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.
Playing, splashing and generally messing around, these polar bears show they certainly have a soft spot for the water, and not just each other .
A diver explores the crystal clear waters of the Silfra canyon in southern Iceland, which is the only place on Earth where you can dive or snorkel between two continental plates .
Staring death in the face, a little field mouse bravely confronts a hungry cat .
SHOVELLING food into his mouth, this hungry gorilla enjoys a peaceful moment at dinner time .
Like a scene from a fairytale, THOUSANDS of fireflies create an enchanting glow as they dance in a forest .
UNDERWATER and above-water seaside shots show the best of British beach-life .
SWIMMING next to 40 tonne whales, dare-devil divers take the plunge with these gentle giants of the sea .
BLOWING bubbles underwater, this adorable polar bear slides into his tank for a playful dip .
Beautiful turquoise waves rise and fall in a series of stunning images taken along the coastline of south-eastern Australia .
This hungry white tiger has just one thing on her mind - to taste fresh meat .
