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.
FORGET Thorpe Park this summer as this is a 50 mile-per-hour ride over the Colorado River CANYON .
SAILING peacefully across a river in the early morning light, a fisherman in China keeps a 1000 year old tradition alive .
SNUGGLED up in the hay away from the elements, this adorable hoglet has sought solace with a familiar friend .
FULL OF STUNNING colours and swirling shapes, the furrows on these fields create a mix of mesmerising patterns .
Sam Notaro built his own flood defences to protect his four-bedroom home in Moorland, Somerset Flooding is likely to get worse around Somerset as groundwater levels continue to rise .
SURROUNDED by a snowstorm, these young polar bears battle the elements - as well as each other .
MAKING himself at home, this little snail perches happily on top of this frog's head .
A SPECTRUM of colours fills the sky during this spectacular and natural display of light .
CCTV shows a dark figure dumping the dog- A pet dog suffering with cancer has been put down after being dumped at an animal rescue in what officials said is the worst abandonment of any animal they have witnessed .
The view from this rooftop pool is sure to make most holidaymakers envious .
CAUSING a splash, this determined kingfisher goes hunting for dinner .