Table of contents for 13 December 2016 in Closer

A very merry Christmas! Welcome to the gift that keeps on giving over the festive season – Closer’s bumper double issue with a wealth of treats just for you! We’ve persuaded your favourite celebs to open their hearts, homes… and recipe books. We’re bursting with showbiz news, heartwarming and surprising real-life stories, fashion and beauty inspiration, plus a brilliant 14-day guide to the very best Christmas TV. So whenever you need a bit of a breather from the shopping, cooking and wrapping chores, let us entertain you! Have a brilliant Christmas… and look out for the next fabulous issue of Closer on sale 28 December.…

Experts claim Scarlett Moffatt is set to make millions She wants to emulate the success of Jordan and Vicky Pattison The star is considering doing a reality show with boyfriend Luke With witty one-liners and an infectious sense of humour, she was the stand-out star from Gogglebox, and this month Scarlett Moffatt proved her fame was on a rapid ascent after being crowned Queen of the Jungle on I’m A Celeb! And insiders say Scarlett, 26, is wasting no time in cashing in on her newfound popularity as she plots a TV takeover to become one of the nation’s biggest presenters and star in a reality show with her boyfriend Luke Crodden – with experts claiming she could make millions off the back of her jungle win. A source says:…

This time last year, she was facing Christmas amid a barrage of speculation that her 18-month marriage to Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini was in trouble. The reports came after Cheryl’s shrinking frame sparked serious concern – but she hit back, calling for “body shaming” to be made illegal. As a judge on last year’s X Factor , an emotional Cheryl broke down on several occasions. But when Liam Payne performed with One Direction at the X Factor final in December, he was spotted cuddling Cheryl during an ad break. A month later, Cheryl filed for divorce from JB – blasting claims she’d cheated on him – and went public with Liam in February. Fast-forward almost a year and Cheryl is happily loved-up with Liam – and sporting a bump that all but…

After facing relentless rumours that his marriage was in trouble this year, Mark Wright reveals that he’s looking forward to a family-focused Christmas with wife Michelle Keegan. Speaking to Closer at the Pride Of Sport Awards earlier this month, he said: “I was thinking the lead-up to Christmas was going to be quiet for me, but the diary’s started to fill up again so I won’t be able to wind down properly until Christmas Eve – I can properly relax then. “Christmas will be spent with the family – last year we were up north with Michelle’s family so this year we’re down south. When I was younger, Christmas used to be about presents and drinking but now it’s just about being with the family and having a roast dinner.”…

With Victoria and David Beckham as parents, it’s hardly surprising their offspring are already carving out promising careers in showbiz. While eldest son Brooklyn, 17, has shot a campaign for luxury brand Burberry and is releasing his own photography book, Romeo, 14, has wowed the fashion world in campaigns for Burberry. TESTING THE WATER Now it seems younger brother Cruz, 11, could outshine them all after unveiling his debut pop single If Every Day Was Christmas – with proceeds going to young person’s charity Global’s Make Some Noise. But sources say that Cruz – who signed with Scooter Braun, the agent who turned Justin Bieber into a sensation – has caused some tension between Posh, 42, and David, 41. An insider reveals: “They are both so proud of Cruz –…

Her ex-husband celebrated the birth of his son Theo with doctor wife Emily MacDonagh last month, saying he was already thinking about “when we have the next one.” And now pals say Jordan is feeling envious of the seemingly perfect marriage that Peter Andre has settled into, in contrast to the rocky year she’s had with husband Kieran Hayler. Insiders close to the exes say that Pete’s new arrival has fuelled mum-of-five Jordan’s desire for another baby. The former glamour model – real name Katie Price – previously admitted that she was getting broody, saying she has “11 bedrooms I need to fill.” She even revealed her plans to adopt, adding that Kieran is reluctant but that he “hasn’t got a say.” A source reveals: “It’s no secret that Katie…

She’s just weeks away from her due date, but as Stephanie Davis prepares for the arrival of her son, she’s reeling over taunts from her ex, Jeremy McConnell. In a series of interviews published this month, Jeremy, 26 – who has previously denied her claims that he’s the father – spoke about how he would feel if he was the dad, saying: “All I want is clarification. If I find out it’s mine I’ll be the best dad.” But pals say the former Hollyoaks actress, 23 – who began seeing Jeremy on CBB in January but split with him in May – is fuming he’s spoken about the baby after ignoring her. Now a source says: “Steph is furious and hurt that after months of reaching out to him and…

Instagram posts of the Oliver family at Christmas suggest a picture-perfect festive affair. Jamie and Jools and their five children – Daisy, 13, Poppy, 12, Petal, seven, Buddy, six, and now four-month-old River – enjoy an idyllic time with woodland walks or snuggled up together in their beautiful Essex farmhouse, baking mince pies and decorating the tree. It’s an enviable chocolate-box version of a life we all wish we had. But don’t be fooled, laughs Jamie when Closer catches up with the chef as he prepares for the big day. Behind the scenes at the Oliver household it’s chaos – and one of their favourite traditions may even gross you out a little bit. “We’ll pick our tree in the local Christmas tree forest and take it home and generally…

She’s had a roller-coaster two years which have seen her finally beat her body demons and reach her target weight, shedding a staggering 12st and undergoing eight operations – including a facelift, tummy tuck and boob job, and one to remove a stone of excess skin. But Tina Malone admits she’s happier than ever as she slips into a sparkly festive dress, and reveals this is the first year she’ll be able to throw herself into the festivities. “This is my first skinny Christmas without any operations or stitches,” says Tina – who’s gone from 19st and a size 28 to 7st 8lbs and a size 6 since having a gastric band in 2010. “I’m not trying to lose weight and I can wear what I want. Last year I’d…

Their lives changed when they found love and won £50k as Love Island champions, announcing at the final that they were going to “get married and have babies.” And just five months later, Cara De La Hoyde and Nathan Massey are taking steps towards starting their little family. “Things are amazing between us,” says Cara, 25 – who spoke to Closer at the Kiss FM party. “I told Nathan I wanted a dog or a baby, but he said he’s still a kid himself so we’ve got a little French bulldog called Sonny just in time for Christmas. That’s the first step to having a baby together anyway! “People always ask when we’re getting engaged and planning kids, but we’re not letting anyone pressure us.” Nathan, 24 – who is…

He’s been head of the judging panel since Strictly started 12 years ago, but sensationally announced that this would be his final series. And now Len Goodman says he’s bowing out on one of the best years yet: “It’s always sad to leave something you love, but it’s been a wonderful series.” Len, 72 – who also spent a decade working on American series Dancing With The Stars where he judged A-listers such as Kim Kardashian and Mel B – says it’s hard to pick a Strictly highlight. He reveals: “My standouts aren’t the best dancers. It’s Russell Grant being fired out of a cannon, Ann Widdecombe stomping around and Ed Balls winning round the public.” And despite dancers Brendan Cole and Anton Du Beke both rumoured as possible replacements,…

THE PERSON I WOULD TURN TO IN A CRISIS IS… My dad [Bernie]. He’s very calm, cool and collected, even when under tremendous pressure. He just doesn’t get flustered or emotional and always gives great advice. THE SONG THAT MAKES ME HAPPY IS… Lionel Richie’s All Night Long. I was lucky to have him play at my wedding three years ago and he played the piano for our first dance. THE LAST TIME I CRIED WAS… Probably today! I cry all the time because I’m happy and really content. Sophia can do the tiniest thing like hug me or say something funny and it will set me off. MY LIFE MANTRA IS… [laughs] “Don’t get mad, get even.” I’m definitely no pushover.…

There’s no doubt this mum-of-three has put in a United effort. Who Roo you could fit so many twit-twoo decorations on one tree? Essex-mas has come early for this super slimmer, so let’s hope she allows herself to indulge in a few chocolate decorations. Loud, brash and in your face, this lavishly OTT tree is as outrageous as the American reality TV star who adorned it. When it comes to festive decorating, it looks like this reality TV star has definitely gone the Wright way about it. We certainly wouldn’t put it past this muscular model to water her lean-looking tree with protein shakes. One must always select the grandest of baubles. This towering tree definitely has the royal seal of approval. We’d really love to spend Christmas in New…

He is one of the UK’s best-loved TV personalities and makes our Saturday nights with his good-guy nature and refreshing normality. But Dermot O’Leary’s role as host of The X Factor, which always finishes mid-December, means festive shopping is put on the back burner. He says: “I’m always seriously busy right up until Christmas, with The X Factor final. I’d say I’m more of a last-minute guy, but I do get it done.” However, Dermot’s boss Simon Cowell manages to get his gift-buying finished early, and Dermot, who married TV and film producer Dee Koppang in 2012, reveals Simon is generous with presents. “He gave some of us Christmas presents on the eve of the semi-final,” Dermot says. “One year, he got us a load of vouchers from Harrods. In…

They rekindled their romance in March following a brief split in December last year, when the couple reportedly argued over where to live. But Courteney Cox and Johnny McDaid’s jet-set lifestyle isn’t showing any signs of stopping, with pals revealing the pair are planning to have a “transatlantic” Christmas. A source says: “They’re set to spend Christmas Eve and Day with Johnny’s family in Ireland, before jetting back to LA for celebrations with Courteney’s daughter Coco and ex-husband David Arquette, plus his wife Christina and their son Charlie.” Courteney, 52, is due to meet the 40-year-old Snow Patrol rocker’s extended family, including his family priest, who insiders say is set to marry the pair. And friends have revealed she’s keen to make a good impression as she has splashed out…

As a key fixture in Simon Cowell’s harem of exes, along with singer Sinitta and makeup artist Mezhgan Hussainy, Terri Seymour has remained close to the X Factor boss since they split in 2008 after six years together. And, in an exclusive interview with Closer, TV presenter Terri reveals the pair are so friendly, she is planning to spend Christmas with 57-year-old Simon, his girlfriend Lauren Silverman, 39, and their son Eric, two. LOVED-UP KIDS Terri, 42 – who is mum to 21-month-old Coco with her partner of five years, model Clark Mallon, 27 – tells Closer: “We’re going to be with Simon, Lauren and Eric for Christmas and I can’t wait to all be together.” And while she’s scant on the details, saying: “It will be somewhere there’s sunshine…

‘This looks and feels \ as if it’s designer – it’s my favourite dress of the shoot.’ ‘This gown feels so sophisticated and cool with minimal accessories.’ ‘Neutral peachy tones always look classy with pale skin.’ Stockists ASOS www.asos.com, Boohoo, www.boohoo.com, Claire’s Accessories www.claires.co.uk, Ego www.ego.co.uk, House Of CB www.houseofcb.com, Little Mistress Jane Norman www.janenorman.co.uk, MandM Direct www.mandmdirect.com, M&S www.marksandspencer.com, Missguided www.missguided.co.uk, Miss Selfridge www.miss selfridge.com, New look www.newlook.com, Next www.next.co.uk, River Island www.riverisland.com, Topshop www.topshop.com, Very www.very.co.uk, Zara www.zara.com…

This lilac lovely comes with a handbag-sized bottle of classic fragrance and a lip gloss with the matching scent – perfect for your clutch on NYE. GHOST DEEP NIGHT EDT £8 Missed out on sleep due to too much partying? Make your slumber count with these pillow sprays and roll-on stress reliever. THIS WORKS £11 Glam crackers filled with everything you and your gal pals need for a pamper sesh. Makes for a more special surprise than a paper hat and a cheesy joke! SANCTUARY SPA £10 FOR 4 Enjoy some fizz without the hangover and go for Prosecco-themed bath salts and a matching bubbly lip balm. And relaaaax….! BATH HOUSE £10 Get those legs dance-floor ready and your lips poised for mistletoe moments with this hydrating, fruity body butter…

AID DIGESTION: PEPPERMINT OIL TABLETS Helps support a healthy digestive system during the indulgence of the festive period. £6.99 FOR 90 TABLETS, SUPERDRUG EASE PAIN: IBUPROFEN Great for relieving muscle pain and inflammation, but also for easing a tension headache. £2.39 FOR 24 TABLETS, BOOTS REHYDRATE: MELLO JUICE If you’ve ended up drinking too much prosecco, this juice is packed full of vitamins A and C and antioxidants to help repair some of the damage. £2.49, WAITROSE…

TV’s Sarah Willingham reveals how to take control of your finances & make the most of your cash “I’m a self-employed yoga teacher, housekeeper and caretaker and I do extra work for TV. I work as hard as I can but last year I only managed to earn £10,000. “I‘ve paid off my mortgage, but I can barely cover my living costs. I’m careful with electricity and water and I rarely socialise or shop. I love my house and don’t want to sell or move. “Housekeeping in the holiday season is my only regular work. I make £5 a week caretaking for two holiday cottages, so I’m certain of £40 a month. I can earn £60 per clean, too. I’m also on call for emergencies at the cottages, which can…

Christmas Day can be a melting pot of stress and disagreements, along with raised expectations that end up falling flat. But it doesn’t have to be this way! There’s a great deal you can do to make the festive holiday a fun occasion. It’s all about diffusing difficult scenarios rather that escalating them. Here’s my guide… HOW TO ENJOY YOUR DAY AVOID AWKWARD DINNERS Everyone in my family has a different dietary requirement, from vegan to gluten-free. Message your menu to everyone who is coming so there are no surprises. If someone is particularly awkward, ask them to bring their own food. DISTRACT RABBLE-ROUSERS We all have a family member who enjoys a bit of conflict. Sit these characters near to you or an ally who can keep them off…

Every year you swear you’ll have all your shopping bought and wrapped before the end of November – but before you know it, the big day is just weeks away and you’ve still got stacks to do. Luckily, Very has gifts for everyone on your Christmas list and most can be delivered free next day to a local convenience store with Collect +. And what’s more, the last order date for delivery in time for Christmas is 10pm on 23 December! Here are some brilliant ideas to get you started... UNDER-TREE MUST-HAVE! 1 RETRO SWEETS HAMPER Perfect for people who are impossible to buy for, this cool-looking hamper filled with 27 varieties of sweets also comes with a gift card that can be personalised with a message of your choice.…

ETHEL & ERNEST NEW BRIGGS! WED 28 DEC, 7.30PM, BBC1 Raymond Briggs, who’s made a bit of a name for himself when it comes to all things Christmas (by creating The Snowman and all), is back with a new animation that pushes the levels of sweetness to the max. This time, Ethel & Ernest tells the story of his own parents in ’20s London as the country gears up for some dark times ahead. Look out for voices from Jim Broadbent, Brenda Blethyn, Pam Ferris and June Brown. ALSO WATCH: GREATEST EVER CHRISTMAS MOVIES, XMAS EVE, 10PM / GREATEST 80S MOVIES, TUE 27 DEC, 11.05PM, CHANNEL 5 FROZEN LET IT GOOOO! XMAS DAY, 3.10PM, BBC1 Can you get a Christmas Day family film that’s any more Christmassy than this? It’s…

What’s the worst Christmas present you’ve ever received? “Murphy (Paul’s former partner and manager), when he was alive, was the worst giver of Christmas presents. One year I got a bin and I didn’t speak to him all day. Another time I got a suitcase on wheels and another time a set of carving knives!” Did you and [close pal and the late, great] Cilla Black always have a festive get-together? “Always. We’d either go for a meal or I’d pick her up at her flat and we’d go out clubbing. I miss her terribly and think of her a lot.” What’s your Christmas tipple? “I don’t like mixing food and booze. Even in a restaurant I’ll just have water. But if I’m going to the pub it’s different. On…

Earlier this year we saw you slip Ian Beale a death threat letter. What has Max been up to since? Well, he got out of prison and he’s changed! You’ll have to wait and see… Why did you decide to take time off? I did nine years of EastEnders straight and the schedules are demanding! I have a young family [Max is dad to Buster, eight, and Amber, 11], and I’d just done Strictly too. I was exhausted and wanted to give Max a break. How did you spend your year at home? I had an amazing time with my family, just being a dad. I did every school run and engrossed myself in family life. I knew I was going back so there was no pressure. I felt very…

‘I hardly drink now or go out clubbing’ Her tempestuous love life has kept her firmly in the headlines since she first hit our screens in The Only Way Is Essex six years ago – but when Lauren Goodger turns up to Closer’s shoot with a beaming smile it’s clear she’s finally found her Mr Right. In September, reports surfaced that 30-year-old Lauren was making regular visits to see convicted criminal Joey Morrison – who is currently serving an 18-year prison sentence for offences including burglary and drug dealing. But Lauren – who will only describe Joey as a “close friend,” despite her Cheshire cat grin – says he’s no bad boy and that she’s desperate to spend Christmas Day with him in prison. CAUSING A STIR “He’s a beautiful…

This time last year she was riding high after launching a fitness DVD, hosting her own TV show and being crowned Queen of the I’m A Celeb! jungle. And Vicky Pattison had an even better 2016 – where she nabbed herself a spot on the Loose Women panel and landed the job of host of the I’m A Celeb! spin-off show – Extra Camp. But her big moment on Extra Camp was marred with criticism – with viewers constantly sending a barrage of abuse her way. During her presenting role, the former Geordie Shore star, 29, was cruelly called out once again for her “gurning,” which fans have slated in the past, but which Vicky claims is something she has “always done.” She was also trolled by body shamers, who…

Just three weeks after posting a heartwarming photo with his mum, 1D star Louis Tomlinson was being consoled, following her tragic death from leukaemia aged just 43. And Cheryl, who met Louis on The X Factor , was one of the first to send her condolences, Tweeting: “My heart breaks for you. I am so sorry. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones at this incredibly tragic time.” Louis had previously said that he was one of his mum’s “best friends” and had proudly taken her along to a number of red carpet events over the years. A statement released by the family revealed that midwife Johannah Deakin had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of the disease earlier this year. Her second husband Dan, who she married…

It’s been another dramatic year for the Kardashian clan, with Kim’s terrifying Paris attack in October and Kanye West’s battle with “psychiatric issues” rocking the family. Kanye – who made his first public appearance at an art exhibition in LA a week after leaving hospital – had a manic meltdown on stage last month, thought to be triggered by exhaustion and dehydration, then cancelled the rest of his tour. And to add to the family’s stress, they’ve had to endure reports in the US that Kim, 36, wanted to divorce the rapper, 39 – something her friend Jonathan Cheban quickly denied. Pals tell Closer how the star is determined to put on a brave face for the sake of her children – North, three, and one-year-old Saint – and make…

She’s been refreshingly honest about the highs and lows of life as a new mum, opening her doors to the cameras this year on her TV show The Mummy Diaries, where she revealed the reality of coping with sleepless nights and late-night feeds. But Sam Faiers isn’t using Christmas as an excuse for lie-ins, admitting she’s still a big kid. RAIDING THE PRESENTS Sam, 25, says: “I’m always up early; I love Christmas so much and I don’t want to waste a minute of it by being in bed. The whole family are the same; we can’t wait to get to our presents, either, so everything’s already been opened by the time we’re having our breakfast bacon sandwiches! “I know a lot of people who go out on Christmas Eve,…

£30 On a Christmas jumper with Santa on it – I’m going to wear it smugly because I’m going to Thailand on Boxing Day! £5 On a 2016 Christmas bauble – it’s our tradition to add a bauble to the tree every year. OVER £100 On a bottle of vintage Bordeaux wine I bought for my manager – I’m trying to be his favourite! £20 On a Philip Larkin poetry book for my niece. £60 On a posh roast turkey from field&flower – it’s organic so it probably grew up in its own luxurious bungalow!…

They’ve already postponed their wedding once, and pals say Jacqueline Jossa and Dan Osborne are still arguing over their big day, which is booked for summer 2017. And while EastEnders star Jacqueline, 24, told Closer earlier this year she’d be handing over the planning to Dan, 25, pals say that the former TOWIE star has been so busy with their daughter Ella, 22 months, and his son Teddy, two, from a previous relationship, that wedding plans have taken a backseat. A source says: “They’re both stressed; they want the perfect wedding but it’s a source of tension. Work has been intense for Jac, with a big storyline coming up. She’s frustrated Dan’s not sorted it.” Things came to a head three weeks ago while the pair were at an awards…

It’s not been the easiest of times for Jodie Kidd following the traumatic breakdown of her marriage to David Blakeley last December after just four months. But the model – who has Indio, five, with Argentinian polo player Andrea Vianini – is determined to make this festive season magical. Speaking about the challenges since the split, Jodie, 38, tells Closer: “It is really tough, especially being a single working mum and trying to juggle being a mum with work and doing my charity things. I’m just really lucky I’ve got supportive colleagues; I call them the A-team, a family who support me and enable me to go out, work hard and know that Indy is OK.” And Jodie reveals she’s planning on giving Indio the perfect Christmas this year. She…

Ten years ago, Girls Aloud were at the height of their fame and life for Nadine Coyle involved travelling the world, dating Hollywood stars including Jesse Metcalfe and performing to thousands of fans. But things couldn’t be more different for the 31-year-old star now, especially as a mum to two-year-old Anaíya with her fiancé, former NFL star Jason Bell. Last year she returned to the UK following eight years in LA and says she won’t miss her partying days or the Californian sunshine this Christmas. Instead, like any mum with a toddler, she’s yearning for more sleep. Nadine tells Closer : “I really want a lie-in for Christmas this year! I want some peace and quiet, just to relax. For the past few years we’ve celebrated in Ireland; I’ve never…

DRESSING AS SANTA FOR HIS KIDS “They thought I was some kind of dodgy geezer. I invested in something from Amazon that was highly flammable and slightly see-through. I looked like a dirty old Santa. HAVING MORE BABIES “I’d go and [have a vasectomy] tomorrow in secret if I wasn’t petrified of having a brigade of trainee doctors all taking selfies… I don’t like getting my gems out in public.” HIS BALANCING ACT “I was surviving on three-and-a-half hours sleep a night and I was exhausted all the time. I feel completely different now. I’ve lost weight and I make sure I get enough sleep. I do the climbing trees thing. It’s a bit hippy, but it gives you your twinkle back.”…

After falling for each other on hugely popular reality show Love Island this summer, Olivia Buckland and Alex Bowen couldn’t be more smitten as they get ready to celebrate their first festive holiday together. Olivia tells Closer that Alex is The One, and is counting down the days until they jet off to New York to see in the New Year and celebrate her 23rd birthday just days later. “We’ll be partying a lot this month,” says Olivia. “We love getting dressed up and going into town. We’ll be spending Christmas Day in Essex with my family – it’ll be really special having him there.” The pair – who it was revealed had romped more than any other couple in the villa – are stronger than ever and admit they’re…

She’s barely off our TV screens as part of the BBC’s sports presenting team, and Gabby Logan’s home life with former rugby star Kenny Logan is just as sports-mad. But she tells Closer their bond is as strong as ever after 15 years together. Gabby, 43, says: “I’m more in love with Kenny [44] now than the day I met him. I massively respect and admire him. I know you can never start taking each other for granted… although that doesn’t mean he can’t be an annoying twerp! But you have to put work into a marriage.” Gabby has always been honest about her struggle to become a mum, having conceived her twins, Reuben and Lois, now 11, through IVF. And she tells us she feels lucky with their little…

He wasn’t the most conventional of performers in Strictly Come Dancing, but he stole viewers’ hearts with his camp routines and crazy facial expressions. And Judge Robert Rinder admits that he has found a lifelong friend in his Ukrainian dance partner Oksana Platero, and is hoping they will meet up over the festive season. The TV judge – who is married to barrister Seth Cummings – is best friends with Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch, 40. The actor officiated at Robert’s wedding in Ibiza three years ago and revealed he’d been following his pal’s Strictly progress, adding: “I had no idea he could dance like that. To see a dear friend do something so unexpectedly brilliant like that fills me with pride.” Now Robert, 38, says he has another BFF in…

‘I’m not on a diet, I’ve just changed the way I live’ Over the past three years Lisa Riley has undergone a total transformation, quitting alcohol and overhauling her diet and fitness regime. Now the star has revealed that this Christmas will be her first as a size 12, and will also be her last with excess skin, as she’s planned life-changing surgery to remove it in the new year. Speaking to Closer, Lisa says: “I’ve already bought a size 12 dress for Christmas. It’s just the way that I’m going, the weight keeps dropping off. People ask: ‘Are you going to stop?’ But it’s not a diet, I’ve completely changed my life.” While Lisa, 40, is thrilled with her new shape, her incredible achievement has left her with excess…

After a hectic year which saw him become host of The Xtra Factor, Rylan Clark-Neal admits he’s looking forward to some downtime at home in Essex. He tells Closer: “It’ll be Christmas round mine. A big dinner and lots of aggravation! And I’ll be cooking – don’t forget I’m a Celebrity MasterChef finalist! I love Christmas but I’m also desperate to get away and hit a beach.” Rylan shot to fame on The X Factor in 2012 and then hosted Channel 5’s Big Brother’s Bit On The Side. This year he’s been busy co-presenting The Xtra Factor Live with Matt Edmondson. And his career hit an all-time high in October when two of his Spice Girl heroines Geri Horner and Emma Bunton presented him with the TV Personality Of The…

If Helen George gets her way, we might see Call The Midwife’s Trixie Franklin becoming a doctor before too long. Helen, 32, who filmed the Christmas special in South Africa has big ambitions for Trixie. She says: “On paper, she’s the token blonde who loves lipstick, but then she’ll be in a Caesarean scene. She’s interested in surgery, so I’d like her to train as a doctor as the medical stuff is riveting.” Despite delivering numerous babies on screen, Helen, who has been dating her co-star Jack Ashton since April, is fearful about going through childbirth in real life. “I’m terrified about having children!” she reveals. “I know all the things that can go wrong – you only remember the horror stories from your friends. I think I’d elect for…

After spending much of the past few months apart due to work commitments, Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux are looking forward to some much-needed quality time over Christmas. The actress, 47, and her husband of 16 months have been forced to live apart over the past six months, with Justin spending long periods in Berlin filming his new film Mute . Being in a long-distance relationship is nothing new for the pair, who even put their wedding plans on hold due to their hectic work schedules, before finally tying the knot in a secret ceremony in August last year. Justin, 45, recently gushed about married life with Jen, admitting it’s had a “calming effect” and the pair claim to keep their relationship strong by FaceTiming and texting. Now, after an…

WHO WORE IT BEST? Paris Hilton, vs Kendall Jenner, Dazzling on her 21st birthday, Kendall Jenner looked amazing in a custom-designed £7k LaBourjoisie dress with Swarovski crystals. She Instagrammed a photo with the caption: “Vintage Paris Hilton Vibes. 21 21” – and, we admit, it's very similar to the dress Paris, now 35, wore on her 21st, with a choker too. VERDICT Paris wore it first, so she has to take the crown! We’d love Kendall to pull off some more vintage Paris looks, though… RETRO GLAMOUR Alexa Chung, 33 She’s known for her unique sense of style and Alexa Chung did not disappoint at the British Fashion Awards, wowing in this oriental-inspired Prada two-piece. The embellished detail and fluffy fringing made her stand out from the crowd, while her…

“I’d team this silky pair with a pussybow blouse for a look that’ll take you seamlessly from desk to dance floor.” “This Perspex pair of dancing shoes will instantly give last year’s LBD a fresh new spin.” “Simple and timeless – opt for oversized yet neutral jewels that will work with everything in your wardrobe.” “Sheer is having a major fashion moment. This ruffled number is one of my favourite ways to work the trend.” “If in doubt , go for metallics! The cleverly placed knot at the front of this figure-hugging skirt will flatter the tummy.” “A sequined clutch will make the ideal finishing touch to even the simplest of dresses.” “A classic camel coat will give your outfit an extra level of glamour and will be the perfect…

JAN 2011 This fitted Forever Unique white frock shows off both the TOWIE style of 2011 and Lucy’s fab figure. SEP 2012 The star turned heads in this curve-hugging, underwear-inspired dress – perfect for the Lingerie Awards! JUNE 2013 This pink satin suit was a bold choice! We loved the Prada bag and chunky YSL ring, though… OCT 2014 A long-sleeved Kenzo dress with zip detail marked a sophisticated style switch for Lucy. NOV 2015 Looking demure in a Jean-Pierre Braganza camel coat, matching pencil skirt and Folli Follie handbag. JAN 2016 Elegant and stylish, Lucy’s a great model for her Lucy’s Boutique Fergie black dress (£150). FEB 2016 Lucy’s super-toned abs look great in a bandeau top and chic De Masi wide-leg white trousers. Stockists Amishi www.amishi.london, Bambah www.bambah.com,…

This Christmas, my children [Magdalena, 11, and Zac, 10], and I have been invited to Barbados with Simon [Cowell], Lauren [Silverman] and Eric. We’ll spend Christmas Day building sandcastles on the beach, watching Santa arrive on a jet ski, then we’ll have a traditional lunch. Anybody who saw Celebrity MasterChef will know I’m not the best cook so we usually get a chef in. It’s the one day I don’t worry about what I’m eating – I’m vegetarian and I’ll load up on carbs, Yorkshire puddings, roasties and lots of cake! “Before I go away, I’ll host festive drinks for friends. I’ll decorate the apartment in classic gold and silver decorations and matchymatchy pieces. We have high ceilings so we put up a huge tree last year. This year, we…

INSIDE RUTH’S FRIDGE Eggs Pork pies Brussels pâté Chocolates and truffles Stilton Cheddar Mince pies Pickle Smoked salmon Roast chicken slices King prawns Cocktail sausages wrapped in bacon Gammon Chicken stock Figs Grapes Satsumas Cauliflower Broccoli Brussels sprouts Carrots Cider Cranberry juice Red wine Buck’s Fizz Where do you do your festive food shopping? It’s a real mix between the supermarket, local butcher and the farm shop. How much does it cost? Too much! I’ll be around lots of family, so it will be Christmas lunch for 12. What do you eat on Christmas Day? Breakfast is scrambled eggs with smoked salmon with a glass of Buck’s Fizz! For lunch, we tend to have a traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings and dinner time is a help-yourself buffet of…

She’s notorious for her addiction to plastic surgery, having undergone a shocking number of procedures – including 16 boob jobs, seven nose jobs, 11 eyelifts, three facelifts and bum implants – in a bid to transform herself into a real-life Barbie doll. And Alicia Douvall, who had the first of 350 cosmetic ops aged just 17, candidly admits that her quest for perfection, which has cost her over £1.5m, nearly destroyed her relationship with her eldest daughter, Georgia. Alicia, 37 – who is also mum to four-year-old Papaya – tells Closer : “Georgia and I never had a conventional mum and daughter relationship. She grew up very quickly and by the age of 10 she’d help empty my blood-filled drains from my operations, dress my scars and monitor my medication…

XMAS BARGAINS! In a blind taste test, Iceland won Britain’s best mince pie. At £1.50 for a pack of six, they’re a bargain! Their Luxury 12-month Matured Christmas Pudding at £6 was runner-up, pipped by M&S at double the price. They also won best turkey with the Luxury British Whole Brined Turkey with Orange and Thyme Butter. FREEZE OUT WASTE Check your home insurance has freezer cover. More than a third of claims happen over the festive period and research from Confused.com says the average freezer contains almost £200 worth of food.…

What are you scared of? Anything happening to my kids, Coco [seven] and Edward [three]. When’s the last time you said “I love you”? To Coco this morning as I dropped her off at school. If you were an animal, what would you be and why? A cat; they’re like royalty. What’s your worst habit? I tell people if they have something in their teeth – it’s mean not to! I always have TePe EasyPicks on me so I don’t end up on telly with spinach in my teeth! Who was your first kiss? A guy called Tom after a date at the cinema. Describe yourself in three words... Energetic, caring, ridiculous. How do you cope with conflict? Let people know how you feel – honesty is best.…

You play the glam Emily French – what’s she like? Emily is lonely and bored. She’s a woman of a certain age starting to feel invisible, until she meets a young man and offers him £5 a week to be her companion. It was fun to inhabit the ’20s – with flapper dresses and feathers in my hair! She meets a sticky end, though? Yes, and I spent a lot of time sprawled on a rug, face down with blood oozing from my head. Emily is still very prominent, however; there are a lot of flashbacks. You filmed it in Liverpool, where you were born – did that make it extra special? It was an added delight for me! I also turned 60 while we were filming so it was…

Paul O’Grady shudders: “I never watch myself. Oh God, I couldn’t bear it! I’d see all my mannerisms and affectations. Like when I’m doing my Love Of Dogs show and I’m talking to the vet at Battersea, it’s: ‘Hiya Shaun!’ And I think, ‘Oh my God, shut up!’ Now if you watch you’ll see me going: ‘Hello Shaun,’ and: ‘Are you OK, Shaun?’ But slowly it’s gone back to: ‘Hiya!’ My family and friends will all be watching, but I won’t!” His first show going out over Christmas – Paul O’Grady’s Favourite Fairy Tales – sees the star travel to Germany to explore the locations that inspired some of the most famous stories. “The original tales were far scarier, because they were written for adults,” Paul explains. “They were oral…

IF IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK You can make positive changes in your life in the coming 12 months. What would you really like to change? The first thing that comes to mind could be the very thing which you can turn around. Be bold but don’t push too hard. CAPRICORN 22 DEC-20 JAN Although you might feel tempted to lay low and have some “me” time, the universe has other ideas. In fact, there’s a growing list of things you need to cross off your “to do” list, so don’t think you’re going to be able to hunker down and stay away from the world. To find out where the Full Moon is affecting you, call 0906 7511 677* AQUARIUS 21 JAN-19 FEB This week’s…

Lauren, who’s a size 12, has famously struggled with her weight for years. She lost an incredible 4st and dropped to a size 8 at the end of last year, after adopting a tough exercise regime to launch her own fitness DVD Lauren’s OMG! Workout – but she says that with Joey she can finally embrace her natural curves. CONFIDENCE BOOST “I do have curves – and I feel great! I’d love to have a figure like J-Lo’s,” laughs Lauren. “My exes have tried to put me down in the past and that really affected me, but I feel like Joey has brought me back to life and really boosted my self-confidence. He always says I look amazing and that I’m doing really well for myself. If I don’t go…

‘Cheryl’s anxious about how their families will get on’ They’re due to spend their first Christmas together, which will be a particularly special one given the huge speculation that Cheryl and Liam Payne are expecting their first child together. And insiders say that after their whirlwind romance hit the headlines at the start of this year, the couple have been going from strength to strength – with Cheryl, whose divorce from Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini was finalised in October, hoping Liam, 23, will propose soon. A BIG CELEBRATION A source says: “It’s not been the easiest year, with spending lots of time apart and Cheryl hammering out her divorce from JB. But they couldn’t be more loved-up, and they can’t wait to spend their first Christmas together. She has no idea what…

They’ve been through a turbulent year and have defiantly fought off reports of marriage problems. But pals tell Closer that Michelle Keegan has told her husband Mark Wright she’s hoping to start a family with him in 2017 to mark a fresh start. The actress, 29, has spent large chunks of the year apart from the reality star-turned-radio DJ – with conflicting work schedules, Michelle’s US career plans and reported rows over starting a family fuelling rumours their 19-month marriage was on the rocks. BACK ON TRACK But sources close to the pair reveal Michelle is keen to put their troubled year behind them and start a family soon – assuring Mark, 29, that she won’t let work ambitions get in the way of having a baby. A source says:…

After recent reports revealed they were making a final go of their turbulent romance, Kourtney Kardashian has told friends she’s feeling “closer than ever” to Scott Disick as they prepare to celebrate Christmas together. The pair’s nine-year on/off relationship came to a head last year after reports surfaced that Kourtney could no longer cope with Scott’s boozy, party lifestyle. And after pictures emerged last July of Scott cosying up to celeb stylist Chloe Bartoli while Kourtney was at home with their three kids, Mason, seven, Penelope, four, and Reign, two, she allegedly told him it was the final straw. A pal says: “Scott’s been making a massive effort to show Kourtney he’s committed to her. He’s been spending a lot more time with her and the kids and wants to…

Adele Bellis, 24, was the victim of an acid attack orchestrated by her ex-partner Anthony Riley, who was jailed for 13 years. Now she’s planning talks at schools, educating young people about abusive relationships. She says: “Christmas is a tough time for women who’ve left an abusive relationship, and refuges do an amazing job of helping them get through it. It’s hard to break free from a violent partner and refuges are the first step to starting your life again. “My ex tried to control me; he stopped me from seeing friends and even posted revenge porn on social media. I used to think domestic abuse was just physical, but it starts off as mental abuse and people need to know the signs so they can leave. “I’ll be talking…

After confirming that she’s adding to her brood and expecting a baby boy with fiancé Greg Shepherd, Billie Faiers is looking forward to spending this festive season with her feet up. But despite being almost seven months pregnant and joking: “I’m not exactly going to be digging out a minidress and painting the town red,” Christmas in Billie’s household is anything but quiet. MUM TO THE RESCUE Billie says: “Christmas is such good fun in our house, we would never just have a big dinner and slump in front of the TV. We’ll put some music on and have a bit of a party. “For the past three years I’ve cooked for about 25 people at our house, but I knew I’d be heavily pregnant this year so I told…

She looked cosy with American lawyer Nate Greenwald in LA recently, just five months after being pictured arm-in-arm with her ex-husband Gary Lineker. And pals say Danielle Bux – who reportedly first met Nate, 41, in April – is struggling to move on from Gary. Danielle, 37, and Gary, 56, divorced in January this year after reportedly living separate lives for months. They stated they were calling it quits on amicable terms – and reports surfaced that the split was due to disagreements over having a child together. And while the Welsh model’s divorce from Gary has been finalised, the couple have fuelled reunion rumours with their continued close friendship. REUNION RUMOURS They were snapped arm-in-arm strolling through London in July, and holidayed in Ibiza later that month. And most…

NO BIG SPENDER EMMA: ‘I buy around 300 presents for my family every year’ Emma Tapping starts wrapping her Christmas presents in August – she has to as she buys almost 300 gifts for her family. This year, the mum-of-three, 36, from the Isle of Man, has bought her daughters Mia, 14, and Ella, 10, a huge 95 presents each. Son Tatun, two, has 65, and her partner James Brown, 41, receives around 30. Despite spending over £1,800 on Christmas – of which £1,500 goes on presents for her children – Emma, who runs a holiday cottage, and her partner, a factory worker, earn a joint gross income of £2,500 a month. SPLASHING OUT Emma says: “For my family and friends it’s normal to splurge at Christmas. It’s a huge…

Telly’s favourite dysfunctional family The Brockmans are back in the hit BBC comedy Outnumbered for a one-off special this Christmas. Since the last episode aired three years ago, Tyger Drew-Honey, who plays Jake, the eldest child of grumbling dad (Hugh Dennis) and frazzled mum Sue (Claire Skinner), also has a career as a TV presenter making documentaries. GROWING UP ON SCREEN But the 20-year-old admits he has loved resuming his role with his TV family for the new 40-minute episode, set for Boxing Day. Only child Tyger reveals his Outnumbered siblings Daniel Roche, 16, who plays Ben and Ramona Marquez, 15, who plays Karen, are as close as family in real life. “Daniel and Ramona are almost like the siblings I never had,” he says. “We grew up together and,…

She’s known for her boozy antics and wild partying, but since leaving the show that made her famous, bagging herself a new man and finally moving into her lavish dream home, former Geordie Shore star Charlotte Crosby – who admits she’s loving finally being a “proper grown-up” – is more excited about hosting her first Christmas dinner than hitting the tiles. Charlotte, who bought a £1million mansion in Newcastle in January, says: “We’ve always had Christmas at my mum’s house, but everyone is coming to mine this year. I started buying decorations three months ago! “I’m always working up until just before Christmas, where I’ll have been in a full face of make-up and all dressed up, so as soon as I’m back home, I’ll be in my Christmas jumper…

After dating for five months, Love Island couple Kady McDermott and Scott Thomas have taken the next step and introduced their families to each other. “We moved into a house together in October,” reveals 21-year-old Kady at a Foxy Bingo event. “My family and Scott’s family are all going to spend Christmas together with us – they get on so well, it’s lovely.” The couple fell for each other on the show in July, and for Scott, 28, this is his first Christmas with a girlfriend. “I was single for six years so I want to do all the couples’ Christmas things – Winter Wonderland in London, ice skating, snowy walks,” he says. “Kady wants us to make a gingerbread house! “I want to spoil her – it’s so special…

She admitted that competing in Strictly Come Dancing has been the ultimate confidence boost after feeling “left behind” as her children start to grow up and need her less. And for Louise Redknapp, she not only became one of the show’s favourites to win early on, but taking part in Strictly has also had a huge impact on her home life too, with the former singer admitting that a baby might now be on the cards! FEELING BROODY Mum-of-two Louise, who has sons Charley, 12, and Beau, eight, with retired footballer husband Jamie, previously revealed: “Just when I was signing up to Strictly, Jamie went to me: ‘Do you think we should go for just one more? Should we try for a girl?’ I was like: ‘What? Right now? Honestly,…

When the news broke that 55-year-old gran Sharon Cutts had become Britain’s oldest mum of triplets – conceived by IVF costing £27k – she was branded selfish and irresponsible. But Sharon, who has five grandchildren, and her toyboy lover, Stuart Reynolds, 41, are determined to prove their critics wrong. Far from putting a strain on their five-year relationship, they insist they’re happier than ever and Sharon claims she’s a better mum to babies Ryan, Mason and Lily, than she was to her four older kids – Emma, 26, Samuel, 23, Charles, 22, and Amy, 19 – from a previous relationship. Sharon says: “This will be the best Christmas with our three little ones. We don’t have much money as we’re still paying off our IVF debts, but that won’t stop…

They’ve become close while working on The X Factor , and now the show’s over, contestant Matt Terry says he’s counting on keeping in touch with mentor Nicole Scherzinger. The former waiter says: “We will definitely stay in touch. We’re like the same person – we have the same ideas and values. I’m so used to her and I don’t think we’d fall out of touch. I’d love to do a duet with Nicole one day – I think we’d sound really good together.” Matt – who auditioned for the show to ease his heartbreak after he was dumped by his girlfriend of three years in May – has had no shortage of female attention, admitting he’s had marriage proposals and saucy pictures sent to him on social media. However,…

She still lives at home with her mum and dad, but rather than saving to buy a house, animal lover Victoria Jose splashes her wages on her dogs! The 26-year-old healthcare assistant spoils Labrador Harvey and bichon frisé Lola with gifts all year round – spending up to £200 a month on treats and toys. But Christmas time is even more special for the pooches – Victoria has already bought them a staggering 88 gifts ranging from cuddly toys to personalised stockings totalling £1,250. Victoria, who lives with her parents and three siblings in Newcastle, says: “I know I spend a lot on my dogs, but it’s worth it. I love seeing their faces light up when they open their presents on Christmas Day.” Her boyfriend of three years, paint…

IN THE NEWS FESTIVE FASHION FOR EVERY OCCASION Whether you’re a party princess in need of a pretty frock, or a low-key lady on the hunt for an uber-cool piece to take you from daytime to playtime, we guarantee you’ll find what you’re looking for in Dorothy Perkins’ latest collection. This stellar range ticks all the festive style boxes with just the right amount of razzle dazzle to keep you feeling extra special in the lead up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve, while still being wearable into 2017. Closer’s style desk have all fallen head over (non) heels for the embellished sneakers, and the star-print bomber will transform a simple outfit into a cocktail hour hero. And with prices starting at just £20, you’ll feel like Christmas has come…

1 Apply a shine-free foundation, blending outwards with a sponge for a smooth look. 2 Swirl on a soft, golden bronzer on to cheek apples and sweep up to temples. 3 Use a small brush to apply a soft, brown powder over eyelids, up to the socket crease, then trace your waterline with a soft bronze kohl pencil. 4 Fill in brows with a fine pencil before sweeping on two coats of lengthening mascara. 5 Finish with a peachy nude lip colour. Stockists Autograph www.marksandspencer.com, Charlotte Tilbury www.houseoffraser.co.uk, Clinique www.feelunique.com, Lottie www.asos.com, MAC www.maccosmetics.co.uk, Miss Sporty www.superdrug.com, PUR www.marksandspencer.com, Stila www.stila.co.uk…

TRADE SECRETS… You probably already have a kabuki brush in your kit for blush or face powder but did you know this short-bristled tool can work wonders when it comes to hair styling too? If you suffer from frizz or flyaways around your parting, try misting the ends of an old brush with a natural-hold hairspray. Sweep it gently over your roots in a downwards motion to add a hint of hold to fight fluff, without weighing down your locks. You can also use it to add texture and a cool “undone look” to an updo. Put your tresses up in a halo braid or a bun then swish the brush over to gently tease and loosen strands to give you texture without pulling apart your plait. ON TRIAL This…

THE MOVES Three things have Laura feeling fit all day: yoga, running and dancing. She practises Bikram yoga most mornings at a north London studio, and has built up her running over the past year. Following on from her stint on Strictly, Laura is now a regular at the Frame dance studio in London. “There’s something euphoric about dancing – it just makes you feel good,” she says. THE FOODS The Irish presenter isn’t keen on meat, preferring to eat fish and raw veg instead. Breakfast is porridge with blueberries, while lunch is avocado and salmon and dinner is mackerel with greens. She admits: “I can’t stop eating kale. I’ve always been a weirdo about vegetables!” THE GAME-CHANGER Being so in love with the mental benefits of running means Laura…

Each year, more than 80,000 people need hospital treatment over the festive period for injuries, plus there are spikes in things like food poisoning. Gen up on these common Christmas health hazards for a happy, healthy, accident-free holiday. DON’T UNDERCOOK YOUR TURKEY Before it even gets near the oven, don’t wash a raw turkey – it will splash bacteria all over your kitchen. Make sure you defrost it properly and don’t undercook it. If you get any of those things wrong, you could end up with bacterial gastroenteritis, which gives you cramps, diarrhoea, a fever and sometimes mucus or blood in your poo. It can last for a week and may leave you with post-infectious IBS for months. Defrost frozen birds fully so no ice crystals are left inside. Only…

“I’m a little worried that Georgia is showing signs of orthorexia [an obsession with healthy eating]. She is restricting some food groups, monitoring her food intake and seems to be punishing herself for not doing enough exercise. When you start to restrict elements of your life, that’s when patterns can become obsessive. While Alicia may have turned her back on surgery, she has suffered with an extreme mindset for a long period of time and Georgia has been exposed to this all her life. Consequently, she may have inherited these traits. While she may not be physically altering herself, like her mum has, Georgia seems fixated on perfecting her body in another way. Therapy may help steer her mind away from placing too much importance on her body image.”…

MY POCKET MONEY WAS… I can’t remember! But I bought a lot of Beatles and Rolling Stones records with it. MY FIRST JOB WAS… Moving lawns for $5 a time. WITH MY FIRST ‘PROPER’ PAY CHEQUE I BOUGHT… A Porsche sports car for £46,000. MY BIGGEST IMPULSE PURCHASE WAS… That Porsche. For two weeks I was so upset that I’d spent that amount of money, then I drove it around like crazy! THE MOST EXPENSIVE THING I OWN IS… My cars. I have a Mercedes-Benz 190SL from 1960, a new BMW Alpina and a 1965 Ford Mustang. ARE YOU A SPENDER OR A SAVER? A spender – see above! David is in panto as Captain Hook in Peter Pan in Cardiff until 8 Jan, www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk…

LATEST HOME VIEWING David Brent: Life On The Road More than 10 years after he was made redundant in the final episode of mockumentary The Office , this new film catches up with everybody’s favourite paper sales manager, David Brent (Ricky Gervais). Now a part-time struggling rep/rock star, this hilarious new chapter sees Brent trying – and failing – to hit the big time by going on tour with his band. ALSO OUT: Mike And Dave Need Wedding Dates When playboy brothers Mike (Adam Devine) and Dave (Zac Efron) put out an ad to find the perfect dates to take to their sister’s wedding, they end up with two ladies who can party even harder – with hilarious results! DON’T MISS FLICK Rogue One: A Star Wars Story The much-anticipated…

FACTUAL JAMIE’S ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS PUKKA TUCKER MON 19 DEC, 8PM, C4 Bish bash bosh! Jamie’s tackling his festive feast by sorting out what he calls the three foundations of Christmas dinner – that’s turkey, gravy and roast potatoes, apparently. What, no Brussels sprouts? Oh, hold on – he’s doing them with chorizo and chestnuts. Proper lovely-jubbly grub… ALSO WATCH: Jamie And Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast, Fri 30 Dec, 8pm, C4 MASTERCHEF: THE PROFESSIONALS WINNER REVEALED (WHOOP!) TUE-THU 20-22 DEC, 8PM, BBC2 48 top chefs have been whittled down to four, and there’s no burning the beans on toast over the next three (exceedingly tense) nights… Tuesday sees something scary called “The Chef’s Table” happening, while on Wednesday the final three are in Oslo (nice!). Then, for the final blowout…

Christmas doesn’t truly begin for Andrea McLean until she’s watched festive film Elf – ideally with her other half, Nick, who she’s been with for two years. “We’re a proper couple now,” she smiles. “The other day I got a text from Nick saying: ‘If you’re in M&S, I need socks.’ Nadia (Loose Women co-presenter Nadia Sawalha) rang and she was like: ‘Babe, you’ve arrived. You’re officially a couple now!’” After two divorces, Andrea, 47, met businessman Nick on a blind date. She adds: “One of the things we bonded over was our love for the film Elf, and an Elf DVD was the first thing we bought for each other. We’ve been known to watch it in July, we love it that much…” Andrea and Nick – who live…

What’s Christmas like in Albert Square? I’ve been feeling festive since October because we film the scenes then! Starting so early has really got me in the mood. This year has been a tough one for the Mitchells, with Phil battling cirrhosis of the liver – what were those scenes like to film? It’s been very intense on set but I’ve enjoyed showing a more vulnerable, emotional side to Louise. I’ve been doing a lot of crying, and when my mum was watching the episode where I was upset in the kitchen with Tish (Letitia Dean, who plays Sharon), she said: “That’s actually how you cry!” I said: “Yeah – I am actually crying!” What’s happening with the Mitchells this Yuletide? Well, certain individuals are worried that this is Phil’s…

...EXCEPT WHEN THEY’RE WORLDS APART…