Table of contents for ISSUE 831 in Closer

Everyone faces challenges and, this week, we’ve spoken to some very determined women who work hard to overcome theirs. Former Steps star Claire Richards admits that her feelings about food make staying slim a daily struggle, while Geordie Shore’s Sophie Kasaei and Marnie Simpson both reveal their battles with anxiety and depression. If you’ve ever had a dream but feel you’ve left it too late to make it happen, you’ll love our chat with Ernestine Shepherd, who was 56 and had never set foot inside a gym when she decided to get in shape. Now 82, she is a bodybuilder who runs ten miles every day. Her story proves that age really is just a number and if you REALLY want to achieve something, willpower can work wonders... worth remembering…

‘SHE’S ON A MISSION TO GO ALL-OUT TO WOO MATTHEW TO BE HER BESTIE BEFORE THE SHOW EVEN STARTS’ • Cheryl looks to co-star Matthew Morrison for support as she prepares to work with rival Alesha Dixon • Secretly concerned about their past feud • Pals worry she’s feeling insecure As hype around new talent show The Greatest Dancer gathers pace, Cheryl has been preparing to join the panel with co-judges Matthew Morrison, Oti Mabuse and Alesha Dixon. But while she appeared thrilled to announce her new role on the show when she Tweeted about the “exciting news” in August, insiders reveal she’s secretly concerned about a historic feud with Alesha. Their spat dates back to 2010, when BGT judge Alesha’s ex-husband, MC Harvey, claimed that he and Cheryl had…

She turned up to support husband David Beckham at a party for whisky brand Haig Club in London last week, but fans were quick to point out that Posh appeared less than thrilled to be there, noticing a lack of intimacy between the couple. “David and Victoria look like two strangers who have been asked to stand next to each other for a picture,” one fan wrote, with another adding, “David always looks tense when he is around Victoria, and she hasn’t smiled in years. They should just move on from each other.” And insiders tell Closer that Posh’s downcast mood wasn’t helped by the fact that everyone wanted to speak to David – including a lot of women. The bash was also attended by David’s best pal, sports manager…

She might only just be recovering from her latest body overhaul, but Lisa reveals she’s planning more surgery to achieve her sexy new look. She now wants: • LABIAPLASTY – £2,000 Dubbed the “designer vagina”, this procedure reduces the size of the labia minora (the inner lips). • LIPOSUCTION – £4,000 Liposuction sucks out small areas of unwanted body fat that are hard to lose. • TUMMY TUCK – £5,000 This treatment removes fat and tightens the abdominal muscles, reshaping the midriff. • BRAZILIAN BUM LIFT – £6,000 This popular yet controversial surgery combines liposuction with fat grafting, sucking out fat where you don’t want it and injecting it into your buttocks. However, it has also been described as the most dangerous procedure and has recently led to a worrying…

From festive grottos to winter festivals, scores of events across the country will use live animals as part of their Christmas celebrations this year. Though some may be well cared for, sadly, many animals used in these events are kept and transported in appalling conditions. Shocking footage recently revealed the extent of reindeer abuse at animal centres and farms across the UK. In the upsetting clips, reindeer are seen being kicked and some were found with raw, exposed skin, skeletal abnormalities and broken antlers. With the rise in popularity of reindeer at winter events, Animal Aid – the charity that uncovered the abuse – found that 571 reindeer were imported from Sweden, Finland and Norway to the UK between 2014 to 2017. During that period, 54 reindeer died from a…

Donkeys don’t show obvious signs of fear, so it’s important that they have space to move away from fearful situations, and this is often not the case in organised events. Hannah Bryer, head of welfare at The Donkey Sanctuary, says, “It’s wonderful to see the importance of donkeys being recognised through the story of the Nativity. We do not endorse or encourage the use of donkeys in entertainment, but we understand that people enjoy seeing donkeys at this festive time of year. Many like interacting with people, and their presence can make an event special. But thorough planning is required to ensure their welfare is protected at all times.” Donkeys can benefit from human interaction. One-to-one attention, such as grooming and walks, helps to keep them mentally agile. Their use…

Celebs Go Dating’s new relationship expert, Anna Williamson, has been spending time getting to know Kerry Katona on the show, and she has high hopes for the star. Anna, 37, says, “Kerry needs a companion who is secure and confident. I adore her – she’s gorgeous, loud and funny. I’m so committed to helping her find a good relationship”. And Anna thinks the star – who suffers with bipolar disorder – will reveal a new side to herself. She says, “She reacts in ways I wouldn’t expect. I think viewers will be surprised when she’s forced to put a more personal side of herself across.”…

‘Staff Christmas parties are pressure cookers – anything can happen!’ Everyone loves the staff Christmas party and, for a lot of people, it’s the big event in the festive calendar. Surprisingly, a recent survey revealed that almost one in ten Britons has been fired or disciplined after a work Christmas bash. Apparently, the main reasons were saying something rude about a boss – actually to his or her face – or to a colleague, getting into a fight, doing drugs, having sex or general bad behaviour. I suppose all that tension, which can build up over the year, combined with alcohol, is like a pressure cooker going off! People are working together very closely all year and then, when they have too much booze, all that stress comes out and…

While many families will sit down to a lavish dinner with their families on Christmas Day, thousands of parents will be stressing about how they’re going to put a meal on the table Shocking statistics show that over 1.5million people will eat a Christmas lunch made from items donated to food banks, with low income being the biggest and fastest-growing reason for food poverty. STRUGGLE In the UK, food bank use soared in just six months between April and September 2018, with 658,048 emergency essential food supplies being given out. Alison Inglis Jones, a trustee for poverty charity The Trussell Trust, says, “Benefit delays, thanks to the introduction of Universal Credit and reduced wages, has meant more families are reliant on food banks. Christmas is particularly busy as benefits are…

Daphine Aikens, the chief executive officer of Hammersmith and Fulham Foodbank, a member of The Trussell Trust food bank network, says, “In the last two years – since Universal Credit was rolled out – the number of visitors to our food banks has more than doubled. “I’ve heard about a five year old found picking through rubbish bins looking for food after not eating for days. Her mum was looking for work and was on Universal Credit, but she was still waiting for her first payment. That’s the reality of the poverty people are having to endure in modern-day Britain. “I’ve met a man who worked in public service and was made redundant due to government cuts. He tried working on a zero-hours contract, but his income was unstable as…

He caused a huge scandal when he was pictured kissing married Strictly partner Katya Jones in October. And now comedian Seann Walsh, 33, has faced further backlash after insisting he didn’t do “anything that wrong.” The star – who was dumped by girlfriend Rebecca Humphries in the wake of the scandal – admitted last week, “I was coming towards the end of my relationship, I was getting on with this girl… I started to think to myself, ‘Hang on, have I actually done anything that wrong?” But his comments angered online critics, with one writing, “The way you’ve acted is disgusting.” Meanwhile, it’s been reported that Seann has been axed from the Strictly tour.…

She was booted off the show in week one – but that hasn’t deterred Susannah Constantine from putting on her dancing shoes one more time to perform on the Strictly Come Dancing final. But while the 57-year-old TV presenter admits that she was over the moon to be reunited with former dance partner Anton du Beke, it was hard to forget the feelings of being voted off first. GUTTING She recalls, “It was gutting being voted out. It was absolutely the worst feeling. I felt like I had been dumped by a boyfriend, which is why I had my hair cut afterwards. “On the show, when I went out on that dance floor, I just went to pieces. I was never going to get over that, however long I stayed…

As well as being a brilliant baker and a dab hand with a needle and thread, my grandmother was also incredibly stylish. She had a lovely vintage, put-together vibe every time I saw her – a bit like The Queen! I studied fashion design at uni and would love visiting her to chat about all things textiles and clothes. She had a huge wardrobe filled with frocks and accessories that dated back decades. She gave me an amazing green fluffy coat that she’d worn to a new year’s party in the ’70s. It was completely OTT and I loved it. The design inspired me to go bold with my final project, which ultimately led to me getting y degree – and my dream job. It now hangs in my closet…

A golden sheen on skin can make the perfect finishing touch to a party frock, and we’ve just discovered how Laura Whitmore gets her glow on. She says, “I love Manuka Doctor 24K Gold & Manuka Honey Body Oil!” We gave it a go and instantly liked it, too. The velvety-smooth oil is packed full of natural goodies, such as chamomile and plant oils, and leaves arms and legs feeling nourished and soft, with a beautiful gleam.…

Start by concealing under-eyes with Maybelline’s Eraser Eye Concealer (£8.99), then create the illusion of chiselled cheeks with Sleek Makeup’s Cream Contour Kit (£10.99), followed by a sweep of Benefit’s Hoola Bronzer (£25.50). Dab a few drops of Lancôme’s Custom Drops Liquid Highlighter (£26) onto cheeks for a shimmery finish. Next, use the Smashbox Photo Edit Eye Shadow Trio (£20) to create a smokey eye in seconds. The e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator (£4.50) will ensure your lips are mistletoe-ready, while Sleek Makeup’s Lip Shot (£4.99) – which comes in 12 amazing shades – is great for adding a pop of colour to your pout. Finally, apply some Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil (£19) on top of your chosen lip shade and you’re good to go! THE PARTY STARTS HERE Get…

GINGERBREAD COLADA INGREDIENTS • 40ml BACARDÍ Añejo Cuatro Gold Rum • 20ml Amaretto • 20ml Coco Lopez coconut cream cocktail mist • 20ml gingerbread syrup • 50ml pineapple juice • 10ml lemon juice • Fresh pineapple to garnish 1. Pour all the ingredients into a shaker and shake vigorously to combine. 2. Strain the cocktail into a tall glass filled with ice cubes. 3. Slice up thin pineapple slices and place along the rim of the glass. 4. Serve with a paper straw and enjoy! TIPSY HOT CHOCOLATE INGREDIENTS • 50ml double cream • 150ml whole milk • 50g chopped milk chocolate • 25g chopped dark chocolate • 25ml of brandy or rum 1. To prepare the whipped cream, add double cream to a bowl and whisk slowly with an…

“Marnie has endured incredible challenges that have understandably affected her deeply. The abuse that she received on social media had a huge impact and this led to her making radical decisions about her body, like having surgery. Losing a father is always traumatic and, sadly, Marnie had a challenging relationship with her dad. While this has led to regret, it shouldn’t be one she holds on to – she was the child in the situation and I hope she lets go of those feelings.”…

STEP 1 Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the onion and garlic for 5 mins, or until softened, stirring occasionally. STEP 2 Cut the carrots, turnips, potato and parsnip into 1.5cm chunks. Add to the onion and garlic and cook over a low heat for 5 mins, stirring occasionally. STEP 3 Stir in both paprikas and fry for a few mins. Add the tomatoes and tomato purée. Turn up the heat a little and cook for another few mins, stirring regularly. STEP 4 Add the chorizo, lentils and stock. Bring to the boil. Reduce and simmer gently for 45 mins, stirring occasionally. STEP 5 Add the greens and cook for 5 mins, or until softened. Season with salt and pepper and serve in bowls with a sprinkling…

Cookie Monster has cleaned up his diet, got a foodie truck, and is making everything from porridge to healthy sandwiches, along with his sidekick Gonger. The show, on Tiny Pop (Freeview 207, Sky 617, Freesat 605, Virgin 737), weekdays at 7.15am and 4.30pm, features Cookie Monster discovering where ingredients come from, then making healthy grub with them – teaching kids about food and cooking in the process. Previously, putting Elmo stickers on broccoli made kids eat more of it, so let’s hope this does the same!…

TO START… PRAWN COCKTAIL IN LETTUCE CUPS (SERVES 4) Tesco do a really tasty prawn cocktail, and at £2 for a tub (you’ll need two tubs to feed four) you can’t go wrong. Add some Tesco lettuce, 40p, and toasted wholemeal bread, 55p for a loaf, and you’ve got yourself a tasty starter. FOR THE MAIN… TURKEY WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS (SERVES 4) We all know that turkey is the star of the show when it comes to Christmas dinner, but don’t worry if you can’t afford a whole bird, because Iceland’s turkey breast joint, £3, is delicious, fuss-free and comes already wrapped in bacon. To accompany, ASDA’s Smart PriceYorkshire puddings, 50p for 15, are fab alongside Tesco pigs in blankets, £2 for 12. Tesco sage and onion stuffing mix…

DANNII MINOGUE Before they started working together, Cheryl said Dannii needed to “get her plastic surgery reduced” as “men do not find that attractive.” Dannii responded, saying Girls Aloud were the “bitchiest” pop group – but the pair were civil while both judges on The X Factor . LOUIS WALSH Cheryl claimed of X Factor co-star and Girls Aloud’s manager Louis: “We never had management. Louis claimed to be our manager, but he just took cheques.” He responded with the insult, “Two words. Vocal lessons. I am a much better manager than she is singer.” SIMON COWELL Simon made Cheryl a judge on US X Factor – but then sacked her weeks into filming. She later revealed she texted him, saying, “I hate you. I understand you’re a businessman, and…

His family spent the week living it up with him in LA after their luxury holiday to the Caribbean last month – all while Mark Wright’s wife Michelle Keegan was back home in the UK filming her new show, Brassic. And insiders tell Closer how the 31-year-old actress has been feeling increasingly frustrated at not being able to spend time with her husband, also 31, and enjoy the Hollywood lifestyle that his parents, Carol and Mark Snr, as well as his sisters, Jess, 33, and Natalya, 18, are all getting to revel in. A source says, “It’s been a difficult few weeks for Michelle. She’s had to miss out on trips and experiences, as well as dealing with being apart from Mark, which has been really tough. BITTERSWEET “She was…

She’s had her fair share of heartache, with two failed marriages behind her. And last week, it emerged that Anthea Turner faces yet more misery after being caught in the midst of a bitter family feud, reportedly cutting ties with her sister, Wendy Webster, after a financial row. Last June, reports claimed the former TV presenter, 58, was at risk of being sued after Wendy, 51, racked up £5,000 worth of unpaid rent at her former five-bedroom London home. As Anthea was named as guarantor, she was reportedly in the firing line from bailiffs. It now appears that Anthea has paid off her sister’s debts, but as a result, she’s ended contact with animal activist Wendy – with sources saying she’d “snapped”and “had enough”. The rift – which is said…

This year, events in the UK have boasted featuring camels in their parades and carol concerts. These exotic animals naturally shun human contact in the wild, yet camels are often forced to give humans rides. Elisa says, “Camels fare poorly when used in these types of events. They may be carted around from one venue to the next, housed in cramped pens and subjected to unfamiliar noises and activity while strangers try to touch them.” Not only is this stressful for the camels themselves, but it can also be very dangerous for humans. Camels can transmit numerous diseases, including rabies, salmonellosis, sarcoptic mange and ringworm. Camels are naturally shy animals, so if you go to a Christmas event and spot a camel acting aggressively – displaying behaviours such as spitting,…

• Boycotting events that use animals for entertainment means we’re more likely to see an end to them. • If you learn of any events in your local area that use live animals, write to the organisers and urge them to rethink. PETA have a letter template that you can use at Peta.org.uk/blog/template-animal-display-letter. • Raising awareness is key, so spread your message on social media. Take pictures, share and Tweet. • The RSPCA’s Stock The Sleigh Christmas campaign asks for donations to pay for veterinary care, warm blankets and treats for pets and wildlife in need. Visit to Rspca.org.uk/winterappeal/sleigh to donate.…

Her boyfriend, James “Arg” Argent, revealed last week how he’s set to propose next year following their on-off seven- year romance. Now pals say “big spender” Gemma Collins is planning a lavish week-long celebration, with a whopping £1 million wedding budget. A source says, “Getting married is all Gemma’s ever wanted. She’s been holding out for this moment for years, so she’s determined to make it the biggest party ever. MONEY NO OBJECT “She wants to get married in Marbella and fly out all her friends and family on private jets, then charter a luxury yacht to take them on a cruise round the Mediterranean and party for a whole week. “She’s already put the feelers out for celebrity performers to entertain. She would absolutely love someone like Mariah Carey…

“I GET UP AT 7.30AM – SO LONG AS I GET SEVEN HOURS IN BED, I AM GOOD TO GO. I eat dinners for breakfast, and my go-to is macaroni cheese and baked beans. I’m not lying! I also like a bath – I have two a day. My pet poodle, Daisy, is like my child, so if I’m working I'll drive over to my mum’s near where I live in Essex and drop her off. IN THE MORNING, I WILL DO ALBUM PROMOTION WORK. My debut album Story Of Me is out this month, so it means lots of interviews, filming and press shoots. AT LUNCHTIME, I EAT ON THE GO – I’M LOVING THE M&S CHRISTMAS TURKEY SANDWICH. If I’ve got a quiet day, usually once a month,…

Single mum Corrina Baker, 34, works as a sales associate for a storage company. She has three children – Alesha, 16, Alyx, 15, and Ayda, three months – and lives in Cwmbran, near Cardiff in South Wales. She says, “Six weeks ago I found myself in a position I never thought I’d be in – walking two miles to a food bank, as I didn’t have any money to feed my three children, and I couldn’t even afford the bus fare to get there. “Christmas this year will be a non-event – I’ll go to the supermarket on Christmas Eve and see what’s reduced and bulk up any meat I can afford with tinned vegetables from the food bank. “I’ve saved a few vouchers for the older girls to buy…

Across the UK, thousands of children are living in poverty and, for their families, Christmas is a luxury that they can’t afford Closer is working with charity Cash for Kids, to support their Mission Christmas appeal. Buy a gift to donate to the cause before 18 December – check your local drop-off point at Cashforkids.uk.com/mission. Or make a £5 donation to the appeal by texting MISSION to 70808. Texts cost standard network rate. 100 per cent of the £5 comes to Cash for Kids. 16+ only, please ask the bill payer’s permission. • Donate food for food banks in supermarkets nationwide. And visit Trusselltrust.org/get-involved to find your nearest food bank.…

He’s been loved-up with wife Penny Lancaster for nearly 20 years, but Rod Stewart has admitted their relationship got off to an unsteady start. Just weeks after their relationship began in 1999, Penny, 47, told Rod, 73, “It’s me or her” when she discovered he was seeing supermodel Caprice, also 47, at the same time. The revelation came after father-of-eight Rod was grilled by Penny and her fellow Loose Women panelists on the show last month, with Penny revealing, “He tried tell me it was just one of his daughter’s friends, but I said no and gave him an ultimatum.” It’s since been revealed the woman was Caprice, after a photo emerged of Rod and the model in Marbella in 1999.…

Emma Stone The actress fails to put a foot wrong in this gorgeous knee-length LRD. Chic courts, a simple clutch and earrings, plus a slick of red lippie earn her major style points. What a beauty! Tallia Storm Singer Tallia makes a bold statement in this bright number, but we’re not feeling it. The caped jacket and OTT platforms add to the palava. Maybe something a little more low-key next time? Blake Lively She’s renowned for her beautiful style, and this look is no exception. A silver chainmail dress shows off the actress’ killer pins, while big accessories add extra sparkle. She’s every inch the fashionista. Mel B Wannabe singer Mel lives up to her Scary Spice name thanks to this bizarre get-up. Sequins and slogans make for a crazy…

‘MORNING 12AM: This year I’ll be spending Christmas with my family as usual (Dani has just split from Jack Fincham, her boyfriend of five months, whom she met in the Love Island villa). My Christmas Day begins the night before. As a family, we go to sing Christmas carols at the local church, before heading home to order a Chinese takeaway. We’ll stay up talking until the early hours. Before bed, we’ll leave a mince pie out for Santa – my siblings are still young, so we like to keep the magic alive! 7AM: I wake up early, so I’d never go out clubbing the night before. I can’t imagine anything worse than waking up with a hangover on Christmas morning. 7.30AM: Christmas is all about being cosy, so I…

1. PREP Styles like this normally work on hair that’s been washed the day before – it means the hair won’t slip and it’ll hold onto the ’do better. If you’re starting with freshly-washed hair, spritz a texture spray, like VO5 Dry Texturising Spray (£4.40), to the roots to give it extra hold. 2. LIFT Add extra volume at the roots with Percy & Reed Up, Up & Away Root Lift Mousse (£12) – you can use it on dry or damp hair and its non-sticky formula won’t make hair crispy. 3. SWEEP Using a round-barrel brush, blow-dry the front section of hair upwards, away from your face. You hair doesn’t have to be wet to be styled like this, just make sure to use a heat protector – we…

GLITZ AND GLAM Christmas is all about the sparkle, so embrace the glitz of the holiday and make your table dazzle too. Think elaborate centrepieces, starry detailing and silver for a stellar setting. TRADITIONAL TWINKLE Take inspiration from Scandinavian styles and inject wooden details with festive foliage for a rustic and natural vibe. Stick to a red and gold colour palette to bring the look together.…

Nothing screams Christmas more than the wonderful scents of citrus, ginger and pine – but instead of forking out for pricey candles and diffusers, have a go at making your own festive simmer pot. Simply put, it’s a mix of ingredients (usually fruits – apple slices, cranberries and oranges – and spices such as cinnamon, star anise and cloves), which you can heat on your stove and keep on a low simmer for hours to fill your room with a gorgeous wintery scent. Just replenish the water as it cooks down. Your guests may never want to leave!…

Sophie, you’ve had a rough few years, including splitting with your long-term partner [Sophie’s seven-year romance with fitness model Joel Corey ended last year]. Tell me about that relationship… When I first got together with Joel, people would say, “What’s he doing with her?” He was gorgeous and ripped, and back then I didn’t feel I was the best looking. At the beginning, I was worried, but we stayed together for seven years and I got to the point where I realised he really did love me. It sounds like you were suffering from very low self-esteem… Yes, things didn’t go well for me for a few years. I wasn’t on Geordie Shore [Sophie was asked to leave the show in 2013]. I then started a business, which failed, and…

INSIDE KATIE’S FRIDGE • Blueberries • Cheddar cheese • Lurpak • Coke Zero • Salad cream • Cadbury Dairy Milk Marvellous Creations • Ketchup • Tonic • Sweet chilli salmon fillets • Mince meat • Ham • Chicken fillets • Nutella • Broccoli • Potato • Melon • Haribo sweets • Spinach • Mushrooms • Water • Fanta • Almond milk • Gin • Prosecco KATIE How much do you spend per week? Around £30, but I’m a bit rubbish at food shopping. I only ever go to Sainsbury’s once or twice a week to get a few bits. I’m never sure what I’m going to be doing, so I never do a big food shop, plus fresh stuff goes off easily. Describe your daily diet… Breakfast is either porridge…

RELATIONSHIPS DON’T LET YOURSELF BE SO EASILY LED! One in 3 adults has done something they didn’t want to, thanks to peer pressure. Emma says we need to stay strong and not give in We like to think we grow out of peer pressure, but how often have you found yourself resisting the urge to have another drink, only to then agree to partake in another round? Most of us are followers to some degree, because it ensures we fit in and are included socially, which makes us happy. Unfortunately, our natural desire to belong can be counterproductive. A classic example is when you’re trying to eat well, only to be coerced into ordering dessert because your mates say it’s a “cheat day”. Worse still, research shows that 12 per…

ADD UP AS YOU GO The festive supermarket shop often ends up costing double a normal shop. Stick to your budget rather than having a shock at the till by adding prices as you go, sticking to a list or ordering online. Any leftover cash can go on those tempting snacks! SHOP LATE If you’re on a real budget this year, some supermarkets actually reduce the price of their turkeys and Christmas essentials on Christmas Eve, which is a sure way to save some extra cash. It’s definitely a risky move, though, so you’ll have to hit the shops early! FIND BOOZE DEALS Alcohol can be pretty pricey, so make sure you take advantage of supermarkets’ fantastic rollbacks on booze ahead of the big Christmas shopping rush. Right now at…

What’s it like being part of this show? DAVINA: It’s been an incredible journey over the last eight years – being part of a series which has reunited over 200 relatives and helped people to complete their lives by finding that missing person. How did this year’s Yuletide special come about? DAVINA: This year, we thought it would be a wonderful idea – and an amazing celebration – to bring lots of our families together under one roof for a massive festive party. And, for many, this is the first time they’ve celebrated Christmas with their long-lost relatives. It’s been great to find out how everyone’s lives have changed and celebrate what Christmas means to everyone now. It must’ve been brilliant for you and Nicky to see that… DAVINA: To…

BGT star and Jordan’s former pal, Francine Lewis, 43, says, “It doesn’t shock me at all that Katie would want Pete to fancy her, because he’ll always be the love of her life. She’s been a sex symbol for so many years; she’s used to men lusting after her and, naturally, won’t want that to change. It’s hard to just hang up your boots! “I don’t think it’s just Pete she wants to check her out again – it’s everyone! These other beautiful girls come through and start grabbing the headlines, which is probably something Katie struggles with. When her daughter [Princess, who is 11] is of an age where she’s being looked at, I don’t know how Katie will cope – she’ll find it very hard to accept. Men…

She suffered a humiliating split in the glare of the spotlight, after ex-husband Ant McPartlin moved on with her former PA Anne-Marie Corbett. Now sources say Lisa Armstrong, 42, has been “pushed to the brink” by reports the couple are set to get engaged – and is keen to tell her side of the story. Lisa – who reportedly received a legal warning over liking and retweeting negative posts about mum-of-two Anne-Marie – last week replied to a Tweet by actress Sheridan Smith, which read, “I seriously wonder how some people sleep at night,” with “I hear ya babe xx.” Insiders previously told Closer how Strictly make-up pro Lisa had been approached to write a book – and pals say she’s now seriously considering it. FED UP A source says,…

She’s never been shy of flashing the flesh and was pictured topless on a beach in Thailand only last week. Now reality star Lisa Appleton has revealed that she plans on getting her dream body so she can become a porn star. Lisa, 50, has had extensive surgery and recently spent over £7k on a body overhaul, including a full face and neck lift, an eyelid lift and liposuction to her stomach. COMEDY SEX She suffered painful complications when a large abscess in her mouth exploded following a lower face lift and fat removal under the chin in Turkey last month. But the Big Brother star still jetted to Thailand for even more corrective work and claims she’s already planning on going under the knife again to fulfill her X-rated…

THE SIBLING SPAT Olly Murs found fame on The X Factor in 2009 – but it caused a fallout with his twin brother Ben (left) when Olly, 34, missed his wedding to compete in the show’s semi-final. Olly has called the rift “difficult and sad”, while Ben – who’s changed his surname to his wife’s family name – has said, “Fame and greed changed everything.” The boys’ mum, Vicky-Lynn, 57, has also been disowned by Ben. Earlier this month, Olly said, “Christmas is never the same.” THE SPOUSE IN THE MIDDLE Mel B fell out with her parents and sister Danielle for nine years, reportedly due to tensions between her family and then-husband Stephen Belafonte. At the time, Mel’s mum Andrea said, “Every day, I pine for Mel, [Mel’s kids]…

Made In Chelsea star and animal rights activist Lucy Watson says, “Nothing ruins the magic of Christmas more than seeing stressed animals confined to tiny pens or forced to take part in gimmicky parades. Reindeer, camels and donkeys belong in their natural habitats – not at busy shopping centres filled with bright lights and loud noises. I encourage everyone to extend goodwill to all by avoiding events that exploit animals for human amusement.”…

The pair set tongues wagging earlier this month when they were spotted getting close at the launch of Celebs Go Dating, and now, Pete Wicks has opened up to Closer about his feelings for his co-star Kerry Katona. Pete, 30, says, “Kerry’s amazing. We get on well and we’re good pals. It’s nice to meet people from different walks of life. She’s so lovely and a great girl. I think she just needs a nice guy to treat her right. She deserves to find someone.” But he’s quick to play down any rumours of a romance between them, admitting that he’s not sure what sort of woman he should be dating. FINDING THE ONE “We’re just friends,” laughs Pete. “But I want to improve my dating game to find The…

I was interested to read that TV presenter Jameela Jamil thinks people should stop using Photoshop to rework their pics. Celebs often edit images to make themselves look better, but Jameela feels that it’s like lying to fans and that sometimes they look nothing like that in real life. I agree with her! If it’s for a fashion photo-shoot and they want to clean the image up to make it look better, then that’s a bit different. But when girls are digitally editing their body shapes and their skin colour, it is reinforcing their own insecurities – and other people’s!…

It’s only been a few months since Dani Dyer and Jack Fincham won the nation’s hearts after being crowned Love Island champions. But despite being the most loved-up couple in the villa, there was drama last week when Dani announced their shock split. The 22 year old revealed the news on Instagram, writing, “Jack and I have sadly decided to part ways. It’s been an incredible six months, and we will always have a place in our hearts for each other, but sadly we’ve come to the realisation that it’s not meant to be long term. We both plan to stay friends. I hope you all understand.” However, fans began to speculate it might not be over for the couple when, just hours later, Dani deleted the post. One follower…

After a decade-long break, Mel C is back with Emma Bunton, Geri Halliwell and Mel B for a mega 13-day Spice Girls tour next summer. Originally formed in 1994, the band sold tens of millions during their heyday, before Geri walked out in 1998, revealing that the girls had started to squabble. The remaining four split after releasing the album Forever two years later. REMINISCING They reformed for a world tour in 2007 and will be back as a foursome for a UK tour next summer – fifth member Victoria Beckham chose to concentrate on her fashion empire rather than join them. But Mel C, 44, insists they’re stronger together than apart. “Being a Spice Girl is the best thing in the world,” she laughs. “Just hanging out together, you…

For years, Michaela Hortop, 26, struggled with suicidal thoughts at Christmas. But after spending last December in a psychiatric ward, she now feels stronger than ever. Michaela, who is currently single, tells Closer, “I started self-harming at 16, after being bullied at school. I hated the way I looked and carved the word ‘fat’ into my stomach. At university, my anxiety worsened and I tried to take my own life as I wanted to end the torment in my head. SUICIDAL THOUGHTS “At Christmas, my suicidal thoughts were louder. It’s such a reflective time and it depressed me that yet another year had passed and I’d achieved nothing. There’s so much pressure to be happy, and I was anything but. I wanted to scream and hide. I found the decorations,…

With her rippling muscles and toned abs, pensioner Ernestine Shepherd is in better shape than many women less than half her age. And she has no intention of slowing down any time soon. Incredibly, the 82-year-old granny bounds out of bed every morning at 2.30am, and starts her day by meditating, followed by a breakfast of liquid egg whites. Energised, she will then go for a 10-mile run before heading home for a second breakfast, in time to hit the gym at 7.30am. Once there, she’ll do her training and weight lifting before teaching a bodybuilding class. Afterwards, Ernestine returns home to help care for her husband of 62 years, Colin, 86, who is virtually bedridden as he suffers from gout. COUCH POTATO It’s a routine she has pretty much…

LOOK GREAT, WHATEVER YOUR BUDGET Q I’m strapped for cash after buying pressies, but need an outfit for my festive get-together with friends. What can I wear that’ll make me feel a million dollars, without breaking the bank? A The high street is brimming with party-ready pieces to suit every budget. Plain, primary-coloured items are a great option as they can easily be dressed up with heels and glitzy jewels. Look for luxe fabrics like velvet and satin to give basic buys a fancier feel. 3 OF THE BEST HOW TO WEAR IT GET EXTRA MILEAGE OUT OF YOUR FANCY FROCK Q I’ve treated myself to a very pricey dress for NYE, but I’d love to re-wear it after party season. What can I pair it with to stop it…

JUST LANDED STAR FINISH COLOR WOW PERFORMANCE ENHANCING TEXTURE SPRAY WHAT MAKES IT DIFFERENT? A styling spray that adds hold and texture, minus any chalky residue or stickiness. WHY IT WORKS: Designed to spray on to dry hair, this super-light mist adds hold to wavy locks, a gentle tousle to shorter styles or oomph to lack-lustre roots, without weighing down. It smells like the salon, and we were impressed by how smooth and soft it left our mane while working magic on lift and hold. Great for a quick zhoosh before heading out the door. GET THE LOOK... A FULL FLUTTER Give your lashes the wow factor over the festive season, like Kendall and Chrissy, with the latest and greatest mascaras… ❶ TURN UP THE VOLUME MAX FACTOR VOLUME INFUSION…

• A subtle Hollywood sweep is a good alternative for a quiff if you’re not brave enough to go for a short cut, like Emma. • Work from a side parting – the deeper the parting, the more hair will go into the sweep or quiff. • This suits every face shape, it’s all about adapting the height and thickness of the style to balance out any features. • If your hair is freshly washed, the style may not hold as well. Wait until day two or three or add a dry texture spray to give the hair extra hold. • Strong hair grips make a big difference – buy ones that have a matte coating, which are non-slip. • If you have long hair, the style will work best…

Celeb chefs Si and Dave say, “We’ve suggested a selection of winter veg here, but feel free to use whatever root veg and greens you have.” CHRISTMAS TREE BISCUITS GREAT FOR MAKING WITH THE KIDS MAKES AROUND 48 • 450g plain flour • 2tsp baking powder • 4tsp ground ginger • 2tsp cinnamon • Pinch sea salt • 200g caster sugar • 250g unsalted butter, diced • 4tbsp golden syrup • 1 large egg, beaten • Piping icing, silver and coloured balls and ribbons SERVES 4 • 2tbsp vegetable oil • 1 onion, finely sliced • 3 garlic cloves, finely sliced • 2 carrots • 2 turnips • 1 large potato, preferably Maris Piper • 1 large parsnip • 2 heaped tsp sweet smoked paprika, plus extra to serve •…

Presenter and body-positive activist Jameela Jamil is telling young women not to listen to health advice from celebs who don’t know what they’re talking about and who are often being paid to sell diet products. Good on her. TRY NOT TO COMPARE Celebs like Cardi B and Khloé Kardashian have enough money, they don’t need more from promoting damaging products to vulnerable fans. One in four young women has a mental illness, from anxiety to depression to body image issues. If someone is feeling unhappy, they often compare themselves to others on social media. If they see people they admire giving diet advice, they’re vulnerable to it. QUESTION #ADS Rapper Cardi B said she’d lost her baby weight with a detox tea, and Jameela was furious. She said she hoped…

When a friend or colleague suggests “going for one drink”, you know it’s never an accurate account of what’s about to happen. With me, it usually ends in trying (and failing) to queue-jump into a club at 2am. And it’s kind of the same in dating terms – a message from a former flame or love interest inviting you out for a drink is never that simple. I’ve found that when you agree to said drink, it rarely happens. And if you don’t accept the invite, a chase ensues – but when you relent, they make their excuses. Baffled and bored of being treated in this way, I asked a guy friend, who explained that a lot of men don’t like to think they’ve settled. So they will ask girls…

£525 For three cashmere jumpers. I bought them from Quattro Rish in Reigate, Surrey. They’ll see me through the winter. £3 On a coffee from Costa to satisfy my caffeine cravings. £150 For a meal with celebrity chef Toby Tobin and his wife at Urban 9 restaurant in Reigate. £200 For my daughter’s birthday present. I can’t say what, in case she sees! £40 On a blusher and mascara from Benefit make-up. • For tickets to Sally’s 10th Anniversary tour, visit www.sallymorgan.tv…

1 DEATH ON THE TYNE FOLLOW UP TO BLACKPOOL EXPRESS SAT 15 DEC, 9PM, CHRISTMAS GOLD Coach workers Terry and Gemma (the fabulous Johnny Vegas and Sian Gibson) are once again caught up in a murder-mystery caper – this time taking to the seas on an overnight ferry trip from Newcastle to Amsterdam. With guest stars like James Fleet as the suave Captain Jack, Sue Johnston as battleaxe Colleen and Benidorm’s Sheila Reid returning as Mildred, there are some chuckles to be had (not least Sheila being “drawn” Titanic-style and a Cheeky Girls dance routine). Turn to page 37 for more. FACTFILE Sian Gibson says, “Terry and Gemma are still going strong. Gemma is putting Terry in his place again – they’re like a modern-day Stan and Hilda Ogden…” 2…

MUST READ One Day in December(JOSIE SILVER) Through a misted-up bus window one snowy December day, Laurie sees a man she instantly knows is The One. Their eyes meet, there’s a moment of pure magic – and then her bus drives away. At the Christmas party a year later, her best friend Sarah introduces her to the new love of her life – who happens to be the man from the bus. Determined to let him go, Laurie gets on with her life. But what if fate has other plans? A lovely festive read. BEST DAY OUT Marvel Universe Live The clever lot at Marvel are seriously cashing in on the franchise with an actual live stage show, featuring the likes of Iron Man, Thor, Black Panther and friends as…

THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN SAGITTARIUS 23 NOV-21 DEC So, here you are at the start of a new cycle. But don’t let it just happen to you; happen to it. Bend your reality with your intentions. Don’t believe you can do it? Well, wake up and try it. No one can stop you. Call 0906 7511 677 to hear more from Yasmin about the week ahead.* CAPRICORN 22 DEC-20 JAN If you’ve had just about enough of everyone and everything, think about it – do you maybe feel a bit like this every year, as the Sun dips into your 12th House? You probably do, and there’s nothing wrong with wanting to sequester yourself away temporarily. Just do it. Call 0906 7511 677 to hear more from Yasmin about…

Sophie wants air hockey included in the next Olympics. Apparently, the trickiest part is getting into the outfit. We know that feeling, Noel. This is how most of us looked the morning after Closer’s Christmas party. Mark failed his driving test a record 31 times simply because he refused to do anything other than check the mirrors. Then check them again... and again... We like our hot chocolate topping to be huge, and Kady’s is anything but Minnie. In fact, she’s taking the Mickey. Posh reveals the secret to her success. She always starts business meetings on the right note. Parp! ARIANA GRANDE... There’s no need to brag, Ariana – this might come as a shock, but you’re not the first person to get Amazon Prime! FEARNE COTTON... Who doesn’t…