THOUSANDS of flights across Europe will once again be grounded by French air-traffic controllers today, this time as the controllers join workers in protesting over pension reform.

TOUR DE FRANCE leader Andy Schleck believes he fared better in the latest battle with nearest rival Alberto Contador yesterday as the race entered the Pyrenees.

Controversial Kazakh Alexandre Vinokourov won the 13th stage of the Tour de France today.

NICHOLAS ROCHE continues to ride exceptionally well as leader of his Ag2R Mondiale team in the Tour de France, finishing in 20th place yesterday on stage 12, just 31 seconds behind stage winner Joaquin Rodriguez (Team Katusha).

TWITCHERS search out rare birds, keeping a list of every one seen.

Ryanair has today announced three new routes from Dublin to Brest, Rodez and Tours starting from April 2008.

Ryanair has today launched its summer schedule totalling 40 million seats.

A French anti-terrorist judge has filed preliminary charges against three suspected members of the armed Basque group ETA, including the organisation’s suspected logistics chief, judicial officials said.

Colin Hendry’s managerial tenure at Blackpool looks to be over after the Seasiders handed first-team responsibilities to midfielder Simon Grayson.

THOUSANDS of air passengers are expected to be affected by the latest strike by French air traffic controllers today.

NO-FRILLS airline Ryanair said yesterday that it was considering expanding to the former Soviet bloc, as it extended a deadline for staff at newly-acquired Buzz to accept a job offer or face closure.

The Irish Schools team to play France in Rodez, (South of France), on Saturday has been announced.