Table of contents for Issue 1085 in Closer

Following their “emotional” call to King Charles on his 75th birthday earlier this month, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are believed to have extended yet another olive branch after friends last week revealed that the couple are hoping to spend Christmas with the Royal Family. A source reveals, “I can’t imagine the Sussexes would decline an invitation to spend time with His Majesty. As of yet, there have not been any invitations [to Harry and Meghan] for the holidays.” But now a source says that with the Sussexes’ Christmas invite hanging in the balance, one person feeling anxious about their return is Kate Middleton, who our insider says is worried at the prospect of having to face Harry and Meghan. The source says, “Kate’s really anxious about the possibility of…

SUKI'S BIG REVEAL After weeks of rumours, Suki Waterhouse finally confirmed that she’s expecting her first child with actor Robert Pattinson last week. The singer was performing at the Corona Capital Festival in Mexico in a short sequinned dress, which showcased her growing bump. A fan captured the moment on stage where Suki, 31, said, “I’m extra sparkly today because I thought it might distract you from something else that’s going on. I’m not sure it’s working.” She then opened her jacket and pointed towards her baby bump, much to the crowd’s delight. Suki and Robert have been dating for more than five years, having first been romantically linked in July 2018 after they were spotted out together in London. Suki previously said, “I’m shocked that I’m so happy with…

Last year, the runup to Christmas was an anxious time for Helen Howells*. When festive adverts came on TV and her children started writing their lists to Santa, Helen, a single mum to three children – Jake, nine, Lily, six, and Daisy, three – had sleepless nights as she worried how she would be able to afford the extra expense. GENEROSITY Helen, 32, from Manchester, says, “Money was so tight and I was constantly worried about where our next meal was coming from. I had no idea how I was going to afford any gifts for my kids. The thought of their disappointed faces on Christmas morning kept me awake at night. And the closer to the big day we got, the more I overheard the kids talking about what…

To help a family in need, buy an extra gift. This can be for babies right up to teens. Then drop your new, unwrapped gift at your local drop-off point – including Wickes stores and most B&M stores – by Monday 18 December. To find a local drop-off point, and to donate cash or gifts online, visit cashforkids.org.uk/mission. You can also donate £5 by texting MISSION to 70905. It costs £5 plus one standard message and 100 per cent of the £5 goes to Cash For Kids. For full T&Cs, visit cashforkids.org.uk/textdonate or scan the QR code. Wizzard’s I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day is a firm favourite on everyone’s festive playlist, and to mark the 50th anniversary of its release, Rock Choir – the UK’s biggest contemporary…

When Iris Hall steps out holding hands with her fresh faced young man, passers-by often stare. They might look like a loving grandson and his grandmother, but the truth couldn’t be more different. Iris and Alex are madly in love. The couple first connected online when Iris was 67 and Alex was just 19. They began speaking daily and, in time, couldn’t deny their feelings for one another. Now, they’re planning to marry and couldn’t be happier. Iris says, “At this point in my life I didn’t expect to feel such excitement and happiness, but then I met Alex and everything changed. I feel so lucky.” It was at the end of the first Covid lockdown in June 2020 when Iris’ life took an unexpected turn. She says, “One day…

NEWS Fans were alarmed to see Khloé Kardashian’s changing face after the reality star went make-up free on a recent episode of The Kardashians. She was seen working out at the gym and fans were quick to point out how she looked very different to the pics she posts on social media. And insiders say that her family are worried about her. “Khloé’s excessive reliance on tweaks and fillers has been a real concern for years now, but it’s really hit home lately,” a source says. “Everyone ily is worried and Kris has talked to her about it. They don’t want her to go overboard with more surgery or cosmetic procedures and look unrecognisable.” Khloé, 39, has spoken in the past about how upsetting the criticism about her appearance can…

She became a mum for the first time when she welcomed her son, Phoenix, earlier this year, and last week Paris Hilton announced the birth of her first daughter, London. The reality star and model, 42, shared a photo of a sweet pink outfit with “London” written on the front with her 25.5m Instagram followers, alongside the caption, “Thankful for my baby girl”. Paris shares her two children with entrepreneur Carter Reum – who she married in 2021 after two years together. Eleven-month-old Phoenix was born via surrogate. Speaking on her podcast, This Is Paris, earlier this year, Paris revealed that she had picked out “London” as a name for her baby girl decades ago. She said, “I knew even when I was a little girl that I wanted to…

NEWS 'HE’S KEEN TO MAKE A FRESH START AND CREATE NEW MEMORIES' Fans gushed that he’s “ageing like a fine wine” after Hollywood heartthrob Brad Pitt showed off his famously rugged good looks at a Formula One event in Las Vegas last weekend. Swooning over the actor, who turns 60 next month, one said, “The man will always be gorgeous. Age just makes him hotter!” Another added, “He just gets better and better, you GO Brad!” And as he prepares to celebrate his milestone birthday alongside girlfriend of one year, Ines de Ramon, 30, insiders say the star – who’s been locked in a bitter custody battle over his six children since his divorce from estranged ex-wife, Angelina Jolie, 48 – is hoping to become a dad again. The source…

This development is great news, because Anastrozole – a daily tablet taken with water – has been shown to cut breast cancer in high-risk post-menopausal women by almost half. It’s a good drug. I’ve prescribed it for many patients and it has fewer side effects compared to Tamoxifen – the drug most people have been prescribed up until now to prevent breast cancer – so it could save thousands of lives. In other countries, it’s already used as a preventative medicine for breast cancer, but we’ve had to wait here until it was an affordable option for the NHS to be able to offer it. KNOW HOW IT WORKS It’s not for every type of breast cancer. Some are what’s called oestrogen receptor positive, which means they are stimulated, or…

Isn’t it always the case that when you’re trying to get over someone they keep popping back up? Whether it’s on your phone’s “helpful” photo memory reminders, the autocorrect to their name on WhatsApp, their Insta story coming up as you scroll or, worst of all, seeing their profile on a dating app. I don’t know if it’s the simple shock of not expecting to be confronted by their pictures when you’re looking for someone, or that it’s upsetting to witness someone who was once into you actively looking for the next “you”. Either way, it’s an emotional assault none of us need! It used to be the case that if you wanted to avoid an ex, you could change gym, stop frequenting their favourite pub etc, but in the…

A survey from money.co.uk savings accounts has found that the average Brit could save £536 a year by cutting down on quick-fixes like shopbought lunches, takeaways, and subscriptions to premium versions of services like Amazon Prime. Here’s how to claw that cash back… LUNCHES Pret a Manger’s “posh” cheese and pickle sandwich grabbed headlines this year when it went up to £7.15. A homemade cheese sandwich costs 40p. Time for packed lunches? TAKEAWAYS The average household spends £1,220 on food at restaurants and takeaways every year. Maybe have one every other week, not every week. SUBSCRIPTIONS Do you really need Amazon Prime? Are you on the basic account for Spotify and Netflix? Check and see if there are cheaper options – or if you even need all of them. NEXT…

GOING FOR GOLD Looking for a tan-tastic treat? This hyaluronic acid-infused tanning serum is one seriously golden gift. MARVELOUS MINIS Make-up lovers will adore this mini mascara kit – ’tis the season for long lashes after all! TRIPLE TREAT Crack open this body-loving trio for an all-over treat that’s bound to be loved by anyone. LUSCIOUS LOCKS Give the gift of great hair with this sweet styling set. The handbagfriendly dry shampoo is perfect for anyone who’s always on-the-go. SKIN SAVIOURS This cracking Bioderma set features fabulous treats for both your face and body, and is also suitable for those with sensitive skin. GLOW GIVING A dinky duo containing everything needed for a hydrated, radiant complexion – perfect for any skincare addicts out there!…

Harriet Thorpe, 66, on Elaine’s first festive season in Walford… Is Elaine excited about Yuletide? Everything is a performance for Elaine, and she’s on show. When she’s turning on the Christmas lights, it’s like starring at the London Palladium! Those scenes between her and Yolande? We had such a laugh. They are both fuelled by their egos, so there is some very theatrical attention-seeking on both parts. And her Christmas tree efforts? It’s certainly not OTT, even though the family tease her about the number of baubles. It’s simply her statement piece, and is just going to get bigger! FOLLOW OUR LIVE TWEETS OVER AT @CloserOnline…

28 NOVEMBER-4 DECEMBER CAPRICORN 22 DEC – 19 JAN If you feel unsure, even a bit disappointed, especially at work or about your overall life focus, then that’s totally OK. These feelings can help you realise what isn’t working for you. With that in mind, you can then focus on what matters. The question begs… What really matters to you right now? Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope AQUARIUS 20 JAN – 18 FEB Sometimes, once a sought-after destination is reached, it may not hold the expectation you hoped it would. This week, you may need to let go of what you think things should have been. So much is about to change for you. Practise embracing new possibilities to ensure your happiness. Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope PISCES…

Her teenage daughter is already making waves in the showbiz world, having made her debut at London Fashion Week in September – with her mum cheering her on from the front row. Amanda Holden looked every inch the model mum as she supported her teenager’s first big catwalk show, and now pals say the presenter is hellbent on becoming the next Kris Jenner-style “momager” to her two girls. When quizzed about following in the Kardashian matriarch’s footsteps earlier this year with her own reality show – alongside her daughters and record producer husband, Chris Hughes – Amanda, 52, said, “I would do it. Chris wouldn’t. It’s a shame. I always think it would be quite fun!” US MOVE And now, an insider adds, “Amanda’s always been a huge fan of…

For the past 13 years, Polly Arrowsmith, 56, from London, who works in training, has been buying presents for strangers. Polly says, “It started when I lived opposite a homeless shelter, which made me very aware that for some people Christmas wasn’t a special time of year. I buy around 250 presents every Christmas, and aim to spend around £8 on each one, though they’re often worth far more. I’m always on the hunt for a bargain! I spread out the cost through the year and start buying gifts in the Boxing Day sales when often gift sets of toiletries are less than half price. The thought of children feeling disappointment is horrendous and I just want to do what I can to help.”…

It’s been a tough few months for Lisa Armstrong following her split from boyfriend James Green, which turned toxic when she threatened him with legal action over the £100,000 he reportedly owes her. And now insiders say that as the year comes to an end and 2024 approaches, the Strictly Come Dancing make-up artist is considering a move abroad for a fresh start. A source tells Closer, “Lisa’s had a really rough time of it recently and she’s been in a dark place. While she’s got Strictly to distract her now, she hasn’t got a lot on her schedule in the months after Christmas and is starting to dread that quiet time when she finally stops and has time to process everything. She’s been planning a trip out to LA…

VICTORIA BECKHAM Married to David Beckham’s best friend, sports agent Dave Gardner, for seven years, Davinia counts Victoria – whose son Brooklyn was a page boy at her wedding – among her celeb pals. And Davinia reveals she’ll be indulging in the Beckhams’ Netflix documentary over Christmas because she’s still a huge fan of Posh, 49, despite admitting that she “hates” her ex-husband, who makes a cameo. She says, “I’ve not watched the documentary yet, but I love that sort of thing. I binge-watch a lot and it will be a great one to get into, because I love Victoria. I’ve always got on with her and she’s great. She’s genius, actually, so I’m going to get right into it.” COLEEN ROONEY Davinia has been friends with Coleen for years,…

Brianna Payne and her younger sister Erin were super-close and they always dreamt about travelling the world together one day. But tragically, Erin’s life was cut short when she passed away from an overdose. Determined that her sister should still see the world, Brianna took Erin’s urn with her as she set off on an adventure, which included hitting up Las Vegas for her sister’s 21st birthday. Now, Brianna, 26, uses her social media platform to spread awareness about the dangers of fentanyl – the drug that claimed her sister’s life. Brianna says, “Taking my dead sister travelling with me is the perfect way to honour her short but incredible life.” Growing up, the sisters did everything together. Brianna says, “Erin loved doing makeup and I worked as a model.…

This week marks six years since the devastating loss of her husband, actor Terence Beesley, to suicide. But last week it was revealed that Shetland actress Ashley Jensen is celebrating a new chapter in her life after secretly marrying her partner, Kenny Doughty. Ashley, 54, and Kenny, 48 – who met on the set of Love, Lies And Records in 2017 – are said to have enjoyed a “super fun” ceremony at a mill close to the picturesque city of Bath in August. Ashley – who plays DCI Ruth Calder in the hit BBC drama – first dropped hints that she was married earlier this month when she showed off an impressive sparkler on her wedding finger during an appearance on Graham Norton. The former Extras and Ugly Betty star…

He’s been Made In Chelsea’s most lovable character for the past 13 years – and after quitting the show in July, Ollie Locke says he’s embracing his new life with husband Gareth and their four-month-old twins, Apollo and Cosima. Ollie, 36, has also been busy launching his own YouTube channel with Gareth and has just completed his second children’s book, The Faraway Adventures Of Henry Bogget. “It’s been a very hectic few months,” smiles Ollie. “It’s a juggle balancing work with the twins, but I absolutely love being a hands-on dad and being there to see them reach all their first milestones. There’s nothing better and I feel like a completely changed person.” Then the Celebrity Big Brother star laughs, “Saying that, if Gareth and I need a night out…

PLANT-BASED CREAM Elmlea Br+ndy, (supermarkets, £1.49) Just in time for the festive season, this limited-edition brandy cream can be poured or whipped over your favourite dessert. It’s free from dairy but tastes like the real deal! FESTIVE TIPPLE Infusionist Salted Caramel Vodka Liqueur, Aldi, £9.99 Get into the Christmas spirit and add a sweet-toothed hit to your favourite cocktail with this rich, salted caramel-infused vodka. Makes a great gift, too…

DANCER AND FORMER STRICTLY PRO IAN WAITE, 52, ON HOW HE LOOKS AFTER HIS BODY AND MIND I LOVE KEEPING FIT!… I work out 5-6 times a week, mostly doing weight training. It keeps my endorphins boosted. It’s so important at my age to keep my body strength up, as ageing causes muscle mass loss. I SWEAR BY MY SLEEP SPRAY… My room spray contains lavender and chamomile, which aids with relaxation and signals to my body that it’s bedtime. I’ll also pop on a series for around 15 minutes before I drift off. I EAT EVERY TWO HOURS… Even if it’s something small like a protein bar or fruit. As a 6ft 4 male, I need a lot of fuel to keep my energy levels consistent! I also find…

AFFORDABLE TREATS! GET HER LOOK ROCHELLE HUMES Keep it simple with a monochrome look like Rochelle. The 34-year-old teamed her oversized blazer with wide-leg jeans, creating a lean silhouette. Finishing off with a pair of perspex heels by Alaïa, we love her take on classic tailoring. IN THE NEWS… PARTY IN THE AISLES Check your festive outfits off the shopping list with Abbey Clancy’s latest collection for F&F at Tesco. Packed with shimmering dresses and co-ords, along with on-trend metallic styles, this new edit has everything you’ll need for party season from just £18. Plus several pieces are available in kids’ sizes too, meaning you and your little one can have a cute mini-me moment this Christmas. FASHION WORTH TALKING ABOUT! Jessica Alba Marking the arrival of sparkle season, Jessica…

TV WEEK: 2-8 DEC 1 YOUR CHRISTMAS OR MINE 2 FESTIVE COMEDY SEQUEL FRI 8 DEC, PRIME VIDEO FILM Asa Butterfield, Daniel Mays and Angela Griffin reprise their roles for another shot of festive feelgood fun – this time set in a ski resort. It’s a sequel to last year’s Your Christmas Or Mine?, where James (Butterfield) and Hayley (Cora Kirk) accidentally ended up spending Yuletide with their in-laws rather than each other. Now, they head to the Austrian Alps – with both families in tow. But there’s a wee mix-up with the accommodation, and James’ wealthy folk and Hayley’s workingclass bunch end up on the wrong side of the Trip Advisor ratings scale! Can their romance survive another seasonal disaster? Ho ho ho. 2 MARCUS WAREING AT CHRISTMAS NEW SERIES TIPS AND…

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…

Well, Cardi, we recommend you try listening to some of Dido’s songs – they really are quite mournful. We’re thrilled for you, Nicki. It’s so special when you finally find a hairdresser who can do a cut and colour without charging a fortune. Congrats! GRUMPY GRAM That’s the last time Alan books holiday accommodation on Airbnb with no reviews. This one is definitely less cosy than advertised. Be careful in the showers, Al!…

They confirmed their romance over two years ago at an NBA basketball game. But after months of speculation, Adele appears to have finally confirmed that she and partner Rich Paul have officially tied the knot. At an intimate comedy gig hosted by her close friend Alan Carr in LA last week, Adele is reported to have shouted, “I did!” when the comedian asked if any audience members had got married recently. The happy couple were then pictured in the crowd at a basketball game in LA with Adele wearing a collection of rings on her wedding finger. And as the superstar has made no secret about her wish to become a mum again, fans are now hoping that a baby announcement could be next for the happy couple. FEELING BROODY…

Debbie Hancock, 50, from Brough, East Yorkshire, says, “I came across Mission Christmas in the work I do for my local council supporting families who have experienced domestic violence and abuse*. Many were worried they wouldn’t be able to afford to buy gifts for their kids, but we were able to reassure them that help was there through Mission Christmas. Being able to deliver presents to those families and see the relief on the mums’ faces made me realise how important the appeal was. We could help make their Christmas a bit more magical.”…

She flew back to Australia earlier this month, with reports claiming that family and friends have raised deep concerns about her marriage to world-famous rapper Kanye West. But insiders now say that architectural designer Bianca Censori is insisting that she is OK and feels slighted by her loved ones’ intervention, which has seen her friends tell her to “wake the hell up”. WORDS OF WARNING A source says, “Bianca is an extremely feisty, strong-willed, character who doesn’t take kindly to people who poke their noses into her business or cast doubt over her decisions. Right after she and Kanye went public, her phone was blowing up with words of warning from all over the place. It was assumed she was getting in over her head and swept away by the…

It was the moment fans of The White Lotus had been waiting for – when co-stars Meghann Fahy and Leo Woodall stepped out in New York City and romantically shared a kiss in the rain under an umbrella. Rumours of a frisson between the pair started swirling around a year ago, ever since Leo, 27, shared an Instagram post featuring Polaroid photos of him with his White Lotus co-stars – including a cosy pic of him and Meghann, 33. Meghann played housewife Daphne in the Golden Globe award-winning TV series, while Leo played the mysterious Londoner Jack. Meghann commented on the post, saying, “I love you! I love these! I love you!”, with a kiss and heart emoji with Leo, 27, replying, “Love you right back”. While Meghann previously dated…

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… except when you’re trying to juggle a to-do list as long as your arm. Christmas can be a wonderful time but it can also be hectic, stressful and chaotic with social occasions, school events, food shopping, present buying and wrapping and tricky family dynamics to contend with. But psychotherapist Anna Mathur says there are things you can do to make the season less fraught and more fun! Read on for her tips. ● Listen to Anna’s podcast The Therapy Edit for supportive, 10-minute episodes. You can buy Anna’s latest book, Raising A Happier Mother (Penguin, £14.99), now RECONSIDER TRADITIONS AND SHOULDS “Christmas is littered with ‘shoulds’. ‘I should send cards, I should invite the grumpy uncle, I should buy everyone gifts despite…

INSIDE PAULA'S FRIDGE ● Eggs ● Olives ● Almond butter ● Houmous ● Greek yoghurt ● Coconut yoghurt ● Avocados ● Aubergine ● Plaice ● Red onions ● Seabass ● Broccoli ● Salmon ● Limes ● Lemons ● Red Thai Curry Paste ● Coconut milk ● Green Thai Curry Paste ● Red Pesto ● Pesto ● Sheep’s cheese ● Courgettes ● Cheddar cheese ● Feta cheese ● Cherry tomatoes ● Beetroot ● Mixed Salad ● Blueberries ● Mango VERDICT CLOSER NUTRITIONIST JULIETTE KELLOW SAY: “It’s great to see Paula enjoys fish. Health advice is to eat two portions a week, one of which should be oily like salmon or sardines to provide omega-3 fats. It’s also great that Paula enjoys nutrient-rich snacks like fruit, nuts and cheese.…

RELATIONSHIPS NEGOTIATE XMAS PLANS WITH YOUR PARTNER Many couples argue about which family to spend the big day with. Discuss what matters and find a compromise! It’s one of the biggest arguments every year – who to spend Christmas with – but it’s all about preparation and usually a big, fat compromise. It helps to frame Christmas as more than just one or two days. A realistic way to spend time with various people is to view it as a week, from Christmas Eve to New Year, so you can spread out socialising. Have a really honest and kind chat as a couple about the key things you love the most, who you’d like to spend time with, and what traditions you want to keep. Then look for where the…

It’s that time of year again – little ones are rifling through the Smyths catalogue, teens are being fed the latest trends on TikTok and every advert is designed to make your children want everything for Christmas. “I remember those TV ads when I was a kid and they made everything look so amazing, but when you saw it in the box, it was always a bit disappointing,” laughs Clare Seal from @myfrugalyear. “Kids are being advertised to so much more, and it’s not just the TV anymore, there are YouTube channels reviewing toys. It’s a battle, but there are ways to manage their expectations.” Read on for Clare’s tips. SHOW THEM THE REALITY TV ads are designed to make every new toy look like the greatest thing in the…

1 ADD A BOW Oversized ribbons and bows will give a messy bun or a ponytail ladylike status. A classic ribbon-bobble or clip will add a seriously pretty spin to your outfit. It’ll look gorge when styled with a dress like SJP, but can easily be worn with a roll neck and jeans during the day. 2 FINISH WITH FLUFF Fuzzy and feathery trims are popular on both the red carpet and the high street this year. Rather than splashing out on a brand-new top or frock, simply pop a pair of detachable textured cuffs on for a fresh and fun new spin. 3 GRAB SOME GLITTER Sequin and rhinestone accessories in a wash of silver are BIG news again. They will make a disco ball-inspired finishing touch to a tailored suit or…

SAGITTARIUS 22 NOV – 21 DEC There’s no mission you can’t accomplish if it’s your will to accomplish it. With active Mars in your sign, you’ll be a powerhouse regarding your personal goals. So, what are you waiting for? Get to work! There’s nothing you can’t achieve now. Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope IF IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK You’re an inspirational person whose jovial nature can really motivate others. However, you can’t inspire without a following, and you’re beginning to learn you’re better off refining those you influence to target those who share similar values and goals.…