Innholdsfortegnelse for Vol 1257 i HELLO! magazine

‘Christmas is a wonderful excuse to get everyone together and all under the same roof. I love the chaos of it all’ Great British Bake Off judge Mary Berry enjoys a pre-Christmas celebration at her beautiful Surrey home (above) with her close-knit family, including grandchildren Grace, Louis and Abby (on the floor) and Atalanta and Hobie (in the arms of their father, Dan). Standing with Mary and her husband Paul are daughter-in-law Sarah, son Tom and their daughter Annabel. “It does get a bit crazy at times,” says the unflappable Mary Mary treated herself to her dream kitchen – “I wanted it much lighter,” she says – six years ago, when the cookery school she’d been running from home came to an end after 16 years. Helping her put the…

‘I always had this, “I want to be a mum and do things with my kids”’ Darcey braves the frost in a gorgeous creation by Suzanne Neville then changes into a gown by Bruce Oldfield (far right) for this special HELLO! photoshoot. Looking at the pictures later, the modest exprima ballerina laughs: “It looks like someone else” It is a crisp and sunny December morning and Darcey Bussell is looking ethereally beautiful as she runs across a frost-coated lawn, sweeping the ruffled train of her corseted silk tulle dress behind her as hello!’s photographer chases in hot pursuit. “Coat, coat,” she cries, grabbing a faux-fur wrap and rushes inside to warm up. Later, and no longer shivering, she studies some of the gorgeous shots. “That’s not me – it looks…

She dressed Kate Middleton for the biggest day of her life, so it’s perhaps apt that Sarah Burton is sharing another bumper milestone with her. Weeks after the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge announced they are expecting their first child, the Alexander McQueen designer, who is looking forward to the birth of twins in February, was awarded an OBE for services to the British fashion industry. After being honoured with the award at Buckingham Palace from the Prince of Wales (left), Sarah, 38, revealed that, having made Kate’s wedding dress (right), she would love to add maternity designs to the royal wardrobe. Asked if she would like to dress the Duchess during the next few months, she replied: “I hope I will be,” and added: “I’m very, very humbled and…

They’re reported to have been making sweet music together for a month now and as they strolled hand in hand in Cheshire, One Direction’s Harry Styles and US country singer Taylor Swift showed they’re perfectly in tune. It was a special visit to Harry’s home county, as the couple were celebrating Taylor’s birthday, with the former X Factor contestant giving his new love a Burberry handbag and 23 cupcakes – one for each of her years. Matt Blakey of the Custom Cupcake Company in Warrington said he had to rush through the order: “A lady called us asking if we could supply some cupcakes. I told her we were very busy because of the holidays. She said they were for Harry Styles and I said to send him along –…

Sartorially, she may have been in a blue mood, but supermodel Kate Moss looked in fine spirits as she and her musician husband Jamie Hince took a stroll near their North London home (left). Wrapped up in a powder-blue coat and faded denims, the model mum, 38, linked arms with her 43-year-old rocker husband as they did some window shopping. Joined by their pet dog Archie, the couple, who married last year, stopped by upmarket Le Chocolatier (below) for some sweet treats, as well as the Village Jeweller, where the Kills frontman gave his model wife an affectionate cuddle. Kate, who has a ten-year-old daughter Lila Grace from her relationship with publisher Jefferson Hack, recently confessed that her wild days are behind her – well, almost. “I don’t really go…

If Barack Obama has any plans to set up a national elf service in the US, he would have found plenty of willing volunteers at this year’s Christmas in Washington concert. Held at the National Building Museum in aid of the National Children’s Medical Center, the event was attended by some of the hospital’s former patients, who had dressed for the occasion as Santa’s little helpers. And the President wasted no time getting into the spirit of the jolly occasion, chortling a traditional “Ho ho ho!” before declaring to the youngsters: “You might be the best elves ever.” Joined by wife Michelle and their daughters Sasha and Malia (all left), Barack revealed how he was looking forward to the chance “to spread joy and sing along to artists who have…

‘Christmas A TIME FOR GIVING is all about giving and having the family around’ Superstar singer Cheryl Cole might be preparing to spend her first Christmas with boyfriend Tre Holloway, but that doesn't mean she knows what present she's getting him. The 29-year-old Girls Aloud star has instead concentrated on buying gifts for her nieces and nephews, as well as planning two Christmas dinners -one for her family and another for her bandmates - at her London home. "I'm the one that was put forward to cook for the family," she tells HELLO!. "My theory is it spoils your dinner when you have l o slave away on it for a week before - it's not the same as somebody making it for you. I got nominated by all the…

SARAH STOREY Paralympic cyclist expecting a child London 2012 star Sarah Storey and fellow cyclist husband Barney, both 35, are expecting their first child. “We always thought it would be time to have a baby after London 2012 if I could fall pregnant quickly,” Sarah – who has won 22 medals in six Paralympic Games – told hello!. “We feel lucky this has been the case.” Sarah and Barney, who is a sighted pilot for blind or partially sighted cyclists and holds three gold Paralympics medals – can’t believe their golden year. “I just don’t know if 2012 can get any better with the Olympics and now this,” said Barney. ● Supermodel Eva Herzigova and partner Gregorio Marsiaj are expecting their third child. The Czech catwalk star, 39, is due…

‘There will never be another Patrick Moore. But we were lucky enough to get one’ Brian May Patrick served in the RAF during WWII (below), before going on to present The Sky at Night for 57 years. A fine xylophone player (right), he was a close friend of Queen’s Brian May (below far right) Tributes have been flooding in for Sir Patrick Moore, the man who, as presenter of the longrunning BBC show The Sky at Night, succeeded in bringing a remote subject within everybody’s grasp. With his monocle, dishevelled appearance and idiosyncratic delivery, the great British eccentric, who died peacefully at home last week aged 89, was an unforgettable figure. His enthusiasm for his subject earned him a broad fanbase among scientists and laymen alike. Describing the xylophone-playing astronomer…

ANNE HATHAWAY Her portrayal of ill-fated F a n t i n e i n t h e f o r t h c o m i n g L e s Misérables has earned her a Golden Globe nomination – and she owes her new closecropped look (left) to the musical, too. With many tipping her for an Oscar nod, too, 2013 holds plenty of promise for n e w l y w e d Anne LEONARDO DICAPRIO Heartthrob Leo (left) plays plantation owner Calvin Candie in Quentin Tarantino's new movie, 1850s Western Django Unchained, out in January. He dons period costume again, for The Great Gatsby, due out in the spring AL PACINO T h e H o l l y w o o d heavyweight weight (above)…

Cradled in her mother’s arms, who could guess that this ordinary baby girl would one day be destined to be Queen? But these lovely pictures of the Duchess of Cambridge, taken when she was between six and 12 months, show a contented baby surrounded by the love and security of a doting mother and enjoying the simple pleasures that life can offer, whether sitting up in her pram with a friend or wearing a party hat at a birthday celebration. The exclusive pictures belong to George Brown, 68, a neighbour of the Middletons who became close to Kate’s mum, Carole, when they both fell pregnant at the same time. George’s daughter Nicola, who was born four days after the Duchess and became her first playmate, is photographed alongside Kate, as…

EXCLUSIVE Pictured in California with husband Will Kopelman and their gorgeous threemonth-old daughter Olive, Grey Gardens star Drew is the image of bliss as she gets into the swing of family life. “It has been a wonderful journey,” the star tells HELLO! “I’m having the best time of my life!” Of being a first-time mum, 37-year-old Drew admits, “I was more scared than I’ve ever been at first – I didn’t sleep or eat for a few weeks.” But now she has settled into her “awesome” new role. “I’m feeling much more confident” Playfully nuzzling her beautiful three-month-old baby Olive, Drew Barrymore is revelling in first-time motherhood. “It’s indescribable,” she tells hello!. Olive was born on 26 September, and despite some early nerves, the Hollywood actress has taken to her…

Showing off her fabulously toned legs in a pair of skintight hot pants, Ashley Roberts sashays into hello!’s exclusive photoshoot brimming with Christmas spirit. It’s only a matter of days since the 31-year-old former Pussycat Doll emerged as runner-up to Jungle Queen Charlie Brooks in I’m a Celebrity... Get Me out of Here! and now, the unpalatable Bushtucker Trials, featuring meals of live cockroaches and raw fish eyes, behind her, she says she is looking forward to tucking into not one but two festive feasts. “I’ll be having two Christmas lunches,” says Ashley, whose divorced parents live near each other with their new spouses in Phoenix, Arizona, where she grew up. “It will be Christmas Eve with Mom and her partner and Christmas Day with Dad and his wife. All…

FASHION Valorie glitter clutch, £350, Anya Hindmarch, tel: 020-7501 0177 Metallic sequin jacket, £229, Mint Velvet, tel: 0845-456 2200 Gold brocade dress, £215, Paul & Joe Sister, from my-wardrobe.com Silver foil jeans, £260, J Brand, from Trilogy, tel: 020-7730 6515 Scott Wilson collar necklace, £150, Jaeger, tel: 0845-051 0063 Hollywood sequin dress, £395, Austique; visit austique.co.uk Iman bandage dress, £1,330, Hervé Léger, from harrods.com Silver Marquerite stilettos, £495, Terry de Havilland, from mywardrobe.com Premium silver pleated skirt, £90, Topshop, tel: 0845-121 4519 Precious dress, £149.25, Hobbs, tel: 0845-313 3130 BOB BY Dazzlers Follow the A-list and get in on the gold rush – choose one key piece and let it shine Elie Saab A/W 2012/13 Blumarine A/W 2012/13 Elle Macpherson looks stunning in silver Taylor Swift sparkles in Oscar de…

FANCY A FLUTTER Achieve eye-catching looks with the help of London lash queen Sue Marsh, who has launched her own range of falsies. Half lashes are available in four colourways and two lengths, and applying them is easy with Sue’s illuminated magnifying mirror and unique lash holder. “I wanted to offer a professional lash finish for everyone to re-create at home,” she says. Naomi Campbell (right) is a huge fan. Sue Marsh Eye Boutique Lashes, £8, Lash Holder, £15, Magnif-Eye Mirror, £10, and Hypoallergenic Adhesive, £8, from girlswithattitude.co.uk. STAR ATTRACTION If you want a present that is small but perfectly formed, you can’t beat Estée Lauder’s celebration bejewelled compacts. This season’s Starry Night Solid Perfume Compact, £320, created by Jay Strongwater and featuring a sparkling shooting star design, is filled…

WELLBEING Anyone who has ever drunk too much knows how an excess of alcohol can go to your stomach as well as your head. A bad hangover will leave you feeling unwell, struggling to concentrate, irritable and tired for at least 24 hours after a big night out. But as parties are hard to avoid at this time of year, what is the best way to steer clear of the fallout? When it comes to hangovers, the real baddie is ethanol, the pure alcohol found in your favourite tipple. This toxic chemical acts as a diuretic, causing your body to become dehydrated, in turn leading to a headache, dry mouth and dizziness. And while we know that sticking to Government guidelines means not drinking more than three to four units…

On the right track If the seasonal celebrations have helped you find your dancing feet, then Zumba Fitness Dance, £9.99, will keep you moving into the New Year. Featuring Ne-Yo, Rihanna, Nicky Minaj, will.i.am and Lady Gaga, the album has been mixed to sound like a party soundtrack with inspirational beats for your fitness regime. Bless you Coughs and sneezes spread diseases, as the old saying goes, but did you know that a single sneeze in an enclosed space, such as on the bus, in the pub or at the office, can spread the cold virus to 150 people? Protect yourself – and others – by keeping Kleenex Anti-Viral Tissues, £2.65, on hand. Hip hip hooray Researchers at the University of Melbourne have found that rosehip may help ease the…

Esther Taylor and Justin Hope After marrying at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, West Clandon, Esther and Justin dived into married life, literally, while on honeymoon in Bali. Laura Jane and Matthew Seymour Laura Jane and Matthew went for classic elegance on their big day at Stanmer House in Brighton, accessorising her strapless gown and his morning suit with a black and white vintage car. Kelsey Amber Lea and John David Williams John’s proposal to Kelsey on a “wet soggy beach in Wales” turned into an “incredible” day at St Alkmund’s in Whitchurch, Shropshire, and the nearby Wild Boar Hotel. Maggie and Dan Gill Maggie and Dan stepped back in time for their reception, held in the 14th-century Tithe Barn at Egham’s Great Fosters Hotel, itself once a hunting…

Across 1 Charlotte ---, British dressage rider who won two gold medals at the 2012 Olympics (8) 5 Sir Ridley ---, British director of films including Robin Hood and Prometheus (5) 10 Billy ---, US actor and nine-time Academy Award ceremony host (7) 11 --- Chase, US actor and star of films including Hot Tub Time Machine (5) 12 --- Dixon, singer and Britain’s Got Talent judge (6) 13 Orlando ---, British actor who is married to the model Miranda Kerr (5) 15 Australian actress and supermodel often known as “The Body” (4,10) 19 British singer who is one third of the Sugababes (6,8) 24 --- Blunt, British actress whose films include The Five-Year Engagement (5) 25 Giorgio ---, Italian fashion designer (6) 28 --- Birch, US actress and star…

ENTERTAINMENT 1THEATRE VIVA FOREVER! Fans of the Spice Girls will really, really want to see Viva Forever!, the stage musical based on the songs of the most successful girl group of all time. With witty oneliners by the show’s writer, comedian Jennifer Saunders, the musical tells the story of singer Viva (Hannah John-Kamen, above, third from right) as she abandons her bandmates to go in search of solo stardom on an X Factor-inspired TV talent show. Songs that formed the soundtrack to the 1990s are given a new twist, with a middle-aged couple singing 2 Become 1 and the male love interest singing an a cappella version of Viva Forever. Die-hard fans will particularly love the medley at the end, which sees audience members standing up, dancing and performing the…

Victoria, Romeo and Cruz arrive at Los Angeles Airport to catch their flight back home, joined (inset, top left) by David and daughter Harper. It’s believed the UK could be more than just for Christmas for the Beckhams, with a source telling HELLO! that the couple are drawing up a shortlist of schools in the capital for their boys They might be waiting until the new year to announce a decision about their next move, but with each passing day it seems more likely that the UK’s most fashionable exports, David and Victoria Beckham, are putting a return to home turf high on their wish-list for 2013. After jetting to the UK from Los Angeles last week to spend Christmas with their families, David and his 13-year-old son Brooklyn were…

Bon girls: Yasmin Le Bon with her daughter Amber Charlie Forbes with his wife, make-up artist Charlotte Tilbury Bond Street’s her bag: Jessica Alba Annabelle Nielson and the eyecatching Lady Mary Furze Violinist Rosey Chan A ROSY GLOW AT FERRAGAMO Everything was coming up roses for designer label Ferragamo in London as it celebrated the refurbishment and expansion of both its flagship stores in the capital. After cocktails and canapés to mark the brand’s 75 years on Old Bond Street, guests including actress Camilla Belle and model Marie Helvin strolled to the elegant Burlington Arcade, where they were dazzled by a long table set with 500 Christmas candles and 10,000 red roses for a celebratory dinner with the Ferragamo family. Creative director of Ferragamo, Massimiliano Giornetti Fashion family: James, Fulvia,…

Prince Albert of Monaco and his wife Charlene (together, right) saw red as they welcomed Monégasque children – complete with Santa-style hats – to the Royal Palace for the traditional Christmas tree viewing. Dressed in a militarystyle camel coat and black boots, Charlene looked very elf-y as she assisted Father Christmas in distributing presents to her young guests (left). The annual ceremony saw scores of children gather with the couple on the steps of the Cour d’Honneur outside the palace. Smiling broadly, Charlene and Albert chatted with the youngsters and accepted their festive drawings before moving inside, where she handed out gifts including board games and – in a nod to Monaco’s famous Grand Prix – toy racing cars. The former Olympic swimmer appeared in her element surrounded by her…

For months they’ve avoided confirming their romance, but now Katy Perry and blues musician John Mayer have left onlookers in no doubt that they are more than just friends. The couple were pictured partying at the Rolling Stones’ 50 & Counting gig in New Jersey, with John whispering sweet nothings into his Honky Tonk Woman’s ear (left), only leaving her side to join the veteran rockers on stage to perform their 1978 hit Respectable. His guitar solo had the Stones’ official Twitter feed in raptures: “John Mayer! Take a bow John, fantastic! Thank you!” #StonesNJ” The day before, the couple – who have been spotted out and about together since July – took John’s father, retired high school principal Richard – out to dinner, then on to see the suitably…

In the countdown to Christmas, one woman famous for her Celebrations has been throwing herself into the party season: Pippa Middleton. Over the course of a few days, the Duchess of Cambridge’s sister jetted to Northern Ireland to attend a friend’s wedding before flying to Amsterdam to promote her party-planning book Celebrate. She was also spied heading out to a VIP dinner in London thrown for French fashion brand Vicomte A. For the wedding – which saw her close friend fashion designer Emma Logue marry software developer Alex Roupell – Pippa turned heads in a Gina Foster hat, decorated with pheasant feathers (far left). In Holland she donned a purple satin Beulah London dress (left), which is a favourite label of her sister’s. With the festive season in full swing,…

It proved a corker of an evening for Jude Law ( left) as he was presented with the Variety award at the annual Moët British Independent Film Awards (bifas) in a sparkling ceremony that honoured both vintage performers and new talent. Alfie star Jude, 43 , received his award in recognition of the key role he has played in promoting homegrown cinema and said he was “proud to be a Brit in a global film industry”. The bubbly bash, at London's Old Billingsgate, was attended by stars including Elle Fanning (left) and Olivia Colman (far right), who scooped her s econd BIFA in as many years, for est Suporting Actress. And ea Riseborough (right) tool. home the Best Actress trophy and could not resist poking fun at her gown's plunging…

When it comes to celebrating Christmas, celebrities are just like us – making the most of family time, catching up with loved ones and over-indulging in festive food. Of course, with money no object, some of them have more exotic plans, jetting across the globe to their yuletide hideaways. Here, some of HELLO!’s favourite faces reveal their holiday traditions, what they’re hoping to find in their Christmas stockings and how they’ll be spending the most magical time of the year… KATHERINE JENKINS Welsh mezzo-soprano Katherine w i l l remember 2012 w i t h fondness, after playing a r o l e i n the D i a m o n d J u b i l e e celebrations, s i n g i n g the national…

M e m o r i a l services have been held for J a c i n t h a Saldanha, the nurse who committed suicide after b e c o m i n g involved in a prank call to the hospital where the Duchess of Cambridge (above) was being t r e a t e d f o r p r e g n a n c y complications. The 46-year-old took her own life just days after putting through a phone call to the Duchess’s ward at King Edward VII’s Hospital. Two Australian DJs pretending to be the Queen and Prince Charles spoke to a nurse on the ward. An inquest heard that Jacintha was found hanging by a scarf in her staff accommodation. She had…

Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden (left) and her younger sister, Princess Madeleine (right), sparkle at the Nobel Prize ceremony in Stockholm. Taking to the stage of the Concert Hall with King Carl Gustaf and Queen Silvia, Prince Carl Phillip and Prince Daniel (above), the two women shone out, with Victoria matching her emerald Elie Saab gown with the historic Bernadotte demi-parure, while brideto-be Madeleine sported an amethyst tiara with the Angel Sanchez gown she wore for her sister’s pre-wedding ball. The fact that the dress comes from the designer’s bridal collection has many speculating that he will create Madeleine’s wedding gown. Among those receiving awards at the glittering event was British scientist Sir John B Gurdon, who shared the prize for medicine with Shinya Yamanaka of Japan. Meanwhile, across the…

FAMILY MATTERS FOR EMOTIONAL HUGH AS HE i THANKS HIS LUCKY STARS Hugh Jackman enjoys a special moment with his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, and their two adopted children, Oscar, 12, and Ava, seven, as he picks up his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It was the Aussie hunk's second celebration of the day, having earlier been nominated for a Golden Globe for his stand-out performance in Les Misérables. "It's kind of a surreal day," said the delighted 44-year-old, whose broad grin contrasted with the tears he shed on US show 60 Minutes as he recalled how his mother left the family home when he was just eight years old (right). KATE'S ON WINNING FORM WITH NED AT HER SIDE FOR A DAY AT THE RACES Loved-up Kate Winslet…

AS HE JOINS TENNIS ACES AT A GALA he f u l l ext nt o f the Duchess of Cambridge's battle w i th m o r n i n g sickness was revealed last week w h e n her husband m a d e h i s f i r s t o f f i c i al engagement since announcing that they were expecting their first child. A r r i v i n g w i t h o u t his wife at t h e W i n t e r W h i t e s Gala at L o n d o n ' s R< yal A l b e r t H a l l, h e l…

NAOMI WATTS STAR OF ACCLAIMED NEW MOVIE ‘THE IMPOSSIBLE’ TELLS US HOW BEING A MOTHER – AND HER FEAR OF WATER – HELPED HER IN HER LATEST HARROWING ROLE Naomi Watts took to the red carpet in Los Angeles last week (right) at the launch of her latest film The Impossible, based on the true story of a family caught up in the catastrophic Boxing Day tsunami of 2004. It’s a role that has already won her a nomination for a Golden Globe award as Best Actress; but it also heightened her own anxieties as mum to sons Sasha, five, and Sammy, four, with partner Liev Schreiber, she says. “I worry about my children every single day in the tiniest of ways,” says the 44-year-old. “The worst possible ideas come…

With designer Raf Simons making his debut, Christian Dior haute couture rings in the party season with a touch of modernity, elegance and sparkle. A Mini D Riviere diamond watch by Dior Horlogerie twinkles like the Eiffel Tower as it sets off an electric blue astrakhan bustier dress (right). Actress Julianne Moore wore this bold yellow seamless cashmere top and silk skirt (left) on the red carpet. It’s teamed here with a strass necklace by Dior Joaillerie An organza gown embroidered with bands of pink and blue feathers (above) is worn with Dior’s Trois Epices necklace, featuring diamonds, tourmalines, peridots, citrines, amethysts and rubelites. Natalie Portman has worn this white organza dress with degradé embroidery (left), here complemented with a silk and mother-of-pearl Mini D watch. A cut-off embroidered ballgown…

BEAUTY As any red-carpet regular knows, great skin doesn’t happen overnight. If you want to look flawless for a big event – whether an awards ceremony or your office party – the key is perfect planning. “It really is all hands on board when it comes to getting a celebrity ready for the red carpet,” confides beauty and skincare specialist Nichola Joss, who has years of experience prepping the likes of Elle Macpherson (right), Cheryl Cole, Elizabeth Hurley, Scarlett Johansson and Kelly Brook for the Oscars, Emmys and baftas. “It’s like a military operation, with skin doctors, therapists and make-up artists on hand.” To really prep like an A-lister, your first step is an appointment with a cosmetic dermatologist for Botox, fillers and skin-plumping mesotherapy. But if this sounds a…

Describing London as “my home from home” on a recent visit to the capital to open her refurbished flagship store, quintessential New Yorker Donna Karan, 64, revealed to hello! her secrets to looking effortlessly elegant. How would you describe your beauty philosophy? “When it comes to beauty, I’m a sensualist – I love anything that feels good and smells good. Beauty begins within. It’s your spirit that attracts someone: the light in your eyes, your smile, your glow.” What are your biggest beauty secrets? My hair and make-up artist Berta Camal… and anything that helps me find calm – steam showers, yoga, meditation and massages. For moisture, I love argan oil on my skin and hair. Are you high or low maintenance? “I’m as low maintenance as it gets. I…

Skinny dipping Tempted by high-calorie party food? New Skinny Sprinkles, £24.95 for 20 servings, are sweet, strawberry-flavoured granules that contain a mix of green tea and guarana to keep your energy levels up and your sugar cravings at bay. Keep them in your bag, to be eaten straight from the pack whenever temptation strikes. Every step you take For a last-minute Christmas gift idea that could get you fit in 2013, a pedometer is ideal. The Omron Walking Style 2.1, £22.95, has a seven-day memory, counts the number of steps you take, measures how far you have walked in miles or kilometres and calculates the number of calories you have burnt. Good go glo • To raise money for her Hawn Foundation, a charitable organisation that aims to tackle anxiety…

One of the best things about Christmas is the anticipation. When I was a child, my December weekends were spent making cards, decorating the tree, hanging the wreath and preparing brandy butter and peppermint creams. Bowls brimming with walnuts, shiny wrapped chocolates and piles of clementines would appear around the house. There was always a distinctive smell, too: pine and cinnamon and the heady scent of mulled wine and pomanders that merged into one festive bouquet. Looking back, I don’t remember the presents I received, nor whether the sprouts were overcooked or the turkey dry. But what I do remember are all the small rituals that we revelled in. Christmas morning is a magical time, with stockings first thing amid a flurry of excitement and strewn wrapping paper. Fillers can…

COMPETITION A spectacular country-house break awaits the winner of this weekÕs competition. The lucky reader and a guest will be welcomed into the historic Ellenborough Park hotel for a two-night stay in a luxury suite, including a delicious dinner both evenings and your choice of therapy in the hotel spa. The competition prize Ð worth a total of £2,000 - comes courtesy of s p e c i a l i s t h o t e l w e b s i t e CrispWhiteSheets.com, which offers an exquisite collection of handpicked, luxurious retreats. Among its beautiful hotels is 15th-century Ellenborough Park, which sits in parkland overlooking the famous Cheltenham racecourse. The perfect Cotswolds hideaway, the hotel offers guests the intimate Indian-themed spa and a heated, year-round outdoor swimming…

Don't be surprised to see a few tears d u r i n g the last ever episode o f Wild at Heart У this Christmas - and i t w o n ' t be caused by dust blowing i n o f f the African savannah. "There won't be a dry eye in the house," promises Stephen Tompkinson as we chat about the special, w h i c h sees the sun finally set on the Sunday n i g h t saga about vet Danny Trevanion a n d his family, f or which viewing figures rarely dipped below eight m i l l i o n. "Without giving too much away, one o f the final scenes is a b i g family gathering a n…

HALF HOUR WITH… Born in Sydney, Australia to English parents, Hugh Jackman got his big break when he was cast as Wolverine in the X-Men franchise, which has since spawned his own spin-off. The 44-year-old actor, who got his start in a string of theatre productions, is back on screen alongside friend Russell Crowe as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, based on the hugely successful stage musical. Last week, he received a Golden Globe nomination for his role in the acclaimed film, which opens in the US on Christmas Day, and hits UK screens next month. The youngest of five, Hugh was brought up by his father Chris after his mother Grace left the family to return to England when Hugh was just eight. The star recently broke down during…

‘It was amazing. I’m blown away that our music is now on stage’ Emma Bunton The sight of the Spice Girls together again on stage had a West End audience cheering in the aisles last week. But while the quintet were happy to demonstrate their Girl Power at the glittering premiere of Viva Forever!, a new musical inspired by the band’s back catalogue, Victoria Beckham showed that family comes first for her, choosing the company of husband David and their three sons over her bandmates while watching the show. Arriving slightly late at the Piccadilly Theatre, Victoria and her family, who had jetted in from Los Angeles for the event, sat apart from fellow Spice Girls Emma Bunton, Geri Halliwell, Melanie Chisholm and Melanie Brown in the auditorium and again…

We all know they are not just for Christmas, but for the dog-mad Duchess of Cornwall, making a return trip to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home with her rescue hounds was a chance not to be sniffed at. In a warm blue coat and accompanied by Jack Russell pups Beth and Bluebell, who came to live with Camilla following a stint at the London centre, she chatted with fellow Battersea ambassador Paul O’Grady (together, top), who was filming a special for ITV. The presenter’s pets include a chihuahua-Jack Russell cross and Camilla told him: “I love Jack Russells, they are such intelligent dogs,” adding of her own pair: “They are very happy and love each other.” The Duchess then headed to Clarence House, where, now dressed in purple plaid, she…

Whi le most of us were wrapped up in Christmas present buying, it was business as usual for Crown Princess Mary of Denmark, as she accompanied her husband on a three-day visit to Hong Kong and China. The 40-year-old mother of four – who studied commerce and law at university in her native Australia and has worked in advertising and marketing – was a real asset to Crown Prince Frederik during their whistlestop tour (together, right). The pair spent two days in Hong Kong, where Mary gave a speech about Danish creativity at the Business of Design Exhibition and helped launch a Build Your World Lego competition at the Lego Education Centre. Then it was off to Beijing before heading home to Copenhagen. During her brief stay in the Chinese…

As a leading light of the British fashion industry, Stella McCartney has always been switched on when it comes to design. And with a little help from a pair of unlikely collaborators – comedians Paul Whitehouse and Vic Reeves (below right, with their hostess) – the same can now be said of her London flagship store. Every year Stella invites famous friends to flick the switch on her Christmas illuminations in what is fast becoming a festive tradition that attracts an A-list crowd. This year was no exception as guests including Twiggy, Kelly Hoppen, Jamie and Louise Redknapp and star chef Raymond Blanc all giggled as the comedy duo performed a version of Peter Sarstedt’s 1960s hit Where Do You Go to My Lovely. Tweaking the lyrics in honour of…

On song (from left): John Suchet, Brian Blessed, Julie Walters, Jeremy Irons and Emilia Fox Some of the most famous voices in showbusiness were on fine form for this year’s Prince’s Foundation for Children & the Arts carols service. Harry Potter actress Julie Walters read an extract from her autobiography, in which she recalled helping with the sound cues on a nativity play – with some interesting consequences for Mary and Joseph. Jeremy Irons treated guests to a spirited reading of John Betjeman’s poem Christmas, while fellow Children & the Arts ambassador Brian Blessed’s trademark booming baritone was perfect for reading The Night Before Christmas. And Silent Witness star Emilia Fox enchanted with Beatrix Potter’s The Tailor of Gloucester. Music came courtesy of BBC Young Musician 2012, cellist Laura Van…

With children hanging from both arms and won en around her singing, it's little wonder Pixie Lott was overwhelmed by the warmth of tl e welcome she received on her recent trip to Zambia. The 21-year-old popstar sper t two days in the slums of the ι apital Lusaka, where she saw how the lives of some of the poorest people in the world are being transformed. "I've realised it's possible to achieve great things with just a small amount of money when you work together, and that it's about supporting each other through difficult times," Pixie told HELLO!. "It's also shown me that less is more and that's what I'm going to focus on as I spend Christmas with my family." Pixie flew to Zambia to see how some…

When she visited the Bank of England recently, the Queen did what most of us would like to do – ask some very direct questions about the financial crisis. When the recession began in 2008 it was famously the Queen who asked: “Why did nobody notice?” So, with all the experience of her 60 years on the throne, she was not bamboozled last week when city expert Sujit Kapadia tried to explain that such downturns are as difficult to predict as earthquakes or flu pandemics. People became complacent about risky investments, she was told. Pulling her stern Windsor face, she replied: “But people had got a bit… lax, had they? “The Financial Services – what do they call themselves, the regulators? – Authority, which was really quite new… It didn’t…

‘Some of them I have to be cut out of. I end up having a panic attack’ Kylie Minogue (left) admits that some of her risqué stage outfits are a tad too tight ‘Well, it did destroy ten years of my life. I think I am through it now’ Actor Hugh Grant takes a swing at his obsession with golf ‘I have already read the 2048 script. We are on a starship’ Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville wonders if the hit show will ever end ‘US TV is sadly allergic to pot-bellied, gnarled, balding, boring old petrol heads’ Expat British broadcaster Piers Morgan says Jeremy Clarkson will never be joining him across the Pond ‘If it rains in London you have got to come and help us, okay?’ Rolling Stone…

Mush! TV presenters Trey Farley and Katy and their children Kaya, six, and Akira, three, ride in a huskydrawn sleigh through Lapland’s winter wonderland, then meet the pups (top right) and a reindeer (far right) Magical. That’s the word people always use to describe Lapland – and now I understand why. Riding through a twinkling forest of snow on a beautiful sleigh pulled by reindeer was completely and utterly magical and a moment my husband Trey, our children Kaya, six, and Akira, three, and I will cherish forever. It was just one of many unforgettable experiences we were lucky enough to have when we accompanied ten very special families to Lapland with a wonderful charity called Starlight Children’s Foundation. Helping 500,000 children a year, Starlight grants a cherished wish to…

‘We’ve waited the longest time for Christmas this year. The fact that it has finally come is just so exciting. It’s a really special time of year for us’ The couple and their boys Alastair, seven, and 22-month-old Aiden, sit by their huge spruce tree, decorated with gold and silver baubles, as they celebrate Christmas at their Epping Forest home The stunning 19th-century mansion, nestled in a valley in the midst of Epping Forest’s ancient woods in Essex, is twinkling merrily with festive fairylights and flickering candles as Rod Stewart, wife Penny Lancaster and their two children, Alastair and Aiden, sit contentedly in front of a roaring open fire. Inside, the opulent antique furniture is groaning with red-berried holly and aromatic garlands. Ornate Christmas decorations are scattered among the framed…

‘Catherine would have loved to have been here if she could’ The Duke of Cambridge With the Duchess of Cambridge signed off all official duties, it was left to her husband the Duke to walk the green carpet alone ahead of the UK premiere of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. He was greeted by stars including (above centre, from left): Andy Serkis, director Sir Peter Jackson, James Nesbitt, Martin Freeman, Cate Blanchett, Richard Armitage and Sir Ian McKellen. Said Sir Ian to the audience before the screening: “I am sure that everyone here would want to convey our best wishes to the Duchess” Hobbits, dwar ves, elves and wizards were joined by a reallife Prince and thousands of fervent fans at the UK premiere of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.…

STRIKING ART Russian artist Stanislav Aristov’s carefully crafted creations are hot stuff – literally, as they are created from burnt matchsticks, flames and smoke. An IT specialist by trade, the bright spark developed a burning desire t o c re a t e a r t f rom matchsticks after seeing the intricate patterns left in the wood of a burnt match. “I guess the funny thing is, I don’t even smoke,” said the 29-year-old from Yekaterinburg, central Russia. His smoking-hot creative output includes b u t t e r f l i e s ( l e f t ) , salamanders (right), dragonflies (above right), stars (top right) and – perfect for the festive season – a flaming lovely Christmas tree (above).…

SHOPPING Camilla Belle dazzled at the grand re-opening of Salvatore Ferragamo’s flagship London store on Old Bond Street. The California-born actress sparkled in a sequin and leather dress from the luxe label’s 2013 resort collection, teamed with a pair of its nude heels and gold “Milena” box clutch. Elegant jewellery from Van Cleef & Arpels completed her shimmering style. 1. Restrain dress, £225, All Saints, 0844-980 2211; visit allsaints.com 2. Large Hoop gold-plated pierced earrings, £97, Swarovski, tel: 01737-856 814; visit swarovski.com 3. Peach Blush Honeycomb bangle and Sea Shell Honeycomb bangle, £225 each, Astley Clarke, tel: 020-7706 0060; visit astleyclarke.com 4. All Over Glitter Deco box clutch, £26, Warehouse; visit warehouse.co.uk 5. Slip-on heels, £59.99, Mango, tel: 0845-082 2448; visit mango.com Christmas star: Camilla Belle shines in top-to-toe Ferragamo…

BEAUTY 1. L’Occitane Marvellous Flowers Shimmering Oil, £22, gives a subtle peony- and rose-scented sheen to hair and body 2. Bourjois Queen Attitude Khol Kajal, £6.99, can be worn on the inner and outer rim of the eyes and will help you nail the season’s smoky-eye looks 3. Reem Acra Eau de Parfum, £72, formulated by the Lebanese designer to remind her of home, it has notes of amber, ginger, jasmine, cedar, patchouli and musk 4. Paco Rabanne Lady Million Absolutely Gold, £82.50, is a real Christmas bauble of a perfume, with notes of bitter orange, jasmine sambac, patchouli and cashmeran 5. Guerlain Liu Perfumed Shimmer Powder Spray, £50.50, adds a final flourish to party décolletage, shoulders and shins 6. Andrea Garland Pyewacket Ring, £36, is filled with organic Lovely…

HIT LIST GREAT LENGTHS Crown your Christmas beauty regime with Original Paul Mitchell haircare. These classic formulations will help ensure luxe-looking locks all through the party season. Start with Hair Repair Treatment, to strengthen and rebuild stressed tresses with a powerful dose of moisture. The result? A photo-perfect party ’do – every time. • Paul Mitchell Hair Repair Treatment, £ 13.75. Visit paul mitche co.uk Sparkling skin Keep your skin looking party-perfect with an exclusive offer from Elizabeth Arden and Swarovski. With every purchase of Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum, receive a personalised bottle customised in Swarovski crystals with your initials - or those of someone special, for the perfect Christmas present. • Prevage Anti-aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum £160. Exclusively at John Lewis and Arnotts (ROI).…

Stars across the Pond are embracing juicing couture - a detox diet featuring customised fruit and vegetable blends. Should you be feeling the squeeze? WELLBEING Paris Hilton takes it nice and squeezy Krysten Ritter is pressed to perfection Miranda Kerr reveals the juicy details Vanessa Hudgens holds a crush With most of us likely to see in the New Year a few pounds heavier than we saw out the old, thoughts in January often turn towards going on a diet. And top of the trends – and fresh from Los Angeles – is the celebrity favourite of detox juicing. The diet is not simply a case of stocking up on cartons of orange juice and fruit smoothies, however, as the latest way to detox involves freshly pressed fruit and vegetable…

ROAST TURKEY There is no doubt that carving a turkey at the table makes for an impressive display, but with so many other ingredients to serve, plating up in the kitchen will save time. Serves 8 INGREDIENTS • 100g/4oz butter, at room temperature • Zest of 1 orange, orange reserved • 10 sprigs of thyme, 8 picked, 2 left whole • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 1 x 4kg/9lb turkey at room temperature, giblets removed and reserved • 3 bay leaves • Olive oil • 1 quantity Sage and Onion Stuffing (see next page) • 1 glass of red wine, water or cider 1. Preheat the oven to 220°C, 425°F, Gas 7. In a bowl mix the butter with the orange zest and picked thyme leaves and season…

Sagittarius 23 NOV – 21 DEC Brad Pitt is 49 on 18 December At this time of year all the shops tend to play the same Christmas hits. It’s possible to walk from one store to another and hear the same tune. Generally, that’s your experience now. It’s as if wherever you go, you keep hearing the same story. Is life trying to hammer home a simple message? Apparently so. Will you benefit enormously once you acknowledge this and take the hint? You will. Good tidings await you in your new 2013 prediction. Call 0906-751 8080. Pisces 20 FEB – 20 MAR There will always be something that’s not quite right. Probably, even angels in heaven occasionally find that their wings itch, their clouds leak or their harps need tuning.…

Check out the line-up (left) of past stars gathered for this year’s Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special – and don’t forget the series final. Of the glittering line-up of sporting heroes, Olympians, pop stars, rock royalty (and even a HELLO! columnist!) it’s been the hardest call to date for fans and bookies on just who will raise the coveted glitterball trophy this Christmas. In the interest of fair play and despite my backstage access, I can’t offer any insider tips but there’s at least one highlight from this year’s final that will thrill the show’s 12 million fans. There will be at least one more group dance. And yes, we are all back for that. There will be no safe place to rest your eyes! • Strictly Come Dancing final…