A legendary sailor and a sharp-witted traveller join forces in this novel of South America's past

The decisive Yes on the eurozone fiscal compact is meaningful enough for Ireland itself, signalling both a clear-eyed assessment of the country's debts and a commitment to its place in the single currency. It means even more for the rest of Europe, however. As the first to vote on the treaty, Ireland has set the tone.

The French have taken over the top spot in the Volvo round the world race after Franck Cammas in Groupama was second by just five and half minutes behind Ian Walker’s Abu Dhabi team on the seventh leg from Miami to Lisbon.

England have warned players to be careful when using Twitter at Euro 2102 while Spain and Denmark have banned their squad from using the social networking site during the tournament.

ECB chief launches broadside at indecisive government as panic takes hold in Madrid and Rome

Markets get ahead of events. It's what investors are programmed to do. If you think there is a risk of losing money tomorrow you sell today, rather than waiting for it to happen.

Distressed eurozone countries need more time to hit their deficit reduction targets, the International Monetary Fund warned yesterday.

Fernando Torres has targeted more goals at Euro 2012 after scoring the opener in Spain's 4-1 friendly win over South Korea on Wednesday.

Two British Ians had a good day at the helm with double Olympic medallist Walker holding the lead just 100 miles from the finish of leg seven of the Volvo round the world race and reigning world champion Williams leading the Korea match race championship as he started his 2012 defence.

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has declared he and his team will stand up for Mario Balotelli should the Manchester City forward be subjected to racism during Euro 2012.

The Diamond Jubilee celebrations include the sailing of a huge flotilla along the River Thames on Sunday afternoon, with more than 1,000 boats breasting the waves.

Fernando Torres has targeted more goals at Euro 2012 after his effort in Spain's 4-1 friendly win over South Korea.

Barcelona defender Eric Abidal could return to play football again after his liver transplant, the surgeon who carried out the operation has said.

Beleaguered Spain was handed a lifeline by the European Commission (EC) yesterday as the nation was given an extra year to slash its deficit.