Surcharges for using a debit or credit card to pay for travel, theatre or cinema tickets will be banned by the end of 2012, the government plans.

A mysterious bony growth found in elephants' feet is actually a sixth "toe", scientists report.

Iraqi Vice-President Tarik al-Hashemi says PM Nouri Maliki is to blame for huge attacks in Baghdad, saying he is failing to focus on security.

Chinese writer Chen Wei is jailed for nine years by a court in Sichuan for "inciting subversion" through pro-democracy essays.

Wales faces a "tough" year in 2012, First Minister Carwyn Jones says in his Christmas message.

The Football Supporters Federation and human rights campaigners criticise Tottenham's decision to equip stewards with headcams at their match against Chelsea.

Sebastian Vettel says he is anxious to see the Red Bull car he hopes will help him win a third successive world championship.

The artist John Chamberlain, celebrated for turning scrap metal into sculpture, has died in New York aged 84, his widow announces.