FROM MRS Patmore to Lady Sybil, these barking mad illustrations show the WOOF-er side of some of our most loved Downton characters. The art works entitled 'Houndton Tabby', were designed by illustrator and artist Kim Parkhurst, 39, after she combined her love of drawing and Downton Abbey. 'I've been painting portraits of animals in historical costume for some time,” explains New Yorker Kim. “I've taken some familiar and beloved characters whose demeanour, personality, and appearance seemed to translate to certain breeds of dog or cat. 'I got to thinking about Mr Bates' character and storyline, and Brendan Coyle's facial structure, and how he could look hard but also had the warmest, kindest eyes.
CAUSING a splash, this determined kingfisher goes hunting for dinner .
A Brit photographer has captured one of the world's most camera-shy species of fish - during a game of underwater peek-a-boo .
A SPECTRUM of colours fills the sky during this spectacular and natural display of light .
A pair of adorable polar bear cubs play-fight with each other in the Alaskan snow .
Going for long rides through vast fields together, this twosome share an unbreakable bond .
A PENSIONER was left with a fractured jaw after being beaten and robbed outside his home in Birmingham last weekend .
From a platter of finger licking chicken wings to a bowl of Chinese noodle soup, these foodie snaps are enough to make your savoury saliva glands drool .
SLEEPING within touching distance of wild African animals might not be everyone's idea of a relaxing break .
A mining town in Australia’s outback appears to be completely deserted, but its residents have escaped the scorching heat by living in underground caves .
This cheeky macaque gets up close and personal as he examines the dental hygiene of his fellow primate .
LYING flat out on his back, this little meerkat makes the most of the English sunshine .