Chris Evans faces fear with parachute plunge from 13,000ft

Plummeting through the sky, arms flung wide and a huge grin on his face, Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans was obviously revelling in his very first skydive. The 42-year-old had jumped from a plane 13,000ft above Hampshire's Salisbury Plain as part of a personal mission to "conquer his fear of death"; a project which has dominated his radio show for the past few months.

Leaving wife Natasha Shishmanian on the ground to await his arrival, Chris boarded a plane with the Tigers Parachute Display Team from the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment. He was strapped to the leader corporal for the 35-second freefall.

"That was amazing!" said the exhilarated star after landing safely. "It felt like it was over in seconds. There's no time to be scared as you are plummeting to the ground. I sang (Elton John's) Are You Ready For Love all the way down! An awesome, awesome experience; can't wait to do it again."

'Emmerdale' stars bid fond farewell to screen colleague Clive Hornby

The cast of TV soap Emmerdale joined the friends and family of Clive Hornby to pay their respects at the actor's funeral in Leeds on Tuesday.

Clive, who played flat-capped farmer Jack Sugden for 28 years, passed away earlier this month aged 63.

Both former and present members of the ITV show paid tribute to the soap's longest running star, including Clive's on-screen wife Diane, played by actress Elizabeth Estensen, who spoke of the actor's bravery as she read a eulogy at the service.

Also in the congregation was Clive's on-screen son Andy Sugden - played by Kelvin Fletcher - who acted as a pallbearer alongside Mark Charnock, who portrays Marlon Dingle. During the service Dominic Brunt, the show's Paddy Kirk, played a Celtic tune on a mandolin, while the actor's real-life son, 21-year-old Tom, paid an emotional tribute to his dad. "He was my best friend, whom I trusted and respect," he said.

Former co-stars of the actor also attending included I'm A Celebrity's Sheree Murphy, Malandra Burrows and Bad Girls actress Claire King. They joined young cast members Isabel Hodgins, Sammy Winward and Roxanne Pallett.

Jodie and Ronan get into the swing of celeb golf tournament

Some of the biggest names on UK TV took to the greens to benefit a good cause this week, with Ashes To Ashes actor Philip Glenister teeing off with Murphy's Law star James Nesbitt and talented golfer Jodie Kidd.

The model, who's a passionate golfer and has even launched her own range of golf shoes, was looking a formidable opponent as she competently lobbed her ball out of a bunker during the celebrity tournament in aid of leukaemia research in West London.

Fellow famous faces joining Jodie and James – who was happy to lug his bag of clubs aroung the course himself – included radio DJ Johnny Vaughn and Boyzone's Ronan Keating – who had taken time out from his band's UK tour to indulge in one of his favourite pastimes.

When Boyzone were at their peak, the band's managers asked Ronan to keep his enthusiasm for the game under wraps, as it didn't really go with their image. These days he's frequently seen competing at charity tournaments, however. "When I'm not with my family I love to play," says the dad-of-three. "It's a sport I've become very passionate about."

Suri on set with Tom to see mummy Katie at work on US TV series

Having already visited her movie star dad Tom Cruise on the set of his WWII epic Valkyrie, Suri Cruise got the chance to seeher mum Katie Holmes in action this week. The two-year-old toddler held on tight to her daddy's hand as the pair accompanied Katie to work on the LA set of her new acting project - American TV series Eli Stone.

With her stylish bob and cherub lips Suri usually looks like a mini Katie. There was a notable difference between the mother and daughter this time, though, as Katie's normally sleek hairstyle had been swapped for a voluminous, Farrah Fawcett-style 'do.

The transformation was for a guest role in the show about a San Francisco lawyer who begins to see visions. It's the first major acting work for the raven-haired actress since she filmed Mad Money last year. And her first day back at work was clearly a notable occasion as her mum Kathleen turned up to see her daughter in action, too.

'24' could be headed for the big screen reveals series' star Kiefer

There were three new faces joining 24 star Kiefer Sutherland on the promotional trail for the new series of the hit show this week. Fellow Canadian Gil Bellows, Angelina Jolie's Oscar-winning father Jon Voight and British actor Robert Carlyle added their star power to activities surrounding the upcoming pilot of the counter terrorist agency drama. Attending a TV event in Hollywood the foursome thrilled fans by also revealing there are plans for a 24 movie.

"I think we're going to probably do a film when we stop doing the series," revealed Kiefer, who plays counter terrorist agent Jack Bauer in the Africa-set pilot which is heading for US screens this autumn. "I've loved making this show and I've always said the audience ultimately will dictate and tell you when it's time to stop," he adds.

Meanwhile, Full Monty star Robert is remaining tight-lipped about details of the new installment's plot, while explaining his role in the action. "My character's called Carl Benton, who's Jack Bauer's best buddy," he says. "He hasn't seen him for ten years... Jack's on his travels and he comes to see Carl and hang out with him and potentially change his life."

"I can't tell you anymore or Jack Bauer'll come and kill me - and you!" he joked.

Although Robert's new 24 co-star Jon Voight is in town to talk about his role as a baddie in the two-hour special, he also took the opportunity to speak out about his excitement over the birth of the twins his daughter Angelina Jolie and her partner Brad Pitt recently welcomed.

"All my love goes to them. I was very excited," says the actor, whose relationship with his celeb daughter has been famously turbulent. "It's a big deal. How many people have seen little tiny twins in their lives?"

Sir Michael leads stars paying tribute to Heath at 'Dark Knight' premiere

Although it was packed with A-list guests, there was only ever going to be one star at the New York screening of latest Batman flick The Dark Knight - the late Australian star Heath Ledger. Celebs including Sir Michael Caine, Christian Bale and Maggie Gyllenhaal all paid tribute to the actor, saying his memorable performance as evil villain The Joker "steals the movie".

"It's the best performance of a villain I have seen," enthused Michael Caine, who reprises his role as faithful butler Alfred Pennyworth in the latest Batman installment.

Pausing on the carpet - black as a mark of respect for Heath - the veteran gave his opinion on the Academy Award speculation being generated by Heath's haunting performance. "My feeling is that he will get a nomination," he revealed. "I would be very surprised if he didn't get the Oscar. He has my vote anyway."

Hunky Christian, who returns to his role as Bruce Wayne and alter ego Batman, was also full of praise for the young Australian's portrayal of the Joker. "He steals the movie and I'm quite happy to say that," he conceded. "He's a hell of a talent and created a joker that's very iconic and will become a classic portrayal of the ages."

"He was a wonderful character, great company. I expected to be friends with him for many years," he added. "It is tragic he is not here. But I'm here to see his talents and celebrate them, as I hope everybody will."

Heath, to whom the new movie is dedicated, lost his life in January aged 28 to an accidental overdose of prescription drugs.

Justin in showman mode at US celebration of sporting stars

Justin Timberlake put on the show of his life in LA this week as a celeb-packed audience watched him shimmy his way through several numbers, make countless costume changes, and even dance on a piano at a TV sports awards ceremony.

The Sexyback singer was hosting the event, at which famous faces from the worlds of acting and sport came together to fete athletes and sporting talents in the spotlight during the last 12 months.

Those taking to the stage to present awards included Wimbledon ladies singles champion Venus Williams and LA Galaxy player David Beckham. Host Justin couldn't resist a little playful banter with the British footie ace, who was front row with his wife Victoria Beckham.

"Dude, I got to give you (credit). Single-handedly you made soccer in America this much more popular," joked the singer, holding his thumb and index finger an inch apart. "I call it soccer because in America we already have a game dudes play called football."

Winners at the ceremony included golf ace Tiger Woods. The US Open champ - who couldn't attend as he's recuperating from a knee injury - was awarded three trophies, including that for athlete of the year - collected on his behalf by Blades Of Glory actor Will Ferrell.

Pete Doherty celebrates life of late teenage fan with musical tribute

Babyshambles frontman Pete Doherty was so moved by the death of a teenage fan he ended up playing at his wake. On Monday the 28-year-old musician took to the stage at a private celebration of the life of 16-year-old Daniel Squires who passed away on July 4, after battling bone cancer.

Pete formed a friendship with the South Tyneside lad after they met backstage at one of the musician's concerts. Upon hearing of the youngster's death, Pete wanted to try and comfort Daniel's friends and family. After the funeral he joined members of Daniel's family and their friends to a local pub, where he accompanied one of Daniel's pals on the guitar in an emotional musicial tribute.

Daniel's father Mark spoke of the rocker's kindness to his son. "He invited Dan to a gig in Bristol and Pete dedicated a song to him," he said. "Pete also gave him his mobile phone number and told Daniel to ring him if he ever needed anything."

Ronnie Wood jets home from Ireland for crisis talks with wife Jo

Rocker Ronnie Wood has flown home for crisis talks with his family, it emerged on Wednesday. The Rolling Stone, who's been at his £3-million country mansion in Ireland with teenage cocktail waitress Ekaterina Ivanova for the past ten days, jetted back to London to face his wife Jo in a bid to save their 23-year marriage.

The 61-year-old, who has a history of alcoholism, formed a bond with the Russian teen after meeting her at a bar in Soho in April. Since then the musician, who's a keen artist, is believed to have been using the blonde waitress as a model for his work. The pair have been staying at the Woods' country retreat in Co Kildare for almost two weeks.

After a series of emotional phone calls with his wife, Ronnie has now headed home. "When someone is sick, like Ronnie, they have to hit rock bottom and want to help themselves before anyone else can help them," says Jo, who is reported to be devastated by recent events. "Each time Ronnie falls off the wagon it gets worse."

Naomi thinking about motherhood as she does hospital rounds

We're used to seeing Naomi Campbell sashaying along a catwalk or swanning around on the international party circuit. On a visit to Nigeria this week, though, the glamorous London-born model was showing off a more domestic side as she cradled babies in a maternity ward.

In contrast to her fiery image, the cover girl was a picture of tenderness as she lifted several of the tiny patients at the Lagos clinic out of their cribs for a hug. Time spent with the children of friends like Kate Moss - whose daughter Lila is five - seems to have paid dividends, as Naomi supported one newborn in the crook of her arm with an expert touch.

The catwalk star has been talking lately about her readiness to become a mother. "I know that with a baby I'd calm down," said the supermodel, who recently embarked upon a new relationship with a millionaire businessman. "With a child... you have to give your full self."

Her companion on the trip, during which she distributed sackloads of gifts to expectant and new mums, was model Tyson Beckford. The photogenic pair were in the country to attend the This Day Africa Rising concert, which aimed to show the continent in a positive light.

On October 14 another Africa Rising gig is being held in London's Albert Hall and Naomi has called on pals like Kate, Lily Cole and footballer Ferdinand Rio to give the event their backing.

Carefree Kate forgets man troubles aboard luxury yacht with pals

Having sampled Ibiza's legendary night life, Kate Moss has been switching her relaxation time into a slower gear this week off Sardinia's Emerald Coast. As reports she's split from rocker boyfriend Jamie Hince continue to make headlines, the covergirl is cruising the Med aboard a £20 million luxury yacht with a group of pals, among them best friend Davinia Taylor.

If her relationship with The Kills frontman has come to an end, the 34-year-old seems to have found the perfect distraction in soaking up the sun off the A-list haven of Porto Cuervo.

It's thought Kate, who's been showing off a hippy-chic holiday wardrobe featuring hotpants and a boho-style fringed waistcoast from her own Top Shop collection, parted from her musician beau earlier this month after a series of rows. Jamie was later spotted moving his belongings out of the model's St John's Wood home before heading off on tour last week.

Naomi Campbell goes green in Nigeria to help promote Africa

With a small spade in her hand, British supermodel Naomi Campbell showed off her horticultural skills as she helped to get a new green initiative underway in Nigeria this week.

Teaming up with British designer Oswald Boateng, Naomi planted a tree in the African republic's capital city of Abuja. The scheme aims to plant a tree for each child born in the area to help turn the city "green" and combat climate change.

"I am very, very happy to be in Nigeria," she said. "Africa is a very rich country … we should show the world Africa is rising in a positive way."

And the 38-year-old beauty revealed this was not the first time she has got her hands dirty in the garden. Speaking of her adopted father figure, Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, she said: "My dad has a place in Jamaica called Golden Eye and we have had trees from many people, including River Phoenix, Kate Moss and Bono."

The London-born beauty was just one of the famous faces in the region this week. Stars including Jay-Z, Usher and songstress Rihanna flew to the country to perform at the THISDAY Music and Fashion festival, which promotes the continent's finest in both fields.

Pomp and drama as Queen takes part in chivalry service

of St Paul's Cathedral in full ceremonial garb to take part in a religious service of the Order of St Michael and St George
Photo: © Rex
Click on photos to enlarge

The monarch is greeted by her cousin, the Duke of Kent. His vestments include The Knight and Dame Grand Cross' star, bearing the Order's motto Auspicium melioris ævi - 'Token of a better age'
Photo: © Rex

Pomp and drama as Queen takes part in chivalry service

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17 JULY 2008

Visitors to London got a glimpse at a slice of British historical ceremony on Wednesday as Queen Elizabeth attended a lavish event at St Paul's Cathedral. The monarch, wearing dramatic royal blue robes and with a tiara adorning her head, was greeted by the capital's Lord Mayor before she ascended the cathedral steps to take part in a service Commemoration and Dedication for the Order of St Michael and St George.

The sixth highest British order of chivalry, The Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George dates back to 1818 when it was established by the Prince Regent, later George IV.

Joining the Queen at the ceremony - during which each member of the Order is invited to renew their commitment to faith and service - was the monarch's cousin the Duke of Kent. The Duke was also attired in the elaborate vestments of the Order, which include The Knight and Dame Grand Cross' star, which incorporates the red cross of St George, the Latin motto Auspicium melioris ævi - 'Token of a better age', and a representation of St Michael overcoming Satan.

Members of the Order who have passed away since the last Service were also paid tribute to at the event.

King Harald of Norway wins regatta in late father's classic yacht

While most British royals favour equestrian pastimes, the sport of choice for many of their European counterparts, including the heir to the Spanish throne Prince Felipe and Denmark's crown prince Frederik, is yachting.

Also among their nautical numbers is King Harald V of Norway, who prior to ascending the throne represented his country in the Olympic Games.

This week the 71-year-old royal was keeping his hand in - with great success - at a regatta off the country's south east coast.

Taking part aboard the recently refurbished 1930s yacht Sira, which was originally built for his late father King Olaf, Harald had the satisfaction of coming in first in the world championship for classic eight-metre vessels, watched by his wife Queen Sonja.

Pomp, circumstance and a dash of chic at Carla's first Bastille Day

France's elegant First Lady Carla Bruni Sarkozy found herself sharing the spotlight with another well-known figure whose charisma has captivated the public at the country's Bastille Day celebrations.

Carla's husband President Nicolas Sarkozy had chosen the most important date in the national calendar to present former hostage Ingrid Betancourt with the Legion D'Honneur.

Ingrid, who became a cause celebre during six years of captivity in the Colombian jungle, received the award - France's highest distinction - in a Champs Elysee palace ceremony.

Later the presidential party watched a procession marking the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris in 1789 - an event regarded as the start of the French Revolution.

Some 4,000 marching soldiers and police, 65 aircraft and 241 mounted horsemen paraded before world leaders, including UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.

Helen Hunt turns surf babe during vacation on paradise isle of Maui

While many US celebs are enjoying a European break this summer, What Women Want star Helen Hunt has chosen to unwind closer to home. Along with long-term director love Matthew Carnahan the actress has been enjoying the delights of the Hawaiian archipelago.

Based on the second largest island of Maui - known as the 'Valley Isle' due to the narrow plain between its mountain ranges - the energetic 45-year-old has been getting to grips with the American state's favourite sport: surfing. And if she fancies trying her hand at other watersports she'll be spoilt for choice. Scuba diving and snorkelling are also popular activities, as are rafting and submarine tours.

The couple may also plan on heading to Lahaina harbour for a spot of whale watching - 7,000 humpback whales visit the island's warm waters ever year.

Back on dry land there's plenty to do, from horseriding in the mountains to a round of golf on one of the island's 16 courses. Another favourite with visitors is watching the sun rise over the spectacular Haleakala Crater - an active, although currently sleeping, volcano - while checking out the island's stunning waterfalls is also a must.

Carefree Kate forgets man troubles aboard luxury yacht with pals

Having sampled Ibiza's legendary night life, Kate Moss has been switching her relaxation time into a slower gear this week off Sardinia's Emerald Coast. As reports she's split from rocker boyfriend Jamie Hince continue to make headlines, the covergirl is cruising the Med aboard a £20 million luxury yacht with a group of pals, among them best friend Davinia Taylor.

If her relationship with The Kills frontman has come to an end, the 34-year-old seems to have found the perfect distraction in soaking up the sun off the A-list haven of Porto Cuervo.

It's thought Kate, who's been showing off a hippy-chic holiday wardrobe featuring hotpants and a boho-style fringed waistcoast from her own Top Shop collection, parted from her musician beau earlier this month after a series of rows. Jamie was later spotted moving his belongings out of the model's St John's Wood home before heading off on tour last week.

J Lo enchanted by national park on Italian Riviera holiday

Walking along the winding trails of the Cinque Terre national park with husband Marc Anthony and design icon Domenico Dolce, Jennifer Lopez is certainly taking in the best Italy has to offer while on her current trip to the stunning Mediterranean country. Enjoying a relaxing break in the celeb haven of Portofino, the latina diva has been experiencing the charms of its rugged coastline first hand.

Having recently taken up a fitness regime in the wake of the birth of her twins in February, the mum-of-two will have found no shortage of physical activity on offer while visiting the five coastal villages which fall within the environs of the famous national park.

Connected by kilometres of trails which hug the dramatic, rocky coastline, the cliff top communities - which are accessible by walks that vary from romantic strolls to challenging hikes - offer spectacular views of the Mediterranean below and the hills above.

Another means of visiting the charming fishing villages is by boat, which is another option for the Love Don't Cost A Thing star who's also been spending time aboard Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana's luxury yacht.