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❤❤H eart ❤ ❤ to H eart

By Alison James ith her perfectly styled hair, flawless make-up and sparkly little black dress, Susan Boyle looks like she’s attending a glamorous Christmas party – which in a way, she is. The London offices of her record company have been decked out as a winter wonderland as she launches her latest album, Home for Christmas – a collection of her favourite Christmas songs and carols. Everything’s fabulously Christmassy but it’s obvious that, for Susan, there’s far more to the festive season than all the trappings and trimmings.

“Christmas is especially important to me because of my faith,” she says. “Yes, I love the celebrations and excitement of Christmas but I’m a Roman Catholic and that really is the backbone of my life. My faith helps me stay grounded. I pray and say the rosary each day and am very close to my religion.

This album is based on the Christmas story and the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Ask Susan (52) to identify her favourite number on the album and she doesn’t hesitate. “It’s Oh Come All Ye Faithful,” she smiles. ‘“And through the miracle of technology, I get to sing it with Elvis Presley! I’ve always been a huge fan. Elvis was played constantly at home when I was

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‘Why my faith means so much to me’

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Merry Christmas from YOURS

Singing sensation Susan Boyle chats to Yours about her first ever film role, fame, a new charity role and the real meaning of Christmas

star chat best selling author Max Lucado.

Released on December 13, it’s set in the fictional village of Gladbury in 1890. Every 25 years, an angel visits the village candle-maker and bestows a miracle upon whoever lights the Christmas Candle. However, shortly after the arrival of a new pastor, the Christmas Candle goes missing.

How did Susan become involved?

“It was just coincidence that it came about – almost accidental.

I play a character called Mrs Hopeful. This is the very first acting I’ve done. It wasn’t too nerve wracking and I really enjoyed it - although it was very cold filming on location and I

One Chance, the film about Paul Potts, who was also on Britain’s Got Talent. I don’t really know who I’d like to play me – I’ll leave that up to the producers.”

With such stellar names as Glenn Close, Meryl Streep and Julie Walters reportedly being considered, it brings home just how much Susan’s life has changed since she made her first appearance on BGT in 2009. Back then she was an out of work, wannabe Elaine Paige singing in her local church choir, now she has sang for the Pope, the Queen, and has sold over 19 million albums worldwide. She’s toured around the globe and in March will embark on a 19-date tour of England and Wales.

“I still can’t believe the success I’ve had. It’s been like a rollercoaster. Five years ago, I’d have been terrified to walk into this building – let alone anything else. It’s very surreal but good fun and what I’ve wanted since I was a little girl.”

Does she still have much to do wore long johns under my bustle! with BGT judges Simon Cowell I’d love to do more acting. I still and Piers, whom she famously wince a bit every time I see myself had a crush on? “I appreciate that on screen, but I did thoroughly Piers Morgan is a very busy guy enjoy watching the movie.” but I would like to hear from him Talking of movies, there have now and again!” she laughs. “As for been rumours of a film based on Simon, he instigated the single for Susan’s life in the offing.

Save The Children and has had a “There are plans lot to do with the album. He sent a afoot for that,’” wee video congratulating me.”’ she teases.

Fame’s a funny thing – has it “Watch changed Susan? “I don’t think I’ve this space! changed a bit,” she replies. ‘I’m I’d like it still grounded, still a nice person to be like and still live in the same house I lived in before.” ✢ A Christmas We can’t let Candle is released in UK her go without cinemas on December 13. asking where ✢ Susan’s latest album Home For she’ll spend Christmas is out now. There’s also Christmas... an ITV special called Something “With friends About Susan on ITV1 on and family at December 12. For more details home. Along about the tour visit www. with my faith, susanboylemusic.com it’s what makes Susan with James Cosmo in The Christmas Candle, Christmas so and ‘singing partner’, Elvis, a very special.”

‘I haven’t changed.

I’m still grounded, still a nice person and still live in the same house’

childhood dream come true!

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PICS: CAMERA PRESS; REX FEATURES

growing up. Hearing our voices together was amazing and gave me goosebumps. It was beyond my wildest dreams.”

The track was released as a single on behalf of Save The Children on December 8 and will hopefully top the charts this Christmas, raising vital funds for the charity. Susan recently became a Save The Children Global Ambassador.

“To be able to raise money with this record is simply fantastic,” she explains.

“The charity means a lot to me as I’m interested in child development. I’m also interested in helping out in deprived areas. I’ve had the privilege of spending time with families from a FAST programme (Families And Schools Together), run at a school in Glasgow. To see the money raised in action and the difference it makes to these families is wonderful.

The children from FAST also joined me for the music video of Oh Come All Ye Faithful, we had a lovely two days and the children were fabulous. There was a wee boy dressed as Elvis who was great – even if he did keep crossing his arms and saying “I’m not doing it!’– but they were all stars!”

Susan also has something else to celebrate this Christmas – her first film role! She’s starring in The Christmas Candle, which is based on the novel of the same name by

❙ star talk ❙

The girls deliver some

seasonal surprises!

Yours goes behind the scenes of the Call The Midwife Christmas Special and chats to the stars

By Alison James he Call The Midwife Christmas special is one of the highlights of the festive TV schedule. For those of us who remember the Christmases of the late Fifties it’s a real nostalgia-fest, while for the rest it provokes a yearning for yesteryear.

Last year’s seasonal special was a magical mix of nativity play, retro decorations, an abandoned baby boy found on Christmas Day and the salvation of a desperate woman who’d been scarred by her time in the workhouse. This Christmas, however, the content is quite different.

“It’s grittier than last year’s episode,” explains actress Jenny Agutter (61), who plays Sister Julienne. “We’re on the cusp of the Sixties and there’s definitely a strong sense of moving on.”

Literally moving on! As the Christmas episode opens, the nuns and midwives of Nonnatus House have vacated their former convent and are getting used to the very different surroundings of their new one.

“Christmas is absolutely about the new place and Sister Julienne, who’s usually so calm, is finding it hard to adapt to the changes,” Jenny goes on. “The order has taken the name of Nonnatus House with them but Sister Julienne feels that, in some ways, the sisters have left their legacy behind.

PICS: SVEN ARNSTEIN/STAYSTILL/PHOTOSHOT & BBC

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Merry Christmas from YOURS

Sister Evangelina (Pam Ferris), however, is just getting on with it!”

Fans of the original Call The Midwife trilogy by the late Jennifer Worth will know the location of the convent did not change in the books, but for the TV production, moving was a necessity.

The previous location, a former missionary college in north London, was sold to property developers last year so a new site had to be found.

While the drama will continue to film most of its street scenes at the historic Chatham dockyard, the production has relocated to film studios in Surrey that include a grand 19th century manor house where the convent is now set. “It’s a beautiful house,” enthuses Helen George who plays glamorous platinum blonde midwife, Trixie Franklin. “We were sad to leave the missionary college, but it was

damp, had no electricity and was always freezing. It’s warm here!”

Jenny Agutter is also enthusiastic about the new Nonnatus House. “The new surroundings bring a new edge to proceedings. It’s fun to reflect this change with the changes that also occur in the show.”

What else can we expect from the Christmas special besides the change

❙ strap strap ❙ of scene? “The after-effects of the war continue to be felt although it had ended 14 years before,” Helen says. “Trixie and Jenny Lee become involved with a father-to-be who is still suffering from the effects of shell shock from his time as a soldier. He’s petrified about being with his wife as she goes into labour in case her screams of pain remind him of the battlefield. We learn that Trixie’s own father also suffered from shell shock and it’s one of the reasons she became a nurse.It’s good to show there’s more to Trixie than just a boy-mad blonde!”

Another major story this Christmas is the forthcoming wedding of former nun Sister Bernadette, now known as Shelagh, to widower and single father, Dr Patrick Turner. At the end of series two Bernadette renounced her faith and her religious name in order to be with him. “The wedding is supposed to be on Christmas Eve,” Laura Main, who plays Shelagh, explains between takes.

“The episode opens three days before and it’s clear Shelagh’s in a quandary.

She loves Patrick, but feels very awkward about the Sisters and their reaction to her no longer being a nun. She doesn’t want any fuss and

Behind the scenes of a Nonnatus Noel

isn’t even wearing white although she’s entitled to! She will definitely stay completely pure until she’s Chummy cuddles married. If she gets married, that is.” baby son Fred, born at the end of Steven McGann, who plays Dr series two Turner, says. “It gets rocky – as it would do, considering that she’s a former nun. But Patrick is also a man of his time and bound by social constraints. It was very touching to play. These days, when virtually anything goes, we’ve forgotten how intimate simply holding hands can be.”

We’ll have to wait until Christmas night to see if Shelagh marries her doctor and whether the Sisters attend the wedding – but what is sure is that Jenny Lee finds love this Christmas!

The Sisters adjust to life “There’s a developing relationship away from Nonnatus House for her,” says Jessica Raine who plays Jenny. “It’s been nice to play a lighter side of her because we’ve mainly only seen her in a professional capacity and she can be very serious. You may remember her new beau from the end of the last series – it’s Alec, a friend of her old flame Jimmy. Leo Staar, who plays Alec, is very good-looking so it’s Love is in the air for no hardship being romantic! Do they dedicated midwife Jenny fall deeply in love? You’ll have to wait for series three next month!”

Last, but by no means least, this is midwife Chummy’s first Christmas as a mother, having given birth to baby Fred at the end of the last series. “I call her Chummy the Yummy Mummy,” laughs actress and comedienne Miranda Hart.

“She’s still involved with the cubs and bravely agrees to have their Christmas party at her house!” It’s children in hand-knitted jumpers, Ever the joker, Miranda raises a paper chains, and toffees!” laugh by trying to have her cake Some things may have changed and eat it – gloves and all! in this year’s Call The Midwife Christmas special, but others fortunately have not! Catch the programme on Christmas Day, BBC1 at 6.15pm.

Win a Call the Midwife Christmas CD We have five Call the Midwife Christmas CDs to give away featuring music from the last two Christmas specials. To enter, send a postcard marked ‘Call The Midwife CD to PO Box 57, Coates PE7 2FF, to arrive by December 27. The CD

is out now, priced £9.99. ✢ If you don’t want to be contacted in the future by Yours magazine please write ‘No Further Contact’ clearly on the postcard.

Merry Christmas from YOURS

Style

Festive BEAUTY notes

LIFESAVERS Stop frazzled skin spoiling your yuletide celebrations with these anti-ageing skin saviours

By Beauty Editor, Michelle Nightingale

Meet our expert

PICS: JUMPHOTO; ISTOCKPHOTO; GETTY IMAGES; RUTH JENKINSON

Julie Brackenbury is an award-winning aesthetic nurse consultant, Nurture skincare expert, and a member of the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses and the British Dermatological Nursing Group.

ate nights, burning the candle at both ends and generally indulging in a bit too much festive cheer can leave your skin feeling and looking a little under the weather. But whatever your skin complaint, we have a solution to ensure you stay youthful and radiant without missing all the fun!

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Merry Christmas from YOURS

Dry skin

Skin redness

Uncomfortable dry skin is a key concern during winter, particularly over the festive period when we’re rushing about and skin care takes a backseat.

Central heating is a huge trigger for sensitive skin and dashing from shop to shop and from hot to cold environments can leave it irritated.

TRY… Pure Moisture Plus Miracle Balm (£9.50/ 100g, Marks & Spencer), a multi-purpose balm that can be used as a cleanser, mask, or all-over hydrating salve. Formulated with 95 per cent natural ingredients it also contains shea, argan oils and sweet almond.

Try switching from your usual night cream to a face oil for a deep hydrating boost while you sleep. B Enriched Restorative Facial Oil (£15.99/30ml, Superdrug) also contains Vitamin C for an antiageing skin-brightening boost.

Tired-looking skin

TRY… washing your face in warm (never hot) water and avoid harsh exfoliators or toners with alcohol. Use extra gentle products formulated for sensitive skin. The new Pro-Tolerance Anti-Redness programme from Marks & Spencer (priced from £9.50-£12.50) provides immediate relief of redness and sensitivity with its soothing ingredients, but also works to reduce the occurrence of flare ups.

In four weeks, 81 per cent of testers using the cleanser found it reduced the reoccurrence of redness. Prevention is better than cure!

Puffy eyes

With all the rushing about we do at Christmas, no wonder our skin suffers.

Over indulgence and late nights unfortunately go hand in hand with puffy skin. “Alcohol causes water retention and puffiness to the body and the skin on your face,” explains Julie. “Drinking too much deprives skin of vital vitamins and nutrients, which also contribute to puffiness.”

TRY…“A splash of cold water is a quick way to refresh your skin, causing blood vessels in the face to constrict so skin instantly looks smoother and more awake,” suggests Julie. Time Bomb Complexion Cocktail with a shot of B12 (£24/100ml) is like an energy drink for skin! It contains high levels of Vitamins B12 and B3 plus brown algae, to help improve the skin’s micro circulation and give tired skin a boost. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth splashing out on, if you can, for those times of need.

TRY… Products containing aloe vera, which refresh tired skin. We like Green People Eye Gel (£8.50/10ml), which cools, firms and refreshes, and contains ingredients that improve skin elasticity long term.

Dark under eye circles

Dullness The skin renewal process gradually slows as we get older and it’s this that can cause skin to look dull. If you are feeling stressed and frazzled on the run up to Christmas, this stress will make skin renewal take even longer.

TRY… “A gentle facial exfoliator will help remove skin debris and leave it looking much brighter and fresher,” says Julie. “Nurture’s Skin Brightening Facial Exfoliator (£8.45/75ml) contains antioxidant skin nutrients to encourage cell and tissue growth and Vitamin E to lubricate and promote collagen production.” Gentle exfoliation also allows anti-ageing products to penetrate the skin more effectively.

Exfoliate a few days a week, less if your skin is sensitive.

“The primary cause of dark circles under the eyes is from blood leaking from the capillaries and pooling under the surface of the skin,” explains Julie. It isn’t as scary as it sounds, but this skin is thinner, more so as we age, so will show up more.

TRY… Eye creams with caffeine and Vitamins A, E and C, to help strengthen the capillary wall, such as Super Facialist Vitamin C+ Dark Circles Eye Cream by Una Brennan (£12.99/15ml). Eye products containing Haloxyl ,“help loosen the blood fragments under the skin and cleverly reduce the dark appearance,” explains Julie. “Try Nurture’s Illuminating Touch Treatment Concealer (£9.95/2.5ml) with Haloxyl and UV filters. With continued use, it helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the eye area.”

STOCKISTS: Green People 01403 740 350; Marks & Spencer 0845 302 1234; Nurture 0800 072 9510; Superdrug 0845 671 0709; Super Facialist by Una Brennan available at Boots 0845 609 0055; Time Bomb available from QVC 0800 50 40 30 and www.timebombco.com Details correct at time of going to press

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Now visit www.yours.co.uk for more beauty tips and advice

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Next issue: Handcare SOS – YOURS keep your hands looking younger

EVERY FORTNIGHT

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HEALTH &

vitality Meet our expert

Sue Curtis is a certified naturopath and homoeopath with a wide knowledge of natural remedies. She is currently director of Natural Health at Neal’s Yard Remedies visit www.nealsyardremedies.com

our kitchen store cupboard, a few fresh herbs and some essential oils could be all you need to treat all manner of winter health problems without having to resort to visiting your GP. We asked natural health expert Sue Curtis to tell us her go-to recipes for common health problems. They’re all easy to make and should help you cure yourself!

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Ease a cold One of the worst symptoms of a cold is that awful hot, feverish feeling, so you need something to alleviate this. “Ginger contains volatile oils which studies have found have anti-inflammatory properties, ideal for soothing the symptoms of colds,” says Sue. Make a ginger tea by mixing together one teaspoon of grated ginger, the juice of half a lemon and 1 teaspoon of honey and then top up with boiling water.

Take at the first sign of a cold.

Old fashion that really do Treat health niggles with our simple homemade medicines using store cupboard staples

By Rebecca Speechley

Relieve stiff aching joints Rosemary and lavender have been traditionally used to ease the pain of aching joints. “To make a rosemary and lavender infusion for your bath, combine two dessertspoons of fresh rosemary and two dessertspoons of fresh lavender in a glass of boiling water and let it rest for 10-20 minutes. Strain the herbs then add the water to your bath,” says Sue. You could also dilute three to four drops each of rosemary and lavender essential oils to a vegetablebased oil, then add that to the bath.

“Dead sea salts contain magnesium which is thought to help relax tense muscles,” says Sue. “Add a generous handful to your bath along with the herbs or oils.”

Alleviate headaches “If you’re suffering from headaches, aromatherapy can be particularly helpful to ease the pain,” says Sue. “Try diluting a drop each of bergamot, chamomile, eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils in 20ml of a vegetable-based oil and massage your feet to draw the tension away from your head, or use it in the bath.”

Soothe a sore throat “All honeys, but especially manuka honey, are antiviral and antibacterial, which could help to heal your sore throat,” says Sue. “Honey also has an antiinflammatory action on your throat.”

You can swallow a tablespoon neat or in a little hot water and lemon (add a tablespoon of brandy or whisky for a bedtime hot toddy!).

Prevention is always better than cure, so it’s important to try to keep your immune system strong 40

Merry Christmas from YOURS

oned remedies do work!

Boost your immune system Calm indigestion “Menthol, an active component of mint, is partly responsible for the antiseptic and antibacterial properties that make mint a good choice for relieving indigestion and soothing stomach upsets,” says Sue. “Make a fresh peppermint tea to soothe a troubled digestive system. Infuse two heaped teaspoons of mint in a cup of hot water and drink a cup after every meal.”

Make a vapour rub

Beat bloating

If you have a sore throat or a chesty cough, a vapour rub could help to ease your symptoms. “Try mixing a teaspoon of vegetable or olive oil with a few drops of essential oil and gently massage it into your throat and chest,” says Sue. “Try eucalyptus essential oil for a sore throat, and eucalyptus, frankincense and thyme for a cough. Cover your chest with a blanket to help it work.”

Fennel seeds are great for reducing bloating because they assist digestive enzymes after you’ve eaten a big meal. “Infuse a teaspoonful in water for a tea to drink after meals, or carry them around with you in a little bag so you can chew a few when you are feeling bloated,” says Sue.

“Prevention is always better than cure, so it’s important to try to keep your immune system strong,” says Sue. “Compounds in the onion family have been shown to kill viruses, bacteria, parasites and yeast but they are more effective when eaten raw.” Add a clove of chopped garlic or some chopped raw onion to a prepared soup or vegetables after cooking, or put them in salad dressings to get the benefits.”

Turn the page for more natural remedy tips Merry Christmas from YOURS

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Five easy PARTY TREATS A little Highland inspiration goes a long way with these fun party ideas

Savoury Shortbreads The light, rosemary flavour goes wonderfully with a good, strong cheese Preparation time: 10 minutes, plus 30 minutes chilling Cooking time: 20 minutes ■ 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped ■ 75g (3oz) unsalted butter ■ 1/4 tsp salt ■ 75g (3oz) plain flour 78

■ 75g (3oz) mix of Parmesan and Cheddar, grated ■ Large pinch freshly ground black pepper

Merry Christmas from YOURS

Serves 6

Per serving 176 cals

Fat 13g

Sat fat 8.2g

1. Use a food processor for ease here and whizz everything together (or alternatively, beat and mix the ingredients).

2. Roll into a 23cm (9in) long sausage and wrap tightly in cling film. Chill for 30 minutes, to make it easier to work with and aid even cooking.

3. Preheat the oven to 150°C/300°F/Gas Mark 2 and line a baking sheet with parchment.

4. Cut the chilled dough into 20 thin slices and bake on the lined baking sheet for 20 minutes.

5. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.

Seared Salmon with Whisky Mayonnaise

Serves 6

Per serving 90 cals

Fat 6.4g

Sat fat 1.1g

Perfect party nibbles, or a great starter to share Preparation time: 15 minutes, plus chilling time Cooking time: 5 minutes 1. Make the mayonnaise in advance – mix all the ingredients in a small bowl, cover with clingfilm and chill until needed.

2. Remove skin and bones from salmon and cut into large cubes.

3. Mix the dry ingredients and sprinkle over the fish.

1 salmon steak 4. Heat the oil in frying 1 tsp cracked black pan and sear the salmon pepper quickly on a high heat.

1 /2 tsp powdered 5. Pop a cocktail stick ginger into each cube and 1 /2 tsp sea salt serve with whisky 1 tbsp oil mayonnaise.

For the mayonnaise ■ 4 tbsp mayonnaise ■ 1 tbsp tomato ketchup ■ 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce ■ 1 tsp fresh lemon juice ■ 1 tsp whisky ■ 1 tsp parsley, chopped

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Serves 6

Per serving 149 cals

Fat 5.9g

TOP TIP Chill your mayonnaise for at least a couple of hours to allow all the flavours to develop

Sat fat 3.4g

Cranachan Cream Traditionally made with the creamy cheese, Crowdie, instead of cream Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 5 minutes ■ 2 tbsp water ■ 60g (21/2oz) caster sugar ■ 60g (21/2oz) medium oatmeal ■ 100ml (31/2fl.oz) whipping cream ■ 1 tbsp whisky ■ 250ml (8fl.oz) Greek yogurt ■ 2 tbsp fresh raspberries ■ 2 tbsp heather honey ■ Few candied oats

TOP TIP If you can find pinhead oatmeal, use a mix of this and medium oatmeal to give a fine texture

1. Gently heat the water and sugar until golden, and stir in the oatmeal, making sure it all gets covered.

Spoon into a shallow dish and leave to cool.

2. Whip the cream and gently fold in the whisky, yogurt, and some of the raspberries.

3. Spoon into six small glasses and top with the remaining raspberries, some candied oats and a drizzle of honey before serving.

Recipes from A Wee Taste of Scotland, written and photographed by Karon Grieve (www. larderlove.com). Yours readers can buy the book for the special price of £7.99 (rrp £9.99) by quoting offer code YOURS at checkout – visit www.scottishbookstore.com until Dec 31, 2013.

Merry Christmas from YOURS

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0 1 BEST... of the

We know a bit of stately glamour doesn’t come cheap, so we’ve picked the best, and most frequently offered, deals from Secret Escapes – which offers big discounts on amazing breaks for a limited time. ✢ Hintlesham Hall Hotel These properties are often featured in their sale, which we recommend HINTLESHAM, checking regularly! Prices stated SUFFOLK are all per room, and apply This Grade I listed when booking during country house is the sale periods only. toast of Suffolk. Enjoy a superb afternoon tea before a stroll around the grounds – if you’ve got a dog, it can stay for just £15 more!

Sale rate: from £105 per night.

Offers include B&B with/without dinner.

Downton-esque FOUR POSTER BED

hotel stays

Fancy a spell on a country estate? Make your own Downton magic at these fabulous retreats ✢ Matfen Hall Hotel MATFEN,

✢ Bailbrook House BATH, SOMERSET Bailbrook’s 20 acres are just minutes from the centre of the historic city of Bath. It’s the perfect stately home-from-home, with plenty to explore nearby. Sale rate: from £95 per night. Offer includes Classic room B&B, plus complimentary bottle of wine when dining in the hotel restaurant.

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Merry Christmas from YOURS

NORTHUMBERLAND Sir Hugh and Lady Blackett’s ancestral home is a dignified country estate. It’s surrounded by 300 acres of parkland, just half an hour from Newcastle. Dinner is served in the Old Library. Sale rate: from £65 per night. Offer includes Classic room B&B, plus use of the spa and fitness facilities.

✢ Eastwell Manor Hotel ASHFORD, KENT Red ivy, fountains, gravel crunching underfoot…

11th century Eastwell is an idyllic country retreat. Indulge in the hydrotherapy pool, tuck in to award-winning food, or relax in a cosy armchair. Sale rate: from £81 per night.

Offer includes B&B in a Mews Cottage, plus use of gym, pool and Wi-Fi.

AWARD WINNING FOOD

✢ Rushton Hall Hotel and Spa KETTERING, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE A magnificent setting (above), comprising lake, croquet lawn, and stableyard spa. The gourmet restaurant will tickle your taste buds, while beautiful wood panelling and grandiose arches are sure to impress. Sale rate: from £89 per night. Offers include

✢ Best Western Lamphey Court

PEMBROKESHIRE, WALES Close to secluded coastal coves, Lamphey boasts style and state-ofSuperior or State room B&B, ✢ Norton the-art facilities. Venture plus spa and restaurant House Hotel out for a spot of tennis, take a dip discounts. and Spa EDINBURGH, in the indoor pool or simply enjoy the SCOTLAND views of Pembrokeshire National Park.

A countryside gem, minutes from the Sale rate: from £75 per night. Offers include Deluxe Scottish capital. Norton retains its fabulous Double room B&B plus use of spa and leisure facilities.

Victorian staircase, complementing the modern décor. Sale rate: from £89 per night. Offer includes Classic or Executive rooms ✢ Rookery Hall ✢ Guisborough

LORDLY LUXURY

✢ Ardanaiseig Hotel ARGYLL, SCOTLAND If you’re after lochside trails and landscaped gardens before a dram of fine malt whisky, look no further than Ardanaiseig. This West Highland delight sits at the foot of Ben Cruachan Mountain, on the waters of Loch Awe. Sale rate: from £109 per night. Offer includes Garden View room B&B and complimentary bottle of Prosecco!

Hotel and Spa

Hall Hotel

NANTWICH, CHESHIRE Enter wrought iron gates to arrive at a shining example of top digs, and winner of the coveted Four Red Stars at this year’s AA Hospitality awards. Make ours an eggnog by the fire! Sale rate: from £99 per night.

GUISBOROUGH, NORTH YORKSHIRE This Grade II listed estate overlooks the Cleveland Hills. The fire-lit drawing room is a welcome retreat after a grand dinner and a good, blustery walk. Sale rate: from £79 per night.

Offer includes Executive room B&B, plus bottle of house wine if dinner is pre-booked.

Offer includes Classic room B&B and 15 per cent off spa treatments.

PICS: ISTOCKPHOTO; ALAMY

with full Scottish breakfast, and complimentary bottle of house wine with a three-course dinner.

✢ Remember: Keep your eye on the Secret Escape sale, to see what’s on offer when you want to get away. To book your stay at Downton-esque properties like these and more, call 0843 227 7777 or visit www.secretescapes.com

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Now visit www.yours.co.uk for more fabulous holiday ideas

93

❙ star chat ❙

My lessons from life…

Actress Denise Black, 55, who has just said farewell to Emmerdale, talks family, her love of adventure and formation flying ✢ Lucky breaks can change your life

and extended. My two children are grown up now but they were brought up with their cousins. My father’s family was big and, in fact, I took my stage name of Black from one of his relatives – a Viennese Jew called Swartz, which is German for Black.

My real name is Denise Nixon!

I became an actress in 1979 but spent years doing street theatre, which saw me at one point doing formation flying in Lycra tights and wings! When I became pregnant with my first child, I realised I’d have to come off the road and try to get into TV. I did Casualty, The Bill, Sherlock Holmes and then finally got my big break as hairdresser Denise Osbourne in Corrie. That changed everything.

✢ Try to have another string to your bow In addition to acting, I also sing in a band. We’re called Loose Screw and perform feel-good, rhythmic guitar based songs, with lots of harmonies. Folk-rock, really. I’m the noisy showgirl up front! Check us out at www.deniseblack.co.uk

I was brought up in a household of strong women. There were four generations of us – my sister, mum, aunty, grandma and great grandma.

My family hoped I’d become a lawyer or a doctor, something on a par with men, and were a bit disappointed when I became an actress – women had been actresses for centuries – but that changed when I joined Corrie.

✢ Expect the unexpected Doing Celebrity Masterchef nearly killed me; it was terrifying. I made a terrible mistake thinking they were going to help me and teach me to cook, I hadn’t really taken on board how serious a competition it is – I thought they were providing recipes and things. It was the steepest learning curve. When Greg and John

In Corrie with fellow hairdresser Fiona (Angela Griffin), top, and playing a young Pat Phoenix in1998

said, ‘You’re all here to prove what brilliant cooks you are’, I thought ‘Hang on a minute, stop filming!’

✢ Make the most of your time

✢ Count your blessings I feel so lucky to have worked on Emmerdale in the middle of the Yorkshire countryside – it was absolutely stunning. I was beside myself with excitement the first time I went to the village. Everyone was lovely, too. Lesley Dunlop, who plays Brenda, said to me, ‘You’ll love it here. It’s the best job’. I did – and it was’!

Time flies by so much quicker when you’re older. Since I turned 50 my philosophy of life has changed. These ✢ Denise was talking to Alison James. days I don’t put anything off; if you ✢ Emmerdale is on ITV1, week days. want to do something, do it today, not tomorrow – WHAT MADE YOU WHO YOU get going now!

ARE TODAY? My dad was in the navy and he joined up at ✢ Family is 15 as the war had started. He had a real love of all-important travel and adventure and just making-it-up-asI am very much about you-along. I’ve inherited all that from him and I family – both immediate adore sailing.

PICS ITV; REX FEATURES

✢ Strong women can make such a difference