Table of contents for Issue 920 in Closer

A mid lockdown, many people found themselves glad to be leading a simpler life, with lots of us seeking out moments of hope and joy despite all the uncertainty. This week, we were delighted to catch up with former Made In Chelsea star Ashley James (p28), whose surprise pregnancy turned a challenging event into an unexpectedly happy time. The DJ is over the moon to be expecting a baby boy in January after suddenly finding love following six years of single life, and tells us, “It’s been a beautiful, positive thing for us in all the chaos and uncertainty.” Meanwhile, on p26, Bake Off’s Nadiya Hussain shares her tips on learning to live happily after years of struggling with crippling anxiety. It’s a real lesson in how even the tiniest…

They recently appeared to heal their infamous 20-year rift – promising a Girls Aloud reunion in 2022 – and, last month, vowed to stand together to support their old bandmate, Sarah Harding, amid her devastating breast cancer diagnosis. Now, insiders say that Nadine Coyle and Cheryl could rebuild their friendship even further over the coming weeks, thanks to hit BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. With Nadine’s ex fiancé, Jason Bell, confirmed to join the star-studded Strictly lineup and Cheryl being hotly tipped to replace Bruno Tonioli on the judging panel, insiders say the two are likely to be crossing paths more often. Last week, Nadine, 35, showed she’s still on good terms with the father of her six-year-old daughter, Anaiya, as she shared his Strictly news on her Instagram stories.…

Despite reportedly being awarded £33 million in her divorce settlement from Ant McPartlin in January, Lisa Armstrong has refused to become a lady of leisure and instead is going full steam ahead with her career. The make-up artist is currently working on two TV shows and is launching her own beauty range, and has even hinted she’d like to spend more time in front of the camera. AMBITION Last week, Lisa – who is gearing up to return to her role as head of hair and make-up on Strictly Come Dancing – returned to work on the new series of Piers Morgan’s Life Stories, while she also launched a make-up collection with Avon. And while she is usually working in the make-up room, she showed her future ambition by liking…

Lucy*, 37, lives in east London with her fiancé, Mark*. She says, “During lockdown my fiancé broke the news to me that my ex had been liking photographs on his Facebook page. It made my blood run cold. It’s his way of reminding me he’s still out there – and still has intimate photographs of me that he can share at any time. My ex was controlling, abusive and manipulative. We were together for two years, and whenever I tried to leave him, he lured me back. By the time I finally left him two years ago, with help from a domestic abuse charity, I was broken and had attempted suicide. One of the ways he controlled me was through sexual photographs of me. He sent them to my family,…

Psychotherapist Noel McDermott says, “We’ve seen from studies that repeatedly seeing doctored or unrealistically ‘perfect’ bodies can breed feelings of low self-worth, insecurity and dissatisfaction, as well as body dysmorphia and depression. The best thing to do if you find yourself feeling anxious on Instagram is to unfollow anyone who is bringing on any negative feelings. Try challenging any negative thoughts you have, too – and remember that social media isn’t the real world. If you are really struggling, make sure you share how you’re feeling with loved ones or seek professional help.”…

• Pick a diet plan that you can sustain. Fad diets are difficult to follow, and can be dangerous too. • Do it for yourself. As much as compliments from others can feel great, your transformation should be for one person only: you! • Balance is key. You can still enjoy your favourite meals, like spaghetti Bolognese, but eat them in moderation and check your portion sizes aren’t too big – most packaging for ingredients like pasta and rice provide information for adults portions. • If you’re afraid of joining the gym, YouTube can be a great place to start. I learned a lot from trained dieticians and personal trainers, just from the click of a button.…

Ashley made her TV debut on reality TV show Made In Chelsea in 2012 and dated original cast member Ollie Locke, who is now engaged to long-term friend Gareth Locke. • OLLIE IS STILL ONE OF MY CLOSE FRIENDS. He once said I am his favourite ex, which is good! He’s very, very excited about the baby and he’s definitely the one that I’m closest to from the show. • I SPEAK TO ROSIE (FORTESCUE) A FAIR BIT. I’m really proud of her and her jewellery company. She’s so hard working and has amazing fashion sense. I just love her wardrobe – she always wears such amazing stuff. • IF I BUMPED INTO MILLIE (MACKINTOSH), THAT WOULD BE GREAT – but I haven’t actually spoken to her since I left…

MY FRIENDS: “My childhood was not particularly happy or secure, so it has been my friends who have helped me to discover who I really am. Many of them date back to my schooldays and I can talk to them about anything.” WINE: “My palate is not particularly sophisticated, but I know what I like. I was once told that any bottle of red above £8 would taste pretty good to me, but if I spent more than £15, I would probably be wasting my money, as I wouldn’t appreciate it.” BATHS: “Most nights, I relax in a deliciously hot bath for a couple of hours. I sit there with a glass of wine, a book and normally the radio. I hate it if I go abroad and I stay…

DON’T CHANGE FOR OTHER PEOPLE “I was bullied at school. People picked on me for my gappy teeth. I had veneers when I was 17, but after Love Island I had so much trolling for them. So many people said my teeth were awful. I recently had my veneers redone with Dr Richard Marques and I’m so happy with them. I did that for myself, and I feel more confident than ever. Ironically, since I’ve had my teeth done, someone went through my photos on Instagram and commented on my nose, saying, ‘Your nose is awful.’ Luckily, I’m in a secure place now and don’t feel the need to change things that other people criticise.” ACCEPTANCE IS THE KEY TO BODY CONFIDENCE “When I was younger, I tried every diet…

Last month, Gemma was subjected to cruel comments after reruns of classic Hollyoaks aired, where she played Lisa Hunter in the Channel 4 soap. She says, “A guy DM’d me and said, ‘I didn’t realise you were fat when you were in Hollyoaks.’” Testament to her no-nonsense attitude, the former soap star encouraged the follower to think of his children before making nasty comments. She adds, “I’m so glad there was no social media during the days I was on Hollyoaks, because it was genuinely one of the happiest times of my life. We never worried how we looked in costumes or what we wore on nights out.”…

Most kids will find adapting to a new school regime challenging, thanks to reduced freedoms, restricted playtimes and curriculum changes. These could be particularly difficult if your kids are returning to their GCSEs or A-level final year after missing out on six months of lessons. HEAR THEIR WORRIES We parents need to help our kids find coping strategies to deal with these strange times. Don’t minimise the changes, instead help them to accept that this is how school life will be until the government decides otherwise. Empathise that this is frustrating, and allow your child to express their feelings. Share examples of changes you have had to undertake to the way you work, and the frustrations you also feel. This shows your child that it is OK to struggle, and…

INSIDE AMY’S FRIDGE • Goat’s cheese • Lurpak butter • Ginger • Mint sauce • Semi-skimmed milk • Hot sauce • Peri-peri sauce • Tonic water • Babybels • Dairylea Dunkers • Dough balls • Chillies • Chicken breast • Halloumi • Sausage rolls • Greek yoghurt • Broccoli • Peppers • Prosecco • Rosé • Beers • Strawberries • Tomatoes VERDICT NUTRITIONIST JULIETTE KELLOW SAYS, “Amy’s meals seem healthy, but she could eat more fruit and veg. She clearly loves cheese – great for calcium, but bad for the heart, as cheese is high in artery-clogging saturated fat. Skimmed milk and fat-free yoghurt give calcium without fat, while vegan options include beans, lentils, almonds, veg, and plant milks or yoghurts.” FRIDGE HEALTH RATING 6/10 CLOSER ONLINE GET RECIPES, DIET…

1 PAIR YOUR PRINTS Take inspiration from your favourite silky PJs and invest in a co-ord set that’s both comfortable and chic. Prints definitely come better as a pair and this dream duo will maximise your style game with minimal effort. 2 KNOCKOUT NEUTRALS Off-duty khaki can easily be ramped up with the right accessories, like this wide-buckle belt or chunky gold jewellery. We love Olivia’s bright choice, cinched around her waist to give an otherwise oversized pairing a more polished look. 3 NAIL OFF-DUTY CHIC As fast fashion takes its toll on the planet, invest in long-lasting, classic items. Wear tailored pieces, like these trousers, for both work and play. Pair with a blouse or choose a cami for candlelit dinners. 4 LEARN YOUR LAYERS Follow Olivia’s lead by…

REBOOT YOUR BROWS From shaping to colouring, brows need regular TLC. Taking care of arches at home isn’t as tricky as you might expect, though. When it comes to colouring, a fine brow pencil will fill and define with minimal effort, or for a longer-lasting shade, try sweeping through a 24-hour tint that’ll stay budge-proof all day. Banish stray hairs with a pair of tweezers. Avoid over-plucking and never tweeze above brows – always stick to the lower half. If all else fails, a quick brush and a touch of clear gel will add hold and shine. SHOW YOUR LASHES SOME LOVE If your flutter is a little lacklustre, take time to master the art of falsie application. If you’re a newbie, it’s best to start with a softer, more…

1 STEPH’S PACKED LUNCH BACK WITH A WHOLE NEW LOOK MON-FRI 14-18 SEPT, 12.30PM, C4 This Steph Show arrived on daytime TV in March, fronted by former BBC Breakfast presenter Steph McGovern. It ended up going out earlier than planned, as Steph was keen to keep viewers entertained during lockdown – even if she did have to keep her lounge spotless for the cameras rigged up in her home. Now, the swanky Leeds studio where it was originally meant to be based is ready, and 100-minute episodes will be broadcast on week days – complete with a new title, plus celeb guests (Gemma Atkinson and Vogue Williams to name but two), chefs (equals yum food), entertainment and consumer items. Don’t miss! 2 KEEPING UP WITH THE KARDASHIANS FILMING HAS RESUMED,…

MUST READ Inheritance (JENNY ECLAIR)  In deepest Cornwall, the mansion Kittiwake has been handed down through the family, and now belongs to Bel’s adoptive brother, Lance. It’s where he’ll be celebrating his 50th birthday, which is difficult for Bel, as she will be returning to the place where it all began – the place where, following the death of a child, a sequence of events was set in motion, the consequences of which are still rippling down through the generations... A brilliant read. TUNE IN The Michelle Obama Podcast Former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama brings us a really special podcast. Listen as she dives into conversation with friends, family and colleagues, discussing all kinds of subjects, from current affairs to women’s health and the menopause. In…

IF IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK One of the strongest themes in your birthday chart this year is healing. Hold a picture of yourself healed in your mind, to bring it into reality. Your key to success in the year ahead is to put your energies into one part of your life, rather than scattering them. THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN VIRGO 23 AUG-22 SEP If things aren’t going quite as you would like when it comes to sex and/or money, stay level-headed. You’ll have more time than usual to work on these parts of your life and you could discover new ways to boost both of them. For your free gift this week, visit moonmessages. com/freegift LIBRA 23 SEP-22 OCT You may find that your romantic plans are being…

Their imminent High Court showdown hit a tense new low last week, with Rebekah Vardy reportedly pushing to get Coleen Rooney into court as soon as possible amid their ongoing WAG war. The move came as her team insisted Coleen was “dragging her heels” by failing to file a defence to Rebekah’s claim that Coleen defamed her by publicly accusing her Instagram account of leaking stories, something Rebekah has always denied. Despite their looming legal case – predicted to be one of the most bitter celebrity court battles ever – both Coleen, 34, and Rebekah, 38, defiantly shared carefree family portraits on Instagram last weekend. Coleen posted a montage of cute snaps of her enjoying two family days out in Alton Towers theme park – one with her eldest son…

When Caroline Quentin was announced in the Strictly line-up last week, fans were overjoyed by news that the veteran comedy actress will be making a regular TV comeback, after recent years out of the spotlight. One commented, “Not going to lie, so thrilled with Caroline Quentin – there was a bit of screaming with joy,” while another echoed, “Yay, I’m already voting for Caroline.” At 60, the Men Behaving Badly star is three years older than former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, 57, who was the final member of the line-up to be announced. And Caroline says she is ecstatic to be on the show, although she admits she is worried about her ageing joints. She joked, “My knees are 50 years older from my previous dancing days. It’s my knees…

Pop culture and PR expert Nick Ede says that he is surprised by the announcement, given how difficult it is to make it in the TV world. He says, “In the TV industry, it’s not a case of everything you touch turns to gold – it’s really difficult to be successful in this world and come up with ideas that get the ratings. For every Simon Cowell and every X Factor success, there are millions of flops. Even big stars like Madonna have tried to carve out a career in TV but have failed – it’s not all about your name. “Worryingly, Harry and Meghan are wrong if they think they will have complete control over what they create. While they’ll have a big say, Netflix want ratings, so if…

When Courtney Owen sent intimate pictures to her then-boyfriend, she assumed they’d remain private. But after they broke up, the images were shared online, and Courtney became the victim of revenge porn – the sharing of photos or videos of another person without their consent and with the purpose of causing embarrassment or distress. BETRAYED Courtney, now 24, from South Wales, is a single mum to Ben*, two. She says, “It was the darkest time of my life. I didn’t think I’d survive it. “All I did was share pictures of myself with someone I cared for and trusted. He betrayed me in the worst way.” Sadly, Courtney’s story isn’t unusual. The Revenge Porn Helpline noted a doubling of calls every month during lockdown – and they’ve already had more…

KERRY AND RYAN TALK BABIES! She’s had three failed marriages, but Kerry Katona is set to make it fourth time lucky with personal trainer Ryan Mahoney. The former Atomic Kitten star, 40, said “yes” to Ryan, 32, after he proposed during their recent family holiday to Spain, and now insiders tell Closer the pair are already planning a baby together. Despite Kerry – who is already mum to Molly, 18, Lilly-Sue, 17, Heidi, 13, Max, 12, and Dylan-Jorge, six – saying in a recent interview that they’ll wait a couple of years, a source reveals she’s now thinking sooner rather than later. The source says, “Kerry has felt torn about having more children; after having DJ, she insisted ‘no more’. But now she definitely wants to complete her family with…

ADELE Adele ‘breaks the internet’ She’s reportedly lost 7st in the past 18 months – and confident Adele posted her first bikini picture on Instagram last week. The 32 year old proudly revealed her amazing midriff in a Jamaican-flag bikini top and yoga pants, in tribute to the cancelled Notting Hill Carnival – garnering over 5m likes, with Real Housewives of Beverely Hills star Lisa Rinna telling her, “You just broke the internet.” While she came under fire for her choice of outfit and hairstyle, with some accusing her of cultural appropriation, she was also supported by her black pals including Naomi Campbell and Alexandra Burke, who urged users to “let her live her best life”. One fan added, “Truly an inspiration to any woman who has struggled with their…

She’s accumulated countless accolades and an estimated £3.8m fortune since she held aloft the Bake Off trophy five years ago – but despite her incredible success, Nadiya Hussain has spoken about being blighted by crippling anxiety and panic attacks. The chef, 35 – who is a doting wife to husband Abdal, who works in IT, and mum to their children Musa, 13, Dawud, 12, and Maryam, nine – even starred in BBC One documentary Nadiya: Anxiety And Me in which she explored effective treatments to put a stop to her condition. Now, Nadiya shares her tips with Closer on how she has learned to live happily... ‘TALKING HELPS BREAK TABOOS’ In my memoir, Finding My Voice, I reveal that I was molested by a relative in Bangladesh at the age…

It was so refreshing to see Katy Perry share a picture of her post-baby body with the world. To have someone with her fame and influence post a photo like that is brilliant – it’s so relatable and raw. A massive hats off to her for doing that. I’m sure she will have helped make many women feel more confident. There’s so much pressure on women to bounce back into shape after giving birth. I saw how it affected my fiancée Becky after having our son Parker, now two. During her pregnancy, Becky often complained of feeling down about her appearance but she was growing a life and running her own salon at the same time! I would never have been able to do what she was doing, but she…

At eight months pregnant, it would be understandable if you chose to do little more than lie on the sofa and watch Netflix – but 28-year-old Jade Flash opted for a more energetic way to pass the time. She was still dancing around a pole just days before giving birth. SAFE Jade, who lives near Birmingham with husband Nathan, 34, who owns a building business, says, “I had no morning sickness or fatigue and I think it was because I was constantly on the go. When I asked doctors if it was safe to carry on with pole dancing, they said it would probably be better for me than stopping, as my body is so used to it. I’ve been pole dancing since I was 21 and just love it.”…

The most important thing to do is accept that losing your job wasn’t your fault. You didn’t cause it, you couldn’t have prevented it, and it isn’t a slur on your capabilities. It is scary facing unemployment, but keep fear in check. First, figure out what benefits you are entitled to as this may ease the burden. If you can, ask for family help. Don’t be proud. Remind yourself that you have found work before and you will find it again, but the more strategic you are, the more in control you will feel. Have a think about the skills you have acquired during your time in work, then write these down to see them in black and white. Now think about the kinds of jobs you enjoy doing –…

THE BIGGEST THING I’VE LEARNED IS... that time spent with someone you know is the best thing you could give them, rather than a gift. Your time will always mean so much more than a material object. I WISH I WERE... more patient. There are moments where I feel myself drifting away, so my aim is to concentrate and take it all in. MY BIGGEST REGRET... is not going to university and having that student experience. However, I wouldn’t give up the time I spent working, because I had a great time and wouldn’t change it for the world, so it’s more of a wish than a regret. THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE I’VE BEEN GIVEN... relates to work. It’s “turn up on time, be kind, and laugh”. It’s something…

A recent study led to lots of headlines claiming that giving women mammograms in their forties, rather than waiting until they reach 50, would save lots of lives, but there are some problems with early screenings – and the research. These types of studies come out fairly often, suggesting that, if we were screening younger women, we would be picking up many more cancers – but you need to weigh that against how many more invasive procedures we would be doing in women with no problems at all, as mammograms are much less accurate in younger women and can give all sorts of false results. BE REALISTIC ABOUT RISKS BY AGE You may have seen Sarah Harding recently talk about her battle with cancer, but young women having breast cancer…

LAMB SKEWERS & POMEGRANATE TABBOULEH SERVES 4 • 130g bulgur wheat • 1tbsp olive oil • 3tbsp lemon juice • 3 tomatoes, chopped • 2 cucumbers, chopped • 1 large handful mint, chopped • 1 large handful flat-leaf parsley, chopped • 2 spring onions, finely chopped • Juice and seeds of 1 pomegranate • 500g lamb fillet, diced For the yoghurt: • 130g low-fat Greek yoghurt • 1 cucumber, chopped • 2tbsp finely chopped mint •1/2 garlic clove, crushed STEP 1 To make the mint and cucumber yoghurt, combine all the ingredients. STEP 2 To make the tabbouleh, put the bulgur wheat in a bowl, add 375ml boiling water and leave for 20 mins. Drain any excess water and stir in the oil, lemon juice, tomatoes, cucumber, mint, parsley, spring…

OVERSIZE WEAVE If you’re a fan of fuss-free arm candy, then this is made for you. The woven texture is a nod to luxury designer Bottega Veneta. It’s extra smart and the shopper shape is ideal for carrying a laptop for work. RESERVE £29.99 CLOUD CARRIER It has a unique pleated design and is ultra-squishy to carry, which makes this innovative mid-size choice truly special in the style stakes. It comes with a thin, delicate shoulder strap, but the only way to be seen with this piece is tucked under your arm. ZARA £29.99 BUCKET MIDI Roomy, structured and chic, the bucket bag is enjoying a lengthy moment in the style spotlight – and we totally get why. The wide base makes it easy to find what you’re looking for,…

Who was Dennis Nilsen? He was a serial killer who murdered up to 15 men in London from 1978 to 1983. To the outside world, Dennis was a normal (even boring) individual – but he had a very dark, secret life. He took men to his flat, murdered them and kept their bodies under the floorboards. He finally got caught when he moved to Muswell Hill – to a top-floor flat, and ended up blocking the drains trying to flush human remains down the toilet… What can you tell us us about Des, the series? Our story really begins when Nilsen gets caught. That is our starting point. So, in a sense, we are with the police as they discover this extraordinary case that nobody even knew was going on.…

Billie drops a subtle hint to Doctor Who producers that she’s available for the next series. Sadly, that call box doesn’t travel through time and space – it just smells of wee. Jemma tries to make a call using her stiletto. Well, she always likes to get straight to the point when she’s on the phone. SOPHIE KASAEI Well, Sophie, given the nature of our last break-up, we’d say Live and Let DIE! MALIN ANDERSSON Woah, put that mascara wand down, Malin! This really isn’t the safest advice. INSPIGRAM CALUM BEST Calum, the only thing people want to ‘up’ when they’re around us is their units of alcohol… It’s Cardi B and her little chip off the old block Birkin. Too cute! Ever struggle to choose between pizza toppings? Make…

Strictly Come Dancing fans rejoiced last week when new contestants of the upcoming series were revealed, including heartthrob Max George from The Wanted – who is already the bookies’ favourite to win. But one person who may not have been celebrating is Max’s ex-fiancée, Michelle Keegan. Despite having been happily settled with Mark Wright since 2013, with the pair tying the knot just two years later, the news will undoubtedly sting – especially as fans have already been dredging up their failed engagement on social media. HEARTBROKEN Minutes after he was unveiled as a contestant, one fan wrote, “Remember when Max George used to go out with Michelle Keegan?” prompting another to reply, “Yeah, and asked for the engagement ring back”, followed by laughter emojis. Another added, “First thing I…

MAISIE SMITH The EastEnders actress, 19, won the Christmas special last year. Maisie says, “I can’t wait to dive into the Strictly fancy dress box!” NICOLA ADAMS The Olympic boxer, 37, is part of the show’s first same-sex pairing. “It’s amazing to be part of change and breaking boundaries,” she says. JAMIE LAING The Made In Chelsea star, 31, has a second chance after last year’s leg injury. “I was hurt as I bought insole lifts. I won’t do that again!”, he laughs. JJ CHALMERS The Scottish TV presenter and 2014 Invictus Games medallist, 33, is confident his close friend Prince Harry will support him. CLARA AMFO The BBC Radio 1 presenter, 33, has signed up because, as she explains, “I’m usually the first one on the dance floor and…

● Once someone has sexually explicit pictures or videos of you, it’s hard to control how they use them. Even if you are in a relationship, think carefully before you share any sexual images. ● If you become a victim of revenge porn, report the intimate images to the site they’re being shared on. Facebook and Instagram have policies in place to help prevent revenge porn from being shared. Make sure you screenshot the posts as evidence. ● Talk to someone you trust. The worst part of revenge porn for a victim can often be the fear of a loved one seeing the images. But confiding in someone you trust can help solve the issue by making you feel less alone and reducing the fear of others finding out. ●…

Social media usage has skyrocketed in recent years, and this has repeatedly been linked to a rise in anxiety, depression and body-image issues among young people. A 2019 study by the Royal Society for Public Health also showed that more time spent on Instagram led to an increased likelihood of poor mental health. Last week, MP Dr Luke Evans proposed a new law that would ban social media stars from using photo-editing tools to alter their faces or body shapes without revealing they’d done so – saying that doctored images are ‘fuelling a mental health crisis’ and creating a ‘warped view’ of beauty. Ex-TOWIE star Lauren Goodger, 33, has been thrown into the centre of the furore, as she’s repeatedly defended her decision to edit her pictures after being caught…

Striking a pose in a bodycon dress that hugs her enviable figure, it’s no wonder Maici Quirke has lots of fans– and frequently turns down offers of dates. But incredibly, before overhauling her diet and joining a gym just a year ago, the 19 year old was regularly bullied for weighing over 16st. Now 6st lighter, the student midwife says her former bullies are begging her to go out with them. Maici, who lives in Bristol, says, “I used to be tormented by school bullies, who would call me fat and ugly. But now I’ve slimmed down from a size 20 to a healthy size 8, my new figure hasn’t gone unnoticed by boys who used to tease me – and they now ask me out on dates! “I brush…

It was the surprise news that turned lockdown into an unexpectedly happy time for Ashley James. At the start of April, the former Made In Chelsea star found out she was expecting her first baby with her boyfriend Tom Andrews, who’d moved into her London flat just a month before. The couple started dating in October when they reconnected on a dating app after meeting ten years earlier through work. Despite things moving quickly after six years of the single life, Ashley, 33, is overjoyed at the news they’re expecting a little boy in January. ROLLER COASTER She tells Closer, “I’m happy after being single for so long – and it doesn’t feel fast. I’m 33 and I think, had I been 20 and met somebody and had this, it…

It’s been reported that the UK wedding industry has lost nearly £4.8 billion this year, which doesn’t shock me. The whole world has changed and most industries have taken a beating. Becky and I were forced to cancel our wedding because of the pandemic, but we’ve rebooked for next year. The wedding was set to take place in Italy with close family and friends, and that’s exactly what it’s going to be like next year. There are so many people in the same boat, so we’ve just tried not to feel too gutted – we just see it as another year to get excited. Parker will also be older and it’ll be easier for him to be more involved. He might even be able to stand with me at the…

She’s starred in Hollyoaks, Emmerdale,and Casualty, and has even waltzed her way through the Strictly ballroom, but Gemma Atkinson admits being a mum is her toughest challenge yet. The star, who has 14-month-old daughter Mia with her partner, Strictly pro dancer Gorka Marquez, believes motherhood has completely changed her outlook on life. Gemma, 35, tells Closer, “I take my hat off to any parent, whether they’re in a relationship or doing it on their own. I used to think I had no time, whereas when you have a child, you really have no time!” While they recently celebrated Mia’s first birthday at home, Gemma admits she’s appreciated the slower pace of life lately. “We coped really well during lockdown,” she says. “Gorka would’ve been away touring back-to-back, but he had…

Before Corona, or BC as I like to call it, singles spent on average a staggering £1,400 a year on dating. And according to the research by Plenty Of Fish, most of that sum went on pre-date prep. I can’t say that I’ve ever spent anything other than a taxi fare before a date, but the cost certainly stacks up during the date. I see it as money well spent if it goes well and we want to meet up again, but I find it harder to be so positive if things don’t go the way I’d hoped. One reason I enjoyed dating so much this summer was that there wasn’t pressure to spend much money while pubs and restaurants were closed. Sharing a socially distanced bottle of wine on…

We all want to run our homes as efficiently as possible: to protect the planet, but also to keep our household bills down. And now the government want to help us too, launching the Green Homes Grant scheme this month. We spoke to energy experts Matt Clemow, CEO and co-founder of Igloo Energy and Amit Gudka, Chief Energy Officer and Co-Founder at green-energy company Bulb, to find out how the grants work, and how to get access to them. KNOW HOW IT WORKS “From this month, homeowners in England can get up to £5,000 worth of vouchers to make energy-saving improvements so their homes are more energy- efficient and cheaper to run,” explains Matt. “It’s a win-win situation for the environment and your wallet. To access the Green Homes Grant,…

GET HER LOOK LAURA WHITMORE TV presenter Laura is our go-to celeb for off-duty style inspiration, and her latest outfit is another winning look. A printed midi dress is the perfect comfy-yet-chic piece, while a leather-look biker jacket is ideal for giving girlie frocks a rock-chic finish. Steal her style with these high-street picks… DESIGNER DUPE It’s safe to say that the Loewe basket bag is a must-have right now. Loved by celebs like Rachel Stevens, it may be chic, but it’ll set you back a whopping £295. While we love an investment buy, we’ve managed to track down this dupe from Mango for under £20. Treat yourself – you deserve it! IN THE NEWS... DENIM DONE RIGHT A good pair of jeans is a wardrobe essential, and New Look’s…

● Tina wonders if Frankie is flirting with her, and during a moment of bonding, she discovers Frankie had a young brother who died ten years ago. That evening, Frankie takes a shine to little Ollie – and secretly takes pictures of him. ● Max makes Ian look foolish (not that difficult, tbh) in a meeting when Ian is trying to schmooze some councillors. Kathy then accidentally lets slip to Max something he’s not meant to know. ● Stuart and Rainie get ready for their stag/hen dos, but no one seems to be showing up, mainly because Callum and Ben have their hands full with the Danny sitch.…

What’s in store? We’re giving people a flavour of the summer. We’ve all been starved of live music and festivals, and so across the weekend on the radio and TV there’ll be highlights from all the Live At Home performances. Who will you be chatting to? I’ll be speaking to Sheryl Crow and Chrissie Hynde – both incredible women in music. I’m also intrigued to see what The Killers performance will be like, because they’ll be on top of Caesar’s Palace Hotel in Vegas, – so that will be fun. We’ve got McFly as well, and a lot of people are excited about them being back together. Any thoughts on an outfit? Usually at this point I’m thinking, ‘Oh my God, what am I going to wear?’ because you never…