Inhoudsopgave van Issue 873 - Closer

A shocking image of a toddler shovelling earth on to his 21-year-old father’s grave went viral last week – illustrating better than a million headlines the true horror of knife crime in Britain. As appalling figures show that more than 110 people have been stabbed to death in the UK since January, we’ve spoken to Lewis Bagshaw’s grieving partner Olivia, who still can’t comprehend that she watched her 18-month-old son help to bury his father. Her family has been shattered, but she hopes the image of little Carter at the funeral might make people think twice –and she urges everyone to sign a petition [p18] to halt these senseless killings. We echo that and hope that her bravery and strength carries them both through a future that was so pointlessly…

Former model Nicola McLean, 38, is open about her cosmetic transformations, recently revealing to Closer that she’d boosted her boobs to 32FF and had liposuction. And the star – who has also admitted to Botox and fillers – insists more celebrities should be honest about their surgery. Speaking of Posh’s denial, she says, “When you’re in the public eye, you have a duty of care to be honest, especially to younger fans, so it’s outrageous that Victoria has effectively told youngsters looking up to her that her looks are natural. I don’t believe that, I think it’s through cosmetic procedures, and all she’s doing by denying it and being dishonest is making her young fans feel inferior. “I’ve never made a secret of my surgery. My boobs aren’t naturally like…

❛SEEING HER IN THE ARMS OF ANOTHER MAN WOULD BE THE PERFECT REVENGE❜ • Insiders say Coleen Rooney is making preparations for a life without her scandal-hit husband at the centre • Hopes to revive her TV career – including a stint on Strictly Come Dancing • Insists she’s putting herself first after uprooting for their move to Washington She’s maintained a dignified silence since the latest scandal to shake her 11-year marriage in August – when her husband Wayne reportedly stripped down to his underwear in front of three women at a boozy jacuzzi party in Vancouver, following a seven-hour drinking bender. And while Coleen Rooney has appeared to forgive the 33-year-old footballer, insiders say the mum of four is intent on kicking off her TV career revival now…

After enduring a “toxic” on-off four-year relationship with ex Jake McLean before their split back in 2016, she revealed earlier this year that they had briefly rekindled their romance. ❛SHE FEELS BETRAYED BY TWO PEOPLE SHE REALLY CARED ABOUT❜ But insiders say Lauren Goodger has been left devastated by revelations her close pal and TOWIE co-star Yazmin Oukhellou had recently struck up a flirtation with the former convict behind her back, telling friends she’s not sure what to believe any more. A source reveals, “Lauren was in a state when she found out Yaz and Jake had been on dates together. Essex is a small place and she heard through word of mouth rather than from Yaz or Jake themselves. “She’s trying to put on a brave face but she…

It’s been two years since Louise and Jamie Redknapp’s shock divorce, but it seems their 19-year marriage is still playing heavily on her heart. In her new single, Breaking Back Together, the former Eternal pop star appears to take aim at the ex-footballer by singing that she’s been on “the side of painful”. Last week, Louise, 44 – who shares sons Charley, 15, and Beau, 10, with Jamie – admitted the song was referencing her “very difficult years” following their break-up. Speaking of the 2017 divorce, she insisted it had nothing to do with the “Strictly curse”, after suspicion over her close friendship with pro-dancer Kevin Clifton when she competed on the hit show. She added, “[The split] was as much of a shock to me as it was to…

They’re expecting their first child together, and loved-up Lucy Mecklenburgh and Ryan Thomas have revealed they are expecting a baby boy together. Lucy, 28, posted a video to Instagram showing the moment she read a document revealing the sex of their unborn baby – with Ryan happily bursting into tears as he heard the news. The former Coronation Street star already has daughter Scarlett from his relationship with his former Corrie co-star Tina O’Brien. And Lucy proved how close she was to Scarlett when she posted a video to Instagram of her telling the ten-year-old she was pregnant, with them happily hugging afterwards. Speaking of being step-mum to Scarlett, Lucy has previously said, “It’s just fun. As soon as a child is involved, you’re selfless – you do what they…

• Anyone over the age of 21 can potentially adopt, and there is no upper age limit, as long as the child can be fully supported into adulthood. • Single people can adopt as well as couples – regardless of sexual orientation – and both those without children and those who are already parents can be considered. • All adults wanting to adopt will have to go through background checks, including with police, health authorities, and through personal references. • Adoption UK provides a training course, which helps to equip adopters with a range of skills to deal with whatever issues may arise when welcoming an adopted child into their family. • To find out more about the adoption process, visit Adoptionuk.org…

❛HE’S VERY PROUD OF THE WEIGHT HE’S LOST AND HOW GOOD HE LOOKS❜ He’s spoken about overhauling his diet and lifestyle over the last year – and, while holidaying in Mexico earlier this month, Simon Cowell showed just how far he’s come. The music mogul – who has son Eric, five, with girlfriend Lauren Silverman – was pictured sporting a newly-toned physique and six-pack by the poolside with his family. Fans were blown away by how healthy Simon – who turns 60 this week – looked, with one writing, “Wow, he looks really good,” and another commenting, “He looks trim and toned – good for him!” The X Factor boss has lost a whopping 1.5 stone over the last year, revealing in April how he credited his transformation to changing…

❛I HAD A FEELING SOMETHING WASN’T RIGHT – BUT I DIDN’T WANT TO RETURN HOME WITH THE SAME SAGGY BELLY❜ When Natasha Milner’s husband left her, she decided to boost her self-esteem with a surgery makeover. But instead of getting the revenge body she dreamed of, Natasha was left ravaged by a bacterial infection that nearly cost the mum-of-four her life. And in a surprising twist, it was Natasha’s ex-husband, Dean, 49, who nursed her back to health – and now the pair have reunited. Natasha, 48, from Ruislip, Middlesex, says, “Dean barely left my bedside for four weeks. I had three operations, but when I woke up, he was always there. “My brush with death made Dean realise he didn’t want to lose me, and we agreed to work…

‘I am single and I can mingle!’ She’s been open about wanting to find a new romance. And last week, relationship rumours swirled when she was pictured locking lips with Love Island star Jordan Hames, 24. And while Ferne McCann admits she might be in the throes of a budding romance with the reality star, she tells Closer she’s going to take it slow. Ferne, 29, says, “Yes, Jordan and I did have a little kiss the other night. But everyone was saying, ‘They’ve confirmed their relationship!’ – and I literally met him that night! We just clicked... he’s a really nice guy. We’ll see what happens and how it goes – he hasn’t taken me on a proper date yet, but if he wants to, he can!” RUMOURS Ferne’s…

If you or your child are about to embark on a big trip abroad, there are ways you can stay safe... • Learn basic self-defence – watching a YouTube video could help. Knowing how to defend yourself will give you confidence. • Use a prepaid cash card. Don’t carry large amounts of cash around with you and hide money in different pockets. • Download the ‘Find My Friend’ app on to your phone to keep track of your pals, and so they can see where you are. Arrange set times to call or text so they know you are safe. • For more information, visit Travelaware.campaign.gov.uk…

IN THE NEWS… SCARLETT MOFFATT’S PEACOCKS COLLECTION Our favourite ex-Gogglebox star, Scarlett Moffatt, has just launched her very first edit with Peacocks, featuring her favourite pieces from the A/W collection. Packed with dresses, coats, jumpers and accessories galore, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Plus, everything is under £50! Available in stores and online now. EVERYBODY’S WEARING... LEATHER LOOKS As we transition into autumn, the season will be filled with faux leather looks. Try out the trend by swapping your jeans for some leather-look H trousers, or rock a skirt at the weekend with a slogan tee and trainers. FASHION WORTH TALKING ABOUT! PINK PALAVER Sarah Jessica Parker, 54 Sarah Jessica Parker may have turned heads with this magenta number, but we’re not sure why she chose such an ill-fitting dress.…

JUST LANDED ARCTIC SKINCARE POLAAR ICY MAGIC INSTANT EYE CONTOUR ENERGISER; NORTHERN LIGHT SMOOTHING CREAM; POLAR NIGHT REVITALIZING MASK WHY IT’S DIFFERENT: This skincare range has been developed by an explorer who spotted the ability of Arctic plants to survive in extreme weather conditions (yes, really!). WHY WE LOVE IT: The concept is not only fascinating, it really works. The moisturiser hydrates and nourishes winter-worn skin, and you can see the difference after just a few uses. GET THE LOOK... GLOSSY LOCKS Strengthen fragile strands and get healthy, swishy hair like Karlie and Mandy with these treatments… ❶ BOOSTS SHINE KLORANE KERATIN STRENGTH FORTIFYING SPRAY £24.50 Spritz this blend of plant-based keratin and vitamin B on to towel-dried hair before styling. It’ll provide instant high-octane shine while helping repair damaged…

‘I’m constantly telling myself I’m beautiful’ She’s a mother to three energetic sons – Zachary, 11, Leighton, seven, and five-month-old Rex. But Stacey Solomon admits that she has found taking care of a newborn more daunting this time around than she first did when she was a teenage mum. Speaking candidly about her experiences of motherhood since giving birth to Rex in May, Stacey, 29, says, “Rex is lovely and a gorgeous baby. But I feel like I’ve aged a hundred years – I don’t feel more confident or relaxed with him. If anything, I think this is the least confident I’ve ever been. At 17, I don’t think I considered what it was to be a parent, and at 21 [when she had Leighton], I thought I knew best…

INSIDE DAWN’S FRIDGE • Eggs• Pint of whole milk• Double Gloucester cheese• Avocado• Watermelon• Ginger• Salmon fillets• Sausages• Sweet potato• King prawns• Unsmoked bacon• Kale• Onion• Spinach• Pineapple• Mushrooms• Unsweetened almond milk• Vimto• Champagne VERDICT NUTRITIONIST JULIETTE KELLOW SAYS, “‘Intolerances are difficult to diagnose, so if Dawn hasn’t already done so, it would be worth her seeing a registered dietitian to ensure she’s not unnecessarily cutting wheat out of her diet. She can boost her intake of fibre and B vitamins with brown rice, jacket potatoes, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils and chickpeas – all of which are suitable for a gluten-free diet.” FRIDGE HEALTH RATING 7/10 TAKEAWAY TREAT CHINESE I like Chinese salt and pepper ribs, noodles, rice and hot and sour soup. NAUGHTY BUT NICE POPCORN A bag of…

They don’t just protect against the flu, but fatal heart attacks and strokes, too. Research of more than 600,000 people over nine flu seasons found that jabs for those with high blood pressure saved lives because flu puts stress on the body, which can trigger bigger things like strokes. Free injections are given to over-65s, people with certain conditions, pregnant women, 2-3 year olds, primary school kids and medical staff. If you have high blood pressure, you could pay for one – they’re £12.99 at Boots.…

£1.84 For four Co-op rainbow ice creams for my daughters. £12 On baking ingredients from Aldi to make a strawberry and white chocolate cake. £220 On a family day trip to Alton Towers Resort. A promotional deal meant the tickets were half-price. My kids loved it. £700 On a holistic training course (to become an EFT and Matrix Reimprinting practitioner). It’s a technique that connects people with their past traumas. I specialise in holistic business coaching. • Follow Jess on Twitter @TheProdigalFox…

What is Robert’s reaction when he hears Lee’s died? It’s shocking – out of nowhere. He’s pled guilty already to GBH with intent, which he thinks will mean he’ll be found guilty for murder. Everything escalates and it leads to them making a very rash decision. Do they have a plan? They have to take it as it comes. The police are on their way so they have to be fast. And you’re saying goodbye? I will miss the show massively; it’s been a huge part of my life. I love all the people I work with and it’s going to be hugely emotional leaving.…

How does it feel to be back? I’m so glad to be back, and I’m having the most fun I’ve ever had on The X Factor. It’s different because it’s not the normal contestants – we have celebrities. Simon’s like a new person. He’s funny, he’s looking great, and I love Nicole. The three of us just sit there and we have fun. Are you enjoying the changes? I think what we’re doing this year is a brilliant idea and everyone’s going to love watching these celebrities. The show feels more exciting. There’s no bootcamp, no six chair challenge – it feels slick this year. It’s been the best show on TV for a long time and has just had a little rebranding. Do you think viewers will be surprised…

KIM WOODBURN... There’s no rush, Kim. Tomorrow is a new day. Or maybe just pencil in that gym trip for some time in 2024? THEO CAMPBELL... Great advice, Theo! Now, what would you say to someone who’s still nowhere near the top, long after they’ve passed 38? Asking for a friend… INSPIGRAM MALIN ANDERSSON That’s all very inspiring, Malin, but just you wait until you get to our age. Then your only aim will be trying not to “wet yourself”.…

She came under fire from fans after claiming that she’d never been tempted by a cosmetic procedure – despite having previously admitted to a boob job in 2017. Opening up in an interview last week, Victoria Beckham insisted, “I haven’t been tempted by a cosmetic procedure, but never say never. It’s whatever makes anybody feel good about themselves. I would rather celebrate who I am and be the best version of myself rather than change too much.” The comments appeared to jar with a 2017 interview Posh, 45, gave to Vogue, in which she seemed to confirm having a boob job after years of denial – saying, “I should probably say, don’t mess with your boobs. All those years I denied it – stupid. A sign of insecurity. Just celebrate…

❛EVERYONE IS WORRIED SHE MAY BE ACTING RECKLESSLY IN THE WAKE OF HER SPLIT❜ She struck up a romance with rapper Travis Scott shortly after splitting from ex Tyga in 2017 – and within weeks, fell pregnant with their daughter Stormi Webster. But Kylie Jenner raised eyebrows once again last week when she was spotted making a 2am visit to Tyga’s recording studio in LA, just hours after reports surfaced that she and Travis had called it quits. Kylie was quick to dispute the reports, insisting she was only dropping off friends at the studio, but sources say that while her family are trying to be supportive, her sisters and mum Kris Jenner are urging Kylie, 22, to stay away from Tyga. SECRETIVE A source reveals, “Kylie is very tight-lipped…

She had a cosmetic surgery overhaul last year, including a Brazilian butt lift and liposculpture, in a bid to boost her self-esteem following a life-long battle with body dysmorphia. And last week, Bianca Gascoigne happily showed off the results of her latest nip/tuck, after insiders reveal she underwent more work as liposuction on her stomach had “left her feeling manly.” A source tells Closer, “Bianca’s confidence was at an all-time high when she had the surgery makeover last year, and she was chuffed with how she looked. She’d always dreamed of sporting really defined, washboard abs and couldn’t wait to show off her newly chiseled stomach in a bikini.” ❛SHE WASN’T KEEN ON HAVING MORE WORK BUT SHE FELT SO UNHAPPY WITH HER BODY❜ Abdominal-etching, also known as stomach liposculpture,…

“It’s exciting that Kate and Rio are planning to add to their family and great that Lucy and Ryan have a little one on the way. Being pregnant is an exciting time. If you’re a step-mum, it’s important to engage with your step-kids and involve them with the pregnancy as much as possible. When the baby arrives, they need roles and responsibilities to create a bond. Regularly checking in with step-kids, and reassuring them they’re still loved just as much is important.”…

Susie, 37, from Durham lives with her two adopted daughters, Annie, five, and Jane, three, and is in the process of adopting a little boy. She says, “I was 32 when I started researching adoption. It had always been on my radar, as my mother was adopted. She’d always been open about the process and I felt it was the right fit for me. LIFE EXPERIENCE “I did wonder if I’d be turned down because I was on my own – but I couldn’t have been more wrong. The adoption process didn’t have to be for a man and a woman any more. They just wanted people with resilience, life experience and a lot of love to give. “After eight months of interviews and going through the selection process, I…

He may have been branded “rude” and “brash” by viewers during his stint on Celebs Go Dating this summer – but Jack Fincham was happy and charming on the red carpet at the Animal Hero Awards. He tells Closer that, while it’s a shame he didn’t always come across well on the show, he is glad he did it. Jack, 28 – who won Love Island 2018 with then-girlfriend Dani Dyer – says, “If I wasn’t getting on with someone, I wasn’t going to waste my time. I just didn’t meet anyone I liked and no-one looks good on a bad date. Ninety-nine per cent of the time I was joking, but people didn’t get it. People always have an opinion of you.” He continued, “I am very single at…

DOUBLE UP Don’t be afraid to wear more than one dotty piece. The print is subtle enough to not be too overbearing. As long as the colours work, the style is super-easy to clash. TOP, OASIS, £39 TROUSERS, VERY, £30 NECKLACE, ACCESSORIZE, £8 RINGS, PRIMARK, £3 STYLE STAPLE You can’t beat a shirt dress for an effortless nine-to-five outfit. The waist-defining belt offers a flattering finish, while the chocolate-button print adds a retro feel. DRESS, VERY, £45 EARRINGS, PRIMARK, £2 LAY IT ON When it comes to moving between seasons, it’s all about layers. This jumpsuit can be worn over a ruffle blouse or a chunky roll neck. Stick to monochrome for a sleek finish. JUMPSUIT, NOBODY’S CHILD, £30 TOP, PRIMARK, £14 BOOTS, NASTY GAL, £40 EARRINGS, ACCESSORIZE, £5 GO…

There’s nothing like a punchy lipstick to brighten your look (as well as your mood), and this season’s must-have shade – hot pink – really delivers. Worn on the streetwear brand GCDS catwalk and by models including Adriana Lima and Elsa Hosk, this bold look is not for the faint-hearted. We put the trend to the test, to see if it’s a worthy replacement for a classic crimson… WE TRY IT OUT! ACTING STYLE EDITOR CHARLIE SAYS: “I chose a glossy finish, as I find the upkeep a lot easier. Although I really loved the fuchsia look on the celebrities, I felt it was a little too Barbie-ish for me in real life. I don’t think I’ll be tempted to stray away from classic red any time soon!” STYLE WRITER…

How much do you spend per week? At least £300! I love entertaining and can have as many as 11 people round for dinner, including my husband Ashley, my four girls and their friends. Cooking is a big passion of mine. I’m not a fan of processed foods – I prefer to prepare meals from scratch. Describe your daily diet… At the moment we’re trying to change our diet by having smaller portions, but eating more often. I have a wheat intolerance so, for breakfast, I’ll eat eggs followed by a mid-morning homemade smoothie with fresh kale, ginger, spinach and pineapple. Lunch is usually chicken or fish with salad, then some rice cakes with cheese or avocado as an afternoon snack. In the evenings, I’ll make gluten-free lasagne or a…

RELATIONSHIPS DON’T LET YOUR HEART RULE YOUR HEAD IN LOVE Before making major commitments like moving in or getting married, Emma says it’s crucial that couples prepare carefully I approached my second marriage very differently to my first. Savvier, and after a costly divorce, I realised that romance is lovely but it doesn’t pay the bills. Before saying “I do” again, I made sure that, should this marriage fail, I would leave with exactly what I arrived with. Apparently, 42 per cent of women aged 18 to 24 would sign a prenuptial agreement. Good for them. You may think it’s strange to plan the end of your relationship before it’s really begun, but bear in mind that almost half of marriages end in divorce. UK courts will recognise prenups, but…

1 CHARLOTTE CHURCH: MY FAMILY & ME CHURCH LIFE THU 17 OCT, 9PM, C4 Singer Charlotte Church has packed a lot into her life so far. By the age of 19, she’d sold more than ten million records, and after starting out as an angelic child-opera singer, she moved into pop music. She soon became a tabloid regular, thanks to her drinking antics and outspoken comments. Now 33 and a mother of two (the kids’ dad is ex-rugby player Gavin Henson), Church has filmed this one-off special for Channel 4, which explores the effects of fame on not just a celebrity, but their family as well. In this intimate documentary, Charlotte, her mum Maria and dad James stay in a remote location for five days where they openly – and…

‘SHE’S HAD A NOSE JOB WITH SUBTLE CHANGES’ Surgeon Mark says, “It’s difficult with noses, because they can appear narrower due to clever make-up and contouring. It looks as though she’s had some good work done to improve the shape of her nose. There are some subtle but definite changes.” ‘HER LIPS HAVE BEEN FILLED OUT’ “Victoria’s lips appear much fuller and, to me, it’s clear she’s had filler injected into them to achieve a fuller pout,” says surgeon Mark. “Lips tend to get thinner with age, so it would appear she’s had help to keep them looking full.” ‘HER BOOBS WERE BOOSTED WITH IMPLANTS’ Surgeon Mark says, “She admitted having a boob job in an interview two years ago, and it’s obvious from these pictures that she’s had a…

❛SHE LOVES GETTING A REACTION FROM A JEALOUS EX AS SHE SAYS IT PROVES THEY STILL CARE❜ She shockingly dumped fiancé Kris Boyson for toyboy Charles Drury last month – even moving the 22-year-old builder into her home and enjoying a holiday in Turkey together as Kris was snapped packing up her belongings into bin bags. But last week – after the pair were spotted having a tense confrontation at Thorpe Park in front of her 14-year-old son Junior before leaving together – Jordan was pictured outside of Kris’ home after reportedly staying the night. And insiders say that while friends and family are pleading with Jordan, 41 – real name Katie Price – to end the drama with Charles and get back together with Kris, she’s secretly loving the…

POP CULTURE EXPERT NICK EDE SAYS: “Meghan and Harry have had a fantastic tour, so the timing [of their statement] is a bit odd. It’s unfortunate the announcement coincided with a really positive time, but I don’t believe this is a PR move – rather a ‘last straw’ type of reaction from the couple. It’s great that they have responded to the negativity and hit back. The royals don’t have a right to reply like normal people do, so it’s good they are finally speaking out. They are both strong advocates for anti-bullying, too, so it doesn’t bode well for them to ignore the trolling without saying it’s wrong. There are a lot of supporters of the statement, and I think they’ve humanised themselves. I hope we see the negativity…

They’ve been dating since 2016, and Kate Wright and Rio Ferdinand delighted fans when they tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in Turkey earlier this month. The couple wed at a five-star hotel in Marmaris surrounded by their family and friends, including TOWIE stars Mike Hassini and Lydia Bright. Rio’s children with his late wife Rebecca – who died of cancer in 2015 – were part of the ceremony, with his sons Tate, 13, and Lorenz, 11, walking Kate up the aisle, and daughter Tia, seven, playing maid of honour. Rio, 40, said, “They were so proud and they couldn’t wait [to be involved]. They felt important.” Kate, 28, took on the role of step-mum when she began dating Rio, previously saying, “I fell in love with Rio, then…

When Alison Woodhead turned 44, she desperately wanted to be a mum. And as she was single, she began researching ways to make it happen – ultimately deciding to adopt alone. Alison, now 54, who works in communications for Adoption UK, says, “I’d always wanted to be a mum, so when I got to 44 and there was no relationship on the horizon, I decided to go it alone. “I’d worked for Oxfam for years campaigning against child poverty, and I knew that there were many children who desperately needed a home, so I decided to put myself forward to adopt. “After several months of interviews and assessments, I was “matched” with five-year- old Mary* and was thrilled. It hasn’t always been easy, especially because I’m raising her on my…

He may have faced adversity, as he was born with arthrogryposis (a condition that causes curved joints, affecting all four of his limbs), but he’s overcome it by becoming the world’s number one Paralympic table tennis player and bringing home gold at the Rio 2016 Paralympics. And Will Bayley – who came a respectable sixth on the leaderboard with partner Janette Manrara in his Strictly debut this series – reveals he loves being able to prove people wrong when they doubt him. DEFIANT The 31 year old admits, “Even some of my friends said, ‘Don’t know how you’ll do it. You can’t balance very well – you won’t be able to do the lifts.’ I like proving people wrong and I like to be better than what people expect of…

Demi Moore’s emotionally charged memoir, Inside Out, has made headlines worldwide recently – with the Hollywood actress candidly discussing a horrific rape, a battle with alcoholism and tales of infidelity. The 56 year old lays her life bare, including details of her marriage to Ashton Kutcher, who she began dating in 2003 when she was 41 and he was 25. Demi claims she felt pushed into threesomes with her younger husband so he would think she was “fun”, but said it led to Ashton then cheating on her with two younger women. She isn’t the only star to stun fans with her brutal honesty and shock revelations by publishing a tell-all book. Closer looks at other celebs who have sparked scandals with their bombshell reveals… KELLY PUNCHES JASON AT MADONNA’S…

❛ I TRULY BELIEVED HE WOULD KILL ME IF I DIDN’T DO WHAT HE SAID ❜ As 21-year-old Elisha Greer boarded a plane for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Australia, she was excited for the adventure ahead. But things took a horrific turn 21 months into her travels after meeting Australian Marcus Martin, 22, at a party. Shockingly, Martin kidnapped her, forced her to drive for miles across Australia, and repeatedly raped her for over a month. COURAGE Remarkably, Elisha, now 25, managed to escape, and is bravely speaking out about her terrifying ordeal. Elisha, from Liverpool – who set off on her trip in April 2015 – says, “I was having the time of my life. I went camping and saw waterfalls. It was amazing. I was doing exactly what…

INVEST IN SAVVY STORAGE If your corridor has become a bit of a dumping ground for shoes, bags and miscellaneous mess, look for a stylish cabinet or console to tidy up the space. Use the top of the table to create a focal point with a lamp or vase. MAKE THE MOST OF WALL SPACE Bulky wardrobes aren’t the only way to keep coats, hats and scarves tidy. Why not make a statement in your hallway with quirky wall hooks, such as this elephant design from H&M. Or create your own graphic pattern with matching sets placed at different levels. GET CLEVER WITH CORNERS Devise a cosy reading nook in an awkward corner by adding a snazzy armchair and a side-table. Even if you don’t end up sitting there all…

LIGHT SUPPER BUTTERFLIED CHICKEN WITH A LEMON, CAPER AND SHALLOT SAUCE SERVES 4 • 4x125g skinless chicken breast fillets • Calorie-controlled cooking spray • 45g salted butter • 2 banana shallots, thinly sliced • 2tbsp capers, drained, rinsed and roughly chopped • 1tbsp lemon juice, plus lemon wedges, to serve • 2 x 300g packs cauliflower rice • 80g watercress •1/2 red onion, sliced STEP 1 Slice each chicken fillet lengthways from the thin side, taking care not to cut all the way through. Open out the fillet, cover with cling film and gently bash with a rolling pin to flatten. Season and set aside. STEP 2 Mist a large non-stick frying pan with cooking spray and set over a medium heat. Add the chicken and fry for 4-5 mins…

Gareth Thomas recently discussing having HIV is hugely helpful as there are still so many misconceptions around it. There’s a lack of testing due to fear, stigma and myths, like a belief that a diagnosis would go on your insurance record and you wouldn’t be able to get a mortgage. That’s not true. KNOW THE FACTS If you’re treated at an HIV clinic, not even your GP is told unless you request it. People are also scared HIV is a death sentence so they’d rather not know if they have it – but it’s not. When treated, it becomes undetectable and unspreadable so, in theory, there should be no new cases of HIV. That’s incredible, yet a recent report found only 45 per cent of Brits know how HIV is…

Mechelle Clark was made redundant in 2014, after over a decade working in the oil and gas sector. “The industry crashed globally and it hit my hometown of Aberdeen hard,” she says. “I had more than 60 interviews before deciding enough was enough and set up my own business.” Mechelle was passionate about food and drink and cooked in restaurants as a student. She sought out food trends that didn’t require much knowledge, as she wasn’t a professional chef. She noticed lots of grilled cheese shops popping up in London on social media, so decided to bring the trend to Scotland. Bank loans weren’t an option, as Mechelle had no savings and was living off her husband’s wages, so she applied for a government-backed Start Up Loan. In 2016, her…

How did this come about? I was asked if I’d like to present a show about caravanning. It’s not something I’d thought about – but the business throws up all sorts of stuff, and I’m thankful to be working if I’m honest, and I’m constantly busy. What are your memories of childhood holidays? Growing up, my mum was a cleaner and my dad was a binman. They would save for 50 weeks of the year to have a break. Money was tight but I remember going to Pontins and having the best time. And you became a Bluecoat? I was out of work as an actor, and what a lot of actors did back then was to get some seasonal work. I loved entertaining so much I ended up doing…

MUST READ The Giver Of Stars (JOJO MOYES) It’s the late 1930s, and a restless Alice Wright makes an impulsive decision to marry wealthy American Bennett Van Cleve and leave her home and family behind. However, it’s not the adventure – or the escape – that she’d hoped for. Until she meets Margery O’Hare, who is on a mission to spread the wonder of books and wants Alice’s help. But when the town turns against them, will their belief in one another – and in the power of the written word – be enough to save them? A beautiful story. BEST DAY OUT Spooktacular Howl’o’ween fun at Chessington World of Adventures Taking place on selected dates between 12 October and 3 November is the Howl’o’ween Spooktacular at Chessington World of…

THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN LIBRA 23 SEP-22 OCT You’re coming towards the end of a tedious cycle in which you’ve learned lessons, and alignments this week will force you to use them. You might’ve been humbled, but you’re older and wiser. Move on in one relationship! PS Catch my free Facebook Full Moon ceremony at moonmessages.com/ fbevents SCORPIO 23 OCT-21 NOV There could be some amazing turnarounds with love, money, or both, as abundant Venus triggers crazy Uranus in your opposite sign. You might have a sudden realisation about a relation or financial situation. Imagine your dreams and they could materialise. PS Catch my free Facebook Full Moon ceremony at moonmessages.com/fbevents SAGITTARIUS 22 NOV-21 DEC Money issues flaring up now are in your path to teach you important lessons.…