Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 676 i Closer

Cheryl’s had a rotten week. She was forced to threaten legal action over a controversial photo that seemed to show her standing near some drugs – something she hates with a passion. She’s been slated AGAIN for being underweight, and her old sparring partner Louis Walsh had another public dig at her. Anyone would struggle with that lot, but we have a feeling Cheryl will bounce back. She once said: “There’s a force field around me – I’m bullet proof.” If ever there was a time to remember those words, it’s now.…

Like so much of Kim Kardashian’s life, the arrival of her daughter North two years ago was full of drama when she gave birth five weeks early. And pals reveal eight months pregnant Kim could have more drama headed her way after working herself into a frenzy that she may suffer complications and be forced to give birth early. Last week, Kim, 35, announced her baby boy was breech, meaning he’s in the wrong position for birth, with his head still facing upwards. On her website she wrote: “I have been doing everything I can to try to turn the baby… I’ve learned that you actually can deliver a breech baby and I feel fortunate that my doctor Paul Crane is one of the few doctors that still does this.…

Gigi Hadid may be close to Zayn, but it seems she’s not so keen on Harry Styles. The 1D star dated her BFF Taylor Swift in 2012, but was said to have abruptly ended the relationship. He was also linked to her pal Kendall Jenner this year. Last week, Gigi appeared to blank Harry, 21, during an awkward encounter at the American Music Awards when she gave him a handshake but hugged the rest of the band. A source says: “Gigi is loyal to Taylor, and their inner circle have made a pact to blank Harry. Zayn and Harry are no longer close since the band split in March – and Gigi is trying to assure Taylor that Zayn is nothing like Harry.”…

Controversial mum-of-eight Marie Buchan made headlines earlier this year when she boasted of spoiling her children using handouts totalling £26,000 a year and complaining about the benefits cap. But now the mum says her benefits aren’t enough and she wants to get a job as a mechanic. Marie, who hasn’t worked for seven years, says: “I can’t get any more benefits because the Government capped them at £26k a year in 2014. I used to manage, but now the kids are older, I have to buy more food and clothes, so I’m broke. I’m being forced to get a job but I’ll only work if I earn more than I get on benefits. I also want to set a good example for my kids.” LAVISH LIFESTYLE Marie – who is…

Last week, outspoken Loose Women host Janet Street-Porter, 68, caused controversy after announcing she thinks children should be banned from cafés and restaurants – labelling them “loud” and “attention-seeking.” She said: “There’s nothing generated by something small, cross and wearing a nappy?” And Janet – who doesn’t have children herself – pointed out that many places in the UK are child-friendly, adding: “It’s as if children dominate our society and no one has the guts to question this ludicrous assumption... What about the rest of us, the people who might want to enjoy a meal without a toddler – not even one we’re related to – for company?” A Closer poll revealed 57 per cent of people think that children shouldn’t be banned from cafés and restaurants. We ask if…

THE MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS For many of us, Christmas is the one time of year when we make an extra effort to catch up with the friends and family we just don’t see enough of. But for Bev Freeman-Fletcher, it will be the first time she has seen her daughter, 45, since she was forced to abandon her as a baby. The emotional meeting will be all the more poignant for Bev as she was cruelly told her baby, Kim, had died shortly after she was adopted in 1970. Unknown to her, Kim grew up with adoptive parents in Africa, where Bev had been living with her parents before they disowned her at 16 over her teenage pregnancy. And 46 years later, Bev – who moved to the UK and…

She sparked reports she’d split from Hollyoaks boyfriend Greg Wood in July after lashing out on Twitter that she’d been left heartbroken again by an “idiot boy.” But after Sheridan Smith, 34, was pictured cosying up to the actor – and at one point sobbing in his arms – over dinner last week, insiders say she’s told the bad boy it’s his last chance. A source reveals: “Sheridan and Greg had an emotional heart-to-heart and she told him he has one more chance with her. He’s been accused of cheating in the past and she told him she’ll walk away if he so much as flirts with another woman.” Their relationship, which started in January, has been marred by controversy. Greg, 36, denied reports he’d left his ex-wife Catherine and…

Miscarriage charity Tommy’s launched a campaign this month aiming to end the silence around miscarriage. Sadly, this heartbreaking experience is all too common – around one in four early pregnancies ends in one. And yet despite this, a recent poll showed most women felt like a failure after losing a baby. Tommy’s chief executive Jane Brewin thinks that part of the feeling of isolation and guilt is due to women not sharing their experiences. Also, at present the cause for a miscarriage is only investigated once a woman has suffered three consecutive ones. Tommy’s is campaigning for this to change so that the cause is looked into after two. Here, actress and presenter Claire Sweeney shares her devastating experience and tells us how her friends helped her cope.…

MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY Matthew, 46, lost more than 3st to play an AIDS victim in 2013’s Dallas Buyers Club. He lived on chicken, egg whites and Diet Coke. CHRISTIAN BALE Christian, 41, has often shed weight for roles. In 2004 he lost 4st, shrinking to 8st 9lbs on a diet of coffee and apples, for The Machinist. LIAM NEESON Liam, 63, was snapped looking frail this summer. He later revealed his 1½st weight loss was for new Scorsese film Silence. TOM HANKS Tom, 59, has also transformed himself for roles. It took him a year to lose almost 4st to play a man stranded on an island in 2000’s Castaway.…

Clinical psychologist Dr Abigael San says: “Cynthia’s been through an extremely traumatic experience and will be feeling a range of emotions. It’s understandable she feels guilty, but she needs to try to move past these feelings because she could never have known her husband would do something so awful. The most important thing Cynthia can do is focus on her daughter, Lauren. She is right to tell her that her dad loved her, and should also stress to her that what happened wasn’t her fault – as young children can often end up blaming themselves. Although what happened is horrific, Cynthia should try not to let her husband’s actions consume her with anger. Counselling would help her work through her feelings and enable her to move on.”…

MONDAY Today’s my day off, but as Head Stylist the job is never done. I go to Boohoo’s press day to see their S/S16 collection. An overview of a brand’s new range is essential in this job. TUESDAY I sit in on meetings with the creative team so we can plan the visual concept for the weekend’s show. This was the colour palette that 4th Impact’s outfits needed to match. WEDNESDAY My team and I (there’s 10 of us in total!) frantically start calling around high street brands to borrow clothing samples to fit each theme. We didn’t end up using this white dress, but it’s a keeper for a future show. THURSDAY Extra show content is filmed on Thursdays. Here’s a behind-the-scenes with Lauren we shot for [X Factor…

THE SEMI TOPKNOT Micro trend alert! The semi topknot is progressing its way through the fashion ranks, with the likes of models Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid sporting the style. But even for us mere mortals, this is a really simple way to update any look, day or night – and shows you really have your finger on the pulse! Use a tail comb to scoop up hair into a half-back do, then lightly secure with a clear elastic. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around until it forms a small topknot, then pin discreetly with a hair grip. Finish with a dual shine and hold spray. How easy is that?…

Do you feel anxious, stressed, depressed or a bit low? While there are various psychological self-help tactics you can try, one strategy is to make simple changes to your diet. “Just as a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of physical illness, eating the right foods can help to enhance mental health,” says nutritionist Dale Pinnock, author of Anxiety & Depression: Eat Your Way To Better Health. “Our brain also needs specific nutrients to keep it healthy.” Dale recommends these foods to lift your mood… HERE ARE DALE’S TOP FOOD TIPS... OILY FISH This is high in Omega-3 fatty acids, needed to produce serotonin – the “feel good” brain chemical. Aim for two portions a week. LEAFY GREENS Provide magnesium, as do nuts, fish and quinoa. This relaxes muscles…

LIDL DELUXE WITH LOVE LEMON & RASPBERRY SEMI-FREDDO (£3.99) Crafted by Michelin-starred chef Kevin Love, this semi-frozen ice-cream serves 6-7 and has a deep, velvety texture. COMTE DE SENNEVAL CHAMPAGNE (£9.97) Champagne for under a tenner is hard to argue with. This is light, fresh and tastes as good as the posh stuff. FAVORINA FINEST MARZIPAN STOLLEN (£1.99 FOR 750G). This rich and sticky fruit bread is filled with succulent hazelnuts and sultanas. Serves 6. DELUXE MACAROONS (£2.99 FOR 12) Perfect to have on standby in the freezer for guests, these macaroons are a budget treat. ASDA EXTRA-SPECIAL TIGER WOOD CHEESE BOARD (£8) A selection of four delicious cheeses on a board you’ll want to keep. Grab crackers and you’re good to go! CHRISTMAS SPARKLE FRUIT CAKE (£8.98) Not only…

“I’m a single mum of two sons, Tyell, 21, and Tahj, 14, and I’m working to expand my PR agency. I started the business in 2013 and I have new clients lined up, but I need to rent an office and employ a few people to build up my business, so I need an injection of cash. “I was refused a £5k to £10k loan by Barclays and HSBC as I have an adverse credit rating. My son Tyell defaulted on his phone bill for a few months last year. He had to pay £212 to settle it and get his account reactivated. We changed address, so I wasn’t notified at the time and this non-payment has stopped me from getting the loan I need right away. “I’ve been advised…

This is your first role since you quit playing Emmerdale’s Katie Sugden. What’s it been like? I was quite nervous – this was the first new set I’d walked on to since leaving Emmerdale, but Philip [Glenister – who plays her prison officer dad, David] was delightful and we got on really well. He had me in stitches laughing most of the time – though as soon as they called: “Action!” he brought his game up straight away. What can you tell us about your character? She’s called Lucy and she’s heavily pregnant. She has a big row with her boyfriend and goes to stay with her dad. The back story is her mother passed away six months earlier, so she needs her dad and they…

IF IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK The year ahead looks promising – it’s a time to expand professionally. What have you always dreamed of doing? How can you make it happen? Go for it! Love-wise, it might still be up and down, but at least it’s not likely to be boring! IF IT’S YOUR THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN SAGITTARIUS 23 NOV -21 DEC Work as hard as you can this week – you really might get somewhere. Yes, having nasty Saturn in your sign means not all your efforts will yield instant results. However, longterm, the work you are putting in now is going to help you create the life you’re dreaming of. For your spoken forecast, call 0906 7511 677* CAPRICORN 22 DEC-20 JAN As the year comes…

Cheryl Fernandez-Versini looked strained as she was spotted out in London last week – just days after the X Factor judge found herself caught up in a shocking photo scandal. The singer was left fuming and threatening legal action after a photograph emerged of her standing next to what appeared to be a white powdery substance on a shelf in the toilets of the London Coliseum, where she was attending the British Fashion Awards. The snap was uploaded to Instagram captioned “Sadness in her eyes” and, although it was promptly deleted, it caused a storm. There was no suggestion that Cheryl had anything to do with drugs and her reps were quick to deny any association, blasting: “She absolutely despises drugs and any connection linking her to them is ridiculous.”…

he broke down discussing her shock split from third husband George Kay on Loose Women last week. But Kerry Katona raised concern that she hasn’t ruled out getting back together with George – who she split from in October amid claims he’d assaulted her – when she admitted she was still “madly in love” and had yet to take off her wedding ring. STILL IN LOVE Opening up on the panel show, mum-of-five Kerry – who has Molly, 14, Lilly-Sue, 12, Heidi, eight, Max, seven, and 19-month-old Dylan-Jorge – added: “I’m getting better. I love George to bits. I’m still madly in love with him. I’ve got to keep at least one of my rings! I’m not ready to take them off yet.” When asked directly if there was any…

She’s been throwing herself into single life since splitting from her partner of nine years, Scott Disick, in June – partying and showing off her slimmed-down size 8 figure. But after Kourtney Kardashian stumbled out of an American Music Awards after party last week looking bleary eyed – and being held up by her mum Kris Jenner’s toyboy Corey Gamble – pals are warning her not to go off the rails like Scott. Scott – dad to Kourtney’s children, Mason, five, Penelope, three, and Reign, 11 months – is renowned for his drinking and partying, and spiralled out of control when he lost both his parents early last year. Recently, he completed a stint in rehab to conquer his demons. A source says: “Kourtney’s always had the capacity to be…

SHELTER AMBASSADOR MELANIE C SAYS : “It’s a tragedy that more than 100,000 children will be homeless in Britain this Christmas. It breaks my heart to think of all the families with no place to call home, crammed into a tiny room in a B&B without space for a tree or anywhere to eat Christmas dinner. Not a single child should have to be homeless, least of all at Christmas, and Shelter is there to make sure no one has to face homelessness alone. Sadly, their services are being stretched. By wearing your slippers for #SlippersforShelter on 4 Dec and donating just £3 [see right], you’ll help Shelter be there for those who need them this Christmas.”…

Since entering the I’m A Celeb! jungle, her bubbly personality has won her hordes of admirers, but Vicky Pattison is more usually known for her Geordie Shore days of wild partying, bar brawls and heavy boozing. In 2014, the 28-year-old was convicted of assaulting two women with a stiletto heel on a night out in Newcastle, and in May this year she was reportedly hospitalised in Marbella after being caught up in a “drunken brawl.” She was also recently forced to deny claims she’d broken ex-fiancé Ricci Guarnaccio’s nose with her handbag. Despite all this, while mum Carol admits her daughter has “her moments,” she insists Vicky’s drinking isn’t a concern. She says: “Vicky’s such a lovely person, so funny and witty. She’s an angel really, but does have her…

They’ve hit the headlines as a result of their non-stop PDAs since they were seen cuddling outside a London hotel in September – and now insiders say Strictly’s Aliona Vilani and Jay McGuiness are raising more eyebrows with their backstage antics. According to a Strictly insider, Jay, 25, and Aliona, 31, have been drawing attention to themselves with their increasingly reclusive behaviour. INTENSE FRIENDSHIP A source says: “The female pro dancers usually change together in one big dressing room. But Aliona is rarely there – preferring to change in Jay’s room. She no longer spends as much time with the other dancers. “It seems to have rubbed off on Jay because he hardly hangs out with the other contestants and dancers, either. During the filming in Blackpool, the BBC runner…

Megan Morrish is the manager at The Waterfront pub in Barton Marina, Burton-on-Trent. She says: “After careful consideration, we banned under-fives in July due to customer complaints. A large majority said they found some of the young children unruly, noisy and disruptive. Some parents weren’t happy about it, but we feel we’ve made the right decision. Since the ban we’ve been busy and had a lot more business people coming in, because they know they’ll be able to enjoy their meal or a drink without disruption. We’d never want to ban over-fives – we don’t want to alienate families with older children.”…

£1K On a signed Ronaldo football shirt at an auction for my son. It was very expensive! £89 On a pair of bright pink Skechers trainers with lots of cushioning for the gym. £120 On dinner for my friends, including Jo Wood, at The Arts Club. I paid because they didn’t eat much and I did! £50 On conditioners from Inanch when I had my hair done there. I like to look after my locks. £30 On a Miracle Mask from Harley Street Skin Products. I apply it every Sunday while I’m in the bath. It takes all the stress out of my face.…

Claire Sweeney, 44, had always wanted children, so when she discovered she was unexpectedly pregnant in early 2012 with her now ex-boyfriend Daniel Reilly, she was delighted. However, when she went for her first scan at nine weeks, she was devastated to be told her baby’s heart wasn’t beating. She says: “It was a huge shock – it didn’t even cross my mind that anything would go wrong. The doctors told me it was very common and that there was no reason I wouldn’t go on to be pregnant again soon.” Sadly, Claire lost a second baby in summer 2013. She says: “As soon as I found out I was pregnant I took to my bed – determined to do everything to keep my baby safe. “But four weeks in,…

WHO WORE IT BEST? Jada Pinkett Smith vs Nicki Minaj This gold tasselled Balmain frock (£6,290) looks like something out of Cleopatra’s wardrobe, and we’re sure both Nicki and Jada turned their fair share of heads! While the singer added her statement edge with a pair of knee-high lace-up boots, actress Jada stuck to classic strappy heels. And who needs accessories with this spangly number? VERDICT The dress itself looks great on both ladies (even if it is part loincloth) but this one is all down to the footwear. Jada’s dainty sandals just beat Nicki’s chunky boots, making her our golden girl this time. STYLE CRUSH! COOL KATE Kate Beckinsale, 42 Her marriage may be under scrutiny right now, but Kate looked to be taking it all in her stride…

IN THE NEWS CHRISTMAS JUMPERS! Now with their own official day on 18 December, Christmas jumpers have become a major part of fashion festivities. Over the past couple of years, the high street has been filled with retro novelty knits, covered with jingle bells, slogans and general merriment, but 2015 woollies have a new grown-up feel. We love Katy Perry’s party season look (left) – follow her lead and team your knit with a figure-hugging skirt and heels for kitsch-but-cool style. MEET THE MICRO TREND... A-LIST APPLIQUÉ Up the fashion ante like the stars this party season, dressing to impress with an intricate appliqué frock. It’ll give your festive soirée a decidedly designer appeal. JUST LANDED The days of desperately hunting down the perfect nail shade to match your party…

BEST FAUX FUR Multi-colour faux furs were everywhere on the A/W catwalks and fearless fashion bunnies will love this one. H&M £69.99 WEEKEND WARMER Adopt this bottom skimming faux-fur shearling trim coat and nod to the ’70s Starsky & Hutch fashion vibes. Flares optional. VERY £79 BEST COLOUR Coats are an investment so we tend to stick with classics. But at £59.99, you can afford to introduce some colour. ZARA £59.99 BEST HOODED This stylish hooded parka comes with detachable fur trim and a drawstring waist to flatter. F&F £49 BEST BARGAIN Meet the coatigan – combining the heaviness and warmth of a coat with the comfort of a cardigan. PRIMARK £23 FOR WORK Victoria Beckham recently stepped out in a mannish coat like this! Jeans and fashion-worthy trainers will…

THE MOVES The singer works out three times a week, runs, and does Bikram yoga and Barry’s Bootcamp classes. She’s also a fan of high-energy sports like the Brazilian martial art capoeira. She says: “Find a buddy who will push you further. You work for them.” THE FOODS Ellie’s an “aspiring vegan” and loves her physique after going veggie, saying: “My body’s different… and my eyes are brighter.” Breakfast is a juice with kale, lunch is scrambled tofu and dinner is pea and broad bean burgers and veg. She does indulge and says: “I love champagne.” THE CHEAT To stay fuelled for her workouts, the size 8-10 star, 28, munches on peanut butter and chocolate chip GoMacro protein bars. She says: “They’re vegan, full of good stuff and sourced sustainably.”…

When conflict arises, either in a professional or personal setting, women are immediately at a disadvantage. That’s because – as research shows – when men get angry, people see them as passionate and influential, but should a woman act in a similar fashion she’s considered to be over-emotional and is taken less seriously. These stereotypes have been played out for decades and mean that becoming an articulate arguer is a skill we women need to master. So how do we speak our minds without losing credibility? MAKE YOUR POINT, KEEP CREDIBILITY › IT’S NOT ABOUT WINNING. Rather than focusing on getting someone to agree, see PANIC,ALLISNOT discussions as an opportunity to share your valuable thoughts and allow others to make up their own minds. Listen to their view, then you’ll…

Emma’s new website Switch allows you to be part of an online community, with the opportunity to meet up with real-life new friends. There’s also a feature to log your own journal and record your moods, as well as a meal and exercise plan. For a free seven-day trial, with no code or bank details required, visit Makeyourswitch.co.uk. If you choose to sign up after the trial, Switch and Closer are offering you membership at a discounted price of £9.99 per month (usually £14.99). Enter the code CLOSER when joining.*…

Christmas is nearly upon us and, if you’re feeling like you’ll never get to the bottom of your to-do lists, fear not. The Post Office can offer you an extra pair of hands this Christmas – without breaking the bank. We all want to make sure our parcels reach our loved ones in time for the big day. With Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed® , you can send your gifts right up to midday on 23 December and, rest assured, they’ll arrive just in time to be placed under the tree – or your money back*. You can also post parcels (up to 2kg – the equivalent of two big bags of sugar!) from as little as £2.80**. And, if you need to send presents abroad, there are plenty of…

MY POCKET MONEY WAS… I didn’t really get any, but when I did I’d probably buy sweets. My favourites were pink and blue fizzy bottles and Midget Gems. MY FIRST JOB WAS… At a fish and chip shop called George’s in York – I loved it! It was opposite a Working Men’s Club and the conversations I had with the old people were great! I got £4.50 an hour. MY BIGGEST IMPULSE PURCHASE WAS... I bought a dress for £300 for the Soap Awards but never wore it – it was a pressured buy! THE MOST EXPENSIVE THING I OWN IS... My silver Rolex watch. It was a present so I’m not sure how much it’s worth, but over £2k I think. SPENDER OR SAVER? Saver. My family are grafters.…

SECRETS SPILLED ON XMAS CELEB JUICE HOLLY: ‘I never go commando’ (And other revelations...) He may be a bit Marmite, but the outrageous Keith Lemon certainly goes where no other TV host would dare. The nation now knows that the lovely Holly Willoughby is always wearing knickers. Revealing all on the Christmas special of ITV2’s Celebrity Juice, Holly tells Keith: “There’s not really any excuse for wearing no knickers – there’s always a piece of underwear you can find to go under any garment. As for bras, I’ve got quite a few that I’ve had for a very long time but I can’t get rid of because they bring back memories...” Now that that’s out there, Keith’s other guests on this week’s episode also get the nosy treatment. After he…

VINCENT’S BEEN A NAUGHTY BOY EASTENDERS You’ve got to hand it to Kim – she does like to make an effort. Sadly, Vincent has other things on his mind (crazy man) and is in no mood to celebrate his birthday, despite Kim’s best efforts. Telling Ronnie he plans to “take Phil daaan” (is he mad?), he pushes ahead with his bonkers scheme, planting something in Mr Mitchell’s coat pocket. This is one very brave man. Elsewhere, Kathy finds out that Bobby is actually the devil child… HOLLYOAKS STE’S IMPRESSING NO ONE… We’ve loved the tangled web being weaved between Harry and Ste, and this week, Ste (drunkenly) decides to show Harry just what he means to him – in the school corridor. We’ll leave you to guess how this one…

She has nowhere else to go, and no money – plus (long lost son) Robbie is buried in the village graveyard, and she's tied because of that. What about her secret pregnancy dilemma? Her bump’s growing, so it’s not going to be long before the whole village finds out – and if Jai gets wind of it, it'll be hell. It looks as if Sam Dingle (James Hooton) is holding a torch for Megan. Aw, Sam has been really kind to her – he’s been there when everyone else has turned their back. The fact that these two characters have formed a friendship is very unlikely but the viewers seem to like it and I’m happy. Is it fun working with James? I love it! We have very deep conversations…

Body language expert Judi James says: “Victoria’s hand in her pocket can be a sign of a desire to hide. David’s hand is on top in the clasp, suggesting he’s controlling the moment. The way he’s gazing at her suggests he wants her to relax.” Judi says: “There’s slightly less symmetry and harmony in this pose. David sits slightly pulled away while Victoria has slipped across the seats to cling to his thigh with both her hands, indicating her insecurity.” Judi says: “This is a signature Posh pose, gazing at David while she places a territorial-looking hand on his shoulder. It’s her night, but she’s making it about him because she feels vulnerable.” After months of negative reports about their 16-year marriage, Victoria and David Beckham – who was voted…

She quashed reports she’d dumped boyfriend Tyga on his 26th birthday, putting on a display of unity with the rapper at the American Music Awards after party just days later. And after Kylie Jenner answered “yes” when a reporter asked her if she and Tyga were planning to wed, pals say Kylie, 18, is desperate to get hitched to prove their critics wrong. A source reveals: “Kylie really wants to elope with Tyga and cement how strong and serious their romance is. She’s so keen to prove a point, she’s hinted to pals they may have a surprise ceremony on New Year’s Eve and has even got her lawyers to draft a pre-nup agreement.” Kylie’s romance with Tyga – who has son King Cairo, three, with ex-fiancée Blac Chyna –…

He hit out at his best pal and MIC co-star Spencer Matthews’ ex-girlfriend Lauren Hutton on Twitter last week, after she teased the Chelsea Lothario over his early exit from the I’m A Celeb! jungle. And after Spencer later revealed it was an addiction to steroids that had forced him to leave – and that he’d entered rehab – Jamie Laing tells Closer he’s looking out for his friend. Jamie says: “Spencer was honest about what happened and I respect that. Obviously Spencer is my boy. He’s family.” The Twitter feud erupted after Lauren Tweeted: “Well that lasted long... Even your relationships last longer (just). I think I’d make a better contestant.” Jamie was quick to respond, blasting: “F**k off you leaching random.” Lauren then wrote: “Classy as always, love…

Jay McGuiness raised eyebrows again last week after a bizarre outburst on Strictly spin-off show, It Takes Two. After watching a clip of adorable 20-month-old Ray Tickner dancing along to his latest performance, Jay, 25, commented: “I just want to cut off his hair and hands and feet – and squeeze him – and put him in a bag and kick it. Cute.” The strange comment – which made Aliona look uncomfortable – caused a flurry of comments on Twitter, with one user saying: “It’s so horrible you said that about a child! It’s absolutely horrible you said that.” But many fans jumped to Jay’s defence, and even Ray’s mum Lyndsey joked Ray “hadn’t taken offence, but would like to keep his curls.” She later said: “I was surprised at…

Dean Piper of PR company Beak Communications says: “Despite her global fame, Adele has remained down to earth. I’ve known her since she first came on to the music scene and I’m pleased to say she’s still the girl I met many moons ago. I last saw her backstage at Glastonbury this year and she sang me the choruses to four Kanye West songs! It doesn’t matter who you are – she treats everyone the same. Her PR team have orchestrated her comeback perfectly – they’ve just put a few interviews in place and let the public’s appetite – and her voice – do the rest. Her new tour goes to show that Adele is more comfortable and confident than ever. It’s no world tour like Rihanna or Beyoncé’s that…

TOWIE’s Chloe Sims, 33, has a 10-year-old daughter named Madison. She says: “I’ve always taken my daughter out for dinner, even when she was a toddler. Eating out is an important part of our culture, and it’s a fun way to make sure your children bond with friends and family. Banning children from restaurants is selfish. We were all children once and they are our next generation. Learning how to sit at a table and make conversation is a valuable social skill that is only learnt through experience. “I take Madison to lots of fancy restaurants, like Nobu, and she behaves perfectly because she’s been brought up with good manners. Banning children would alienate them from joining in with family occasions, and if you can’t get childcare what are you…

Sofia Vergara couldn’t contain her happiness when she married Magic Mike star Joe Manganiello during a three-day celebration last week – sharing dozens of snaps on Instagram. Insiders say the couple spent around £2.6m to ensure the wedding – held at the Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, Florida – was perfect. The lavish venue was decorated with thousands of white roses and the 400 guests – including Sofia’s Modern Family co-stars, Reese Witherspoon, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Channing Tatum – tucked into a five-tier cake. Sofia, 43, wore a Zuhair Murad couture gown covered in 6lbs of pearls and 11lbs of sequins, and was walked down the aisle by her son Manolo, 23, whose father is her first husband, Joe Gonzalez. A source adds: “The couple recited their own romantic vows…

Suzanne catapulted to fame as part of Hear’Say after winning TV show Popstars in 2001, but reveals she’s drifted apart from some of her former bandmates. While Kym Marsh, 39, and Myleene Klass, 37, went on to be TV stars, Noel Sullivan, 35, dabbled in musical theatre and Danny Foster, 36, auditioned for The Voice in 2013, but didn’t get through. Suzanne tells Closer: “I speak to Myleene quite a bit, but Kym and I are no longer in contact. We see each other out on the scene and wish the best for each other, but other than that we’re not in touch any more. In life, there are some people you’re going to be friends with and other people you’re bound to drift apart from and that’s just the…

I’M AN EARLY RISER. I don’t need sleep and only have four or five hours. I just keep going, I’m like a robot! I’m up at 6.30am and I go to the gym after taking my son, James, 16 [with ex-husband, former footballer Jason Cundy] to school. I also have an older son, Josh, 21. Once home, I have a breakfast of gluten-free granola with some yoghurt and a banana, plus a few cups of tea – I’m a tea fanatic. I HEAD TO NORTH LONDON TO DO MY WEEKLY RADIO SHOW, HOT GOSSIP. I then often have a lunch meeting at [London celeb haunt] the Chiltern Firehouse. I’ll meet with producers about film projects I have coming up or my shows with ITV. Some days, I’ll film my Sky…

Australian actor Chris Hemsworth has won legions of admirers for his hunky physique in movies like Thor and The Avengers. But his muscles have disappeared after he followed a 500-calorie-a-day diet to get into character for his new film, In The Heart Of The Sea, in which he plays sailor Owen Chase, stranded at sea for 90 days. In a picture he posted on Instagram, he explained: “Just tried a new diet/training program called ‘Lost At Sea.’ Wouldn’t recommend it.” Chris, 32, who has three children with his actress wife Elsa Pataky, 39, also said in an interview: “I spend more time thinking about food than anything else. We have to shoot the really skinny stuff where we drop down to 5, 6, 700 calories a day, for three or…

TRADE SECRETS… Make-up artist Adam Burrell shares his best trick for party season: “If you have trouble with eyeliner smearing under the eyes, take a small brush and press translucent powder just below it. This creates a barrier to prevent the eyeliner travelling south!” ON TRIAL This week we tried red lipsticks from £2 to £34. Here are our top three. 1 DOUBLE PURPOSE A suit-all pillar-box red cream lipstick that glided on – even on dry lips. The heart-shaped wand helped us achieve a foolproof finish, and it doubled up as a cheek tint – a party clutch must! 2 FOR WARM SKIN TONES This cult dark ruby lipstick didn’t budge all night long. It’s super-matt and sultry, but still looks classic. Perfect for ladies with warmer skin tones…

ShoppingSlist Spicy mushrooms on toast (for 1): 2 slices of ciabatta 200g chestnut mushrooms 1 knob of butter Dash of Worcester sauce 1 tbsp of crème fraiche Fern’s tasty weekend breakfast (for 4): 12 large chestnut mushrooms 8 rashers of smoked back bacon 4 eggs Cherry vine tomatoes Olive oil 1 garlic clove For full recipes visit www.justaddmushrooms.com NOT ONLY are mushrooms a natural source of vitamin B5 , (helping to reduce tiredness and fatigue), they are also low in fat. Just 80g or about four mushrooms make up 1 of your 5 a day, making them the perfect ingredient to help you start your day. For inspiration on how you and your family can enjoy mushrooms as part…

INSIDE ALISON’S FRIDGE EggsStrawberriesRaspberriesFeta cheeseCheddar cheeseButterDark chocolateChorizoLamb minceChicken thighsTerry’s ChocolateOrangeAlmond milkSalmon filletsBananasChicken stockTomatoesGalaxy chocolateBeetrootMixed saladSweet potatoCarrotsSpinachChampagneWhite wine My guiltiest food pleasure… Terry’s Chocolate Orange, I always keep some in the fridge. My food hangover cure is… Keep juicing throughout the day and drink plenty of water, too. My takeaway order is… I love a Chinese, so it would be beef and black bean curry with boiled rice, banana fritters and syrup. VERDICT NUTRITIONIST CATHERINE MATTHEWS SAYS: “Smoothies are packed with antioxidants, but Alison could increase the protein and calcium content by stirring in natural yoghurt. She has high glucose levels, so she should eat little and often and go for snacks with higher protein and fibre, like nuts and seeds, rather than chocolate. It’s tough, but worth it!” FRIDGE HEALTH…

SATURDAYS SINGER VANESSA WHITE, 26, REVEALS ALL What’s your biggest fear? Drowning. I recently took SARAH part in a Tough : Mudder “DON obstacle race and had to get into a tank of water, full of ice cubes. It was terrifying. When was the last time you said I love you? Today to my mum. We’re close and speak every day. If you were an animal, what would you be and why? A dolphin – they’re friendly and pretty. Where’s your happy place? In the studio writing songs. That or in bed asleep. Describe yourself… Chatty, loud and determined. Name your earliest memory Aged five, singing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star on stage on a trip to the Philippines. No one asked me to do it! O Vanessa supports the Lil-Lets’…

Short on time? Switch fitness expert Elise Lindsay – who has trained Coleen Rooney – picks the best exercises for all-over body toning. Aim to do four sets of 20 reps, three times a week and you should see a difference within a month. SIDE LEG RAISE – lie on your side with a hand supporting your neck. Tense abs and slowly lift both legs up and down. TRICEPS DIP – with hands shoulder-width apart and knees bent, lift your hips off the floor and lower back down. GLUTE RAISE – lie on your front with hands under your chin. Tense thighs while raising each leg at a 90° angle. TIPTOE SQUAT – with your feet hip-width apart, lean forward on your toes and lower your back into a squat,…

INTERNATIONAL FRI 4 DEC: Africa, Middle East MON 7 DEC: Cyprus, Asia, Far East (including Japan) TUES 8 DEC: Caribbean, Central and South America THURS 10 DEC: Greece, Australia, New Zealand MON 14 DEC: Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland TUES 15 DEC: Canada, Finland, Sweden, USA WED 16 DEC: Austria, Iceland, Ireland, Portugal, Spain THURS 17 DEC: France FRI 18 DEC: Belgium, Denmark, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Switzerland BRITISH FORCES FRI 11 DEC: Static BFPOs SENDING WITHIN THE UK SAT 19 DEC: 2nd Class & Royal Mail Signed For® 2nd Class MON 21 DEC: 1st Class & Royal Mail Signed For® 1st Class WED 23 DEC: Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT POSTOFFICE.CO.UK Post Office Limited is registered in England and Wales. Registered No. 2154540.…

EASY BREEZY According to the Energy Saving Trust, draught-proofing could save you up to £50 a year, plus you could shave 10% off your heating bill. Stop drafts with fit foam, a brush or wiper strips around drafty doors and letter boxes. For an unused open fire, use the Chimney Sheep (a chimney insulator). Prices start at £16, and it could save you up to £74 a year on bills. HIRED HELP Hire a designer gown this party season at Girlmeets dress.com – prices start at around £30 and they have designer frocks too. Or hire a dress you’ve seen on a celeb at Mycelebrity dress.com, from £15.…

THIS WEEK’S FILMS ON THE SMALL SCREEN UNKNOWN DECENT THRILLER FRI 11 DEC, 9PM, MORE4 If the cast list says Liam Neeson, you know it’s worth a look… In this, he plays Dr Martin Harris, who wakes up in hospital after a car accident to discover his world is in utter chaos. His wife (January Jones) doesn’t recognise him, and mysterious assassins are hunting him down. Curiouser and curiouser… BRUCE ALMIGHTY AN OLDIE BUT GOODIE SUN 6 DEC, 6.10PM, CHANNEL 5 Jim Carrey is Bruce – a chap whose career in TV hits the skids. When he’s passed over for a promotion, he makes his feelings very clear – to God Almighty. Tired of his whinging, God (Morgan Freeman) contacts Bruce and offers him all his powers if he thinks…