сряда, 3 март 2010 г.

A list of the best and most unique sex shops in the world. Whether you're looking for vibrators, dildos, harnesses, erotic fiction, or adult movies

* Basingrad
* Bath
* Birmingham
* Blackpool
* Brancaster
* Brighton
* Brighton and Hove
* Bristol
* Cambridge
* Chelmsford
* Cheltenham
* Chester
* Newcastle Upon Tyne
* Coventry
* Cumbria
* East Quaintleby-next-the-Sea-thorpe
* Exeter
* Failsworth
* Frome
* Gloucester
* Haddenham, England
* Halifax (dump)
* Harlow
* Headingley
* Hemel Hempstead
* Ipswich
* Knapford
* Lancaster
* Leeds
* Leicester
* London
* London-upon-Seabed
* Luton
* Madchester
* Morley, West Yorkshire
* New Malden
* Norwich
* Oldham
* Peterborough
* Petts Wood
* Portsmouth
* Preston
* Redcar
* Saint Helens
* Salisbury
* Scarborough
* Sheffield
* Socialist Republic of Scouseland
* South Brent
* Southampton
* Stockport
* Sunderland
* Tree Court E
* Truro
* User:KraziBazil/Great Yarmouth
* Ventongimps
* Wigan
* Winchester
* Wolverhampton
* Wythenshawe
* York

Selecting your first dildo (or even your second or third) can be a rather intimidating task. There are so many different styles to choose from, and it can be hard to tell exactly what you're buying when all you have to go by is a photograph.


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The first thing you need to consider is for whom you're buying a dildo. I realize it's unlikely that you're shopping on behalf of a friend, of course, but if you're anything like me, you may want to bring your partner in on the action. Whether he's expressed interest in the idea himself or you simply want to spice things up by including him in the sort of sex play that turns you on, there's no law that says dildos should be hidden away and taken out only when you are completely alone.

Once you've decided whether or not your dildo is going to be a private matter or an object for couples' play, you need to think about what pleases you sexually. Do you crave deep penetration? Have your most powerful orgasms come from a man with a thicker than average penis? Are you looking for an anal delight? Does your mind automatically picture a celebrity stud when you begin to fantasize? Now that you've answered these questions and evaluated your own sensual preferences, you'll have an easier time deciding on a dildo.
Realistic Dildo

Solo Sex Toy Fun for the Single Girl
So you're in the market for a personal playmate. Smart choice! Every girl should have at least one special sex toy that she can turn to for stress relief and sexual gratification, whether she's single or romantically involved. Now you just need to decide what will give you the most pleasure.

If you don't have the time or inclination to deal with real live men and all their little quirks, but you still want to enjoy the look and feel of a real live penis, you have a load of options. You can select your preferred skin tone, from a range of Caucasian, black, and mixed race dildos. Not only that, but you can finally confess that size does matter! Indulge yourself with a king sized replica or take it easy with something small but satisfying; the choice is all yours. Realistic performing action is also a possibility -- some dongs will actually cum when you do to give the ultra sensitive girl an even more powerful and lifelike sensation. For some people, accuracy is more important than fantasy, and these dildos will easily help pass the time when you're between partners or simply spending an evening away from your lover.

For other people, sexual daydreams are all about mixing reality and fantasy. That's when a celebrity skin dildo can become your best friend. Designed in the image of your favorite porn stars, you'll have the opportunity to discover for yourself just how little their female co-stars were faking. Get a feel for Ron Jeremy, Sean Michaels, or Adam Hart. Discover John Holmes' secret and experience Jeff Stryker's amazing curve. Have fun acting out your favorite scenes or write your own sexy movie starring yourself and your new toy.

Though there are many benefits that go along with solo sex and dildos, I'm sure you've still got at least one concern. I know the one thing that's really important to me in a romantic encounter is variety -- does any girl really want to spend her entire sexual life in the missionary position? Even though I doubt the answer is yes, that seems to be the only position that comes to mind when a woman thinks about using a dildo. Fortunately, you have about as many creative options with a toy as you do with a living lover. Suction dongs can be fastened onto many different surfaces, including walls, floors, and tables, so that you can enjoy the sensations of being on top, penetrated from the rear, lying on your side, and even standing up. Inflatable balls with attachable dildos also allow you to experience a full range of riding motion so that you never have to miss out on the variety of positioning fun that goes along with partnered sex.

Once you've seen for yourself how satisfying a dildo can be, you'll be eager to experiment with your lover as well.

Dildos and Dongs for Couples
Dildos may have been designed with women in mind, but that doesn't mean we can't share! There's no reason in the world why you should put your favorite toy away when your man is in town. Though he may be intimidated at first (you might not want to pull out your bold, black Bam without warning him), once he sees you in action, he'll be eager to join in on the fun.

Make sure your lover doesn't feel as though he's been replaced by your toys. Use a cock sleeve to turn his already amazing penis into a textured work of erotic art and make him an essential part of your routine. Choose intense beads, manly ripples, sensual studs, and other arousing patterns that are sure to please both of you from the inside out. You can even find penis extensions that will increase his length so that the two of you can experience deeper, more satisfying penetration. Also available in different textures and materials that will make you melt, these toys are designed with his comfort in mind.
Pink Strap-On Harness

If your man is feeling really adventurous, ask him to switch roles with you for just one night. A sexy strap-on will allow him to be on the receiving end of some seriously intense dildo action. Harnesses come in so many styles and sizes that you can easily find one to suit your body type -- you can even attach your own favorite toy or purchase a selection to keep your lover constantly guessing about what he may get to feel next. Better yet, some strap ons have been specially designed to ensure that neither one of you has to go even a moment without the erotic stimulation you crave.

For an even wilder ride, buy just one amazing dildo that can be shared with your lover. Double headers are popular for female partners, but they can also be used simultaneously by men and women. Like other dildos, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but all of them are incredibly flexible and designed with the two of you in mind. Though it may take some practice to get the hang of using an adult toy like this, you'll both be fascinated by the powerful sensations you can achieve.

Don't banish your dildos to the back of a drawer when your lover comes over to play. Just make sure your collection includes a little something that you can share.

Try Out Something Completely Different

Pyrex Dildo Rubber, silicone, and phallic veggies aren't the only materials that can be used to make a dildo. You may be surprised to learn that some of the most sensual toys on the market are actually made from glass. Though fragile, these dildos are also practical; they can be warmed to a comfortable temperature and easily cleaned in a dishwasher. They are also incredibly beautiful. Each one stands alone as a piece of art as well as a tool of erotic pleasure. You won't want to hide these toys away in your night stand; you'll want them on display for everyone to envy and admire.

Though not nearly as beautiful, CyberSkin is another technologically advanced material that has changed the feel of our sex toys. In fact, it feels remarkably like human flesh. Close your eyes and you won't be able to tell the difference between one of these lifelike dildos and a real man! You love the internet, cell phones, and other modern advances, so why not give CyberSkin a chance as well?

. . . And Something Even More Unique
Maybe I just like the idea of being different, but this is one of my all-time favorite dildo-related products. If you're looking to own a dildo like no other, you should really just grab your favorite penis and make your own. Really! If you're lucky enough to have a man whose member sends shivers up your spine, you can follow the simple instructions that come with this dildo molding kit to create an exact replica of the cock you know and love. You can bet no one else in the world will have a toy quite like yours, and both of you will get a kick out of making and playing with your incredible creation. Forget knitting and scrap booking -- you'll have much more fun doing this craft!

As always, let me remind you that we have a good reason for calling all these wonderful things toys -- they're supposed to be fun! Whether you make your own, strap one on, or go for a classic look and feel, the most important part of using a dildo is personal pleasure. Enjoy yourself!
Using a Cock Ring
Many people interested in cock rings peruse the selection, but because they aren’t sure how to select and use one, hesitate to indulge their curiosity. With this article, you will learn how cock rings work, how to select one from the basic styles available, and how to use your new sex toy.

How Cock Rings Work
Cock rings work by binding the penis and testicles, preventing the blood flow from leaving the genitals and keeping them engorged with blood. This can result in a harder erection and increased sensitivity for the wearer. Cock rings are not recommended for those with diabetes or nerve disease.

Styles of Cock Rings
There are many different styles of cock rings, but they basically fall into several different types:

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Single Strap Cock Rings:
this style is usually made of leather and fastens with snaps or velcro. Make sure to trim your pubic hair if purchasing this style to avoid discomfort from fastenings.
*
Cock Rings that also separate the Testicles:
this style works much the same way as the single strap style, but has an additional strap that fastens over the testicles, squeezing them apart and separating them. For those that enjoy squeezing of the testicles or are seeking to go on to play with weights and cbt, this is a great choice. gs are not adjustable and not used with fasteners that are easy to remove, the only way to take off this type of ring is by losing your erection.
*
Non-Adjustable Cock Rings:
these are usually made of either aluminum or stretch rubber. While these aren’t recommended for those new to using cock rings, they can be a fun advanced toy to graduate to once becoming comfortable with other styles. Because these rings are not adjustable and are not easily removed by fasteners like snaps or velcro, the only way to remove these type of rings is by losing your erection. If you cannot manage to bring down your erection, do not panic. Calm down, use some ice on your genital area, and let yourself become flaccid before trying to remove the ring using lube. If you still cannot remove a non-adjustable ring, go to the Emergency Room, where they will be able to cut it off. Do not attempt to cut off a ring yourself!
*
Vibrating Cock Rings:
these cock rings have the added bonus of having an attached bullet vibe that can provide an enhanced sensation during masturbation or clitoral stimulation when used during intercourse with a female partner. Usually made of silicone or soft jelly rubber cock rings, these are also quite comfortable for the wearer and easily put on with sex lubrication.



How to Use a Cock Ring
Adjustable cock rings such as the single strap type may be put on while you are aroused. Simply fit it around your penis and under your testicles, and fasten it snugly. The other styles mentioned, such as the non-adjustable rings and vibrating varieties, should be put on while you are still flaccid.

To put on a non-adjustable ring, hold the bottom side of the ring under your testicles. Slip one testicle in through the ring at a time, then slip your soft penis through the ring. Make sure to use sex lubrication as needed to put on the ring and slide it into place comfortably.

A non-adjustable cock ring will stay on as long as you have your erection; the strap types can be easily removed at any time you wish by unfastening them accordingly.

A Final Word of Caution
If you are new to using cock rings, try wearing and playing with one for a maximum of 15-20 minutes at a time. Blood normally circulates freely in and out of the penis, even during an erection. By using a cock ring for an unrecommended extended period of time and trapping blood in your genitals, you can damage the blood vessels at the base of your penis, create lasting and bothersome soreness, or even affect the tissue and chambers within the penis.

Play safely with your new sex toy, and experiment to find out the best time to put it on, how long to war it, and how you like using the many other styles of rings available.
It's no coincidence that many of the same adjectives used to describe your favorite foods have sexual connotations as well. Imagine how the words sumptuous, satisfying, delicious, and decadent roll off your tongue. Even "spicy" and "hot" have dual meanings for both foods and fetishes. Some foods are known to act as aphrodisiacs all on their own, inspiring intense sexual arousal in anyone who dares eat them. It's no surprise, then, that edible enhancements for sex play are so popular -- and so thoroughly enjoyable!

If you've fantasized about adding a tasty treat to your normal foreplay routine, now is a terrific time to begin experimenting. With so many different types of edible sex toys, there's sure to be at least one delectable dessert that will pleasure your taste buds (without neglecting the rest of your senses).
Edible Lingerie
One of the most basic food-based foreplay enhancers, Edible Undies for men and women, as well as Edible Bras, are an erotic treat that's sure to delight you and your partner. Whether you prefer sweet flavors like strawberry, cherry, and passion fruit, or more sophisticated tastes like champagne and pina coloda, there's bound to be at least one flavor that will tempt you. Ask your lover to slip into something a little tastier and he or she will be more than willing to oblige. You'll get to enjoy an erotic dessert, and both of you will grow increasingly excited as you get closer and closer to finishing every last bite.

If wrapping yours (or your lover's) privates in sugar sounds appealing, don't miss out on edible condoms. They won't protect against pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease, but they will make sure that the growling you hear during sex isn't coming from your tummy. Four flavors in each box will keep your taste buds tingling so that you both get more pleasure out of oral sex.

All Over Edible Excitement
Since most people don't want to dine at the same restaurant every night, I can only assume that you feel the same way about savory sexual toys. Edible condoms and undies are terrific for some occasions, but every once in a while, you want to mix it up and surprise your lover with a totally unexpected treat. Lickable tattoos, luscious whipped cream, and flavorful finger paints (available in classic fruity flavors as well as decadent chocolate) give you the pleasure of deciding exactly how to decorate and devour your partner's body. The truly adventurous can even make their own whipped cream for that satisfying, homemade taste and texture. You'll be more than willing to skip that overpriced ice cream sundae when you remember the dessert you have waiting at home.

Spice Up Your (Oral) Sex Life
Most men view blow jobs the way musicians view Mozart -- as a beautiful thing with no room whatsoever for improvement. Think again. Several candy treats have been created to take oral excitement to a new level. Share one of these yummy suckers with your lover before your tongues go to work, and you'll both be in for an incredibly sweet surprise. Enhance the flavor and feeling of every erotic lick and suck.

A Final Note from the Food Critic
Just like we all have our favorite foods for comfort, fine dining, and simply pigging out, we also have our own unique tastes in the bedroom. Take some time to explore your own preferences, and encourage your lover to do the same. You may feel shy about introducing your partner to the foodie foreplay of your fantasies, but do your best to quash your inhibitions, suggest a new kind of savory dessert, and wait for a positively passionate reaction. With so many new things cooking in our sexy kitchen, the two of you are bound to find a few treats that will get things cooking in the bedroom, too!
Learn to Give an Erotic Massage

Vacation destinations and resorts offer massages as part of their luxury appeal. Spas and salons offer them because they help people feel better about their bodies. Physicians recommend them for a variety of aches and pains, as a good massage promotes health and healing. Massage is considered both an art and a skill; professionals go through extensive training to learn all the right moves. But the best massage isn't done by a professional, it's done by a lover, who is taking the time to savor every curve of his or her partner's body.

the sensual art of massage A well-done romantic massage is sure to send shivers up your lover's spine, titillating their senses and allowing them to relax and focus on every touch. While the recipient of the massage is enjoying every sensual sensation, the massage giver has the chance to gain an intimate knowledge of his or her partner's body. Not only will a good massage make the two of you feel closer, it will also pave the way for extraordinary sex and a sound night's sleep afterwards. That sounds like a lot to ask from your two, untrained hands, doesn't it?

Relax! Anyone can learn to give an excellent, erotic massage.

If you're feeling really inadequate or uninspired, there are many massage books that can help you to get started. Study up! Texts like The Sensual Art of Massage and Erotic Partner Massage are great starting points for anyone who feels less than confident as a masseuse. They explain the different touches that excite each body part, detailing which surfaces respond to rough touches and which prefer a gentle tickle. Massage books also offer advice on the most sensitive and erotic body parts, allowing you to turn a romantic massage into a sensually thrilling experience for your lover. Books on massage can give you the knowledge needed to please your partner with an sexual rub down.


However, book knowledge isn't enough. You have to be ready and willing to experiment with your lover to customize your massage to his or her liking. Some people prefer gentle touches and some do not respond unless the massage is hard and rough. Open the lines of communication. No one in his (or her) right mind is going to turn down the opportunity to receive a massage from their lover. Ask your partner to demonstrate what feels good. Devote some time to experimenting with different sensations -- feathers for tickling, silk for slipping and sliding, coarse fabrics for a rougher touch. Try out warming massage oils and ice cubes to excite the nerves in opposite ways. You can even see how your partner feels about a gentle blindfold over the eyes to heighten his or her other senses. You can purchase many of these things as part of a massage kit, or simply choose substitutes from around your home.

Remember, the first massage you give doesn't have to be perfect. If you take the time to learn exactly what your partner desires, he or she will appreciate not only your effort but the end result as well. Pretty soon, neither of you will ever feel compelled to visit a professional masseuse again!
Guide and Introduction to Anal Sex Toys

Anal sex has long-suffered a taboo reputation. The connotation attached to anal intercourse varied from ‘an unnatural activity’ to ‘dirty’, and it was dismissed as ‘off-limits’ sexual toys play for many couples. Fortunately, with the introduction of more open-minded sexual education and the publication of anal as a mutually enjoyable sex toys activity, it is now becoming acceptable and appealing to a greater majority of people interested in sharing new experiences together and exploring their sexuality.

For partners new to experiencing anal penetration and intercourse, they may still harbor feelings of guilt or unease when thinking of engaging in anal sex with toys. While the connotations mentioned above are fading slowly, they may still resonate with your partner. The first step to enjoying any new activity together is to talk openly and honestly about your feelings, and listen to your partner’s thoughts, feelings and concerns. Be sensitive to one another’s needs, desires and fears, and approaching new or formerly taboo subjects will bring you closer as you learn about each other.

Once your partner has decided that they are interested in receiving anal sex, there are a few key points to consider before rushing to the bedroom.
Comfort of the Receptive Partner

The appeal of anal intercourse is two-part: the excitement of engaging in something considered taboo that is new to you both, and the tightness and sensation offered by the anus. However, one aspect of anal penetration that makes the receptive partner uneasy is often the notion of discomfort or pain. With the following steps, we will try to ease these fears as much as possible and prepare you both for a pleasurable experience.

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The anus is often very tight, and anal penetration may feel strange or uncomfortable if you are not accustomed to it. A good place to start becoming used to this feeling is while you are aroused with your partner. Have your partner apply light pressure around and on the opening of the anus, rubbing and touching, while you are engaged in other acts. As this playing becomes a more natural part of your sexual repetoire, your partner can insert a lubed finger slowly into your anus, working up to go deeper and deeper, and working up to inserting additional fingers. You can become accustomed with the feeling of anal penetration easily this way while still enjoying other activities.
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Once the receptive partner has become more comfortable with the feeling of anal penetration, it can be fun for you both to incorporate toys made for this purpose. There is a vast selection of anal-friendly toys: butt-plugs, dildos, beads, and even attachments for vibrators. Select a smaller toy at first, and work your way up to larger-sized toys.
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When inserting ANYTHING (fingers or sex toys) into the anus, always use plenty of lube. Unlike the vagina, the anus does not generate its own natural lubrication. For this reason, it is vulnerable to tears during dry penetration, and this is extremely uncomfortable and painful for the receptive partner.
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There are anal sex lubricants made especially for anal penetration that are longer-lasting and better suited for anal, and you may choose to try one of these as a comparison with your regular lube.
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For hygenic purposes, it is a good idea to slip a condom over your sex toy before inserting it into the anus. Adult anal sex toys that have been inserted anally should NOT ever be inserted into the vagina afterwards without being cleaned; this will spread bacteria from the anus to the vagina and will put a receptive woman at risk for infection. If you are sharing adult toys, it is necessary to clean your toy and slip on a fresh condom before using it on your partner. Adult anal sex toys should always be cleaned before first use and after play – antibacterial soap is a must. However, depending on the material of which your sex toy is made, the cleaning instructions vary. Please see our short guide for more thorough information on how to clean your sex toys.

Anal Intercourse

Once your partner feels at ease with anal penetration, he or she may be more enthusiastic about having anal intercourse. Once again, listen to the receptive partner’s feelings and thoughts before rushing to act. By taking the time to show your concern for your partner’s comfort and feelings, the first time should be mutually enjoyable for you both.

* Show your partner you care. Set the mood with a shower or bath for two, lit candles, and a sensual massage. Though you may both be excited, take your time to enjoy one another and not jump right into anal sex intercourse.
* Spend extra time on foreplay. For the receptive partner to have an enjoyable experience, it is best to be fully aroused and ready. Think of what your partner really loves, whether it be oral sex, caressing their body, or intimate kissing, and devote your time to making them feel great.
*
Be open to giving your partner an orgasm before attempting anal. If your partner is female, she may enjoy getting off with oral sex, manual stimulation from your hand or a sex toy, or vaginal intercourse before engaging in anal. If this helps her to feel comfortable and turned on, listen to her desires and needs and put her first.
*
As always, make sure you are using enough sex lubrication. Check in with your partner as you are having foreplay and make sure he/she is comfortable. Gently massage around the anus and slip in a lubed finger, or a sex toy if your partner is game.
*
A note about position: many people choose to lie the receptive partner down on their stomach. This is probably the easiest position to try first.
*
When inserting the penis, extra lubrication is a must. Caress your partner while you are SLOWLY inserting your penis. Often, it is most difficult (and sometimes painful) when the head of the penis is inserted, and the receptive partner may tense up at this feeling. Go slow, moving your penis slightly in and out, until you feel your partner relax. When your partner gives you the go-ahead, begin slowly pushing yourself in. Stroke your partner, talk to them, tell her/him how it feels. Encourage your partner to do the same. Push your penis in, moving yourself slowly back and forth, and side to side. When your partner is comfortable, you can start gently thrusting, but be careful not to thrust too deep at first. When the receptive partner is enjoying themself, you may thrust deeper, vary your stroke, and experiment with what feels best for both of you.

It is possible for a receptive female to have an orgasm through anal intercourse. It is often described as a full-body, intense tingling, and is a powerful experience. However, if your female partner did not orgasm through anal intercourse, be open to give her an orgasm through another means.
Afterwards

As with any intimate activity, it is important to cuddle and caress your partner afterward.

Listen to their thoughts about the experience, and share openly and honestly. It is possible your partner will not like anal sex to the extent or at the frequency that you may.

Going forward, sharing a new intimate experience with your partner will only deepen your bond and help you each learn about your sexuality individually and together. Having a healthy attitude towards sexual relations and intimacy will drive passion within your sex life and can only add to your mutual satisfaction. You can use this openness to find variety and excitement to share within all phases of your relationship.

вторник, 16 февруари 2010 г.

This morning watch online see more news here-itv-breaking news





The Taliban's most senior military commander has reportedly been captured in Pakistan. And the head of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority says MPs should give up the profits they make from second homes funded by the taxpayer.
The Taliban's most senior military commander has reportedly been captured in Pakistan. And the head of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority says MPs should give up the profits they make from second homes funded by the taxpayer.


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0709
Banking giant Barclays has announced full-year profits of £11.6bn, an increase of 92% on 2009's figure. Business presenter Adam Shaw explains the record-breaking results.

0712
Almost 60% of company directors have been refused bank loans, contradicting banks' claims that they are continuing to meet demand for business lending, according to the Institute of Directors (IoD). Miles Templeman, director-general of the IoD, explains the implication of the findings on businesses.

0716
Criminal gangs have been cashing in on the Haiti earthquake by seeking funds for bogus charities, a BBC investigation has uncovered. Fraudsters have sent out millions of spam emails claiming either to represent genuine charities or to be from charities which do not exist. Special correspondent Razia Iqbal tracked down one criminal gang based in Spain.

0720
Almost 60% of company directors have been refused bank loans, contradicting banks' claims that they are continuing to meet demand for business lending, according to the Institute of Directors (IoD). The IoD's director-general Miles Templeman explains the implications of the revelation.

0724
New scientific discoveries on the aging of cells could lead to breakthroughs in the treatment of diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Professor Thomas Kirkwood, director of the Institute of Aging and Health at Newcastle University considers what the discovery could mean for the treatment of diseases.

0727
Sports news with Garry Richardson.

0732
Eleven people suspected of involvement in the murder of Hamas military commander Mahmoud al-Mabhouh all had European passports. Mr al-Mabhouh, who played an important role in smuggling Iranian funded arms to Gaza, was murdered in his Dubai hotel room last month. Middle East correspondent Jeremy Bowen examines who might be behind the killing.

0737
Credit card interest rates are at their highest level for 12 years despite the Bank of England's historically low base rate, according to research from the finance website moneyfacts.com. Darren Cook of moneyfacts.com explains why the rates are so high.

0740
The paper review.

0743
Fifty-over cricket is losing out to its faster and more aggressive competitor, Twenty20, and is suffering from low match attendances and diving TV ratings. Nick Bryant reports from Sydney.

0747
Thought for the day with The Right Reverend Tom Butler, Bishop of Southwark.

0750
The Taliban's second in command, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, has been captured in a secret US-Pakistani raid in Karachi. Rahimullah Yusufzai, journalist for Pakistani newspaper, The News, and Professor Michael Clarke, director of the Royal United Services Institute, consider the importance of the arrest in combating the Taliban.


Banking giant Barclays has announced full-year profits of £11.6bn, an increase of 92% since 2009. The bank, which did not take any direct state help during the financial crisis, has taken on large amounts of risk in investment banking. Business editor Robert Peston and Liberal Democrats' treasury spokesman Vince Cable examine Barclays' profits.


A major announcement on a strategy to win over Taliban insurgents is expected during the coming weeks, backed by hundreds of millions of pounds from Western donors. Martin Patience reports from eastern Afghanistan on the re-integration of former Taliban fighters into Afghan society.


The broadcaster and filmmaker Ray Gosling has disclosed that he suffocated a former lover who was dying from an Aids-related illness. Mr Gosling admitted to the mercy killing while making a documentary for the BBC. Mr Gosling explains why he made the revelations.


Sports news with Garry Richardson.


A pay freeze could threaten the UK's fragile recovery by reducing consumer demand, Trade Union Congress (TUC) leaders have warned. The union claims that reports of falling pay in private firms and soaring public sector earnings have been greatly exaggerated. Brendan Barber, general secretary of the TUC, examines the effects of a pay freeze.


The biggest diamond heist in history occurred on Valentine's Day seven years ago. Thieves broke into a secure vault in Antwerp, the world's diamond capital, without tripping a single alarm or injuring any guards. Greg Campbell, co-author of Flawless, a new book about the robbery, and Dick Kirby, a retired detective sergeant in the Flying Squad, reflect on the idea of a "perfect crime".


The business news with Adam Shaw.


Operation Moshtarak is beginning its fourth day as Afghan-Nato troops push Taliban fighters from strongholds in Helmand province. Peter Galbraith, former United Nation's representative to Afghanistan, gives his opinion of the operation.


With the crisis in Greece putting the Euro in jeopardy, all eyes are on Germany - as the European economic powerhouse and architect of monetary union - to come out strongly to prop up the Greek economy. But the German government seems reluctant to bail-out its profligate neighbour. Simon Winder, author of Germania, and Thomas Kielinger, London correspondent for Die Welt, discuss how Germany sees its own role in Europe.
angsford disclosed live on air that the Irishman had proposed to her, after viewers spotted her wearing an engagement ring and emailed the show to offer their congratulations.

The couple, both 49, got engaged during a romantic break city break to celebrate her 49th birthday on St Patrick's Day.
Flashing her diamond engagement ring, Langsford beamed with joy as a she broke the news to millions of viewers on Friday.

Sitting alongside her partner of 12 years, who is standing in on the show for presenter Phillip Schofield, Langsford said: "We chose the ring together. We got engaged on my birthday last week."

Fighting back tears, she said: "My little heart is going all of a flutter now, it's like the first time I saw you Eamonn."

Holmes downplayed the news, adding: "A lot of people think we are married already so it won't be much of a surprise."

The couple have a seven-year-old son, Jack, and plan to get married next spring.

In a statement, Langsford said: "I'm so thrilled. We've discussed marriage many times but this was an incredibly romantic and heartfelt proposal which I will never forget.

"It came as a complete bolt from the blue and I said yes immediately. It was very emotional, we were both in tears. I collected my ring yesterday and I'm just so excited."

Holmes, who also presents for Sky News, said: "Quite simply, I adore Ruth. Ever since I first met her I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her.

"I'm slightly embarrassed I haven't got around to it before this but one day last week I looked at her across a crowded room and fell in love all over again."

Langsford presents This Morning every Friday and has been lined up as a possible replacement for departing host Fern Britton.

The popular morning show, hosted by Fern Britton and Phillip Schofield, could be taken off the air during the summer to save cash.

Usually the presenters are replaced by stand-ins for seven or eight weeks over the summer, but stories claim the programme could now disappear altogether during the period.

An ITV source reportedly said: "We are looking everywhere to make savings. Daytime programming is going to take a hit.

"The summer period is traditionally very quiet - in the current climate it is perhaps not worth running This Morning when it is so quiet."

It's thought the morning slot will be replaced with repeats of classic shows.

Prime-time dramas including Sharpe and Wire in the Blood have been given the chop by ITV, as it attempts to save almost Ј600million over the next three years.

Heartbeat and The Royal have already been shelved, while cop drama The Bill has been slashed to one episode a week.

ITV chief Michael Grade announced today that the broadcaster will axe 600 jobs after announcing a Ј2.7billion loss in 2008 due to a huge drop in advertising revenue.

The network is also looking to sell social networking website Friends Reunited and online business directory Scoot.