Update: 12:05

Rees predicts Wild West colonies on Mars
Martian colonies may resemble the Wild West if privately-funded expeditions are the first to reach the planet, Sir Martin Rees, the Astronomer Royal, predicted today. He told the British Association Festival of Science at Leicester University it was possible that fortune-seeking adventurers might spearhead early high-risk expeditions to Mars.

Whole new meaning to being pig-headed
Pigs use their brains to outwit each other in much the same way as humans and chimpanzees, scientists said today. Although pigs often fight aggressively, Mike Mendl and colleagues at the University of Bristol found they also adopt more subtle ploys to keep a snout in front of rivals. Dr Mendl presented the findings to the BA today.

Soton genetics project tackles Parkinson's
A three-year genetics project at the University of Southampton is seeking a better understanding of the development of Parkinson's Disease. Scientists hope that the work will one day contribute to a screening programme and improved treatment for sufferers.