Table of contents for Issue 1099 in Closer

Her selfproclaimed “bad uncle” Gary Goldsmith entered the Celebrity Big Brother house last week, but Kate Middleton found herself at the centre of a real-life drama as tire ongoing speculation around her January operation reached fever pitch. While Kensington Palace made it clear in its January statement that Kate, 42, would be absent from her royal duties until at least Easter following planned abdominal surgery, the mum-of-three’s sudden disappearance from the public eye for almost three months came as shock to fans - with the royal rumour mill going into overdrive. Now, as conspiracy theories across social media - which have included unverified claims, from mystery illnesses to an alleged affair - continue to gain momentum, a source tells Closer that the much-loved royal has been left “exhausted” and “fed…

She made her debut on This Morning this week - joining her new co-host, Ben Shepherd, as the new permanent replacements following Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield’s shock departures last year. Fresh-faced and glowing after a sun-soaked break in Mexico, Cat Deeley, 47 - who shares sons Milos, eight, and five-year-old Janies with husband, Patrick Kielty, 53 - radiated as she took the reins following months of drama and scandal for ITV’s flagship daytime show But while the mum-of-two appeared to be calm and collected on screen, pals say behind the scenes, the star was riddled with anxiety in the lead-up to her start date and got a serious case of cold feet as the reality of her new role set in. A source says, “Cat’s of course thrilled with…

When Melissa Mead’s son came home from nursery with a cough, she booked him a GP appointment. But the doctor assured her one-year-old William just had a viral infection and would soon be fine. But William’s cough got worse and despite another trip to the GP and a call to 111, Melissa’s concerns were dismissed. Tragically, days later, when Melissa went to wake William, she found he had died in his sleep. The coroner told the family William had a bacterial chest infection, which then led to pneumonia and sepsis. There had been 16 failures that contributed to William’s death, and four missed opportunities to save his life. SECOND OPINION Melissa, 37, who lives in Cornwall with her husband Paul, says, “Knowing William should have survived was very difficult to…

There’s no denying that David Potts has already made his mark in the Celebrity Big Brother house, and as the larger than life reality star wins a whole new fanbase, BFF Ellie Young who he met back in 2015 when the pair both appeared on Ibiza Weekender - says he won’t be covering up his “meat and two veg” anytime soon. “You start worrying with David when he does have pants on,” she laughs. “He’s known for his legs! He needs to get his legs insured. He’s got an amazing set of legs, why wouldn’t he get them out?” Having been friends for nearly nine years, Ellie - who starred on Big Brother back in 2017 - is excited for David, 30, to show his softer side to fans. “David…

They put on a romantic PDA at the Golden Globes in January, but fans have been left speculating that Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet may have split as they haven’t been spotted together since then. Kylie, 26, fuelled the breakup whispers after she posted a TikTok video of herself going through her daily routines with her daughter Stormi Webster, six, and her sister Kendall. Kylie continued to film herself while washing her face and brushing her teeth before heading to her at-home gym for a workout, and fans suggested the footage seemed to show her leading her life without actor Timothée. “Soft launch break-up coming?” one person wrote. “She’s talking about how she’s ‘thriving’ all on her own like she doesn’t need a man,” another fan commented. While Timothée hasn’t…

After six years of dating, reports have emerged that Coldplay singer Chris Martin has popped the question to actress girlfriend Dakota Johnson. Rumour has it that Chris, 47, asked Dakota, 34 - who he’s been dating since 2017 - to marry him a while ago, but the news is only being made public now that they’re ready to make “their commitment official”. Before dating Dakota, Chris Martin was famously married to Gwyneth Paltrow, 51 - with whom he shares daughter Apple and son Moses - for 11 years. Gwyneth and Dakota have also built up an unlikely friendship over the time, with Dakota, Chris, Gwyneth and her husband Brad often holidaying together.…

Ella Rae Wise is used to causing drama, and this next series will be no exception. Viewers will see Ella, 23, hook up with newly single Dan Edgar, and when asked about the romance, Ella says, “It was going to happen at some point! Although that sounds bad. He has a type! It was obvious to everyone else. There is a really different side to him now he has been on his own. He has been split from Amber for nearly a year. He is OK to move on now. I have had a chat with Amber. I would never be that girl to rub it in her face, that is just not the way I am. I will have respect for her.” As well as her love life, Ella…

Gladiators returned to our screens in January, 32 years after Ulrika hosted the iconic show back in 1992. Now Ulrika says, “When I heard the opening credits, I welled up because I hadn’t heard the music for so long. It was a huge part of my life and I think it’s a fabulous family show.” Meeting the new Gladiators has also led her to reminisce on her romance with James Crossley - AKA Hunter. She says, “James and I just fancied each other and we got on really welland had a great connection.” But she admits that, while she’s impressed with the new batch of super-athletes, she wouldn’t date any of them. She says, “I’ve met a couple of the Gladiators - they are huge! James was big, but today…

AMANDA’S BARE-FACED CHEEK! Fun-loving Amanda Holden was called out by fans for “embarrassing” her daughter Lexi as she threw some bold shapes on the dance floor at her eldest daughter’s 18th birthday party earlier this year. The 52-year-old shared a clip from the raucous party with her 2.1 million followers, which showed her gyrating on the walls and dancing with her daughter’s pals as the camera followed her towards Lexi. One fan commented, “How not to act at your daughter’s party”, while another wrote, “The fake sexy dancing and the way she moves people out of the way is shocking.” Lexi - who is signed to Storm Management - is Britain’s Got Talent judge Amanda’s eldest daughter with husband Chris Hughes, while they also share 11-year-old daughter Hollie. And Amanda…

As a relationship therapist, Mel is often asked for tips on choosing the right partner. She says, “I believe in applying the intelligence we use in our careers to our dating life, which doesn’t sound romantic, but it works. You wouldn’t go to an interview without reading the job description first, but I see people doing it in dating all the time - they say they want a long-term relationship, but are dating people who are inappropriate. Have a clear vision of the type of relationship you want. Ask: ‘What are my values and what are my deal breakers?’. Pick three things that are essential, then have preferences that you can be flexible on.”…

TASTY BARS Featuring on-trend flavour combinations, Tesco has launched 10 new chocolate bars (from £1.60) including Pretzel & Salt and Pecan & Honeycomb, to more traditional choc choices. PERFECT PIZZA Crosta & Mollica’s range of artisanal sourdough pizzas offers a true taste of Italy in your own home. The Pinsa Roman pizza portions are perfect for one (£3.50 from supermarkets.). TOP EGGS Fairburn’s Famous British Blue eggs are laid by flower-fed, natural grain diet, free-range hens, and have a pretty pastel blue shell and a rich, buttery yolk. (£1.75 for 4 from Asda).…

Many of the one million undiagnosed type 2 diabetics will be younger people. It’s diagnosed with a blood test, but given young people rarely go to the doctor for a routine blood test, these cases are unlikely to be diagnosed unless someone notices a change in their health. It’s not that everyone needs to rush to the GP for a blood test, but people with a family history or signs should. SPOT THE SIGNS The main symptoms of type 2 diabetes are peeing more than usual, feeling thirsty all the time and feeling very tired. Those signs can be easy to miss, or you may not read any significance into them. It’s quite hard to work out how much peeing is too much and, with tiredness, people tend to struggle…

What’s the most stupid reason you’ve gone off a person you were speaking to on an app? Mine has to be the incorrect use of “your” when they meant “you’re”. I hold my hands up and believe sometimes I deserve to be single! Although I was dumped once because I used the word “pacifically” when I meant ‘specifically’, grammar aside, there are so many silly excuses for going off someone. A Facebook group recently encouraged people to share their experiences with the post: “A guy unmatched me because...”. The answers included: She didn’t have an iPhone; she’d never been to Mexico City and she couldn’t swim. None of these reasons give any details about the person, their character, their values or their compatibility. It all seems insane. But I think…

For an extra sweet birthday, grab some tasty freebies! • DOUGHNUTS Download the Krispy Kreme Rewards app to register for the free loyalty scheme, and you’ll get a voucher to show in a Krispy Kreme store for one free doughnut of your choice during your birthday month. You also get a free doughnut just for signing up. • A CUPCAKE Download the Greggs app and register for the free Greggs Rewards loyalty scheme to receive a voucher entitling you to one free cupcake, cream cake or doughnut for your special day. • CINNAMON BUN Pastry fan? Sign up to the Gail’s app, add your date of birth and choose any Morning Goods item - from tasty pastries like croissants to cinnamon buns and pain au raisins - to tuck into…

TRUSTY TOTE This is a convenient bag to throw everything in. It also has a handy waterresistant finish to keep your belongings dry on rainy days. CULT CARRIER Chances are you’ve probably already seen this trending on Instagram. It’s deceptively spacious to fit everything you need DESIGNER DOUBLE The perfect add-on to elevate any day or evening ensemble, it would be rude not to treat yourself. CONVERTIBLE CLUTCH The ideal accessory for an upscale event ike a wedding or special evening out. Wear it under your arm or go hands-free with the strap WORK WINNER Large enough to fit your laptop - plus a change of shoes, wallet and keys - this camel number will make your daily schlep that bit easier. STYLE STATEMENT We love the tan tone of…

TV Closer TV WEEK: 16-22 MARCH 1 THE GREAT CELEBRITY BAKE OFF FOR STAND UP TO CANCER FAMOUS FACES IN THE TENT SUN 17 MARCH, 7, 40PM, C4 Over the next five weeks, 20 celebs enter the most famous tent in Britain. Step forward this week’s four... Paloma Faith, Spencer Matthews, Munya Chawawa and Jodie Whittaker, aka the first female Doctor Who (cue hilarious “Extermi-cake” jokes). There can only be one winner, and that person gets to take home a Bake Off apron. Judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith want cake pops with a “meaningful” decorative topping. Paul reckons it’s an easy challenge, but too wet and the dough won’t go on the lolly stick. “They are celebrities, I’m not expecting that much,” he says. None taken! 2 CELEBRITY EX ON THE…

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…

12-18 MARCH THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN PISCES 19 FEB-20 MAR This is such a pivotal time for you. The most important thing now is to maintain your integrity. The minute you start acting shifty, the Universe will come down on you like a ton of bricks. Do what you said you were going to do. Be honest. Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope ARIES 21 MAR - 19 APR Back in the day, only mystics and hippies would talk openly about using their intuition. However, times are changing and these days, anyone who knows how to trust their gut is ahead of the pack, personally and professionally. Are you moving with the times? Test out your intuition this week! Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope TAURUS 20 APR-20 MAY…

GRUMPY GRAM Poor Eamonn finds out the hard way that the four words you should never say to a PT/physio are “Pull the other one...” Get well soon, fella!…

KATE'S UNCLE GARY GOES ON CBB Quizzed by housemate Fern Britton as to what he could spill the beans on when it came to the royals, Kate’s estranged uncle Gary Goldsmith replied “anything”. The royals were reported to have been left “infuriated” when Gary, 58, the younger brother of Kate’s mum Carole, signed up for the show. Within hours of entering the house, Gary had already shared his views on Meghan. The selftitled “buncle” (bad uncle) also came under fire from viewers for his previous charge of assault against his fourth ex-wife. HARRY'S STRIPPER PICS Following his confession about losing his virginity to an “older woman” in his memoir, Prince Harry’s sex life hit headlines again last week when a stripper who previously attempted to auction off a pair of…

TOWIE fans couldn’t contain their excitement last week when original cast member and all-time legend Lauren Goodger, 37, confirmed the news of her return on social media with a series of behind-the-scenes shots. However, two people who are far from thrilled about Lauren’s return to the limelight - 12 years after her 2012 departure are her ex-fiancé Mark Wright, 37, and his wife, Michelle Keegan, 36. FEUDS A source tells Closer, “Mark and Michelle are both incredibly anxious about what Lauren is going to say now she’s returning to TOWIE. Mark’s petrified of Lauren bringing up history and unearthing old feuds. “Having already endured thinly-veiled comments and digs over the years, they’re petrified Lauren is going to use her new platform to continue twisting the knife and trying to get…

She’s been proudly posting pictures of her new romance with MAFS UK’s JJ Slater all over social media, showing tire couple snogging on a ski trip, on wild nights out with Geordie Shore’s Chloe Ferry and enjoying cosy nights in. And a source says Katie Price’s new relationship has kick-started her bid to make a huge career comeback, following years of bankruptcy, career flops and stints in rehab. The source says, “Since meeting JJ, Katie has had a new lease of life. She’s telling everyone, ‘The Pricey’s back!’ She thinks of her and JJ as the hot new couple on the scene. REALITY SHOW “She’s had financial problems in the past few years, but she’s now making big plans to make some money and restore her status. JJ already has…

Former Made In Chelsea star Lucy Watson, 33, has announced the happy arrival of her baby boy, Willoughby James Watson-Dunmore. In September, Lucy and her husband, James Dunmore, who met on the E4 show in 2015, announced on Instagram that they were expecting a baby, writing “our little miracle” alongside a picture of them both holding Lucy’s bump. Family, friends and fans have been quick to offer their congratulations. Former MIC co-star Binky Felstead said, “Eek congratulations!”, while TOWIE star Chloe Lewis said, “Congratulations, he’s beautiful Luc.” Lucy has previously opened up about her fertility struggles, saying of her pregnancy last year, “I’m just enjoying every moment and just living for every day because we’ve fought to get here and we are so grateful to be here.”…

Rumours they’re dating have been swirling for months, and it now seems Joshua Jackson, 45, and Lupita Nyong’o, 41, are definitely an item after the pair put on a cute loved-up display - holding hands and laughing together - while on holiday in Mexico last week. Rumours that the Dawson’s Creek and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever stars were dating first circulated when they were spotted at a Janelle Monae concert together last October. They were later seen holding hands on a walk in Joshua Tree National Park in California in December, but the snaps from their recent romantic getaway seem to have confirmed the rumours. Their romance comes after both Joshua, 45, and Lupita, 41, went through tough breakups last year. In October, Joshua’s wife of more than three years,…

He’s TOWIE’s longest-serving cast member, and James “Diags” Bennewith is still just as loved as ever. Viewers have been enjoying watching his romance play out with new girlfriend Jodie Wells and now Diags says he’s sure Jodie is The One - but doesn’t want to rush things. Diags, 32, tells Closer, “I am really happy - she is lovely, such a lovely girl. I am a lucky man. “You have to be wary and careful and get to know someone first - if you jump in at a million miles an hour it sometimes doesn’t work out. From previous relationships you become a bit more careful, when you’re younger you go into it blindly, like, ‘I love this person’. Even though I have these feelings, you have to be a…

When Chloe Carroll went to her local supermarket during the pandemic in 2020, she stood in the aisles with her heart racing and struggled to catch her breath. As her sister, Gabrielle, tried to calm her down, Chloe told her she was worried about being surrounded by so many people with Covid cases on the rise. But the truth behind Chloe’s panic attack was very different - she was in fact embarrassed after gaining weight during lockdown, and feared other shoppers were judging her trolley filled with sugary snacks. It was the turning point in her struggle with her weight and soon after, with the support of Gabrielle - who also wanted to get healthier - the pair lost an incredible 8st between them. Chloe says, “I feel like a…

Whether you have trouble nodding off or you find yourself staring at the ceiling in the early hours, sleep problems play havoc with our wellbeing. “Sleep is hugely important,” Dr Michael Mosley tells Closer. “It affects heart health, mood and it’s vital for regulating your appetite - if you have a bad night’s sleep, you crave junk food. If you consistently sleep badly, it increases your risk of dementia too, plus it affects your sex drive.” The good news is, Dr Mosley - who’s suffered insomnia himself - is confident that with the right steps, sleep issues are solvable. His new book, 4 Weeks To Better Sleep, is packed with tips to improve the quality of your kip, and they really work. To mark Sleep Awareness Week, we bring you…

INSIDE SAFFRON'S FRIDGE ● Eggs ● Onions ● Peanut butter ● Blueberries ● Bananas ● Tomatoes ● Lamb steaks ● Broccoli ● Mince meat ● Peppers ● Chicken ● Wraps ● Lettuce ● Garlic ● Strawberries ● Raspberries ● Carrots ● Salad ● Tomato purée ● Mayonnaise ● Energy drinks ● Almond milk SAFFRON Where do you shop? I do my shopping at Tesco. I honestly don’t know how much I spend as I’m not home a lot. It’s always very tricky shopping for one person as you end up over buying. Describe your daily diet... I’m a real chocoholic so my breakfast used to be porridge with chocolate protein powder and berries. Now I’ve fallen in love with scrambled eggs on toast or I’ll make omelette wraps. It’s basically…

COMEDIAN AND ACTRESS KERRY GODLIMAN, 50, ON HOW SHE LOOKS AFTER HER BODY AND MIND... STICK WITH WHAT WORKS... I go to a yoga class once a week, then I do it at home once a week too. I’m not the type of person who goes to the gym for an hour. My mantra is little and often. I work out more for my mental health as opposed to my physical health. I’ve been doing yoga since my twenties and it’s the thing that’s always worked for me. IT’S OK TO SAY NO... I try to not be too busy. When I was younger and building my career, I’d just say yes to everything because I didn’t want to miss out on anything. But now that I’m a little bit…

AFFORDABLE TREATS! GET HER LOOK EMMA WATSON The Harry Potter actress showcases the perfect transitional combo that we should all pay attention to. A classic stripe shirt is one of the most versatile wardrobe must-haves. Embrace the comeback of flares with a pair of bootcut jeans, and add a trench coat with a preppy jumper. FASHION WORTH TALKING ABOUT! SAG AWARDS Da'Vine Joy Randolph Continuing her winning streak of Best Supporting Actress, Da’Vine wowed in a Valdrin Shahiti satin gown. From the ruffles to the gathered details, she emulated a strong goddess. Emma Stone Sparkling her way into the event, Emma stole the show in a silver Louis Vuitton halterneck dress. The feather sequin motif was adorned with pearls to give it a Great Gatsbye edge. IN THE NEWS... SPRING…

1 THE PRODUCT I CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT IS... Ella & Jo’s The Glow Up Enzyme Mask [£34], it plumps up my skin and gets rid of any dry skin cells. I also love an eyelash curler. 2 THE BEST BEAUTY TIP I'VE LEARNT IS... Less is more, and concentrate on your skin - then you won’t need as much make-up on top. 3 MY HANDBAG ESSENTIAL IS... It normally involves things for my kids, like tissues and wipes. For me, I always like to carry the Ella & Jo Hyaluronic Skin Mist to freshen up my make-up during the day. 4 MY GO-TO HAIRSTYLE IS... In LA, I can just let my hair dry by the pool, but in the UK I need to give it some welly with the Bondiboost Blowout Pro…

What’s it like working together? Fred is just brilliant - his personality, his zest for life, his unpredictability... I thought I’d get him to teach me French but on the phone recently after “pa va” and “oui”, I had to say, “That’s it Fred, that’s all I’ve got!” Do you have a laugh? The first time I met Fred was when we were filming for our very first episode of season one and I was getting ready in my trailer. Fred just walked in with a towel wrapped around him, and he was like, “I just want to come and say hello!” As he walked out, his towel wasn’t pulled completely tight at the back so you could see his pants and his bum. I was like, “I know I’m…

NEWS She put on a united front with her husband last week - packing on the PDA at the Bahrain Grand Prix as the Formula 1 boss’ texting scandal continued to threaten their nine-year marriage. But as Closer went to press, Geri Horner’s solidarity appeared to be waning amid reports the former Spice Girl, 51, had decided not to join Christian, 50, at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix. Her loved-up display with Christian in Bahrain came just days after a series of flirtatious WhatsApp messages and pictures - allegedly sent by the former racing car driver to a female colleague were leaked to a number of journalists and sports bosses. BRAVE FACE The scandal blew up just 24 hours after he was cleared of any inappropriate behaviour. And as reports…

SPRAY TAN INSULT Mark is seen watching footage of Lauren being given a spray tan by co-star Amy Childs after they’d just gone on a break from their relationship. He says, “Why is she doing that, she looks f****** 19st, the div. Why would you even bother?” His sister Jess replied, “Mark, don’t be nasty.” SHE PUSHES MARK IN THE POOL Lauren was left furious after Mark failed to invite her to his pool party in case she made guests feel uncomfortable. In the series finale, Mark told Lauren, “This is why you don’t come to my parties,” and Lauren fired back, “Shut up!” and pushed him into the swimming pool in front of shocked party-goers. THEY GET ENGAGED IN A CAR PARK Lauren and Mark got engaged in a…

Paying with dolls is something most people grow out of - but not Kiersten Haley, who is the proud owner of over 32 dolls. Her collection of plastic tots has cost her over £10,000 and amassed her over 90,000 YouTube subscribers, who love following her journey. However, not everyone is a fan and the 28-year-old has faced insults and death threats due to her hobby. ‘ I’VE SPENT MORE THAN £10,000 AND HAVE NO PLANS TO STOP ’ But undeterred, Kiersten is determined to continue to add to her brood. She says, “My dolls make me happy. I don’t have a total number in mind - I just bring home dolls that connect with me.” LONELINESS Kiersten’s obsession with dolls began was she was young. She says playing with them…

Earlier this month, dad-to-be Only Murs threw a memorable baby shower for his wife, who is expecting their first child. The X Factor star and Amelia who married last July - delighted fans by sharing photos of their Greggs-themed party which he renamed “Preggs”, and dressing up as a sausage roll to mark the occasion. The 39-year-old shared content of the day on social media alongside the caption, “When Greggs do Baby Showers”. Fitness instructor Amelia, 31, who couldn’t stop smiling, was seen cuddling him in the footage, with a Greggs mobile van full of pasties and baked goods in the background.…

Shooting to fame as a blonde bombshell on the original Gladiators series in the ‘90s, Ulrika Jonsson was the face - and body - of posters everywhere, and she famously embarked on a string of high-profile romances. But ahead of her 50th birthday in 2017, the TV star admitted that she had been living in a marriage with ex-husband Brian Monet for almost a decade which shefelt lacked the necessary sexual intimacy. Now, as Closer speaks with Ulrika at 56, she says her love life and outlook on life have had a huge boost in her 50s, crediting her playful sense of humour and younger men for her renewed zest for life - in and out of the bedroom. BAGGAGE Admitting that her first foray into the world of online…

The famous faces taking part in The Great Celebrity Bake Off For Stand Up To Cancer this year include singer Paloma Faith, actor Danny Dyer, presenter Greg James and dancer Oti Mabuse - the latter being someone whom Alison Hammond has made no secret of her love for. Delighted to host Bake Off For SU2C the first time after joining the regular Bake Off team last year, Alison, 49, says, “I was really, really excited when Oti came into the tent, and now I know she was actually pregnant at the time. That was really exciting, having her there. “She wanted to do well. Her sister Motsi did really well in the tent in 2022, so there was a lot of pressure on Oti to show that she had what…

Just before Christmas, Married At First Sight’s Mel Schilling’s world was turned upside down when she was given the life-changing news that she had colon cancer and needed urgent surgery to remove the tumour. “Hearing a doctor say, with a terribly serious face, ‘It’s cancer’, is a moment you’ll never forget in your life,” says the Aussie TV psychologist, recalling that December day in her consultant’s office in London. RELIEVED “My hubby Gareth was with me, and we had very different reactions. I went into shock, pulled out my phone and started looking at my work schedule, saying, ‘But I’ve got to beonsetl’It was completely irrational. But Gareth was really upset and had to leave the room to get some fresh air.” While the diagnosis was a huge blow, Mel,…

If you like the sound of fast and easy cooking, then this is for you. Simple but hearty, and easy to follow, this vegan recipe is courtesy of Derek Sarno, who co-stars on the Wicked Kitchen YouTube channel. MATT PRITCHARD'S BAKED MAC & SHEEZE STEP 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4. STEP 2 Cook the macaroni according to pack instructions. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegan bacon and cook for 3-5 mins, until cooked through. Transfer to a chopping board and finely chop. STEP3 To make a roux, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan over a medium heat. Add the flour and mix until a paste forms. Gradually pour in the plant-based milk and mix…

THE LUXURY ONE EXTRA THICK EASTER EGG PATISSERIE, HOTEL CHOCOLAT, £29.45 This extra-thick egg is half brownie-flavour milk chocolate and half cheesecake-flavour salted caramel milk chocolate. And it comes packed with mini-chocs, too. What’s not to love? THE NUTTY ONE THE CRACKING PISTACHIO, WAITROSE, £14 We adore this quirky two-in-one egg. Crack open the blonde chocolate exterior shell and you will find another egg! The smaller one is pistachio flavour, and is utterly delicious. THE VEGAN ONE MADE WITHOUT CHOCCY ROCKY ROAD EGG, M&S, £6 No dairy? No problem! This vegan egg has been spruced up with marshmallows, honeycomb, raisins and rice biscuits plus you get a dairy-free bunny as an extra treat! THE GOOD EGG! MILK CHOCOLATE CHUNKY EGG, TONY’S CHOCOLONELY, £12 Not only does this egg taste amazing,…

FAMILY MATTERS WAYS YOU CAN FIND JOY IN PARENTING Many parents are exhausted, lack support and can feel like they’re going through the motions, but Anna says we can turn that around I’m a mum to two wonderful kids, who I love more than life itself, but it is hard. The day-to-day grind can feel monotonous and thankless, so it’d it be strange if we loved every minute. One thing to mention is that post-natal depression is really prevalent up until a child is about 18 months old, so talk to your GP if you suspect that. If you feel like every day is a struggle, write down, “What is my situation now?”, then “What do I want my situation to be?”, and, “What needs to happen to get from…

There are a whopping 38 million pets in the UK, but rising household costs sadly mean that 13 per cent of pet owners gave up a pet in 2022, with dogs top of the list. Nobody wants to have to say goodbye to their furry housemates, so here’s how to cut costs without compromising their health... SAVE ON INSURANCE Dog insurance costs have risen at twice the rate of inflation in recent years, with French Bulldogs, Boxers and Rottweilers among the priciest breeds, so many people have cancelled plans and instead put money aside each month. However, that won’t cover you if your animal is run over or develops a condition like hyperthyroidism or diabetes. “There are four main types of cover - accident only, timelimited, lifetime and maximum benefit…

DESK READY A tailored co-ord is an office no-brainer, but if you’re bored of plain block colours, then it may be time to turn to a pinstripe style. Keep it sophisticated by pairing with a silky blouse, or dress it down with a basic tee, finishing off with a pair of classic loafers and a designer-style bag. CLASSIC STYLE RUNNING ERRANDS Go faster stripes will instantly give your casual trousers a sports-luxe edge, making them a great alternative to drab joggers. Wear with a bold slogan knit and run-around trainers for an effortless look that will take you from the school run to the supermarket and beyond. MOOD BUSTING KNIT SHOPPING SPREE This statement shirt is ideal for updating your classic blouse-andjeans combo, and best of all it’s comfy enough…

Danny Miller, 33, on his character Aaron’s test results this week... “It’s a worrying time for Aaron... Even though Chas is playing her illness down, he’s terrified that this is another person who’s going to leave him, and he’s not dealing with it very well at all,” Danny tells Closer. “It’s been nice to have a bit of the old Aaron back - there is a caring soul in there, but he always puts a wall up about his feelings.” As for the gene test, Danny adds, “He finally agrees to do it to reassure his mum, but when he opens his results, he decides to lie to people about it. It’s a defence mechanism - no one needs to know, and that’s where his head is at.”…