Table of contents for Issue 896 in Closer

ew of us will have experienced anything like this before – the shocking changes to our everyday lives keep coming in waves. It’s a scary time – especially if loved ones are particularly vulnerable. But heart-warmingly, the community-minded ‘Blitz spirit’ has kicked in, too. In this week’s issue, we look at the wonderful efforts of volunteers and groups around the country who are looking out for others and making a real difference. Plus, on page 59, we’ve got an expert guide on how to get through this challenging time. With advice on managing stress, keeping your finances as stable as possible, delicious store cupboard recipes, and top tips for successful homeschooling, we hope to help you stay safe and well. Please get in touch with your stories. We’d love to…

Their 20-year marriage has weathered its fair share of storms – with reports of rows, rifts and cheating claims. But Victoria Beckham’s relationship with husband David seems to have not only survived but thrived, despite the scandals. They appeared like a pair of honeymooners as they kissed and cuddled on a visit to the temporary new home of David’s Miami football team last week, just days before the couple and their four kids announced they’d be socially isolating at home due to coronavirus. In a series of snaps (right), David protectively wrapped his arms around a relaxed and beaming Posh. The loved-up snapshots come just a week after the couple’s besotted displays on the dance floor during their eldest son Brooklyn’s 21st birthday party, which Posh, 45, shared with fans…

For many people in the UK, the coronavirus first felt like something that was happening far away. But as Closer went to press, there were 3,269 confirmed cases on our shores – with the figure rising every day. The government has imposed drastic measures, with all schools closed, large public events – including the London Marathon and Glastonbury Festival – cancelled, and people advised to stay at home. Rumours of a total lockdown have circulated, which, it’s claimed, could see people only able to leave the house with permission from authorities. And during his now-daily briefings to the nation, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he was willing to take “further and faster” measures in coming days. POSITIVES But despite causing shock, panic, and bewilderment across the country, the scare has…

New social distancing rules mean people are advised to stand 2m away from each other – but that’s not stopped a choir from making music. Vocal leader, James Sills, has set up The Sofa Singers, a free, weekly online singing event which aims to bring together people across the world who are struggling with loneliness amid the epidemic. Simply sign up online and join hundreds of people for 45-minute choir rehearsals, learning classic songs from your sofa. You won’t be able to hear all the singers at the same time, but you will be able to see each other, and afterwards join in a virtual tea break. Visit Thesofasingers. net to sign up.…

She joked she’d be “pregnant by the end of the week” if she had a boyfriend to go into isolation with amid the coronavirus scare. Sprawled across her sofa, provocatively posing in her dressing gown, Lauren Goodger, 33, posted a series of flirtatious videos on Instagram stories – quipping to fans, “If I had a boyfriend def be preg by end of the week hahaha.” SETTLING DOWN ❛SHE’D LIKE TO HAVE A BOYFRIEND TO SNUGGLE UP AND NEST WITH❜ And pals say that despite the comment being tongue-in-cheek, the current situation of social distancing has made the former TOWIE star hit the dating apps as she re-evaluates what she wants in life. A source says, “Lauren would like to have a boyfriend to snuggle up and nest with – and…

• The most effective way to stop cruelty is to refuse to take part. So, while on holiday, be sure not to visit marine parks or aquariums in the UK or overseas. • Visit Dolphinproject.com to become informed on the difference between sanctuaries and marine parks. You can also make a pledge not to visit captive dolphins in shows – share your pledge on social media and encourage friends to do the same. • Find out how to support the team at PETA in bringing an end to the suffering of all animals held at marine parks, by visiting Peta.org. uk, where you can make a donation, or read up on animal exploitation. • If you’ve witnessed captive wild animals being kept in poor conditions, report it to the Born…

There was a time when Chloe Goodman wasn’t sure she’d be able to fulfil her dream of becoming a mum – but a year on and the model and reality star is gearing up to welcome her first baby, due next month. Chloe, 26 – who has starred in Ex On The Beach and Celebrity Big Brother – is expecting a girl with her footballer boyfriend of two years, Grant Hall. But the star suffered “waves of anxiety” in the beginning of her pregnancy as a result of her past health complications. She tragically suffered a miscarriage aged 23 when she was dating her former partner, footballer Jordan Clarke, 28. She had half of her cervix removed at 25, which doctors told her could increase the chances of her miscarrying…

SURROGACY: Natural pregnancy and IVF didn’t initially work for us, so surrogacy was an easy option. Once our carrier was pregnant, I accepted pregnancy wasn’t going to happen for me. I relaxed and we stopped using contraception. And that’s when I became pregnant, too. Our two boys were born within a month of each other. Apart from a few people, no one knows who was born first – and we intend to keep it that way. They celebrate their birthdays on the same day. MOTHERHOOD: It completely changed me. I was wild. I would drink vodka like it was water. I was very much about ‘me, me, me’. Now I go to sleep at 9.30pm. There isn’t any place in the world I’d rather be than right next to my…

STACEY SOLOMON X PRIMARK THE KIDSWEAR COLLABORATION IS HERE! We’re loving Primark’s kidswear collection with everyone’s favourite Loose Women presenter and former X Factor singer, Stacey Solomon. With bold and bright colours at the forefront of the collection, there’s something for all little ones, from newborns to ten year olds. With prices starting from only £2, we’ll have something to smile about! Available 26 March. I WANT WHAT SHE’S GOT! EVERYBODY’S WEARING... STATEMENT SUITS This week, we’re stealing style tips from the celebs who’ve been rocking statement two-pieces. Whether it’s pretty prints like Madelaine, punchy polka dots like Alexa, or neon brights like Ella, we’ll be dressing ours down with trainers or up with sky-high stilettos. STYLE CRUSH: LUCY HALE  From pretty dresses to power suits, Pretty Little Liars star…

JUST LANDED RENEWAL CREAM LIZ EARLE SKIN REPAIR MOISTURISERS: SKIN REPAIR RICH CREAM, LIGHT CREAM & GEL CREAM WHAT IS IT? Liz Earle’s latest skincare drop has three plant-powered moisturisers, giving 72 hours of hydration. Pick from nourishing rich, balancing light, or refreshing gel cream. WHY WE LOVE IT: We tested all three and each tackles specific issues. Those with dry skin should opt for the rich cream to lock in moisture. If you have oily skin, the light cream is not too greasy, while the gel cream cools sensitive areas. Each hydrated and soothed, with the bonus of being vegan and sustainably sourced. GET THE LOOK... DEWY SKIN Smooth a liquid highlighter on to your cheeks for a glowing complexion, just like Leona and Sienna... ❶ HYDRATION HIT SLEEK…

‘I can’t go on dating apps because of stalkers’ She’s been open about her wish to be a mum but, after a shock diagnosis, Sophie Kasaei admits she’s now bracing herself for the prospect that she may struggle to ever have children. The Geordie Shore star was recently diagnosed with endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb starts to grow in places such as the ovaries and the fallopian tubes. In some cases, depending on the severity of the diagnosis, it can lead to trouble conceiving. Sophie, 30, admits she’s been rocked by the news but is determined to stay positive. CRIPPLING PAIN “I was in tears when I was told I had it,” she tells Closer. “I suggested doing a fertility test for Geordie…

Tablets to bolster your immune system Vitabiotics Immunace (£7.49, Holland & Barrett) tablets are bursting with nutrients to keep you well. If it’s out of stock, look for something similar containing vitamin C, zinc and selenium, which all support your immune system to work at its best. A soothing app to help you drift off to sleep When we’re anxious, bedtimes can be tough. The Breathe: Meditation & Sleep app (free, with in-app purchases for more) uses soothing playlists, nature sounds, guided meditations, bedtime readings and hypnotherapy to help us relax. Relief for an irritated throat after coughing The main symptom, alongside fever, for the coronavirus is a nasty dry cough, so look after your throat with Strepsils Soothing Sore Throat Spray (£6.99, Boots). No stick? Mix hot water, thyme,…

It doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom in the world of dating, despite the coronavirus craziness. The reason is… wait for it… singles finally have the advantage. First of all, we’re already used to isolation. I live alone, so I’m adapting well to enforced house arrest – I hope those in similar situations are, too. And secondly, everyone else seems to have more understanding and empathy for those of us searching for our soulmate. And search I will. I’ve begun dating from my dining table. I’ve downloaded a new app and I am speaking to lots more men who are also stuck at home alone – there’s a new sense of unity between us. Instead of playing games and leaving most messages unanswered, people – whether from boredom…

The COVID-19 pandemic is bound to affect us all financially in some way, from cancelled holidays and trips, to time off work. But being prepared now could help minimise the impact. “While this is likely to be a stressful situation for many people, there are steps you can take now to help you deal with any challenges, and to hopefully give you some peace of mind during the coming months,” says Nick Hill, money expert from the Money and Pensions Service. “A good starting point is to do an emergency budget and check what savings you have to bridge any gaps. You should also check with your bank, insurers and providers such as energy companies to see what support they can offer. If you still think you will struggle to…

Dragging your teens away from their phones can be tricky, so use these tips… COOK UP A STORM Challenge your teenagers to cook dinner for the family – without resorting to beans on toast! Tesco and BBC Good Food have a range of simple, easy recipes for cooks who are new to the kitchen. KEEP A DIARY This time in our lives will certainly go down in history. Encourage your children to keep a diary, including the latest news, the impact it has had on their lives, and how they are feeling about the pandemic. LEARN A NEW SKILL YouTube have video tutorials for almost anything you can imagine. Encourage your teen to learn something new, such as fixing household items, learning to juggle or perform magic, or beginners’ judo.…

Biba Tanya, 39 – a home-schooler to two of her three children – offers her top tips for home learning from years of experience… l Don’t aim to teach your younger kids – just facilitate their learning. Let them choose topics they are interested in and work from there, learning, drawing, reading, writing and counting. They will be more engaged if they are interested in a topic. For older kids, who will doubtless already have lots of work already set up by their school, remember that their usual school day would be full of interruptions and distractions, so allow them free time to explore subjects that interest them – or just let them read! l Get outside every day. While they can’t interact with others and have to respect social…

• David gets mugged (give the boy a break!). It comes after Gail makes her views known about him seeing Alina, and David takes to the streets with a supply of booze. He then gets dragged down an alleyway by some ruffians. • Over at Stillwaters, Ken is furious to discover fellow resident Charles is ripping everyone off and decides to stand in the election against him. • There’s a lovely moment when baby Aled gets fitted with hearing aids, and his little face lights up at the sound of Gemma and Ches’s voice. Gemma then tells Bernie she can cope on her own, ta!…

STRANGER THINGS, NETFLIX Production has been suspended on all of Netflix’s scripted projects in the US and Canada for at least two weeks, with season four of the hit sci-fi show affected. LINE OF DUTY/PEAKY BLINDERS, BBC1 Two of the BBC’s most popular shows have postponed filming. It is not yet clear when they will go back into production, or to what extent this will delay an air date. CELEBRITY RACE ACROSS THE WORLD, BBC2 In a statement, the BBC said, “Celebrity Race Across the World involves contestants travelling across a number of different countries… Studio Lambert has decided to delay production.” THE GRAND TOUR, AMAZON PRIME Jeremy Clarkson confirmed the fourth series of the motoring show is now on hold. On Twitter, he said filming will restart “once this…

ARIES 21 MAR-19 APR Work may have been a drag these past few years, but guess what? That’s over. This week brings a restart. You should feel more inspired about your career than you have in the past two years. Your hard work will finally pay off. Tap into the New Moon with a free kit at moonmessages.com/ moonlite TAURUS 20 APR-20 MAY Let’s hope you’re ambitious and ready to work hard, because with your current stars, you need to be. You can achieve great things in your working life between now and 2023. A word of warning, though – slack off and you will suffer the consequences! Pace yourself professionally. Tap into the New Moon with a free kit at moonmessages.com/moonlite GEMINI 21 MAY-20 JUN Upsets and dramas you’ve…

With everyone now spending lots more time with their other half, Gorka and Gemma come up with some fun things to do, starting with couples’ spa nights! Justin invites a pal over for a spot of dinner, but is horrified when they don’t automatically wash their hands on arrival. Get out the anti-bac gel!!! When Dianne said she was stripping off to show us her “flower”, we were quite relieved when this was what she meant. Minx! Alan had a dream that he was Elton John, circa 1982. Then he woke up looking like this. Weird, huh? While Wes gloats at the amount of loo rolls he still has in the house, at least his guilty-looking Pooch seems to have a conscience… Bless. JAKE QUICKENDEN... Hurry up and build the…

❛IT’S NO SECRET SHE STILL REMINISCES ABOUT WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN❜ She credited the BBC talent show for helping her rediscover her passion for ballet, and gushed about making lifelong friends with her fellow judges after returning for the second series of The Greatest Dancer earlier this year. But following reports the show is set to be axed due to struggling ratings, insiders say Cheryl, 36, has been hit hard by the news that her dream role may be in jeopardy. The source says, “Cheryl’s gutted about the prospect of losing this job, especially given it’s something she’s so passionate about and how close she’s become to the entire team who’ve really boosted her spirits and given her a much-needed distraction over the last few months.” And friends say the…

❛JEN FINALLY FEELS AS THOUGH SHE IS IN THE RIGHT PLACE IN HER LIFE TO SERIOUSLY CONSIDER ADOPTION❜ Just before her milestone 50th birthday last year, Jennifer Aniston was reportedly planning to adopt a child, not long after she admitted she still wanted a baby but needed the help of “science and miracles”. Now, pals say the Friends star is moving one step closer and is leaning on ex-husband and close friend, actor Brad Pitt, to help advise her through the process, after he adopted three children – Maddox, 18, Pax, 16, and Zahara, 15 – with ex-wife Angelina Jolie. SUPPORT NETWORK A source reveals, “This is something that has been on her mind for years, but Jen finally feels as though she is in the right place in her…

Staff at Bilton Court, a care home in Wellingborough, knew that coronavirus would leave many of their residents missing much-loved visits from friends and families. So, they put out an appeal online, writing, “At this challenging time our residents would love to receive post... If you or your children would like to send letters, poems or drawings, we’d love to see them.” The home has now been inundated with messages – with the local junior school even recording a video message for residents.…

ABBY: ‘I’m not the person I was five years ago’ Abby Cohen has talked openly about the impact her divorce had on her, admitting she regretted spending five years crying over her husband Ben after their marriage fell apart. The childhood sweethearts split in 2014 after 11 years of marriage – just months after rugby player Ben, 41, was partnered with professional dancer Kristina Rhianoff on Strictly Come Dancing, with whom he’s now in a relationship. Now Abby – who is mum to 12-year-old twins Harriette and Isabelle with Ben – has found love with a new man, going official with their relationship on Instagram earlier this month, with a photograph showing the couple in a sweet embrace. Abby has described feeling like she’d been “hit by a bus” after…

Standing on the stage and flexing her muscles is when Lucy Scroggs feels most powerful – and proud of how far she’s come. Just three years ago, she had been diagnosed with cancer for the second time in her life – and felt broken. Personal trainer Lucy, 44, who lives in Aylesbury and is currently single, says, “To hear you have cancer once is hard. But the second time was devastating. I lost faith in my body – I felt as though it had let me down. “Training for bodybuilding competitions was my way of taking back control of my life, and now I feel better and stronger than ever.” Lucy was first diagnosed with cervical cancer in May 2007, when she was just 31. She remembers, “A smear test…

After having two children, Tracy Kiss was desperate to overhaul her “saggy” body to boost her confidence. So, the 32 year old decided to give herself a “mummy makeover”, racking up a shocking £38,000 worth of debt on nine cosmetic procedures, including three boob jobs, a butt lift, a nose job and a designer vagina. Incredibly, despite being saddled with loans and credit card debt, the single mum says she’s happier than ever. Tracy, who lives in Aylesbury, Bucks, says, “Having kids left me with saggy boobs and a flat bum. Going under the knife is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. As a mum of two, my body is the best it’s ever looked. I don’t consider my surgery bills as debt – it’s an investment in…

1 FLORAL FANCY This pretty spring print returns every year, but now it’s all about graphic florals. Popping up at the likes of Victoria Beckham’s show, embrace the look with a chic midi dress. Add chunky ankle boots and layered jewels to give it some edge. 2 FRILL SEEKER Give the LWD (little white dress) an upgrade with catwalk-worthy ruffles. Wear with a teddy coat now, then swap for tan sandals when it heats up. 3 IN THE BAG This slouch bag is all over Instagram. It’s a dead ringer for a Bottega Veneta number – but £900 cheaper! It also comes in a dreamy, spring-ready mint shade. Snap it up! 4 PINK LADY You can’t beat Chanel for a dose of ladylike glamour and this boucle blazer will jazz…

BOOSTS MOISTURE The skin beneath our eyes is more prone to dehydration, so use this formula to give an extra dose of moisture. Enriched with avocado oil, it’s super nourishing without being too greasy, and is a go-to choice if you suffer from dryness. Apply with fingertips, gently tapping rather than rubbing under the eye. KIEHL’S CREAMY EYE TREATMENT WITH AVOCADO £26 TACKLES FINE LINES When it comes to anti-ageing, you can’t beat retinol. Featuring the optimum percentage of the hero ingredient, this fuss-free cream stimulates collagen production for a super-smooth eye area. You can also use it as a targeted treatment around the mouth to combat wrinkles. Not bad for under a tenner! INKEY LIST RETINOL EYE CREAM £9.99 SOOTHES AND BRIGHTENS Give tired peepers a pick-me-up with this…

After losing an incredible 2 /2st in 2018, going from a size 16 to an 8, 5ft 1 Sophie admits she’s feeling happier in her own skin. “My weight is something I will always keep on top of, even though I don’t weigh myself any more,” she says. “Eating healthy food and going to the gym a few times a week has a huge impact on how I feel inside. A few years ago, I was eating rubbish, feeling sluggish, with no energy and feeling really unhappy. I’ll never go back to that.” But while she’s happy with her body, Sophie reveals she’s planning a boob reduction – taking her down from a 32E to a C cup. She says, “I’ve been getting really bad back pain and my boobs…

INSIDE CHANTELLE’S FRIDGE • Butterbeans • Chickpeas • Vegan cheese • Houmous • Pure spread • Bananas • Vegan burgers • Chicken fillets • Linda McCartney sausages • Tofu • Salmon fillets • Blueberries • Lentils • Parsley • Strawberries • Almond milk • Aubergine • Coriander • Carrots • Kale • Potatoes VERDICT NUTRITIONIST JULIETTE KELLOW SAYS, “Chantelle should ensure her vegan alternatives aren’t full of fat and salt, like vegan cheese, which can be high in saturated fat as it’s made with coconut oil. Beans, lentils, and chickpeas have lots of nutrients like protein and iron, which plant-based diets can lack. She could also take extra vitamin B12, as it’s often low in vegans.” FRIDGE HEALTH RATING 8.5/10 CHANTELLE How much do you spend per week? Around £80…

We are living in uncertain times. There is a lot of conflicting and, at times, distressing information about Covid-19. While most of us in the UK will be fine, even if we do contract the virus, it is understandably heightening anxiety and panic in many people, especially those worried about vulnerable family and friends. However, there are some things we can do to cope. IT’S NORMAL TO WORRY One of the reasons people may feel fearful is the unknown impact this situation may have on everyday life. Fear often arises when you don’t know what you’re facing, so keep in mind that your reactions are totally normal. Things change on a daily basis, and for most of us, this isn’t something we’ve experienced before. If you are worried about elderly…

UNDERSTAND CHANGES Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert site is constantly updated, explaining things without any confusing jargon Moneysavingexpert.com KEEP TABS ON YOUR BANK You might be surprised by how helpful your bank’s website is right now. They are updating things as they happen, and helping people who need it. FOLLOW AN EXPERT Laura Whately, author of Money: A User’s Guide, focuses on the positive when discussing money, so follow her Twitter feed @LWhateley for down-to-earth advice.…

STRUCTURE THE DAY Kids should wake up early, have a good breakfast, and get dressed as if they were going out. Maintaining a routine is crucial to keep motivation high and take the new set-up seriously. Provide a space, however small, where home schooling will happen. If children split time between two households, both parents must work to the same timetable, goals and schedule throughout the day, with the same rules and boundaries. EXPECT TO BE TREATED AS A TEACHER Explain that, during this time, you are the ‘teacher’ and in charge. Set clear rules, but you may also want to offer incentives to keep them motivated, much like a school merit system, and take away privileges if they do not. Don’t try switching between teacher and parent personas –…

1 SAVE ME TOO INTENSE DRAMA RETURNS WED 1 APR, 9PM, SKY ATLANTIC/NOW TV The beautifully written, highly addictive drama created by and starring The Walking Dead’s Lennie James is back for a second series. The stellar cast – including Suranne Jones, Stephen Graham, Susan Lunch and Jason Flemying – are all back in the Palm Tree pub, and there’s a brilliant new addition in the shape of Mum’s always-excellent Lesley Manville. The new season is set 17 months after Jody – the teenage daughter of Claire (Jones) and Nelly (James) – went missing after apparently being snatched by a paedophile gang. But while his mates might have moved on with their lives, Nelly is still determined to keep looking and find Jody, whatever the cost. It’s a dark subject…

MUST READ Messy, Wonderful Us (CATHERINE ISAAC) When Allie opens an envelope in her grandmother’s house and reads a letter she was never meant to see, it changes everything she knows about her family – and herself. She hires a private detective to find out what happened to her late mother in the summer before Allie was born, and is led to Lake Garda, accompanied by her best friend Ed. But the secrets that emerge go far beyond anything they were both expecting… This one’s a real tearjerker. BEST PODCASTS LuAnna: The Podcast Hosted by reality TV star Luisa Zissman and Celebs Go Dating love guru Anna Williamson, tune in for hilarious chats, rants and opinions on the news and events of the week. Plus, catch up with what they’ve…

They’ve been locked in a bitter feud for years, but last week Nadine Coyle hinted that the ice had finally thawed between her and Cheryl, with the I’m A Celeb! star revealing her former Girls Aloud bandmate had reached out to her following seven years of not speaking. Nadine, 34 – who Cheryl once branded “full of sh* t” after the star suggested her bandmates decided to call time on the band without her – confessed, “Cheryl emailed me recently and I bumped into Kimberley [Walsh] a few weeks ago as well, which was lovely.” And after Cheryl sparked reunion rumours last year when she shared a throwback snap of the five-some on Instagram, pals say she’s keen to make amends with Nadine in the hope of getting her on…

He’s brushed off rumours that he’s dating – but Brad Pitt has sparked talk of a deepening romance with Arrested Development actress Alia Shawkat, after they were seen out several times with each other recently. Brad and Alia were first spotted together last September and reports that they were dating began to circulate in November. Last week, they were seen at a burger bar in LA after going to a show, prompting more romance rumours. But a source says, “Brad’s very fond of Alia and they have a great time, but he’s not looking for anything serious – she’s just good company.” Since his split with Angelina Jolie in 2016, he’s been linked to a string of women, including actresses Charlize Theron, 44, Kate Hudson, 40, and Sienna Miller, 38.…

• Find your local COVID-19 Mutual Aid group online and sign up to volunteer your time for your more vulnerable neighbours. You can offer to help walk dogs, run errands or simply phone people who might be feeling anxious or lonely. Visit Covidmutualaid.org for more information. • The hospitality industry is struggling as many bars, restaurants and cafes are forced to close. Help them survive this period by buying pre-paid vouchers to be used when their business is allowed to open again. • Becky Wass, from Cornwall, has created a printable postcard to be sent to your neighbours, offering your help. The postcard allows you to introduce yourself, give your contact details and offer your services in picking up prescriptions or shopping. Search “kindness postcard COVID-19” online to download your…

VICKY: ‘I can’t wait to settle down with Ercan ’ She’s been excitedly sharing snaps of her and her boyfriend’s new pad on Instagram – and pals say Vicky Pattison is feeling happier than ever after moving into her lavish new London penthouse with Ercan Ramadan. The former Geordie Shore star, 32, and the 36-year-old businessman first moved in together last year, but have now bought a new place in the capital. A source tells Closer, “Vic’s on cloud nine and says she can’t stop pinching herself. She’s living in this incredible apartment with a man who makes her feel like the most special girl in the world – she would never have imagined this would be her life a few years ago.” Vicky was left “heartbroken, hurt and angry”…

Founder of Whale Wise Eco Tours, Mercedes Reyes, 42, runs sustainable boat trips to view dolphins in their natural habitat. Mercedes, who lives in Tenerife, says, “I’ve been fascinated with dolphins ever since I was little and my friends’ dad took us out on his boat. A dolphin swam alongside us and turned around to see us. I remember looking into its eyes – it was such an incredible experience. From then on, I was obsessed. “As a teenager, I decided to volunteer at a local aquarium for dolphins, but I was horrified to discover that, in captivity, they weren’t the same joyful creatures I’d seen out at sea. They were so miserable, they had to be given anti-depressants. I quit after one day and vowed never to support animals…

‘It’d be great to say one last goodbye’ Kirk, 31 – who was initially famed for his relationships with Amy Childs and Lauren Pope, as well as a spat with Mark Wright – says, “TOWIE is where everything started for me. If they are getting the old gang back together, I definitely want to be a part of it. TOWIE without Kirk would be like Essex without stilettos, fake tan, and boy racers. It’d be great to say one last goodbye to the programme where I spent so much of my life.” He gives Closer the lowdown on the co-stars he’s most looking forward to filming with. ‘I HELD A LOT OF RESENTMENT TOWARDS MARK WRIGHT’ “He has done great, hasn’t he? To be honest, for a long time, I…

‘Once you’re good in bed, you’re always good in bed!’ She told Closer she was “ready for love,” ahead of her appearance on Celebs Go Dating and, just weeks later, it appears Alison Hammond may have found her Mr Right. Last week she was snapped smiling and giggling with her new beau, audio visual technician and aspiring actor Ben Kusi, after they met on the E4 show following encouragement from her This Morning colleague Holly Willoughby, who told her to go for a kiss. And Alison, 45 – who enjoyed a mock wedding on air with Hollywood star Dwayne Johnson, aka The Rock, in 2017, as part of a stunt on This Morning following a joke proposal three months earlier – is dreaming big right now. She tells Closer, “Without…

ANIMAL INSTINCT A slip skirt is a wardrobe staple and is surprisingly wearable. Pair this zebra-print beauty with a chunky knit and studded boots for a cool look. SIMPLY BE £28 DIVINE DENIM Swap a mini for this longer number. Tuck in a blouse to the figure-enhancing paperbag waist, and complete with slouchy boots for a ’70s-inspired get-up. H&M £34.99 HEAVY PETAL This floral midi has big designer vibes without the price tag. Match with the co-ord top for a special event, or dress down with a cardigan and pumps. MISS SELFRIDGE £45 PLASTIC FANTASTIC Vinyl fabrics have gone mainstream and this bottle green beauty will make an impact. Keep the rest of your outfit simple – just add a black tee and trainers. TOPSHOP £49 PARADISE PENCIL Tropical prints…

SPEND OR SAVE SPOTLIGHT ON: LUCY TIFFNEY RANGE AT DEBENHAMS For a collection full of bold jungle prints and unique patterns, including everything from tea pots to cake stands and aprons, check out Debenhams’ collaboration with award-winning designer Lucy Tiffney. Available now in 80 UK stores and online.…

‘I feel free to be myself for the first time’ fter her marriage broke down, Karen Hauer admits her self-esteem plummeted. She barely ate or slept and struggled “to see a way ahead”. But two years on from her shock split from Strictly co-star Kevin Clifton, dancer Karen insists she’s emerged stronger and happier than ever, with a fresh outlook on life and a new man. “I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy and content in my own skin,” says the 37 year old. “I’m in such a good place. Before, I was always worrying about what people might think of me. Now I feel so good on the inside and, for the first time, free to be myself.” HEARTACHE Pro dancer Karen, met Kevin, 37, in stage show…

For most of us, the coronavirus won’t cause major health issues. However, it is still worrying for the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, and we all need to help keep them safe. If you have a temperature over 37.8 degrees, or a new and persistent cough, you need to self isolate for 14 days – not because you’re likely to be horribly ill, but to protect those who could be if you passed the germ on. Most people don’t have a very accurate thermometer at home, so if you have a fever you’ll feel hot to the touch as well as shivery, both hot and cold, achy, and clammy. EAT WELL & BE ACTIVE In terms of boosting your immunity, eat well, rest and try to avoid stress.…

DRAW AWAY WORRIES Children’s author and illustrator Rob Biddulph has posted draw-along videos for parents to watch with their kids and, hopefully, make some nice pictures together. You don’t have to be a child to enjoy a calming bit of drawing! Find them at Robbiddulph.com/ draw-with-rob TRY FREE MINDFULNESS Mindfulness app Headspace has unlocked a free, specially-curated “Weathering the storm” collection of meditation and mindfulness content to helping with things like reframing anxiety, at-home workouts, keeping focused and dealing with tough times. GIVE HYPNOTHERAPY A GO Hypnotherapist Sheila Granger has released a free 15-minute download on her website to help with worry, stress and anxiety about the virus. Soothe yourself by visiting Believe.sheilagranger. com/anxiety-release…

With these long-life products and basic ingredients, you’ll be able to rustle up a satisfying store-cupboard dish, no matter how many mouths you need to feed. CANNED FISH We should aim to eat two weekly portions of fish, one of which should be oil-rich, and canned is just as good a choice as fresh. Try tuna, mackerel, sardines, pilchards, salmon and crab – ideal for toast toppers, sandwich fillers, serving with jacket potatoes, or adding to stir-fries and pasta dishes. FLOUR AND DRIED YEAST Fresh bread, rolls, pitta, wraps, crumpets and naan can all be frozen, but you might like to have a go at making your own – it’s a good activity to keep children occupied. TINNED SPUDS Canned new potatoes are great for serving with meals or adding…

• For younger children, Play Hooray (@play.hooray on Instagram and playhooray.co.uk) has lots of simple play ideas to support development and learning, broadcast daily at 10am on Instagram. • Many primary school children will be familiar with Twinkl – it’s a teacher resource centre and provides lots of worksheets and charts for children. They’re offering a one-month free membership to parents. Visit twinkl.co.uk/offer and use the code UKTWINKLHELPS. • Tapestry (tapestry.info) is often used in primary schools and will post regular updates with ideas for teachers and parents. It can be used by staff to keep in touch with the children and their families by recording videos, setting work by uploading documents, or just getting in touch to check how everyone is. Tapestry covers the assessment frameworks for infants up…

Tell us about the new series? I travel through the Mediterranean looking at the diversity of food. It’s about the people, too – and I’m blowing smoke up my bum here, but I’ve got the gift of talking to people and bringing things out of them. I go into their homes and we eat together. What are your highlights? In one episode I’m in Aqaba – the part of Jordan that’s near to the sea – making date molasses with the locals. We took the stones out and made coffee from them. It felt like I’d gone back a hundred years, but it was wonderful. In Corsica, we met a hunky international rugby player who produced his own olive oil – there was something really romantic about that. Are you…