The 62nd Opera Festival, in Wexford, was true to form in unearthing rarely heard works.

A clergyman yesterday branded as “ludicrous” a decision by Coronation Street crew members to cover up a church cross during filming for fear that it could offend viewers.

Republicans were tonight accused of abandoning the family of a hit and run victim knocked down and allegedly driven over by at least three cars in Belfast.

Pop legend Elton John, opera diva Dame Joan Sutherland and conductor John Williams – along with actors Warren Beatty, Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee – were honoured with a star-studded tribute in Washington.