Europe

Skovde, Sweden -- A Swedish cross-country skier said he wound up flat on his back after crashing into an elk while following an unlit trail in the dark.

Chichester, England -- British police said a 5-year-old boy took his father's Mitsubishi Shogun 4X4 for a 4-mile joyride that ended with a low-speed crash into a brick wall.

London -- British actor Ian McKellen says on his Web site the two "Hobbit" films are to start shooting simultaneously in New Zealand in July.

London -- Production on the latest screen adaptation of the literary classic "Jane Eyre" is to begin next week in the United Kingdom, Focus Features said.

Genoa, Italy -- Italian scientists say they have developed a robot that could become a teacher to help paralyzed stroke patients learn to use their arms again.

London -- Bank of England meeting minutes released Wednesday show monetary policy decision-makers are concerned a weaker British pound could lead to higher inflation.

Lausanne, Switzerland -- Cities in France, Germany and South Korea delivered questionnaire responses as part of their bids to become the host site for the 2018 Winter Olympics.

Lausanne, Switzerland -- Cities in France, Germany and South Korea delivered questionnaire responses as part of their bids to become the host site for the 2018 Winter Olympics.

London -- British pop star Mark Owen's wife told a friend she may leave him even though he is seeking treatment for alcohol addiction in an effort to save his marriage.

London -- Hollywood actress-producer Drew Barrymore, reflecting on an at-times troubled life, told a British newspaper she is "happier now than I've ever been."