The discerning readers of Condé Nast Traveller magazine voted Kilkenny one of its top 10 of world’s friendliest cities recently, and if you visit during its festival period, you might even consider a mere top 10 is a bit unfair to the place.

An Iraq War veteran charged with murdering former US Navy SEAL sniper-turned author Chris Kyle and a friend turned a gun on the pair while they were at a Texas shooting range, authorities said.

A possible doping ban for American sprinter Torri Edwards could pave the way for Marion Jones to defend her Olympic 100 metres title in Athens next month.