Table of contents for Issue 912 in Closer

Unless you’ve been through it, it’s impossible to imagine how hard it must be for Kate Garraway and her children to go about daily life without their beloved husband and father by their side, who, as Closer went to press, was still suffering from COVID-19-related complications. Kate’s been so brave, and talking about it will have helped many people for whom this pandemic has been personally heartbreaking. This week, we’ve also spoken to single mum Katie Waisell, who was terrified she was going to die – leaving her two-year-old son behind. For those who’ve experienced the worst of times, coming out of lockdown may be harder than going in, so on page 9 we have expert tips that may help. The key might be to do things at your own…

She has suffered a horrific three-and-a-half months of being “gripped by fear” since her beloved husband Derek Draper was rushed into intensive care after suffering organ failure due to the devastating effects of COVID-19. ‘HE’S THERE... BUT HE’S NOT A PRESENCE AS HE SHOULD BE IN THEIR LIVES’ But Kate Garraway, 53, raised hopes when she revealed some seemingly-positive news at the beginning of last week. She shared that doctors have woken Derek, 52 – with whom she shares Darcey, 14, and Billy, ten – from an induced coma and he can now open his eyes, although as Closer went to press he remained in a largely unresponsive state in hospital. Derek, a psychologist, was induced into a coma on 30 March, four days after being admitted to hospital with…

They’ve spent the majority of their five-year marriage in different countries due to conflicting work schedules, fighting off reports of strain and tension in their relationship. But after Michelle Keegan quit BBC’s Our Girl – filmed overseas – and husband Mark Wright left his “dream role” presenting US chat show Extra and moved home, the pair have made the most of lockdown life. Mark, 33, recently admitted he was enjoying isolation, saying, “We used to spend all our time on FaceTime calls and talking for hours on the phone in different time zones, but now we are together every minute of the day.” And while plans are underway to turn their new £1.3m Essex farmhouse into their dream home, pals say the pair are relishing the opportunity to expand their…

Every weekend, Emily Stevenson heads out from her home in Cornwall to help clear beaches of litter. But since the outbreak of COVID-19, Emily and her army of volunteers have seen a shocking increase in plastic aprons, disposal masks, and latex gloves washing up on the shores. CONTAMINATED Emily, 23, a marine biologist, says, “Before the pandemic, finding PPE [personal protective equipment] waste was unheard of – but since March, it’s spiked by 96 per cent on our clear-ups. “In the past couple of years, we saw a real shift in people’s attitudes towards plastic use. Everyone carried a reusable coffee cup and a bag for life. “But now, lots of us are using single-use PPE without realising the damage it’ll do to the planet.” While many people don’t actively…

LISTEN TO THE ISLANDERS’ PODCASTS Since kick-starting their showbiz careers under the Majorcan sun, several Love Island stars have gone on to launch popular podcasts – so you can still keep in touch with their goings-on by tuning in to these gems. ‘THE WAITING ROOM WITH DR ALEX’ – He may have been unlucky in love in the villa, but Dr Alex has gone on to stardom since the show, with his podcast – offering health and wellbeing advice to listeners – reaching the top ten most popular podcasts list since it launched last year. ‘REALITY CHECK’ BY AMBER GILL, YEWANDE BIALA AND ANNA VAKILI They may not have found love on the island, but they found each other – and now Amber, Yewande and Anna have launched a podcast,…

After spending lockdown at his Surrey home with doctor wife Emily and their four children, Pete says their family bond is now stronger than ever – even if the couple are experiencing something of a role reversal. Pete says, “I’m used to working away from home a lot, but now the world has changed, I have found myself, like everyone else, with so much more time on my hands, and I’ve been loving staying at home. In fact, in some ways I have taken over so much of what Emily normally deals with – especially with the kids’ needs – it is as though we have reversed roles. “I’ve definitely found it tricky when it comes to helping the kids with maths and English, but as for cooking skills, I’m…

PAUL’S FIRST TV APPEARANCE WAS IN A SAUSAGE ADVERT In the 30-second ad, Paul can be seen enjoying a sausage from Irish brand Denny while eating breakfast with his family, before being inspired to seize the ‘Denny’ and go travelling. HE’S A MUSICIAN Not only can he act, but Paul can sing and play the piano. After learning of this, musical legend Andrew Lloyd Webber tweeted him and suggested a singalong. HE’S A PHILANTHROPIST The chain Paul wore as Connell garnered its own fanbase, including an Instagram page (@connellschain) with 180K followers. He donated one of the necklaces he wore to a charity raffle – which raised £62K for Pieta, a suicide and self-harm crisis centre in Ireland.…

I’ve just done a stint on MasterChef and my cooking has gone from very basic – usually meat and two veg – to pretty damn good! I learned so much on the show and it’s definitely livened up my cooking. The problem is that, while I’ve got a lot more adventurous in the kitchen, lockdown came in and I was isolating alone. So I’d make these amazing dishes – such as sea bass in a white wine and clam sauce or beautiful steaks – for just me to enjoy! I read an article recently about how lockdown boosted the nation’s love of cooking. This is brilliant – there’s something so therapeutic and relaxing about it. I have done a few cooking sessions and dinners with pals over video calls on…

Last month, Katie documented her 2st weight loss on Instagram, saying she had transformed her body over the past 16 months in a bid to be happier and healthier for her son. But the star, who is still a healthy BMI for her height, says she was disappointed to get trolled over the post, with some criticising her new figure. She says, “The amount of people who were commenting about my body, saying things like, ‘You look too skinny, you look old, you look like a man, you’ve got no boobs’, it was horrible,” she explains. “But this is my body, I’m not surgically enhanced, I’ve not injected fat into my thighs or bum or boobs. I’m in my natural form at my optimal health and fitness and I’m being…

We focus on insecurities more when we’re anxious, and the huge surge in video calls during lockdown has led to many people fixating on small imperfections. But rather than seek professional advice, some are resorting to DIY solutions online – resulting in an increase in sales of freckle removal devices, which can lead to burns, scarring or worse. KNOW THE RISKS These pen-like devices, which can be bought online for as little as £15, claim to be able to safely eliminate freckles, moles, age spots and dark pigmentation – but how safe a skin treatment is absolutely depends on who is doing it. With a professional laser device, a dermatologist will give a diagnosis, use the correct wavelength and calculate the extent of treatment needed. They will do a skin…

MY GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT... aside from my family and friendships, is setting up my farm in Suffolk. It was hard work and I’m proud of the conservation of rare breeds, livestock and our wild species. MY BIGGEST FEAR... is being eaten by sharks. I’ve been scuba diving with them, but the moment when you’re on the surface, waiting to get out, scares me. I also fear loss of biodiversity and wildlife. We need all animals for our own existence – we’re only just starting to learn that I WISH I WAS... a little less obsessive about details and could enjoy the moment rather than try to make it all perfect. The process of making it perfect means I’m not enjoying the moment! I’M HAPPIEST WHEN... I have friends and family over,…

INSIDE LUCY’S FRIDGE • Eggs • Pomegranate seeds • Vegan cheese • Mustard • Rice noodles • Vegan margarine • Dark chocolate • Baby corn • Mushrooms • Chopped garlic • Mangetout • Asparagus • Lemon • Tofu • Tomato purée • Sweet potato • Broccoli • Pak choi • Red pepper • Spinach • Dates • Blueberries • Beetroot • Hazelnut milk • Almond milk • Oat milk • Cactus water VERDICT NUTRITIONIST JULIETTE KELLOW SAYS: “Lucy’s diet is balanced and includes plenty of fruit and veg. It’s packed with plant proteins such as soya milk, tofu, meat-free alternatives, pulses, seeds and nut butters. Vegan diets can be low in vitamin B12 – this nutrient is only found naturally in animal foods – and in omega-3 fats, so it’s…

1 COLOUR POP FROCK A loose-fit floaty dress in a bold pink or red grabs all the attention. Style it a multitude of ways for extra wardrobe mileage. Take note from Vogue and team with matching accessories or add a graphic print scarf and a strong, clashing lipstick. H&M £19.99 2 LAID-BACK JEANS During hot weather, even the thought of skinny jeans might bring you out in a sweat! Opt for a softer, cropped fit that looks and feels more relaxed. Straight cuts and shorter lengths sit well with a fresh white T-shirt and trainers. MANGO WAS £49.99 / NOW £25.99 3 ANYTIME DENIM Everyone should own a denim jacket. It works over anything and everything for a casual cover-up that always feels put together. A true blue piece is…

STEP 1 – PREPARE & PROTECT “It’s so important to prep hair beforehand with a heat protectant spray – you wouldn’t go into the sweltering sun without applying SPF, so it’s the same principle! After combing though damp hair, spritz liberally, lifting the hair as you go to ensure even coverage.” VO5 HEAT PROTECT SPRAY £4.40 STEP 2 – BRUSH UP ADAM SAYS: “To avoid getting too much heat all in one go, wait until your hair is about 80 per cent dry before using your hairdryer. Start at the roots, using a vented brush, and move it along the hair, following closely with the hairdryer. The nozzle should always follow the brush and face in that direction. For a super-sleek finish, pull the brush through while drying ends with…

MINI FASHIONISTAS COOL DUDES…

1 IN THE LONG RUN IDRIS ELBA COMEDY WED 22 JULY,10PM,SKY ONE/NOW TV Sky One’s sitcom, based on Idris Elba’s life growing up on a council estate in the ’80s, returns for a third series. It’s panic stations for Walter (Elba) as his mum – aka Mama – is due to arrive, so he and wife Agnes (Madeline Appiah) are up at 5am cleaning the flat. Yep, we’ve all been there. So far we’ve only ever heard Mama on the phone from Sierra Leone – but now she’s come to live on the estate and is less than impressed with her new surroundings. Beautifully played by Ellen Thomas (EastEnders’ Claudette) – who has always voiced the character – Mama is a force of nature who has an opinion on, well,…

Strictly pro dancer AJ Pritchard, 25, and his brother Curtis, 24, of Love Island fame… Why get involved? AJ: As a family, we’ve all had our healthcare issues. I wanted to show my appreciation. Curtis: I am eternally grateful for the team who treated me when I had surgery [on his knee]. Comic Jo Brand, 62, who worked in psychiatric nursing for ten years before fame beckoned… What do healthcare workers mean to you? They all work extremely hard for relatively little reward – and they are kind, lovely people. They should all be given a knighthood or a damehood – and a castle. TV presenter Katie Piper, 36, survived an acid attack and is now inspiring others… What would your message be? I will never forget you. The NHS…

MUST READ All My Lies are True (DOROTHY KOOMSON) Serena has been lying for years, which might be about to result in her getting arrested for attempted murder. Has this driven her daughter, Verity, to do something unthinkable? Poppy’s lies have come back to haunt her – but will her quest for the truth hurt everyone she loves? Who is and who is not telling the truth? This is Dorothy Koomson’s brilliant follow-up to the bestseller The Ice Cream Girls – we just couldn’t put it down. TUNE IN Hamilton Before lockdown, tickets for the West End hit Hamilton were notoriously hard to get your hands on. Now we are lucky enough to be able to watch the original Broadway production, starring actor and writer Lin-Manuel Miranda, on streaming service…

THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN CANCER 21 JUN-22 JUL Lockdown has affected relationships. We forged stronger bonds with some people – and some we didn’t miss at all. It’s time to be adult in your most important partnerships – if they can survive 2020, they’ll survive anything! PS Get your free astrology reading here moonmessages. com/freebies LEO 23 JUL-22 AUG 2020 so far has been a very strange time. But we are emerging into a new normal and, for Leos, it’s crucial now to get really clear about what works for you and what doesn’t when it comes to your daily life and routines. Aim for “strong and efficient”. PS Get your free astrology reading here moonmessages. com/freebies VIRGO 23 AUG-22 SEP Make Marvin Gaye’s 1982 hit Sexual Healing your…

If you were shocked about Kanye standing for President, wait until you see who he’s running against. We reckon Eamonn might just Trump him! Some people like to stash their savings in a money box. Rita saves all of her pennies in her cute money butt! Four months after Boris ordered us into lockdown, Josie is still following his advice – “You must stay at Gnome!” After losing in her village’s annual ‘Biggest Sunflower Competition’, bitter Mariah rips off the head of the winning entry. Yikes! Piers celebrates lockdown easing by raising a glass of wine so big that it comfortably fits all the booze he missed while the pubs were closed. Cheers! EMILY ATACK Emily, if you’ve managed to giggle without projectile vomiting over your ‘knockers’, then that really…

She hasn’t held back from parading her latest toyboy, Carl Woods, on Instagram – dubbing him her “perfect prince”, and even sparking engagement rumours by calling him “my everything” and “future hubby”, while imploring fans to be happy for them. Former glamour model Jordan, 42, went official with her new boyfriend last week, sharing a sweet photo of the pair with her arms wrapped around her beau. The snap received more than 29,000 likes from followers, with many rallying around the star – real name Katie Price – to wish her well, with one writing, “You deserve this Katie”, while another added, “Hope he looks after you”. And while some urged her not to rush things in the wake of her split from fiancé Kris Boyson last December, with one…

Psychotherapist and founder of Psyched, Kathleen Saxton, says that the way coronavirus has torn families apart – and the tragic situation experienced by Kate and her family – will make moves to slowly exit lockdown a frightening prospect for many people. She says, “We’ve all been through the collective trauma of COVID-19, but our reactions to what is next will be on a spectrum. “Many are stuck in ‘freeze’ position, where they are very frightened of doing anything that signals a move back to ‘normal’ life, while others are booking holidays or heading off to the pub. “It’s important to recognise that, wherever you are on the spectrum, every feeling is valid. “Collectively, we are grieving for our old lives. For some people, this is magnified by losing a loved…

SARAH JESSICA: ‘I work out for 22 minutes – that’s all I can bear!’ She turned 55 in March, and Sarah Jessica Parker looked sensational when she was snapped on a beach at New York’s upmarket Hamptons region last month. The Sex And The City star, who was joined by husband Matthew Broderick, 58, looked trim in a black swimsuit, prompting praise from fans at how similar she looked to when she first played Carrie in the hit TV show more than 20 years ago. Mum-of-three Sarah has previously credited a range of different workouts for her fantastic physique, saying short and sweet HIIT [high intensity interval training] sessions and yoga keep her healthy. She said, “I work out for a sum total of 22 minutes, because that’s all I…

• Instead of wearing single-use face masks, buy a reusable face mask made from safe, washable fabrics, or create your own. For the UK government’s guide on making a cloth face covering, visit Gov.uk/government/ publications/how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering. • If you need to wear latex gloves, always dispose of them responsibly in a covered waste bin at home. Single-use PPE is not recyclable, and the Wildlife Trusts are asking everyone to look after wildlife by taking all litter home. For more information, visit Wildlifetrusts.org. • To call for a ban on all single-use plastic, sign the petition at Petition.parliament.uk/ petitions/300152. • While councils have been overwhelmed during lockdown, volunteers have taken on the task of litter-picking. To volunteer for your local area in England, Scotland or Wales, visit Keepwalestidy.com, Keepbritaintidy.com or Keepscotlandbeautiful.com.…

She’s been on and off with Doctor Who star Matt Smith, but now actress Lily James seems to have moved on for good, after being spotted with Captain America actor Chris Evans on multiple occasions. Rumours first started swirling when the pair were pictured heading to the Corinthia hotel in London together last month, before last week being seen together again, this time looking cosy as they ate ice creams in a London park. The liaisons with Chris, 39, seem to confirm that Lily, 31, has split from The Crown actor Matt, 37, whom she had been dating since 2014. The couple were rumoured to have split in December due to “hectic schedules”, but pictures of them together during lockdown seemed to suggest they had got back together. Chris, meanwhile,…

She revealed the shocking extent of her 50-a-day sausage addiction to Closer three years ago, admitting she couldn’t stop eating bangers as comfort food when she fell into a dark depression. And despite later overcoming her food dependency and being in a happier place, Lisa Appleton has admitted that the strain of lockdown and living alone led her to relapse. The 52-year-old former Big Brother star says, “I think I had a small dose of post-traumatic shock syndrome to start with. I felt complete fear and I didn’t sleep properly for weeks. “It’s been very emotional – I was so worried about my family and friends. I had friends from my hometown who lost loved ones to COVID-19 and I think that triggered something in me. It felt like a…

After her husband Bryan’s tragic death aged just 35 in 2004, mum-of-two Terri Herrington took comfort in knowing that her partner lived on in others via the donation of his organs. Over the years, she even became friends with some of the recipients, including Jeff Granger, 59. And so, when Jeff fell ill again, she wanted to help. Sixteen years after Bryan donated his pancreas and kidney to Jeff, Terri also gave him a kidney. Terri, 49, says, “I’m thrilled I was able to help Jeff and follow in Bryan’s footsteps. “In a way, it’s like Bryan and I are back together again – my organ next to his.” Terri, who has two children, Drake, 21, and Payton, 16, had always known that her husband would be willing to donate…

We’ve all been there: you pick up your phone to reply to a WhatsApp message and, before you know it, 20 minutes has passed. We’re a nation attached to our phones – quite literally! Statistics show that the average Brit spends three hours and 25 minutes on their phone every day, and seven in ten of us admit we’d feel completely lost without them. And celebs are struggling, too. Last month, Josie Gibson admitted to being “addicted” to her phone, while Stacey Solomon has made Saturdays her “phone in the drawer’” day so she can spend less time scrolling and more time with her family. Former Big Brother star Josie, 35 – who found a digital detox helpful – said, “I’m addicted to my phone and pick it up a…

HERO BUYS MAKE IT WORK A wrap dress will flatter all figures, helping to create an hourglass shape. Embrace the preppy feel by adding wicker accessories. When the weather cools down, you can layer a grey fitted roll neck underneath. WEAR IT WITH……

• Remember to only use a hotter setting for finishing touches. • The cool button often gets ignored, but it can make all the difference for a smooth finish. • Use a larger brush. You’ll find it easier to use and it will create better movement in the hair. • Practice makes perfect. It may feel tricky using a brush and a dryer at the same time, but once you find a rhythm, your hair will look all the better. • Brushing hair straight while drying gives a sleeker finish. Angling your brush away from your face, and letting the bottom few inches curl round the edge of the brush while drying, will add a gentle wave and extra volume.…

She’s the biggest success story to emerge from The Only Way Is Essex – and reality star Gemma Collins has been unstoppable this year. In April, she became the highest-paid ITVBe star after landing a £250k deal for the new series of her reality show Diva Forever, and the following month raked in a record £100k in just one day through sales of her meme sweatshirts. Meanwhile, she’s stormed the charts with her self-titled podcast, landing the number one spot, and has been hotly tipped for the US version of Strictly. COMPROMISING But after it was revealed Gemma, 39, had been forced to delay her new single with Beyoncé’s super-producer Naughty Boy, 35 – despite promises of a chart-topping “summer banger” – insiders say the star is putting her music…

Eating a healthy diet throughout our lives can help slow the ageing process and give us glowing skin. What we do in our twenties, thirties and forties sets us on the path for looking great at 50, though you can still get in shape beyond then. Closer nutritionist and co-author of Eat Better, Live Longer Juliette Kellow shares her tips for fighting the signs of ageing • Eat like you’re in the Mediterranean – it’s healthy for your heart, may protect against depression, and has been linked to slimmer waists and fewer wrinkles. Fill up on fruit, veg, wholegrains, fish, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds; eat less red meat and dairy; and replace butter with olive oil. • Skip faddy diets – speedy weight loss promised by diets such as…

Having managed to escape the UK and head off on holiday, Max George and Stacey Giggs looked more loved-up than ever on a beach in Marbella last week. The Wanted singer, 31, and Stacey, 41 – who was previously married to ex-footballer Ryan Giggs – cuddled and frolicked in the sea while on holiday with Stacey’s children Liberty, 17, and Zach, 13. And pals say the couple wouldn’t rule out having a baby together, with a source saying, “They’re so happy – Max has made no secret of the fact he’d love to be a dad, so they’d love it if a baby came along. But they’re very content as they are – and Stacey’s kids adore him!” The couple began dating after meeting through mutual friends in 2019 –…

She’s a single mum to her 23-month-old son, Hudson, and Katie Waissel admits she was so frightened when they both fell ill with suspected COVID-19 in March that she wrote a will. The X Factor star – who moved back to the UK from America in 2018, after splitting from the father of her son – ended up in hospital and says she was scared for their lives. “It was such a frightening experience,” she explains. “Hudson was really ill – his breathing had shallowed and his temperature was 40º, so I called an ambulance. At the same time, I was feeling really unwell – I had a continuous cough and couldn’t catch my breath. When it’s just Hudson and me, it makes you think, ‘What if I die? What’s…

“Phones are a blessing and a curse when it comes to parenting,” says Anna. “During the hard times, we have a whole community and support network at our fingertips, which is fantastic. But much like when you’re talking to someone and they’re looking over your shoulder, children can feel when you’re not giving them your full attention. What’s more, when we’re on our phones, we have another agenda and children become a distraction, so we are much more likely to be irritable with them. Children don’t realise you’re writing a work email; they just wonder why you’re being snappy.” Anna says we may feel shame for being on our phones too much around our kids, which can cause negative repercussions for ourselves. “Phones make us less present around our children…

RELATIONSHIPS NEGOTIATE A CHANGE WITH YOUR PARTNER COVID-19 has made some of us want to do things differently, like rethinking work or where we live. Here’s how to raise the subject The coronavirus crisis may have highlighted areas of life that need your attention post-lockdown. Maybe spending more time with your kids means you want to cut your hours; maybe you never wanted a family but you’ve changed your mind; perhaps your parents live miles away and you want to be nearer. The rule we apply in therapy is to wait six to 12 months after a traumatic experience before making a life-changing decision, so you have a clearer head to explore problems and possibilities. Remember, by the time you discuss an idea with your partner, you will have considered…

SPORTS STAR Georgia Toffolo, 25 MIC’s Toff always looks sensational on the red carpet, and while this gym-ready co-ord may not be quite as glam, she wears it just as well. The pretty blue print is striking, while the cropped design flaunts her fab figure – go, Toff! PEACHY PERFECTION Sam Faiers, 29 TV star Sam is known for her glam outfits, and this fuchsia ensemble at the 2020 NTAs was no exception. So it comes as no surprise to see she looks just as good in loungewear. This peachy two-piece is the perfect stylish-yet-snug combo. SIMPLE SWEATSHIRT Selena Gomez, 27 This jumper and jogger outfit shows that singer Selena is taking a laid-back approach to lockdown dressing. And, while it’s a far cry from the pretty-in-pink ensemble she rocked…

HIGH-COVERAGE CONCEALER Praised by professional make-up artists, one of these is sold every five seconds. Great for brightening under eyes and covering blemishes, the lightweight formula makes it ideal for everyday use, as it won’t clog pores or feel cakey on the skin. The best bit? It’s available in a whopping 50 shades to suit every skin tone. MAKEUP REVOLUTION CONCEAL & DEFINE CONCEALER £4.99 LOW-PRICED LASH LIFT For a fake-lash effect without any glue, this bargain buy creates long, volumised lashes in just a few sweeps. Designed with a cone-shaped fibre brush, each lash is individually coated, giving an intense, full flutter without any clumps. ESSENCE LASH PRINCESS FALSE EFFECT MASCARA £3.30 SHOUTY POUT Matte lipsticks amp up your look with minimal effort. This moisturising, creamy formula delivers intense…

TOP TABLEWEAR Switching up your crockery is a fuss-free way to update a tired-looking dining table. B&M has a whole host of chic tableware, including printed plates, designer-esque cutlery and pretty place mats to ensure you can dine in style. It’s worth checking out the brand’s outdoor picnic range, too. TERRIFIC TEXTURE Incorporating texture into your home is a really great way to tie a room together, without spending a fortune. And when it comes to buying soft furnishings, Matalan is unbeatable for its range of cushions, rugs and throws in styles to suit every taste. FAKE FOLIAGE Faux plants are a great way to give your home an outdoorsy feel, without the upkeep. With a host of stylish succulents and oversized planters available from £3, Wilko is our go-to…

• Use a weekly meal planner and write a list for each supermarket shop. • Batch-cook food and don’t be tempted to order a takeaway. • Plan ahead, so you don’t need to nip to the shops mid-week. • Make exercise part of your daily routine – and involve the kids! • If possible, try to eat together as a family, instead of making different meals for everyone. • Get children involved in making their own food (this is especially good for fussy eaters). • Keeping active gives your brain something to focus on, which can be a good coping strategy for difficult times (like lockdown).…