Table of contents for Issue 972 in Closer

A couple of weeks ago Pen Farthing was making headlines everywhere for “Operation Ark” – his mission to rescue 173 animals from Afghanistan. People donated thousands of pounds so he could charter a plane to fly the dogs and cats, which he’d made his responsibility, to safety. But there was controversy too, with people accusing him of putting creatures above people – something he fiercely denies. This week, we’ve spoken exclusively to Pen’s wife Kaisa, who feared she’d never see her husband again, and she reveals the nightmares they’ve both suffered since thinking about the loved ones – the friends and staff – they were forced to leave behind. Miraculously, some have escaped and Kaisa says she and Pen are working round the clock to rescue the rest. We desperately…

Closer’s psychological therapist Emma Kenny believes Coleen is changing her looks as a form of “battle armour” ahead of the trial, but warns it’s a slippery slope. She says, “Coleen knows all eyes will be on her during the upcoming trial and she wants to look rejuvenated and at her best – having a brand-new look is like a form of battle armour for her, an extra layer of confidence before she hits the stand. “But changing your look is a slippery slope – she shouldn’t use it as a quick fix to make her feel more confident when she’s going through stressful and difficult times. Coleen is still young and attractive and doesn’t need these enhancing treatments. “Also, Wayne seems to have a wandering eye, so that may have…

Sarah Harding’s devastated mum Marie confirmed the heartbreaking news last week that her daughter had “slipped away peacefully” in her sleep. Thousands of fans, along with her celebrity friends – including Davina McCall, Geri Halliwell, Jordan and ex Calum Best – plus her Girls Aloud bandmates posted touching tributes on social media. DEVASTATED Kimberley Walsh wrote, “Beautiful Sarah, this hurts so bad. To wake up and know that you are really gone is too much to bear. Hearing your infectious chuckle was one of my favourite things in the world. Your fire burned so bright and you loved, lived and laughed so hard. My heart is broken.” Meanwhile, Nadine Coyle said, “I am absolutely devastated!! I can’t think of words that could possibly express how I feel about this girl…

Broxanne Checkley, 35, lives in Brighton with her partner, Paul, 35 and their Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Riley, 11. She says, “Before the pandemic, running a live music venue was not only fun, but an easy way to drink socially without anyone noticing I had a problem. “My venue had to close throughout all the lockdowns. The toll on my mental health was huge and, with nothing to do, I started drinking earlier in the day, and for longer. I’d easily drink the recommended limit of 14 units a week, in a day, up to four times a week – having a couple of bottles of prosecco and some cocktails in a night. “Then on 2 July, I got so drunk that I couldn’t work in the venue’s cafe the next…

By the time her father was granted a conservatorship by the courts in 2008, Britney had released six albums, and later held a four-year Las Vegas residency between 2013 and 2017 – making her millions. But in 2018, she refused to perform any longer while under the conservatorship. In her court statement, Britney told a judge that she’d been forced into performing even when sick and faced threats she would be sued if she didn’t. It has emerged that Jamie has earned £3.6million as a “salary” for being Britney’s conservator, as well as taking a percentage of all of her ticket sales and merchandise. While fans hope she’ll make a return to her career and sit down for a tell-all interview with Oprah, pop culture expert Nick Ede believes Britney…

Actress Sheridan Smith has found love again – two months after ending her engagement to ex Jamie Horn. Sheridan, 40, last week confirmed she’s dating a former flame, actor Alex Lawler, 39. Sharing a video of them on social media, she wrote, “So pleased this fitty I dated back in the day (20 years ago) is back in my life! Life works in mysterious ways. Miss u Mr L.” The pair had reportedly been an item for a few weeks before making things official. Last week, a source told Closer, “It’s very early days, but Sheridan admits she’s falling quickly for Alex. She thinks he’s been a great support and comfort since her break-up from Jamie.” Sheridan and Jamie, 31 – who share one-year-old son Billy – met through the…

Two years after insiders revealed they were talking about starting a family, Hunger Games actress Jennifer Lawrence is expecting her first baby with husband Cooke Maroney. The Oscar-winner was first linked to the 37-year-old art gallery director in June 2018, and they married in a lavish ceremony in 2019, with celebrity guests including Adele, Amy Schumer, Kris Jenner, Sienna Miller and Emma Stone. Last week, the actress was spotted out in New York on a lunch date with a pal, with signs of a tidy bump. Jennifer – who previously dated Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, and Skins actor Nicholas Hoult, recently said of her husband, “This is The One. He’s the greatest human being I’ve ever met, so I feel very honoured to become a Maroney.”…

Packing on the PDA, Vicky Pattison was in romantic bliss with her boyfriend Ercan Ramadan as they celebrated his birthday in Croatia last week. The lovebirds were seen kissing and giggling before Vicky, 32, posed for pictures taken by her boyfriend. The couple, who have been dating since early 2019, were marking Ercan’s 38th birthday, in which Vicky surprised him with a fun-filled day on a boat followed by a romantic dinner. Sharing the pics on Instagram, she wrote, “Surprised my birthday bear with a beautiful day out yesterday and I’m still not over it to be honest, I want to see every inch of the world with you, but for now, I’ll settle for the green list countries. Love you babe, thanks for being you.” The ex-Geordie Shore star…

Business analyst Sarah, 32, from Stockton-on-Tees, says, “When I read about what Alex Phillips has been through, my heart broke for her. I know exactly how it feels to be betrayed like that. “In November 2017, I ended my engagement to my boyfriend of five years, after I’d realised I couldn’t marry him. “When we’d met seven years earlier, I thought he was perfect, but over the years he became very controlling – dictating what I wore, how I spent my spare time and isolating me from my friends and family. When I told him it was over, he begged me to stay, but I moved out of the home we shared and back in with my parents. “Then, two weeks after we split, he asked me to come over.…

She stole the show during her mum’s recent appearance on This Morning, excitedly jumping across the famous sofas and delighting viewers. And when we arrive at Ferne McCann’s house in Essex for our photo shoot, her three-year-old daughter Sunday is just as entertaining and adorable. As both of them cuddle up for the camera, Ferne admits the hugs have been in plentiful supply as Sunday was preparing to start school. While she’s thrilled to see her daughter thrive, she admits she can’t believe how fast she’s growing up. Ferne, 31, tells Closer, “Sunday’s leaving nursery – she’s been there since she was eight months old, she’s nearly four now and she’s starting school. It’s crazy! It’s a massive milestone for her, and for me too. I’m looking forward to the…

• TV chef Ainsley says, “A traditional French clafoutis is made with cherries, but I love the unique taste of blueberries.” GO VEGAN YOU DON’T NEED MEAT TO MAKE A MEAL OF IT... SRIRACHA CRISPY TOFU SERVES 4 • 300g basmati rice • 5 tbsp cornflour • 2 x 280g firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes • 200g tenderstem broccoli, cut into 3 • Vegetable or sesame oil • 3-4 tbsp sriracha (or chilli sauce) • 1½ tbsp maple syrup • 6 tbsp soy sauce • 1 tbsp sesame seeds • 2 spring onions, thinly sliced (optional) • Handful fresh coriander • 1 lime, cut into 4 wedges STEP 1 Cook the rice according to the pack instructions. STEP 2 Put the cornflour in a bowl and season with…

There’s so much awkwardness when dating – the first message, first date, first kiss, the first time you sleep together. Most uncomfortable of all is the first time you bring up sexual health. I don’t need to reiterate how important this chat is, but I fall into the 52 per cent of daters who find it tricky to talk to dating partners about sexual health. And, according to dating app Badoo, as many as one in five has had unsafe sex because they were concerned about killing the mood. Firstly, as you know, that’s dangerous. Secondly, it makes me feel sad. If someone doesn’t want to practise safe sex, then do not sleep with them. Anyone who respects you will do so, and if they don’t, why would you want…

As a nation, we’re drinking 75 million bottles of gin every year, but rather than popping your empty bottles in the recycling bin, you could be selling them on eBay, where there’s huge demand for them for upcycling, wedding and home décor projects. Data analysts at Lifestyle Packaging looked into it and found that pretty bottles can make a pretty pound! For example, Mermaid Pink Gin, which comes in a textured blush bottle, sells for £11.98, the classic Gordon’s London Dry Gin (which is one of the cheapest options at £15.50 for 70cl) sells for £4.65, while Eden Mill Golf Gin bottles can be snapped up for £8.82. Social media is full of craft projects with TikTok videos and Pinterest moodboards showing people how to turn empty bottles into lamps,…

VEGAN CHOCOLATE CAKE SERVES 12 • Plain flour • 400g caster sugar • 80g cocoa powder • 80g bicarbonate of soda • 1tsp salt • 300ml cold water • 150ml vegetable oil • 2tbsp white vinegar • 160ml orange juice • Zest of 2 oranges • 1tsp Nielsen-Massey vanilla extract • 40ml Cointreau (or water) • 250g vegan chocolate • 225g full-fat coconut milk (from a can) • 1tbsp sweet orange marmalade • 2 orange slices • 3 chocolate chunks STEP 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160fan/gas mark 4. Grease and line 2 x 20cm/8inch loose-bottomed sandwich tins STEP 2 In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa, bicarbonate of soda and salt. Mix gently to combine. STEP 3 In a large jug, mix the cold water, oil,…

How was it being on the show? OTI MABUSE: Fantastic, I loved it! I’ve watched every episode and I was so excited to meet the Queens. MATT LUCAS: It was on my bucket list. My years of wearing tights are behind me, so I was both relieved and delighted to be asked to be on the panel! It was one of the most entertaining days I’ve ever had. KATHY BURKE: I’m a big Drag Race fan, so it was absolutely brilliant to meet RuPaul and Michelle Visage – and I loved the very “kind to old ladies” lighting. H FROM STEPS: This show means so much to me! It champions diversity and equality, and encourages all of us to be our authentic selves. I want to do drag now! CHARITY…

CODE CRACK THE BIG CROSSWORD CRISS CROSS SUDOKU – EASY SUDOKU – MEDIUM WORD SEARCH CLUES & ARROWS GUESS THE FILM STILL A) THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON B) BLUE JASMINE NAME THE STARS 1) LAURA WHITMORE 2) KRISTEN STEWART GUESS THE CELEB A) ALISON HAMMOND B) DAVID HARBOUR WORD LINK A) EXTRA B) DAY C) DEED D) CHIP E) MUSIC F) RISING SPOT THE DIFFERENCE CLOSER MAGAZINE TERMS & CONDITIONS 1. These terms and conditions together with any specific rules displayed or referred to on the relevant page of Closer magazine in respect of a prize draw or competition (a “Prize Draw Notice”) and H Bauer Publishing’s General Terms and Conditions (available online at http://www.bauerlegal.co.uk/competition-terms.html) are the prize draw rules (the “Rules”) that apply to each and every…

Their relationship with the royal family has been fractured since they left for America, with a spate of interviews and bombshell claims creating increasing hostility between them. However, reports last week claimed that Prince Harry and wife Meghan Markle were gearing up to return to the UK, and had even requested a meeting with the Queen. And as it had been previously reported that the couple had wanted their three-month-old daughter Lilibet to be christened at Windsor, fans speculated on social media as to whether the couple were plotting a christening during the rumoured visit. While Harry, who turns 37 this week, has been back twice this year, the potential UK trip would be the first for Meghan, 40, since she left in March 2020 to set up home in…

Sarah suffered from secondary breast cancer, which occurs when breast cancer spreads to another part of the body. In around 5% of women, breast cancer has already spread by the time it has been diagnosed. Make checking your breasts a part of your routine. You can check in the shower, in front of a mirror, or just when you wake up in the morning. It is important for all women to check their breasts regularly – so encourage your family and friends to as well. Make sure you always get any new or unusual breast changes checked by a GP. • For more information, visit breastcancernow.org…

After a traumatic two weeks, Kaisa Farthing breathed a sigh of relief when she learned that her husband, Paul – known as Pen – had finally touched down on British soil. Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan on 15 August, he had been pleading with the British government to help him in his rescue mission, the now famous Operation Ark. Pen, 52, had vowed not to leave the war-town country without the 71 staff who work for his charity, Nowzad, which reunites servicemen with the animals they befriended while serving, and more than 200 animals in their care. But tragically, while Pen and most of the animals were evacuated, the Taliban refused to let his staff on the flight. Pen’s evacuation without his staff has caused much controversy. Critics…

After 13 years of silence, Britney spoke out against her ordeal for the first time in court in June, and her revelations sent shockwaves across the world. Comparing her conservatorship to “sex trafficking”, she accused her guardians, including dad Jamie, of taking control of her day-to-day decisions, which included everything from painting her cupboards to shopping for basics, and said they would occasionally strip her of her possessions, including her phone, cash and passport. And after so many years of being in a “psychological prison”, Closer’s psychological therapist Emma Kenny warns Britney will be vulnerable. Emma says, “She hasn’t been able to do anything for herself for a very long time, so it could be difficult for her to adapt to a new normal. “Going from having no power, to…

Emily In Paris actress Lily Collins shocked fans last week when she revealed she’d wed director Charlie McDowell in a low-key, secret ceremony. Lily, 32, shared a picture from their big day on Instagram, and wrote, “I’ve never wanted to be someone’s someone more than I do yours, and now I get to be your wife... I love you beyond.” Lily – daughter of pop legend Phil Collins, who attended the ceremony in Colorado, USA – and new husband Charlie, 38, were said to be dating for a year before getting engaged last September. Charlie’s mum – American actress and Step Brothers star Mary Steenburgen – described the wedding as “a dream”.…

After a testing three months, Chrissy Teigen celebrated 50 days of sobriety last week, which friends say has helped keep her mental health “on an even keel”. In an Instagram post, the model wrote, “This is my longest streak yet! I still dunno if I’ll never drink again but I do know it no longer serves me in ANY way. I don’t get more fun, I don’t dance, I don’t get relaxed. I get sick, fall asleep and wake up sick, having missed what was probably a fun night.” The admission comes after historic tweets from Chrissy, 32, apparently cyber-bullying a then 16-year-old Courtney Stodden, now 26, in 2011 resurfaced in June – including a shocking post that urged Courtney to take her own life. After being criticised, Chrissy said…

• Once someone has sexually explicit images or videos of you, it’s hard to control how they use them. Even if you are in a relationship, think carefully before you share any sexual images with somebody. • If you become a victim of image-based sexual abuse, report the pictures to the site they’re being shared on. Facebook and Instagram have policies to help prevent those type of images from being shared on users’ profiles. • Social media can remove pictures quickly when they are reported, but that could leave you without proof of a crime – make sure to take screenshots before your images are lost. • Go to the police. Revenge porn is now a criminal offence in England and Wales. Create a timeline to show exactly what has…

Ferne’s close friend James “Arg” Argent, 33, recently lost 4st following gastric sleeve surgery to remove 70 per cent of his stomach. His battles with his weight have been well-documented and Ferne, who has supported Arg amid his troubles, says she’s proud of her former TOWIE co-star. She says, “Arg is doing amazing. I saw him last weekend, he’s losing weight and is looking healthy. He’s keeping up with swimming and is back into exercise. He’s one of my best friends and I just want the best for him. Life is never going to be plain sailing and there will be ups and downs along the way, and that’s the journey Arg has had. I’m so proud of him, he’s come out the other side and is leading a healthy…

INSIDE JESS’ FRIDGE • Eggs • Ketchup • Tabasco hot sauce • Parmesan • Dairy Milk chocolate • Diet Coke • Greek yoghurt • Mayonnaise • Cream cheese • Margarine • Cheddar • Houmous • Broccoli • Blueberries • Raspberries •Kids yoghurts •Prawns •Salmon •Smoked salmon •Mozzarella •Oat milk •Avocado •Spinach •Chilli sauce • Apple juice •Orange juice • Rosé wine JESS How much do you spend per week? It used to be so much – around £120. Since splitting with my fiancé Dan [Lowry], it’s about £60 for me and my son Presley, two. I’ve become better at being able to cook something out of what I’ve got and it’s made me see how much I was overspending. Describe your daily diet... I’m not good with breakfast, and sometimes…

YOUR GUIDE TO EMOTIONAL ISSUES AND FAMILY LIFE WITH PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPIST EMMA KENNY Is your child anxious or refusing to attend school? Ask them why they feel so unhappy there. They could be struggling with a change of teacher, or have been put in different sets from their friends. If they have transitioned from primary to secondary, they may feel overwhelmed. If these are the reasons, reassure them these feelings won’t last. Remind them of similar situations they’ve faced, such as when they started primary school or began a new activity. Help them identify how they managed to make friends and become accustomed to change. If they preferred being home educated and are feeling separation anxiety, reassure them that this is entirely normal and think of some rewards they can…

CHEF AND TV PRESENTER AINSLEY HARRIOTT, 64, ON HOW HE LOOKS AFTER HIS BODY AND MIND MAKE SOMEONE SMILE EVERY DAY... it doesn’t cost a thing. When you smile and laugh with someone else, it releases happy endorphins. I enjoy being positive and having a feel-good factor about me. Even from the days I ran kitchens, there were no pans or swear words being thrown about. I try to inject joy in whatever I do. THE RIGHT FOOD CAN IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH... and the key is a balanced diet. Seeds and nuts boost our mood and are full of antioxidants. Salmon contains amino acids, which can increase our serotonin [the hormone that regulates anxiety and happiness]. IF I WANT TO FEEL CLOSER TO NATURE... I do some gardening, plus it…

IN THE NEWS... SECOND-HAND SEPTEMBER WITH OXFAM AND SIENNA MILLER SAVE MONEY – AND THE PLANET September signposts a big movement in fashion as actress Sienna Miller is encouraging everyone to shop second-hand this month to raise awareness about the impact of fast fashion. She says, “These small changes can make a huge difference. And rooting around in a charity shop is like hunting for treasure. Be a magpie!” Each week, 13 million items of clothing end up in landfill, so shop smart! Oxfam is home to an array of amazing second-hand items – there’s also a designer boutique and a kidswear section online, so you don’t have to leave the sofa. Otherwise, with 561 shops in the UK, pop down to your local store to see what vintage treasures…

KATE’S MUST-HAVE MOISTURISER USED BY: Kate Bosworth, Ashley Graham, Julia Roberts OUR VERDICT: If you suffer with dry skin, this really will make an instant difference. A combination of lanolin, sunflower and almond oils creates a luxe formula that overhauls parched complexions. You can use it on your face (applied sparingly), but it works on cracked heels, dry elbows and over-washed hands, too. NAOMI’S INSTANT FACIAL CHEAT USED BY: Naomi Campbell, Selena Gomez, Chrissy Teigen OUR VERDICT: You know that radiant glow that celebs have? Yes, it’s limiting sugar and necking green juices, but this acid peel helps! It uses a blend of AHA and BHAs to melt away dead cells to leave skin looking luminous. Ideal the night before a big event. GWYNNIE’S FUSS-FREE CLEANSER USED BY: Gwyneth Paltrow,…

PRETTY SPOONS Pretty bakeware that’s both useful and lovely is worth investing in. You’ll want to keep these measuring spoons on display! OLIVER BONAS £26.50 DOTTY APRON Keep your clothes clean with this spotty cotton apron. Not only is it super practical, but it’s money well spent! MACMILLAN.ORG.UK £13 CUTE TIN Spread the love and let everyone know you’ve put your heart into your bake with this cute tin. No soggy bottoms here! MORRISONS £5.50 CLASSIC BOWL Fold, beat and stir your favourite ingredients in this stylish enamel bowl. Use it as a fruit bowl between bakes. HABITAT AT SAINSBURY’S £10 COOL CUTTERS Baking is best served with a side of fun and these cookie cutters take the biscuit. Treat time has never looked so good. Get kids involved with…

HOLLYOAKS IT’S ALL OVER It’s time for Mercedes to tell Bobby the truth about Sylver wanting to call time on their marriage, and there’s not a whiff of the whole “treat ’em mean, keep ’em keen” thing here – Merc is doing everything in her power to win him back. This does involve throwing a load of cash at Fergus, to pay off Sylver’s debt – but he’s strangely unimpressed when she tells him what she’s done. Elsewhere, Cher is at rock bottom after being rejected by everyone and things take a dangerous turn when she has nowhere to go. EMMERDALE CHARITY OUT COLD There’s a power cut at The Woolpack, forcing Chas and Marlon to shut up shop. Fast forward to a hooded figure breaking in and forcing the…

MUST READ The Chateau (CATHERINE COOPER) Aura and Nick don’t talk about what happened in England. They’ve bought a chateau in France to make a fresh start, and their kids need them to stay together – whatever it costs. The expat community is welcoming, but when a neighbour is murdered at a lavish party, the couple don’t know who to trust… Chillingly brilliant. BEST DAY OUT Alton Towers Scarefest Now we are midway through September, it’s time to start planning for the Spooky Season and what better way to kick it off than at Alton Towers Scarefest. Taking place on 8-10 and 15-31 October, the resort plays host to all things Halloween as it reveals the four new totally terrifying Scare mazes and Trick O’ Treat Town. And of course,…

14-20 SEPTEMBER IF IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK This year could be inspiring and uplifting. However, a lot depends on how you play the game of life. If you do everything for others, you might feel let down when they are not as nice as you. Seek out people who are worthy of your love. You deserve the best! THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN VIRGO 23 AUG-22 SEP This week is a potential litmus test for your most important relationships. If you’re involved with someone who is shady, they are likely to act even shadier this week. However, if you are feeling all loved up, it could be the real deal! Single? Mingle! Visit yasminboland.com for your daily horoscopes. LIBRA 23 SEP-22 OCT This week could be pretty intense. Don’t…

Supporting husband Wayne at the Soccer Aid charity football match in Manchester last week, Coleen Rooney drew attention from fans, who were shocked by her new look. Pictures of the mum of four smiling from the stands racked up hundreds of comments from social media users musing over how different her face looked. One wrote, “New teeth, or lips… something has changed, she looks different,” while another posted, “What has she done to her face?!” Others said, “Omg her face!!!”, and, “Doesn’t even look like her!” And sources have told Closer that Coleen, 35, has splashed out on non-surgical treatments as she prepares for her high-profile High Court trial against WAG Rebekah Vardy, which could take place in just a few months’ time. CONFIDENCE LIFT The source says, “Coleen knows…

Fresh royal scandal was brewing last week when it emerged that Prince Andrew had joined his mother in Balmoral to reportedly “avoid being served papers” relating to Virginia Roberts Giuffre’s attempt to sue him for “sexual assault”. Lawyers are alleged to have made “multiple attempts” to serve him with the papers after it emerged that Virginia, now 38, made a US civil claim against the Duke, 61, for “sexually abusing” her 20 years ago, when she was under 18 – something he strongly denies. It’s the second time Andrew has made a trip to Balmoral this summer, having already visited his mother there in August with ex-wife Sarah “Fergie” Ferguson. And Paul says that, as well as the predicament with Harry and Meghan, the Queen will be under tremendous pressure…

A recent study found that the average time UK women say they’ll wait until they have sex with a potential new partner is eight dates, with 30 per cent saying they wouldn’t expect a kiss on the first date. That really surprised me! I don’t think you have to wait to get physical with someone. My ex Adam and I hit it off and got physical straight away, and we ended up together for six years! I think physical attraction and chemistry is a big part of compatibility, so why wait? And let’s be honest, a guy isn’t going to hang around forever. If he’s not sleeping with you, who else is he sleeping with? I’ve just got back on the dating scene after lockdown, and I’ve been on a…

She looked incredible as she enjoyed a belated 41st birthday celebration with friends last week on a private island near Tahiti – which she jokingly renamed “Rebel Island” for the lavish bash. And Rebel Wilson looked every inch the Hollywood glamour-puss as she partied with close pals, including her former Pitch. Perfect co-stars Anna Kendrick, Brittany Snow, Chrissie Fit and Shelley Regner. The friends posted pictures from a private jet and on a beach, with Rebel wearing a series of sexy outfits. HEALTH VOW The new-look star turned 41 in March, but her planned celebrations were postponed due to the pandemic. After rising to fame as “fat Amy” in Pitch Perfect, the once-curvy comedian decided to change her life, vowing to make 2020 her “year of health”. And she did…

In a shock move, Jamie Spears last week filed a petition to end his daughter’s conservatorship after 13 years in control of her life, career and £45million fortune. In court documents, Jamie’s legal team wrote, “If Ms Spears wants to terminate the conservatorship and believes that she can handle her own life, Mr Spears believes that she should get that chance. As Mr Spears has said again and again, all he wants is what is best for his daughter.” It comes three months after Britney, 39, spoke out in court for the first time against the controversial guardianship, describing it as “abusive”. The court-order has seen her deprived of almost every life choice – from buying a coffee and going out unsupervised, to being able to marry and have a…

Last week, Britney’s boyfriend of five years, Sam Asghari, was spotted browsing engagement rings in Beverly Hills – just months after Britney said in her court statement that she wants to marry him. She has also revealed she hopes for a baby with Sam, 28 – but had been banned from having her IUD (contraceptive coil) removed. And insiders say Britney – who is mum to Sean-Preston, 15, and Jayden-James, 14, with her ex-husband Kevin Federline, and currently has partial custody of them – is desperate to start a family as soon as possible as she turns 40 in December. But relationship expert Alex Mellor-Brook tells Closer he would advise against going full-throttle with marriage plans as her life as she knows it is about to change so dramatically. Alex…

Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson has rekindled her romance with ex Harry James – who she split from in 2018 after 16 months together. The pair were spotted at a luxury resort in Antigua, and while they appeared to be keeping things under wraps, they both posted snaps on social media from the same location. The holiday comes just weeks after Jesy – who dated Love Island’s Chris Hughes and Our Girl actor Sean Sagar after her breakup with musician Harry – insisted, “I’m not looking for a relationship any more.” Their trip was said to be “a great way” for the lovebirds to reconnect, with friends insisting Jesy, who left the band earlier this year, is “in the best place.”Jesy, 30, is due to release her first solo…

WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THIS YEAR’S BAKERS? PRUE: It’s the usual mix – no one baker is like the other. As judges, Paul and I keep our distance in order to not be too chummy with them. However, inevitably, as they stay longer you do get to know them and they’re such interesting people – you want to be friends with them. ARE THEY A TALENTED BUNCH? WILL WE SEE SOME AMAZING SHOWSTOPPERS? PAUL: The standard this year is the highest I’ve encountered. It’s incredible, and you’ll see that from the off. PRUE: Just count the handshakes! WERE THERE ANY BIG DISASTERS IN THE TENT? PAUL: There was a bit of collapsing going on! PRUE: And the most over-flavoured bake I’ve ever had on Bake Off. It was…

Whether you want to Boost your mind, body, soul, finances, relationships, love life or style, we’ve got recommendations for things that actually work. Scan the QR code for more tips! With the new school term in full swing, more workplaces opening up and restrictions eased (for now at least), things are beginning to feel more “normal” than they have for a long time. That makes now the perfect opportunity to reassess what you want from your future and nourish your relationships. “This is a great time to take stock,” says life coach Kerry Hales (kerryhales.com). “Reflect, listen to yourself, and ask, ‘What do I really want from here on in?’ You can live a life that’s far more connected to who you really are.” From detoxing your relationships to having…

DR CHRISTIAN GIVES HIS TAKE ON THE HOT HEALTH TOPICS OF THE WEEK A campaign has been launched to challenge the sentiment that menopause isn’t a big deal. The posters include messages such as, “Lost your mind? 60 per cent of women suffer brain fog in menopause” and, “Lost Your Job? 10 per cent of women quit work due to menopause” – with sufferers pointed in the direction of The Menopause Charity for help. Menopause absolutely shouldn’t be shrugged off. We need to have conversations about it. DON’T STRUGGLE Although it happens to all women, it shouldn’t be dismissed as something you just get on with. It’s sometimes described as a “female hormone deficiency” and while that’s factually true, it makes it sound like a disease, when the menopause is…

My immediate family is plant-based. We would love for everyone to stop eating meat, but we don’t judge those who do. That’s why I was surprised by new research, which found that 38 per cent of vegans and vegetarians will only date someone who follows the same diet as them, and over half of millennial vegans and veggies wouldn’t invite a meat eater to a social occasion. DON’T JUDGE OTHERS When I met my husband, he was a meat eater who felt there was no way he would ever change. His kindness is unending and his generosity of spirit changed my own and my children’s lives for the better. If I hadn’t been open to him because of his eating habits, my life would have been less happy. Over time,…

HELPING YOU SPEND WISELY, SAVE MORE AND EARN BETTER SLASH FOOD BILLS & WASTE Shockingly, in the UK, we waste 6.5 million tonnes of food every year. That’s a lot of wasted money – and perfectly good grub! The OLIO app connects you with your neighbours and local businesses so you can share food that would otherwise be thrown away. You can list items you have that you won’t be able to consume (if you’re about to go on holiday, or you’ve grown way more veggies than you can eat, say) and also search for items in your area from neighbours or local businesses, like the bakery or corner shop, for items they haven’t sold at the end of the day. To date, more than 17 million portions of food…

INSPIRATION YOU’LL LOVE! SPOTLIGHT ON… THE LITTLE BOTANICAL Perfect for sending as a gift or to perk up your WFH desk, The Little Botanical is your one-stop shop for all kinds of indoor and outdoor plants, from mini succulents to big leafy statements! As well as being responsibly sourced and delivered in recyclable packaging, choosing a plant from the family-run business is super easy as you can filter by where in your room you’d like it to sit and how big you’d like it to grow. Each buy comes with a pot without an extra charge, too. TRY THIS… • Why not raise money for a helpful cause while eating your baked treats? Charities like Macmillan have great fundraising packs to turn your soirée into a good deed. See macmillan.org.uk…

CODE CRACK Every number in the grid stands for a different letter. We’ve given you the word GIN to get you started. Fill in all the 1s, 2s and 3s and you’ll be able to start guessing other letters. All 26 letters of the alphabet appear at least once. Cross off the ones you’ve used on the list below GUESS THE FILM STILL NAME THE STARS With the help of our clues, rearrange the letters in the words below to make a celeb’s name 1 Don’t leave this presenter on an Island... MATURE AIR HOWL 2 This American actress’ favourite time of day is Twilight RAWEST KNITTERS THE BIG CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Newspaper’s feature writer ➒ 7 Rod Hull’s bird ➌ 8 – - – - – - – Ardern,…

NEW SERIES 1 STRICTLY COME DANCING UNLEASH THE GLITTERBALL! SAT 18 SEPT, 7.45PM, BBC1 Bringing glitz, glamour and glory to Saturday nights – Strictly returns for its 19th series. This is the launch show (the Lives start on the following weekend – Sat 25 Sept). A total of 15 celebrities have signed up and this year’s couples will be revealed tonight. On the judging panel are Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse and Craig Revel Horwood. Joining them is former professional dancer Anton Du Beke, standing in for US-based Bruno Tonioli. Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly return to host the main event. Aceness! DID YOU KNOW? Spin-off show It Takes Two is back from Mon 27 Sept, with (Strictly pro) Janette Manrara replacing Zoe Ball – who’s stepped down as a presenter.…

Tallia makes a new BFF in the lift. They’ve just got so much in common – spooky! Chauffeur-driven limo? Not for Toff – she’s so posh she always pushes the boat out for awards season. Lydia puts on her “interested” face as a fan bores her with her holiday snaps. “...and this was the buffet – they did ice sculptures every day!” YAWN! Daredevil Katie prepares to make an entrance by sliding down a bannister into the awards arena. Hope she was wearing her best knickers! For god’s sake, HRVY, stick to the brand! You should have written, “wl, lst nt flt lk a drm”! The award-winning This Morning team audition for the next series of Doctor Who by squeezing into the NTA’s TARDIS – or is that the lift?…