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Hands up, who doesn’t love Alison Hammond? That woman’s chuckle alone is a reason to want to befriend her. And on page 14, she talks to us about her new book: You’ve Got to Laugh: Stories from a Life Lived to the Full. The part of our chat that really made me giggle though, was her comments on dating sites, which she uses: ‘Everyone asks me why I use a picture of Alison Hammond! No one ever believes it is me.’ Well, you don’t expect to find your favourite celeb hanging out on an app, do you? But she does – in fact, she spent six years with a man she met on Plenty of Fish and she’s a fan of Tinder. She is 46. I’m over 50, but it…

Bubbly Scottish presenter Lorraine Kelly spoke recently about the moment her husband told her to seek medical help, after noticing a change in his wife. Lorraine, who has talked openly about her past struggles with the menopause, admitted it was her husband, Steve, not her, who noticed her behaviour had changed dramatically. The TV star, calling on other women to start conversations around the issue to raise awareness, admitted, ‘Everybody’s menopause is different, everybody’s symptoms are different, but it’s about getting as much information as you can. ‘When you go to your GP, don’t be fobbed off, and just say, “I need help”.’ She explained how, when she began her menopause, her husband noticed she’d been feeling ‘anxious’ – but Lorraine initially put it down to the demands of her…

‘Adoption is like gardening,’ Dad would say to me, as he taught me to prune and plant when I was a child. ‘You need discipline to care for and nurture these little seedlings – but if you do, over time, they will bloom.’ That was certainly the case for me. You see, I was found in the bush in Nigeria, when I was just days old, alongside my dead twin sister, by a Save the Children nurse. With no parents in sight, I was taken to an orphanage. My mum, Daphne, had been out in Africa doing missionary work, when she’d met my dad, Rex, an accountant. They had one son, Stephen, but were unable to have any more. So they went to the orphanage – my orphanage – and…

HOW IT WORKS 1 The first step is a full sugar detox: cut out all synthetic sugars, including sugary drinks, sweets and alcohol and switch to whole grains, orange and red fruits and veg naturally sweet and rich in antioxidants and lean protein. After just a few days you’ll notice a change in your taste buds: you will be more sensitive to the sweetness receptors in your digestive system, meaning you’re less tempted to eat sugar. 2 ‘Eat every three hours to keep your blood sugar and energy levels stable,’ advises leading UK nutritionist Dr Marilyn Glenville, author of Natural Alternatives to Dieting (marilynglenville.com). 3 Eliminate stress that may raise cortisol levels and stimulate your appetite by taking a CBD supplement that works on the body’s nervous system, helping to soothe and…

PET OF THE WEEK Name: Bailey Owner: Tara, from Her tfordshire Breed: British Bulldog CALLING ALL PETS! From funny to cute, we’re looking for more pets to star in our ‘Day in the Life’ series. If you think your animal is the perfect match, email bestpets@hearst.co.uk with details of your pet, plus a series of snaps.*…

1 TOO GOOD TO GO This fast-expanding platform launched in 2016, and tackles food waste by making surplus, unsold food from supermarkets, cafés, restaurants and independent food retailers available to consumers at heavily discounted prices. Users browse participating venues by name, location and time of day. There’s an element of surprise as the food comes in a lucky dip ‘magic bag’, each costing a third of the retail price. It’s used in 15 countries by 32.7 million users – including 4.3 million in the UK. COST: Free 2 KARMA Karma helps users rescue fresh food that would have otherwise been thrown away from restaurants, cafés and wholesalers. It’s similar to Too Good To Go, with food offered at up to 50 per cent off, but without the surprise element so…

The news last week, that the Metropolitan Police is dropping the inquiry into the allegations against Prince Andrew by his accuser, Virginia Giuffre, must have come as a small crumb of comfort for the Duke. While Andrew and his loyal ex-wife, Sarah, must be relieved that at least the Met – which declared ‘no one is above the law’ – is ceasing to investigate Giuffre’s claims, following a review, the embattled Duke is still in a very difficult situation. The 61-year-old Prince is unable to escape the fallout from his friendships with the late convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell – who is in prison in New York awaiting trial for sex trafficking. And Andrew still faces his own legal battle with Giuffre, 38, who filed a civil case…

HOW COULD HE DO THIS?! I am so annoyed with my son I could kill him. He’s been dating a lovely girl for three years – she is like a daughter to me – and they are both 24. I was overjoyed when they told me she was pregnant and their little girl is due at Christmas. But he’s just come and admitted to me that he has got another girl pregnant, too – someone he hardly knows and just met on a night out. She is determined to keep the baby. He wants me to go with him to break the news to his girlfriend, I am dreading it. What can I do? Isla, Dundee This isn’t the scenario any of you wanted – but your role is clear.…

MELTING GHOST COCKTAIL This is such a fun and tasty cocktail to make for a night of frivolity in the company of your favourite ghouls. Make sure to use small fluted glasses for this one as the candy floss ghost will need to sit above the drink to avoid it melting before it hits your tongue. SERVES 2 85ml coffee liqueur85ml chocolate liqueur60ml single [light] creamCrushed iceFreshly grated nutmegWhite candyflossBlack edible paint EQUIPMENT Cocktail shaker2 small flute glassesSmall paintbrush 1 Pour the coffee and chocolate liqueurs and cream into a cocktail shaker and add some crushed ice. Shake until chilled and combined, then strain into 2 small flute glasses. Grate some nutmeg on top to garnish. 2 Roll the candyfloss into a ghostly shape and paint the eyes with black…

THE CRIME: Two girls, brutally raped and murdered – but the one man who the evidence pointed to was acquitted by the jury. Would Angus Sinclair ever face justice? THE CASE: Helen Scott was a country girl, with beautiful blue eyes and an unforgettable smile. Christine Eadie was popular and well-loved. The two girls were friendly, welcoming. On 15 October 1977, they were out with friends. Both 17, they were trying their luck in the bars of Edinburgh’s High Street – and in the World’s End pub, they were successful at securing a drink. The two young women were last seen leaving there at closing time, walking down the Royal Mile. But by the next morning, they still hadn’t returned home. Concerned, Helen’s parents reported their daughter missing, but it…

HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS 5.50pm, ITV2 It’s time to head back to Hogwarts! A house-elf warns Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) against returning to school, but he ignores it. When students and creatures begin to get petrified, Harry is surrounded by mystery. LET’S BE COPS 12.05am, Channel 4 Two best friends, Ryan and Justin, attend their college reunion dressed up as cops. But trouble ensues when they are presumed to be actual police officers – and are made to fight gangsters. With Damon Wayans Jr and Jake Johnson. A TIME TO KILL 11.25pm, BBC One In this thriller, Carl Lee Hailey (Samuel L Jackson) murders the two white men who raped his 10-year-old daughter – then faces a trial and asks white lawyer Jake Brigance (Matthew McConaughey) to defend…

WHAT’S YOUR GREATEST WEAKNESS? Ferrero Rocher. Nick bought some and I did the entire box in two nights on my own, he didn’t get a look-in! I’m all right as long as I don’t open them. It’s the same with Kettle Chips. HOW DO YOU TEND TO UNWIND? I play online Catan, Civilization II and Gummy Drop! I have to really focus, so I can’t be playing a game on my phone at the same time. I also love Netflix’s Squid Game, though I can only watch half an hour because it’s so tense and traumatic!…

1 PUMPKIN FUN! Paradise Wildlife Park has uploaded the most gorgeous snap on social media of one of its lions having a play-around with a fresh pumpkin, writing, ‘Pumpkin FUN with our lion pride!’ Who knew lions were so into Halloween? Cute (from a safe distance)! 2 Who wowed the crowd? These celebs have got the blues – but only when it comes to red-hot fashion! Davina McCall, 53, shone in a strapless number from Prabal Gurung, while Frankie Bridge, 32, kept it slinky in a strappy Zara frock. Meanwhile Oti Mabuse, 31, is making an impact on and off the dancefloor – we love this bodycon style from ASOS. Strapless, slinky or bodycon – these celebs’ styles all impress us like a bolt from the blue! 3 IS YOUR POOCH HALLOWEEN-READY?! We love American…

Best columnist and BBC Radio 2 DJ Vanessa Feltz, 59, will gush quite readily that her ‘grandbabies’, as she calls her three grandchildren – Zekey, seven, Neroli, six, and AJ, two – mean the absolute world to her. She also loves a party. So, why wouldn’t she help push the boat out for her daughter Allegra’s little one Neroli’s sixth birthday bash on Sunday 10 October – a tea party full of flowers, girlie pink decs and with a Tinkerbell theme, attended by Neroli and 19 (yes, 19!) little friends, plus mum Allegra, proud granny Vanessa, her partner Ben Ofoedu, Vanessa’s other daughter, Saskia, and her family… Tell us all about your granddaughter Neroli’s 6th birthday party… Neroli Joy (Joy after my late mum) wanted an ‘elegant tea party’ –…

‘I’m extremely conflicted by Madonna. One minute, I think she’s a tragic wreck who’s had too much plastic surgery, who should get her slippers on and sit down with a nice sherry and her knitting. The next minute, she’s my heroine for being 64 and not giving a flying fudge cake what anyone thinks of her, who still wears what she likes, when she likes, where she likes, has five kids, a boyfriend less than half her age, still tours and performs wearing clothes that would suit a porn star a fraction of her age, while dancing like a teenager. What’s more, she has zero crepey skin on her upper arms, solid thighs, magnificent breasts and not a line on her face. Obviously, much of those physical attributes are the…

We all know that a good night’s sleep is one of the keys to looking good, but achieving it is another matter. Not only do certain beauty products work better at night, but there are some geared to help you relax, ready for slumber. Read on… 1 STREAMLINE YOUR SKINCARE When you’re tired, the last thing you want to do is spend ages on skincare. So prioritise. If wrinkles are your worry, TheBeautyWorx Retinol Recovery Night Cream, £9.99, tackles symptoms such as age spots and wrinkles. Apply SPF the next morning. If you’re suffering with perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms like night sweats and dehydration, Prai x M&S MenoGlow Super Hydrating Sleep Creme, £28, has a cocktail of ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, to boost moisture and collagen levels without overloading your…

Hauling my enormous rucksack onto my back, I kissed my husband, Mark, now 62, goodbye and walked away from our home in Pennard, near Swansea. Neither of us was able to contemplate that I wouldn’t be back for a few years. It was January 2019, and I was heading for the Welsh coast. This was no weekend jaunt or camping holiday. I was on a mission to walk the coastline of Britain and Ireland – something no woman had ever done. I wanted to do something big in memory of my wonderful in-laws, Alma and Kingsley. Alma was a typical Fifties housewife, with a great sense of humour, while Kingsley was an academic who loved being outside. They were a lovely couple, so it devastated us all when they developed…

Ultimate Mac & Cheese Prep: 15 minutes Cook: 20-45 minutes Serves 4 (with leftovers for another day) 300g dried macaroni1 tbsp olive oil1 red onion, finely chopped150g mushrooms, halved and sliced15g unsalted butter2 tbsp plain flour850ml whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)100g mature Cheddar cheese, grated, plus extra if baking160g broccoli, stems finely sliced and florets cut into bite-sized pieces200g frozen or canned sweetcornSea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 If you would like to bake the macaroni cheese, preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/gas mark 6. 2 Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil over a medium heat, add the macaroni and cook for 5-10 minutes, according to packet instructions until tender. Strain the macaroni, reserving a mugful of the pasta water. 3 While the pasta is…

‘Fat is not an aesthetic issue,’ says Dr Ellie Cannon. ‘But it is a health problem. And a big one.’ These are hard-hitting words, but, with obesity rates higher than ever, ones we need to start listening to. The statistics show plainly just how bad the problem is. The Health Survey for England 2019 estimates that 28 per cent of over-18s in England are obese and a further 36.2 per cent are overweight. That’s nearly two-thirds of the adult population. Obesity is usually defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above, while a BMI of between 25 and 30 is defined as ‘overweight’. A healthy one is anywhere in the range of 18-25 And whilst much has been written about obesity in children (a shocking 9.9…

TEETH! That thing we all dread happened last week – you know what I’m talking about? You’re eating something more challenging than your teeth can really cope with and suddenly, there’s that ominous CRACK! In my case, the challenge my teeth couldn’t cope with was a certain brand of cracker, what I call a heavyweight cracker, not one of your flimsy numbers. This is the kind of cracker you could tile a roof with. Anyway, I heard the crack and the next thing I knew, I’d swallowed half a tooth and presumably the entire filling. All that was left was a jagged half-crater. As I ran my tongue around it, the hole felt enormous. Fortunately, the broken tooth was top row, back left, so not too dreadful when I smiled…

WORRIED OVER HRT AND BREAST CANCER RISK I am struggling with the menopause and I’ve been reading a lot about the benefits of HRT. However, I know that there can be a problem if you have a history of breast cancer in the family. I do, but only two generations back on my father’s side. Is that going to be something that stands in my way? Carol, Stockport It’s good to remember that most women will have a family history of breast cancer – because breast cancer is relatively common anyway. But, in fact, only about 10 per cent of breast cancers are genetic, so the risk is relatively small and there is no strong evidence that taking HRT increases your risk, even with a family history of breast cancer.…

It was two years before the trial of Angus Sinclair finally began. Prosecutors alleged that, on the night of the murders, Angus Sinclair and Gordon Hamilton had coerced the girls into a motor vehicle and held them against their will. It was thought Sinclair then drove Christine to Gosford Bay, where he attacked her. Then, the prosecution argued, he drove Helen a few miles away, before attacking and killing her in the same way. Sinclair pleaded not guilty to all charges. The prosecution brought forensic experts to the stand who claimed the DNA samples found on both women were identical and that the samples of DNA found on Helen’s coat matched that of Angus Sinclair. As Gordon Hamilton was already dead, his siblings had provided DNA samples, which were also…

Phyllis has long campaigned for dementia charities, as sadly, she lost both her mum and mother-in-law to the condition. She previously said: ‘Margaret, my mother-in-law, had always been this funny, outgoing character. Then we started noticing things going wrong. At first you brush it off… Then she started to get distressed by her confusion, stopped going out. Effectively, we lost her long before she died. My father–in-law, who cared for her, struggled. I believe it killed him, too.’ But another cruel blow was to come – when Phyllis’s mum was diagnosed with dementia in her 80s, and the family were forced to put her in a care home. ‘It was difficult because we knew she wouldn’t have wanted it. But she celebrated her 90th birthday there, and it was lovely.…

KOPPARBERG ROSÉ CIDER, SAINSBURY’S It’s officially cider season, so what better way to celebrate than with a Kopparberg Rosé – an apple cider, pink in colour and refreshingly fruity, £2. sainsburys.co.uk FRUIT CIDER SIX-PACK, FUNKY PIGEON The perfect gift for an Autumn birthday, this six-pack of flavour is £19.99. What’s not to love? funky pigeon.com REKORDERLIG STRAWBERRYLIME CIDER, TESCO At £2.20, this bottle of sweettasting fruity goodness is the perfect little autumnal treat! tesco.com…

THE UNDOING In one of the hit thrillers of last year, Grace (Nicole Kidman) and Jonathan Fraser (Hugh Grant) are living their best lives in NYC. Overnight, however, a chasm opens in their lives: a violent death and a chain of terrible revelations changes everything. Set in Autumn, Nicole’s stylish wardrobe alone will leave you feeling seasonal. Grab the boxset, £14.99, at warnerbros.co.uk THE FALL, SERIES 1 – 3 Don’t be fooled by the name. This is no gushy series about the beauties of Autumn – it’s perfect Halloween viewing, as brooding Jamie Dornan stars as a notorious serial killer, stalking the streets of Belfast. Also stars a brilliant Gillian Anderson as the detective determined to catch him. £19.49, from amazon.co.uk DOWNTON ABBEY THE COMPLETE COLLECTION Does it get any…

best magazine, ISSN 0954-8955, is published weekly by The National Magazine Company Ltd, t/a Hearst Magazines UK, c/o USACAN Media Dist. Srv Corp at 26 Power Dam Way Suite S1-S3, Plattsburgh, NY 12901. All rights reserved. No part of may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. Not to be resold, lent, hired out or otherwise disposed of by way of trade at more than the recommended retail price (subject to VAT in Republic of Ireland) or in a mutilated condition. Printed by York Mailing Ltd, Brinkworth Rush, Airfield Business Park, Elvington, York, YO41 4AU. The publishers, editors and authors accept no responsibility in respect of any products, goods or services that may…

Dame Judi Dench has taken part in Who Do You Think You Are? – and the award-winning actress was blown away by what she discovered. Her episode of the genealogy series, which airs this Tuesday, begins with the 86-year-old remembering her father Reginald, who she ‘still misses dearly’, and concentrates on his heroic war service. ‘I had known about his Military Cross, but being told the details and actually seeing a photograph of where it had happened was deeply moving,’ said the star. ‘My father, like so many men who survived the 14-18 war and the Second World War, rarely spoke about it.’ A solider who severely injured his knee aged 18, Judi recalls him having serious problems with his knee for most of his life – and even recalls…

Did you know that wrinkles or flushed cheeks could be down to diet? Certain problems such as lines and thinning skin are often a sign you may be overloading with sugar. As for those age spots on your hands, it may be a sign of tucking into too many late-night snacks. New research says low levels of vitamin C and zinc may inhibit the skin’s ability to repair itself, leaving it dull. Of course, the occasional treat isn’t bad – but when it becomes a regular daily habit, they may eventually add years to your skin. Good food choices will keep skin youthful and also help reduce stress and better sleep, all requirements for a healthy complexion. Here’s how to beat your common food triggers. THE PROBLEM: ACNE AND BREAKOUTS Triggers:…

LIBRA 24 September – 23 October Librans like comedy star of The Proposal Ryan Reynolds and Hollywood legend Jeff Goldblum will attract attention wherever they go. Their talent will be appreciated by a charitable organisation and helping to organise a fundraiser will further increase their popularity. CAPRICORN 22 December – 20 January Take care of yourself. Burning the candle at both ends could compromise your health. Being unable to carry out all your obligations could result in a loss of income. If you are recovering from a long-term illness remind yourself you are only human. Take steps to get back on the path to wellness. ARIES 21 March – 20 April Your household might benefit from an open discussion. There is something you need to get off your chest and…

Stand-in Good Morning Britain host Richard Madeley, 65, has reportedly signed a ‘£200,000’ deal to join 2021’s I’m A Celebrity… which is set to return to Gwrych Castle in North Wales next month! Judy Finnigan’s husband – who has done his fair share of reality TV over the years, including Channel 4’s The Circle – has been rumoured to be entering the jungle for years, but according to a report in The Sun, Richard, a huge fan of the show has, it seems, decided to go for it. Last week, he added fuel to the fire when he responded to Susanna Reid’s teasing on GMB with, ‘I may be going in, or I may not be going in.’ The frequently hilarious dad-of-two is no stranger to I’m A Celeb…, the show…

Get the Look TOP TIP! This pumpkin banner would also work well for any Autumn celebrations.…

You’ve no idea how tricky it is being a tooth fairy these days. I used to see myself as a bringer of joy. Those sleepy early morning smiles when the darlings discovered my gift beneath their pillow would melt the stoniest heart. In training, The Venerables would tell long-winded sagas about leaving ripe fruit or pretty flowers in exchange for little teeth. Not in these modern times. Now it’s all about money. As an apprentice Greenwing, a wise old Viking Fey instructed us in the art of ‘tand-fe’, tooth fee to you and me. Did you know Vikings paid children for their teeth and warriors wore them as amulets to protect them in battle? Knowing baby teeth possessed such powerful qualities was a revelation to me. Then, in the Middle…

CUT PRICE, BUT NO BARGAIN! EAMONN: I found myself working in Manchester for a few days last week and, whilst there, I realised I needed a haircut. Only 100 yards from my hotel was a very nice-looking salon. Four years ago, I decided to stop being ridiculous about what I was paying for a simple haircut. A man of my years hasn’t really got much to cut – so paying £65-plus for a bit of a trim was, in my opinion, profligate and my custom ever since has gone to various Turkish barbers, who gave me the same result for at least £45 cheaper. But I was walking on a crutch and I didn’t want to go far, so convenience won, even though I was bound to be stung for…

Charlene’s kids are young and she has a busy career – how does she do it? ‘I’ve resigned myself to the fact that I’ll probably never get a good night’s sleep again! But it’s a balancing act. My other half is instrumental, I wouldn’t be with a guy who doesn’t understand it’s 50/50,’ says Charlene. ‘I’ve also never subscribed to the pressure on women to “do it all”. I drop the ball occasionally, but that’s OK – my kids are fed, watered and loved.’ As for keeping fit, she says, ‘I eat as well as I can. I run, box, do HIIT training. And drink juices – anything for a quick boost of energy. I’m a massive ball of energy. All my school reports used to say “Charlene has a…

Coronation Street actress Sally Ann Matthews has had two stints on the cobbles. She first appeared from 1986 to 1991, then left to try other roles and raise her family, before returning in 2015. Her character, Rovers Return landlady Jenny Connor, is centre-stage next week in the most expensive stunt in the show’s history. Sally Ann, 51, who lives in London with husband Nick and their two sons, James, 22, and Louis, 20, told us of facing her fears, her passion for Ferrero Rocher and online games… Sally, you turned 50 last year – how did you feel? As soon as you turn 50, your whole body changes. I haven’t put weight on, but my shape is completely different, which is annoying! But I wasn’t bothered about the actual age.…

TRAVEL SNAPSHOT Built by the Knights of St John in the 16th Century, the honey-hued limestone fortifications of Valletta look like a setting from Game of Thrones and are an impressive sight after a three-hour flight from London. Since becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hogging the limelight as European Capital of Culture in 2018, the city has smartened up its act and is refreshingly clean and well-presented. Best explored by foot, you’ll discover museums, squares and churches at every turn, with glimpses of the coast down narrow side streets descending to the sea from Republic Street. Malta’s just 17 miles long and 9 miles wide, so you’re never more than 15 minutes from the sea. INSIDER’S GUIDE Head to the harbour front (via an outside lift at Upper…