INTERNATIONAL: The volcanic eruption on Spain’s Canary Islands is gathering strength, almost two weeks after it started on the island of La Palma. Local media report that the north side of the volcano has now collapsed causing the flow of lava to speed up.

Red-hot lava has been seen exploding high into the air from the Cumbre Vieja volcano. Its partial collapse has formed a new lava flow that is threatening several nearby towns. Amid reports of "intense" activity and a string of earthquakes, fresh cracks have sent scorching rivers of molten rock down towards the sea.

Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, says his government will approve 206 million euros of aid funding this week. Despite the more aggressive eruption, he is encouraging tourists who were considering visiting La Palma not to be put off. Tourism is the Canary Islands' main industry.

Since it started erupting last month, the Cumbre Vieja volcano has destroyed more than 900 buildings. About 6,000 people have been evacuated.