Mercedes Corby Breaks Her Silence

In her first interview since Schapelle's clemency bid to reduce her 20-year sentence was lodged a year ago, devastated Mercedes Corby has spoken out about the dramatic decline in Schapelle's health during the past 12 months.

Mercedes says Schapelle is barely recognisable as the Australian girl who set out for a surfing holiday in Bali back in October 2004.

Schapelle's trademark long hair is now hacked and singed after recently being set alight, and her teeth have been breaking off. She has also lost touch with reality, sometimes cannot speak, and is desperately clinging to repeated delusions that she is about to be set free.

For the full story, pick up this week's issue of New Idea, available on stands March 14.