Inhoudsopgave van Issue 664 - Closer

This week, we’ve been chatting to Martine McCutcheon, who tells us she’s found her happiest role in life – mum to her seven-month-old ”miracle” son Rafferty. In the past, Martine’s battled depression, chronic fatigue and bankruptcy, but she says those experiences helped her appreciate what she now has. She’s proof life can throw anything at you, but it’s how you learn from it that’s important. So, if you want to take charge of your future and help make good things happen, you’ll love this week’s brilliant FREE New You magazine. We hope it inspires you!…

She says: “Taking six months out after a split to look after your emotional, mental and physical needs is vital to mending a broken heart. You need to get to a point where you’re happy on your own. I’d advise removing all the toxic relationships in your life – from friends to men – and surrounding yourself with positive people. Focus on building up your self worth – start exercising, eat a healthy diet, do voluntary work, create your own independence and rebuild your confidence. It’s at this point you can look to meet someone new and avoid repeating the same patterns. Of course, some people do find the perfect person straight after a break-up and go on to have happy, healthy relationships, but the most important part of being…

They may have clashed on Celebrity Big Brother earlier this year, but Jordan and Cami-Li proved they are firm friends after enjoying a girlie Bank Holiday together at Jordan’s Sussex home last week. Glamour model Cami, 28, told Closer it was great to see how Jordan has recovered after her marriage came close to collapse last year. Cami says: “I love her to pieces. Katie has really bounced back and she looks happy. She’s so busy but she takes the time to raise her kids properly, she doesn’t have any help – it’s really just her and Kieran. I met Harvey and the kids and Kieran made a big roast dinner. Then we went horse riding. It was nice, we drank some prosecco and watched CBB.” And Cami added that…

Former TOWIE star Gemma Collins, 34, has found her plus-size shape has come under fire in the past. She says: “Since finding fame on TOWIE , I’ve had my weight criticised. People on Twitter and even in the street have called me fat. It’s wrong to comment on someone’s body shape. We’re all different shapes and sizes and that’s OK. I think us girls should stick together and support how different we all are. Cheryl insists she’s happy and healthy, so let’s leave it there. If Cheryl really wants body shaming to become illegal, I’ll march to the Houses Of Parliament with her to change the law!”…

Khloe Kardashian has wowed recently with her incredible new body – after shedding 2 › st through tough daily workouts. But, last week, the star raised eyebrows when she uploaded an Instagram snap of herself in a tight corset – flaunting a worryingly thin waist. She captioned the image: “I’m obsessed with the gym but a little extra help never hurt nobody.” Waist-trainer corsets – which have also been favoured by Khloe’s sister, Kim, in the past – have caused concern among health experts, who’ve warned they can compress the ribs, cause severe bruising and reduce oxygen intake – putting those who wear them at risk of pneumonia and other lung infections. Khloe’s fans expressed their alarm at the snap, with one commenting: “I heard waist trainers are absolutely HORRIBLE…

Bethany Cleasby was 20 when she went to Southampton Solent University, to study photography and fashion. There she started binge-drinking, downing a bottle of rosé wine, five shots and 10 vodka mixers every night – spending as little as 50p per drink. She says: “At uni, getting drunk was obligatory. Booze is so cheap in student bars - often water is more expensive. I quickly developed a problem, drinking up to 240 units a week [the recommended limit for women is 2-3 units a day]. While drinking, I was vulnerable and suffered frequent blackouts. I had numerous one-night stands, and lost friends.” Within three months of starting uni, Bethany had already blown her £2,000 student loan. She says: “I relied on drink to socialise. I went out every night, and…

She raised eyebrows after collapsing at Glastonbury in July, and Lily Allen’s recent controversial behaviour has done little to dampen rumours her four-year marriage to businessman Sam Cooper is in trouble. The star was snapped smoking a suspicious-looking cigarette at Notting Hill Carnival last weekend and, following this, she uploaded a Snapchat video featuring a bag of white power with the caption “drugs.” Last March, Lily caused a stir when she signed up to dating app Tinder – although she later insisted it was just to “make friends” – and in August it was reported she’d signed up to an upmarket dating service called Raya. The singer’s long-term friend, rapper Lethal Bizzle, even admitted last month he’d assumed the star was “single.” TIME APART Now sources say, while the couple…

Last week, it was revealed that the search for missing Madeleine McCann has cost taxpayers almost £11million – prompting a senior police union leader to call for the case to be closed. For eight years now, Gerry and Kate McCann have fought tirelessly to find Maddie, who disappeared from her family’s holiday apartment in Portugal’s Praia da Luz in May 2007, when she was just three. Thirty-one police and support staff are still searching but, in the four years since the start of the UK investigation ordered by PM David Cameron, no arrests have been made. McCann family spokesperson Clarence Mitchell said: “Kate and Gerry remain incredibly grateful to the Met Police. They realise it can’t go on forever, but the Government and police make the decision about funding, not…

FARRAH ABRAHAM, 24: After finding fame aged just 16, reality star Farrah has undergone a marked transformation. Last year, she admitted to having lip and cheek fillers, a breast enlargement, a nose job and a chin implant - which she has since had removed. She hit the headlines last year when she had botched lip implant surgery caused by an allergic reaction to the anaesthetic. In October she said: “I’m not doing anything else but I have had my lips done, I’m totally experimenting right now.” She also revealed she’s still considering getting her “butt done.” JANICE DICKINSON, 60: The self-proclaimed “world’s first supermodel” admitted in 2014 that she is “no stranger to surgery,” revealing that she’d had a long list of procedures including a face lift, brow lift, neck…

Suzanne Averill, 36, works in Jordan as a Regional Technical Co-ordinator for International Medical Corps, helping to provide health services for Syrian refugees. She says: “I’ve been working in the Middle East for 18 months and help make sure Syrian refugees have the medical services they need. I visit hospitals in Lebanon, Turkey and Iraq and have seen so many refugees suffering. Many have lost limbs or have head injuries, while others have illnesses such as influenza or diabetes, which haven’t been treated due to lack of medical care. Some suffer mental trauma after the horrific events they’ve seen and will cower if a plane flies over. The hospitals I work in don’t have the equipment or level of training staff have in the UK, so I help raise standards…

Sex therapist Tracey Cox says: “Sub/ dom relationships involve both people getting erotic pleasure from either dominating or being dominated. There definitely has been a Fifty Shades effect, with more couples experimenting with power games – though most may not take it to this extreme. There’s nothing wrong with what Laura and Gavin are doing – even if it’s not everyone’s idea of fun! They’re both enjoying their roles and they have rules in place to make sure it’s physically and emotionally safe. For sub/ dom relationships to work, it’s crucial that both parties are 100% on board and have discussed it properly beforehand.…

She stars as one half of EastEnders power couple Mick and Linda Carter, but Kellie Bright says her TV husband Danny Dyer would be a hopeless dance partner. Asked if he has been helping her practise, Kellie laughs: “You’re joking – he’s useless! He can’t dance at all, but he’s been very supportive. He’s said he’d love to come to the live shows.” And Kellie, 39, says while she’ll try to take sharp-tongued judge Craig Revel Horwood’s criticism on the chin, co-star Danny may not be able to hold back. She laughs: “I’ll try to keep a brave face and take it as constructive criticism, but it must be tough to work on a routine all week, then have a judge criticise it! I imagine if Danny’s there and Craig…

WHO WORE IT BEST? Jessica Biel vs Natasha Hamilton The actress and the CBB star both opted for this Self Portrait culottes-style jumpsuit. While Jessica wore hers with black ankle-strap courts and swept her hair into a bun, Natasha went for a loose chignon and gold strappy heels. VERDICT It's a close call, but Jess' sharp put-together look just pipped Natasha's to the post. STYLE CRUSH! CARA'S A SUPERSTAR! Cara Delevingne, 23 The supermodel's star was shining as bright as ever at the VMAs last week. Her glittering Saint Laurent dress showed off those endless legs and her subtle accessories and side-swept hair completed her effortless look. Flawless. FROCKY HORROR Rihanna, 27 The singer is throwing it back to the '80s in a big bad way in this poofy-sleeved pink…

IN THE NEWS H&M STUDIO IS BACK FOR AUTUMN A collection so chic that Kendall Jenner wore it down the runway, but one that comes with a high-street price tag so we can get in on the action? No, you’re not dreaming, ladies – the latest H&M Studio collection hits stores this month, bringing with it a whole host of zig-zag-inspired prints, luxury fabrics and an autumnal colour palette that has given us major excitement for the new season. Just one piece will easily perk up your wardrobe, but we will be layering the chunky knit over the maxi dress for some ’70s sass that will last right through until next spring. MEET THE MICRO TREND... NEW AGE DISCO Join the new generation of divas and embrace your disco soul,…

TRICKS OF THE TRADE Used every day, make-up brushes can hold on to all kinds of bacteria that can lead to spot outbreaks. Take all the hassle out of cleaning your tools with this genius cleanser spray. Simply spritz on and dab dry with tissue – you’ll be amazed at how much grime your fluffy brushes harvest! Use once a week – that should do the trick. ON TRIAL This week we tried nail polish removers from 99p to £10. Here are our top three. 1 NOURISHING CLEAN This one made light work of wiping away polish, and it contained avocado oil to nourish nails and cuticles, so we weren’t left with any dried-out or weak pinkies afterwards. Great for serial colour changers. 2 GLITTER HITTER This gel-like formula is…

STEP 1 Sift 150g plain flour, /2tsp baking powder, 1tsp cinnamon and 50g caster sugar into a bowl. Add 1 grated apple, 250g mashed sweet potato, 1 whisked egg, 100ml semi-skimmed milk and 1tsp vanilla extract. Stir. STEP 2 Melt 1tsp butter in a frying pan and place on the heat. When hot, add 2tbsp batter. Leave for 1 min to cook, then flip over. Pat to flatten and cook for 1 min on the other side until golden. STEP 3 Repeat using all the batter. Serve with low-fat ice cream Recipe from cook With The Kids Campaign. Visit www.persildish.co.uk…

SINGER CERYS MATTHEWS, 46, REVEALS ALL What’s your worst habit? Getting too overexcited. When was the last time you said “I love you?” I can’t say it enough to my kids [Johnny, 12, Glenys, 10, and Red, five]. What animal would you be? A kangaroo. They can jump high and have pouches. Describe yourself… Impatient, impulsive and impassioned. What is your proudest achievement? My singalong book, Hook Line & Singer. Have you had a near-death experience? I was swimming in the sea and got caught in a strong current. It was terrifying. Luckily, I managed to get back to shore. Cerys’ The Good Life Experience festival runs 18-20 Sept, Flintshire. Visit Thegoodlifeexperience.co.uk…

TV’s Sarah Willingham reveals how to take control of your finances & make the most of your cash “I’ve worked for 16 years, but I only have one small pension from a previous employer. My current company is starting the compulsory pension scheme at 1%, but I need to put in more because, at this rate, I’ll retire on just £500 a year. “I live alone, so have to cover all my mortgage and bills. I’m quite thrifty, but living in London is expensive. Lots of my friends earn more than me, so it’s tricky keeping up with them and I often avoid drinking when I go out. It’s hard to take a chunk out of my wages for a pension, especially when something comes up – whether it’s car…

UNITED 93 INSPIRED BY REAL LIFE SAT 12 SEPT, 10.30PM, ITV This is a real-life account of the events on United Airlines Flight 93 – one of the planes hijacked on 11 September 2001, which crashed near Pennsylvania when passengers tried to foil the terrorist plot. To make the movie as authentic as possible, the director cast a number of people involved in the actual 9/11 tragedy to play themselves. KUNG FU PANDA KEEP THE KIDS QUIET SAT 12 SEPT, 5.10PM, BBC1 Po the panda (Jack Black) works in his family’s noodle shop but dreams of becoming a kung-fu master. A dream which becomes reality when, in the Valley Of Peace, Po finds himself chosen as the Dragon Warrior – despite the fact he’s a tad on the tubby side…

Within minutes of meeting Carol McGiffin, it’s clear that having breast cancer has done nothing to rob her of her sense of humour or razor-sharp wit. Using a baby wipe to remove the last traces of makeup after our photo shoot, she jokes with the crew, filling the room with laughter. The only visible sign of what she’s been through is her hair – a dark elfin crop instead of her trademark blonde bob, which she shaved off when clumps of it started falling out during chemo. As the crew say their goodbyes, Carol sits down to talk about her cancer. Her treatment was gruelling – a mastectomy followed by six rounds of chemo and 15 rounds of radiotherapy – surely there were dark moments that not even her no-nonsense…

1 POOR COMMUNICATION A survey of US experts revealed they believe 65 per cent of divorces were caused by communication problems. If you can’t talk through your issues rationally and come up with compromises, you don’t have a hope of navigating life’s many obstacles. WAYS TO AVOID IT: Don’t ignore important issues or leave them to fester. Agree with your partner what the best way is for you to communicate – eg, if you express yourself better when you can write down your thoughts, send him an email to say how you feel; if he prefers talking, he can use it as a framework to refer to. Another good habit is to repeat back what you think the other person has just said. It forces you to listen (rather than…

BLINK YOURSELF AWAKE! Falling into a desk-side coma? Blink more often! According to Erica Schwartz, a US expert on hormones and fatigue, when you stare at a screen you blink less frequently, and that can strain your eyes and make you sleepy. Your brain gets a little rest with every blink. CHAT YOURSELF ALERT! NASA researchers, no less, found that having a seven-minute chat break helps sleep-deprived employees feel more alert. So office gossip is good for you, thanks NASA! CHEW YOURSELF CONSCIOUS! Irish researchers scanned brains and found that chewing gum makes you more alert, making it a must-have for boring meetings!…

If you find yourself flagging and reaching for the biscuits at 4pm, you aren't alone. Your diet can have a huge influence on your energy levels and, if you’re feeling tired, it could be down to what you are – or aren’t – eating. Nutritionist Rob Hobson says: “The mid-afternoon energy slump is classic for someone who eats a lunch with a high glycaemic load, such white bread, pasta, potatoes, pizza and sugary foods. High GL foods are quickly broken down, causing a rapid increase in blood sugar, usually followed by a slump and hunger. To keep up your energy, you need to avoid these 'sugar highs' and maintain steady blood sugar.” Rob, who has collaborated with chef Lily Simpson to create The Detox Kitchen Bible, adds: “Another reason for…

THE NEWBIE NAIL POLISH YSL’s so-called jelly nail polishes caused a stir this summer. They’re like a tinted topcoat – they leave see-through, glossy colour. If you want to cheat it, L’Oréal’s new double-ended polishes mimic the mirror shine of gel polish. They offer a solid colour and matching tinted topcoat, which we used alone for a see-through effect. THE SHIMMER PALETTE The pearly shimmer offered by Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Brick blusher is hard to beat – until now. While inexpensive brands have struggled to create the same sheen, Revlon’s highlighting palette offers a refined shimmer finish and, while the pigment isn’t as rich, a few extra layers soon solved that. THE DO-ALL HIGHLIGHTER Liquid highlighters are the best to give skin a glow. The NARS illuminator is so rich,…

She slimmed from a size 14 to a slender 10 earlier this year through regular exercise and a healthy diet and, last month, removed her huge 32F implants – returning to her natural B-cup bust. And soaking up the sunshine on holiday in Mallorca last week, Chantelle Houghton looked more confident than ever as she showcased her impressive transformation. Now sources say unlucky-in-love Chantelle, 32 – who was a size 16 at her biggest two years ago – is hopeful her new knockout figure can help her bag her Mr Right. RELATIONSHIP WOES The star was left devastated when her 10-month marriage to musician Samuel Preston – who she met on Celebrity Big Brother – collapsed in 2007. She then suffered a bitter split from cage fighter Alex Reid –…

Their decade-long friendship has endured its ups and downs amid bitter public fallouts, failed marriages and controversy surrounding their troubled personal lives. But after healing their rift last year and with her marriage to third husband George Kay still in crisis, Kerry Katona has turned to old pal Jordan – real name Katie Price – for support. Mum-of-five Kerry revealed last week that Jordan – who’s mum to Harvey, 13, Junior, 10, Princess, eight, Jett, two, and Bunny, one – was the first to visit her at her new six-bedroom home in East Sussex, saying:“I’ve got Katie 30 minutes away from us. She’s been over with Kieran and all the kids.’ But sources close to Kerry, 34, say, despite the move marking a fresh start for the Atomic Kitten star,…

CBB star Chloe Goodman, 21, was Cheryl’s body double when she appeared in a L’Oréal advert, and says Cheryl’s weight loss is concerning. She says: “I worked with Cheryl a few years back when we were both a size 8. I was shocked by her recent weight loss and I don’t agree with her views on body shaming. Bullying someone over their weight is one thing, but commenting on someone being alarmingly thin or overweight often comes from a place of concern. We should be allowed to say that someone doesn’t seem healthy – particularly if, like Cheryl, they have young female fans. She should be grateful she has a following who are concerned.”…

Nineteen-year-old Ashley Hughes had been at Lincoln University for just 13 weeks when he tragically died in December last year after taking two Ecstasy pills for the first time. His devastated mum Lisa Leigh, 48, has called for universities to do more to make students aware of the dangers of drugs. She says: “The only reason Ashley took drugs that night was because he felt pressure to fit in. It cost him his life and devastated his family. He wasn’t a party animal. Before going to Lincoln, he’d never even got drunk. I think unis just turn a blind eye. Students should be made aware of the dangers of drugs.” Ashley grew up in Gatley, Greater Manchester, with mum Lisa, dad Mark, 48, and siblings Paige, 18, and Elliott, 21.…

She broke up with her ex Mitch Jenkins for the second time just two months ago and insiders say Charlotte Crosby’s using her new romance with Love Island winner Max Morley to get the ultimate revenge. The pair were seen all over each other after the Jeans For Genes party in London last week and Charlotte, 25, was spotted the next morning emerging from a hotel with cricketer Max, 22, who split from his girlfriend Jessica Hayes a few weeks ago. A source says: “Max and Charlotte were introduced by some mutual pals at the party and hit it off straight away. Charlotte was on a mission that night to meet someone and as soon as she saw Max she pounced on him and she was the one doing all…

In July 1991, toddler Ben Needham vanished outside a farmhouse his grandparents were renovating on the Greek island of Kos, while his mum Kerry was at work. His family combed the area for the 20-month-old but, tragically, he was never found. Despite Kerry pleading with the Government for more help, less than £800,000 has been spent so far – just a fraction of the £11m used in the search for Maddie. Now, 24 years on, Kerry, 43, says she’ll never give up looking for Ben and thinks it’s unfair the Maddie investigation has received so much money, compared to other missing children investigations. She adds: “My heart goes out to the McCanns – having a child go missing is an indescribable pain. There is no closure and you miss them…

After battling depression and chronic fatigue, having her Hollywood dreams left in tatters and then being declared bankrupt in 2013, Martine McCutcheon has had more than her fair share of knocks. But somehow the former EastEnders star found the strength to fight back. When Closer chats to the singer and actress, she’s happy and confident, which is exactly why – seven months after having son Rafferty with musician husband Jack McManus – she’s not worrying about losing weight. LEARNING TO LOVE HERSELF The 5ft 7 star – who has yo-yoed from a size 8 to a 16 and is launching a plus-size range with Fashion World – tells Closer : “Lots of different things have affected my weight over the years – I’ve gone up and down. I’m a size…

‘Miley’s not offensive!’ “I was shocked last week when the Parents Television Council watchdog in America made headlines after complaining that MTV’s Video Music Awards suffered from ‘blatant sexualisation’ and slammed the host Miley Cyrus for ‘offensive content.’ “I watched the show and I thought it was a fun celebration of music. The music industry has always been swamped with sexy images and dancing – and that’s not going to change. Artists should be able to wear whatever they what – the show is on at a late enough hour that kids shouldn’t be watching it anyway. “I don’t think young kids look up to Miley Cyrus and see her as a role model. As for the rest of us, well, we’ve all seen her flashing her nips and, quite…

THE MOVES Chloe, 24, stays slim by working out three to four times a week, either at the gym or at home. She says: “I’m too busy to commit to personal training sessions so I exercise on my own. I do a lot of running – on the treadmill or outside – and when I go to the gym I do a lot of toning exercises like lunges and squats. I lift weights too.” THE FOODS Typically, she’ll have Weetabix for breakfast, a tuna salad or white fish with broccoli and spinach for lunch, then grilled chicken with veg for dinner. The size 10 star does allow herself the odd treat, though. She says: “I have a day off once a week where I’ll have a chicken tikka masala. I…

INSIDE JESS’S FRIDGE Red Leicester Cheddar Philadelphia Gherkins Baked beans Eggs Parmesan Smoked salmon Prawns Raspberries Bottles of water Strawberries Galaxy chocolate Sausages Tomatoes Bacon Spinach Salad leaves Carrots Peppers Broccoli Mushrooms Skimmed milk Where do you shop? I shop in Waitrose or Sainsbury’s. I like the food choice. I spend around £80 a week because my friends stay over a lot. What’s your typical daily diet? Breakfast is porridge, then for lunch I have scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, and I usually eat dinner out. I like prawns and chicken and try to avoid carbs as much as possible – but at the weekends my diet is much worse than midweek! I love cheese and eat a lot of it. My other weakness is tea and biscuits. I try…

One in four people self-diagnose illnesses rather than seeing their GP. I’m not against Googling symptoms; it’s what you do afterwards that matters. Don’t just go on Google, terrify yourself, then ignore it – see your GP about your concerns. And watch what websites you’re using; you can trust NHS Choices, but a blogger or forum may not be the best source of information. There are certain symptoms you should always bother your GP with – pronto. Here they are... SUDDEN WEIGHT LOSS If you’re eating normally but weight is dropping off you, it could indicate a serious health problem. An overactive thyroid is most likely – it also makes you feel wired and you may be constipated and hot and sweaty too. Diabetes is another possibility and will make…

APPY SHOPPING! HotUKDeals has a new app that means you can follow updates for the deals, voucher codes, freebies and shops you’re interested in; and receive notifications when items you are looking to buy are on offer. Bargain hunting just got easier! CINEMA SAVINGS! Use comparethemarket.com to buy insurance or broadband and you’ll get 2 for 1 cinema tickets every Tuesday or Wednesday for a year. You can also get free cinema trips when you buy Tic Tacs or pouches of Maltesers and Minstrels, as well as use your Nectar points at Vue Cinemas.…

Is Roxy (Rita Simons) about to put the brakes on her secret liaisons with Dean so she can run off with her sister’s hubby, Charlie? Charlie (Declan Bennett) is set to depart the show – with scenes at a train station with Rita already filmed, but bosses are remaining tight-lipped over whether she does go with him, and just how Charlie’s departure will actually play out. Here’s hoping this paves the way for more shenanigans between Ronnie and Vincent...…

IF IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK You could achieve more than usual in the coming you need to guard against allowing other people – or your own self-doubt – to hamper your progress. Remember, lucky Jupiter is in your sign, so this really could be your year. Take a chance! THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN VIRGO 24 AUG - 23 SEP Your planet, Mercury, is clashing with Pluto this week and either someone is going to push you to your limit, or you're going to lose your cool with someone. Also, some fears could come to the surface. If they do, face them head on! Yasmin has a message for you and your sign – call 0906 7511 677* LIBRA 24 SEP-23 OCT Your planet, Venus, ends her reverse cycle…

“I don’t like to wear bump-hugging outfits all the time, so if I’m wearing a loose dress I’ll mix in tailored pieces like a shirt or jacket for a more streamlined shape.” “I’ve been living in jeans and leggings. Next Maternity jeans are my favourites. Long maternity tees are essential, too – Topshop and Dorothy Perkins do the best.” “I’d love to see Kim Kardashian rocking a pair of dungarees – she’d be 100 per cent more comfortable!” “Having a good selection of flats means you can make any basic pregnancy outfit look cool.” “I like the idea of having a stylish holdall that I can use as a change bag when the baby arrives.” “This maternity jumpsuit is easy to dress up or down. It’s great with sandals for…

A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH HIS MOTHER This is the most important thing. He should get on well with her but not be reliant. It’s one thing being a good son, it’s another being at her beck and call. A FEW LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS UNDER HIS BELT This shows he’s comfortable with commitment and has (hopefully) developed relationship skills. Don’t be put off by so-called “baggage.” ACHIEVEMENTS THAT ARE COMPLETE A patchy career, spontaneous moves to new places, courses that are abandoned after a few months – all of these hint at instability and impulsive behaviour. A GOOD NETWORK OF FRIENDS This indicates he’s good at maintaining relationships. If he has female friends, great – it shows he likes women.…

They’ve had their fair share of heartache and break-ups over the past year, so why do the likes of Danielle Lloyd, Kelly Brook and Kym Marsh still insist on jumping straight from one doomed romance to another? Last week, Danielle revealed she had a new boyfriend when she posted a screen grab from a FaceTime chat to Instagram with the caption: “What happens when u face time your fella from Ibiza #notmybestlook [sic].” And insiders say mum-of-three Danielle is racing into the new romance. A source says: “Danielle’s known her new man for a while, but they’ve only got together in the past few weeks. She hates being single and wears her heart on her sleeve, so she’s going full pelt with the romance.” News of 31-year-old Danielle’s new relationship…

Jordan’s had her fair share of relationship dramas, so it’s no surprise that Kerry Katona isn’t the only old pal that she has been dishing out advice to. Sources say Jordan has warned Lauren Goodger to keep her man Jake McLean out of the spotlight, or risk destroying their relationship. Ex-TOWIE star Lauren, 28, got together with Jake, 26, in 2012 before splitting a year later, then rekindling their romance earlier this year. Closer reported recently how she was keen to boost their profile as a couple and is considering doing a reality TV show with him. Lauren also regularly posts loved-up Instagram pics of the two of them and the pair recently featured in a campaign for chocolate body paint. But Jordan has warned Lauren against turning Jake –…

She’s hit headlines for all the wrong reasons recently due to her weight loss, but last week Cheryl Fernandez-Versini hit back at her critics, insisting body shaming should be made illegal. The X Factor judge, who attributed her recent weight loss to grieving for her late father-in-law, blasted: “Body shaming has to stop. Something has to be done, changed, even if it’s done in law.” But Cheryl has been guilty of criticising other celebs in the past. She has said singer Charlotte Church has “a fat head” and poked fun at her Walkers crisps advert, saying: “The one where she’s stuffing her face? I think that’s very appropriate!” She’s also slammed Lily Allen, calling her a “chick with a d**k.” Closer psychologist Emma Kenny says: “There seems to be a…

She endured a challenging pregnancy with her two-year-old daughter North, after developing placenta accreta – a condition where blood vessels and other parts of the placenta grow too deeply into the uterine wall. And, in an interview last week, Kim Kardashian, who is six months pregnant with her second child, revealed that if she gets the condition again, she faces the terrifying prospect of having her uterus removed straight after the birth in order to avoid severe blood loss. Kim, 34, said: “The doctors are prepared for me to have my uterus removed, which is a little scary for me.” Now insiders say that, despite putting on a brave front, the star is secretly devastated. A source says: “Doctors warned Kim she has a high chance of developing the condition…

Ellie Muffitt, 23, was sexually assaulted in her room three weeks after moving into her Manchester University halls in 2010. She says: “It’s shocking that, like me, so many female students are subjected to sexual assaults at uni, yet when it happened to me, there were no set regulations in place to help victims. I felt let down by how my case was handled. I suffered post-traumatic stress disorder and quit university. If I’d had the support I needed, things would have been very different.” Ellie, from Harrogate, Yorkshire, who studied linguistics, says: “It was scary moving to a new place, but also exciting. After a couple of weeks, I felt settled. But then a guy I knew sexually assaulted me in my room. After I forced him to leave,…

Clinical psychologist Dr Abigael San says: “Moving to uni can be overwhelming, and students can feel vulnerable. They’re less aware of their boundaries. It’s a huge transition, and with no curfew or rules, young people are more likely to push the limits without realising the possible consequences. Social pressures also play a role – if everyone else is doing something, they may feel they have to join in – and if students are feeling nervous or anxious they may drink to relax. Students should reach out to someone – such as a counselling service – and not allow themselves to do something they’re uncomfortable with. Parents also have a responsibility to prepare their children for uni and the challenges they may face. This can be done by talking to them…

She shared the thrilling news on Twitter last week that she and husband Patrick Kielty were expecting their first baby together, writing: “‘Exciting news… Paddy and I are so happy to be expecting our first child in the spring… Lucky us.” But insiders reveal that while Cat Deeley, 38 – who is now based in LA – is over the moon, she’s undecided over where they’ll bring up their baby. The couple – who married in a secret ceremony in Rome in 2012 – divide their time between LA, Dublin and London, where Patrick’s work is based, never spending more than two weeks apart. A source says: “Cat would love to bring up the baby in the UK so both their families are close, but at the same time she…

LOVE AGAINST ALL ODDS It’s any dad’s proudest moment – to walk his girl down the aisle on her big day. For Paul Daugherty, it was no different. But a letter he wrote to 25-year-old daughter Jillian – who has Down’s Syndrome – has touched thousands of hearts as it's gone viral on the internet. Written as he watched her get ready to marry boyfriend of 10 years Ryan – who also has Down’s Syndrome – Paul wrote: “In two hours, you will take the walk of a lifetime, a stroll made more memorable by what you've achieved to get to this day. I don’t know what the odds are of a woman born with Down’s Syndrome marrying the love of her life, I only know you've beaten them.” Paul…

The heartbreaking image of a three-year-old boy’s body washed up on the shore in Bodrum, Turkey, last week brought home the horrific extent of the refugee crisis engulfing Europe. Aylan Kurdi and his five-year-old brother, Galip, drowned when their overcrowded dinghy capsized as they fled war-torn Syria in search of asylum on the Greek island of Kos. Tragically, their mother Reehan lost her life too, while the boys’ anguished father, Abdullah, survived. Since the civil war in Syria began four years ago, 4m people have fled, desperate to escape the conflict, and thousands have lost their lives while crammed into lorries or making treacherous sea-crossings. MORE HELP NEEDED As families flee Syria, Europe is coming under increasing pressure to support them. Last year, the annual immigration figure for the UK…

Laura Hallan never has to worry that her boyfriend might be tempted to stray – he literally can’t. For the past two years, Gavin has been wearing a cage over his penis – the male equivalent of a chastity belt – that prevents him from getting an erection without pain. And Laura is the only one who holds the key. But Laura’s not consumed by jealousy. It’s part of their submissive-dominant relationship – a dynamic made famous by erotic novel Fifty Shades Of Grey. In their household, Laura, 32, makes all the decisions, from where they go on holiday, to what they eat. Gavin drives her wherever she wants to go and does most of the housework. A MUTUAL TURN-ON Laura, who lives in Lincolnshire and has two children from…

Strictly is renowned for its sequins and mahogany spray tans, but Helen George, 30 – who plays Trixie in BBC drama Call The Midwife – is banned from the show’s tanning booth. She says: “I’m filming alongside Strictly, so a spray tan isn’t allowed. It doesn’t fit with the [show’s] time period or my role! I’ll have to get tans that wash off. I have no idea how I’ll manage filming both shows. I’ll need lots of Red Bull!” And while Helen – who announced her split from actor husband Oliver Boot last week – took ballet lessons during her time studying musical theatre at the Royal Academy Of Music, she’s found it hard to loosen her hips for Strictly’s Latin routines. She says: “Ballet is good for being in…

He became an EastEnders favourite in the ’90s and early noughties as the loveable yet unlucky-in-life Robbie Jackson, getting himself into a series of comical scrapes before jetting off for a new life in India in 2003. And soap fans rejoiced last week when it was confirmed that after 12 long years, actor Dean Gaffney, 37, was set to dust off his broom and reprise his role as everyone’s favourite market sweeper. Here’s a peek into Dean's colourful life… 10 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT DEAN! 1 You’d think he was a teen himself thanks to his baby face, but Dean is a father to 18-year-old twin daughters with his childhood sweetheart of 22 years, Sarah Burge. 2 The actor has been the subject of many…

1 THE SADDLE SEEKER Traditionally, we expect a saddle bag to be tan leather with a chunky strap. But it’s had a plush makeover for A/W15 – think bracelet shoulder straps, gold clasp fastening and a less ridged shape. Resembling the iconic Chloé of late, meet our favorite red suede double. DUNE £69 2 WINGED AND FRINGED Any carry-all drenched in tassels gets a grade A style pass, but add those details to a winged shopper and you’ll bag an A star! Step forward this studded beauty. DEBENHAMS £79 3 FURRY NICE The mini faux fur pom pom charm has now grown in size and stature – faux takes over! Shearling panels and all-over shaggy patchwork fur add the touchy-feely necessity to all outfits this season, both day and night.…

We all want to go about our daily lives feeling fresh and confident and there’s no reason why light bladder weakness should slow us down. Let's face it, most of us have had an "Oooops" moment. Whether it’s during a sneeze, cough, exercise, or even a giggle with friends, anything can trigger an unexpected little leak. In fact, this is a completely normal experience and may be more common than you think. A recent survey shows that 62 per cent of women in the UK experience light bladder weakness at some point in their lives*, so you’re not alone. If you’re worried it’s going to interfere with your day-to-day routine, think again, because lights by TENA can give you a helping hand, by providing you with comfort and protection. The…

Former GBBO star and cookery book author Cat says: “This is a modern twist on a classic quiche lorraine.” SERVES 10 For the pastry: 135g cold salted butter, cut into cubes 270g plain flour, plus extra for rolling For the filling: 125g kale, chopped, large stalks removed 4 leeks, washed, trimmed and sliced 20g salted butter 5 free range eggs 300ml single cream 200ml whole milk 100g Parmesan, finely grated Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg 5 slices prosciutto, torn STEP 1 Preheat the oven to 190°C/Gas mark 5. Rub the flour with the butter, then add 75ml water and form a lump with the mixture. Cover and chill in the fridge for 20 mins. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface, then line a loose-bottomed 25cm deep round tin.…

A survey has found that just under half (45 per cent) of us are unhappy with our sex lives and 51 per cent haven’t had sex in the past month. When I work with unhappy couples, usually one partner feels unsatisfied and the other feels a pressure to perform, which leads to them simply withholding sexual intimacy. No one should ever feel pressured into having sex, but they should feel willing to explore their feelings for not wanting to. Regular sex makes couples feel closer and more fulfilled. It’s time to reclaim your sex life. MEET YOUR SEXPECTATIONS PRACTICE SENSATE FOCUS This is where you intimately stroke and massage each other without having intercourse. There is no pressure on performance, but an emphasis on intimacy. COMMUNICATE If you’re unhappy with…

THE FIRST AIDER: ST JOHN’S AMBULANCE APP Life-saving advice at your fingertips with illustrated guides for dealing with anything from a head injury to resuscitation. FREE, ITUNES OR WWW.SJA.ORG.UK THE TIME SAVER: PUSH DOCTOR Talk to a GP within minutes by booking an online video appointment – and if you need a prescription, it will be sent via email. £25 FOR A 10-MINUTE CONSULTATION, WWW.PUSHDOCTOR.CO.UK THE SELFIE SERVICE: LLOYDS PHARMACY ONLINE DOCTOR The genital photo assessment service allows you to send a pic to a GP for a quick, discreet diagnosis. £25 FOR EACH PHOTO ASSESSMENT ON LLOYD’S PHARMACY GP SERVICE, ONLINEDOCTOR.LLOYDSPHARMACY.COM…

“MY POCKET MONEY WAS... £5 a week – I’d usually spend it on McDonald’s! MY FIRST JOB WAS... At Millie’s Cookies when I was 16. I only lasted two days because I was so bored and my manager bossed me about too much! WITH MY FIRST PAY CHEQUE I... Paid my mum back lots of money I owed her! MY BIGGEST PURCHASE WAS... My gorgeous, adorable Pug, Huni. She cost £950. MY LAST PURCHASE WAS... Tickets to see Matilda The Musical and Ripleys Believe It Or Not museum in London with my daughter Leah, 15. ARE YOU A SPENDER OR A SAVER? A spender, but I’m working on the saving thing! No Offence is now available on DVD…

EMMERDALE’S LOUISE: ‘I’m an emotional wreck’ Following Emmerdale’s fiery explosion this summer, which destroyed the village hall and saw familiar faces wiped out, actress Louise Marwood – who plays Chrissie White – tells us what it’s been like to play public enemy number one. “I’ve been emotional for weeks,” she reveals. “I’ve been watching a lot of horrific crash footage and trying to imagine what it would feel like to do something you wish you could take back, but you can’t.” The drama unfolded on Debbie and Pete’s wedding day, when Chrissie discovered her cheating husband Robert’s web of lies and set fire to his car – which sparked a chain of events, causing a helicopter to come crashing down from the skies. Louise adds: “The filming was wonderful, harrowing…

As we enter a new season, we inevitably start thinking about making our lives the very best they can be. Whether you’re looking to make small tweaks or a bigger change, our 28-page special is packed with all the expert advice you need to help you. If you want to boost flagging energy levels, try our four-page masterclass on page 14. The quick fixes and easy recipes will leave you positively fizzing! Whatever life throws at you, there’s always hope. In our inspiring exclusive, Carol McGiffin reveals how her positive, no nonsense attitude has helped her navigate her way through breast cancer. Her moving interview will inspire you. If you’re struggling with stress, stuck in a rut or in need of a confidence boost, turn to page 20. We asked…

ENERGY ZAPPER: DODGING EXERCISE If you’re too weary to work out, listen up! US researchers put a bunch of healthy non-exercisers who felt fatigued on a programme of light workouts for 20 minutes, three times a week, and they all said they felt more energised after six weeks. Just a 20-minute walk (like glowing mum-of-three Jenny Frost, left, who enjoys walks on the beach), cycle, dance class or a bit of gardening will do the trick. ENERGY ZAPPER: COFFEE BREAK That double espresso will increase alertness in the morning, but cap the cappuccinos by early afternoon – drinking caffeine even a full six hours before bed can disrupt your sleep so much you miss out on a full hour’s shuteye. Also consider getting your caffeine boost in the form of…

DON’T BAN CARBS. Just avoid refined ones, like white bread and pasta, and go for “good carbs” such as sweet potatoes, brown rice and quinoa, which release energy more steadily. EAT A BALANCED BREKKIE. Include protein for steady energy. “I’m a mega egg fan,” says ex- TOWIE -star-turned-fitness-entrepreneur Lucy Mecklenburgh. “They’re tasty, filling and give me heaps of energy to work out.” Also try porridge with berries and flaked almonds. BE AN IRON WOMAN! An iron deficiency makes you weak and tired. Iron-rich foods include lean beef, kidney beans, tofu, eggs, dark green leafy veg and nuts. GET YOUR B VITAMINS. These fuel our cells to create energy, so eat lots of green veg like asparagus and broccoli, brown rice, eggs and Marmite. EAT A HEALTHY SNACK TWICE A DAY.…

She was part of one of the UK’s biggest ever bands, Girls Aloud, stars on the West End stage, has been a finalist on Strictly and calls Cheryl Fernandez-Versini her best friend – but when Closer meets Kimberley Walsh, she’s refreshingly down to earth. In fact, at first glance, she seems little different from the bright-eyed girl from Bradford who auditioned for Popstars: The Rivals in 2002. But one thing that has changed about Kimberley, 33, is becoming a mum to her son Bobby – who turned one last week – with fiancé Justin Scott. And it’s clear that her level-headed approach to life has helped her maintain a sensible attitude towards her post-baby body. “I’ve learnt to embrace my body and enjoy the shape I am,” says the size…