Inhoudsopgave van Issue 645 - Closer

There was an audible gasp in the Closer office when we saw the results of our photo shoot with Kerry Katona – she looks a-maze-ing! We helped the mum-of-five lose a stone after she admitted she’d developed a “booze belly.” It took Kerry just six weeks to get bikini ready – and you’ll find her simple low-sugar eating plan inside our fabulous Diet Special this week. We promise no meal will take longer than 15 minutes to prepare. There are loads more tips and tricks in our 28-page special to help you feel body confident in time for summer. Be inspired! CLOSEREDITOR@CLOSERMAG.CO.UK, FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER @LISA_CLOSERMAG GET CLOSER WHEREVER YOU ARE DOWNLOAD: DIGITAL EDITION AVAILABLE ON APPLE AND GOOGLE PLAY JOIN US: GET OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER VISIT: WWW.CLOSERONLINE.CO.UK…

He became an international sex symbol when he made his England debut in 1996 at the age of 21 and, as David Beckham turns 40 this week, his female following still adore him. But while insiders say his wife Posh, 41, fancies her husband more than ever, image-conscious Becks has reservations about his upcoming milestone birthday. A source says: “Victoria often looks back at photos of them in their early 20s when David was so squeaky clean, but fancies him 10 times more now he’s rugged and mature-looking. She absolutely adores him and thinks he’s sexier than ever at 40. “However, David does worry about the signs of ageing – it took him by surprise when he had a grey beard. He’s a little worried that he won’t be able…

Natalie Smith, a Surrogacyuk.org trustee – an organisation that helps intended parents meet surrogates – says: “My advice to anyone considering surrogacy is to spend at least three months getting to know the family before making a decision. It’s a good idea to ask for DBS [formally CRB] checks and medical records, too. Legally surrogates can’t be paid, but usually claim expenses between £7,000 and £15,000 from parents. I used a surrogate to have twins and everything went smoothly – I got to know her for six months first after finding her through Surrogacy UK. She’s like an extended part of the family now. There are rare occasions when surrogacy goes wrong, but it can be an immensely positive experience.”…

Aside from her love life, Sam has also seen her yo-yoing size hit the headlines over the years. After gaining weight following her second split from Joey in 2013, Sam reveals in her book that she started obsessively dieting and working out in a bid to slim down. And the star – who left TOWIE in 2014 – says being on the reality show put added pressure on her, admitting the girls would often turn to dramatic measures to achieve their bikini bodies. She says: “When I was on the show, the female cast members were all good mates and supportive. But when I started losing weight before Celebrity Big Brother, the other girls started working out more and ditching carbs. You want to look your best in a bikini…

Super-slim Odette Delacroix has found an unusual way to make money from her slender frame – being squashed by overweight women. Incredibly, the 5ft model has earned £120,000 from the bizarre fetish – known as “pig piling” – and says while men pay to watch the clips on her website, she also finds being crushed a turn-on. Size 4 Odette, 25, says: “I know it sounds weird, but I love the feeling of being squashed – it’s a thrill, and the money is great. I’m small, but I can take the weight of five women. I’ve had a model with a 7ft bum squash me and the biggest squasher I’ve ever taken on weighed 35st. I’ve never had any injuries, but it can be dangerous – there’s a risk of…

CONSERVATIVE WHITE DEE: ‘THE TORIES SEEM FOCUSED ON HELPING THE YOUNG FIND WORK’ Former Benefits Street and Celebrity Big Brother star White Dee, 43, says: “I’m fed up with politicians feeding us what I believe to be untruths. Every day, something new comes out. They all promise to concentrate on welfare and immigration, but I don’t believe any of the party leaders. I’m still undecided as to who I’m voting for but I am swayed by the Conservatives under David Cameron as they want to make everyone earning less than £12,500 exempt from paying income tax and make the minimum wage tax-free. They also seem very focused on supporting young people to find work because they’ve promised three million new apprenticeships for school-leavers. I also want the party I vote…

She’s always been proud of her size 8-10 figure, but Natasha Hamilton admits she almost turned to liposuction after Katie Hopkins spitefully called her “chubby” shortly after the birth of her fourth child, Ella. The 32-year-old singer had only given birth five months previously, and was already back to a slim size 10, when the Celebrity Big Brother contestant made jibes about her weight on TV, following her sexy performance with Atomic Kitten at GAY in February. Natasha, who’s 5ft 5, says: “After Katie Hopkins branded me ‘fat’ I was really hurt. Ella was only five months old at the time and I weighed around 9st. I actually didn’t think I looked that bad.” Natasha had lost most of her baby weight on a healthy diet and exercise regime, but…

WHO WORE IT BEST? VANESSA WHITE VS SARAH HARDING Ah, that awkward moment when you turn up to a party in the same get-up as your friend. So spare a thought for The Saturdays’ Vanessa White and Girls Aloud singer Sarah Harding when they arrived at the F&F winter fashion show wearing identical white jumpsuits. Sarah teamed it with a tortoiseshell box clutch and metallic peep-toe heels, while Vanessa sadly misplaced her shoes. VERDICT Sarah’s glam touches ensured she was all white on the night! We love. CUT-OUT COOL Taylor Swift, 25 We’ll just cut (ahem) to the chase and admit we’re totally jealous of Taylor’s amazing figure, which is shown off to perfection in this super-sophisticated light blue Reem Acra gown. There’s no denying the singer hit all the…

I SLEEP IN... The nude. I get too hot and bothered if I wear anything in bed. MY BED BUDDY IS... My Siamese cat, Lilu. I’ve had her for 10 years – she sleeps on me. MY BEDTIME RITUAL INVOLVES... Washing my face, cleaning my teeth, getting into bed and checking Twitter. BEDTIME BOOK... Right now, it’s Plus One by Christopher Noxon. It’s about being married to Hollywood royalty. BEDTIME SHOW... Californication. It’s set in LA and stars a sexy David Duchovny. NIGHT OWL OR EARLY BIRD? Total early bird – I am The Dawn, after all! I’m usually up by 7am. I USUALLY DREAM OF... My clothing line BOB, and the worry of making it a success. WHEN I STRUGGLE TO SLEEP I... Take a sleeping pill or…

1 ON A ROLL Look out for the haute high-neck. Whether you opt for a chunky ribbed ’n’ rolled version or team with a midi skirt à la Victoria Beckham (left), it’s here to stay. Try a sleeveless style now or layer under a faux-fur gilet come autumn. JANE NORMAN £20 2 THE FUTURE IS ORANGE Shades of tangerine and rust reign supreme this autumn. And when it comes to boots – short, long or somewhere in between – there’s no “right” time of year to bust them out. Dabble in a splash of designer detail with this orange tasselled boot (below). Rock with Daisy Duke shorts and a lace blouse for the hotter months or add a zesty edge to a floor-skimming maxi when it’s chillier. TOPSHOP £78 3…

MINI RAINBOW JELLIES (MAKES 12) STEP 1 Make up a 135g pack of pineapple jelly according to the pack instructions. Divide between two jugs and add a drop of blue food colouring to one. Leave to cool slightly, then pour the darker jelly into 12 plastic shot glasses. Chill in the freezer for 15 mins. STEP 2 Make up 1/2 x 135g pack of lime jelly according to the pack instructions – but only use half the amount of water recommended. Leave to cool. Then pour over the set darker pineapple layer. Return to the freezer for 15 mins. STEP 3 Press a strawberry slice into each jelly then pour over the reserved pineapple jelly to fill each glass. Chill for about 3hrs or until set. Recipe and picture courtesy…

Get in the holiday mood – without the moods! It’s that time of year when, if you haven’t already, thoughts turn to booking a summer holiday – one or two weeks of sun, sea, sand... and screaming matches. Because it seems if there’s anything guaranteed to spark a flurry of rows, it’s a holiday. Research shows that for women, breaking points include being fed up of their men boozing and trying to speak the local lingo loudly and badly. For blokes, it’s the thought of their other halves showing too much flesh in public or keeping too tight a rein on spending. You want to know the real reason for holiday rows? It’s simply spending too much time together. Let’s face it, at home you’re apart for much of the…

Q My husband recently told me he had an affair with a woman at work. It lasted three months and is over now. I have forgiven him but I’ve lost all urge to have sex. He’s getting fed up. How can I get it back? Name withheld, by email A Your email made me feel desperately sad for you and incredibly angry at him. How dare he make you feel bad for the fallout of his betrayal! Marriages can survive affairs, but only if, after the event, the person who did the cheating is horrified by what they did and what they risked in the process. And he has the nerve to be fed up because you’ve gone off sex? Tell him he’s lucky you’re even speaking to him! Then…

SAVE £££S! Pet partners Finding someone to look after your pet while you’re away can be expensive. Cut costs by forming a pet-sitting circle with friends and neighbours. Come up with a set of rules you all agree on, about the length and frequency of trips, to keep things fair. QUICK QUID Savvy holiday shopping Instead of buying your holiday wardrobe before you go away, check out the brands that are cheaper in your destination and stock up when you arrive. In Zara, a pair of suede shorts costs £69.99 in the UK, but only €59.95 (£43.32) in Spain – saving over £26! Check out the website before you go to suss out what you want to buy – you can view the Spanish site in English. The euro is…

You’re playing DC Spike Tanner in Paul Abbott’s new cop drama, No Offence . What’s he like? He’s a family man with a strong moral compass. He likes a laugh and a joke, but also wants to get the job done and sometimes he goes a bit too far with his interview techniques. It’s a different kind of cop show, one with a dark edge of comedy. It’s not politically correct at all – they’ll be chasing a murderer and stumble across a dogging site. Have you got strong morals like Tanner? If I see somebody being mistreated I’ll sort it out. A couple of years ago I saw three lads nicking another lad’s bike – I stopped the car, chased them up the road and…

THE ACCIDENTAL HUSBAND RELATIONSHIP CAPERS Sun 3 May, 11.30pm, BBC2 On a bit late for a school night but Emma (Uma Thurman) is a radio host about to be wed to Richard (Colin Firth). By day, she advises people on relationships – but one disgruntled listener (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) is out to get revenge after his own fiancée called into the show and dumped him. THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL A-LIST BRIT FLICK Tue 5 May, 9pm, Film4 Oldies Judi Dench, Maggie Smith and Bill Nighy decide they’re not quite ready for a pipe-and-slippers life, instead heading to the exotic-sounding India to live out their retirement in style. Lured by adverts for the newly restored Marigold Hotel, they imagine magical surroundings Ð but arrive to find it’s not quite what…

Summer is edging closer, but if the thought of digging out your bikini fills you with horror, look no further! Whether you want to get a flat tum, wage war on cellulite, take up juicing or beat junk-food cravings, our 28-page special is full of advice. Be inspired by mum-of-five Kerry Katona, who asked Closer for help to blitz her belly. After six weeks on our low-sugar diet, she lost a stone – find her no-fuss eating plan inside. If the marathon has inspired you to take up jogging, see page 8 for Nell McAndrew’s beginners’ guide. Plus, you’ll find Charlotte Crosby’s tips on eating out while on a diet, while size 8 Kym Marsh tells us how she’s found her happy weight. Enjoy! Sophie x SOPHIE BARTON, EXECUTIVE EDITOR…

She signed up for the London Marathon in 2004 and, 11 years on, pounding the pavements is a way of life for former glamour model Nell McAndrew, 41. “Running is my passion and, as a busy mum, it’s my favourite way to unwind. It makes me feel alive, and I’ve found it’s one of the best ways to boost confidence. It’s great for mind and body,” says Nell, who is married and mum to Devon, eight, and Anya, two. She adds: “Running is flexible – you can put on your trainers wherever you are. And it’s an easy sport to fit around work and family life. “My best investment has been a running pushchair, which means I can jog back from the school run with Anya, after dropping off Devon,…

HELPS SUGAR CRAVINGS SPICY SPEARS 8 asparagus spears 2 apples 1/2 lime 1 large pinch ground cinnamon Juice the asparagus and apples, then stir in the ground cinnamon before serving BOOSTS METABOLISM SUMMER SLIMMER 12-14 strawberries 1/5 small Savoy cabbage, roughly chopped 1 small handful fresh mint leaves REDUCES PUFFINESS COOL CABBAGE 1/4 cucumber 1 carrot 1 celery stick 1 small wedge red cabbage 1/2 lemon 1cm piece fresh ginger root, peeled IMPROVES SKIN ELASTICITY LUSCIOUS LEAN LEEK 1/2 small leek (including the upper green leaves) 1 lime 1 large tomato 1 small handful coriander (use fresh parsley if you prefer the flavour) 2 carrots…

When Kym Marsh arrives for our shoot, she looks effortlessly casual in skinny jeans and a comfy jumper, but when the Coronation Street star emerges from the make-up room an hour later, wearing a figure-hugging floor-length gown, she’s transformed into a screen goddess. And it’s clear from her huge grin that her body confidence is at an all-time high. “I’ve been working out over the past 18 months and it’s made a big difference to my life – not just in terms of how I look but how I feel, too. It gives me all the endorphins I used to get from eating chocolate – but without putting on weight,” laughs Kym, who’s mum to David, 19, and Emily, 17, from a previous relationship, as well as Polly, four, with…

She’s struggled to forgive husband Kieran Hayler since he cheated on her with her best friend Jane Pountney last year. And sources say that, after hearing that Jane’s divorce from husband Derrick is about to come through, Jordan has slapped Kieran with a £2million cheating contract to help her feel more secure. Jordan – real name Katie Price – was left heartbroken when she discovered her toyboy husband had been unfaithful with best friend Jane, 50, in May last year. Kieran – who also admitted to sleeping with Jordan’s pal Chrissy Thomas – revealed he’d had around 25 sexual encounters with mum-of-two Jane, adding: ‘‘Jane said she was falling in love with me and wanted to have kids. I said it too, because as long as I told her what…

She flaunted her sexy curves in a crop top and shorts heading to a gym in LA recently, but insiders say perfectionist Kelly Brook wants to go further in her quest to achieve an A-list body – even if it means resorting to surgery. She’s stunned fans with her slimmer figure since dropping a reported 8lbs, after embarking on the New Atkins diet in January – and sources say Kelly’s lost the weight by following a strict health and fitness regime. Insiders reveal the size 8-10 actress trains for 30 minutes on the treadmill, before completing another 30 minutes of resistance training, including 60-second bursts of squats, lunges, push-ups and planks. Now sources say Kelly, 35 – who started dating French model Jeremy Parisi last month and has been starring…

It’s been a roller-coaster few months for Cheryl Fernandez-Versini. In March, her latest single Only Human failed to reach the top 100, but then her luck appeared to change when Simon Cowell hinted two weeks ago that she’d be returning to The X Factor, amid reports she’d been offered £2m to reprise her role on the judging panel. As Closerpreviously reported, Cheryl had hoped to take a step back from the spotlight this year to focus on her marriage to husband Jean-Bernard and start a family. But now insiders say the singer, 31, feels torn over what’s best for her future. A source says: “Returning to X Factor hasn’t been an easy decision for Cheryl – she struggled being back in the spotlight last year. She appreciates Simon’s support but…

For Kate Middleton and Prince William money is certainly no object – which means when it comes to splurging on their new addition’s nursery, the sky is the limit. The royal couple – who were due to welcome their second child as Closer went to press – are thought to have spent over £50k decorating the new nursery at Anmer Hall in Norfolk, as part of the £4.2m renovation work they reportedly had done last year. And sources reveal that Kate, 33 – who stayed with her parents Carole and Michael Middleton following the birth of Prince George in 2013 – plans to have Carole stay over at the royal couple’s home to help out during the baby’s first weeks. Prince William, 32, has said he’ll be taking six weeks’…

She embarked on a strict juice diet and workouts with a personal trainer following the birth of second son Klay in 2013 in a bid to regain her size 10 figure. But looking healthy and glowing as she left the gym last week, insiders reveal to CloserColeen Rooney – who also has five-year-old son Kai with her footballer husband Wayne – has relaxed her intense fitness regime as she gears up to add another baby to her brood. Earlier this month, the 29 year old gushed in an interview about having a third child, saying: “A little girl would complete the family.” A source reveals: “Coleen and Wayne have talked about another baby for a while. Coleen’s really happy with her body at the moment and her focus is more…

They may have called time on their 11-year marriage in 2010, but Courteney Cox and David Arquette have always maintained a close friendship. And last week was no exception, as the actor turned up to support Courteney at the premiere of her directorial debut Just Before I Go with his new wife Christina McLarty. But sources say Courteney’s friendship with her ex-husband – who is father to her 10-year old daughter, Coco – had proved challenging for her fiancé Johnny McDaid. A source reveals: “Courteney and David have always been close and are still best friends. Courteney told pals Johnny found it a little hard to accept David as such a big part of her life at first. Even her best pal Jennifer Aniston jokes about what close exes they…

She wowed onlookers as she flaunted her flawless size 8-10 figure in a blue bikini while on holiday with husband Marvin Humes and their 23-month-old daughter, Alaia-Mai, in Miami last week. And sources tell Closer that the secret to 5ft 8 Rochelle Humes’ incredible body is that she competes with Marvin, 30, in the gym as the pair spur each other on to work out harder. A source tells Closer: “Rochelle worked hard to hone her tummy after pregnancy and she’s still a gym bunny. She works out four times a week for an hour doing cardio and shaping her abs and bum. She’s super-strict with her diet and drinks green juices for breakfast, and tends to stick to salads and protein throughout the day. She’s as strong and toned…

It was her fake tan, tacky outfits and dubious hair extensions that got Chloe Mafia noticed for all the wrong reasons on The X Factor in 2010. The then 19-year-old became a national joke after performing a dodgy rendition of Shakira’s Underneath Your Clothes , but made it through to boot camp before sensationally being kicked off the show over her reported cocaine use. But five years on, mum-of-one Chloe has left her X Factor disaster behind and built a new life for herself – albeit one that’s no less controversial. She’s raked in £1million through her own webcam business, charging men £5 per minute to watch her strip and talk dirty, and employing a team of girls to work for her. Chloe, now 24, divides her time between her…

ASK US ... If you’ve ever wanted to ask us a question here’s your chance! Q HAS A CELEBRITY EVER INVITED YOU INTO THEIR HOME? Lexi, via email A Editorial Assistant Neeru Sharma says: “I was lucky enough to interview Ultimo boss Michelle Mone inside her London riverside apartment – and I was taken aback by her hospitality! As soon as I walked through the door, she offered me a drink and showed me all around her plush pad. Everything was spotless and, to top it all off, outside her bedroom window was an amazing view of The Shard!” YOU DEBATE! THE RIGHT TO BARE Mum-of-two Hannah Moore, 20, from West Lothian, uploaded images of her stretch marks to Instagram, saying that no one should be judged by their appearance,…

JUST LANDED Just when you thought ChapStick couldn’t be improved, along comes the new MixStix. With three fruity flavours in one stick, you can wear lemon and raspberry on their own or blend them for a fruit cocktail. It’s packed with 11 moisturisers, including aloe and Vitamin E, so your lips will stay soft for hours! ON TRIAL We tried cellulite creams from £5 to £37. Here are our top three… BEST FOR VALUE This gel is packed with circulation-boosting ingredients. We rubbed it into bumpy skin until absorbed and, after just one month, saw firmer-looking thighs with a smoother texture. BEST NON-STICKY We smoothed this gel over dimply areas on arms and legs. Four weeks later, skin felt softer, the orange peel had diminished and our upper arms felt…

FRUIT SHOT A retro tin hanging will zest up your kitchen space – easy peasy, lemon squeezy! GEORGE HOME (16cmx12cm) £2 BIRD OF A FEATHER This beautifully illustrated wise owl will instantly pep up an otherwise tired-looking neutral décor. MARTHA & HEPSIE (A3) £14 REPEAT AFTER ME… Hang this chirpy framed print in the bedroom to remind you of your daily mantra! URBAN OUTFITTERS (30cmx40cm) £20 MODER N LOVE They say home is where the heart is, and this contemporary take on romance will brighten up a modern love shack! MENGSEL (A3) £28 SKETCHED A framed bamboo sketch will add a hint of eastern charm to your home, for an exotic touch that won’t date. Try doubling them up to make a bigger impact. M&S (46cmx56cm) £35 PETAL POWER This…

TV Chef Peter says: “Lamb can be married with a variety of ingredients to create delicious dishes for any occasion.” SERVES 6 800g New Zealand lamb, cut into 2cm cubes 1-2tbsp Thai curry paste 2tbsp oil 1 large red onion, peeled and finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, sliced 2tbsp grated or sliced ginger 400ml can unsweetened coconut milk 1/2 butternut squash, peeled, seeds removed, cut into large chunks 1 large red pepper, seeds removed and cut into strips 3 cardamom pods, crushed 300g basmati rice PETER GORDON’S CURRIED LAMB WITH CARDAMOM RICE STEP 1 Season the lamb with salt and pepper, then mix with the curry paste in a non-metallic bowl. Cover with cling film and leave for a couple of hours or overnight in the fridge to marinate. STEP…

HOW TO... KNOW WHEN TO QUIT YOUR JOB After 10 years, Fearne Cotton recently quit her job on national radio to concentrate on other things. So what should you do if you’re facing a similar dilemma – to stay in a job you’ve been in for years, or to take the plunge and move on with your career? ASSESS THE SITUATION Is your job definitely to blame for your unhappiness, not your personal life or relationship? Write down what specifically makes you unhappy. Do you ever feel fulfilled at work? Can you do more of the tasks that make you feel that way? CHANGE IS GOOD! Staying in a job you hate will affect every area of your life and make you feel like you are “existing,” not “living.” A…

There’s nothing like middle age to send ripples of panic through a man’s wardrobe. Do we really have to wear Hush Puppies? Are slim-fit jeans out of the question? Will a corduroy jacket make me look like an RE teacher? Of course, the easy way to deal with these worries is denial. So we kid ourselves we can wear labels usually seen on 17-year-olds. Don’t worry, it won’t last. In the meantime, remind him that he can wear skater shirts, but any attempt at actual skateboarding at his age will result in a slipped disc or a hernia.…

I get diarrhoea with my period Q I frequently get diarrhoea when I’m on my period. Why is this and what can I do about it? Jayne, by email A Diarrhoea during your period is common and is caused by the same bodily function that leads to cramping. Substances called prostaglandins are released at this time, which cause the muscles in your uterus to contract, helping to expel the womb lining. These prostaglandins can affect other parts of your body, including your colon, causing diarrhoea. Make sure you’re getting enough fibre in your diet and take an anti-inflammatory drug like ibuprofen during your period. Painful verrucas Q I’ve had painful verrucas for ages and they keep spreading. My GP hasn’t helped much. What can I do? Alexandra, by email A…

THE 3-POINT PLAN Under the new Help To Buy ISA scheme, which starts this autumn, the Government will add 25% to first-time buyers’ savings. So deposit £200 (the maximum) a month, and they’ll top it up by £50. Remember, like any ISA, you can only open one every financial year. Abbey needs to clear her credit and store cards before applying for a mortgage. She should also check her credit rating by signing up for a free 30-day trial at CreditExpert. Improve your credit score by getting a specialist credit card like Barclaycard Initial, pay all bills on time and don’t use more than 75% of your credit limit.…

THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN TAURUS 21 APR-21 MAY As your abundant ruler Venus moves through your House of Cash, you can expect to hear good money news, right? There could be some speedy changes this week, which may mean more money in your purse. Love-wise, if you want things to change, show you’re worth it. Call 0906 7511 677* to hear more. GEMINI 22 MAY-22 JUN There could be some lovely and perhaps even slightly radical turnarounds for you this week. They could be related to your love life, finances or appearance. Try to adopt a “live and let live” attitude over the coming seven days – the less you try to control things, the more space you give the Universe to do what’s best. Call 0906 7511 677*…

Posing confidently in a ’50s-style bikini that shows off the stunning results of her six-week Closer diet and fitness regime, Kerry Katona looks every inch a pin-up. Her flabby “booze belly” has been replaced with firm abs, she’s reclaimed her waist and her once wobbly bum and thighs are now trim and toned. “I feel a lot sexier walking round the bedroom in my underwear now,” says Kerry, 34, winking at her husband George Kay, who’s accompanied her to our photo shoot. Kerry put on a stone towards the end of last year after relaxing her usual healthy eating and exercise routine, going from a size 8 and 9st 3lbs to a size 10-12 and 10st 3lbs. At the time, she told Closer : “I blame alcohol – all the…

She’s famed for her party girl antics, but Charlotte Crosby, 24, surprised us all when she adopted a new healthy lifestyle last year, dropping four dress sizes from a 16 to an 8. And, amazingly, the Geordie Shore star has kept the weight off – all 2½st of it. Posing for Closer’s exclusive nude photo shoot, she certainly radiates self-esteem. “I’m 10 times more confident now. I’m finally feeling good about myself,” she admits, before she laughs and adds: “I’m even confident enough not to wear anything in bed now! I’m really happy.” Refreshingly, Charlotte – who is dating painter and decorator Mitch Jenkins – is determined not to have to eat rabbit food for the rest of her life to stay in shape. In fact, she’s living proof that…

These super-slimmers have lost more than 17st between them, but they’ve each been left with a problem area that only clever dressing can tackle. So Closer’s deputy style editor, Daniela Bellanca, showed them how by picking the right clothes they could show off their amazing new figures with pride. Daniela says: “We’re easily swayed by new trends, but the key to dressing successfully is to stick to a formula that works for you and your shape. Once you’ve cracked the styles that disguise your wobbly bits, apply these principles to every outfit. And use accessories – like layered pendants and colour-pop shoes – to add your own personality.” PROBLEM AREA: CHUNKY UPPER ARMS Christine Roberts, 23, lives in Telford. She’s single and works as a store supervisor. She says: “I…

Marisa says if you want to lose weight and keep it off, retraining your brain to think differently about food is as important as what you eat. You need to change your thinking habits first, because they lead to those bad food choices that derail your diet. For example, if you’re in the habit of thinking, “chocolate always makes me feel better,” then your automatic reaction will be to stuff a chocolate bar in your mouth every time you feel sad, bored, lonely or under pressure. The good news is that once you get out of the habit of thinking the same old thoughts, your behaviour changes too, so sticking to your diet becomes a whole lot easier. Harnessing the power of positive thinking in this way is a really…

We all know that getting rid of dimpled skin can seem like mission impossible, but Josie Gibson is living proof that you can banish your cellulite. Not only did she successfully lose a whopping 6st three years ago, she also got smooth, glowing skin into the bargain. Now, she’s going to show you how to wage war on your dimples, with her “perfect pins” workout and cellulite-beating diet, fitness and beauty tips. “Even slim people get cellulite,” says Josie, 30. “In fact, 90 per cent of women have it. I won’t lie, I still get a tiny bit on the backs of my legs, but I used to have it all over my bum, thighs, belly and arms – literally everywhere! “It’s caused by lots of things, which is why…

After more than a year of speculation that Bruce Jenner was transitioning into a woman, the internet exploded last week following pictures that appeared to show the 65-year-old in a maxi dress and a bikini – just days before his highly anticipated interview with Diane Sawyer aired, causing yet more sensational headlines. With the media storm surrounding the former Olympian showing no sign of quietening down, insiders reveal it’s also had a dramatic impact on his family – in particular, his high-profile stepdaughter Kim Kardashian. As Closer reported in October, Kim, 34, initially struggled to adjust to the revelation her stepfather – who walked her down the aisle when she married Kanye West last year – was becoming a woman, and worried how it would affect the Kardashian brand. But…

She was reportedly left livid when her fiancé Mark Wright was spotted at the same gym as his former fiancée, Lauren Goodger, two weeks ago – with eyewitnesses claiming the pair even enjoyed a friendly catch-up inside. But sources say ex-Coronation Streetstar Michelle Keegan reached boiling point last week, after hearing that Lauren had been spotted at the same Essex club as Mark, 28, while he celebrated his stag do – the first of three! – ahead of his wedding to Michelle next month. A source reveals: “Michelle doesn’t like the idea of Lauren and Mark bumping into each other. After their run-in at the gym, she made it clear she wanted Mark to avoid Lauren. “But a friend told her that while Mark was celebrating his stag party, Lauren…

She was thrust back into the headlines last week amid crushing reports that she was the latest celeb to be axed from The X Factor . And pals say former Spice Girl Mel B also faces concern that the show’s boss Simon Cowell won’t renew her contract as a judge on America’s Got Talent next year. A source says: “Mel is gutted that it looks like she won’t return to The X Factor . She absolutely loved being back on home soil for a few months last year. She loves doing America’s Got Talent too, and is worried losing The X Factor would be a sign of things to come. She fears this could possibly be her last series of AGT and is worried her career could be slowly slipping.”…

Calls for rethink of rules on surrogacy When Josie* made the decision to become a surrogate using her own eggs, she could never have guessed her good deed would turn into a nightmare. Like hundreds of women in the UK, mum-of-one Josie wanted to help other couples have children. But sadly, her surrogacy experience ended bitterly when, just days after giving birth, she visited the new family to find the baby, Aimee*, hadn’t been fed or changed. Worried for Aimee’s safety, Josie refused to sign a parental order – which would legally transfer her right as mother to the intended parents – and launched a bid for custody. Shockingly, after going through the family court, Josie discovered the couple had lied about their background – they’d told her they had…

She called her ex, Mark Wright, “a player” in her new autobiography and “not someone I could trust,” but Sam Faiers tells us that she’s not surprised he became a one-woman man when he met his fiancée Michelle Keegan, who he’s set to marry next month. Sam – who dated Mark on and off for a few months in 2011 when they were both in TOWIE – says: “Mark was a right ladies’ man and definitely had a reputation. But it doesn’t shock me that he’s now settled down and about to marry Michelle. Mark’s always wanted marriage and kids and everyone knew his playboy ways would eventually stop. He just needed to meet the right girl.” And, as Closer reported last week, after Mark and his ex Lauren Goodger…

After splitting from husband Jamie O’Hara in August last year, she didn’t waste any time putting their £1.95m Cheshire home on the market. Now sources say Danielle Lloyd – who last week posted a pic of herself in Dubai looking cosy with businessman Tom Jimson – is eager to return to Essex, where she lived before moving away with Jamie in 2009. The model is also said to be leaning on close pal Katie Price – who is friends with TOWIE star Danielle Armstrong and Lauren Goodger – to help her mix with the Essex set. A source reveals: “Danielle loves the idea of moving back to Essex. She’s always called it her home away from home and only moved to Cheshire due to Jamie’s football career. She’s said since…

She’s remained close to her ex-husband, Chris Martin, since their split last year – and after they were snapped looking cosy on a family holiday with their children, Apple, 11, and Moses, nine, in Mexico recently, insiders claimed Gwyneth Paltrow was hopeful they could give their 11-year marriage another shot. But following revelations last week that the actress had finally filed for divorce from the 38-year-old Coldplay frontman, sources say Gwyneth is now planning an A-list divorce party. A source reveals: “Gwyneth was hopeful she and Chris could have a future, but it became clear to her they were better off as friends. She filed for divorce for closure and is now planning a big party with celeb pals, including Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore and Nicole Ritchie.” And while Gwyneth,…

After admitting that she’s planning to have her breast implants removed next month, insiders say Chantelle Houghton is hoping the surgery will boost her confidence to meet a new man and settle down. Single mum Chantelle, 31 – who has two-year-old daughter Dolly with her ex, Alex Reid – had a boob job in 2007 to take her from a 32B to an E-cup, but later revealed she’d made a mistake. She has also admitted having lip and cheek fillers to enhance her looks, and recently said she’s looking into having a nose job. A source tells Closer: “Chantelle wants to look and feel as good as she did when she was in her 20s. She’s always regretted going so big with her boob job because she felt her chest…

She was snapped soaking up the sunshine on holiday in Dubai last week, ahead of her family’s big move from Liverpool to LA this summer. And after turning heads with her size 8 bikini body, insiders say Alex Curran – whose footballer husband Steven Gerrard has signed with US team LA Galaxy – has already given her diet and exercise an “LA makeover.” A source reveals: “She’s told friends she’s already given her diet and fitness regime a boost. Barry’s Bootcamp classes are popular in LA and she’s been attending the UK ones to get a head start. “She’s always tried to eat healthily but has stepped it up a gear, cutting out gluten like bread and pasta. She knows LA is a super health-conscious place and wants to get…

HOW DO YOU FEEL WHEN YOU LOOK IN THE MIRROR? Like most women, I have good days and bad days. I feel the most insecure about my body when I’m not filming Strictly. I’m 5ft 3 with curves, so it takes a lot of working out to stay in shape – I exercise four times a week for 90 minutes, doing a mix of cardio, lunges and squats. As I’ve grown older, I’ve accepted that short and curvaceous is beautiful, too. WHAT PART OF YOUR BODY DO YOU LIKE THE MOST? My waist. I get to wear the most beautiful outfits on Strictly – the dresses sit on my hips and flatter my waist, making me feel so empowered on the dance floor. MY VIEW ON SURGERY IS... It’s a…

IN THE NEWS... F&F NAILS UTILITY CHIC – FROM £10! F&F’s take on this season’s utility trend is not only super chic – it’s super cheap, too! From shirt dresses to patch pocket cover-ups, this new collection is perfectly on-trend now and, thanks to the classic cuts and neutral colour palette, it will stay just as stylish for seasons to come. And don’t be fooled into thinking that slouchy shapes and jersey fabrics are just for daytime. Add sassy heels and you’ll instantly switch it up for a winning look come cocktail hour. Not bad for a range you can collect at the same time as your weekly food shopping! I WANT WHAT SHE’S GOT! IF YOU LIKE … Spring scarves. A lightweight colour-pop scarf has long been our saviour…

TRENCH MARK Combat the tricky transition with the ultimate all-weather basic – the trench. A winner come rain or shine, the lightweight coat offers tonnes of wardrobe mileage and a dose of shape-slimming power, thanks to the nifty tie-waist belt. If you want to be a step ahead of the fash pack this season, it’s all about maxi or pastel versions. CULOTTE QUEEN Get summer prepped and choose a culotte jumpsuit, mixing with your winter staples for now. The cropped style lets you flash a smidge of flesh but still keep covered up. Layer over a chic white shirt and pair with ankle boots. Cinch in your waist with an obi belt for extra silhouette sculpting points. LAYER CAKE Pile on layers for chilly starts and peel them off later.…

MATTE ATTACK Matte make-up takes away shine and smooths over pores, creating a porcelain effect that lasts, à la Rita Ora. PREP: A mattifying primer will blur larger pores and create a smooth complexion minus the glow. Dot and blend into cheeks, applying a little extra over your T-zone. BASE: Choose an oil-free foundation and apply as usual, blending in an outwards motion from the middle of your face. Follow with a gentle dusting of setting powder, sweeping over the whole face. CHEEKS: A liquid blush is less likely to have sparkly pigments and will create a natural matte flush. Squeeze on to the back of your hand and, using your fingers, pat along cheekbones. FINISH IT: Apply a nude powder across eyelids for a hint of colour, and add…

ASHLEY ROBERTS Ex-Pussycat Doll Ashley, 33, always looks fit and flawless. Here’s how… THE MOVES Growing up, dancing kept Ashley fit. Now she hits the gym three times a week: “We’ll do circuit training and weight-lifting – it’s pretty hardcore, but I love it.” She also likes spinning and hot yoga (using heat to increase flexibility). As the daughter of a personal trainer, she’s always liked exercise and adds: “I like the way it makes me feel – alive and healthy.” THE FOODS Ashley is all about ditching the junk. “I like eating clean, but if I want to go out and have a Mexican fiesta with my girlfriends, I’m going to do it,” she says. She has scrambled eggs with avocado or porridge with almond milk for breakfast, lunch…

Gogglebox’s Sandra, 53, and Sandy, 49, on their relationship with food Which three foods would you take to a desert island? SANDRA Cheese and crackers, tuna pasta, jerk pork – the jerk pork is important! What’s your worst food memory? SANDY Once I took Sandra out, and we ordered a platter. But we didn’t realise it had octopus and calamari with all the suckers. I don’t mind the rings, but the tentacles – I don’t think so! What’s been your most memorable meal? SANDRA My childhood meal of sausage, baked beans, bread and a cup of tea. Me and my mum used to sing a little song: “Sausage, beans, bread and tea.” What would you order for your last meal? SANDY Oh my days, I’d want so much! Fish, okra,…

What’s your proudest achievement? Writing a book. My mum’s enjoying going into shops and saying: “Have you got a copy of my son’s book?” What’s guaranteed to make you smile? Witnessing 100 per cent turnout among 18-24-year-olds at the general election. Who do you talk to when times get tough? My best friend Lenny. We set a 10-minute timer – it helps us focus on the problem because we’re not allowed to overrun! Rick’s election book None Of The Above (Simon & Schuster) is available now, £7.99…

I don’t know how to be alone Q I married young, to an older man, and after two kids and 10 years we’re divorcing. I’m dreading being alone but he seems fine about it. How can I be strong and single? Jane, by email A By learning from other independent people. Admit you don’t know how to be alone and ask for their help. It’s OK to lean on friends and family a little, but don’t expect them to take over from your husband! It will be hard at first but independence is liberating and you won’t be lonely if you make an effort with friends. As for him, who cares? You’re divorcing. His feelings don’t matter any more! He tells me what to do! Q My new man is…

What’s been your biggest health scare? I suffer badly from panic attacks. When I have them, I literally think I’m going to die. How much alcohol do you drink a week? When I’m not filming Geordie Shore, I don’t drink. We party hard in the house, so I like to take a break from it all. Have you ever had cosmetic surgery? Yes. I had my first boob job at 18, but then I lost weight and my implants sagged. I had to have two boob jobs (at different times) – one to lift and another to insert new implants. It was so painful, but I’m happy with my boobs now. Do you have a health secret you swear by? Eating the right food has made me feel so much…

Resource administrator Abbey Griffin, 25, from Salisbury, wants to get on the property ladder I’m careful with money because I know what it’s like to be in debt. My ex borrowed my credit card to pay a £300 mechanic’s bill, but then kept spending. He hid the letters and I thought he’d paid it off. Five years on, in 2010, I discovered he’d run up £8k on my card. We split and I moved in with my mum, but I decided to help cover his debts as I just wanted to move on. He paid around £600 and I paid £7,400. I wasn’t paying rent and I stopped going out or buying clothes, so I paid it back in 18 months. Then I met my partner John and we married…

SHERIDAN ‘CRIED BUCKETS’ OVER NEW CANCER BATTLE ROLE Sheridan Smith says she “cried buckets” when she read the script for heart-wrenching new BBC drama The C Word – based on the true story of magazine editor Lisa Lynch, who wrote a laugh-out-loud blog about her battle with breast cancer. Her entries were turned into a book, and before she tragically passed away in March 2013, she Tweeted Sheridan to personally ask if she would play her. “The fact that she asked me was a huge honour,” Sheridan says. “This young, beautiful girl had just got married and then she gets diagnosed. We haven’t made it into a morbid programme because she was about celebrating life. I hope people will take Lisa’s sparkle with them.” Sheridan, 33, wanted the drama to…

...EXCEPT WHEN THEY’RE WORLDS APART…

Celebrities used to be snapped leaving Starbucks with a skinny latte in hand, but now you’re more likely to see them sipping on a green juice after a yoga session. Kelly Brook, Lucy Mecklenburgh and Michelle Mone are all fans, and according to beauty and wellbeing expert Liz Earle, as well as helping to shed extra pounds, juicing is one of the easiest ways of getting the essential nutrients you need for radiant skin. “Juicing puts very little stress on the digestive system and helps suppress hunger pangs, so you’re less tempted to reach for unhealthy foods that lead to weight gain,” explains Liz, author of Juice . “And if you’re giving your body quality ingredients, it’ll show in a clearer complexion and increased vitality, too.” But Liz warns against…

It’s the diet to turn to when you not only want to slim down, but truly glow with health. Celebs including ex-EastEnder Patsy Palmer are raving about the Honestly Healthy eating plan and we have exclusive recipes from new book Honestly Healthy Cleanse to give you a flavour of why. It’s worked for size 10 Patsy, 42, who’s mum to Charley, 22, Fenton, 14, Emilia, 13, and Bertie, four. She tells Closer: “I eat lots of protein but I don’t deny myself treats like chocolate and bread. I’m a good friend of Natasha Corrett [Kelly Hoppen’s daughter], who devised Honestly Healthy, which is nutritious and easy. I’m also into yoga – it works your whole body and keeps you slim. I feel more confident now than I did in my…

If you know you can’t walk past Starbucks without going in, take a different route to work. If you munch on anything within arm’s reach, have some fruit, nuts and seeds in your bag at all times. If you’re going to a restaurant, look at the menu online first and plan your meal in advance. Research shows we eat way more when we have too much variety. Limit the choice of foods at mealtimes and you’ll eat less. Swap sweet snacks for good fats – which are good for overall health – such as nuts, seeds and olives.…

MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS Works most muscles. Start in the press-up position. Form a straight line from shoulders to ankles. Lift right foot and raise your knee as close to your chest as you can. Repeat with left leg. Alternate for 30 secs, then rest for 20. Do 10-15 sets. FROG JUMPS Tones bum and thighs. Crouch down like a frog, squatting as low as you can, then jump in the air, swinging arms overhead to propel your body forward, and land in a squat. See how many you can do in 30 secs, rest for 15 secs, then do another set. SQUAT RAISES Firms bum and legs. Grab a water bottle or weight and squat. Squeeze your bum as you come back up, stretching one leg out to the side. Repeat…

1 THE 14-DAY CLEANSE For two weeks, eat green and clean. The only sugar you’re allowed is from whole or juiced fruit and veg. Have as much fresh fruit and veg, lean meat, fish and shellfish, nuts, seeds, healthy oils and eggs as you like. Cellulite is linked to toxins so, if you want to tackle it, you have to cut out as many of these from your diet as possible – including processed foods, which contain chemical additives. 2 GO 80/20 AMBER Once you’ve completed the 14-day cleanse, you can start introducing “amber” foods back into your diet, which contain less than 6g of sugar per 100g, 12g fat per 100g and 1g salt per 100g. However, these foods must not account for more than 20 per cent of…