A BBYO member from Northwood is the first European member of the youth movement's international board in 15 years.

Nick Phillips, 17, will take up the year-long position in July, following his election at the annual convention in Atlanta, Georgia.

One of 10 board members, he will serve as the international secretary and treasurer. He will also help to organise next year's convention.

The Belfast university which snubbed JC columnist Professor Geoffrey Alderman by withdrawing his invitation to a panel discussion on the Middle East has sent a written apology.

Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s University Professor Peter Gregson said he offered a “full and unreserved apology” to the University of Buckingham professor who could not speak at the Belfast Festival.

Professor Alderman, known for his outspoken pro-Israel views, is a guest professor at Ariel College in the West Bank.