Adare Manor, Ireland's most anticipated luxury hotel project, will reopen its doors on November 2, 2017, following a multi-phase restoration, renovation and expansion. The groundbreaking transformation will honor the history of the 19th century wonder, while providing an enriched guest experience, debuting a new 42-bedroom wing, expansive ballroom for 350 guests, La Mer spa, Tom Fazio designed championship golf course, and exceptional gastronomy program.

Spearheaded by acclaimed architects RSA, the transformation will preserve the building's architectural heritage as a Neo-Gothic masterpiece, while incorporating the contemporary luxuries and technological conveniences to meet the needs of today's luxury traveler.

“November 2nd will mark the celebratory beginning of Adare Manor's new legacy, as we unveil a monumental refurbishment of this historic estate,” said General Manager Paul Heery. “Our team has worked to create a vision that not only celebrates the property's charm and long-standing heritage, but also promises a memorable guest experience.”

Steeped in history and hidden secrets, each bedroom in the Manor House is individually designed with its own personal touches, paying tribute to the creative force behind the original Manor – Lady Caroline Dunraven. The final transformation will bring the total guestroom count to 104.

Beyond the accommodations, Adare Manor partnered with legendary skin care brand La Mer, to unveil the UK and Ireland's first and only La Mer Spa – one of only eleven in the world. Set within the heart of the Manor, this secluded sanctuary will provide an unparalleled experience for relaxation and renewal throughout its five treatment rooms, nail salon, fitness center, indoor swimming pool and relaxation area.

Adare Manor's crowning feature, the 18-hole, par 72 golf course, designed by Tom Fazio, has been reimagined the by legendary designer, and will debut in spring 2018. Promised to be one of the best in all of Europe, the course has been entirely restructured with the incorporation of cutting-edge SubAir technology. The new course will match the timeless grandeur of the Manor House with a classic and well-manicured look, while enjoying modern conveniences for an unparalleled golfing experience, making it a sought-after location for competitive play.

Further enhancing the guest experience are four distinct dining experiences. Signature restaurant, The Oak Room, sets the standard for culinary excellence, offering an intimate candle-lit setting in the lovingly restored oak-paneled dining room. Serving breakfast and afternoon tea, The Gallery is a magnificent dining destination in the heart of the Manor House, featuring 17th century Flemish choir stalls, hand-carved wall panels and three enormous marble fireplaces. Beneath the lobby level lies The Tack Room bar, a lively enclave that will play host to troubadours of great renown for traditional and contemporary Irish music. Outside of the Manor House, guests will find The Carriage House restaurant, an extension of the golf clubhouse set to debut in the spring of 2018. Ahead of its opening, The Carriage House will “pop up” in The Gallery to serve a selection of dishes for lunch and dinner as part of an exclusive preview.

Adare Manor is surrounded by 842 acres of medieval ruins, walled gardens and manicured trails that have been entirely enhanced, and will be matched with on-site activities including falconry, archery, clay pigeon shooting, fishing along River Maigue, and curated children's programming.

It was a great to be out in the “white or the off-white or the bone no it was the grey” for the SHB 2017 Test Series, as Australia and England went head-to-head in a gallant race to the summit of Sydney Harbour Bridge commentated by the late cricket icon Richie Benaud, in the form of fan base 'The Richie's'.

The meeting of these two icons was well over due and the traditional test cricket opening of “Welcome everyone to a marvellous day here at the SHB” made for an exciting days play on the arches of the SHB.

The Richie's, alongside the competitive Aussies and the composed English, relished every moment of the 1,000 step bucket list journey, commentating wittily on the fearless displays of rivalry.

Passion and patriotism shone as brightly as the Sydney sun, over the sparkling harbour. Two strong teams competing for glory.

England in splendid form took the advantage arriving early for check-in, then squandering their lead drinking tea. Australia reclaimed the home-ground advantage, as the first to secure their safety harnesses on to line that runs the distance of the Climb journey. No positional changes from that point safeguarded their lead.

During the ascent of the magnificent arches, it was hard to tell the teams apart, both showing great skill and determination, and both dressed in grey.

The battle came to a halt half way up the arch, for one of the customary photo stops. Australia looked set to take the winning shot, until the Sniko replay confirmed an embarrassing LBF (Limb before Face).

The teams stayed focused on their goal, reaching the summit 134 metres above the harbour. The hearty chanting of “Barmy Army” and “Aussie Aussie Aussie” finally fell quiet, as both teams took in breathtaking 360 degree views of the great host nation.

And when Climb Leader cameras came out for a final victory shot, rivalry was put aside and arms put around each other, for Sydney's must-have photo; the group shot at the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, complete with Sydney Opera House in the Background.

After the descent down the west back to the BridgeClimb base, The Richies re-cap summarised the spirit of the day, “Yes what we have just witnessed here is a show of great sportsmanship, not only between individuals, but between two great nations. It's fair to say that everyone leaves a victor for the 2017 SHB test series”.

“Who will win on the day, either way we can all agree that just being able to walk with these giants is reward enough. Where ever you are in the world, enjoy your test Season, and enjoy cricket.”

Two rare Gentoo penguins which recently hatched at the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham are preparing to take their first swimming lessons - with the aid of a special pool introduced by helpful staff.

The youngsters are being supported by their parents and penguin specialists at the aquarium in a bid to get them used to the water before they take the plunge in the main pool.

Whilst reluctant at first, the chicks are progressing well and will soon learn how to slip and slide, dive and glide their way through the icy depths under the watchful eyes of Mum and Dad, one of which is bound to have said “it’s fine once you’re in!”.

The rare pair are the first to hatch at the centre as part of a global breeding programme after Gentoo penguin numbers declined rapidly. Their parents crossed continents to conceive, coming all the way to Birmingham from as far as Canada, New Zealand and Billund in Denmark.

Hayley Roberts, penguin specialist at the National Sea Life Centre, said: “As the first chicks to hatch here as part of the breed, rescue, protect programme, we’re making sure we do everything we can to help with their development. We’ve introduced a special pool away from the main exhibit as a stepping stone and the parents, as well as many of the other penguins, are all chipping in to ease the pair towards taking the plunge. This is a really important moment for them and we’re really encouraged by their progress. It won’t be long until they’re whizzing through the water at full pelt.”

From 26th September to 5th October, the Portuguese seaside resort of Cascais will see pro-surfers from around the globe descend on its white sandy shores, as it plays host to the Cascais Billabong Pro and Cascais Women's Pro surf championships. The events will see the world's best male and female surfers competing to take top prize, as well as welcome the new autumn and winter surf season.

Cascais is only 30 minutes from Lisbon, making it an ideal day out for surf-lovers on a city break. With world class waves, plenty of sunshine, stunning views and great restaurants nearby, surfers of all abilities will find Cascais a surfing paradise. For advanced surfers, the waves are best during the autumn and winter season, as the slightly cooler weather conditions create bigger and more challenging waves, with some reaching as high as eight feet tall.

Other popular surfing areas in the Lisbon region include:

• The surrounding area of Cascais (coastline between Lisbon and Cascais) has a number of great surfing beaches, in particular the beaches of Carcavelos, S. Pedro do Estoril and Guincho, which are renowned for their reliable surfing conditions and picturesque views.
• The Costa da Caparica, to the south of the city, offers 15km of idyllic golden sandy beaches and consistent beach breaks all year round.
• Ericeira, dubbed as Portugal's surf capital, boasts high-density surf breaks and waves which are suitable for all levels of experience – from novices to professionals. Ericeira was the first “reserve” to be included in the World Surfing Reserve list back in 2011.

UK Athletics has today confirmed its plans to host a unique exhibition this coming October in celebration of Black History Month.

Led by former athlete and now UK Athletics’ Vice President and Equality, Diversity & Engagement Lead Donna Fraser, the event will focus on celebrating Black History Month via the delivery of a black and white photographic exhibition, with the long-term goal of continuing to inspire the next generation to get into athletics for years to come.

An annual celebration in the United Kingdom, Canada and the USA – though celebrated in differing months based on location - Black History Month exists with the purpose of recognising history, experiences and the accomplishments of black people.

The event – to be held in collaboration with commercial partner Grant Thornton - will take place on the evening of Wednesday 25 October in London. The exhibition - entitled ‘COACH’ - serves as the key Black History Month milestone for the organisation.

In recognition of the contribution of past and present Black and Asian athletics coaches in the UK from grass roots to elite level, it will shine a light on those who were athletes themselves and are passionate about sharing their experiences and expertise with emerging athletics stars in the UK.

On the exhibition, Donna Fraser said:

“It is with great pride that we can formally announce our finalised plans for the ‘COACH’ exhibition in less than two months’ time.

“As an organisation there are several key messages we want to deliver, with the crux of the exhibition being to promote positive BAME role models, especially females, while inspiring BAME communities to get involved in athletics, whether that be through participation, coaching, officiating or volunteering.”

“Athletics is the most diverse and inclusive sport globally, and UK Athletics respects the time and effort all coaches give to the sport to produce quality athletes at all levels.

Commenting on the project, Photographer Ernest Simons added:

“I love sport and love taking shots of athletes at all levels even more.  A photograph can tell a story of emotions, whether that be pain, happiness, disappointment; the list is endless.

“Working with UK Athletics for Black History Month has given me the opportunity to tell the story of that unique coach-athlete relationship through photography, which many people do not get the chance to see, and so I wanted to ensure this exhibition tells many stories for everyone from any background to engage with and be inspired.”

Two of Sandwell’s future sporting heroes have picked up Gifted & Talented grants from Sandwell Council to help them fulfil their dreams.

Christopher Gardner, aged 17 from Tividale and Leo Handy, aged 13 from Oldbury, were presented with £500 each by cabinet member for leisure Councillor Richard Marshall.

Chris aims to become a hockey international and Leo is working towards becoming a member of the GB Weightlifting squad.

Councillor Marshall said: “We know what sacrifices young people have to make to reach the top in any sport – and the sacrifices their families make too in terms of travelling, accommodation and dedicating their own time.

“So even though it’s Chris and Leo who we are supporting, I’m also very aware of the support they get from their families and we want to help through our Gifted & Talented grant scheme.

“Chris and Leo are fantastic role models for their peers and we hope will one day soon be putting Sandwell on the sporting map.”

Leo may be just 13-year-old but he is already a multiple champion having won the British Schools Olympic Weightlifting competition for the third time in succession.

He recently achieved two personal bests whilst competing at a competition in Derbyshire lifting 37kg in the snatch and 50kg in the clean and jerk.

Next year Leo will progress to compete in the open category and his aim is to become a member of the Great Britain squad.

Rising hockey star Chris Gardener has already been selected to play in the Great Britain Colleges hockey team. The 17-year-old has also played for the Ireland under 18 national team and hopes to continue developing and establish himself as an international player.

Chris recently competed in the West Midlands Men’s Hockey (Association of Colleges) team which won the gold medal at the AOC National Championships.

Sandwell Council’s Gifted & Talented programme is still open to applications having been specifically set up to provide financial support to elite young athletes living in the borough.