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.
Say cheese! This cheeky chappy isn’t in the mood to live up to his scary reputation as he is pictured here cracking a killer smile as he goes about his daily business .
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 .
As sunlight cascades through its vibrant stained glass windows, every inch of the Nasir-ol-Mulk Mosque bursts with colour .
A brave leopard kicks back and relaxes in the sunshine - just inches from an enormous crocodile .
A DETERMINED great blue heron holds on tightly to its prey as the furry gopher attempts to wriggle free .
DIPPING his head into the vase of water, this little squirrel takes a refreshing break from an afternoon of eating .
FROM the rolling hills of the Scottish highlands to looming chalk cliffs in Sussex, these stunning photographs capture the spectacular beauty of Great Britain .
A couple have tied the knot in a spectacular Harry Potter-themed wedding which cost £45,000 .
SPURTING water 20ft into the air, this is one well you wouldn't want to dip your bucket into .
TUGGING at his exhausted mum's ears, a beautiful baby orangutan refuses to settle for a nap as he begins a game of peek-a-boo .
Splashing around in the water, a mother otter and her son are tangled in a family feud .
ARM extended and head flung back, this little chipmunk performs a loose-limbed yoga move .