VIA Machine Head Announce Album Title, Release Date and European Tour

VIA UNEARTH turns Darkness Into Light

A provisional five-day forecast by the Met Office shows a dense layer of ash engulfing the country on Friday – the start of the bank holiday weekend and half term.
High concentrations would cause serious delays and cancellations for air passengers, and trigger knock-on effects for flights over one of the busiest weekends of the year.
Hundreds of holidaymakers transport plans were in ruins last night, but thousands more face trouble in the coming days as the ash heads south
Some planes would be able to take off and land under the ash cloud, but the Civil Aviation Authority said the number of flights may have to be 'rationed'.
The warnings have left many anxious about whether their flights at the start of half term will be disrupted. Up to two million people are expected to fly in and out of the UK over the four days of the bank holiday weekend.
Officials insisted that Britain and the rest of Europe have learned from last year’s fiasco, caused by another Icelandic volcano, when planes were grounded for six days.
The screen says it all: The arrivals board at Edinburgh airport shows how many flights were cancelled and long delays for those that were expected
It caused misery for tens of thousands of passengers, many of whom were stranded abroad and were forced to make their way home by road, rail and sea.
Although Transport Secretary Philip Hammond is confident that the great getaway will still happen, confusion reigned in Whitehall last night.
This was largely because of the unpredictable nature of weather and volcanic activity.
Forty winks: A passenger tries to sleep after failing to secure alternative accommodation or transport after his flight was cancelled yesterday
Yesterday thousands of passengers endured disruption as Scotland became a virtual no-fly zone.
British Airways cancelled all flights to and from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Newcastle, while BMI, easyJet, Flybe and Aer Lingus all scrapped services.
Ryanair claimed the cancellations were an over-reaction but went on to halt all its flights in and out of Scotland. More than 250 flights were cancelled across Europe.
After a test flight up to 41,000ft in Scottish airspace, airline boss Michael
O’Leary described the so-called ‘red zone’ of highest density volcanic ash over Scotland as a 'non-existent, mythical and a misguided invention'.
The latest satellite image showing the ash plume from the Grimsvotn volcano, under the Vatnajokull glacier in south-east Iceland
The crisis has been sparked by the eruption of Iceland's Grimsvotn volcano, which has been spewing out plumes of ash, steam and smoke since Saturday.
Scientists say high concentrations of ash can cripple aircraft engines.
Since last year's eruption, airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority have eased the rules and now allow flights through 'low density' ash clouds.
Airlines that want to fly their planes through medium and high concentrations have to convince the CAA that it is safe.

Grounded: Two Ryanair jets and a FlyBe aircraft sit on the tarmac at Edinburgh airport yesterday
Long wait: Using their suitacase as a makeshift chair, two passengers at Glasgow airport pass the time by reading a book and checking a mobile phone
Waiting and more waiting: Passengers at Edinburgh Airport wait to board buses to other airports after their flights were cancelled
If the UK is overshadowed by high concentration ash, airlines would be forced to cancel and delay flights, and timetables could be disrupted for days.
Decisions on whether to fly are based on forecasts from the Met Office's Volcanic Ash Advisory Service, rather than real-life measurements of concentrations.
Although the Met Office has part ownership of a research plane, it is currently being used in Ireland to study 'marine organic particles'.
A dedicated Met Office atmospheric research plane, commissioned after last year's volcanic chaos, is not due to arrive until next month.
Huge power: The eruption makes a spectacular sight over the Icelandic landscape
On the ground: A car drives towards the erupting Grimsvotn volcano which has sent thousands of tonnes of volcanic ash into the sky
Stunning: As the volcano erupts, huge dark ash and storm clouds gather across the Icelandic skyline
Yesterday it was in talks with the German Aerospace Centre to borrow a test plane.
Last night the Met Office said it stood by its five-day prediction showing the entire UK covered in an ash cloud of the highest density from 35,000ft to 55,000ft.
A spokesman for the Met Office said: 'These are the most recent charts available and are on our website. We stand by them.
He added: 'It is based on the assumption that the volcano will continue to erupt at the same rate. It is a guide, not definitive.'
source: dailymail

VIA Half term holiday flights on knife edge: Family breaks under threat as Met office warns ash cloud could blanket Britain

Dear All,

The recent snub by the British government to UNESCO's offer to mediate in the issue of the Parthenon Sculptures dispute and the arrogant wording directed at the Greek government's often repeated offer to negotiate the matter by discussion confirmed our position that Britain never had the intention to enter into good faith discussions. As we had said in recent fora,  the only road we saw to possible success was one of legal action, with a direct and dynamic confrontation with Whitehall.

The recent response by Britain dissolved any illusions we had regarding the powers in the UK to be brought to do the right thing,  and to right a historical wrong.  We too had hoped that Britain would succumb to worldwide public opinion to correct an outrage,  the stripping and vandalising of the Parthenon of 60% of its famous millenia-old  Sculptures ,  a crime committed when Greeks were under occupation and unable to defend their archaeological heritage and national symbols of identity.

The latest declaration by the new minister of culture in the UK continues with the hard line of his predeccesors, namely that "The marbles were legally acquired according to the laws of the time. " So Mr Minister were 3 million African slaves, captured,  transported and sold,  "according to the laws of the time." Opium too was purchased and sold, in tons "according to the laws of the time". Those who did not agree to buy your opium had two wars declared on them,  and so China paid with the loss of Hong Kong and a treaty to buy your Indian grown opium.  This, Mr Minister, is NOT that time.  We are disputing your CURRENT possession of symbols of our heritage, removed from Athens and held by you in a totally government financed and controlled museum institution (all the board is appointed directly, or indirectly by the UK government or by the Queen).

This,  though,  is not the issue.

One more British government acting like  an infant  petulantly hugging another child's toy,  saying "It is mine, mine!"  is understandable,  because there is no home-made item that can compare in beauty,  artisanry,  historic or other value to those created  by a superior ancient civilisation.  We may understand the feeling,  and commiserate,  but that does not justify the possession of the looted Greek scultures taken from the Parthenon.  There is no justification for it.  We sympathise with the situation the British Museum is in,  but our sympathy doesn't extend to giving up iconic and defitive items of our heritage,  nor did our illustrious and talented predecessors in Ancient Athens build the Parthenon to have its facade torn off and damaged  by a British ambassador to decorate his Scottish residence. The Parthenon was built by Pericles and the Greek city states to commemorate the victory of Greek civilisation against the very type of barbarity  and lack of respect that Elgin indulged in 2300 years later.

The British position is well known and is in keeping with how official Britain has acted in the last few centuries.  To win in a contest the basic rule MUST be to understand your opponent and create your game strategy around this knowledge.

Anyone who has studied British history and politics will know that Britain NEVER,  but NEVER,  gives anything back unless forced to do so.  India, Cyprus,  as well as dozens of colonies of the Empire,  and other possessions acquired without the consent of the people, often with great bloodshed caused by British troops were only given back by Britain after a bitterly contested conflict,  on the field of battle,  in courts,  or with a series of extended non-violent political actions by those who had lost their heritage,  freedoms,  or historical archaeological treasures.  Britain today in its museums and in the Tower of London still holds numerous purloined and pillaged items as well as those taken by reason of  military superiority from a vanquished foe defending himself on his own soil.  The Kohinoor Diamond in the so called Crown Jewels  taken from a defeated 15 year old prince in India, is but one example. Manifest Destiny demanded it.  We oppose this way of thinking.

This lengthy introduction,  and I will apologise,  was to emphasise my conviction that dialogue for the return of the Parthenon Marbles, after so many valiant and polite efforts by Greece,  and its overseas friends in all walks of life,  is not a viable option,  and only  incurable romantics or people without an understanding of the official British character and its limitations can insist that this dead end is the road to the Restitution in Athens.

The problem is not the obduracy and intransigence of British officialdom.  It is a given, and we have to act  with that in mind.  It is with the very knowledge of the historic failure of Greek diplomacy,  both cultural and political,  and that of our own self-financed voluntary Parthenon organisations, to bring about the return, that it was encouraging when the Greek government,  that for 40 years has not asked Britain officially for the Sculptures return,  not long ago decided to involve an experienced and prestigious British legal firm Doughty Street Chambers led by George Robertson QC,  to represent our interests and to write a report regarding  what options were open for Greece to act.

Overall public awareness of the issue and additional sympathy for the Greek case was given very welcome boosts,  human nature being what it is,  by declarations of public support by celebrities such as George Clooney,  Matt Damon and others,  while a visit to Greece by Mrs Clooney with her senior colleagues at the UK law office created a media frenzy and a heightening of public interest in the Parthenon issue.  The Doughty Chambers law group produced a 140 page confidential report for the Greek government describing,  as leaked to the press,  5 options.  The one considered to have the highest chance of success was,  and this is no surprise to us,  for Greece to go immediately to the  European Court of Human Rights where,  according to the report,  there was  the greatest chance of a Greek legal victory.  The lawyers were specific: it is  now or never,  if the opportunity is  not to be lost with issues such as statutes of limitations in the near future killing Greek chances of recovery of the items through international court decisions.

In Greece,  as we all know there is a new government,  and the report was delivered to them.  With the understanding of the British penchant for intransigence,  fortified by the recent snub to UNESCO, and the history of failed attempts,  the new minister had a detailed road map in his hands,  to move forward,  with of course the support of millions around the world and at home.  Expecting his decision to do this,  using the British law firm and their international expertise and experience in cross border cultural issues we were stunned to hear the announcement of Under Minister Mr Nickos Xidakis,  a former journalist,  who announced,  in more words than these,  that " We will not go against Britain in court... This is a matter to be settled politically and diplomatically...this issue will be settled, bit by bit over, time..."

Looking at what the minister said let us examine the  viability of his declared course of action over that which the British lawyers and we ourselves at IPSACI believe,  and we all want the same thing ,  the return of the Parthenon Sculptures.

A) Mr Xidakis rejects the expert opinion of the British legal experts.  Claiming we may lose in court.  But for 200 years we have lost! We can only win,  or if we lose here, we can initiate a new legal action in another court.

B) Mr Xidakis says the issue can be won diplomatically.  The question is,  after 200 years of failed  diplomatic initiatives, is the government of Mr Xidakis in such a powerful international position to impose a solution using diplomacy? Does he know of Greek diplomats who can force Mr Cameron to sign a new law allowing/directing the Return of the Parthenon Sculptures?

C) Mr Xidakis told the press that the issue should be dealt with "politically" .  This is indeed one way countries settle disputes.  The assumption by lay persons like myself,  on hearing the Minister,  is that Greece at this moment has the political clout to bring the British Museum to its knees and to force Mr Cameron to sign the document of repatriation of the Sculptures to Athens. With all our goodwill towards Mr Xidakis, where does he draw this feeling of current Greek political power and superiority over Britain from?

D) Finally the minister says that this issue is being slowly resolved, "little by little".

But it has already been 200 years from the stripping of the friezes and metopes and Britain has not moved one centimetre in the direction Greece demands!

If the minister does not tell us why he feels his/our  government has the diplomatic and political power to solve the issue,  I very much fear that his position looks like a hot potato shifting of the issue to a future government because of  reluctance to take the bull by the horns,  as recommended by the UK lawyers, and get into court with his British counterpart.(Apologies for the mixed metaphors!)

I have a great fear that we are about to lose the Parthenon Sculptures for ever, and that the work of all our organisations, ministries,  diplomatic missions,  our volunteer supporters, and decades of dedicated work by people such as yourselves around the world, and in Greek and international  organisations are about to be lost down the drain.

I therefore beg those who believe that we must recommend to Minister Xidakis and his staff to listen to the recommendations of people and experts who know the issues well,  and understand the mindset of those walking the halls of Russell Square and Westmister,  to express their concern to the authorities in Greece.

Thank you for your patience in reading this long analysis of where I believe  we are today,  in view of the recent, and disturbing developments.

Best to all,
Alexis Mantheakis
Chairman of the International Parthenon Sculptures Action Committee Inc.
Athens office.
www.ipsaci.com
+(30)22990 47566

Fresh from their Seychelles honeymoon, a well-tanned Duchess of Cambridge performed her Royal duties with aplomb as she spoke to Mr and Mrs Obama in a 10-minute private meeting.
There were smiles all round moments earlier when the Obamas arrived at Buckingham Palace and were met by the Queen and Prince Philip.
Sorry we couldn't make the wedding: The couples chat and no doubt the recent Royal marriage ceremony was a topic of conversation

Friendly: The couples met before President Obama was the subject of a 41-gun salute
They arrived in the Presidential limousine known as The Beast, which pulled into the front of Buckingham Palace just before noon.
After the meeting of the heads of state, the Obamas spent about 10 minutes speaking with Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, before meeting more Royal figures.
Senior members of the Queen's household were introduced to the Obamas in the Bow room.
Among them were the Queen's private secretary Christopher Geidt, her treasurer Sir Alan Reed, master of the household Air Vice Marshall David Walker, and the Lord Chamberlain Earl Peel.
Others who met the president and his wife included Brigadier Archie Miller-Bakewell, Philip's private secretary, Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Ford, comptroller of the Lord Chamberlain's Office, and a number of ladies-in-waiting to the Queen including Virginia Ogilvy, Countess of Airlie.
Having a giggle: The Duchess of Cambridge and Michelle Obama enjoy a brief moment of hilarity during their meeting
Meet and greet: The Queen welcomes Barack Obama to Buckingham Palace, watched by his wife Michelle and Prince Philip
Old friends reunited: Two years on from their last meeting, the Obamas and the Queen and Prince Philip look pleased to see one another
The Obamas were then taken to Buckingham Palace Gardens where they faced with a guard of honour, 101 soldiers from the 1st Battalion, Scots Guards, and three officers lined up in two rows. Behind them were the Band, Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guard.
The air was shattered by the noise of booming gunfire as a 41-gun salute was begun by the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery in nearby Green Park while simultaneously at the Tower of London another was fired by the Honourable Artillery Company.
The guardsmen gave a royal salute and then the American national anthem was played in honour of the US president.
Hold on to your hats! The windy weather plays havoc with the Royal party

Ceremonial welcome: The Obamas are joined by members of the Royal Family to hear the U.S. national anthem
The British National Anthem was not performed as the Queen is in residence at the palace and so it was needed to mark her arrival at the historic building.
Major Rory Shannon, in command of the guard of honour, approached the heads of state and formally stated that the troops were ready for inspection. Mr Obama, with the Duke, then walked down the terrace steps to the waiting soldiers in their bearskins and scarlet tunics.
The major escorted the president along the two lines of guardsmen as Philip followed a pace behind.
The U.S. leader could be seen exchanging words with the senior officer as they passed the troops who, when not performing ceremonial duties, are fighting soldiers.
Guard of honour: Prince Philip accompanies Mr Obama as they inspect soldiers of the Household Cavalry in Buckingham Palace Gardens
Protection: The heavily-armoured Presidential limousine arrives at Buckingham Palace
At the end of the inspection, Mr Obama took his place beside the Queen and watched as the guardsmen marched off before the party headed inside for lunch.
Earlier the President declared the UK-U.S. partnership 'an essential relationship for us and for the world'.
But he began his visit today by making a solemn statement about the loss of life in Joplin, Missouri, where a tornado claimed 116 lives on Sunday night.
The U.S. president flew into Stansted airport ahead of schedule last night to avoid the possibility of disruption to air travel from the ash cloud from an erupting Icelandic volcano.
He had been due to fly from Ireland on board Air Force One this morning to be greeted at the Essex airport by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.
But the decision was taken to bring forward the visit after the announcement of cancellations to some UK commercial flights due to the ash billowing from the Grimsvotn volcano - with more disruption expected in the days to come.
Arrival: Crowds strain to take pictures of the Presidential limousine, accompanied by police outriders, as it arrives at Buckingham Palace
Welcoming party: President Obama, left with Prince Charles, and First Lady Michelle, right with the Duchess of Cornwall, leave the U.S. Ambassador's residence Winfield House today

Relaxed: The President enjoys a joke with Prince Charles, left, while Michelle Obama and the Duchess of Cornwall are deep in conversation
The state visit - only the third by a U.S. president to the UK in 100 years - comes at a time of close co-operation between Britain and America on issues ranging from Libya to Afghanistan, counter-terrorism and the Middle East peace process.
This strong partnership was reflected in a joint article written by Mr Obama and Prime Minister David Cameron for The Times, in which they declare: 'Ours is not just a special relationship, it is an essential relationship - for us and for the world.'
After his early arrival, Mr Obama was spending the night in the US ambassador's residence in London, Winfield House in Regent's Park.
Solemn: Barack Obama began his British visit today by making a statement about the appalling loss of life in Joplin, Missouri, where a tornado left at least 116 people dead
Despite the hasty change to their planned schedule, Mr Obama and wife Michelle were still given the formal welcome expected of a state visit.
They were greeted by the Lord in Waiting Viscount Brookeborough, who met them on behalf of the Queen.
Instead of a traditional red carpet they left the plane on special red-carpeted stairs because of windy conditions at the airport.
Later today the Obamas will view the royal picture gallery before a wreath-laying visit to Westminster Abbey and a state banquet in the evening.
The couple will stay as guests of the Queen at Buckingham Palace tonight and tomorrow.
Tomorrow will be devoted to politics, with talks between Mr Obama and Mr Cameron at 10 Downing Street, followed by an address to both Houses of Parliament, in which the president is expected to say that the US has no closer ally in the world than Britain.
In their joint article, Mr Obama and Mr Cameron put the transatlantic partnership at the heart of the drive for global stability and prosperity.
Hello Britain: President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle step off Air Force One as they arrive at London Stansted Airport last night
Touchdown: Air Force One arrives at Stansted Airport, London ahead of schedule due to fears volcanic ash would spread over Britain today
'When the United States and Britain stand together, our people and people around the world can become more secure and more prosperous,' they wrote.
'And that is the key to our relationship. Yes, it is founded on a deep emotional connection, by sentiment and ties of people and culture.
'But the reason it thrives, the reason why this is such a natural partnership, is because it advances our common interests and shared values.
'It is a perfect alignment of what we both need and what we both believe. And the reason it remains strong is because it delivers time and again.
'Ours is not just a special relationship, it is an essential relationship - for us and for the world.'
They also promised not to abandon the protesters fighting for democracy in the 'Arab Spring'.
Flying the flag: British and American colours stand along The Mall leading to Buckingham Palace in preparation for the visit
'We will not stand by as their aspirations get crushed in a hail of bombs, bullets and mortar fire,' said the two leaders.
'We are reluctant to use force, but when our interests and values come together, we know we have a responsibility to act...
'We will stand with those who want to bring light into dark, support those who seek freedom in place of repression, aid those laying the building blocks of democracy.'
It comes after Foreign Secretary William Hague and US secretary of state Hillary Clinton sent out a message to Syria's President Bashar Assad to halt his regime's repression of pro-democracy activists.
Speaking to American reporters shortly before Mr Obama's arrival, Mr Cameron said there was 'an incredible alignment of views' between his administration and the White House on key global issues, including the military mission in Libya, the uprisings of the Arab Spring, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

'Smile, honey. We'll be meeting the Queen and that hat cost a lot of money.'
And he paid lavish tribute to Mr Obama's style, saying that as well as being 'courageous' over issues such as Osama bin Laden, he was also 'thoughtful, measured and serious'.
The current closeness of the UK-U.S. relationship was remarked upon at a joint press conference following talks between Mr Hague and Mrs Clinton at the Foreign Office.
Mrs Clinton joked: 'If there were any closer alignment, we would worry about each other.'
The two leaders are expected to drop in on a barbecue being hosted by their wives Michelle and Samantha for families of military personnel involved in joint UK-U.S. missions overseas.
Mr Obama is due to travel on to France on Thursday morning for the G8 summit of leading industrialised nations in Deauville, also being attended by Mr Cameron.
Raw Video: Obamas Visit Buckingham Palace

source: dailymail

VIA The Prince and the President: William greets Obama and Michelle at the Palace as tanned Kate takes to Royal duties like a natural

On June 15, 1215, in fields by the banks of the River Thames at Runnymede to the west of London, England's King John agreed to the demands of his rebelling barons and accepted the Magna Carta, Latin for "Great Charter", which for the first time placed the monarch under the rule of law.

In the centuries since, it has taken on huge global significance, becoming the basis for the U.S. Bill of Rights, the U.S. Declaration of Independence and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Three of its 63 clauses still remain on Britain's statute book.

"What happened in these meadows eight centuries ago is as relevant today as it was then. And that relevance extends far beyond Britain," British Prime Minister David Cameron said.

He said the document had changed the world, inspiring people from the founding fathers of the United States and Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi to Nelson Mandela in South Africa.

"Its remaining copies may be faded, but its principles shine as brightly as ever," Cameron told the ceremony attended by the queen, other royals and global figures including U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch.

Magna Carta came into being during a period of great political upheaval in England with conflict between King John, his nobles and the English church.

It was essentially a peace deal to address the problems of the day and was annulled by the pope shortly afterwards. But updated versions, which included two original clauses regarded as pivotal in establishing the rule of law, were re-released regularly by or on behalf of succeeding monarchs.

The clauses read: "No free man shall be seized or imprisoned, or stripped of his rights or possessions, or outlawed or exiled, or deprived of his standing in any way, nor will we proceed with force against him, or send others to do so, except by the lawful judgment of his equals or by the law of the land.

"To no one will we sell, to no one deny or delay right or justice."

Originals Exist

Four original copies of the document, written on a single sheet of parchment about the size of A3 paper, still exist.

At Monday's ceremony, a new art installation was unveiled and the American Bar Association's Magna Carta Memorial, which was erected at the site in 1957, was re-dedicated.

U.S. Attorney General Lynch said the charter was a bedrock to free societies globally, while Cameron also used the anniversary as a political opportunity to underpin his plan to overhaul human rights laws and reduce the influence of Europe.

However, John Dyson, chairman of the Magna Carta Trust, said King John and the barons would have been bemused that the document would garner such interest hundreds of years later.

"They would surely have been astonished that over time Magna Carta came to be regarded as one of the most important constitutional documents in our history," he said.

"They would not have believed that barons' lists of demands would become a symbol of democracy, justice, human rights and perhaps above all, the rule of law for the whole world. But that is exactly what has happened."

Author: Stefan Wermuth | Source: Reuters [June 15, 2015]

It was a moment of fun after this morning's in-depth talks on issues ranging from military campaigns in Libya and Afghanistan to global economic reform.
Obama and Cameron diligently serve a burger to a soldier wounded in service during the garden party
U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama and Samantha Cameron, wife of the Prime Minister, serve food at the barbecue for British and American service members and veterans
The pair gamely served the cooked meat at the lunch party while their wives, Samantha and Michelle, spooned side dishes onto the plates of 150 American and British service members.
The Prime Minister and the President appeared at ease as they performed their catering duties in shirt sleeves, chatting and laughing while they worked.
Servicemen and their partners arrive at the Downing Street garden party, which was attended by 150 American and British military personnel

The Prime Minister, left, and the President appeared at ease as they entertained military personnel in shirt sleeves
Both leaders worked together to pile food on to one wounded soldier's plate, as other guests queued at the food-laden tables.
Following the barbecue, Obama and Cameron gave a joint press conference in which the Prime Minister said Taliban must make a 'decisive split' with al Qaida if a political settlement in Afghanistan is to be brokered.
Speaking outside Lancaster House in London, Mr Cameron said the U.S. operation against Osama bin Laden represented a 'strike right at the heart of international terrorism'.
Mr Cameron said the next 12 months represented a 'vital year' in Afghanistan, while British and American troops had 'broken the momentum of the insurgency' in the country.
Mr Obama speaks during a joint press conference with David Cameron at Lancaster House today. The Prime Minister said the next 12 months represented a 'vital year' in Afghanistan
In the Taliban heartland of Kandahar and central Helmand, the insurgents were 'on the back foot', the Prime Minister said.
Calling for a political settlement, he told the press conference: 'Now is the moment to step up our efforts to reach a political settlement.
Obama arrived at Downing Street before 10am this morning for discussions with Cameron as he got down to the real political business of his state visit.
Obama and Cameron, right, were joined by Nick Clegg, left, for today's talks at Downing Street. Mr Clegg, gesturing to the sunlit windows, said to the U.S. leader: 'You've brought the sun today'
Mr Obama shares a joke with Nick Clegg at 10 Downing Street. Shaking hands with the Deputy Prime Minister, the U.S. leader said: 'Wonderful to see you'
During the talks, the U.S. President insisted the alliance between America and the UK is key to providing global security after a 'difficult decade'.
Nick Clegg proved that three isn't always a crowd as he joined the leaders and was seen sharing a joke with the President.
Mr Obama was smiling broadly after making the short journey in Cadillac One - his bombproof limousine known as 'The Beast' - from Buckingham Palace.
The leaders greeted each other with a handshake before Mr Obama patted the Prime Minister on the shoulder.
They then shook hands again on the steps of No. 10 but they were no
Obama smiles before today's meeting with Cameron. The U.S. President and the Prime Minister are to spend the morning holding talks before a joint press conference in Downing Street

Commander-in-chief: Barack Mr Obama takes a seat across from David Cameron (second left) in the Cabinet Room for today's talks on security with other ministers, advisers and officials
Barack Obama is greeted by the Prime Minister outside 10 Downing Street this morning. The pair are discussing issues ranging from military campaigns in Libya and Afghanistan to global economic reform
He is expected to tell MPs and peers that even though the world has changed significantly since the Second World War, the UK-US relationship and the broader transatlantic alliance is still the 'cornerstone of global security'.
The 'Arab Spring' in the Middle East and North Africa reinforce that the allies' shared beliefs are 'not just relevant but essential', he is to say.
The president will also strike an optimistic note by claiming that the world is 'turning a corner' following a 'difficult decade'.
As well as operations winding down in Iraq, the shift to Afghanistan taking control of its own security has begun, and al Qaida has been 'weakened' by successes such as the recent killing of Osama bin Laden.
Yesterday, large parts of central London were brought to a standstill as crowds gathered to welcome the president for his first state visit.
Obama and Cameron wave to members of the media outside the Prime Minister's official residence, prior to their meeting
Mr Obama made the short journey in Cadillac One - his bombproof limousine known as 'The Beast' - from Buckingham Palace
Police marksmen take position on rooftops along Whitehall as the Presidential motorcade arrives at Downing Street this morning. Helicopters were seen whirring overhead, as part of the major security operation
After being greeted by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace, the president and first lady met newlyweds the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge before Mr Obama laid a wreath at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey.
Mr Obama and Mr Cameron then dropped in on a south London school where they took off their jackets to play two schoolboys at table tennis.
But the Anglo-American team took a sound beating at the hands of 16-year-olds Jason Do and Jamiyu Mojaji at the Globe Academy in Southwark.
Mr and Mrs Obama then attended a star-studded state banquet in the president's honour at Buckingham Palace last night as the Queen hailed the US as Britain's 'most important ally'.

Cameron and Obama pose for the army of press photographers gathered outside 10 Downing Street
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton walks with British Foreign Secretary William Hague to join Obama at 10 Downing Street
The smartly dressed driver of the President's vehicle brushes down its shiny exterior as she waits for him outside the Prime Minister's residence
She insisted the relationship was 'tried, tested and, yes, special' and the two nations together contributed to security and prosperity of the world.
'I firmly believe that the strength of our links and many shared interests will continue to ensure that when the United States and the United Kingdom stand together, our people and other people of goodwill around the world will be more secure and more prosperous,' the Queen said.
Responding with his own toast, Mr Obama spoke of the 'rock-solid foundation' between the two countries.
Mr Obama's motorcade travels along the Mall as it leaves Buckingham Palace to go to Downing Street this morning
'From that day to this, you have been our closest partner in the struggle to protect our people from terrorism attacks and violent extremism from around the world despite very heavy sacrifices here,' the president said.
'As we confront the challenges of the 21st century together we have can confidence in the partnership our two countries share, based on a rock-solid foundation built during Queen Elizabeth's lifetime of extraordinary service to her nation and to the world.'
Mr Cameron and Mr Obama sat down for talks in the White Room of No 10 shortly before 10am this morning.
'Okay. Enough about Ryan Giggs. What's the latest on Arnold Schwarzenegger?'
As about a dozen photographers took pictures at the start of the meeting, the president joked: 'All right guys, one of those must have worked.'
Foreign Secretary William Hague and U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton followed the two leaders into Number 10 half an hour later.
Mrs Clinton waved briefly and smiled as she entered.
Michelle Obama, the wife of the U.S. President, and Samantha Cameron, wife of the Prime Minister, pose with their husbands on the steps of 10 Downing Street yesterday
Earlier, the smartly dressed driver of the president's vehicle brushed down its shiny exterior as she waited for him outside the Prime Minister's residence.
Mr Obama and Mr Cameron were joined by Nick Clegg at about 10.15am.
Shaking hands with the Deputy Prime Minister, the US leader said: 'Wonderful to see you.'
Mr Clegg, gesturing to the sunlit windows, said: 'You've brought the sun today.'
At about 10.40am, the President, Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister moved to the Cabinet Room for talks on security with other ministers, advisers and officials.
Mr Cameron and Mr Obama sat opposite each other in the centre of the coffin-shaped Cabinet table, the Prime Minister flanked by Mr Clegg and Mr Hague, and the President by Mrs Clinton and the U.S. Ambassador to London, Louis Susman.
Other British ministers attending included Chancellor George Osborne and Home Secretary Theresa May.
Special relationship 'stronger than ever'

Cameron: 'Special relationship will get stronger'

BARACK OBAMA's LIMO Gets Stuck in Dublin

Obama flips burgers for troops

source: dailymail

VIA President and PM dish up burgers at 'Obama-Q' honouring American and British veterans

Dazzling: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arriving at the Ark Gala Dinner at Kensington Palace
Kate's style has been scrutinised since officially becoming a member of the Royal family following her wedding to Prince William in April.
With her recent appearances meeting the Obamas at Buckingham Palace - and watching the horse racing at the Epsom Derby at the weekend - she tested the sartorial water with simple but chic pieces.
Star attraction: William and Kate didn't disappoint on their first official public engagement as a married couple
However, the Duchess pulled out all the stops for this evening's glamorous event.
William and Kate are attending the reception with 900 other guests at Perks Field and will later sit down to a private dinner before the prince gives a speech.
Musician Mark Ronson and his band will perform for the royals and guests.
The Duke and Duchess are attending on behalf of the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry - a body which raises sustainable funds for charitable grants.
Glowing: Kate's beautiful gown was teamed with LK Bennett shoes and a clutch bag
The gala dinner was held in an enormous luxury marquee which appeared more like a small building.
As the guests arrived, a troupe of divers entertained them by diving acrobatically into a specially constructed pool.
When the royal couple's Jaguar limousine pulled up, they were greeted by calls from banks of photographers asking them to pose for a picture.
Financier Arpad Busson, co-founder of the organisation, warmly welcomed them before they climbed a few steps to the entrance of the building before posing and smiling for the waiting cameras.
Outside the banquet hall was a covered reception area with two champagne bars and stalls serving sumptuous canapes from the Mediterranean and Far East where guests gathered before dinner was served.
Hot ticket: The couple's presence at the gala will shine a spotlight on work carried out by the charity
The Duke and Duchess mingled with some of the more prominent figures or chatted to associates of their host, Mr Busson, known as Arki to his friends.
William and Kate were the centre of attention with people crowding around them to get a view of the newlyweds or take their picture on camera phones.
Mr Busson has two sons with his former partner, model Elle Macpherson, and in recent years has dated actress Uma Thurman.
The royal couple chatted to his sons, Flynn Busson, 13, and his eight-year-old brother, Cy, laughing and joking with them.
After about 45 minutes, they made their way into the circular banqueting room which was filled with almost 100 oval tables.
Meet and greet: From left to right, financier Arpad Busson, Prince William, the Duchess of Cambridge and Ian Wace, also a co-founder of Ark
Among the guests seated on the Duke and Duchess's table were Oscar-winning actor Colin Firth, actress Liz Hurley, socialite Jemima Khan and broadcaster Mariella Frostrup.
Elizabeth Murdoch, the daughter of media tycoon Rupert Murdoch, also had a place, as did William's private secretary, Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton, and Baroness de Rothschild.
Anish Kapoor, the British-based, Indian-born sculptor, who won the Turner Prize in 1991, was another guest with a seat close to the Duke and Duchess.
Kate sat between Crown Prince Pavlos of Greece, a distant relative of William, and Mr Busson, while her husband was opposite her with socialite Countess Debonaire von Bismarck on his left and Princess Marie of Greece on his other side.
Wrapped around the edge of the room was a multi-coloured dot-matrix display which would later be used to show the bidding for charity lots that included a stay on the Maltese Falcon - the world's largest sailing yacht - or a Kenyan safari at a luxury lodge.
Captivating: Kate seems to have taken to public life with ease as she chats with Matthew Freud
On the tables were tiny consoles to allow the wealthy guests to place their bids and around the room were swings for performers to use to entertain the guests.
Musician Mark Ronson and his band were due to entertain the diners later and a mystery band - rumoured to be the Kings Of Leon - were also performing.
The £10,000-a-head dinner will also feature auctions to raise donations for Ark, which has projects helping disadvantaged children around the globe.
In the UK it sponsors a number of academy schools and runs other projects like Teaching Leaders and Future Leaders.
Ark was co-founded in 2002 by the financier Arpad Busson, who now acts as a trustee of the organisation.
A spokeswoman for the charity said: 'Over the past 10 years, Ark's programmes in the UK, Southern Africa, eastern Europe and India have transformed the lives of more than 200,000 children.
'In tackling access to healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa, improving educational opportunities in the UK, US and India, and giving children the chance to live in a caring and nurturing environment in Eastern Europe, Ark is helping to overcome some of the most severe blights on children's lives.


Star quality: Liz Hurley, Sophie Dahl and Jemima Khan arrive at the gala
source: dailymail

VIA The Duchess dazzles: Kate and William bring a touch of glamour to charity gala

It doesn't matter how big your house is (even if it's the size of this one), how much it costs or even how much you are worth — the same rules for tree felling apply to everyone.

We're not just talking about the mechanics of lining up a cut and making sure it doesn't drop into your 24ft luxury swimming pool either, there is more to removing a tree than meets the eye.

The above will not make pleasant reading for a lot of property owners, who will have been looking for an excuse to fell a cumbersome tree on their land for years. Yes, they can add privacy, but they can also prevent development whether this is in relation to your garden or the house itself.

Therefore, if you are looking to rid your land of a troublesome tree, read on. The following checklist has been put together for any UK homeowner out there, but it's very likely that the same rules apply for most countries.

Rule #1 — Are you even allowed to fell the tree?

First and foremost, it’s all about legalities. You might own the most exclusive plot in town, but that doesn’t mean to say that you can do whatever you please with the tree. The UK has thousands of Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and this means that permission has to be sought before you do anything that will drastically change the tree. The fact that this even includes pruning will tell you that most of the time, the thought of felling one is absolutely out of the question.

This is an occasion where bending the rules is pretty much unthinkable as well. It’s an offence to fell, or even do any work for that matter, on a tree protected by a TPO. Therefore, it doesn’t matter where you live, it’s generally not worth the aggravation and you’ll have to live with the tree for the foreseeable future (i.e., forever).

Rule #2 — Is it going to cause half your house to fall down?

In felling a tree, you also want to ensure that you don't fell your house. This might sound a bit over the top, but it really isn't. Additionally, we're not talking about the risks of the tree crushing your great big roof lights (although that's an obvious concern, as well).

Instead, we’re referring to the perils of subsidence. It’s an insurer’s worst nightmare and a lot of the time it’s related purely to the actions of the homeowner. Remove a tree anywhere near your home and you’ve just allowed an enormous amount of water, which the tree was previously using, to re-enter the soil and subsequently swell it. This can cause a whole host of problems and in the worst situations, it’s not been uncommon for houses to have to be rebuilt.

Rule #3 — Who will manage the whole process?

Once upon a time the only option would have been to take advantage of a professional tree felling service, as it simply wasn’t possible to source the specialist equipment on a domestic level. However, there are now numerous companies offering arborist clothing and machinery and this means that the DIY approach is entirely doable.

Whether you fancy getting your hands dirty is up to you. It will work out significantly cheaper to take this approach, although you’ll also have to factor in all of the calculations that are necessary when felling trees. On this note we should also remind readers that if you do get a calculation wrong, there’s every chance that one side of your house could be completely flattened. Therefore, make sure you read the appropriate literature before whipping out your chainsaw.

Rule #4 — What happens next?

No, this final rule isn’t like the famous part of ‘A Question of Sport’, but rather what is going to happen to the felled tree now? The answer to the above issue might have already covered it, as some companies will dispose of the tree for you.

However, if they don’t, you have a giant piece of lumbar in your back garden. Unless you need wood for your stove, it’s a nuisance to say the least. Moving it in one go is probably out of the question, while even sawing it up into tiny pieces will be too much for some. Unfortunately, it’s something else that has to be covered and this is exactly why, no matter what type of house you reside in, tree felling is never a simple topic and there is a boatload of planning required before even considering it.

VIA «Tree Felling 101 for the Lavish Property Owner»

VIA Elle UK

Kind: The X Factor star stopped to sign autographs for the dozens of fans waiting outside before she went into Radio 1 to chat to DJ Scott Mills
The star also stopped to sign autographs for fans who'd waited outside the Radio 1 studios before she went in to be interviewed by DJ Scott Mills - and for the premiere of her debut solo single.
Cher also chatted to Scott about her music, her fans - and her 'haters.'
She also dismissed rumours about having recorded a track with her former X Factor mentor Cheryl Cole, saying she has had no contact with her since the show ended.
When asked about negative press and public opinion towards her she replied: 'I can see why people don't like me.'
And on being labelled a brat - the name given to all her fans on Twitter - she confessed: 'I haven't grown up yet and probably never will.'
Fashion fan: The singer had teamed her white top and bra combo with a pink cardigan, pink handbag, grey skinny trouser and jewelled black stiletto boots
Her debut single Swagger Jagger meanwhile is sure to provoke Marmite-like reactions from listeners.
Cher has deliberated referred to the controversy surrounding her in the lyrics of the song too.
The include: 'You can't stop clickin 'bout me. Writin' 'bout me, tweeting 'bout me.
'Swagger jagger you should get some of your own. Count that money, get your game on.'
The track will hit the shops on 31 July.
The Malvern, Worcestershire youngster is clearly thrilled to bits to be finally releasing new material.
Love or hate her: Cher's new single Swagger Jagger is bound to provoke a reaction whatever you think of her
She wrote on her Twitter account this evening: 'I've had such an crackin day! thanks to everyone at radio 1 and 1xtra! big up to my team ! swagggerrrr jagggerrrrrr!!!!!!'
Cher has previously said of the single: 'Swagger Jagger was one of the first tracks we recorded and I loved it straight away and knew it had to be my first single! I hope you all like it.'
However, UK rapper Example, who is currently at No. 1 in the UK singles charts, is not a fan.
He mocked Lloyd after an unfinished version of the song was leaked online last week, tweeting: 'The biggest crime since she got a record deal.'
Cher's debut album meanwhile, which she's been working on with producers including Max Martin, Red One and TMS, is out in November.
Cher Lloyd - Swagger Jagger (Official Preview)

source :dailymail

VIA Cher Lloyd shows off blue bra in 'Swiss cheese' style top before her new single gets premiere on Radio 1

VIA Harper’s Bazaar UK

VIA FHM UK

VIA Marie Claire UK

'Invisible woman': Nicole showed off her longs legs in a metallic grey dress with a studded belt, seen right the woman she replaced, Cheryl Cole on her first day of auditions in Los Angeles last month
Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, L.A. Reid and Nicole Scherzinger beamed as they made their introductions.
And it was a case of ‘Cheryl, who’s Cheryl?’ as Miss Scherzinger, 32, was introduced to the crowd by Cowell as ‘our own answer to Cruella de Vil.’
It was as if Mrs Cole had never even been on set as the slender brunette then triumphantly punched the air, making it clear that she deserved the job, screaming: ‘What’s up New Jersey? How are you? Y’all feeling good today?’
It's Saula: Simon Cowell has given Nicole high praise, saying she is like a breath of fresh air, but it was Paula Abdul who he was lauding with attention as the pair shared a smooch as they arrived today
Pretty in pink: Paula stood out in a bright short dress, teamed with Christian Louboutin heels
Clad in a figure-hugging green jumpsuit and gold stilettos, the singer added: ‘I don’t know if you all know this, but today is my first day on the job for the X Factor – I’m here for you. I’m at your service, New Jersey.’
‘So please, please, lets have some fun and let’s show X Factor some love!’
The former Pussycat Doll singer was promoted from show co-host to a judge after Mrs Cole, 27, was removed from the panel after filming four auditions.
Unbreakable bond: Simon and Paula were very touchy-feely as they greeted the waiting media and fans outside the arena
Say cheese: Former Pussycat Doll Nicole poses with fellow judge L.A. Reid, who looked dapper in a suit with brown suede shoes
And speaking after the first round of auditions at the Prudential Centre in Newark, New Jersey, music mogul Cowell told the Daily Mail: ‘Didn’t’ Nicole do well? She was terrific.
‘She’s a great addition to the panel, she’ll be great. She’s just what we needed – she’s a breath of fresh air.’
The entire judging panel looked terribly cosy as Miss Abdul, 48 cuddled, up to Cowell , 51,and Miss Scherzinger bantered with record executive Reid.

Lively: Nicole was loving all the attention she was getting as she posed for photos and spoke to the Press
And when asked if they knew who Mrs Cole was, audience members professed ignorance and one said: ‘We don’t know her in America.’
An onlooker said: ‘It was as if Cheryl had never been there at all, everyone looked happy and relaxed. It was like she had been rubbed out of the show.’
Mrs Cole is yet to make a public appearance after flying home to England from the auditions in Chicago two weeks ago.
The star was removed from the U.S. judging panel after being told by TV executives that she had lost her ‘sparkle.’
Meet my new BFF: Nicole posted a picture with fellow U.S. X Factor judge Paula on her Twitter page
The move then sparked a 10-day standoff beween her and Cowell that ended in her snubbing a £2.5 million offer to return to the U.K. X Factor – and finally an 11th hour offer to try again as a judge on the U.S. show.
She turned down the offer to return to America on Monday, leaving Miss Scherzinger - who was a guest judge at the U.K. X Factor auditions last year - to fill her high heels.
A show source said: ‘Nicole is feisty, she’s loud, she gets the crowd going – and she’s ambitious.
‘In short, she’s exactly what the X Factor needs. She was great on the first day and managed to spar with Cowell and the rest of the judges.’
Speaking earlier this week, Cowell told the Mail that it had been a ‘rough few weeks.’
Having a blast: Crowds assemble outside the Prudential Center in New Jersey
What a line-up: These are the first auditions to be filmed with Scherzinger as a judge
Coming soon: X Factor starts airing from September in the U.S. on the Fox network
Hot competition: A neon-clad Paula Abdul took on former Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger in a battle of puffball frocks as the X Factor auditions kicked off in New Jersey yesterday
source: dailymail

VIA 'A breath of fresh air': Leggy Nicole is a hit at U.S. X Factor auditions as Cheryl becomes 'the invisible woman'

According to the unsubstantiated claims from the alleged victim, the attack happened in the early hours of April 10, when Mr Walsh is said to have visited Russell Court Hotel in Dublin.
Earlier in the evening, Mr Walsh had attended a concert by Westlife, the Irish boyband he created.
The man allegedly told police he chatted with Mr Walsh in the hotel’s private Global Bar, before the pair moved on to its well-known Krystle nightclub.
His statement to officers claims the TV star then indecently assaulted him in the nightclub’s toilets.
The venue: The alleged assault is said to have taken place at the Krystle nightclub, inside Dublin's Russell Court Hotel
According to The Sun, a police source said the investigation was ‘ongoing’ and that officers have taken CCTV footage from the nightclub and will also study film from cameras in the hotel.
A spokesman for Mr Walsh said: ‘He vigorously denies all of the allegations. If contacted by the police he will willingly co-operate with any investigation. Louis categorically denies any wrongdoing and will fight to clear his name.’
Famous: The nightclub is one of the most popular and exclusive in Dublin
Last night, the alleged victim refused to comment.
Mr Walsh is on the judging panel for this year’s X Factor, alongside Gary Barlow from Take That, Kelly Rowland from Destiny’s Child and N-Dubz singer Tulisa Contostavlos. The Irishman first appeared on the programme in 2004 alongside Simon Cowell and Sharon Osbourne.
Mr Walsh became well-known in the 1990s for creating the group Boyzone after deciding to create an Irish version of Take That.
Under his management, they achieved international success, selling more than 12million copies worldwide

Back to work: Louis Walsh arrives at the London Studios for X Factor yesterday
He later used the same formula to produce Westlife, co-managed by Boyzone member Ronan Keating. Mr Walsh launched his television career as a judge on the Irish edition of reality music show Popstars.
After finding a band on that show he was brought across to London to star in Popstars: The Rivals on ITV. It was on this show that he found UK fame, as mentor of the winning group, Girls Aloud.
During his time on the X Factor, Mr Walsh had success with classical-style boyband G4, who went on to have a chart-topping album and completed two tours of the UK.
source: dailymail

VIA Louis Walsh denies that he indecently assaulted man in nightclub toilet

The worn copper alloy figurine of the Roman god of commerce and travellers was found by Dave Cooper, member of the York and District Metal Detecting Club, in a field near Selby.

Mercury was one of the more popular Roman gods, with similar examples already found across the country giving an insight into the religious practices of Roman Britain.

The figurine is the 1,000th find this year recorded by the North and East Yorkshire Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS), a government-funded project to encourage the voluntary recording of archaeological objects found by the public.

Rebecca Griffiths, PAS Finds Liaison Officer at York Museums Trust, said: “Every year thousands of archaeological objects are discovered by members of the public.

“While the majority of these come from metal-detector users we also see many finds from people field-walking, gardening, renovating houses and even those out walking particularly inquisitive dogs.”

Source: The Yorkshire Post [June 01, 2015]

Planking is a craze for taking photos of people lying down in unusual places and then posting them on the web.
Game on: Planking during a game of golf
A spokesman for the fan page - which was only set up in the past fortnight and which we cannot name for legal reasons - defended the past time.
'For most people, it's just a bit of harmless fun,' he told the York Press, declining to give his name.
He said the group did not condone people planking in dangerous spots, but added they could not be held responsible for anyone who chose to do so.
'However, we have decided to regulate the site now and remove some of the pictures,' he said.
'We have blocked access [to the Facebook profile] to about 800 people under 18, as they might be easily influenced and put themselves in danger.'
Risky: Participants taking part in the craze lie face down in a tree
The page has already attracted nearly 3,500 'likes' on Facebook.
Fans have posted pictures of themselves on the page planking in locations including on top of nightclub soundsystems, on cars and on bales of hay.
The youngster allegedly pictured planking on the rail tracks was arrested after police received calls from members of the public identifying him.
A spokesman for the British Transport police said: 'After the pictures were brought to our attention, we launched an investigation to identify the male involved.
'We would like to thank members of the public who came forward to identify the boy pictured, who was extremely lucky he wasnt killed or badly injured as a result of his behaviour.
What a plank: Gordon Ramsay posted up a picture on his Twitter of himself trying out the latest internet craze of planking
'This was very dangerous behaviour. With high speed trains and electric currents, the railway should never be treated as somewhere to play or hang about. When people are spotted on the railway trains are alerted, which causes disruption and delays.
'People who trespass on the railway are not just risking a court appearance, they are taking a gamble with their lives.
'The last thing our officers want is to have to tell a mother, father or another family member that their loved one has died after trespassing on the railway.'
She confirmed that this was only the second incident of 'planking' on the railways in the UK and the first arrest.
In recent months, planking has become a worldwide craze - even celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has posted pictures of himself doing it online.
Tragedy: Simon Hallam was left fighting for his life after a planking stunt gone wrong
But the phenomenon has already led to tragedies.
Last month 20-year-old Australian Acton Beale died after he fell seven storeys from the balcony railing of a block of flats.
Days later, also in Australia, plasterer Simon Hallam was left fighting for his life after falling and hitting his head while planking on the boot of a fast moving car.
source : dailymail

VIA Teenager charged with trespassing on railway - after planking photo ends up on Facebook

Art Money

Brixton heroes, urban art and architectural detail combine to reflect the dynamic past and present of one of London’s most vibrant areas — as the world’s first urban complementary currency points to its future. Balancing expected currency motifs with state-of-the-art production techniques, these notes are both an advert for Brixton’s amazing diversity, and two-fingers to the pedestrian paper the rest of us have to carry in our wallets. Need to borrow a Ziggy anyone?

Advertising Agency: This Ain't Rock'n'Roll, London, UK;
Designers: Clive Russell, Charlie Waterhouse;
Project Manager: Susan Tomlinson;
Print Production: Paul Neal/Orion Security Print.

The Launch of Brixton's Local Currency

VIA «Brixton Money»

Among the finds was a medieval hoard of 17 coins discovered by Roland Mumford in December 2012, while metal detecting on farm land in Wenvoe.

The hoard is made of five gold and 12 silver coins and includes a half-noble, four quarter-nobles of Edward III (1327-77) and principally groats (4d pieces) of Edward III.

That hoard dates to between 1365 to 1370 with the oldest coin discovered being from the 1290s and the most recent date from the 1360s.

An archaeological investigation was undertaken by National Museum and PAS Cymru archaeologists, with the support of the landowner and the assistance of the finder. Because no signs of settlement were found, this deposition of a significant sum of money remains a mystery.

The money would have been the equivalent of around two months’ wages.

Another hoard including two bronze artefacts, thought to be dated to the Late Bronze Age around 3,000 years ago was also declared treasure.

They were identified as axes after being found in Llancarfan, in the Vale of Glamorgan, by David Harrison in October 2013, while Mr Harrison was metal detecting on farm land.

One was a complete axe, the other a fragment.

The fragment had been wedged into the socket of the complete axe immediately before burial and were found near to each other in the corner of a field.

They are thought to have been buried during social and ritual ceremonies.

Another find of a small gold pendant which is thought to be dated to the first half of the sixteenth century had been found in St Donats by David Hughes in November 2011.

The pendant was made up of four circular sockets that would once have held beads, pearls or semi-precious stones. They are fastened to a small circular back-plate in a cross shape. The sockets of the pendant are decorated with a gold twisted wire that can be matched to Tudor dress hooks and pins.

Other finds included a 14th or 16th century signet ring which was found by Michael Gerry in August 2013 while metal detecting in Sully.

A gold ring with the inscription “such is my love” was found by David Hughes in April 2013 on land at Llantwit Major.

Fragments of a silver devotional ring were found by Mark Lambert in April 2013 on land at St Athan, that is thought to be dated to the fifteenth or early sixteenth century.

Fragments of a silver badge in the form of a cockerel, bearing the motto Si deus nobiscum – meaning If God is with us – were found by Mark Newbury in September 2012 at Pentyrch.

A 17th-century silver dress pin was also found by Robert Lock and Joseph Cartwright in August 2011 on land at St Athan.

Author: Ruth Mosalski | Source: Wales Online [April 22, 2015]