Appeal judges 'allow Madonna adoption'

Madonna has convinced three appeal judges to permit her adoption of toddler Mercy James from Malawi, it has been claimed.

The courts had previously ruled that the singer was not allowed to adopt the child because she had not been resident in the country for the time required by regulations.

However, two appeal judges are said to have submitted reports recommending a reversal of the decision, with the third also "in complete unison", The Sun reports.

A source said: "The paperwork is being typed up now. All recommendations are in favour of the adoption taking place. Mercy should start packing her bags. She's off to America."

A friend of the star added: "She's ecstatic. She made a promise that she wouldn't give up on Mercy and, believe me, she could move mountains when she's this determined.

"No stone has been left unturned to prove that ruling was wrong."