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.
GIANT garden sculptures don't beat about the bush .
SWIMMING next to 40 tonne whales, dare-devil divers take the plunge with these gentle giants of the sea .
An Italian photographer travelled to northern India where he visited poverty stricken suburbs and captured ordinary people in a series of intimate and expressive portraits .
Soldiers standing guard outside the Woolwich barracks in London - Two terror suspects are under armed guard in separate hospitals in London after a serving soldier was hacked to death in the street .
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 .
LEAPING through the air this determined little mouse is on a mission for food .
BURSTING colours of reds, pinks and purples give the illusion of a collection of stunning flowers .
A mischievous fox cub demonstrates his playful side by biting his sibling’s tail .
A baby sperm whale assumed the role of a friendly giant when faced with two awestruck divers .
PAWS for thought as you feast your eyes on this rare bear bathing session .
Raising his arms above his head and lying flat on his back, a polar bear stretches as he sprawls out across the ice .