Campaigning MP dies after jogging collapse

THE Labour MP Paul Goggins has died, aged 60, a week after he collapsed while jogging. He had represented Wythenshawe and Sale East in the House of Commons since 1997. Mr Goggins, a Roman Catholic, was a former director of Church Action on Poverty, and was prominent in the Christian Socialist Movement. Obituary to follow.
 

Priest pleads guilty on pornography

THE Priest-in-Charge of the parishes of Seacombe and Poulton, on Merseyside, the Revd Ian Hughes, has pleaded guilty to possessing more than 8000 indecent images and films of children. At Liverpool Crown Court on 3 January, Mr Hughes admitted 16 counts of possessing child pornography. Sentencing was adjourned until 28 January.
 

Former Songs of Praise presenter dies

GEOFFREY WHEELER (right), best known for presenting Songs of Praise for more than 20 years, has died aged 83. Mr Wheeler also presented the TV schools quiz show Top of the Form, from 1962 to 1965, and devised the concept for ITV's Winner Takes All. He died on 30 December after a long illness, and is survived by his son, daughter, and four grandchildren.