AN EFFIGY of US Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin hanging by a noose as part of a Hallowe’en display has drawn hundreds of complaints, but local officials said the homeowner was covered by free speech rights.

Actress Mischa Barton has reportedly pulled out of co-hosting the opening of a Las Vegas nightclub - just days after she was arrested for driving under the influence.

Troubled actress Lindsay Lohan is facing more legal action - she is being sued over a May 2005 car accident when she crashed into a van in an attempt to escape an over-eager paparazzo.