Blue-chip Old Mutual led the FTSE 100 Index higher today as miners also lent support on hopes that Australia’s election result will scupper a new super tax.

A late rally rescued a lacklustre session for investors today as financial markets gave a lukewarm response to the new coalition government.

AUSTRALIAN Robert Allenby ended four years without a win in South Africa yesterday – and nobody would have been surprised it came in sudden death.

Ernie Els is to miss the Nedbank Challenge in his homeland in December for the first time since his debut in 1992.

The London market was back on the front foot today as investors regained their nerve after yesterday’s sell-off on both sides of the Atlantic.

London’s blue-chips made firm progress today after the market was buoyed by takeover speculation and solid trading updates.

Ernie Els hopes a return to his South African homeland can inspire him to play his way out of his recent slump.

French Solheim Cup player Gwladys Nocera posted a four-under-par 68 to take a commanding five-shot lead in the Ladies Spanish Open at Panoramica Golf and Country Club.

Colin Montgomerie posted a blistering 65 to throw down the gauntlet to hometown favourite Ernie Els ahead of tomorrow’s final round of the Nedbank Golf Challenge.