How extraordinary for a man - a stranger to most of us - to engender such warmth and respect that so many grown-ups feel bereft at the thought of his passing

1. Tsar Nicholas I of Russia's description of the failing Ottoman Empire – used of many countries since – was what?

Downloads of albums by Emeli Sandé and the cast of the film version of Les Misérables have boosted music sales for the first time in over three years.

Survey lays bare shocking state of British youths' general knowledge

...as final three contenders James Arthur, Christopher Maloney and  Jahmene Douglas

Hastings locals launched a Go Away Chesney campaign after disappointment that he was the "mystery celebrity" coming to visit

The Love Supreme Jazz Festival takes place in Sussex next July

Private equity boss David Bonderman, reportedly the 209th richest man in America, turns 70 next week. According to the BBC's business editor, Robert Peston, the co-founder of TPG Capital celebrated the milestone in Vegas with a private gig from Sir Paul McCartney. Bonderman is said by Forbes magazine to be worth in the region of $2bn, and a decade ago celebrated his 60th in similar style, with musical performances by The Rolling Stones and and a stand-up set by Robin Williams. That party cost him $7m.

The US rapper has expressed an interest in becoming a Celtic director

1. Hilary Mantel.

A case of so many women, too little time.

Rod Stewart has revealed that he got tired and bored of sex because so many women threw themselves at him at the height of his fame.

Kings of Leon's cancelled US tour could cost up to $15 million.