Table of contents for Issue 1144 in Closer

' KATE HAS HAD THE TOUGHEST YEAR OF HER LIFE WHICH HAS PUT EVERYTHING INTO PERSPECTIVE ' It’s been five years since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle sensationally stepped down as working royals to pursue the American Dream from their new home in Montecito, California. While they have carved out a new life for themselves Stateside, reports claiming that Meghan had ‘bullied’ staff when she was part of the royal household have continued to overshadow the couple. And following the news that an increasing number of the Sussexes’ staff had quit last year, a damning new profile on the couple by US magazine Vanity Fair has cast a new light on Meghan’s alleged behaviour both behind palace walls and behindthe-scenes of the welloiled and powerful Sussex machine that she and…

They gained overnight fame on TOWIE in 2010, becoming firm favourites with fans as their close friendship played out on screen. And now, an insider says that James ‘Arg’ Argent is hoping to follow in best friend Mark Wright’s footsteps by becoming a father this year. After Mark and wife Michelle Keegan announced their pregnancy news in December, a source close to Arg reveals that he would love to start a family with girlfriend Nicoline Artursson. The insider says, ‘Mark and Michelle are over the moon after Arg broke the news that he and Nicoline would like to try for a baby. Arg told pals they were hoping to conceive soon – even revealing that they’ve been looking at family homes as they contemplate moving out of Arg’s bachelor pad.’…

As the sequins sparkle and this year’s contestants grow more confident on the ice – with the show boasting great viewing figures – insiders share which contestants are melting hearts, and who has turned frosty, with our exclusive behind-the-scenes news… Top of the leaderboard is Michaela Strachan, who our source says ‘has no intention of letting anyone beat her… She likes to think of herself as a dark horse on ice!’ TOWIE flirt Dan Edgar has also surprised everyone, with the insider saying his routines have even won back girlfriend Ella Rae Wise. They say, ‘Dan Edgar has shocked everyone with his dedication and he’s won Ella back. He’s ditched the partying and has gone from being a boy to man on ice -there will be wedding bells.’ Elsewhere, the…

They have weathered multiple split allegations over their 11-year relationship, but with reports that the pair are putting their shared home on the market, Jacqueline Jossa is reportedly devastated by the fresh speculation over the state of her and Dan Osborne’s marriage. An insider tells Closer, ‘With their turbulent history, Jac’s understandably more sensitive when stories of a split emerge and she finds it triggering – especially when she’s stressed and feeling vulnerable and emotional as it is. ‘Like every couple with careers and children, Jac and Dan go through ups and downs in their marriage. And while they’re still very much together, they’re taking steps to be more practical and ensure they both have their own investments if the worst happens.’ Not only are Jac, 32, and Dan, 33,…

One Love Islander who knows exactly what life is like in the All Stars villa is Georgia Steel, having had a second crack at the ITV2 show when she returned last year. Speaking to Closer, she gives her thoughts on how her former co-stars Kaz Crossley and Casey O’Gorman are getting on with their second -and third – stints. You were in the All Stars villa with Casey, what do you think about his coupling with Gabby Allen? Casey’s a cheeky chap. He doesn’t take things too seriously. If he meets someone, then great, but if he doesn’t, he doesn’t. In one respect, I like that approach. However, you can hurt people’s feelings along the way, and he just needs to navigate it gently. Do you think he’s a player?…

COUNTRY CHIC If there’s anyone who can make wellies look sophisticated, it’s Claudia. She elevates them with a tie-neck blouse and cable-knit jumper duo. The smart check coat gives the outfit structure. CHECK MATE In true Scottish style, tartan trousers have become a staple in Claudia’s Traitors wardrobe. For a smart-casual look, team them with a classic crew neck jumper and chocolate-brown loafers. CHANNEL CLAUDIA WITH A CREW NECK GOTHIC GLAM The Traitors queen loves to make a style statement, and this tiered skirt would help you do just that. Make the gothic piece outdoors-ready with an oversized knit, long grey coat and riding boots. COLOUR CLASH When she’s not out on the Highlands, the presenter brings the glamour in a silky red shirt and tailored purple trousers. To give…

NAGI MAEHASHI'S SPICY KOREAN KIMCHI NOODLES STEP 1 Prepare the udon noodles according to the pack directions (usually soaked in boiling water for a few min), then drain in a colander. Time the noodles so they are tossed into the pan when hot – don’t leave them sitting around in the colander. STEP 2 Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a high heat. Add the garlic, bean sprouts, kimchi and the white part of the spring onion. Cook for 1min until the bean sprouts are almost wilted. Add (in this order): the green part of the spring onion, the noodles and all the sauce ingredients. Toss for 2min until the sauce stains the noodles. STEP 3 Transfer to a bowl, sprinkle with sesame seeds (if using),…

Many of us are searching for ways to save cash due to high bills and leftover Christmas debts, but money expert and This Morning’s resident presenter Dan Hatfield says we should switch up our thinking and find ways to make more. ‘It’s really exciting to think you have the power to make extra cash’, he says. Hatfield, author of Money Maker, says there are three money-making pillars, ‘How to sell things, how to rent out things out and how to create a side hustle.’ Here’s everything you need to know! 1 CLEAR OUT AND SELL The average household has £3000 worth of unwanted items that they could be making cash from. ‘Your house is a treasure trove!’ says Hatfield. ‘Start small – go through one room at a time, get…

Taking out her chopping board, Rose Colville* carefully puts a chocolate on it and divides it into four. She’s not on a diet and rationing herself – this is a cube of mushroom chocolate and she’s sharing it with her lunch guests, another married couple in their 40s, and her husband. It’s something she’s indulged in over the past 18 months and uses recreationally. The 45-year-old mum of two, a writer from west London, says, ‘A friend admitted she was taking them about 18 months ago, in small doses, to get a bit of a buzz and feel naughty. ‘My husband and I were at university together and we used to pick them in October when they grew and then drink mushroom tea and go out clubbing. It was fun…

Following his shock break-up from his girlfriend of five years, Zara McDermott, Sam Thompson has opened up about his sister Louise Thompson – who lives next door – being his support system. In a recent interview, Sam, 32, shared, ‘It’s amazing having Louise there, and she’s an amazing mum. One of my biggest comforts, if I’m ever going through a hard time, is my neighbours next door… when I go to their place it’s just such a family unit and it’s a beautiful place to be.’ While neither Sam nor Zara, 28, have publicly commented on their split, the Love Island star seemingly took a swipe at her ex last week, when she reshared a clip to Instagram with the caption, ‘Me reminding myself that not everyone has the same…

When Denise Grant started chatting with Josh, 15 years her junior, online, all she hoped for was a fun fling. But the pair connected so well that, just a year later, Josh moved in with 43-year-old Denise and her four children from a previous relationship, and two years after they met, they got married. But it was soon after they wed in October 2019 that Josh bravely suggested to Denise that he wanted to invite another woman into the bedroom. Denise was furious at first because she felt like he was suggesting she wasn’t enough for him. But, after much thought, she decided to surprise Josh with a trip to a swingers club – and they loved it so much that it’s now become their regular date night activity. Denise…

When 23-year-old hairdresser Kiena Dawes died by suicide in 2022, she left a stark note that read, ‘The end. I fought hard, I fought long. I went through pain no one could imagine. I was murdered. Ryan Wellings killed me. He ruined every bit of strength I had left. I didn’t deserve it…’ Kiena had been in a two-year relationship with Wellings and they had a nine-month-old daughter but, within weeks of them getting together, he began physically and emotionally abusing her. HARROWING In a court case earlier this month, Wellings was convicted of assault and coercive and controlling behaviour, but found not guilty of manslaughter. During the trial the jury heard about numerous incidents of his abusive behaviour, including threatening to throw acid in Kiena’s face. It’s a shocking…

THINK PINK Give your classic kicks an upgrade by opting for a Barbie-worthy tone that you’ll want to wear throughout spring. New Look, £29.99 RED HOT Fancy wearing this winter’s hottest shade? There’s no better way than popping on these scarlet stars. Very, £35 FELINE FIND A pair of leopard print trainers are the perfect entry-point into wearing the iconic trend. Go wild! H&M, £27.99 STRIDE AND SHINE Make a statement in metallic hues. This shimmering pair will become your go-to for those day-to-night occasions. River Island, £38 SPORTY CHIC Featuring M&S’ Freshfeet™ technology, this sleek pair will minimise odours and provide plenty of comfort for sporty types. M&S, £35 CREAM DREAM Everyone needs a neutral pair of shoes in their wardrobe, and you can’t go wrong with this bargain…

I’m surprised this statistic isn’t higher because work, parenting and running a household all cause stress and they’re all full-time jobs. The cost of living is a huge thing, and most families now have two working parents, which can create a lot of pressure. For most of us, there just isn’t enough time or help there, and it’s depleting. Trying to find some flexibility at work is an important first step; speak to your employer to see if a flexible working plan might be possible for you to fit around your home life. Then have a think about where you can delegate or share responsibilities. Some people have formed carpools for the school run, for example, which can help take some pressure off. Look at after-school clubs and wraparound care…

SARAH 'I've lost 7st and finally like what I see' Sarah Jacob, 47, is a financial services contractor from Colchester. ‘Back in January 2024, I was in such a low place, after being housebound with anxiety for so long. I’d just come out of a relationship that stifled my confidence and left me with terrible anxiety. At just over 17 stone and a size 20, I was at my heaviest, and I no longer recognised myself. I felt like I was just existing in life, and I knew I couldn’t go on like this. ‘The New Year felt like a fresh start, and I was determined to make it work. I started seeing a coach who helped me to overcome my anxiety of leaving the house, and soon after I…

SPRINKLE STARS Level up your cinema snacks with the Movie Night collection of popcorn seasonings, featuring Choco Caramel, Sweet Cinnamon Toast and Sweet & Salty flavours. From popcornshed.com, £5/100g (25 servings) or £14/3 x 100g. ULTIMATE REFRESHMENT Vita Vibe spring water-based drinks are packed with 100% of your daily recommended dose of B-vits. Choose from three delicious flavours. From thehappypear.ie and Amazon. RRP £26.99/12 x 500ml. FREE-FROM TREAT Kirsty’s ‘free-from’ ready meals are perfect for navigating life with food allergies and intolerances. Try Kirsty’s Mild Sriracha Chicken for a takeawaystyle treat. From Sainsbury’s, Ocado and Morrisons. RRP £3.50/400g.…

It’s time for your annual boiler tweak, to save you cash! • WHAT YOU NEED TO DO Turn down the flow temperature to 60°C. • WHY IT HELPS CUT BILLS The flow temperature is the temperature your boiler heats your water to before it gets sent to your radiators. It then flows through the radiators and the water cools before it returns to the boiler (this is known as the return temperature). Lowering the flow temperature also lowers the return temperature, which saves you money. • DON’T GO TOO LOW 60°C is usually enough to still keep your house warm, but keeps you safe from legionella bacteria growing in the cylinder. • HOW TO DO IT On a conventional boiler with a hot water cylinder, use the dial or setting…

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…

Oozing confidence as Essex’s all-time favourite diva and the ultimate TOWIE OG, Gemma Collins has earned her reputation and her millions by slapping her ‘candy’ at cruel critics – including her toxic exes – who have taunted her over her size 24 curves. But last week, Gemma, 43, bravely opened up about the crippling ‘upset, stress and turmoil that comes with constantly trying to lose excess weight’ – revealing that she has recently dropped two dress sizes while using a controversial fat loss jab in ‘secret’. Taking to social media to reveal her new slimmed-down look, she told fans, ‘I finally feel free’. She later shared a glamorous selfie captioned, ‘Maybe she’s born with it… Maybe it’s Mounjaro’, before adding that she is “loving the journey [she’s] on”. And a…

Making her Dancing On Ice debut earlier this month, Ferne McCann described taking on the ITV skating show as ‘one hell of a juggle’ as she balances her new career move with life as a busy mum-of-two. And, after it was reported last month that her fiancé, Lorri Haines, and her mum Gilly had ‘barely spoken’ during her debut dance with partner Brendyn Hatfield, Ferne was forced to deny split rumours for the second time in the past three months. However, insiders tell Closer that Ferne, 34, is ‘struggling’ and needs Lorri, 33, to take on more responsibility at home. A source says, ‘Ferne is really feeling the pressure. She’s told pals Lorri needs to step up as the show is taking every bit of her energy and she is…

Watching her daughters glide around a pole in their bright bikinis, Lindsey Teall couldn’t be prouder of her girls, Alaura, 12, and 10-year-old Rosalyn. For many, pole dancing conjures up images of bikini-clad performers dancing in a sexual way, which is why Lindsey and her partner Jake Night have received death threats from strangers who object to their young daughters doing it. They’ve been accused of bad parenting – but Lindsey is adamant they’ve done nothing wrong. Lindsey, an exotic dancer, says people are ‘close-minded’ and she wants to remove the ‘stigma’ attached to pole dancing, which she calls an ‘art form’. LOVE She’s determined to prove that poles aren’t just for the clubs and insists that it’s a sport in its own right. Lindsey says, ‘We pole-dance as a…

Fans have been left confused after Justin Bieber unfollowed his wife Hailey Bieber – as well as her father Stephen Baldwin – just days after sharing a slew of loved-up snaps from their romantic break in Aspen. Justin, 30, later denied speculation that the pair’s six-year relationship was on the rocks, revealing in an Instagram story, ‘Someone went on my account and unfollowed my wife. S**t is getting suss out here.’ After first meeting when they were just 15 and 12, Justin and Hailey, 28, started dating in 2016 following Justin’s break-up from Selena Gomez. Despite a brief break-up in 2017, the pair eventually tied the knot in 2018 and welcomed their son, Jack Blues, in August last year. Meanwhile, eyebrows were also raised by Romeo Beckham’s decision to unfollow…

WE HAVE 5 TO GIVE AWAY! Get ready to unleash your inner curl queen with CURL, the brilliant new hair tool from hair stylist Michael Douglas! With 35 years of hair wizardry under his belt, Michael has designed the ultimate curling wand thanks to its clever right-angle handle and four fabulous attachments for any curl you can dream up. Plus Michael’s got your back with online tips to unlock a treasure trove of curl magic, making you a curling pro in no time. Great curls, made simple! Here’s what’s in store with CURL: 14 heat settings (80°C to 210°C) that cater to every hair type, including extensions! The genius right-angle handle lets you curl your hair just the way it falls, saying goodbye to arm fatigue and hello to fabulousness.…

Another week of Love Island All Stars has brought us a whole new load of drama – and Ronnie Vint has well and truly found himself stuck in another triangle. The 28-year-old was coupled up with Elma Pazar, but just as they’d got over the fallout of his kiss with Kaz Crossley, their budding romance was rocked by the mother of all bombshells – his ex Harriett Blackmore! Ronnie and Harriett found a spark in last summer’s series of Love Island but came to a rocky end in September. After arriving in the All Stars villa, it emerged that Ronnie had been messaging recently dumped Islander Olivia Hawkins while he was still in a relationship with Harriett, and Sean Stone – who shared the villa with Ronnie, Harriett and Grace…

In the news… Louise Redknapp X Peacocks Fancy getting your hands on some star style without breaking the bank? Then you’ll love Louise Redknapp’s latest edit for Peacocks. This time round the fashion icon has provided us with those basic items that are ideal for everyday use. We’re talking luxe-looking denim staples, cosy knitwear and trendy outerwear that can be easily incorporated into your new-season wardrobe. PRICES FROM £16! GET HER LOOK BELLA HADID Brighten up the day with a colour-pop top, like Bella Hadid who was spotted in a crimson cardigan while out and about in New York. The model paired her knitwear with leg-lengthening bootcut jeans and a sweeping white maxi coat. Finishing off with matching red heels, the 28-year-old’s look is perfect for a crisp winter’s day.…

BRIGHT EYES Revive tired-looking peepers with this squalane-rich cream. Not only will it provide plenty of hydration, but it will also counteract the effects of digital pollutants, such as phone, tablet and laptop screens. SWEET SCENT Juicy pomelo, passionfruit and tonka bean work together to create an uplifting, fruity fragrance, while upcycled rose water prevents the risk of skin irritation. FULL FLUTTER This mascara’s clever cross-conic wand will effortlessly coat each lash, creating plenty of length and volume without any clumps. POUT PERFECTOR Available in seven stunning shades, this glossy balm will leave your lips looking and feeling more luscious than ever – even Priyanka Chopra is a fan! UNDER £5! HYDRATION HERO Packed with hyaluronic acid, jojoba and almond oils, this bargain-price leave-in conditioner will nourish thirsty strands without…

I LOVE MY SLEEP… it’s so important for me to feel energised throughout the day. I go to bed quite early and I’m lucky that I find falling asleep really easy. I TRY TO AVOID GETTING ILL AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE… As a family we take Sambucol every day to give ourselves that boost of immunity. The kids love it because they think they’re having a sweet every morning as they have the gummies! Touch wood, we’ve all been pretty healthy recently. EVERY SUNDAY I GO FOR A SWIM… it’s my time to myself. I don’t class that as my exercise for the week, it’s more for me mentally. I’m not swimming fast and don’t even count my lengths. I just let my brain wander and it’s the only time…

INSIDE NICOLA'S FRIDGE • Eggs • Soup • Nutella • Philadelphia • Peri mayonnaise • Chicken fillets • Salmon • Avocado • Cheddar cheese • Parmesan • Muller Corner yoghurts • Natural yogurt • Gherkins • Tomatoes • Lucozade • Kale • Onion • Courgette • Fresh pasta How much do you spend? Around £180 a week. I shop in Tesco and I feel like I go there every day! I tend to go in and get a couple of dinners and then go back the next day for more. I should really do an online shop but I just don’t have the patience for it. I’m quite a good shopper, I always like to look for a good deal. Describe your daily diet… I never eat breakfast, but I…

DR CHRISTIAN GIVES HIS TAKE ON THE HOT HEALTH TOPIC OF THE WEEK Doctors have been calling for either a complete ban of things like boxing or certainly a lot more precautions for contact sports for years -and we’ve got a lot of flack for it, but there’s a very real reason to worry. KNOW THE FACTS More than 500 former rugby players claim the sport has left them suffering from diseases such as early-onset dementia, motor neurone disease and Parkinson’s. That’s because while your brain can overcome injuries, these repeated injuries over many years mean that eventually you get to a point of no return, either causing obvious neurological problems there and then, or 10 or 15 years later these problems start to show up. MAKE A CHOICE A…

After appearing on Love Island – the show famous for toned gym bodies – Chyna admits that she struggled with the physical changes of pregnancy. ‘I was seeing people on Instagram snapping back a week after giving birth, which just isn’t realistic,’ she explains. ‘I adjusted well to motherhood emotionally, but I did battle with the physical effects. My body didn’t bounce back after Havana and my stomach was just loose skin, which I really struggled with.’ In the end, Chyna decided to have surgery – something she wants to be honest about. ‘Neil and I had lots of conversations about how I was feeling at the time. I waited eight months and then decided to have a tummy tuck and boob job. Now I’m a lot happier with my…

IF IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK If it’s what you want, you can change your life! Sure, some hard choices will need to be made as you let go of old habits and patterns and embrace new ones. You may feel like going into your shell for a while before you emerge a renewed version of you! AQUARIUS 20 JAN – 18 FEB If you’ve already fallen behind on the New Year, New Me goals and resolutions, then fear not! Lucky for you, a New Moon will reinvigorate all your personal prospects for the next year. Transformation is key. The big question now is what do you need to change about YOU?! Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope…

28 JANUARY – 3 FEBRUARY PISCES 19 FEB – 20 MAR When everything feels too hard and the world is on your shoulders, you could give in or give up. Another option that is available to you now is to double down on your dreams and what you want. You just have to believe. Trust that it’s all working out in your favour! Visit Yasminboland.com for your daily horoscope ARIES 21 MAR – 19 APR While life continues to feel in a state of flux on the home front, you might enjoy spending time with friends. If you’ve lost sight of some important relationships in recent months, set some new friendship goals for this year. When life feels stressful, lean into those who fan your flames. Visit Yasminboland.com for your…

GRUMPY GRAM Clearly enjoying his, er, best life, The Rock’s ‘little pebbles’ experiment with their contouring skills. Looks great, girls – maybe a little Touche Éclat on those eye bags and he’s ready to go!…