Shoesmith Loses Appeal

The former head of children's services at the centre of the Baby P case has lost an appeal against her dismissal. Sharon Shoesmith was sacked from Haringey Council last month after a damning initial report into her department's role in Baby P's death. The 17-month-old, who was on the council's "at-risk" register, died in 2007 after a series of major injuries. The north London council confirmed the appeal had been rejected by a panel of councillors.

Three Under Guard After Shots Fired

Two men and a teenager are under police guard after shots were fired at a house in Hampshire. The three – including a 17-year-old boy - were inside a property in Addison Road, Sarisbury Green, when the front door and a vehicle in the driveway were shot at on Sunday night. No one was injured during the incident but the property was cordoned off while forensic tests were carried out. House-to-house inquiries were also taking place in the area. Police investigating believe the property was targeted deliberately.

Motorway Body Named

A man whose body was found set alight near a motorway has been identified by police. Sher Khan, 60, from the Newham area of east London, was found on an embankment by the M45 near Dunchurch, in Warwickshire, on 30 December. Irshad Wali, 51, of Plaistow, east London, has appeared before magistrates charged with his murder. Four men arrested in connection with the death have been released without charge and one man has been bailed. Detectives believe Mr Khan was murdered in east London, before his body was taken to Warwickshire by car.

Death Drink-Driver Jailed

A drink-driver who caused his teenage nephew's death when he crashed in Aberdeenshire has been jailed for seven years. John Ball, 36, lost control of his car on the B999 while driving the morning after a night out in July 2007. He was double the legal limit. His 18-year-old passenger Shaun Eaton from Mastrick, Aberdeen, was pronounced dead after the crash. Ball, who was jailed at the High Court in Dunfermline, admitted causing his nephew's death by dangerous driving.

New Procurement Arrangements Floor The Public Sector

An enhanced flooring procurement arrangement announced today will provide public sector buyers with a flexible, easy-to-use service for all flooring requirements. The comprehensive Supply and Delivery and Supply & Installation of Floor Coverings framework agreement from OGCbuying. solutions offers a simple and effective solution to satisfy all flooring needs. It was developed in consultation with a broad range of stakeholders to ensure maximum suitability and practicality. The suppliers' selection for the framework agreement was based on recognised quality and environmental accreditations. Value for money, competitive price and high standards of products and services were also key to their success.

(JM/BMcC)