bbc--2020-12-30--The Californian district attorney with a unique background

First of all , your background is quite unusual .
What happened with your parents ?
My parents dropped me off with a babysitter and they participated in an armed robbery .
They were unarmed drivers of a switch car .
But other participants in the robbery were heavily armed .
And the robbery went terribly wrong , tragically so , resulting in the murder of three men - a security guard and two police officers .
Your mum and dad were convicted of almost exactly the same crime .
Yet your mum was given a far reduced sentence from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way that you see criminal justice ?
That 's right .
My parents did the same thing , their role in the crime was virtually identical .
But they ended up with very , very different sentences and outcomes .
It 's an example of one of the many ways in which the criminal justice system is horribly arbitrary and punitive .
For folks who are n't familiar with the American approach to cash bail , let me just explain briefly how it works .
It 's one of only two countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bond industry .
When someone is arrested , they can immediately buy their way out .
They can pay a non-refundable , usually 10 % deposit and within hours , they 're free .
And that has nothing to do with risk has everything to do with wealth .
So for example , a really wealthy person charged with a domestic violence attempted murder , under the bail system , can buy their way out as soon as they 're arrested - and go complete the murder .
But a poor person arrested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crime - a person who presents no public safety risk of violence - may languish behind bars for months simply because of their poverty .
Is there any non-violent crime you think deserves a custodial sentence ?
In general ?
No .
There are certainly exceptions though and each case is different .
Jail and prison should be a last resort .
And in the United States , sadly , it 's become a primary response to a wide array of social problems .
We need to move away from our dependence on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ putting people in cages and start focusing resources and technology and energy on attacking the root causes of crime .
You stood on a platform of not cooperating with ICE , the Immigration and Customs Enforcement authority , is that right ?
Have you not been cooperating with ICE ?
That 's right .
In order for us to keep our community safe here in San Francisco , it 's essential that the immigrants living here and their families , people from all over the world speaking different languages , feel safe calling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a victim of crime , coming to court to testify , to help us solve crimes .
Since I took office , we 've reduced the number of people in state prison from San Francisco by about a third .
And we 've also reduced the number of people in our local county jail from peak to trough by about 40-45 % .
Meanwhile , crime rates in San Francisco have plummeted by historic margins we 've seen in 2020 , compared to the same time period of the first 12 months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dropping crime of nearly 25 % .
It 's a historic , unprecedented drop .
Now I understand of course , that much of that is driven by changes in tourism and consumer habits around Covid-19 .
But the fear mongers , the naysayers , the police unions would have you believe that if we let people out of jail , crime will go up .
And instead in San Francisco this year , we 've seen exactly the opposite .
Crime rates are falling as we safely decarcerate You mentioned the police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Association does n't like you much , it 's fair to say .
They think that you undermine the police .
What do you say to that ?
I have a great relationship with the chief of police , individual officers and captains .
And we all know that to build safety , we have to work together .
But San Francisco 's police officer union , like so many law enforcement unions around the country , has become really disconnected from the values and needs of local communities .
They spend more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will of the people than they do trying to build collaborations and be creative in their approach to problem solving .
It 's quite the contrary .
We 're actually using empirical evidence and meticulous data gathering to promote public safety .
That 's not a standard that anyone has ever held the so called 'tough on drug ' policies to .
You show me one iota of data that indicates that jailing people with drug addiction is an effective response .
You show me one iota of data that suggests that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violent crime .
It does n't exist .

The Californian district attorney with a unique background Published 30 December 2020
Image source, N/A Image caption, San Francisco District Attorney, Chesa Boudin
San Francisco's top prosecutor has a unique life story and a background as a criminal justice reformer. He spoke with the BBC's James Clayton.
Chesa Boudin was elected district attorney of San Francisco in November last year.
His background is unusual to say the least.
In 1981, as a one-year-old, he was left with a babysitter while his parents went off to take part in an armed robbery.
They were part of the left-wing guerrilla movement the "Weather Underground".
They never came back. The robbery went wrong and a security guard and two police officers were killed.
Although his parents were the getaway drivers, and didn't pull the trigger, they were both given life sentences - though his mother was released in 2003.
He is now part of a movement of liberal district attorneys in cities like Los Angeles, Boston and Philadelphia that are trying to reform what they say is a broken criminal justice system.
They want to end mass incarceration, focus more police resources on addiction and mental health services, and decriminalise some lower level, non-violent crimes.
To his opponents, Boudin is a dangerous radical, undermining the police, and making the streets more dangerous.
The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
First of all, your background is quite unusual. What happened with your parents?
My parents dropped me off with a babysitter and they participated in an armed robbery. They were unarmed drivers of a switch car. But other participants in the robbery were heavily armed. And the robbery went terribly wrong, tragically so, resulting in the murder of three men - a security guard and two police officers.
They didn't come back. Instead my mother ended up spending 22 years in prison. And my father is still incarcerated today. He's serving a minimum 75 year sentence, and he may never get out.
How old were you at the time?
I was 14 months old, and I don't remember that day. I don't remember being adopted into a new family. My earliest memories are going through metal detectors and steel gates, just to visit my parents, just to be able to touch them and give them a hug.
Your mum and dad were convicted of almost exactly the same crime. Yet your mum was given a far reduced sentence from your dad. How has that affected the way that you see criminal justice?
That's right. My parents did the same thing, their role in the crime was virtually identical. But they ended up with very, very different sentences and outcomes. It's an example of one of the many ways in which the criminal justice system is horribly arbitrary and punitive.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, A young Chesa Boudin visiting his mother, Kathy Boudin, in prison
My father's 75 year minimum sentence is not based on any greater culpability for his role in the crime. It's based instead on the fact that he chose to represent himself and his case went to trial.
Is that what inspired you to go down the route that you've gone down?
I've seen first hand my entire life, the failings of America's approach to criminal justice. I've seen it fail to rehabilitate or support crime victims. I've seen the way it tears families apart and horrific racial biases and economic and social costs.
Talk me through some of your policies. Why did you want to get rid of cash bail?
For folks who aren't familiar with the American approach to cash bail, let me just explain briefly how it works. It's one of only two countries in the world with a for-profit bail bond industry. When someone is arrested, they can immediately buy their way out. They can pay a non-refundable, usually 10% deposit and within hours, they're free. And that has nothing to do with risk has everything to do with wealth.
So for example, a really wealthy person charged with a domestic violence attempted murder, under the bail system, can buy their way out as soon as they're arrested - and go complete the murder. But a poor person arrested for shoplifting food, a low-level misdemeanour crime - a person who presents no public safety risk of violence - may languish behind bars for months simply because of their poverty.
Is there any non-violent crime you think deserves a custodial sentence?
In general? No. There are certainly exceptions though and each case is different. Jail and prison should be a last resort. And in the United States, sadly, it's become a primary response to a wide array of social problems. We need to move away from our dependence on narrow, myopic focus on punishment and putting people in cages and start focusing resources and technology and energy on attacking the root causes of crime.
In San Francisco, for example, 75% of people booked into the county jail are drug addicted, mentally ill, or both. Until we start getting at those root causes - homelessness, mental health, trauma - we're never going to decrease crime and build the safe communities that we all deserve.
You stood on a platform of not cooperating with ICE, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement authority, is that right? Have you not been cooperating with ICE?
That's right. In order for us to keep our community safe here in San Francisco, it's essential that the immigrants living here and their families, people from all over the world speaking different languages, feel safe calling the police, reporting when they've been a victim of crime, coming to court to testify, to help us solve crimes.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Protesters march outside US Immigration and Customs Enforcement offices in San Francisco
If immigrant communities fear my office, or think local law enforcement will cooperate with immigration officials, they will not come forward, they will not cooperate - and they will themselves and all of us be more vulnerable for crime.
Obviously, we're in a pandemic so it's actually quite difficult to ascertain how successful you've been. But can you point to anything that suggests your new strategy is working?
Well big picture, absolutely.
Since I took office, we've reduced the number of people in state prison from San Francisco by about a third. And we've also reduced the number of people in our local county jail from peak to trough by about 40-45%. Meanwhile, crime rates in San Francisco have plummeted by historic margins we've seen in 2020, compared to the same time period of the first 12 months of 2019. We've seen it dropping crime of nearly 25%. It's a historic, unprecedented drop.
Now I understand of course, that much of that is driven by changes in tourism and consumer habits around Covid-19. But the fear mongers, the naysayers, the police unions would have you believe that if we let people out of jail, crime will go up. And instead in San Francisco this year, we've seen exactly the opposite. Crime rates are falling as we safely decarcerate
You mentioned the police unions. The San Francisco Police Officers Association doesn't like you much, it's fair to say. They think that you undermine the police. What do you say to that?
I'm sorry they have such a narrow view of public safety. It's really frustrating that the police are more interested in promoting fear than in promoting safety in some places in this country,
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Cash bail has been abolished in California
I have a great relationship with the chief of police, individual officers and captains. And we all know that to build safety, we have to work together. But San Francisco's police officer union, like so many law enforcement unions around the country, has become really disconnected from the values and needs of local communities. They spend more time and energy attacking and undermining the will of the people than they do trying to build collaborations and be creative in their approach to problem solving.
What about the criticism that you're focusing too much on the criminal here and not enough on the victim?
Well it ignores the tremendous amount of work that my Victim Services team has done this year and in general to put victims first to give victims a voice.
We're in the process of launching, for example, the most ambitious restorative justice programme in the country that gives every single victim of every single crime the choice about how they want their case to proceed - a victim-centred process that puts their needs first, or do they prefer a punitive approach that focuses on the defendant, the person who caused harm.
What would you say to people who say this - that you're using San Francisco as an experiment, a petri dish for some pretty left wing policies on criminal justice?
It's quite the contrary. We're actually using empirical evidence and meticulous data gathering to promote public safety. That's not a standard that anyone has ever held the so called 'tough on drug' policies to. You show me one iota of data that indicates that jailing people with drug addiction is an effective response. You show me one iota of data that suggests that the death penalty is an effective deterrent to violent crime. It doesn't exist.


bbc--2020-12-31--Remembering the entertainment and arts figures we lost in 2020

As the year draws to a close , it is time to remember the figures from the worlds of arts @ @ @ @ @ 2020 .
Here is a look back at some of those to whom we said @ @

As the year draws to a close, it is time to remember the figures from the worlds of arts and entertainment who died in 2020. Here is a look back at some of those we said farewell to.


bbc--2020-12-31--Deepening divisions: Venezuela's haves and have nots

Clearly a lot of hard work has been put into restoring this architectural jewel but it is not your typical @ @ @ @ @ the classification was awarded by the government which is promoting it , and the hotel @ @ @ @ @ around the edges , despite having been inaugurated a month ago .

Clearly a lot of hard work has been put into restoring this architectural jewel but it is not your typical five-star lodgings. Indeed, the classification was awarded by the government which is promoting it, and the hotel is still a bit rough around the edges, despite having been inaugurated a month ago.


bbc--2020-12-30--Can $15bn in Covid relief funds help arts venues survive?

But most venues in the US have seen revenue collapse by over 90 % according to Niva , and have @ @ @ @ @ lay off all of their employees .
Until they are able to reopen at 100 @ @ @ @ @ not be able to even come close to breaking even , let alone turn a @ @

But most venues in the US have seen revenue collapse by over 90% according to Niva, and have been forced to furlough or lay off all of their employees. Until they are able to reopen at 100% occupancy, they will not be able to even come close to breaking even, let alone turn a profit.


bbc--2020-12-30--Four-day week means 'I don't waste holidays on chores'

`` For the large majority of firms , reducing working hours is an entirely realistic goal for the near future @ @ @ @ @ , director of research at Autonomy , which is campaigning for a shorter working week @ @ @ @ @ .

"Any policy push will have to be carefully designed, and different strategies would need to be deployed for different industries," he said, adding that if it happened overnight, with no planning, most firms would still remain profitable.


bbc--2020-12-30--How the UK's borders are getting ready for Brexit

`` The crunch point is probably not going to be in the first few days or weeks of January , @ @ @ @ @ `` Towards the end of the month , when new orders start being placed and @ @ @ @ @ to see the processes in Kent and the other ports really tested . ''

"The crunch point is probably not going to be in the first few days or weeks of January," William Bain argues. "Towards the end of the month, when new orders start being placed and delivered, we will start to see the processes in Kent and the other ports really tested."


bbc--2020-12-30--New Year Honours: Lewis Hamilton knighted as Rob Burrow becomes MBE

Last updated on .From the section Sport Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been knighted in the Queen 's New Year Honours list .
Rugby league legend Rob Burrow is made an MBE for services to rugby and his awareness campaign since being diagnosed with motor neurone disease .
British Billie Jean King Cup captain Anne Keothavong also becomes an MBE .
The former British number one , 37 , represented Great Britain in the event - previously known as the Fed Cup - before becoming captain in 2016 .
Others made an MBE include former Tottenham and Chelsea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Flowers , both World Cup winners with England in 1966 .
Greaves , who later became a popular television personality , suffered a severe stroke in 2015 and his son Danny said of the MBE : `` We are very , very proud of Dad .
Always have been , always will be .
`` At almost 81 to receive an honour from Her Majesty the Queen is just something very , very special . ''
Following rugby union side Exeter Chiefs ' domestic and European titles last season , director of rugby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ captain Joe Simmonds becomes an MBE .
`` I could n't quite work out if it was real or whether it was spam or someone having bit of a prank , '' Baxter said of the moment he received the news .
`` It turned up by email and not in an official letter .
You download it , read it and check who it has been emailed from with a Google search .
`` I was sat there with my wife , both of us in a slightly bemused state .
My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ captain Gillian Coultard has been appointed an MBE for services to football , along with former Swansea City and Wales forward Alan Curtis .
Chairman of the Racecourse Association Maggie Carver has been made a CBE , as has former jockey Bob Champion and chief executive and secretary of the R & A Peter Dawson .
Promoter Barry Hearn becomes an OBE for services to sport , having been involved in boxing , snooker and darts among other sports .
`` It has been a great joy to be involved in such a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years , '' said Hearn .
`` To be recognised for that work is an honour . ''
Former Rugby Football League chairman , ex-Football Association chief executive and former BBC head of sport Brian Barwick , now chairman of football 's National League , receives an OBE .
Meanwhile , Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby chair Kevin Aitchison is made an MBE , and footballer-turned-boxer Curtis Woodhouse is among those to receive the British Empire Medal .
Hamilton won his first world title with McLaren in 2008 , with further successes in 2014 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 .
He clinched a seventh world championship and became the most successful F1 driver ever when he won the Turkish Grand Prix in November 2020 .
The Mercedes driver had already surpassed Schumacher 's record number of race wins the previous month , with Hamilton 's total now standing at 95 .
After the Istanbul victory Hamilton said he felt like he was `` only just getting started '' , adding : `` To all the kids out there , dream the impossible . ''
He said he would `` love to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to campaign for change when it comes to human rights , diversity and environmentalism .
Incoming F1 chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali said : `` Lewis is a true giant of our sport and his influence is huge both in and out of a car .
`` What he has achieved is phenomenal , with still more to come .
All of us at Formula 1 congratulate him on this well deserved recognition of his achievements and look forward to seeing more of his brilliance in 2021 . ''
Burrow among those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have earned their place on the honours list through charity work , with their contributions during the coronavirus pandemic recognised .
Burrow , who made 493 appearances for Leeds Rhinos , was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2019 , two years after retiring from playing .
With the support of his former club and the rugby league community , the 38-year-old has spent the past year working to raise awareness of the degenerative condition , which affects how nerves in the brain and spinal cord function .
Also recognised for his charity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fought cancer to win the Grand National in 1981 .
The 72-year-old has been made a CBE for his work with the Bob Champion Cancer Trust , which he founded two years after his fairytale win .
`` I 'm so proud , '' Champion said .
`` But really it 's for the Bob Champion Cancer Trust , and all the people involved in it .
The award is for them really not just me . ''
In rugby union , former player Matt Hampson has been appointed an OBE after founding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was paralysed from the neck down in 2005 following an accident in training and set up his foundation to offer support to others who have suffered catastrophic sporting injuries .
Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire ( CBE ) Maggie Carver ( Racecourse Association chairman ) , for services to sport and to the media sector .
Bob Champion ( former jockey and founder of Bob Champion Cancer Trust ) , for charitable services .
Peter Dawson ( chief executive and secretary of R & A ) , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Order of the British Empire ( OBE ) Brian Barwick ( National League chairman ) , for services to sport and broadcasting .
Rob Baxter ( director of rugby at Exeter Chiefs ) , for services to rugby union .
Donna Fraser ( diversity lead at UK Athletics ) , for services to equality , inclusion and diversity in the workplace .
Barry Hearn ( promoter and chairman of World Snooker Tour and Professional Darts Corporation ) , for services to sport .
Matt Hampson ( former rugby union player and founder of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and charitable service .
Samantha Orde ( director of English Federation of Disability Sport ) , for services to people with disabilities .
Members of the Order of the British Empire ( MBE ) Kevin Aitchison ( chair of Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby ) , for services to wheelchair rugby and to people with disabilities .
Rob Burrow ( former Leeds Rhinos player ) for services to rugby and to motor neurone disease awareness during Covid-19 .
Gillian Coultard ( former England captain ) , for services to football .
Alan Curtis ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for services to Welsh football .
Susan Deaves ( vice-president of British Athletics Supporters Club ) , for services to athletics .
Robert Dick ( head coach of Scottish Disability Bowls ) , for services to disability sport .
Katie Dodd ( former England hockey player ) , for services to hockey .
Emma Evans ( goalball coach , player and referee ) , for services to goalball and to athletes with visual impairments .
Ron Flowers ( former Wolves and England midfielder ) , for services to football .
Jimmy Greaves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for services to football .
Damian Hopley ( chief executive of the Rugby Players Association ) , for services to rugby union .
David Mahoney ( chief operating officer of England and Wales Cricket Board ) , for services to sport .
Martin Mann ( chair of the Special Olympics ) , for services to people with intellectual disabilities .
David McGowan ( former Olympic rower ) , for services to sport and to reconciliation in Northern Ireland .
Mick O'Neill ( chairman of Keighley Cougars ) , for services to rugby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to charity during the Covid-19 pandemic .
Nigel Payne ( former chair of Professional Jockeys Association ) , for services to horse racing and to charity , particularly during the Covid-19 response .
Andrew Shelley ( former World Squash Federation chief executive ) , for services to squash .
Joe Simmonds ( captain of Exeter Chiefs ) , for services to rugby union .
Paul Thorogood ( chief executive officer of Football Foundation ) , for services to football .
Shahab Uddin ( director of legal , British Olympic Association ) , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Brendan Warburton ( head coach at Sheffield City Amateur Boxing Club ) , for services to boxing and to the community in Sharrow , Sheffield .
Bob Wright ( Parson Cross Amateur Boxing Club ) , for services to amateur boxing and to the young people in Parson Cross , Sheffield .
Roland Wycherley ( chair of Shrewsbury Town Football Club ) , for services to the community in Shrewsbury .
David Adamson ( honorary chieftain of Burntisland Highland Games ) , for services to athletics and to the community in Burntisland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services to cricket and to diversity in sport .
Debra Courtenay-Crane ( head coach at Carterton Gymnastics Club ) , for services to gymnastics and to young people in Carterton , Oxfordshire .
Sophie Dunnett , for services to amateur athletics in Scotland .
Sharon Gill , for services to kickboxing and to young people in Bristol .
Evelyn Graham , for services to badminton and to the community in County Antrim .
Dennis Murphy , for services to veterans ' football in Merthyr Tydfil , Mid Glamorgan .
Albert Scruby ( instructor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ services to rowing in Clapton , London .
Gregory Silvester ( trustee at Special Olympics GB ) , for services to people with learning disabilities in sport .
Gladys Turnbull ( coach at Whitmore Netball Club ) , for services to sport and the community in Wolverhampton .
Peter Warden , for services to athletics in north-west England .
Curtis Woodhouse , for services to football and boxing .
Graham Wright , for services to athletics and to the community in Rossendale , Lancashire .
• None When Peter Crouch got a very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Sport
Lewis Hamilton won a seventh F1 world championship in 2020
Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has been knighted in the Queen's New Year Honours list.
The Briton, 35, sealed a seventh drivers' title at the Turkish Grand Prix in November - equalling Michael Schumacher's championships record.
Rugby league legend Rob Burrow is made an MBE for services to rugby and his awareness campaign since being diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
British Billie Jean King Cup captain Anne Keothavong also becomes an MBE.
The former British number one, 37, represented Great Britain in the event - previously known as the Fed Cup - before becoming captain in 2016.
Others made an MBE include former Tottenham and Chelsea striker Jimmy Greaves and ex-Wolves midfielder Ron Flowers, both World Cup winners with England in 1966.
Greaves, who later became a popular television personality, suffered a severe stroke in 2015 and his son Danny said of the MBE: "We are very, very proud of Dad. Always have been, always will be.
"At almost 81, to receive an honour from Her Majesty the Queen is just something very, very special."
Following rugby union side Exeter Chiefs' domestic and European titles last season, director of rugby Rob Baxter is made an OBE while captain Joe Simmonds becomes an MBE.
"I couldn't quite work out if it was real or whether it was spam or someone having bit of a prank," Baxter said of the moment he received the news.
"It turned up by email and not in an official letter. You download it, read it and check who it has been emailed from with a Google search.
"I was sat there with my wife, both of us in a slightly bemused state. My family are delighted."
Former England captain Gillian Coultard has been appointed an MBE for services to football, along with former Swansea City and Wales forward Alan Curtis.
Chairman of the Racecourse Association Maggie Carver has been made a CBE, as has former jockey Bob Champion and chief executive and secretary of the R&A Peter Dawson.
Promoter Barry Hearn becomes an OBE for services to sport, having been involved in boxing, snooker and darts among other sports.
"It has been a great joy to be involved in such a wide range of sports for over 40 years," said Hearn.
"To be recognised for that work is an honour."
Former Rugby Football League chairman, ex-Football Association chief executive and former BBC head of sport Brian Barwick, now chairman of football's National League, receives an OBE.
Meanwhile, Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby chair Kevin Aitchison is made an MBE, and footballer-turned-boxer Curtis Woodhouse is among those to receive the British Empire Medal.
Hamilton honoured after historic year
'Recognise me now?' Lewis Hamilton's career illustrated
Hamilton won his first world title with McLaren in 2008, with further successes in 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019.
He clinched a seventh World Championship and became the most successful F1 driver ever when he won the Turkish Grand Prix in November 2020.
The Mercedes driver had already surpassed Schumacher's record number of race wins the previous month, with Hamilton's total now standing at 95.
After the Istanbul victory, Hamilton said he felt like he was "only just getting started", adding: "To all the kids out there, dream the impossible."
He said he would "love to stay" in F1 and wanted to continue to campaign for change when it comes to human rights, diversity and environmentalism.
'He's going to ignite an army of Hamilton wannabes'
Former world champion Damon Hill told BBC Radio 5 Live: "It's fantastic the way he calls out to all the young kids. He's going to ignite a whole army of Hamilton wannabe emulators and he deserves his knighthood.
"He's always has been an exceptional talent but it's incredible what he's achieved this year. It's not been a good year for most of us on the planet but it's been a pretty good year for Lewis."
Burrow among those recognised for charity work
Several sporting names have earned their place on the honours list through charity work, with their contributions during the coronavirus pandemic recognised.
Burrow, who made 493 appearances for Leeds Rhinos, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2019, two years after retiring from playing.
With the support of his former club and the rugby league community, the 38-year-old has spent the past year working to raise awareness of the degenerative condition, which affects how nerves in the brain and spinal cord function.
Also recognised for his charity work is former jockey Champion, who fought cancer to win the Grand National on Aldaniti in 1981.
The 72-year-old has been made a CBE for his work with the Bob Champion Cancer Trust, which he founded two years after his fairytale win.
"I'm so proud," Champion said. "But really it's for the Bob Champion Cancer Trust, and all the people involved in it. The award is for them really not just me."
In rugby union, former player Matt Hampson has been appointed an OBE after founding the Matt Hampson foundation.
The 36-year-old was paralysed from the neck down in 2005 following an accident in training and set up his foundation to offer support to others who have suffered catastrophic sporting injuries.
New Year Honours list for sports
Knighthood
Lewis Hamilton (Formula 1 driver), for services to motorsport.
Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Maggie Carver (Racecourse Association chairman), for services to sport and to the media sector.
Bob Champion (former jockey and founder of Bob Champion Cancer Trust), for charitable services.
Peter Dawson (chief executive and secretary of R&A), for services to golf.
Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)
Brian Barwick (National League chairman), for services to sport and broadcasting.
Rob Baxter (director of rugby at Exeter Chiefs), for services to rugby union.
Dee Bradbury (Scottish Rugby Union president), for services to rugby union.
Donna Fraser (diversity lead at UK Athletics), for services to equality, inclusion and diversity in the workplace.
Barry Hearn (promoter and chairman of World Snooker Tour and Professional Darts Corporation), for services to sport.
Matt Hampson (former rugby union player and founder of Matt Hampson Foundation), for voluntary and charitable service.
Bill O'Hara (Olympic sailor), for services to sailing.
Samantha Orde (director of English Federation of Disability Sport), for services to people with disabilities.
Nicholas Rust (outgoing chief executive, British Horseracing Authority), for services to horse racing.
Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
Kevin Aitchison (chair of Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby), for services to wheelchair rugby and to people with disabilities.
Colleen Blair (regional swimming development manager, Scottish Swimming), for services to swimming.
Rob Burrow (former Leeds Rhinos player) for services to rugby and to motor neurone disease awareness during Covid-19.
Gillian Coultard (former England captain), for services to football.
Alan Curtis (former Swansea City and Wales forward), for services to Welsh football.
Susan Deaves (vice-president of British Athletics Supporters Club), for services to athletics.
Robert Dick (head coach of Scottish Disability Bowls), for services to disability sport.
Katie Dodd (former England hockey player), for services to hockey.
Emma Evans (goalball coach, player and referee), for services to goalball and to athletes with visual impairments.
Ron Flowers (former Wolves and England midfielder), for services to football.
Jimmy Greaves (former Tottenham and England striker), for services to football.
Damian Hopley (chief executive of the Rugby Players Association), for services to rugby union.
Anne Keothavong (British Billie Jean King Cup captain), for services to tennis.
David Mahoney (chief operating officer of England and Wales Cricket Board), for services to sport.
Martin Mann (chair of the Special Olympics), for services to people with intellectual disabilities.
David McGowan (former Olympic rower), for services to sport and to reconciliation in Northern Ireland.
John McGuinness (motorcyclist), for services to motorcycle racing.
Mick O'Neill (chairman of Keighley Cougars), for services to rugby league, the community in Keighley and to charity during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Nigel Payne (former chair of Professional Jockeys Association), for services to horse racing and to charity, particularly during the Covid-19 response.
Andrew Shelley (former World Squash Federation chief executive), for services to squash.
Joe Simmonds (captain of Exeter Chiefs), for services to rugby union.
Paul Thorogood (chief executive officer of Football Foundation), for services to football.
Shahab Uddin (director of legal, British Olympic Association), for services to sport during the Covid-19 response.
Brendan Warburton (head coach at Sheffield City Amateur Boxing Club), for services to boxing and to the community in Sharrow, Sheffield.
Bob Wright (Parson Cross Amateur Boxing Club), for services to amateur boxing and to the young people in Parson Cross, Sheffield.
Roland Wycherley (chair of Shrewsbury Town Football Club), for services to the community in Shrewsbury.
British Empire Medal (BEM)
David Adamson (honorary chieftain of Burntisland Highland Games), for services to athletics and to the community in Burntisland, Fife.
Salma Bi, for services to cricket and to diversity in sport.
Debra Courtenay-Crane (head coach at Carterton Gymnastics Club), for services to gymnastics and to young people in Carterton, Oxfordshire.
Sophie Dunnett, for services to amateur athletics in Scotland.
Sharon Gill, for services to kickboxing and to young people in Bristol.
Evelyn Graham, for services to badminton and to the community in County Antrim.
Simon Daniel Jackson-Turner, for services to sport.
Dave Knight, for voluntary service to Newport Community Cricket Club, South Wales.
Mike Knight, for voluntary service to Newport Community Cricket Club, South Wales.
John Mapletoft, for services to table tennis.
Jennifer McArtney, for services to squash.
Rhys McClenaghan, for services to gymnastics.
Dennis Murphy, for services to veterans' football in Merthyr Tydfil, Mid Glamorgan.
Christina Peacock, for services to boxing.
Richard Saunders, for services to disability golf.
Albert Scruby (instructor at Lea Rowing Club), for services to rowing in Clapton, London.
Patricia Sharpe, for services to gymnastics.
Gregory Silvester (trustee at Special Olympics GB), for services to people with learning disabilities in sport.
Gladys Turnbull (coach at Whitmore Netball Club), for services to sport and the community in Wolverhampton.
Peter Warden, for services to athletics in north-west England.
Curtis Woodhouse, for services to football and boxing.
Graham Wright, for services to athletics and to the community in Rossendale, Lancashire.


bbc--2020-12-30--Liverpool draw offers hope to chasing pack but Klopp says table 'doesn't mean anything'

Last updated on .From the section Premier League Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said his side 's position in the table is `` the last thing '' he is thinking about after they drew at Newcastle to finish 2020 three points clear at the top of the Premier League .
Mohamed Salah missed two key opportunities either side of half-time at St James ' Park , while Newcastle 's Fabian Schar denied Sadio Mane a tap-in with a timely clearance off the goalline in the 80th minute .
Roberto Firmino also went close midway through the second period , failing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Darlow was stranded following a corner .
And the Brazil forward then saw his 88th-minute header superbly denied by Darlow as the hosts held on to a well-earned point .
`` [ Being top ] is nice but it does n't mean anything , '' Klopp said after the game .
`` We drew tonight and we are still top of the table so that just shows how difficult the season is for everybody .
When life gives you lemons , make lemonade . ''
• None How many Liverpool players made Garth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reds still stuttering on the road No matter the result , Liverpool were always going to finish the calendar year at the summit of the Premier League table - it was just a question of how far they would be in front .
And a draw away to Newcastle feels like an opportunity missed .
`` We did n't get the result we wanted but it 's not the worst thing in the world and there are worse things happening , '' Klopp told Amazon Prime .
`` But I liked the game @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result but I 'm fine with the performance , because that 's the way we have to play and protect .
`` We did all that but it 's still disappointing . ''
The champions remain firm favourites to collect back-to-back titles for the first time since 1984 , but their away form is a recurring issue .
Liverpool have won seven of their eight home league games this season but on the road they 've won just two in eight .
The Reds ' injury list , particularly in defence , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game that sidelined centre-back Joel Matip is likely to be out for a further three weeks with a muscle injury .
Yet it was their attacking trio of Mane , Salah and Firmino who looked out of sorts in the North East .
All three regularly found themselves in good positions but failed to find the breakthrough .
Liverpool had 11 shots in total , but only four were on target .
Newcastle manager Steve Bruce was quick to acknowledge 30-year-old Darlow , whose string of second-half saves kept the league-leaders at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arguably one of the best teams in the world you need a bit of luck but the spirit and the endeavour was there for all to see , '' Bruce told BBC Sport .
`` I am delighted with my players .
Overall , I 'm very , very pleased with the performance . ''
Bruce came into this fixture under pressure , with his side 's style of play being heavily criticised in recent weeks .
The Magpies ' December had included just one win and a defeat in the Carabao Cup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected they sat back and defended in numbers , having only 27 % of possession in the opening 45 minutes .
But they did have chances , Callum Wilson - who returned to the starting line-up - forced Liverpool keeper Alisson into a fine save from a tight angle after 11 minutes .
And Ciaran Clark was also denied by the goalkeeper , Alisson flying to his left to keep out the defender 's header after 79 minutes .
`` We knew we let everyone down in a big cup tie .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We have to take the criticism that comes our way and accept it but I hope the supporters who watched this game today could really enjoy the performance .
`` It was a great performance and let 's look forward to Sunday . ''
The draw takes Bruce 's side to 14th , four points from the top half but more importantly , eight points off the bottom three .
Liverpool travel to Southampton on Monday , while Newcastle 's next fixture is at home to Leicester on Sunday .
• None @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
Liverpool failed to score in a Premier League game for the first time this season
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said his side's position in the table is "the last thing" he is thinking about after they drew at Newcastle to finish 2020 three points clear at the top of the Premier League.
The Reds end the year where they started it but a second consecutive draw against a team in the bottom half means they are only three points clear of Manchester United, who have a game in hand.
Mohamed Salah missed two key opportunities either side of half-time at St James' Park, while Newcastle's Fabian Schar denied Sadio Mane a tap-in with a timely clearance off the goalline in the 80th minute.
Roberto Firmino also went close midway through the second period, failing to hit the target after Newcastle keeper Karl Darlow was stranded following a corner.
And the Brazil forward then saw his 88th-minute header superbly denied by Darlow as the hosts held on to a well-earned point.
"[Being top] is nice but it doesn't mean anything," Klopp said after the game.
"We drew tonight and we are still top of the table so that just shows how difficult the season is for everybody. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade."
Reds still stuttering on the road
No matter the result, Liverpool were always going to finish the calendar year at the summit of the Premier League table - it was just a question of how far they would be in front.
And a draw away to Newcastle feels like an opportunity missed.
"We didn't get the result we wanted but it's not the worst thing in the world and there are worse things happening," Klopp told Amazon Prime.
"But I liked the game - we are not happy with the result but I'm fine with the performance, because that's the way we have to play and protect.
"We did all that but it's still disappointing."
Klopp praises 'really good' performance despite draw
The champions remain firm favourites to collect back-to-back titles for the first time since 1984, but their away form is a recurring issue.
Liverpool have won seven of their eight home league games this season but on the road they've won just two in eight.
The Reds' injury list, particularly in defence, is widely reported. And Klopp revealed after the game that sidelined centre-back Joel Matip is likely to be out for a further three weeks with a muscle injury.
Yet it was their attacking trio of Mane, Salah and Firmino who looked out of sorts in the North East.
All three regularly found themselves in good positions but failed to find the breakthrough. Liverpool had 11 shots in total, but only four were on target.
Bruce - 'I hope the fans enjoyed it'
Bruce delighted with 'terrific' point for Newcastle
Newcastle manager Steve Bruce was quick to acknowledge 30-year-old Darlow, whose string of second-half saves kept the league-leaders at bay.
"When you play against arguably one of the best teams in the world you need a bit of luck but the spirit and the endeavour was there for all to see," Bruce told BBC Sport.
"I am delighted with my players. Overall, I'm very, very pleased with the performance."
Bruce came into this fixture under pressure, with his side's style of play being heavily criticised in recent weeks.
The Magpies' December had included just one win and a defeat in the Carabao Cup to Championship side Brentford.
And as expected they sat back and defended in numbers, having only 27% of possession in the opening 45 minutes.
Newcastle gained their first point against Liverpool in the Premier League since October 2017, ending a run of five consecutive defeats
But they did have chances, Callum Wilson - who returned to the starting line-up - forced Liverpool keeper Alisson into a fine save from a tight angle after 11 minutes.
And Ciaran Clark was also denied by the goalkeeper, Alisson flying to his left to keep out the defender's header after 79 minutes.
"We knew we let everyone down in a big cup tie. We blew it," added Bruce.
"We have to take the criticism that comes our way and accept it but I hope the supporters who watched this game today could really enjoy the performance.
"It was a great performance and let's look forward to Sunday."
The draw takes Bruce's side to 14th, four points from the top half but more importantly, eight points off the bottom three.
What's next?
Liverpool travel to Southampton on Monday, while Newcastle's next fixture is at home to Leicester on Sunday.
Player of the match Darlow Karl Darlow with an average of 8.65 Newcastle Newcastle United Newcastle United
Liverpool Liverpool Liverpool Newcastle United Avg Squad number 26 Player name Darlow Average rating 8.65 Squad number 5 Player name Schär Average rating 8.09 Squad number 13 Player name Wilson Average rating 7.73 Squad number 18 Player name Fernández Average rating 7.68 Squad number 2 Player name Clark Average rating 7.68 Squad number 22 Player name Yedlin Average rating 7.55 Squad number 4 Player name M Longstaff Average rating 7.43 Squad number 14 Player name Hayden Average rating 7.39 Squad number 11 Player name Ritchie Average rating 7.37 Squad number 23 Player name Murphy Average rating 7.12 Squad number 9 Player name Joelinton Average rating 6.96 Squad number 24 Player name Almirón Average rating 6.79 Squad number 15 Player name Lewis Average rating 6.78 Liverpool Avg Squad number 1 Player name Alisson Average rating 5.20 Squad number 6 Player name Thiago Alcántara Average rating 4.84 Squad number 26 Player name Robertson Average rating 4.81 Squad number 3 Player name Fabinho Average rating 4.56 Squad number 7 Player name Milner Average rating 4.34 Squad number 10 Player name Mané Average rating 4.14 Squad number 5 Player name Wijnaldum Average rating 3.99 Squad number 14 Player name Henderson Average rating 3.97 Squad number 9 Player name Roberto Firmino Average rating 3.96 Squad number 66 Player name Alexander-Arnold Average rating 3.94 Squad number 47 Player name Phillips Average rating 3.90 Squad number 23 Player name Shaqiri Average rating 3.78 Squad number 17 Player name Jones Average rating 3.63 Squad number 11 Player name Mohamed Salah Average rating 3.57


bbc--2020-12-30--Premier League 'has not discussed pause' amid rise in coronavirus cases

Last updated on .From the section Premier League The Premier League says it has no plans to suspend the season despite a rise in positive coronavirus tests .
New coronavirus cases at Fulham led to their Premier League match at Tottenham on Wednesday being called off .
West Brom manager Sam Allardyce has called for a football `` circuit break '' but the Premier League says it `` has not discussed pausing the season '' .
`` The league continues to have confidence in its Covid-19 protocols to enable fixtures to be played as scheduled , and these protocols continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' it said .
`` With the health of players and staff the priority , the league is also fully supportive of how clubs are implementing the protocols and rules . ''
On Monday , Manchester City 's Premier League match at Everton was postponed four hours before kick-off because of a coronavirus outbreak .
Sheffield United have confirmed they had `` numerous positive tests '' in the latest round of testing .
Football to continue , but fans banned from stadiums again Although the Premier League is to continue as planned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from attending football matches as more areas of England are to be placed under tougher coronavirus restrictions from midnight .
Liverpool is to be moved into tier three of the government 's restrictions for England , which means fans will no longer be allowed into Anfield or Everton 's Goodison Park .
The two grounds had been the only Premier League stadiums permitted to allow up to 2,000 fans inside under tier two restrictions .
Many other areas of England , including parts of the North West , the North East and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four restrictions from 00:01 GMT on Thursday , 31 December .
• None When Peter Crouch got a very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

Last updated on .From the section Premier League
West Brom boss Sam Allardyce has called for a break in football
The Premier League says it has no plans to suspend the season despite a rise in positive coronavirus tests.
On Tuesday, the latest round of top-flight testing found 18 people had the virus.
New coronavirus cases at Fulham led to their Premier League match at Tottenham on Wednesday being called off.
West Brom manager Sam Allardyce has called for a football "circuit break" but the Premier League says it "has not discussed pausing the season".
"The league continues to have confidence in its Covid-19 protocols to enable fixtures to be played as scheduled, and these protocols continue to have the full backing of government," it said.
"With the health of players and staff the priority, the league is also fully supportive of how clubs are implementing the protocols and rules."
On Monday, Manchester City's Premier League match at Everton was postponed four hours before kick-off because of a coronavirus outbreak.
Sheffield United have confirmed they had "numerous positive tests" in the latest round of testing.
Football to continue, but fans banned from stadiums again
Although the Premier League is to continue as planned, fans will once again be banned from attending football matches as more areas of England are to be placed under tougher coronavirus restrictions from midnight.
Liverpool is to be moved into tier three of the government's restrictions for England, which means fans will no longer be allowed into Anfield or Everton's Goodison Park.
The two grounds had been the only Premier League stadiums permitted to allow up to 2,000 fans inside under tier two restrictions.
Many other areas of England, including parts of the North West, the North East and the Midlands are moving into the toughest tier four restrictions from 00:01 GMT on Thursday, 31 December.


bbc--2020-12-30--Atletico end 2020 top of La Liga after Suarez winner

Last updated on .From the section European Football Atletico Madrid will end 2020 top of La Liga after beating Getafe @ @ @ @ @ Atletico are two points clear of rivals and defending champions Real Madrid , who were @ @ @ @ @ at Elche .
Simeone 's side , who are chasing a first league title since @ @ @ @ @ matches under his tenure .
The club parted company with striker Diego Costa on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ out of favour at the club .
Suarez and Joao Felix have been preferred to @ @ @ @ @ , and Simeone will feel vindicated in his decision as the former struck the decisive @ @ @ @ @ None When Peter Crouch got a very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks @ @ @ @ @ his life

Last updated on .From the section European Football
Luis Suarez scored a first-half winner at the Wanda Metropolitano
Atletico Madrid will end 2020 top of La Liga after beating Getafe at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Luis Suarez headed a first-half winner to hand Atletico manager Diego Simeone victory in his 500th game in charge of the club.
Atletico are two points clear of rivals and defending champions Real Madrid, who were held to a 1-1 draw at Elche.
Simeone's side, who are chasing a first league title since 2014, have won 301 matches under his tenure.
The club parted company with striker Diego Costa on Tuesday after the Spain international fell out of favour at the club.
Suarez and Joao Felix have been preferred to Costa up front this season, and Simeone will feel vindicated in his decision as the former struck the decisive blow against Getafe.


bbc--2020-12-30--Garth Crooks' team of the year: Alisson, Fernandes, Mane, Fabinho, Henderson

The year 2020 will be remembered for face masks , hand gel and video conferencing - but when life slowed down , the Premier League kept us going .
Fast forward a few months and the new campaign has mainly been played behind closed doors , but it has brought plenty more thrills and spills .
Have a look at my team of the year and you can create your own at the bottom .
I have only used players who have been included in my team of the week at least three times .
Alisson : The Liverpool keeper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he lifted the title at the end of last season , and with it the Golden Glove award for the most clean sheets .
I would like to have picked Burnley 's Nick Pope - he 's had an impressive year - but until he joins a club that is challenging for honours I ca n't see him having the same impact as the likes of Alisson , Manchester City 's Ederson and Manchester United 's David de Gea I 'm afraid .
Did you know ?
In 2020 Liverpool conceded 29 goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alisson started ( 0.94 per game ) , compared to 10 in the four he did n't start ( 2.5 per game ) .
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020 : 3 Trent Alexander-Arnold : Everyone can see his ability but what I 'm starting to see is a maturity in his game I did n't see last season .
He 's had one or two indifferent games as Liverpool attempt to regain the title , and was substituted against Fulham earlier this month .
The absence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four may have had an effect on him , but the lad has shown resilience and retained his position in the Liverpool team .
And mine too .
Did you know ?
Alexander-Arnold played 378 passes or crosses into the opposition penalty area in 2020 , the most of any player in Premier League games .
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020 : 3 Tyrone Mings : He played an important role in helping Aston Villa survive relegation and has been an integral part of their defensive successes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kept eight clean sheets in the league and are fifth in the table .
Mings is proving to be an inspired signing for Villa , and his selection for England is merely a reflection of the enormous progress the defender has made since his arrival from Bournemouth , where his appearances were limited .
Did you know ?
Mings kept the most clean sheets ( 10 ) and blocked the most shots ( 26 ) of any Villa defender in Premier League games in 2020 .
Number of times included in team of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : When I heard Virgil van Dijk was out for the best part of the season I immediately thought 'there goes the title ' .
The situation was further compounded when Joe Gomez suffered a long-term injury shortly afterwards .
Two centre-backs who were so vital to Liverpool 's fortunes were no longer available .
Suddenly Manchester United , Chelsea , Tottenham and Manchester City all thought they were in with a chance .
Well that was before Fabinho moved out of Liverpool 's midfield and into their back four and performed like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added to that casualty list , should anything happen to Fabinho it really is curtains for the champions .
Did you know ?
Fabinho topped all Liverpool players for tackles ( 64 ) and interceptions ( 38 ) in Premier League games in 2020 .
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020 : 3 Andrew Robertson : This kid is playing out of his skin again .
I did n't think he could maintain the form he showed in Liverpool 's title-winning season but I think he 's even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - especially his delivery into the opposition penalty area - has been magnificent .
I ca n't imagine what he will be like when there 's a full house at Anfield again .
Did you know ?
Robertson assisted 12 league goals in 2020 , the most of any Premier League defender , and the third-most of all players in the division behind Kevin de Bruyne ( 15 ) and Bruno Fernandes ( 14 ) .
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020 : 3 Jordan Henderson : He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kevin de Bruyne has on Manchester City .
However , Henderson finds himself in my team of the year and De Bruyne does not .
'Captain Marvel ' has held Liverpool together and got them back to the top of the league amidst a catalogue of injuries and enormous disruptions .
Meanwhile , De Bruyne and City have struggled to find any consistency at all this season .
That said , I doubt whether De Bruyne could have retained the unbelievable standard he had set for himself .
Did you know ?
Liverpool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the starting XI in 2020 compared to 1.9 points per game when he did n't start .
Over a 38-game period this would be a difference of more than 15 points .
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020 : 7 Bruno Fernandes : With Paul Pogba off the boil and Manchester United in desperate need of someone who could take the club to the next level , Fernandes ' arrival was very timely .
Posing a serious challenge to Liverpool and securing a regular top-four position have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international 's contribution to United 's fortunes has been immense .
Penalties , free-kicks or in open play , Fernandes has been in devastating form .
Ten goals already this season and we are not halfway through .
By the way , if Pogba does turn up this season Liverpool may have a serious problem .
Did you know ?
Fernandes has been directly involved in more goals ( 32 ) than he has played Premier League games in 2020 , scoring 18 times while providing 14 assists .
Number of times included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : 14 Jack Grealish : The contribution Grealish made to Aston Villa 's Premier League survival last season was quite extraordinary .
However , what has taken place since Villa 's miraculous escape from relegation has been phenomenal .
They put seven goals past Liverpool , three past Leicester with 10 men and even topped the table during the early part of the season .
Grealish has been their mastermind in every single game .
The issue now facing the Villa star is can he do the same for his country ?
Did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times in Premier League games in 2020 , 51 more times than any other player .
Only Kevin de Bruyne ( 107 ) created more chances than Grealish ( 93 ) over the calendar year .
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020 : 6 Sadio Mane : I 've no doubt Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp thinks the world of Mane but I 'm not sure he gets the praise his performances and goals deserve .
Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah are back in form again but they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Liverpool struggled on their return from the lockdown in June , when Covid-19 threatened the cancellation of the entire season , but Mane did not .
The Senegal international remained consistent and even carried the Reds through games on occasions .
His contribution this season remains a key component to the club 's success .
Liverpool have lots of jewels in their crown but they would do well to look after this gem .
Did you know ?
Only Salah ( 23 ) scored more league goals for Liverpool than Mane ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times included in team of the week in 2020 : 4 Dominic Calvert-Lewin : Last season Everton were in total disarray , with the threat of relegation hanging over them .
In came caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson , who grabbed the team by the scruff of the neck and invested an enormous amount of faith in a young footballer by the name of Dominic Calvert-Lewin .
He led the line gallantly and chased every ball .
He even scored the occasional goal .
However , when Carlo Ancelotti arrived at Goodison a striker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flying in from everywhere for him now , with England call-ups quickly following .
The transformation in the lad 's game during the past 12 months has been quite phenomenal and that 's why he leads the line in my team of the year .
Did you know ?
Calvert-Lewin scored 16 league goals in 2020 at an average of 177 minutes per goal - in 2019 he scored 11 league goals at an average of 205 minutes per goal .
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020 : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be the star of the show at Tottenham , but Son Heung-min makes my team of the year .
This lad has been electric .
His ability to run at defences , score spectacular goals and make things happen was the reason Spurs spent a brief time on top of the table .
What a recovery from that nightmare moment in November 2019 when he inadvertently injured Everton 's Andre Gomes .
The incident affected Son , but he soon recovered .
The South Korea international has not looked back since that fateful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to play if Tottenham are to lift a trophy this season .
Did you know ?
Son Heung-min had the best shot conversion rate of any player to take at least 20 shots in the Premier League in 2020 , scoring 17 times from 65 shots ( 26 % ) .
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020 : 7 • None When Peter Crouch got a very Royal guest ... • None Ian Wright picks the tunes that have soundtracked his life

The year 2020 will be remembered for face masks, hand gel and video conferencing - but when life slowed down, the Premier League kept us going.
Liverpool ended their 30-year wait to become champions of England in July, and Aston Villa managed to stay up against all the odds on the final day of the 2019-20 season.
Fast forward a few months and the new campaign has mainly been played behind closed doors, but it has brought plenty more thrills and spills.
Have a look at my team of the year and you can create your own at the bottom. I have only used players who have been included in my team of the week at least three times.
Goalkeeper - Alisson (Liverpool)
Alisson: The Liverpool keeper hasn't put a foot wrong since he lifted the title at the end of last season. I would like to have picked Burnley's Nick Pope - he's had an impressive year - but until he joins a club that is challenging for honours I can't see him having the same impact as Alisson, Manchester City's Ederson and Manchester United's David de Gea I'm afraid.
Did you know? In 2020 Liverpool conceded 29 goals in the 31 Premier League games that Alisson started (0.94 per game), compared to 10 in the four he didn't start (2.5 per game).
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 3
Defenders - Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa), Fabinho (Liverpool), Andrew Robertson (Liverpool)
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Everyone can see his ability but what I'm starting to see is a maturity in his game I didn't see last season. He's had one or two indifferent games as Liverpool attempt to regain the title, and was substituted against Fulham earlier this month. The absence of Virgil van Dijk and an unsettled back four may have had an effect on him, but the lad has shown resilience and retained his position in the Liverpool team. And mine too.
Did you know? Alexander-Arnold played 378 passes or crosses into the opposition penalty area in 2020, the most of any player in Premier League games.
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 3
Tyrone Mings: He played an important role in helping Aston Villa survive relegation and has been an integral part of their defensive successes so far this season. Villa have kept eight clean sheets in the league and are fifth in the table. Mings is proving to be an inspired signing for Villa, and his selection for England is merely a reflection of the enormous progress the defender has made since his arrival from Bournemouth, where his appearances were limited.
Did you know? Mings kept the most clean sheets (10) and blocked the most shots (26) of any Villa defender in Premier League games in 2020.
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 3
Fabinho: When I heard Virgil van Dijk was out for the best part of the season I immediately thought 'there goes the title'. The situation was further compounded when Joe Gomez suffered a long-term injury shortly afterwards. Two centre-backs who were so vital to Liverpool's fortunes were no longer available. Suddenly Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham and Manchester City all thought they were in with a chance. Well that was before Fabinho moved out of Liverpool's midfield and into their back four and performed like a colossus. With Joel Matip now added to that casualty list, should anything happen to Fabinho it really is curtains for the champions.
Did you know? Fabinho topped all Liverpool players for tackles (64) and interceptions (38) in Premier League games in 2020.
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 3
Andrew Robertson: This kid is playing out of his skin again. I didn't think he could maintain the form he showed in Liverpool's title-winning season but I think he's even better now. His quality of pass - especially his delivery into the opposition penalty area - has been magnificent. I can't imagine what he will be like when there's a full house at Anfield again.
Did you know? Robertson assisted 12 league goals in 2020, the most of any Premier League defender, and the third-most of all players in the division behind Kevin de Bruyne (15) and Bruno Fernandes (14).
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 3
Midfielders - Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Bruno Fernandes (Man Utd), Jack Grealish (Aston Villa)
Jordan Henderson: He has the same influence on Liverpool that Kevin de Bruyne has on Manchester City. However, Henderson finds himself in my team of the year and De Bruyne does not. 'Captain Marvel' has held Liverpool together and got them back to the top of the league amidst a catalogue of injuries and enormous disruptions. Meanwhile, De Bruyne and City have struggled to find any consistency at all this season. That said, I doubt whether De Bruyne could have retained the unbelievable standard he had set for himself.
Did you know? Liverpool averaged 2.3 points per game with Henderson in the starting XI in 2020 compared to 1.9 points per game when he didn't start. Over a 38-game period this would be a difference of more than 15 points.
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 7
Bruno Fernandes: With Paul Pogba off the boil and Manchester United in desperate need of someone who could take the club to the next level, Fernandes' arrival was very timely. Posing a serious challenge to Liverpool and securing a regular top-four position have to be the goals. The Portugal international's contribution to United's fortunes has been immense. Penalties, free-kicks or in open play, Fernandes has been in devastating form. Ten goals already this season and we are not halfway through. By the way, if Pogba does turn up this season Liverpool may have a serious problem.
Did you know? Fernandes has been directly involved in more goals (32) than he has played Premier League games in 2020, scoring 18 times while providing 14 assists.
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 14
Jack Grealish: The contribution Grealish made to Aston Villa's Premier League survival last season was quite extraordinary. However, what has taken place since Villa's miraculous escape from relegation has been phenomenal. They put seven goals past Liverpool, three past Leicester with 10 men and even topped the table during the early part of the season. Grealish has been their mastermind in every single game. The issue now facing the Villa star is can he do the same for his country?
Did you know? Grealish was fouled 148 times in Premier League games in 2020, 51 more times than any other player. Only Kevin de Bruyne (107) created more chances than Grealish (93) over the calendar year.
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 6
Forwards - Sadio Mane (Liverpool), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton), Son Heung-min (Tottenham)
Sadio Mane: I've no doubt Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp thinks the world of Mane but I'm not sure he gets the praise his performances and goals deserve. Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah are back in form again but they weren't at the end of last season. Liverpool struggled on their return from the lockdown in June, when Covid-19 threatened the cancellation of the entire season, but Mane did not. The Senegal international remained consistent and even carried the Reds through games on occasions. His contribution this season remains a key component to the club's success. Liverpool have lots of jewels in their crown but they would do well to look after this gem.
Did you know? Only Salah (23) scored more league goals for Liverpool than Mane (14) in 2020.
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 4
Dominic Calvert-Lewin: Last season Everton were in total disarray, with the threat of relegation hanging over them. In came caretaker manager Duncan Ferguson, who grabbed the team by the scruff of the neck and invested an enormous amount of faith in a young footballer by the name of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. He led the line gallantly and chased every ball. He even scored the occasional goal. However, when Carlo Ancelotti arrived at Goodison a striker was born. Goals seem to be flying in from everywhere for him now, with England call-ups quickly following. The transformation in the lad's game during the past 12 months has been quite phenomenal and that's why he leads the line in my team of the year.
Did you know? Calvert-Lewin scored 16 league goals in 2020 at an average of 177 minutes per goal - in 2019 he scored 11 league goals at an average of 205 minutes per goal.
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 6
Son Heung-min: Harry Kane may be the star of the show at Tottenham, but Son Heung-min makes my team of the year. This lad has been electric. His ability to run at defences, score spectacular goals and make things happen was the reason Spurs spent a brief time on top of the table. What a recovery from that nightmare moment in November 2019 when he inadvertently injured Everton's Andre Gomes. The incident affected Son, but he soon recovered. The South Korea international has not looked back since that fateful afternoon and has a very important role to play if Tottenham are to lift a trophy this season.
Did you know? Son Heung-min had the best shot conversion rate of any player to take at least 20 shots in the Premier League in 2020, scoring 17 times from 65 shots (26%).
Number of times included in team of the week in 2020: 7


bbc--2020-12-30--Lacklustre Real Madrid held at Elche

Lacklustre Real Madrid held at Elche

Last updated on .From the section European Football Real Madrid lost ground on La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid after a @ @ @ @ @ Luka Modric had opened the scoring from close range after Marco Asensio 's long-range effort @ @ @ @ @ .
Second-placed Real are two points behind neighbours Atletico , who also have two games @ @ @ @ @ ensured they would end 2020 top of the table with victory over Getafe earlier on @ @ @ @ @ got going in response .
Modric handed the visitors the lead when he reacted first @ @ @ @ @ Asensio 's fierce effort , but they were pegged back five minutes after the interval @ @ @ @ @ Antonio Barragan inside the area , and Fidel levelled the scores with an emphatic spot-kick @ @ @ @ @ .
Carvajal nearly made amends 20 minutes later when he controlled an excellent pass from @ @ @ @ @ goal , but Edgar Badía produced a smart save to deny the Real defender .

Last updated on .From the section European Football
Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid ended their run of five La Liga wins with a draw at Elche
Real Madrid lost ground on La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid after a disappointing draw at Elche.
Fidel struck a second-half penalty to earn his side a point and end Real's run of five consecutive league wins.
Luka Modric had opened the scoring from close range after Marco Asensio's long-range effort came back off the crossbar.
Second-placed Real are two points behind neighbours Atletico, who also have two games in hand.
Atletico had ensured they would end 2020 top of the table with victory over Getafe earlier on Wednesday, and Real never got going in response.
Modric handed the visitors the lead when he reacted first to the loose ball after Asensio's fierce effort, but they were pegged back five minutes after the interval.
Dani Carvajal hauled down Antonio Barragan inside the area, and Fidel levelled the scores with an emphatic spot-kick to the bottom left corner.
Carvajal nearly made amends 20 minutes later when he controlled an excellent pass from Toni Kroos and fired at goal, but Edgar Badía produced a smart save to deny the Real defender.


bbc--2020-12-31--Covid: Pandemic dampens New Year celebrations around the world

One of the first nations to ring in the New Year is Australia .
The Sydney fireworks display is going @ @ @ @ @ not allowed to gather on the city 's harbour to enjoy it .

Several departments banned the sale of fireworks and limited alcohol sales as part of measures to stop the unrest and torching of cars that often takes place on the final night of the year. Although incidents of violence were reportedly fewer, police were attacked while trying to break up several large illegal raves. In Alsace, a 25-year-old man died when a firework he was holding exploded, local media said.


bbc--2020-12-31--Bosnia: Hundreds of migrants stuck at fire-gutted camp

In recent years thousands of people , including refugees from the conflicts in Afghanistan and Syria , have entered Bosnia @ @ @ @ @ the EU by crossing into Croatia .
However , many have been forced to remain @ @ @

In recent years thousands of people, including refugees from the conflicts in Afghanistan and Syria, have entered Bosnia hoping to get asylum in the EU by crossing into Croatia. However, many have been forced to remain in Bosnia.


bbc--2020-12-31--Wang Xiangjun: China's 'Glacier Bro' presumed dead

Rescuers are still searching for him , but a member of the rescue team quoted by China 's Global Times @ @ @ @ @ that Wang had been swept under an ice floe - a sheet of floating ice @ @ @ @ @ `` almost impossible '' that he had survived .

Rescuers are still searching for him, but a member of the rescue team quoted by China's Global Times newspaper said it was likely that Wang had been swept under an ice floe - a sheet of floating ice - and that it was "almost impossible" that he had survived.


bbc--2020-12-31--Vaccine and water unseats Mukesh Ambani as Asia's richest person

This dramatic rise has pushed Mr Zhong up to first place in Asia and is one of the fastest accumulations @ @ @ @ @ according to Bloomberg .

Most of China's new billionaires come from the tech industry. But rising tensions between China and the US over Huawei, TikTok and WeChat have also pushed down valuations of Chinese tech stocks.


bbc--2020-12-31--Hilaria Baldwin 'misrepresented' over 'fake' Spanish roots

She denied cultural appropriation .
`` Who is to say what you 're allowed to absorb and not absorb growing @ @ @ @ @ .
`` This has been a part of my whole life and I ca n't @ @ @ @ @ because some people do n't understand it . ''

She denied cultural appropriation. "Who is to say what you're allowed to absorb and not absorb growing up?" she said. "This has been a part of my whole life and I can't make it go away just because some people don't understand it."


bbc--2020-12-31--Nashville suspect 'held lizard people beliefs'

Following Ms Perry 's comments , officers were sent to Warner 's home but he did not answer , and @ @ @ @ @ they saw no evidence of a crime and had no authority to enter '' .

Following Ms Perry's comments, officers were sent to Warner's home but he did not answer, and the officers left because "they saw no evidence of a crime and had no authority to enter".


bbc--2020-12-31--Samuel Little: America's 'most prolific' serial killer dies

A former competitive boxer , Little would knock his victims out with punches before strangling them - meaning that there @ @ @ @ @ , like stab or bullet wounds , the person had been murdered .

A former competitive boxer, Little would knock his victims out with punches before strangling them - meaning that there were not always obvious signs, like stab or bullet wounds, the person had been murdered.


bbc--2020-12-31--Cognac targeted with tariffs in US-EU trade row

On Wednesday , the US said it was taking the additional action because it said when the EU imposed tariffs @ @ @ @ @ trade data when volumes had been `` drastically reduced due to the horrific effects '' @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus .

On Wednesday, the US said it was taking the additional action because it said when the EU imposed tariffs on American goods it used trade data when volumes had been "drastically reduced due to the horrific effects" on the global economy by the coronavirus.


bbc--2020-12-31--Giulio Regeni: Italy condemns Egypt for ruling out charges against police

His body was discovered on 3 February in a ditch by the side of a road .
His mother told @ @ @ @ @ that her son 's body was so disfigured that she was only able to identify @ @ @ @ @ his nose .

His body was discovered on 3 February in a ditch by the side of a road. His mother told the Italian parliament in 2018 that her son's body was so disfigured that she was only able to identify him by the tip of his nose.


bbc--2020-12-31--TikTok faces legal action from 12-year-old girl in England

In a statement , TikTok said : `` Privacy and safety are top priorities for TikTok and we have robust @ @ @ @ @ in place to protect all users , and our younger users in particular .
As @ @ @ @ @ notice , we first became aware of the application and the High Court 's judgment @ @ @ @ @ are currently considering its implications . ''

In a statement, TikTok said: "Privacy and safety are top priorities for TikTok and we have robust policies, processes and technologies in place to protect all users, and our younger users in particular. As this application was made without notice, we first became aware of the application and the High Court's judgment [on Wednesday] and are currently considering its implications."


bbc--2020-12-31--Argentines on abortion legalisation: 'I felt relieved'

She says she hopes the new law will also result in a wider change of attitude .
`` My biggest @ @ @ @ @ women will have to die [ as a result of clandestine abortions ] , that @ @ @ @ @ every last corner of the country so that women do n't have to resort to @ @ @ @ @ will no longer be judged or mistreated by health workers . ''

Before the new law was passed, abortions were only allowed in Argentina in certain restricted cases, including rape or when the mother's life was in danger. María's situation - based on her emotional and physical health, as well as her financial instability - was deemed precarious and she was allowed to proceed with an abortion.


bbc--2020-12-31--India social media: Four acts of kindness from 2020 that won hearts

But what happens next leaves him stunned and touched .
As the officers sing `` happy birthday to you '' @ @ @ @ @ in surprise , and asks them how they found out .
He tears up and @ @ @ @ @ his children live abroad and he was indeed feeling lonely .

But what happens next leaves him stunned and touched. As the officers sing "happy birthday to you", Mr Puri doubles over in surprise, and asks them how they found out. He tears up and tells the police officers that his children live abroad and he was indeed feeling lonely.


bbc--2020-12-31--Why have global stock markets gone up this year?

But when markets do drop , it will be interesting to see how investors react , says Mr Saluzzi , @ @ @ @ @ mainly experienced a market that goes up and recovers quickly .
They are a small @ @ @ @ @ market .

"A big mistake people make is they go through the analysis we just did, we come to the conclusion that we are priced too high, I have to get out," he says. "They say, 'But I'm smarter than the market.' No you're not. Nobody is."


bbc--2020-12-31--The haves and have nots in divided Venezuela

Clearly a lot of hard work has been put into restoring this architectural jewel but it is not your typical @ @ @ @ @ the classification was awarded by the government which is promoting it , and the hotel @ @ @ @ @ around the edges , despite having been inaugurated a month ago .

Clearly a lot of hard work has been put into restoring this architectural jewel but it is not your typical five-star lodgings. Indeed, the classification was awarded by the government which is promoting it, and the hotel is still a bit rough around the edges, despite having been inaugurated a month ago.