Table of contents for Issue 876 in Closer

Social media is awash with young women pouting like stunned puffer fish sporting Groucho Marx eyebrows. But the more they preen and filter, the less confident they appear. Truly secure people don’t present a perfect image… and we love them for it. This week Michelle Heaton and Andrea McLean, who’ve both triumphed over serious health issues, confide in us about their life-changing scars and how they’ve learnt to accept them. And we’ve interviewed an amazing young woman who lost half her face to cancer at 18, but says she now feels more beautiful than ever. They’re inspirational... as is our chat with 73-year-old Joan, who started going to the gym three years ago and is now in the best shape of her life. She’s got a perky bottom, an even…

• On/off girlfriend Gemma Collins called police over fears Arg overdosed, which he later denied • Concerns heighten as claims surface that he’s banned from flying on EasyJet after a safety breach • He’s failed to return to TOWIE after being axed in March for reportedly failing a routine drugs test He found fame as one of the original TOWIE cast members in 2010, as lothario Mark Wright’s lovable BFF and cheeky side-kick. But James ‘Arg’ Argent’s time in the spotlight over the last decade has been blighted by controversy, with rehab stints, weight battles, cheating allegations and his rocky on/off romance with Gemma Collins, 38, casting a dark shadow over his career. And last week, things took a dramatic turn when panicked Gemma called 999 when she couldn’t get…

His loose-lipped antics are said to have contributed to their shock split last July, but that didn’t stop Liam Payne recently claiming he’d been on the wrong side of Cheryl’s temper. He even appeared to suggest their romance ended six months before they officially announced their break-up – something she has denied. But last week, he painted Cheryl, 36, in a much more positive light, admitting she does most of the childcare of their toddler Bear, two – with Liam, 26, adding he can go weeks without seeing his son. Opening up about juggling his solo career with parenting during an appearance on The One Show, Liam – who missed Bear’s first two birthdays due to work commitments abroad – said, “Loads of random things happen with kids all the…

She’s admitted to editing her photos on social media in the past, but pals fear Lauren Goodger has become obsessed with her online image after it was claimed last week that she had forced fans to delete photos they’d taken of her while she sat in a bar in Spain. Revellers at the bar in Palma insisted Lauren, 33, stormed over to them when she realised they had snapped her on their phones and demanded they delete the images. A source reveals, “Lauren hates people taking her photo when she’s not aware. She feels they’ll try and capture the most unflattering angle and use it to mock her. Friends are sympathetic, but they also fear that Lauren has become so consumed with her looks and addicted to her filtered social…

She was visibly emotional after opening up about her ex George’s death – and Closer’s psychological therapist Emma Kenny says Kerry Katona is going through “traumatic and complex grief”, often experienced after the loss of an ex or someone with whom there has been a turbulent relationship. Emma, who says this type of grief is “the hardest to navigate”, explains, “Kerry may have felt with George that she shouldn’t grieve his death, but she absolutely has that right. She can grieve for the future with a father that her child will now miss out on. Kerry deserves support and she should reach out to family and friends – or expert help – whenever she needs to.” But while Kerry insisted she was still angry over addict George “choosing” drugs over…

Richard J Hillgrove is a PR specialist and royal expert. He says, “The documentary was a disaster – it was supposed to be about their charity work in Africa, but instead it was completely usurped by Harry and Meghan baring their souls. From a PR point of view, the interviews were very calculated and strategised. The comparison of Meghan to Diana is a powerful move, and I think the couple know this will pluck at the heartstrings of the nation. “In my opinion, the driving force behind this is Meghan, and she is aware of the impact the documentary will have had. I think while some viewers were sympathetic, others are probably frustrated at the hypocrisy of two extremely well-off people complaining. “There are claims the couple are bringing the…

• Attend a public firework display organised by professionals. • If you are holding your own firework display, don’t forget the basics – never return to a lit firework, never throw them, and always stand well back. • Always buy fireworks from a reputable shop to make sure they meet British standards – they should have BS 7114 written on the box. • Sparklers should not be seen as a ‘safe’ version of fireworks – they can reach temperatures of 1,000°C. Don’t give sparklers to children under 5, and older children still need supervision. • Learn how to treat minor burns just in case. To find a first aid course near you, visit Redcross.org.uk/first-aid/ book-a-first-aid-course.…

In her eighth decade, Joan MacDonald has discovered a passion for lifting weights and working out in the gym – and she has the figure and bulging biceps to prove it. Just three years ago, Joan was a size 18. But after losing 4st, she’s transformed into a size 12 and is now a self-confessed fitness fanatic, who shares her exercise tips with her 90,000 followers on Instagram. Joan says, “For most of my life, I ate junk food and didn’t stick to an exercise routine. “But in my seventies, I’m the healthiest and strongest I’ve ever been. I’m proof that with a bit of hard work, any woman can look like me – whatever their age.” JUNK FOOD Joan, who lives with her husband, Norman, 78, in Ontario, Canada,…

‘ No one should struggle alone through their grief – it’s good to talk’ I was sad to read a recent survey revealing one in five people going through grief don’t feel supported at work. I’ve faced grief first-hand – I lost my dad 12 years ago, and earlier this year my mum died suddenly, exactly 11 years to the day after my dad did. The loss of my dad was terrible, but losing my mum too, and realising I no longer had either of my parents, hit me extremely hard. I’d heard others talk about dealing with mental health issues and anxiety and so on, but this year I’ve really felt it for myself. With grief, people often ask themselves “why?” While there’s no answer, the best thing you…

‘My libido’s not what it was – but it’s back’ he’s had a tough few years since undergoing life-altering surgery that permanently changed her body. And now, Michelle Heaton reveals that just getting dressed every day can be difficult for her. Michelle – who underwent both a double mastectomy in 2012 and a hysterectomy in 2015 to lessen the chances of developing cancer – says, “I feel as good as I can do in my own skin. I feel good in clothes, but it’s a struggle looking in the mirror, to be honest. “When I get changed, I don’t really look. I just pass over it; it’s not out of disgust, it’s more like, ‘OK, I know my scars are there, on my chest and on my tummy. Let’s just…

She’s one of Britain’s most well-loved presenters, securing her position as TV’s golden girl during her 26-year run co-hosting Countdown – a role she held from the age of 21. But Carol Vorderman says her twenties and thirties were actually plagued with insecurities – and that it’s only now, as she approaches 60 next December, that she’s feels her happiest, having gained a real zest for life. “I have a simple formula,” Carol, 58, reveals. “If someone or something makes me feel anxious, or gives off a bad vibe, I’ll drop it like a stone. Now I know what makes me happy. I love being single – I laugh more than I have ever laughed – I have my kids, my family and my brilliant friends. I’m just very happy.”…

Achieving this gory-yet-glam look is super easy with these spookily good beauty buys. Here are our top product picks, all for under £5… Create a flawless base with 1 George Hydration Boost Foundation, £4.50. Depending on the colour you desire, use a lighter shade or mix with eye shadow to add a tint to the shade. 2 Fake your way to volumised, lengthened lashes by sweeping on George Curling Mascara, £3. It’s super black and totally clump-free, too. 3 Whether you’re drawing on whiskers or creating a feline cat eye, George Big Flirt Liner, £2, is easy to use. 4 For a more dramatic look, apply Eylure Exaggerate Lashes, £5.15, on top of your natural lashes. 5 Complete the look by painting your nails with George Long Lasting Nail Polish,…

She’s been showing off the results of her body transformation on Instagram recently, following a diet and exercise overhaul. And Amy Childs reveals she is now in the best shape of her life, after shedding 2st and firming up her “mum-tum”. The star admits the 15-month gap between having her two children – daughter Polly, two, with ex Bradley Wright, and one-year-old son Rich with ex Ritchie – caused her to struggle with her body confidence as her weight crept up to a size 14. But six months after the birth of her son, Amy – who first shot to fame as the loveable beautician on TOWIE 10 years ago – embarked on a weight-loss mission, ditching her carb-heavy diet and doing daily 6am workouts at home. In six months,…

This voucher can be redeemed for a free toastie at Greggs. Toastie can be Ham and Mature Cheddar Cheese Toastie, Mature Cheddar Cheese and Chutney Toastie or BBQ Chicken and Bacon Toastie. Offer valid at all Greggs shops across the UK EXCEPT within MOTO, Euro Garages, Spar (Blakemore), Applegreen, HKS, Wolverhampton, MRH, Greggs Outlets and Leeds City College. The voucher is redeemable from Tuesday 29 October 2019 to Monday 25 November 2019. Only one voucher per customer and transaction. Offer is subject to availability. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. No cash alternative is available. Photocopied vouchers not accepted. Greggs reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time.…

Last month, Dr Who actor Christopher Eccleston opened up about the difficulty of living with an eating disorder, revealing the condition led him to consider suicide. Eating disorders are still sometimes seen as a “female” problem, yet studies estimate up to a quarter of sufferers in the UK are male. There are ways to help someone who may be affected. WATCH SOCIAL MEDIA The number of boys receiving treatment for eating disorders has doubled in recent years due to pressure from social media and a muscular look some men aspire to. Eccleston said he considered his illness “a filthy secret, because I’m northern, male and working class.” The stigma for men has been to be strong physically and mentally, so some may be ashamed to admit they’re struggling with body…

I’M PROUD OF... whenever someone comes up to me in the street and blames me for how their living rooms looks. Joking aside, what I love is when people tell me I’ve helped them be braver. Changing Rooms was 25 years ago and I’ve wanted to feel that what I’ve done was empowering. MY BIGGEST REGRET IS... some of the things I’ve worn, like leather trousers and some of my suits, but I’m happy to write it off as “well, that was the ’90s.” I do wish I’d spent more time painting – I trained as a fine artist. But it pleases me that I can put the painting that I do onto duvet sets and people can snuggle up to them. I’VE LEARNED... Don’t Dream it, Be It. It’s…

£119 On a black bodycon dress from House of CB. You can never have too many. £35 On a gold belt from my own clothing range. I’ve worn it every day since I got it. £300 On hair extensions. I used to wear them all the time but now I only have them on special occasions. They make me feel super-glam. £15 On a Doll Beauty highlighter. I love their makeup because it’s reasonable and long-lasting. £40 On new bedding from Dunelm. It’s in nude – everything in my house is nude. • Sian’s podcast ‘The Wake Up Call is available on iTunes.…

Will David make it to his wedding? It doesn’t look like it. Josh said David stabbed him, so they’re keeping David in (prison) while he waits for another trial date. Paul then gets involved? Paul was sexually abused, so this hits a nerve for him. He goes to Josh’s bedside and takes matters into his own hands… Do you think David and Shona will stay together? Yes, they love each other. David wants an easier life now, with no more threats hanging over his family. FOLLOW OUR LIVE TWEETS OVER AT @CloserOnline…

1 JUNIOR BAKE OFF TWO WORDS: ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT MON-FRI 4-8 NOV, 5PM, C4 Harry Hill is the perfect host for the junior edition of the baking contest, judged by “Queen of the Crumb” Prue Leith and lovely Liam Charles. 20 9 to 15-year-olds rustle up some amazing bakes, and it’s sweet to see Harry crouching down to chat so he can be at their level. There ARE tears, but Prue and Liam are fab at mopping them up. We might just love this version even more than the regular one. 2 JOHN AND LISA’S WEEKEND KITCHEN MOUTH-WATERING SERIES 3 SUN 3 NOV, 10.30AM, ITV Super-cute chef couple John Torode and Lisa Faulkner return with the show where they cook in a cosy kitchen and share simple techniques so we can…

MUST READ No Mercy (MARTINA COLE) Diana Davis has been head of the family business since the death of her husband, an infamous bank robber. She’s a woman in a man’s world, but no one messes with her. Her only son, Angus, is a natural-born villain. Once he’s proved he has the brains to run their clubs in Marbella, he is given what he’s always wanted, a part in the business. But Angus has a blind spot: his wife, Lorna, and their three kids. And as the next generation enters the business, Angus has a painful truth to learn. A fab read – no one writes crime like Martina Cole. BEST DAY OUT The Chocolatarium, Edinburgh Birmingham has Cadbury World, York has the Chocolate Story, and now Edinburgh has got…

KADY MCDERMOTT... We’re completely with you there, Kady. In fact, we’ve just set our bedside alarm for 21 June, 2020. Bye for now! CHRISSY TEIGEN... Cookie, cake, meringue, macaroon… call it whatever you like, Chrissy - we’ll still eat it!! INSPIGRAM KHLOÉ KARDASHIAN Thanks for that, Khloé, but in our experience, the only doors we come across just keep slamming in our face!…

❛SHE IS WORRIED ABOUT THINGS FROM HER PAST COMING BACK TO HAUNT HER❜ Eight months after claiming she was “clean” of drugs, Jordan was last week forced to admit she had relapsed after her toyboy ex Charles Drury, who she dated for two months, gave a damning exposé of her personal life. In a shocking tell-all, builder Charles, 22, claimed the mum-of-five was regularly using cocaine, leading to her behaving erratically and “disappearing for days on end”. He also revealed that during the two months he was seeing Jordan, her Sussex home was “filthy and unlivable”. He revealed how the star – real name Katie Price – would obsessively organise and reorganise piles of clothes, while also alleging she had been “sexting” famous married men. Charles claimed, “I woke up…

Her bombshell claim last month that fellow WAG Rebekah Vardy’s Instagram account had been leaking private stories about her thrust her name into the spotlight like never before – earning her the nickname Wagatha Christie and seeing a host of celebrities weighing in with their opinions. Coleen Rooney then suffered a harsh backlash from fans claiming she should be more concerned with her marriage to Wayne Rooney, who has faced multiple cheating accusations and arrests for his drinking and has failed to publicly support her amid the Rebekah spat. ABSENT And things further intensified last week when Coleen – who took ten holidays last year – was notably absent from a trip to Barbados with husband Wayne, three of their sons and her parents Colette and Tony. Coleen insisted to…

❛SHE WORRIES HIS FAME MAY MAKE HIM AN EASY TARGET❜ She’s become emotionally invested in her eldest son’s love life in recent years – forming a close bond with exes Chloë Moretz and Hana Cross, before reportedly being instrumental in his split from model Hana earlier this year following worries over their fiery nine-month romance. Now insiders say Posh,44, has expressed concern that Brooklyn Beckham’s new flame, aspiring actress and model Phoebe Torrance, could be using him to boost her profile – with her fears heightened by reports that Phoebe once worked as a Posh Spice lookalike. CAUTIOUS Brooklyn, 20, and 27 year old Phoebe have reportedly enjoyed a string of dates, and were seen with their arms wrapped around each other at London’s Wellington Club last week. A source…

They’re already one of the royal family’s most controversial couples – but new documentary Harry & Meghan: An African Journey sent shock waves around the world. In the hour-long broadcast last week, viewers watched Meghan, 38, reveal the impact of the repeated negative press she’s faced, saying, “I really tried to adopt this British sensibility of a ‘stiff upper lip’. I really tried, but I think that what that does internally is probably really damaging.” Harry, 35, compared the press treatment of Meghan to that of his late mother Princess Diana, saying, “For me and for my wife, of course, there’s a lot of stuff that hurts – especially when the majority of it is untrue… I will not be bullied into playing a game that killed my mum.” Harry…

ADELE’S ‘HAPPYAND HEALTHY’ AS SHE REVEALS BREAK-UP BODY She shocked fans when she announced the sad news of her split from her husband of three years, Simon Konecki, earlier this year. But last week, Adele was glowing as she wowed fans with her amazing new look, showing off a slender figure at her pal Drake’s birthday party. Mum-of-one Adele, 31, wore an off-the-shoulder black dress showing off her toned curves, and fans praised the pop superstar, posting, “She looks absolutely fantastic” and “Wow girl, look at that break-up body”. The Someone Like You singer – who sported a curvier figure when she rose to fame in 2008 – also shared a post of her new look, captioning it, “I used to cry but now I sweat” – and sources claimed…

Fitness expert Julia Buckley says, “Exercise is important at any age, but working out can help slow down the effects of age-related health issues. Lifting weights can increase bone density, and exercise can improve blood flow to the brain and encourage cell renewal, reducing the risk of degenerative brain diseases such as dementia. We might have a few more niggles later in life, like aching joints or a bad back, but if you speak to a trainer at your gym, they’ll sort out a plan for you that allows you to work out safely.”…

‘I march to the beat of my own drum’ She’s an advocate for body confidence and has proudly shown the world her numerous scars – but Andrea McLean admits it’s sometimes hard not to long for the flawless stomach she once had. The TV presenter, 50, has had two emergency caesareans as well as surgery to correct an umbilical hernia and a hysterectomy in 2016 after suffering a series of gynaecological problems. But Andrea says that when she catches herself wishing things were different, she remembers that, without her scars, she wouldn’t be here today. BATTLE WOUNDS She says, “There’s a bit of me that, even as a sensible, level-headed woman, thinks, ‘I’d love to have a perfect stomach’, or I’ll look on Instagram and think, ‘I wish I looked…

Michelle’s close pal Jordan – real name Katie Price – revealed earlier this month that she wanted to recruit Michelle and former Atomic Kitten member Kerry Katona to form a new girl band. But Michelle firmly rules out any chance of that happening – quickly adding that her pal is better at singing than people give her credit for. She says, “A band with me, Kerry and Katie is never going to happen. I love Katie, I love Kerry – but I would never do that. I’d never want to work with my best mates. I wouldn’t work with my husband – rule of thumb, if they’re one of your best mates, never work with them. It’s not to do with their singing – Katie is good! People underestimate how…

‘ I NEED SOMEONE TO PROTECT ME AS I’VE BECOME BRITAIN’S MOST HATED WOMAN’ Two weeks ago, Carla Bellucci says she was attacked by a gang of men, women and young boys as she walked to the shops with her daughter, leaving her bruised and terrified. It’s one of several incidents Carla claims she has had to deal with since going public in June about faking depression to get a £7,000 nose job on the NHS. But brazen Carla, 37, feels no remorse and, incredibly, she insists she needs extra security – paid for by the taxpayer. Mum-of-three Carla, who lives in Hertfordshire and works as a model, says, “I need a bodyguard to protect me and taxpayers should pay. They are the ones giving me abuse, so they should…

1 “A waterproof coat is a must-have for doing the school run. I’d wear this on weekend walks, too.” REGATTA, £44.95; WAS £90 2 “You can’t beat a good pair of well-fitting jeans. They’re so versatile.” TOPSHOP, £40 3 “Boots are my autumn go-to shoe – I like a block heel to give some height.” F&F, £25 4 “A bobble hat keeps your head cosy and looks cute.” OLIVER BONAS, £18 5 “I’d glam up this super snuggly knit with a pair of statement earrings.” VERY, £32…

THE SKIN SOOTHER For an intense moisture boost, this 15-minute face mask is enriched with hyaluronic acid and soothing cornflower to help you relax before hitting the hay. The serum is left to work hard while you snooze, with one mask providing a week’s worth of hydration for your skin. VEGAN FRIENDLY! THE EYE BRIGHTENER Eliminate tired-looking peepers with this bargain buy. Infused with hyaluronic acid, willowherb and chamomile, this night-time gel helps to diminish puffiness and dark circles, and smooths fine lines so you wake looking well-rested, no matter how long you slept for. THE BODY BOOSTER Fancy a spa treat while you rest? This ultra-nourishing, lavender-infused lotion enriches skin’s renewal process, leaving it silky smooth just in time for sunrise. The soothing scent is perfect for a pre-bed…

GO VEGAN YOU DON’T NEED MEAT TO MAKE A MEAL OF IT... TENDERSTEM BROCCOLI AND TOFU MISO BROTH SERVES 4 • Veg oil, for brushing • 200g Tenderstem broccoli • 2 tbsp sesame oil • 2 tbsp minced ginger • 1 red chilli, de-seeded and diced, plus extra to garnish •1/2 block firm tofu, cut into 1cm cubes • 120g shiitake mushrooms, sliced • 1ltr vegetable stock • 2 tbsp reduced- salt soy sauce • 1 tbsp miso paste • 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar • 2 tbsp maple syrup • 1 handful pak choi leaves • 1 tbsp sesame seeds • 3 spring onions, thinly sliced • Handful coriander STEP 1 Pre-heat a griddle pan over a high heat and brush with oil. Grill the Tenderstem for 2 mins…

INSIDE JASMINE’S FRIDGE • Strawberries • Pure sunflower spread • Sundried tomatoes • Mustard • Pickled gherkins • Vegan mayonnaise • Capers • Veggie sausages • Garlic bread • Vivera chicken pieces • Vivera veggie steak • Broccoli • Sweetcorn • Brussels sprouts • Green beans • Tomato • Cucumber • Coriander • Mushrooms • Sriracha chilli sauce • White wine VERDICT NUTRITIONIST JULIETTE KELLOW SAYS, “Eating beans, lentils and tofu will increase the variety of proteins and nutrients in Jasmine’s diet. She should choose dairy alternatives with added calcium for healthy bones and watch out for salty foods. Veggie sausages and meat alternatives, plus pickles, capers and sauces, can be loaded with salt – too much is linked to high blood pressure.” FRIDGE HEALTH RATING 7/10 TAKEAWAY TREAT INDIAN…

If you don’t eat meat, you may be missing out. A big survey found 28 per cent of vegans and 13 per cent of vegetarians were diagnosed with a deficiency following a blood test. Worryingly, 60 per cent said they hadn't done any research before cutting out animal products. More than six in 10 thought their new diet provided everything they needed, so many didn’t take a supplement as recommended by the NHS. Veggies and vegans may lack iron, zinc, B12 and omega-3s, so look for a specific multivit to stay healthy. • Visit nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well for more information.…

he chefs seem pretty T nervous – are you? MONICA, 44: Yes! Anxiety levels are high. There are always nerves, but it’s exciting to welcome the first bunch and get started. Are you pushing them out of their comfort zones? MARCUS, 49: It’s a really weird environment for them. You’re taking them out of a kitchen and a space they feel familiar with and putting them in a TV studio. You’ve got Gregg making loads of jokes, me and Monica trying to run our restaurants from our iPhones, and they’re just trying to focus on the competition. Are you seeing any new food fads this series? MONICA: Foraging is still at the forefront – people discovering what’s in their backyard. Will we be seeing vegan recipes? MONICA: We’ve done a…

Beth Burgess, psychotherapist and addiction recovery coach, says, “Katie seems to suffer from “addictive personality”, which takes longer and is more complex to treat than someone with a single addiction. “Katie needs to spend time with a therapist to look deep into who she is, because she tends to repeatedly do things despite the terrible consequences. Her multiple cosmetic surgeries, the drinking and her whirlwind relationships all follow addictive patterns, no matter how much physical or emotional trouble they bring. “People with addictive personalities need more treatment than someone with a single addiction, because they need to completely overhaul their lives and the way they think. “She claims she turned to cocaine to cope with a series of devastating events. However, these stresses in her life aren’t going to completely…

‘I’ve never focused on body image. I don’t give a s** t’ Despite enduring a hellish few days, culminating in having to call 999 out of concern for her on-off boyfriend James ‘Arg’ Argent’s welfare, Gemma Collins put on a brave face, channeling her inner ‘GC’ for her debut fragrance launch. Chatting away to friends and clutching a bottle of her first-ever perfume, the reality star seemed to be in high spirits at the pink-themed event last week. But behind the scenes, the star revealed to Closer that, despite the smiles, she’s been struggling. She says, “People are saying I’m glowing, but I haven’t stopped eating the last week because I’ve had a bit of stress to deal with. I’ve generally been good with it, but if I’m being honest,…

She’s endured a turbulent love life in the spotlight, and despite suffering an abusive third marriage with George Kay, the father of her five-year-old daughter DJ, Kerry Katona was left devastated when he died from a drug overdose in July this year. But after reuniting with ex-boyfriend Ryan Mahoney in the summer – following a temporary split last October – Kerry revealed during an appearance on Loose Women last week how the fitness trainer has helped her pull through. She said, “Ryan has been so great, and when I cry he understands. If I’m sad, he’s saying, ‘I’m sorry you feel like that’, and ‘You deserve better’. That’s been a massive help.” VULNERABLE But while insiders tell Closer that he has helped her feel secure after a long period of…

Paul Burrell was Diana’s butler and lived at Buckingham Palace for 11 years. He says, “It’s a great thing that Harry and Meghan are modernising the royals – they won’t survive if they don’t. They have humanised themselves and that speaks wonders. “But I can see what happened to Diana happening to Meghan. Diana was also hounded and criticised by the press, so much so that she would ask me to wait up until midnight to fetch the Sunday papers as soon as they were printed. It ate away at her and the pressure was relentless. So good on Meghan for standing up for herself and saying, ‘I won’t take this’. “Diana would know exactly how Harry and Meghan are feeling as outcasts. Diana broke the rules, and they are…

The RSPCA receives hundreds of calls every year about animals who are terrified of the loud bangs and flashes of light, leading them to launch new campaign, #BangOutOfOrder, to raise awareness of the plight of animals at this time of year. The charity would like to see the public sale and use of fireworks limited to four specific celebration dates – Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali. How to look after your pets • Give your dog or cat somewhere to hide which they can access at all times – under furniture or in a quiet corner. • After dark, close windows, draw curtains and play calming music to mask the sound. • Make sure your pet can’t escape and run away if there’s a sudden…

She was one of the original cast on this year’s Love Island , dividing viewers with her feisty, no-nonsense and fiercely loyal persona. But while Anna Vakili doesn’t regret any of her actions while in the Villa, she admits the effects of appearing in one of the nation’s most-watched reality shows aren’t always positive, and she has days where she wishes she wasn’t famous. Anna, 29, says, “Coming out of the Villa doesn’t just give you this amazing life. Fame is sometimes tough. For me, people had an opinion of me as this hot-headed girl. I was judged by people who don’t know me and I was trolled. People criticised how I look, but that doesn’t bother me that much – it’s when they talk about my personality that I…

• Ask a friend to get fit with you. If you know someone else will be at the gym waiting for you, it means you have to get out of bed. You can motivate each other. • Set small goals. There’s no point trying to lift loads of weight straight away – it’s unrealistic. • Measure your hips, waist and bust at the beginning of your journey. The scales don’t always give an accurate picture of how well you’re doing – losing inches is what really counts. • It doesn’t matter how much exercise you are doing. You have to change your diet too. Eat little and often, with your biggest meals before and after your workout. • Don’t worry about what other people think. Walking into the gym for…

She may be in her fifties, but Andrea looks more toned and fresh-faced than ever! Here, she shares her top tips for looking and feeling so good… She says, “First off, I don’t always look like I do on Loose Women – I’ll have had a manic hair and make-up team going to work on me beforehand! But I have always looked after myself, so I think that by the time you do get to my age, I genuinely think it starts to show. I had terrible acne when I was a teenager, so I learnt then that I needed to take care of myself, look after my skin and eat well. What you put into your body really shows. I’ve always eaten well – but I’ve always loved a…

‘ I REALISED I HAD NOTHING TO HIDE AND EVERYTHING TO SHOW OFF’ In the lead-up to her 18th birthday, Crystal Marshall was on the verge of finishing her drama course and was looking forward to a career in acting. But just a week after celebrating her birthday, she was given the devastating news that she had osteosarcoma – an aggressive form of cancer that was eating away at her face. And in order to cut out the life-threatening tumour, surgeons would need to remove her right nostril, half of her upper jaw and right cheek. Crystal, now 21, says, “I was devastated. My appearance meant a lot to me, especially with the career I had chosen. But now my attitude has completely changed and I know what true beauty…

SPOTLIGHT ON: CARA DELEVINGNE’S NASTY GAL COLLAB Global supermodel Cara Delevingne’s new collaboration with Nasty Gal is getting us so excited for the party season. The collection of 40 pieces includes beaded jackets, statement tees, vegan leather and plenty of sequins. Everything is available in sizes 4 to 24, and with prices starting at just £15, we know where we’re getting our festive finery. Available now at Nastygal.com. I WANT WHAT SHE’S GOT! IN THE NEWS SAM FAIERS’ CUTE KIDSWEAR TV star Sam Faiers’ gorgeous 30-piece kidswear collection with River Island includes clothing and accessories for boys and girls from 0-18 months up to 12 years. You’ll find everything from babygrows to boots and coats online now. Adorable! FASHION WORTH TALKING ABOUT! Aisling Bea, 35 We’re obsessed with this super…

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How much do you spend per week? I do one big shop a month where I spend around £150, for my husband Jon and children, Joy, five, and Albion, three. I’m away a lot, so I do smaller shops from week to week for about £40. Desc r ibe your daily diet... For breakfast, I have porridge with almond milk, topped with almonds, pumpkin, sunflower and hemp seeds, sultanas, dried apricots and fresh fruit. It fills me up and keeps me going. For a snack, I’ll have a protein shake with cashew butter or nuts and fruit. Lunch will be rye bread with avocado, tomatoes or mushrooms in olive oil. In the evening, I might make something like a curry or a shepherd’s pie. If I don’t feel like cooking,…

ALL ABOUT YOU STOP YOUR PHONE STEALING REAL LIFE People who use social media for more than three hours a day become more introverted. Emma advises how to break free In a park on a sunny day, I sat and did some people watching. I became increasingly aware of how many people were looking at their phones. Only a handful were taking in the scenery like me. As a therapist, I am aware that too much introspection can damage your mental health. Basically, if you spend loads of time in your own little world, you are far less likely to reach out and ask for help. I am an avid user of technology, but I follow strict rules to ensure I have enough time offline. When online, you fail to…

Research by Direct Line insurers found the average UK household spends roughly £80 a year on unnecessary heating. Meanwhile, the Energy Saving Trust say if a family of four replaced their shower head with a water-efficient one, they could save £120 a year on water. We asked Mark Sait, CEO of SaveMoneyCutCarbon – a company helping people to reduce energy – for clever ways to cut bills and make savings. SWAP SHOWER HEADS The Hansgrohe Crometta Vario Green hand shower is incredibly efficient and costs just £16. “An eco-shower mixes air with water, so water flow is reduced but the pressure isn’t – this means the shower experience doesn’t change,” Mark explains. “Based on two 6 minute showers per day, you would save £96 per year.” CHANGE YOUR BULBS Lighting…

18-year-old actress Maisie Smith made her EastEnders’ debut as Bianca Jackson’s daughter Tiffany Dean in 2008 when she was just six-years-old, with her mum Julia saying at the time, “She’s a lively character both on and off screen. The difference is, she’s told to pronounce her Ts at home!” Maisie left the soap in 2014, but returned full-time in January 2018. As well as EastEnders, she was in the film The Other Boleyn Girl as a young Elizabeth 1. She’s a big Doctor Who fan, and has always wanted a part in it.…

What does Pride Of Britain mean to you? I’ve been going for several years and every time, I genuinely can’t believe some of the tales and the achievements of people. It really restores your faith in humanity – there is goodness out there. It’s an incredible feel-good night, and to be part of the judging panel is a big deal. Was it hard picking the winners? I take it really seriously. You read every single story and you think it can’t get better than that – and then you read the next one, and the next one, and they’re all brilliant. You do get emotional. I sat next to Dermot O’Leary and we agreed on a lot of awards. Do you have a stand-out moment? Ella Chadwick last year (a…

THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN SCORPIO 23 OCT-21 NOV Mercury is now retrograde in your sign, so you have a stand-out chance to change your life for the better. Yes, it could be confusing and yes, it can be a drag, but there are amazing chances for you too. PS More about where Mercury is retrograde for you for free at theastrocode.com/mr CANCER GITTARIUS 22 NOV-21 DEC If you have old fears reappearing, commune with them! Most importantly, work out where they came from. The thing with fears is that there’s a fine line between not focusing on them and stuffing them down where they fester. The idea is to deal with them. PS More about where Mercury is retrograde for you for free at theastrocode.com/mr CAPRICORN 22 DEC-19 JAN…