people stop me in Hull and mention it. It's a good thing for me. When I was at Sunderland I did it once before with Asamoah Gyan. You know African people like to dance when they score – that's where it came from. It's character. "Afterwards people – my friends from Egypt – called me to speak with me about the dancing, not about the promotion. No one said to me, 'Congratulations'. They all said to me, 'Oh you were on TV dancing!'" And his jig after scoring in the win over Newcastle last Saturday? That was for his new son Malik. Elmo says: "My son Malik was born last month and I will soon start getting up to help my wife Heba tend to him when he wakes up at night. She says I am good at burping him. Right now he is sleeping. "He was born on August 27, an amazing coincidence. It is my lucky number and has been my shirt number throughout my entire career." Can't help but love our Elmo can you?Long now a way off? Still painful this one for Hull City but the failed transfer of Shane Long was probably even worse for the player. He hasn't featured for West Brom since a £6.5million move to City collapsed just before the transfer window closed. But now it looks as if Long will be called-on by the Baggies for regular duty - although City could still be waiting in the wings for a transfer at Christmas. Of course, a lot could now depend on how Long does for West Brom - and whether they will be willing to off-load him. Long will get his first chance on Saturday against Arsenal. West Brom assistant boss Kevin Keen told the Birmingham Mail: "He's come in and got on with his work. If anything, there has been a positive reaction in his training – it's been a really high level. "He's a top lad and is very much part of Steve's Clarke thinking going forward. "I think he's raring to go, to be honest, to show people he really wants to score some goals. "I think Steve has made it clear Shane's a massive part of this club. "We're delighted he's still here and still part of West Bromwich Albion. I'm sure he will score goals this season and play a massive part in us progressing."

Hull City paper talk, September 25: Leeds watch Tigers striker Matty Fryatt

'I took my girlfriend up to the roof to show her the view ... I would be sacked for that now!'

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Today marks 50 years since the foundation stone for Hull Royal Infirmary tower block was laid. Health reporter Emma Wright speaks to one of the builders who worked on its construction.

IT WAS a romantic gesture that would have probably earned him the sack today. But rule-breaker Ted Smalley, 74, thought the view from the top of Hull Royal Infirmary's tower block was too much of a good thing to miss out on.

The bricklayer, who worked on the construction of the building in the 1960s, decided he would whisk his then-girlfriend up to the top of the newly built block for a view out across the city.

Ted took Carole, now his wife, to the top of the tower block while he was working on the site, and believes she was the first woman in Hull to go up there.

"I was courting her at the time, so I decided to see if I could smuggle her up to the top," said Ted, who lives with Carole in Anlaby.

"We went up the stairs and then got to the top so she could have a look around.

"I imagine she was the first woman up on the top of the roof, as we were still working on it.

"Nowadays, you would be sacked for doing that."

Carol, now 68, says it was an incredibly romantic gesture.

She said: "When I went to meet him, he was waiting at the top for me and waving.

"He then came down to meet me and took me up there.

"I've never forgotten it, I remember it like it was yesterday.

"I looked out across all the city and spotted our house. It was very romantic."

Ted was one of hundreds of construction workers who helped build the tower block at Hull Royal Infirmary.

He believes he worked on it from about July 1964 to March 1966.

Today – September 25 – marks 50 years since the foundation stone for the building was laid by MP Enoch Powell.

Although Ted did not attend the foundation stone laying, or the official opening of the hospital by the Queen in 1967, he does remember working on the site.

"I was working with a mate on the university site, brick laying there, when he said he was going to the hospital job," said Ted.

"The money was one and sixpence an hour extra on top of the basic wage, which in those days was an incredible amount – it was terrific money for me.

"I was about 24 or 25 at the time when I started working there."

Ted, who also worked on one of city's other tallest buildings, Hull College, said the work was carried out in two main stages.

One set of workers was in charge of putting up the big main walls, while Ted's team followed behind them, doing smaller bits they had left behind.

"We worked Monday to Friday from 7.30am to 6pm, so it was long days," said Ted.

"Saturdays were 7.30am to 4pm and we also did alternate Sundays.

"On Sundays, we got double the rate but we had to show we had done lots of work to make sure we got offered the following fortnight's Sunday.

"I was saving up to get married, so I needed all the money I could get."

Today, the tower block is undergoing resurfacing works as part of a major revamp by Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

Anyone walking past the hospital can spot workers a mile off – with their hard hats and high-vis jackets.

They are also surrounded by netting and barriers to prevent them from falling off the scaffolding and exterior lifts.

But Ted, who has saved some photographs he took while working on the site, had a very different uniform.

His pictures show him in a flat cap and work boots, leaning on just one bar of scaffolding, positioned at waist height, to prevent him from falling.

He said: "In winter, it got incredibly cold at the top.

"Once, the wind was that bad, they had to take us off. It was ghastly."

Old photographs are not just kept at Ted's home. The hospital has a vast collection of archived pictures, records and documents, presided over by Mike Pearson.

He often shows history groups around the hospital's collection – which includes a visitors book signed by the Queen, the trowel used by Enoch Powell to lay the foundation stone, and photographs of the Royal visit.

"I'm a big history fan, I wouldn't have lasted without being that," said Mike.

"We're going to be opening up the archives on the hospital Innovation Day on Friday, so everyone is welcome to come along and take a look."

Mike says Hull Royal Infirmary was actually named eight months after opening, and was known as Western General Hospital before then.

When pressed for a favourite piece in the archive collection, he says: "There is a manuscript from 1698 from the workhouses.

"I just love it because it is so old – and is 81 pages of handwritten script.

"It is fascinating."

'I took my girlfriend up to the roof to show her the view ... I  would be sacked for  that now!'

'Cycle crash left my son in a coma - make sure your child wears a helmet'

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A MOTHER is urging children to wear cycle helmets after her son was critically injured when he was knocked off his bike by a car in west Hull. Kelly Morgan feared her son Daniel, 12, would die after doctors had to put him in a coma when they discovered he had fractured his skull.

Now, she is calling for legislation to make it compulsory for cyclists to wear helmets.

As her son is being cared for at the children's critical care unit at Hull Royal Infirmary, Ms Morgan said: "My son could have died. The nurses said if he was wearing his crash helmet his injuries would not be as bad.

"I would urge all parents to think before their kids go out on their bikes and make sure they are wearing safety helmets.

"This is the result of what can happen if they don't."

Daniel was cycling to the fishing tackle shop in Gipsyville from his home in Arcon Drive, west Hull, on Friday when the accident happened.

He was knocked off his bike in Rawcliffe Grove by a car travelling in the opposite direction at around 5.20pm.

Mrs Morgan said: "Daniel's friend came running in, saying a car had hit Daniel and he was bleeding from the head. All I could think was 'Was he alive? Is he OK?'.

"When I got to the scene, he was already in the back of the ambulance.

"He was bleeding, his clothes were all ripped and his face was covered in blood. He was screaming."

Daniel was rushed to Hull Royal Infirmary where doctors discovered he had suffered a large fracture to the back of his skull, a broken nose and a fractured cheek bone,

He also suffered a large cut to his leg, a cut mouth and bruising to his face and body.

Ms Morgan said: "He had started to have a fit and was vomiting. "There were 14 doctors around him. At that point, I thought the worst.

"You do think the worst. I thought he was going to die.

"The doctors came out to tell us they were going to put him in a coma. He was intubated and put to sleep. It was terrifying to see."

After assessing his condition overnight, doctors decided to wake Daniel on Saturday.

"His first words were 'Where's my mum'," said Ms Morgan.

"That was a huge relief.

"He is getting slowly better. He is lucky."

Daniel underwent surgery to his wrist where doctors inserted wires and he is facing further surgery and the prospect of weeks in hospital.

Ms Morgan said: "Daniel was riding without his helmet.

"It needs to be said to people to wear one, it is better to be safe than sorry."

"Daniel's brother Bobby would never wear a helmet. When he saw Daniel, he said he didn't ever want to go out on his bike without one again.

"I just want parents to make their kids think and get their helmets on."

The family now say they want to see the wearing of helmets made compulsory so other families do not have to go through what they have.

Ms Morgan said: "We have been thinking about this a lot since and I definitely think they should be compulsory.

"A lot of people we know have also said it should be law."

Daniel also wants to urge other children to wear helmets.

He said: "I would say to other children to wear safety helmets. Stay safe on the road and look out for cars."

Daniel, a pupil at Sirius Academy has been recovering with mum, dad, Paul, grandad Trevor and grandma Sharon by his bed.

Trevor said: "We want to thank the ambulance crew who were so efficient and all the staff here who have been fantastic, they really have been great."

Police investigating the accident are appealing for witnesses.

Anyone who can help should call police on 101 quoting log 506 of September 20.


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'Cycle crash left my son in a coma - make sure your child wears a helmet'

Women who jumped in Princes Dock pulled out by taxi drivers as drinkers urged to be more responsible

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TAXI drivers came to the rescue of two women who jumped into Hull's Princes Dock after a night out. The women are believed to have been at a freshers' party at Sugar Mill nightclub in Dagger Lane, organised for students starting college and university in the city.

One of the women, who was 25, had been drinking and jumped into the water, close to the Sugar Mill nightclub in Princes Dock Side, shortly before 3.30am yesterday morning. Her friend is then believed to have jumped into the water to save her.

Emergency services, including police, fire and ambulance, were called to the scene. But the two women had already been pulled to safety by taxi drivers who had spotted them in the water.

Now, Sergeant Ian Goode, of Humberside Police, is urging party-goers to take more responsibility for their actions.

He said: "The police and operators within the city centre make a significant contribution to keeping our town centres safe so people can enjoy a good night out.

"However we, along with other emergency services, find ourselves regularly called to care for people who, through drinking too much, have made themselves vulnerable and more likely to be injured or become a victim of crime."

Sgt Goode is appealing to revellers not to drink to excess when on a night out.

He said: "While we will always take the necessary steps to respond appropriately, people need to take greater responsibility for themselves and their friends to avoid the likelihood of those things happening.

"We would urge people not to be a drain on both police and NHS time because they have had too much to drink, but to behave in a responsible way and drink sensibly."

The 25-year-old woman and her friend were treated by paramedics at the scene. They were then taken to Hull Royal Infirmary as a precaution.

A Yorkshire Ambulance spokesman said: "We received a call at 3.27am on Tuesday to reports of a female in the water, close to the Sugar Mill nightclub in Dagger Lane.

"An ambulance was sent to the scene and two patients were taken to Hull Royal Infirmary to be checked over by staff."


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Women who jumped in Princes Dock pulled out by taxi drivers as drinkers urged to be more responsible

Car and motorcycle crash: Police close roads in Swanland

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MOTORISTS are being advised to avoid the Greenstiles Lane and Tranby Lane area of Swanland after a crash involving a car and motorcycle. The police and ambulance service are at the scene after receiving a call at 12.52pm today. (Wednesday). A police spokesman said: "Road closures are in place close to the incident and motorists are advised to avoid the area."• Police say the junction of Greenstiles Lane and Tranby Lane will not reopen until 4pm at the earliest.Updated 2.20pm

Car and motorcycle crash: Police close roads in Swanland

Video: Firefighters on strike over pensions dispute

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HUNDREDS of East Yorkshire firefighters have walked out of their stations in a pensions dispute with the Government. The strikes are part of an afternoon of national industrial action following a ballot of Fire Brigades Union (FBU) members earlier this month. Humberside Fire and Rescue Service has drafted in reserve staff who are trained to provide limited emergency cover but is working with far fewer resources than normal. The strike only affects frontline staff and fire chiefs and union officials have disagreed on how severe its impact is. A service spokeswoman said half of resources were operating as normal but regional FBU chair Rob Vaux said 87 per cent of firefighters were members and the strike had drastically reduced emergency coverage. He said: "I don't know where they're getting their figures from unless they're considering the office workers and the control room workers who aren't affected. If you take into account backroom staff there may be half the staff at work but we have picket lines on virtually every station. There's not one full-time fire engine operating and I don't think there are many retained duty engines either."
The strike began at 12noon and is due to end at 4.30pm. Fire chiefs have asked the public to take extra care on the roads and at home while it lasts. They have issued the following tips:• At home, stub cigarettes out properly and dispose of them carefully. Put them out. Right out• Plan your escape route and make sure everyone knows how to get out in a fire• Take extra care in the kitchen and never leave cooking unattended. Make sure grill pans and oven trays are regularly cleaned• Do not overload electrical sockets and watch out for faulty and over-heating electrical equipment and wiring or cables• On the roads, reduce your speed, don't exceed the limit• Always wear a seat belt• Take care when overtaking, if in doubt don't pull out• Never use a mobile whilst driving, pull over and stop• Don't drive when you are tired• Think bike – look out for cyclist and bikers• Take extra care in adverse weather conditions

Video: Firefighters on strike over pensions dispute

Troubled hospital faces £580k fine

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A HOSPITAL could be facing a fine of £580,000 after it was forced to restrict patient admissions. East Riding Community Hospital in Beverley reduced its inpatient beds from 30 to 12 after inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) highlighted a number of serious concerns during a visit in June.

Now, Humber NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, could have to fork out £145,000 for every month the beds were closed.

The trust has heard East Riding Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) plans to enforce a financial penalty for £145,000 – a total of £580,000 from June until the end of September.

However, the fine could be increased to £725,000 if the beds remain closed in October as well.

Angie Mason, the director of nursing and service delivery at Humber NHS, said: "There is a risk of a penalty from the CCG.

"Until we get the rest of the beds open, that risk will not be reduced."

East Riding CCG decides what money should be spent on health services for patients living in the region. In effect, it "employs" Humber NHS to provide care at the hospital.

If it decides Humber NHS is not giving the full service it is paid to supply, it can enforce a financial penalty.

However, no financial penalty notice has been received in writing and Humber NHS has not paid any of the money yet.

George McManus, of the Friends of East Riding Community Hospital Group said: "We are shocked to hear the hospital is being penalised financially due to the bed closures."

The news comes as staff at the hospital prepare for another CQC inspection in the next fortnight.

Inspectors will be revisiting the Beverley hospital to check if standards have been met and improvements made since they last saw staff on June 4.

Humber NHS has drawn up an action plan for the hospital in light of the report, which was discussed at yesterday's trust board meeting.

Trust board chairman Jane Fenwick said: "When I visited the hospital this week, I was very impressed with the staff and management, who have had to pick themselves up off the floor.

"Patients are delighted with the level of care they are receiving.

"We will get this right but, obviously, we have to go through the inspection.

"The proof will be in the pudding, the CQC will have to come and see it but all the signs are that it's going well.

"CQC inspections are about finding out what is wrong and putting it right, and that's what we are doing."

The CQC report, which was published earlier this summer, said there had been "six serious incidents" at the hospital.

However, the trust board were told yesterday three of those had been downgraded and only three were now rated "serious".

Ms Fenwick said: "Our staff report near-misses and serious incidents which could cause harm to patients.

"They are investigated and, then, if considered serious, reported to the clinical commissioning group. In three cases, the commissioners downgraded them.

"I have some heart with that – because at least staff are reporting incidents and looking into them.

"I don't want a situation where people don't report things and sweep them under the carpet."

The action plan for the hospital includes addressing issues raised by the CQC – such as providing additional training and drawing up rotas differently to demonstrate who the first-in-charge nurse is.

Humber NHS staff have been told CQC inspectors will visit "shortly after" October 2.


Hull FC: Motu Tony tasked with adding to squad

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MOTU Tony is confident he can add something Hull FC have lacked in the past after being confirmed as the club's new football manager. Having been around the club for the past two months, Tony was officially unveiled yesterday alongside Lee Radford as part of the new set-up.

Taking on the recruitment responsibilities previously overseen by Shaun McRae, Tony will also deal with day to day matters involving the squad away from Radford's remit as head coach.

Having never left the city despite moving clubs, Tony says his new role is a position he's relishing.

"It's great to be back at Hull. I have a lot of affinity for this club," Tony told the Mail.

"I'd like to think some of the things I bring to the table are some of the things the club lacked. I'm just happy to be here to make things easier for Lee and the rest of the coaching staff, while also helping people in the office.

"Lee, myself and the rest of the coaching staff have to set a culture for this club going forward. We have to show that if you are not prepared to work hard then this is probably not the place for you to be at.

"We have to set that standard from the off and there's tough decisions to make. We have to get the environment right for everyone. If you get the culture right, regardless of players coming and going you can maintain your position, as Wigan have shown. That's the standard we are aiming for."

Having already brought Iafeta Paleaaesina to the club, Tony is now busy working behind the scenes on at least two more additions, with Bath winger Tom Biggs still a target.

And with the World Cup on the horizon, the ex-Kiwi Test player with Samoan heritage is confident of utilising his contacts to try and find a hidden gem.

"I think it is an advantage for us as a club that myself, Lee and Andy all have vast contacts in the game. If we pull them all together I think we are in a good position," added Tony.

"We will be watching the World Cup games with an eye on finding a hidden gem."

Hull FC: Motu Tony tasked with adding to squad

New Hull FC coach Lee Radford will rule with iron fist

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LEE Radford says he will pull no punches as he sets out to drag Hull FC up to the standards they should consistently be meeting. Having been appointed as Peter Gentle's successor on a three-year contract, the new head coach has already warned his players they face a shock to the system as he pursues a desire to raise standards.

Promising nothing more than an honest approach to how the club is run and the team plays, Super League's youngest coach says the first priority is making sure his squad buy into the new stricter principles he'll be putting in place.

"As a group we have to raise our standards consistently, every week," Radford told the Mail.

"I think that will come as a shock initially to a lot of the players. I think players who have been under strict regimes before are crying out for it in this team and that's what they'll get. It's the first thing to address.

"If the players don't want to buy into our principles, our dedication and our work ethic, then that's fine because I am sure we will find somebody who will."

Radford has set out his plan for a way forward for Hull.

Bold statements of top-four finishes and big promises have been replaced with Radford's desire to first provide a side the fans can be proud of.

Joined by Andy Last as assistant coach, the duo are eager to see Hull returned back to their working class roots in terms of the manner of performances and attitude of players.

Aware of the criticism of the side this year, culminating in the record defeat to Huddersfield where the attitude and application of the players was questioned, Radford insists that is one thing that will change.

"People want a team to be proud of," added Radford.

"We are a working class city and always have been. We are a working class club, with working class supporters who want to be proud of a working class team.

"They pay their money to come through the turnstiles and want value for that. Being up one week and down the next is not right and we need to change that.

"This squad stands up to a lot of the elite teams in the competition.

"Getting the best out of this squad is the golden egg we are chasing."

As previously revealed by the Mail, Radford and Last are joined in a new-look coaching structure that sees Motu Tony come in as football manager.

Tony's responsibilities will lie primarily in recruitment and working with owner Adam Pearson to secure Radford's signings, while also scouting the talent himself.

For Radford it is an ideal structure. He adds: "I will make mistakes, but show me a man that doesn't.

"What I have to do is keep level headed and keep seeking advice from those I respect, and from my staff as well.

"There's nobody else I'd rather have alongside me than Andy Last, while Motu has terrific contacts and we know each other well.

"It's all exciting, there's lots of hard work ahead of us and we know that. For a Hull fan, someone from the city, who has played for this club, to have the opportunity to do this role is a chance you don't pass up."

Hull conditioner Paul Devlin has also left the club to be replaced by Sean Rush, who spent a seven-year spell with Hull City as they achieved promotion to the Premier League in 2008.

New Hull FC coach Lee Radford will rule with iron fist

'I did not conspire with my lover to murder my husband,' Lisa Fairpo tells trial

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A WOMAN has denied plotting to murder her husband. Lisa Fairpo is on trial with her lover Darren Wilson, accused of conspiring to murder her husband Andrew Burr to get a £750,000 life insurance payout. It is alleged they offered to pay hitman Mikhail Ward £10,000 to kill Mr Burr.

Giving evidence, Mrs Fairpo told Hull Crown Court she did not ask her husband to increase his life insurance cover. She said Mr Burr had lied to her that a gang was sending him death threats and were after him. This, claims Mrs Fairpo, prompted the couple to look into getting life insurance.

She said: "We both agreed I would get him a life cover quote. I didn't insist he had it. We never did it, I'm lazy."

She told the court they talked about getting £1m life insurance to benefit their children in case something happened to either of them.

"It was a family joke – we are unusual," said Mrs Fairpo. "The children would joke about killing me and him and running off with all the money."

Judge Michael Mettyear put it to her: "You did not have any money. It is a strange topic of conversation when you have no money and there is nothing to inherit."

Mrs Fairpo, 36, denied she had ever conspired to kill her husband.

She said: "I had said to Darren 'he (Mr Burr) is doing my head in', but I did not mean I wanted my husband to get killed, ever. I never wanted him to be killed. I don't think you should hurt people. I don't like violence.

"I never had life cover. It was just a husband and wife talking about general life cover."

Mrs Fairpo told the jury she had told Mr Wilson they were discussing getting life cover.

When asked if she thought Mr Wilson would plot to kill her husband she replied: "I don't know, why would he?"

The court heard she had known Mr Wilson, 45, for four years. She described him as her "best friend" and had slept with him once last October.

Mrs Fairpo said: "Andrew is like a big friendly teddy bear. We were in love and we cared a lot about each other and we worked well as a family. But when you are jealous it just causes arguments. He is really good-looking and I'm really plain and simple.

"We then realised we had fallen out of love and were just friends."

Mrs Fairpo, of Northside Road, Hollym, and Mr Wilson, of Appin Close, Bransholme, deny conspiracy to murder.

Woman said lover could have hurt husband

LISA Fairpo told the jury she believed her lover could have hurt her husband.

Mrs Fairpo said her lover Darren Wilson could have harmed her husband Andrew Burr.

She is accused of conspiring with Mr Wilson to kill Mr Burr for a £750,000 life insurance payout.

Prosecutor Mark McKone said: "Do you think if you had told Mr Wilson that Andrew had hurt you, and you asked him to hurt him, do you think he would?"

She replied: "Yes, I do, or he would have got someone else.

"He told me he used to take people out for £50,000."

The prosecution allege she was seeking to have her husband murdered in revenge for leaving her blind, as well as for financial gain.

The court heard she claimed he had "punched her hard" in the eye but in cross-examination claimed it was a "poke".

Mr McKone put it to her: "You are now playing down that punch."

The trial continues.


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'I did not conspire with my lover to murder my husband,' Lisa Fairpo tells trial

Hull City's Nick Proschwitz won't give up on Premier League dream after turning down move

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NICK Proschwitz has revealed how he turned down the chance to leave Hull City during the transfer window, insisting he will not "quit" in his pursuit of Premier League football. Proschwitz was the Tigers' saviour against Huddersfield Town on Tuesday as his goal earned a narrow 1-0 win and a place in the last 16 of the Capital One Cup.

A return to goalscoring ways, including five in two appearances for the reserve team, sees the German striker pushing for a Premier League call, but a lack of opportunities almost led to his exit last month.

Manager Steve Bruce has admitted he would have preferred to see Proschwitz go out on loan in a move designed to see him recapture the form that convinced City to invest £2.6m in him 15 months ago.

The summer arrivals of Yannick Sagbo and Danny Graham have pushed Proschwitz down the pecking order but he was unwilling to walk away from the Tigers. He said: "I don't care now at what's gone, I'm just looking at the future. I decided to stay and fight for my opportunity and I hope my chance will come to play soon. Hopefully I can score then too.

"I came here to play in the Premier League. The first month of the season wasn't easy for me but I don't want to quit and I don't want to give up.

"First-team football is where I want to be and I believe I performed quite well.

"It hasn't been easy but I decided to stay and work for my chance. Hopefully that will come soon. I've had a few games for the reserves, a few very good performances with loads of goals, and I'm happy that I could help the team."

Proschwitz's sixth goal in City colours and his first since scoring in the 2-2 draw against Cardiff on the final day of last season, was a timely boost to his quest to convince Bruce.

Although he missed a gilt-edged chance of a late second, the 26-year-old's crisp finish on the hour mark was enough for City to clamber past Championship side Huddersfield.

Proschwitz, who was named as a substitute in the Premier League for the first time in the weekend win at Newcastle, will hope that earns him another place on the bench when West Ham United visit the KC Stadium on Saturday.

The German's best chances may continue to come in the Capital One Cup though, and after sealing a fourth-round berth for the first time since 1977-78, he said: "It makes us proud. The gaffer said it was 1977 that the club was last in round four so it's very good for us."

• LEEDS United have become the last side to declare an interest in the forgotten man of Hull City's strike-force, Matty Fryatt. Manager Brian McDermott was at the KC Stadium on Tuesday to watch Fryatt in action.

Hull City's Nick Proschwitz won't give up on Premier League dream after turning down move

Exclusive: Sone Aluko 'sure' he will agree new Hull City deal

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Sone Aluko has given the strongest indication yet that he will commit his long-term future to Hull City, admitting he is "sure" a new deal can eventually be agreed. As manager Steve Bruce's greatest off-field priority this autumn, the Tigers have opened talks with Aluko over an extension to the contract that will expire at the end of this season. Although both parties have stressed there is no immediate rush to thrash out terms, City would prefer not to see the matter drag on. Aluko's value to City has been emphatically underlined of late. Since returning from an Achilles injury that ruined a brilliant debut campaign at the KC Stadium, he has looked every inch a Premier League player this term. A stunning volley to sink Newcastle United 3-2 last weekend was his first top-flight goal and will not have gone unnoticed around the Premier League. Aluko remains calm about the progress of contract talks with the Tigers but hinted towards a satisfying outcome down the line. He said: "The focus is on games and getting fit again I am sure it will get done. No doubt it will drag on as negotiations do but I am relaxed about it. It's football nothing would surprise you but I am sure it will get done. "I am enjoying my football, I love the team and the stage we're on. It is more than a dream to play on this stage and I just want to be fit and enjoy the game and apart from Chelsea, who gave us a lesson, so far so good and let's hope it continues. We have a good team and good players and we have shown that so far."• Hull City have been drawn away at Tottenham in the fourth round of the Capital One Cup.

Aluko: Win at Newcastle shows Hull City are Premier League force

Huddlestone: Aluko goal in same league as Messi and Ronaldo

Exclusive: Sone Aluko 'sure' he will agree new Hull City deal

Garden centre for Welton 'would create 80 jobs', Humber Growers says

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A garden centre and 70 homes could be built in Welton under proposals that could create 80 jobs. Humber Growers has submitted outline plans for the garden centre and homes on land off Common Lane. In the planning statement, the applicant says: "As well as providing much-needed housing, the scheme will also provide a significant employment opportunity for the local community. The proposals include a garden centre, which will provide a significant amount of employment. It is estimated that in the region of 80 jobs could be created which would be a mix of part-time and full-time positions. It would also provide a local facility and have wider benefits for the local economy." The garden centre would comprise a main retail building around 1,200 square metres with a display and growing area and car parking. The proposed housing development would comprise a mix of dwellings and would include affordable housing. East Riding Council's planning committee will consider the application in December.

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What a planker! Boxing coach breaks British record for holding 'plank' position

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A Hull boxing coach has broken the British record for holding the plank position. Gordon Haig is now targeting the world record, as James Campbell reports. It might not look like much but it is one of the most gruelling exercises around and most people only last a minute or so. But Hull boxing coach Gordon Haig is looking to break the world record and hold the planking position for more than three hours. Gordon, 52, has already broken the British record of 50 minutes by lasting one hour. But, now, he has his eye on the world record of three hours, seven minutes and 15 seconds, set in Newport, Kentucky, in April by George Hood. The planking position involves lying face down on your elbows and toes with your back flat. George, who is head coach of the Hull Saints Boxing Club in west Hull, said: "The exercise is all about body strength and improving the core muscles and lower back. I have been training with weights on my back. People generally only do it for about a minute as it is quite an intense exercise. We do the exercise in the gym and I found I was really good at it. In fact, I became quite obsessed." Gordon, of Gipsyville, decided to put his new found talent to good use. He said: "I knew someone at the gym who was involved in Dogs for Disabled and I decided to do a sponsored plank position. I managed 40 minutes and it was a really good day with lots of people there supporting me, including quite a few dogs." Gordon broke the British record by managing to hold the position for one hour earlier this month at the West Hull Rugby Club in North Road. All his family, friends and member of the Hull Saints ABC turned up to support him and he raised more than £600 for the All4One charity which helps combat TB and HIV. His training including holding the position for five minutes at a time with 10kg weights on his back and doing ten-mile runs. Gordon said: "I am absolutely delighted to have done it. I stared to shake after seven minutes and began to panic but I got myself together and on 40 minutes I knew I was going to do it." Gordon believes the key is the mental battle. He said: "When I do it, I just think about what I am raising money for. I think that what I'm suffering during the challenge is nothing compared to what others suffer on a daily basis. I have always been mentally strong. I am stubborn and will not give in." Gordon will now be going for the world record in September next year, raising money for the Hypermobility Syndrome Association. He was inspired to raise money for the association because the brother of club member Jacob Howran suffers from the disease which affects the joints. Charlie Howran, seven, often comes to the club in his wheelchair to watch his brother. He said: "Charlie often comes into the gym and he is a great kid. Unfortunately, his condition will deteriorate as he gets older so he will need a lot of support. "I have started training already and am running seven miles a day. I've always kept fit and I have a passion for it. It is all about preparation. On the day, we will have a Guinness World Record adjudicator to confirm if I break the record or not."

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What a planker! Boxing coach breaks British record for holding 'plank' position


'Huskies' killed gran's shih tzu Holly after 'appearing from nowhere'

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A grandma is pleading for help to find two dogs that savaged her pet in front of her. Catherine Stephenson, 73, was walking shih tzu Holly when she says two huskie-type dogs appeared from nowhere and set upon the small animal. The attack happened on Saltash Road, west Hull, shortly after 7am on Tuesday morning. Mrs Stephenson said: "The two dogs flew at her. They grabbed her and shook her like a rag doll. One of them had her by the throat and the other by the back end and it was like they were trying to tear her apart. They threw her in the air and it was like a tug of war." Although she was frightened, Mrs Stephenson tried to get the bigger dogs off Holly. "They had got her off her lead," she said, "so I hit one of them with the lead, but it turned and growled at me and nearly turned on me so I had to leave it. I was screaming and screaming." She said the attack lasted a few minutes before a neighbour ran out of a house, which seemed to scare the dogs off. "A man came out and we wrapped Holly in a towel but it was so early there were no vets open," said Mrs Stephenson. "I was cradling her in my arms. When we eventually got her to the vet she examined her and said she had gone." Mrs Stephenson says she now wants the owner of the dogs to step forward. "Holly had no chance," she said. "She was so little. She was a lovely dog and to go like that is just wrong. She was so frightened of other dogs. If those dogs can do that to a little dog then they can do it to little kids." Mrs Stephenson's grandaughter, Cassey, said the loss of Holly, who she'd had for 14 years, had devastated her gran. She said: "What this has done to my gran is awful. She is very upset. It is shocking what happened and they could have gone for her." Holly's death comes just weeks after miniature poodle Mitzi was mauled to death in front of its elderly owner by a Japanese Akita. Rita Harrison said she heard people scream after her dog ran onto Costello Playing Fields in Hull. Seconds later she saw the Akita "ripping the dog to shreds" and she shouted for help. Police were contacted about the latest attack. Anyone with information should call officers on 101.

'Huskies' killed gran's shih tzu Holly after 'appearing from nowhere'

Villagers' shock as motorcyclist killed in crash with car in Swanland

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A POLICE investigation is under way after a motorcyclist was killed in a crash with a car in an East Yorkshire village. The motorcyclist was killed in the accident with the car close to the junction of Greenstiles Lane and Tranby Lane in Swanland.

Both roads were closed to traffic after the crash shortly before 1pm yesterday as police investigators were called to the scene. Last night, villagers spoke of their shock at the death of the victim, who has not yet been identified by police.

Councillor Yvonne Dumsday, of Swanland Parish Council, said: "It does have an impact on the village. We are a close-knit community and very community spirited. It is terrible when something like this happens and the council would like to pass on their condolences."

A Humberside Police spokesman said they were notified by the ambulance service about the accident between the car and the motorbike.

She said: "Sadly, it is confirmed that the motorcycle rider died at the scene."


• UPDATE: Car driver, 82, arrested after death of local motorcyclist, 58


James May, director at Home From Home Petcare, opposite the scene of the crash, heard about the accident from a relative who had passed the wreckage minutes after the crash.

He said: "The bike was on the side of the road and the person was on the road. Within a couple of minutes, there was and ambulance and police coming down the road. At one point, there were about five police cars there."

Mr May expressed his sympathy to learn the biker had died in the accident.

"It is such a shame what has happened," he said. "I was very shocked when I heard.

"We don't see much around here and don't see many accidents. When it does occur, it leaves the area shocked."

Tranby Lane, from the junction with the A164 to Kemp Road and Greenstiles Lane, did not reopen until shortly before 6pm last night as police carried out their initial investigation into the cause of the crash.

Mr May said his business, which includes kennels and dog grooming, had been affected by the road closure but his only concern was with the biker and their family.

"A few people have cancelled and it has proved a bit harder for some people to get to us, but it really is small potatoes when you put things into perspective."

Although residents could not recall any serious accidents at the site, Councillor Dumsday said Tranby Lane did have its problems with speeding motorists.

"I have never heard of accidents at that spot before but I know some traffic travels along Tranby Lane far too quickly," she said.

"We don't know what caused this but I know the speed of some of the traffic along there is something residents complain about."

Police are expected to release more details about the accident today. Anyone with information should call 101.


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Villagers' shock as motorcyclist killed in crash with car in Swanland

Socks-on-hands burglar with 190 convictions hit Hull hairdressers for second time

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A BURGLAR who wore socks on his hands has been jailed for his 100th break-in. A judge labelled Nathan William Goforth a "career criminal" and said he had the worst record he had ever seen for burglary. Goforth, 38, was on licence when he committed four burglaries. He has 190 convictions in total – 100 for burglary. Hull Crown Court heard he had just been released halfway through a three-year sentence for burglary when he returned to the same business he had previously been jailed for breaking into. Goforth broke into Icon hairdressers in Hull on August 10, and stole £170 in cash. Prosecutor Jharna Jobes said: "He entered through a window and was seen on CCTV with socks over his hands and go to the till. He then went into the back room and already knew where the money was kept. The complainant said unless you knew where the money was kept, you wouldn't know anything was there. We say the defendant targeted the shop again." Eight days later Goforth then targeted JM Sports. He broke into the derelict shop above and used a fire extinguisher to smash a hole in the floor and get into the sports store. Goforth stole a £1,000 laptop from the store. His solicitor Ian Phillip said: "His record does him no favours whatsoever. In his own words, he accepts he has a terrible record. He is embarrassed by it and feels trapped by it. There was no violence or use of a weapon and no persons present." Goforth pleaded guilty to two burglaries and asked for two more to be taken into consideration. Jailing him for four years, Judge Mark Bury told Goforth: "You have a horrid record of previous convictions. "The first offence was at night and you targeted the premises because you had been in there before. You had socks on your hands and you knew where the money was. You took £170. There will have been significant trauma to the victim particularly knowing it was the same person who burgled them last time. "The next offence, you essentially smashed the floor in to get into the premises, put your coat over the CCTV and removed wiring from it and took some money. There was significant damage to the premises." Goforth began offending at the age of 12 and has committed burglaries every year, when he has not been in prison.

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Socks-on-hands burglar with 190 convictions hit Hull hairdressers for second time

Schools to close - but parents may not find out till day of teachers' strike

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THOUSANDS of parents are being warned their children's schools will be forced to close by next Tuesday's teachers' strike, but many may not find out until the day itself. Up to 5,000 members of the biggest teaching unions, the NUT and NASUWT, are expected to join the walk out in a national row over pensions, pay and conditions.

The unions have warned most Hull and East Riding schools will be forced to shut because their members make up 90 per cent of the workforce. Hull City Council has revealed it will not be able to release a list of schools intending to strike until Monday.

However, individual city schools will be contacting parents.

Some East Riding secondaries – including Cottingham, Wolfreton, South Hunsley, Withernsea, Headlands and Howden – have already told parents they will be partly or fully closed.

But others, including Beverley Grammar School, have warned parents the decision may not be made until the day itself, when it becomes clear just how many staff are joining the action.

Council officials in the East Riding are asking heads to indicate today whether they think they will have to close.

Paul Butler, inclusion and access manager East Riding Council, said: "We would hope most schools will have a very good idea by the end of the week.

"Our advice will be wherever possible schools should aim to stay open, either partially or fully.

"What we would not want is a school making a decision to close and then find out they have enough staff to stay open. In that situation parents would criticise the school even more. We have asked them to give an indication by Thursday, so we can inform the Department for Education."

A Hull City Council spokesmansaid: "The list of Hull schools that are planning to participate in the strike action on October 1 is still being collated and will be available on Monday, September 30."

Unions do not have to inform schools which staff will be taking action and it may be they will not know themselves, as members do not have to obey a strike call.

Beverley Grammar School's parents have been told the academy will only close if staffing levels mean it is not safe to stay open.

In a letter to parents, chairman of governors Chris Bodsworth said: "Because we may not know until very late how many staff will be available to work, the decision to close may have to be taken at the last minute.

"Every effort will be made to give notice at the latest by the day before, but in case the decision has to be made on the day itself, we are asking parents to nominate a place of safety, which may be your home, to which your child can go if we have to close."

Mother of two Nikki Gillyon, whose children attend Longcroft School and St Mary's CE Primary in Beverley, said the strike will pose problems for working parents.

Mrs Gillyon said: "My husband and I both work full-time, so obviously the strike creates a lot of inconvenience.

"I know the teachers have their reasons but it's really hard for working parents to organise childcare, particularly at short notice."

Hull branch secretary of the NASUWT Adrian Joice said: "We would expect parents to be told as soon as possible if schools are closing because it is an inconvenience. The logical thing would be for schools to tell parents by Friday."


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Schools to close - but parents may not find out till day of teachers' strike

Mum finds woman in baby's bedroom in Wold Road, Hull, after hearing noise on baby monitor

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A mother found a stranger hiding in her baby's bedroom after hearing suspicious noises on the baby monitor at her home in Wold Road, west Hull. The woman heard a strange noise on the baby monitor and went to investigate. When she went into the room, she discovered the woman hiding in the room. The Mail understands the stranger sneaked into the house through an open window or door before she was discovered. The mother had been at home with two other people earlier in the night but they had left, locking the doors as they went, not realising they were locking the mother and baby inside the house with the stranger. Later on, at about 7.55pm on Tuesday, the mother went upstairs after hearing the noise on the monitor placed in her baby's room to discover the stranger hiding in the shadows. The stranger then demanded the house keys from the woman before using them to flee out of the back door of the house. No one was hurt and nothing was stolen, but police are investigating the matter and treating it as an attempted burglary. Anyone who knows about the intrusion, or saw anything suspicious in Wold Road at the time, is urged to call Humberside Police on 101, quoting log 681 of September 24.

• UPDATE, 4.30pm: Mum describes 'stranger in black' hiding in baby's bedroom in Wold Road, Hull


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