New 20ft long giant armoured dinosaur discovered with species boasting killer club tail & weighing THREE TONNES
A NEW 20ft long, three tonnes giant armoured dinosaur species has been discovered – and left scientists baffled.
A team of palaeontologists identified a new species of armoured dinosaur which once roamed China’s ancient land.
The dinosaur had a killer tail[/caption] A carnivorous T.Rex approaching a heavily armoured Ankylosaurus[/caption]The unbelievable fossil was discovered in deposits dating back to approximately 84 to 72 million years ago – in the Campanian age of the Late Cretaceous period.
In 1986 the fossilised remains of the dinosaur were recovered from the Tangbian geological formation in Longxi village, Jiangxi Province of China.
It’s believed that the armoured dinosaur – now named Huaxiazhoulong shouwen – likely measured roughly 20ft and weighed an unbelievable three tonnes.
But what made it most intimidating was its powerful club tail.
This was a weapon that would have been capable of unleashing deadly blows to any predator.
The near complete fossil of the terrifying beast includes vertebrae, ribs, limb bones and tail bones.
Its shoulder blades suggest well-developed shoulder muscles which could have done a lot of digging.
And the Huaxiazhoulong also has its own unique ischium – which is a crucial bone forming the lower part of the hip.
This indicates powerful legs to dart around with agility.
And with the asymmetrical tail club seen on the beast fossil, it’s believed that it may have had a preferred swing direction – like being left-handed or right-handed.
What may be surprising is that the dinosaur was a herbivore.
It belonged to the Ankylosauridae family which was known for their armour and tail clubs.
The researchers confirmed in the study paper that it “is an early member” of the dinosaur family.
Ankylosaurids ruled the world from the Late Jurassic to the Late Cretaceous – around 165 to 66 million years ago.
And what’s more, it could be the “largest ankylosaur ever found in China”.
Ankylosaurs were quadrupedal dinosaurs that had bony plates embedded into their skin and unbelievably strong limbs to hold their weight.
They resided in North America, Asia and Europe during the Late Jurassic and Late Cretceous periods.
The discovery allows new understand to be shed on the diversity of dinosaur in the Late Cretaceous period.
Why did the dinosaurs die out?
Here's what you need to know...
- The dinosaur wipe-out was a sudden mass extinction event on Earth
- It wiped out roughly three-quarters of our planet’s plant and animal species around 66million years ago
- This event marked the end of the Cretaceous period, and opened the Cenozoic Era, which we’re still in today
- Scientists generally believe that a massive comet or asteroid around 9 miles wide crashed into Earth, devastating the planet
- This impact is said to have sparked a lingering “impact winter”, severely harming plant life and the food chain that relied on it
- More recent research suggests that this impact “ignited” major volcanic activity, which also led to the wiping-out of life
- Some research has suggested that dinosaur numbers were already declining due to climate changes at the time
- But a study published in March 2019 claims that dinosaurs were likely “thriving” before the extinction event
Putin hasn’t been seen for 12 DAYS as Russia-watchers discover glaring error in ‘new’ pics of despot amid WW3 threat
VLADIMIR Putin has mysteriously vanished from public view and hasn’t been seen for 12 days in the wake of his terrorist regime’s apocalyptic World War Three threat.
A glaring error in supposedly new pictures has raised suspicions as to where Putin actually is.
Putin’s last definitive appearance was at the Valdai Forum in Sochi on 7 November[/caption] A broadcast meeting with Alexei Nechayev, the leader of the New People party faction on 19 November, showed a glaring error[/caption] Vladimir Putin pictured meeting Leonid Slutsky on 14 November 2024, but it is believed this meeting took place earlier[/caption]The last definitive sighting of the Russian leader, 72, was on 7 November in Sochi at the Valdai Forum, where he congratulated Donald Trump for his election victory.
Putin has seemed to make several appearances since this date but a key error could have pointed to the invalidity of these images.
The tyrant was seen meeting the leader of the New People faction, Alexei Nechayev, on 19 November.
Nechayev reportedly told Putin his MPs had just supported the first reading of the federal budget, which surges huge spending to the Russian military machine.
This report suggested an inconsistency as the budget had its first reading on 24 October and has already had its second reading which was not mentioned.
Another issue was Nechayev has since had a haircut, indicating the footage was old.
The channel Faridaily Telegram, which monitors the tyrants movements, claimed this meeting and others that have been broadcast since Vlad’s Sochi appearance have been pre-recorded.
It said: “It is no secret that the Kremlin often reports on Putin’s bilateral meetings with governors, government officials, heads of state companies, parliamentarians and public figures later than they actually take place.”
“This technology, which in journalistic slang is called ‘canned goods’, helps the Russian president to disappear from the public space unnoticed.
“Meanwhile, the Kremlin press service uses the ‘canned goods’ to create the illusion that the president is working non-stop.”
Another “canned-goods” meeting was supposedly held between Putin and hardline Liberal-Democrat Party leader Leonid Slutsky on 14 November.
In this meeting, Slutsky told Putin about parliamentary election results, but these were in September.
Putin also requires people he is meeting face-to-face to undergo a five day quarantine period.
Slutsky had spoken publicly before his apparent 14 November meeting with Putin, which would have meant he didn’t undergo the required quarantine.
The Russian tyrants vanishing act between 8 and 20 November comes as Ukraine launched long-range missiles into his country for the first time.
Volodymyr Zelensky’s troops used US-supplied ATACMS missiles to destroy a Russian ammunition arsenal in the Bryansk region, after Joe Biden authorised the limited use of these weapons by Kyiv.
Putin has given the green light to a fresh nuclear doctrine which threatens to use these weapons against the West if Ukraine fires long-range missiles on Russian soil.
The Kremlin security council deputy Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s president from 2008-2012, bluntly warning that a nuclear World War Three could be triggered.
He said on Tuesday: “The use of the Alliance missiles in this way can now be qualified as an attack by the bloc countries on Russia.
“In this case, the right arises to launch a retaliatory strike with weapons of mass destruction on Kyiv and the main NATO facilities, wherever they are.
“And this is already World War Three.”
When Putin travelled to Sochi, he was reported to have not stayed the night in the Black Sea resort, which is in range of Ukrainian drones.
Shadow attack
Ukraine has fired British-supplied Storm Shadow missiles into Russia for the first time today.
Images have appeared to show fragments of debris from the long-range missiles in the village of Marine, Kursk.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer previously had not given his blessing to Kyiv to launch these rockets but hinted yesterday that the country could soon be given the green light.
Up to 12 missiles were launched by a Ukrainian aircraft, according to reports.
These British missiles particularly powerful as they are capable of dodging air defences.
Vladimir Putin pictured meeting Director General of Roscosmos Yury Borisov supposedly on 15 November 2024[/caption] A fragment of a British Storm Shadow missiles was reportedly found in a Russian village[/caption]Aldi Ireland fans set to love adorable Christmas dinner table staple for €5 – and there’s three to choose from
ALDI Ireland fans will be thrilled to find an adorable Christmas dinner staple hitting shelves this week.
The infamous middle aisle is set to welcome the staple very soon as shoppers gear up to grab one before they are all gone.
The retailer’s popular Crofton Novelty Gravy Boat will be landing in the middle aisle on Thursday, November 21.
Aldi is set to bring some festive cheer to your feast with these cute gravy boats.
For just €4.99, you can serve your gravy in style, with three designs to choose from.
A jolly Santa, a quirky Christmas pudding, or a classic white option for those who prefer a timeless touch.
Made from durable stoneware, the gravy boats are both microwave and dishwasher-safe, making them as practical as they are charming.
Perfect for keeping your gravy warm and making it easy to pour and share around the table.
The large handles also help when passing the gravy boat down the table at Christmas dinner.
These budget-friendly table additions are sure to fly off the shelves faster than your Christmas pudding.
Don’t miss your chance to grab one and add a touch of festive flair to your Christmas dinner.
They’ll be sure to be a hit with all your family members.
Aldi Ireland has become very popular around Christmas time thanks to its fabulous dupes.
And the retailer has got the perfect Christmas gift in the middle aisle right now.
But best of all, they’re dupes of a more expensive brand.
The Christmas Slogan Candles, a steal at only €3.99 each, arrived in stores on Sunday, November 17.
Created by Purewick, these limited-edition candles are designed to spread a cosy, Christmassy aroma throughout your space for the holiday season.
Perfect for stockings or a little self-care treat, each candle brings a playful twist on the usual Christmas scents.
With choices like “Fab Yule Ous,” “Fa La La La Laa,” and “Sleigh All Day,” there’s a candle for every holiday vibe.
These candles also pack value, boasting an impressive burn time of approximately 22 hours.
Ensuring the warm fragrance lasts well into those chilly December evenings.
The candles add a subtle seasonal scent without overpowering the room.
They are ideal for entertaining guests or simply winding down with a bit of festive spirit at home.
THE HISTORY OF ALDI
The German discount supermarket chain came to Ireland in 1999.
Aldi’s first few shops opened in November 1999, with locations in Sandyford, Dublin, and Ballincollig, Cork.
By the mid-2000s, Aldi bosses had opened numerous stores, focusing on providing high-quality products at low prices.
As the recession hit 2008-2012, Aldi’s popularity grew as consumers became more price-conscious.
The supermarket giant continued it’s expansion in Ireland between 2013-2018, while refurbishing existing stores.
By 2018, Aldi had over 130 shops throughout the country.
The chain began to focus on expanding its range of Irish-made products and supporting local producers.
In 2023, Aldi had over 140 stores in Ireland.
The store invested in sustainability initiatives, such as reducing plastic packaging and increasing the availability of organic and eco-friendly products.
Aldi chiefs said: “At Aldi we are committed to supporting Irish suppliers. Developed in partnership with Bord Bia, Grow with Aldi is designed to help the very best Irish suppliers develop their brand.
“To date, we’ve invested €10 million in our Grow with Aldi development programme in a bid to find the very best Irish suppliers.
“As a result, for a limited time only there are over 47 new products, from 27 Irish suppliers available in store.”
Aldi have introduced technological advancements with self-checkout systems and contactless payment options.
‘I need this’ cry RTE star Sinead Kennedy’s fans as she rocks statement suit on air
RTE star Sinead Kennedy stepped out in a statement suit on air and left fans crying “I need this”.
The Cork native is renowned for donning classy looks on Today and followers are loving her latest number.
The popular host was back on air yesterday afternoon for another fun-filled episode alongside co-host Daithi O’Se.
The 40-year-old took to Instagram after the show to share some snaps of herself posing in the RTE studios.
Sinead rocked a royal blue two-piece velvet suit from Topshop and a pair of black Louboutin heels.
The beautiful blue blazer was double breasted with unique gold buttons.
It also had an oversized fit and a soft velvet texture feel.
The tailored blue trousers were cropped at the bottom and highwaisted.
The Irish presenter opted to style the already striking look with a diamond necklace and silver hoop earrings.
Sinead admitted in her caption that she “felt bad” as she had purchased the suit over five years ago and couldn’t share a link.
However she added: “That said, it’s great to get another wear out of pieces you’ve had in the wardrobe for ages.”
The stunning star also thanked her hairdresser for styling her cropped blonde bob into a chic side parting for the day.
And fans of the host all flocked to the comment section to gush over the trendy look.
Louise wrote: “Fab. Always great to get wear out of the wardrobe and who knows similar might be knocking around on depop/vinted.”
Linda said: “Looking great, I need this suit!!”
Susan remarked: “A velvet suit… always a win! Divine on you.”
While Lee added: “Beautiful Sinead love your energy on the show.”
And Penny exclaimed: “Wow beautiful outfit Sinead.”
The Chase’s Mark Labbett breaks silence on split from TV star girlfriend as he reveals heartbreaking reason he ended it
THE Chase star Mark Labbett has broken his silence on his split from girlfriend Hayley Palmer – and revealed the heartbreaking reason.
The ITV quizmaster, 59, ended his relationship with journalist Hayley Palmer just weeks after they celebrated their one-year anniversary with a Beefeater pub meal and walk on the beach.
Mark Labbett has broken his silence on his split from TV presenter Hayley Palmer[/caption] The Chase star admitted he called it quits – saying ‘It’s me, I got old’[/caption] The quizmaster said he only has fond memories of his time with Hayley – but is ‘content’ being single[/caption]Mark has now revealed that the split was down to him and his age – saying “It’s me, I got old”.
Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Mark opened up about the reason for the split, saying: “She’s [Hayley’s] a lovely lady and I was very lucky to date her for a year, and as I said…it’s me, I got old.”
“There’s been no one since Hayley, I’m not saying there won’t be another one. But I’m certainly not looking.”
Opening up about his single life, Mark said: “I joke I am a shed man – a guy of a certain age that’s quite content being in or out of a relationship – but loves to be spending time on their own.
“It’s primal, I think it goes all the way back to the hunter-gatherers where the man would go off a lot of time on their own.
“To be fair it’s not just men, there are people who actually like their own company.
“I’ve got a friendship group around here where we go out but at the same time, I’ve really loved this summer, just being quietly here etc.”
Mark, who has starred on the hit ITV quiz show for 15 years, first wooed Hayley with his Toby Carvery Gold Card.
The TV favourite admitted he is “comfortable” not having a partner after spending a many years single.
He shared: “It’s not that I miss anyone in particular, I was single not coincidentally for a long long time when I was a 29st maths teacher, who knew it was quite hard to attract a partner then.
“So I’m quite comfortable without a partner.”
Although Mark is enjoying his bachelor life, he is not short of offers – saying his DMs have been flooded with messages from single women.
He laughed: “Yes [single women are sliding in my DMs] but don’t ask me any more than that.
“It’s the ultimate icebreaker at a party, because people come up to you and whatever.
“It’s wonderful but at the same time there are certain warning signs.
“Things like ‘I’m your number one fan’, that’s never a good sign. It might be great for other people in my position but for me, I’m just going ‘oh no’, defences to a maximum.
“Ultimately because this happened to me late in life, this job didn’t exist until I was 43.
“You never set out to be a good quizzer because you thought you’d get fame and glory out of it. The job didn’t exist until 2009. I’m really glad for 15 years I was a maths teacher and I had a proper job.
“I still think when I get offered work, I think how many days real work would I have to do for that.
“When I went to America and they offered me silly money, all I was thinking was ‘you’d have to spend a fair bit of time in the classroom to earn this kind of cash’.”
Mark insisted that he is very “content” with his relationship status at the moment and has no plans to dip his toes in the dating pool any time soon.
“I’m 59 now, I’ve reached the sort of slippers and comfy chair kind of thing. Right now I’m in my PJs and pottering around the place,” he told us.
“I’m settled down a little bit. I am an old man, I might not look it but I am. I’m quite content doing my own thing.”
He also confirmed that dating apps are not on his radar, saying: “Definitely not a dating app! What’s the old phrase…when you’re in a dessert, you’re desperate for water.
“I’m in a situation where we went out on Saturday night and I got a load of people come over to talk to me on various things and you don’t feel any particular needs, it’s just nice to chat to people.
“Sometimes you’ve got to be realistic and go pick appropriately or whatever.
“While every man is looking for pretty girls, I’m looking for smart girls, call me strange.”
Mark, best known as The Beast on The Chase, was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2016, a turning point that inspired him to make significant lifestyle changes.
As part of World Diabetes Day , Mark has opened up about life with Type 2, and his work with diabetes management company, Dexcom.
More than 4.3 million people are living with a diagnosis of diabetes in the UK (according to Diabetes UK).
With Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices, people with diabetes can see their glucose readings in real-time without having to painfully prick their fingers.
New data from Dexcom, whose device Mark wears to help stay on top of his diabetes, reveals the impact technology has on people with diabetes.
For example, 80 per cent of people with diabetes felt empowered to pursue their dreams with their continuous glucose monitor (CGM).
Mark, who has shed ten stone in recent years, admitted years of having a sweet tooth impacted his health long-term.
“I was diagnosed back in 2016 and by 2018 I almost got un-diabetic. I must confess, I have a habit to cheat and reward myself, it’s my sin,” he said.
“I don’t drink, don’t smoke, don’t do drugs, don’t gamble, don’t have any loose women in my life. Everyone’s got a sin and mine happens to be sugar but I didn’t realise how bad.”
Speaking about his Dexcom CGM device, Mark said: “It’s a bit of peace of mind, it beeps if your glucose levels get too high and also beeps if your glucose level gets too low.
“It’s a great motivator, for remembering to take your medication and for thinking about what you eat.”
Mark said he is around 19.5st now and is aiming to get to his goal weight of 17st.
He told us that he’s conditioned himself to eat smaller meals, saying: “The era when you’d see me finish a main course and go ‘what’s next?’, I eat nothing what I used to. I get the odd day when the hunger is there, but most of the time it isn’t.”
Mark also opened up about a new condition has he has recently been struggling with.
He shared: “I’ve also got early on-set arthritis, it’s not bad but it’s in my right hip, I only notice it, I’ve got a loss of power from getting up from a chair.
“I can’t do it without putting my arm down to give me a tiny little boost and I can’t pick up the dog from the ground – I just don’t have the strength.”
Mark has shed 10st in recent years[/caption] Mark opened up on how he manages his type 2 diabetes on a daily basis[/caption]