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Closer|Issue 885Wipe the slate cleanA new year means a fresh start and a chance to make a change for the better. If you’re determined that 2020 is going to lead to your best body yet, then we have just the inspiration for you! Kate Garraway is feeling fitter and more energetic than ever following her 3st weight loss – we share her secret to looking incredible at 52 and reveal the recipes designed to bring out your inner glow. Davina McCall tells us how she got back into shape after relaxing her diet, while former Corrie actress Katie McGlynn (pictured right) unveils her impressive transformation. There’s a sense of starting over for other celebrities too, with both Cheryl and Jacqueline Jossa shutting the door on relationship turmoil and looking to the next chapter. Whatever…1 min
Closer|Issue 885JACQUELINE’S REVENGE ON DANShe’s been showing off her 1st weight loss in a series of skimpy outfits and has spoken about her renewed confidence since being crowned Queen of the Jungle – and her new look hasn’t gone unnoticed with her admirers.Amid thousands of adoring comments online, one male fan wrote, “Lovely, beautiful young woman. Give me her any day over the cosmetic lot,” while another added, “So sexy. Hope Dan knows how lucky he is.”And pals say the former EastEnders star, 27, is hopeful that all the attention she’s getting will give husband Dan, 28 – with whom she shares daughters Ella, four, and Mia, one – the shake-up he needs to realise what he’s risking if he breaks her heart.A source says, “Jac had lost a lot of confidence over the…3 min
Closer|Issue 885Love dramasGEMMA’S BABY DREAM IN DOUBT ASARG RETURNS TO REHABHe worried fans after two reported drug overdoses in just two months, and it has now emerged that James “Arg” Argent has checked himself into a rehab facility in Thailand to help conquer his addiction issues once and for all. It comes after on/off girlfriend Gemma Collins reportedly expressed concern over her boyfriend’s future in November, while once again admitting she’s keen for marriage and babies on the TOWIE Christmas special.Arg, 32 – who has battled drug and drink addiction since finding fame on the show and spent three months in a rehab centre in Thailand in 2016 – sparked overdose fears in October, when paramedics reportedly broke into his home after Gemma called 999 when he failed to return her calls…2 min
Closer|Issue 885‘IT’S EASIER IF YOU’RE NOT THE FIRST’Author Tess Stimson, 48, got divorced at the same time as four of her friends. She’s now remarried and living in Vermont, and has sons Henry, 25, and Matt, 22, with her ex-husband Brent, and a daughter, Lily, with new beau Erik. She says, “I had one child and was pregnant with my second one when I discovered my husband was having an affair. He worked away at the time and I sat on the information for a while. We’d been married for six years and I thought we might be able to weather the storm – infidelity wasn’t necessarily a deal breaker for me. “But one day a good friend called me to tell me she was getting divorced. We’d got married about the same time and my first…2 min
Closer|Issue 885CAN THE VILLA REALLY LEAD TO LASTING LOVE?Love Island has returned to our screens with the first-ever winter series, but while the show has been a huge commercial smash, it’s had less success when it comes to creating long-lasting relationships. Out of the 155 contestants who have entered the villa over the past five years, only six couples are still together and just three have gone on to marry – meaning the show’s positivity rate in the love stakes is just 3.8 per cent. Closer talks to two former contestants about whether the show really can help singletons find love...YESJoe: ‘I learned valuable lessons aboutdating’Joe Garrett initially found love with Lucie Donlan in last year’s series, but was later accused of being controlling before he was voted off the show. Joe, 22 – who split with Lucie…3 min
Closer|Issue 885MY VIEW ON AGE-GAP ROMANCEChristine was just 19 when she met Paddy, and they wed in 2011 after dating for three years. She’s always insisted their 15-year age gap has never been an issue for the couple, saying, “He looks really well for his age, but I think men take longer to mature. I matured really quickly and I grew up pretty quick – I always felt older, so it’s worked out. “All I ever wanted was to get married and have children. I don’t think a 19-year-old man would have wanted to do that, so it made sense for me. I wanted someone who was career-driven, and I think because my dad wasn’t around, I wanted a man who was going to be a good husband and father to my children – I…1 min
Closer|Issue 885MY MUM TIPSHelen says she’s an ‘honest mum’, and she’s not afraid to talk about the challenges of parenthood.SOCIAL MEDIA: “I am honest on my Instagram so other mums can identify with me and feel less on their own. I’m supportive of other women.”POST-BABY DIETS: “I never went on a post-baby diet. I hate diets and don’t think they’re healthy. I don’t want either of my daughters to ever say, ‘I can’t eat this’.”BREASTFEEDING: “I don’t care if people don’t approve of me breastfeeding. I just want my baby happy and fed. I decided to stop feeding her after 13 months. It was right for me, but not always easy.”‘MUM GUILT’: “I wanted to get Delilah sleeping in a cot, as me and Scott needed our bed back after getting Matilda into…1 min
Closer|Issue 885LISA: ‘My daughter told me to make sexy videos’‘It’s not p*rn – I don’t show my “flower”’She’s never been afraid of showing off her body, and now Lisa Appleton – who shot to fame on Big Brother in 2008 – reveals to Closer that she’s signed up to X-rated site OnlyFans, which features glamour-style images of celebrities including CBB’s Danielle Lloyd. The online subscription platform allows fans to pay monthly fees to access content, such as racy pictures and videos, from some of their favourite stars.Lisa, 51, tells Closer that her daughter Sophia Maria, 30, a financial advisor, encouraged her to join last year. She reveals, “Sophia said to me, ‘Mum, I’ve been telling you to do it for years, and you wouldn’t listen to me!’. When I had no money, she said, ‘Why don’t you do Babestation?…4 min
Closer|Issue 885LUISA ZISSMAN‘Don’t adopt a dog just to get Instagram likes’This time of year is one of the most popular for adopting a new pet, and The Dogs Trust have just run their annual festive advert stating “a dog is for life, not just for Christmas”. But, sadly, some owners abandon their pets shortly after getting them. I think social media has played a big part in making puppies seem like the perfect present – everyone wants an adorable picture of their doggy, or to dress them up in cute costumes to attract more “likes” on Instagram.But the reality is that you’re unlikely to find yourself with a cute little pooch who poses perfectly for pictures. In fact, you’re acquiring a vulnerable life – a living creature for which you are wholly…3 min
Closer|Issue 885KATIE: ‘I’ve lost a stone and grown a booty!’‘I’m more confident than I’ve ever been!’She left fans in tears following her harrowing portrayal of cancer-stricken Sinead Tinker in Coronation Street last year. But as Katie McGlynn poses for our exclusive photoshoot, she says she feels “a world away” from her former on-screen character. The star, who appeared on the cobbles for over seven years, has lost a stone and dropped a dress size since her emotional farewell in October.“If I’d have been posing in swimwear a couple of months ago, I would have been dreading it,” Katie, 26, tells Closer . “But I finally feel back to normal. I’ve trained hard, I’ve been lifting weights, and eating the right food. I’m more confident than I’ve ever been and I have much more energy.”COMFORT EATINGDespite keeping viewers gripped with…4 min
Closer|Issue 885GETGARRAWAY’ SGLOW!Cutting out added sugar, like Kate, needn’t mean dishing up boring food. We asked Closer’s nutritionist Juliette Kellow to devise some delicious healthy recipes, high in nutrition and low in sugar, which will help you feel great inside and out.“Ditching sugary foods and drinks can help the pounds fall off as it’s an effective way to cut calories,” says Juliette. “As Kate has discovered, reducing sugar also helps prevent blood sugar swings where the lows can leave us starving, irritable and low on energy. In response, we seek out a quick-fix sugary snack to boost our blood sugar, but the effect is only temporary and the sugar high is followed by a dramatic and speedy drop that sets off the whole pattern again.“Kate’s healthy eating plan is in tune with…4 min
Closer|Issue 885DROP A DRESS SIZE IN SIX WEEKSWant to lose weight without tiny portions and bland food? Try Alexandra’s delicious and easy meal plan, devised by dietician Amanda Ursell.Amanda says, “You’ll get plenty of tasty, nutritious meals that are big on volume and have a balance of protein, fibre and slow-release carbs. This means it doesn’t look like diet food – they’re big, healthy portions of ‘normal’ foods which keep your blood sugar levels steady and stable, your hunger hormones under control, your gut in great shape and don’t cut back on flavour and enjoyment.”Just pick one breakfast, one lunch and one dinner per day, plus two snacks. Your total intake will be 1,400 calories per day, which could see you lose 10lbs in six weeks – that’s a whole dress size!BREAKFAST 300 CALORIESBANANA MUESLI (V)Top 50g…5 min
Closer|Issue 885Top ten... OUTFIT UPDATERS1 ACCESSORISE YOUR LOCKSFor an instant uplift, these shiny slides add a retro touch. More is more, so wear a few at a time for a playful finish.STRADIVARIUS £9.99 FOR THREE2 GO FAUX LEATHERAdd instant luxe to your look, while keeping it vegan-friendly with faux leather. The fabric smartens up these jogger-style trousers, making them comfy and office-appropriate.NEW LOOK £22.993 EMBRACE STATEMENT SLEEVESBold shoulders are still going strong in 2020. Opt for sheer detailing for a subtle but glam look that still offers coverage.TOP, £26 TROUSERS, £22 SHOES, £30 ALL DOROTHY PERKINS4 SNAP UP A QUIRKY SHOEAdd interest to a simple boot with a statement heel. The circular style on these beauties gives them a designer feel, minus the hefty price tag. DOROTHY PERKINS £405 BAG A BLAZERA checked blazer…2 min
Closer|Issue 885Beauty rules1 I’M CONSTANTLY SWITCHING UP MY FOUNDATION… but my favourite brand is Nars. I use the Radiant Longwear product. It gives great coverage that lasts all day and doesn’t feel heavy on my skin.2 I HAVE A REALLY STRICT SKINCARE ROUTINE… I never sleep in my make-up and I use a face mask at least once a week. The Estée Lauder one contains hydrating hyaluronic acid, which is great for a dry complexion.3 MAC RUBY WOO IS MY MUST-HAVE LIPSTICK... I’ve used it for years. I feel like a vivid lipstick makes your face brighter and teeth whiter – which instantly gives you a lift.4 BECAUSE I WEAR EXTENSIONS, I TAKE EXTRA CARE OF MY HAIR… I’m a big fan of all the Kevin Murphy products, especially the hydrating shampoo,…1 min
Closer|Issue 885‘HERE’S HOW TO AVOID NOROVIRUS’It’s no surprise norovirus has shut down hospital wards and schools – it’s so contagious and spreads rapidly because people are in close quarters. Little kids aren’t great at hand washing but are good at touching each other, which means they can catch it and pass it on to others very easily. But you can steer clear...WASH HANDS SLOWLYHand washing is the best way to protect yourself – before and after eating, after going to the loo and after holding on to handrails on public transport. Don’t rush. Wash your hands, wrists and all the bits between your fingers and thumbs, front and back for as long as it takes to sing the whole of Happy Birthday. Use soap, then rinse with warm water and dry. If you use a…2 min
Closer|Issue 885‘ MY PORRIDGE BUSINESS MAKES ME £400K A YEAR’Five years ago, Jacqueline Barleycorn, 59, did cooking demonstrations from home, showing people how to cook healthy meals, which she shared on Facebook. It led to a brainwave. “I realised instant porridges were either bland or full of refined sugar, flavourings and preservatives, so I decided to create my own,” she says. She experimented making porridge with real ingredients and no added sugar. She still wanted the product to be instant, made simply by adding hot water, and found that grinding the oats finely worked well. It was so good, she ditched her retirement plans to make it a business – and so founded The Great British Porridge Co. She visited trade shows to learn about trends, worked with a designer to create the perfect packaging, and tested recipes on…3 min
Closer|Issue 885TOP 20 tv pic ksIt’s the height of summer. Helen George is in very short shorts, licking a lolly. We’re on the set of Call The Midwife, making a welcome return to our screens…Settling down to chat about the latest series, Helen George reveals Nonnatus House will be getting “new blood” in the form of a bunch of junior doctors, who arrive ready to be educated by the midwives.“It was loads of fun to have them on set,” she says. “We haven’t seen Trixie’s fun, flirty side for a while, so it was good to get that sparkle back. She does still like a bit of male attention. Is there any romance for Trixie? I wish!”With series nine set in the ’60s, Helen, 35, reveals she’s also been enjoying the outfits her character wears.She…9 min
Closer|Issue 885Out this week!The Shiny ShrimpsAVAILABLE ON DVD/BLU-RAY OUT 13 JANUARYFunny and heartwarming, this French comedy sure does make a splash. As punishment for uttering a hom*ophobic remark to a TV reporter, a champion swimmer is made to coach a floundering water polo team hoping to represent their country at the Gay Games. Cue plenty of raucous flamboyant shenanigans. Though you may think you can see where the plot is going from the jump, this unconventional road movie manages to take some surprising twists and turns.AJ And The QueenAVAILABLE ON NETFLIX OUT 10 JANUARYDrag icon RuPaul stars in this comedy series as Ruby Red, a down-on-her-luck drag queen travelling across America performing in nightclubs to recoup her stolen savings. Along the way, she becomes paired up with AJ, a recently orphaned 11-year-old girl…2 min
Closer|Issue 885DON’T MISS CINEMAUncut GemsTHE CAST Adam Sandler, Julia Fox, Idina Menzel, LaKeith StanfieldTHE STORY A charismatic jeweller makes a series of high-stakes bets that could see him land a huge windfall – or lose everything he has.THE VERDICT Directing team the Safdie brothers follow up 2017’s exhilarating Good Time with another slick crime thriller. And Sandler turns in one of those impressive dramatic performances of which he is capable (think Punch-Drunk Love rather than The Waterboy).CERT 15, 135 MINS, OPENS 10 JANUARYSebergTHE CAST Kristen Stewart, Jack O’Connell, Anthony Mackie, Zazie Beetz, Vince VaughnTHE STORY In the late ’60s, actress Jean Seberg is targeted by the FBI because of her political and romantic involvement with a civil rights activist.THE VERDICT Inspired by real events, this movie focuses on a short period in Seberg’s…1 min
Closer|Issue 885CHERYL FEA RS BEING BLAMED FOR LIAM’S LOVE DRAMA❛SHE KNOWS MORE THAN ANYONE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO FALL AFTER SUCH SUCCESS❜He was initially the most successful member of One Direction following their split in 2015, but since Liam Payne’s two-year romance with Cheryl, it seems his star power has started to fade.The 26-year-old singer’s debut album, LP1 – released at the start of last month – failed to break into the top 100 on the US Billboard chart and reached a lacklustre number 17 in the UK.Insiders tell Closer that the disappointing sales are now being pinned on Liam’s relationship with Cheryl, 36 – who has son Bear, two, with Liam – and she fears she’ll be made a scapegoat after his team blamed his relationships and constant talk about fatherhood for alienating his young female fan base…4 min
Closer|Issue 885FEARSFOR LAUREN AFTER HOSPITAL DASHShe was rushed to hospital on Christmas Eve, detailing the drama on social media with a series of pictures and cryptic posts, while shooting down claims her mystery illness was the result of a hangover.And pals say they are concerned about Lauren Goodger’s physical and mental wellbeing, after expressing fears the former TOWIE star, 33 – who is single and has often expressed her dream to settle down and have a baby – may be facing a fresh battle with crippling anxiety.A source says, “Lauren’s life isn’t going the way she’d planned and she has been feeling increasingly unhappy and unfulfilled.“Being rushed to hospital has made her think about her future and how she doesn’t want to end up alone. It has shocked her into thinking about making some changes.”Lauren…1 min
Closer|Issue 885HOW TO MAKE YOUR MARRIAGE WORKDivorce coach Sara Davison says, “It’s important to remember everyone’s divorce is unique to them. Just because your friend seems to be having a brilliant new life, it doesn’t mean you will. There are so many variables such as how your partner will react, what your financial situation is, and how your kids will cope. “I would advise anyone to think twice and to remember the saying ‘the grass isn’t always greener’. Only go down the divorce route if you’re sure it’s the right thing for you.” Here, Sara shares her tips for making your marriage work:• Identify the things that are good and that you love and try not to focus on the negatives. Spend quality time with each other, without kids and phones.• Work out key areas you…1 min
Closer|Issue 885SAM: ‘ Seeing Lucy and Lydia pregnant is lovely – being a mum is the best’‘Marriage isn’t our priority at the moment’They all share a common bond after shooting to fame together in their early 20s on TOWIE. And the Essex trio of Samantha Faiers, Lydia Bright and Lucy Mecklenburgh are now bonding over something else – motherhood.Sam, 29 – who has Paul Jnr, four, and Rosie, two, with partner Paul – is over the moon for best pals Lydia, 29, and Lucy, 28, who are both pregnant and due within days of each other next month.She says, “I’ve been sending my love and congratulations to the girls. I love seeing their growing bumps – it’s amazing they’re both pregnant at the same time so they can go through it together, it is so life-changing.”And the idea of newborn babies is making Sam consider having…3 min
Closer|Issue 885BRAVE DWARF: ‘I hope to marry my boyfriendbefore it’s too late’❛I DON’T KNOW WHAT MY FUTURE HOLDS – BUT I KNOW HE’LL BE THERE FOR ME❜When Cori McGuire was told that she was terminally ill, she began making a bucket list.And the 26 year old, who has a form of dwarfism, would love to marry her 6ft tall boyfriend, Jamie Taylor.Now, the pair are planning their dream wedding. Cori, from Peebles, Scotland, says, “I never thought I’d meet someone who would love me for me.“I want to make as many memories with Jamie as I can before it’s too late – and marrying him would be a dream come true.”Cori has achondroplasia, a bone growth disorder that causes disproportionate dwarfism. Her head and torso are normal-sized, while her limbs are much smaller.LIFE SENTENCEThe condition means that Cori is confined to…5 min
Closer|Issue 885HELEN: ‘ I’d love more b abies - I want four!’‘ I appreciate my body – it’s been through so much’Her youngest child is only 18 months old, but Helen Flanagan loves being a mum so much she’s already looking forward to her third and fourth pregnancies.Helen, 29, is mum to daughters Matilda, four, and Delilah, 18 months, who she shares with footballer fiancé Scott Sinclair, 30. However, she admits her husband would love a son, so he’s not outnumbered. She says, “I’d love more babies in the future. I have thought about it. I wanted to have another one before I was 30 – I get really broody. I’d love three or four.”SICKNESSBut Helen reveals that, while she’d like to expand her family, pregnancy is tough on her body. In both pregnancies, she suffered with hyperemesis gravidarum – the…3 min
Closer|Issue 885MY BODY CONFIDENCE TIPSCalling herself a “free spirit”, Lisa says she’s never felt prouder of her size 12 body, and loves stripping off. “I like to go topless on beaches when I’m on holiday and go skinny dipping. It’s liberating! I am confident. When I’ve got a tight outfit on, I wiggle my hips and flick my hair and I work it, and everyone looks at me. It’s nice. “As you get older, I think you look better with some curves. I probably look sexier now than when I was skinny. I have to remind myself sometimes that I do look good for my age, but I have looked after myself. I prefer being older, wiser, stronger – I’ve got that wisdom now that nobody can take away from me.”…1 min
Closer|Issue 885‘I’ll probably have cosmetic surgery’Despite looking as fresh-faced as ever, when it comes to surgery and other cosmetic treatments, Davina reveals she’s not averse to the idea of having a tweak or two. “I’m saying right now that I probably will at some point in the future,” she says. “I’m not going to make a big song and dance about it, but I probably would. I look at other women who have stuff done in their 60s and I think, ‘Actually, you look bloody great, well done you.’ I really don’t judge people. I think the dream is to look fresh for your age rather than like someone completely different.”…1 min
Closer|Issue 885KATIE ON...HAVING COUNSELLING AFTER CORRIE…“The team offered me a counsellor during the storyline, but I said no. It was only when I left, and watched a few episodes, that I found myself bursting into tears now and then. I couldn’t figure out why I was upset, but it felt like I was grieving. I went to see someone and she helped me realise that it was completely normal, as Corrie was a massive part of my life. Now I know it’s OK to cry.”GOING UNDER THE KNIFE…“I’d 100 per cent say to young girls who are thinking about having surgery that they should turn to weight training first. I know personal trainers are expensive, but you can lift gentle weights at home. If you eat the right food with it, you…1 min
Closer|Issue 885ALEXANDRA: ‘I don’t recognise myself after l osing 2st’‘I never knew I could have abs!’She’s been impressing fans with her mirror selfies on social media, hinting at her weight loss transformation. And now reality star Alexandra Cane tells Closer she has lost 2st and beaten her anxiety.She may have been known as “the curvy one” during her stint on Love Island in 2018 (despite being a slim size 10 at the time), but her diet and fitness plan – based on her new app, Alexandra’s Happy Body – has seen her drop from 11st to 9st in three months.“I’m a completely different person,” Alexandra, 28, says. “My friends and family keep saying, ‘Alex, you’re glowing!’.”But she points out it wasn’t pressure from the public that has resulted in her newly toned figure. She says, “At the time I…4 min
Closer|Issue 885SPEEDY WORKOUTJUMPING LUNGEAdopt a lunge position on the right, then jump from right to left legs in a continuous movement. Repeat for 30 seconds to a minute, depending on fitness. Burns fat and tones the lower body.SKATER HOPTake a jump hop to the right, taking the left leg behind in a deep squat. Straighten then repeat on the other side. Use the arms to balance. A great fat burner and tones the bum, leg and calves.THE CHERYLLunge to the left and touch your left leg with your right hand, then jump up straight with your right elbow at an angle. Repeat on the other side. Continue for a minute. Burns calories and sculpts arms.…1 min
Closer|Issue 885VEGANUARY SPECIAL!LEEK, KALE AND MUSHROOM RISOTTO496 CALS 15.5G FAT 9.9G SUGAR 2.3G SALT (BASED ON 2 SERVINGS)• 10g dried shiitake mushrooms• 2 tbsp virgin or extra light olive oil• 1 garlic clove, crushed• 150g arborio rice, rinsed in cold water and drained• 400ml vegan stock (made from stock powder, boiling water, and the mushroom soaking water)•1/2 tsp chopped red chilli•1/2 large leek, chopped• 50g kale, chopped• 2tbsp dried goji berries• 2 tsp pumpkin seeds, to garnishSTEP 1 Place the mushrooms in a small bowl, cover with boiling water and soak for 20 mins. Drain and chop (strain the water and use to make up the stock).STEP 2 Gently heat the oil in a large pan. Add the garlic and rice plus a quarter of the stock, then bring to a gentle…2 min
Closer|Issue 885TOP TIPS FOR DODGING THE DENTISTWant to protect your teeth from rotting and your bank balance from costly dental treatment? Researchers picked through 50 years’ worth of studies and found that chewing sugar-free gum cuts tooth decay by 28 per cent. It stimulates saliva, which acts as a natural barrier to protect teeth, and the gum contains tooth-friendly antibacterial ingredients. So as well as brushing your teeth for two minutes (use Brush DJ app – it plays two minutes of your music to brush along to) and flossing nightly, chew gum after meals.…1 min
Closer|Issue 885‘THERE’S NO TIME TO COO OVER BABIES’Jennifer Kirby, 31, (who plays Nurse Valerie Dyer) and Leonie Elliott, 31, (Nurse Lucille Anderson) on the scenes they find are the hardest to do…“The most complicated scenes to do are the births,” explains Jennifer. “We did one that took a day and a half to film. There’s a lot of clinical chit-chat, and we go a bit stir-crazy after a while. A couple of hours in, we start to go mad!” On filming with the babies, Leonie says, “They are lovely, but it’s really nice to hand them back.” Jennifer adds, “They are so much part of our job. You don’t have time to coo much; you have to get on with it.”…1 min
Closer|Issue 885Your starsTHIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGNCAPRICORN22 DEC-19 JAN2020 is kicking off with gusto and a lot of that is directed at you. Break through your fears now – you can expect a seismic shift very soon, in your own life or a crucial partnership. Create your dream 2020 with my free Moon Manifesting workshop via moonmessages. com/2020diaryAQUARIUS20 JAN-18 FEBThere’s still a lot going on for you beneath the surface. That’s fine as long as you’re not stuffing your feelings down with distractions like parties, food and drink. If you work through whatever is upsetting you, you’ll have an amazing 2020. Create your dream 2020 with my free Moon Manifesting workshop via moonmessages.com/2020diaryPISCES19 FEB-20 MARIt’s time to be brutally honest about how you feel about a certain someone. Do you have them…3 min
Closer|Issue 885WHY LISA IS DETERMINED TO HELP CAROLINE T URN HER LIFE AROUND❛CAROLINE APPRECIATES HAVING THE SUPPORT OF SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN THROUGH THE MILL HERSELF❜• Caroline Flack is offered support by pal Lisa Armstrong as she flees to LA amid domestic abuse scandal• Lisa – who fled to the US herself in 2017 in the wake of her bitter split – advises her on retreats to help ‘heal’• The ex-Love Island colleagues bond as they both gear up for court hearings he’s experienced heartache of her own in recent years, and now insiders reveal that Lisa Armstrong has reached out to offer support to former Love Island pal Caroline Flack as she goes through the “worst time of [her] life”.The troubled TV presenter, 40, fled the UK for LA shortly before the New Year to “find herself”, before she faces trial…4 min
Closer|Issue 885KERRY: ‘ This i s the first time I’ve h ad a normal relat ionship’‘I had time to rebuild and learn to love myself’She’s had turbulent and toxic relationships play out in the spotlight for nearly three decades – but Kerry Katona says that, at long last, she’s found the man she was looking for.Kerry, 39, has been dating personal trainer Ryan Mahoney for around 18 months and the pair live together with Kerry’s five children.HANDS-ONShe tells Closer , “Ryan is unlike anyone I’ve dated before. He’s very quiet, very private, very shy – the complete opposite to me, really. He’s the first person I’ve ever been out with who actually has his own job! And he’s so hands-on with the kids, doing the school runs when I can’t. The kids adore him. It’s a normal relationship and it took me a while to…4 min
Closer|Issue 885IS DIVORCE REALLY CONTAGIOUS?❛SHE WAS DEFINITELY THE TRIGGER TO ME ENDING MY MARRIAGE – I’M SO GRATEFUL❜When Chloe Bond’s friend Sarah* announced she was leaving her husband, Chloe supported her in every way she could. Sarah had moved in to an unfurnished flat with her children, so Chloe helped her out with furniture and childcare.COURAGETo begin with, Sarah’s future looked bleak but, within a couple of months, she was back on her feet and happier than ever – and that made Chloe examine her own future. She had been wanting to leave her husband for over a year but admits she was too fearful.But in January 2017, four months after Sarah’s break-up, Chloe and another mutual friend, Hayley Moore, 37, split up with their partners.Chloe, 28, a driving instructor from Pontefract, West Yorkshire,…4 min
Closer|Issue 885‘We just don’t know what path our girls will take’They’re the mini stars of The Mummy Diaries but Rosie, two, and big cousin Nelly, five, already have favourite hobbies, according to Sam, who insists she’s “the least pushy mum ever”. She says, “Nelly’s already doing drama classes and things like that, but she’s not started at stage school just yet. She would be so good, though. Billie says she’s definitely got to let off some steam! “Rosie is really into her horse riding so you just don’t know what paths they’re going to take. They’re so young still, but Rosie is already so confident. She bonded with the horses straight away. She wants to horse ride all the time, and I could just imagine that people must think I’m making her do it, but she just loves horses. It’s…1 min
Closer|Issue 885CHRISTINE MCGUINNESS: ‘ I don’t want my girls to have an eating disorder like I did’She may seem body confident, sharing bikini snaps and showing off her size 8 frame on social media and flaunting her figure on reality show The Real Housewives Of Cheshire .But for Christine McGuinness, the path to body confidence has been a traumatic journey, as she battled an eating disorder for over a decade, shockingly starting when she was just eight years old.Christine has previously admitted that her eating disorder hit its peak at just 13, when she started modelling, and things only started to improve when she met comedian husband Paddy McGuinness in 2007.She said, “Everyone used to say how tall and slim I was and how I should be a model, and that’s when the eating disorder became more about body image. From 8-18, I really struggled, and…4 min
Closer|Issue 885‘As a cast, we’re very close’ROBERT BATHURST, 62, PLAYS KAREN’S EX, DAVID: Last series, David was attempting to put his life back together after difficulties at work. Robert says, “I love playing David, though if I knew him in real life I’d give him a shake! There’s always something to pull the rug from under him, but I like playing people in a pickle. As a cast, we’re very close. John’s always telling jokes right up to the moment of a take, and Jimmy’s always telling the cameraman what to do. Me, I’m much quieter – but everybody works around each other.”JOHN THOMSON, 50, PLAYS JENNY’S HUSBAND PETE: Last series saw Pete jumping into the Manchester canal to save a man’s life. John tells us, “I’ve had no stunt work this time, which was a…1 min
Closer|Issue 885ANIMAL LOVER: ‘I turned down Love Island to rescue Romanian dogs’‘GUYS CHAT ME UP IN BARS BUT I’M NOT INTERESTED IF THEY DON’T SUPPORT ANIMALS’With an Instagram profile full of bikini-clad poolside selfies, it’s no wonder Gina O’Sullivan caught the eyes of Love Island producers, who begged her to apply for the hit ITV show.But the trainee veterinary nurse declined the offer – instead, she chose to focus on her work with a charity that helps rescue neglected dogs in southeast Europe.Gina, 26, says, “The Love Island casting researchers contacted me, and I was basically guaranteed a place on the show. But after I gave it some thought, I knew my time could be better spent rescuing dogs in need.“I know that I have the appearance the producers were looking for, but I don’t want a life of red-carpet events…4 min
Closer|Issue 885ESCORT MUM: ‘I do the school run – then I have sex with strangers’After dropping her kids off at school, Victoria* , 34, sees her first client of the day. The escort charges around £200 an hour – and can make an astonishing £4,000 per week.Mum-of-four Victoria, from Nottingham, appears in Louis Theroux’s new documentary Selling Sex, which will air on BBC Two this Sunday. The programme explores the changing sex industry. Rather than operating in brothels, now women are selling sex – legally – from their own homes. And, encouraged by social media and specialist websites, women who never previously considered sex work are using it to make a living or to top up their wages.Victoria says, “I can schedule clients around my children – I get to take my kids to school every morning, and put them to bed every night.…3 min
Closer|Issue 885DAVINA: ‘I feel great at 52 – I love my tummy !’‘I do relax things when I’m on holiday’In her early 50s, Davina McCall is still the proud owner of a six-pack and a bottom so perky there’s even a Twitter account dedicated to it.But even the super-fit have to take time out sometimes, and the Long Lost Family presenter admits she’s officially back in the swing of things, having given herself a bit of a break during the summer.She says, “I do relax things when I’m on holiday. If I’m away somewhere like Disney, I’ll have fries with everything. Usually we’ll have a healthy breakfast, then we’ll throw caution to the wind and eat fried everything for lunch and, in the evening, we’ll try to go healthy again. Holidays are basically just a big old eat-fest.”But despite her weakness for…4 min
Closer|Issue 885KATE: ‘My low-sugar diet gives me more energy!’It wasn’t just her bubbly personality and bravery that won Kate Garraway new fans while she was in the I’m A Celeb! jungle.Despite wearing no make-up and the unflattering camp uniform, Kate, 52 – who is mum to Darcey, 13, and Billy, ten, with psychotherapist husband Derek, 52 – looked amazing on the show.And her slender figure even caught the attention of 28-year-old fellow campmate and Rak-su singer Myles Stephenson, who admitted he had a crush on her. He later described Kate as “beautiful, funny and really hot” in his post-jungle interview on Good Morning Britain.GREAT SHAPEKate even won praise for her fresh-faced looks after falling asleep in full make-up the night before her return to GMB last month, posting a pic after she woke up late the following morning.…3 min
Closer|Issue 885MY VIEW ON...LOVE ISLAND CO-STARS: “I still speak to them, but we don’t really hang out. I’ve got my group of friends who’ve been my pals for over ten years – they’re my ‘people’. But I’ve got no bad blood with anybody, and I respect them all.”SURGERY: “I’ve been offered Brazilian butt lifts, liposuction – so many things. I get messages and emails saying, ‘Would you like to come in and have a free treatment?’ If I was to get anything done – and I don’t have plans to – I sure as hell wouldn’t get anything done for free.”WINTER LOVE ISLAND: “In terms of body shape, I think there’s room for a little bit more diversity, but it feels like quite a lot of pressure is put on the show. It’s…1 min
Closer|Issue 885Style alertGET HER LOOKOLIVIA PALERMO, 33Fashionista Olivia shows us how to inject some colour into our January wardrobe. The bold red leopard-print leggings teamed with chunky boots adds a bit of grunge to the smart blazer. This is our new weekend look!IN THE NEWSAccording to new research by Oxfam, 1.7 million sequined items of clothing and accessories will end up in landfill after Christmas – and most of them won’t be fully biodegradable. With the help of celebs including Una Healy and Louise Redknapp, the charity is encouraging party goers to donate their glitzy gear or buy it second-hand, and we’re fully on board. Louise has donated a sequined shirt (pictured) and Una has donated a full-length evening gown (pictured) to sell in the online Oxfam shop. So, whether you want…2 min
Closer|Issue 885Beauty editJUST LANDEDPOUT PERFECTOR LEMONAID SCRUBBA-BALMWHAT IS IT?A scrub and balm in one, this uses an all-natural mix of sugar, lemon oil, orange peel and waxy lanolin to buff flaking and chapped lips, leaving them smooth and ready for lipstick.WHY WE LOVE IT :We’re already loyal fans of the original Lanolips, which uses lanolin to combat dry lips. This innovative two-in-one smells amazing and really works – it’s mess-free, as well, so it’s perfect for when you’re out and about.GET THE LOOK...FELINE FLICKSMaster the classic cat-eye, like Rochelle and Lily, with these clever liquid eyeliners…❶ PRECISE WINGBARRY M EYE DEFINE LIQUID EYELINER £4.79The tiny brush allows for a really fine contour, which you can wear on its own for a subtler daytime vibe. It’s also vegan-friendly and available in five shades.❷…1 min
Closer|Issue 885Fridge raiderLUISAHow much do you spend per week?Probably about £400 for me, my husband Andrew [Collins] and my three daughters. My parents have a house in our grounds, so sometimes we eat together. We’re always pinching each other’s food. I mainly shop online or buy things from the deli in our local garden centre.Describe your daily diet…I eat largely plant-based food, but I don’t have a problem cooking meat for the rest of the family. I never have breakfast, as I’m too busy in the morning, but I always drink lots of iced water. For lunch, I love miso soup with noodles, followed by a banana. For dinner, I often cook a chickpea tagine, with vegetable couscous and chargrilled broccoli. My diet is quite raw, so I eat a lot of…2 min
Closer|Issue 885Life balanceFAMILY MATTERSEASY WAYS TO CUT KIDS’ SUGARY TREATSMany parents worry about their children’s diet. Emma says even the most enthusiastic sweet-munchers can eat lessMost loving parents give their kids the odd sweet treat for good behaviour, but you may be unknowingly providing your children with a whole host of sugar-filled products cleverly disguised to look healthy. A recent study found that nearly two-thirds of infants and almost all toddlers consumed added sugars in their daily diets, primarily from flavoured yoghurts and fruit drinks. Food producers are sweetening products to ensure little ones get a taste for them. It’s not difficult to see why kids love sugar. In fact, babies are born with a preference for it, but if your child has a lot of treats, they may struggle to accept…6 min
Closer|Issue 885Soap Spotlight!EMMERDALEIS GRAHAM DONE?We already know Graham’s going to get killed off in a dramatic whodunnit later this month, but this week, he’s caught out by Ryan – who knows Graham’s been fiddling the accounts. Later on, Rhona accuses Marlon of taking Leo’s passport and then informs Graham that she wants them to leave the village on Monday… Meanwhile, Jai orders in a special “pizza” to help him pull an all-night shift – which turns out to be box containing a bag of cocaine. Don’t do it!HOLLYOAKSBAD NEWS FOR SIENNASienna gets an anonymous message summoning her to the village. She goes along without question – and Warren is waiting for her, with the news something has happened to their son, Sebastian… Elsewhere, Courtney and Jesse are gutted to discover the place…3 min
Closer|Issue 8855 MINUTES WITH...How does it feel to have made ten series?It’s absolutely wonderful. That’s the equivalent of 40 feature films! To be honest, I don’t know where I find the stamina to do it, but a different gear seems to kick in – then when we finish filming I come home and fall apart!Can you remember when you were approached to play her?I was halfway through reading Ann Cleeves’ debut Vera novel The Crow Trap. Vera is introduced by crashing into a church, looking like a bag lady. I remember thinking, “Why have they thought of me for this role?” They thought I could bring the right amount of humour to it. And I thought, “Maybe I can do that!”Did you think it would be a one-off TV drama?When ITV commissioned a…1 min
