Author Salman Rushdie last night shrugged off Danish concern that he might be the target of an Islamic assassination plot and collected a European Union literary award at a ceremony in Copenhagen.
He shared the Aristeion award for his novel The Moor's Last Sigh with an Austrian writer.
A Zambian court yesterday threw out a challenge to President Frederick Chiluba's eligibility to stand for president in disputed polls scheduled for Monday.
The petitioners, including former president Kenneth Kaunda's United National Independence Party (UNIP), allege that Chiluba lied about his nationality and parentage on his electoral nomination papers.
Egypt today nominated UN Secretary General Boutros Boutros Ghali for a second term, setting the stage for an expected United States veto, UN sources said. He is the first African head of the United Nations.
Madonna's pet chihuahua, Chiquita, has become so jealous since the recent arrival of her owner's first baby girl, Lourdes Maria Ciccone Leon, that it has been sent to a canine psychiatrist for treatment, the local press said.
Jane Horrocks (32), who plays Edina's secretary Bubble in the TV series Absolutely Fabulous, is four months pregnant.
The actress, who also stars in her own series - Never Mind the Horrocks - and her boyfriend, scriptwriter Nick Vivian, are said to be "delighted".
The Prince Charles celebrated his 48th birthday last night with Camilla Parker. Bowles and 40 friends at a party with an Indian theme, according to reports. They dined at the birthday party at the prince's mansion in Gloucestershire.
Guests are believed to have included Ravi Shankar (76), who influenced many 1960s pop stars, including ex Beatle George Harrison.