Marina Afonina, now 51, from Northampton, met Ioan Budea in 2006. The following year, they moved in together. But Ioan didn’t like to work, and Marina paid for everything. Years passed and he was no different. Ioan started to drink heavily, and the pair constantly argued. In July 2022, Marina ended things. But the following month, Ioan turned up at the hospital where she worked, drunk. He followed Marina as she walked home. He stabbed her eight times in her left side, shoulder, arm and breast. Thankfully, a stranger intervened and saved Marina’s life. In July 2023, Ioan was found guilty of assault by beating and attempted murder. He was sentenced to 20 years in prison with a further three years on license at Northampton Crown Court.
FROM KISSING an alligator on the nose to walking over broken glass, this fearless daredevil is a real life female JACKASS .
FLEXING his muscles and staring straight at his opponent, this bodybuilding squirrel is the nuts .
BALANCING on top of a tree, this bear cub puts her climbing skills to the test .
A panic stricken kitten that got her head stuck in a car tyre has been freed by quick thinking RSPCA staff .
FROM A mini table and chairs to a detailed violin, it’s hard to believe these incredible sculptures are all carved into the nib of PENCILS .
An elegant snowy owl spreads her wings and glides effortlessly above the snow covered field .
WRAPPED up in classy headscarves, these adorable pooches are the picture of sophistication .
From vibrant blues to dazzling oranges, these eye catching hummingbirds proudly show off their impressive colours .
Swimming side by side with divers, these manatees will do anything they can to stay warm .
WEARING tiny Christmas accessories, these adorable babies get into the spirit of the season .
MEET the underwater British seal who is so friendly he loves to grapple divers like a friendly puppy dog .
FROM MRS Patmore to Lady Sybil, these barking mad illustrations show the WOOF-er side of some of our most loved Downton characters .