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.
THESE LOVE BIRDS can’t keep their beaks off each other as they share a very public display of affection .
A trout manages to escape the jaws of a hungry cormorant - only to find itself back inside the bird's long beak .
From vivid greens to glowing pinks, the colours of the aurora borealis fill the night sky above a snow covered Lapland .
This tranquil setting stretches for miles as the sun sets behind the mountain .
Surveying its surroundings, a tiny harvest mouse climbs the stem of a dandelion .
BOXING DAY has come early for this pair of feisty squirrels, as their Christmas party quickly turns sour .
THIS RING of fire in the sky is the annular solar eclipse that wowed our cousins down-under .
Blonde teen Jess Stubbs has certainly got girl power - as Britain’s youngest TRUCKER .
SPLASHING around in a paddling pool, this little elephant soaks up the sunshine .
WITH THEIR adorable big round eyes and fluffy white fur, these baby seals are cute enough to melt any heart .
