http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/?service=Rss http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/tank-marks-charity-eggstravaganza-16116629.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/tank-marks-charity-eggstravaganza-16116629.html?r=RSS This tank might look like a sturdy piece of military kit but it wouldn't be much use in battle. UK Sun, 12 Feb 2012 13:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/sex-change-man-first-male-mother-16116628.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/sex-change-man-first-male-mother-16116628.html?r=RSS A man is believed to have become Britain's first "male mother" by giving birth despite his sex change operation. UK Sun, 12 Feb 2012 12:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/british-and-irish-least-romantic-16116615.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/british-and-irish-least-romantic-16116615.html?r=RSS British and Irish couples are the least romantic about Valentine's Day judging by how much they spend, according to a survey. UK Sun, 12 Feb 2012 09:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bae-hails-battery-breakthrough-16116578.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bae-hails-battery-breakthrough-16116578.html?r=RSS Scientists at BAE Systems has claimed to have developed an alternative to standard batteries which could lighten the load of soldiers' rucksacks. Offbeat Sun, 12 Feb 2012 03:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/rome-snow-closes-the-colosseum-16116523.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/rome-snow-closes-the-colosseum-16116523.html?r=RSS After no big snowfall for 26 years, Rome is being hit by its second snowstorm in a week. Offbeat Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/rare-bottle-of-whisky-sold-for-44k-16116433.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/rare-bottle-of-whisky-sold-for-44k-16116433.html?r=RSS A rare bottle of whisky has sold for £44,000. Offbeat Sat, 11 Feb 2012 03:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/burglar-leaves-his-voice-behind-16116222.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/burglar-leaves-his-voice-behind-16116222.html?r=RSS A knife-wielding burglar has left detectives with an unusual clue - a recording of his voice captured by his elderly victim's security alarm. Offbeat Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bulgarians-pray-for-health-of-bees-16116195.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bulgarians-pray-for-health-of-bees-16116195.html?r=RSS Orthodox Christians in Bulgaria have observed a unique holiday traditionally associated with honey and bees known as the Day of St Haralambos. Offbeat Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/council-seeks-spitting-ban-approval-16116073.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/council-seeks-spitting-ban-approval-16116073.html?r=RSS A council is seeking Government approval to become the first area in Britain to ban spitting in public. Offbeat Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/frock-fit-for-any-gadget-lover-16116041.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/frock-fit-for-any-gadget-lover-16116041.html?r=RSS It looks like a technology-loving fashionista's dream and a technophobe's worst nightmare, but this is one dress that is more likely to be looked at than worn. Offbeat Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/dog-clinches-prize-for-the-artist-16115985.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/dog-clinches-prize-for-the-artist-16115985.html?r=RSS The Artist continued its impressive run of success in pre-Oscar award ceremonies with an accolade for its four-legged cast member. Offbeat Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/being-lonely-worse-than-smoking-16115944.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/being-lonely-worse-than-smoking-16115944.html?r=RSS Being lonely in old age will propel you to the grave more quickly than smoking, a senior Downing Street adviser said as part of an effort to encourage people to retire later. Offbeat Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:32:01 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/severed-head-was-valentines-gift-16115696.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/severed-head-was-valentines-gift-16115696.html?r=RSS While most couples celebrate Valentine's Day with flowers, chocolates and candlelit dinners, archivists have unearthed evidence that a less savoury romantic gesture was practised historically - bestowing a severed head on a loved one. Offbeat Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/shark-tea-party-launches-display-16115666.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/shark-tea-party-launches-display-16115666.html?r=RSS An aquarium has hosted a tea party with extra bite in a bid to challenge perceptions of sharks. Offbeat Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/3000-apply-to-be-hotel-apprentices-16115649.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/3000-apply-to-be-hotel-apprentices-16115649.html?r=RSS A junior management apprenticeship programme launched by budget hotel firm Travelodge has attracted more than 3,000 applications in recent weeks - 66 for every position. Offbeat Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/pupils-suspended-for-snowball-fight-16115647.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/pupils-suspended-for-snowball-fight-16115647.html?r=RSS School bosses have defended a decision to suspend six pupils for throwing snowballs. Offbeat Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/adventurer-calls-home-for-help-16115639.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/adventurer-calls-home-for-help-16115639.html?r=RSS A British adventurer whose tent was destroyed in a storm in Iceland called his father back in the UK for help, the Coastguard has said. Offbeat Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/skys-the-limit-for-stair-runner-16115575.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/skys-the-limit-for-stair-runner-16115575.html?r=RSS A German runner has scored a record seventh straight win in an annual race up 86 flights of stairs at the Empire State Building. World news Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/glass-affects-champagne-bubbles-16115271.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/glass-affects-champagne-bubbles-16115271.html?r=RSS Different shaped glasses really do affect the experience of drinking champagne, a study has shown. Offbeat Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/trust-reveals-tallest-tree-in-uk-16115184.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/trust-reveals-tallest-tree-in-uk-16115184.html?r=RSS Measuring a tree the same height as eight double decker buses is no easy task but not one the National Trust has shied away from. Offbeat Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:31:09 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/oneoff-guitar-worth-10000-16115183.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/oneoff-guitar-worth-10000-16115183.html?r=RSS A guitar has been turned into a "one-off" worth around £10,000 after being decorated with 24-carat gold and mother of pearl. Offbeat Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/council-bid-to-close-swingers-club-16115109.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/council-bid-to-close-swingers-club-16115109.html?r=RSS A council is trying to close down a swingers' club in a rural village in Hampshire because it claims it does not have planning permission and is upsetting the neighbours. Offbeat Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/lagerfeld-singer-adele-too-fat-16115018.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/lagerfeld-singer-adele-too-fat-16115018.html?r=RSS Outspoken designer Karl Lagerfeld has let rip with a wide-ranging rant, branding Adele "too fat", Russian men "ugly" and claiming the Royal Family is "unnecessary". Offbeat Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/giant-baby-causes-stir-in-china-16114965.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/giant-baby-causes-stir-in-china-16114965.html?r=RSS A mother in central China has given birth to a 15.52lb (7.04kg) baby, possibly the largest newborn on record since the country's founding in 1949. World news Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/province-shuts-one-child-loophole-16114952.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/province-shuts-one-child-loophole-16114952.html?r=RSS Authorities in south China's Guangdong province have said parents can be fined or punished for having more than one child, even if the babies are born in Hong Kong. Offbeat Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/man-charged-over-death-of-chihuahua-16114948.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/man-charged-over-death-of-chihuahua-16114948.html?r=RSS A California man has been charged with animal cruelty after authorities say he killed a Chihuahua by hitting the dog with a golf club. Offbeat Wed, 08 Feb 2012 05:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/britons-compulsive-bank-checkers-16114893.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/britons-compulsive-bank-checkers-16114893.html?r=RSS Nearly four in 10 people know the balance of their current account to the nearest £5, as the squeeze on finances and the rise in internet banking has bred a "generation of compulsive bank balance checkers", research has found. Offbeat Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:22:01 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/couple-deliver-baby-in-the-snow-16114698.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/couple-deliver-baby-in-the-snow-16114698.html?r=RSS A couple have welcomed their new baby into the world - after the mother went into labour in the snow outside her home. Offbeat Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/sisters-named-oldest-living-twins-16114687.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/sisters-named-oldest-living-twins-16114687.html?r=RSS Two 102-year-old sisters have been recognised as the world's oldest living twins by the Guinness Book of Records. UK Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/jacket-potato-ad-smells-of-success-16114660.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/jacket-potato-ad-smells-of-success-16114660.html?r=RSS A unique new advert is set to make commuters' mouths water as it replaces the usual bus shelter aroma with the scent of freshly cooked jacket potatoes. Offbeat Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/lizard-endures-washing-machine-spin-16114621.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/lizard-endures-washing-machine-spin-16114621.html?r=RSS A rare lizard survived a 3,000-mile flight in a freezing cold luggage hold only to then be put through the wash by an unsuspecting holidaymaker. Offbeat Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/crossdresser-raids-oaps-account-16114607.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/crossdresser-raids-oaps-account-16114607.html?r=RSS A "cross-dressing rogue" posed as an elderly woman to steal thousands of pounds from her bank account, police have said. Offbeat Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/judge-to-rule-if-whales-are-slaves-16114584.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/judge-to-rule-if-whales-are-slaves-16114584.html?r=RSS A US judge is to rule whether five performing killer whales have the same constitutional rights against slavery as human beings. World news Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/shortbread-to-come-with-braille-16114568.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/shortbread-to-come-with-braille-16114568.html?r=RSS A shortbread manufacturer is to make a range of products with Braille on the packaging. Offbeat Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/death-camp-equipment-up-for-auction-16114553.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/death-camp-equipment-up-for-auction-16114553.html?r=RSS A collection of surgical equipment with a possibly gruesome Nazi past in the hands of a concentration camp commandant is being put up for auction. Offbeat Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/valentines-gown-made-of-roses-16114328.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/valentines-gown-made-of-roses-16114328.html?r=RSS If you are thinking of giving flowers to your Valentine this year it may be hard to beat a unique gown made of nearly 2,000 blooms. Offbeat Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:12:01 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/free-cash-ignored-in-goodwill-offer-16114335.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/free-cash-ignored-in-goodwill-offer-16114335.html?r=RSS The majority of Brits were so cynical when it came to accepting a genuine offer of goodwill that they turned down free money, research has revealed. Offbeat Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:12:01 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/chain-chips-in-to-save-restaurant-16114110.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/chain-chips-in-to-save-restaurant-16114110.html?r=RSS A fish and chip chain has said it would save the original Harry Ramsden's restaurant with a £500,000 investment. UK Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/train-roof-riders-face-gunge-hit-16114011.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/train-roof-riders-face-gunge-hit-16114011.html?r=RSS Indonesia has come up with another bizarre plan to stop commuters riding on the roofs of trains - hit them with brooms drenched in putrid gunge. Offbeat Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/simpsons-join-barbie-on-banned-list-16113986.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/simpsons-join-barbie-on-banned-list-16113986.html?r=RSS An Iranian government-affiliated agency has banned dolls of the Simpsons cartoon characters, which join Barbie and others on a toy blacklist, a newspaper has reported. Offbeat Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/beer-key-to-ultra-runners-success-16113887.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/beer-key-to-ultra-runners-success-16113887.html?r=RSS An Irish ultra runner has revealed a bottle of beer helped him become the only man on the planet to run seven marathons on seven continents in less than five days. Offbeat Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/miss-piggy-is-baftas-daring-host-16113869.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/miss-piggy-is-baftas-daring-host-16113869.html?r=RSS Miss Piggy is set to snout out all gossip at the Bafta Film Awards this year. Offbeat Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/100000-jubilee-whisky-decanted-16113853.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/100000-jubilee-whisky-decanted-16113853.html?r=RSS Whisky which has been maturing for 60 years and costs £100,000 a bottle has been decanted to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Offbeat Mon, 06 Feb 2012 01:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/slump-sees-lipstick-effect-buying-16113593.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/slump-sees-lipstick-effect-buying-16113593.html?r=RSS Tough economic conditions have triggered the "lipstick effect", with a rise in shoppers buying small beauty treats to cheer themselves up, retailers said. Offbeat Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/record-hope-in-rare-whisky-auction-16113592.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/record-hope-in-rare-whisky-auction-16113592.html?r=RSS A charity is hoping that a rare bottle of whisky will smash a world record when it is sold at auction on Friday. Offbeat Sun, 05 Feb 2012 09:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/us-museum-finds-bismarck-recording-16113569.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/us-museum-finds-bismarck-recording-16113569.html?r=RSS For the first time, 21st-century audiences are able to hear the voice of Otto von Bismarck, one of the 19th century's most important figures. World news Sun, 05 Feb 2012 03:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/lottery-couple-defend-benefit-claim-16113454.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/lottery-couple-defend-benefit-claim-16113454.html?r=RSS A couple who scooped a £10.2 million lottery jackpot have defended their right to claim benefits more than six years later. Offbeat Sat, 04 Feb 2012 07:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/eating-champ-devours-337-wings-16113211.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/eating-champ-devours-337-wings-16113211.html?r=RSS Japanese competitive-eating champ Takeru Kobayashi ate a record 337 chicken wings in 30 minutes at Wing Bowl XX in the US Offbeat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:42:11 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/pm-picks-up-shopping-on-way-home-16113198.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/pm-picks-up-shopping-on-way-home-16113198.html?r=RSS He might have been any other shopper, popping into the supermarket after a busy day in the office to pick up a few bits for dinner. Offbeat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/police-seeking-laptop-fraudsters-16113022.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/police-seeking-laptop-fraudsters-16113022.html?r=RSS Police are hunting two fraudsters who have made around £2,500 by selling off cardboard as "laptops". Offbeat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/cops-in-clear-over-war-dance-attack-16112907.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/cops-in-clear-over-war-dance-attack-16112907.html?r=RSS Police in the US state of Utah will not face punishment for using pepper spray and batons on a group of Polynesian spectators performing the Haka war dance at a high school football game. Offbeat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/how-low-can-you-go-bass-odyssey-16112873.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/how-low-can-you-go-bass-odyssey-16112873.html?r=RSS Record label Decca is launching a global hunt for the lowest human voice to perform an extraordinarily tough choral work - in a search for bass: the final frontier. Offbeat Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:12:01 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/man-104-becomes-british-citizen-16112695.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/man-104-becomes-british-citizen-16112695.html?r=RSS A 104-year-old has proved that you are never too old to become a new man. Offbeat Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/first-lady-becomes-new-iron-lady-16112558.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/first-lady-becomes-new-iron-lady-16112558.html?r=RSS Politics has a new Iron Lady - after Michelle Obama knocked out 25 stunning press-ups on American television. World news Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/groundhog-foresees-long-winter-16112543.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/groundhog-foresees-long-winter-16112543.html?r=RSS Winter is set to drag on for six more weeks, according to Pennsylvania's famous groundhog Punxsutawney Phil. Offbeat Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/top-totty-banned-from-commons-bar-16112489.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/top-totty-banned-from-commons-bar-16112489.html?r=RSS A beer called Top Totty has been banned from a Parliamentary bar because its pump plate featuring a half-naked lady offended women. Offbeat Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/loud-pupils-ahead-of-quiet-ones-16112235.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/loud-pupils-ahead-of-quiet-ones-16112235.html?r=RSS Children who shout out in lessons are more likely to do better in maths and reading than their quieter classmates, research suggests. Offbeat Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:32:01 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bridge-to-get-blue-peter-badge-16111956.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bridge-to-get-blue-peter-badge-16111956.html?r=RSS A bridge will be the first man-made structure to join an exclusive club alongside the Queen and David Beckham - by receiving a Blue Peter badge. Offbeat Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/football-stadium-classroom-plan-16111891.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/football-stadium-classroom-plan-16111891.html?r=RSS Pupils could be taught at a football stadium, a bingo hall or at redundant churches under radical plans being considered to help deliver more school places. Offbeat Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/telepathy-breakthrough-hailed-16111793.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/telepathy-breakthrough-hailed-16111793.html?r=RSS A first step has been taken towards hearing imagined speech using a form of electronic telepathy, it has been claimed. Offbeat Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/goalpost-handcuffs-man-charged-16111788.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/goalpost-handcuffs-man-charged-16111788.html?r=RSS A man has been charged by police after a Premier League football match was brought to a standstill when a supporter handcuffed himself to a goalpost. Offbeat Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/social-skills-down-to-brain-size-16111669.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/social-skills-down-to-brain-size-16111669.html?r=RSS Making friends and being popular may boil down to the size of your forebrain, a study has suggested. Offbeat Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/accent-associated-with-hard-work-16111670.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/accent-associated-with-hard-work-16111670.html?r=RSS Scottish accents are strongly associated with hard work, success and reliability, according to a poll. Offbeat Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/handcuff-man-halts-football-match-16111537.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/uk/handcuff-man-halts-football-match-16111537.html?r=RSS A Premier League match was brought to a standstill when a supporter handcuffed himself to a goalpost. UK Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/fish-tempt-polar-bear-to-weighin-16111401.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/fish-tempt-polar-bear-to-weighin-16111401.html?r=RSS The only polar bear on public display in the UK was lured on to the scales with his favourite fishy treats to allow keepers to weigh him. Offbeat Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/leaky-celebration-condoms-recalled-16111321.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/leaky-celebration-condoms-recalled-16111321.html?r=RSS More than a million condoms given away at the African National Congress party's centenary celebrations have been recalled after some broke and they were found to be leaky. Offbeat Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bid-to-make-toto-states-top-dog-16111284.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bid-to-make-toto-states-top-dog-16111284.html?r=RSS A Kansas legislator is trying to give the dog breed that played Toto in The Wizard of Oz a leg up by making it a state symbol. Offbeat Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/man-jailed-over-light-saber-attack-16111215.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/man-jailed-over-light-saber-attack-16111215.html?r=RSS A US judge is using his force to order a 45-day jail sentence and mental health evaluation for a would-be Jedi who attacked toy store customers with Star Wars light sabers. Offbeat Tue, 31 Jan 2012 04:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/woman-gives-birth-to-13lb-13oz-baby-16111197.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/woman-gives-birth-to-13lb-13oz-baby-16111197.html?r=RSS A woman in the United States has given birth to a boy weighing 13lb 13oz - without the aid of surgery. Offbeat Tue, 31 Jan 2012 02:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/woman-gives-birth-to-13lb-13oz-baby-16110992.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/world-news/woman-gives-birth-to-13lb-13oz-baby-16110992.html?r=RSS A woman in the United States has given birth to a boy weighing 13 pounds and 13 ounces - without the aid of surgery. World news Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/twins-pass-driving-test-on-same-day-16110839.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/twins-pass-driving-test-on-same-day-16110839.html?r=RSS Teenage twins have taken their special connection to another level after passing their driving tests at exactly the same time, on the same day and after the same number of lessons. Offbeat Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/smarties-celebrate-75th-birthday-16110617.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/smarties-celebrate-75th-birthday-16110617.html?r=RSS The 75th anniversary of the creation of Smarties is being celebrated with the release of a limited-edition retro-style hexagon tube. Offbeat Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/ultrasonic-sperm-zap-tests-hailed-16110611.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/ultrasonic-sperm-zap-tests-hailed-16110611.html?r=RSS As birth control methods go, it sounds like one of the more extreme examples. Offbeat Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/parasitic-twin-found-inside-boy-16110310.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/parasitic-twin-found-inside-boy-16110310.html?r=RSS Doctors in Peru have found a "parasitic twin" in the stomach of a three-year-old boy, and plan to surgically remove the tissue. Offbeat Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:34 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/quest-for-love-costs-singles-34bn-16110328.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/quest-for-love-costs-singles-34bn-16110328.html?r=RSS Single people looking for love spend almost £3.4 billion on dates every year, splashing cash on new clothes and expensive restaurants, according to a new study. Offbeat Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/fireworks-prompt-rise-in-pollution-16110311.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/fireworks-prompt-rise-in-pollution-16110311.html?r=RSS Clouds of smoke from Lunar New Year fireworks sent air pollution in Beijing soaring under a new more sensitive measurement system. Offbeat Sun, 29 Jan 2012 05:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/protest-prisoners-sew-lips-together-16110306.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/protest-prisoners-sew-lips-together-16110306.html?r=RSS More than 1,000 prisoners in Kyrgyzstan have sewn their lips together, a grotesque act inmates describe as a protest of their dismal conditions, but which authorities blame on organised criminal gangs who resent attempts to break the power they wield in prisons. Offbeat Sun, 29 Jan 2012 04:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/ukrainians-stage-topless-protest-16110251.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/ukrainians-stage-topless-protest-16110251.html?r=RSS Three topless Ukrainian protesters have been detained after trying to break into an invitation-only gathering of political leaders. Offbeat Sat, 28 Jan 2012 13:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/saudi-women-allowed-in-stadium-16110248.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/saudi-women-allowed-in-stadium-16110248.html?r=RSS A government-run Saudi Arabian newspaper reports that for the first time in the conservative Muslim country, women will be allowed to attend soccer matches in one of the country's stadiums. Offbeat Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/animal-artists-given-own-exhibition-16110247.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/animal-artists-given-own-exhibition-16110247.html?r=RSS Orang-utans, gorillas, chimpanzees and an elephant are among animal artists being given their own exhibition of paintings. Offbeat Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:21:03 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/haveago-pensioner-whacks-raider-16109917.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/haveago-pensioner-whacks-raider-16109917.html?r=RSS A fearless pensioner who fought off a pair of robbers said "instinct" kicked in when he witnessed them attacking the driver of a security van. Offbeat Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/boot-ban-for-phonesmuggling-pupils-16109858.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/boot-ban-for-phonesmuggling-pupils-16109858.html?r=RSS A suburban middle school in Philadelphia has outlawed popular type of fur-lined boots, but the ban is about mobile phones, rather than fashion. Offbeat Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:53:09 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bayern-sorry-over-facebook-mixup-16109859.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/bayern-sorry-over-facebook-mixup-16109859.html?r=RSS Top German football club Bayern Munich has apologised for tricking fans over a "spectacular new signing" after supporters reacted angrily to a publicity stunt in which the Bundesliga leader sought to increase its fanbase on Facebook. Offbeat Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/republic-of-ireland/runner-aiming-to-smash-own-record-16109801.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/republic-of-ireland/runner-aiming-to-smash-own-record-16109801.html?r=RSS The only man on the planet to run seven marathons in less than seven days on the seven continents is aiming to go one better by smashing the five-day barrier. Republic of Ireland Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/courting-male-mice-sing-like-birds-16109272.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/courting-male-mice-sing-like-birds-16109272.html?r=RSS Male house mice sing like birds to serenade their mates, a study has found. Offbeat Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/police-crash-driver-was-tv-star-16109231.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/police-crash-driver-was-tv-star-16109231.html?r=RSS A police officer who wrecked a £40,000 supercar on a test drive had featured in a TV show on police pursuit chases. Offbeat Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/thieves-steal-safe-on-snowboard-16109117.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/thieves-steal-safe-on-snowboard-16109117.html?r=RSS Swiss police say thieves have taken a 220lb safe from a youth hostel in a ski resort by apparently using a stolen snowboard to make off with their weighty loot. Offbeat Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/police-supercar-writeoff-inquiry-16108674.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/police-supercar-writeoff-inquiry-16108674.html?r=RSS An investigation is under way after a £40,000 supercar loaned to police was written off while being taken for a test drive by an officer. Offbeat Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/worlds-oldest-poodle-dies-in-20s-16108645.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/worlds-oldest-poodle-dies-in-20s-16108645.html?r=RSS A toy poodle whose New York City owners had sought to put him in the Guinness World Records book as the world's oldest dog has died. Offbeat Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/english-setter-risking-extinction-16108569.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/english-setter-risking-extinction-16108569.html?r=RSS The English Setter, one of Britain's oldest breeds of dog, risks extinction as owners emulate celebrities and opt for the more exotic Chihuahua, the Kennel Club has said. Offbeat Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/grandmothers-shock-at-pregnancy-16108550.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/grandmothers-shock-at-pregnancy-16108550.html?r=RSS A grandmother has described her shock at finding out she was pregnant again at the age of 53. Offbeat Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/study-shows-decline-in-integrity-16108519.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/study-shows-decline-in-integrity-16108519.html?r=RSS British people are less honest than they were a decade ago, according to a new "integrity" study. Offbeat Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:52:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/woman-gets-dropped-heart-transplant-16108499.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/woman-gets-dropped-heart-transplant-16108499.html?r=RSS A heart that was dropped on the ground while being transported to a hospital has been successfully transplanted into a 28-year-old hair stylist. Offbeat Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/privates-on-parade-in-radio-times-16108233.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/privates-on-parade-in-radio-times-16108233.html?r=RSS The Radio Times has issued an apology after inadvertently giving more exposure than intended to the Royal Marines. Offbeat Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:12:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/price-makes-more-sense-on-economy-16108224.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/price-makes-more-sense-on-economy-16108224.html?r=RSS Katie Price's Tweets "make more sense on the economy than the Labour frontbench", a Government Minister has joked. Offbeat Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:02:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/pizzaloving-dog-sets-fire-to-house-16108128.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/pizzaloving-dog-sets-fire-to-house-16108128.html?r=RSS A dog set fire to its owner's home after sniffing out a pizza which had been left on top of a cooker. Offbeat Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/fury-at-games-baby-tickets-rule-16108123.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/fury-at-games-baby-tickets-rule-16108123.html?r=RSS Babies will be banned from this year's Olympic Games unless they have their own ticket - even if they were not conceived when their parents bought seats. Offbeat Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:32:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/jay-leno-temple-joke-offends-sikhs-16108116.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/jay-leno-temple-joke-offends-sikhs-16108116.html?r=RSS US comedy host Jay Leno has failed to make India's Sikh community laugh. Offbeat Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:22:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/tartan-design-marks-pandas-arrival-16108095.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/tartan-design-marks-pandas-arrival-16108095.html?r=RSS A special tartan commissioned to mark the arrival of two pandas in the UK has been unveiled at the zoo where they live. Offbeat Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:42:00 +0000 http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/uzbekistan-cancels-valentines-day-16108089.html http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/breaking-news/offbeat/uzbekistan-cancels-valentines-day-16108089.html?r=RSS Authorities in Uzbekistan are, apparently, unwilling to give love a chance. Offbeat Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:02:00 +0000