Inhoudsopgave van Issue 985 - Closer

If you’re reading this double issue with your feet up, we salute you for finding a bit of “me-time” amid the seasonal chaos! We’ve spoken to two celeb mums of five – Danielle Lloyd and Kerry Katona – who both have special reasons to celebrate (follow us on Instagram for some exclusive behind-the-scenes video from the shoots). And it wouldn’t be Closer without the best real life stories... from the heartwarming tale of Covid survivor Saskia, who gave birth in a coma, to the saucy joy of 82-year-old Iris’ naughty plans for her 36-year-old husband! We’ve got delicious recipes, loads of emotional and practical Christmas survival tips and a HUGE TV section. Who knows what this year holds for us, but however you celebrate, we hope you find peace, love…

Jo* was forced to leave home as a teenager, after suffering emotional and sexual abuse at the hands of her stepdad. A Nightstop volunteer opened up their home during the pandemic. She says, “I was living at home but it reached a point where I couldn’t cope, so I reported the abuse I’d suffered to the police. I had to go through lots of interviews, and my relationship with my mum deteriorated. “A friend offered me a place to stay, but we were sharing a bed and I found it hard to concentrate on my studies. After two years, I felt so low and I couldn’t deal with being there any more, so I quit. “I stayed with another friend for a while on her spare sofa bed. I spent…

She’s TV’s golden girl who’s endured a tough time in both her personal and professional life, which is said to have “taken its toll” on the This Morning host. Earlier this year, Closer revealed how Holly Willoughby was left feeling “drained” by rows at home and work – just weeks after the mum-of-three admitted that hitting 40 forced her to reassess her priorities. But after renewing her contract to continue fronting the ITV daytime show until “at least 2023” and cashing-in a whopping £1.4 million this year, insiders say Holly – who recently celebrated the launch of her new wellness platform, Wylde Moon, which features an online shop, moodboards and style guides – has a lot to celebrate this Christmas. A source says, “Holly’s had a tough 12 months, but…

After a long year with little sparkle, fans couldn’t wait for the return of Strictly Come Dancing – and this series hasn’t disappointed with some of the greatest dance routines since the show began in 2004. As Closer went to press, the winners were yet to be crowned, but whether or not they waltz off victorious – the stars of this series have undoubtedly been Rose Ayling-Ellis and professional partner Giovanni Pernice, who have won fans’ hearts. Actress Rose, 27, who’s played Frankie Lewis in EastEnders since last year, is the first deaf contestant to join the show. And despite admitting she had reservations about taking on the challenge, viewers have been blown away. Her biggest fan, however, is dance partner Giovanni, 31, whose moves off the dance floor –…

The much-awaited SATC reboot And Just Like That hit the nation’s screens, with fans of the iconic ’90s show reunited with their fictional best friends – Carrie Bradshaw, Charlotte York and Miranda Hobbes. And Just Like That revisits three of SATC’s leading ladies – with the absence of Samantha Jones, played by Kim Cattrall – exploring the ups and downs of life in their fifties, 23 years after the original TV series debuted and 11 years since the second movie. However, despite months of teasers and pics of Sarah Jessica Parker, 56, Kristin Davis, 56, and Cynthia Nixon, 55, filming in New York creating hysteria around the show, there was a mixed reaction as the first two episodes finally aired. Many fans were elated, with one posting, “It’s amazing to…

When newly-divorced Samantha Cooper turned up at a pub to meet the man she’d been chatting to online, it became clear that her date had used pictures on his profile that were years old – and he looked nothing like she’d expected. But while her evening didn’t go to plan, it inspired Samantha to set up Rogue Daters, a detective agency that exposes scammers who target lonely singletons. Sam, 53, says, “Although I’d been lucky enough not to be conned for money, I was fed up with men ‘tricking’ me into dates. When I found out how many women were suffering the same problem – with many actually being fleeced for cash – it made me want to do something to help stamp it out. “There are a lot of…

To Married At First Sight Australia fans, series eight’s Melissa Rawson and Bryce Ruthven didn’t seem to have a future ahead of them amid cheating claims and being ostracised from their castmates. But now – just over a year since first meeting on the TV show – the pair are planning their real wedding and are new parents to twin boys. Levi and Tate were due at Christmas, but born prematurely in November and have remained in hospital since – but Melissa, 32, hopes to have them home before the big day. ROUGH START She tells Closer, “Our twin boys were 10 weeks premature at 29 weeks and have been living in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where they have been since birth. They were born with a few…

A We Love this Essex girl’s festive front door and outdoor trees – wonder if she tasked her hunky Brummy husband with fixing up that wreath? B This mum-of-four really let Loose with her extravagant decor. C This pregnant actress’ tree is a bit too glam for the Cobbles! D He knows How To Look Good at Christmas judging by this effort. E This WAG and mum of four has really gone to town. F This Housewife’s spectacular tree will be Forever Unique! G This soap star and his hubby made it special for their twins. H Already mum to two little ones, this pregnant radio presenter must have the most festive house in Ireland! I This royally stunning tree must have taken a lot of effort – and it’s tall enough to look impressive in one’s palace! J He…

While the pair have been open about their intentions to get married and have children, Paige has said she doesn’t think a festive proposal is on the cards. “Finn is here shaking his head,” she laughs. But despite his denials, the couple have said they hope to be engaged soon. “I’ve got a few thoughts up my sleeve, but I can’t share them yet,” Finn previously revealed. They’ve also admitted they’ve picked their baby names. Paige says, “We want to start a family quickly and we’ve discussed names. I like Darcey for a girl and Hugo for a boy.”…

• Anyone can adopt an animal, but most rescue centres will work hard to ensure the right pet goes to the right owner. You may have a “dream” pet or breed in your head, but try to keep an open mind. Rescue centres do their best to match owners with the perfect pet for you. • Be patient – the process of adopting an animal can take a long time. Some rescue centres, especially those that rehome dogs, may do home checks, which can feel intrusive, but they’re a necessary part of the process. • Take advantage of the post-adoptive support offered by many rescue centres. You can access training, behavioural experts and specialist care. • Be aware that you may have to adjust your home or garden for your…

CLOSER’S FESTIVE MENU THE HAIRY BIKERS’ SQUASH, LIME & CHILLI SOUP (VE) GAZ OAKLEY’S CHESTNUT & GRAIN WELLINGTON (VE) PHIL VICKERY’S TURKEY ROCHELLE HUMES’ CRISPY ROAST POTATOES REBECCA WILSON’S PARSNIP, CARROT & POTATO BALLS NADIA SAWALHA’S BRAISED CELERY JIMMY DOHERTY’S PIGS IN BLANKETS OMAR ALLIBHOY’S CAULIFLOWER WITH GARLIC, VINEGAR & CAPERS ALDO ZILLI’S RASPBERRY & PROSECCO TRIFLE (V) DICK & ANGEL STRAWBRIDGE’S EGGNOG STARTER (VEGAN) HAIRY BIKERS’ SQUASH, LIME & CHILLI SOUP SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS • 2 tbsp coconut or olive oil • 1 large onion, finely chopped • 500g squash or pumpkin, peeled and diced • 250g cauliflower florets, roughly chopped • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1-3 tsp chilli paste, to taste • Zest and juice of 1 lime • 800ml vegetable stock • Sea salt and…

YOUR GUIDE TO EMOTIONAL ISSUES AND FAMILY LIFE WITH PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPIST EMMA KENNY People all over social media will be posting their Insta-ready get-togethers this festive season and, if you are struggling emotionally, it can be tempting to compare your life to theirs. But comparisons can be downright soul destroying. It is so important to understand that the vast majority of posts show you a tiny snapshot of someone’s life, which is meant to make you believe everything is perfect. Remember though, these posed photos aren’t the reality. Instead of wasting time worrying about how you measure up, I would urge you to switch off social media this Christmas to focus on all the things that are truly fantastic about your life, but which you take for granted. Happiness is…

LOVE ISLAND STAR FAYE WINTER, 26, ON HOW SHE LOOKS AFTER HER BODY AND MIND I WALK EVERY DAY, NO MATTER WHAT... to try to get in my steps. It doesn’t matter how the weather’s looking. The great thing about having dogs is that it can be pouring down with rain, but you have no choice other than to take them out. I grab my big coat and go for at least an hour each day. I TRY TO BE KIND TO MY BODY... I’ve gone through times in my life when I’ve stepped on the scales every single morning and have been counting the pounds. These days, I don’t have scales in my house. If my bra or trousers feel snug, I don’t immediately think I need to…

DESIGNER DUPE Nicky Hilton gives us a lesson in how to dress this festive season. While we’d love to bag her entire look from top to toe (coming in at just under £5k!), we’ll settle for these brilliant high-street dupes of her glitzy Mach & Mach heels – switching the designer price tag of £900 for a pocket-friendly £37.99. They’ll sprinkle some magic into every Christmas outfit for years to come – and who will know any different? IN THE NEWS FESTIVE FAMILY DRESSING We all know Christmas is about matching PJs and festive jumpers, but take it a step further this year and double-up with your little one on Christmas Day… and beyond! Whether it’s a formal affair or a family dinner, these will make sure you’re both looking…

GET YOUR GLOW ON After moisturising clean skin, pat on a radiance primer. Keep skin beautiful and fresh with a hydrating foundation. Use a brush to apply it and top up any extra blemishes or redness with concealer. Spritz with a setting glow spray for a dewy look. MASTER A CLEAN SMOKEY EYE Apply a nude, cream-based shadow over lids and layer with a light gold eyeshadow – this creates great staying power and prevents the colour from creasing. Then, contour eye sockets using a slightly darker bronze tone. Using a flat brush, press the darker eyeshadow on outer lids, and blend into the outer socket crease and outwards. Add winged liner for a full glamour effect. Rest your elbow on a table for a wobble-free line. Start in the…

CODE CRACK KEEP TRACK OF YOUR LETTERS HERE: GUESS THE FILM STILL A North-Pole dwelling Will Ferrell travels to New York in search of his father. B Martine McCutcheon finds ove with Hugh Grant in this 2003 Christmas classic. NAME THE STARS With the help of our clues, rearrange the letters in the words below to make a celeb’s name 1 This actress, writer and comedienne is absolutely fabulous, schweedie. FURRED JEANS NINES 2 Legendary gravel-voiced rocker and husband of Loose Women’s Penny Lancaster. DART TOWERS THE BIG CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Wintry souvenir ❾ 7 Convent resident ❸ 8 Look closely at ❼ 9 Mediterranean island ❺ 12 Maggie-------, A Boy Called Christmas actress See pic ❺ 17 Person under tuition ❼ 18 Parentless child ❻ 19 Modernise ❻ 21 Smallest amount…

LIFESTYLE WE LOVE CELEBRITY MASTERCHEF CHRISTMAS COOK-OFF A FESTIVE SPECIAL TUE 21 / THU 23 DEC, 8/9PM, BBC1 Gemma Collins was deemed “comedy gold” when she appeared on Celebrity MasterChef in 2018 (judges John and Gregg didn’t go wild for her seabass meal on greaseproof paper). She pops up in part two of this special, where ex-contestants including Les Dennis, Su Pollard and Joey Essex do it all again! THE GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE: CELEBRITY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL CELEBS MAKE STUFF WED 22 DEC, 8PM, BBC1 New host Sara Pascoe joins judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young in the first of two celeb specials. Actor Kiell Smith-Bynoe (Ghosts) did once make a Halloween outfit but hasn’t a clue when it comes to sewing. Anneka Rice “devours” the show – though reckons…

Kim’s feeling smug after buying her gifts early. What she didn’t count on was naughty Bambi relieving himself all over her pricey pressies. Oh deer! Laura’s been so busy putting ribbons on her presents she’s managed to wrap herself with a bow on top. Don’t ask where she’s stuck the gift tag. Oh Amy, be careful what you wish for – can you imagine the mess on Boxing Day? Oh, and the extreme debt in January… We’re with you on this, Georgia. Even if there wasn’t a pandemic on, we’d still need more than cheese and wine to lure us. Sam’s pulled a cracker – but daughter Rosie’s definitely not sure about him. Well, he does look a bit, er, nuts! Madge carefully steps off her ladder (elf and safety)…

What a year it’s been! And hopefully – restrictions willing – this Christmas will be extra special, given that last year so many of us weren’t able to spend time with our loved ones. If the pandemic has taught us all one thing, it’s to hold our family and friends close and dear. This is a really special time in our household. I have amazing memories of growing up, with the smell of sage and onion stuffing wafting through the kitchen – my mum is the best cook! Nowadays it’s me and my wife Clare doing the cooking, though. Our kids, Emilia, 19, and Lucas, 16, are supposed to chip in, but they are often no help at all. The big day is usually spent eating and drinking way too…

When Joe Browne turned up on Jane and Cameron Baines’ doorstep last Christmas, he’d been homeless for two years. Freezing and exhausted, all he had to his name was a shopping trolley of possessions. Jane and Cameron work as volunteer hosts for Nightstop, a scheme led by the homeless charity Depaul UK, and would often open their home to young people facing a night on the streets. They selflessly welcomed Joe – who they’d never met before – into their family. A year on, and with the help of Jane and Cameron, Joe now has a full-time job and is looking forward to his first Christmas in his own place. REWARDING Cocktail bartender Joe, 22, from Manchester, part-time vet Jane, 61, and retired Cameron, 65, are speaking out about their…

AJ Pritchard, 27 – a Strictly dancer for four series until 2019 and who reached the semi-finals three times – says Rose sends a brilliant message, and that he’s proud of his pal Giovanni. AJ says, “I was in the I’m A Celeb! castle last year so I couldn’t consistently watch it, but this year I’ve been hooked. It’s been an incredible series – I think Johannes [Radebe] and John [Whaite] have been awesome, as have AJ [Odudu] and Kai [Widdrington]. But for me, Giovanni and Rose have been the stand-outs. “Rose is incredible. Usually, when you’re performing live, adrenaline and excitement takes over and you can be quite frantic. But Rose has this incredible calmness about her. To get to the level she has, and being deaf, is just…

‘I go to glitzy parties in LA with Gary’ She exploded onto Albert Square as head of the Slater family in 2000, alongside the likes of Jessie Wallace as Kat and Lacey Turner as Stacey. And while Laila Morse – aka “Big Mo” – filmed 17 Christmases on EastEnders, she says that last year’s was particularly tricky. Laila tells Closer, “It was difficult because of Covid – it would take seven hours to film just one scene, because there were less camera crew, we had social distancing and actors’ families were even drafted in as extras. Luckily though, most festive episodes are shot months before, so everything was mostly pre-prepared for the big final plot on Christmas Day. “Shooting for Christmas in the early days was really fun though. Me,…

Married At First Sight UK’s Essex bombshell Morag Crichton didn’t find lasting love on the show, but she’s just happy to be spending the festivities with the people who matter the most to her. She tells Closer, “I absolutely love Christmas, it’s my favourite time of year. I love winter clothes and going on a trip to London – it’s so festive with all the lights, and of course I love [London’s annual Christmas event] Winter Wonderland. WARMTH “Christmas brings out a warmth in people. I’ll be spending time with my nearest and dearest – my close friends and family – and just enjoying it. My favourite festive film is The Holiday with Jack Black, and I’ll be indulging in pigs in blankets!” However, Morag admits she’s not sure what…

Whether you want to Boost your mind, body, soul, finances, relationships, love life or style, we’ve got recommendations for things that actually work. Scan the QR code for more tips or search for @TheBoostUK on Instagram! CREATE A NEW TRADITION As a way to mark Christmas 2021, make this the year to start a new festive family tradition. You could buy a new decoration for your tree every year to mark something that happened in the previous 12 months or somewhere you’ve travelled. Or why not try a Christmas movie marathon in the runup to the big day featuring popcorn and twinkling lights? Go for a walk around your local area spotting festive lights or host a carol concert at home by printing out some lyrics, getting out the mulled…

DR CHRISTIAN GIVES HIS TAKE ON THE HOT HEALTH TOPICS OF THE WEEK After another tough year, throw out any preconceptions about what Christmas “should” look like, and do what makes you happy. If you hate a festive lunch, have a curry. If you love cheesy films, watch a marathon of them. If you adore games but not everyone can visit you, play charades over Zoom. It doesn’t have to look like the scene on the front of a Christmas card – do whatever brings you joy. BE SENSIBLE ABOUT COVID In terms of Covid, for the sake of this year’s celebrations – and all others to come – be careful. We can all get free lateral flow tests, so before going to see elderly, pregnant or medically vulnerable relatives,…

The past 20 months have given many adults a new perspective on Christmas, recognising that time with loved ones is worth far more than gifts and elaborate celebrations. But for children, this can be a more difficult concept to grasp. TALK IT THROUGH Last Christmas, children may have understood that lockdown rules put paid to family visits and accepted that their gift list needed to be a little smaller than usual. But it’s possible that this year they’ll assume Christmas is going to return to the old celebrations they used to know and love. This can easily lead to you pressurising yourself to put on the “perfect” family affair. While some of us will be going big this year, others will need to work to a smaller budget, or have…

HELPING YOU SPEND WISELY, SAVE MORE AND EARN BETTER The average family creates 30 per cent more waste at Christmas – a total of around three million tonnes of it nationwide! Research by sharing app OLIO has found that 41 per cent of us throw unwanted presents straight in the bin, with a third chucking them away as part of a Boxing Day clean-up. And more than a quarter of parents have disposed of unsuitable or noisy gifts given to their kids – but there are loads of better ways to clear out, use up or make money from Christmas clutter. Here’s our expert guide… USE WRAP AND CARDS FOR TAGS & CRAFTS A huge 277,000 miles of wrapping paper gets thrown away every year and, if it’s sparkly, it…

SLOE GIN SLEEK Vivid violet shades are everywhere. Take inspiration from the deep hues of sloe gin by choosing amethyst instead of black for your partywear. HOW TO WEAR • If you’re not sure where to start, treat it the same way you would navy – styling with leopard print and metallics. • Clash colours for maximum impact – hot pink is perfect. • Jumbo jewellery breathes new life into your old party pieces. BAILEY’S BELLE Nudes are timeless – and they go with everything! Go top-to-toe for a streamlined, monotone palette – or add textures for a winter spin. HOW TO WEAR • Beige is the ultimate neutral – pair with multiple caramel shades for an expensive and classic look. • The Sex And The City revival has brought…

MUST READ Baby It’s Cold Outside (EMILY BELL) Norah met Andrew on a blissful holiday and he made her a promise: if they are both single on Christmas Eve in 10 years’ time, they will meet under the clock on Grafton Street, Dublin. Norah has no idea if he will remember, but she has nothing to lose. So, hoping for a Christmas miracle, she heads to Dublin. To that clock. And, maybe, to Andrew… The most perfect, festive, heartwarming read. Curl up in front of the Christmas tree and get lost in the magic. BEST DAY OUT Moulin Rouge The Musical Fans of the 2001 film – starring Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman – will be elated to hear that the magic of the Moulin Rouge has been brought to…

It’s been less than a month since Danielle Lloyd gave birth to her long-awaited baby girl and she admits she’s already struggling to remember what life was like before her daughter entered the world. And Danielle, 37, who is proud mum to Autumn Rose with husband Michael O’Neill, says she finds it hard to peel her eyes away from her newborn at times. She tells Closer, “I honestly can’t believe she’s here, I feel like I’m in a baby bubble! I don’t want to wish these early months away, I just want to cherish every moment. Autumn is an actual dream and so different from the boys. She doesn’t have a dummy, she barely cries and is an angel. I definitely feel different this time around, I’m just happy and…

Every year over 600 Nightstop volunteer hosts open up their homes to young people aged 16-25 who have nowhere to stay. In 2019, volunteers provided 9,103 safe nights of accommodation to 937 people across the Nightstop network. Could you do the same? Here are some common questions answered... • IS IT SAFE? All young people who are referred to Nightstop are reviewed by the staff team, to ensure they are low risk – a background check is conducted including any previous criminal convictions, and the guests must provide two references. Hosts are also told about their guest’s history. • IS TRAINING PROVIDED? Every host will receive training, which covers an introduction to youth homelessness, boundaries, practical tips and safeguarding rules. The charity is also available on the phone for additional…

Paul says, “Christmas with the royal family is a day of happy chaos, noise, laughter and joy. Everyone is in great spirits, happy to be together and ready for celebrations. It’s like any of our Christmases – just in a much bigger house!” And he says pomp and ceremony take a back seat at Christmas, with the emphasis on fun, as the Queen, 95, still fills stockings for her four grown-up children, chuckles at cracker jokes and throws herself into Christmas shopping – in her own royal way! Paul reveals, “The Queen can’t go to the shops to go Christmas shopping like the rest of us, so she does a couple of different things. Firstly, she has catalogues sent to her, and then the Oxford Street branch of John Lewis…

When Saskia Lane fell pregnant with a baby girl, she couldn’t wait for that special moment when she’d finally meet her daughter. But sadly, when little Betsy was born in September, Saskia was completely unaware. The 21 year old had held off getting the Covid vaccine, due to misguided fears that it could harm her unborn child. And, despite being fit and healthy, Saskia contracted a severe form of the virus. She was placed into a medically-induced coma and was unconscious when she had a C-section to deliver Betsy. RECOVERING Saskia, from West Sussex, who is now recovering at home with her partner, Lee, 23, eldest daughter, Eliza, two, and three-and-a-half-month-old Betsy, says, “I spent three weeks in a coma and when I woke up, I thought I was still…

Annie Harris (right), who is deaf herself and is Advocacy Officer at the Royal National Institute for Deaf People, says, “Deaf representation on TV is so important, especially on a major show like Strictly. Rose is inspirational and has shown that deaf people can do anything – whether that’s dancing, acting, or anything else. Our colleague Lisa has a five-year-old daughter called Penny, who has been inspired by Rose and has written to her. She’s said Rose has made Penny see that being hearing-impaired doesn’t need to stand in her way. “We’ve seen a surge of interest in people wanting to learn British Sign Language. Even learning a little bit can make so much difference to the deaf community. I hope the awareness Rose has brought doesn’t stop at Strictly,…

The pair both failed to find love on MAFS, but fans are speculating whether Luke Dawson and Marilyse Corrigan have found romance with each other. Leaving a Manchester club recently, Morag’s ex Luke, 37, was spotted lending Marilyse, also 37, his coat as she sheltered from the rain. And the mum-of-two, who split from “husband” Franky Spencer after the series finale, has since confessed, “I’ll say it, I do really like Luke. I think he’s a lovely guy and he has the potential to be the perfect partner for me. “I’ve only ever looked at him in a friendly way so I don’t know if it could become romantic – but then again, I don’t know what the future holds.” Meanwhile, Luke revealed their friendship has blossomed since the show…

Her first ever relationship ended in disaster when she was dumped by Curtis Pritchard on Love Island but Amy Hart is now loved-up with Sam Rason – the model boyfriend she went public with in August. And although the couple won’t be seeing each other on Christmas Day, they’re already planning their future together. She says, “I’ll be with my family in Sussex and Sam will be with his in London. He wouldn’t expect me to leave my family and vice versa, but we’ve got plenty of years ahead of us to alternate Christmases!” ADVENTURE CHALLENGE “I love this time of year – even more as I’ve got older and have my own house. I’ve made it nice and festive. I sent a picture to Sam last night and he…

Almost two years on from winning the first series of Winter Love Island, Paige Turley and Finley Tapp are more loved-up than ever. The couple – who won the show just weeks before the first national lockdown – are making up for missed family time this year and are getting both their families together to celebrate the festive season. Paige, 23, tells Closer, “We’re going to Scotland to spend Christmas Day with my family, and then on Boxing Day we’ll fly to Milton Keynes to see Finn’s family. Then, for New Year, Finn’s family is going to fly to Scotland with us and we’re all going to celebrate together in Glasgow. It’s actually going to be the first time the two families have seen each other since the Villa because…

‘Sam made our house a home’ Two years ago, Samson had suffered terrible burns at Christmas. But this year, he’ll enjoy tucking into turkey with his new owners, Lee Bushaway, 45, and her husband, Paul, 52, in Hertfordshire. Lee says, “Last year, our sons Robbie, 24, and Jason, 23, begged us to get a new dog after our Rottweiler, Sid, passed away. “That summer my husband found Samson, a five-year- old mastiff cross, on the RSPCA website. Tragically, he’d suffered horrific burns down the right-hand side of his body, caused by a bucket of boiling hot water and chemicals, just after Christmas 2019. His owner hadn’t taken him to a vet and, when he was rescued by the RSPCA a couple of weeks later, his wounds were badly infected. “Thankfully…

INSIDE LORRAINE’S FRIDGE • Grapes • Satsumas • Lurpak • Terry’s chocolate orange • Lindt chocolate orange • Christmas pudding • Turkey • Mince pies • Pigs in blankets • Blinis • Brussels sprouts • Brie • Camembert • Stilton • Prawns • Smoked salmon • Broccoli • Carrots • Lettuce • Double cream • Parsnips • Chicken stock • Potatoes • Orange juice • Cava • Bucks Fizz LORRAINE Where do you do your festive food shopping? I love shopping locally and our wee village in Buckinghamshire has a brilliant fruit and veg shop, which is full of farmers’ produce. I go to our local butcher for the turkey, the fish shop for prawns and the supermarket for cranberry sauce, sweets and Christmas pudding. What do you eat on…

In Christmases past, I’ve written about what a great time this is to date and I stand by that, but it’s also totally OK not to date right now and to simply prioritise yourself. As much as I obviously adore my loved ones, they often assume I can commit to every invitation in December because “I shouldn’t be alone over this period”, but what if I actually enjoy being single and am happy in my own company? It’s the season of goodwill – so how about you share some of that with yourself? Those of us without a significant other should not feel obliged to please anyone else. Over Christmas, we’re not here to be set up, patronised, tell silly stories about dating to entertain, justify why we’re single or…

Buying gifts, booze and ingredients is pricey, but there are other costs we can easily cut. First up, decorations. “The average Christmas light display can add almost £13 to your bill,” says Matthew Jenkins, from MyJobQuote. “Opt for LED lights, rather than standard non-LED bulbs. This is estimated to save you over £11 for the festive season, because LED bulbs consume less electricity and don’t lose brightness.” Or choose battery-powered ones as you have more control over what you spend (Robert Dyas have 26 AA batteries for £8.99). Then there’s lunch; “Using the oven for five hours – the average cooking time for a full Christmas dinner – uses 4.35 kWh”, says Matthew. Pre-boiling veg before roasting reduces cooking time and boiling veg uses much less energy than baking from…

COTTON KEEPERS Hot-flush friendly and cool, this pretty cotton pair is perfect for a good night’s sleep. THEIR NIBS AT JOHN LEWIS £32 WINTER WARMERS A Fair Isle print is festive but lasts past the big day. This lounge-like set is just as comfy as it is cosy. RIVER ISLAND £38 DESIGNER DOUBLE This luxe-looking set could be a designer label but costs a fraction of the price. MARKS & SPENCER £35 MAKE IT PERSONAL A traditional design in super-soft brush cotton, this can be personalised with initials and comes in kids’ sizes too. HADESIGNSLTD.COM 53 ECO HEARTS These beauties are made from organic cotton. Bookmark this brand for all your planet-friendly fashion. NOBODY’S CHILD £59 ROARSOME PAIR If you’re planning a big family stay-cay, delight everyone by wafting downstairs…

INSPIRATION YOU’LL LOVE! TIMELESS & TRADITIONAL This simple style will look lovely as part of a classic Christmas table dressed with red and white linens. GEORGE AT ASDA, £20 FOR SET OF 12 Featuring lights to give your spread extra sparkle, this runner is perfect if you’re looking to pull out all the stops. MARKS & SPENCER, £25 A candle with mini LED lights inside adds magic. MARKS & SPENCER, WAS £17.50, NOW £10.50 These paper name cards add a personal touch to your festive set-up, and save any seating disputes! GINGER RAY, £6.99 FOR SET OF 4 Wooden napkin rings look good with any décor style and are much more eco-friendly than plastic ones. MATALAN, £5 FOR SET OF 2 Made from recycled paper, these napkins are just the…

14-27 DECEMBER IF IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK What have you learned about thinking positively in the last year? Hopefully a lot! Use it every time you’re in a downwards-thinking spiral, and remind yourself that thinking positively activates the law of attraction in your favour, attracting good things to you. THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN SAGITTARIUS 22 NOV-21 DEC The Full Moon this week is in your Love Zone so you have a chance to take a quantum leap in at least one of your most important relationships – which is it to be? We are heading into the season of goodwill so think about how you can bury the hatchet. Visit www.yasminboland.com for your daily horoscopes. CAPRICORN 2DEC-19 JAN This week, the planet of love and abundance, Venus, goes…