Top of the props

A top rugby league club has launched a hunt for new talent with an initiative called Prop Idol.

London Broncos are confident of receiving at least 2,000 entries for the competition, which offers a first prize of a contract with the club.

Contestants will be put through their paces and judged on pace, power, handling and all-round ability.

Nic Cartwright, chief executive of the Broncos, said: "Anyone who thinks they are fast enough, strong enough, and committed enough, should step up to the mark - whether they have played rugby before, or not."

Word of warning, though - unlike Pop Idol, you are expected to have at least an ounce of talent.

Christmas sexercise

Footballers in Germany are being advised to have lots of sex over the Christmas period to beat a fitness cheat test.

Dortmund coach Matthias Sammer and Berlin manager Huub Stevens have issued their squads with special �150 watches that will keep tabs on players' exercise levels.

The Polar S410 timepiece will report back with detailed reports of heart rates and muscle functions so the bosses know if their stars have been taking it easy.

But Berlin doctor Kai Loehle has spotted a get-out clause.

He said: "The only option to cheat the watch is with a sex marathon.

"During sexual intercourse one's pulse reaches the same rate as in football sprinting - about 190 to 200 for a few minutes."

Brings a whole new meaning to the term sexy football.