Shinzo Abe The Japanese prime minister was given a decisive mandate to continue with his economic reforms as his Liberal Democratic Party and its coalition partner claimed a majority in the upper house of parliament. The victory breaks a deadlock in Japan's political system and had a welcome response from the markets as Abe faces up to Japan's myriad of economic problems. Chris Froome The Team Sky cyclist rode into Paris in triumph to claim his first Tour de France, becoming the second Briton in as many years to claim glory on the Champs Elysee. Froome impressed throughout the three-week race, especially on tough Alpine ascents, and only narrowly missed out on claiming the King of the Mountains title as well as the famous yellow jersey. Jane Austen The British novelist beloved of romantics the world over has a new honour - her image on the Bank of England's £10 note. It's an apt move for a writer who frequently used money and wealth as a plot device and once wrote: "A large income is the best recipe for happiness I ever heard of." The new notes come into circulation in 2017.
