Michael Phelps claimed his second individual gold medal at the World Championships as he retained his 100 metres butterfly crown in Shanghai.

Villagers returned to their homes today along the fertile slopes of an Indonesian volcano that spewed hot ash and smoke after lying dormant for more than four centuries – catching scientists off guard.

REVOLUTIONARY starting blocks are expected to send world swimming records tumbling again in 2009, after an Olympic year when hi-tech suits helped competitors go faster than ever.

Michael Phelps became the most successful Olympic athlete of all time by claiming the 10th and 11th gold medals of his amazing career.

Australian world record holder Eamon Sullivan qualified quickest for the semi-finals of the 100 metres freestyle as all the major names progressed safely through to the last 16.