For many thousands of years humankind has delved deep into the earth in search of tin, coal, copper, and precious stones. And the treasures uncovered have played a significant part in humanity’s evolution. The Bronze Age, for instance, produced some incredibly beautiful artefacts and the first durable weapons, while coal fuelled the accelerated expansionism of the Industrial Revolution.

PASTOR Terry Jones seems like an unlikely candidate for the title of America’s Enemy No 1, but that is what he has become, almost overnight, in his attempt to lead his band of Christian soldiers against the sword of Islam.

A GROUP of all-party politicians is bidding to change the law to stop the State’s “crown jewels” falling into the hands of private owners.