AN Irish woman has become the first adult in the world to receive a revolutionary REMOTE CONTROLLED 'ROBO SPINE', which uses magnets to combat the effects of scoliosis. Deirdre McDonnell, 34, from Drogheda, County Louth, can now stand tall for the first time after undergoing the pioneering MAGEC rod operation. The operation, also known as the magnetic expansion control system, involves the insertion of a magnetic rod that is screwed onto the spine and controlled externally in order to correct the curvature caused by scoliosis. Up until now, the £15K procedure has only been performed on children, as it was thought only to be effective for early onset scoliosis - typically diagnosed before the age of ten.
If you had to scrape the snow off your car this morning or slip-slide your way into work over icy pavements spare a thought for these little critters .
VENTURING into the ocean with self-made spears and nets, the fishermen of Zanzibar put their lives on the line when they catch food for their families .
STRETCHING his little legs in the air, a smiley leaf-tailed gecko breaks free from his old, scaly skin .
SOARING through the air, this is the moment a hungry tawny owl arrives home with dinner .
From vibrant blues to dazzling oranges, these eye catching hummingbirds proudly show off their impressive colours .
THIS DANGER-mad female pensioner could be the oldest Brit to cage dive with CROCODILES .
Sprawled out on top of a log, this sleeping leopard takes a relaxing break from his daily routine .
Kevin Silva, 52 from Indiana in the USA, has spent an estimated £65K ($100K) on Batman trinkets over the years, and even keeps his 2,500-item haul in his very own basement 'Bat Cave' .
At first glance what might look like ordinary rusty bridge and road railings, are in fact amazing works of art .
Grandmother Janet Kirby was told she couldn't board her plane home after being accused of assault .
LEAF-ing much to the imagination, this camera trickery is blooming marvellous .