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Full report: thieves jailed for stealing presents from Christmas trees

Three men who stole children's presents from underneath Christmas trees in the West Midlands, have been dubbed 'anti-Santas' by police.

In total, three homes were targeted in Fazeley, Burton-on-Trent and Sutton Coldfield, before they led police on a pursuit in Birmingham.

The trio, who were found with gifts stuffed in bedsheets, are now spending 'many Christmases in prison', said police.

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'Monster of Worcester's' identity revealed after four years - full report

by Chris Halpin

A convicted child killer guilty of committing what's been described as one of the most horrific crimes in modern history has had an order protecting his identity overturned.

David McGreavy murdered 3 children in Worcester 40 years ago.

He's been in prison ever since, but lawyers put an order in place protecting his identity so he can one day be let out. This was today thrown out by the High Court. Chris Halpin reports.

Latest on gagging order lifted on 1973 Worcester child killer

by Chris Halpin

The High Court has ruled that a man who murdered three children in the Midlands 40 years ago, should not be allowed to remain anonymous.

62-year-old David McGreavy was jailed for life in 1973, after killing the children he was babysitting. The gagging order had been made because of fears that the killer's own life was in danger.

Chris Halpin sent this report.

READ MORE about the history of David McGreavy the 'Monster of Worcester'

Stiliyan Petrov to take up coaching role at Aston Villa

Stiliyan Petrov Credit: PA

Stiliyan Petrov will take up a new role as assistant development coach, the Club has confirmed.

Aston Villa’s 33-year-old former captain announced his retirement on May 9, 2013 having successfully battled acute leukaemia.

“I’m very excited by this new challenge and I wish to thank the Club and the manager, Paul Lambert, for giving me the opportunity to continue my association with Villa, which I have always regarded as a privilege,” Petrov said.

Meerkats stolen in Nottingham

Meerkats are group animal and are likely to be distressed. Credit: PA

Two meerkats have been stolen from a house in Clifton, south of Nottingham.

The animals, which naturally thrive in groups, were taken last night when entry was forced into their enclosure.

The male and female were living at the rear of the property in the Rivergreen area and were discovered missing at around 7:15am this morning.

A skunk is also missing but it is unclear whether it was stolen or escaped when the garden area became insecure.

Inspector Nick Waldram said: “The owner of these animals is distraught that they have been stolen and as they are group animals, they could be in some distress.

“If you know anything about where they might be, please get in touch.”

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