Michelle Obama gets diva-esque entourage

She may not behave much like a diva - yet - but on the recommendation of White House security advisors Michelle Obama will be accompanied on her trip to Britain next week by an entourage even Mariah Carey wouldn’t sneeze at. Eight people will surround the First Lady (codenamed 'Renaissance' by security staff), including a press officer, secretary and bodyguards.

If that sounds extreme, consider the 20-man cohort that will accompany Barack Obama (codename 'Renegade') for the G20 summit. It will include 12 secret service agents, his ‘body guy’ or personal assistant Reggie Love, a doctor, various White House advisors and a military officer carrying the so-called 'football', the case in which are stored the codes the President needs in the event of a nuclear crisis.

Despite all the security, it was announced today that safety concerns mean the Obamas will not be dining at Jamie Oliver's restaurant Fifteen, situated in the backstreets of Islington, north London, although the celebrity chef will still cook for the Obamas and the Browns at Downing Street. Also off the agenda is a planned trip with Sarah Brown on the royal train. Although deemed safe enough for the Queen of England, it apparently poses a security risk to Mrs Obama.

"The train was a good idea, but we've been told it's not on," said an official quoted by the Daily Mail. "It's a shame because I am sure Mrs Obama would have enjoyed it."