Table of contents for 19 December 2023 in Chat

Ho ho — here we go! If you're anything like me, you have a to-do list as long as Santa's and are feeling more frazzled than festive. But ignore those tangled fairy lights and cards that need writing, and get stuck into this bumper issue of Chat. We've got extra real-life stories, festive fashion and tasty food, puzzles, prizes, fun and games, and more! Plus seven pages of stars to reveal all you need to know about 2024. I hope it's your best one yet. Merry Christmas, PS If you're entering the puzzles online, this is the link to use: comps.lifedeathprizes.com/puzzles…

TRUE-LIFE Rachel Fealey, 30, Merthyr Tydfil Grampa slid the batteries into my new Tamagotchi, and my eyes lit up as it burst into life. ‘See how long you can keep him alive,’ he smiled. It was Christmas Day 2006. My parents Karen, then 41, and Mike, 43, were busy in the kitchen while Grampa Ron Fealey, then 64, played with me, 13, and my brother Adam, 17. Grampa came over every Christmas mid-morning. Helped us put our new toys together. Then the tradition was to wander to the cemetery to lay a wreath for our grandma Mary, known as Mayo. Mayo had died of cancer two years earlier. Grampa always shed tears as he laid the wreath against her headstone. ‘You have to treasure the good times,’ he'd say. It's…

What does singer Rita Ora enjoy sharing with her friends? To find out, solve the crossword then read down the shaded squares to find the four-word prize answer. ACROSS 11 Autographed (6) 12 Emphasise or reinforce (9) 13 George Bernard _, writer (4) 14 Permitting (8) 15 Christened (5) 16 Man engaged to be married (6) 17 Employees (7) 18 Order (11) 20 Banners (5) 22 Manners, conduct (9) 24 Concur (5) 28 River crossings (7) 29 Flow of vehicles (7) 32 Helix (6) 34 Tunes (8) 36 Shiny or reflective (8) 37 Desire for water (6) 39 Vanquish (7) 40 Domestic fowl (7) 45 Playground item (5) 47 Eight-legged creatures (9) 48 Clever (5) 51 Daring or bold (11) 53 Captain _, superhero played by Chris Evans (7) 55 Motionless (6) 56 First-born (5) 58 Opposite of positive (8) 59 Child's toy (2-2) 60 In another place (9) 61 Wanting food (6) DOWN 1 Cushion (6) 2 Gave support…

Bryony Mills-Evans, 27, Newtown Clinking glasses with my mates as the bar erupted with cries of ‘Happy New Year’, we all made the same resolution. ‘Do something fun every month,’ I grinned. The clock had just struck midnight in Cardiff town centre, making it officially January 2019. Still only 22, I wanted to make the next year my best one yet. And we soon had a jampacked schedule. Alton Towers, Chester Races, several beer festivals. By August we were bouncing around a field to Calvin Harris at Creamfields music festival. ‘Next stop, Barcelona,’ I grinned. Then, in October me, my mum, Marnie, then 53, and stepdad Jonathan, 46, went to Poland. It really had been the best year ever. I'd even had a fling with a nice guy, Rob. The…

Celebration time! Back in March, we spoke to Cheryl, whose little girl Bea, then 2, had the heart condition dilated cardiomyopathy and needed a transplant. Senior writer Mishaal, who interviewed Cheryl, says, ‘I was touched by Bea's story because she sounded so brave, despite all of the challenges thrown at her at such a young age. She was always smiling, even though she was missing out on so much. It was clear her strength was what kept her parents going. I was so happy to hear what happened to them next. Over to Cheryl to share the good news…’ After spending most of the past 14 months living in hospital accommodation, close to Bea, the night I went home was when the phone call came. I'd gone back to see…

TRUE-LIFE Paige Young, 31, Cumbria G reeting children and parents at the airport, I quickly got into work mode. ‘Welcome to Lapland!’ I cried, waving my arms, my pointy elf hat bobbing around behind me. It was November 2015 and after finishing a stint as an entertainer on a cruise ship, I was working as a Santa's elf in Lapland, Finland. Christmas was my favourite time of year, so I was chuffed to land the job. Every day was magic. Stunning snow-capped mountains, clear lakes, twinkly lights everywhere. And the look of pure joy on kids’ faces as I sang songs and walked them to Santa's grotto to meet the big man. I loved it so much, I went back the next year and became elf team leader. Performing shows…

This Town BBC1 ● Set against a backdrop of the 1980s ska scene, this drama follows four teens and their families who seek a second chance through music. Michelle Dockery stars. The Great Pottery Throw Down C4 ● Siobhán McSweeney hosts as another batch of amateur potters try to impress judges Keith Brymer Jones and Rich Miller with their clay-wrangling skills. Black Doves NETFLIX ● Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw and Sarah Lancashire head the cast of this thriller about a shadowy organisation of spies, political intrigue and the uncovering of a massive conspiracy. Truelove C4 ● Lindsay Duncan, Sue Johnston and Phil Davis star in this drama about a gang of old friends who make a pact about helping each other die with dignity when the time comes. But then…

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SLIPPERS STYLE TIP Backless or open-toe styles will stop your feet getting too hot. JOGGERS STYLE TIP Drawstring detailing helps to give a perfect fit. A tapered or wide-leg offer a flattering finish. JUMPERS STYLE TIP Who can resist a Christmas knit? Wear with jeans or dress up with a sparkly skirt. FROM JUST £6! PYJAMAS STYLE TIP Keep it stylish in sleek stripes, classic checks and celestial prints – timeless sets that will go the distance.…

OVER TO YOU Can you set a puzzle in this format? Send it, with a photo of yourself, to the address on p4. There's £20 for every one we use! This week's puzzle was compiled by Lorna Ridgway, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire WIN 5x £20 Puzzle 5 ACROSS 1 (Of liquid) spill or flow over edge 2 Point, lump or swelling 3 Cricketing term 4 Most excellent DOWN 1 Person who looks down on others 2 Deep affection 3 Lyrical poems 4 Well shaped Your answer: CHAIN WORDS The Polish legend of Pan Twardowski closely resembles that of which other figure of European folklore? Get from Start to Finish, making words by joining two boxes together as you go, eg: TR + AM, AM +… you decide! When you reach Finish, two unused boxes join together to give…

Will pills help me sleep? Q I've heard there's a new, non-addictive sleeping tablet. Does it mean I might finally get some sleep in 2024? Fi, Bristol A We've all spent an occasional sleepless night, but around one in 10 of us suffers chronic insomnia, where every night involves a struggle to sleep. Now there's a new drug called daridorexant, marketed as Quviviq. It works in a different way to other sleepers, by blocking the action of brain chemicals called orexins which help keep us alert, and the makers say it might safely help chronic insomnia. Although promising, it hasn't been tested beyond 12 months so we can't be sure about long-term effects or safety, and current advice is to go first for cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBTi). Your GP…

By a whisker His little meows were almost drowned out by the roar of the bin lorry. Almost. But just in time, Tiny Tim's faint cries were heard. A binman went to investigate and found a tiny white kitten nestled among the rubbish in the back of his huge truck. The poor puss had been dumped in a bin at just 2 days old. What might have happened to his siblings didn't bear thinking about. But this little cat was alive. Filthy, cold and hungry, he was taken to the Blue Cross Victoria animal hospital for emergency care. Weighing just 93g – less than a satsuma – he was named Tiny Tim after the character in A Christmas Carol. His eyes were still closed from birth as he was warmed…

Go green, save cash ‘If you have offcuts of gift wrap, why not make paper chains with them?’ says Hema Stewart, founder of sustainable wrapping paper firm, Curlicue. It will add a festive feel to your home and it's fun too! 3 ways to… use unwanted Christmas gifts If you get items you don't like, don't just let them gather dust. Here's what you can do… 1 Swap in the shop If you've been given a gift receipt with your present, you may be able to return it to the shop and choose something else or swap it for a gift card. While high street stores don't have to exchange unwanted gifts, many do have generous returns policies around Christmas. Even without a gift receipt, some shops will offer an exchange or…

TRUE-LIFE Ruth Braddock, 67, Nottingham Peeling a shiny red bow off a brightly wrapped parcel, my daughter Danielle stuck it to her head and laughed. It was Christmas Day 2002 and Danielle, then 12, was entertaining me, her sister Sarah, 25, and stepdad Tony, 47. ‘Today's my best day of the year,’ Danielle whooped. Like most families, we'd open gifts around the tree, followed by roast turkey, games and telly. Only, in December 2009, aged 19, she wasn't her usual festive self. Yawning as we strung up fairy lights. Opening her gifts, then spending the day dozing. In fact, she was wiped out well into New Year. ‘I'm worried,’ I said, taking her to the GP in January, again in February. She was so thin and gaunt, I was concerned…

YOUR STARS ARIES 21 March-20 April LOVE You're headstrong and know what you want. In love you exude these traits, but at times this can cause fiery communication! You need someone who matches your enthusiasm for life – so don't accept anything less. Whether single or coupled up, this is going to be an exciting year for you on the love front, so enjoy the adventure! FAMILY You're fiercely protective of your loved ones, and this year you may find you need to look out for a younger family member. You know how to lead others to make positive changes in their lives, so try to help your family out wherever you can in this way. By sharing your wisdom with those close to you, both you and others can…

This week we meet… Melanie Edwards, 50, from Sheffield What's at the top of your Christmas list? This year, all I want is for all four of my sons to be back home for Christmas dinner. Two are in Leeds at uni, one lives in Manchester, and one still lives at home, so it's so nice to all get together for a game of charades and glass or two of sherry! Fave festive treat? I love mince pies, and as the only one in the house who likes them, I have to eat them all myself! I also can't resist cheese and crackers with a dollop of piccalilli after Christmas dinner. Best Christmas memory? It has to be my first Christmas with my nowhusband Eddie. We'd only been going out…

JUMPSUITS STYLE TIP Chic and comfy, an all-in-one is a cool dress alternative. Belted styles will create an hourglass silhouette. TOPS STYLE TIP Perfect for dressing up your denim, opt for rich jewel tones and plush velvet for a luxe finish. SKIRTS STYLE TIP With endless styling potential, an elegant midi skirt is a must-have. Tuck in your top to add structure. DRESSES STYLE TIP Amp up the glam factor with sequin details and shiny fabrics. Finish with metallic heels – more is more.…

WIN £500 Puzzle 10 In France, crêpes are not traditionally associated with Mardi Gras (Shrove Tuesday, or Pancake Day), but rather with which other Christian feast day? Solve the puzzle by following the arrows and writing in your answers. Then read down the letters in the shaded squares to find the prize answer. ARROW WORD Your answer: SUDOKU To solve the puzzle, each 3 x 3 box, each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9. Solve the puzzle and the numbers in the highlighted squares will give you the prize puzzle answer. WIN 2 x £30 Puzzle 11 Your answer: WORDSEARCH WIN £40 Puzzle 12 A which of statue of these inventors stands outside Las Ventas, the main bullring in Madrid? The answer is the one…

WIN £100 Puzzle 14 The phrase ‘How are the mighty fallen’ ultimately derives from which book of the Bible? Solve the puzzle by following the arrows and writing in your answers. Then read down the letters in the shaded squares to find the prize answer. Your answer: FILL ME IN CIRCLE TIME Persimmon fruits come from trees in the same genus as what type of trees, used for timber? Fit the words into the grid, then read down the letters in the shaded circles. 3 letters ARK ARM ASH ASS DAY DEW DIM DOT HAY 4 letters OAKY OBOE OUST OWED ROOM RUES 5 letters YEARS YODEL YOKED YOLKS 6 letters WORDED WORKER WORMED Your answer: WOUNDS 7 letters HEALTHY HYDRANT WIN £100 Puzzle 15 TO ENTER Turn to page…

Impossible to please Q My partner and I are constantly arguing. He's always been controlling and insecure but it's got so hard to please him. I moved to another city to be with him but I feel he doesn't appreciate it. I ended up having an affair with my neighbour. I feel guilty but at the same time I want more. Please help. Danielle, 34 A I need you to know that this relationship sounds abusive. He's controlling and he's isolated you. Completely toxic behaviour, sweetheart. You need to walk away now, while you still can. Go back to your support network, family and friends, and forget all about him. This is never going to be a good relationship, pet, and I don't want you to get hurt. LOVE LIFE…

TRUE-LIFE Nicole Rawlings, 30 Running through the snow, I felt a hand grab mine. It was my sister, Michelle. Laughing as icy flakes landed on our faces, we threw snowballs. It was Christmas 2001 and, aged 8, we were dressed in matching bobble hats and winter coats. Mirror images of one another. Well, we were identical twins! Born two minutes before me, Michelle took her role of big sister seriously. ‘I'll always look out for you,’ she'd vow. While I was feisty, she was gentle and reserved. Her nickname was Sunni after her love of sunflowers. Growing up, we spent our days outdoors, playing basketball and making up hip hop dances. Always dressed the same. If Michelle fell over I'd even feel her pain, and if I cried her eyes…

Amanda Stephenson, 37 Grabbing a bag of feed from the garage, I watched my little boy Alex, then 2, run toward the hutches. ‘Wait for me,’ I called. It was December 2016, a busy time with Christmas round the corner. But this was our daily morning routine. We'd dropped his big sisters Alyssa and Rachel, my girls from a previous relationship, off at school. Alex's dad Jacob, then 26, was at work as a mechanic. Now it was time for us to feed the rabbits and chickens in the garden. Only, as I poked my head into the rabbit hutch, Alex toddled back towards the garage. Seconds later, an agonised shriek pierced the air and I threw down the rabbits’ bowl and ran. ‘I'm coming baby,’ I cried, sprinting across…

WHAT'S THE ANSWER? Solutions to Chat issue 45 (9 November 2023) Puzzle 2 Odeon Puzzle 3 Driver Puzzle 4 Warming her foundation Puzzle 5 1A,1B,2D,3D,4D Puzzle 6 Plot Puzzle 7 Havoc Puzzle 8 Chris Hemsworth Puzzle 9 Honeysuckle Puzzle 10 Tiberius Puzzle 13 Lyon Puzzle 14 Harrier Puzzle 15 Bruce Puzzle 16 Empowered Puzzle 17 Reagan Puzzle 18 Shanghai WE WON! Chat winners issue 36 (7 Sept 2023) £1,001 CASH L Morris, Torpoint £500 CASH B Gillard, Jersey A Seal-Rochelle, Walsall £250 CASH R Willison, Corby A Webb, Wallingford £200 CASH A King, Portland £100 CASH E Anderson, Colchester A Allan, Kirkcaldy B Pownall, Doncaster £75 CASH Mrs Rodella, Bracknell £50 CASH J Smith, Minehead P Lukas, Sutton Coldfield J Hunt, Watford P Bond, Worcester S Rubery, Halesowen F Anderson, Sunderland £40 CASH S Gardiner, Powys £30 CASH C Smith, Birmingham C Bennatto, Plymouth…