Closerの 11 April 2017 の目次

Spring is traditionally the time when we start thinking about making the most of our homes – whether that’s moving, redecorating or decluttering. That’s why this week (starting on page 47) we’ve got eight pages of brilliant interiors ideas to inspire you. Former Strictly dancer Ola Jordan invites us into the Kent countryside house she shares with husband James, Linda Barker suggests easy ways to create calm and we’ve got some great ideas for designer style on a budget. And if you fancy treating yourself, don’t miss our exclusive 10 per cent off at Dunelm, plus a chance to win a £200 gift card. Enjoy! LISA BURROW CLOSEREDITOR@CLOSERMAG.CO.UK…

Danielle Lloyd opened up about being in a two-year abusive relationship she had with an ex – who has never been named – during her teenage years for Dangerous Love: A Comic Relief Special in 2009. Following her final attack, Danielle lost consciousness and woke up surrounded by blood. She says: “I’ve been reading about the Mel B situation every day. I’d heard things over the years about her and Stephen and then she stepped out on X Factor covered in bruises. Shockingly, it just shows you what can go on behind closed doors. “I know from past experience it is really difficult to leave an abusive relationship because you feel really controlled and manipulated by that person. She must have felt really scared to have…

GEMMA COLLINS, 36, reportedly quit TOWIE after a psychic told her she was “going to walk away from something.” JORDAN, 38, married Kieran after a psychic said she’d end up with a “Kevin.” Jordan said: “Kieran’s name is close.” CHLOE SIMS, 34, consulted psychic Sally Cudmore for help with her relationship with Elliott Wright in 2015. ANTHEA TURNER, 56, used famous psychic Jacky Newcomb to contact her late sister Ruth last year. KERRY KATONA, 36, revealed she visited a psychic following her split from second husband Mark Croft.…

They spent last week on a romantic trip to Paris together, as Mark Wright joined wife Michelle Keegan while she shot her latest Lipsy collection. The trip marked a change for the couple, who have struggled to find time alone. Pals say the pair – who were forced to spend most of last year apart due to work schedules – are now determined not to repeat history and want to spend more time together. A source says: “Mark and Michelle call 2016 their “year from hell” and realise a lot of the issues in their marriage stem from them not spending enough time together. They’re both trying hard to keep their relationship on track and are determined not to repeat their past mistakes.” As Michelle prepares for another stint away…

Closer psychologist Emma Kenny says: “People who catfish are usually insecure, socially awkward and isolated. They often pretend to be someone else as they’re unhappy with their lives or how they look, and long to be loved. The internet gives them an opportunity to be whoever they want to be. Most of the time, people who catfish never intend to get to the point where they’ll be found out – and they often genuinely mean the nice things they say to their victims. But the rush they get through these interactions can be as addictive as drugs or alcohol – making it hard to stop. Stricter laws may be a deterrent, but these people need help to gain social skills so they’re confident to form relationships without feeling they have…

Last week, it was revealed that actress Patsy Kensit, 49, had turned to dating app Tinder to find love, after her profile hit the headlines. Now her inner circle say she’s mortified. The star’s profile showed a picture of her looking to the side, with the description “Patricia, 49.” A source says: “Patsy’s devastated that she was called out. She quit the app immediately and says her last chance to find love has been taken away.” Patsy has been divorced four times after high-profile marriages. Her first marriage to singer Dan Donovan in 1988 lasted two years, and was followed by a four-year marriage to Simple Minds singer Jim Kerr. Her third marriage to Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher lasted from 1997 to 2000, and her fourth to DJ Jeremy Healy…

This month marks the 15th anniversary of Botox, how crazy is that? It used to be the case that people didn’t admit to having it – now in Beverly Hills, it’s like getting a manicure or pedicure. People will come to my clothes store Alene Too and say: “Oh , I’m getting my Botox done at 11am,” like they’re getting their hair done. While the concept of injecting toxin into your face is a little scary, I’ve been having it for a long time – but I don’t overdo it. Although I’ve seen plenty of people who do! I don’t think it makes you look younger, just less tired. Also I don’t feel it’s that necessary for people under 40. I think fillers is where it starts to get scary,…

Dr Christian says: “There appears to be a misconception over what was said to Gemma on TOWIE , because you can freeze eggs no matter how many you have, even if you have a low egg count. “Gemma shouldn’t worry about taking the morning-after pill or having a miscarriage in the past, as this doesn’t affect fertility. She can still concieve naturally, however lifestyle does play a part in getting pregnant and weight is one of the main contributors for fertility issues in women. Losing weight often helps with regulating periods, so it’s important that your BMI is in a healthy range. Very overweight women can have problems with the carrying and delivery of a baby, too. “Other lifestyle factors have an influence – smoking, binge-drinking and a bad diet…

Footballer’s wife and mum-of-four Rebekah Vardy was the latest victim of body-haters, when trolls dubbed her “huge” two months after giving birth to son Finley in January. But the 34-year-old has now hit back, saying: “I have a wobbly tummy, big legs and wrinkled skin. I’m proud of what my body achieved.” Rebekah, who is married to Leicester City and England striker Jamie, has also spoken out about suffering postnatal depression with her second child, Taylor, six, and thinks there’s unrealistic pressure on women to get their bodies back after giving birth. Closer speaks to other celeb mums who refused to rush into shaping up……

She gave birth to her second daughter Siera in November 2015, and Imogen Thomas admits her body will never be the same again, but she says she isn’t worried because her life is all about her children. The former glamour model, 34 – who is also mum to Ariana, four – tells Closer : “My body has changed so much since having my girls. My stomach, hips and boobs will never be the same – but I won’t beat myself up. I’m not naturally stick-thin and I used to worry about getting into shape again, but I’ve decided not to be too critical as it’s not realistic to snap back after two kids.” Size 10 Imogen lost her 2st of baby weight in around six months with a high-protein diet…

Their romance hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons last week, after Stephen Bear swore on TV and was accused of Tweeting vile comments about his exes’ private parts. But surprisingly, despite this latest scandal, his girlfriend Charlotte Crosby insists she’s still desperate to have his baby. The Celebrity Big Brother winner turned the air blue as he dropped the F-bomb live on This Morning and then sprayed a can of silly string over the set. Just hours later, an offensive post appeared on his Twitter feed comparing Charlotte’s genitalia to his former flames – Ex On The Beach’s Jemma Lucy and Geordie Shore’s Vicky Pattison – which he then claimed a hacker had posted. Jemma immediately lashed out, accusing Charlotte of posting the offensive Tweets. She raged: “When…

WHO WORE IT BEST? Ferne McCann vs Tallia Storm This ’70s-inspired New Look two-piece is abs-olute perfection. TV host Ferne shows just a sliver of flesh in a longer-length crop-top, which she styles with a gold necklace; while singer Tallia goes for a skimpier cut, and injects a designer touch with a Louis Vuitton clutch bag. VERDICT It’s a tough call, but extra points go to Tallia for braving a shorter-length crop-top. STYLE CRUSH! RAINBOW-TASTIC Danai Gurira, 39 Looking a million miles away from her zombie-killing alter-ego Michonne, Walking Dead actress Danai shows off her stellar style in this multicoloured ensemble from new designer Rosie Assoulin. We love how Danai has paired this eye-catching two-piece with a retro bag and silver heels. Paris Jackson, 19 She ruffled a few feathers…

1 MAKE A ZEN FIRST IMPRESSION It’s the opening to your home, so spruce up your front door for a welcoming first impression. Paint it in a calming neutral colour and load up on artificial plants for a soothing face lift. FAUX PLANT, M&S £55 2 CHILD-PROOF YOUR HOME Stepping on Lego can make even the calmest of mums irritable. Create a feature out of colourful storage baskets behind sofas or in children’s rooms. They might even enjoy tidying up… IKEA £2.50 3 CREATE COSINESS Dark colours may look dramatic, but don’t underestimate the cosy feel they bring, especially in bathrooms and living spaces. Mix with low-level lighting, complementary prints and metallic accessories. FLOOR LAMP, M&S £89 4 REJUVENATE WITH A RUG Stripped floors and tiles look amazing, but sometimes…

Drinks are often healthy people’s downfall. We forget to count them when we’re watching our weight, even if we are aware of foods that are bad for us. We all know we should swap sugary fizzy drinks for sugar-free versions (and always have them with food, not between meals, to stop them making you feel hungry) but there are plenty of other sneaky ways drinks can trip us up. Here’s my guide to healthy beverages... AVOID SALT IN HOT CHOCOLATE Yes, salt! A recent report found that one hot chocolate brand was as salty as seawater – and a mug contained more salt than a bag of crisps! Manufacturers have been gradually adding more salt and sugar to foods and drinks, so we’ve got used to the taste. Check traffic…

TV’s Sarah Willingham reveals how to take control of your finances & make the most of your cash “I’m living in a council flat in Poole, but having recently lost my dad to cancer, I want to move to Watford so my son Eric can live nearer his dad. I would struggle to afford a privately rented flat because my work is unreliable. I’m a freelance PR and, although I worked on the Brexit campaign, I’m sometimes without work. At those times I have to rely on tax credits and I can barely afford my nine-year-old son’s bus fare. “I may be lucky enough to get a council house swap if someone in Watford is looking to move to Poole, but it seems unlikely. “I was depressed when Dad died…

I have said it for years; sex promotes intimacy and bonding. Now new research has found that sexual satisfaction remains elevated for a full 48 hours after sex, and that this “afterglow” influences relationship quality in the long run. If you feel your sex life is lacking, speak to your partner about it – talk about fantasies and how you can up your intimacy. Trying to keep that sexual zing alive helps maintain a satisfying partnership, but there are other tools at your disposal, too! WAYS TO INCREASE YOUR BOND • DEAL WITH RESENTMENT Feeling valued and respected is a must. If you and your partner have gone off the boil, chances are you are hoarding resentments. You should sit down for 30 minutes each week to discuss feelings and…

IF IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK   It’s all-change for your relationships. If you’re with someone and you’re not happy, it could be the year you sort things out or decide to move on. If you’re with someone and all is well, this year could see you ironing out any little niggles. THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN ARIES 21 MAR – 20 APR It’s a big week for exploring connections with others as Venus ends her retrograde cycle. What matters most to you when it comes to your relationships? This is the time to move on from any that aren’t what you’re seeking. Find out where the Full Moon is affecting you – call 0906 7511 677* TAURUS 21 APR – 21 MAY This is an important time for you…

‘She’s a wreck – she’s petrified of Stephen’ Despite the shocking end to her marriage last month, Mel B lived up to her strong persona, attending the press launch for America’s Got Talent and posing for photographers in LA. But, last week, Mel submitted damning court papers, accusing her ex of psychological and physical abuse over their 10-year marriage – claiming he forced her to have threesomes, repeatedly beat her and got their nanny pregnant. A BRAVE FRONT Now the former Spice Girl has obtained a restraining order to keep Stephen Belafonte, 41, away from her and her three children. Sources say that, despite trying to put on a brave front, Mel is at breaking point as she gears up for what she fears will be a bitter and contentious…

She’s made no secret of her desire to have a third child, but in an emotional episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians last week, Kim Kardashian revealed she wouldn’t be able to carry another baby. However, insiders reveal broody Kim’s determined to find other ways to complete her family. Breaking down in front of pal Jonathan Cheban on the reality show, she revealed: “The doctor says for sure that I can’t carry another baby.” The devastating blow came after Kim, 36, had extensive surgery on her uterus following two difficult pregnancies. She was diagnosed with life-threatening condition pre-eclampsia when pregnant with three-year-old daughter North, and later suffered placenta accreta – where the placenta remains attached to the womb – following the birth of 16-month-old son Saint. A source says:…

Looking happy and content together last week, onlookers could have been forgiven for thinking exes Danielle Bux and Gary Lineker were back on as they took a leisurely stroll near Gary’s London home – which pregnant Danielle has reportedly moved back into. The friendly exes – who split in January last year after six years of marriage – are rumoured to be living back together in their marital home as the Welsh model prepares to welcome her first child with American lawyer boyfriend Nate Greenwald. But the former couple appeared to poke fun at the reports when Danielle, 37, posted a Tweet that read: “I missed you sunshine,” to which Gary replied: “But I thought you’d moved in with me?” The pair – who reportedly split over dad-of-four Gary’s refusal…

If you’re worried a profile may not be genuine, always report it to the hosting site. Get Safe Online suggests avoiding people who commonly do the following: • Refuse to give out personal info, but ask you lots of questions. • Use overly romantic expressions such as “walking down the beach holding hands” or “sleeping under the stars” – they are often preying on lonely people looking for love. • Start sentences with “am” instead of “I am,” as they try to avoid making things personal to them. • Ask for travel expenses to visit or donations for a bogus charity.…

She sensationally revealed on live TV last week that she is having a boy – and Danielle Lloyd tells Closer that she’s thrilled with the news now that she’s had time for it to sink in. The new arrival – her first child with fiancé Michael O’Neill – will be a baby brother for her three other sons, Archie, six, Harry, five, and George, three, from her former marriage to footballer Jamie O’Hara. When Closer visits her at her beautiful Birmingham home, Danielle looks the picture of health – glowing from her pregnancy, tanned from her latest trip to Dubai with her girlfriends, and grinning with excitement over the news. Danielle beams: “I’m having another boy! I was shocked at first – I couldn’t believe I was having another! But…

“I GET UP AT 6AM BECAUSE I TAKE A LONG TIME TO WAKE UP MY BRAIN AND I NEED A LITTLE TIME TO MYSELF. I’ll have a coffee and check the news. My husband [businessman Mauricio Umansky] comes down and we hang out, then we wake up the kids [Alexia, 20, Sophia, 17, and Portia, eight – Kyle also has daughter Farrah, 28, from a previous marriage] at 7am. I WORK OUT SIX DAYS A WEEK. Sometimes I’ll leave my car after the school drop-off and loop this very steep hill, before driving back. LATER, I’LL CHECK IN ON MY STORE. If I’m not there, I’m either filming Real Housewives or my scripted show American Woman. I’LL EAT A LIGHT LUNCH. I have to eat 300 calories every two to…

Full-time mum Louise Hill, 38, is fanatical about her dogs – Lola, 12, Lulu, nine, and siblings Lolly and Larry, six. Since she got Yorkshire Terrier Lola 12 years ago from a breeder, she’s spent over £40k a year on her alone – Lola even has reiki therapy and massage sessions as well as a wardrobe full of doggy designer clothes and a £5k hand-made bed. She estimates she’s spent £750k on her dogs and believes not a penny is wasted. And Louise – who’s mum to two-year-old twins Isabella and Jacob – admits she even prefers her dogs to her husband of five years Dan Hill, 35, a TV presenter and property developer. LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT Louise, who lives in Essex, says: “The kids and the dogs will…

SUZANNE SHAW: ‘Life’s too short to worry about size’ After gaining 3st while pregnant with her second son Rafferty, who was born last October, Suzanne Shaw says life is too short to worry about having a flat stomach. “My tummy was just like blubber,” admits the singer, 35 , who lost her baby weight over six months and is now a size 8 . She adds: “Having a baby is a wonderful gift. Life is too short to be worrying about your dress size. My priority was feeding my family nutritious food.” And now Suzanne believes that, after taking her time to get back in shape, she’s feeling better than ever. She says: “I’m feeling great and have so much more energy now. I’ve toned up all over too, which…

They’ve made no secret of their blossoming month-long romance after being snapped together on a string of dates in New York. Now insiders say a “smitten” Jennifer Lopez is already talking marriage, telling pals her boyfriend Alex “A-Rod” Rodriguez could be The One. Singer Jennifer, 47, who has been married three times, admitted last year she wouldn’t rule out another trip down the aisle, saying: “I’m not saying marrying again is out of the question – but then nothing in my life is out of the question.” A source tells us it’s the real deal with former baseball star A-Rod, revealing: “Jennifer is totally smitten. She falls in love very quickly and has already introduced him to her mum. She’s telling everyone Alex is The One.” The singer, who has…

SIMON: ‘ Eric is going to be a BGT judge one day’ Head judge and music mogul Simon Cowell, 57, reveals Eric – his three-year-old son with partner Lauren Silverman – loves visiting the BGT set. He says: “Eric enjoys the auditions. The first time he came he found it scary with the big red Xs. Now he understands the show and I’m like: ÔDo you like it? Don’t you?’ He’ll be doing this one day.” His bromance with fellow judge David Walliams is still going strong in the latest series. Simon adds: “I really do like him, he makes me laugh. He’s so annoying at times, but it’s always more fun than not.” ALESHA: ‘ David is more outrageous than ever!’ After five years starring on BGT, Alesha Dixon,…

“I used to live in London but I moved to Kent because that’s where James is from. I really love it here – the countryside is so calm and quiet, and we enjoy being away from the madness and noise of the city. “We moved in almost six years ago and it was tricky to find pieces for the home that James and I both agreed on – we have quite different tastes. We spent a lot of time together through work and never really argued, but when it came to making decisions on tables, chairs and curtains, it was surprisingly difficult! “I didn’t really have a strong idea of what I wanted before we started. I think if I did it again, I wouldn’t go for so many florals…

Refreshing your home this season is easy with Dunelm’s new spring-summer collection of three key looks. The fresh and delicate “Secret Garden” is inspired by the blooming countryside, “Honesty” is casual and cosy while “Elements” has a more sophisticated Scandi influence with a contemporary fun vibe. To celebrate these three summer styles, Closer readers can enjoy a 10 per cent discount on purchases over £40 either in-store or online for home delivery. Plus enter your details at dunelm.com/closer for the chance to win a £200 gift card. Elements: Leaf Wallpaper, £10; Jodi Cut Out Shade, £32; Plain Dye Slate Oxford Pillowcases, £4.99 each; Plain Dye Housewife Pillowcase Pair, £3.99; Hello Sunshine Square Cushion, £12; Sunflower Double Duvet Set, £18; Ochre Knitted Pom Pom Throw, £45; Jasper Two Drawer Bedside Table,…

IN THE NEWS ON THE PLUS SIDE One of the best curve collections to hit the high street is back with a brilliant new drop. River Island’s latest Plus offering is packed with stylish pieces that take their lead from the brand’s main range. From basics to wedding-friendly frocks, this range – available in sizes 18 to 28 – is designed to put style ahead of size with figure-flattering cuts and gorgeous prints as their hero buys. The floral trousers are our absolute favourite piece in the collection – they can be easily dressed down with a graphic tee and a pair of trainers, or given a sassy spin with a silky cami and heels for a date night. Prices start from just £6 , so there really is no…

• MasterChef winner Dhruv says: “This recipe is simple to prepare and evocative of Indian street food.” ADZUKI BEAN CHOCOLATE PUDDING MAKES 6 STEP 1 Whisk 3tbsp cornflour and 2tbsp water in a small bowl and set aside. STEP 2 Blend 200g cooked adzuki beans, 80ml water and 120ml unsweetened almond milk, until smooth. STEP 3 In a pan, whisk 120ml unsweetened almond milk, 2tsp vanilla bean paste, 60ml agave nectar, 45g unsweetened cocoa powder, the puréed adzuki beans and cornflower mix, until smooth. STEP 4 Simmer for 8–10 mins, then cool for 10 mins. STEP 5 Divide among 6 serving cups, cover, and refrigerate overnight to set. Top each with a raspberry before serving. Enjoy. • Power Pulses by Tami Hardeman (DK, £16.99). 110 CALS 1.5G FAT 10G…

“Everything was jigging around and everyone was saying: ‘You’ve lost so much weight,’ but I was thinking, ‘You’ve got no idea what’s going on underneath.’ They removed a stone of excess skin. I [now] have two seromas [fluid build-ups] in my leg wound and it’s weeping daily. But it was worth it – I have to remember to close the curtains. I’m constantly walking around naked.”…

MY POCKET MONEY WAS… I didn’t get any, although my dad was a big softie and whenever I wanted something I’d get money. I SPENT MY FIRST PROPER PAY CHEQUE ON… A 10th wedding anniversary present for my parents. I bought them a tin of roses for £3.50! MY FIRST JOB WAS… Working on a veg stall from the age of 13. I worked every Saturday from 4am to 6pm. I’d get a tenner for a day’s work. MY BIGGEST IMPULSE PURCHASE WAS… My parents bought our kids a Pomeranian puppy. When we went to collect it from the kennels, we fell in love so much we came back with one more! THE MOST EXPENSIVE THING I OWN IS… I have quite a few Birkin and Chanel handbags, they cost…

ACTRESS CAROLINE QUENTIN, 56, TAKES OUR QUIZ What’s your biggest fear? Donald Trump. I think he’s completely unpredictable. What animal would you be and why? A cat because they get to roam around all day. Where’s your happy place? On a farm in Devon, walking the hills with family and our animals. Describe yourself in three words… Generous, kind and noisy. What’s your earliest childhood memory? Aged three, I remember Father Christmas coming down the road where I lived in Surrey. It felt so magical. When was the last time you said “I love you”? Fifteen minutes ago to my children [Emily, 17, and William, 13] and my husband, Sam. • Caroline is a Patron for Coeliac UK. Visit Coeliac.org.uk…

YEAH LEONA, IT’S NOT ‘SHELLFISH’ TO WANT TO KEEP YOUR COCKTAIL ALL TO YOURSELF… THE OLD ‘I’VE DROPPED SOMETHING’ TRICK ALWAYS GETS US FIRST BITE OF THE GARLIC BREAD, SOFIA. TAMARA, WE SPEND OUR LIVES TELLING THE KIDS TO STOP RABBITING ON AND GET TO BED! CHARLI’S RIGHT, THE ONLY WAY WE CAN SMILE IN THE MORNING IS WITH THE AID OF A CLAMP. KOURTNEY TAKES THE KIDS TO JURASSIC WORLD FOR EASTER, OR AS WE CALL IT, A VISIT TO THE GRANDPARENTS. ...EXCEPT WHEN THEY’RE WORLDS APART JUST ONE MENTION OF THE WORD ‘SHARK’ AND NERVOUS BROOKE HEADS TO SAFETY. MOST CAMELS HAVE TWO HUMPS. ZAC’S HAS TWO HEADS. WHEN HELEN GETS HER HAIR DONE SHE ASKS FOR A YABBA DABBA ’DO.…

CHOKED Mel and Stephen appear happy on Dancing With The Stars in November 2007. But in her court papers, Mel claims just hours before Stephen had choked her and slammed her body against a hard wooden floor – to “let [Mel] know he was in charge.” PUNCHED While she was an Australian X Factor judge, Mel worked with R&B star Usher when he was a guest judge. But she alleges Stephen accused them of “flirting” – and punched her in July 2012. BURNED The Spice Girls reunited for the Olympics’ closing ceremony in August 2012. But, the day before, Stephen allegedly punched her and threw her on the carpet, causing burns. She was pictured days later with a plaster on her face and Tweeted that the injury was a result…

She’s enjoyed a yearlong romance with convicted criminal Joey Morrison, and now insiders say Lauren Goodger has been having secret meetings with her psychic to make sure the relationship stays solid. Two weeks ago, Lauren was forced to hit back at rumours that she was pregnant after she was pictured hiding under a blanket following skin treatment, and jokingly Tweeted: “OK can’t hide my baby bump no more.” FEELING PRESSURE But now insiders say Lauren is starting to feel the pressure of her relationship with Joey, 31, who’s serving a 16-year prison sentence for a string of drug-related offences, and set to be released in March next year. A source says: “Lauren has arranged to see her psychic to predict exactly what’s going to happen with Joey. She feels that…

‘He’s done things that aren’t good, but he’s not evil’ Following weeks of drama, Stephanie Davis’ troubled ex Jeremy McConnell checked himself into rehab, after admitting last week that he was seeking help so he can be there for their 13-week-old son Caben-Albi. The Irish model revealed the news on Instagram, writing: “Nobody dislikes myself more than me. I never once have used my misfortunes for sympathy. I’ve decided to take the appropriate action for myself and my family.” DRUG PROBLEM Just a day later, 24-year-old Steph sent a series of supportive Tweets, writing: “I’m so proud of you. Do it for me and Caben, but most importantly, do it for yourself… Say goodbye to your demons and start a new life with happiness. I have every faith in you.”…

Two weeks ago, she gushed to Closer about feeling lucky in love after meeting new man Sam Player, saying she believed she’d found the “perfect partner to settle down with.” But just days later, 32-year-old Josie Gibson’s bubble of happiness burst when it was claimed Sam had a girlfriend - who he was trying for a baby with - and he’d branded Josie “tired, flabby and old” behind her back. In response to the reports, Josie lashed out on Twitter, writing: “If I’ve learnt one valuable lesson this week it’s not to rush into things and keep your guard up because there are a lot of snakes out there.” SHOCKING CLAIMS But when Closer caught up with the star, she said there had been a misunderstanding and that the claims…

CHERYL “I think it’s amazing she’s keeping it so private! I can imagine all her fans have been going mad waiting for the name or seeing photos – but a baby is such a magical thing and I can see why she wants it to be personal. I’m sure she’ll be an amazing mum.” STEPHANIE DAVIS “I love Steph – she’s a Scouse girl, like me, and I’ve met her a few times. I just feel really sorry for her – it’s not easy going through a pregnancy by yourself and she handled it so well. Jeremy just needs to get better for their son and Steph needs to stay strong.” BINKY FELSTEAD Binky’s carrying her pregnancy really well – she looks amazing. I wouldn’t want to bring a child…

Closer psychologist Emma Kenny adds: “A relationship with a dog is easier than with a person. When Louise got the dogs, it sounds as though they filled a void in her life. A relationship with a dog is very easy – you feed it, take it for walks, give it attention and it will demand nothing else. Relationships with people are far more complicated. It’s also possible that Louise is treating the dogs in the way she would like to be treated herself.”…

Mum-of-four Natasha Hamilton, 34, believes that some celebrities put unrealistic expectations on new mums to regain their figures just weeks after giving birth. The Atomic Kitten singer says: “You see so many pictures of celebrity mums who are back in their skinny jeans really quickly, and you have to be a pretty strong person to look at them and not feel like you have to do the same. My tummy was a lot looser, my bottom was a lot bigger and there were stretch marks on my inner thighs – but this is the reality of what happens when you get pregnant and have children, you get these little battle scars.” Natasha, who is mum to Josh, 14, Harry, 12, Alfie, six, and Ella Rose, three, lost the stone she…

‘He proposed in Lanzarote – it was so romantic’ When Adele Vellacott, 36, appeared on Take Me Out in 2011 after seven years of being single, she only did it for a giggle. So the fitness instructor was surprised to fall head over heels for contestant Dave Cobain, 32. But true love didn’t run smoothly for the couple as they were paired with different people for their date on the TV show’s infamous Isle of Fernando’s. But, a few months later, at the show’s reunion party, they hit it off and now the couple are happier than ever. A KNOCKBACK They married in August 2014 – the first couple from the show to do so – and their son Freddie, now three, was a page boy. Speaking exclusively to Closer,…

HELEN, 26 ‘ I like the odd blowout meal’ She took no time to bounce back to a size 8 after having her daughter Matilda in 2015 with footballer beau Scott Sinclair, 28. But Helen Flanagan, 26, still appreciates having a more womanly shape. The Corrie star – who has previously battled anorexia – says: “I really like my figure! Curves are sexier than being stick-thin and I don’t see why I shouldn’t wear clothes that show it off. I really can’t think that every single night I can only eat fish, veg and potatoes – that would be boring. My blowout meal would be Nando’s Mediterranean chicken with mango and lime salad, and halloumi cheese.” VICKY, 29 ‘ I’m on a journey to better myself’ Once known for her…

If you’re 46 and still have a killer size 10 figure after two children, it’s hard to believe you could look in the mirror and have anything critical to say about yourself. But when Closer meets Melanie Sykes – who looks flawless in skinny jeans, heels and a peplum top – she rapidly shoots down any idea that there’s a “secret” to looking good, and explains: “I don’t look like this every day. I don’t have access to professional hair and make-up and I’m usually in gym clothes.” The former model – who shot to fame in 1996 when she starred in the now iconic Boddington’s advert – has spent most of her adult life in front of the camera, hosting daytime TV shows including Today With Des And Mel…

TRADE SECRETS… Even the most hard-working foundations start to fade after hours of wear, especially as the weather warms and our commute becomes a little sweatier! Ensure your complexion looks fresh right into the evening by applying a layer of highlighter after your primer and before your base. As your foundation fades, the shimmery texture will start to show through so you’ll feel less of a need to cover up with concealer. Your complexion will glow from morning to night without the need for touch-ups. ON TRIAL 1 RELAXING RUB This mini tin of soothing balm is infused with geranium and camomile. We massaged a little on to temples and wrists and it instantly cooled, helping to soothe a stressed mind before sleep. 2 SLEEPY SPRITZ We misted a little…

How much do you spend per week? Around £100 – it’s quite a lot, but we get through a lot of food. I live in a village in France with my husband Richie and our 22-month-old son Ernie. I get everything from the local markets but, if I’m in the UK, I’ll go to Tesco or Sainsbury’s. Describe your daily diet? Breakfast is scrambled eggs on toast, lunch is a ham and tomato sandwich – or sushi or a soup if I’m out and about. I love quick family meals like a chicken and veg stir-fry. I’m pregnant, but I haven’t had cravings. I’ve got low blood pressure, so I snack on a lot of crisps. I also snack on boiled eggs and fruit. What won’t you eat? Tripe. I’m…

SCAN IT: EDO APP Scan packaging and this app will rate it on a scale of 1-10 in terms of its healthiness as well as outlining its main pros and cons. Smart shopping! FREE, ITUNES FILTER IT: BRITA SPORTS WATER BOTTLE The healthiest drink is water! This sporty bottle filters tap water to reduce impurities, so you can save cash on the bottled stuff. £12, ARGOS SIP IT: PUKKA SUPREME GREEN MATCHA ORGANIC TEA For the price of one hipster matcha latte, you can brew 20 teas! £2.79, TESCO…

THE EYES HAVE IT! Most high-street opticians charge between £15 and £30 for an eye test, but Tesco offer them for free. Under-16s, over-60s and people who live in Scotland are entitled to free tests and employers sometimes offer vouchers, too. For cheap glasses, try www.glassesdirect.co.uk, and for designer frames go to www.eyewearbrands.com. BARGAIN BREAKS! Remember teletext? It still exists online and is brilliant for last-minute holidays. Visit www.teletext holidays.co.uk to find some great trips for departure next week, with many deals offering a third off the usual price.…

His six-pack made him a massive heartthrob, and 20 years after he joined Coronation Street, Adam Rickitt has returned to his roots – and is planning to get his top off. The 38-year-old has joined Hollyoaks as MS sufferer Kyle, who is the childhood sweetheart of fellow MS sufferer Nancy (played by Jessica Fox). Adam previously played Corrie’s Nick Tilsey from 1997-1999 before leaving to launch a pop career. He then rejoined the Cobbles in 2002 for two years, before taking a year off to try his hand at politics. During his break, he fell for Good Morning Britain presenter Katy Fawcett, who he married two years ago. He describes their relationship as “like something from Dawson’s Creek” because they are sickeningly happy. But the handsome star realised that although…

Adam Thomas, 28, plays Adam Barton in Emmerdale (he was also a runner-up in last year’s I’m A Celeb! ). In real life, Adam has a two-year-old son, Teddy, with his long-term girlfriend Caroline Daly. The pair are due to get hitched next month (aw). Of his current storyline, he says: “Adam wasn’t sure at first, but now he wants to be a dad more than anything – and he can see how much Victoria wants to be pregnant. They’d be perfect parents and Victoria would make a great mother.” Here’s hoping!…

WE BOUGHT A ZOO TOUCHING FAMILY DRAMA EASTER SUN, 3PM, E4 Matt Damon stars as Benjamin Mee – a man coming to terms with the death of his wife. He decides to make a fresh start by buying a new house – except the pad his young daughter picks out comes complete with a zoo. Despite some (natural) reservations, Benjamin and the family move in and try to restore the knackered old place to its former glory. Easier said than done. Also stars Scarlett Johansson. THE IMITATION GAME BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH DOES SUMS EASTER SAT, 9PM, C4 Set in the darkest days of World War II, mathematician Alan Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch) tries to crack the enigma code. Based on the true story of the legendary cryptanalyst, prepare for a nail-biting race…