A compromise deal to shake up Europe’s controversial fisheries policy was hailed today as bringing real benefits for fishermen – if it wins approval from MEPs.

Blasphemous friends and thespians

Europe’s governments were urged today to back a global ban on EU fishermen removing shark fins at sea.

A GREEN auction of fine art, celebrity experiences, luxury travel and high fashion took in a total of $2.4 million (€1.66m) to benefit the environment.

The FTSE 100 Index lost hold of early gains by midday today as investors continued to fret about recovery prospects for the world economy.

An enormous patch of waste plastic debris covering thousands of square miles has formed in the Atlantic, researchers said today.

The demand for shark fin soup in Asia is driving many species to the brink of extinction, a marine conservation group said today.

THE world record for the largest number of people dressed as Smurfs was smashed early yesterday.

Britain’s biggest nightclub operator said today that cash-strapped clubbers were going out less as they face up to “one of the most difficult years in recent times”.

BIG cosmetic brands — including L’Oréal, Ponds and Dove — have agreed to stop using shark liver oil as a moisturising base because of concerns for the survival of the deep-sea predators.

Late-night venues operator Luminar offloaded its Chicago Rock Café and Jumpin’ Jaks sites today in a deal worth £76.8m (€114.7m).

A slump in the number of revellers at its Jumpin Jaks venues led to a disappointing Christmas for pub and nightclub operator Luminar Leisure.

The future of the Chicago Rock Café chain was under review today after its owner Luminar moved to address a year of unsatisfactory trading.

Theme bar operator Luminar today hailed an improved trend over the summer as it overcame June’s sharp drop-off in trading.