A man was adamant he wouldn’t be selling his family heirloom, despite learning its eye-watering value in the latest instalment of the BBC show.
Antiques Roadshow expert Alastair Chandler was impressed by a rare timepiece featured in the latest episode (Image: BBC)
A guest on Antiques Roadshow refused to part with his late father’s rare Omega watch, despite discovering it was worth five figures.
During Sunday’s episode (November 30), the BBC programme showcased ‘unseen treasures’ from this summer’s valuations, including a timepiece that horological expert Alastair Chandler hailed as “a real classic”.
The Speedmaster watch belonged to the guest’s father, who only wore it on special occasions throughout his son’s childhood.
Examining the piece, Alastair remarked: “This is a fabulous Omega Speedmaster made in Switzerland. It’s a real classic watch. However, what really caught my attention was it’s such an unusual dial configuration for an Omega Speedmaster.”
The guest revealed his dad purchased it for just £59 back in 1971. The specialist then explained this particular model was the first watch to travel to the moon, reports the Express.
Alastair said: “As soon as we mention the Speedmaster, we automatically think ‘moon landing’. These watches were known as the moonwatch because they were the first watch to go to the moon, chosen by NASA.
“But you’ll notice on this watch there’s nothing about the moon landing on it. And that’s because it was primarily [used] as a chronograph for racing.”
Despite its original price tag of under £60, Alastair revealed the watch is now valued at over £50,000 as of December 2024.
“Given the rarity of these watches, they don’t come up for sale very often. So it’s quite a difficult one to place. However, I can say, in December 2024, a similar watch, same model, sold for just over £50,000 at auction,” the expert revealed.
Despite learning about his family heirloom’s staggering worth, the guest insisted he wouldn’t be parting with it.
“Wow, surprising. Very surprising,” he responded after hearing the figure, before confirming: “But I won’t be selling it.”
Alastair then joked: “It’s not a bad investment on £50.” The delighted guest agreed: “No, it’s very, very good actually. Very good. Dad chose wisely.”
The timepiece’s extraordinary value stemmed from its scarcity, with only between five and twenty examples featuring the identical dial design and appearance known to exist in public hands.
Like most vintage timepieces, its worth could increase further over the years, presumably why the guest was determined to hold onto it.
Social media users picked up on this too, with one X commenter suggesting the guest might want to “take his time selling that!”.
BBC Breakfast announced the death of acclaimed playwright Tom Stoppard at age 88, sharing tributes from King Charles and Queen Camilla
Rachel Burden(Image: BBC)
BBC Breakfast was paused as today’s presenter delivered devastating news of a death just minutes into the programme.
During Sunday’s (November 30) episode of the beloved breakfast show, hosts Rachel Burden and Ben Boulos were back on our screens delivering the day’s top headlines from Britain and around the world.
But mere moments into the broadcast, Rachel broke the news of Tom Stoppard‘s passing as she disclosed that the Royal Family were amongst the first to honour his memory.
The cherished playwright, who scooped an Oscar and a Golden Globe for Shakespeare In Love, was 88-years-old when he passed away.
Addressing audiences at home, Rachel announced: “The King and Queen have led tributes to the playwright Tom Stoppard, who has died at the age 88.”, reports the Express.
“They have described him as a ‘dear friend who wore his genius lightly’. Among the awards was an Oscar for the screenplay for the film Shakespeare in Love.”
The programme then switched to a dedicated tribute segment for the legend as entertainment correspondent Guy Lambert reflected on Tom’s extraordinary career.
Returning to the studio, Rachel noted: “Tributes have been pouring in to celebrate the life of Sir Tom Stoppard.”
Just before sharing the King and Queen’s complete statement, the television host remarked: “King Charles and Queen Camilla called him a dear friend.”
United Agents released a statement at the time, expressing: “We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved client and friend, Tom Stoppard, has died peacefully at home in Dorset, surrounded by his family.
“He will be remembered for his works, for their brilliance and humanity, and for his wit, his irreverence, his generosity of spirit and his profound love of the English language. It was an honour to work with Tom and to know him.”
King Charles paid tribute, stating: “My wife and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death of one of our greatest writers, Sir Tom Stoppard. A dear friend who wore his genius lightly, he could, and did, turn his pen to any subject, challenging, moving and inspiring his audiences, borne from his own personal history.
“We send our most heartfelt sympathy to his beloved family. Let us all take comfort in his immortal line: ‘Look on every exit as being an entrance somewhere else’.”
Sir Tom’s illustrious career in entertainment spanned over six decades, during which he bagged numerous Tony and Olivier awards, as well as the Golden Globe and Academy Award alongside Marc Norman for their 1998 screenplay Shakespeare In Love – featuring fellow Oscar-winner Gwyneth Paltrow.
BBC Breakfast is broadcast daily from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is flying by, and another star will be shown leaving the BBC series on Sunday night, filmed on Saturday, but the leak has already revealed who left
23:13, 29 Nov 2025Updated 23:16, 29 Nov 2025
Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is flying by, and another star will be shown leaving the BBC series on Sunday(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Guy Levy)
Another star has left Strictly Come Dancing 2025, and the result has left fans “absolutely devastated”.
While the result has not been confirmed by the BBC and doesn’t air until Sunday night, as per usual a leak has given the game away. With the results show filmed on the Saturday night after the live show, each week the booted off celebrity gets revealed online hours before the BBC announce it.
This week is no different, and the Strictly mole has revealed all – with the result dividing fans. As usual, Mirror has chosen not to state the name given, but fans have reacted to the supposed result online.
Taking to social media fans confessed they were “absolutely devastated” and some didn’t see it coming. Others even went as far as to say they wanted a second opinion, while some were “not surprised”.
One fan said: “Holy – that I was NOT expecting. absolutely the correct decision though.” Another said: “I can’t believe it!!!!! I’m absolutely devastated.”
A third fan said: “I am gutted with this elimination,” while one fan said: “Not the biggest surprise after this evening’s show, but overall they have been lovely to watch.” Another added: “Absolutely the right decision.”
One fan didn’t believe it to the point they wanted a “second opinion”. “I’m sorry, I want a second opinion here. I don’t believe for one minute they would save the person in question between those two,” they claimed.
It comes a week on from La Voix leaving the show due to an injury. Initially only missing out on one week, the drag artist sadly had to quit the show altogether meaning an elimination was cancelled.
After sustaining a food injury, La Voix and pro dance partner Aljaz had hoped she would recover and continue their Strictly journey, but sadly this was not to be. She broke down in tears as she spoke out about her sudden exit.
The star said: “This has been the most extraordinary experience of my entire life. What I loved most, don’t hate me, it’s not the dancing but it’s just being welcomed by everyone.
“I came into the show as a minority, as a redhead, and you’ve embraced me wonderfully. I cannot thank you enough, it’s been amazing.” La Voix added: “I’m just so lucky. What you see on that dancefloor is a fraction of the love and the passion this man has for dance.
“You have made me carry on when I’ve questioned myself, made me laugh on the toughest day and when I thought I couldn’t do something, you never gave up on me. Not once. I am leaving this show more confident, and that’s because of you.”
Meanwhile, fans were left fearing fellow celebrity contestant Alex Kingston would be next to withdraw, after an injury. After claims she had sustained a rib injury, Alex spoke out to assure fans she was going nowhere, and had no plans to quit the series.
Comedian Bob Mortimer shared a “sad” update on the Gone Fishing favourite’s health.
17:33, 29 Nov 2025Updated 17:33, 29 Nov 2025
Bob Mortimer shared a “sad” update (Image: BBC)
Bob Mortimer has shared a “sad” update on his beloved Gone Fishing co-star, their dog Ted. The comedian has fronted the beloved BBC programme with Paul Whitehouse since 2018.
Over that period, with the eighth series currently airing, Ted has frequently joined them, but during an appearance on Saturday Kitchen today, (29 November), Bob shared a concerning update.
When host Matt Tebbutt asked how Ted was doing, Bob jokingly put on a voice, imitating: “I’m alright mate.”
He then added: “No, he’s knocking on a bit.”
Bob revealed Ted was 15 years old, saying: “He still loves coming out with us, and he seems very happy.”
“I was quite sad when I saw him being wheeled around,” Matt replied.
Bob continued: “He doesn’t have to be wheeled around all the time, but for longer journeys, up the river bank, we put him in a pram now.”
Teasing the final episode of Gone Fishing, Bob went on to say “it’s a beauty,” adding: “It’s odd that people like it so much, but I kind of get it.
“We make the UK look really pretty – it’s nice to be reminded occasionally.”
This comes after Bob addressed his own health, revealing he’s ignored doctor’s orders to cut back on cheese after suffering a health scare.
The 66-year-old admitted he would rather “have three years less” than change his diet after having a triple heart bypass surgery.
Bob underwent the operation in 2015 after thinking he was suffering from a chest infection, and he later discovered 95% of his arteries were blocked.
He had been warned by his doctor that he would have had a heart attack on stage, and was forced to cancel tour dates with comedy partner Vic Reeves.
Despite the scare, he’s willing to take risks when it comes to giving up one of his favourite foods, telling The Daily Mail: “The dietitian said, ‘You can have a matchbox-size [piece] every week’.
“That broke my heart. There are probably those who do stick to it, but I’m probably in the school of thought that I’d rather have three years less.”
Last year, Bob opened up about his health struggles after facing shingles, and having to use a wheelchair while filming Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.
He revealed he “wasn’t very well” and had to be “looked after” by co-star Paul after he was left unable to walk due to a six-month battle with the condition.
He said: “I wasn’t very well and it made it a bit of a struggle but, as always, Paul looked after me and pulled me through.”
The Last One Laughing star went on to say that he was getting better, while trying to “grow muscle back”.
He previously shared: “I got a bit unlucky with it, I lost the use of one of my legs but it’s coming back now, I’m a bit limpy but I’m very grateful to be back up and going.”
Saturday Kitchen airs at 10am on BBC One and iPlayer.
On today’s programme (Saturday, 29th November), presenter Matt Tebbutt welcomed the beloved comedian and writer alongside celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.
Whilst fans of the BBC cookery programme were thrilled to see Bob return to the kitchen, his selection of food hell sparked controversy.
Opting for a traditional steak and kidney pie with double peas as his food heaven, his admission that he isn’t keen on Italian cuisine triggered some criticism in the studio.
Bob’s mate and Gone Fishing co-star joined the scolding in his video message, branding the comedy icon an “idiot” for his dislike of pasta and pizza, reports the Express.
Paul’s message kicked off with another dig at Bob’s food preferences, as he remembered the “preposterous and quite disgusting” kebab he created in the latest series of Gone Fishing.
He then dared Matt to prepare a “really nice one with lots of chilli sauce” to compensate for the culinary catastrophe by the lake.
The fellow comedy icon continued lambasting his co-star: “Also, Bob, you claim that Italian food is rubbish.
“I mean, you’re just an idiot. What are you going to do about that?”
Paul then delivered his trademark impersonation of the third member of the Gone Fishing team, Ted the Patterdale Terrier, whom he joked is “after” Bob. “I’m gonna get you Mortimer,” he declared, mimicking Ted’s charming underbite.
“Where’s my briefcase? It’s full of pasta!”
Back in the studio, Bob took the jest in stride, flashing a mischievous grin as Matt laughed.
“That looked like the ramblings of a madman!” the host quipped.
Bob concurred: “He packed a lot in there, didn’t he? He told me he enjoyed the kebab on the day, so…”
He then defended his contentious food preferences: “I’ve been set up with this Italian thing. I said I didn’t like pizza and somehow it’s become all Italians.
“That’s my fault,” Matt admitted. “But it’s funny, let’s run with it!”
Luckily, Bob got his wish and was served a scrumptious steak and kidney pie by guest chef Jamie after 67 percent of viewers voted for food heaven.
Saturday Kitchen airs from 10am on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
EastEnders’ Sam Mitchell actress Kim Medcalf has discussed her return to the BBC soap, involving a worrying new health storyline and a long-awaited reunion with Zoe Slater
It’s a huge week for EastEnders next month, as Sam Mitchell returns(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barns/Kieron McCarron)
It’s been almost two years since Sam Mitchell last graced our screens, fleeing EastEnders after severing ties with brother Phil and the Mitchell clan. But Sam may need her family now more than ever, when she returns to Albert Square as part of an important and emotional new storyline.
Sam faces a breast cancer scare after she discovers a lump. It’s her late mother Peggy Mitchell’s own battle with the disease, and her death in 2016, that leaves Sam convinced it’s serious.
Actress Kim Medcalf shared: “This is the second time Sam has found a lump in her breast and 20 years ago, she felt very lucky that it wasn’t anything serious. This time Sam assumes it’s going to be a different outcome because of Peggy’s history. Sam feels like the same thing is going to happen to her and so she’s putting her head in the sand.”
Hiding her turmoil from her loved ones and refusing to be checked by a doctor, Sam instead begs her brother Phil for money. Viewers will recall that the pair aren’t currently on good terms, given last year her dramatic exit saw her expose his affair with Emma Harding to the entire Square.
“She’s nervous, especially how things were left with Phil!” Kim revealed. “But then again, Sam’s not the kind of person who spends a lot of time thinking about the past, she lives in the moment.”
Kim teased that Nigel Bates, who revealed his devastating dementia diagnosis earlier this year, soon gets caught up in Sam’s scheming too. As Sam attempts to steal money from Phil’s safe, Nigel lets her, after sadly mistaking her for his daughter Clare.
Of course scheming Sam avoids correcting him, but it’s not long before her brother realises the truth. Sam will attempt to flee once more with the cash, before confiding in former flame Jack Branning, son Ricky’s dad, about her health secret.
Kim hopes this will lead to Sam seeking help, as she shares the importance of getting checked early. “We all need to encourage each other to regularly check our breasts because if you can catch breast cancer early enough, it can make a big difference to the prognosis and treatment,” Kim said. “To be given a storyline where I can play a small part in raising awareness is a real privilege. As a woman in my 50s, it’s something me and my friends talk about because we all know people affected by breast cancer and it feels very relevant and important.”
Of course Sam’s long-awaited return to the soap will also see an exciting reunion fans have been desperate for, between herself and Zoe Slater. The last time they were onscreen together back in 2005, the pair, joined by Chrissie Watts, were involved in the brutal murder of Dirty Den, who was buried under the floor of The Queen Vic.
Sam was sent to prison over the death, while the pair believed Zoe killed Den during their violent showdown. She was soon released though when Chrissie’s guilt was unearthed, while Zoe fled Albert Square until her own comeback earlier this year.
It’s safe to say Sam isn’t thrilled by the reunion, and it will open up some old wounds for both characters that they would rather remain closed. Kim explained: “Coming face-to-face with Zoe is triggering for Sam and brings up a whole series of memories that she’d much rather forget.”
It leads to Zoe wondering if Sam is behind her ongoing stalker ordeal, and a showdown ensues. “You can’t blame Zoe for suspecting Sam, they’ve got history!” admitted Kim. “They both shared this terrible experience that traumatised them in their own different ways.”
Kim confirms though that her character has nothing to do with Zoe’s torment. “Sam is adamant that she’s got her mind on other, far more important things. I think Zoe is convinced by Sam’s protests, but Kat isn’t quite so sure about her.”
Kim has loved the chance to work with Michelle Ryan, who plays Zoe, again two decades on from their iconic plot. “It has had us taking a trip down memory lane to remember where our characters were when we were last in the show, and what was going on in our lives in Walford,” Kim shared. “Having this chance to reminisce together has been lovely.”
He has opened up about his personal struggles after the horrifying incident
Tyler West alongside Molly Rainford(Image: Ben Whitley/PA Wire)
DJ and presenter Tyler West has revealed that, as a teenager, he witnessed a man getting stabbed to death – an incident which has had a “knock-on effect” on his mental health.
The 29-year-old from south London opened up about issues with “control” and the need to push himself out of his comfort zone while helping out with forest conservation on BBC One show Celebrity Race Across The World.
The Kiss FM DJ is appearing on this year’s show, which sees four celebrities and their loved ones look to complete a 3,670-mile race through Central America, alongside his girlfriend, EastEnders actress Molly Rainford.
Speaking to Rainford, he said: “I didn’t know this would be this much outside of my comfort zone. I always like to be in control of things, or know what I’m getting myself into.
“If I can control it, I feel like I can then look after the situation the best I possibly can.
“When I compare it to when I was a teenager, it was on another level.
“I was absolutely, like, petrified of witnessing something that was completely out of my control, and all I wanted to do was put a stop to it.
“You feel helpless, and I just don’t want to feel that ever in my life again.”
Later on in a confessional, he said: “I was coming home from school one day, and there was like these three men having an argument outside my house.
“One of the two men throw a really weak punch to the man that was on his own, and then one of the men had a 12-inch kitchen knife in his hand.
“All of a sudden, it was like me standing there at my bedroom window at 14 and just seeing this man get like stabbed to death.
“It was one of the most horrific moments of my life.
“I just remember being there at the Old Bailey, just being petrified of so many factors, like will all these people be able to see me? Will they know that I’m testifying? And I just didn’t really know how to process it, and it had such a knock on effect to my mental health. I was indoors for like two years.
“It matured me really quick, and it… it was just really hard.”
During Thursday’s episode of the reality competition programme, the celebrities were told they must fly to Liberia, Costa Rica, after permission to film in Nicaragua was not granted.
Derry Girls actor Dylan Llewellyn and his mother Jackie were the first to reach the checkpoint at Bocas del Toro in Panama, and were followed by radio presenter Roman Kemp and his sister Harley.
Third to the checkpoint was presenter Anita Rani and her father Bal, and they were followed by West and Rainford.
BBC Breakfast host Jon Kay was forced to issue a warning to his co-star Carol Kirkwood live on air as he insisted that one guess could cause chaos in the studio
Jon Kay(Image: BBC)
BBC Breakfast presenter Jon Kay issued an on-air warning to colleague Carol Kirkwood, suggesting one particular guess could spark mayhem in the studio.
During Tuesday’s (November 25) broadcast of the popular programme, the presenter was back on screens with co-host Sally Nugent, delivering the day’s major news stories from Britain and around the world.
The pair were later joined by Carol, who appeared in the studio for her regular weather update. However, as she wrapped up the day’s forecast, Jon highlighted that the team needed to stay alert for their next visitor.
They were preparing to welcome a “huge dog”, prompting him to advise his colleague to finish their breakfasts quickly to prevent the animal from nabbing it. Jon began by enquiring: “Have you got any toast or cereal?” Carol responded: “No but I could smell yours and it’s making me really hungry.
“We’ve been eating ours just now, getting it out of the way because there is a huge dog on the way in a moment,” Jon clarified, reports the Express.
Sally confirmed: “Huge.” Jon then stressed: “You have been warned.” Sally interjected: “We’ve just had to hide our breakfast.” The team erupted in laughter as Jon gestured to his stomach and quipped: “I’ve hidden it in here.”
The touching segment featured the presenters discussing ‘ hero dogs ‘ following an incident where one man’s four year old canine helped rescue his life.
Jon stated: “We’ve got an amazing story. Adam Cooke went into cardiac rest while he was asleep, it was the quick thinking of his four year old day Polly that helped save his life.”
Sally went on to say: “The beautiful Golden Retriever woke up Adam’s wife Hannah, who then carried out CPR before an ambulance arrived.”
The programme then transitioned to a pre-recorded segment of the couple and their dog, where they shared their emotional experience.
Adam and Hannah confessed that they believed Polly had sensed Adam’s severe illness and alerted them.
Clearly touched, Adam recounted the moment he was reunited with Polly after his hospital stay: “I’m not going to shy away from it. I cried and I think she cried too because she was like ‘wow you’re back home'”.
Hannah chimed in: “I love her to bits and I think she is the best dog in the world.”
BBC Breakfast is broadcast every day from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.
An extra live public vote on the night will hand fans more power – putting the audience at the heart of the biggest night in British sport
Gabby will again front SPOTY from Salford alongside Clare Balding and Alex Scott next month(Image: Matt McNulty, Getty Images)
Gabby Logan has worked in live sports broadcasting for nearly 30 years and is riding high, having recently bagged a permanent presenting role on Match of the Day.
Now she’s gearing up for her 13th stint as host of Sports Personality of the Year next month alongside Clare Balding and Alex Scott, the annual two-hour TV extravaganza in which the sporting triumphs of the previous 12 months are celebrated.
Gabby, married to former rugby player Kenny Logan, says that despite having absolutely loved watching her BBC pal Clare on Celebrity Traitors, she’ll have to rule herself out of any cloak-themed action herself – for now, at least. “We had Tom Daley, Clare and Joe Marler representing sport, so it felt like we had a three-pronged attack,” she says, admitting that she’d been glued to every episode.
Having seen Clare make a big mistake in the Trojan Horse mission at the very start, Gabby said she didn’t have the heart to message her initially, knowing that she’d have felt “devastated” over the blunder. But when she did send a text, it was to point out that it didn’t really matter. “The one thing I did say to her was, look, you normally get everything right in life. I don’t think there’s any harm in showing people you’re human.”
So would Gabby, 52, fancy her chances in the castle? “I don’t think so,” she admits. “Not because it doesn’t appeal, I just know the time of year they film it would mean an enormous amount of time for me away from sport.
“And I feel like I’m just bedding in to Match of the Day and I still do the Six Nations, so that would take me away for a few weeks, which wouldn’t necessarily be a very good move in terms of my day job.”
Perhaps she might consider it a few years down the line? “At the age when you can go on and just fart willy-nilly, you mean?” she laughs, referring to Celia Imrie’s famous cabin parp. “That was one of the great moments.”
Gabby took over on Match of the Day from departing host of 26 years, Gary Lineker, in August, alongside Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates, and says that no backlash has ever arrived. “I’m sure there are people who had their grumbles, but the other day I had someone who said to me, ‘I hope you don’t mind me saying, I was a bit concerned that there were gonna be two women on Match of the Day. But actually it’s great. I really like it.’”
Laughing, she adds: “And then he went ‘I’m sorry, that sounds like a backhanded compliment’. But he was obviously a fan of the show and that kind of feedback actually means a lot really, because the fact this guy felt confident enough to express it, was good.”
A former gymnast, Gabby says she achieves balance in her life by never compromising on her exercise regime, by sleeping and eating well and by not going crazy with the booze.
Having fronted a podcast about midlife, The Mid-Point, for the past five years, there is not much she doesn’t know about the issues affecting both men and women in their fifties. “I have absolute commitment to my training sessions and have really ramped up doing weights, which is so good for bones,” she says. “And obviously, muscle density is so important; being strong is such a predictor of longevity. It’s so important.”
She says that even when on the road for work, she will locate a place for a workout, which is how she ended up in a £9-a-session cage-fighter gym in Manchester’s Moss Side earlier this month. “It was a kind of spit and sawdust type gym, and there were no showers,” she laughs. “But it had all the equipment I needed, it was great. I did it in 50 minutes, and I walked back to my hotel afterwards.”
She runs her diary with a rod of iron to ensure that she finds time for three weekly weights sessions, plus two pilates classes for flexibility, and then a run or a walk. “I have one rest day,” she says.
Gabby, whose 20-year-old twins, Lois and Reuben, with husband Kenny Logan, have now left home, keeps her sleep pattern regular and eats a healthy, balanced diet. “You do your own elimination of things and work out how you react to foods which make you feel a bit bloated or a bit sleepy or are driving your insulin up,” she explains. “That’s definitely something that I’ve noticed – sugars are the enemy.”
With booze, she says that it’s rare for her to have more than one drink. “Lee Mack is teetotal and he came on the podcast and said that after the first drink, you’re just chasing that feeling of the first drink,” she says. “I love having a gin and tonic on Friday when I’m cooking. But actually, what I’ve noticed is, he’s right. The first one does the trick, I don’t need the second one.”
She said that having seen her father, former footballer Terry Yorath, fight his own battle with booze, she was inclined to be careful. “I’ve got a dad who’s had a problem with alcohol and so I’ve seen the damage that it can do,” she says, admitting that there was “a bit of vanity” involved in the decision to be a moderate drinker too. “There’s a lot of sugar in alcohol and it generally doesn’t do much for your your looks to drink too much of it. So I think that kind of keeps me definitely on the right side of a healthy relationship.”
Looking ahead to SPOTY, Gabby says that despite her long service to the big night of live TV, it’s still her most nerve-wracking gig of the year. “You just wanna get that first intro section nailed, you know? And then you feel like you’re up and running. I remember Gary once saying, he was quoting Des Lynam, that SPOTY was the best laxative known to man. Thanks Gary! So even with all Gary’s experience, with all Des Lynam’s experience and for anybody else who’s hosted it down the years, it does send the nerves to a different level and the butterflies go a little bit harder.”
This time around she is thrilled that Rory McIlroy has already confirmed his attendance, with the golfer being a dead cert for the shortlist when it comes out this week. One change for this year’s event is that the Team of the Year Award will be voted for by the public, just like the main award, rather than being decided by a panel of experts – in a move designed to entice younger viewers to engage.
She’s hoping to remember this year’s show for the right reasons rather than for any gaffes. “I’ve had a few moments where I nearly took a tumble down the stairs,” she recalls. “And then when Mo Farrah won, the line went down – it really does test your live telly chops when things like that happen. She said that Mo’s reaction was priceless. “He was obviously just thrilled to be held in that esteem by the population, that people had picked up their phones and tapped in the numbers to vote. It’s that proactiveness which we really encourage because we want the audience to feel they are part of the directional travel of that award.”
Her most emotional moment came when a close family friend, Doddie Weir, was honoured, amid his ongoing battle with motor neurone disease. “That was very emotional because Doddie was a fantastic friend of our family, he and Kenny had been mates for 30 years.” They had both helped him to fundraise for more research into MND. “To see him honoured on stage for the work he’d done, which saw him selflessly giving up, pretty much, the last five years of his life – that was really emotional. His family, his beautiful sons were in the room. And I look back on that as a moment that definitely sticks out.”
She says that the job, while stressful, is also one of her favourite. “It’s the joy that you remember the most, and seeing people celebrated. It’s the feeling that you’ve reached out and touched people and made a difference to their lives. And that’s what sport does.”
– Sports Personality of the Year, Thursday 18 December, 7–9pm on BBC One and iPlayer
BBC Breakfast host Naga Munchetty shared a rare family memory on Saturday morning as she warned weatherman Simon King about a popular Christmas gift.
Samantha King Content Editor
08:29, 22 Nov 2025Updated 08:29, 22 Nov 2025
Naga looked amused as Charlie confessed his desire for an action man(Image: BBC)
Viewers watching BBC Breakfast on Saturday morning (November 22) got an unusual peek into Naga Munchetty’s childhood as she revealed a cautionary tale live on air.
Charlie Stayt was alongside Naga for presenting duties today, with the conversation quickly shifting to must-have Christmas presents from their younger days.
Charlie revealed that the BBC breakfast crew had been discussing “iconic” festive gifts, including items the team had desperately wanted but never received during their childhood.
“There are lots of people who will never forgive their parents for not giving them something that they really wanted,” he began, as Naga pushed him for his response.
“No, not me actually,” he clarified, before adding: “Though I did want an action man and it wasn’t allowed – but that was a very long time ago,” as giggles could be heard from the production team, reports the Express.
The presenting pair then turned to weatherman Simon King who revealed he had always longed for a slushie maker during his youth. However, Naga was swift to jump in with a cautionary message.
“My cousins had one,” she began. “And I was really envious of it.”
Carrying on with her story, she explained: “I’ll make you feel better. That product then, a long time ago, when you used to scrunch it because it was a slush-making machine, bits of plastic used to come out as well.
“So it was never very good, so you didn’t miss out,” she added, comforting her colleague.
A relieved-looking Simon responded: “Good, I’m glad for that thank you,” before returning his focus to the weather forecast.
BBC Breakfast is broadcast every day on BBC One and iPlayer starting at 6am.
This year’s Christmas Day kids story is The Scarecrow’s Wedding but the story had to be changed for TV
Rob Brydon is the voice of Reginald Rake, whilst Jessie Buckley is fellow scarecrow Betty O’Barley in The Scarecrows’ Wedding(Image: Supplied)
Author Julia Donaldson has told how she had to rewrite one of her best selling books in order to get the green light for it to be turned into a BBC animation for Christmas Day.
This year millions will settle down to watch The Scarecrows’ Wedding, the latest adaptation of Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler’s stories which have become a festival staple.
The half-hour animated special features an all-star voice cast, with Gavin and Stacey star Rob Brydon voicing Reginald Rake, Hamnet actress Jessie Buckley as Betty O’Barley, and The Paper star Domhnall Gleeson as Harry O’Hay.
The story, about two devoted scarecrows Betty and Harry planning a wedding to remember, will be narrated by Slow Horses actress Sophie Okonedo.
But Julia revealed for the first time in 13 adaptations that she needed to make big changes to the storyline because it originally featured sinister scarecrow Reginald Rake smoking a cigar and accidentally starting a fire in the field.
Julia said: “There had to be a fire in the story and the water was going to put out the fire, so I had to think of reasons for the fire.
“In the book, the fire is started by Reginald Rake through smoking. I thought that was really good because it shows him in a really bad light. He is a baddie and he is smoking and in the original book Betty says ‘smoking is bad for you’ and he gets a terrible cough and starts a fire so it shows how bad smoking is.
“But apparently in the world of children’s films you are not allowed to show anyone smoking. I personally think it would be better for children to come across smoking in a film or a book and then their parents can talk about it and say it is not a great thing, rather than see someone in a doorway.”
Julia was then asked by Magic Light Pictures who animate her stories if she “would consider” changing this one over lunch.
She added: “I said ‘absolutely not’ and then went home and went straight to the computer because by that stage we had the pictures and I knew Betty had a pink dress and Reginald had the white suit, so I thought he could start the fire by cooking something and then I thought of pink and white marshmallows. I wrote it and I think it works really well that way. I am sorry in a way to lose the smoking but I think marshmallows do work well.”
The Scarecrows’ Wedding was first published in 2014 and book versions still contain Reginald choking on a cigar.
Asked about the creation of the characters, Julia added: “I was looking for a female character because previously it was Zog and Highway Rat and lots of male characters. So Betty was the first character that came to mind.
“It took me ages to write because I had to send Harry off on a journey and it took a long time to work out that part of the storyline.
“In a way it is a Hollywood love story and it is very much like a light Italian opera where there is a humble peasant boy and girl and then a peddler comes along and almost seduces the heroine. I was thinking along those lines.”
The animation means Rob Brydon will be back on BBC1 on Christmas Day, having been one of the star’s of Gavin & Stacey last year. He has also been voicing Julia’s characters since they first started being made into animations.
On playing the cad in the story, Rob: “There is a hint of Leslie Phillips and that sort of thing, just natural and instinctive. As ever it is just a delight to be part of such a quality venture.
“This is one of my favourites because I have not played this sort of role in Julia’s world. I am normally nice.”
Last year’s animation, Tiddler, saw an audience of 7.3 million and the highest audience share on Christmas Day for a Magic Light Pictures film since The Gruffalo in 2009.
The Gruffalo will return in book form in 2026 but Julia was keeping tight-lipped about the details.
She said: “I am not allowed to say very much. I can say I finished writing it early last year and it is coming out in the Autumn next year, that is really all I can say.”
* The Scarecrow’s Wedding will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One this Christmas Day.
The fourth episode in the series, airing on Sunday nights, has a devastating story about the wild dogs of the Nsefu park, Zambia
The African wild dogs have one of the strongest pack bonds in the animal kingdom(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC Studios/Anna Place)
Sir David Attenborough’s landmark BBC series Kingdom is to show one of the most heart-wrenching stories in the history of wildlife programming – involving a wild dog in a valiant fight with a crocodile.
But when it airs later this month viewers will also learn how the pack of dogs, followed by cameras for five years at the Nsefu park in Zambia, have a bond so strong that members are willing to risk their own lives in a rescue attempt.
In the episode, the audience learns how three-legged Flint lost his hind limb in a poacher’s trap, meaning he is slower than the rest of the dogs and no longer able to hunt effectively. For safety, he has rejoined the pack led by his mother and matriarch, Storm, where he is looked after and fed in return for other duties – like watching over her latest litter of 11 pups.
“Few animals have stronger bonds than wild dogs,” Sir David says in his narration. But when they go to the river to drink he warns that the pack “needs to be careful” – just moments before poor Flint is dragged into the water by a hidden crocodile, which holds him in a vice-like grip.
The whole attack is caught on camera from 20 feet away. Showing just how strong the pack bond is, Storm and one of Flint’s brothers risk their own lives by grabbing hold of him and trying to wrench his body free – but their efforts are futile. “The crocodile’s grip is unbreakable,” Sir David tells viewers.
There is some joy for the audience when – after being held in the water for several agonising minutes – Flint somehow manages to get away. “Astonishingly, Flint finds the strength to escape and his brother continues to protect him,” Sir David says, as poor Flint drags himself out of the water and up the river bank.
But any happiness is short-lived when it emerges the wounds inflicted by the croc will prove fatal. “Flint has been gravely injured,” Sir David says sadly. “The family don’t leave Flint’s side until he has taken his final breath.”
Wild dogs producer Anna Place told the Mirror that no crew had ever previously filmed a pack trying to pull one of their own out of the jaws of a crocodile. She said the footage still made her emotional despite having watched it repeatedly. “I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve seen that footage but Storm’s pack trying to save him, and standing there looking so forlorn, it really gets me still, every time.”
She said that having lost his leg he was not as equipped to deal with the wild dog life as the others – but that didn’t mean they gave up on him. “Flint was not the best hunter because of his injury but he’s still a valuable member of the pack that they would risk their own lives over.
“The behaviour of the pack is astonishing. We knew wild dogs had a strong bond but to actually see it and capture it on film in that way was something I couldn’t have imagined. I just think they are amazing animals.
“It’s very moving and very powerful visually. The audience can see for themselves that it looks like those animals genuinely care about each other. And having spent several years with that pack, that is definitely the feeling I’ve come away with. They will put themselves in danger to try and rescue one of their own.”
She said cameraman Mark MacEwan had found it to be one of the toughest things he’d filmed. “He was working on the series from the very beginning so he’d got to know the animals and it’s really hard when something tragic like that happens,” she explained. “I believe he found it very difficult but he did an incredible job to cover it in the way that he did.”
Anna hopes the BBC audience will find uplifting elements amid the tragedy. “Those who have connected with the animal characters we follow will find it sad but it also shows how caring the wild dogs are and how important the pack are to each other. I hope people come away with a renewed love for the wild dogs.”
BBC Breakfast hosts Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt comforted a grieving guest on Saturday
BBC Breakfast shared tragic death news on Saturday (November 15) as a grieving mum “relives it every day”.
On today’s episode of the popular morning show, hosts Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt kept viewers up-to-date with the latest news from across the UK and globally.
Joining them in the studio was Mike Bushell, who took charge of the sports segment, while Sarah Keith-Lucas provided regular weather updates throughout the programme.
Later on, Naga and Charlie shared the heart-wrenching story of 14-year-old Jacob Calland, who tragically lost his life earlier this year when his e-scooter collided with a car.
Jacob’s mum, Carly, has since initiated a campaign to alert other families about the potential dangers of e-scooters, reports the Express.
In a pre-recorded segment, Carly spoke about her campaign, stating: “The reason we’ve gone with empty chairs is because this Christmas, I am going to be sat at my Christmas table with an empty chair.
“The thought of that is hard, and I don’t want anyone else to have to sit with an empty chair at Christmas. My 14-year-old boy is not going to be with me this Christmas… I just want people to keep their families [close], because I’ve not got mine this year.”
While it’s legal to use an e-scooter through a rental scheme, riding private e-scooters on our roads is illegal, yet it happens frequently. Jacob’s mother isn’t campaigning for a ban, but she wants them to be regulated and made safer.
Carly made an appearance on BBC Breakfast, where she honoured her son by introducing his journey teddy bear.
“Jacob’s dream was to travel the world, so his ashes are inside the bear and he’s now travelling with us,” she shared.
“It’s comfort knowing that he’s by my side and I’m by his side, and we’re doing this journey together.”
Charlie then observed: “Whilst you’re obviously passionate and want to make change, that, in itself, can’t be easy because you’re having to relive something that is deeply, deeply painful.”
Carly continued: “I’m reliving it every day. The thing is for me, I like to turn my pain into Jacob’s power. I’m saving people’s lives. Every day I show up, every day I get through my days. It’s not easy. I do have bad days, but at the end of the day, Jacob’s legacy is going to save people’s lives.”
Naga consoled the mother by concluding: “You’re entitled to as many bad days as you like, may I say.”
BBC Breakfast airs daily on BBC One at 6am
If you were affected by the issues raised in this story, organisations which can offer help include Child Bereavement UK and Sue Ryder
BBC Breakfast hosts Jon Kay and Sarah Campbell shared heartbreaking news on Tuesday
A BBC Breakfast star shared a devastating update after the tragic death of a “trailblazer” on Tuesday (November 11).
During today’s edition of the popular morning show, presenters Jon Kay and Sarah Campbell brought viewers the latest developments from across the UK and beyond.
They were accompanied in the studio by Emma Vardy, who delivered employment and salary updates, whilst Carol Kirkwood provided regular weather bulletins throughout the programme.
Later in the show, Jon and Sarah honoured Dorothy Lawrence, a journalist who masqueraded as a male soldier to reach the frontline during World War I.
“More than a century later, she’s finally received a headstone at her grave in North London,” Jon disclosed, before a moving segment was broadcast, reports the Express.
“Dorothy Lawrence wasn’t just forgotten about. A journalist determined to report from the trenches during the First World War, she was arrested, silenced and committed to an asylum for almost 40 years,” correspondent Tim Muffett revealed.
“During the First World War, women were not allowed to report from the frontline.”
Nevertheless, Dorothy was determined to alter that situation. She purchased a bicycle and travelled across the Channel, befriending British troops during her journey.
The journalist concluded that the only method she’d successfully reach the Western Front was to disguise herself as a man. After a gruelling ten-day stint in the trenches, Dorothy fell “very ill” and was forced to reveal her true identity.
She was promptly arrested, shipped back to Britain and instructed to keep quiet about her experiences until after the war.
“She was gagged until the end of the Armistice, and in 1925, she was put in an asylum, deemed mad, and died there in 1964. That’s not right. I think that’s terrible,” said army veteran Steve Davies.
Dorothy was laid to rest in an unmarked pauper’s grave in what is now New Southgate Cemetery & Crematorium in North London, one of over 40 owned and operated by Westerleigh Group.
Since then, Dorothy’s grave has been restored, with a special ceremony held to pay tribute to the journalist and officially unveil her headstone. As part of this project, Dorothy’s relatives were traced.
“She’s a trailblazer, isn’t she? Frontline female journalist, brave. 40 years confined to a lunatic asylum and died there unrecognised and unknown, no visitors. Very sad and this will make up for it, I hope,” expressed Dorothy’s great niece, Gill Barber.
Former Royal Engineer Angus Donaldson chimed in: “Amazing. She went to extremes to do what she did. We are eternally grateful for her service,” while Cliff Belsey concluded: “[She was] a very brave lady. Great respect… Very emotional and extraordinary.”
They called him a “national treasure” and “true consumer champion”, stating: “Quentin brought the joy of motoring, from combustion to electric, into our living rooms.”
The statement added: “The void he has left can never be filled. His knowledge was not just learned but lived; a library of experience now beyond our reach,” reports the Express.
Besides serving as Top Gear’s used car specialist, and working as an campaigner and electric vehicle supporter, Willson appeared on Strictly in 2004.
He created history on the programme when his Cha Cha Cha with partner Hazel Newberry received the lowest score ever awarded by judges on the show, at just eight points.
He subsequently remarked he was “very proud” of it, acknowledging his poor dancing ability and saying: “I ‘m very proud to have the lowest recorded score on Strictly Come Dancing. Builders ran up to me to shake my hand because I failed so badly. I tried, but I was the dancing equivalent of a JCB.”
BBC Breakfast presenters paid tribute to Willson this morning, with Roger stating: “Jeremy Clarkson and James May have lead tributes to the former Top Gear presenter Quentin Willson, who has died from lung cancer at the age of 68. His family said that he brought the joy of motoring into people’s living rooms.”
Reporter Graham Satchell said: “Quentin Willson’s presenting style on Top Gear was unforgettable. Direct, forthright, with a wry sense of humour.
“After Top Gear, Willson began campaigning to reduce the amount of tax that motorists paid on fuel, and then to try and make electric cars more affordable.
“He holds the ignominious record of having the lowest ever score on Strictly, 8 out of 40, his performance described as a Robin Reliant trying to make love to a Ferrari.
“Willson loved it, it was important, he said, for people in the public eye to make fun of themselves.
“The car was his first and last love, he named his daughters Mercedes and Mini.”
Satchell continued: “Tonight Quentin Willson’s family said the void he left can never be filled. His knowledge was not just learned but lived, a library of experience, now beyond our reach.”
The tributes follow heartfelt words from James May and Jeremy Clarkson, who wrote: ” I’m far away so I’ve only just heard that Quentin Willson has died. We had some laughs over the years. Properly funny man.”
May commented on X: “Quentin Wilson gave me proper advice and encouragement during my earliest attempts at TV, back in the late 90s. I’ve never forgotten it. Great bloke.”
BBC Breakfast airs from 6am on BBC One and iPlayer.
Sir Rod Stewart performed at the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance on BBC One
Frankie Collins and Abbie Bray Deputy Editor for Screen Time
22:26, 08 Nov 2025
Sir Rod Stewart’s lively performance at this year’s Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance at London’s Royal Albert Hall left some viewers unimpressed.
The 79-year-old music icon kicked off the annual event, attended by high-ranking royals and military veterans, with a spirited rendition that split opinions among home audiences.
Despite the evening being dedicated to honouring the nation’s fallen heroes, some fans suggested his hip-shaking moves were “not exactly in the spirit of remembrance.”
One disgruntled viewer posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Because Rod Stewart gyrating his hips is how we all want to pay tribute to the fallen.”
Another commented, “Rod Stewart’s really going for it, but I’m not sure those hip gyrations are exactly in the spirit of remembrance,” and questioned, “Is this appropriate?” according to the Daily Express.
Someone else added, “Rod Stewart is totally inappropriate for the Festival of Remembrance.”
However, many came to the defence of the veteran singer, highlighting his decades-long history of entertaining troops and supporting military charities.
One fan praised, “Sir Rod Stewart on bbc1 tonight made me so very proud and all our soldiers and airmen, and LADIES GOD BLESS YOU ALL THANKYOU YOUR ALL AMAZING THANKYOU.” (sic)
Someone else complimented, “Sir Rod Stewart isn’t looking (or sounding) half bad for a man of 80! Good for him.”
Sie Rod, who previously performed at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, has a long-standing commitment to charity work supporting the armed forces. He returned to the stage a second time to perform his hit song, Sailing.
The evening, held at the Royal Albert Hall and presented by Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham, also saw performances from Sam Ryder, Keala Settle, Blessing Offor, and The Wellermen, alongside moving displays by the Central Band of the RAF and Royal Marines Band Service.
This year’s Festival of Remembrance commemorated the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II and paid tribute to the bravery of those who served, while also recognising the resilience of military families and the advancements made since the prohibition on LGBT service personnel was removed 25 years ago.
Viewers applauded the entire show, sharing their thoughts online: “The Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance is always so beautifully put together. An incredible tribute to those who serve & have served our country.”
Some acknowledged the sacrifices being remembered whilst criticising the current state of Britain’s borders. One viewer commented: “In the year that our government admitted that they have lost control of our border, it makes the #festivalofremembrance more poignant than ever. Let us pray we don’t see the day when we admit they all died in vain.”
Many were left feeling emotional during the annual commemoration, with one viewer confessing: “10 minutes in and I’m already in tears.”
Another shared: “Imagine not seeing your baby until it was 9 months old. It’s incomprehensible. We owe these men and women so much.”
Hannah Waddingham received acclaim for her “simply superb” hosting and “stunning” vocal performance as she sang “We’ll Meet Again”.
The annual TV licence fee is set to rise in April 2026
A new petition is calling for major changes to how the TV Licence system works(Image: Getty)
Calls have been made to scrap the BBC TV licence fee and introduce either advertising or a paywall system before the annual price increase in April. A new online petition has urged the Government to make changes to the TV licence system.
The current fee stands at £174.50 and households must pay this if they watch or record live television, or face potential fines. This charge usually increases alongside September’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate, which reached 3.8 per cent.
From April 1, 2024, the UK Government determined the licence fee would increase annually with CPI inflation for the Charter period’s remaining four years. The BBC’s current Charter continues until the end of 2027.
Campaigner David Gilmore contends that “even if you don’t watch the BBC you still have to pay for it”. He continued: “You don’t have to pay for content put on by theatres or cinemas if you don’t watch it so why should you be required to pay the BBC if you don’t watch their content?”
The petition titled “Scrap the BBC TV licence and replace funding with adverts or paywall” appears on the UK Government’s petitions-parliament website. At the time of reporting, it had over 1,300 signatures.
The petition needs 10,000 signatures to receive a written response and at 100,000 signatures, it would be considered for debate in Parliament. The petition can be viewed online here.
Other calls to change the TV licence
Over 15,200 people have signed a similar petition, urging the UK Government to cover the TV licence fee for all State Pensioners and those who reach the current official retirement age of 66. As per the current rules, only those over the age of 75 who are receiving Pension Credit are entitled to a free TV licence, saving them £174.50 on the annual fee.
Michael Thompson, the creator of the petition, argues that “many pensioners live on the breadline with only the TV for company”.
He further stated: “With the cost of food soaring and utility bills ever higher, we feel there is a desperate need to provide all pensioners with at least this concession.”
Mr Thompson added: “We feel it is a double outrage that those who have given their all to this country in taxes and raising children have to pay a TV licence fee and are only exempt if they receive means-tested Pension Credit. Meanwhile, some media figures draw huge salaries.”
The “Fund free TV licences for all pensioners” petition can also be seen on the UK Government’s petitions-parliament website.
The Wheel viewers were left feeling emotional on Saturday night
The Wheel fans were “in tears” as a contestant won the jackpot after their daughter’s death.
Michael McIntyre‘s The Wheel sees members of the public answer trivia questions with the support of celebrity experts.
The famous faces on tonight’s show included Josh Widdecombe, Chris Harris, Colin Jackson, Harriet Kemsley, Shirley Ballas, Frankie Bridge, Jordan North and William Hanson.
40-year-old father-of-two Gordon, who is from Glasgow, was one of the contestants taking part and shared his heartfelt story.
The NHS porter manager revealed to Michael that his 10-year-old daughter, Bella, lives with cystic fibrosis and has always dreamed of visiting Japan.
His other daughter, Ruby, sadly passed away over two and a half years ago from a brain tumour.
If he went on to win, Gordon shared that he was planning to donate some of the money to the Brain Tumour Charity in memory of his daughter, with the rest of the funds going towards Bella’s dream holiday.
Later in the show, Gordon reached the final question, and went on to play for £31,000 with the help of comedian Harriet Kemsley.
They were asked which pop legend secured the first solo UK number one single, with the possible answers being Rihanna, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga and Beyoncé.
The pair jointly decided to go with Beyoncé, with the room soon being lit up in gold as Gordon successfully won the jackpot.
Gordon became emotional as he spoke about his late daughter, saying: “When she was diagnosed, she was given six to nine months to live but with her attitude – she was just a ray of sunshine – she had a really good three years.
“She started school, she was a bridesmaid at my brother’s wedding, so as a family mantra we came up with the motto, ‘Be a bit more Ruby.'”
The show’s viewers quickly took to X to share their delight after Gordon’s win, with one person writing: “Love it when the person you’re rooting for on The Wheel actually wins! Go on Gordon!”
Another added: “Most deserving winner on The Wheel losing a child to a brain tumour and another seriously ill with cystic fibrosis. This world is so cruel. Well done Gordon!”
A third said: “Oh I am actually crying. What a well deserved winner,” with another similarly sharing: “Aww Gordon! That was so emotional!!”
