A family of foster carers are facing bankruptcy and homelessness after they signed up to a Government scheme to renovate their house to be used for disabled children's short breaks. Two years ago the Waite family received a grant from Leicestershire County Council to transform their home into a respite centre for severely disabled foster children. But after a dispute arose with the builder over the £75,000 extension to their three bedroom house in Leicestershire, Mark Waite, 44, and his wife Clair, 39, now face losing everything they have worked for. The couple, who represent the third generation in a 100-year family tradition of fostering disabled children, have had to sell all their furniture and clothes on ebay to pay solicitor's fees and say they now face total ruin. They say the council has "left them out in the cold" over the legal wrangle, leaving them responsible for tens of thousands of pounds of debt which will almost certainly result in them ending up on the streets with their two children.
LYING flat out on his back, this little meerkat makes the most of the English sunshine .
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 .
IN a galaxy far, far away, this collection of stunning interstellar formations will leave you STARSTRUCK .
UNDERWATER and above-water seaside shots show the best of British beach-life .
FROM the rolling hills of the Scottish highlands to looming chalk cliffs in Sussex, these stunning photographs capture the spectacular beauty of Great Britain .
WELCOME to the pretty 122-inch-tall red dwelling that lays claim to the title of the UK's smallest house .
A baby sperm whale assumed the role of a friendly giant when faced with two awestruck divers .
Splashing around in the water, a mother otter and her son are tangled in a family feud .
Complete with core, mantle and crust, these incredible planet cakes are truly out of this world .
Pouncing down on top of his twin brother, these two snow leopard cubs practice their kung-fu moves .
Enjoying life’s little pleasures is something that many struggle to do .