Table of contents for Issue 1093 in Closer

NEWS With her divorce from Richie Myers finalised, it’s time for a new chapter for Helen Skelton. And insiders say it comes as a relief for the Countryfile presenter, 40, who is ready to put the past behind her and to make 2024 her best year yet. The insider shares, “Although they’ve been split for a while, the divorce coming through was a bit emotional for Helen – but it’s onwards and upwards for her now. Her friends have been rallying around her ever since, and she’s also leaned heavily on her family for emotional support. “She’s moved back to her parents’ farm, and it was the best thing she could have done. It helped Helen to just step back from everything and assess what really mattered. Being outside, being…

NEWS They’ve surprised fans with their unlikely friendship over the years and, last week, Kim Kardashian, 42 – who’s been a long-time fan of Victoria Beckham’s label – called the 40-year-old designer her “fashion ski muse” when sharing a throwback snap of the fellow mum-of-four donning a Chanel ski suit with her 364 million Instagram followers. And insiders tell Closer how the entrepreneurs are taking their adoration of each other to the next level amid secret talks about a joint collaboration. A source says, “Victoria has always admired Kim and is a huge fan of Skims, her style evolvement and her make-up and beauty line, which she took inspiration from – as well as advice from Kim – when creating her own. “She’s been very grateful for all the support,…

His divorce and ongoing custody battle with his ex-wife Alice Evans has proved to be one of the most toxic in showbiz history following their dramatic split in 2021. And last week, Ioan Gruffudd confirmed that he’d moved on for good from their 14-year marriage by announcing his engagement to new partner Bianca Wallace on social media. Sharing a picture of himself and actress Bianca, 31, which shows the couple appearing to lean in for a kiss while she shows off an emerald engagement ring, the Fantastic Four actor, 50, told fans, “The most precious thing happened…” followed by a love heart and ring emoji. The pair began dating in October 2021, but their romance has been marred by Ioan’s bitter battle with Vampire Diaries actress Alice, 55, who he…

Over the past few weeks, England and Manchester City footballer player Kyle Walker’s cheating on his wife Annie Kilner, 30, has regularly made the headlines. It’s come to light that he fathered two children – a three-year-old son and six-monthold daughter – with his on/off lover, influencer Lauryn Goodman, 32. Kyle, 33, was first caught out when reality star Laura Brown claimed she had X-rated romps in the back of his Bentley in May 2019. He and Annie split and in July of the same year he had a fling with Lauryn, resulting in their son, Kairo. He was also caught arranging a hook-up with two escorts during lockdown in 2020 while the couple were separated. Annie forgave him and in 2021 the couple got married. But last year, he…

She may have made her name on TOWIE, but last week Gemma Collins turned her back on Essex and was spotted house hunting in Hampstead, north London – the posh star-studded suburb which is home to the likes of Emma Bunton, Harry Styles, Emma Thompson and Sting. Gemma expressed her love for the area on Instagram, sharing videos of herself enjoying brunch with her pals, X Factor stars Jedward. And insiders say the 42-year-old – who has tragically suffered three miscarriages in the past – is looking for the perfect family home to raise her muchlonged-for baby alongside her fiancé, Rami Hawash, 49, and her five-year-old stepson, Tristan. A source says, “Gem’s praying this is the year she finally becomes a mum and she wants to start that new chapter…

She recently revealed she was expecting her first child against all odds, after spending over £150,000 on eight rounds of IVF in her heartbreaking attempt to start a family with her husband, Oliver Mellor. And as she cradles her baby bump on our exclusive photo shoot, Rhian Sugden tells us she’s “over the moon” to be expecting a boy. She says, “It was always my dream to have a little boy, I don’t know why but I’ve always imagined having a mini football team. Oliver never said what he wanted, but when we found out it was a boy, he had the biggest smile on his face. We’ve already decorated the nursery and chosen a few names – we like Tommy and George so far.” ENERGETIC The 37-year-old glamour model…

DECADENT DIP Leon’s Velvety Hummus, Sainsbury’s, £2.40 Using Sicilian lemon juice to give it that zingy flavour and topped with paprika, this hummus has been blended and whipped for even longer to make it smoother. WINTER WARMER Drink me Chai’s Vegan Chai Latte, Asda, £3.50 The perfect wind-down for the evening as it’s naturally low in caffeine, this gluten-free blend contains soya milk, which means you can instantly make it with water. FLAVOUR FIESTA Tesco’s Tex Mex Feast, prices from £1 Spice up mealtimes with this range of fuss-free Mexican-inspired dishes, including fajita chicken breasts, tear & share pulled pork taco bowl, plus creamy jalapeño mac and cheese.…

THIS MORNING STAR SHARON MARSHALL, 52, ON HOW SHE LOOKS AFTER HER BODY AND MIND I TAKE A COLLAGEN SUPPLEMENT DAVINA MCCALL RECOMMENDED… and she looks cracking! It’s by Ancient and Brave. My make-up lady at This Morning said to me my skin is looking much better, which is wonderful. THE PELETON BIKE IS AN INVESTMENT BUT SO WORTH IT… It was a present to myself when I turned 50. As a mum, it’s hard to get out of the house to the gym, so I place the bike in a spot which I walk past every day so I have no excuses. I only do a 15-min HIIT class and then I’ll do one of the brilliant meditation sessions if I’m wound up or stressed, they make me fall…

COLOUR CONTRAST Going for head-to-toe pink? Copy Amanda and choose two different shades to sport together. Not only does this make for more impact, but it prevents the outfit appearing too matchy matchy. Add a thin belt to cinch you in at the waist and highlight your natural silhouette. COOL SIMPLICITY Keep your look cool and casual as you pair a staple stripe shirt with great fitting jeans. Opt for dark denim to allow the colour to stand out, while a neutral trench and white trainers finish the ensemble. To keep the outfit totally on trend, add another pop of colour with a pink handbag. PRETTY PASTELS If you aren’t fond of vibrant shades, then opt for a cooler pink tone to give a subtle nod to the trend. Style…

TV WEEK: 3-9 FEB 1 SUE PERKINS: LOST IN ALASKA NEW SERIES OFF ON AN ADVENTURE FRI 9 FEB, 9PM, CHANNEL 5 Over three entertaining parts, Sue Perkins explores the hidden gems of the US state – finding out what it’s like to live in Alaska (“Usually, people have fun here!”) and gets stuck into whatever the residents are up to. As you’d expect from Perkins (who previously travelled to Japan for a BBC travel show), the series is packed with amusing moments. She learns how to survive a bear attack (useful) – and manages a “serious-to-camera” face while “dressed up like a dolly”, wearing a “jingly Russian crown”. Make way for lots of interesting facts, too. 2 GLADIATORS ARE WE READY…? SAT 3 FEB, 7.10PM, BBC1 Big sponge fingers at the…

She charmed fans with her down-to-earth appearance on series three, eventually becoming a Love Island success story after going on to marry and start a family with co-star Jamie Jewitt, and now Camilla Thurlow has advice for the cast of Love Island: All Stars. “The main thing is to enjoy it,” Camilla, 34, tells Closer. “It’s such an incredible and unique experience. If you’re lucky enough to get to do a once-in-alifetime experience twice, then you just have to go for it.” ROCKY The former Explosive Ordnance Disposal officer adds, “It was pure luck that I met Jamie on Love Island. And it’s pure luck whether or not this year’s cast find someone on the show.” Before Jamie, 33, entered the villa, Camilla had a rocky time on the show…

She ended her romance to actor Joe Manganiello after seven years last July, but despite getting back onto the dating scene, bombshell Sofia Vergara has revealed that she has struck toyboys off her new wish list. Revealing her relationship to Joe, 47, came to an end over his desire to have kids, mum-of-one Sofia, 51 – who gave birth to her son Manolo when she was 19 – said, “I’m ready to be a grandmother, not a mother. So, if love comes along, he has to come with [his own] children.” Speaking of the age range she was ideally looking for in a new partner, the Modern Family actress added, “They can’t be younger than 50, I’m 51…OK, 49.” While Joe has since moved on with actress Caitlin O’Connor, 33,…

Sonali, 35, is a holistic fertility therapist who lives in the Cotswolds. She says she has thrived since ending her relationship with her cheating husband. Sonali says, “I read with horror about what Annie Kilner has been through but was also full of admiration for how dignified she’s stayed. I’m sure some women will wonder why she stayed for so long – but I know only too well how soul destroying being with a cheat can be and how your confidence can be at rock bottom after you’ve been repeatedly cheated on. I don’t think you can ever really move on when a partner cheats. When the trust is gone, it’s gone. “Like Annie, I met my exhusband when I was a teenager too. I was 19 and bowled over…

FAYE: 'I keep fit by keeping busy!' Love Island star Faye Winter stunned in the sun during a boat trip in Dubai this week. The 28-year-old has previously credited walking her dogs and constantly being busy for keeping her in shape. She said, “I’m a massive dog walker and I’m always on the go. I’d rather be busy than bored.” HELEN: 'I'm proud of myself' Corrie star Helen Flanagan, 33, gave a nod to her I’m A Celebrity roots during a recent trip to Bali, where she sported a vibrant jungle-green bikini against the lush tropical scenery. The mother of three has admitted that age and motherhood have only made her more confident in her own skin. She said, “It’s important to be yourself… I’ve had three children, I’m really…

He rose to fame as lovable JP in Made In Chelsea, but Josh Patterson, 33, has also spent years struggling with anxiety and depression. However, he has made it his mission to tackle mental health head-on, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity. “I used to be ashamed of my struggles, but over the past six years I’ve learnt to accept who I am and rewrite my future,” he tells Closer. “If you give off positive energy, people will gravitate towards it – they are drawn to ambition and passion.” Here, Josh shares the techniques that have helped him navigate his way through challenging times… 'ROW YOUR BOAT' It can be tempting to reach for comfort food or stay up late bingeing on a box set, but Josh uses…

INSIDE VANESSA'S FRIDGE ● Blackberries ● Blueberries ● Cucumber ● Tomatoes ● Strawberries ● Grapes ● Mushrooms ● Lettuce ● Avocados ● Salmon ● Kiwis ● Pak choi ● Spinach ● Peppers ● Kale ● Carrots ● Oat milk ● Soya milk ● Broccoli ● Potatoes ● Red wine VERDICT CLOSER NUTRITIONIST JULIETTE KELLOW SAYS, “Vanessa’s fridge is packed with fruit and veg, making it easy for her to get her five-a-day. As she is so active, starchy carbs like potatoes, rice, bread and noodles are important for providing her with energy, so it’s good to see them on the menu. Choosing high-fibre ones provides longlasting energy and keeps the digestive system healthy. As she doesn’t eat much dairy, she should make sure her soya milks are fortified with bone-friendly…

RELATIONSHIPS HOW TO HANDLE YOUR PARTNER'S LOW MOOD When your other half is struggling, it can feel like you’re giving advice and getting nowhere – so approach it differently Try asking your partner what they need from you when they’re having a tough time. Sometimes, they just want a sounding board, to offload without judgement and without having to do anything about it. My husband calls it “sitting in the mud together”, so he just wants me to listen and say, “I hear you, it sounds like things are really tough” but not give any advice. Other times they may want practical help or suggestions. Often we assume our partner is telling us something because they want advice but, if they don’t, that could lead to arguments and you’re left…

Research by NatWest has found the average adult spends more than 10 years of their life on “autopilot”, following the same daily routines. When it comes to spending, this can be a costly mistake, so we asked savings expert Money Mum Gemma Bird – @moneymumofficial and author of Save Yourself Happy (£7.99 Hamlyn) – for her tips to shake things up – and save big! QUESTION SUPERMARKET OFFERS It’s easy to be seduced by BOGOF deals, but Gemma warns against this. “They may not be quite as good as you think. You may find items become smaller in size but remain at the same price so with food, always check the cost per grams.” Also look at the checkoutsmart.com app. “You can get your shopping from any supermarket and upload…

NEW NUDES Create a sports-luxe look by teaming New Look’s versatile offering with tailored trousers and a sweater. NEW LOOK, £27.99 MONOCHROME MAGIC Spring into action in these black and white beauties – they’ll look great with leggings and an oversized knit. PEACOCKS, £18 RED ALERT Puma’s suede plimsoles are stylish and practical – and they’re now available in this spring’s hottest shade. PUMA, £70 BEIGE BRIGADE Bored of white trainers? Zara’s cool camel style are effortlessly chic and will go with almost everything. ZARA, £49.99 SUPERMARKET HERO Pop these teal wonders into your basket during the food shop – you’ll want to wear them non-stop. TU AT SAINSBURY’S, £16 PRETTY IN PINK Trainers that Barbie would be proud of, this vibrant style will seriously brighten up your gym kit.…

1. These terms and conditions together with any specific rules displayed or referred to on the relevant page of Closer magazine in respect of a prize draw or competition (a “Prize Draw Notice”) and H Bauer Publishing’s General Terms and Conditions (available online at http://www.bauerlegal.co.uk/competition-terms.html) are the prize draw rules (the “Rules”) that apply to each and every prize draw and/or competition of any nature included in Closer magazine (a “Prize Draw”) unless otherwise expressly stated in the Prize Draw Notice. By entering a Prize Draw, entrants agree to be bound by these Rules. 2. Each Prize Draw is organised by Closer magazine, part of H Bauer Publishing Limited of registered address Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Lynch Wood, Peterborough, PE2 6EA. In the event of a discrepancy between these…

It’s been 18 months since they announced their shock split in July 2022, and last week Christine and Paddy McGuinness officially began divorce proceedings. And with an insider recently telling Closer how Christine, 35, had been left “hurt and humiliated” over news earlier this month that Paddy is planning a “mockumentary” about their divorce, the mumof-three admitted she was struggling – telling fans on social media that she’d been feeling “lost”. However, after posing for a series of sexy snaps of behind the scenes on a photo shoot two days after she and Paddy, 50, were expected in court, a source tells Closer that Christine is adamant that revenge is a dish best served hot. The insider says, “Christine loves dressing up and making herself feel sexy. She’s been through…

Last week, fans gushed over how fabulous Jacqueline Jossa looked when revealing her new fashion range, and insiders says that not only is the mum-of-two looking gorgeous, she’s feeling great too – after some rocky times in the past. They say, “Jacqueline’s the most content and confident she’s felt in years, and it’s positively impacted every area of her life. She said it’s like she’s got ‘the old Jac’ back and feels sexy again after struggling both mentally and physically. She’s had a turbulent few years, but she’s now loving work, feeling really fit and healthy, and her marriage is great.” Jac, 31, recently returned to EastEnders as Lauren Branning after five years away. When asked about juggling her busy schedule with being mum to daughters Ella, eight, and Mia,…

Her sense of humour and fierce support of her friends saw her become a firm favourite on series five of Love Island, which she starred on with Anton Danyluk and Chris Taylor, who are currently back in the villa on Love Island: All Stars. And now Anna Vakili tells Closer that she’s loving the spin-off series and is championing her pals to find love the second time around. The 33-year-old says, “Girls always say that they get sick of being with bad boys, so it really surprises me that a good guy like Anton doesn’t have any luck on the show. It doesn’t make any sense because he’s such a gentleman. “I’m really rooting for Anton and Chris. Chris is a proper softie and another good guy. We want to…

Love dramas He’d been forced to deny rumours of a blossoming romance with his Strictly Come Dancing partner Dianne Buswell, but last week Bobby Brazier set tongues wagging again when he was spotted holding hands with winner of the show, Ellie Leach. Coronation Street star Ellie, 22, and EastEnders favourite Bobby, 20, were reportedly seen looking cosy together on the Strictly tour bus as the BBC dance show continues its live shows. An insider says, “Bobby and Ellie are the talk of the tour… They’ve been having their meals together and flirting increasingly openly. The chat on tour is they may have enjoyed a cheeky snog, and will go public with their romance soon.” They are said to have first begun flirting following a hotel bash attended by the Strictly…

She admitted earlier this month that “staying in love is a challenge” and Laura Anderson and Gary Lucy appear to have proved that by appearing to have split yet again just weeks after rekindling their romance. The couple, who first met on Celebs Go Dating in 2022, unfollowed each other on social media last week following reports that Gary, 42, had been spotted cosying up to a mystery woman during a night out in London last week. A source said, “He also looked very cosy with a brunette lady at the table and was whispering in her ear. Gary was also joined by a stunning blonde lady at the table. They were sat at a booth and partied the night away.” The couple first split shortly after announcing they were…

Sammy Woodhouse was just 15 when she fell pregnant after being raped by the ringleader of Rotherham’s notorious child sex gang. Arshid Hussain, 43, was brought to justice in 2016 when he was jailed for 35 years for multiple abhorrent rape offences against nine victims – some as young as 11. Just last month, a damning new report examining the handling of Rochdale’s grooming gangs published previously unknown details, which show how Greater Manchester Police and Rochdale Council grossly failed in their duty to protect victims and pursue predators. ACTION The review – which was commissioned in 2017 and covers organisational failings between 2004 to 2013 – produced a 173-page report detailing shocking abuse and highlighting multiple local authorities’ “indifference” to the plight of hundreds of children. Among its findings…

“Best described as a satay-noodle-style soup, you can bulk this out with fried tofu pieces or another nest of noodles if you’re feeling extra hungry.” KATE & KAY ALLINSON'S PEANUT RAMEN STEP 1 Spray a wok or large saucepan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over a medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and fry for 2 mins, then add the curry powder and cook for a further 1 min. STEP 2 Add the stock, coconut drink, lime juice and soy sauce and whisk in the peanut paste. Bring to the boil then add the pak choi, baby corn, mangetout and broccoli. Cook for 5 mins. STEP 3 At this point the broth (minus the noodles) can be frozen (defrost overnight in the fridge, reheat in a microwave or…

This is big news. We’ve been desperate for a new class of antibiotics for a long time because so much misery is caused by drug-resistant bugs. Take tuberculosis (TB); in 2022 it was the world’s second leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, after Covid. It’s a huge problem across the developing world and a lot of tuberculosis is multi-drug resistant, so there’s nothing we can do to treat it. It’s not just in the developing world, we are seeing it in New York and other big cities – even in London – because it can take hold somewhere, then spread. HIV is a good example of that – it started in a fairly niche community and very quickly spread. STRAINS ARE GETTING DEADLIER Certain strains of streptococcus,…

A pathy is on the rise – and I don’t blame anyone who has reached their quota of swiping. But what’s the alternative? Regular readers will be aware that I’m on a mini mission to see if I can meet dates in the real world and see what happens. I’m yet to have success, but that’s more for a lack of trying amid the January blues. However, I am considering speed dating as it’s having a moment again. Last year, there were three times as many speed dating events in the capital compared to three years ago and 200 per cent more people attended too. Bravo to them. It’s not easy putting yourself out there in such a public way. Of course, it has a ’20s twist and you can…

Which? has revealed where we shoppers are getting less bang for our buck. Here’s how to swap out the worst offenders… • SAVE £2.35 ON MOUTHWASH Listerine Fresh Burst Mouthwash has shrunk from 600ml to 500ml. Swap for Pro Formula Complete Gum Health Mouthwash. • SAVE 95P ON MOIST TOILET TISSUE Andrex Classic Clean Flushable Washlets Moist Toilet Tissue Wipes have gone from having 40 in a pack to 36. Swap for Sainsbury’s Super Soft Flushable Moist Toilet Tissue and you’ll get the full 40 wipes for less. • GET AN EXTRA CHOC CHIP BAR FOR THE SAME PRICE Cadbury’s Brunch Chocolate Chip Bars now contain five in a pack not six, so instead choose Kellogg's Coco Pops Cereal Bars and you’ll still get six. • SAVE £1.05 ON CRISPS…

AFFORDABLE TREATS! GET HER LOOK KATE HUDSON The Hollywood actress provided us a lesson in how to wear neutrals. Start with a check or tweed blazer, then use its tones to find the colour palette for the rest of your outfit. Beige jeans and tan boots are the ideal match while also offering an expensive-looking finish. Top with a versatile borg-lined coat that will look great and keep you cosy. FASHION WORTH TALKING ABOUT! Arian DeBose Showcasing how simplicity can still make a statement, the actress wowed in a soft cream two-piece by designer Brunello Cucinelli. We love the addition of the blazer to give some texture to the look. Jessica Chastain Jessica went for a bold neon number to catch everyone’s attention for the right reasons. The sequin Gucci…

GO GLITTER A glamorous choice for her red-carpet look, Salma’s glittering green lids with a sultry, smoky spin make her peepers pop. Brown-eyed girls, take notes! To copy, apply this pigment to the lids and build up in light layers. Remember, you can add more but you can’t take away. KIKO MILANO GLITTER SHOWER EYESHADOW ENCHANTED FOREST, £9.99 ROSY GLOW To give Salma’s skin a healthy flush of colour, her MUA applied a pink-toned blush to the apples of her cheeks and up towards her temples. This make-up technique gives a lifted effect. Charlotte Tilbury’s Cheek to Chic Blusher is said to be one of Salma’s fave formulas. CHARLOTTE TILBURY CHEEK TO CHIC PILLOW TALK BLUSHER, £35 PENCIL PRO To give your eyes an alluring look, like Salma, don’t forget…

On Christmas Day, Linda Carter stabbed Keanu Taylor with a carving fork – though, of course, it wasn’t as plain sailing as all that. Kellie Bright, 47, explains: “I think it’s safe to say that she’s drinking every day to numb herself, and I don’t think she’s coping. Linda is carrying a huge amount of guilt – not just for what she’s done to Keanu, but also for what she’s doing to all these other women. I think she thinks that bad things are always going to keep happening to her; it’s terrifying and awful, and obviously the panic sets in.” FOLLOW OUR LIVE TWEETS OVER AT @CloserOnline…

IF IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK One day, you’ll look back and r changed, for better, for worse and otherwise. Transformation is possible now. It isn’t going to be all sunshine and roses. Have faith the Universe is putting you on the path you are meant to be on. AQUARIUS 20 JAN – 18 FEB This is it! You’re at that point in your personal evolution where you get to decide to change or stay the same. So, what’s it gonna be? As hard as it may be for you, things are changing. Personal growth is a beautiful thing, so honour the process. Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope…

30 JANUARY-5 FEBRUARY PISCES 19 FEB – 20 MAR We are only one month into 2024 but you may have noticed how different it feels. Sure, you’re not out of the woods for quite a while just yet. However, the effort you made last year gave you the momentum you’re enjoying now. Keep at it, your determination will reward you. Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope ARIES 21 MAR – 19 APR You’ve been an absolute powerhouse so far in 2024. As January becomes February, this isn’t going to change. Keep your eye on the prize in terms of what you want out of life and your career. New circles you’re rubbing shoulders with may be the breakthrough you’re looking for. Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope TAURUS 20 APR…

Ooh, now who wouldn’t like to chow down on one of Kev’s legs? Actually, on second thoughts, it’s Veganuary – not an appropriate time to dine on leg of Bacon! Rumours that James has been working on a West End production of The Little Pigs seem to have been confirmed. Wonder if he’s still got the ‘huff and puff’ required for those demanding dance routines? GRUMPY GRAM With speculation rife that Andy Murray is considering retiring from tennis, we can exclusively reveal J.K Rowling has signed him for the next Harry Potter flick. And doesn’t he look absolutely thrilled with that sorting hat?…