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YOU'RE never too old to stop learning and veteran Hull City keeper Steve Harper proved just that in the 2-2 draw at Fulham.

At the age of 38, you might expect someone like Harper to think he knows the game inside out, but he proved he still takes his mistakes on board and learns from them.

In the 3-0 home defeat by Arsenal a week earlier, he'd been caught out by the pace of a back-pass which almost allowed Olivier Giroud to score. Although the Gunners forward ended up hitting the bar, it was a wake-up call for the usually laid-back Harper.

At Craven Cottage, the Tigers keeper seemed to have a far more focused edge to his game. Everything he did was a little bit quicker and sharper.

Although there was not much he could do about Fulham's opener from Ashkan Dejagah, a superb strike into the top corner which left him rooted to the spot, he still went on to play a key role.

With City trailing after another Fulham goal from Fernando Amorebieta, the shot-stopper provided the key turning point in the game. Making himself big, he flung himself across goal to deny Dejagah what looked to be a certain goal by spreading himself and getting a great contact on the shot. It was one of those moments where the keeper hopes to get any part of his body to it and fortunately for City it paid off.

It would have been a long way back for City if they had let a third goal in and his team-mates will know exactly how big that save was for their confidence as well as the result.

With the FA Cup final coming up at the end of the season, and Allan McGregor back doing some running to try to get fit for it, the onus is on Harper to keep his shirt. The only way he can try to do that is by playing well every week to take a massive decision away from Steve Bruce.

The City boss has never hid the fact McGregor is his number one, but would he put him back in for the final if he has only just recovered from three broken ribs?

Harper certainly won't want to find out because he'll be desperate to play at Wembley and you can bet he will now be doing all he can to earn that right.

Peter Swan: Hull City's Steve Harper proves you're never too old to learn

PAUL Lambert is priming his Aston Villa players for a "cup final" against Hull Citythat could secure the club's Premier League status.

The under-pressure manager was far from downbeat following his side's 4-1 defeat to Swansea at the Liberty Stadium.

He felt his team had performed well for more than an hour, before the hosts pulled away with goals from Pablo Hernandez and an injury-time Wilfried Bony penalty.

The heavy loss, which capped a run of only one point from the last 18, left Villa in 16th, only four points above the relegation zone. And with daunting trips to title-chasing Manchester City followed by Tottenham to round off the season, Lambert knows next week's clash with the Tigers at Villa Park could prove crucial.

"Next week's game is a cup final," he said.

"That's it, in a nutshell."

Villa and Lambert were booed by their travelling support at the end of the game. But Lambert said he will shoulder that criticism and is expecting the claret and blue faithful to be fully behind their team for the crunch game.

He added: "If you ask any football person – if your destiny is in your own hands, you take it. You don't want to rely on anybody else."

Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert: 'Hull City game will be our cup final'

UPDATED: A MAN has been charged after an armed robbery at the Yorkshire Bank in the Prospect Shopping Centre on Saturday. Lee Kenneth George Eskrett, 47, appeared at Hull Magistrates Court this morning charged with robbery. Officers were called to the busy shopping centre at 11.43am, where Eskrett was arrested. A spokesman for Humberside Police said no-one was hurt and an amount of money was recovered. He did not enter a plea to the charge and will appear at Hull Crown Court next week.

Armed robbery at Yorkshire Bank in Prospect Centre: Man charged

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested after a woman teacher was stabbed to death at a school. The teacher, named locally as Anne Maguire was fatally injured this morning. West Yorkshire Police detectives said a 15-year-old boy, a pupil at the school, was arrested in connection with the incident and is in custody. Ms Maguire was a long-serving member of staff at Corpus Christi Catholic College, in Neville Road, Leeds. Police were called to the school at 11.48am after they were contacted by the ambulance service following a report that a member of staff had been stabbed. Ms Maguire was taken to hospital for treatment but was subsequently pronounced dead, police said. Staff and pupils expressed their shock at the death. Pupil Georgina Kilroy, 16, said Ms Maguire had been a teacher for 40 years. Speaking outside the school, she said: "I don't know anyone who didn't like her. She was spot on. You couldn't ask for a better teacher." Georgina said her teacher broke down when she told the children the news. She said that before then they were told a teacher had gone to hospital but lessons continued. Writing on the website RateMyTeachers.com, one former pupil said: "She's like the school's own mother! Can be very strict but if you're nice to her she will always be there for you, a great woman!" Another added: "I think she's a good head of year, she's always there if you need someone to talk to :)" Writing on a Facebook page dedicated to the school, contributors described the teacher as "a legend" and a "lovely lady". Laying flowers, former pupil Aine Arnold, 17, said: "It's more like losing a family member than losing a teacher. "As long as we were happy, she was happy. She would do anything for you. "She helped me personally a lot. She's going to be such a loss to the school. Hers were one of those lessons you didn't want to miss. "She was just lovely. She was wonderful. I am devastated." Christine Blower, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, said: "This is a truly awful thing to have happened to a teacher in the course of her work to educate the next generation. "Appalling events like this are thankfully very rare indeed but the death of any teacher in her place of work, which should be a place of safety, is devastating. Our condolences go to the family and friends of this teacher, and to students and colleagues at the school. "The NUT will provide any help and assistance we can possibly offer to Corpus Christi Catholic College and its community." Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, added: "We are shocked and saddened to hear the news that a teacher has been stabbed to death at Corpus Christi Catholic College in Leeds. "Our thoughts are with her family, her colleagues and the students of the school. "Teachers carry a great weight for our society and we owe them so much. It is terrible that they should be asked to pay this price too. We know that the close community of schools in Leeds will rally round to offer colleagues their support." Hilary Benn, Labour MP for Leeds Central, described the incident as "profoundly saddening" but said he was not in favour of stringent security measures that would keep staff and pupils "behind high fences". He told BBC News: "Most people are good and most people try and do the right thing. "This is not representative of the college, of the community that surrounds it, the families that send their children to school and the city itself. But it is profoundly saddening." He added: "Schools are places of learning. We want our schools to be open - we don't want to lock pupils and staff behind high fences." Downing Street described the stabbing as "appalling". "The Prime Minister's thoughts are very much with the victim's relatives as well as the entire school community there, which I'm sure will be deeply shocked," the Prime Minister's official spokesman said. Pupils began leaving flowers at the school gate. The message with the first bunch read: "To a special teacher. We was all sad about it. I will never forget you." Kerrianne Ayward, 17, said: "She was just lovely. She was helpful and caring and you could have a laugh with her. "She was always there for you, even if she didn't know you very well. No one had a bad word for her - I mean no one." Kerrianne, who left the school two years ago, said: "She's been my referee for everything, college, everything. "There's no one else you would go to who's better. She was the heart of the school." Another former pupil, Peter Masefield, 18, said: "I just can't understand why her. Of all people. She was the school's figurehead." Detective superintendent Simon Beldon said there was no ongoing risk to pupils or staff and that the school was "continuing to operate as normal". He said: "The situation is under control and officers, including safer schools officers and members of the local neighbourhood policing team, are currently at the school and are liaising closely with staff. "The rest of the school is continuing to operate as normal and we would ask that parents do not attend the site unless directly requested to do so by the school. "Our inquiries are at a very early stage but the full circumstances of this incident will obviously be the subject of a full and thorough investigation." Samuel Dasaolu was a pupil at the school until 2011 and paid tribute to the teacher, who taught him Spanish and Religious Education. He said: "I felt like she was almost a mother figure of the school. I felt I could go and talk to her. She made everybody feel so comfortable." The 18-year-old said he never heard about pupils carrying weapons when he was at the school. "I can't get my head around the fact that somebody would do that. Everybody loved her and respected her," he said. Mr Dasaolu, who is studying accounting and finance at De Montfort University, Leicester, went on: "She never jumped to conclusions. I remember there was a disagreement between a student and another student. Usually most teachers would pick a side or say 'You're both in detention'. But she listened to them and discussed the situation." He added: "She was a teacher that was loved by everybody. You didn't have to be a good student to love her."

Fatal stabbing of Leeds teacher Anne Maguire: 15-year-old boy arrested

Hull Street Angels Trinity, which operates in Old Town, is seeking new volunteers. Chief Reporter Kevin Shoesmith speaks to one volunteer about the job.

SHE hits the town every Friday and rarely gets in much earlier than 3am – not bad for a great-grandmother.

By day, Christine Mobbs is a credit controller for Hull company Good Travel Management.

However, at night, when the streets are full with revellers in high spirits, Christine is all smiles and in among them.

For more than a year, Christine has spent her Friday nights touring the Old Town.

But her high-visibility jacket displaying the logo of Hull Street Angels Trinity marks her out a helper, not a reveller.

"I find it really fulfilling and extremely rewarding," says Christine.

It was not too long ago that a senior Hull judge said he wouldn't dare walk through the city centre at night.

But Christine takes life as a Street Angel volunteer all in her stride.

"I can honestly say I have never felt unsafe," she says.

"You always patrol with at least one other person and you carry a radio that is linked to Civic One."

Civic One is Hull City Council's CCTV nerve centre.

"If you ever feel vulnerable, all you have to do is radio Civic One and they'll immediately put a camera on you," says Christine.

Christine's organisation is on a recruitment drive, hoping, eventually, to be able to branch out from the city's Old Town.

So what does a Street Angel do?

"We are there to help people," says Christine. "We are not there to judge.

"If we spot someone who has drunk too much, we will offer them water.

"If they have lost their friends, we will help him or her find them.

"What we will never do is leave them.

"If you've drunk too much, you can be very vulnerable.

"If they have money on them and we are confident they will not be sick, we will call one of the taxi firms we have a very good relationship with.

"Often, this firm will give us priority because they respect the work we do."

Christine and her team will also, if needs be, ring a young person's parents.

"I've rung people's mums and dads before asking if they would pick up their son or daughter," she says.

"You'd think they would be mad but they're always appreciative of the fact we've found them and they're safe."

Like all volunteers, Christine has received first-aid and conflict management training to help defuse possible scenarios.

"It is not our job to get involved," she says. "If someone is being aggressive, they clearly do not want your help."

Often, though, as Christine is at pains to stress, Street Angels encounter grateful revellers.

"One 18-year-old lad came running up to me one night and thanked me for helping him a few weeks earlier," she says.

"He's been out celebrating a birthday and drunk too much. We'd found him and rung his mum, who came out and collected him."

Old Town has a lot of cobbles," she says. "We often see girls carrying their three-inch heels.

"We'll offer them a pair of plastic sandals. It prevents broken toes and ankles and that, of course, frees up the doctors' time at Hull Royal Infirmary."

So what drives a woman with two children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, to head out, in all weathers, to help strangers?

"I wanted to give something back to society," says Christine.

"I was married. I lost my husband three years ago after a long illness.

"People were wonderful to me and helped me so much. I wanted to give something.

"I am a keen walker and I am never cold – we've all got high-visibility, waterproof clothing."

Christine is often passing on advice to her grandchildren, who range in age from 14 to 23.

"They love to go out partying, just as I did when I was their age," she says.

"But I am always reminding the girls to be on their guard against drink spiking.

"I'll tell them, if you leave the bar to have a dance, either finish your drink before you go, or buy another. Never leave your drink unattended."

Christine appears every bit the laid-back sort but even she admits to having been shocked by the rise in the use of so-called legal highs.

"As part of the training, we go to a police station and have a really useful talk on substance misuse," she says.

"Well, I must have been living in a bubble, because I'd never even heard half of the drugs' names, like M-cat, that are popular.

"One night, I encountered a homeless lady who had taken this stuff. She was in a pretty bad way."

Christine insists the city centre, including the Old Town, is a safe, pleasant place to enjoy a night out.

She says: "The vast majority of people are happy drunks, as I call them.

"It's only a few, a very small minority, who can not handle their alcohol and turn nasty."

And in case you're wondering, Christine insists she never judges.

"We've all been there at some point in our lives," she says, laughing.

Anyone interested in become a volunteer member of Hull Street Angels Trinity should visit www.hullstreetangelstrinity.org.uk/ volunteers to download an application pack.

Alternatively, email coordinator@hullstreet angelstrinity.org.uk or call 07580 032779 or further information.

Hull street angel Christine Mobbs: 'We're here to help, not to judge'

PEOPLE in Hull are being urged to avoid buying pets from back-street breeders as new figures show an increase in dog bite injuries.

A report by the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) revealed the city is one of the worst areas in the country for dog bites and the rise has been linked to social deprivation.

In Hull, there were 85 admissions for dog bites and 55 in the East Riding.

The Hull figure represents 34.4 victims per 100,000 people, which is one of the highest in the country. The figure is 18.7 in the East Riding.

Nationally, figures show that in the 12 months to January, the rate of hospital admissions for dog bites in the 10 per cent most deprived areas averaged 1,240 compared with an average admission rate of 428 in the 10 per cent least deprived areas.

Val Wakeham, of Hessle Dog Rescue, believes people need to be careful where they buy dogs from and make sure they know what they are getting into.

She said: "This rise in dog bites is down to back-street breeders.

"During times of hardship, people often feel they can make a quick buck by breeding dogs.

"But this is not the case and then they find it difficult to sell the animals and look after them.

"Some people don't know what breed they are getting.

"One woman bought what she thought was an American bulldog, but I warned her it could be a pit bull, which are illegal.

"People in deprived areas are often naive and vulnerable."

Ms Wakeham also warned people about mixing very young children and dogs.

She said: "No dog should ever be left with a baby. Puppies may be cute but, like children, they grow up.

"If you live in cramped conditions then any dogs and children are going to be very close together.

"Children may try to stroke the dog, which could then turn aggressive.

"We have a policy of not rehoming dogs with families who have children under five years of age."

Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust confirmed there has been a rise in people being treated for dog bites.

It is one of the most common injuries staff deal with at the plastics trauma clinic, which has been open just over a year, at Hull Royal Infirmary.

A spokesman for the trust said: "Anecdotally, we are seeing a rise in the number of people attending our plastics trauma clinic with such injuries."

The HSCIC report also shows admissions were highest in the summer months, while the age group up to nine-year-olds had the highest number of admissions.

The highest rates of admissions for dog bites and attacks was in Merseyside, with the lowest in Kent and Medway.

Kingsley Manning, chairman of the HSCIC, said: "The report shows hospital admissions for bites and attacks by dogs are three times as high in the most deprived areas of England as in the least deprived areas. This is fascinating new data that we haven't produced before."

Hull 'back-street breeders' blamed for rise in dog bites

An update of people convicted and sentenced in the courts in Hull and the East Riding.Steven Pattison, 36, of Ravenser Court, Hedon, must pay £3,112.22 compensation and do 80 hours of unpaid work for two offences of fraud by false representation. He obtained goods and services worth £1,692.22 from the Plumb Centre by falsely claiming to be an employee of Westlinks Joiners and Locksmiths, and goods and services worth £1,420 from MKM Building Supplies by falsely claiming to be an employee of Major Electrical Services Ltd. He must also pay £85 in court costs and a £60 victim surcharge.Sally Johnson, 50, of Oak Tree Estate, Preston, near Hull, was fined £600 and had six points put on her licence for failing to identify to police a driver who was alleged to have committed an offence. Johnson must also pay £85 in court costs and a £60 victim surcharge.Peter Pearson, 46, of Burdale Close, west Hull, was fined £35 and must comply with a 12-month community order for stealing cans of Tennants lager, worth £16.72, from One Stop Shop, and two chickens, worth £10, from Aldi. He must pay £26.72 compensation, £85 court costs and a £60 victim surcharge.Jonathan McNally, 40, of Blandford Close, Bransholme, was fined £600 and had six points put on his licence for failing to identify to police a driver who was alleged to have committed an offence. He was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.Daniel Scott, 27, of Wexford Avenue, east Hull, must observe a three-month curfew and pay compensation of £120 for entering a building in Lincoln Street, west Hull, as a trespasser with intent to steal. He will be electronically tagged and should not leave his home from 7pm to 7am. Scott must also pay £85 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.James Macklin, 25, of Woodhill Close, Anlaby, must do 150 hours of unpaid work and pay compensation of £120 for entering a building in Lincoln Street, west Hull, as a trespasser with intent to steal. Macklin must also pay £85 costs and a £60 victim surcharge.

Hull court listings: Find out who has been sentenced (April 29, 2014)

HULL ship operator Rix Sea Shuttle has netted a contract at one of Europe's largest offshore wind farms.

It was awarded the work by Reef Subsea to support two cable installation vessels at the RWE Innogy Gwynt y Môr development.

Gwynt y Môr is one of the largest offshore wind farms being built in Europe and will consist of 160 turbines with a capacity of 576 megawatts – enough energy to power about 400,000 homes.

The site is off the North Wales coast and is forecast to be finished by the end of this year.

James Doyle, managing director of Rix Sea Shuttle, said: "We are delighted to win a contract on what is a hugely important project for the renewable energy industry.

"It will be a real source of pride to be able to say we had a small hand in building it."

The contract represents a step up in the company's renewables work as it seeks to corner the crew transfer vessel market.

Reef Subsea has employed two Rix Sea Shuttle crew support boats – the Panther and the Tiger – to aid cable installation vessels Polar Prince and Polar King.

Mr Doyle said: "The two vessels we have supplied will be used to take engineers and technicians to and from individual wind turbines to support both first end and second end pull-in operations.

"One will operate 24/7, while the other will provide daytime support.

"Then they will reverse roles to ensure the crews are properly rested."

Mr Doyle said one of the attractions of Rix Sea Shuttle was a significant investment in spare parts, which meant the company could deal very quickly with breakdowns.

Mr Doyle said: "We have spare engines and propellers in stock, which means if anything should go wrong, we can still keep to the project timeline. That gives the client considerable peace of mind."

Rix Sea Shuttle is part of Hull family firm JR Rix and Sons.

It has been running cargo ships, tankers and barges for more than a century.

Anthony Michelin, Reef Subsea project director, said: "Although a new company to the offshore renewables sector, we were particularly impressed by the Rix pedigree in terms of its safety culture, its people, its equipment and, above all, its determination to add value to the project.

"That, combined with professionalism and a real enthusiasm for the job, means Rix is adding significant value to what is a challenging, but very rewarding, build."

Hull-based Rix Sea Shuttle wins offshore wind farm contract with Reef Subsea

FORMER Hull Stingrays coach Sylvain Cloutier has confirmed he will not be back in Britain next season.

The popular Canadian was not offered a new contract after five seasons at the helm in Hull.

He has already been replaced by his former Stingrays team-mate Omar Pacha, with another former team-mate, Carl Lauzon, as his assistant.

However, LINN Consortium – the group mounting a hostile bid to take over the club from team owner Bobby McEwan – told a fans' meeting late last week they aimed to reinstate Cloutier as coach next season.

The implication was that the 40-year-old would also join the four-strong board of Luke Foster, Nigel Roberts, Nic Gough and Ian Mowforth.

"I'm moving on from hockey in the UK, I won't be back next season, we have made our decision as a family," Cloutier told the Mail.

"That's been the plan since Bobby let me go.

"We visited one of my daughter's schools yesterday and have agreed our leaving date will be in mid-June.

"I've already emailed Bobby to confirm that."

Cloutier reiterated his previous stance to the Mail that he had enjoyed his five years at the Rapid Solicitors Stingrays, but added he would part with one regret.

"The only thing I am sad about is I knew the final game of the season against Belfast in the play-offs might be my last one, but I didn't definitely know for sure.

"But, when you look at it now, I've nothing to be sad about. I've had 20 great years in the sport and the game has been good to me.

"Now I'm moving on and, as I've said before, as one door closes another one opens."

Cloutier's public stance appears a bitter blow to the Consortium.

They have submitted their pitch to take over the franchise from McEwan, believing it will be discussed at today's Elite League board meeting in Hull.

But Gough said: "I have always understood from newspaper reports that Sylvain is planning to go home after Bobby did not renew his contract.

"That does not mean to say the Consortium will not be consulting him if we are successful with our bid.

"We would like to wish Sylvain all the best whatever happens."

A league spokesman insisted again yesterday the Elite League are backing McEwan until the Scot decides to sell the club.

Former Hull Stingrays coach Sylvain Cloutier: 'I will not return to Hull'

FORMER Hull KR coach Justin Morgan has spoken of his sadness at the death of former star Ryan Tandy.

Mr Tandy, who played at Craven Park in 2007, was found dead from a suspected drug overdose in his parents' home in New South Wales, Australia.

Police were called to the 32-year-old's address at 4am UK time yesterday after reports he had died.

Mr Morgan, who was KR coach from 2005 to 2011, said: "I only spoke to him three weeks ago and he seemed in pretty good spirits.

"Ryan's death has hit everyone hard.

"He was one of those guys who was full of energy.

"He did a great job at Hull KR."

Mr Tandy's death is not being treated as suspicious and the player's mother is understood to have discovered her son's body.

According to local media, Australian-born Mr Tandy was a known drug user.

After leaving Hull KR, Mr Tandy played two matches for Sydney-based club Wests Tigers, in 2008.

He played in Melbourne Storm's 2009 Grand Final win against Parramatta Eels before making a mid-season switch to Canterbury Bulldogs the following season.

While playing for Canterbury in 2010, Mr Tandy was convicted of match fixing.

An investigation was launched after a $30,000 (£16,561) betting plunge on the game.

Mr Tandy attempted to make money off the first scoring player of the game.

He was fined $4,000 (£2,208) and placed on a 12-month good behaviour bond.

Mr Tandy was sacked early in the 2011 season and he never played in Australia's National Rugby League again.

He was on bail after being charged in January with allegedly kidnapping a man over a supposed drug debt.

Police had alleged that Mr Tandy was the "hired muscle" for two other men who were trying to recoup money from the victim.

Mr Morgan said: "Ryan had some issues.

"We all make mistakes in life.

"But everyone who knew him does not want to think about that now.

"We want to think about the Ryan Tandy we all knew – the good fellow who was full of energy."

In a statement, Hull KR said: "The club is shocked and saddened by the news of the death of former player Ryan Tandy.

"Ryan served Hull KR with distinction during his time with the club and our thoughts go out to his friends and family at this difficult time."

Former team-mate Paul Cooke said: "Very sad news about Ryan Tandy.

"My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and close friends at such a sad time."

Former Hull KR coach Justin Morgan 'saddened' at death of Ryan Tandy

THREE 11-year-old boys have confessed to trashing a school classroom during the holidays.

Around £2,000 of damage was caused to the timber-framed outdoor classroom at St Thomas More Roman Catholic Primary School in west Hull.

The boys, who are not pupils at the school, ripped artwork to shreds, smashed furniture to pieces and broke the children's play equipment.

Police have now ordered them to meet headteacher Susan Wass to apologise, despite not being pupils at the school.

They will also take part in a sponsored ten-mile walk to raise money to repair the damage and will be raiding their piggy banks.

PC Andy White, neighbourhood police officer for the area, said: "Because of their ages, the judicial system wouldn't even entertain taking them to court. The only thing we could do would be to give them a child caution, which basically means signing a piece of paper.

"That would criminalise them for the rest of their lives. Hopefully, by taking this course of action, it will have an impact on their brains for the rest of their lives, so they think twice before doing anything like it again.

"They are going to have to go cap in hand to the headteacher and explain what they did and why they did it, and the walking ten miles is a punishment element. At the same time, they will be collecting money, which will go to the school."

The boys will be telling family members and friends what they have done and asking for sponsorship money to complete the walk, which will be donated to the school.

Money from their bank accounts and piggy banks will also be donated.

The boys were taken to Kirk Ella Police Station and interviewed under caution after they were named following an appeal in the Mail.

PC White said: "They couldn't offer any real explanation about why they did it, it was just a daft, stupid thing to do.

"During the interview, they were teary and remorseful. They are disgusted and their parents are too but the parents are fully supportive of this course of action.

"They have made a mistake and we have tried to tailor something for them that will make them think in the future.

"This is all being done with the headteacher's blessing and will hopefully make them see the error of their ways. This isn't an easy option for anyone – it is a lot harder for them and it is a lot more work for us, but it is the right thing to do."

The classroom, which is mainly used by four and five-year-olds, cost £25,000 and was built after a fundraising drive.

Mrs Wass told last week the Mail the break-in was the worst experience she has had at the school since becoming the headteacher five years ago.

The boys will be joining a ten-mile walk, which has been organised by PC White to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

He was inspired to do something for the charity after hearing cancer sufferer Brian Burke speaking to a 13-year-old boy who had stolen a Macmillan collection box.

The event will see police officers, Mr Burke, young people who have been through restorative justice and their parents walking from Beverley to Hull on Saturday, May 10.

Former Hull City footballer and manager Nick Barmby will also be taking part.

Although most participants will be raising money for Macmillan, any money the three boys raise will be donated to the school.

As part of their punishment, the boys have also been banned from the school site.

Three boys aged 11 confess to wrecking spree at west Hull school

Our daily blog with the latest news, transfer rumours and gossip about Hull City in the Premier League. FORMER Arsenal star Paul Merson believes Hull City will be "psychologically worried" because they will be without Shane Long and Nikica Jelavic in this year's FA Cup final. The Tigers' £14m strike pairing are cup-tied, having played for Everton and West Brom in previous rounds. And Merson believes that will hand Arsenal the crucial mental edge. "Arsenal ripped Hull apart last week – and Hull won't have Nikica Jelavic or Shane Long in the dinal. "Psychologically, the Hull players will be worried about that," Merson claims. And the two-time League title and FA Cup winner insists the Gunners can crown a "brilliant season" by beating Hull City in the showpiece final. Arsenal strengthened their hold on the top-four and a Champions League place with a 3-0 victory over Newcastle last night. Merson said: "If Arsenal can gain a Champions League place and win the FA Cup then I think that would be a brilliant season – and I think they will do both."Gunners win to put City on verge of Europe ARSENAL'S victory over Newcastle last night means the Gunners need just one more win from their remaining two matches to guarantee Champions League qualification for a 17th consecutive year. And if they do that, City will be heading for the Europa League whether they win the final or not. They could even secure their place at the weekend if Everton fail to get a result against Manchester City. Manager Arsene Wenger admits the Gunners want more than a place in the top four and said: "Finishing in the top four shows the club has been consistent over the years. "We want more but at the crucial period of this season we lost many players. "We have shown we have potential but we want more next season."Fans get European chants at the ready HULL City fans are already getting excited about the prospect of travelling Europe next season. Arsenal's 3-0 victory over Newcastle last night means the Gunners only need one more win from two games to book their top-four place and a Champions League spot. If they do so, Hull City will be handed their ticket to the Europe, thanks to reaching this year's FA Cup final.@1_DanKemp tweeted: Que sera sera, whatever will be will be, we're going to Tel-Aviv, Que sera sera! The Tigers! #wereallgoingonaeuropeantour #hcafc@TotallyHullCity followed suit declaring: Silverware, we don't care...we're all off to Bordeaux on Ryanair! #hcafcGet in the mood for Wembley Fans who want to get in the FA Cup final spirit can now pre-order their Official Matchday Programme from the club for a tenner. To secure a memento of this special occasion, visit tigerleisure.com or the club's official club shops.

Hull City paper talk, April 29: Paul Merson says Tigers “psychologically worried

LEE Radford insists the door is not shut on anyone at Hull FC after making it clear Joe Arundel and Jay Pitts may still have a future at the club.

The two players have been loaned to Bradford Bulls for the season after finding it difficult to break into Radford's team this season.

The duo have been used sparingly, with Arundel in particular falling down the pecking order so far that utility man Richard Whiting has been selected above him in recent weeks.

Eager to stress the switch to Bradford does not mean the end of their Hull careers, Radford says the door remains open.

However, for Arundel and Pitts, as well as several of the players sent to Doncaster on a dual-registration deal, Radford says the door only remains open if the players can match the high standards set.

"Both Joe and Jay have deals here and if they perform to our standards and to their standards, the door is definitely not shut on them. It's not shut on anyone and the same rules apply," Radford told the Mail.

"I have to pick my best 17 that I think has played the most consistent in the last nine or 10 rounds and those two were not going to get in at present.

"But they deserve to be playing and for me it is a simple thing that they need game time and they can get it at Bradford.

"It is a good move for them and a good move for us. We can recall them after 29 days and the door is certainly not shut on them or anybody else."

Pitts made his debut for the Bulls on Sunday, starting in the second row as Bradford came from behind to beat Catalan Dragons and book their place in the quarter-finals of the Challenge Cup.

Arundel, who still has another two years to run after this one on his Hull deal, will be hoping to follow Pitts' lead with a debut against Warrington this weekend as both look to impress not only Bulls coach Francis Cummins, but Radford too.

While Pitts was celebrating a cup win for Bradford, Hull's Chris Green was part of the Doncaster team brushed aside 68-0 by Warrington on Sunday.

The Hull prop played his second game for Paul Cooke's men after coming back from a pre-season injury which has seen him sit on the sidelines so far.

"With Chris coming back, we felt it would be good to get another game into him," explained Radford.

"He's got a tough route back into the team because we've got a healthy pack at the minute and he needs game time to get up to speed."

Hull FC coach Lee Radford: ‘Jay Pitts and Joe Arundel can still earn future at club’

TRAVELLERS have returned to a residential area in west Hull for the sixth time in three years.

About eight or nine caravans have pitched up on land close to Woolwich Drive, off the Boothferry Road estate.

Hull City Council has already taken steps to have them removed but fed-up residents want more to be done to speed up the removal.

Syd Renfree lives nearby in Anlaby Park Road South.

He said: "There are eight or nine caravans there.

"It costs the council about £300 every time to have the travellers removed.

"I would love to know how many times this has been done.

"I have only lived around here for three years and they have turned up five or six times in that period.

"It is not quite as bad for me as the generator isn't too loud, but it must be murder for the residents living next to the site.

"It's like banging your head against a brick wall."

Mr Renfree admits there is little that can be done to secure the site they are currently on.

But he feels this makes it more important to have a more effective process in place to remove them.

He said: "You can't put bollards or fencing on the site because residents have to park there.

"You could make the area like Fort Knox but they will just find somewhere else to go.

"I just think the law as it stands is silly. The council has to go through this same court process every time.

"It is the taxpayer that has to foot the bill as the travellers never pay the costs.

"We need a proper grown-up debate about this but the council doesn't seem interested in joining in."

The council has confirmed the notice to quit has been served and there is a court hearing on Wednesday.

Jane Price, assistant city manager for neighbourhoods, said: "We are aware that travellers have set up an unauthorised encampment on Woolwich Drive.

"We are currently working with our multi-agency partners, following our procedures and have started the legal proceedings as necessary.

"We will continue to monitor this area and would encourage any residents with concerns to report them by calling 01482 300300 or visiting any customer service centre."

Travellers set up illegal west Hull camp for sixth time in three years

She has appeared at London Fashion Week and posed for Vogue but model Sophie Allen is happiest in her home city of Hull, writes Natalie Murphy. Dozens of models will be bringing clothes to life on the catwalk at Hull Bid Fashion Week. Aged from seven to 57, they will be appearing at shows throughout the week, including at the grand finale at Hull City Hall on Saturday. Among them is former London Fashion Week model and Hull girl Sophie Allen, who has a famous name to thank for getting her into the industry. "I got into modelling around the time Agyness Deyn was about and she pointed me in the right direction," said Sophie. "I started modelling when I was 16, so I've been doing it on and off for seven years now – wow, how time flies. "I first moved to the big smoke when I was 19 into a warehouse full of girls, some dancers others art students. "We had lots of parties and there wasn't much time for beauty sleep. "We once had local Hull band The Hubbards perform a gig in our living room." Sophie, who has modelled for Vogue, said she was delighted to supporting an event in her home city, especially after it was named UK City of Culture 2017. "I was ecstatic to hear about the City of Culture, as our city has had it tough for a lot of years," she said. "With it being named the worst city to live in a few years back, it's just what's needed. "I don't understand why people talk so badly of Hull because it has so much talent hidden away in every corner and there's so much history and importance. "The music scene is forever expanding and improving. It's all about the people you surround yourself with and us Hull people are so down to earth and welcoming. "I'm doing Hull Fashion Week because I am proud of our city and will support it forever. Hull is where the heart is." Sophie helped launched fashion week at the weekend with flash mob-style catwalks alongside 16-year-old identical twins Sophia and Olivia Daly, of Swanland, who are hoping to break into the modelling world. Sophia said: "We're so happy to be part of fashion week and can't wait for the finale event next weekend. "We're from Hull and we're proud to be representing the city, especially with City of Culture coming up." Olivia said: "There's a real diversity of fashion in Hull, which people don't always realise. "We shop in Hull because there's such a great range of shops and I hope Fashion Week attracts more people into the city to find out what's on offer." Sporting outfits from city centre retailers including Thieving Harry's and Topshop, the trio strutted their stuff outside City Hall, the venue of this weekend's ultimate catwalk finale. Hull Fashion Week sees the city centre's high-street chains, independent boutiques, hairdressers, beauty parlours and more come together to showcase their products. Events are being held throughout the week to celebrate all things fashion and encourage shoppers to visit the city centre to explore some of the fantastic shops on offer. Having seen the best the city has to offer in clothes, Sophie has a couple of simple beauty tips to help Femail readers look their best. "Plenty of sleep, which I don't get," she said. "And being in love with someone, it radiates off your face like the sunrise. Oh, and probably some real good skin wash!"

How model Agyness Deyn helped launch the career of Hull Fashion Week star Sophie Allen

Hull Bid Fashion Week has plenty of inspirational ways to help you get a new look. And, with offers running until Saturday, it is also a great time to bag a bargain. With the independents and big brands alike taking part, there are some deals not to be missed. Natalie Murphy searches for bargains.CITY CENTREAnn Summers in Whitefriargate is offering a bra-fitting service all week.Bonmarché in Whitefriargate is offering customers 10 per cent off from Thursday to Saturday.Bronx in Paragon Square is offering 10 per cent off all non-sale items all week.The Dressing Room in George Street is offering 10 per cent off accessories and a free scarf with clothing purchases all week.Marks & Spencer in Whitefriargate is offering a bra-fitting service all week.Scope in Savile Street is offering customers who donate a bag of clothes the chance to save 20 per cent on purchases of £20 or over, all week.Simply Running in Albion Street is offering 15 per cent off all purchases, excluding special offers or other vouchers, all week.PRINCES QUAYPoorboy customers who mention "Hull Fashion Week" will get 20 per cent off all week.ST STEPHEN'SBoux Avenue is offering customers a 10 per cent discount in store on Thursday, from 5pm to 7pm.Clarks is offering the chance to win a pair of shoes. There are three prizes available. See in store for details all week.Fit24 Gym has a special offer of membership for £19.99 per month with no joining fee all week.H&M has a "Long Live Fashion" event where customers can trade in a bag of unwanted clothes for vouchers to spend in store, all week.Hugh Rice is offering people the chance to win a male or female piece of Thomas Sabo Jewellery. See Hugh Rice staff in the mall for more details, all week. The store also has 10 per cent off selected brands on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Peacocks is offering £5 off a £25 spend all week.Select is offering 15 per cent off with online sign-up all week.Superdrug is offering 10 per cent off with online sign-up on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Topshop/Topman is offering 10 per cent off for students all week.USC is offering 20 per cent off from 10am to 3pm on Friday. We pick six of the best Hull Bid Fashion Week eventsFashion Finale Hull City Hall plays host to "The Ultimate Catwalk" – a day of fashion fun with free entry. From 11am to 4pm on Saturday, there will be shows, performances, and activities in and around the main hall. The full event will also be streamed live in Queen Victoria Square. Cute and Cuddly It's never too early for youngsters to learn about fashion and, at Build-A-Bear in St Stephen's, they can practise being a stylist. During fashion week, children can style one of the store's bears with the chance to win their very own Build-A-Bear. Kids can also be in with a chance to win a bear by completing one of the store's colouring books.Beauty Day Shake up your make-up with advice at a beauty day at St Stephen's shopping centre on Thursday, May 1. From 1pm to 7pm, there will be a variety of beauty product demonstrations and promotions, including an exclusive Ladies' Evening at Boux Avenue from 5pm to 7pm, when there will be goodie bags and discounts available in store.Pop-Up Shop There's a chance to find a unique piece of clothing from a designer of the future at a special pop-up shop launched as part of fashion week. BA (Hons) fashion and costume design graduates from Hull School of Art and Design will showcase their wares at a shop in Hull's Prospect Shopping Centre, opposite Goldsmiths, near Wilkinson. The shop will open from Thursday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm each week until the end of May.Fashion Show Students from Park Street College will be presenting a show at St Stephen's shopping centre tomorrow Wednesday 30 April from noon to 1pm in the Chill Out Zone of the shopping centre. It will feature themes including style on a budget, "industrial evolution" coats, the little black dress and frocks inspired by the city's sights and buildings.Market Days There are several markets taking place as part of fashion week, including a vintage market on Saturday, May 3, on the Harbour Deck of Princes Quay shopping centre. Find a wide range of vintage fashion, including clothing, jewellery, shoes and beauty products, from 9am to 5pm. On Friday, May 2, meet more than 30 local artisan traders offering high-quality goods in Trinity Square, Old Town, from 10am to 3.30pm. Don't miss the Hull Fashion Week Bazaar taking place as part of the week's grand finale celebrations in Queen Victoria Square and Hull City Hall on Saturday, May 3. From 11am to 4pm, there will be stalls showcasing Hull's finest independent boutiques from inside and outside the city centre.

Bargains and special offers with Hull Bid Fashion Week

DETECTIVES are still trying to piece together the last known movements of a woman found dead in her home.

Louise Rowbottom, 48, was discovered dead after neighbours spotted her body lying on the floor of her house in Hambledon Close, Bransholme.

Police say they have received calls from members of the public in connection with their investigation but they need more help.

A post-mortem examination took place on April 3 but proved inconclusive.

It is hoped further test results will be available in the next few weeks, but police admit they are still no closer to solving the mystery of where she was in the hours leading up to her death.

A Humberside Police spokesman said: "At this time, the woman's cause of death is unknown and tests are still ongoing to establish this.

"A post-mortem examination has taken place, with the cause of death being treated as unexplained.

"Tests are ongoing but this can take some time.

"The team investigating the incident are still piecing together Louise Rowbottom's final movements between the evening of Monday, March 31 and the evening of Wednesday, April 2.

"To date, detectives have had a number of calls from the public, but would be keen to speak to anyone who may have information about her movements."

The woman was discovered after police broke down the door of her home in Hambledon Close, Bransholme.

It is understood she would have turned 49 earlier this month.

Initially, the incident was being investigated by Humberside Police's major incident team.

Officers entered Miss Rowbottom's house after they were called at 8.30pm on Wednesday, April 2. They found her body inside.

The house remained cordoned off by police for several days, with a forensics tent outside the front door.

Scenes of crime investigators wearing protective suits carried out a search for evidence inside the house before Miss Rowbottom's body was removed from her home as detectives continued house-to-house inquiries.

Lauren Jackson, 23, who lives near Miss Rowbottom's house, said she had last seen her neighbour about a week before her body was discovered.

She said: "She was outside crying and shouting for my neighbour.

"That was the last time I saw her but I used to see her quite a bit. She would always say hi and ask how my little boy was.

"She was really friendly. I saw her on Mother's Day and she wished me a happy Mother's Day.

"I said I was going to see my mum and she said she would probably go and see her mum, too. She was happy."

Police confirmed there had been no arrests in relation to the woman's death.

If you have any information surrounding Louise Rowbottom's movements in the hours leading up to her death, call Humberside Police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting log 641 of April 2.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Woman found dead in Bransholme home: Calls from public, post-mortem but reasons for death of Louise Rowbottom remain unexplained

Jason Netherton says the Hull KR lads enjoyed the few days break but they are back focused on impressing against Widnes Vikings

AFTER the busy Easter period it was good to recharge the batteries last week with a few days off spent with the family.

Our families have to put up with a lot during the season with us working every weekend, spending time away, being moody when we lose or depressed when we're injured so it is always good to spend some quality time with them when we can.

Back on the training ground, this week is all about working hard and making sure we prepare well for what is a massive game against a Widnes team that probably wouldn't have been most pundits choice for a top-six position at the start of the year.

However, they've won some tough games and are a very well-disciplined and well-coached team.

After a tough morning yesterday, we all headed to Sutton Park golf course for a team tournament.

I was partnered with young Steve Holker against Greame Horne and our physio Rob Parkinson. I've seen some bad golfers in my time but Steve takes some beating!

He went through the first nine holes in around 80 shots before packing in! As much as I tried to carry him, it was just too hard and we lost! But it was a good day out and we all enjoyed ourselves.

MY testimonial events will gather pace again in May as Rob Burrow is coming over to the National Pub to host an evening on May 13.

There is also a boxing event at our stadium on May 23 in conjunction with the Life For A Kid charity.

There is a limited number of tickets available for both events and anyone who is interested can contact Adge Cutler on 07877 329851 or Ashley Robinson on 07830 414464.

Jason Netherton column: Hull KR back training hard for Widnes Vikings…and why young Steve Holker is terrible at golf!

Two men arrested on suspicion of raping a teenage girl who was taken to a house by a gang have been released on bail. The two 20-year-old men were arrested on Friday as part of Operation Starling, which is investigating the attack on the 19-year-old. Five other men who were arrested on suspicion of rape the week before are also on bail. The teenager was sexually assaulted inside a house in Spring Bank after being taken there by four men she met in the city centre. She had become separated from her friends following a night out at Fuel when she came across the men in Prospect Street in the early hours of March 16. Anyone with information about the attack should call Humberside Police on 101.

Hull gang sex attack: Two men arrested on suspicion of Spring Bank rape released on bail

Two men wanted over a break-in using sledgehammers at a pub have been named by Mail readers.

CCTV captured men using the hammers to smash three fruit machines inside the Whistling Goose pub in Amsterdam Road.

They escaped with cash but suspects were named after an appeal in the Mail's Caught on Camera last week.

A third man who was with the pair remains unidentified.

Detective Constable Justin Marrow, of Hull's priority crime team, said: "This is a really good result and I hope someone will recognise the third man.

"I would ask anyone who does to get in touch."

Do you recognise the man pictured here? If so, email ddivprioritycrimeteam@humberside.pnn.police.uk or call 01482 340629, quoting Ref 275.

Caught on Camera: Readers name two of three Whistling Goose pub in Hull attackers