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Love Island for the 50-plus?
Pom-poms at the ready!
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Pamela Anderson, serial bride
Inside week T H IS
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EDITOR SIOBHAN WYKES
ON THE COVER 10 Dark times for the Loose Women 30 The new 1:6 diet: Take a day off and STILL drop 1st! 36 Love Island for the over-50s? Starring our columnist Ulrika Jonsson 47 WIN! A new wardrobe from Damart 54 Open letter to Phil’s wife: ‘I was married to a gay man’ 57 ‘Poison’ at the palace: Secrets, spite & splits 70 Identity theft: ‘They stole my life’
SHOWBIZ 8 Sabina MonteysFullam: ‘It was hard as a mum to watch that’ 9 Oti & Kelvin’s late-night liaisons 14 Nicola Walker: ‘An affair? I couldn’t do it...’ 42 At home with... Fearne Cotton
50 Christine McGuinness: ‘Mummy’s going to change the world for you’ 56 Pamela: The serial bride! 68 Happy birthday, EastEnders! 76 John Torode: ‘Gregg can get it wrong...’
REAL LIFE 16 Shelley Spadoni: ‘Why I took the leap!’ 26 ‘Singing saved my life’ 34 ‘I’ve lost the weight of a human being!’
REGULARS 4 Start your week with a smile 12 Style: Spot on! 19 Carol McGiffin 20 Big beauty questions 22 We’re all talking about 24 Celebrate your shape 28 Homes 29John Barrowman 32 Beauty: Hands up 38 Dear Vanessa 40 Your grandchildren could help you live longer and be happier!
O Please let me know your thoughts, siobhan.wykes@hearst.co.uk
44 Recipes: Brilliant batter! 46 Food in a flash 48 Beauty 52 Homes: Spring greens! 66 Ruth and Eamonn 72 Best books for February 74 Tony Cowell speaks to Gregory Porter 78 Girls’ night in… and out 82 Cash advice 83 Your stars 84 Travel 89 Crossword: Win £550 90 Treat yourself for under a tenner Hearst Magazines UK is a trading name of The National Magazine Company Limited (Registered in England number 112955) whose registered offices are at 30 Panton Street, London SW1Y 4AJ. Terms and conditions: Entrants must be 18 or over. Employees of The National Magazine Company trading as Hearst Magazines UK, Spoke and associated companies are excluded from taking part. Hearst Magazines UK retains the right to not award prizes to claimants or consortiums who in the opinion of Hearst Magazines UK have not entered into the spirit of the promotion. Should more prizes be claimed than are available in any prize category for any reason or claimed as a result of a technical error, a simple draw may take place for the prize. The editor’s decision is final. Suppliers cannot be held responsible for breakdown in communication systems or networks. Images are for representational purposes only. SP: Spoke, www.Spoke-Interactive. com. Data Protection: We will use the information you supply to process your competition entry. For our privacy notice visit hearst.co.uk/privacy-notice.
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COVER PICTURES: GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK, WENN. NICKY JOHNSONTHIS PAGE: PA/CRUISEPICTURES. ITV. INSTAGRAM
Anyone else addicted to Love Island? I am. Luke T was in my daughter’s class at school. His mum is Beverley Trotman (she of the amazing voice in X Factor back in 2007), so showbiz clearly runs in THAT family. I’m not sure it’s the school connection, but I’m now rooting for Luke T and his best buddy Luke M (both above). But what I’d really love to see (turn to page 36) is Ulrika Jonsson’s idea for Love Island for the over-50s. Ulrika, Lizzie Cundy, Bev Turner (James Cracknell’s ex) – and me. ITV if you are reading this, there are a lot of us, single ladies, who don’t mind donning a bikini in the sun. And, call me biased, but I think the conversation might be a tad more interesting. After all, we’ve lived A LOT!
Be easy to spot in our top picks
...while Luke T and Luke M are doing exactly that in this series!
Ulrika would heat things up on the island...
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R U O Y T STAR
h t i w k e e w We’re a little bit obsessed with these gorgeously flamboyant flamingos! The picture was posted by ZSL Whipsnade Zoo and it’s certainly brightened up our week. If only we could balance that well on one leg...
In z s s tag lw r a hip m sn / ad ez oo
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FEATHERED FRIENDS
With Spice And I Veteran actor Richard E Grant was so delighted to run into old friend Geri Halliwell at lunch last week that he posted a snap on his Instagram saying, ‘All grown-up since we worked together…’ The pair met when Richard played neurotic Clifford, the Spice Girls’ manager, in Spice World: The Movie in 1997. Despite his distinguished career, fans insist Clifford was one of Richard’s best-ever roles and that he stole the show with his hilarious one-liners. Who can forget: ‘If they want to be spontaneous they have to clear it with me first’? 4 FACEBOOK.COM/BESTMAGAZINE
Instagram/richard.e.grant
WORDS: HELEN PIKE, NICKY DAWSON PICTURES: GETTY, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER
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It was a case of th e ‘golden girls’ out in force at this year’s Osc Oh, 48, went all o ars. Sandra ut and ruffles. Char with sequins lize meanwhile had tw Theron, 44, o LBD and this fab gowns – an ulo Dior dress, and J us fringed essic 38, looked statue a Alba, sque her Atelier Versa in ce number.
It was golden gowns all round at the Oscars
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BE PREPARED!
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She might only be 10, but Julia Butters looked every inch the A-lister at the Oscars. The youngster, who delivered a standout performance in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, was interviewed on the red carpet. She revealed attending the Academy Awards was a ‘lifelong dream’, but that inside her £2,000 designer handbag she was carrying a sandwich. ‘I don’t like the food here,’ she admitted. There’s a girl who knows her own mind…
Twitter/@ viiicogarcia
Who wowed the crowd?
5 LEAP INTO SPRING!
Cath Kidston has taken the extra day in February and given it its own theme in the form of this very cute homeware and fashion collection. Named ‘The Leap’, the pieces feature frog prints (see what they did there?) across the designs. Our favourite pieces are the Travel Cup, £18, and Lunch Box, £10, an easy introduction to doing your bit for the environment, too. Toad-ally brilliant!
R U O Y T STAR
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Pink power
It’s a beautiful colour for spring and will certainly brighten up your wardrobe, but don’t take any style tips from singer Katy Perry, 35. Her pink, silk tiered coat reminds us of a blancmange – and something we can picture Grayson Perry in! For coat chic, step forward Minnie Driver, 50. Her tailored midi garment looks sharp and sophisticated. It definitely gets our vote. Instagram/ victoriabeckham
WORDS: LOUISE BULGIN PICTURES: GETTY
Instagram/victoriabe
ckham
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WHO’S THE BOSS?
Victoria Beckham, 45, has unveiled a new filter on Instagram that tells users which version of the fashion designer they are. Ranging from CEO to Fitness Addict, each title comes with a caricature of the ex-Spice Girls singer, including her trademark pout. Her children, Romeo, 17, Cruz, 14, and Harper, eight, all gave it a go – with very funny results. Harper playfully faked a shocked look when she was The Beauty Boss.
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Minnie gets it right in a pink midi, but Katy’s tiered look is a tragedy
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S D N E G E L N E E SCR
Instagram/lindagray _
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Instagram/ tiggywinklesuk
It was lovely to see these four iconic women together recently, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Monaco Film Festival. Bionic Woman Lindsay Wagner, 70, was with Dallas star Linda Gray, 79, Dynasty actress Joan Collins, 86, and Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman’s Jane Seymour, 68. The ladies have years of experience between them, but look as stunning as ever.Bravo!
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9 A helping hand How beautiful is this gorgeous bunny?! We just want to scoop him up and give him a cuddle! The picture was shared by Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital who rescue and rehabilitate British wildlife. They’re looking for baby bird and mammal feeders to help them through baby season. We’d want to take all the animals home with us…
BEAUTY – AND BEYOND
Beauty Kitchen has released a new collection of bath products with delicious scents, including Minty Fresh and Botanic Bliss (an infusion of eucalyptus, aloe vera and rosemary). The eco-friendly brand uses natural ingredients and, better still, if you return your Beauty Kitchen empties, either by post or to Holland & Barrett stores, they’ll refill them. Luxurious products and good for the environment? We’re in! Prices start at £5.
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The mother of Paul Hollywood’s scorned lover speaks out about her daughter’s treatment
‘It was hard as a mum to watch that’
Paul tried to get Summer to sign an NDA
Mum Sabina has always supported Summer
Summer was smitten with baker Paul at the start
support them. She added: ‘I knew the age difference would be a typical stereotype narrative that people would pick up on. ‘I said to Summer, “Are you serious?” and she said “yes”, so I said, “Well, if you do love each other, then we’ll support you 100 per cent.” We’re always there for them whatever they need.’ Paul’s exwife, Alex, reportedly
rowed with his ex-girlfriend, Summer, in a Marks & Spencer’s carpark in Canterbury back in February. And Summer’s split from Paul led to public mud-slinging where she accused the baker of holding on to her possessions, including some pet chickens, which he later gave back. Now, Summer is focusing on getting her life back on track after the ordeal – something her mum is delighted about. ‘She’s always had this really sort of cheeky, sassy spark and sparkle and, for a little while yes, it left the building, Sabrina said. ‘I’m excited to see it back... with a vengeance!’
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WORDS: BENJY POTTER PICTURES: GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK
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leading to an acrimonious split in August 2019. In her first interview since the couple parted ways, protective mum, Sabina, said: ‘It’s been hard for her and it’s been hard as a mum, as a parent watching that.’ Summer and Paul had known each other for years, before their friendship developed into something more in November 2017. They were together soon after Paul announced his split from his wife of two decades, Alex, in 2017. And Sabina had her reservations about their relationship – but admitted she had no choice but to
Instagram/sabinamonteysfullam
t was hardly the stuff of fairy tales – a married man, leaving his wife for a woman almost 30 years his junior. But Sabina MonteysFullam, 48, had no choice but to support daughter Summer, 24, when she fell for twinkly eyed star baker, Paul Hollywood, 53, while working behind the bar of his local Kent pub. Except now, the mum-oftwo is the one dealing with the fall-out, after a humiliating ordeal – where Paul tried to force Summer to sign a nondisclosure agreement (NDA),
best for CELEBRITY The pair enjoyed great chemistry on the Strictly dancefloor
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Oti & Kelvin’s LATE-NIGHT LIAISONS Instagram/kelvin_fletcher
WORDS: BENJY POTTER PICTURES: BBC, INSTAGRAM
Strictly friends? Oti and Kelvin certainly set tongues wagging with their recent 3am reunion…
Oti and Kelvin waltzed to Strictly victory last year
hey captivated the nation with their racy routines on Strictly Come Dancing – and it’s clear dance partners Oti Mabuse, 29, and Kelvin Fletcher, 36, had plenty to catch up on during a recent latenight liaison. Under the cloak of darkness, the pair were spotted arriving at London’s Soho Sanctum Hotel together at 3am on Saturday 8 February, for a nightcap. Oti, who has been married to German dancer Marius Lepure since 2016, met up with the married dadof-two again the following evening at another hotel for a late night drink. Their reunion came as the former Emmerdale star finished the final leg of the Strictly Come Dancing tour on 9 February at London’s O2. Kelvin, who lifted the coveted glitterball last year with Oti, danced with Strictly pro Janette Manrara, 36, on the tour, while Oti was busy filming BBC One’s The Greatest Dancer. A source close to the pair said they had drinks in the bar, then went straight home in the early hours of Saturday morning after partying with other Strictly stars earlier. ‘It was perfectly innocent… they wanted to have a few more drinks and the bar was still serving. There were other people, such as Bradley Wiggins, in the bar. They are just friends.’ On Saturday night they met at the Lincoln Plaza Hotel, in Canary Wharf, at 11pm. On the second reunion, the source added: ‘Oti wanted to talk to a friend as she lost her act on The Greatest Dancer. They didn’t want to go for drinks at Kelvin’s hotel as there are lots of fans. They were only there until midnight having drinks and both went home.’ Kelvin’s wife, Liz, was spotted without her wedding ring following the revelations, but insisted it was ‘fake tan day’ and she only wears it on ‘special occasions’. Kelvin and Oti are set to jet off together to New York in June to teach a dance masterclass as part of a luxury Queen Mary 2 cruise. There will always be talk of the ‘Strictly curse’, when it comes to close friendships forged between dancing partners on the hit BBC show. But, in this case, Kelvin and Oti really do just seem like good friends...
The actor tied the knot with wife Liz in 2015
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Loose Women open up Some of the stars of the ITV show have been very candid about their mental health struggles, past and present... se Women is such ne of the reasons day time chat show Loo colourful array a success is because, as well as grilling a es of the day, of celebrities and debating the thorny issu it on the line when it the ladies on its panel are not afraid to lay that’s never less so than comes to their own personal struggles. And They will give it the on-air when they ’re talking about their mental health. are also honest about the killer smile and glam up for a red carpet, but they always picture-perfect – in fact that sometimes, behind the scenes, life isn’t D, it can be pretty messy. fact, from ‘gaslighting ’ to depression to severe OC y powerful. They will talk about the ugly stuff – and that is trul
O
WORDS: SHELLEY SPADONI PICTURES: GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK
Andrea McLean: ‘I’ve been in a very dark place’ Andrea McLean made a brave confession recently, opening up about her recent battle with depression to confess that she was in a ‘very dark place’. She added that, though on the surface it might not have been obvious, the situation behind closed doors was ‘bleak’. Sharing a portion of a chat she did for a podcast on Instagram, the 50-year-old explained, ‘Depression and anxiety is a huge part of going through the menopause, because of all the hormonal changes. It’s something – suffer is such a horrible word because people are suffering much more worse things that I am – but I’ve just come through a really prolonged, difficult spell.’ She added: ‘Not that you would ever know it because I showed up every day at work, and I smiled, and did my thing, but at home it was a very, very different story. I
was in a very dark place. And for me, meditating made a huge difference… because it forces you to focus on the here and now.’ Andrea, author of 2019’s Confessions of A Menopausal Woman, has spoken before with great honesty about the havoc menopause can wreak. Speaking previously of her shock at how badly it affected her, she said, ‘I was taken aback. After my hysterectomy [in 2016], I literally fell off a cliff hormonally and everything changed – physically and mentally. But it was the mental side– the anxiety – Andrea is brutally that was really honest about difficult… It menopause was bigger.’
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N A N D R E A McL E A
best for CELEBRITY Denise Welch: ‘With emotional abuse, there are no bruises’
...Denise suffered mental abuse from an ex
Former Corrie star Denise Welch, 61, was full of praise about a controversial storyline playing out on the famous cobbles – that of couple Geoff and Geoff is Yasmeen. Geoff has emotionally abusive in been subjecting Corrie… Yasmeen to vile mental that, as she was waving abuse, in some truly goodbye, ‘The arm got slightly shocking scenes. Speaking with tighter and he said, “Why did you have her fellow ‘Loosies’ about an to tell that pathetic joke?”’ Praising abusive relationship she was Corrie bosses for shining a line on the once in, Denise – now issue of abusive, ‘gaslighting’ happily married to third behaviour, Denise continued, ‘The husband, artist Lincoln thing about emotional abuse is there Townley, 47, said, ‘It is H C are no bruises.’ Her partner at the time L incredibly hard… One D E NIS E WE told her it was ‘not normal’ that she had occasion I was desperate a close bond with her family, calling her to have some friends ‘obsessed’ for ringing them three times round for dinner a week. ‘When they chip away at you, because nobody liked my partner, and he said you lose your personality,’ she revealed. It clearly touched a nerve with viewers that was my fault for at home. One tweeted, ‘Listening to my choice of friends.’ Denise Welch… makes me so sad that I Adding that everyone stayed in such a horrible relationship seemed to have had a great night, she added for as long as I did as a teen.’
Linda Robson: ‘I drank, because I couldn’t face the day’ Linda Robson made her muchanticipated return to Loose Women last month, having taken time off following a much-publicised ‘meltdown’, which she later confessed saw her family ‘lock’ her in her own home until they could get help – brought on by a mix of crippling obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety. And the former Birds of A Feather actress will surely have helped many viewers at Hugs – Nadia shows Linda her support
LINDA RO BS O N
home going through similar struggles, thanks to her down-to-earth honesty, talking about her own hellish journey. She later called it ‘one of the scariest things I’ve ever had to do’. Linda, 61, bravely went on to the show to detail her battle with OCD, anxiety and depression, and a six-week stint in a treatment facility. During the emotionally charged episode, she explained that her OCD reached severe levels after she’d taken medication for sleep. ‘I went to see somebody about it and they gave me a tablet. But I had a really bad reaction to it. I had a proper meltdown, I got really bad anxiety, really bad depression and my OCD kicked into overdrive.’ After six weeks in a facility, Linda said she came out on more medication, which made her so hyper, she turned to alcohol. ‘I started drinking again because I couldn’t face the day,’ she admitted. Following her brave admission, a teary Linda turned to panellists Stacey, Kaye, Nadia and Jane and added, ‘I hope it helps people’. Of this, Linda, you can be very sure.
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‘AN AFFAIR? I couldn’t do it…’ As she reprises her role as a high-end divorce lawyer in the throes of a steamy affair, Nicola Walker talks about why she could never go there herself… he mesmerising Nicola Walker is back for series two of BBC One’s The Split - the most gripping relationship drama to hit the small-screen in years. Set in the fastpaced, messy world of London’s high-end divorce circuit, it takes an honest and heartbreaking look at modern relationships.
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Nicola plays lawyer Hannah Stern, whose marriage begins to crack when she discovers hubby Nathan (Stephen Mangan) has had an affair – then her estranged father, Oscar, dies. Struggling with grief and her intense feelings for colleague Christie, Hannah embarks on a full-blown affair – but where does she go from here? Nicola, 49 – who is married to fellow actor Barnaby Kay, with whom she has son, Harry, 13 - tells best what marriage means to her…
Hannah is caught in a web of deceit
Nicola, your character’s work fling has got serious, hasn’t it?! Oh yes… At the end of the last series, you weren’t sure whether it was just a moment of madness. But
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she’s in a full-blown affair. She’s trying to get away with it, she’s lying, she’s buying herself time. That’s such a common way to deal with emotional problems in our lives – trying to buy time. Hoping, somehow, that the answer to what you should do is going to either be forced or come to you. Hannah’s not your typical ‘scarlet woman’ though… I am not standard casting, no. When I first read the script, I said, ‘No, there’s no way they’ll let me play this part, of a woman having this dangerous affair’. But they wanted a more ‘ordinary’ woman! This series opens with Hannah swimming lengths of a pool, which is unfair – my hair’s stuck to my head, I have no make-up on… When you get to a certain age, you really don’t want to be seen in the swimming pool! But that’s how Hannah is conducting this affair. She never used her gym membership, until she started the affair with Christie… Why do you think audiences relate to her so much? Well, imagine seeing a profile of Hannah Stern in a legal
magazine. Her life would look brilliant. Leafing through that magazine, she’d look totally in control, hugely successful, edging on perfection. We all know the truth’s far more complicated. We never know what goes on behind closed doors, but here you actually find out what’s going on behind those closed doors! You know your TV husband, Nathan [Stephen Mangan], from your uni days, don’t you? I do. I remember his very big, curly hair. I have lots of photos of us together that we use in the show. It’s because I was obsessed with those rubbish, disposable cameras. It was around 1992 –pre-mobile phones! I’ve got a brilliant one of him playing guitar with all of
best for CELEBRITY
‘What marriage means to me’
husband. I couldn’t do it to the kids. That’s the killer. What you are risking, what you could be destroying along with your marriage.
‘You actually find out what’s going on behind those closed doors!’ us sat on the floor around him. He looks like a cult leader. He’s very beautiful and we’re all staring at him, singing along. What’s it like, playing someone so caught up in a web of deceit? You know what? I don’t ever
want to find out what that’s like in real life. This is my job. You dip your toe in other people’s lives, but I don’t ever want to experience that personally, or have anyone I love, experience it. It’s not a good place to be. They’re a mess, Hannah and her
What feedback have you got, out and about? I’ve had people when I’m out shopping, say, ‘I can’t believe Stephen Mangan did that to you. I really liked him’ – people are angry! And I get lots of women saying, ‘Ooh, that Christie, I can’t blame you!’ People are very vocal about Hannah’s relationships. I’ve never had that before, it’s funny. I’ve had ‘I’m team Christie!’ shouted at me at the checkout. Are there any scenes you really relished? I loved this scene where Nathan and I have a massive row. It’s the row of nightmares, where you’re both raging, weeping and screaming, but also being really truthful. I don’t think I’ve read a scene that truthful – it felt like you were… a fly-on-thewall of your best friend’s kitchen, when she and her husband are fighting.
Nicola’s hubby, Barnaby Kay
to 49 per cent of marriages end in divorce. To m really hopeful ac e, it’s a t. People don’t stay the sa me, so it’s whether you cope with those changes, and let the other person be different.’
Hannah’s relationship with her mum and sisters is wonderful. Did you have fun with such a female-led cast? So much! It’s funny, though, the scenes where we’re really joyous and laughing are hard. It’s much easier filming something where you’re all crying. Manufacturing ‘joy’ takes so much energy! But we helped each other. If someone was flagging, someone else said something appallingly rude for the take, and we were away… You play a divorce lawyer in the show. Would you be any good at that, in real life? No! Hannah’s emotional, but she knows when to hold that down and be professional. Actors have to be good at empathising with people and that’s probably a bit useless, when you’re a family lawyer! I’d probably sit there, sobbing my head off with my clients, being so understanding I’d be utterly useless. I’m far too emotional a person! O The Split is on BBC One, Tuesdays at 9pm.
WORDS: SHELLEY SPADONI PICTURES: BBC, GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK
Nicola Walker w as w Barnaby Kay, also ith an actor, for 20 year s before they got married – mostly, she has said, to give some sense of se curity to their son, Harry. She told best: ‘I’m not a bi g fan of a ceremony or a signed contract. In som e of the best “marriages ” I know, the people aren’t married at all! It’s a wild leap of faith – between 48 per cent
Cousins Marley, Dylan and Jesse loved the big day
‘Why I took It’s almost 29 February – the day that women can pop the question to their man. After years of dating and the arrival of two boys, our celebrity editor Shelley Spadoni did exactly that. Here’s her story...
t started almost as a bit of a joke. It was a very average morning at work, the date 29 February 2016. It was a leap year, and, on the TV on the office wall, Holly and Phil were discussing the leap year tradition on This Morning. I already knew, as most do, that this was the one date every four years when a woman can apparently ask a man to marry her (and yes, that date is coming up again very soon, ladies!). Of course, being a modern woman, I don’t really believe that 29 February on a leap year is the only time you can legitimately ask your man to marry you. That’s ludicrous. Do it whenever you like. It’s just a nice story to tell the grandkids. No, it was more the fact that I was feeling spontaneous, and on that slightly dull, grey February day in London Town, Holly and Phil of all people gave me the impetus to go for it. Plus, I knew if I’d waited for my then-boyfriend Pierpaolo to do it, I’d have been walking down the aisle at around 79 with my zimmer frame! We had been together for 14 years, having met back in 2003 in Rome, where I lived for five years after studying Italian at university. We were very happy, but there was absolutely no chance of him popping the question.
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Tying the knot had never seriously crossed my mind either, though – probably because we’d already done all the proper grown-up, scary stuff: moving in together, dealing with the ups and downs of domesticity, and then, in 2012, the big one – having our first son, Dylan, now seven, followed in 2014, by his little brother, Jesse, now five. I was never that little girl who dreamed of a fairy-tale
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wedding and a beautiful dress, even though friends and family had teased us mercilessly over the years, especially Pierpaolo – asking him, ‘When are you going to make an honest woman out of her?’ But there was something in the air that day. So, when my boss asked, half-joking, ‘Right, who’s going to go home and ask their boyfriend to marry them, then?!’ I said, ‘Me!’ My colleagues giggled, but I’m
sure they thought nothing more of it. And that was that. My aunt, Frieda, was over from Belfast, visiting for a few days. When I went home, I asked her to look after the kids, as I was meeting Pierpaolo at our local pub, King William IV – the scene of many a raucous night in the past, as I had ‘something important to ask him’. She immediately broke into a wide grin and gave me a knowing wink – wise Auntie
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getting married!’ This entire conversation was had in Italian, but Here comes the somehow, our softly bride... Shelley’s dad can’t hide his pride spoken Donegal barman had got the gist that something momentous had just happened. ‘Fellahs,’ he said, ‘Have I just witnessed a marriage proposal?’ ‘You certainly have!’, I said, laughing. Before we knew it, Sean had whipped out a bottle of Prosecco (no Champagne, but give the guy a break, I’d sprung it on him, too) – and we were toasting our news. It was a last-minute idea, but by the end of that You know the date today, unforgettable evening, both of don’t you?!’ us were walking on air. We’ll He spluttered a bit, never forget it. We’d called and nearly fell of his bar our families, friends – we were stool – before staring at me discussing wedding venues, I intensely for a few beats, was already banging on about then smiling. ‘Married?! my pre-wedding diet, and Like, us, get married ?!’ Pierpaolo (priorities, people), ‘Yes’, I laughed, ‘Us, get had already decided what he married!’ I had genuinely wanted to do on his stag do. never seen Pierpaolo more It was especially lovely to shocked in my entire life. make that call to Pierpaolo’s For a moment, I was mum, Giulia, in Rome, with worried he might faint. But some good news. She had lost he regained his composure, her husband, Pierpaolo’s dad, downed the rest of his pint Silvano, to bowel cancer in and, after I’d explained the 2006, aged just 59. whole Leap Year concept She never really got over (Italians don’t do this – and that loss. Ten years later, in the idea of a woman asking a November 2016, she herself man to marry her over there had been diagnosed with is unheard of ), which, yes, incurable lung cancer. None took the romance out of the of us knew how long she had. scenario slightly, he said, ‘OK, We decided to get married let’s do it! Let’s do this! We’re outside Rome, in the grounds
‘For a moment I was worried he might faint’
Bella Roma! Shelley and Pierpaolo at their fabulous Italian wedding
Frieda must have known exactly what it was! As for Pierpaolo, I told him I simply wanted to buy him a few pints and catch up just the two of us, without two little boys doing cartwheels over our heads. When he got there, we settled into our usual seats at the bar – me with a glass of white, he his usual pint. And I turned to him and said, casually, ‘So, what would you say to us getting married?
of a family-run ‘agriturismo’ – a beautiful farmhouse in the Lazio countryside, on 29 August 2017. Sadly, just two months after we called Giulia with our big news, her health went abruptly downhill and on 31 May, she passed away. Pierpaolo was devastated, as was I. But we were determined we would have our big day the following year. And we did. Everyone we loved had flown over– coming from everywhere from my native Belfast to Canada. I’ll never forget, arm-in-arm with my dad, walking up to Pierpaolo in the baking Italian sun that afternoon, and seeing everyone – or nearly everyone – I loved lined up clapping and cheering. I set eyes on my little ones looking adorable in their gorgeous blue short suits and their cousin, Marley, in her white dress, and I couldn’t help crying. It was the most beautiful day, full of fun, laughter, food, dancing around the pool and eventually partying IN the pool - and it was one that almost never happened. Being married hasn’t changed a thing. Except that it’s given me memories of a day that money can’t buy. If any of you are reading this, and thinking of taking the leap this 29 February, all I can say is – go for it. You won’t regret a thing.
WORDS: SHELLEY SPADONI PICTURES: ALESSANDRO BACCIALI
the leap!’
With their sons Dylan, left, and Jesse
IDIOTIC thrillseekers
hey call them ‘thrill-seekers’ – people who do dangerous sports or daring and daft things. You see them falling off buildings, dying on mountains, drowning in treacherous surf and rip tides. They are, more often than not, warned in advance of the dangers of what they’re about to do – but do it anyway. As happened last week, with the four idiots who clambered up Ben Nevis in trainers and cagoules in a blizzard – despite a severe weather warning being in place. Inevitably, the temperature dropped to -20°C and they all nearly lost their lives. They were stupid beyond belief to be so badly prepared and to ignore the warnings, but they didn’t die because they were rescued by some selfless human beings whose lives were also put at risk because of their negligence. I really don’t understand the mindset of those who do dangerous things for their own personal need for
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THE WAY I SEE IT... Wise words from our feisty, fearless and funny columnist
FOOLS ON BEN NEVIS – YET HEROIC RESCUERS RUSHED TO THEIR AID
©lochaber mountain
CAROL McGIFFIN
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an adrenaline rush – oh, and to show off. I’m talking about people who go potholing, cave-diving, or any other pointless, meaningless ‘sport’ which is, in my view, dangerous. Ones that can only possibly be indulged in in the knowledge that if anything goes wrong, they will be rescued, although not always successfully. Which is fine, if that’s how they want to die – but it’s not fine when it risks the lives of those who are charged with picking up the pieces. I think something should be put in place to make people pay for the time, resources and risk that goes into saving their stupid lives. Maybe if they knew they’d be facing a hefty bill if they got into trouble, they might think twice before doing it. But then again, maybe not.
I’m loathing... THE LORDS
OVERPAID
The House of Lords CRONIES? gets more ridiculous every day. It used to be a highly respected chamber of learned individuals who kept the government of the day in check. Now, it’s just a giant gravy train for cronies and failed politicians, about 800 of whom can claim £313 a day, just to show their faces. But this was before they voted themselves a pay rise of 3.1 per cent, way above the rate of inflation. And the worst thing, it’s tax-free! WHY? FACEBOOK.COM/BESTMAGAZINE 19
The BIG beauty
QUESTIONS We all want to look youthful, but why have surgery when softer options can be just as effective – and much cheaper? Husband-and-wife team Dr Aamer Khan and skin care specialist Lesley Reynolds argue it out in the pages of best…
Q
My eyebrows have started to fade and I’m losing definition in the eye and brow area. How can I create a natural effect? I find tinting makes it look unnatural. Hannah, Northampton
DR AAMER SAYS: A brow transplant can help restore patchy brows. Individual follicles from the back or side of the head are removed and placed into the brow area to add density and shape. The results are not immediate, as it takes two to three months for the new hair to grow, and up to six months for a well-defined eyebrow. The new brows need trimming about once a month as the hair continues to grow as it would on your head. At £3,500, it’s a long-term investment.
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LESLEY SAYS: There are plenty of ways to make your eyes sparkle again. Eyebrow enhancers are the latest buzz product to bring the brow area back to life and will help make them appear thicker and more defined. Rapidbrow Eyebrow Enhancing Serum, £37, contains a blend of protein peptides and natural ingredients to help encourage healthy hair growth. Of course, brow make-up helps. Try a
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pencil, powder or ‘filler’ to define the brow area. Choose one that’s a shade lighter than your hair colour and with feathery strokes, fill in the patchy areas. I like Benefit Gimme Brow+, £22.50, which contains tiny microfibres for a natural-looking enhancement. As for getting back definition to the rest of your eyes, a good eye concealer, like Diego Dalla Palma Zero Dark Circles and Imperfections, £15.50, can instantly knock off years. Choose a shade lighter than your skin tone and apply right into the corners of the eyes to lighten and brighten. Greying lashes could also be a contributing factor. Choose mascara that will not only darken, but also thicken and fatten. Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara, £10.99, helps lift and separate tiny lashes.
Tracey, Middlesex
DR AAMER SAYS: As we get older, our skin cell turnover also slows down from a 28-day cycle down to 90 days, so we accumulate more dead skin cells. This can lead to dryness, particularly dry patches on the face, and that’s when a peel can help. They are basically chemical exfoliants and, depending on their content and strength, they remove the upper layers of skin and stimulate new skin cell growth. A superficial skin peel would most likely help your skin. I like the Jessner Peel, a 30-minute treatment which causes the top layers of skin to flake off for up to five days, and will smooth and rejuvenate your skin. A course of three, a month apart, gets good results. From £250 per peel.
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LESLEY SAYS: This can be caused by a number of factors. Normal healthy skin has a layer of fatty substances, known as lipids, which help to seal in moisture, leaving skin soft and supple. If this gets disrupted, the result is patchy, flaky, dry skin. What disrupts it? Anything from long, hot showers, the wrong skincare, or even a poor diet. Look for products containing peptides, retinol and Vitamin C all known to help rejuvenate the skin. Gently exfoliate weekly with Superdrug Naturally Radiant Glycolic Overnight Peel, £6.99, to clear pores and dead skin cells. You could also try using a skin booster. Designed to hike up hydration levels, they enhance the benefits of your existing skincare. Most are applied immediately after cleansing or are mixed with your moisturiser. Simple Water Boost Hydrating Booster, £6.99, tackles dry, rough, tight patches. Afterwards, mix a few drops of facial oil into your moisturiser to help smooth the skin’s surface. Finally, choose a lightweight, dewy finish, like bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Cream, £26.
Q
I’m starting to get skin tags on my body. How can I treat and hide them in the meantime? Suzie, Bolton
DR AAMER SAYS: These small, soft, skin growths that hang off the skin are very common and affect roughly one in four of us. Although usually harmless and nothing to worry about, they can be annoying, especially if they rub against clothing or jewellery. CryoPen, costing between £40-80 a session, usually gets permanent results in just one treatment, freezing off warts, age spots and skin tags in seconds. A device, shaped like a pen, emits a fine jet of nitrous oxide (a freezing solution) under high pressure, which rapidly cools the skin tissue. When skin cells reach -20C they’re killed and the blemish is blasted away. Depending on the size of the area treated, the process takes between five and 90 seconds. Sometimes a blister may form immediately after treatment, which will heal in two to six weeks. Antiseptic cream is applied afterwards.
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LESLEY SAYS: Unless there is a medical problem with a skin tag, removal is not covered under the NHS so you would need to see a private GP or a dermatologist for removal. Sometimes skin tags evacuate themselves. They can twist off or die due to a lack of blood supply but never try to cut them off yourself. An at-home kit called Cryotag Skin Tag Remover £26, removes skin tags in as little as one treatment with most tags falling off after two weeks. However, some skin tags may require additional treatments. You can treat the skin tag again, with up to four treatment cycles, and the kit contains enough for 12 treatments.
READERS SHOULD TAKE THE ADVICE OF THEIR DOCTOR BEFORE UNDERTAKING ANY ADVICE GIVEN IN THIS COLUMN O For more information on Dr Aamer, Lesley and their team of doctors, visit harleystreetskinclinic.com. Got a question? Email LesleyandAamer@hearst.co.uk
PICTURES: GETTY
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My make-up keeps going on patchy, no matter if it’s powder or liquid. Is there an underlying skin issue I need to resolve?
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Do you have JOMO? Brits are no longer up for a night out, according to new research by AO.com. A survey has found that 41 per cent of us prefer to spend our free time staying at home, compared to 18 per cent who would rather go out. The top activities for a night in include watching films or box sets, wearing comfy clothes/pyjamas and reading books or magazines. We tend to agree and don’t care that we’re in the ‘joy of missing out’ camp. We’d much rather be cosy, not queueing for a toilet or having to battle with others to get a taxi home, let alone save our money. Would you rather stay in than go out? Tell us what you think.
A flippin’ brilliant idea With Pancake Day around the corner, we’re preparing our eating trousers in anticipation. For those hosting a party, why not try the latest way to serve them? Pancake skewers are the ultimate canapé creation, featuring stacks of mini pancakes placed on to a skewer and served with fruit on top. Pinterest is awash with versions of the delicacy, from the Nutella-laden to the fruit-rich option seen here from Nugget Markets. They may be small, but that won’t stop us gobbling up the equivalent of several crêpes anyway…
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Puppy party
OR WEIRDRFUL? WONDE
Handywork
What’s not to love? A whole load of gorgeous golden retrievers running straight towards a pool and jumping in! They seem to be very happy taking a dip. Some skirt around the edges before making the leap, one even jumps over a fellow hound to make it into the water! And, of course, there’s always one that gets out, shakes its coat everywhere and soaks its furry friends. This is definitely our kind of pool party – we could watch it for hours! Find it by googling ‘Golden retriever dogs have a huge pool party’.
FIND US ON INSTAGRAM AT… @bestmagofficial
Why just stop at nail art when you can adorn your whole hand with jewels? London-based Ellie Simkins (Insta: @ella_ess_) specialises in special effects make-up, focusing on hands, and the artist appears to have a penchant for crystals if this particular design is anything to go by. We can’t imagine the effort it takes to painstakingly apply each one and, of course, doing everyday jobs around the house is bound to be tricky... It’ll certainly jazz up the washing up, though!
Go, Barbie!
Trending on Twitter #makeamovieoversleep We know the feeling well – accidentally snoozing the alarm clock and oversleeping. We’ve all done it! People in the Twittersphere have been combining this idea with film titles recently and we love it. ‘Back to the Futon’ sounds right up our street!
FIND US AT… @bestmagofficial
NE’ S E VE RYO O SEE … G O IN G T
The new Sonic movie He first became world-famous as a video game icon back in 1991. Now, nearly 30 years on, Sonic the Hedgehog is making his Hollywood debut in a big-budget live action movie alongside bona fide movie star Jim Carrey. And we can’t think of a better family film to take the little ones to see this half-term. In the movie, which has just hit UK cinemas, Sonic arrives on planet Earth in order to escape inter-planetary baddies. As game fans know, he’s able to run at supersonic speeds and curl into a ball in order to attack enemies. Unfortunately, though, there’s also a few not-so-friendly humans on Earth, with Carrey playing an evil scientist, Dr Robotnik, who’s trying to find Sonic and harness his talents for world domination. We’re ordering our popcorn already!
WORDS: HELEN PIKE, LOUISE BULGIN, PAULA JONES PICTURES: FACEBOOK, GETTY, MATTEL, PARAMOUNT, PINTEREST
Barbie has been around for a long time (she’s more than 60 years old) and was always the embodiment of blonde hair and blue eyes, but we’re pleased to see that Mattel, the company who makes the doll, is evolving to reflect the world girls see today. Mattel has announced its ‘most diverse’ Barbies ever, featuring dolls with different body types, skin tones and unique looks – including dolls with prosthetics and no hair. We approve.
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Above: 1. Dress, £45, M&S 2. Jacket, £55, laredoute.com 3. Earrings, £8.99, H&M 4. Bag, £29.50, Accessorize 5. Heels, £40, laredoute.com
Below: 1. Dress, £39.50, Oliver Bonas 2. Necklace, £19.50, M&S 3. Bag, £59, Accessorize 4. Coat, £60, laredoute.com 5. Boots, £35, M&S
Floral fancy Introduce the shade slowly with blooms
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best for STYLE Main image: Jacket, £32.99, Trousers, £26 Both M&Co, Top and trainers, stylist’s own Below: 1. Trousers, £19.99, New Look 2. Earrings, £18, Oliver Bonas 3. Bag, £49.95, Benetton 4. Jacket, £17, Primark 5. Top, £25, Oliver Bonas
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Baggy trousers Cargo pants aren’t just for teenage boys!
Country cover-up Perfect for a Sunday walk!
CELEBRATE YOUR SHAPE Join the fashion army in khaki colours 1 2
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‘Singing save Caroline with husband Toby and her sons Max and Harvey
tanding on the pyramid stage at Glastonbury, I scanned the crowd. A sea of faces. Ten thousand people watching, waiting… A shiver ran though me. Nerves? Excitement? The music started. Strains of Something Inside So Strong, I opened my mouth, began to sing and … joy pulsed through me. Performing at Glastonbury 2016 was a once in a lifetime experience and one I thought I might not live to see. In 2006, I was a busy working mum to Max, then eight and Harvey, then five. I enjoyed my job as a physiotherapist at Lewisham Hospital in South London. Life was fine. I’d race around working, looking after the kids, not often looking up at the beautiful sky above me. Just one niggle. A pain in my stomach. It was mild but it didn’t go away. Eventually, I visited my GP who suggested it was irritable bowel syndrome. It took a year, several trips back to the GP and my stomach swollen hard like I was six months pregnant before I was finally referred for an ultra sound scan. The scan was in the hospital I worked in. I popped up in my lunch hour, still in my uniform. The radiologist and I were chatting when his face changed.
When Caroline Harbord faced death, there was only one thing for it – she had to get out there and sing for her life…
Caroline has been cancer-free for 13 years – and says singing was her saviour
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‘If there’s one thing I’ve learned’ ‘Getting older is a privilege. Grab every moment’
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She appeared on Chris Evans’ BBC Radio 2 breakfast show
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d my life’
Caroline was in a band as a teenager
in hospital, the next day in bed and then back to work. It was a time to take stock and look at my life. I’d always loved music. As a teenager I was in a punk band. I started out as the bass player but they needed a singer so I stepped up. We performed a lot but didn’t make it big. For a few years I worked for record companies trying to get my foot in the door of the music business. Then meeting Toby, my husband, training as a physiotherapist and having my sons. A dishwasher might help us cope practically. But I needed other ways to cope. That meant taking control – my way, which included a mainly organic diet, cutting all my hair off – in case it fell out – lots of make -up, bright clothes and accessories. Being frank with my friends about the cancer… and music. I hadn’t sung – apart from in the car – for such a long time. A bit of research and I found a local choir to join. After tea on a Wednesday evening, I would leave Toby to load the new dishwasher and race to a local museum to sing. I found it soothing. For two hours, while I sang I didn’t think about myself or cancer, I just went with the music. Music really is food for the soul. It was four months before
With choir master Gareth Malone
‘We got to the number one slot on Christmas Day’ a scan confirmed the cancer had receded. I was lucky – the treatment had gone well. Obviously, you never escape the shadow of cancer. But life could start to get back to ‘normal’. But not quite normal, I told myself I must grab every opportunity and experience. Which is why – when I found out they were putting together an NHS choir to feature in a BBC programme with choir master Gareth Malone, I put my name forward. The audition was terrifying. Standing up and singing in front of TV cameras and my colleagues – they had 400 applicants. But I was chosen! And what an adventure. The Lewisham and Greenwich choir didn’t win the show – we came second – but when we put out a charity single A Bridge Over You we became embroiled in a race for the Christmas 2015 number one!
Chris Evans had us on his radio show. It was us against Justin Bieber! Apparently, we were just 662 sales behind him – when he tweeted to his fans to support us. Us! Pop A-lister Bieber told his fans to buy our single – not his. We got the number one slot on Christmas Day. The amazing experiences snowballed. We appeared on TV, we were in the papers and we sang at the Royal Albert Hall (twice!), the FA Cup Final at Wembley, we supported Matt Goss, played with Boy George and became on first name terms with Squeeze and, of course, sang at Glastonbury. It’s ironic – my teenage self might only have dreamt of appearing at Glastonbury, but thanks to cancer I’ve done it. I’m not glad I had lymphoma, but it did push me back into singing. And that is how I live my life now. I’m 54 and I’ve been cancer-clear for 13 years. I volunteer as a buddy for Lymphoma Action – a charity which supports sufferers during and after their treatment – because I want to give something back. I cherish the important things – friends, family, happy moments … even just looking up at the sky and taking a moment to notice how beautiful the clouds are.
z For information contact lymphoma-action.org.uk
WORDS: KIRSTY ENGLISH AND NICKY DAWSON
‘I need to get a doctor,’ he muttered. And that, as they say, was the moment everything changed. I saw a specialist. ‘How likely is it to be cancer?’ I asked – disbelieving, I was only 40. ‘Likely,’ was the reply. In fact, I had stage four nonHodgkin’s lymphoma. I’d had none of the classic symptoms – night sweats, itching or unexplained lumps or weight loss. They’d been undetected for so long, the tumours had laced themselves around my aorta, spread above my diaphragm and into my bone marrow. I suspected my prognosis was not good. Telling the boys was difficult. I started my chemotherapy the day after my sister-in-law’s funeral. She’d had cancer. ‘Mummy’s cancer is not like Aunty Vicky’s,’ I told them. But I wanted them to know the truth. I was very sick, I could lose my hair and things at home might be hard. My wonderful friends rallied. One took the boys to school for me. ‘My mummy’s got cancer,’ Harvey told her solemnly in the car. ‘So, we’re getting a dishwasher, a cleaner and she might go bald.’ A fairly accurate description. The treatment was on a three-weekly cycle. One day
The choir on stage with Matt Goss at Wembley
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g n i k a e Br the Ice
THE RETURN OF THE JED-ICE It’s Movie Week on Sunday night and I can’t wait. I didn’t get a chance to do Movie Week when I was on the show in 2006, but I’d loved to have done a Star Wars routine. I’m a huge Star Wars fan and I’d love to do something with the Stormtroopers. Luke Evans, who played Gaston in the Beauty and the Beast film, is also performing a song from his album – it’s going to be great!
ROMANCING ON ICE
Instagram/johnscotbarrowman
Pro skater Hamish Gaman has been helping me on the ice – I’m brushing up on some of the moves the contestants are doing. We don’t do lifts, ‘cause if I was skating I’d skate with a woman. There are certain lifts you can do with a woman that two men physically can’t do because of their make up… if you know what I mean! Who knows, I might get the chance to perform again?
It was lovely to see Kevin Kilbane and Brianne Delcourt’s romance blossom, who knew they were going to pop the question and get married? It’s nice to see that happening on Dancing on Ice. If they asked me to sing at their KEVIN AND wedding and it fits BRIANNE into my schedule, ARE ENGAGED! I’d say yes!
HATS OFF TO PHIL I think it’s an emotional thing for anybody to come out, in particular when you’re coming out in front of the entire nation. I commend him for doing it and we should all feel happy when people are able to be their true selves. I had a lovely conversation with him, but I’m not one to gossip about what happens behind closed doors, so…
Follow @dancingonice on Twitter
GOODBYE MATT AND ‘H’
We’re at the stage in the competition where good people are going to go. It was groundbreaking to have them in the competition as the first same-sex pairing, but I’d like to think they were treated as any other couple as it went on. Hopefully, other shows will catch on and represent lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender contestants in their line-up.
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SKATE EXPECTATIONS
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SKATING WITH STORMTROOPERS?
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Dancing on Ice judge John Barrowman gives you the insider’s guide to the coolest show on TV…
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SEVEN-DAY DIET Even if diet meals are tasty, saying no to foods you love can leave you feeling a bit deprived - knowing a ‘cheat’ day is just around the corner could help you stay focused…
HOW IT WORKS Olly Murs is looking good and he did it by sticking to a healthy, low-sugar plan six days a week and indulging once a week on treat day. Other celebs who love cheat days include Vicky Pattison and Jennifer Aniston. We explain how to make it work for you – so you could lose up to a stone this month. For a cheat day to work, there do need to be a few rules (sorry). Diets generally work because they create a gap between the calories you burn and the calories you eat. If you wipe out that deficit by eating EVERYTHING on your cheat day, you won’t get results. So, focus on what you really want on your cheat day – is it one little treat at every meal or one big treat that day, such as a takeaway. Exercising each day – and taking a longer walk or working out more on cheat day – will boost results. Our plan gives you six days of fairly strict low-sugar dieting and then a suggestion of a healthy cheat day – we’ve put it at the end of the week, but you can move it to another day if you like.
WORDS: HELEN FOSTER/BEST PICTURES: BIGSTOCK, GETTY PLEASE SEE YOUR GP BEFORE STARTING A NEW WEIGHT-LOSS PLAN. WEIGHT LOSS ACHIEVED MAY VARY
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DAY ONE
DAY FIVE
Breakfast:
Breakfast:
200g of Greek yogurt with 2 pieces of chopped fruit.
2 pieces of toast topped with 1 banana, mashed. Coffee made with skimmed milk.
Lunch: 3 Ryvita, 3 slices of lean ham, 1 sliced boiled egg, with side salad of tomato, cucumber and onion.
Dinner:
Lunch: 400g tin or half a carton of any soup. 3 Ryvita, with a green salad.
75g lean mince cooked with 200g tinned tomatoes, 150g kidney beans and mushrooms. Served with cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower.
Dinner:
DAY TWO
DAY SIX
Breakfast:
Breakfast:
40g of any low-sugar cereal, 125g skimmed milk. 1 piece of fruit.
2 pieces of toast with 400g tinned tomatoes, or 1 piece of toast with 200g low-sugar baked beans.
Lunch: Tortilla wrap filled with 125g tuna, 1tbsp sweetcorn and 1tsp low-fat mayo. Celery sticks.
Dinner:
2 low-fat Quorn sausages served with 150g mashed potato, onions (fried in oil spray) and unlimited green beans.
Lunch: Any sandwich under 350 calories, with cherry tomatoes or carrot sticks.
Stir fry 125g chicken with broccoli, red peppers, garlic and ginger, served with 40g (dry weight) brown rice.
Dinner:
DAY THREE
DAY SEVEN
Breakfast:
Breakfast:
1 toasted crumpet, with low-fat spread, 2 pieces of chopped fruit and 1tbsp Greek yogurt.
2 pieces of bacon or 1 low-fat sausage, mushrooms and 1 tomato, all grilled.
Lunch:
Lunch:
Salad of tomato, cucumber, onion and 10 black olives, with 60g of low-fat feta or mozzarella.
Roast dinner of chicken, vegetables and 2 small roast potatoes. Glass of wine.
Dinner:
Dinner:
3 fishfingers, 150g new potatoes, unlimited peas and sweetcorn.
Small piece of French bread with 40g soft cheese and salad. 1 Mars bar or similar.
DAY FOUR
SNACKS
Breakfast:
150g salmon steak, grilled. Served with 3tbsp low-fat coleslaw and lots of green salad.
Choose one each day
1 egg, boiled, scrambled or poached, with 1 slice of toast topped with a little low-fat spread.
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Freddo bar
2x
Ryvita with a little hummus
125g Pot of low-fat yogurt
Lunch: 1 small pitta bread, served with half a tub of hummus. Large green salad.
Dinner Any ready meal under 400 calories with unlimited salad or vegetables.
1x
Any piece of fruit
25g
Piece of cheese
p u s d n a H Find the solution to softer skin at your fingertips
he skin on your hands gets just as much exposure to wear and tear as your face – if not more so, if you consider how often you wash them. The skin is thinner here, too, so more prone to damage. The same goes for nails; biting, particularly, contributes to weakness. Find some handy products here…
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WASH AWAY YOUR SKIN WOES
It’s something we do several times a day, but repeated hand washing can strip moisture away. Steer clear of foaming formulas that commonly have a drying effect, and take off your jewellery so there’s less chance of suds collecting and causing irritation around rings. Baylis & Harding Elements Collection, £2.25 each, contains Vitamin E, great for those with dry skin. We love uplifting scent in the White Tea & Neroli bottle.
FAKE IT YOURSELF
Scrub yourself smooth Dry hands can benefit from exfoliation just like the rest of our body, but as the skin is delicate, you need to tailor your scrub accordingly. Brown sugar has a softer texture that leaves skin smooth without being too abrasive and, combined with cranberry juice, provides a refreshing treatment for your mitts. Take 3tbsp brown sugar and mix with 2tsp cranberry juice to make a fine paste. Massage gently over your hands and rinse well.
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MOISTURE MIRACLE
A product that soothes, keeps skin moisturised and doesn’t leave behind a tacky finish – we’re a demanding lot, aren’t we! Heathcote & Ivory RHS Flower Blooms Lavender Garden Hand Cream, £8 (heathcoteivory.com) includes essential oil for extra nourishment, and if you want a seal of approval from serial hand washers, Nursem Hand Cream, £9.99, developed by a nurse, has a winning mix of hyaluronic acid, colloidal oatmeal and glycerin to protect skin. Better still, with every product sold, the brand gives a month’s worth of Nursem to a nurse or midwife.
TOP TIP!
A coat of polish will help protect nail beds against the elements more than leaving them bare.
best for BEAUTY
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NURTURE YOUR NAILS
If your nails struggle to grow strong and are prone to splitting, try a long-term treatment that will repair and protect all in one go. Cienna Rose Halo Nail Illuminator & Strengthening Treatment, £11, is a bit like a primer for nails, working to strengthen signs of weakness and help prevent splitting and further damage. Two coats will add a sheen to give the illusion of healthy fingertips.
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COLOUR CRUSH
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CARE AND REPAIR
As your hands face a considerable amount of sun exposure, it’s inevitable that aside from dryness, pigmentation will start to form as mottled spots on your forehands. Skin Republic Hand Repair Mask, £5.49, is like a cocoon for your mitts, coating them with a rich serum that targets these dark patches while nourishing with shea butter. Do it at night to give your skin time to soak up the ingredients.
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WORDS: HELEN PIKE PICTURES: GETTY
Vegan food is big business these days, and the trend is starting to extend into beauty. We hadn’t considered that some of our products contain animal traces, but brands are starting to use alternatives. Sally Hansen good.kind.pure collection, £8.99 each, features potato, corn and wheat among its ingredients list – even the brush is vegan! Two coats of Plum, a classic transitional shade, will create a glossy finish.
Sarah Swift feared her children could be orphaned if she didn’t lose weight. Now she’s over 12 stone lighter…
‘I’ve lost the weight of a human being!’
Sarah would worry about being stared at on the school run
24st 2lbs Size 32
Top tip
opping two slices of white bread into the toaster, I finished off the kids’ packed lunches, before slathering the toast with butter. I wolfed it down, checking Brandon, now nine and Eloise, six, had everything they needed, before ushering them out the door. ‘Have a good day,’ I said, dropping them off at school, before getting back to the safety of my own home. The 10-minute walk had left me hot and breathless – and dropping and collecting the kids was the only job I had. Our grown-up sons, Daniel, now 28, and Arran, 26, still lived at home – while my husband Paul supported us with his health and safety manager job. I was incredibly lucky, and I adored the kids, but back home, I flaked onto the sofa to watch daytime telly with some mini muffins. For lunch, I devoured cheese sandwiches and crisps, decided what I’d cook for the
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evening meal, then went to collect the kids again. I hoped no one made fun of them for having a fat mum. I was always very conscious at the school gates. And at a size 30, I guess it wasn’t any wonder. But I’d been this way for a long time… I’d struggled with my weight for as long as I could remember. I was sporty at school – played netball, loved athletics and had been tall for my age…until everyone else caught up! I was bigger round the middle than my friends despite eating healthy home-cooked dinners and we never had takeaways. Paul and I had known each other since I was 12 and we got together three years later. I knew he loved me regardless of what I looked like. When I left school, I was a size 14, but after getting my first job and popping to the corner shop each day, snacking on crisps and chocolate, the weight slowly crept on. By the time I fell pregnant with Daniel when I was 20, I was nearing 19st and a size
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‘Make sure you drink y lots of water every da d an – it’s good for you often, you’re thirsty rather than hungry so it’ll stop you eating unnecessarily.’
26. My pregnancy had to be consultant-led because of my weight. Still, it didn’t matter when our baby boy arrived – we were besotted. Paul was a brilliant dad and it wasn’t long before I fell pregnant again. After Arran was born, I’d grab food as and when I could, ordering takeaways when I was too tired to cook. I was always conscious of my size when I had to do the nursery and school run, but I’d tried every diet going. I joined clubs, cut out carbs – anything I could think of. I’d lose a couple of stone, plateau and give up. And with my big portions, the weight always crept back on. Years later, I had gestational diabetes with Brandon and Eloise because of my size, too. Now, with them both at school, I should have been sorting my
diet out, only I had no idea where to start. Then, in April 2018, Paul came home from a medical he needed for a new job. ‘They’ve found something wrong with my heart,’ he said. There was some kind of blockage and he’d been referred to a specialist. I was absolutely terrified. ‘I’m sure it’ll be OK,’ Paul said, but I spent the evening Googling and wished I hadn’t. In time, we learnt Paul had left bundle branch defect (LBBB) meaning that there was a blockage of the electrical impulses to his heart’s left ventricle. He would likely need a pacemaker in the future, but he was given medication to even out the electrical impulses. Paul had never been ill in his life. I always thought of him as invincible. He’d never been overweight, and it got me thinking about my heart. I wasn’t looking after myself – what if I’d done some damage? Could our children be left without any parents? It didn’t bear thinking
best for REAL LIFE
11st 10lbs Size 1214
‘I was pleased we were taking care of ourselves’ about. So, on 28 May that year, I went to my first 1:1 Diet appointment with Cambridge Weight Plan. Paul took me to see my consultant, who reassured me, despite me weighing 24st 2lbs and being a size 32, that I could lose weight. I was utterly determined. To start with, I had four meal replacement products a day and a glass of milk – and, as I didn’t have to think about anything, I found it easy. I didn’t mind cooking for Paul and the kids either. In my first month I lost
two stone, which really spurred me on. Paul had regular checkups and I was pleased we were taking care of ourselves – not just for the kids, but for each other. Within six months I’d shed 8st, but I wasn’t giving up – I had more energy and knew I could lose more. In time, I introduced calorie-controlled foods to my diet and now, I’m 11st 10lbs and a size 12-14. My goal is to lose another 10lbs, which I firmly believe I can do. I’m 49 and can take the kids to the cinema or a funfair without worrying if I’ll fit in the seats. I even go for coffee with my friends, knowing I won’t get stared at like I used to. I know I’m healthier, happier and have no doubt I’ll be around to watch our kids grow. ‘You’ve done brilliantly,’ Paul always tells me – and our younger two hardly recognise old photos of me. I couldn’t have done it without my family’s support but I can safely say, I know I’ll never be big again.
Typical day, before
…and after
BREAKFAST 2 x toast and butter LUNCH 4 x cheese sandwich, crisps DINNER Curry, rice and chips SNACK Crisps
BREAKFAST Porridge LUNCH Tuna salad and cottage cheese DINNER Fish and vegetables SNACK Fruit
WORDS: LOUISE BULGIN AND JAMIE MOUNTAIN PICTURES: GETTY, PA REAL LIFE, THE 1:1 DIET BY CAMBRIDGE WEIGHT PLAN/STEWART WILLIAMS
Sarah lost weight for the sake of her family
LIFE WITH
Ulrika!
This month… ULRIKA JONSSON explores the cultural phenomenon that is Love Island, and explains why a series for the older generation could seriously teach the young ones a thing or two…
‘Love Island for 50-somethings? I’d watch it!’ love Love Island – almost as much as I hate the whole concept. There’s something tribal, sexist and misogynistic about the whole thing which, weirdly, contributes to my excitement! I wouldn’t call it a ‘guilty pleasure’ – I just feel utterly indulgent and foolish, luxurious and very flaming nosy, all rolled into one, when I watch it. I dipped my toe in the Love Island water for the first time
Instagram/ulrikajonss
onofficial
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With teen daughters Bo, left, and Martha
two series ago, when I thought it would be a bonding experience with my two teenage daughters, aged 15 and 19. Turns out, the oldest one walked out of the room after four minutes because I ‘talked too much’. Oh, Lord! But there is so much to talk about! I mean, who would have thought that all those girls with fake boobs, replica hair, false eyelashes and over-inflated lips could generate so many conversations? But they do. I would have killed for a show like Love Island when I was a teenager. Perhaps that’s why
I’m so intrigued. I was a late developer, both physically and in the boy/girl stakes. I was a nervous, anxious girl who, despite having been brought up a tomboy – messing around with cars and building things with my dad – felt utterly floored in the presence of boys. My teenage years were one long, self-conscious anxiety attack. And there was NO manual about boys – no references, apart from my mum’s occasional mention of ‘how things had been’ in the Fifties. So, my initial thought on watching Love Island for the first time – and as a single, 52-year-old female was, ‘Why don’t we have Love Island 50-Plus?’ I’m very serious. It would be utterly brilliant watching men and women of a ‘certain age’, walking around in, presumably, less-skimpy bikinis. In my case, it would probably be a binliner and some flip-flops; no make-up and my HRT to hand. Every woman would Ulrika – pictured at 17 – wishes there’d been Love display her individual Island when she was younger
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Some of this year’s Love Island stars
Instagram/ulrikajonss
symptoms of the menopause – we’re each of us so different, after all. Just imagine the banter – trying Ulrika still wants to ‘catch feelings’ to crack in her 50s on with a right ‘sort’ and then walking away, immediately forgetting what the bloke’s name was. There would be women who refuse to age gracefully and who have had every cosmetic procedure available – but others who will have chosen the ‘natural’ route. Most of us would be emotional, tearful and seem – to the rest of the world – completely unreasonable. Others would betray signs of chronic anxiety, and the night cameras would pick up on all the women getting up for wees 20 times a night. There would be no sign of a six-pack with the guys – just a whole load of dad bods and some inevitable bragging about cars/houses/women from those going through their mid-life crises. I know this might sound like a horror movie to some,
but imagine the atmosphere when a bunch of 50-pluses start getting ‘muggy’?! I actually think it would serve two very important purposes: firstly, comedy. Despite the nightmare that is the menopause for many women, we also know that we are the best at taking the mick out of ourselves. Most of us would be laughing like drains, and that would create some amazing bonding. But perhaps, most crucially, because everyone is interested in relationships – whatever age – our youngsters would watch this, and they would inadvertently be learning something. They would learn what they’ve got coming to them because, unbelievably, they’re not untouchable. But I firmly believe they would understand and respect the ageing process a bit more. I can’t think of many shows about the 50-pluses, and I think this is a missed opportunity. I don’t want to feel like my life’s over at 52-and-a-half – I still want to ‘catch feelings’ and feel that people are interested in my generation. We have so much experience, humour and insight to offer – we’re not ‘melts’ like the majority of those on Love Island now. So, let’s say ‘Bye, Felicia’ to the 20-somethings and hello to the 50-somethings, because this idea is nothing short of ‘lit’. It’s ‘peng’ – and you know it…
LOVE ISLAND – A GLOSSARY! If the terminology has you confused, here’s a guide to the most commonly used villa vocabulary...
Callum and Molly cosy up in the villa
O ‘Have the ick’: When you’re suddenly turned off the person you’re seeing – and they now make you cringe! O ‘Shoot your shot’: To let go of your pride, and pursue someone you fancy O ‘Head’s turned’: When you turn your attention from your current love interest to someone who’s just arrived O ‘Head’s gone’: When your feelings for someone are so all over the place, you can’t think straight
O ‘Lay it on thick’ or ‘lay it on factor 50 thick’: Describes someone who has gone OTT with the flirting O ‘Melt’: To wimp out or be scared of doing something O ‘Mugged off’: When your partner is disrespecting you, eg. by flirting with someone else O ‘Caught feelings’: When you start to develop romantic feelings for someone O ‘Lit’: Anything that’s ‘cool’ O ‘Peng’: A very attractive guy or girl
PICTURES: NICKY JOHNSTON, GETTY, INSTAGRAM, SHUTTERSTOCK
onofficial
best for STRAIGHT TALK
a s s e n a r V a e D r u o y s le k c a t , z lt ssa Fe e n a V , t n u a y n o ur g o a m y u it h r d b n le a e c m r o u d O it, wis w l a u s u r e h h it problems w
JEALOUS OF MY SISTER-IN-LAW hildish as this may sound, I’m incredibly jealous of my stunning, slim, much younger new sister-in-law. To be honest, I’m even getting on my own nerves! We’re perfectly nice to each other and I wish her no harm, but my self-esteem is on the floor – especially when I occasionally catch my hubby eyeing her up when we’re all at a family event. How can I move on from this pathetic jealousy? Debbie, Greater Manchester
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Don’t worry, life will move you both on – without you even trying. Your new sister-in-law is human. She’ll have ups and downs. Her weight will fluctuate. She’ll have issues at work. She might struggle to get pregnant, or be preggers puking and riddled with stretchmarks. That youthful perfection that’s driving you crazy will annoy you less with every passing year. You’ll come to appreciate her as a flawed individual, struggling just like the rest of us. And then the day will dawn when you realise she’s morphed into one of your best friends.
PICTURES: BIGSTOCK, GETTY, NICKY JOHNSTON
SHOULD I BE DATING HER AWFUL EX? ’m secretly dating my friend’s ex ‘fling’. He really hurt her, but it was years ago. I recently got out of an extremely toxic relationship – and having some much-needed fun with this man, after bumping into him recently, is just what I need. I’ve not told her, of course. But the longer this goes on, the more I think I should. Am I an awful friend? Or am I over-thinking this? Sheila, Preston
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You’re not thinking of marrying this bloke and settling down. He’s not your ‘forever partner’, is he? There’s no need to announce every passing fling and one-night stand to your pals. As long as this guy is for fun, not for keeps, then I wouldn’t bother upsetting your mate. By the way, do your utmost to make sure you don’t fall in love with this man. He sounds like an absolute rotter!
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O Email your questions to AskVanessa@hearst.co.uk or write to: Ask Vanessa, best Magazine, 30 Panton Street, London SW1Y 4AJ
On the couch with Mandy… Therapist Mandy Saligari, from Channel 5 show In Therapy, is an addiction, parenting and relationship expert.
I REALLY DON’T WANT MY CHILDREN TO GROW UP!
, especially being a ’m terrified of empty nest syndrome ir last few months of single mum. My twins are now in the for university, which school and then will be leaving me ne is on another level. I most people dread – but I fear mi going away, when I won’t lose sleep at the thought of them gives me nightmares know what they’re up to. It actually t to be totally out of my knowing their whereabouts is abou I can’t get there? What control. What if they need me and on my own? To be am I going to do in an empty house my own thoughts than honest, I think I’m more scared of like this now, what on the reality of it, but if I’m already lly leave? earth will I be like when they actua Kiely, Southampton
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FIANCÉ MISSED MUM’S FUNERAL y lovely mum died late last year, after a long illness. My fiancé was a great support to me – and her, in those last months. But, on the day of the funeral, he had an ‘important meeting’ with a client – and ended up missing the funeral, turning up at the wake afterwards. He’s selfemployed, I know it’s difficult, but I cannot believe he didn’t drop everything for me on one of the most difficult days of my life. A few months have passed, and I’m still consumed with anger and resentment. I’m not sure we can get over this. Daisy, Reading
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I get it. My dad died last February and it meant the world to me when not just my beloved partner, but a couple of exes paid their respects. I am astounded your fiancé put a business commitment before your mum’s funeral. Could it be that he has a phobia of burials or coffins or death? Maybe he knew he just couldn’t cope, and was making a feeble excuse so he didn’t fall apart at the crucial moment? He was there for the illness and supported you through the wake. Can you find it in your heart to cut him some slack, if he simply didn’t have what it takes to stand next to you by the graveside? If you can’t, I’m afraid it’s time to end the engagement.
MANDY SAYS: t-on, empty nest syndrome Although your last comment seems spo rself, so that you don’t inhibit does exist – and it’s worth preparing you and yourself from moving on your children from successfully leaving parent means your children to your next stage. Doing a good job as a nce, armed with all that you will leave home without a backward gla d about that, and try to have given in their toolkit for life. Feel goo in your children as they leave, trust your parenting, placing confidence showing your belief in them by letting go. what they’re up to, but as It’s very difficult to stop worrying about ing is pointless (and possibly adults there’s little you can do, so worry if they need to, and remember annoying for them!) Trust they will call hip group to call on, too. they probably have an extended friends from their consequences or Micromanaging and rescuing someone ine their self-esteem, so try not responsibilities can powerfully underm to – even if it makes you feel needed. of parenthood was As a single mum of twins, your experience you may feel you have a probably intense and all-consuming, so son yourself. This is where stronger identity as a mother than as a per ourage you to treat yourself your attention now needs to be and I enc embrace becoming a free as an important renovation project, and lf: join a new club, say yes woman! Consider things to do for yourse events through an app like to social opportunities, check out local ning, playing a sport or ‘Meetup’, take up a social hobby like run local volunteering and meet something artistic, like pottery, do some empty house missing your people just like you. Sitting around in an very anxious and lonely; it twins is likely to leave you stuck, feeling in touch. Next stage for them might even put the twins off from being ! equals the next stage for you – begin it now
See mandysaligari.com
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O Got a problem you’d like Mandy to answer? Email her at AskMandy@hearst.co.uk.
best FOR REAL LIFE REPORTS
As millions of grandparents are enjoying the half-term break with their little ones, here’s the good news.... icking the grandkids up from school, taking them for a walk and helping with their homework…it’s a gift many grandparents give their own grown-up children to help with childcare while they juggle the demands of modern life. And, while there’s no doubt spending time with Grandma and Grandpa is good for the grandkids, it’s a relationship that also has numerous benefits for the older generation. According to research from the Berlin Ageing Study, people who regularly look after their grandchildren were 37 per cent more likely to enjoy a longer life than those who didn’t. Which is good news for grandparents in charge of half-term adventures, sleepovers and weekend babysitting. For many retirees, grandchildren can give life purpose and meaning, help combat loneliness and even increase fitness. It’s something Trish Wilson, 70, from East
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Your grandchildren could help you live longer and be happier! 40 FACEBOOK.COM/BESTMAGAZINE
Perfect role models While it may seem that we live in an age of following celebrities and those aspiring to be famous, research conducted by Stannah Stairlifts suggests grandparents are important role models, with two-thirds of young people inspired by their own grandparents more than any celeb. Savannah agrees. ‘I think I got my cleverness from Nanny, because she’s really clever. She’s good at timetables and I love that we play maths games together,’ she says. One study found that when older women spent just one day a week looking after their grandchildren, their mental
ability and cognitive scores improved. So, while you’re imparting wisdom and handing insights down through the generations, the grandkids are keeping you sharp in return. As we get older, the physical and emotional demands of looking after young children can feel more tiring, but it’s worth remembering that the energy of youth can have fantastic benefits for your physical health. Over half of all grandparents surveyed said that they engaged in sports, exercise and gardening with their grandchildren, which is great for cardiovascular health as well as keeping joints supple and strong.
Sense of purpose ‘Savannah loves my garden and in the warmer months she helps me mow the lawn and tend to the plants. I take the girls to the park or to the beach to look for pebbles,’ Trish says. ‘I cherish these lovely moments. Savannah’s taught me to see the world a different way. She’s always reminding me about the environment and telling me which bin to put my recycling in. I admire her.’ Helen Stirrup, occupational health advisor at Stannah, says a real sense of purpose comes
with being a grandparent. ‘Whether you’re guiding them through life by passing on pearls of wisdom or re-living experiences you enjoyed as a parent or child yourself, it’s a life-affirming and mutually enjoyable relationship,’ she says. ‘Being with loved ones is always time well spent, but grandchildren conjure a special kind of love. It shouldn’t be underestimated how these cheerful feelings work wonders on your wellbeing. Snuggling up for a cuddle can reduce stress, increase oxytocin levels and produce a sense of calmness. Reading together is beneficial for your cognitive health. Activities like crossword puzzles will keep your memory and thinking skills sharp and it’s a gentle way to connect with the younger generation.’ But it’s not always happy families. When relationships dismantle, and circumstances change, it can have a devastating impact on the whole family. New research suggests that after divorce, nearly a quarter
Occupational health advisor Helen Stirrup
Trish moved closer to her grandkids three years ago
‘The energy of youth can have fantastic benefits for your health’ of all grandparents in Britain are excluded from their grandchildren’s lives. Grandparents do not have an automatic legal right to see their grandchild if a parent stops you but there are steps you can take to make arrangements which work for all parties. If no informal agreement can be reached, find a local, independent family mediator on gov.co.uk by searching ‘contact grandchild’. If that doesn’t work, you could consider going to court. Statistics from the Ministry of Justice show a sharp increase over the last three years in grandparents applying for child arrangement orders but remember that this can be expensive and emotionally distressing, with no guarantee of success. If you’re fortunate enough to enjoy a close bond with your grandchildren, it is to be treasured by both generations. Sometimes it might feel like they speak another language but find common ground and your grandchildren will improve your health, well-being and happiness. Savannah says it best. ‘I love that Nanny gives us lots of sweets and she just makes me feel happy,’ she says. ‘We watch movies, snuggled up in bed. I love baking together. But what I love most about Nanny is that she’s really kind and she’s always there for us.’
WORDS: KIM WILLISX PICTURES: ANGELA WARD BROWN, BIGSTOCK, GETTY
Hampshire, discovered after she moved 30 miles to be nearer to her granddaughters Savannah, seven, and Saffron, three. Now, she sees them every day and has never felt happier. ‘I felt low and lonely before the grandchildren came along. My ex-husband and I divorced over 30 years ago and I lived alone in Hayling Island, about an hour’s drive from my daughter, Pamela, 41,’ Trish says. ‘I’d see Savannah once a fortnight, but it didn’t feel like enough. I was missing out on her life. ‘When Pamela had Saffron, I couldn’t bear the thought of living so far from the girls a moment longer so, three years ago, I made an impulsive decision to move to the village next to theirs. I look after the girls after school while Pamela works as a makeup artist and whenever Pam and her husband, Dan, 39, want a night out. Thanks to the girls, I’m more active now than I was 10 years ago – my body gives me away sometimes, but I don’t feel 70, I feel 50. The girls invigorate my spirit and keep me on my toes. Chasing after Saffron on her scooter is great exercise!’
Instagram/fearnecotton
Instagram/fearnecotton
This is Fearne’s office, painted in her favourite colour – pink! Along with a sign saying this is her ‘happy place’.
Instagram/fearnecotton
WORDS: NICKY DAWSON PICTURES: INSTAGRAM
This stylish light-filled corner seems to really reflect Fearne’s funky and eclectic style. Wicker chair, furry throw, plants in macramé hanging pot… not to mention a very snappy checked suit!
Fearne loves to cook – she’s even written cookbooks – but here, in her pink and cream kitchen, she is showing off another talent – a perfect handstand!
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The carefully placed mirror reflects light back into this room. We love the selection of plants – talk about bringing the outside in!
Fearne might be sporting an eye-catching T-shirt, but we can’t take our eyes off her statement floral wallpaper (pink again!) in the family bathroom. Check out the on-trend copper tap…
Instagram/fearneco
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best for CELEBRITY
Instagram/fearnecotton
Fear ne Cotton TV presenter Fearne Cotton lives in London with her musician husband, Jesse Wood, and their two children, Rex and Honey. Their characterful house dates back to around 1850, providing the perfect backdrop for an array of cool and vintage finds!
The children of the family have a pretty playhouse with real window boxes. And a flying orange squid!
Instagram/fearnecotton
Instagram/fearnecotton
Instagram/fearnecotton
The kitchen is light and airy. Fearne has avoided the trend for dark painted wood. ‘The key thing for me is light,’ she says.
While Fearne might be taking a quick selfie of her outfit, we get a glimpse of her glam boudoir. All muted creams and a rather grand hotel-style bed.
And, finally, just to prove even gorgeous glam Fearne is only human, here she shares a snap of herself splitting her trousers. Is that a clothes dryer we can see in the background?
Clafoutis This classic French dessert is the perfect comforting pud to round off a Sunday roast! Cherries in Kirsch are an excellent storecupboard treat to have on standby – great for whipping up a last-minute dessert. Hands-on: 15min, plus resting Cook: 50min Serves: 8
It’s not just for making pancakes. Whip up one of these delicious recipes that are bound to impress
FAMILY FAVOURITE
100g (3½oz) plain flour 100g (3½oz) golden caster sugar 3 medium eggs, beaten 2 medium egg yolks 100ml (3½fl oz) milk 200ml (⅓pint) double cream 1tbsp vanilla bean paste or extract 390g jar black cherries in Kirsch 3tbsp toasted flaked almonds Crème fraîche, to serve 1 In a large bowl, mix together the flour and sugar, make a well in the centre and pour in the beaten eggs, egg yolks, milk, double cream and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and set aside for 30min. 2 Heat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Drain the cherries, reserving the syrup, and pat dry with kitchen towel and tip in to a 28cm (11in) shallow baking dish. Pour over the batter and scatter with flaked almonds before baking for 45-50min. 3 Meanwhile, tip the drained juice into a small pan, bring to the boil and simmer for 8-10min, until syrupy. Serve the warm clafoutis with crème fraîche and drizzle with Kirsch syrup. Per serving: 339cals, 7g protein, 20g fat (9.5g saturates), 32g carbs (22.5g total sugars), 1.5g fibre
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TIP Try this with equal
quantities of your favourite seasonal fruits – we love rhubarb with a strawberry coulis drizzle.
best
RECIPE BOOKS GET AHEAD Make
CLASSIC WITH A TWIST
the batter up to a day ahead, cover and chill.
Spanish Toad in the Hole We’ve given this family favourite a Spanish-inspired twist. Hands-on: 15min, plus resting Cooking: 45min Serves: 4 175g (6oz) plain flour 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 225ml (8fl oz) milk 3tbsp sunflower oil 8 chorizo-flavoured sausages 1 large red onion, sliced Pinch of dried oregano 1 sprig of rosemary, leaves removed and chopped 500ml (17fl oz) ready-made chicken gravy 50ml (2fl oz) dry sherry 1 Preheat the oven to 220°C/ 200°C fan/gas 7. Put the flour into a large bowl, make a well in the centre and pour in the beaten eggs and milk. Whisk until smooth,
season and set aside. 2 Put 2tbsp of oil and the sausages into a shallow 2.3litre (4pint) roasting tin and cook for 15min. 3 Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a frying pan over a medium heat and cook the onion for 5-6min, until it begins to soften. Add the herbs to the pan and cook for 1min. 4 Stir the onion mix through the batter and pour between the sausages, return to the oven for a further 25-30min until golden and puffed. 5 Meanwhile, make the gravy. Pour the gravy into a pan and heat until just boiling, stir through the sherry and season to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve with the toad in the hole, creamy mash and greens. Per serving: 708cals, 31g protein, 38g fat (12g saturates), 54g carbs (8g total sugars), 6g fibre
Banoffee Dutch Baby
Hands-on: 15min, plus resting Cook: 25min Serves: 4-6 100g (3½oz) plain flour 25g (1oz) light brown sugar 3 large eggs, plus large egg white 150ml (5fl oz) semi-skimmed milk 1tsp vanilla extract 15g (½oz) unsalted butter For the filling: 50g (2oz) pecans, roughly chopped 175g (6oz) light brown sugar 75ml (3fl oz) double cream 75g (3oz) unsalted butter 3 sliced bananas, sliced on the diagonal Vanilla ice cream, optional, to serve 1 Sift the flour into a medium bowl, stir in the sugar and a pinch of salt. In a large jug whisk together the eggs,
egg white, milk and vanilla extract. Make a well in the flour mixture and gradually whisk in the wet ingredients until no lumps remain. Cover the bowl with cling film and leave to rest for 45min. 2 Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/ gas 7, and put an oven-proof sauté, or deep frying pan or fixed-based round cake tin with a base that measures 23cm (9in) in the oven to heat up (about 10min). 3 Once the oven is preheated and the pan is hot, carefully add the butter to the pan and swirl to coat the bottom and sides of the pan. Immediately pour in the batter and return the pan to the oven. Bake for 20-25min until puffed and golden (don’t worry that it puffs up in the middle – it will sink once out of the oven). 4 While the pancake is cooking, make the filling. First toast the pecans in a medium, dry frying pan for about 2min, until smelling toasty. Tip into a bowl and set aside, return the pan to the heat. 5 To make the caramel, add
NEW BRUNCH FAVOURITE
125g (4oz) sugar and 2tbsp water to the pan. Heat until the sugar has dissolved (but not simmering), then turn up the heat and boil for about 5min, until it’s turned amber. Stir in the cream and 25g (1oz) butter. Pour into a jug and set aside. Return the pan to the heat and melt the remaining butter and sugar, heat until they are combined. Add the sliced bananas, turn up the heat and fry for 3-5min until
the bananas are caramelised, turning once. 6 Remove the pancake from the oven, fill with the caramelised bananas, drizzle over the caramel sauce and scatter the pecans. Serve with ice cream if desired. Per serving: For six without ice cream: 528 cals, 9g protein, 28g fat (14g saturates), 59g carbs (44g total sugars), 2g fibre
WORDS AND PICTURES: HEARST
An American favourite, the Dutch baby is a cross between a Yorkshire Pudding and thick pancake.
best for FOOD NEWS
Food in a flash
Theo’s meals in 20 mins MasterChef finalist and dad-of-three Theo Michaels knows time’s short in the kitchen. Here, he shares a simple and delicious recipe...
MAKE LIFE EASIER IN THE KITCHEN WITH THESE SPEEDY MEAL IDEAS AND SUPERMARKET BUYS
SAVE WHILE YOU SLIM!
COCKTAIL HOUR If you like to add a little extra to a glass of Prosecco, you can’t go wrong with Asda’s Extra Special Cherry Blossom and Lychee Gin Liqueur, £10. A shot of the sweet liquid, transforms fizz into a DIY cocktail. This limited-edition bottle is available until the end of March.
SWEET TREAT! Up your biscuit game with a packet of the new Maryland Cookies ’n’ Cream biscuits, £1.39. These moreish treats have a rich, dark cocoa dough combined with creamy white chocolate chips. Enjoy with a frothy latte or crumbled over vanilla ice cream as a quick and easy dessert. Pick up a pack now for £1.39.
A FLIPPIN’ GOOD DEAL Fancy whipping up a batch of pancakes on a budget? Then head to Iceland on 22 February to pick up your essentials, including the pan, for just a fiver! Stock up on pancake mix, a bottle of Frylight and a choice of maple syrup or lemon juice.
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93p
PER SERVING
Crêpes with chocolate sauce and macerated cherries These soft crêpes were oh so good! I use frozen cherries for this recipe as a cheat, as once the fruit is thawed it’s already soft and ready to go! PER SERVING CALS 538 FAT 23g SERVES 4 Crêpes: 150g plain flour 250ml milk 1 free range egg Chocolate sauce: 150g dark chocolate chips (min 70% cocoa) 2tbsp sugar 250ml whole milk Macerated cherries: 200g frozen sweet cherries 1tbsp icing sugar 1tbsp cornflour Ice cream for serving 1 For the chocolate sauce; bring to a simmer the sugar and milk, as soon as it starts to bubble remove from the heat and mix in the chocolate chips. Once fully combined, decant into a pouring jug. This should stay quite runny, thickening slightly as it cools. 2 To macerate the cherries; add the frozen fruit to a pan with the icing sugar and about 4tbsp of water.
Warm through until the cherries are thawed. In a cup, mix the cornflour with 2tbsp of cold water to make a slurry. Then pour into the pan with the cherries. As it warms it will thicken to create a sauce that the cherries sit in. Remove from the heat. 3 Make the crêpe batter by simply whisking all the crêpe ingredients together. Melt a knob of butter into a non-stick pan, pour in about ¼ cup of batter or less and swirl the pan to spread the mixture out, you want it thin. As soon as it turns opaque, flip it over to cook the other side for 30 seconds. 4 To serve, place a dollop of ice cream to one side of an open crêpe, spoon over some cherries, fold the crêpe over and drizzle with chocolate sauce. TIP A sprinkling of nuts works really well for some added crunch!
WORDS: LARA NUGENT PICTURES: GETTY, HEARST
You can’t beat the ease of a ready meal and the WW range is hard to beat. From now until 18 March the range of chilled prepared meals will be reduced in Asda to just £1.75 (usually £2.55). The saving includes diet-friendly favourites such as Creamy Chicken, Leek & Mushroom Pie and the Hearty Cottage Pie – yum!
Worth
best GIVEAWAY
£250
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WARDROBE FROM W
e’re giving one lucky reader the chance to win a spring/ summer wardrobe from Damart worth £250! Welcome the new season in style with Damart’s latest collection, inspired by current fashion trends. From statement animal prints and colour block suits to floral midi skirts and stylish stripes, Damart’s new collection will help you combine comfort and style this season. With a variety of styles in sizes 10-28, Damart offers the perfect wardrobe update to make you look and feel fab!
HOW TO ENTER
ONLINE: Save money by entering online at hearstmagazines.co.uk/best820 by Friday 6 March 2020. POST: Send a postcard with your name, address, email and contact number to best/Damart giveaway, GVBSTL20107, Hearst Magazines UK, The Data Solutions Centre, Worksop S80 2RT by 6 March 2020. PHONE: Call 0901 027 2725 by midnight on 6 March 2020. Calls cost 30p per minute, plus your telephone company’s network access charge, and will last no longer than two minutes. Calls from mobiles may be higher. Phone line closes at midnight on 6 March 2020. If you call after this time, you will not be entered but you may be charged. Service provided by Spoke: 0333 202 3390. T&Cs: Winners will be selected at random from entries received by phone/post/online. We will use the information you provide to process your competition entry. For our privacy notice, please see hearst.co.uk/privacy-notice. For full terms and conditions, see below.
*TERMS & CONDITIONS: Damart: The winner will receive a £250 gift voucher. To receive the voucher they will need to complete an order form supplied by Damart which will ask for the winners’ postal address. Details will only be used to process your win. The voucher will expire on 31 December 2020. The winner must spend the value of the gift voucher within one order. Damart do not charge for P&P. Hearst: Open to UK residents aged 18 and over. To enter visit hearstmagazines.co.uk/best820, or send a postcard with your name, address, email and contact number to best/Damart giveaway, GVBSTL20107, Hearst Magazines UK, The Data Solutions Centre, Worksop S80 2RT or call 0901 027 2725 by midnight on 6 March 2020. Entries in the incorrect format will not be considered. This competition opens on 00:01 18 February 2020 and closes at midnight on 6 March 2020. Answers received after the closing date will not be considered. The prize is a £250 voucher from Damart. The winner will be randomly selected from the entries received. Entrants will be deemed to have accepted these Terms and to have agreed to be bound by them. This competition is not open to any employees of Hearst Magazines, the promoter or their immediate families, the promoter’s advertising agency and sales promotion consultancy, or anyone else connected with the creation and administration of the competition. Only one competition entry, fulfilling the eligibility requirements above, will be accepted per person. Once selected, only the winner will be contacted personally using the contact details provided upon entry. Once selected winners will be notified. Winners will have five working days to respond in full or another winner will be selected. Hearst Magazines’ decision is final in every situation, including any not covered above and no correspondence will be entered into in respect of the validity of any such decision. Hearst Magazines shall be permitted to exclude or disqualify any entrant at any time at its sole discretion. Hearst Magazines reserves the right to exclude late, incomplete or multiple registrations, or registrations made by third parties or agents. Hearst Magazines does not accept any responsibility for late or lost entries. Proof of sending is not proof of receipt. The name of the winner will be available by sending a stamped addressed envelope to House of Hearst, 30 Panton Street, London SW1Y 4AJ, indicating the name of the competition. Entry to the competition and acceptance of the prize constitutes permission to use any entrant’s name, image and any competition entry photograph, for promotional and/or editorial purposes in any format in print and non-print media without additional consultation. No purchase is necessary. Once entered, entries cannot be returned / withdrawn. Spammers will be disqualified. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred although Hearst Magazines reserve the right to change the prize in the event of unforeseen circumstances. There will be no cash alternative. We will use the information you supply to process your competition entry. For our privacy notice visit hearst.co.uk/privacy-noticeHearst Magazines reserves the right to (i) cancel and/or withdraw this competition and/or (ii) amend these Terms, at any time without notice. Where Hearst Magazines runs a competition with a promoter such that the promoter is responsible for the selection and/or the provision of prizes then Hearst Magazines shall not be responsible for or have any liability for the provision of such prizes. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, in no event will Hearst Magazines be liable, whether in contract, tort (including negligence), breach of statutory duty, or otherwise, for any loss, damage or injury arising under or in connection with this competition. These Terms are governed by English law, and entrants agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English Courts in relation to all matters arising under or in connection with these Terms.
1
A scentsational 3pm pick-me-up
Don’t want to lug your perfume bottle around? Spritz some cotton balls and keep in a plastic bag in your handbag to rub onto your skin throughout the day.
Smooth strokes
Struggle to create a smooth eyeliner flick? Avoid a wonky finish by placing some magic tape (gentler than normal tape) against the side of your eye to create a template to draw a smooth line. Don’t forget to remove when done...
15 Stain removers...
9
PICTURES: GETTY
The last thing you need on your clothes is a foundation stain. All is not lost, though; squirt some shaving cream onto the area, leave it to soak, then rub it into the clothes to loosen the colour. Magic!
48 FACEBOOK.COM/BESTMAGAZINE
2 3
Gloopfree gloss..
Your favourite lip gloss all clogged up? Immerse the (closed) tube in hot water for several minutes to thin out the formula. Once on your lips, if it still feels clumpy, run an ice cube over the area to smooth out the product.
easy beau hacks
Find a simp all your bea without leav
A pout that packs punch
For a strong shade that will last all day, there’s one tip that will help your colour stay put. Dab on a light application of concealer to act as your first layer, then once it’s set, apply your lipstick on top. It creates a blank canvas that will also grip onto the product. Mwah!
10
11 Glow on and on
Highlighters are the key to faking a healthy complexion, but if you don’t have one to hand, a lip gloss in a nude colour will create the same effect. Add a small amount to your ring finger and dab on to your cheekbones.
best for BEAUTY
4
Skin cleanser
Egg whites are great at tightening and purifying skin. Separate the yolk and spread the egg white across your T-zone (or wherever you get blackheads), take a small strip of kitchen roll and place on top. Wait for it to dry before peeling off, gently. This should loosen the blackheads; wash your face with a flannel to help dislodge them further.
5
Soothe thirsty skin
Cucumbers are antiinflammatory with a high water content, making them ideal for thirsty skin. Honey is a great moisturiser, too. Puree a cucumber and pour the contents into an ice cube tray. Add a small drop of honey to each, and place in the freezer until set. Pop out a cube, wrap in a muslin or kitchen roll and rub over clean skin for a refreshing hit.
7 auty
Butter up your hair!
ple solution to auty problems ving the house
12
It’s irresistible on toast, but butter also helps to nourish dry hair and encourage it to shine. Take a generous scoop of room temperature unsalted butter and smooth onto your mid lengths and ends. Cover with a shower cap or towel and leave for 10 minutes before rinsing well.
The oneingredient conditioner
Much has been made of coconut oil being a multi-tasking wonder, but coconut milk makes a nourishing conditioner without weighing locks down. On freshly washed hair, take a handful and spread onto mid-lengths and ends. Leave for two minutes before rinsing well.
8
6
Wake up tired eyes
Black and chamomile tea bags help soothe and reduce puffiness. Steep two tea bags in hot water for one minute, and leave the bags out to cool in the fridge. Then place onto closed eyes and leave for up to 10 minutes. Bliss!
Smokey eyes... If your eye make-up always looks a little muddy, it could be down to your tools. When blending your shadows together, always use a separate, clean brush that doesn’t have any other colour on it. This means there’s no residue that can potentially mess up your smokey effect.
Deep clean hair...
13
Wedded to your styling products? Serums and hair spray can build up, but plain yoghurt, thanks to its lactic acid content, can help strip the dirt. Apply a light layer to wet hair and leave it for five minutes before rinsing with cool water.
Lose the excess sparkle
Shimmery shadow is all very well until it disperses onto your cheeks. Remove the excess glitter without redoing your makeup by taking a small piece of tape, placing it over the area and slowly peeling it off. The residue will come off with the tape.
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Eyes wide shut...
Long for that wideeyed look? Keep your lower liner application to the outer third of your lower eye line, which creates the illusion of bigger eyes.
best for CELEBRITY Christine vows to support her little ‘superstars’
Christine McGuinness has revealed that her youngest daughter is autistic, just like her twins...
I thank god every day these babies are mine. Proudest mummy.’ Autism, a developmental disorder characterised by difficulties with social interaction and communication and restricted and repetitive behaviour, is often spotted in the first few years of a child’s life. Christine, 31, confessed, ‘Going through this journey again does still bring some heartache knowing all three children will face challenges and difficulties that others won’t. But I feel confident as a family we are in a much stronger place, we are able to use our knowledge as power...’ And she is clearly passionate about her little ones reaching their greatest potential. She shared a poem, including the
Enjoying family time with the children
Christine and Paddy tied the knot back in 2011
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lines, ‘I will never try and change you, you are perfect as you are. Mummy is going to change the world, to understand her superstars. ‘Leo, Penelope and Felicity, you are unaware of the positive impact you have, even on the tough days you always make me laugh. My trio, my babies, my fabulous three. Together we are a strong, proud, unique family.’ In 2018, Christine revealed that she and Paddy had suspicions that their then 18-monthold daughter had the same Instagram/mrsmcguinness
hey’ve had ups and downs – and sadly, the road ahead for the McGuinness family looks no less challenging. Model and on-off Real Housewives of Cheshire star Christine – who has been married to TV presenter Paddy since 2011 – took to Instagram to reveal that the couple’s youngest daughter, Felicity, three, has been diagnosed with the same condition as her siblings. ‘Recently our youngest daughter Felicity was also diagnosed with autism, three years after our twins Leo and Penelope were diagnosed. We are here to love and support our three extra special children and
developmental disorder as her older siblings. Felicity, she said, would stand on her tip-toes, and preferred dried foods, both of which can be symptoms. Speaking, emotionally, of their shock when Leo and Penelope were diagnosed, Paddy – whose ITV dating show Take Me Out was axed last week after 11 years – said, ‘Some days, it feels like you’re slowly drowning. When I hear the word “autism” I just feel so unhappy… I would give up everything to take this condition away from them.’ It must be heartbreaking, in so many little ways. But with advocates like mum Christine and dad Paddy, you can be sure these adorable children will get the best start possible in life…
‘My trio, my babies. Together we are a strong, proud, unique family’
WORDS: SHELLEY SPADONI PICTURES: GETTY, INSTAGRAM, SHUTTERSTOCK
‘Mummy’s going to change the world for you’ T
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HEAD TO
TOP TIP!
£12.75 Coasters, Gisela Graham
The key to updating with accessories is to stick to a theme and coordinate soft furnishings with quirky objects.
£14
Set of three vases, Very
£20 Easy fit shade, JD Williams
Eucalyptus, Homesense
Recyled jug, Dunelm
£12
£6.95 Pouffe, Sainsbury's
£8
£12.99
WORDS: LARA NUGENT
Cushion cover, H&M
£20 Throw, George at Asda 52 FACEBOOK.COM/BESTMAGAZINE
SPRING Spruce up your living
best for HOMES Main image: Butterfly dragonfly embroidered cushion, £14 Cushion linen printed, £14 Framed hanging 5x7, £7 Framed hanging 8x10, £9 Large glass candle, £12 Otter objet, £12 Wildflower green faux floral bouquet, £16 Seagrass basket, £14 Throw, £18 All from Sainsbury's
£12.99 Candle, H&M
£120
£8
Rug, Next Storage baskets, George at Asda
£10
£58
Recyled gin glass, National Trust
Get the
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Lamp, Very
£8
IT ON! room with seasonal greens
Cushion, Dunelm
‘The day my husband Sara’s come to terms with her ex’s sexuality
Sara Wilson knows only too well what TV star Phillip Schofield’s wife, Steph, is going through after he recently came out as gay after 27 years of marriage… The mum-of-three never suspected her husband was gay
ara, 35, of Batley, West Yorkshire, is the ex-wife of Keegan Hirst, 32, the first UK professional rugby league player to come out as gay. Like the Schofields, they have two children together – daughter Tayla, 11, and son Fletcher, seven. Sara also has son Ryley, 15, to a former partner. She has written a heartfelt open letter to Phillip’s wife:
S
, h p e t S Dear My heart went out to you when I saw the footage of your husband, Phillip, coming out on his TV show, This Morning, the other week, revealing that, after 27 years of marriage and two gorgeous daughters together, he is gay. He called you, his wife, ‘strong and amazing’ – a tribute of the highest order. Only you and he know of the journey you’ve been on in the lead up to this bombshell. But he is right – you are strong and amazing. And you’ll need to continue to be. I’m talking from experience here. Like you, I had a wonderful husband, a fairytale wedding and then two gorgeous children.
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Phillip with wife Steph
best for REAL LIFE
told me he was gay’
Phillip opened up to Holly Willoughby on This Morning
He replied, laughing it off too. Then, a couple of days later in July, he asked if he could call in as he had something to tell me. He came round, sat at the dining table and seemed on edge. He couldn’t look me in the eye as he said, ‘It’s these rumours… they’re true. I am attracted to men.’ I was shocked, then a wave of relief swept over me – there wasn’t another woman. He denied having a relationship with a man. I was confused and asked how he knew he was attracted to men then. ‘I don’t, it’s just I have feelings for men... and women,’ he added. ‘Do you fancy me? I asked looking for reassurance. ‘Yes,’
He now has to be brutally Rugby player Keegan came out as gay in 2015 honest with you over the coming months. You and your daughters are in for a tough few years as you grieve for the end of your marriage and family unit as you know it. You may be fine this week, but next week could be filled with anger, rejection, hurt and questions. You are grieving for the life you’ve now lost, the future you thought you had and the pain from the loss will hit you for years to come. As it did me. is hard, but when your partner My advice to Phillip is: comes out as gay, it heaps ‘Always be honest with your on another level of misery. I wife and girls. Answer truthfully am not and did not want the no matter how tough the children to be homophobic, but question’. You deserve it. He’s it’s a tight line you walk as you had years to come to terms with are angry with your partner that you weren’t enough. You will go through phases where you will be angry at the pain and confusion Phillip is putting you all through. He can’t put a time limit on your hurt. You will accept his new life in your own time, not his sexuality. You haven’t. his. You will doubt yourself. Both my daughter, Tayla, Was I not good enough? Did he and I have had counselling to love me or was I just a cover? come to terms with Keegan’s You must seek support sexuality. Tayla would ask why from others who have been her dad was gay and the one through this. that hurts me the most, ‘Did We are the only ones who Dad want children? Does he really understand the range of love us?’ emotions you go through. I was so low with my own Today, Keegan and I are heartbreak and I didn’t know amicable. the answers. Fletcher has Time has helped always been fine. us get to this stage and I He was young when we split found support talking to up, he can’t remember Keegan others via straightpartners living with us. anonymous.com. The kids have met their dad’s It made me realise I was boyfriend and they all get on not alone. – as their mum, it is the best I I’ve met Keegan’s partner can hope for. and I can stand with my ex, Though it is over four years laughing and chatting as we since we split, it is only in the watch Fletcher play football. past 12 months that I’ve come I hope you and Phillip get to to terms with Keegan, who this stage quicker than I did. plays for Halifax, coming out as gay. The ending of any marriage
‘I feel nothing but pain and sympathy for you, Steph, and your daughters’ he said. ‘But there will be men and women after you.’ I thought if he likes women, I wasn’t a lie and maybe we could get back together. Obviously, I wasn’t thinking straight. Now, with hindsight, I think he was just trying to soften the blow by saying he liked men and women. To stop me feeling like our love had not been real. But that was how my life as I knew it unravelled. So, I feel nothing but pain and sympathy for you, Steph, and your daughters, Molly, 27, and Ruby, 24. I know the anguish and confusion that you, as a wife and mum, will be going through. Reading how Phillip’s confused sexuality had ‘consumed him for years’ left me feeling hollow.
x x a r a S
PICTURES: GETTY, SHERON BOYLE MEDIA, SHUTTERSTOCK
Then one day, he told me: ‘I’m gay’. I can honestly say there was never a single time, incident or even the tiniest clue to make me suspect this was the case. Our love life was spontaneous and fulfilling. He was romantic, often sending cards to me, declaring, ‘I love you’ and ‘There’s only ever been you.’ I felt secure and happy lying in his muscular arms at night. When I look back, though, things had started to change from about 2014, three years after we married. I felt he was becoming more selfish; he’d go out without me, not coming home until 5am. I seemed to irritate him and felt I couldn’t do anything right. Our son, Fletcher, was born in August 2012 and my confidence was at a low. When I asked Keegan if there was anyone else, he’d say no – but I’d check his phone when he was asleep to see if any women were messaging him. Obviously there weren’t! He and I had met in a pub in 2007 and had a beautiful white wedding in 2011. But, by June 2015, things were rocky and he told me he wanted to split up. Over the next month, five pals told me they’d heard rumours that Keegan was gay. I laughed it off, but thought I should text him to let him know what the gossip was.
best for CELEBRITY
Pamela Anderson’s fifth marriage turned out to be her shortest ever…
Pamela, the serial bride!
89 DECEMBER 19 The stars dated back in the Eighties...
0 JANUARY 202 ...and were married very briefly earlier this month
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Is Pamela trying to become the most-married Hollywood star?
Dr Kalanit Ben-Ari (see readyforlove.today) told best, ‘Some people are simply in love with falling in love, and although they genuinely want to find it each time, they might not know how to create and sustain a healthy relationship. ‘It can also come from a place of insecurity, or fear of being alone. Marriage might not hold the same meaning and value for those who have experienced multiple breakups or divorces. It can even be a case of selfsabotage.’ Pam certainly has form. After knowing each other for 96 hours, Pamela and Mötley Crüe rocker Tommy Lee eloped to Mexico in 1995.
That stormy union lasted three years, and involved a leaked sex tape, a six-month stint in jail for Tommy for spousal abuse, and two children – Brandon Thomas Lee, now 23, and Dylan Jagger Lee, now 22, before they divorced, in 1998. Pamela married musician Kid Rock in 2006, in St Tropez — but filed for divorce that November. Her third marriage was to old pal Rick Salomon, in October 2007 – but she filed for divorce that December – both parties citing fraud as the reason to end their marriage. In January 2014, it emerged that Pamela had wed Rick again, after telling chatshow host Ellen DeGeneres they were ‘best friends with benefits’. That July, however, she filed for divorce, citing ‘irreconcilable differences’. Maybe marriage doesn’t suit you, Pammy – ever thought of that…?!
WORDS: SHELLEY SPADONI PICTURES: GETTY, TWITTER
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The actress-turned-activist said their wedding was never ‘formalised’, adding, ‘Life is a journey and love is a process. With that universal truth in mind, we have mutually decided to put off the formalisation of our marriage certificate and put our faith in the process.’ Pamela and Jon – who produced 1976 film A Star Is Born, which starred his ex Barbra Streisand – had both previously been married four times. Perhaps Pam is addicted to the idea of getting hitched! But why do certain women marry in haste? Psychologist
Twitter/geraldorivera
ormer Baywatch beauty Pamela Anderson announced recently that she’d married movie producer Jon Peters, 74 - a man she’d first dated and who proposed to her 30 years ago - at a ceremony in Malibu, California on 20 January. But after just 12 days, the pair called it quits. Pamela, 52, explained, ‘I have been moved by the warm reception to Jon’s and my union. We would be very grateful for your support, as we take some time apart to re-evaluate what we want from life and from one another.’
WORDS: DEIRDRE O’BRIEN PICTURES: GETTY
L A I C E P S L ROYA
best for CELEBRITY
ROYALS INI CRISIS t’s been a turbulent time for the Royal Family. In the space of a few months, they have lost three senior members – with Prince Andrew left with no choice but to stand down following revelations of his connection to Jeffrey Epstein, and Harry and Meghan’s sensational ‘Megxit’ – quitting the UK for a life in North America. But rumours continue to swirl that the rift between William and Harry runs so deep, it might never be repaired. With news of yet another divorce – the spilt between Peter Phillips and his wife Autumn – Royal watchers are asking, just how much more can the Queen take?
Turn over for more
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L A I C E P S ROYAL
’ N O S ‘PatOIthe
PALACE
What was really behind Meghan and Harry’s exit to North America?
The Queen issued a statement following ‘Megxit’ Instagram/sussexroyal
he news exploded like a bombshell. Fresh from a six-week holiday over Christmas, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made an announcement that rocked not just the Royals, but the world. They no longer wanted to be senior working family members, and intended not only to step down from
T
frontline royal duties – but to relocate to North America. Controversially, the Queen, Prince Charles and other members of the family were given only 10 minutes’ notice before the news broke on social media. After an emergency summit with the Queen was immediately put in place, and the incredibly unusual step of her issuing a statement in
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which she offered her support to the pair, but admitted she would have ‘preferred’ them to stay, Harry boarded a plane and jetted to Canada, ready to begin his new life with his wife and baby son, Archie. On 20 January, in his last public appearance as a working Royal, Harry told the audience at a charity event that he felt his hand had been forced. ‘What I want to make clear is we’re not walking away, and we certainly aren’t walking away from you,’ he said. ‘Our hope was to continue serving the Queen, the Commonwealth, and my military associations without public funding. Unfortunately that wasn’t possible.’ So what could have become so unbearable that Harry would turn his back on his family, his birthright and, some might say, his duty? Without a doubt, Harry has
been angered by what he sees as negative press directed towards himself and Meghan. But, as many have argued, some of that has been criticism of their perceived extravagance and double standards – such as lecturing about climate change while using private jets and accepting £2.4 million of public money to renovate their Windsor-based residence, Frogmore Cottage. (Although they have agreed that this will now be repaid). But there were also painful problems closer to home. According to Tom Bradby, the journalist who made the explosive ITV documentary following Harry and Meghan in Africa, relations within the House of Windsor – meaning the family – have become ‘poisonous’.
best for CELEBRITY
‘Harry and Meghan find some family members jealous and unfriendly’ ‘Harry and Meghan find some other members of the family (with the exception of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh), jealous and, at times, unfriendly,’ he wrote in a newspaper article. Bradby described the interview the couple gave in Africa, in which they discussed their unhappiness, as something of a tipping point. Following
this, the royal family knew action had to be taken and the pair, who Bradby described as ‘bruised’ and ‘vulnerable’, could not carry on the way they were. Certainly, the stressed, anxious figures we saw on screen were a far cry from the blissfully happy and excited young, newly-engaged couple
Harry in 1989, looks up to big brother William with mum Diana
The brothers and their wives are said to be estranged
who spoke with enthusiasm about the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. But what is no longer in any doubt is the long-rumoured rift between the formerly close brothers. Harry revealed in the infamous documentary that he and William were ‘on different paths’ and William is said to have sadly told a friend,
‘I’ve put my arm around my brother all our lives and I can’t do that any more; we’re separate entities.’ Attempts at patching up their differences failed. ‘My understanding is that William did try, but the impression I have, for the moment at least, is that things have gone too far to be retrieved,’ said Bradby. Certainly, for Meghan, who described herself as ‘surviving rather than living’, life as a Royal turned out to be more of a nightmare than a fairy tale. A friend of hers told a newspaper, ‘She told her inner circle of friends that her soul was being crushed and the decision to leave was a matter of life or death – meaning the death of her spirit.’ And Harry, who admits he is still traumatised by the death of his mother when he was just 12, would move mountains to protect his wife. ‘He feared staying in the UK too long would lead to Meghan having a meltdown. That is why things moved so quickly,’ said a source. Yet with the prospect of an ugly court case, in which Meghan’s estranged father, Thomas, could give evidence in the Sussexes’ claim against a national newspaper for publishing parts of a letter she had sent to him, there are fears that the couple’s troubles are far from over.
WORDS: DEIRDRE O’BRIEN PICTURES: GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK
Things turned sour after their fairy-tale wedding in May 2018
L A I C E P S ROYAL Despite being ‘called back’ from Canada by the Queen next month, Harry and Meghan’s decision to ‘quit’ Royal life has left big shoes to fill – and some hugely personal pain for those left behind...
Where do they go from here? espite reports that the Queen has said ‘If they want to go, we must let them go,’ and that she is simply asking them to pause their new life for one hour to attend WORDS: DEIRDRE O’BRIEN PICTURES: GETTY
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the Commonwealth Day service next month, one of the saddest aspects of the rift between Harry and Meghan’s move to North America is the distance – now both physical and
The ‘Fab Four’ once seemed incredibly close
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emotional – that has developed between Harry and William. Doubtless, Diana would be heartbroken to see the once inseparable brothers now poles apart, and seeming to only communicate through rather stiff birthday messages on Instagram. The service will see the former ‘Fab Four’ reunite in public. But is there any hope that their tight bond could ever be restored? Well, there is one secret weapon who could, perhaps, pour oil on the troubled waters – Harry’s sister-in-law Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge. Before the troubles, their
easy camaraderie made us all smile. When they attended Royal engagements together, often giggling conspiratorially, it was clear how deeply fond of each other the pair were. They even once allegedly received a ticking off for laughing at the ceremonial robes William was wearing at an investiture. But now they are miles apart. ‘Kate and Harry were incredibly close, so I think she is pretty sad,’ says Katie Nicholl, author of Kate: The Future Queen. ‘When she married William, she took Harry on as almost the third wheel. He was always welcome in their home and he would often drop in when William wasn’t there. He could be open
Harry and Kate always had a good relationship
with Kate in a different way to how he could be with William , and he really valued that. But things have changed.’ And Katie is in no doubt that Kate misses her brother-in-law. ‘She is incredibly loyal and loving, and her bond with Harry was very special to her. I am sure she misses having him around,’ she says. Kate was, in many ways, the big sister Harry never had. Kate has been a mentor for Harry and is believed to have played a crucial role in his burgeoning relationship with Meghan. ‘Kate was always very keen to find Harry a girlfriend and I do know that Harry was desperate for Kate’s
seal of approval over Meghan,’ says Katie. But obviously, the relationship between the two couples did not blossom in the way Harry had hoped and, of course, now they are left with the sadness that the Royal cousins will not now, grow up together. ‘As a Royal child, you have a very unique status, so it’s an invaluable relationship with a cousin. William and Harry were always very close to their cousins,’ recalls Katie. And then, of course, there are the wider implications for ‘The Firm’. As the Queen grows older, she relies more and more on members of her family to carry out duties on her behalf. And when they were still senior working Royals, Harry and Meghan certainly had glamour and the ‘wow’ factor. These will be big shoes to fill. Since their departure, Kate has certainly stepped up her Royal duties. But amid all the strain and upset, is a
...and as a family after Meghan joined ‘The Firm’
tough working schedule really what the mum of three needs right now? ‘The pressure really lies on William and Kate to step up to the plate. What this has done is really forced a rethink of the number of engagements the Royal Family can manage, With Andrew and now Harry and Meghan gone, quite simply they are three family members down and there’s a limit to what the other senior Royals can do. They are running on strained resources,’ says Katie. So what the future holds is unclear, but in an ideal world, the rift would be mended, and Harry and Meghan would return to the arms of their family. After all, the Queen has stated clearly that ‘Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be muchloved members of our family’. ‘Look, there is a back-up plan – they still have Frogmore, and they
will always be welcomed back here. I think everyone’s hope is that once the dust has settled they will spend a significant amount of time in the UK. ‘Everyone hopes there will be closeness between the two families again in the future,’ says Katie. Perhaps, absence really will make the heart grow fonder – and one day, the ‘Fab Four’ will be together again. It is what Diana would have wanted and there’s no doubt Kate would be happy to have her old pal Harry back once again.
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The pair loved to share a giggle together...
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Harry and Meghan want to raise Archie away from scrutiny
L A I C E P S ROYAL
TheandPrince the
e l i h p o d e Pa A scandal so sordid it made headlines around the world, saw the downfall of the Prince seen by many as arrogant and foolish...
Jeffrey Epstein was a convicted sex offender
t is without a doubt the worst scandal to hit the Royal Family in its recent history. The world was stunned when Prince Andrew, the Queen’s second son – widely said to be her favourite – became engulfed in such a sordid and shocking affair that he was left with no option but to stand down from public duties – effectively resigning as a senior member of ‘The Firm’. But Andrew had no choice, as the fallout from his friendship with convicted
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paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, the super-rich financier who died in a New York prison, waiting trial for sex trafficking charges, was simply too damaging. Andrew first met Jeffrey Epstein, an American who made his fortune in property, through Epstein’s then girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, daughter of the disgraced financier Robert. The pair forged a friendship and, what is known beyond doubt is, Andrew stayed in contact with Epstein even after his conviction for sex offences, staying at his Manhattan townhouse. But, more serious are the unproven allegations by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, 36, who claims she was trafficked by Epstein and used as a sex slave when she was a teenager, and forced to have sex with the Prince on three occasions. In a BBC interview with Emily Maitlis, the prince strenuously denied that he had ever met Virginia, claiming that on the night they were said to have been together in
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London’s Tramp nightclub, he was at a Pizza Express in Woking with his daughter, Beatrice. In a much-derided claim, he also said that he could not have been the man a witness described as sweating profusely, as his experience of coming under fire in the Falklands had left him with a medical condition that meant, at the time, he was physically unable to sweat. In the course of the interview, Andrew failed to express any sympathy for Epstein’s victims and described his decision to associate with him after his conviction as ‘unbecoming’. Emily Maitlis’s shocked response – ‘Unbecoming? He was a sex offender!’, pretty much summed up the world’s reaction to the interview, which was viewed as a terrible error of judgement. A week after his interview, Virginia Roberts Giuffre gave her own interview describing her experience of being trafficked, insisting that Andrew was, indeed, the man she’d had sex with.
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Today she is calling for Andrew to tell investigators what he knows
In the wake of the interview, several charities ended their association with Andrew and, since then, he has generally stayed out of the public eye, attending church with the Queen and trying to fly under the radar. But it is not going to be that easy to make the affair go away. Virginia Roberts Giuffre recently tweeted, ‘Tick Tock Andy – time to talk!’ ‘The world is over the lies, the cover -ups and the simple fact that privilege buys your way out of facing the music. Do the right thing, if not for me then
reportedly left the duke ‘angry and bewildered’. Sources close to him reportedly said he had not received any requests for help from the FBI. The scandal is also casting a shadow over the forthcoming wedding of Andrew’s daughter, Beatrice, 31 and her fiancé, Edo Mapelli, 36. The Queen is said to have twice pushed back the date of the marriage – out of concern about the ongoing furore. They had to change their planned venue, the Guards’ Chapel, St James Park, after Andrew suspended his ties with military associations. The Queen is said to hope that the forthcoming marriage will bring some much-needed positivity to ‘The Firm’ and is
‘The world is over the lies and the cover-ups’
The scandal is casting a shadow over daughter Beatrice’s impending nuptials
the countless other Epstein victims who deserve the truth’. Andrew was thrown further into the spotlight when FBI investigators looking at the Epstein case claimed he had failed to follow up on his promise to assist them. He had declared himself ‘willing to help any appropriate law enforcement agency with their investigations’. But FBI federal prosecutor Geoffrey Berman last week said Andrew ‘has provided zero co-operation’. This claim
thought to have requested that everyone comes together to put on a united front. A source said: ‘The press officers hope to portray the Beatrice wedding as the event that brings the family back together. Aides know this will be a tough job, but it’s all they can do not just to save the wedding, but potentially the monarchy’s reputation.’ With the scandal swirling around Andrew refusing to go away, that is a lot of pressure on the wedding of a minor and not especially popular Royal…
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Prince Andrew with Virginia Roberts Giuffre in 2001
L A I C E P S ROYAL
s w o l b e h ‘t are coming THICK AND FAST’ The Windsor Castle fire, as well as Royal splits, made 1992 an ‘annus horribilis’
As the Royals are rocked by yet more bad news, fears grow that the strain is beginning to tell on their 93-year-old monarch... ack in 1992, the Queen famously labelled a year that had seen three Royal splits and the fire at Windsor Castle as her ‘annus horribilis’, Latin for ‘horrible year’, describing it with typically dry understatement as ‘not a year on which I shall look back with undiluted pleasure.’ But what’s the betting that recent events could see 2020 running it a close second?
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Not only has Her Majesty had to cope with the ongoing scandal surrounding Prince Andrew and the Jeffrey Epstein affair, and the rift between William and Harry, she is dealing with the drama of Harry and Meghan’s departure – with it falling to her as monarch and head of the family to carve out a solution for the young couple, that is unique in Royal history. She took the unusual step of announcing publicly that she was disappointed that Harry and Meghan were to
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step down. And now comes a further blow – the sad news that Peter Phillips, the son of Princess Anne, is to divorce his Canadian-born wife, Autumn, after 12 years of marriage, a split that is said to have left Peter ‘devastated’. Royal expert Katie Nicholl told best, ‘I really think it is one of the most tumultuous periods in Royal history. The blows seem to come thick and fast. I think the Queen is putting on a brave face, as she always does, which is one of the reasons why everyone has
such respect for her. But this is probably the most disrupted period in the Queen’s reign since the death of Diana.’ But, at the age of 93, with a disruptive family, surely the strain must be beginning to tell? Katie said, ‘Last month, The Queen cancelled an engagement at Sandringham as she had a cold, and that is almost unheard of. I think it is an
best for CELEBRITY A young Zara and Peter Phillips with the Queen Prince Philip will turn 99 this year
The Queen is fond of grandson Peter and his wife, Autumn
indication that she is feeling – and I suppose showing – her age.’ And then, of course, there is the concern over Prince Philip, who will this year celebrate his 99th birthday. Since his retirement, he has moved to a cottage on the Sandringham Estate, and although the couple are said to speak on the phone every day, they rarely Meghan and see Harry’s each departure is unique other, as the Queen is
occupied with Royal duties. A Royal source said, ‘Until recently Philip has been very active — carriage-riding, fishing at Balmoral and driving around Royal estates — although he no longer drives on public roads following his crash. His mind is as sharp as ever. However, the sad reality is that the Queen is more
‘You get the feeling that the Royal Family is falling apart’ isolated. They are both making an extraordinary personal sacrifice for the country.’ Katie added, ‘Obviously, his health must be a concern for the Queen. He was in hospital just before Christmas – and let’s not forget, he will be 99 this year. Don’t underestimate the impact this will have on an ageing man.’ For The Queen, who cherishes her family, the news about Peter Phillips’ divorce
Majesty will be upset by this. ‘It’s the last thing she needs after all her recent troubles and you get the feeling that the Royal Family is falling apart.’ One consolation, however, will be the news that Autumn has no plans to return to her native Canada. However, after 68 years on the throne, during which she has always believed in ‘keeping calm and carrying on’, we hope that Her Majesty will weather this storm, too.
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Her Majesty is putting on a brave face
will come as a blow although the couple describe their spilt as ‘amicable’ and ‘the best course of action’ for their two children, Savannah, nine, and Isla, seven. Not only is the Queen very fond of Peter – who is said to be her favourite grandson – she is said to enjoy a close relationship with Autumn and was seen attending church with her back in September. A friend told a newspaper, ‘Peter is devastated by this and just didn’t see it coming. He thought he was happily married and had the perfect family with two daughters, but he is now in total shock. Autumn is a favourite of the Queen and I’m sure Her
He says, As the Prime Minister sacks Claire Perry, the woman in charge of running the UN climate summit in Glasgow later this year, our columnist Ruth Langsford, the woman in charge of recycling in her house, has her say... The Government needs to do more...
… s k l a t h t u R
A WORD OF WARNING…
hen it comes to the environment, I am sure, like you, I try to do my best. I don’t set out with the intention of accumulating materials that will choke turtles, strangle seagulls and end up in the stomachs of dolphins – yet that is what happens, day after day. And it’s really getting me down. The message seems to be that we, individually, can save the planet. But can we really? I am not being defeatist here, I’m just looking for some help from above. We are told that, if we don’t buy certain things, and put the right things in the right bins, then the problem will go away. Who do they think they are kidding? It won’t! And rather than making out that we, as individuals, are to blame, why does the government allow the creation of all of this plastic c**p in the first place? We are all doing our best, and I don’t know about you, but I’m finding it almost overwhelming. I have two recycling bins and one non-recycling bin. I meticulously separate my tins, glass and newspapers. I check every label before I throw things away, to see if it is recyclable – and it scares me that so many of them are not. Why is
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she says that even so? Why am I made to recycle – yet manufacturers are not? Why allow this stuff to be made in the first place, and why has it become our problem?! Why, when I buy four juicy pears, do they come in a polystyrene container with a non-recyclable plastic cover which is then encased in non-recyclable clingfilm? Honestly, it’s enough to make me choke. I won’t, but we all know there will be a beautiful seal somewhere that will. I already take my reusable shopping bags when I go to the supermarket, and I’ve now bought cotton netting bags, so I can carry my fruit and veg. But it’s not enough. All of us mean well – but we can’t do this on our own. Am I alone in thinking the guilt is being passed on to my shoulders, when it’s someone else who is creating the mess? Why aren’t the supermarkets providing paper bags, or cardboard boxes? Why is all of this down to us? We are to blame. It’s always our fault. Well, it’s not. If the government was serious about the state of this planet, then they could decree that all single-use plastic would be banned in, say, three years’ time. Companies would have ample time to adapt. I am old enough to remember shopping in the Sixties and Seventies
...But we can all do our bit
when so little plastic existed. My mother can tell me about shopping in the Fifties, when there was no plastic at all. We used to do without it, why can’t we now? Because plastic is made from petrol chemicals and governments have too much of a vested interest in protecting
Eamonn tells us what’s
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BLUE SKY THINKING The unusual thing about this photo is not that it features The Houses of Parliament. To me that’s not unusual at all, because it’s my route into work at Talk Radio. The really unusual thing is that the sky is blue and as we emerge from the dark of winter, how many of you have really missed Mr Blue Sky? I certainly have, to the point that a glimpse of blue seems like a vitamin shot. Bring on that Vitamin D, I say.
the oil barons, the jobs they create and the taxes they pour into the Treasury. So, stop blaming us when we have no control about what our toothbrush is made from, how our cosmetics are packaged and how our food is served up. By blaming the consumer, they are kicking the can and indeed the plastic bottle further down the road. As if our lives aren’t guilt-ridden enough, here is another example where we want to do the right thing, but because of the scale of the problem, we are all failing miserably, even when we think we are not. So, stop cracking down and fining us for accidentally putting the wrong thing in the wrong bin. Put your money where your recycling bin is, and fine the producers of plastic - not the consumers!
MOVIES TO MOVE YOU The BAFTAs and the Oscars used to be about films. Now, they are to make you think about veganism and carbon footprints. Hopefully The Joker made you more aware of mental health and Little Women of female emancipation. How about next year having a few movies in there that, in the words of The Drifters, make us think of Saturday night at the movies, complete with a soft drink and popcorn? It might just catch on...
THE EYES TO THE LEFT Tracy Brabin is a fine MP. Her body is her own and she is entitled to do with it what she will. I am totally understanding of her having to address the House at the last minute, wearing her off-the-shoulder evening attire. Maybe a cardi in her handbag might be the answer in future, so that her critics can focus on what she had to say, as opposed to what she was wearing.
WELLARD
PHIL L GET TS SHOT
Robbie Jackson’s pet dog, Wellard, has been played by three female dogs, despite actually being a male...
In scenes that caused as much excitement as the identity of who shot JR in Eighties TV series Dallas, one of EastEnders’ famous whodunnit moments came in 2001 when Phil Mitchell was gunned down. Fans placed bets on the shooter’s identity and the semi-final football match between Liverpool and Barcelona was postponed by 15 minutes so the nation could discover it was his scorned ex, Lisa, who done it.
SOAP’S DEADLIEST SQUARE There have been a total of 130 deaths since the show began and most people have died outside The Queen Vic pub. According to a study in the British Medical Journal, living in Walford is more dangerous than being a bomb disposal expert...
POP ROYA YALTY.... Robbie Williams had a very short cameo in the soap back in 1995. He can be seen in the background, using a payphone in the Queen Vic.
Happy birthd Soap’s most famous Square turns 35 this week, and with a horrifying death set to mark the anniversary, we look back on the grisly endings, fascinating facts and actors who have pulled pints in the Queen Vic... e expected nothing less than explosions to mark EastEnders’ latest birthday on 19 February. Building up to Friday, one of the main characters meets a gruesome end after landlords Mick and Linda win the Best London Pub Contest. The prize is a boat party on the River Thames with the locals, so most of the Square boards the boat. Kellie Bright (Linda) and Danny Dyer (Mick) have hinted that they both survive, but clearly someone doesn’t make it to life jackets in time... Here, we take look back at Walford’s beginnings and the best ‘duff-duff’ moments...
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SPICY ROLE Emma Bunton almost played the iconic Bianca Jackson, portrayed by Patsy Palmer. She said: ‘I got right down to the final auditions and then was rejected. It was really upsetting.’
CHANGING THE TUNE Nick Berry (Simon ‘Wicksy’ Wicks) had a No.1 single with Every Loser Wins in 1986, after the song was originally performed by his fictional EastEnders band, The Banned. Anyone Can Fall in Love, the show’s theme tune, was recorded in 1986 by cast member Anita Dobson (Angie Watts), and produced by her husband, Queen guitarist Brian May. It reached number four in the charts.
VIP VISITOR In 2001, the Queen visited the set of the soap in Elstree, Hertfordshire, where she was shown around by Barbara Windsor (Peggy Mitchell).
WHEN WALFORD BEGAN
TO BE FRANK
The Albert Square set was built on the same plot of land as the building site in Auf Wiedersehen, Pet. The name Walford is a mix of Walthamstow and Stratford, the areas of East London where creators Julia Smith and Tony Holland were born. Before EastEnders got its name, the pair were considering Square Dance, Round The Square, E8 and London Pride!
Frank Butcher wearing nothing but a spinning bow tie on ex-wife Pat’s doorstep is a moment the nation has found hard to forget since it happened on 2 October 2000. When his actual wife Peggy discovered what had gone on, she dealt out the obligatory humiliating slaps to both in front of the Vic punters.
HA APPY Y CHRIS STMAS S, ANGE WE SALUTE YOU EastEnders was the first British soap to feature a two-minute silence on Friday 11 November 2005, for Armistice Day.
More than 30 million viewers tuned in on Christmas Day in 1986 when Dirty Den gave wife Angie an unforgettable Christmas present in the Queen Vic – divorce papers. ‘The big black lie’ about her ‘six tragic months’ to live was finally out... And Den, Angie and Sharon Watts were originally going to be called Jack, Pearl and Tracy.
day,
TOAST TO THE FUTURE A new EastEnders set costing £87 million is expected to be unveiled in May 2023 – five years later than originally planned.
DEAR OLD MA A There was no holy water or vampire stake, but the show’s most religious woman, Dot Cotton, had to bump off her son, ‘nasty’ Nick Cotton, in 2015. The Square’s most notorious killer, he’d been responsible for at least two murders and a string of drug offences. ‘Sorry, Ma. For everything I ever put you through. Forgive me,’ were his final words. ‘Confess to Jesus, he’ll forgive you,’ she replied.
THE PINTS ARE REAL! Water is used instead of vodka and gin in the Queen Vic, while burnt sugar is added for whisky, but the pints are real! Also, don’t go through the front door of the Vic you see on screen, as it’s actually empty inside. The interior is housed in a separate studio on the set in Hertfordshire.
PEGGY’S GOODBYE WEDDED BLISS Ian Beale and Phil Mitchell have notched up the most weddings, with three under their belt each and two abandoned ones to go with them. Ian, played by Adam Woodyatt, is the longest-serving character and has been on the show since the first episode aired in 1985.
When Barbara Windsor’s character was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, she chose to end things her own way with a poignant suicide scene. ‘I will go as I have lived: Straight back, head high, like a queen,’ Peggy said. Two years ago, we discovered that in real life, Barbara was battling dementia when she filmed those emotional scenes.
DID YOU YO KNOW? If you started now, it would take you 126 days to watch every episode of EastEnders.
WASTE NOT, WANT NOT Dot wears the same dress every Christmas and it’s the oldest item of clothing in the show’s wardrobe department.
‘Criminals stole my identity’ Identity fraud is on the rise. Vicky Powell, a journalist from London, tells how she was targeted by criminals who intercepted her mail, stole her driving licence and applied for credit cards in her name... was curled up on the sofa when a text message pinged on my phone. It was 29 September last year and my bank was thanking me for cancelling a card earlier that day. I rang them straight away. I hadn’t cancelled my card. They didn’t seem concerned, even suggesting another customer, cancelling their credit card, had given an incorrect digit and cancelled mine by mistake. I thought no more about it. If Lloyds wasn’t bothered then there was nothing for me to worry about. Was there? But I was about to discover someone had stolen my identity, wreaking havoc on my life…
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It’s only now, five months later, that I’m beginning to feel that I’m through one of the most stressful times of my life. A week after that puzzling text, I got a letter updating me on my Barclaycard application. I hadn’t applied for one. I realised, with dread, that I was being scammed. I knew I had to act fast. Keying in ‘someone is applying for credit cards in my name’, Google threw up information on identity fraud. All advice told me to contact Action Fraud, the national fraud-reporting centre. They advised me to set up a credit report account to see if any more applications had been made. They suggested Credit
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Vicky had many accounts taken out in her name
Karma, a free service, and paid-for sites, such as Equifax and Experian. I tried Credit Karma but, after keying in my details, an ominous message flashed up, ‘An account already exists in this name’. This suddenly felt serious. Someone was going to a lot of effort to pretend to be me. Next, I set up an Experian account – and it was an eyeopener. It revealed my credit score, existing credit cards, my mortgage company and showed which organisations had done searches on me.
I would be searched many times over the coming weeks as credit card and current account applications came in thick and fast. Sainsbury’s Bank, HSBC, NatWest – the list went on. As soon as I cancelled one fraudulent account, another one opened. I came to dread notifications on my phone. My credit rating plummeted due to all the searches and the fraudsters always seemed two steps ahead. I asked what details the person had given to open one current account, but I was
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told that as I hadn’t opened it, it was a breach of Data Protection laws to tell me. Yes – it’s not easy to get information on accounts taken out in your own name, using your date of birth and address! To get any information, you have to visit a branch in person with two forms of ID. At one HSBC branch, I gave the advisor a credit card that had been delivered to my home by courier the previous day. He said he didn’t want to worry me... but HSBC had not sent a courier to my home. I went cold.
‘If there’s one thing I’ve learned’
rity ‘Don’t take your secu u for granted – even if yo reful, think you are being ca ry there are some ve switched on people out there.’
‘He told me that HSBC had not sent a courier to my home. I went cold’
So, who was the man, in leathers and motorcycle helmet, who came to my door and asked me to sign for the card? It seems the card had already been copied before arriving to me. The fake courier wanted something even more valuable to the thieves – a sample of my signature. Unfortunately, the current system is stacked in favour of the criminals; my dealings with the banks has showed that. All they need is your name, address and date of birth and they can screw up your life. If you’ve lived at your address for years, then all the better. They can apply online for credit cards and current accounts in your name and they don’t need to show any ID. Astonishing, isn’t it? The criminals also reported my driver’s licence lost, a replacement sent the next day gave them perfect ID for pretending to be me.
I have no idea how they were intercepting my post. My mail hadn’t been redirected – all my ordinary mail was coming through – my gardening magazines, and charity letters, for example. But the letters with financial information – PIN numbers, cards – weren’t. The only one that got through was the Barclaycard – which sparked the whole investigation. I don’t know how I was chosen, but I’ve been told I was a victim of a wellorganised criminal gang who max out credit cards for cash. The current accounts are
used to launder money and to take out loans. In total the thieves applied for six current accounts and seven credit cards in my name. I know they managed to get money using my identity. I don’t know how much, it breaches those pesky Data Protection laws to tell me! But I can imagine it’s thousands. The past few months have been a nightmare, but I count myself lucky. I haven’t lost anything – I’m not liable for the money because it was flagged up early on. If that Barclaycard letter hadn’t slipped through I wouldn’t have known and the outcome would have been far worse. Many people only discover they’ve been defrauded when the criminals have maxed out the cards, drained the loans and banks and debt agencies contact the victim wanting money back. Before this, ID fraud was the stuff of TV dramas and films; it didn’t happen to ordinary people like me. But it does – and it can happen to you just as easily...
If you are the victim of identity fraud: ● Report it immediately to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, call the police on 101. Give the crime reference number to the organisation involved. ● Register yourself with CIFAS (the Credit Industry Fraud Avoidance Scheme) at cifas.org.uk or call 0330 100 0180. Costing £25 for two years, it flags up your details on a national fraud database and warns up to 160 major companies
and banks to be extra vigilant on your accounts. ● Get one or more credit report accounts including Credit Karma (free), Experian or Equifax (paid-for). Check regularly for any new fraudulent applications. ● Write to the DVLA asking for a security marker to be put against your driver’s licence. ● Tell Royal Mail if you think your mail is being intercepted or stolen. Get it redirected to a family member at a secure address.
PICTURES: GETTY
A criminal gang ruthlessly targeted Vicky and made her life hell
Deirdre O’Brien picks some hot reads to warm you up this winter
FAMILY DRAMAS
SLICK E RN MOD A A S G
Grown Ups Marian Keyes Michael Joseph, £20 Rejoice! Marian’s back with her best book yet! Centring on a glamorous and wealthy Irish family, she shines a light on the vulnerabilities and tensions behind the surface. An absolutely brilliant story with a very powerful emotional punch.
House of Trelawney Hannah Rothschild Bloomsbury, £16.99 On the Cornish coast sits Trelawney Castle – once the family seat of one of the wealthiest dynasties in the UK –now home to a few cash-strapped aristos, clinging on to the wreckage. A smart social satire set around the financial crash of 2008.
SPINE-CHILLERS
RB SUPEOWFOLL THE UP TOTING HUN TY PAR
The Guest List Lucy Foley Harper Fiction, £14.99 On a wild and windy island off the Irish coast, guests gather for a society wedding. But among the well wishers, is one person intent on murder. A great follow-up to The Hunting Party, perfect to curl up with on a wintery evening.
The Wreckage Robin Morgan-Bentley Trapeze, £12.99 A collision brings Ben and Alice together – quite literally – when Alice’s husband, Adam, throws himself in front of Ben’s car. Wracked with guilt, Ben befriends the widow. But no one is quite what they seem in this dark and slippery thriller.
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Best books
y r a u r b for Fe HISTORICAL HITS ECT PERF ANS FOR F RAH OF SATERS WAL
The Foundling Stacey Halls Manilla, £12.99 In the London of 1754, Bess leaves her baby at a hospital, unable to care for her, but returns to find her taken by an imposter. Brimming with atmosphere, this fabulous period drama will tug at your heartstrings.
The Dressmaker’s Gift Fiona Valpy Lake Union Publishing, £8.99 In Paris in 1940, three young seamstresses try to carry on with their lives under the horror of Nazi occupation. All of them are hiding secrets, which are later uncovered by one of their granddaughters. A well-crafted tale.
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FROM THE VAULT The Dark is Rising Susan Cooper, Puffin Long before Harry Potter ever waved a wand there was Will Stanton, Bran Pendragon and the Drew family – all children who are drawn together in a battle against good and evil. Now, all five novels in this classic fantasy sequence have been relaunched with a foreword by Robert Macfarlane and, in their fifth decade, they are as spellbinding as ever.
EVENT
TRUE LIFE TERROR
AT A TRERUE T FOR IME CR S FAN
Words Weekend Festival, The Lowry, Salford (27-29 March) This weekendlong celebration of the written word really does have something for everyone. From Bridget Jones creator Helen Fielding, right, discussing the enduring appeal of the loveable singleton, to Katie Piper in conversation and Bob Geldof’s musical memories – it’s a packed line-up. For more info, see wordsweekend.com.
The Phantom Prince: My Life With Ted Bundy Elizabeth Kendall Abrams, £12.99 When single mother Elizabeth met a handsome law student, she thought she was the luckiest woman alive. But Ted Bundy, who became a father figure to her daughter, was a serial killer. A chilling memoir.
The Murders at White House Farm Carol Ann Lee Pan Macmillan, £8.99 If you were gripped by the ITV drama about murderer Jeremy Bamber, then you will be fascinated by this in-depth investigation into the slaying of his family. Chilling, but absolutely un-put-downable.
The Rhythm Section HarperCollins, £8.99 Blake Lively stars in this tense action thriller as Stephanie Patrick who veers down a path of self-destruction after her family are killed in a plane crash, losing herself in a drug habit. But when she discovers it wasn’t an accident, she recruits a former CIA operative (Jude Law) to help her get revenge. Adapted by Mark Burnell from his book of the same name.
PICTURES: GETTY
BOOKS ON SCREEN
Tony Cowell BEST’S CELEB INSIDER TALKS TO GREGORY PORTER rammy award-winning jazz singersongwriter GREGORY PORTER burst on to the music scene in 2014. His distinctive, gravelvoiced baritone has won him fans on both sides of the Atlantic. Here, he tells best how he was inspired to sing by his late father - who he saw little of growing up - and how his mum sacrificed everything to bring up eight children single-handedly, while instilling in the young Gregory her love of gospel music...
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PICTURES: GETTY, INSTAGRAM, RETNA/PHOTOSHOT
You started writing poems and songs aged eight, didn’t you? I did, yes – even though I had no place to put them, because nobody was listening back then! I would just sing them out of my
Gregory has performed with Olly Murs and Tom Jones
bedroom window. Sometimes, I would write them in the back of the car while Mum drove us about. She loved her gospel music, so that was how I came to discover music. What’s the inspiration behind Dad Gone Thing, one of the songs on the new album? I think I’m still chasing my father Rufus’ memory, and I only learned everything about him at his funeral. He was in the army. He was an incredible singer and I owe him a lot, because I inherited his voice. I didn’t know he was a singer, until someone spoke about him at the funeral. My father wasn’t in my life much at all when I was growing up. So maybe that song is a kind of self-medication for me. Tell us more about your deep love of gospel music... Ah, that was my mum, Ruth.
Instagram/gregoryportermusic
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‘I want to be present in my son’s life’ She had a big collection of gospel records and, of course, Nat King Cole and Louis Armstrong! When I was about eight years old I wrote a song called Once Upon a Time I Had a Dreamboat, and I played [it] to my mum and she said, ‘Boy, you sound like Nat King Cole!’ She was the foundation for my love of gospel music. She had her own little church in Bakersfield where we lived, and I would sing to the people on the streets there. They were street people, prostitutes, drug addicts – but Mum treated them normally, she wanted me
to sing for them. She always looked after these people. She had a strong work ethic – have you inherited that same drive? I think I have. Once I found my way in life, I gained that same work ethic. I play sometimes 250 shows a year, but I still feel I don’t work as hard as my mum did. So, I never complain – for here was a woman who brought up eight kids, and somehow found the food to cook for all of us every day of our lives. That memory always gives me strength.
Instagram/gregoryportermusic
best for CELEBRITY
With wife Victoria and son Demyan
My faith is in my DNA. It was planted there all those years ago, in that church where my mum preached and sang those gospel songs.
‘My faith is in my DNA. It was planted there all those years ago, in that church where my mum preached and sang’ Did you have a tough upbringing? Sometimes, when you are in it, you don’t realise it was ‘hard’. When I look back, we were always moving to a new house – but she kept us all safe. There were often racial tensions in those days. People didn’t like having us live in what was a ‘white’ neighbourhood, but we always came through it all.
album – but I don’t think that changed me. I still do what I think is best for me. I’m doing it my way, and I’m very proud of that. I never let the fame go to my head. I never took drugs, I just kept working. There were more people stopping me on the street to shake my hand, but in a way, I like that. Without them, I would still be that guy singing on the street.
You won a Grammy in 2014 for album Liquid Spirit – did life change, then? I suddenly got all this attention because of that
Is your faith important to you? It is. On the new album, I sing about my heavenly father and, I talk about my actual father who is now in heaven.
You have a seven-yearold son, Demyan. Did fatherhood change you at all? Yes, I’m always thinking about being able to leave him something. I think about my own childhood, so I want to be present in his life. So even when I’m on the road, we talk every day. When I’m home, I still read his bedtime stories – that’s important to me. I often think about him in my songwriting, and consider whether he will ever listen to a certain song, when I’m dead and gone. I want him to remember me as a good person. You start a UK tour in May. What can fans expect? Well, I’m lucky enough to be playing four nights at the Royal Albert Hall with the London Symphony Orchestra, which will be
Gregory always wears his flat cap (‘my security blanket’) when performing
awesome. I will also have my own band with me, so we can get to play some songs from the new album. I hope you guys enjoy it. New single Revival is out now on Decca Records. New album All Rise is out 17 April. Gregory is at Cheltenham Jazz Festival on 5 May, then tours the UK from 9-26 May.
Gregory with his Grammy
Gregg can get it wrong… MasterChef judge John Torode explains how he’s learnt to live with Gregg Wallace, why he’s banned from discussing the show at home and his marriage to Lisa Faulkner... s MasterChef fires up for its 16th series, Aussie chef John Torode, 54, is raring to go with former greengrocer Gregg Wallace, 55, by his side. And off-screen he’s got plenty to be cheerful about, too, especially after tying the knot in October to fellow cook Lisa, who turns 48 on February 19. The pair met back in 2010 when former EastEnders actress Lisa took part in, and won, Celebrity MasterChef. Sporting his holiday glow from their
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honeymoon in Mauritius last month, John’s firing on all cylinders as he talks veganism, locking horns with Gregg, and why he’s sick of scallops… What’s the feeling like at the start of a new series? A new MasterChef is just ace – it’s the most exciting time of the year for me. You don’t know what’s going to happen. All we can rely on is that we are going to eat really good food at some stage in the competition, and we’re going to meet new people. What are the things that wind you up most? I am so bored of raw
Wife and Celebrity MasterChef winner Lisa
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John’s had enough of scallops!
scallops! The problem is that they grow in different places, in different waters, at different temperatures, therefore the muscle structure can be different in every scallop. And every single scallop you cook is different, so you can’t put 10 in a pan and think they will cook at the same time. Veganism has been a trend this year... We’ve added a new challenge this year which is plant-based – I think it’s a really good thing. It’s really easy to build a dish around a lump of meat or protein, if you take that away then you see a bit more of a challenge. I used to run a meat restaurant and I don’t eat nearly as much meat as I used to. How much weight do you put on during the show? On a series, I usually put on about half a stone, because your body stores stuff, it does. I try to cycle as much as I can but I just put it on and then I work it off. It’s fun, it’s a terrible problem to have [he laughs]. I’ve
best for CELEBRITY John and Gregg don’t always see eye to eye!
Do you talk to Lisa about the show? We have a rule in our house: I don’t talk MasterChef. Lisa gets really invested in the contestants. Then, of course, she’ll get despondent if she sees the person she is rooting for in the show, thinks they’re really good and I’ve sent them home!
got to eat every day. Shocking! If you’re putting on weight it’s a good problem to have, because if you’re losing weight then you’re probably not eating enough and not trying enough food. Isn’t the food cold by the time you taste it? The studio is about 21-22°C, so it’s still warm – it’s not fridge cold. Toast and soup isn’t always hot when you have it and the best thing about a
Gregg: ‘This yea r is easier!’ It’s all change, as BBC bosses have hit cookery show tweaked the fo
rmat of the to include a sign ature dish challe first round. Judg nge in the e Gregg Wallace says that the tw potentially make eak could the competition ‘e explained, ‘The powers that be w asier’ for contestants. He ant to constantly format, so the co ch ntestants comin g in can’t have w ange the They will probab orked it out. ly change it agai n. But it does, in opinion, give an my humble easier first step into what is a ne anyway. Having rvy experience a ch – I guess that’s w ance to cook a dish that you’ve practised ha Whatever they ru t every contestant dreams of do ing.’ stle up, we can’t wait!
When you and Lisa cook at home, do you critique each other? We actually just cook with each other and we like each other. It’s always quite good! Do you and Gregg ever disagree? I think we both stamp our feet at least once, if not twice, a series and I think that’s really good. One of the things we both admire about each other is that we both care but we have our own lives, we have our personalities, we have our own likes and dislikes. I think because of that, we end up with a pretty equalised judging opinion. We both respect each other’s opinions – sometimes he gets it wrong, but that’s OK. Do you get recognised a lot? I’ve just found out MasterChef is really popular in Sri Lanka. I was out filming over there and all these people started coming up and I was like, ‘Wow’. Apparently, we’re on the National Geographic channel over there. There are a lot of places that show it now and also it’s shown on planes. I was in a cab the other day and the driver said, ‘Don’t you start knocking down walls in here!’ He thought I was the bloke from DIY SOS! ● MasterChef returns on Monday 24 February at 9pm on BBC One
WORDS: BENJY POTTER PICTURES: BBC, GETTY
‘During a series I usually put on about half a stone’
roast dinner, in my opinion, is the last bit of gravy and Yorkshire pudding, and that’s definitely not hot.
best GIRLS’ NIGHT IN...
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This week’s mustsee TV 1
Cilla: The Lost Tapes WEDNESDAY, ITV, 9PM
Anyone who had a heart will love this special one-off programme about the Liverpudlian songbird. Following her sad death in 2015, her devoted family made a surprise discovery. In the loft of her home they found a treasure trove of film footage, dating back to 1969, when the singer was in her mid-20s and just setting off on the path to fame and fortune. The tapes, which have never been seen before, provide an intimate portrait of a working-class girl who went on to become a national treasure.
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The Brit Awards TUESDAY, BBC ONE, 8PM
CORONATION STREET
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Cheeky young whippersnapper Jack Whitehall presents the biggest night in the UK music calendar – as the Brits pulls out all the stops to celebrate its 40th birthday. Coming live from London’s O2, the line-up includes performances from Lizzo and Dave, Billie Eilish (right), Celeste, Harry Styles, Lewis Capaldi and Stormzy.
Ray turns the screws on Abi, while opportunity knocks for Bethany at a magazine. Elsewhere, Sarah’s hen do is a clucking disaster!
EMMERDALE Charity panics about Vanessa’s welfare. Rhona realises that Pierce has got Vanessa and walks into
danger, leading to a violent confrontation at Mulberry.
EASTENDERS In the wake of last weeks’ shocking events, the residents are trying to get back to normal, although shock waves spread around the Square as Whitney is arrested. As one resident’s life unravels, there is some good news at least as Jean gets the all clear.
10 MINUTES WITH… ALL EPISODES AVAILABLE FROM FRIDAY, AMAZON PRIME
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Oscar winner Al Pacino stars in this unique, Tarantino-esque series. Set in 1977, Hunters follows a group of New York-based Nazi hunters who have discovered hundreds of high-ranking former officers hiding in America, conspiring to create a Fourth Reich. The Oscar winner said, ‘There’s an originality in this show. It’s somewhat eccentric.’ You said it, Al!
LIFE Alison Steadman and Peter Davison are among the cast in this six-part series set in Manchester. It’s from the writer of Doctor Foster, so expect plenty of drama. BBC One later this year.
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First Dates
THURSDAY, CHANNEL 4, 10PM NEW SERIES
It’s a new series of the dating show, so let’s hope that love is in the air. The hopeful diners at the restaurant include plumber Jamie, a lad who has the habit of saying the wrong thing. He is paired with Leigh, a practical guy who is good with his hands, and Joe and Jess, who share a love of dressing in Victorian garb.
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Hoarders: Trapped By My Trash
THURSDAY, CHANNEL 5, 9PM
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Meet the people for whom hanging on to possessions is making life difficult. In Plymouth, friends and family refuse to visit Arthur’s house – can cleaners Caz and Tee help? And bride-to-be Khim fights to clear up so she can make room for her new groom, Jim.
THEY SAID WHAT?! Madonna turned the air blue after staff at The London Palladium literally brought the curtain down on her, after she overran its curfew during her Madame X show. She ranted, ‘Censorship! Artists are here to disturb the peace, f**k you.’ Language, Madge!
COMING UP
P U H C T CA THE RANCH Ashton Kutcher stars in this comedy drama as former professional athlete, Colt. He now lives and works on the family farm, helping his father and brother to keep it afloat. On Netflix now.
LISA SNOWDON ON…
…looking good as you age It’s definitely much harder to stay in shape in your 40s. But I think trying to incorporate exercise into your week as much as you can is not only good for your body, but for your mind, too. I have a personal trainer, and I do some pilates, walking and running – a real mixture. …picking her poison I love a glass of red wine and I’m partial to tequila as well, but I do go through stages where I don’t drink. I think you get to that age where you realise that your body is saying, enough already! You become aware of feeling more sluggish the next day. That didn’t occur to me in my 30s. …celebrating her birthday My fiancé took me to Braemar in Scotland for my birthday a few weeks ago, and it was so beautiful. I even enjoyed my first Burns Night, including the piping in the haggis. …remaining camera-ready at nearly 50 Getting older isn’t slowing me down at all… I’m embracing it. The trick is a good make-up artist, but I guess the real secret is happiness, laughter, relaxing and loving who you are – self-acceptance. Although, I’d never say never to going under the knife, so who knows? ● Lisa is a fashion reporter on ITV’s This Morning
WORDS: DEIRDRE O’BRIEN, JULIE ANN TRAINOR PICTURES: BBC/MATT SQUIRE, GDAVID HINDLEY, GETTY, ITV, NICO TAVERNISE
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Hunters
Watch thing! ONE
Sarah Lancashire
Last Tango in Halifax ally Wainwright’s BAFTAwinning drama returns for its fifth series. The romantic comedy follows the extended families of two widowed pensioners – played by Anne Reid and Sir Derek Jacobi, who marry later in life.
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Derek Jacobi
Anne Reid
BEHIND THE SCENES WITH best
‘Caroline is struggling a little’ Sarah Lancashire, who plays Caroline, is one of our best-loved actresses. The mum-of-three, who found fame as Corrie’s barmaid Raquel, is married to TV producer Peter Salmon. How is Caroline at the start of this series? She’s been through some tough times, including losing her wife… She is struggling a little – I think further down the line we do see her not coping particularly well, but at first she has a proposition. She’s not sure she can do it, but also
she’s dipping her toe again in the water in terms of a possible new relationship. It’s glorious to see her scenes with her ex, John – he’s still besotted with Caroline… Well, I always said Tony Gardner (who plays John), is so pivotal. John is an absolutely brilliant invention – he’s great. We need him, because we all bounce off him, and he really is a truly interesting character. I mean he is pitiful, but Tony does it so utterly brilliantly, and he is an absolute joy.
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So is Gillian a tower of strength for her? They’re very close now – they’ve become like stepsisters. They know things about each other that nobody else does. We’ve come a long way from the first episode where Caroline called her low-life trailer trash! Do you think Caroline and Celia’s relationship has gone past the fact that Celia refused to come to her wedding (to a woman)? A leopard never changes its
... AND OUT
Nicola Walker
DON’T MISS THE BIG DVD RELEASES
JUDY It’s 1968 and Judy Garland arrives in London for a series of live shows – but all is not well with the fading superstar. Renée Zellweger delivers an Oscar-winning performance. Out now, £9.99
‘A leopard never changes its spots, so I don’t think Celia is ever going to accept that Caroline is gay’ spots, so I don’t think Celia is ever going to accept that Caroline is gay. I hope it continues that way, because it’s more fun to play. We adore our relationship. The weirdest thing is that Anne (who plays Celia), has known me for a very long time – since I was 12 and had a long, blonde ponytail. So playing her daughter is very easy because we have a relationship anyway. It’s funny because when we’re doing this, we do accuse each other all the time saying, ‘God, you’re turning into your character.’ ● Last Tango in Halifax is on Sunday 23 February on BBC One at 9pm.
KNIVES OUT Daniel Craig is a scream as a Belgian detective in this homage to Agatha Christie. A wealthy writer is found murdered at his mansion, so whodunnit? A brilliant cast adds to the fun. Out Monday, £12.99
OUT AND ABOUT
EMMA There’s nothing like a costume drama, and this adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic is a corker. Anya Taylor-Joy is perfect as the meddling Emma Woodhouse, who adores nothing more than trying to arrange the lives of others.
FILM
Bill Nighy is brilliant as her hypochondriac dad, Miranda Hart makes a fabulous Miss Bates, and the chemistry with Johnny Flynn’s Mr Knightley sizzles. With gorgeous locations, beautiful costumes and a great soundtrack, it’s a joy. + + + + +
EXHIBITION LET’S MISBEHAVE: 1920s EXHIBITION, BLENHEIM PALACE, OXFORDSHIRE (UNTIL APRIL 13) Have you ever fancied yourself as a flapper in the roaring Twenties? Well now’s your chance, as the beautiful stately home (where Churchill was born) is providing a glimpse into the
life of the bright young things of the decade of change. Expect costumed characters, music, dancing, classic cars and afternoon tea in The Orangery Restaurant. blenheimpalace.com
PROSECCO FESTIVAL JOKER Joaquin Phoenix delivers an Oscar-winning performance as a failed comedian who goes over to the dark side in Gotham City. Telling the prequel of Batman’s nemesis, this will give you chills. Out now, £12.99
FESTIVAL
For a night out that fizzes with fun, get along to this celebration of the lovely – if lethal – sparkling booze. Sample over 40 varieties of fizz, some mixed into delicious cocktails, and soak it up with delicious street food. VIP packages are also available – check the website for details. proseccofestival.co.uk
best for CASH ADVICE Whether you need to arrange childcare or not, half-term costs can quickly add up and dent your bank balance – but there are steps you can take to make the break cheaper, while still having fun. Here are our top tips...
Join our campaign and get your finances sorted at hearstmagazines.co.uk/ ffbest for money-saving tips and brilliant advice on being financially savvy.
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CHILDCARE
If you have children age 11 and under, make use of your tax-free childcare allowance or childcare vouchers to pay for an Ofsted-registered playgroup (reports.ofsted.gov.uk), childminder or even holiday clubs. For every £8 families pay in, the government will top it up with an additional £2. See gov.uk for details.
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INDOOR PLAY February weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for this by stocking up on board games and craft activities. eBay has a designated landing page for board games, where you can shop by age and theme. If you want to incorporate learning and play, half-term can be a perfect time to introduce money skills. Try taking it in turns playing a shopkeeper and a customer and ask your child to pay for items with pretend paper money.
5 ways to save money this half-term
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There are plenty of activities you can enjoy over the half term for little cost, or even for free! Your local library probably offers free activities for kids. Additionally, select Waterstones stores are offering workshops and storytelling sessions for kids over halfterm, most of which are free. Check with the store whether you have to book in advance (waterstones.com).
EATING OUT
Going out for a meal together is a lovely treat for the holidays and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. A number of chain restaurants, such as Bella Italia or Las Iguanas, let kids eat free when you purchase an adult meal. Also take a look at the Vouchercodes website or app for deals. Be sure to check terms and conditions before you eat out. Some offers are only available at certain times and days of the week. 82 FACEBOOK.COM/BESTMAGAZINE
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DAYS OUT If you’re travelling with National Rail, take a look at the Days Out Guide (daysoutguide.co.uk) for two-forone discounts on major attractions. These include most major theme parks, as well as Warwick Castle, Kew Gardens, and even Manchester United’s football stadium museum! You’ll need to print a voucher and bring your tickets to prove you travelled by train.
WORDS: SUSANNE NORRIS PICTURES: GETTY
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FREE FUN
your stars 21 January – 19 February Aquarians, like Grease and Pulp Fiction star John Travolta and Eighties sweetheart Molly Ringwald’s direct approach towards getting the job done will result in a huge success. For all Aquarians, pleasure will come through creative achievements. Make time to nurture these.
TAURUS
21 April – 21 May Accept an opportunity to travel for pleasure before it is offered to someone else. Sometimes you have to act quickly, and this is one of those moments. If you’re single and you have recently met someone you would like to date, be prepared to take the lead in romance. Are you in a relationship? Your partner needs to be pampered.
LEO
24 July – 23 August You’re tired of carrying out the same tasks every day. You need something new to get your teeth into. Pulling out of commitments could leave others in the lurch. It would be better to let people know how you are feeling and that you are going to make some changes. Give everyone a chance to prepare.
SCORPIO
24 October – 22 November Discussing a career, political or religious matter you feel strongly about could lead a partner to break up with you. You may not have realised they had completely opposite views. If you sense tension accelerating, be diplomatic and don’t be afraid to compromise from time to time.
PISCES
20 February – 20 March Is your sensitivity interfering with your good judgement? Are you allowing the feelings of those around you to affect you? If you have an important decision to make, it would be advisable to find a secluded spot where you can be alone to do some quiet thinking. Nature walks will be spiritually enriching.
GEMINI
22 May – 21 June Your partner or best friend has obligations that may interfere with your social plans. You are hoping they will join you at a party or social gettogether but they’ve already made other arrangements. Despite the inconvenience, you will know this can’t be helped and you won’t make a song and dance about it.
VIRGO
24 August – 23 September A problem is weighing you down and you can’t seem to work this out on your own. An old friend or colleague will help you see a situation through different eyes. Something you have been worried about won’t be half as bad as you were imagining it to be. Developments in romance will take you by surprise.
SAGITTARIUS
23 November – 21 December You can look forward to seeing an end to some ongoing domestic difficulties. An older relative will offer some wise advice. In addition, they will give practical help, and this will be like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders. There’s a strong chance of a new romance, if you are single.
ARIES
21 March – 20 April Turn your attention to letters or emails that need a reply, early in the week. Clear your email account of outdated messages. You may need to read between the lines when talking to someone who has poor communication skills. An envious colleague is spreading spiteful rumours. Be prepared to do some damage control.
CANCER
22 June – 23 July You’re taking your time to make up your mind about a possible new venture. No matter how many times you weigh the pros and cons, you’re left with the feeling that this will take you away from someone you want to spend more time with. It is time to work out your priorities – you may only have this opportunity once.
LIBRA
24 September – 23 October You’re giving some serious thought to friendships and you’re ready to make some changes. Joining a new group or organisation will put you in touch with some fascinating people. In turn, this will lead to bigger opportunities. Expanding your horizons will put you on a whole new career or spiritual path.
CAPRICORN
22 December – 20 January You’ve been having fun, but it’s time to focus on work and other responsibilities. It’s never easy getting back into your usual routine when you’ve been enjoying yourself but there is work to be done. If you’re single and searching for romance, you might find this in a Virgo or Taurus partner. FACEBOOK.COM/BESTMAGAZINE 83
PICTURES: BIGSTOCK
AQUARIUS
For the week 18-24 February, with Russell Grant
Sail away to your own
exclusive island
Fancy arriving in Florida, then sailing around the Eastern Caribbean and stopping off at a private island in the Bahamas? Look no further… BEST TRAVEL WRITER SARA MACEFIELD
TRAVEL SNAPSHOT
Symphony of the Seas boasts a full-size carousel
PICTURES: GETTY
Tuck into delicious dishes on board
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Nothing is more idyllic than cruising through the Caribbean and relishing the laid-back vibe of these tropical isles. For a ship with an allAmerican vibe, Symphony of the Seas is ideal. The Royal Promenade is a shopping street that comes to life with Vegas-style parties and parades. Incredibly, the ship also has a mini ‘Central Park’ filled with more than 12,000 plants, and there’s a fairgroundstyle boardwalk complete with a full-size carousel. With almost 7,000 passengers, the size of this ship means you don’t feel crowded and there’s a jaw-dropping selection of attractions, led by a trio of exciting water slides and even an ice-skating rink.
INSIDER’S GUIDE You don’t need to go on a tour at every port stop, sometimes it’s nice to have some quiet time on board. That said, Sint Maarten may be a tiny island, but it has oodles of both Dutch and Caribbean charm, so don’t miss it. Philipsburg is less than a 10-minute taxi drive from the port and Great Bay Beach is a short walk from the terminal.
A visit to the idyllic CocoCay is a must
Philipsburg is a 10-minute taxi drive from the port
best for ESCAPES
Nothing is more idyllic than relishing the laid-back vibe of these tropical isles
GETTING THERE:
Royal Caribbean International offers numerous sailings ranging from three nights to one week that call at Perfect Day from several US ports including Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, New Orleans and New York. A seven-night round-trip sailing from Miami to the Eastern Caribbean on Symphony of the Seas.
FOOD AND DRINK:
BEFORE YOU GO! Even though you’re sailing to the Caribbean, as the cruises start from a US port, don’t forget that you will need an ESTA visa, which you can apply for online. See esta.cbp. dhs.gov for more details.
DON’T MISS Stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay if you want to turn up the tempo with a host of thrills and chills. Active fans can take the plunge on water slides, enjoy a balloon ride or zoom across the island on a zip wire. Afterwards, retreat to white-sand beaches or float lazily in the Oasis Lagoon. Perfect Day is the private island resort of US cruise line Royal Caribbean International, which has spent $250 million (£192million) to transform it into an action-packed pleasure playground.
ON-BOARD DIVERSIONS Symphony of the Seas is like an entertainment complex and shopping rolled into one, complemented by nummall pools and hot tubs, rock-climbing wal erous surfing simulators, and even a zip wir ls, Daredevils can plunge 100ft down thee. adrenaline-pumping twists and turns Ultimate Abyss slide, pit their wits in of the Escape the Rubicon puzzle room, batthe out in the laser-tag arena, or relax in tle it vast on-board spa. Symphony of the the departing on 5 September, costs £1,6Seas, including flights from London Heathro49pp This is the cost booked through Roy w. Caribbean, see royalcaribbean.com al .
There are 20 or so dining venues where passengers can eat their way around the world; from Japanese at the Izumi Hibachi & Sushi restaurant and continental at Jamie’s Italian, to the burgers and fries of Johnny Rockets and Mexican cuisine at the El Loco Fresh fast food joint. If you fancy treating yourself, try haute cuisine at the 150 Central Park restaurant that offers gourmet American-style dining or tuck into lobster and mussels at the Hooked Seafood restaurant. Bars are scattered across the ship, and those in the Royal Promenade include the novel Bionic Bar where robots shake up your cocktails, the English pub-style Schooner Bar and the Latin-themed Boleros bar. There’s even a Starbucks coffee stand in the Royal Promenade, close to the Rising Tide Bar, a glassenclosed platform which rises and falls three decks as you sip your cocktails.
Puzzles
Use the anagrams, straight, cryptic, quiz and picture clues to solve the crossword. When completed correctly, the pink squares, reading top to bottom, left to right, will reveal the answer to the question below:
WIN 1 X £200, 2 X £100 OR 3 X £50 PRIZES
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2 Small piece of gold – or chicken? (6) 3 Hitch-hiking digit (5) 4 PICTURE C In what country was she born? (7) 5 Which river, in terms of water-flow, is the largest in the world? (6) 6 Scottish monster loch (4) 12 Peeper! (3) 14 Broadcast, transmit (3)
16 In what month is Halloween? (7) 18 Can you utilise MY POLE? (6) 19 What relation is Archie MountbattenWindsor to Prince George? (6) 20 ANAGRAM TEVELS 22 Funeral poem or song (5) 23 Quick covert look (4) WINNING CHEQUES WILL BE MADE PAYABLE AND POSTED TO THE NAME AND ADDRESS AS WRITTEN LEFT. PLEASE TAKE CARE WHEN COMPLETING THE COUPON!
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19 What song by Gary Numan was his debut single and topped the charts in several countries? (4) 21 ANAGRAM TREEM 23 Theatrical aid (4) 24 PICTURE A Who is she? (6) 25 What foodstuff would you eat boiled and serve with dippy soldiers? (3) 26 Appeal to God (6) 27 What is international radio code for the letter ‘Y’? (6) DOWN 1 PICTURE B What is the male called? (6)
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ACROSS 1 Large seabird sounds greedy! (6) 4 What kind of mythical creature was slain by St George? (6) 7 Colour, shade (3) 8 Fairground bumper car (6) 9 Who was the supreme Greek god? (4) 10 Encore! Take a bow! Well done! (5) 11 A change is as good as a ___, expression (4) 13 Which Biblical character built an Ark? (4) 15 If ___ could kill, saying (5) 17 This place? (4)
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ACROSS 7 Shouted 9 Ice 10 Ranch 11 Leopard 12 CIA 13 Anything 16 Old flame 17 Pro 19 Inspect 21 Gates 22 ETA 23 Nemesis DOWN 1 Ostrich 2 Cornwall 3 Itch 4 Smoothie 5 Lisa 6 Wendy 8 Dolly Parton 13 Al fresco 14 Nepotism 15 Possess 18 Riley 20 Seal 21 Game Lines open 18 February 2020 until midnight on 6 March 2020 (closes 6 March 2020 for postal entries). Over 18s only. †UK Calls cost 65p per min plus your telephone company’s network access charge; ROI 97c per min, and should last no longer than 2 mins. UK SP: Spoke (0333 202 3390). ROI SP: Spoke (0818 205 403). To enter by post, use coupon, left.
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