GM sugar beet trial hailed a success
A trial crop of genetically modified sugar beet has benefited wildlife in the area, according to research published by the Royal Society today. The herbicide-tolerant beet crop produced high yields while keeping weed levels high enough to provide a home for spiders and beetles. These in turn provided important food for nesting skylarks, lapwings, partridges and other birds. John Pidgeon, director of Broom's Barn research station in Suffolk, which conducted the study, said: "The environmental benefits are particularly important for the UK and the rest of Europe." The research was partly funded by American GM company Monsanto.
Princess opens Glasgow sports facilities
The Princess Royal today opened state of the art sports and recreation facilities at Glasgow Caledonian University. Principal Ian Johnston said the facilities are totally inclusive, open to the local community as well as staff and students. The university's rugby team won the Scottish Universities Cup last year, while its Tai Karate team won the British University Team Gold.